Cat adoption shop takes name from “Friends” beloved smelly cat

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (AP) — If you hear the name Smelly Cat Café and instantly think of television’s free-spirited Phoebe Buffay singing her beloved hit by the same name, you’re on the right track.

“I’m obsessed with the show ‘Friends,’ so that’s where that came from,” said Brooklynn Bishop, who last week opened a cat adoption shop off Cherokee Boulevard in the North Shore.

For the past six years, Bishop had been working in the veterinary industry. She had wanted to open a cat café for years, but bringing the idea to life was out of reach, financially. But last Christmas, her husband’s gift to her was to bring her dream to reality.

When the Bishops began talking to banks, they were repeatedly turned down. Cats, as it turns out, couldn’t be used as collateral. Finally, though, they were able to secure a $15,000 loan, and now operate the café as a for-profit business, raising money to care for the cats and cover their business costs.

“I have seen first-hand the neglect of animals. People don’t want to spay and neuter animals, and that’s why we have countless cats running around. I strongly believe that if you’re going to have an animal, you should be ready to take care of it,” she said.

Greeneville announces missing teen found safe

The Greeneville Police said a missing fifteen-year-old (15) female, Brianna Weems has been found sage.

Weems was reported missing Monday morning, June 5, after leaving her home at about 8:15 a.m. on Cherrydale Drive here in Greeneville.

She was riding a greenish-blue bicycle and possibly wearing black leggings.

Nashville lawmaker dies from heart attack

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee Rep. Bill Beck, a Democrat who had served in the House of Representatives since 2015, has died. He was 61.

Beck died on Sunday after having a heart attack, the House Democratic Caucus said in a statement. He was an attorney whose legislative district included downtown and east Nashville, as well as Madison, Old Hickory and parts of Donelson.

“Bill Beck was one of my closest friends,” House Minority Leader Karen Camper said in a statement. “He was not only my colleague, but also my confidant. His warmth, intellect and passion for people made the House of Representatives a better place.”

Rep. John Ray Clemmons, the Democratic caucus chairman, said, “Everyone privileged enough to ever cross Bill’s path knows what a special person and caring individual he was. He truly had a public servant’s heart and the most memorable laugh. I will miss my dear friend and colleague.”

Under Tennessee law, it is now up to Republican Gov. Bill Lee to call a special election to fill Beck’s vacant seat.

In a statement, Lee on Monday called Beck “a faithful, dedicated public servant and friend.”

Beck is survived by his wife, Pamela, and daughter, Meredith.

Allen Family Reunion set for Saturday, June 24

The Allen Family Reunion will take place Saturday June 24 at Cherokee Dam in Jefferson City beginning at noon. If attending make sure to brings beverages to drink, such as sodas and waters. For more information please contact George Allen at 865-748-7657.