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Demolition
8/31/06
The
old Henry County Jail is coming down. Located on the corner of Blythe and
Fentress Streets the building has been vacant since the opening of the new
correctional facility on Forrest Heights. The property was purchased by
the Paris Board of Public Utilities for possible future expansion of its water
treatment plant that is located near by. According to John Etheridge,
Assistant General Manager of BPU a use for the building could not be found.
The old building had been offered to civic organizations and community groups,
but no one was interested in it. “We looked, without luck,
for some useful purpose for the building,” stated Etheridge. He added
that anything of historical value had been removed from the building, such as a
set of jail cell doors, which now reside in a case in the lobby of the new jail
as well as pictures of past sheriff’s.
Parks
Grant 8/31/ Commissioner
of Environment and Conservation Jim Fyke recently presented grant award checks
to recipients of 87 parks and recreation grants across Tennessee. Fyke and
Governor Phil Bredesen announced the recipients of the grants totaling $11.3
million earlier this month. "The State of Tennessee is proud to be
able to help fund these exciting local projects that range from athletic
fields and skateboard parks to walking trails and new municipal parks that
will be great assets to Tennesseans," Fyke said.
The city of Paris received a $156,000 grant to construct six lighted tennis courts. Pictured from left to right are: State Representative Willie Borchert, Mrs. Christine Borchert, Environment and Conservation Commissioner Jim Fyke, Bobby Owens of the Henry County School System and Parks & Recreation Director Tim Check. Planning Commission 8/30/06 The Henry County Planning Commission met Monday afternoon where they gave final approval of revised subdivision regulations. Mr. Bobby Phillips of UT's County Technical Assistance Services presented the amended regulations for planned units and cluster developments. "This gives us a good blue print and we should consider this a working document," County Mayor Brent Greer told the planning commissioners. The revised regulations included the required approval of the units by the state fire marshal and the county's Emergency Management Director Ron Watkins. Greer also pointed out that these new regulations were not developer drive and allowed for variances to meet specific requests. "There is a lot of flexibility in this document, lets start with this," Commissioner Charles Perry told the group. In other business the commissioners approved a preliminary plat for 'The Breakers on Swan Bay' a development by Barry McIntosh and designed by TML, which will contain 27 single family units and 48 condo's that are 4 stories tall at the former Shamrock Campgrounds. The development will contain such amenities as a club house, boat dock access as well as boat and vehicle parking. The developer will also provide erosion control, storm drainage control and a public road that will be turned over to the county for maintenance. The final approval of the plat will be given when such things as E-911 approval of road names is given and an owners agreement has been drawn up for use when the units are sold.
Henry County Medical Center 8/30/06 In an update on the construction at the Henry County Medical Center, Administrator Thomas Gee told the board of trustee's that the critical care unit has been transferred to 2 Tower where it will operate during the construction of a new unit. "This has gone smoothly and the facilities are quite nice, stated Gee. The angiography suit construction continues with completion scheduled for late September. The pharmacy and the X-ray room 1 are in the preconstruction phases while work continues on the north wing of the Henry County Health care Center. The board was also informed that the Medical Center is getting ready to lick off the implementation process of the Information Technology. Project leader have been select and work will begin in earnest in September. A committee has been formed to help HCMC transition into a smoke free campus. Gee anticipates that will begin July 1, 2007 and will include all hospital property with the exception of a smoking room for patients at the Healthcare Center and Lake Haven. The Trustees approved the 2006-07 board members of he Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation. New to the board will be Karen Anderson, Troy Buttrey and David Stone.
Judy
McClanahan 8/28/06
After 24 years Judy
McClanahan, the Henry County Trustee, said farewell to friends, and co-workers
in Henry County with a luncheon/reception at the Courthouse on Monday that was
also attended by members of her family.
State
Rep. Butch Borchert, U.S. Rep. John Tanner, Gov. Phil Bredesen and Marie Murphy
of the County Officials Association of Tennessee honored Judy. County
Mayor Brent Greer also presented her with the highest award in Henry County, the
Loyal Patriots Award.
With
tears in her eyes Ms McClanahan accepted the proclamations stating “There
aren’t words enough to tell you how honored I am.”
McClanahan first ran for the Trustees position in 1982. At that time the
trustee’s office was not computerized, which was one of the first tasks that
Judy undertook to modernize the office and make it more efficient. Her
last day on the job will be Sept. 1st when she will turn over the
reins of the Trustee’s office to David Stone.
Civil
Air Patrol
8/28/06 The Henry County Civil Air Patrol hosted a multi-county statewide earthquake disaster drill this weekend at the Henry County Airport.
Henry County Emergency Management Director Ron Watkins was present along with TEMA who were testing the new SDTS, (Satellite Digital Imaging System, a computer system that takes pictures from the air and sends them back to the control center to detect and assess damage and stress fractures to bridges, dams and building that are visible at 1,000 feet. According to Colonel James Rushing the
Tennessee Unit Commander, the SDIS that the Henry County squadron has is one of
only 2 in the state and a 3rd would give one to each region in the
state. “This system is just amazing,” he stated. A
similar exercise is held once a year. “This area is in the New Madrid
fault zone and it is not a question of ‘If’ but ‘When’ an earthquake
will happen,” stated Rushing.
Gary Pickers, the Public Information Officer for the Civil Air Patrol explained
that there were Senior and Cadet Civil Air Patrol members at the weekend
drill. “Many of the cadets go on to pursue careers in aviation or
aerospace, but they don’t have to be pilots,” explained Pickers.
Locally there are 50 senior members and 10 cadet Civil Air Patrol members.
The patriots volunteer their time, receive no money for their efforts . “95% of inland air search and rescues in the U.S. are done by Civil Air Patrol
squadrons.
The Civil Air Patrol was founded on Dec. 1st 1941 and their slogan is “Missions for America.”
Dedication
8/26/06
The
entry foyer to the Paris Landing Conference Center was packed full of city,
county and state dignitaries as well as friends, family and well-wishers for the
Thursday morning dedication at Paris Landing State Park.
A year ago the state legislature passed a resolution permanently commemorating
the facility to former Rep. L. Don Ridgeway who was
honored for his 18 years of service to the state of Tennessee.
“We appreciate his utmost professionalism and his integrity. As our
representative he was an eloquent and well informed advocate for the state park
system and Paris Landing State Park, making it one of the jewels in the state
park system,” stated the Commissioner of the Department of Environment &
Conservation Jim Fyke.
The dedication of the L. Don Ridgeway Conference Center concluded with the
unveiling of a plaque on the wall of the Conference Center.
Musical Afternoon 8/26/06 The Lee Academy for the Arts will host a musical afternoon featuring Elaine and Larry Conger with special guest Bo Caldwell on Sunday Aug. 27th from 2 to 3pm. Refreshments will follow the concert. Admission is $10 and all proceeds will benefit the Academy which is located at 402 Lee St. in Paris.
McClanahan Honored 8/26/06
The public is invited to a reception /luncheon in the hall way of the Henry County Courthouse on Aug. 28th from 11am to 1pm in honor of retiring County Trustee Judy McClanahan. "I want every one to come so I can give them one last hug," she stated.
Nominating Committee 8/26/06
The Henry /county Nominating Committee met quickly prior to the Thursday County Commission meeting to appoint several persons to county committees. Brent Greer was reappointed to serve as chairman of the county commission with Commissioner Mitchell Evans to serve as vice chair. Greer was also reappointed to the Board of Health. David Stone was appointed to the Investment Board and Paul Mathenia was appointed to the Tourism Committee. Dan Paschall was appointed to the Veteran Service Committee along with Earl Anderson. Tim Pinson will continue to serve as the Veteran Service office. The vacancy on the Office on Aging Committee left by the death of Jimmy Prichard remains open. John Wombles, who was nominated for the committee can not serve since he is not a resident of Henry County.
Commissioners
Honored 8/25/06
A
fish fry dinner with all the trimmings was held for out going Henry County
Commissioners prior to the commission meeting Thursday evening at the Chamber of
Commerce meeting room. New incoming commissioners and returning
commissioners also joined in the celebration.
“It has been a pleasure to serve,” stated Don Hudson. “We try to do
what is best for the people of Henry County.”
Retiring Commissioner Robert Sinclair who has served for 20 years, told the
group, “I have served under 2 of the best County Mayors, Herman Jackson and
Brent Greer.”
“I feel good about my 8 years, about getting the new jail built and renovating
the schools. I’m proud of that.”
Danny Valentine, who did not run in this election told the gathering, “I’m
young, this was the best thing I have done, so don’t count me out. I
look forward to serving the county again.”
County
Commission
8/25/06
The
Henry County Commission met for a speedy meeting on Thursday evening after a
dinner to honor those commissioners who will not be returning after September 1,
which include Danny Valentine, Robert Sinclair, Don Riggins, Don Hudson and
Charlie Parker. Newly elected commissioners will be sworn in at 8:30 am
Friday September 1st.
The commission passed a resolution, which would once again set the property tax
levy for Henry County for the fiscal year 2006-07 at $2.30 for each $100 of
taxable property in Henry County. $0.55 will go to the County General
Fund, $.03 to Debt Service, $1.38 to Education Funds, $.28 for the Highway fund
and $.06 for the Solid Waste fund, after which they approved the 2006-07
budget for the county. The total for the County General Fund was approved
at $9,333,146.00 with total Debt Service at $3,099,387.00. General Purpose
School Fund was set at $21,900,129.00. The General Capital Projects Fund
was approved for $354,475.00. The PSSD Appropriations from the ADA share
of property tax revenues was $ 1,768,681.00. The Highway fund was approved
at $4,431,191.00 and the Henry County Medical Center was approved at
$69,143,305.00 with Solid Waste at $586,110.00.
The commission passed a resolution similar to the city of Paris that will allow
the sale of surplus items over the Internet. “This will allow us to
reach a larger audience for the sale of items,” stated County Mayor Brent
Greer.
Commissioners also approved a capital outlay note, which will be put out for
bid. Also approved was the bonding of officials such as the county clerk,
trustee, register of deeds, Circuit Court Clerk and County Mayor.
Holder
Downtown Star Award
Linda
Holder, Community Development Director for the City of Paris, has been named
July’s Downtown Star.
“Our
hope is that these beautiful planters will inspire more downtown businesses to
incorporate plants in and around their buildings,” said Jones. “Every
movement starts with a small step, and Linda has helped us make that step.” ·
Customer service –
such as opening doors for customers or referring them to other businesses for
specific items or services. ·
Good citizenship -
such as helping keep downtown clean and leaving government and store parking
available for patrons by utilizing the city’s free lots. ·
They must be
emblematic of the store or business they represent. Anyone can
nominate a person for the monthly Downtown Star Award by simply calling the
official STAR hotline at 641-1410 and sharing his or her positive experience.
Nominations are taken on a continuing basis. Winners do not have to work for DPA
affiliated businesses. BPU
8/23/06
The
Paris Board of Public Utilities approved a reduction in rates to residential and
commercial/industrial customers at Tuesday’s meeting. The board approved
the reduction on General Manager Charles Perry’s recommendation to pass the
TVA’s Oct. 2006 wholesale rate decrease on to customers by adjusting
BPU’s retail rates to reflect the decreases. The rate, which will be
readjusted every 3 months will result in approx. a 4% decrease in the average
residential bill.
The board also approved a change in their deposit policy. According to
John Etheridge half of all BPU’s write-offs are from homeowners, who used to
be less likely to leave unpaid utility bills. “Times are changing,”
stated Etheridge. The new policy will require a credit score of 675 or
above before no deposit is charged and if there is any record of non-payment of
any utilities a deposit will also be required.
The board approved an ethics policy for employees and Board members.
According to Perry the state has passed legislation requiring power distributors
to develop and implement an ethics policy. “We have looked closely
at the current policy to make sure we are not breaking any of the new
legislation,” explained Perry, “and we have several months before it takes
effect.”
Puryear
8/23/06 Citizens from School St./College St. were present for the citizen’s forum prior to the Puryear Mayor and Board of Aldermen meeting to speak on the Junk Car ordinance that is now in effect. The citizens stated that a difference can be seen in the neighborhood as residence work to comply with the regulations of the ordinance. “It is working with not many complaints,” stated Alderman Bryan Hall.
As there was no new business for the beer board to handle the aldermen moved on
to the regular meeting. A quit clam for the alleyway attached to the Laird
BBQ and their property was granted to Grant Laird and 2 patrol cars owned by the
city were declared surplus. According to Puryear Police Chief Paschall the
vehicles may be sold over the Internet.
City Attorney Beth Belew addressed the recent concerns of golf carts being
driven on Puryear streets. According to Belew the vehicles are illegal and
Chief Paschall will be ticketing offenders.
3 bids for repairs to the City Hall roof due to damage from a hail storm in
April were opened at Tuesday’s meeting. The bid for $3675,
submitted by Wade Dortch Roofing was accepted. The local company had done
work for the city 2 years ago. “We have decided to go with a local
company,” stated Mayor Kenny Paschall, “and we know they did a good job
before.”
E911
8/22/06 The E911 Board approved a 4% cost of living increase for employees at Monday’s afternoon meeting. According to Chairman John Etheridge the consumer index had found the cost of living had increased in the last year by 3.6%. “A lot of times we call it a cost of living increase but it doesn’t meet the cost of living,” stated Mike Shankle, Director of EMS and 911 board member as he made the motion for the increase that was seconded by Ray Norwood.
The new $150,000 grant received by 911 will be used to upgrade 911 equipment.
“Now that we have the new grant we can revamp the entire back room,” stated
Mark Archer, 911 Director. The proposed upgrades include an additional
console, telephone and computer card updates.
Archer also gave an update on cross training of Administrative Assistant Heather
Carter. “I believe we have covered everything but GPS mapping,” stated
Archer. Archer and Carter continue to work on compiling a policies and
procedures manual for the 911 office. Archer was also asked to research
pay scales of similar sized 911’s so that the board can consider merit raises
based on duties, etc. instead of across the board cost of living increases.
Paris Beer Board 8/18/06 The Paris Alcoholic Beverage Control Board approved a Class B beer permit for on premises consumption Thursday evening. The permit was for a new business 'Another Round Bar and Grill', located on Wood St. in the location of the former Bottoms Up. The new business owner is Vince Anderson who told the beer board that he was new at bar tending but would check ID's. Also scheduled for Thursday was a hearing on 3 violations of beer regulations by the owner's and managers of 'Bottom's Up', who have been called in for reportedly selling to underage customers. Their attorney, Andy Clark was unable to attend due to a prior commitment and the hearings were rescheduled.
Antique Tractor Show 8/17/06 The Paris Parks and Recreation Department's 7th Annual Antique Tractor Show will be Friday and Saturday, Aug. 18th and 19th at McNeil Park. There will also be a flea market, farm craft display and country crafts. There is plenty of shade plus free camping. On Saturday there will also be an antique tractor pull. Director of Parks and Recreation Tim Check stated, "This is an absolutely free event." Gas Company 8/16/06 The Paris Henry County Natural Gas Utility District held their regular monthly meeting Tuesday where Manager Don Green announced that the utility's lawyers had come to a settlement and were finalizing the sale of past due gas bills owed by the bankrupt Dana. "We will be receiving 79% of the $88,000 that is owed the utility, " stated Green who was well satisfied with the deal. The utility's construction projects are running on schedule. The piping in the Cedar Creek Subdivision off of Hwy 218 is completed and pressure testing is being done. The board was also informed that the low bid for piping came from Consolidated Piping out of Memphis. Green will be purchasing more pipe to finish up current projects as well as to have pipe on hand. Now that the Natural Gas utility is part of the local consortium for mapping Green stated that Magnolia River Consultants have a computer program that will suit the gas co. with locating lines and valve leaks. No price for the program has been set and Green will have the one time cost for the board at the next meeting. "It looks like gas prices will continue to go up." Green told board members, "But we are building up stored gas and we are continuing to buy gas at good prices right now. They are presently at almost 78% of their storage capacity. The Paris Henry County Natural Gas Utility District currently is serving 5,783 customers.
County Work Release Committee 8/16/06 The Henry County Prisoner Work Release Committee met Tuesday afternoon with Sheriff elect Monte Belew and members of his staff to review policies and procedures. "We will go over policies and procedures to make sure we are all on the same page," stated Commissioner Mary Warren. Currently the prisoners who participate in the work release program pay $12 a day for the privilege. "This puts a strain on the Sheriff's office," stated Belew. "We must pay for transporting the prisoners and check for contraband when they return." A check of statutes by Judge Snyder showed that the cost can be set at up to $24 a day for each prisoner but a resolution would have to be passed by the county commission to change the rate. After Belew officially takes office on Sept. 1 he stated that there are other programs that he would like to implement including Anger management classes, AA and church groups. Warren was interested in providing Christian Counseling for the prisoners but was informed that counseling can be part of their probation but a list of counselors is all that can be provided, it is up to the prisoner to choose the counselor. It was also pointed out that the only persons who can get out on work release are those who are approved by the committee. Judge Snyder did point out that work release allowed the subject to keep his job and earn a salary since many have house payments and child support payments that must be continued while they serve their sentence in order for the family to survive. Those who are allowed out on work release are carefully screened. "We would rather error on the side of caution than to allow those who would be a threat to be on work release, stated Commissioner Veazey. Prisoners must have proof of employment signed and notarized by the employer. At the time of the meeting the jail was full to capacity.
Henry
County Planning 8/15/06 The Henry County Planning Commission held a public hearing prior to their regular meeting Monday afternoon to hear citizen’s comments about adding additional regulations to the current subdivision regulations as they apply to cluster or planned community development, in particular the Breakers of Swan Bay Development. The proposed development will consist of 48 condominiums and 27 single-family units in the former Shamrock Resort area.
The commissioners, along with the state’s County Technical Assistant Bobby
Phillips, discussed the development of the lake area, population density, green
space as well as open space requirements, plus TVA and US Fish and Wildlife
easements. The commission discussed fire protection and sewer services
that development of the area will require. Phillips pointed out that
developers of townhouses and multi-family dwellings would offer more amenities
on less space. “We are trying to be pro-active,” stated County Mayor
Brent Greer.
Private citizens who attended the public hearing included Terry Garner, a
resident of the area that stated, “This will be an excellent opportunity to
make an example to enhance the natural beauty of the area.” Others want
development to be concerned with pollution to the lake and what type of sewer
systems would work in the area. Current engineers for the Breakers
development are proposing septic tanks that will be pumped on a scheduled bases
along with a gray water lagoon.
CARE Van 8/15/06 The Henry County Medical Center's Care Van will be at the Paris Civic Center Wednesday, Aug. 16. Screenings will take place inside the Civic Center from 9am until 11am. Free Blood Pressure screenings, free finger stick Blood sugar and finger stick Cholesterol screenings will be free to the 1st 50 people, courtesy of the Office on Aging and the Paris Parks and Recreation Department. Attention parents 8/14/06 You are your child’s first
and most important teacher! Parents as Teachers (PAT) program
is designed to offer development information and support to parents of infants
and young children. Our goal is to help parents give their
child the best start in life. The Stork’s Closet is a
place you can purchase baby items (diapers, clothing, etc.) using the “Baby
Bucks” you earn by attending the PAT classes. PAT meets Third Thursday each month 5:30 –6:30 p.m. Room 27 Family Resource Center Central Community Service Center 55 Jones Bend Rd., Paris For more information call 642-2938 2006-07
Meeting Dates August
17th
January 18th September 21st
February 15th October 19th
March 22nd November 16th
April 19th December 21st
May 17th
City Planning 8/12/06 The Paris Municipal Regional Planning Commission held their regular monthly meeting Thursday evening and reviewed several site plans that had been submitted this month. The site plan for Country Lane Preschool located on the 218 By-Pass, was approved contingent upon widening the 2 lane drive and circle drive. Also approved was the site plan for Paris Surgery Clinic. The clinic, run by Dr.'s Boyd and Lundberg will be located off of Tyson Ave. and Hospital Circle. The plan was approved contingent upon a drainage plan being added. The Sonic Drive-In Site plan was submitted on time for consideration this month . The only changes required were the widening of the parking spaces. The drive-in will be located on Tyson and Veterans Drive. According to developers the existing drive-in will remain open until the new one is up and ready for business. The plan for Woodland Meadows Subdivision on Hwy 218 was returned. According to staff the plat, which depicts 15 lots needs changes and no decision was made about the subdivision design Thursday evening. m
County School Board 8/11/06 The Henry County Board of Education had a short agenda for Thursday’s meeting which started with comments from Paris City Manager Carl Holder regarding the Parks and Recreation Grant that the school system, partnering with the city, received for $156,000 to construct 6 tennis courts at the high school. Director of Schools Rick Kriesky explained that the actual cost without the 50% matching grant would have been $315,000. Holder stated that training on the grant requirements would be held in December. Engineering selection must be made and environmental issues must be addressed per the grant. $62,000 of the matching funds for the courts will be in the form of payment in kind such as land and labor. A maintenance agreement will be set up with the city for the courts. “The only thing we have left to do for our P.E. and sports program improvements is the track for the track program,” stated Kriesky.
Renovations to Patriot Stadium were reviewed. Due to a delay in the delivery of steel needed to construct
the handicapped ramp into the stadium, the ramp will not be ready for the first
home football game. “We will have
a designated place for those people to sit, probably field level, until the ramp
is completed. We do hope to have it
completed by the 2nd home game,” Kriesky told the board.
As far as the construction of the road around Lakewood School Kriesky
stated, “We want the contractor on the site before we break ground.”
AYP scores, test results that indicate how well students are learning,
have not yet been released. “When
they are released we must remember that this is what school is about,” stated
chairman of the board Dr. Michael Dunkerson.
2- 1994 school buses were declared surplus, one will go to the Henry
County Solid Waste Department to transport prisoners to work and the other will
be auctioned off. Also approved was
the use of 4 to 6 school buses to trans port soldiers, fishermen and musicians
to and from the lake area on Oct. 14th.
Collin Powell and high profile county music people are scheduled to attend
the Salute to the 101st Screaming Eagles Fishing Tournament.
New Grove Principal Gary Rockhold was introduced to the board. Mr. Poteet, principal of the alternative school which is now located at Grove. All the other principals reported that the school has gotten off to a good start with no surprises.
2006
Fair 8/10/06
The Henry County Fair Board hosted a Chamber of Commerce Coffee Wednesday morning in the Enoch building at the fairgrounds.
“We are celebrating over 50 years of the fair in Henry County,”
stated Jamey Tosh, President of this year's Fair Board of Directors.
“We are happy to say that despite the heat attendance is up, it was
especially up at the Royalty Reviews.”
Henry Town Meeting 8/10/06
The Henry Board of Alderman held their regular monthly meeting Tuesday night at
7. Mayor Lowery read a statement made by TEMA concerning a rabies
campaign. Tennis
Court Grant 8/10/06
Governor Phil Bredesen, Senator
Roy Herron and Representative Butch Borchert have announced that a parks and
recreation grant has been awarded to the Paris Parks and Recreation in the
amount of $156,000. The money,
which will go to the Henry County School System, will be used to construct 6
lighted tennis courts. The
courts are the 3rd phase in a 3 part plan with phase one, the
softball, baseball and soccer field and phase 2 the walking track completed.
“This is great, this is wonderful news,” stated Henry County Director
of Schools, Rick Kriesky when he learned the grants had been awarded. PSSD 8/9/06 The Paris Special School District passed the systems 2006-07 budget contingent on the county not changing the tax rate. The budget contains a 5% increase in salaries for all PSSD employees. The 5% does include the 2% from the state. Teachers will be receiving a 7 1/2% increase in the amount of insurance benefits that will be paid on individuals with the state contributing 45% of that 7 1/2 % increase. Other major items in the approved budget include the lap top computers, a new heating/cooling unit and improvements to the walking track. The laptops should be arriving at Inman in 3 to 4 weeks, programmed, teachers trained and ready to go in time for the 2nd 6 weeks. "When they do come we will have a 'parents night' to hand them out," explained Inman Principal Mike Brown. The new assistant principal of Paris Elementary was introduced to board members Tuesday evening. "David O'Connell is a man of integrity," stated Director of Schools, Dr. Paul Doyle. A total of 18 new instructors will join PSSD this school year and the new school board member Kim Foster was also present and introduced to the board, while outgoing board member Paris Mayor David Travis said his good byes after 12 years on the PSSD Board of Education. Also new in the PSSD system this school year is an increase in the number of pre-school classrooms. The 3 new classrooms, according to Donna Vaughn, Coordinator of the Pre-school program, are "up and running. The program has a full enrollment with a waiting list," Vaughn told board members. According to Ms Vaughn the system was awarded an additional $3,000 in grant money to use in the classrooms. Most of the 60 children in the pre-kindergarten program are considered 'finically at risk children'. "This is a great tie-in to PSSD. "This is a blessing for our school system," explained Doyle. "What we are doing with these 60 children , in the long term, is closing the achievement gap," stated Norma Gerrell. Doyle added, "This is really an exciting time for PSSD. The laptop initiative and now the pre-school grant."
Royalty Review 8/8/06 The stifling heat didn't keep friends and family away from the Royalty Review in the Enoch Building Monday night. According to Fair organizers this years audience was the largest in recent history.
Junior King, Kody McElroy, age 4, parents Anthony and Debrah McElroy 1st page, Seth Bucy, age 4, parents Russ and Tina Bucy 2nd page, Artavius Richardson, age 6, parent Tiffany Arredando
Junior Queen, Anna Divito, age 5, parent Mark Divito 1st maid, Olivia Harber, age 5, parents Lydia and Barry Flood and Paul and Danyel Harber 2nd maid, Jena Coleman, age 5, parents Gail Byrd and Gary Coleman
Little Miss Queen, Lydia Shoemaker, age 8, parents Beverly and Eric Shoemaker 1st maid, Katie Owen, age 9, Parents Ricky and Cheryl 2nd maid, Chelsea Palmer, age 7, parents Jay and Jenny Palmer
Miss Pre-Teen Queen, Mary Kate Bell, age 12, 7th grade, parents Dale and Connie Bell 1st maid, Han 2nd maid, Jerin Fautt, age11, 6th grade, parents Christy Fautt and Brian Neu
Miss Teen queen, Jessica Stier, age 15, 10th grade, parents Suzanne Wilkerson and Fred Stier 1st maid, Kelsey Brogdon, age 15, 10th grade, parents Jeff and Gina Brogdon 2nd maid, Hallie Rushing, age 15, 10th grade, parents Kenneth and Joyce Rushing
Fairest of the Fair queen, Bethany Wade, age 17, 12th grade, parent Tammy Norris 1st maid, Cortny Hailey, age 17, 12th grade, parents Ron and Teresa Hailey 2nd maid, Kayla Porter, age 16, 11th grade, parents Fred and Sherry 3rd maid, Amanda Hassell, age 18, freshman at Martin, parents David Hassell and Lynn Herndon
County Commission 8/8/06 .The Henry County Commission met for the purpose of approving the 2006-07 budget as presented on first reading Monday evening. Before the commission could vote on the budget Alice Webb , Henry County Register was allowed to address the commissioners and ask for an increase in her budget to give salary increases to 3 long time employees, Mary Nell Grooms with 33 years in the registers office, Lisa Sutton and Kim Jackson French with 10 years in the registers office, all of which had reached their top salaries under the deputy system. Webb told the commissioners that she appreciated them allowing her to speak although according to the Tennessee Code Annotated she did have that right. "Don't let your animosity toward me spill over on to these employees who work in my office." She also stated that they should be called assistants and not deputies. She added, "Do you realize the sensitive information that my employees handle.". She also told commissioners that the register's office was self sufficient, collecting fees. May Burns, Clerk and Master also asked for salary raises for her employees who had 'capped out' as well. "They have been cross trained and can perform all the jobs in the office and should all be earning the same salary." Burns added, "What I am asking for tonight is less than the $200,000 I returned to the county in delinquent taxes and fees last year." Out going commissioner Charlie Parker told the 2 and the commissioners that were present, "They can file a salary law suit, but they knew what the deputy system and the caps were when they signed on." parker then called for the approval of the budget as presented and it passed unanimously on first reading.
Have a Wheelin' Squealin' Good Time this week at the Henry County Fair Monday - Royalty Reviews - 6pm, Midway opens - 6pm, Cash Give Away - 8pm
New Director 8/7/06
The
Paris-Henry County Heritage Center prepares to welcome a new professional
director to the county’s local history museum.
Rachel Yarbrough Raab, a native of Jackson, TN, recently completed her MA
in Art History with a certificate in Museum Studies from the University of
Memphis. While earning her degree,
she gained experience at several respected museums in West Tennessee, including
the N.C. & St. L. Train Depot Museum and the Pink Palace Museum. Jennifer Wheatley, Director of the Chamber
of Commerce and member of the Heritage Center’s Board of Trustees, served as
the chair of the search committee. “We
were very pleased with the quality of applications that we received.
The Heritage Center plays an important role in both education and tourism
within this community, so it is important that we have a strong Director at our
museum. Mrs. Raab impressed the
search committee and had the wonderful combination of education and experience
in the museum field,” said Ms. Wheatley. Mrs. Raab’s educational background and
solid work experience within a museum has prepared her for both the
opportunities and the challenges of a small local history museum.
“I look forward to working with this community and hope to continue the
Heritage Center’s tradition of civic engagement,” said Mrs. Raab.
“I was excited when I saw the position advertised because it was a good
fit for my skills. I’m a small town woman who loves small museums, so this was
the perfect opportunity for me.” In the spring, current Director Heather
Bailey announced that she had accepted a graduate teaching assistantship at
Middle Tennessee State University and would begin work on her PhD in Public
History at that institution. She
will continue working at the Director until mid-August and then will move to
Murfreesboro to continue her education. “Words cannot express my gratitude for
the welcome that I received in this community and the wealth of experience I
have gained in my time as Director. I
love Paris and Henry County and will miss living here greatly. The Center for Historic Preservation at MTSU already has
several projects planned for Henry County that want me to work on, so I plan on
spending time in Henry County for the foreseeable future.”
Paris Police 8/5/06 The Paris Police Department brought home 1st and 2nd place awards in the Governor's Highway Safety Law Enforcement Challenge. Paris Police won second place award in the statewide competition in the category for agencies with 26 to 50 officers and the first place honor in the Bicycle and Pedestrian category. The Law Enforcement Challenge is a competition designed to recognize and reward the best overall traffic safety programs across the state and across the country as judged by the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Similar sizes and types of agencies were judged on local efforts to enforce laws and educate the public. City Commission 8/5/06 The Paris City Commission met Thursday evening, despite it being election day and covered several new pieces of business. In response to Larry Moore of Osborn St. about signalization at Tyson Ave and Hospital Circle/Joy St. the commission informed him that TDOT was in charge of that and an 85/15 matching grant would be used for the project. The city will do the construction on their schedule and be reimbursed by the state. The city will be doing a Retail recruitment study. At Thursday's meeting a committee of citizens was named to begin the study. Sponsored by TVA, the city will be able to tap into business and demographic information at no cost to locate possible business groups who would locate in the Paris/Henry Co. area. In old business the commission approved a revised GIS consortium agreement that will include the Paris Henry Co Natural Gs Utility District along with the other original members, BPU, 911, the city of Paris and Henry County. The gas utility will pay the $10,000 cost for their portion of the data base. The commissioners were informed of the state fire marshal's review of codes enforcement program which stated that locally the codes were more than adequate. Election Results 8/4/06 - The election returns were up and posted shortly after 10 pm Thursday night with no reported problems caused by the new voting machines. Winners in the Henry County Commissioners race were: 1st District - Mitchell Evans with 456 votes; Don Jones with 404 votes; and Dan Paschall with 404 votes as well. In District 2Reed Brewer led the race with 465 votes; Connie McSwain received 443 votes and Bobby Freeman 416. District 3 County Commissioners race went to Tim Wirgau with 653 votes; Mary Warren had 508 and Paul Mathenia with 475 votes. In the 4th District Kenneth Humphries will be returning to the commission with 422 votes along with James Travis with 366. Dell Carter received 307 votes. District 5 will be represented on the county commission by Randy Veazey with 750 votes; Earl Anderson had 631 and returning after several years is David Webb with 568 votes. Don Williams will be returning to the Henry County School board for District 2 with 438 votes. The Paris Special School District board of education will consist of Bill Jelks with 968 votes; Amy Cathey with 918 and Kim Foster with 691 votes. In the Republican primary Jim Bryson received 442 votes; Bob Corker received 590 votes for US Senate; John Farmer received 627 votes for the US Representative. Christi received 561 votes for State Executive Committee Woman. The only contested Constable race was in the 3rd District with Greg Carter receiving 342 votes In the Democratic Primary , uncontested Gov Phil Bredesen received 2,907 votes. TN House Rep. Butch Borchert received 2,662 votes. Harold Ford Jr received 1,865 votes for US Senate and John Tanner received 2,821 for US House Rep. The following are samples of how some of the precinct voting went. District 1 - Buchanan Masonic Lodge - Mitchell Evans - 58; Don Hutson - 72; William Don Jones - 41; Dan Paschall - 56; John Wesley Bradley -33; Leon Bumpus - 49; Road Board Member - Hugh Tyler - 78. District 1 - Puryear Community Center- Mitch Evans - 113; Don Hutson - 102; William Don Jones - 179; Dan Paschall - 109; John Wesley Bradley - 42; Leon Bumpus - 56 District 2 Mansfield FD - Reed Brewer -55; Bobby Freeman - 50; Connie McSwain - 45; Charles Parker - 46; Constable John Krezinski - 49; School Board member - Larry Blackman -22;Don Williams - 47 District 2 Oakland FD - Reed Brewer - 70; Bobby Freeman - 59; Connie McSwain - 103; Charlie Parker - 52;School Board Member - Larry Blackman - 30; Don Williams -82 District 3 - Springville Comm. Center -Mike Daniels -13; William Gerhart Jr. - 25; Brian Hall - 8; Carlton Laxton - 12; Paul Mathenia - 28; Bob Sinclair - 18; Mary Warren - 47 ; Tim Wirgau - 60; Constable - Greg Carter - 24;Chester Hayes - 19; Mallory Scott - 7; Rd. Board member - Bobby Milam - 60. District 4 Paris City Hall - Dell Carter - 91; Kenneth Humphries - 114; James Travis - 102; Co. School BD - George Todd - 104; PSSD - Amy Cathey - 65; Kim Foster - 47; Bill Jelks - 70; Ben Waynscott - 47. District 5- TN Tec Center- Earl Anderson - 107; Randy Veazey - 148;Don Riggins - 95; Keith Hanson - 26; David Webb -148. Constable - Daniel Beurer - 119; PSSD Amy Cathey - 135; Kim Foster - 120; Bill Jelks - 146; Ben Waynscott - 44.
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