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Trustee's Office 12/29/07 The Henry County Trustees office will be open Monday Dec. 31st from 8am to 4:30pm. "A lot of people want to pay their taxes by the end of the year so they can deduct them on their federal tax returns," stated County Trustee David Stone. "We will also honor the post mark on mail and all payments that are received by Wednesday morning in the after hours deposit will be worked on Dec the 31st," Stone added. The after hours Trustee deposit is located on the front of the annex. If there are any questions, please call 642-6633.
HCMC 12/28/07 The Henry County Medial Center Board of Trustees held their monthly meeting at the Henry County Healthcare Center this month where the board was shown drawings for an updated building. "We are challenged with our 47 year old building," stated Healthcare Director Sandra Ray. Architect renderings show new updated entrances, a new roof with dormers, replacement windows, new courtyards and painted brick walls. "The next step is to get a cost figure," stated Medical Center Administrator Thomas Gee. "We need to make it more modern and home like," he said. Gee told board members that there has been a lot of interest in the proposed Hospitalist program from out lying communities in Stewart, Benton and Carroll Counties. The program would offer patients without a primary physician medical attention without going to the emergency room. Gee said that it looked like the program would require 2 to 4 physicians and is set to begin in July of 2008. As far as physician recruitment goes the board was told that it looks very positive that an orthopedic physician from Ft. Campbell is interested in the area. The search for an additional OB continues as does the search for a psychiatrist. According to Gee there is currently a shortage of doctors. "The biggest problem is finding physicians," explained Mr. Gee. Installation of the medical center's wireless network will begin this month to support the various computers that will be installed for the 2nd phase of the new technology system at HCMC. Installation of computers in patient rooms will also begin with rooms in 3 West used for overflow during the installation in the patient's rooms. The board approved the continued replacement of TV's. An ambulance replacement was also approved. There is only one place that builds ambulances and it will take around 6 months for the new one to be delivered. Due to the number of miles that the vehicles cover yearly a new ambulance is needed every few years. The expensive equipment will be transferred to the new vehicle. Industrial Board 12/28/07 During a short meeting of the Paris Industrial Development Board Thursday afternoon the board approved an amendment to the industrial lease agreement for PML. The amendment will allow PML a 2 year lease agreement that will cut the interest payment approx. in half setting the new interest payment at $3688.25. "Due to declining market for the product, we hope this will help them get back on track," stated Jack Veazey. New Year's Eve 12/26/07 There’s plenty to do on New Year's Eve in Henry County, Tennessee. Rockin' On The River, the New Year's Eve party hosted by the Friends of Paris Landing State Park is one of the biggest events to hit Northwest Tennessee.
Music and dancing aren’t the only attractions. A prime rib, buffet dinner including delicious side dishes and a variety of desserts is included in the ticket, plus guests will find exciting party favors at their table. There will be door prizes, a silent auction and liquid refreshment stations, as well. Topping off the evening is a champagne toast and a countdown to the New Year.
“Ticket sales are far ahead of last year,” said Galia Thompson, ticket coordinator at the at the Chamber of Commerce. “Reserved tables are going fast.” The party is open to anyone 21 years of age or older. Profits benefit the Friends of Paris Landing State Park playground equipment project. For ticket information visit the Chamber of Commerce at 2508 East Wood Street or call 731- 642-3431. Santa's Last Blast 12/24/07
Those who still needed to talk to Santa took advantage of the warmer weather and filled the downtown square Friday night. The Downtown Paris Association provided a check list of activities which include making ornaments, petting the birds, visiting the amazing reindeer goats, eating s'mores, hot dogs and even popcorn. Christmas stories were read to the children at Jack's Java and you could listen to the Children's Bell Choir from the 1st United Methodist Church. Family and Children's pictures in a Christmas setting were also provided at Endless Possibilities that can be down loaded from this web site, hcndigest.com free if charge. Holiday Safety Tips 12/24/07
Candles,
Christmas Trees and Decorations Should Be Used Safely Decoration Winners 12/22/07 The Board of Public Utilities and the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of the 2007 Holiday Decorating Contest during the Chamber coffee at Arrowhead Homes.
The
winners are: People’s
Choice, Jim Herndon, 1308 Fox Chase; Commercial,
Iron Place/Paula Kelley’s, 400 East Wood Street; Residential
Most Festive, Mike and Pansy Bradley, 473 Stillwater; Residential
Most Traditional, David and Barbara Holtgrew, 233 Stillwater; BPU
Choice, Downtown Paris. Each winner received $100 and yard signage from BPU representative John Etheridge. Chamber President Jeff Mahan, Joe Mahan Ford, said “We appreciate everyone’s participation. Every nominated display contributes to our community.”
Christmas Baby 12/21/07
Every Christmas, ladies of the Henry County Medical Center Auxiliary hand sew stockings for December babies to wear home from the hospital. Here, Lee and Amy Lawrence prepare to take baby Luke home in his new stocking.
BPU 12/21/07 The Paris Board of Public Utilities approved moving forward with a request from General Manager John Etheridge at Thursday's board meeting to negotiate a partnership with Iris Networks out of Nashville, to install black fiber optics for high speed internet. According to Etheridge Iris, who has partner with other West Tennessee Utilities, would provide the materials and design assistance with BPU providing the labor and equipment. BPU would invest up to $25,000 in equipment and approx. 100 days of labor to run the fiber optic cable from McKenzie to Hazel. Etheridge told board members, "At this time of year we can continue to service our customers and spare a crew for the installation." Potential customers for the high speed internet connection would be Paris Special School District, Henry County School System, Henry County Medical Center, Commercial Bank, the Tennessee Technology Center of Paris. "We have contacted these people and all have shown an interest in leasing fiber from us," explained Etheridge. "I like to find new wary to increase revenues without raising rates," stated the General Manager. "I think this is a golden opportunity," added Chairman of the board Bill Caldwell.
Winter Storm Awareness 12/20/07
Henry County Emergency Management wishes to remind you that the time to prepare
for severe winter weather is now. Ronald Watkins, Henry County’s emergency management director, advises residents to prepare now for winters fury. The National Weather Service recently released its official winter forecast recently. The Outlooks calls for above normal temperatures for the winter months and a greater than 40 % chance of above normal precipitation across Northwest Tennessee. Watkins states, “While the average temperature for entire season is expected to be above normal, the NWS predicts there will be several weather disturbances moving through, bringing occasional cold snaps and the possibility of snow events”
Watkins
states, “Winter weather also brings an increased risk of fire.
Make sure you do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Keep
combustibles away from heat sources. Use
caution using candles during the holidays.
Tennessee is one of the leading states for fire deaths and we need to use
good judgment to prevent fire loss.” Some
easy important ways to prepare for winter weather include: o
Checking
smoke detectors and making sure they operate correctly. o
Purchase
a carbon monoxide detector if using natural gas for heat or water heater. o
Make
sure portable heaters are no less than three feet from combustibles. o
Do
not overload electrical receptacles or extension cords. o
Inspect
flues and chimneys to insure they are free from debris or cresol buildup. o
Carry
extra blankets and warm clothing in your vehicle when traveling. o
Use
caution when using candles. Do not
leave burning unattended. o
Build
an emergency kit and stock it with a FM Radio, flashlights, extra batteries,
basic hand tools, plastic sheeting, duct tape, bottled water, canned food with
opener, first aid kit, blankets and extra needed medications o
Purchase
a NOAA Weather Radio to listen to emergency information and stock extra
batteries. Watkins adds, “Many homes use a cordless phone that will not work during a
power outage. Purchase a basic telephone that does not r
For
more information call the emergency management office at 644-2678.equire a
separate power source for backup so that you have use of your phone service if
operating.” Santa's Last Blast 12/19/07 Santa makes his final appearance before Christmas in Downtown Paris on Friday evening, December 21 and he’s bringing a sleigh load of friends. “Santa’s Last Blast” runs from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. around the Court Square and features live animals, crafts, stories and tasty treats as well as a visit from the jolly old elf. “I’ll
roll in at 6:00 with my elves and Rudolph,” said Santa. “While they’re
visiting with me, the youngsters can have their photos made by my Project
Graduation Elves, but that’s just the beginning of the fun,” he said. “My
pals from the Wildlife Refuge will help children make edible ornaments for my
feathered friends,” explained Claus. “And speaking of feathers, Jack “the
Birdman” will be at Leach’s Music with owls and other birds that little ones
can visit and pet.” Other animals who will add to the holiday fun include
Leslie Sensing’s “reindeer goats” .
For
those who need to a break from the chilly weather, Henry County High School
Speech Team members and friend will be reading Christmas stories inside Jack
Jones Flowers and Gifts. Free hot chocolate will be available for children at
the same location courtesy of Jack’s Java. Other
tasty treats around the square that evening include s’mores courtesy of the
Paris Fire Department and popcorn from Henry County Trustee David Stone and the
Paris-Henry County Jaycees, according to Susan Jones, president of the Downtown
Paris Association, sponsor of the annual holiday event. “Paris Antique Mall on
North Poplar Street will offer free
hotdogs to event goers,” said
Jones. Holiday
tunes will abound when the Melody Bells and Children’s Choir of First United
Methodist Church perform. The group also will offer a free craft for children to
make as will the Henry County Heritage Center. And
for those who have family far away, Jan Anderson with ww.whcndigest.com will
take free holiday photos of children in front of a Christmas scene at Endless
Possibilities. Event goers can then share their children’s picture online with
friends around the world. Gas Co. 12/19/07 The Paris Henry County Public Utility District bad to stop their project on Hwy 69A. "The project has been halted," stated General Manager Don Green, " due to the state office of Environment and Conservation Storm Water Protection Plan." 1700 feet of 4 inch pipe has been installed by Revel Construction and is now in place. The project must now pass the state inspection. We used the correct boring method, we didn't break any rules," explained Green. The gas utility did pass their Tennessee Regulatory Safety Inspection in Nov. with no violations found. The board will be considering joining up with Munigas, Municipal Gas Acquisition and Supply Corporation to purchase gas at a discount. According to a presentation from Dwight Newton of Munigas Tuesday, the 20% of gas not purchased through Tenergy could be purchased at a 50 to 60 cent discount on the index price. A resolution would be needed from the board to approve such a move. Green encouraged board members to study the money saving move. County Commission 12/18/07 The Henry County Commission gave the go ahead to purchase Camp Hazelwood from the Girl Scouts and for County Mayor Brent Greer to seek bids for the needed capitol out lay note. The current Reelfoot Council is consolidating with West Tennessee which will use the funds from the sale for intercity programs. The state of Tennessee has proposed making the camp part of the state park system. Due to time constraints the county has proposed purchasing the lake front property and the state will pay any loan costs that will be reimbursed to the county by the state when the grant money for the purchase comes thru. There was some depute on if a capital outlay note in the amount of $960,000 to construct a 18,000 sq. ft. building at the Henry County Airport should be approved. The building is a request from SkyKit who proposes moving their operation here from Alberta. County Commissioner and banker Larry Watson told the commission that he doubts the profit statements submitted by owner Mr. Giles. Commissioner and local business owner Tim Wirgau told the commission, "I can't support something with pumped up numbers,". Carl Holder, CEO of the Henry County Alliance agreed with Watson but stated that there was some room for Giles to start moving some of his Alberta production down to Paris. The building, if built at the airport , could only be leased or rented to an aviation related business although most of the commissioners thought that the building would be easy to rent or lease. SkyKit would be receiving low or no interest loans that would be paid back to the county. A change in the bid laws failed at Monday evening's meeting and will stay at $10,000, the current amount requiring a sealed bid. Commissioner Mitchell Evens said of the requested change, "This just questions our integrity." The resolution failed by a vote of 7 to 6. The commissioners approved a 25% matching grant, $6,000, that will allow the Henry County Sheriff's Office to purchase video equipment. 8 cameras will be purchased for patrol cars. Commissioners approved the recommendation of the solid Waste Committee to seek bids for a new bailer for the recycling center. "No money is needed at this time," explained County Mayor Brent Greer. The present bailer is over 12 years old and parts are no longer available. Figures were presented for the cost of providing certified non-compensated emergency volunteers with reduced rates for a vehicle tag. The resolution must be passed by a 2/3 vote on 2 readings. According to County Clerk Jerry Bomar there are 191 tags at a cost to the county of $6500. The change would not be put in place this budget year.
Christmas Parade 12/17/07 Despite the winter temperatures Friday evening the streets and sidewalks of Paris were lined with shoppers who took a break from their husseling and busseling to watch the Christmas Parade go by. Over 30 entries of bundled marchers and float riders filled the air with Christmas music as well as Christmas spirit and of course Santa arrived on a shiny fire engine. The Point Pleasant Baptist Church presented a living nativity scene, Project Graduation took pictures with Santa when he arrived for a $5 donation and besides the music of the Marching Patriots there were the vocal stylings of the Henry County Madrigals.
Imagination Library 12/15/07 The Henry County Imagination Library program invites local groups to participate in "Caroling for Reading" from 4pm to 6pm Saturday evening, December 15. Groups should stop by W.G. Rhea Public library just before caroling to choose heir territory for caroling. The public is asked to leave their porch lights on for the carolers if they wish them to stop and sing. Vido 12/14/07
The Henry
County Sheriff’s Office is sad to announce the passing of Deputy Ricky
Wade’s canine partner “Vido”. “Vido” passed 12-12-07 due to
cancer. “Vido” worked with Deputy Wade at the Carroll County Sheriff’s
Office and McKenzie Police Department. Deputy Wade and “Vido” came to
the Henry County Sheriff’s Office in September of 2006. “Vido” is
responsible for thousands of dollars in cash seizures along with numerous drug
arrests. “Vido” was a huge asset in combating drugs and was a great
partner in law enforcement. “Vido” was loved by officers and citizens,
especially children. He will be greatly missed. “Vido” was 8
years old. School Board 12/14/07 New school board member Steven Bonner was sworn in at Thursday evening's Henry County Board of Education meeting. Bonner is replacing long time board member Gerald Young, who resigned and moved from the area. The board was entertained by the Henry County Madrigals prior to the meeting. Also honored were the Seniors of the Henry County Football team, winners of the State Regional Championship. Other's recognized at this month's meeting were Tosh Farms as a community partner, James Taylor as a classified Personnel, Susan Neese as this months educator and William Atchison as this months volunteer. The board also applauded the achievements of the Adult Education, under the leadership of Sue Quinn. The program was awarded the Malcom Baldridge Award, for their excellent program here in Tennessee. "Our instructors realize that teaching adults is different from educating young people," she stated. The board approved a request from Ms Montgomery's English class to establish a 'Soup Kitchen'. The soup kitchen will be run out of the Grove School Cafeteria one day a week and will be using canned soups donated by civic organizations. The idea originated when students learned that some people in the county only receive one meal a day, the free lunch they get at school, and will not have food over the Christmas break. Director of Schools Rick Kriesky told board members that meetings with PSSD have led to the two groups working together on such things as curriculum. One such policy change will be in 8th grade Algebra where students will be require to pass a comprehensive test before they can take high school algebra. The joint committee is scheduled to meet just after the first of the year. The board also renewed Kriesky's contract at the board meeting. Approved was a contract that will run through 2011.
BPU Open House 12/13/70
The Paris Board of Public Utilities held their annual open house for the community Wednesday. The event included live entertainment throughout the day, snacks, as well as a free energy saving fluorescent light bulb. Still in his first 6 month's as General Manager of BPU John Etheridge stated," We are pleased to have the opportunity to fellowship with out customers and as always we are looking for new ways and technology to keep our rates low." Parade 12/13/07 The first-ever downtown Paris
Christmas parade kicks off at 6:30 p.m. on Friday evening, December 14.
Sponsored by the Paris-Henry County Jaycees, the event features approximately 30
entries, according to Matthew Plumley who co-chairs the event with Dwayne
Baldwin. The Marching Patriot Band will lead
the parade which includes a number of church groups, daycare centers, scout
troops, businesses and individuals in floats, cars and wagons, according to
Plumley. Many of the winners of the Miss Merry Christmas Pageant will be in the
lineup as well as ol’ St. Nick, who will arrive with his favorite reindeer and
elves on a fire engine. “We’ve been more than pleased with the turn out for
the parade,” said Plumley. “This is the Jaycees Christmas present to the
community.” There’s an evening full of post-parade
fun. Santa will be at his house visiting with children and Project Graduation
Elves will take photos with the big man in red for a $5 donation. Point Pleasant
Baptist Church offers a living nativity scene and the Henry County High School
Madrigals will perform. Shoppers can make last minute purchases with downtown
merchants, many of whom will be open late. The parade begins at First United
Methodist Church and heads north on Poplar Street. It turns left on Washington
Street and loops around the Court Square, turning left again on Market Street.
It winds back to the church parking lot, turning left on Blythe Street in front
of Paulette’s. Trophies will be awarded in three
categories: Most Christmas Spirit, Best Concept and the Clark Griswald Award
(Most Lit Entry). “Anyone who has seen ‘Christmas Vacation’ will
understand that award,” said Plumley. “It’s all about lots of lights.”
Awards will be presented prior to parade. It’s not too late to enter the festivities. Contact Matthew Plumley for more information at 731-642-5925. Solid Waste Committee 12/13/07 In the Solid Waste Committee meeting earlier this week the board held a lengthy about the need for a new bailer at the Recycling Center to replace the current piece of equipment. The committee also discussed selling the bailer to another recycling operation or to use it as a trade in. The committee voted to recommend the purchase of a new bailer to the County Commission and upon that approval to let bids for the equipment. A new front loader is also needed at the Landfill. The landfill is owned by the City of Paris but used by city and county residents. The present front loader, which is needed at the landfill is becoming costly to keep repaired and keep running. The Solid Waste Committee agreed to set up a joint committee with the city to discuss the purchase of the new front loader. County Mayor Brent Greer pointed out that the land fill has approx. 7 to 9 years left in it. The storage of used tires was also discussed Monday. The purchase of a semi-trailer to store them in at the landfill will be researched. Friends of the Library 12/12/07 Close to 100 people showed up for the meeting of the Friends of the Library at W.G. Rhea Public Library Tuesday evening. Originally the media were told by self appointed Friends President Elaine Graff that the meeting was closed to them but due to Fire Codes the meeting could not be held in the small Library Conference Room and was moved to the Library proper, which turned it into an open public meeting. In expectation of the confrontation that has been brewing between the Library and Friends of the Library President the Paris Police Department was asked to send officers to the meeting by Library Director Connie McSwain. After angry words from Graff, officers asked her to watch her language at the public meeting. Graff had originally announced that several members of the Friends could not vote at the meeting, nor cast their proxy votes but with all of the members that were present casting their vote it was soon established that Graff would not be in control of the group any longer although she continues to refuse to turn over records to the new Friends of the Library Board that was elected Tuesday night. "There have never been so many members of the Friends of the Library present for a meeting before, that was because they felt they could trust the Friends Board members to do what was right," explained Volunteer and member of the Friends since its start in 1982. "Tuesday the community came out in support of Connie, the Library and the Friends," he stated. In past efforts the Friends have raised a large sum of money to supplement the library's budget which has been used to buy books for the library, book shelves, facility repairs and other necessities. According to Thomas the Book store will be reorganized and ready to open for business soon. Henry 12/12/07 The city of Henry had a light agenda for Tuesday's meeting. Mayor Joe Qualls reported that construction on the sewer project for the city is up and running an line for the downtown is being laid and that the old line downtown is working fine. The city's audit for 2007 should be completed and ready to present to the board at the January meeting.
Prisoner Dies 12/11/07 On Dec. 7th at 8pm Cecil Booth, a 45 year old white male prisoner at the Henry County Correctional Facility, checked into the jail to serve one of 3 weekends for Failure To Appear. Booth was processed in and placed in a cell with 6 other weekend inmates. A cell check at 12:30am revealed that Booth was awake and talking to other inmates. At 4:15 correctional officers entered the cell to serve breakfast and at that time it was discovered that Booth was lying face down on his bunk and not breathing. 911 was called and EMS was dispatched. Booth was pronounced dead at the scene at 5:15am by Henry County Corner Danny Tucker. The TBI was called to the scene, as is standard procedure for such incidents. Preliminary autopsy results indicate cause of death to be Coronary Heart Disease. Toxicology reports will not be complete for several weeks. "This is a very unfortunate incident and our hearts and prayers go out to the family," stated Henry County Sheriff Monty Belew.
Legislative Committee 12/11/07 After hearing from Judge Vicki Snyder at Monday's meeting of the Henry County Legislative Committee a motion to approve a request for a part-time Civil Court Judge was approved. The position will require a change in the County's Private Act. Judge Snyder explained that the case load is just monstrous in criminal court and in many cases children are present waiting for their juvenile cases to be heard. "Having children present during adult criminal cases, they are hearing things that they don't need to be hearing," stated the Judge. Although Snyder offered to pay the proposed salary of $10,000 a year out of her own salary, County Mayor Brent Greer stated that it would not be legal while she was presiding but could be done during her next term. The committee did approved using money the sheriff and the judge share, that is paid into by the probation fees. The fund contains enough money to cover the position until the change in the private act is approved by the county commission and the state legislature. The money could be used for the sheriff's and the judges special programs and in this way the salary would not come from taxpayer's money and the welfare of the juveniles would be covered. The new position will give an additional judge to cover cases so that the juveniles would not be waiting in the same court as criminal adults, while the judge would continue to preside over juvenile cases which is her main focus. The judge is also starting a program to keep children out of trouble during school breaks. If anyone is in need of help in raking leaves or baking Christmas cookies call the Juvenile Court Office and ask about their Rake and Bake Program. In a second piece of business that was more of a house keeping matter the Legislative committee approved a change in the county's private act that would permit the sale of tags to emergency personnel who were not compensated for their volunteer work. The tags would not include the price of the local wheel tax. Previously approved by the County Commission it has since been learned that a change in the private act is needed and it must then be approved by the State legislature.
TV Racer 12/10/07 Kentucky
ATV Racer William Yokley will spend the day on the campus of the Tennessee
Technology Center at Paris. He will be speaking to the Motorcycle/ATV Repair
students, according to instructor Chris Grissom, who has worked with the
nationally-rank Yokley for many years. He
will be on campus Tuesday, December 11 beginning at 9 a.m. Students from some
classes at Henry County High School will also have the opportunity to hear him
speak. The public is invited to meet him and tour the shop as well, Grissom
explained. Over
the last 25 years, All-Terrain Vehicle Racing has grown from grassroots
recreation to professional-level entertainment. The last five years the industry
has experienced unprecedented growth. ATVs, once used almost exclusively as
utility equipment for hunters and farmers, have developed into high-performance
racing machines. With ATV racing on such an upswing, companies are looking to
get on board with what’s become one of America’s fastest-growing motorsports.
As a result, the need is growing for training
programs similar to the new one at
the Technology Center. Yokley’s current sponsors include Monster Energy,
Kawasaki Motor Corporation, and the National Guard. In conjunction, a
representative of the National Guard will be on hand during Yokley’s visit to the Technology Center as well. Yokley
grew up in Tompkinsville, Kentucky and still lives there. He started riding at
the age of nine and gained experience riding multiple brands and sizes over the
years. “During
my childhood, I enjoyed and respected all types of riding and racing, but
focused mostly on motocross. At the age of fifteen I started running in GNCC
events and started desert racing at the age of eighteen in the
Baja 1000,” He explained, adding with a twenty year career under my belt, pro
class for the last ten years, I am racing in the WPSA and GNCC Series Pro Class
this year. The
TTC-Paris offers training opportunities in 12 programs. They are Business
Systems, Collision Repair, Computer Operations, Cosmetology, Early Childhood
Education, General Metals, Industrial Maintenance, Machine Tool, Motorcycle/ATV
Repair, Practical Nursing, Robotics and Surgical Technology. Immediate openings
are available in Collision Repair, General Metals, Motorcycle/ATV Repair,
Industrial Maintenance, Machine Tool Technology and Robotics. For more
information about enrolling in any of the programs, call 644-7365.
Puryear Tree Lighting 12/8/07
The Puryear Lions Club once again sponsored this year' Christmas Tree Lighting along with the annual free Chili Supper at the Community Center in Puryear. Santa arrived on the Puryear Fire Truck where he was greeted by a line of young children as well as some not so young, like County Trustee David Stone, who wanted to make sure Santa heard their Christmas wishes. Children participated in a drawing for stockings stuffed full of candy an 2 lucky children, Steven Kemppainen and Sierra Sanders, were the winners of the bicycle give away. Among those present were Puryear Lion and County Commissioner Don Jones, who offered up HOT chili to those who dared, while other lions kept the bowls of chili full. The Leo Club kept the tables cleared and helped diners carry their bowls of chili to the tables. Lion President Carl Mealer estimated 250 or more people turned out for the event which continues to grow each year.
Beer Board 12/7/07 2 beer permits were approved Thursday evening. One permit was for on and off premises consumption Thursday. One was for The Towers Sports Center on Hwy 79N for the new owner Cathleen Archie. The 2nd was for James and Cathy Jackson for Jackson Bar and Grill, to be located in the building formerly housing "The Office". City Commission 12/7/07 The Paris City Commission, in an update on building a new bridge over Post Oak Rd., was informed that the Paris Board of Public Utilities will be taking care of the sewer lines that run across the drainage ditch at the site of the bridge. while the city continues to investigate the replacement of the bridge for the least amount of money. The commission also received an update on the 218 Bypass project. The city will be using the same standards as proposed 8 years ago when the project was first designed with 50 foot right of ways with a cut through near the Vandyke Eye Clinic. The estimated cost for that would be around 1.6 million dollars. Mayor Travis has also requested a study on the cost of extending Patriot Ave. to Manley St. and on to Kelley Dr. According to Carl Holder there are no federal of state funds available for the project, all available moneys were used in the Hospital Circle project. Tim Check Director of the City Park and Recreation told the commission of the parks being awarded the Benchmark II designation. The award will provide more opportunities for grants to continue the improvements of city parks, such as Ogburn, Washington Court and Johnson Park plus a skateboard facility at Ogburn Park. The board approved the sale of a 4 acre tract of land in the Industrial Park for $5,000 an acre to enlarge the facilities of PM&B, manufacturers of storage buildings. The facility will employ 10 to 12 new employees with a full production and assembly plant to follow later. In an Economic Development up date Holder stated that "There has been an unusual level of activity in economic development." 3 very serious enquiries into the spec building have been received with an expected decision to be made by one of the companies in the next couple of weeks. Carl Holder, former City Manager and now CEO of the Henry County Alliance, was presented with a plaque for his 14 years as City Manager, while George Moore, who was acting as City Manager accepted re- appointment to the Paris Municipal Regional Planning Commission.
Puryear Lions 12/6/07 The Puryear Lion's Club will be sponsoring the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Friday evening, Dec. 7, at 6pm in the Puryear City Park. Following the tree lighting and Santa's arrival a free chili supper will be served in the Community Center. A drawing for a girl's bicycle and a boy's bicycle will be held then Santa will visit with the children. Decorations 12/6/07 NOMINATION FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE PARIS HENRY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND THE PARIS BOARD OF PUBLIC UTILITY’S “CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS” , A SEASONAL EXTERIOR DECORATING CONTEST FOR LOCAL HOMES AND BUSINESSES. THE CONTEST WILL FEATURE CATEGORIES FOR BUSINESS, BEST TRADITIONAL HOME AND MOST FESTIVE HOME, AS WELL AS A PEOPLE’S CHOICE AND BPU CHOICE AWARDS. EACH WINNER WILL RECEIVE $100 AND A YARD SIGN PROVIDED BY THE BPU. JUDGING WILL BE CO-ORIDINATED BY THE CHAMBERS TOURISM DIVISION. THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION WILL BE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7TH. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ENTER OR NOMINATE SOMEONE CONTACT THE CHAMBER AT 642-3431. Trees on the Square 12/5/07
If you are looking for some Christmas Spirit, then take a walk through the enchanted, or enchanting, former Office Concepts building at 125 Washington St., where for just one dollar you can see over 40 beautifully decorated Christmas Trees that are guaranteed to make you start singing carols, decorating the fireplace mantel and serving cookies and hot chocolate. The first Annual Trees Around the Square, staffed by volunteers, will be open until Dec. 16th from noon to 7pm,Monday through Saturday and 1 to 4 Sunday. According to Downtown Paris Association member Laura Dougherty 642 people have walked through the enchanted forest as of Tuesday. Christmas Open House 12/4/07
The Henry County Office on Aging hosted their annual Christmas Open House at the Central Community Service Center in the cafeteria across the hall from the Charles Conger Senior Citizen Center Monday. "We always have a wonderful turnout for this event, which has become a tradition with us," stated Office On Aging Director Brenda Morris. Around 150 citizens turned out this year to hear the Gospel Music of R.S.V.P. and Living Water. Also among those present were County Mayor Brent Greer, County Commissioner Larry Watson and members of the Henry County Office on Aging board members. Paris Parks & Recreation 12/3/07
The Paris Parks and Recreations Department have been awarded the prestigious Benchmarking II in recognition of Outstanding Achievement in Management and Operations of Parks, Recreation, Civic Center and KPAC. This award culminated 18 months of effort of Parks Staff to review facilities, programming, staffing, planning and safety. Presenting the award to Director of Parks and Recreation Tim Check, Recreation Board members, staff and acting City Manager George Moore was a representative of the Tennessee Department of Environment &Conservation Recreation Educational Services.
Christmas Lights 12/3/07
The Paris Board of Public Utilities crews were making sure that Santa will be able to spot Paris on Christmas Eve. The Eiffel Tower in Memorial Park will be ablaze with Christmas lights, including a big star on top when the switch is flipped at a lighting ceremony on Dec. 10 at 6pm. Chorus Performs Messiah 12/1/07 The Paris Henry County Arts Council is once again bringing to the community and surrounding area George F. Handle's Messiah on Saturday, December 1st 7pm at First Baptist Church, 313 Poplar St., Paris. A sixteen piece orchestra and a Todd E. Hill, a Henry County native, is this year's conductor. He is Director of Jazz ensemble at Murray State University . He is pianist for the Paducah, Kentucky Symphony Orchestra and leads his own well-known Todd Hill Quartet and Orchestra throughout the region. Elaine Conger is serving as organist for the Messiah. She is the former Senior Director of Music at the Renaissance Center in Dickson and a native of Nashville. She currently serves part-time as the Education Specialist at the Dixie Carter Performing Arts and Academic Enrichment Center in Huntingdon and as pianist/organist at Grace Episcopal Church in downtown Paris. The concert is free to the public thanks to sponsors Commercial Bank and Trust Company; AT&T; and Perry, McCain, & Cowart and the Tennessee Arts Commission. This project is funded under an agreement with the Tennessee General Assembly and administered in cooperation with the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Arts Commission, and the National Endowment for the Arts and Northwest Tennessee Development District. |
