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By Jan Anderson

For reservations or additional information, please contact the inn directly at: 

§         Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (800) 250-8610

§         Henry Horton State Park -- (800) 250-8612

§         Montgomery Bell State Park -- (800) 250-8613

§         Natchez Trace State Park -- (800) 250-8616

§         Paris Landing State Park -- (800) 250-8614

§         Pickwick Landing State Park -- (800) 250-8615

Tennessee’s 53 state parks offer a diverse natural, recreational and cultural experience for individuals, families or business and professional groups.  Tennessee State Parks also offer a variety of outdoor fun including hiking trails, water sports, mountain biking, golf and skeet shooting.  For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call toll free 1-888-867-2757.  Or visit www.tnstateparks.com to learn more about Tennessee State Parks’ featured summer sites, Tennessee Outdoor Adventures or the Tennessee Golf Trail – there’s something for everyone. 

Summer Reading  6/19/09

          The last day to sign up for the Summer Reading Preprogram at W.G. Rhea Public Library is  June 20.  This will allow each child the opportunity to reach their reading goal  this summer.

Screenings  6/18/09

Henry County Medical Center will offer health screenings at

Paris Civic Center, located at 650 Volunteer Drive, Paris, TN

on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 from 9:00 am - 11:00 am.

The screening will take place INSIDE the Paris Civic Center.

Free finger stick Total Cholesterol, Blood Sugars, Osteoporosis and Blood Pressures will be available, courtesy of the Paris Parks and Recreation Department.

 Finger stick Lipid Panel will be offered for $10.00 each.

Results will be available at the time of the screening.

Fasting for 8 hours is required for an accurate result

Please make plans to attend.

911  6/18/09

The Henry County E-911 board met Monday night where the board honored former Paris fire chief and 911 board chairman Don Cox for his 30 plus years of service with the city and 911 board.  Current   chairman John Etheridge stated that  everyone appreciates the hard work and dedication Chief Cox had to help make Henry County 911 what it is today.  Chief Cox thanked the board and said it has been a long road, but 911 are doing well now.

Discussion came up  about the possible relocation of the 911 center to its own free standing building.  Director Marc Archer told the board that the lack of space is a big issue currently at city hall and there is no more room for equipment.  Archer said there are several different options such as  renting another building, or purchasing land to build their own complex.  The board decided that Archer, Ron Watkins, and fire chief  Michael Williams should form a  to be on a committee and study all the options. 

In dealing with the budget for next year, Archer explained that Henry County 911 is losing around $4,000 each year from AT and T because more and more people are disconnecting land lines.  Archer said people are solely using cell phones as their basic communication device and doing away with landline service.  While, fees are collect based on cell phones, slowly the difference by losing more landlines is costing the county 911 money.

Archer did say as a consumer tip of advice, that not all cell phones are guaranteed to dial 911 in case of emergency.  With landlines, even if the service is disconnected, citizens can still dial 911 as long as the phone can be plugged into a jack.  Archer said the county is ok even losing the money with the loss of landlines, but they need to keep an eye on this for the next few years.

PSSD  6/17/09

     After passing a continuation budget Tuesday evening he Paris special School District  Board of Education approved items that they will be including in their 2009-10.

     The preliminary budget includes a 2%  raise for teachers plus  step raises.  According to Superintendent Mike Brown the raises  could use extra BEP funds and  along with less debt,  make the raises 'very doable.".  A final budget will not be approved until July when final figures are in from the county.  The budget will also include health insurance cost increases, which begin  the first of the year.

     Other items in the proposed budget include the purchase of 2 new school buses with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money.

     In a contraction up date on the Paris Elementary   addition from Henson Construction the board was informed that the rainy weather has slowed down work but the target date of  mid December  is still the goal.

     As required by law the board announced that the extension of Browns contract will be discussed at next month's meeting. 

County Commission  6/16/09

Henry County Commissioners approved a resolution at Monday evening's meeting that will limit the power of constables in Henry County.

     " The constables do a wonderful job and save the county a lot of money,"  Sheriff Monte Belew  told commissioners.  

     Belew's request would  limit their powers to civil servants  while the position would still be an elected office.   They could no  longer make arrests, serve civil warrants or have blue lights mounted on their vehicles.  Belew did invite  them to become part of the deputy reserves.

     In other business  the commission approved accepting bids for the construction of the new Emergency Services Complex located at Paris Landing State Park.   Five acres of land, donated by the state, will house EMS, fire and sheriff's  satellite facilities and a community center built with a  $426,000 loan taken out by the county.

Weather  6/13/09

     The National Weather Service conducted a conference call today at 1PM for midsouth emergency officials.  The weather Service expects a large storm out in western Arkansas that has produced 70 MPH wind gusts to travel into West Tennessee crossing the Mississippi River around 5-7PM and into Henry County around 6-8PM. Henry County presently is projected to be on the northern edge of the storm and should expect thunderstorms with heavy rains, strong lightning, and gusty winds. Henry County is listed as a slight risk area for tornado.

Southern Regions of West Tennessee along the Northern Mississippi and East Arkansas borders will be threatened with strong thunderstorms  embedded with microbursts of high winds.  Southern West Tennessee is listed as a moderate risk for tornado.

Remember ANY thunderstorm can produce tornadoes.  Stay alert to developing weather conditions and monitor local media and weather radio for latest information and weather warnings.  Take shelter in sturdy buildings.  Shelter by putting as many walls between you and outside in the lowest floor of the building.

See National Weather Service graphic here:  http://www.srh.noaa.gov/meg/conference/

Ron Watkins, Director
Henry County Emergency Managment
12 June 2009

Gas Co.  6/12/09

The Paris Henry County Public Utility district board of directors met Tuesday afternoon and approved spending just over $38,000 to purchase  new pipes to help complete their projects for this year.  General Manager Don Green stated pipe prices are cheaper now than they have been in a long time.    The board  approved  stocking  up on pipe to help complete the projects they have scheduled for the remainder of the year. 

The bid was from Consolidated Pipe and Supply for 52 thousand feet of 2 inch pipe and just over 10 thousand feet of 4 inch pipe.  The board again did approve the purchase.   The gas board also gave the manager the discretion of continuing to have the company pay the fees at the civic center for employees that wished to use its services.  The board allowed this a few months ago, but wanted to make sure employees were using the services. Green said that nearly all the men and most of the women go three or four times per week and really enjoy using the facilities. 

Green also informed the board that bids were out to eight contractors on the highway 218 relocation of gas line project as the bypass next leg starts.  He told the board he may have to call a special meeting later in the month to get them to approve the work. 

In a report on this months figures Green  stated while residential and commercial customers are up from this time last year by 50 or so customers, usage is down by around two thousand MCFs.  He said this may be because the PR campaign on saving energy they did in the fall to help teach customers how to save energy is paying off.

The sales to industrial customers are down about eight thousand MCFs, which is equal to over 40%.  Green said this is likely signs of the slow economy and the loss of industry.

Henry  6/12/09

It is important that people continue to take steps to protect their health and the health of their family. Everyone should take everyday steps to protect their health and lessen the spread of this new virus:

·        Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

·        Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective.

·        Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

·        Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

·        Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This will keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.

·        Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. The CDC is studying the virus and will provide more information as it becomes available.

Flu View is a weekly report that tracks the U.S. influenza activity; this report is published each Friday normally from October through mid-May. Because of the current outbreak, weekly publication of the Flu View will continue over the spring and summer. Today CDC is reporting a total of 4,714 probable and confirmed cases of the swine flu infection. The nation’s fourth fatality, a woman in her late 40’s, has been reported by the state of Arizona, in Maricopa County. The list of states with the numbers of people who are confirmed and probable cases of swine flu infection will be available online and updated Monday-Friday at approximately 11 a.m. at http:www.cdc.gov/h1n1hlu/.

Stay informed. Visit the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ for more information and updates or call 1-800-CDC-INFO. Everyday we learn more about this virus, and what we learn will continue to inform the actions that we take in response. You can also visit our website at www.hcmc-tn.org and click on swine flu links under “Breaking News.” 

     Farmers' Market Report -   radishes, onions available Tuesday morning.

Heritage Center  6/3/09

Grapes and Gourmet this Saturday evening on the Lawn at the Henry County Heritage Center. Wine tasting and 2 auctions. Lots of good food and good music. Tickets are $15 and on sale at Jack's Java, West Wood Wines and Liquors, Maggies and the Heritage Center.  It will be grand time!

Scholarship   6/2/09 

Brittany Haepp and Andrew Dunmire congratulate each other on receiving HCMC Auxiliary scholarships. Brittany will study nursing at UTM and Andrew will major in pre-pharmacy at UT Chattanooga. Brittany is the daughter of Andrew Haepp and the granddaughter of Romace and Debbie Rowland of Springville. Andrew’s mother, Elaine Dunmire, works in the Imaging department of HCMC. Each year, the Auxiliary grants two scholarships of $2,000.00 each to a HCHS senior who will study in the field of healthcare.

skate Park   6/1/09

On Wednesday June 17th  at 10:00 AM  the Paris  Parks and Recreation  is  planning to have a grand opening for the New Skate Park at Ogburn Park.  According  to Director Tony Lawrence  everyone is encouraged to come see all the new equipment. "This Skate Park was able to be purchased with a matching grant provide by the State of Tennessee (LPRF) Local Parks and Recreation Fund. Community support is an important aspect of these (LPRF) grants and your attendance would be greatly appreciated."

Tournament  6/1/09

       Bass masters  Elite Series will come to Paris Landing Marina Wednesday Morning at 7:15.

Household Waste  5/30/09

 Henry County Solid Waste and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation are preparing for their annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event.  The event will take place Saturday, May 30 from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Henry County Recycling Center located at 450 Recycling Drive in Paris.  This event is free and open to any household.

According to Ron Watkins, Henry County Solid Waste Manager, the mobile collection program was established to provide a safe means of disposal for household hazardous wastes. There are many reasons to properly dispose of household hazardous waste. One reason is that improperly stored hazardous products in the home may increase the risk of poisoning or injury. Also, disposing of hazardous waste in ordinary trash may injure sanitation workers because some products are chemically incompatible and may cause fires in dumpsters or garbage trucks. Examples of these are household cleaners, oil based paint, aerosols, pesticides, batteries, used automotive fluids, pool chemicals, and many more household products that are no longer useable.

Additionally old mercury thermometers and thermostats, TV’s, computer equipment, and other household electronic equipment will be accepted.  The usual recyclables such as used motor oil, antifreeze, aluminum, scrap metal, old appliances, cardboard, paper, and number 1 and 2 plastics will be accepted as well.  Something worth noting this year is the event will strictly adhere to accepting a limit of three (3) tires for free per vehicle.  All tires over the limit of 3 per vehicle will be charged a tipping fee of one dollar each for standard tire.  Larger tires will be charged according to size.   

The State Division of Solid Waste has contracted with Clean Harbor Environmental Services to accept your materials.  To prepare for transporting your materials, pack your vehicle carefully to prevent spills and make sure liquids are labeled if possible.  You can stay in your car while Clean Harbor employees unload your household hazardous wastes.  Excluded wastes include:  

Watkins adds, “Past events have been very successful and we appreciate the citizens of Henry County being mindful of our environment by participating in recycling and hazardous waste collection events.  Recycling saves our precious natural resources and landfill space.”

 To manage household hazardous waste in the best possible way, households can do a number of things. One is to buy only the quantity of a product needed or share leftovers with a friend. Another is to buy less hazardous products. Finally, store household hazardous waste carefully until Henry County's Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event is scheduled usually in the month of May.  For more information about the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event or to learn of permanent used oil collection sites cal thle Henry County Recycling Center at (731)642-5170 or visit the county web site at www.henrycountytn.org.

Breakfast  5/30/09

The 57^th Annual “All You Can Eat” Pancake Breakfast sponsored by Quinn Chapel AME Church Men’s Club will be held Saturday, May 30, 2009 at Quinn Chapel AME Church located at 216 Church Street from 7:00 A.M. until Sold Out.

Tickets are $6.00 for Adults and Children under 13, are $3.00.

Tickets are available from church members.

Dine In or Carry Out Available.

F0r delivery, call 731-642-8445. 

HCMC  5/30/09

     Henry County Medical Center approved a budgeted for 2009-10 at Thursday evenings Board of Trustee's meeting.  According to Chief Financial Officer Lisa Casteel the budget is very conservative regarding the large expenses that the medical Center is experiencing in bad debt and charity cases.  

     The medal center did experience  admissions from the new OBGYN  that has been added as well as the new psychiatrist, the new hospitalist program, cardiac cath lab and other new services offered.  Chairman Phil Wichlan told the board that these new services would have to pull the medical center out of their preset financial slump in the next  budget year .

BPU  5/28/09

     The Paris board of public utilities board of directors met Tuesday afternoon and general manager John Etheridge had some good news concerning electric rates.  TVA is decreasing their wholesale rates by 4.1% effective July first.  Etheridge said with this decrease, BPU customers will benefit as the savings will be passed on to them.  This 4.1% decrease, completely erases the 17% fuel adjustment increase TVA tacked onto customers back in October of 2008. 

Etheridge did say that during that October increase, a three percent base rate increase was added with the fuel adjustment cost.  So customers will see slightly higher electric bills this summer as compared to last summer because of the three percent base rate increase last October.  But with the fuel adjustment being erased, BPU is glad to see their customers get some relief. 

In talking about the electric department’s budget, Etheridge stated that sales year to date are down 6.8% and the number of new customers added this year is way down, with only 29 new customers.  Etheridge said normally around 150 to 200 new customers are added and numbers are down likely because of the slumping economy.

Etheridge also discussed with the board that sales in the water and wastewater department are down as well.  He said it hurts BPU more here than sales being down in the electric department.  When sales are down in the electric department, our bill to TVA also goes down so the impact isn’t as big as it water and wastewater department.

Etheridge presented the board with the departmental budgets for next fiscal year.  He told the board that although he wasn’t recommended a rate increase right now in the water or wastewater, there may be a need for one before the 09-10 fiscal year is finished.  He stated the way things look, neither of the departments may have enough cash on hand to finish out the next fiscal year. 

The board has called a special meeting for this Friday May 29^th at noon to discuss the budget in more detail.

In talking with the BPU board about budgets yesterday afternoon at their meeting, general manager John Etheridge said the electric department seems to be in good shape.  He said he predicts sales to be down about two percent overall, but expenses are flat as well.  He states there is no need for a rate increase in electric, and should be for awhile, unless TVA does some drastic things to cause BPU to have to act. 

            Etheridge did say that TVA is looking at having fuel adjustment cost be looked at monthly, instead of quarterly like they do now.  Etheridge said this will likely come in October.  Also with the legislation about going green, the ash spill in East Tennessee , and other factors, TVA will have to make some decisions likely this fiscal year that could impact everyone in the valley.

            In other action on Tuesday afternoon, the board approved a motion to spend no more than 17 thousand dollars to allow Alexander Thompson Arnold to perform a SAS-70 audit.  TVA requires these audits every two years or so as the wholesaler to BPU.  The audits are used to verify revenues.  TVA will be reimbursing BPU for the cost of the audit.

Flags  5/23/09 

Tanner  5/23/09  

U.S. Rep. John Tanner announced that his office is partnering with the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project to record an oral history of Tennessee ’s military service through the stories of veterans from the 8^th Congressional District. The Library of Congress will catalog video interviews conducted for the initiative.

“Many generations of Tennesseans have bravely answered the call to service,” Congressman Tanner said. “They have made history, and it is important that we help them document their first-hand experiences, share their stories of military life and combat, and honor their comrades, many of whom gave their lives in service.”

Since Congress created the Veterans History Project in 2000, it has compiled personal accounts and artifacts from more than 60,000 veterans, from World War I through the ongoing conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq . The Veterans History Project accepts submissions from anyone who wants to help record a veteran’s memories.

“We hope veterans, family members, students and others will join us in documenting the memories of their loved ones, friends and neighbors who have honorably served our country in uniform,” Tanner said. “This program is one of the best ways to ensure their service is remembered forever.”

More information on the Veterans History Project, including guidelines for participating, is online at www.loc.gov/vets.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy and the Tennessee Army National Guard, Tanner represents the 8th Congressional District in West and Middle Tennessee. Co-founder of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrats, Tanner serves on the Ways and Means Committee, where he chairs the Social Security Subcommittee, and on the Foreign Affairs Committee. He chairs the U.S. delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and is serving a two-year term as NATO PA President.

# # #

Contact: Randy Ford , 202.225.4714, randy.ford@mail.house.gov

Online: http://www.house.gov/tanner/press111-027.htm

Care Van  5/23/09

 Henry County Medical Center will offer health screenings at  Chateau Maurice , located at 1101 Volunteer Drive, Paris.    on Thursday, May 28,  from 9:00 am - 11:00 am. The screening will take place inside the Care Van

Results will be available at the time of the screening.

Fasting for 8 hours is required for an accurate result

Coordinated  Health  5/21/09

     The Henry County  School System Coordinated School Health program's goal is to promote healthier alternatives to students, " stated Supervisor of the program Stephanie Winders. The program better nutrition such as  alternatives in school vending machines but also through physical activities such as PE.  As a part of their program a  walking trail has  been developed at Lakewood School where  the trail was officially opened  on  Monday.

Election Commission  5/21/09

     The Henry County Election Commission announced that they will be accepting resumes for the administrative position held currently held by Glenda McNutt.  McNutt's resume will be considered as will.  All commissioners are reviewed every two years by the state and it has been that long  since a local review was held.

School Board  5/21/09

     In their continuing search for a Superintendent of Schools the Henry County Board of Education made  changes in the TSBA's  criteria during   Monday's special called session.  The changes were the  result of public meetings held last week and the new  criteria will be part of brochures developed by the state school board for advertising the vacant position.  While the board did discuss changing the dead line to fill the position the August 1st date remains even while board member Don Williams urged flexability. and the board agreed to a hire date of no later than January 1, 2010,espacally for some one one hired frominside the school district.  Board members agreed that loccal candidates be routed thru the TSBA.

PSSD  5/20/09

     During Tuesday's Paris Special School Board meeting the board of education  approved a bid from  Commercial Bank for a 10 year capital out lay note not to exceed $1.75 million at a fixed 3.9%.  The funding will cover he new addition at the Paris Elementary School  and 36 new heating and cooling.   units at Rhea.  3 bids were received with Ellis Heating and Cooling providing the lowest bid of  $44,000.  The sale of those units will be used to recoup some of the cost for the new units along with money made from the units when recycled. 

Gas Company  5/20/09

      The Paris Henry County Public Utility District  approved the low bid of just over $37,000 from Joe Mahan Ford for  a new  welding truck at Tuesday's board meeting.  The 2 tone truck's specifications were carefully written to provide the utility district with everything needed.  The truck will be used in field work such as installing lines and welding.  The board also approved the budget for 2009-10 which did not vary greatly from this year's budget.  Also approved   were merit raises for employees on the recommendation of the General Manager Don Green.

Found Property  5/20/09

Office on Aging  5/19/09

     The Henry County Office on Aging's first  annual Country Store, held on the courthouse lawn Friday April 17,  was a great  success,  raising over $650 for the Center.  The country store featured homemade baked goods, canned preserves, casseroles,  hand made crafts and more.    "It was something new and well attended and supported by the downtown merchants and courthouse employees as well as visitors," stated Executive Director Brenda Morris.  The Henry County Office on aging will be holding a silent auction  at  this month's pot luck at the Charles Conger Senior Citizens Center on Thursday, June 18  at 11am.   Donated  items for the auction can be dropped off at the Center any time prior to the 18. 

     John Herndon, Helen White and Dorothy Cook brought home Gold from the Senior Olympics in the basketball free throw held in Martin. 

County Commission  5/19/09

     Henry County  Commissioners quickly covered Monday evening's short agenda.

  Terry Evans was assigned to the Budget Committee to fill Don Huston's position.  Commissioners approved the participation in the state's Litter Grant program.  They also approved on 1st reading the non-profit and civic organizations requests for the upcoming budget year.

Puryear Day 09  5/18/09

Winners Puryear Day Parade

Motorized Vehicle

Vintage 

1^st   1949 Chevy Truck – Gordon Dunning

2^nd   1967 Camaro   - Jason French

Modern

1st Corvette – Adam Jackson

2^nd 2000 Chevy Silverado – David Gallimore

Tractors

1^st  1950 Farmall C -  Kennedy Farms

 2^nd 1960 – 530 – Thomas Flowers

1^st Allis Chalmers – Bennie Parke

2^nd John Deere – Bernard Butler

Animal Entry

  1^st Pony & Wagon – Happy Birthday Puryear

     Triple H Farm

2^nd Basset Hound -  Shelby Wheeler

Walking Group

 1^st  Puryear Baptist Church VBS

2^nd  Harrelson/ Partners in Education

3^rd  Harrelson 2^nd Grade

Large Float

1^st Hot Air Basket- Health & Heart

2^nd Camping for Christ – Puryear United Methodist Church VBS

3rd Shady Grove Baptist Church

Small float

  1^st Boomerang Express – North Fork Baptist Church

2^nd Harrelson 2^nd Grade

Mayors Trophy -  Puryear Express- Britian, Brevin, Charly and Grady Hutson

Winner of a chainsaw for guessing the weight of the Log (Sponsored by Middleton Lumber Company) – Landon Stallings -guessed weight - 6200, actual weight - 6220.

     Despite the threat of rain Saturday morning the weather stayed dry for the parade at the 100th birthday celebration.  

     "For the last 6 years I have been honored to represent Puryear," stated Puryear Mayor Kenny Paschall.  "Its a great place to be, Puryear Tennessee."

     Greatly missed at this  yea's festivities was the late Lisa Hart who was instrumental in bringing such things as the carnival to Puryear Day.  In a resolution passed by the state legislature Hart was honored for many years of community services.

Spring Break   5/11/09

After 4 years I  have decided to take a few days off.  Be back Friday with the full news once again.  Thanks, Jan

Care Van  5/9/09 

 Henry County Medical Center will offer health screenings

During the Open House

on Saturday, May 9, 2009  from 9:00 am - 11:00 am.

The screening will take place in the Cafeteria.

Fasting for 8 hours is required for an accurate result

Auditions  5/9/09

Saturday, May 9th kicks off another year of Children’s Theater at the Krider Performing Arts Center. Registration and auditions for the summer workshop will take place from 9:00-12:00 for the production of “Dear Edwina Jr.” ages 9-12, and “Willy Wonka Jr.” ages 13-18 from 2:00-5:00. Registration fee is $40 and scholarships are available. The students will take place in a short audition, but no prepared material is required. Not interested in being on stage? We need you too. You can also sign up to be on the backstage crew or tech assistant.

     Ages 5-8 will hold registration for the production of “Noah’s Ark” May 11th from 4:00-5:30.

For more information on the summer shows or Children’s Theater in general, visit www.kridercenter.com or call the Krider Center Office (731) 644-2517.

--Travis McLeese, Advertising and Marketing.  Krider Performing Arts Center, 650 Volunteer Drive

(731) 336-2959 (731) 644-2517

www.kridercenter.com

Prayer Day  5/9/09

Over 120 people representing 6 local churches  gathered at the Henry County Courthouse at noon Thursday to mark  a   National Day of Prayer .   

     The program included  Sheryl Loggins who sang the  Anthem  and Paris City Manager Jack Tarkington who lead the assembled  crowd in the  pledge of allegiance.    

     The churches lead the assmbled group in insperational prayer.  "It was an uplifting experience and was put together very well," stated event-goer.

Beer Board  5/8/09

     The Henry County Beer Board approved a beer permit for on and off premises consumption at the Rainbow Bar on Hwy 69A, owned by Roxanne Clark. 

School  Board  5/7/09

     During the extended  3 hour Henry County Board of education meeting Tuesday evening  the board took the time to elect Assistant Director of schools John Hinson as the interim director and to study the TSBA (Tennessee School Board Association)  proposed time table for the selection of the new director even though board member Tom Beasley  felt that an August 1 starting  date for a new director  would make it  difficult to select the right person for the job.     The TSBA will be sending  staff members to Henry County May 1st to  interview local  officials, business leaders and school employees as well as  school board members.  That evening TSBA will hold  a public forum in the Little Theater of HCHS to hear comments from the public.

     The school board has named the TSBA's schedule as a 'work in progress', which means that they are flexible on a starting date for the new director,  even if it comes in the middle of the school year.   

     The board has started the interview process for a new Supervisor of Instruction and hopes to present a candidate by the June  board meeting. 

     Mrs.  Karen Wilson  told the board that the  school system will continue their free lunch program during the summer.  Currently there are around 275 children eating free or reduced meals per day.

     Basket Ball Camp  5/6/09

     Henry County Lady Patriot Basketball camp will be held May 28th and 29th from 8am until noon.  Cost for the camp is forty dollars.  For more information call head coach Renee Lassiter at 642-5232.

Hand Washing  5/6/09

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared May 5 as “Save Lives, Clean Your Hands Day.” Hand hygiene is a critical factor in reducing health care-associated infections (HCAI) and, as such, this evidence based initiative has been developed to support health-care workers everywhere to improve hand hygiene and stop the spread of infection.  

     Henry County Medical Center wants to encourage people to be aware of hand hygiene, especially because of the latest flu outbreak.  The current global outbreak of influenza A (H1N1) is an important reminder to all health-care workers regardless of their location, and indeed to the public in general, that good hand hygiene is vital.

     The most important thing people can do is to wash their hands regularly in soap and water, scrubbing for 15 to 20 seconds (sing “Happy Birthday twice while scrubbing). If soap and water are unavailable use alcohol-based hand wipes or gel sanitizers.

     Try not to touch your mouth, nose and eyes without first washing your hands.

     Avoid close contact with sick people and avoid travel to areas where swine flu is known to be prevalent. Known cases in Tennessee have occurred in Davidson, Williamson and Shelby counties.

     Two prescription medicines seem to be helping with the Swine flu symptoms: Tamiflu and Relenza. They can make the illness milder and help you recover faster. The drugs work better if they are started within two days of symptoms.

Contact your doctor if you

·        Have a fever

·        Cough

·        Have a runny nose

·        Have a sore throat

·        Feel sick to your stomach or vomit

·        Have diarrhea

Then you should also:

·        Stay home from work or school and limit contact with others as much as possible.

·        Cover your nose and mount with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

·        Throw used tissues in the trash.

·        Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing.

·        Rest and drink plenty of fluids.

     At this time of influenza spread, taking the simple steps of hand hygiene at the right time in the right place and the right way will contribute to reducing the level of health care-associated infections world wide and thereby contribute to reducing the global burden of disease.  Please consider Tuesday, May 5 as “Save Lives, Clean Your Hands Day” and remind yourself and your friends to wash hands frequently, not just today, but every day.

     For more information on the swine flu, go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s at www.cdc.gov/swineflu.  Significantly, the WHO Guidelines on Hand Hygiene in Health Care and a suite of hand hygiene implementation tools are available for download at no cost from the following website:   www.who.int/gpsc/en/

Mother's Day Tea   55/09

Nothing is more powerful than a story from the heart and mothers know this first hand.  Mothers have multiple stories of love and life, with many creating a tear or breaking a heart.  Mothers mend the broken hearts of their children, their spouses, and those they love, but sometimes a mother’s heart can be broken…literally. 

     Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer of American women?  Every two minutes a woman dies from a heart attack.  Yet, often women ignore the warning signs of the disease that is truly preventable.

     Henry County ranks fourth in the state for deaths due to heart disease and Henry County Medical Center wants to do something about it.  With the help of the HCMC Women’s Health Advisory Council and the Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation, funds are being raised for the Heart Ready Community Project, an initiative to spread the message of prevention, early detection, accurate diagnosis and proper treatment through projects like Save a Heart at Grove, CPR training, Lifestyle Management Programs, and much more.

     During the week before Mother’s Day, the Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation will be sending women in the region stories from the hearts of four women who want to share their testaments and the importance of listening to your body, the warning signs it gives you.  These personal stories come from women who have experienced a heart attack themselves, one that had a husband and mother surviving heart events, and one of a mother whose son recently experienced a heart attack.  

     All women who receive this letter are asked enjoy the bag of tea included with the letter in the comfort of their home on Sunday, May 10 at 2 p.m. (to signify the fact that women have a heart attack every two minutes) and to consider giving a donation of $10 to the Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation for the Heart Ready Community Project.

     “This is a community endeavor and something all of us should be concerned about,” said Tory Daughrity, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at HCMC.  “Heart disease is not something to brush off and with such high statistics as a county; these funds collected will help us to begin working towards a healthier community with many more lives saved.  Changing lifestyles takes education and funding, which we believe this project provides on both levels.”

     As a service learning project, the students at Grove are also going to be sending out letters with their personal reflections on the Save a Heart at Grove Day and the impact it has made.  They also encourage having tea on May 10 at 2 p.m. and include the tea bag as well.

“If for some reason you receive more than one letter, share it with another person who hasn’t received the letter and encourage him or her to have some tea and consider making a donation,” said Daughrity.  “Donations can be made in memory or in honor of someone as well, which would make an excellent Mother’s Day gift or tribute.”

If you don’t receive a letter and would like to donate to this initiative, please mail a check or money order to the Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation, Heart Ready Community Project, PO Box 1030, Paris, TN 38242.

     The amount of $10 is a starting point; obviously more or less would be greatly appreciated.  Every little bit will help us to meet our goal of a Heart Ready Community.

     For more information on this project, call Tory Daughrity at 731-644-8266 or e-mail her at tdaughrity@hcmc-tn.org.

The Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994. Our mission is to enhance and improve the health of all citizens of Henry County through philanthropic support of the programs and services of Henry County Medical Center. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Corporation, which enables contributions to be tax deductible. Particular emphasis is placed on wellness education, community outreach, scholarships for students pursuing a health care career, and support of health improvement programs that otherwise could not be implemented.

Mother's Day Meal  5/6/09

Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with family and friends while surrounding yourself with Tennessee’s natural wonders at one of eight Tennessee State Park restaurants on Mother’s Day.

     Tennessee State Parks is pleased to announce that all eight state park restaurants will be serving a delicious Mother’s Day Buffet on Sunday, May 10.  Buffet selections and prices will vary, ranging from $12.95 to $15.95. Group reservations are recommended.

     The Mother’s Day Buffet will be available beginning at 11 a.m. until closing at these state park restaurants:·         Cumberland Mountain State Park -   (931) 484-7186

·         David Crockett State Park (Lawrenceburg) (931) 762-9541

·         Fall Creek Falls State-Park -   (423) 881-5241 -

         Henry Horton State Park --                            (931) 364-2222, Montgomery Bell State Park -   (615) 797-3101,

·         Natchez Trace State Park -      (731) 968-8176

·         Paris Landing State Park                                          (731) 642-4311

·         Pickwick Landing State Park                              (731) 689-3135

Tennessee's 53 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families or business and professional groups.  State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses.  For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call toll free at 1-888-867-2757. For additional information, visit our Web site at www.tnstateparks.com.

Swine Flu  5/2/09

            Although Henry County Medical Center has not yet encountered any cases of the Swine flu, they are sure you have heard about it through many media outlets and as the  local healthcare provider, want to make you aware of the warning signs and symptoms as well as precautions to take. Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. In  on-going efforts to stay educated, here are a few facts about Swine flu from the Centers for Disease Control:

·        Swine flu viruses can infect humans, but this is NOT common.

·        Human and swine flu viruses are different. People who get vaccinated for human flu can still get sick from Swine flu. Pigs that have been vaccinated for Swine flu can still get sick from human flu.

·        Symptoms of Swine flu in people are no different from symptoms that people get when they are infected with human flu viruses.

·        People will typically have fever (often high), cough, body aches, headaches, fatigue and runny or stuffy noses. Vomiting and diarrhea may also occur.

·        15% to 25% of swine farmers and 10% of veterinarians might have been infected with Swine flu.

·        Cases have most commonly occurred in people with direct exposure to pigs, but some cases of human-to-human transmissions have been reported.

     When asked if Henry County Medical Center had encountered any patients with Swine flu symptoms, Kathy Veazey, BSN, Infection Control Nurse, stated, “We have not had any cases identified so far. Our Health Care network has provided us with links to the most current tracking of this novel flu and other pertinent information.”

          There is no evidence to show that Swine flu can be transmitted through food. Eating properly handled and cooked pork is safe. Cook pork to an internal temperature of 160°F kills bacteria and viruses.”“WASH YOUR HANDS!” 

·        Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

·        Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

·        Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

·        Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

·        If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

·        People who develop an illness with fever and respiratory symptoms, such as cough and runny nose, and possible other symptoms such as body aches, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, should contact their health care provider.

·         Health Department is keeping statistics on the Swine flu, so they will want to talk with you if you are positively diagnosed.

For more information about Swine flu and other diseases, please visit www.cdc.gov/flu, www.tha.com, and www.pork.org.  There is also a link for more information about the Swine flu on our website, www.hcmc-tn.org.

Run for the Son  5/1/09

West Tennessee Cruisers for Christ

CMA Chapter, Paris TN.

Annual fundraiser for the Christian Motorcyclists Association

Run For The Son

Saturday  May 2'nd 2009

A beautiful 100 + mile ride starting at Lakeway Village Plaza, Highway 79

Paris TN and ending at The Home Place, LBL Dover TN.

Registration at 8:00 a.m.  Departure at 9:00am 

NO FEES TO RIDE

For more information please contact

Keith, Chapter President (731) 441-8781 or Jackie V.P. (731) 336-0764

You don't have to ride a motorcycle to come and enjoy

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

Car Show  5/1/09

An Elvis Presley impersonation will be the featured entertainment at the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department’s Wine and Shine Car Show at Paris Winery, on Saturday, May 2^nd.  Paris Winery is located on Harvey Bowden Road, seven miles south of Paris on Highway 641 South. Admission is $2 or $5 for a family. Under 4 are admitted free.

     Twenty-nine classes of cars, trucks, motorcycles and fire trucks will be judged. First, second and third place plaques will be awarded in each class. A special people’s choice award will be given based on 25 cent votes.  Registration begins at 8 am and judging will begin at noon. Registration is $10 for the first entry and each additional entry is $5. Full rules and more information are available at www.ovfd.us.  Food and drinks will be available and all proceeds go to benefit the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department.

     For more information contact Patrick Petronico, 731.363.0033, or Kelly Perry, 731.644.9604.

School Board   5/1/09

     The Henry County Board of Education met in a special called meeting Wednesday to discuss the selection of a new director of schools to replace Rick Kriesky whose last day with Henry County will be June30. 

     Dr. Tammy Grissom, Executive Director  of the TN School Board Association informed the board that the TSBA  would assist the board in the search for a director at a cost of $8,500.00.    For the $8,500 the TSBA will advertise the position which includes printing and distributing a brochure about the school system, the position and the community.  The brochure would be distributed throughout the southeastern U.S.  They would also advertise on the TSBA website and provide background checks and assist in interviews.  The TSBA will also  conduct public meetings with the community , teachers, administrators and support personnel plus County commissioners.  Grissom told the board that his plan makes everyone feel that they have been a part of the selection process.

     Henry County High School principal Lennis McFerrin asked the board to look within the system as well as outside for  the next director since there were several people who were qualified  and had the same vision to take the system in the direction that Mr. Kriesky had begun.  The board will discuss the selection of the  director at the board's regular monthly meeting.

Youth Orchestra   5/1/09

The Paris Henry County Youth Orchestra will present their spring concert on Sunday May 3rd in the KPAC at 3:30pm.  A silent auction to raise funds for the orchestra will be set up for bidding and viewing at 2:30pm in the lobby area.  The concert is free but orchestra members will be collecting donations following the concert and appreciate anything anyone can do to help them out.