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Holy Week Services 3/31/07 Holy Week Services will be held in down town Paris Churches Monday through Friday, April 2-6. Worship service begins promptly at 12:05pm in the sanctuary of Christian Church in downtown Paris with a light lunch to be served for a donation at 12:30pm. Organizers stated that everyone could easily be back to work by 1pm. Worship leaders, speakers and musicians will change daily and reflect the membership of the association and downtown churches. Donations will be given to the Paris Henry County Ministerial Association.
Centralized Purchasing 3/31/07 18 different Henry County government officials and department heads met with the Budget Committee's Centralized Purchasing Study Committee Thursday. Meetings, scheduled 30 minutes apart, were designed to explain what centralized purchasing would mean to each department and answer any questions and hear comments from the department heads. "We are not trying to eliminate any positions," stated Commissioner Tim Wirgau, " but we have had some broken trust issues in the past." Wirgau added that "We are trying to get rid of some of those loop holes." The committee is presently only gathering information on centralized purchasing, "We are no where near to making a decision," he stated. Committee members did agree that a majority of the department heads had been agreeable and were asking good questions about the procedures if centralized purchasing would be adopted. Earlier in the week it had been announced that several years back the county commission had adopted a resolution calling for Henry County to use Centralize Accounting, something that is not in use now. Former County Executives Jim Farmer and Herman Jackson will be speaking to the Budget Committee on Monday April 9th.
PSSD 3/30/07 The Paris Special School District's agenda was short Thursday evening but their discussion on unifying the Paris Special School District with the Henry County School District was long. Based on a discussion at the Henry County School Board's retreat and a letter received by PSSD Board members from county school board members, that suggested that the 2 groups should sit down together with the Henry County Commission, and discuss a merger. According to PSSD Director of Schools Dr. Paul Doyle studies show and mergers in other counties in Tennessee prove it to be true, that mergers increased the cost of running schools which in turn required an increase in county taxes. He also questioned the choice of adding the county commissioners to the discussion. Chairman Richard Edwards added that a cost analysis was done when Dr. Larry Vick and William Atchison were director of PSSD and Henry County Schools., "It does not save money and usually you have to increase county taxes. The merger of the school systems could only be done with the approval of this board. " Board members agreed that the 2 systems had different philosophies as shown by the number of days that are spent in class as apposed to in-service days for teachers. Also noted were the strings and choral programs offered by PSSD as well as their Laptop Initiative for the Middle School. The board agreed that great strides had been made in coordinating the 2 school systems calendars. "It takes everyone working together to do that and that can be done without merging the 2 systems," stated Dr. Gerrell. "To merge would be taking a step backwards," stated Edwards. Doyle added, "We have 2 distinct cultures, the city and the county. To merge the two would not be cooperation but a concession on our part." In other business the board approved changes to their emergency allergy response plan and their emergency preparedness plan as suggested by the Tennessee School Board Association. Tenure was granted to 9 teachers and Principal of Rhea Elementary School Scott Owens was congratulated on being named Principal of the Year for West Tennessee. Also approved was using Henson Construction Services to design and build the Pre-K classrooms and additions to Rhea's kitchen facilities. Hinson also designed Paris Elementary.
HCMC 3/30/07 The Henry County Medical Center Board of Trustees heard from Pam Riley who is in charge of Information Technology Thursday evening. "We are on track with the budget," she told the board, "and June 11 is still the target date for 'going live'. Phase 2 is scheduled to begin in August with that phase going live in March of 2008. "Outside of our major additions this is possibly the biggest expenditure here at Henry County Medical Center," stated Chairman of the Board Phil Wichlan. Medical Center Administrator Thomas Gee said that the state had announced that it has an adequate network of hospitals to provide service for CoverTN patients. HCMC is not participating in CoverTN. "We are still in negotiations with Blue Cross/Blue Shield over rates and services. Most hospitals I have talked with are in the same position as us." In a construction update Gee stated the critical care unit will not open until May due to equipment delivery delays. A new Chief Nursing Officer has been hired. Amy Johnson, who is from Florida has most recently served as an assistant chief nurse officer for a 2 hospital HCA system in Ocala Florida. She will be arriving in May. Celebs Help Arts Council
3/29/07
Collectors of celebrity memorabilia
take note,
the cast of Studio 60 On The
Sunset Strip The pilot script will be auctioned off at intermission of the St. Louis Brass Quintet Concert which is March 31st at 7pm in the Krider Performing Arts Center on Volunteer Dr. in Paris. The St. Louis Quintet will be helping the Paris Henry County Arts Council celebrate their 40th Anniversary Celebration.
BPU 3/28/07 The Paris Board of Public Utilities selected their next General Manager at Tuesday's meeting. In a unanimous vote, long-time employee Financial Director John Etheridge was named as the new General Manager upon the retirement of present General Manager Charles Perry. Perry announced in January that he would be retiring in August after 40 years with BPU. The selection committee of board members David Flowers and Ralph Anderson picked 3 candidates out of 8 applications. Among the top 3 were Jeff Thompson of Weakley County Electric and BPU employee Engineer Brian Irby. "I want to let the board know that all the employees of BPU will work with Mr. Etheridge and give him our respect," stated Electric Department Supervisor Richard Edwards. In other business the board approved a change in budget and cash summaries presented to the board. The new format will report budget and cash flow information as well as labor and transportation costs along with capital projects costs. According to Etheridge "The new format will point out shifts from year to year and how we are doing on the budget process." Perry told board members that BPU is using Bio-diesel fuel purchased from the Henry County Co-Op. The board was also told that in excess of $30,000 had been spent on repair of 2 of BPU's wells in the past year. The waste water department, due to depreciation of equipment, is showing a loss, but is bringing in cash. The TVA power bill was more this month than last month while power costs were down due to more businesses shifting to VPI, variable power interrupted rates.
Fish Fry
Headquarters 3/28/07
The director
and members of the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce will kick things off
Saturday morning with the traditional ribbon cutting. Loria Plunk, General
Manager of the Fish Fry, will preside over the opening ceremonies including the
announcement of the 2007 Fish Fry Parade Grand Marshall and the Fish Fry Book
dedication. Those attending the grand opening will receive the first copies of
this year’s book. State Representative Butch Borchert will be a special guest
of the Henry County Jaycees at the event. Refreshments will be served and
souvenirs available, including the new 2007 tee shirt.
Beginning March 31, Fish Fry Headquarters will be open from 11 am to 5
pm, Monday through Friday and 9 am until noon on Saturdays. For more information
on the World’s Biggest Fish Fry call the Paris-Henry County Chamber of
Commerce at (731) 644-1143.
Paris Housing Corp. 3/27/07
In reviewing the 13, 2006 THDA Homeowner applications
Bob Thornton pointed out that many had lead based paint that must be
removed and that several needed more than the $25,000 worth of renovations, per
house, that was the cut off amount set for the selected homes.
“It really hurts to have 3 homes that we can’t help,” stated
Chairman Sam Tharpe, “but we will be able to serve a lot more people this
way.” According to Thornton
those houses that would take more than the $25,000 had significant foundation,
pluming or electrical problems.
The Housing Trust Fund Grant, $12 million, is designed to help people
with disabilities, health problems or are elderly.
The grant is a matching grant and CDBG
money would be used to make the match. One
of the criteria for receiving funds is to have a very, very low yearly income,
below $15,250 per year. Lisa
Rowlett pointed out that the city does own 3 lots in the Peden Hill
neighborhood. There are around 3 homes on Jones Bend Rd. that need to be
moved due to being located in a flood prone area. To be considered as an applicant the homeowner must not only have a low income but also have all taxes current and maid in full. If the applicant is accepted they must agree not to sell or rent the home for 5 years. The Paris THDA 2006 Budget was$225,855 and $60,088 has been committed leaving $165,757. Discussed by Randy Nelson was a plan to build homes that he called Universal House Design, house with no step up to enter, that have wider hallways that wheelchairs will fit down. He estimated that the houses would cost $85,000 to build 3new structures and suggested the empty lots owned by the city.
Public Safety Committee 3/26/07 The Paris Public Safety Budget Review Committee covered such items as vehicle status and staffing issues at the Paris Police Department and the Paris Fire Department. Due to annex of areas to the city the area that the fire department must cover and police department has also enlarged. As the area has increased so has the service area. Chief Tommy Cooper would like to see the patrol fleet increased by one a year with the present need to retire 3 of the older vehicles and then 2 a year. Recent accidents with the patrol cars will cost an estimated $2900 to $3,000. "We need to look for new revenue resources, " stated Commissioner Pete Lackey, "and I don't mean writing more tickets." Cooper explained that fines and court costs have already been pushed to the limit. Paris Fire Chief Don Cox brought up subscriptions, similar to what the City of Puryear has done for providing service outside the city limits. "Every time there is a fire we send out one fire engine with 2 firemen and one patrol car, then there is the helicopters, the Life Flights. The city receives no compensation for the man power needed for that. Merit pay was also brought up by Lackey and possible bonuses. "We need to reward those who excel," stated Cooper. "Our problem is that our budget is in the Red," stated Mayor David Travis, Overtime is growing." Cooper stated that a considerable amount of the recent overtime was due to mandated training. Travis pointed out that in 6 months the overtime was at 81% of the yearly budgeted amount. Overtime at EMS and the police was up as was illness and injuries. Chief Cox told the committee, "It is mandated that we have as many people inside the building as we have out on a fire call and then there are vacation days, I don't see any way to cut overtime." "We are not here to question your ability but to see if you have any ideas how we can increase revenues or expenditures," explained Travis. Cooper stated that his 2008 budget was fairly static. Cox stated that his budget fluctuations were due to equipment such as air packs that are needed for the fire fighters. "27 to 28 air pacts are a priority budget item for the year. centralized Purchasing 3/24/07 The Henry County Budget Committee held its second information gathering meeting this week where they met with Carroll County Mayor Kenny McBride. Unlike Weakley County, Carroll County does not use 'centralized accounting' but they do use 'centralized purchasing'. "A purchase order number must be issued before any county official can make a purchase." he explained to the Budget committee and other county commissioners who were present for the Thursday morning meeting. "We have been doing this for years," McBride said. As in Weakley county, if there is no purchase order number the purchaser must return the merchandise to the vendor and repurchase it when a number has been issued for the requested item. "We do not review requests, we trust our officials to know if they have the money in their budget. You have to have enough faith in your elected officials that they will be responsible and trustworthy." McBride did not mention the recent lack of trust experienced by one of the county's past elected officials, although it was brought up by a committee member at Tuesday's meeting with Weakley Co. It was also brought out Thursday that the county's private act of 1994 calls for the county to be using Centralized Accounting, which would require additional employees and some higher salaries if implemented. All the counties, as mandated by state law, do use the bid process for purchases over $5,000. Drug Fund 3/23/07
Sheriff Monte Belew along with the Henry County Sheriff's Office Business Director Patricia Byers and Investigator Damon Lowe were present for Thursday's press conference where the Sheriff announced the sale of 1 and a half helicopters to Lance Thoreson, Vice President of Sales for Dakota Air Parts out of Fargo N. Dakota. Dakota Air Parts paid the Sheriff's Office $222,000 for the helicopters. The $222,000 will be added to the Sheriff's drug fund, the largest deposit ever made to that fund. "It costs money to lock the Bad Guys up," stated Belew. "This will be better spent since we already have the air support of the THP." The one complete helicopter and the partial 2nd, Vietnam era helicopters, were purchased during Henry County Sheriff Leon Williams terms in office. Purchased before 1996 from the army, they can be resold. The remaining 2 choppers were purchased after that date and can only be given to other government agencies. Due to lack of funds and high maintainance costs the crafts have not been flown in 2 years. The money will go into the Drug fund where it will be used for such things as drug prevention education. The sheriff also said that if air support was needed the Tennessee Highway patrol is available and it costs the county nothing. THP recently provided air support in the location of a lost child and a domestic stand off. The 'deal', described as log and tedious, that was negotiated with Air Parts for the Sheriff's office by Investigator Lowe started in Oct. of 2006. "It was a good resource in its time but now we have other resources," stated Belew.
HCMC
3/22/07
Saint Thomas Health Services
in Nashville,
and Henry County Medical Center have signed an affiliation agreement that will
result in superior quality cardiac care for patients in Henry County and the
surrounding counties. The
agreement provides for Saint Thomas Health Services and Henry County Medical
Center to work cooperatively toward
the development and expansion of cardiac services.
The first project within the agreement was the establishment of a Saint
Thomas Chest Pain Center at H CMC. The Chest Pain Center was accredited by the Society of
Chest Pain Centers on January 29, 2007.
Other cardiac services, including physician recruitment, will also be
addressed as part of the affiliation agreement. “Henry
County Medical Center is a great partner in the effort to provide enhanced
cardiac care to the Kentucky Lakes Region,” said Jim Houser, President and CEO
of Saint Thomas Health Services. “We
have the number one cardiac program in the State of Tennessee and we are among
the top 10% in the nation for cardiac care quality, volumes and outcome.
We are excited about partnering with Henry County Medical Center to
provide superior cardiac care and reduce unnecessary death from heart
disease.” “We sought Saint Thomas Health Services to establish a
strategic affiliation that will result in expanded preventive, diagnostic and
treatment opportunities for those who suffer from heart disease,” said Tom
Gee, President and CEO of Henry County Medical Center.
“The Saint Thomas name is synonymous with heart care and we are
particularly enthusiastic about jointly recruiting physicians to our area.”
Henry
County Medical Center is a progressive, integrated health care organization
committed to serving the health care needs of Henry County and the adjoining
region. Comprised of a 142-bed hospital, the 174-bed Henry County
Healthcare Center, and Emergency Medical Service, an off-site Center for
Wellness and Rehabilitation and a home health and hospice service, the medical
center provides a variety of outpatient services as well as inpatient care.
To learn more about Henry County Medical Center, visit www.hcmc-tn.org. Saint
Thomas Health Services is a faith-based ministry with 7,500 associates serving
Middle Tennessee. Saint Thomas Health Services consists of four hospitals:
Baptist and Saint Thomas in Nashville; Middle Tennessee Medical Center in
Murfreesboro, and Hickman Community Hospital in Centerville. It is a member of
Ascension Health, a Catholic organization that is the largest not-for-profit
health system in the United States.
Centralized Purchasing 3/22 In their search for information on centralized purchasing for Henry County government, the Budget committee heard a presentation from Shawn Francisco, Financial Director for Weakley County, which has had centralized purchasing as well as centralized accounting for 24 years. According to Ms Francisco every purchase made by county employees must be given a purchase order number before the purchase is made and an invoice of the purchase must be returned when the purchase is made. If no purchase order number is issued the person making the purchase must return the item to the place of purchase. She also stated that any item over $5,000 must be bid out and requires 3 written quotes. Among items Weakley purchases thru centralized purchasing are office supplies and paper products. Weakley County also uses direct deposit for full and part time employee's pay checks which saves the county $84,000 a year in paper and postage. On Thursday morning the study committee will hear from Carroll County which also uses centralized purchasing.
Care Van 3/22/07 The Henry County Medical Center's Care Van will be doing community Screenings at Morningside Public Housing Authority located behind the hospital on Hospital Circle on Friday from 9am to 11am. Screenings will include finger stick plood sugars and blood pressures. Finger stick Cholesterols will be $3. Gas Co. 3/21/07 The Paris Henry County Natural Gas Utility District is making plans for proposed expansion of gas lines in 2007. Some of the proposed expansions include Old Union Road at Twin Lakes Trailer Park to Had-A-Call Grocery and Old Union Rd. to Hwy. 69 at Twin Lakes. "These are the customers we want, those that are currently on propane tanks," explained Manager Don Green. Other extensions that could be run in house when there is time throughout the next year include Apt. Road, The Breakers, Carman Drive, Cedar Creek, Country Home Rd., Damesworth-Lankford Rd., Industrial Park Road Emerson, Pete Valentine Rd., Point Pleasant Rd., Wyninger Road. As part of a public awareness campaign the gas utility is distributing comic and activity books for children ages Kindergarten to 2nd grade in both Henry County schools and Paris Special School District as well as to many local preschools and daycare. One of the characters, 'Snifasauras' stresses safety when using natural gas. Also soon to be available in various locations in the community will be a natural Gas safety pamphlet. Residential and commercial gas usage was up in the month of Feb. Gas in storage was at 27% and according to Green this was a good place to be. "We should be down to 20% capacity of storage room, which will mean that we will not have to pay any penalties for over purchasing and holding gas in storage.". Commission 3/20/07 The Henry County Commissioners had a short agenda for the March meeting Monday evening. Approved by the commissioners were the recommendations by the budget committee, which included such items as increases to the county general fund due to funds collected from probation services, a Homeland security grant, and grant money received to purchase new voting machines, increases in the county 'Drug Fund' as well as a litter grant received by the Highway Department's litter program. The Commission approved a request from the Henry County Literacy Council through the non-profit organization review committee for up to $5,000 to underwrite the Governor's 'Books from Birth' program formerly known as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. The Literacy Council along with other civic organizations in Henry County will continue to hold fundraisers to help raise the $12,000 to $14,000 needed annually to continue the program of providing a book a month to children birth to 5 years old through the mail for those who are signed up by parents. The commission also approved a resolution for the Henry County Rescue Squad to be the county's primary rescue and extraction service. Commissioners also approved the appointment of Mary Nell Grooms to the Board of Zoning Appeals. The commission was also informed that the collection of money through the Tennessee River Resort Act, Feb. through November, was $848,000 and although Paris sales tax collection was soft for that period, the county's collection was up with money coming from the state for the resort act tax rebate. According to County Mayor Brent Greer the TRRA money comes once a month. 50% goes to tourism development and the rest to the county general fund. "We've got money in the bank," stated Greer as he thanked the commissioners who had voted for the Tennessee River Resort Act.
E-911 3/20/07 The Henry County Enhanced 911 board approved the low bid for an air conditioning unit for a room at the 911 center which contains equipment, such as computers. The low bid for the 1.5 ton unit came from All Temp Heating & Cooling ,LLC for $3,347.00. 911 Director Mark Archer told board members that he is waiting to receive approval for the Center to use the DuraPower unit for back up instead of the usual battery back up. Henry County will be the test site for the DuraPower unit, which will be installed between mid April and late May followed by a 90 day testing period. Evergy will be donating the power unit to the 911 Center. According to Archer one of the benefits of the power source is no power surges. If the equipment is approved by the state the local 911 will receive a reimbursement of up to $150,000 for equipment purchased since 2003. The board also received the study on Personnel Guidelines and Job Descriptions compiled by a committee headed by Paris Police Chief Tommy Cooper. The board voted to make the committee a standing committee that will continue to monitor industry standard salary levels with rotating members from the 911 board. "We need to monitor salaries to stay competitive," explained 911 Chairman John Etheridge. The board approved providing information from GIS maps to other emergency or government agencies but will sell information to commercial or private companies such as UPS or the public sector for $250 with the stipulation that they can not re-sell the GIS mapping information. "We need to get some of the money back. Commercial use is a source to recoup some of the county's money."
Girls Night 3/19/07 The W.G. Rhea Public Library is hosting a Girls Night Out for girls between the ages of 12 and 17 on Monday evenings from 6 to 7pm. This Monday Ricky Wade of the Paris Police Department will be conducting the meeting that will focus on self-defense. "To be or not to be afraid. Taking charge of our surroundings." Dinner will be served by the Janusette Delphain Club. Next week will feature Mary Kate Ridgeway, "Dressing for Myself". Parents/Guardians are not allowed at the sessions. Fire 3/17/07
The Mansfield Fire Department was called to a house fire on Bear Creek Rd. Thursday night just before midnight. When firefighters arrived the residence was totally involved and the roof had collapsed. The house, which was rented, was a complete loss. No one was at home at the time. A fire unit was recalled to the scene Friday morning when a gas leak was discovered.
Traffic Death 3/17/07 A 2 vehicle accident on Hwy 79 by the Dairy Delight resulted in the death of one person on Thursday. The victim , 59 year old Jackie Boyd, entered into oncoming traffic and was struck, pushing her into oncoming traffic from the other way. She was pronounced dead after arriving at HCMC. The driver of the other vehicle refused medical treatment. Chamber
Join us!!
TRRA 3/16/07
The Tennessee River Resort Act Steering committee along with many Henry County Commissioners plus interested members from the Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce and interested members of the public met Thursday evening as Andy Windham and Ryan O'Malley from Walker + Associates first reviewed their findings of a residents survey from 632 citizens and a survey of 125 visitors to Henry County. In both studies the number one items that they saw as needed in Henry County to promote tourism was a nature/outdoor Center, an amphitheater with concerts and entertainment, more well known family dining restaurants, and more accommodations. When asked about developing the amphitheater at Paris Landing State Park, Windham told the group that the problem with expanding those faculties was the inability to serve alcohol at state parks. Other areas of focus were the interest in a nature center by visitors with the amphitheater and concerts making the second most wanted on the visitor's list, followed by more dining opportunities in well known chain restaurants such as Chilies or Ruby Tuesday's. "The addition of more dining is a high priority that will have a large economic impact," stated the Walker + Associates. According to the Public Relations firm Henry County serves the residents in a 35 mile radius, estimated at around 260,000 people, but well known restaurant chains have more than population requirement to locate in smaller communities. Another priority was accommodations with public beaches. "Visitors and residents both listed this as a high priority," explained Windham. The development of these tourist draws would be over a 25 year period. Other drawing features for Henry County was the relaxing atmosphere along with the obvious hunting, fishing and boating opportunities. Locals are for the development of tourism explained Windham as long as local values and standards are not affected. The next phase by Walker + Associates will be a strategic Marketing plan which will outline recommended efforts to attract tourist to the area.
Henry 3/15/07 The Henry Mayor and Board of Aldermen received a check for $5,000 from the County Commissioners Jeff Hamlin, Connie McSwain and Bobby Freeman at their Thursday evening monthly meeting. The check was from the Tennessee River Resort Act, to be used to promote tourism in the municipality of Henry. They will be using the check for their annual celebration, Pioneer Day this fall. The board approved installing an UHF receiver onto their tornado warning siren and approved on first reading was an employee travel policy.
Road Board 2/15/07 The Henry County Highway Commission met this week and discussed trouble with trash and litter being dumped in unauthorized locations, such as gullies and ditches. Road Supervisor Ray Norwood told the road board members that he receives calls from the public about new dump locations all the time and it is hard to keep up with all the new unauthorized places people throw their trash. It was also emphasized that it is against the law to haul trash in an uncovered vehicle and a tarp is mandatory. Those entering the land fill without the required covering will be fined. Road board members were also asked to develop a list, which includes the number of miles, of unpaved roads in their district. "We need a list of graved loads and the number of miles to tar and chip for all major roads, roads that people use on a daily basis." explained Norwood. The commissioners also heard a presentation from Jon Hargett of Pavement Restorations INC. Hargett was promoting an infrared restoration process that he stated would return payment to the original smooth even surface by reheating the asphalt in any temperature. No action was taken. Schools 3/14/07 Henry County Schools will be out Thursday for Parent Visitation. They will also be closed Friday for a professional development day. Both school systems will be closed for Spring Break the 19th to the 23rd. Puryear 3/14/07
Puryear Mayor Kenny Paschall accepted a check from Henry County Commissioners Don Jones, Mitch Evans and Dan Paschall at Tuesday's Mayor and Board of Aldermen meeting at Puryear City Hall. The check, for $5,000, is from the Tennessee River Resort Act for promotion of tourism and may be spent at the municipalities' discretion. Cottage Grove and Henry also received checks for equal amounts. "We know you will spend it wisely," stated Evans. "We plan to spend it on Puryear Day," explained the mayor. The largest tourist attraction in Puryear is Puryear Day which will be May 19th this year. Named as Grand Marshall for Puryear Day 2007 was City Works Director Rickie Hughes, Mr. & Mrs. Puryear, Mayor Kenny Paschall and Sandra Paschall. In other business the remodeling of the Puryear City Hall Annex is in the last stages of renovation and ready to pain. Once completed the Police Department will move into the annex. Also discussed at Tuesday's meeting was the possibility of all Henry County Volunteer Firefighters receiving a discount on personal vehicle tags. According to commissioners the matter will be discussed at this months county commission meeting. Already approved in Robertson County the discount could be as much as $24 a year.
Non-Profit Committee 3/14/07 The Henry County Nonprofit Organization Review Committee heard requests from the Henry County Jaycees and the Henry County Literacy Council at the first meeting of this year on Tuesday. Last year the Jaycees received $5,000 to help with projects on the Henry County Fairgrounds. The money was used to improve parking and road conditions. They would like to continue with improvements by paving parking areas and adding a sidewalk. "We are willing to borrow the $50,000 it is estimated to cost," explained Jaycee David Hayes so that the improvements would be in place for Fish Fry. "We will then work on raising the money." "This is the main festival for Paris and Henry County." stated County Mayor Brent Greer. Because of the infrastructure it would add, the committee agreed to send a recommendation to the TRRA Steering committee that tourism money be spent in the project and also to make a recommendation to the Finance Committee that it be added to the budget each year. The Henry County Literacy Council had a similar request, seeking continuing funds for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a program that provides a free book a month to children birth to 5 years old in the county that are signed up for the program by their parent. At first funded by a grant in Henry County in 2005, the county was a pilot county for the program. The successful program currently serves 900 children out of an estimated 1,800 that are 5 and under. The Literacy council along with Commercial Bank, the Rotary Club, Telephone Pioneers, Enterprise Cars, Lakeway Kiwanis and individual donors have paid for the postage necessary to make the program work. The Literacy Council was seeking a continuous source of funding for the Imagination Library here in Henry County. "I have done home visits," stated Educator Susan Quinn, "and many of the homes don't have any written material in the house." Committee member Randy Veazey added," As a teacher at Henry County High School, I see our number 1 problem, students that can't read or can't read well." The cost of the free books for preschoolers cost an estimated $24,000 a year. Currently the Literacy Council needs $5,000 to fund the program for the rest of the year. The request was granted with the stipulation that only what is needed to fund the program be spent with any excess to be saved for later needs of the program. The request must be resubmitted each budget year with the hope that the community continues to support the 'Books from Birth' program with donations.
Plane Crash 3/13/07 A 1968 Cessna 172K single engine rental airplane out of Memphis and headed toward KenLake crashed at 12:05pm in a soybean field by the Henry County Airport when it attempted to land. First reports stated that they had run out of gas but were later changed by the pilot to engine problems. The pilot, 50 year old Edward Lee Sandman Jr. and his wife Angela Sandman, who was celebrating her 50th birthday Monday received non-life threatening injuries when on landing the landing gear became mired in the soft field, causing the craft to flip. Both were transported to Henry County Medical Center. The couple, who were from Cordova TN. stated that they would be driving home. The accident is now being investigated by the FAA.
Budget Committee 3/13/07 The Henry County Budget Committee will recommend approval of several budget amendments to the Henry County Commission this month. Included in the recommendations is approval of additions to the county general fund which include the addition of approx. $43,000 taken in from fines from the probation office. The money will be used to fund several new programs that Sheriff Belew and the General Sessions Judge Vicki Snyder would like to implement, such as video equipment to hold some hearings in the jail so that transporting inmates to the courthouse would not be necessary. "It seems like a great thing to get our violators to pay for some of this," stated County Mayor Brent Greer. "We are looking at a lot of different programs, including drug prevention," stated Sheriff Monte Belew. The budget amendments also include state grant money for the new voting machines. Money will also be added to the county coffers from seizure money from the Metro Crime Unit, which will be split with the Paris City Police. Grant money from the Litter program will also be added. Belew stated that an officer is now being paid for 30 hours a week to keep trash from being dumped along back roads and other unauthorized locations. The officer is also checking to see that trucks that come to the land fill have the mandatory tarp covering over their loads to prevent trash from flying out onto the roadway. Those that do not are being fined.
Hazardous Mitigation Plan 3/13/07 The Henry County Hazardous Mitigation Committee has completed its Mitigation plan and is ready to submit it to FEMA. According to Emergency Management Director Ron Watkins in the past FEMA has been known for returning plans time and time again. "We have followed their requirements and put the report in the required format," stated Committee Member Paris Police Chief Tommy Cooper.
Saint Louis Brass Quintet 3/12/07
Planning Commission 3/10/07 The Paris Municipal Regional Planning Commission held business as usual after electing new officers at Thursday's meeting. Jim Hayes remains Chairman with Randy Scholes replacing Susan Jones as Vice Chair, who resigned from the commission and Wyatt Owens remains as Secretary. In one matter of old business the 'Docks' development on Industrial Park Road was approved after developers submitted a new set of revised drawings to the committee which approved the development of a recreational complex with a party room, miniature golf area , kitchen facilities and restrooms. A rezoning request was granted to Mr. Randall Bowden and Mr. Martin Lewis for the land, which is less than an acre, and located in the Colinwood Subdivision to be zoned high density like the surrounding neighborhood. A rezoning request for Mr. Larry Ellis was approved contingent upon his lot and the adjoining lot, #19 and #20 to be included in the request for Joy St. Not on the agenda was a request for Cully Dr. on Industrial Park to be dedicated to the city. The request was granted.
School Board3/9/07 The Henry County Board of Education reviewed changes and additions to their 5 year plan during the board's annual retreat Thursday, held at Paris Landing. The board revised it's 5 year plan to include working with the Paris Special School District and the County Commission to developing one unified educational system. A second part of the revised 5 year plan would be implementation of a junior ROTC program for grades 9 to 12 beginning in the 08-09 school year. The third item discussed by the board at their retreat was addressing and challenging high achieving students. Point 4 was developing an educational plan for non-traditional students. In other business Director of Schools Rick Kriesky announced that the school system had received $939,000 in grants this year. A search for a new high school principal is moving forward. "The search is going very well." stated Kriesky. Current principal Dawn Poole will be moving to an administrative position. Permission was given by the board to sell extra baseball jerseys. The proceeds from the sale will go to defray the cost of the teams expenses this year. The new bathroom facilities at Patriot Stadium are complete and the softball and soccer dugouts will be installed this summer, while the road around Lakewood school will be started the first day of spring break and is expected to take around 60 days to complete. Mr. Kriesky appointed board members Don Williams and George Todd to the school board's Budget committee and Todd, Patricia Reimold along with Assistant Director of Schools John Hinson to the board policy committee. The board approved a field trip to New York City for the 17 students in the Business and Professionals of America. The group won at the state level and will now move onto the National competition. The Skills USA 5 member group in auto mechanics will be going to the state competition. This was the first year for the organization at Henry County High School. Jail Tour 3/9/07 One hundred and twenty seven 7th and 8th graders from Harrelson School visited the Henry County correctional Facility Thursday as part of a full day of educational visits that started at the Krider Performing Arts Center to view the High School production of "Arsenic and Old Lace". As part of the jail tour, students were conducted through the facility by Sheriff Monte Belew and Chief Deputy Randy Gene, they also met Buddy, the drug K-9, who showed them how he is able to sniff out drugs and hold offenders at bay, with his 'drug bite' until officers arrive on the scene. Joining in the K-9 demonstration were officers and their dogs from Milam and Glisson Police Departments. Fire Chiefs 3/8/07 The Henry County Fire Chiefs Association met for their quarterly meeting last week which was hosted by the Henry Volunteer Fire Department at the Henry Civic Center. All departments in Henry County attended the quarterly meeting. The group voted to implement an automatic mutual aid response policy in Henry County. They will also be contacting County Mayor Brent Greer about a possible Development Fire Grant that will benefit all the departments in Henry County. E-911 Director Mark Archer was present and gave a presentation to the group concerning upgrades that will be seen in the 911 system in the near future. The Association also re-elected John Weiher III as the Association Chairman for a 2 year term.
Fire Hydrants 3/8/07 The Paris Board of Public Utilities will be flushing fire hydrants from Monday March 13 through Thursday March 15. According to Terry Wimberley, Director of Water & Wastewater Operations, Customers could experience air in water lines or discoloration in the water. If these conditions occur, run water through a faucet for several minutes. The water should return to normal in a short amount of time. If problems continue call BPU at 642-1322 ext. 142. City Election 3/7/07 With the very poor turnout for the Paris City Commission election of only 631 voters, which includes early and absentee votes, the 4 precincts of the city had their ballots returned to the election commission office and counted in less than an hour after the poles closed at 7pm. Sam Tharpe received a total of 463 votes, Pete Lackey received a total of 402 votes and Terry Fuller received a total of 359 votes with new comer to the city election Neil Buettner receiving 322 total votes. The break down by precinct was as follows : City Hall - Buettner- 34; Fuller - 77; Lackey - 45; Tharpe -84. Vo-Tec - Buettner -153; Fuller - 135; Lackey - 182; Tharpe - 190; Grove - Buettner- 56; Fuller - 92; Lackey - 78; Tharpe - 105. HCHS - Buettner - 79; Fuller - 55; Lackey- 97; Tharpe - 84.
Grant 3/7/07
Henry County will receive a grant in the amount of $23,275 for a skid steer
loader and grapple bucket.
“I’m pleased we can provide this grant to support waste reduction efforts in
Henry County,” said Bredesen. “This program plays an important role in our
state’s strategy to encourage recycling and reduce the amount of solid waste
that goes into landfills in Tennessee.”
“The General Assembly created this fund to encourage recycling and diversion
of waste from landfills,” said Senator Roy Herron. “I’m pleased to see
this money used to support recycling at the local level.”
“This
is good news and will be a real benefit to our community,” added
Representative Willie Borchert.
Recycling equipment grants may be used to purchase equipment for new recycling
programs, improve and expand the operation of an existing site or prepare
recyclable materials for transport and marketing.
Grants may be awarded to counties, cities, non-profit recycling
organizations and solid waste authorities across Tennessee to help reach or
exceed the goals set forth in the Solid Waste Management Act of 1991. Each
recipient is required to match the state grant on a sliding scale basis.
The grant program was authorized by the Solid Waste Management Act of 1991 and
is supported from the Tennessee Solid Waste Management Fund that is administered
by the Department of Environment and Conservation. The fund receives revenues
from a state surcharge on each ton of solid waste disposed in landfills and from
a fee on new tires sold in the state. Henry County Solid Waste Director Ron Watkins stated that the new skid loader was very needed with the present one 9 years old and in constant need of repair. Hazardous Mitigation Plan 3/6/07 The 4th meeting of the Hazardous Mitigation Planning Committee was held in the Henry County Emergency Management office on Monday afternoon. The last approved plan for Henry County was in 1998-99. According to Mike Caudil, TEMA area coordinator and mitigation planner specialist, an approved plan must be in place for the county to be eligible for disaster relief funds and the county or municipality must have approved the National Flood Insurance Program ordinance, as Paris, Henry County and Puryear have. Such things as floods, tornadoes, earthquakes and other natural disasters are included in the plan and the plan must offer permanent solutions to the problems presented in the mitigation plan. Some items, such as siren warning systems and single home safe rooms are not eligible for funding since, according to Caudil they would be extensive and use up all of the available funds. Other suggested plans for warning include the NOA Weather radios and reverse 911 dialing. "The goal of the mitigation plan is to do anything that can be done as a community to lessen the effect of a disaster and you need an updated approved plan to be eligible for FEMA grant money," explained Caudil. In 2000 Congress passed legislation requiring an approved mitigation plan be in place by 2003. Henry County is still working to have a new, updated plan ready for approval. "The plan must also interface with other local plans and programs," explained Henry County Emergency Management Director Ron Watkins. Caudil pointed out that this committee could only recommend and it would be up to local governments to approve the recommendations. "This where a well informed public can be helpful," stated. "There are only 5 counties in TN that do not have a new approved plans in place." Jail 3/6/07 The Henry County Correctional Facility, the Jail, walls are now supporting a new feature, a wall size cabinet will house the pictures and addresses of registered sex offenders. The law requires that all convicted sex offenders register with local authorities. The jail will also house a case that will contain the 10' Most wanted' list. Weather Spotter 3/6/07 A Sever Weather Spotters Class will be held Tuesday March 6th at 6:30pm at Henry County High School. The free class is provided by the National Weather Service out of Memphis, is open to the public and will meet in 'E' building, second floor testing center. Photo Showcase 3/5/07
The 14th Annual Photo Showcase, sponsored by the Paris Henry County Arts Council and Dr. Danny Kimberlin and Mrs. Martha Jo Kimberlin opened with a reception at the W. G. Rhea Public Library Sunday afternoon. The visitors were entertained at the reception by the gentle sound of Christopher Schlegel's guitar . The library was full of exhibitors and admirers as this years winners were announced, selected by this years judge well know local photographer Lisa Green. There were 67 photographers who entered 144 pictures. New to this year's event were awards for the best Wildlife presentation by the Friends of the Tennessee Wildlife Refuge. Winner in the adult division was Jan Phillips. Winner of the youth division was Elizabeth Cook. Winner of Best of Show was Timothy Montana. Winner of 1st place Adult was Beverly Hicks. 2nd place went to Jaynann Thomas. 3rd place adult went to Wendy Brooks. 1st place for Computer Enhanced was Allan Gengler. 2nd place was Stephen Grimstead. 3rd place Claire Sullivan Brown. 1st place in the student category went to Caleb Waddey. 2nd place was Harrison Foster. 3rd place Pamela Bush. Honorable mention was given to Suzanne Fowlkes, Gavin Snow, Allan Gengler, Jan Phillips and Dana Horvath. "You are doing something that comes from the heart, you are all winners," stated Lisa Green. Green also told the photographers that she would like to start a photo club. Those interested can contact her at her home number. The display runs thru the 29th.
The Trial 3/5/07 Around 200 people were part of the diverse audience Saturday evening who attended "The Trial" at K-Pac, a play that was both funny and serious as well as inspiring. Sponsored by the Church of The Living God, the trial is a modern representation of the trial of Jesus Christ. Written, produced , directed, composed and scored by Orlando Thompson of Chicago , who's sister attends the Church of The Living God here in Paris, is a musical that was first performed in Chicago, is currently playing in the southern part of the country but according to Thompson will be touring nation wide.
Early Voting 3/3/07 Early voting for the March 6 City election ended on Thursday. According to Jill Frey of the Henry County Election Commission the turn out was very, very low. From the 4 city precincts with approx 8,000 registered voters only 311 early votes were cast. City Commission 3/3/07 During the citizens forum well known Paris Citizen Mr. George Combs addressed the board on Mr. George Moore's last meeting as a commissioner and thanked him for all his service to the community. "He has always been accessible to the citizens of Paris." Moor also received a plaque for his service at Friday evening's meeting. Mr. Moor, who will be 82 this year, has been a commissioner for 16 years starting in 1985 and was also the Paris City Manager. "I want the citizens and the board to know that it has been a rewarding experience." Mayor David Travis told Mr. Moor, "He is a man of integrity and a true gentleman." Although sale tax collections were down for December, tax collection for January was ahead. According to Financial Director David Smith Paris was not the only city who's sales tax collections were down over December. The city has applied for a THDA grant. If it is received it is planned to be used in several neighborhoods including the Peden Hill area. The commissioners approved a resolution to amend the city's Police Manual. According to Paris Police Chief Tommy Cooper the changes are needed to comply with state wide changes in dealing with domestic violence. A change in zoning for some residential areas to business was approved on firth reading and will be sent to the planning commission for their recommendation before coning back to the commissioners for final approval. City Manager Carl Holder told the board that a large cut in funding would delay the proposed signalization on Joy St. The state funding cut, according to Holder would delay the stoplights at that intersection for several years. Also delayed will be the 218 by-pass expansion. Holder stated that title searches on property needed for the expansion may be completed by the end of the year. Approval on second reading was given for the increases proposed by BPU for wastewater surcharge rates, which will only affect Clifty Farms and water tap rates. After a lengthy discussion and explanation of the proposed resolution regarding "Competitive Cable and Video Services Act", which concerns Tennessee Municipal League's recommendation and AT&T/Bell South. Vice Mayor Sam Tharp and Carl Holder gave it as their opinion that the two parties needed to come together and discuss compromises. "This proposed state wide franchise does not have much to do with the rural areas and Paris is a small market. No action was taken by the commission. During a public works and Parks committee meeting prior toe the commission meeting Carl Holder told committee members that based on appraisal values the current value of Johnson Park is valued at $47,000; McNeal Park is valued at $350,000..
Beer Board 3/2/07 The Henry County Beer Board approved an application for on and off premises beer sales at Thursday's meeting. The permit was for The Pump house Sporting Goods and Grill. Located in what was previously the Crow's Nest in Springville, the establishment owned by Gorge K Henshall III, will offer a full line of fishing equipment as well as a breakfast bar, lunch and a BBQ dinner menu. Last month Mr. Henshall purchased the Half Way Market and reopened it.
Photo Showcase 3/2/07
Jobs 3/2/07 According to John Lankford, Career Specialist at the Henry County Career Center on Mineral Wells Ave., it has been a hectic week at the Career Center and they are currently in need of job applicants looking for work. "We have job openings for 80 people," stated Lankford. Come in or call 731-644-7355 Ext. 307.
Helping Hand 3/2/07
The final day of the Helping Hand Radio Auction was Wednesday. The total for the day was $8361 making the grand total for 2007 $257,601, compared toast years total of $263,977 . "We had 22 slates on the last day, the most ever in the 15 years I have been helping with the auction," stated Martha Stewart. President of the 15 member board of Helping Hands, Sharon Kummerow stated, "We live in a very generous community, its a pleasure to help." She added that on the last day, with all the donations, they started at a quarter of a million dollars.
The Trial 3/1/07 The trial of the century is a dramatic depiction of the trial of Christ. The musical was written by Royal Simmons, a native of Chicago. 'The Trial' will be performed at Krider Performing Arts Center on Volunteer Drive on March 3 at 7pm. Tickets are $7.50 in advance or $10 at the door. They are available at Jack Jones or at the Paris Civic Center. Citizens Police Academy 3/1/07
The 26 members of the 2007 Citizens Police Academy consisted of a variety of people age 18 to 75from a variety of backgrounds such as lawyers, business owners, dentists, retirees and law enforcement officers from other communities. "Its a big class stated Paris Police Training Officer Jeff Wygul. The academy is a joint effort of the Paris Police Department and the Henry County Sheriff's office and is designed to foster community understanding of the role and activities of the police and open the lines of communication between officers and citizens. To date there have been 5 academies with over 100 graduates. " We believe policing by partnership is essential for crime control efforts," stated Paris Police Chief Tommy Cooper. 6 years since the last academy, a grant from TEMA once again made the academy possible. Students attenuated training classes on law, accidents , weapons and shooting at the firing range and had the opportunity to ride with officers on patrol. |
