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Take a Shot 5/31/07 Get your camera’s ready and take at shot at winning $100 in the Between Fences Photography Contest sponsored by the Paris-Henry County Heritage Center. Participants should take a photograph based on the themes of the Between Fences exhibit on display at the Heritage Center through July 2. “Between Fences is about our homes and the land on which they’re built. It’s the story of the settling of the United States and the creation of communities. It’s about why people build fences. It’s about intimacy and conflict, creativity and industry. Between Fences is about defining ourselves as Americans-our philosophies, our lifestyles, our values and beliefs, our national ethos, and our national borders.”
Contest participants are encouraged to view the exhibit in order to better
understand its themes and message. Photographs will be placed on display
at Arts ‘Round the Square on June 9 from 10am-4pm. Photographs that best
exemplify the theme in each category, novice and professional, will receive a
$100 Prize, second place will receive $50. Entry forms are available at the
Heritage Center and entries are due by June 2 at 2pm at the Heritage Center.
Good Luck Photographers!
City Commission 5/31/07 The Paris City Commission met in a special called meeting Tuesday evening to discus health care and payroll issues for city employees. The commissioners did select a health care insurance for employees while they only discussed budget reductions. TRRA 5/30/07 The Tennessee River Resort Act Steering Committee met with Andy Windham of the public relations firm, Walker+Associates, who have been presenting the county with their plan for promoting tourism in Henry County. Tuesday's meeting focused on marketing the area and creating an image of the area, a marketable 'branding' that can be developed into name recognition. "We discussed and thought and came up with what we think represents this unique community. 'Village of Paris, Paris Landing, a World by the Water'. The use of the word village will encompass what we are trying to capture," stated Windham. Windham told the full Chancery courtroom that the study of the area showed that people came here for the relaxation and water activities, which is what the promotional advertising would reflex. Besides the branding and logo recognition he also suggested there be an organization be developed to promote tourism that would cut across political and geographical lines and would have total freedom to operate on a day to day basis. BPU 5/30/07 The Paris Board of Public Utilities approved a resolution allowing the utility to join the Tennessee Valley Public Power Association (TVPPA) Generation and Transmission Cooperative. One of 63 such co-ops in the United States , General Manager Charles Perry told board members that by buying into the TVA Generation , TVA could not sell without BPU's agreement. To buy into the co-op will cost $7,000 which is equal to the annual dues to join the co-op which is based on annual sales. "As TVA moves forward we would be part of the distribution system," explained Perry. He further explained that if BPU didn't buy in now they could not be part of any projects with the co-op later. "This is an entry into the game and a deterrent for TVA to sell. It benefits us and ultimately the customer," stated Assistant Manager John Etheridge. Chairman Bill Caldwell added, "It would be to our advantage to be a member." The board also discussed the fuel cost adjustments to take effect on July 1. TVA began fuel cost adjustments in January to keep dramatic changes from effecting their net income and borrowing rates. The adjustments are expected to increase a $100 bill by 41 cents. In an overview of the upcoming budget Etheridge stated that decreases in salaries and benefits would be seen do to long time employees retiring. The budget will also include a 2.8% cost of living increase as well as an increase in outside services. Capital expenditures will include the purchase of new trucks with several older trucks sold to one of the utilities 3 departments. The TVA power bill was 2,080,000 for April. "This is very small for us," explained Perry. The low bill is attributed to the mild winter weather and with warmer temperatures. There are currently20391 electric customers. 15,000 residential customers, 270 industrial customers and 4900 structural customers, such as barns and other out buildings. There has been an increase of 140 customers in the last year.
Holiday Deaths 5/30/07 A 2 vehicle accident on Hwy 79 on Saturday night resulted in the death of a husband and wife. According to reports the car crossed into oncoming traffic causing the pick up truck to be struck. Other passengers in the vehicles suffered only minor injuries.
Sheriff's Report 5/29/07 In an effort to keep the public informed of the sheriff's office activities, Sheriff Monte Belew has issued a monthly report for the month of March. During the month of March an average of 161 prisoners were housed in the Henry County Correctional Facility per day. 70 were state prisoners generating $68,508 in revenue from the state of Tennessee to the county General Fund. The inmate commissary generated $1,735 in revenue and the Inmate Recyclables generated $3,468 to the General Fund for that month. Sheriff's officers served 1,100 criminal and civil papers. 52 arrests and citations were issued for driving violations. 11 motorists were charged with DUI and 15 were charged with driving on a revoked or suspended driver's license. 3 vehicles were seized due to driving on driving on revoked driver's licenses. The Metro Crime Unit and the Sheriff's office made 25 drug arrests and seized $1,929, 3 vehicles, 1 cell phone and 1 pocket P.C. Deputy cruisers traveled 49,684 miles while on patrol, transporting prisoners to state institutions, juveniles to correctional facilities, answering citizens complaints, serving criminal and civil papers and performing their duties. 860 businesses, schools and residences were checked during the month of March. Officers found no open doors during the checks. The Criminal Investigations Unit opened 61 cases. 15 cases were suspended, 46 were closed and 15 were arrested. The School Resource Officer made 1 felony arrest, 3 reports and 6 complaints. 11 requests for counseling were also made. The officer attended 6 after school events.
Guitarist 5/26/07
Cemetery Upkeep 5/26/07 Everyone interested in the upkeep of the Canton Spring Cemetery in Henry is encouraged to be present at 10am Monday May 29, Memorial Day, at the cemetery. A short meeting will be held. Historical Society 5/26/07 The Henry County Historical Society will hold its May meeting on Tuesday May 29 beginning at 7pm. The May meeting has been moved from the 4th Monday due to the Memorial Day holiday. The meeting will be held athe Heritage Center where members will have the opportunity to view the Smithsonian exhibit 'Between Fences'. Update on Grove School Centennial, state historical markers, membership drive and the Red and Birdie King family homestead are among the items on the meeting agenda. Pancake Breakfast 5/26/07 The men's Club of Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church will be holding their 55th Annual Pancake Breakfast Saturday, May 26. The breakfast starts at 7am and will run until they are sold out. Breakfast consists of Pancakes, bacon or sausage and juice, milk or coffee. Dine in or carry out. Call 642-8445 for delivery. Adults are $6, children under 13 are $3. Airport 5/26/07 The Henry County Airport Committee met for the first time since June on Thursday evening. County Mayor Brent Greer told the committee that SkyKits Corporation, currently based in Alberta Canada had chosen West Tennessee , Henry Co., in particular, to relocate in. The company wants to set up an assembly plant for light aircraft. Currently the wings are built in Italy and sent to Canada where the air craft is assembled. SkyKit would require 2 acres of land for the 17 thousand Sq. ft. building. If all goes as planned, the county would obtain a low interest Rural Development loan through BPU. The county would build the plant and lease the building to the corporation. The business is expected to create 25 new jobs with more to come. The current plan has the business up and running by the end of this calendar year. "Potentially there are more orders for these in boarder control than can be filled, " explained Greer. In other business the committee reviewed the proposed budget for the next fiscal year. This budget showed an increase in building maintenance, a decreased in purchased fuel, with such items in capital projects as an airplane guidance system and a decrease in communications. It also included security upgrades. HCMC 5/26/07 "We are increasing our efforts to get a 3rd OB. We are getting much better support from the current staff to move this forward," Medical Center Administrator Thomas Gee told the board of trustees in his administrative comments. Gee was part of a six member delegation that met with Gov. Bredesen to discuss ongoing concerns about TennCare MCO's and Cover TN issues related to hospitals. "We reiterated our need for a disproportionate care fund to assist hospitals. The Governor is very supportive of this but the federal government is very reluctant to fund this due to budget neutrality issues with the Medicaid program. We also expressed concern about the Governors remarks that he didn't care if the hospitals were disadvantaged by CoverTN as long as he gets more people covered in the state," Gee told the board. The new CCU is open and seeing patients. Construction is scheduled to begin on Third West and Lake Haven in the next few weeks. Both of these will take beds out of service. "The census is usually low at this time," stated Gee. The board members also welcomed new Chief Nurse Officer Amy Johnson, RN
E-911 5/26/07 The Enhanced 911 Board heard from 911 Director Mark Archer on the progress of GIS mapping in the city of Paris Thursday. According to Archer the city's major thoroughfares are mapped and many of the side streets as well. Out of a total of 339 roadways in the city approx. 109 remain to be mapped. "We are making progress," stated Archer. Board members received an update from the Job Personnel, Policy and Procedures Committee. Discussion of salaries and job duties in other 911 centers continues. The board will be meeting again next month to review and approve a budget for the 2008 fiscal year. Jobs 5/25/07 According to John Lankford, Career Specialist at the Tennessee Career Center at Paris , they are in desperate need of qualified applicants for a multitude of positions. The Career Center is looking for individuals to apply for positions in several industries in the community. Windsor Republic Doors in McKenzie is expanding their 2nd shift and looking for individuals with at least 6 months of industrial experience. In addition Champion Homes has several openings with its production staff. Construction and drywall experience is highly preferred. Henry County Medical Center has several openings. There are also several retail positions open in the community as well. "Come by the Career Center to find out more about these positions and how to apply," explained Lankford. The Workforce Investment office, also located at the Career Center, are looking for individuals ages 16 to 21 in need of summer jobs.
Arts League 5/25/07 The Tennessee River Fine Arts League will be having their monthly show and sale Friday May 25th starting at 5pm in the Robert E. Lee Academy for the Arts in Paris on Lee St. This month's featured artists are Becky Hedges and Jim Hodge. A portion of the sales benefits the league and the Academy. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. Endorsement 5/25/07 The Board of Directors of the Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce unanimously approved the recommendation from the chamber's Executive Committee and approved the hiring of Carl Holder, Paris City Manager, as CEO of the Henry County Alliance, including the administration of the Tennessee River Resort Act funds. Solid Waste Committee 5/24/07 The Henry County Solid Waste Committee met Tuesday evening, the first meeting since new solid waste director Ron Watkins had taken over the position. "2006 was a relatively good year. We are still well above the 25% rate for recycling required by the state. As of present we have had $148,746 in revenue from the sale of recyclables this budget year. We will be closing in, meeting projected revenues of $165,000 with around 5 weeks of the budget year left" stated Watkins The Household Hazardous Waste Day was a successful event with a steady stream of people all day, doing the same volume as last year. 271 households participated with 382 tires turned in, 318 gallons of used oil and 40 gallons of Antifreeze along with 30 batteries and 18propane cylinders being turned in. Included in the capital projects budget for this fiscal year is a new bailer and box trucks. The equipment is worn out and needs to be replaced. Also discussed was the need to add to the building so a separate area for inmate laborers and regular employees can be established. A budget containing those items will be presented to the budget committee for their approval. Grant money for a skid steer has finally been received boy the county and bids will be going out for the piece of equipment. Sealed bids will be accepted until 10:30am June 12th. Currently Barker Brothers has an exclusive contract for collecting county household waste with decedents of Kendall's grand fathered in. Apparently a new person, Peggy's We Haul has been bringing in numerous untarped pickup truck loads daily. They have been cited by the sheriff's office for the offence. The committee agreed to Watkins's request to declare 3 school buses as surplus property due to the expense of fuel to run them. "They are gas guzzler," stated Watkins. A 10 person van to transport inmates and to be used for transporting Vets to Nashville was purchased at auction and according to County Mayor Brent Greer has been well maintained. PSSD 5/23/07 The new principle to fill the vacancy at Inman Middle School due to Mr. Mike Brown accepting the position of Director of Schools will be filled by Gordon Clay Lindsey. Although not from Henry County Mr. Brown told the board members of Paris Special School District that Lindsey was well qualified. The new principle, formerly a principle with the Union City School System, will take on his duties July 1st. In a related item, the board will be awarding Brown the superintendent's salaries plus benefits retroactive as of May 1. Board chairman Richard Edwards told board members it was only fair since Brown had been performing both the job of the director of schools and principal. Also announced at the monthly meeting was the Employee of the Year. Chosen this year was Rhea Elementary Teacher Amy Rose. "I am so honored. I enjoy my job and working with the kids." The school board approved the plans for the new pre-school on the Rhea campus. The building will have 8 classrooms, all with bathrooms. There will also be a contained playground just for the pre-schoolers and a large covered play area for inclement weather. The construction will begin before cold weather sets in, although the construction is contingent on a private act for funding. The passage of the private act will be on a tight time table if passage is to occur this legislative session. Pending that approval the board also awarded the funding of the project to McKenzie Banking Co. who offered the lowest interest rates for the $2 plus million needed to construct the new building and the renovations to Rhea's kitchen. 184 laptop computers were issued to students in this, the first year of the lap top incisive and 100% were returned with only very minor damage to a few of the computers. In a survey of students and parents 98% liked the laptops. 40% took the lap tops home and of those 90%used the lap tops to do school work at home. In other business the board accepted the TSBA approved code of ethics for board members and employees. Drowning 5/22/07 A drowning was reported at Cypress Bay Saturday. A 911 call was received from Cypress Bay Resort stating that a 46 year old white male, identified as Robert Lassitor of Murray, had fallen from the rock walkway into the water as he was boarding a boat and he could not swim. His body was recovered by diver Brad Hosford.
Fatal Accident 5/22/07 A fatal accident occurred on Hwy 69 Saturday. The vehicle went off the roadway sideswiped an oncoming vehicle. The 22 year old driver was pronounced dead at HCMC emergency room. 2 others were injured in the accident. Another accident was reported on 79N where the vehicle rolled over several times. The injured were air lifted from HCMC. County Commission 5/22/07 The Henry County Commission held a discussion on the Mary Burns lawsuit and resulting court costs which the county is obligated to pay. Listed in the budget amendments, the commissioners elected to remove it before approving the budget committee' s recommendations. As a separate item commissioners voted 9 to 5 against the amendment as a protest vote although they were aware that by law they must pay the court costs. The resolution passed last month to wave the price of licenses tags for firefighters was receded. According to Greer there was not enough time for legislation to approve the waver before the legislature recessed and the request will be brought back before the commission in November and then sent on to the state in January. Approved was the use of Business Information Systems who will be installing the necessary equipment needed to allow government offices to accept credit cards. Also approved at Monday evening's commission meeting was application for the Litter Grant, received through the Highway Department and the Hazardous Mitigation Plan, which was recommended by FEMA and TEMA and then adopted by the city of Paris was approved by the county commission. Approved on 1st reading were the recommendations of the Non- profit organization committee. Approved Monday were several appointments recommended by the nominating committee which included Carol Hutson and Frankie Hosford to the civil service board. Bobby Kelsner was approved for the 911 board and Ken Walker along with Mary Kate Ridgeway will serve on the Volunteer Committee. The rules for the election of a new commissioner for the 2nd district were set and will be held at the June commission meeting.
Office on Aging 5/22/07 County Mayor Brent Greer told members of the Office on Aging Committee that the county was looking for volunteers to transport senior citizen veterans to such places as Nashville for doctor appointments and medical services. There are approx. 3400 or 10% of the county's population that are eligible for VA services. To this end the development of a V.A. satellite clinic, built on Tennessee State , Paris Landing, property is bringing proposed. The proposed site would be by the Paris Landing Volunteer Fire Department building on Hwy 79. Also proposed is a complex that would contain a senior citizens/ community center and facilities for the Rescue Squad and EMS as well as Sheriff's satellite location to serve the lake area. According to Greer a Community Facilities Grant as well as TN. River Resort Act funds are being sought by the county to help with the proposed complex. Puryear Day 5/21/07
Perfect weather, a the long list of family- friendly activities, throw in a parade, food and carnival, mix with friends and neighbors and what you get is the 24th annual Puryear Day Celebration, something far exceeding the founder, Mr. Puryear, had in mind when he started the railroad town 98 years ago. State Rep. Butch Borchert County Mayor Brent Greer, along with Judge Vicki Snyder, David Stone. Ron Meyers, Puryear Mayor Kenny Paschal and Puryear Aldermen Bryan Hall and Brian Sykes were among the crowd Saturday with Rickie Hughes as this years Grand Marshall and Mayor Paschall with his wife Sandra as Mr. & Mrs. Puryear. "It was the thrill of a life time to be selected as the Grand Marshal," stated Public Works Director Hughes. There were 75 entries in this years parade, viewed by an estimated crowd of 400. "We would like to thank the Puryear Lion's Club for what they do for this community," stated Puryear Mayor Paschall. Parade winners were - Mayor’s Trophy – Henry County Teachers Association
relay for life float
Vintage Car/Truck or Tractor 1905 -1945
2) Jimmy Gallimore 1931 Ford 3) Ruhl’s Farm 1947 Tractor Vintage
Car/Truck/Tractor ( 1950 –1979)
1) Bill Robinson 1954 Tractor 2) L T McKenzie 1979 Excalibur 3) Barker Farms 1950 Farmall Large Float
1) Henry
County Education Association Relay for Life Team 2)
Puryear United Methodist Church 3) Birth
of Puryear Warren T Sykes Small Float 1)
Spring Fling 5-6 yr old girls 2)
Mary Lacy Red Wagon Walking/Marching
Unit 1) Girl Scouts 2) Boy Scouts Animal Entry 1) Patty Hopper and Shadow the miniature horse. 2) Five Oaks Farm - mini stallion 3) Jeff Hopper - Pony and wagon
I-Pod winner - Amber Schrader TV winner - Ashley Barber
Jump Into Reading 5/19/07
'Jump into Reading'. That is what students at W.G. Rhea Elementary School did by reading 400,000 books. They surpassed their goal, actually reading over 420,000 books and were rewarded at Rhea's annual field day Friday held at the Henry County Airport. The more than 580 students of Rhea School participated in "Back to the Good Ol' Days' events such as relay races and tug-o-war until jump time at 10am. Principle Scott Owens fulfilled his promise and jumped from a plane flying at 6,000 feet. Owens is a licensed USPA skydiver and today's jump was number 55. W.G.Rhea Public Library Director Connie McSwain stated "We appreciate everything he does for reading," The field day was sponsored by Rhea PTO. Owens was recently awarded The James Patterson "Page Turner" for his efforts in promoting reading.
School Schedules 5/19/07 May 23 is the last regular schedule day of school for all schools in the Henry County School system. May 24 is the last day for students and an abbreviated schedule will be followed for all schools. No breakfast will be served. The High School will be dismissed at 12:05, Grove at 11:45 and telemetries at 11. All buses will run on abbreviated schedules. May 24 will be report card day for PSSD students. Report cards may be picked up between 8am and 11am at each school. Buses will not run . Students may bring a self-addressed stamped envelope and have them mailed to their home. On May 24 graduation for GED and adult high school will be held in Weston Hall at 7pm.
Lee School 5/19/07 At 2pm May 20 at historic Lee School the Robert E Lee School Association will dedicate 3 of their renovated classrooms to outstanding teachers and contributors to the fine arts. To be honored will be Randy Bucy, Annie Warren Looney Mills and Mildred Snyder. A reception and tour of the building will follow. Lee School is now home to the Lee Academy for the Arts.
Chest Pain Center 5/18/07
St.
Thomas President and Chief Executive Officer James Houser was among those
present for the dedication of the Saint Thomas Chest Pain Center at Henry County
Medical Center Wednesday afternoon.
“This celebration today is great for both St. Thomas and Henry County Medical
Center,” stated Houser. “This will improve services and support Dr.
Gibson as we develop a partnership to keep patients closer to home.”
City Beer Board 5/18/07 The Paris Alcoholic Beverage Control Board approved 2 requests for on premises consumption beer permits Thursday. Lepanto Steak House on E. Wood St. is leased by George Karathanasis who also operates an establishment in Paducah. The restaurant will not have a bar and beer will be sold to customers at their tables while eating. The second class B permit was issued to Stephanie Mendez-Galvan, located in what was Fosters, the El Mariachi Loco located on E. Wood St. She has purchased the building which will be run by her husband and brother. According to Mendez they also run an establishment in Hopkinsville. ****************************************************************
Board of Education 5/17/07 The Henry County Board of Education approved the school systems budget for 2007-08 at Tuesday evenings meeting. The budget will include a 5% teacher salary increase, 3% support personnel salary increase. 10% support personnel insurance increase, a credit recovery educational assistant to help students short of credits to graduate, a bus monitor educational assistant, a social study teacher at Grove, a dean of students and at risk student advisor at HCHS, a k - 8 gifted teacher, a Service learning advisor who will also be a grant writer and public relations for K-12. The budget will also include a special education certified teacher for classroom inclusion, one for Grove and 2 for the high school, 5 reading intervention teachers with 2 at Lakewood and one at Harrelson, one at Henry and one to travel between the two schools as needed for grades 1thru 3 and a DARE officer for K thru 8. Also included in the budget is classroom technology teacher for K thru 12, a distance learning teacher for accelerated 8th grade courses. The budget also includes a tractor mower. The balanced budget was approved with the stipulation that if a shortfall in revenues should occur the shortfall would be eliminated by using $200,000 from the undesignated fund balance. "I really don't believe we have over shot the expected revenues," stated Director of schools Rick Kriesky. Recognized by the board members Tuesday were members of the auto mechanics who went to state competition, members of the speech team who went to state competition and members of the Business Professionals Association who when to New York City and competed in national competitions. Also honored were those employees who received 20 and 30 year service awards. Graduation for the 263 members of the class of 2007 will be Friday night. Josie Holland will be this years Valedictorian, Salutatorian is Bobo Cheung with Honorable Mention Kristina Adkins. The winner of this year Souza Award was Sarah Scott and Robert Mead was awarded the Louis Armstrong Award.
Wheel Tax 5/16/07 A request for an increase in the wheel tax by the Henry County Highway Commission will not be coming soon. According to County Mayor Brent Greer it will take legislative action for the increase to be approved. Currently the State Legislature is not in session and to be approved by the Henry County Commission and then sent to the legislature puts the whole process past 2007-08. Non-profit Committee 5/16/07 The Henry County Non-profit Organization Steering Committee approved several requests at Monday afternoon meeting giving the Volunteer Fire Departments their requested amount, the same as last year, $31,200, the Henry County First Responders request, also the same as last year of $4,000 and Henry County Little League's same request of $8,000. The only organization who sent a representative was the Henry County Fair Association who raised their request from $6,000 to $15,000. According to Janet Bomar of the Fair Board , the request was to fix a major water leak, build a new livestock barn and renovate the current livestock barn into an improved community building. County Mayor Brent Greer pointed out that there was still money owed them from when the city and the county promised $7500 each for new grandstands over several years. Receiving money through the Tennessee River Resort Act funding was also discussed. Greer stated that to be eligible for TRRA funds it must go before the tourism committee to see if the request qualifies. In closing the committee passed on 1st reading funding all requests at their 2006-07 levels. Any organization that would like to increase their funding should attend the next meeting with their request and reason for the request on May 31 at 4:30.
Gas Company 5/16/07 The Paris Henry Natural Gas Utility District will start their Budget Billing at the beginning of the month. "We have received a great response to the budget billing," General Manager Don Green told board members Tuesday. "Even I have signed up for it," explained board member Dr. Tom Wood. The board approved raises for employees Tuesday. The raises will be based on employee evaluations. Also approved by the board was the state's Ethics Policy. According to board member and lawyer Steve Greer, an ethics policy is mandated by the state and must be in place by June 1. The board has not ruled out developing its own ethics policy, making it more specific to the utility company's needs. Write off were down, at $23,867. "These are considerably lower than in past years," explained Green. April sales were reported up due to the cold snap we experienced, according to Green. The gas company, serving 6162 customers stands at 21.9% capacity for stored gas. The Paris Natural Gas Utility has their web site up and going. You can log on at parisnaturalgas.com
Road Board 5/15/07 The Henry County Highway Commission approved a request by Road Supervisor Ray Norwood to ask the Henry County Commission for a $.05 increase in property tax, a $10.00 increase in the wheel tax and for $25,000 of the Tennessee River Resort Act funds. 1988 was the last increase that the Highway Department received. They are currently a million dollars short of funds to finish this years roads. "We are $550,000 short to finish the road work we promised people we would do this year," explained Norwood. He went on to add that this short fall was not unexpected but has been building for several years. "There is nothing we can do about inflation, but we were doing 20 miles of road a year, we are not now and the roads are going down hill and if we don't do 30 miles of hot mix a year we are loosing ground." Currently the Highway Department receives around $435,000 from the wheel tax each year. They also receive some funds from a gas and fuel tax. In other business the road board will be waiting to see what the recommendation is from the state regarding some type of flashing light or warning light at the intersection of Macedonia & Henry Midway. "There have been several serious accidents there over the years," stated Chairman Brown. The board received a petition last month from residents in the area. "We will see what the state's traffic survey shows," stated Norwood. It is estimated that the electric for a flashing light would run around $50 a month and then there is the installation cost as well. The petition had originally been presented to the county commissioners who sent it on to the road board for their recommendation. The board will also be looking into water run off at Jackson Drive and Henderson Drive where a ditch is needed to remove standing water. The board will be accepting bids on materials for next year. The bids will be presented to board members at next month's meeting. Budget Committee 5/15/07 The Henry County Budget Committee approved a full agenda of budget transfers at Monday's meeting including a recommendation for funding to transport local veterans to Nashville for doctor visits. County Mayor Brent Greer added that he would be looking into a used van that could be driven by volunteers for the transportation. Also to be recommended to the commission will be the funds to pay for legal council fees for the lawsuit that the county was involved in with Ms Burns. Approved in the Drug Control Fund was money to post ads for the sale of the sheriff's department helicopters and an SUV. Also recommended for approval was the no interest TVA loan for energy saving improvements to several of the older schools in the Henry County School system which will come from the General Purpose School Fund. The request is subject to the school board's approval at Tuesday's meeting. A transfer of funds for the Solid Waste Fund to cover equipment repairs and leasing will also be recommended. Transfers in the Highway fund will be recommended by the budget committee. Changes approved by the road board earlier in the evening at their meeting included increase in gas and fuel expenditures and increases in medical insurance and retirement funds with decreases building improvements. Dates and times for Budget Hearings were set Monday evening. May 29, 30 and 31 will be set for department heads and elected officials to present their budget requests for the upcoming fiscal year. It is the goal of the county to have a budget ready by June 30th. Household Hazardous Waste5/14/07
Budget Billing 5/14/07 Natural Gas Budget Billing will balance your monthly natural gas expenses throughout the year! Paris-Henry County Natural Gas Utility District announces that now through June 1st, you can enroll in their budget billing program. This plan allows you affordable monthly payments based on your previous gas usage. Knowing what your gas bill will be each month allows you the ability to better manage your finances. Come in or call Paris-Henry County Natural Gas Utility District at 642-5635 for complete details or fill out the enrollment form in your current natural gas bill. The budget billing enrollment period ends June 1st. A message from Paris-Henry County Public Utility District – your supplier of natural gas – use it safely! Fatal Accident 5/12/07 Austin Jeffery was riding his bicycle on India Village Rd. at around 3:45pm Thursday when he was struck by a car. The 15 year old died of injuries he received in the collision. Smithsonian Exhibit 5/12/07 Between
Fences,
a Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit, will open at the Paris-Henry County Heritage
Center on May 19. Between
Fences
explores the cultural history of fences and land use in the United States This
exhibition will surprise and delight you by evoking the multiple meanings of an
everyday icon. The Heritage Center has planned some fun family activities in
conjunction with the exhibit.
In celebration of the exhibition’s arrival the Heritage Center will be a
hosting Poetry
& Perks:An Open Mic Night and Coffee Tasting sponsored by Jack’s Java on
Saturday, May 19th, 7:00PM-9:00PM. If you like poetry, are a poet, or simply
enjoy your java come to the grand opening of the Heritage Center’s newest
exhibit. A $100 prize will be given for the best original poem. This event is
free and open to the public.
Between
Fences is part of the Museum on Main Street, collaboration between the
Smithsonian Institution and the Humanities Tennessee. For
more information contact the Heritage Center at 642-1030 or visit us online at www.phchc.com The City of Paris/Civic Center Relay for Life Team will be selling Mr. Garfield' BBQ sandwiches and plate lunches Friday, May 11th from 11am to 2pm at the old TVA building across from the Post Office. Mr. Garfield is also offering a fundraising special on advanced rib sales. Pre-rib sales must be ordered by May11th for pick-up on 16th.
Health Week 5/10/07
As part of National Healthcare Week Henry County Medical Center welcomed the state Commissioner of Health Susan Cooper who addressed the nursing staff, community leaders and HCMC board members in the hospitals cafeteria Wednesday afternoon . Lately of the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing Cooper, the first nurse to hold the position of Commissioner of Health, she has been involved in setting up a safety net for Tenncare. "100,000 citizens were let loose from Tencare health care benefits," stated Cooper, "The state needed someone to get serious about those in need." 100 days into the job she has been working on other safety net programs such as pharmaceuticals, transplants and cancer treatment, dialyses, diabetes and other uninsurable diseases. "We needed case management for the uninsurable," she explained to the group. She also spoke of the 127,000 uninsured children. She also stated that more preventative medicine is needed such as exercise, healthy eating and healthy habits. "Education and health are intimately linked" Cooper stated stressing that preschool through 8th grade should be the target ages. "If you can't concentrate you can't learn. I hope there will be significant reform to education and the health of our citizens in the next 4 years." In closing Cooper told her audience, "Protect, promote, improve - I believe this is my sworn duty."
Puryear 5/9/07 The Puryear Mayor and Board of Aldermen approved the use of $1100 from the $5,000 they received from the Tennessee River Resort Act to promote tourism. The money will be used by the Puryear Lions Club, sponsor's of Puryear Day, for the purchase of a 32in. LCD/ HD/TV, an I-pod and a Game boy. The items will be given away in a drawing Puryear Day. You must be present to win and free tickets for the drawing will be given out during the Gospel singing featuring 'Set Free' at 2pm Saturday, May 19 and the Cake Auction at 7:15 after which the winner will be announced. "We are looking forward to having a large crowd," stated Alderman and Lion Mackie Gallimore. "This is the most money we have spent on Puryear Day so we will see if spending m ore money will draw in more tourists." The 28th Annual Puryear Day will begin with the parade at 10am and end with the Street Dance featuring the Great River Road Band beginning at 6:30pm. City police as well as Sheriff's reserve deputies , according to Alderman Bryan Hall, will provide traffic control on Hwy 140 during the parade. Puryear was chartered in 1909 and the city's Centennial will be in 2009. Planning for that event will begin as soon as Puryear Day 2007 is over. On June 1 in-house billing for water will begin. City water users will receive a bill for 6 weeks use with the new billing cycle to begin the 1st of the month. According to Puryear Mayor Kenny Paschall the soft ware for the billing process arrived last week. In other business the board approved an updated ordinance for the mandated Special Flood Hazard which provides insurance or flood victims in flood prone areas. The city also approved the Henry County Hazardous Mitigation Plan with a resolution. An ordinance was approved last month for the plan.
Centralized Purchasing 5/9/07 The Henry County Budget Committee's sub committee on Centralized Purchasing discussed their wish to remove the audit finding of no tracking of purchases and agreed that to remove that finding they would have to recommend to the full commission they approve Centralized Purchasing which would call for the use of purchase orders prior to the purchase . The committee voted unanimously to recommend that effective July 1 all departments must comply with the private 1983 Budget Act of obtaining a purchase order before buying any thing unless it is an emergency situation. The group also wishes to send Legislators a recommendation that Centralized Accounting be mandated. Annual Geranium Sale 5/8/07 The Paris Henry County Healthcare Foundation and the Henry County High School Ag Department will host the Annual Geranium Sale on Thursday May 10th and Friday May 11. Geraniums will be available in the greenhouse at Henry County High School Thursday from 8am until 3:30pm and Friday in the parking lot of Henry County Medical Center as well as Regions Bank from 8am until they are sold out. The cost is $6 each. The geraniums are grown by Ag Department students and sold by the Foundation with proceeds being split by the two organizations. A variety of colors are available as well as ferns and assorted plants. Cool Cars 5/7/07 The 3rd Annual Cool Cars for a Cure Car & Motorcycle Show will be held at the Paris Civic Center from 10am to 3pm Sat. May 12th. There is a $20 registration fee but all spectators get in free to the Dana Relay For Life event. Concessions will be available. Summer Camp 5/7/07 The Paris Henry County Salvation Army Unit is accepting applications for children ages 7-12 to attend summer camp. Camp Paradise Valley located on Dale Hollow Lake, will host 25 local children the week of July 23-28. The local unit pays all costs and provides transportation. Application forms are available at the Salvation Army office at 306 W. Washington St. For more information call 642-4105. Relay for Life 5/5/07 Tecumseh 'Relay for Life team is sponsoring Kid's Fest May 5th from 10am to 2pm at the Paris recreation Center at the Old Atkins Porter Elementary on Highland St. A puppet show and lots of games and activates will fill the day. Hotdogs and drinks will be available. All proceeds will go to Relay for Life 2007. Literacy Council 5/5/07 The Henry County Literacy Council held their monthly meeting Friday at the Central Community Service Center where the group reviewed the success of their major fund raising event of the year, The Catfish Races. Sponsored by the Paris Post Intelligencer, the event has grown in size which prompted a discussion of moving the event to a larger area than the Courthouse Lawn although the close proxicimity to the Small Fry Parade was seen as a major advantage for keeping the event in the current location. "We had 65 entries this year which is about average," stated Literacy Council Chairman Bill Williams. Minus expenses, such as shirts, ball caps, trophies and plaques, the races showed a profit for 2007 of $1330. The proceeds from the Races will be used by the Literacy Council for the local cost of the Imagination Library. "Currently we are just a little ahead of the game," explained Williams. Also discussed was the effect of the postage rate hikes on the Governors Books from Birth. Although the books are free the postage is paid in part by the Literacy Council and since the books are sent to individual children a bulk rate has not been approved. After questioning the cost, Williams told the group that he would look into the matter and try to find out the latest ruling on the postage rates. The increase in postage costs was not added to the Literacy's budget for the Imagination Library. "There will be a big impact from the postage increase," Williams added. In other news the Adult Education will hold graduation on May 24th in Weston Hall at 7pm. There will be 97 graduates this spring. National Healthcare Week 5/5/07
The Smoke Free Campus Awareness Campaign will kick off this week, too.
Please join us on Wednesday to hear Susan Cooper, RN, MSN, director of Health
Care Safety Net of Tennessee bring the Governor’s health improvement
initiative to Paris and Henry County. She will speak in the hospital cafeteria
at 2:00 PM, May 9th, as part of our week-long National Healthcare awareness
week.
Ms. Cooper is taking a leave of absence from Vanderbilt University School of
Nursing where she serves as Assistant Dean for Practice, Assistant Professor and
Director of the Center for Advanced Practice Nursing and Allied Health in order
to assist in the development of the healthcare safety net programs at the
request of the Governor.
Jump Postponed 5/4/07
City Commission 5/4/07 The Paris City Commission approved on 1st reading the Paris Board of Public Utilities request for a rate increase for water rates. The 12% increase is the first increase in 5 years. The rate change will mean around a $1.45 a month for an average household. The request must be approved on 2nd reading next month and would then start in July. During the citizen's comments, a Lone Oak resident stated that the increase would be a burden for those like him on a fixed income. Soon to be BPU General Manager John Etheridge stated that the rate was less than the inflation rate and was needed to continue to provide water service to all of the residents that BPU serves. "The fact that we have not had an increase in 5 years shows that we are being good stewarts of the public's money," stated Etheridge, "It should carry us for another 5 years." Also speaking to the Commission Thursday evening was Kay Whitby of Families for Paris Parks. "We have a 5 year plan that includes improvements in all 4 of the city parks. Our next project is McNeil Park." The group has been working for the last 2 years and have raised a total of $57,000. So far the group has raised $24,000 for McNeil Park. It is estimated that equipment for McNeil will run around $45,000 to $50,000. E-911 Director Mark Archer gave an up date on GPS mapping. "We have 109 roads in the city done," he stated. "North Market is the last main roadway left to do in the city." Archer stated that the city had taken so long do because of the many different ways the city had been numbered homes. Some had been done by city blocks, others had the numbering starting in the middle of the road, others at the end. Some had odd numbers on one side and others had the odd numbers on the other side. "People were upset when we had to change their addresses but they will appreciate it when an emergency vehicle is able to find them when minutes can mean life or death." Approved on 1st reading was an ordinance to improve an increase in Municipal Court Litigating Tax and Court fees. Current fees raise $35,000 for the city. The increase to the cap allowed for cities will help provide new revenue that the city needs to balance their budget for the upcoming fiscal year. "We have to generate more revenue and this will have less effect on people who are on fixed incomes," stated Mayor David Travis. The Bailey Fork Drainage project was discussed Thursday night. According to City Manager Carl Holder the project would be along Hwy 79 and Hwy 641 in the city to Langford Road. The rechannelazation would keep the channel open for years, will keep down flooding in that area and will mean no additional cost to the city. A request for rezoning on Memorial Drive was denied, following the recommendation of the Planning Commission. It is considered a transitional neighborhood with mixed residences and businesses. In other business the city adopted the Henry County Hazardous Mitigation Plan, George Moore was appointed to the Municipal Regional Planning Commission, Heritage Center Director Rachel Raab was appointed to the Historical Zoning Board, Hoza Hutherson was reappointed to the Park Board along with Clint Davis and a proclamation was read honoring and welcoming the state conference of the NAACP to the Progressive Baptist Church on Rison St.
Beer Board 5/4/07 The Henry County Beer Board approved 2 beer permits for on and off premises consumption Thursday evening. Damien Stone has taken over The Road House Bar and Grill, formerly the City Limits Bar on Hwy 69S. Also approved for on and off premises consumption was William Dorris of Pleasant View Resort and Marina, a restaurant and grocery located on Pleasant View Resort Rd.
Relay for Life 5/3/07 The City of Paris will be selling tickets for $15 for St. Louis Style Ribs. Tickets are available at the Paris Civic Center. Ribs ordered on May 4th may be picked up between noon and 6pm on May 9 at Mr. Garfield's BBQ. Contact Tony Lawrence at the Civic Center at 644-2517.
Sky Dive 5/3/07
Owens, a licensed USPA skydiver will perform the solo jump from an
airplane flying at an altitude of over 13,000 feet to reward 580 kindergarteners
through 2nd grade students for soaring past the schools ‘Jump Into
Reading’ goal of reading 400,000 books by May 1st.
To date students, parents and staff have read in excess of 370,000 books
– an average of over 47,000 a moth.
“As you can see Rhea students love to read.
I am really proud of our students, parents and staff for reaching this
goal. As in years past every one has been very involved, they have
consistently modeled reading for their children. By teaching them to appreciate reading we set them up to
succeed through the rest of their lives.”
The PTO sponsored Field Day will follow a theme of ‘Back To The Good Ol’
Days’ with students participating in sack races, relay races, tug-o-war and
other games reminiscent of years past.
Grand Opening 5/2/07 Henry County Medical Center will be hosting an Open House for their new Critical Care Unit on 2nd floor West from 3 to 4pm Wednesday. Centralized Purchasing 5/2/07 The Henry County Budget Committee held a workshop session Tuesday evening where they once again discussed the option of Centralized Purchasing. Chairman Kenneth Humphreys gave each committee member 5 minutes to state their opinion or to ask questions. "I want the entire commission to know that this has not been easy," stated Humphreys. The general consensus was that sooner or later all counties would have to adopt the '81 Legislation that would require the use of Centralized Accounting and includes Centralized Purchasing. The county approved by a private act the use of what is known as the '83 Act which County Mayor Brent Greer described as a hybrid version of the '81 Budget Act. "If you would enforce the '83 Act I think you would be pleased. We could then enforce the purchase order part of the Act," stated Greer. In earlier discussion Commissioner Dan Paschall stated that which ever budget Act the committee decided to accept, the '81 or the'83 they should enforce it to the letter of the law. Commissioner Tim Wirgau told the committee "I have come to the conclusion that the 'law' is like the Bible, it can be interpreted differently." He also told the committee that he didn't think there would be much savings in using the centralized purchasing but there would be accountability with the use of purchase orders. David Webb added that to make a purchase for the Henry County School System at Lowe's a purchase order number is required before government agencies can make a purchase. On Federal funds and state funds there are watch guards, there are none on local funds," said Wirgau. "I do believe that the state will soon require the use of the '81 act," stated Commissioner Randy Veazey, "and we as a commission are going to have to start using our oversight power. We are going to have to commit ourselves an all the other elected officials to following the 'letter of the law." Also suggested by committee members was making not conforming with the use of purchase order breaking a law which could be considered a misdemeanor. The committee will meet gain next Tuesday at 7pm.
Tanner 5/1/07 During Congressman John Tanner's visit to Paris for the Worlds Biggest Fish Fry the congressman commented on the incident involving football player turned soldier and a Ranger, Pat Tillman and the facts of his death that were incorrectly reported to his family as being from enemy fire when in fact they were from 'friendly fire'. "The Pentagon needs to be held accountable for their actions. There is also the incident with Jessica Nicholson, who was reported to have killed her captors and gotten free. "The American public and more importantly the families deserves the truth." Freedom Rider 5/1/07 Also in Paris for the Fish Fry festivities was Ben Etton Cox, the last living member of the original 13 Freedom Riders. The Freedom Riders came down from the North in the 60's to promote Civil Rights and equality for African-Americans in the southern states. "I was in jail 17 times," stated Cox. "I was arrested for demonstrating outside the Courthouse in Louisiana in 1961." The case Cox vs. Louisiana went all the way to the Supreme Court and was dismissed in 1965. Cox, originally from Chicago, has 5 children, some who reside in Jackson, TN. One Henry County - One Book 5/1/07 The One Henry County - One Book Project has chosen "To Kill A Mockingbird" as this May's selection. The selection was made in conjunction with Paris Henry County Heritage Center exhibit of "Between Fences", a part of Museum Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institute and Humanities Tennessee. The exhibit will be on display at the Heritage Center, located on Poplar St. from May 19th through July 2nd. The book, "To Kill A Mockingbird" will be available at the Heritage Center at no charge and W.G. Rhea Public Library. The book will be read in May by the community and then a community discussion of the book will be held on Tuesday, June 5 at 7pm at the Heritage Center. On June 12th at 7pm the movie , "To Kill A Mockingbird " starting Gregory Peck, will be shown in the Community of Christ Fellowship Hall on Lone Oak Rd. followed by a brief discussion. "To Kill A Mockingbird" is a 1960 novel written by Harper Lee about the walls and fences of prejudice and intolerance we build to protect the status quo. The One Henry County One Book project is a program organized to promote reading as well as encourage families to read and share their thoughts, opinions and ideas. Just as important is to achieve the goal of the community uniting to discuss the book.
Atlanta Trip 5/1/07 There will be 45 6th through 8th grade Inman Strings students along with 20 parents setting out to Atlanta. The 3 day trip, May 3 thru 5, will include a visit to Stone Mountain, the Atlanta Zoo, attending an Atlanta Symphony Concert, an Atlanta Braves Baseball game as well as 6 Flags Park. They will be competing with 10 other schools from across the United States at the Strings Festival. "We hope to come home with Large trophies, " stated Music Director Nancy Steffa. |
