Nov 07 Stories

U.S. Representative John Tanner along with BPU General Manager John Etheridge, Rural Development Director Bobby Goode and Jim Arthurs, President and C.E.O. of Industrial Casework Inc. were among those present for the presentation of a check for $740,000. The federal funding, received as a pass through loan was secured by the Paris Board of Public Utilities. The loan will be used by ICI to purchase additional equipment for it's manufacturing operation in the former Mohon International plant that was destroyed in the Nov. 2005 tornado. At that time 302 people were employed at the plant. They have now worked their way back up to 110 employees.

"I want to thank the local leadership, both civic and governmental. Henry County us part of rural America and it is always a joy to come together like this and be able to offer our children job opportunities that will keep them in the community," stated Tanner.

"The state is preparing to bid the West Tennessee Tenncare business to several new managed care organizations in the state," Medical Center Administrator Thomas Gee at Thursday's Henry County Medical Center Board of Trustee's meeting. Gee stated that he expects 2 or 3 MCOs to be selected with the management programs to begin in the fiscal year of 2009. He added that new MCOs may slow payments or deny payments to reduce costs as they start the new programs here.

The Hospitalist Program was discussed at the meeting. The program is designed to provide a doctor to patients who do not have a primary care physician. Gee told the board that he had met with Southern Hospitalist and they had begun a physician search. He also explained that a survey of medical staff to dentine potential staffing needs would be conducted.

Talks have also begun concerning a diagnostic center. Some physicians wanted to form a joint venture with HCMC to create additional cases not being seen or treated in Henry County. Gee explained that if the Imaging Department and Surgery plus other money makers for the hospital were moved to the Diagnostic Center as a joint venture the hospital would lose a major source of income. "We can't just jump in and give half of our business away," explained Board Chairman Phil Wichlan. The board has requested the doctors to present the board with figures on expected cases and costs at the next meeting.

In matters regarding physician recruitment the board was informed that no OB/GYN has been found. A doctor who was interested informed Gee that he could not break his lease and therefore was unable to come to HCMC.

The Cardiac Cath certificate of need has been completed and a hearing has been scheduled for Jan. The hospital in Martin, which is also applying for a certificate of need will be heard at the same time which could affect HCMC's request for a certificate.

There is now a new animal rescue organization in Henry County. The facility will focus mainly on abused or neglected animals and they will not be taking in strays or pets that are no longer wanted by their owners since they feel that Henry County already has a city shelter and another Humane Society to deal with other aspects related to animals.

"We believe that our time would be best spent in caring for the many abused and neglected animals in Henry County."

Rolling Hills Humane Society will be a resting place, a haven, for these poor, innocent animals. "We will care for them while trying to find a good loving home for them. "Since we will not accept strays, no one will be allowed to drop off strays or unwanted pets at our facility, stated organizers . Anyone caught dropping an animal off will be charged with abandonment and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

They are always looking for volunteers to help in many different ways. If you think you might be interested in helping please contact them.

Dog Food / Cat Food, Cat Litter, Clean Blankets, Dog Treats / Cat Treats, Cleaning Supplies, Flea and Tick Treatment And as always your monetary donations are very welcomed.

The Paris Board of Public Utilities presented their board members with a list of Round Up recipients for 2006-07. The program rounds up the program members utility bill to the next dollar and then uses the money to help local groups and organizations. Over 35 grants were awarded, varying in amounts from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

The board approved General Manager John Etheridge's actions in hiring Stambaugh Roofing Inc. out of McKenzie for $21,275 to replace the BPU office building roof. According to Etheridge several fist sized holes were discovered which had allowed birds to nest in the rafters.

The board also reviewed a proposal to reduce costs in the improvement plan for the substation transformers. The cost of transformers has increased dramatically. BPU will be making use of spare transformers in order to address issues of loading and reliability that were identified in the 2004 System Study.

The Utility's audit was returned. The annual audit had no major problems but the continued loss of money in the waste water/ sewer department was noted. Auditor's Alexander Thompson Arnold stated that it was a problem that would eventually have to be addressed.

Paris Henry County Youth Orchestra Winter concert will be December 2, 2007 @ 2 pm at the Krider Performing Arts Center on Volunteer Drive in Paris . T Tickets are $5.00 in advance or $7.00 at the door

The reorganized Tennessee River Resort Act Committee met with it's members and Alliance CEO Carl Holder in the Chamber of Commerce Office Monday afternoon where they elected officers and reviewed existing finances, expected income and committed dollars as well as the newly designed packages that include applications for funding which the board will seek approval of from members at the next meeting to be held in several weeks.

The board also reviewed 5 requests for funding. Approved was a request from the Youth Shooting Club for equipment from Bub Edwards of the TWRA to bring in Jr. Olympic Clay Shooting and Shotgun Golf shooting matches. According to County Mayor Brent Greer there is money in the budget for the creation of such reusable infrastructure like the equipment.

Larry Crawford of the Henry County Fair Association requested funds for paving at the fairgrounds which was approved and a request from Tim Check of the Paris Parks and Recreation was approved. The request for portable fencing on fields at McNeil Park for ASA Girls Softball Tournaments in June, July and Aug. of 2008 to host National tournaments will bring 50 teams plus parents to the area.

Henry County Sheriff's Office Deputies, TBI and the Metro Crime Unit are searching for a shooter involved in a murder in the Hagler Ridge area Saturday night. No arrests have yet been made as of Sunday. Killed was 29 year old Loren Fritts of Buchanan Rd. Fritts was among those arrested Nov. 16 for possession of legend drugs at Dumcus Trailer Park. The arrests were made when officers received a tip about drug activity at the trailer.

All of the proceeds from the sale of the trees go to the Paris Optimist Youth Fund. From that fund the Optimist club members take boys to the local Buddy Camp and hold monthly Buddy Night activities with them. The Optimist also support youth programs such as 4H, Girl and Boy Scouts, school sports banquets and other youth related activities.

Club President Joe Snow said "We enjoy meeting the public each year at the tree lot and look forward to a good year of tree sales. The balance in our youth fund is low this year because we were forced to cancel our other major fund raiser the Optimist Walking Horse Show. We have a new supplier this year and were able to fill people's request for more short needled trees so everyone should be able to find a tree that they like."

The lot is located next to the Porter Paint Store and across from the Eastwood Clinic. The lot will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday the 23rd. Normal hours will be 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays, and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays. During week days visit the Porter Paint Store to purchase your tree.

Chilly winds, a cloudy sky and cold temperatures didn't keep the Santa Clause believers away from the Down Town Paris Association's annual North Pole Family Fun Day on Friday, Nov. 23.

Children and those just young at heart created Christmas crafts, played Disc Golf, took free wagon rides and drank plenty of hot chocolate. Those not willing to brave the cool weather took advantage of down town sales and spent the day picking out the perfect Christmas gift for those on their Christmas list.

Strong winds and heavy rains pushed through parts of Henry County Wednesday causing trees to snap in the Buchanan Resort Area where a single wide trailer was struck by a falling tree. According to Emergency Management Director Ron Watkins no tornado touch downs were reported and no one was injured. BPU crews were also out to repair power outranges due to the wind. Pictures curtsey of Emergency Management Operations Officer Chad Howard.

Good food and good fellowship to thank the citizens of Paris and Henry County were to be found at the W.G. Rhea Public Library earlier this week. "This is our way of thanking the Library patrons," stated Library Director Connie McSwain.

Also present at the gathering was quilter and needlepoint artist Tom Boone. Boone said that after many years as a delivery truck driver he was use to waking up very early in the morning and would have nothing to do so he took up quilting and then needle point. "I consider it art," he explained. "some of the needle point takes up to 20 hours to complete." Boone's pieces are for sale in a silent auction at the library thru Nov. 28.

Santa, Rudolph and the elves will roll into downtown Paris on the big, red fire engine Friday morning at 10:00am to kick off North Pole Family Fun Day, an annual event sponsored by the Downtown Paris Association (DPA). The event, which is full of activities for children, lasts from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in Paris’ festively decorated downtown.

After his arrival, children can visit with Santa and have their photos made with him by Project Graduation Elves. Live musicians will be on hand to entertain families while they wait to see the man in red.

Activities abound during the event, including mule and buggy rides courtesy of the Future Farmers of America. Craft tables hosted by 4-H Honors Club and Craft-Rageous will be located outside stores throughout downtown. Every half hour (10:30, 11:00, 11:30; 12:00, 12:30, 1:00, 1:30), members of the HCHS Speech Team will read The Polar Express at the beautifully decorated Old Depot on Fentress Street, now Vicky Muzzall’s Tax Service.

The Paris PI will have free popcorn and memory books of this special day at their booth, and children can test their Frisbee skills at the Paris Parks and Recreation department’s disk Golf booth. At Endless Possibilities on the west side of the square, children can write their official letters to Santa. At Jack Jones Flowers and Gifts, PARIS! magazine offers a sketch artist who will put children on a “Special Edition” cover of the magazine that they can color and take home. The youth from First Presbyterian Church will offer hotdogs, sodas and hot drinks. At Commercial Bank and Trust, a face painter will be on hand to decorate young faces.

Most of these activities are free, while some ask for a small donation for their charitable activities.

The Henry County Historical Society will hold its regular quarterly meeting on Monday, November 26th at the Paris-Henry County Heritage Center beginning at 7:00 p.m. Special guest will be Henry County Archivist Stephanie Tayloe, who will present a program entitled, "Stories from the Henry County Archives."
Annual membership dues are $5 and may be mailed to: Henry County Historical Society c/o Donna Winchester, treasurer at 715 Old Union Rd., Paris, TN 38242 or bring it to the November meeting.
Contact info: David W. Webb, president 642-2596
webbdw@hotmail.com

The new Pre-K addition to Rhea School is underway. According to Kerry Hinson of Hinson Construction "We are making progress, it is all underground at the present," he explained. Grading continues at the site. The board reviewed a 3 dimensional video of the addition behind Rhea School. The $2 million plus addition will contain a 'Tornado Safe' corridor with reinforced walls and ceiling, built to FEMA specifications. "Obviously we paid extra for that," explained School Board Chairmen Richard Edwards. The safe corridor in the pre school is the only school in the county to have one and one of only a few in the state.

The board approved the erection of a sign for the Paris Elementary School. The sign is estimated to cost $5,300 which the Parent Association will purchase. The brick work will cost another $1,500. The sign will also have light, similar to the Krider Center sign.

PSSD is implementing their Coordinated School Health program. According to program coordinator Sherry Wagner, "We are in the beginning stages." PSSD, like the county school system, received a grant to implement the health program. To improve the health of the children and staff of PSSD several programs have been implemented including walking at Rhea School.

"Wacky Workouts" was demonstrated for parents and board members Tuesday evening. The workout, started by gym teacher Debbie Elliott, uses basket balls, pogo balls, jump ropes and other equipment. According to Elliott the movements, done to music, help with rhythm as well as coordination and get the students up and moving by making it fun.

The school system reviewed their state report card, which showed steady improvement. According to Dr. Gerrell, "We did extremely well and all schools are rated In Good Standing. All schools received 'safe' status with improvements in writing skills improved and academic growth shown system wide including reading. "We are very proud of our teachers and principals," stated Gerrell.

PSSD has entered into talks with the Henry County School System to coordinate curriculums of 8th graders. We will meet again in early January as we move forward to work together," stated Edwards.

"This has been a busy time for us," explained General Manager Don Green at Tuesday's meeting of the Paris Henry County Public Utility District. Green explained that the new service department was lighting pilot lights, checking gas fire places and trying to catch up on finishing extension lines.

Gas in storage is at 95.7%. 'With the weather, we had to use some gas from storage," explained Green. "Usage in Oct. was higher than in the previous years." He also told board member that gas costs were right in line with last years cost.

The board members approved Green's plans to give all employees a turkey for Thanksgiving, paying for employees to receive flu shots, have the annual Christmas party and receive Christmas bonuses.

County Commissioners appointed a new Henry County School Board member Monday evening. Appointed to finish the term of Gerald Young was Steven Bonner in a 9 to 6 vote.

In an update on Industrial Development Alliance CFO Carl Holder told commissioners that Skykit which is projecting employment of 39 people by the end of 3 years, wishes the county to apply for a Rural Development loan in the amount of a million dollars to build a 18 thousand sq. foot facility at the County Airport. The building would be used to assemble the light weight aircraft. The money would be repaid to the county and the county would lease the building to the owner of the business. The commission approved the low interest rate loan application and repayment in anticipation of the company receiving the loan. "We hope to have everything in place by the first of the year," explained County Mayor Brent Greer. Holder also told the commission that 2 industries were looking at Henry County for relocating in. One was interested because of a related industry that was already located here and would create 350 to 375 jobs. A second industry that was seriously looking at Henry County could create 125 to 150 jobs. Their decisions could be known in a few weeks.

The county rescinded a resolution last month which would have set the amount of purchases that could be made at $10,000 but according to Greer the county's Private Act gives no dollar amount limits on purchases and therefore the resolution did not need to be rescinded. Bids will now be needed to purchase anything over $5,000.

The County commission also discussed the purchase of the 350 acres on KY Lake at Camp Hazelwood Girl Scout Camp from the West TN Reelfoot Council. The commission authorized Greer to apply for state assistance with the purchase of the land, which would become part of Paris Landing State Park, for 1.3 million dollars.

The Paris City Commission met in a special called meeting Monday afternoon to pass a motion that would formally and officially select Jack Tarkington as the new Paris City Manager. The vote was unanimous.

Tarkington, who is originally from the Cottage Grove area stated, "This is my home town and now I have the opportunity to repay Paris and Henry County. Thank you, I am glad to be back here."

Enjoy Food, Friends and Family at Eight Tennessee State Parks this Thanksgiving Day

Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with friends and family while surrounding yourself with Tennessee’s natural wonders during this season of thanksgiving.

Tennessee State Parks officials are pleased to announce that all eight state park restaurants will be open Thursday, Nov. 22, serving a traditional Thanksgiving Day feast. Thanksgiving turkey and all the traditional trimmings, along with an assortment of desserts, will be available beginning at 11 a.m. until closing at state park restaurants across Tennessee.

Tennessee's 54 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families, or business and professional groups. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call 888-867-2757. For additional information, visit our Web site at www.tnstateparks.com.

THE GALLERY AT ROBERT E. LEE ACADEMY FOR THE ARTS WILL FEATURE THE ART WORK OF ROBIN HICKMAN AND ANN STAPP FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30^TH FROM 5 UNTIL 8 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE AND THE PUBLIC IS CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND. LEE ACADEMY FOR THE ARTS IS LOCATED AT 403 LEE STREET IN PARIS .

LEE ACADEMY FOR THE ARTS PRESENTS BAWN IN THE MASH, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17^TH AT 7 PM . THIS ACCOUSTIC STRING BAND CALLS THEIR MUSIC ATOMIC GRASS. TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT JACK JONES FLOWERS AND KNOWLES STRING INSTRUMENTS BOTH IN DOWNTOWN PARIS . TICKETS $10 IN ADVANCE OR $12 AT THE DOOR. THE VENUE IS THE HISTORIC LEE SCHOOL BUILDING . FOR MORE INFO CALL 644-ELEVEN FIFTY SEVEN. CHECK THEM OUT AT www.bawninthemash.com or on www.myspace.com/bawninthemash

The Henry County Junior Livestock Association will sponsor a Market Steer Auction on Sunday, November 18, 2:00 p.m. at Dr. Chuck Lyons’ farm on Hwy 641 South. The purpose of the auction is to provide quality Henry County bred and born steers to 4-H and FFA exhibitors for the Henry County Fair’s Junior Livestock Show.

sponsors will offer door prizes consisting of feed and supplies for those purchasing animals. In addition, a cash bonus of $50 will be offered to exhibitors purchasing a steer at this sale that wins their class at the fair. An additional $100 will be awarded if that steer takes Grand

the cattle. Free delivery within 50 miles is offered to anyone purchasing cattle. For more information, contact Andy Paschall at 336-0117 or Henry County Extension at 642-2941.

On Sunday, November 18 at 3:00 PM at the Krider Performing Arts Center in Paris, a special afternoon of trumpet and vocal music will be presented by soprano Amy Yeung, trumpet Kurt Gorman and

For further information contact the Krider Center office at (731) 644-2517 or visit their web site

Sir Henry Rowley Bishop and Sergei Rachmaninov. Gorman will perform French works for solo trumpet

from the twentieth century. The program will conclude with Anthony Plog's Animal Ditties, a hilarious setting of light verse by Ogden Nash for trumpet, piano and narrator.

Over 300 people came out to see the many homemade foods, crafts and goodies at the FCE Homemakers Holiday held in the Enoch building at the Henry County Fairgrounds Wednesday and Thursday.

Sponsored by the UT Extension Office the 100 plus members of the 6 clubs had a successful showing and sale of their items. Mary Kate Ridgeway of the Extension office said that cakes were a big sale item this year along with the homemade jellies, cloth baskets and scarves. "Snowmen seem to be the decorating theme this season," she stated, "Snowmen decorations went quickly."

The Henry County Board of Education was awarded a Hometown Helper Grant in the amount of $16,378 from the Unemployment Compensation Trust. The grant application focused on the development of the J.P. Hill Memorial Park. The land was donated to the school system for use by the school system and the community. The board approved using the money on the 8 acres at Henry School to improve safety issues at Henry School such as automatic door locks to control access to the school. Some of the funds would be used to grade the Memorial Park and install backstops for the softball field and an irrigation system for the soccer/football fields. The board was told that estimates had been set high for the projects but the plan was approved with budget amendments if needed. Henry Elementary is the oldest school in the system and Director of Schools Rick Kriesky state, "This opens up a lot of possibilities for the Henry School."

A new School Support Organization law will require that groups such as PTOs, PTAs and possibly even Project Graduation, will be required to file for 501C3 non-profit status and allow the state's Comp Troller office access to their fund raising books. According to the Director of Schools explained that the new state law was the result of fraud by such organizations and inappropriate use of funds by organization members. Kriesky stated that the new regulations could cause organizations not to be willing to help support the clubs and groups due to the paperwork involved in becoming nonprofit.

Also approved was a procedure for dealing with skin lesions in the wake of publicity over non-treatable infections. The condition will be treated as head lice are and the child will be sent home and must have doctor's release to return to the classroom. All schools and locker rooms are being disinfected was the reply from Kriesky at school board member George Todd's inquiry

Another inquiry was on private schools allowing students to participate in sports at Henry County schools to which Kriesky stated they would have to be TSSAA members.

Henry County Schools have entered into talks with PSSD to coordinate curriculums for 8th graders so they would correspond. "Curriculums can't be changed on a whim." explained Kriesky ,"but we are moving forward with talks with PSSD."

The vacant school board seat for the 3rd district will come up at this month's County Commission meeting where nominees will be presented as well as nominations from the floor.

The Paris Alcoholic Beverage Control Board approved requests for 2 on Premises beer permits at a noon meting Thursday.

Sherry's Pop A Top on North Brewer St. The new manager/ lessee will be Vella Reed. A back ground check showed that Reed had no previous alcohol related violations. The business will be open Dec. 1.

The 2nd permit granted went to Decades, LLC on E. Wood St. The new owner/manager will be Gene Drerup whose background check showed no alcohol related charges.

Three resolutions were approved by the city of Henry's Mayor and Board of Aldermen at Tuesday evenings meeting.

On the advice of Henry City Attorney David Hessing the board approved extending the $415,000 bond the city had taken out in September of 2005 for the waste Water project that was scheduled to be completed in Nov. The project is still not completed and the bond has been extended for 2 more years.

Another resolution approved Tuesday was approving the city's acceptance of a grant for $484,000 from the USDA Rural Development along with a loan from the USDA to complete the sewer project in the amount of $306,000.

A resolution, called a house keeping issue was also approved which gave the mayor authorization to enter into a contract with any part of the sewer systems representative. The sewer system project is scheduled to be completed in about 270 days.

The Puryear Mayor and Board of Aldermen accepted the single bid for patch work on the city Streets at Tuesday's meeting. Wade Paving's bid of $ 1480 was approved by the Aldermen. "This is maintainance repair," explained Puryear Mayor Kenny Paschall. Several driveways were cut through by the city to repair water and sewer lines and there exists several pot holes that the city would like to fix before winter weather sets in.

The city announced that they will pick up bagged leaves that are left at the curb through mid December. "Just call City Hall and tell us and we will make sure they are picked up," explained Paschall.

In a Fire Department up date Bryan Hall stated that Ronald Eakers of the Henry County Sheriff's Office had recently moved into the community and wished to apply as a volunteer firemen with Puryear. His application was approved. Hall also reminded everyone that the yearly subscriptions for fire protection of $35 were due the 1st of January. Notices to the more than 300 subscribers will be going out soon.

December means Christmas in downtown Puryear. The annual tree lighting, followed by the Puryear Lions Club World Famous Chili Supper will be held Dec. 7th. The Puryear Mayor and Board of Aldermen will meet briefly before adjourning to attend the tree lighting and the free chili supper. Santa will arrive by Fire Truck and goodies will be handed out to all the children who visit with Santa. The Lions will also be holding a drawing and giving away one girl's bicycle and one boy's bicycle. You must be present to win.

The Henry County Highway board of Commissioners reviewed the Elkhorn Levee situation at Tuesday's meeting. Last month the board discussed what to do with the levee where beavers and other animals had been burrowing into the side of he earth levee. Road Supervisor Ray Norwood told board members that engineers had looked at the levee and that the holes had not been burrowed into the roadway above. "Don't think it will fall in over night," stated Norwood. He added, "We are looking at a lot of work and a lot of money." According to Norwood the settling roadway is loosing strength along the 2800 ft of roadway. After some discussion the board decided to have Tennessee Asphalt smooth and fill in the cracks with their crack filler machine and put another layer of asphalt on it for the winter. "Right now we are not at an emergency ," explained Chairman Ronald Brown. "We will wait until spring and reevaluate the situation." The project could be eligible for State Aid Road money.

The board discussed new equipment that would be needed such as a front loader which new would run approx. $135,000 to $150,000. "Its something you have to have," explained Norwood. The Highway Department will also be needing a new paver. "We want one with rubber tires, not tracks," explained the road supervisor. Also needed in the future will be a new big dozer.

The 30 day work plan includes patching and bush hogging as well as doing some ditching. "We probably have 2 more weeks we will be bush hogging ," Norwood stated.

The Henry County Medical Center reported to the Henry County Sheriff's Office that a shooting victim had come to the ER by private vehicle on Monday. After investigation by the Criminal Investigation Division at 910 Rowe School Rd. it was declared a homicide/suicide. The victim brought to the emergency room was a white female with one gunshot wound to the back . While officers were responding to the ER a 911 call was received from the Rowe School Rd. residence of another gunshot wound victim. The 44 year old white male victim, Timmy Ray Graves was found in the back bedroom with a gunshot wound. EMS transported him to HCMC where he was later pronounced dead. The victim at the ER, 46 year old Cindy Freeland was also pronounced dead at the Medical Center.

The investigation showed that Timmy Graves, along with boy friend and girl friend Anthony Graves and Cindy Freeland were all living at the Rowe School Rd. residence. The two were in the process of moving out when just after 6am, Anthony heard 2 gun shots and Cindy came out and told him she had been shot. He transported her to the ER. He then called and asked family members to come to the house. When they arrived they found Timmy with a gunshot wound to the head.

The Paris City Commission met Monday with little public notification in a special meeting about the selection of a city manager for Paris. The Commission announced that they would begin contract discussions with former Henry Countian Jack Tarkington. Tarkington has no experience as a city manager but has over 25 years experience in the operation and management of government facilities and assets in Davison County Metro government.

The Cottage Grove School graduate will receive an official appointment in a press conference scheduled for Nov. 19 at 1pm.

November 14 and 15 in the Enoch Building at the Fair . There is Plenty of parking and the 2 day event us free to the public featuring plenty of homemade goodies and food. Our

The W. G. Rhea staff is preparing a warm reception for Ken Waldman. Mr. Waldman is an Alaskan fiddler, poet and story teller who will be brought to Paris by the Paris Henry County Arts Council. The Arts Council has generously agreed to share Mr. Waldman with the entire county by having him perform at the Library on November 15 at 7pm.

The Council will have Mr. Waldman performing at several schools. This is great for the students, but what about the rest of us especially when the students relay to their parents what a great program they had the privilege of seeing at school.

Ken Waldman’s program was best described by the Boston Globe as “His concerts of fiddle tunes, poems and stories about life in Alaska might tempt you to plan a road trip with a journal tucked under one arm and a fiddle under the other

Join us at the Library for an evening of great entertainment, good food and good company.

Flags were waving as the 1st Annual Veteran's Day Parade made its way down Wood St. Saturday morning. Although the crowds were sparse, those who came out for the sunny but chill event were enthusiastic.

Over 30 entries joined the parade including Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, National Guard, Veteran's organizations, the Henry County Marching Patriots and those who just wanted to honor the many vets who have served America.

The Cottage Grove Lions Club will raise funds Sunday morning November 11th in Cottage Grove, Como, Whitlock, and Palmersville. The funds will go to the 51st Annual Telethon of Stars to benefit Community Developmental Services of Tennessee which serves Henry, Weakley, Carroll, Obion, and Lake counties.

This November the Heritage Center is hosting an exhibition open house. The Heritage Center will be open Friday, November 9 and Saturday November 10 from 6 PM -8 PM and on Sunday, November 11 from 1-5 PM. Stop by to see our winter exhibit, Santa’s Workshop, which features antique toys from collectors in Henry County . You can also pick up a piece of history at our gift shop for truly unforgettable holiday gifts. Who wouldn’t love to receive a beautiful and warm Henry County Historical throw blanket? For a local touch to your Christmas village, we have lighted ceramic replicas of Lee School , E.W. Grove School , Cavitt Place , the Courthouse, and Atkins-Porter. The Heritage Center is located at 614 N. Poplar St. Paris , TN. For more information contact us at 731-642-1030 or visit us online at www.phchc.com.

– Students from Paris Elementary and Inman Middle School will honor local Veterans with a free concert on Monday November 12^th at 6:30pm at the Krider Performing Arts Center in Paris. This evening of entertainment is brought to the public under the Paris Henry County Arts Council's "Youth For The Arts" and is sponsored by Perkins Drugs.

"My group, Veazey Vocals, of 5^th graders will be singing four songs following the presentation of the flag and pledge led by some Inman Boy Scouts", said project coordinator, Minette Veazey. " There will also be a skit, The Keys to Peace, performed by Paris Elementary teacher Brendell Cowan's Accelerated Learners students" stated Mrs. Veazey.

A string quartet of 7^th graders from Inman Middle School will be playing some patriotic songs. In addition, a group of 4^th and 5^th graders will be performing a parachute activity to music led by P. E. teacher Mrs. Debbie Elliott.

The fifth grade winner of an essay contest will be reading his/her essay. Fourth grade poster contest winner, Caitlin Coleman, will have her art work on the programs. The third grade bookmark contest winner, Rudi Beth Wimberley will have her bookmark printed and distributed that evening as well.

McNeal Park is a little more Family Friendly now thanks to the efforts of Families For Paris Parks.

According to Kay Whitby the new equipment cost about $44,000. "This excludes one piece that we had to cut out of our bid because there wasn't going to be enough money. The piece cost about $3500. The Lakeway Kiwanis Club found out and graciously said they would buy the extra piece we wanted. So, I guess total cost is about $48,000."

The group had 1 fundraiser last April and raised $4,000 and had donations of $21,000 from individuals, businesses, civic groups plus other groups like BPU roundup and Helping Hand. The city will pay the rest.

Families For Paris Parks formed in the Fall of 2005 and since the group is not a 501(C)(3) group, all the money raised goes into a fund at the City, strictly for playground equipment but, it is tax deductible.

" We don't officially have officers. but are all equal and everyone does more than their share of work," explained Whitby. "We meet 2-4 times a month. some of our members have part-time jobs, some work full-time, one home schools, all are active volunteers in other areas of community. They each give their time to the playground cause.

Members include Susannah Murphey, Beth Harrod, Keri Demers, Lane McIntosh, Amy Lawrence, Janet Calfee, Olivia Smith, Leigh Ann Davis, Julie Webb, Kathy Gilstrap & Kay Whitby.

"Hopefully, this park will be utilized as much as Memorial Park. Our goal is to make the parks enticing for families to get out and be together and keep our children active.

The groups 5 year plan was to do 4 parks in 5 years. "So far two have been completed". Ogburn is next on the list followed by Johnson Park. "The community has been very supportive of our efforts and we really appreciate it." stated Whitby.

The Paris Municipal Regional Planning Commission had a light agenda for Thursday's monthly meeting.

The board approved a redivision of 40 acres on Hwy 69A which lies mainly within the city limits. The division will remove a lot line by Eakers Restaurant and will create a new parcel that contains a mobile home.

Also approved was division on Crutchfield Lane contingent upon a septic tank being added to the plat drawing.

Approved contingent upon signatures and a perk test being done for a septic tank were lots on land off of Owenwood Place.

"The Docks" final plat was approved Thursday night. The amusement park will contain miniature golf, a go cart track, batting cages, a and party room.

Tabled until next month was the Independent Living facility site plan on the 218 By-Pass.

Gerald Parish of the state of Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Recreational Education Services addressed the Paris Parks and Recreation Commission Wednesday evening where it was stated that grants for the park board were very important for the community. "All the entities, city, county and the park board need to agree completely," stated Parish as he explained that grant money was becoming more competitive as more entities applied for the money.

The county match and the city match plus the parks board for the matching grant would be a third each. "We are talking a tremendous funding issue here," stated County Mayor Brent Greer.

Currently the only recreational facility the county has is the 'Shooting Range Greer explained and that the range could become a huge tourist draw . Parish also stated that community involvement, such as the current Friends of Paris Parks, along with the city of Paris, Puryear and Henry, working together, would make the awarding of grant money more probable. After more discussion where Director of Parks Tim Check stated," We need to at least start a dialogue now,". On the advice of Parish a Conservation board that would be made up of City Commissioners, County Commissioners from the 1st and 3rd district as well as Park Board members will be established. "A joint effort is more likely to get grants," explained Parish.

"I think we are definitely moving in the right direction," stated Paris Mayor David Travis. The committee will meet after the first of the year. Check told the group "The ground work has been laid and this is just another step forward."

Also present at Wednesday's meeting were representatives of the ASA girls softball league. The group wants to host the national tournaments in Paris. The national tournament would bring at least 56 teams to Paris and would fill all the available hotel rooms and more. The tournament would be held at the end of June, early July of 2008 and possibly would be eligible for Tennessee River Resort funding.

While funding for the tournament may be found those interested in repaving the tennis courts at Ogburn Park for a skateboard park did not receive as promising news. The cost to pave the courts will be extremely high and with the current Skate board facility only open on Saturday evening, the board suggested they set up a group similar to the Friends of Paris Parks, to raise funding.

The 1st Annual Veteran's Parade will be held in Paris on Saturday, Nov. 10 beginning at 9am. The parade will start at Wood and Fairground Rd. and travel west toward Volunteer Dr., ending at Holy Cross Catholic Church parking lot. There are currently 30 floats and marching units scheduled to march in the parade including local Cub Scout and Boy Scout units, Veterans organizations and the local National Guard. Serving as the Color Guard will be the Tennessee State Guard who will stop mid way in the parade rout to perform a Memorial service.

Serving as Grand Marshall for the parade will be Ralph Routon. The Henry County native was a WW I I P.O.W.

Members of the Henry County School Board, Principals from the county schools and school administrators held a press conference Tuesday to announce the results of this years state report card which covered the district's performance. "Over all we received a 'Good Standing' status," stated Director of Schools Rick Kriesky. "I "Thought this was important and wanted to let the principals tell about their schools," explained Kriesky.

Henry County High School's status was 'Target'. "That is due to a reporting issue because those performing behind grade level at Grove lower the rating," explained Kriesky. There are 70 students considered 'At Risk' attending Grove. "Over all we are showing gains and improvements," he stated.

ACT scores were slightly better than state averages but Kriesky said that they would not be satisfied with that. All the principals thanked and credited the support of the school board for the improvements that had been made. They also credited the additional writing in all curriculums to improved scores. "Hats off to the teachers and to the school board for their support," stated Jan Mitchell, Director of Elementary Instruction. Also credited with improved scores was the communication between teachers. "It all goes back to the teacher in the classroom," remarked Kriesky.

The City of Henry Mayor and Board of Aldermen met Tuesday evening and filled the vacant Alderman seat left by William Milam Jr. with Ron Moore. Moore has been active in the community for many years and is a member of the Henry Volunteer Fire Department.

The board did accept the resignation of Lisa Olive at Tuesday's meeting. The board will be accepting letters from those wishing to apply for the vacant Alderman's seat until Noon, Nov. 15. The board will meet on Nov. 29 to fill the empty seat.

In other business the Mayor and Board of Aldermen voted to award the construction contract for the city sewer system to Miller Construction Co. out of Huntingdon. Work should begin within the week.

A preliminary report from Informaeconomics, a consulting group hired by Henry County and Weakley County to do a feasibility study on building a Soybean Crushing and biodeisel facility was presented Monday to a group of local leaders including farmers, producers and educators. The facility would be used not only to make soybean oil but its byproduct - meal and hulls, that would be used for feed.

The consultants answered questions and accepted ideas and information from the local officials, Representatives of the consulting firmed stressed that the figures and information was incomplete with the final report still 3 or more weeks away from completion.

The cost for a facility was estimated at $24 to $25 million, not including operating costs.

The price of crushed soybean oil holds steady and was seen as a plus for producers with ever increasing markets, including exports, as a renewable fuel source, especially if federal restrictions on fuel emissions are passed.

The existence of rail lines as a way to transport the soybeans was noted as was moving the beans on barges. The size of the crushing facility, suggested at Monday's meeting, was one large enough to crush 1,000 tons per day using beans with in a hundred mile radius.

In the preliminary analysis at Monday's presentation the group was told that markets for soybean would be worldwide for feed and regional for chicken and hog producers including markets in Georgia, Mississippi and Alabama.

Paris City Mayor David Travis, Chancellor Ron Harmon and Department of Children Services Adoption Specialist Jennifer Hodge were among those present at Memorial Park for the ceremonial planting of a tree in honor of 'National Adoption Month' Monday at Memorial Park. "Adoption should be remembered as an alternative for families," stated Ms Hodge

The Henry County Trustee David Stone, will be at Paris City Hall, Monday 9-3 for a tax relief session. Also, I will be at Puryear City Hall Wed. 9-12 and Henry 1-4. We want to reach out to our citizens who may be qualified but not quite able or have an opportunity to come to the courthouse and sign them up for Tax Relief. This is a great program and I am very excited about how many we are getting on the program. Those who are interested or think they may qualify need to be age 65 or over, or 100% disabled, bring Social Security Cards and Medi-Care Cards and Proof of 2006 income which cannot exceed $24,000. Veterans may also qualify for a much bigger rebate if they are 100% Service connected disabled. Please feel free to call the Trustee's Office or stop by if anyone has any questions 642-6633.

The 2nd Annual Little Mr. & Miss Merry Christmas Pageant along Miss Merry Christmas were crowned in Weston Hall Sunday afternoon. The pageants were sponsored by the Madrigals to raise money for their many trips and performances as ambassadors of Henry County High School and the community.

Crowned as Queen in the 8 to 12 month Girls was Addison Claire Washburn with 1st Maid Grace Norwood and 2nd Maid Adyson Marie Broomfleet.

Crowned King of the 8 to 12 month old boys was Connor Fowlkes with 1st Page Jude Austin Maskas , Preston Beasley 2nd Page and Christian West 3rd Page.

Crowned Queen of the 13 to 24 month old girls was 15 month old Taylor French with 1st Maid 1 year old Janna Harrod, 2nd Maid Maklayla Shell.

25 to 35 month old Queen was Tori Rane Jackson, 1st Maid Alyson Bizeau and 2nd Maid Sidney Bosley.

Crowned King of the 3 to 5 year old boys was Landon Thrower with 1st Page DJ West.

Crowned Queen of the 3 to 5 year old girls was 4 year old Katie Broomfleet. To serve as 1st Maid is Paris Shay Schoeberl and 2nd Maid 4year old Presley Wallace.

Queen of the 6 to 8 year old girls is Anna Divito with 7 year old Kolby Robinson 1st Maid and Olivia Harber, 7 years old as 2nd Maid.

Miss Merry Christmas of the 9 to 12 year old girls was Darion French with 1st Maid Marissa Wilson and 2nd Maid Grace Godwin.

Crowned Queen of the 13 to 15 year old girls was 13 year old Hannah Robinson with 14 year old Ashley Kilpatrick as 1st Maid and 15 year old Madison Moody as 2nd Maid.

Crowned Queen of the 16 to 18 year old y0ung ladies was 16 year old Jessica Stier. Robin Walker, 17, was crowned 1st Maid with Amanda Neumair, 18, as 2nd Maid.

On Monday, Nov 2, between 5:30 am and 10 am members of the Henry County Sheriff's Office, Paris Police Department, canines Buddy, Elgos and Striker, Tennessee Bureau of Investigations, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Tennessee Department of Revenue, TVA and the Metro Crime Unit, in a joint effort arrested 28 people on 43 Felony drug charges. The arrests were the result of a 6 month under cover drug operation conducted by the Metro Crime Unit. The arrests were a direct result of selling and delivering controlled substances consisting of prescription medications, Methamphetamine, marijuana and cocaine to under cover operatives. Also seized were 15 vehicles that were used to deliver or sell drugs from. "Today was absolutely a victory on he war on Drugs," stated Henry County Sheriff Monte Belew. "Drugs affect the whole community and the arrests today will definitely put a dent in the drug activity and we will aggressively continue our drug enforcement."

Arrested in the drug bust were Elizabeth Covington of Routon St. for delivering a scheduled 3 drug. Jason Underwood of Routon St. for delivering a scheduled 2 drug. Maudie McBride of Routon St. for delivering a scheduled 2 drug. Harold Surber of Routon St. for delivering a scheduled 2 drug, John David Simmons of Routon St. for delivering a scheduled 2 drug. Kera Freeman of Crestview Manor for delivering a scheduled 2 drug, Traci Walker of Crestview Manor for delivering a scheduled 2 drug. David Perry Sr. of McFadden St. for 2 counts of delivering a scheduled 2 drug. Shanda Bomar of Oliver St. for delivering a scheduled 2, 3 and 4 drug. Thomas Hickman of Oliver St. for delivering a scheduled 2 and 6 drug. Jeffery Fneix of Terry Lane for 2 counts of delivering a scheduled 6 drug. Cynthia Woodard of Hwy 140W for criminal attempt to dell or deliver a scheduled 2drug. Crystal Greer of Springhill Rd. for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. Christopher Triplett of Franklin Dr. for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. Cynthia Galindo of Lampkins Rd. for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. David Dean of Jones Bend Rd. for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. Angela Bernardo of Maple St. for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. Ronald Ward Sr. of Hwy 140N for delivery of a scheduled 6 drug. Michael Ivy of Hollow Rock for delivery of a scheduled 2 and 3 drug. William Ivy of Hollow Rock for 3 counts of delivery of a scheduled 3 drug. Tina Shumate of Hollow Rock for 3 counts of delivery of a scheduled 3 drug. Tamara Rick of McKenzie for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. Chris Rick of McKenzie for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. Jackie Holland of Camden for delivery of a scheduled 3 drug. Clint Graff of Maple St. for delivery of a scheduled 6 drug. James Glisson of Reynoldsburg Rd. for delivery of a scheduled 4 drug. Jerry Mobley of Lampkins Rd. for 2 counts of delivery of a scheduled 2 drug. Tonya Wallace for delivery of a scheduled 2 drug.

The First Presbyterian Church will hold its annual French Holiday Bazaar Friday, Nov 2 from 7am to 2pm

Once again the Post Oak Bridge and the replacement of that structure drew people to the City Commission meeting Thursday evening. In comments from the citizens portion of the meeting several residents of the community express their concerns on the poor damage in the area and the blockage to the ditch during strong rains. There were also complaints of raw sewage in yards and homes due to poor drainage. Mentioned by those present was also the downward trend of property values in the area due to the mentioned problems. Since the comments were made during the citizens comment period commissioners made no replies but during a discussion later in the meeting it was stated that 38 residents had been asked about rebuilding the bridge in which 14 wanted to have the bridge replaced and 11 did not. The staff was instructed to continue to look for reductions to the estimated $600,000 project including seeking a grant.

In an update of sewer development on Hwy 79 and218 By-Pass Carl Holder told Commissioners that he recommended that a minimal amount of construction be done on lines that will not be used for 5 to 10 years. No action was taken by the Commission.

Community Development Director Linda Holder stated that TDOT had informed her Thursday afternoon that appraisers had been contacted about the 218 By-Pass project and that 14 tracks of land were involved. She stated that the purchasing of the right -a-ways would begin in late January to early February.

The commissioners took no action on extending Patriot Ave. The current plan would have Patriot Ave hook up with Manley St., which would provide a through street from Volunteer Drive to Tyson Ave., providing access to Paris Elementary and the Civic Center from Tyson. When first proposed in 1999 the cost would have been an estimated $1million. The project had been pushed back in order to complete Hospital Circle and now the estimated cost would be $2 million. PSSD school superintendent Mike Brown stated that the increase in traffic due to the school and events at the civic center call for a better traffic flow. "This is something we need to look at but I don't know about spending $2million to ease up traffic," stated Commissioner Pete Lackey.

In an Economic Development update Holder stated that 2 different developers are looking at the city's spec building and there are also several smaller developers that do not have buildings that are looking at the area for relocation.

Approved Thursday evening was a request from Paris Police Chief Tommy Cooper to apply for a $24,000 law enforcement grant that would be use to purchase in car camera equipment. The 25% match would be paid for out of the Drug Fund money.

Also approved was the City Park and Recreation request to apply for a grant to build a handicap accessible fishing ramp in Memorial Park.

In a break down of properties in the ESN122 area Fire Chief Don Cox told commissioners that there were 1426 parcels of land with buildings and land and 1042 parcels with buildings only. Building values range from $1,500 to $2,000,000.

The search for a new city manager continues. Mayor David Travis stated that another applicant will be interviewed next week. "Hopefully we will have someone in place by the end of November."

The frosts of fall are rapidly approaching. The cool weather is usually good for grasses like tall fescue and orchardgrass. But sorghums used for forage can be toxic after a frost. The frost causes the release of prussic acid, or cyanide. Grazing sorghums that have been frosted has the potential to be deadly. Forage sorghum, sorghum x sudangrass hybrids and johnsongrass can be toxic. Pearl millet does not release prussic acid. To minimize the potential for prussic acid poisoning, follow these

3. Do not feed silage cut from a frosted field for 6 weeks following ensiling.

Prussic acid usually dissipates in 7-10 days following a frost, but extra care should be taken to avoid potential poisoning.

THE W.G. RHEA PUBLIC LIBRARY IS THANKFUL FOR THE PEOPLE WHO PATRONIZE THE LIBRARY. TO SHOW THE LIBRARY’S APPRECIATION NOVEMBER HAS BEEN DECLARED FINE FORGIVENESS MONTH. ALL FINES WILL BE EXCUSED WHEN THE BOOKS OR THE MATERIALS ARE RETURNED TO THE LIBRARY.

The Paris/Henry County Chapter of Duck’s Unlimited will host the annual membership dinner on Saturday evening, November 3^rd at the Paris Elks Lodge. Doors will open at 5:30, dinner will follow at 6:30 and the live auction is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM. Tickets may be purchased from any committee member, or you can contact Andy Davis at 243-4668 ext. 207 or Andy Collins at 641-9332.

Henry County Sheriff Monte Belew reported that during the month of August an average of 167prisoners were housed in the Henry County Correctional Facility per day. 57 of the prisoners were state prisoners generating $55,490.60 in revenue from the state of Tennessee to the Henry County General Fund.

The Inmate Commissary generated $1,541.98 in revenue and the Inmate Receivables generated $3,097.03 in revenue to the General Fund for the month.

Sheriff's officers served 1,018 criminal and civil papers. 36 arrests and citations were issued for driving violations. 12 motorists were charged with DUI and 22 persons were charged with revoked or suspended driver's license.

The Metro Crime Unit and the Henry County Sheriff's Office made 21 drug arrests. Deputy cruisers traveled 56,247 miles while on patrol, transporting prisoners to state institutions and juveniles to detention facilities, answering citizens complaints, serving criminal and civil papers and performing other official functions.

940 business, schools and residences were checked during the month. Deputies found 2 open doors during the checks that had been left open accidentally by the businesses.

The Criminal Investigations Division opened 64 cases. 17 cases were suspended, 39 were closed and 18 were arrested.

The Henry County High School Resource Officer made 4 misdemeanor arrests and citations, 1 felony arrest, 4 reports and 7 complaints. 8 requests for counseling were also made. The Resource Officer attended 2 after school events.

The County Wide School Resource/Dare Officer made 1 felony arrest, 2 reports and 2 complaints. 9 requests for counseling were also made. The Officer attended 5 after school events.

Between June 23 and Oct 24, 4196 lbs of squash, 2275 lbs of cabbage, 2322 lbs of tomatoes, 292 lbs of green beans, 329 lbs of okra, 306lbs of shelled peas and 14 bushels of turnip greens were gathered from the inmates garden at the Jail.

The Sheriff's Office generated $13,505 in revenue to the drug fund for vehicles sold at auction on Oct 13 due to being seized for drug charges and DUI and driving on revoked driver's license charges.