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HCMC 10/31/06 At the Henry County Medical Center Board of Trustees meeting held at the Emergency Medical Services Building, long time member of the board and recently retired County Commissioner Robert V Sinclair was honored. Bob was presented with several plaques, a clock, a resolution from HCMC, a proclamation from the county that proclaimed Oct. 30 as Robert Sinclair Day in Henry County as family, friends and board members gave Sinclair a standing ovation. The highly decorated WWII vet was the founder and then director of the Ambulance Service for 17 years, served on the hospital board of trustees since 1989 and on the county commission since 1986. "He has continuously served Henry County," stated County Mayor Brent Greer. Mr. Sinclair will be speaking at this years Veteran's Day celebration at the courthouse on Nov.11. In regular business the board approved the financial report of the medical center which showed that the daily census was down as was the number of calls answered by EMS. The reduction in the daily census has lowered the revenue of the hospital but it still provides the $660,000 in subsidies needed to pay for such services as EMS, which are not always profitable. "Our citizens need to know that the high quality of ambulance service and the other specialty care we offer which makes it possible for them not to have to leave the county for state of the art care is possible because of the subsidies paid by the medical center to cover the actual costs," explained Board Chairman Phil Wichlan. The hospital continues to look for a psychiatry resident. With the unfortunate death of Dr. Elliott there is a need for another OB physician and according to Hospital Administrator Thomas Gee will be a high priority search. Construction on the Critical Care Unit is well underway and interior work at the Henry County Healthcare Center is nearly complete. December's board meeting is scheduled to be held at the Healthcare Center. In the quarterly EMS report to the board, Director Mike Shankle stated that the ambulances average 500 miles a day and although calls are down they are still averaging around 15 calls a day but response times are up due to new equipment at Dispatch where training is not complete. Response time should be better than ever when training is completed. Trips to take patients to Nashville are down while trips to Memphis have doubled. "We have a Class A ambulance service in this county which is recognized by the state and we receive no funding from the county or the state," explained Wichlan, "and now we also have a station down be the lake for those citizens." According to Wichlan a new station costs approx. $250 to $300 thousand.
Veteran Service Committee 10/30/06 The Henry County Veteran Service Committee met Monday evening to consider the application process that will be used to hire a new Veteran Service Officer. The positions was held by Tim Pinson, who, due to personal reasons, tendered his resignation which was effective Oct. 15th. A committee composed of 8 to 10 Veteran Services agency, such as the post commander for the VFW, American Legion, Am Vets, etc will interview and review the applications then select approx. 3 applicants who will speak to the full commission hopefully in Dec. when the commission will then make their recommendation. The successful applicant must be a veteran who has served in a recognized war or conflict. The position receives $26,206 from the county and an additional amount from the City of Paris for a total yearly salary of $30,000.
Democratic Rally 10/31/06
Saturday's multi-county Democratic Rally at the Paris Convention Center drew politicians out for the opportunity to meet and greet supporters as they gear up for the Nov. 7th election.
Rep. Butch Borchert and his band got the crowd warmed up for the host of politicians who spoke throughout the afternoon which included Senator Roy Herron, Harold Ford Jr., former Gov. Ned McWhorter, Gov. Phil Bredesen and Rep. Butch Borchert.
All those political figures who were present, such as Sen. Roy Herron, took the opportunity to express their appreciation for being allowed to represent the citizens of Tennessee. Harold Ford Jr. told the crowd, "The next 10 days will be the most important in the history of Tennessee." He added we are involved in two wars and we are trying to pay for it on both fronts."
Bredesen, when asked about his health care plan, Cover Tennessee, stated that "It is going good. There are still a lot of variables to be worked out but we have 6 vendors bidding on the plan and the 1st of the year to choose a vendor is very realistic."
Not only those seeking state positions were present but also recognizable locals such as Judge Vicki Snyder and District Attorney Hansel McCadams took the opportunity to shake hands and mingle with the other Democrats.
Community Choir 10/30/06 The Community Christmas Choir for 2006 is forming and will meet for the first time Monday Oct 30 evening at 7pm at the 1st United Methodist Church in Paris and each Monday until the concert on Dec 2nd. Meet The Candidates 10/30/06 By Henry Correspondent Larissa Boyd The City of Henry held a public forum for candidates for Alderman, Mayor and the vacant 2nd district Commissioner seat were invited to attend. Mayoral Candidate Joe Qualls was not present neither were Alderman candidates Lisa Olive or Cindy Rainey. After enjoying a free BBQ dinner all six of the candidates for Commissioner, all of which attended the forum, were each given 5 minutes to speak. First to speak was David Brewer who stated that bringing jobs to the community that would keep the youth in Henry County would be his first priority since they were the future of the county. Most of the candidates echoed this concern. Jeff Hamlin added that the commission needed young people and new ideas. Paul Neal told the crowd that the county needed tourism for jobs and revenues . Charlie Parker, who just lost his seat, said he wanted to continue to represent the people of Henry County. Guy Smith also was calling for more jobs in Henry County so they could afford health care. He added that the future of the county rests with the children and grandchildren and we must have good jobs to keep them here. Larry Wilson stated during his allotted 5 minutes that he would represent the people and vote in the best interests of the people. Mayor Faye Lowery told the filled room in Henry's Civic Center that although in the last 4 years the city had lost a factory they had gained one as well, one that would hopefully create more jobs in Henry. She also thanked the city employees for their hard work and dedication. She stated that she would like to work to provide health benefits for the city employees but not to penalize the citizens by raising taxes for those benefits. Those things had been accomplished in her first term by selling city real estate and receiving grants. Others speaking included Donna Erdely who said she would be best for the city. William Milam Jr. a retired veteran stated that he believed all of Henry County had to work together as a team and he would be a good trouble shooter for the city.
Spooktacular 10/30/06
It was a crisp fall morning for the 72 contestants who registered to take part in the Spoktacular at the court square in Paris. The event, sponsored by the Downtown Paris Association, gave youngsters a safe place to trick-or-treat at downtown stores, show off their Halloween costumes and win prizes. Other activities included face painting, story telling, crafts, games and smacks from Project Graduation. There was also a hollowing contest, a tricycle race and the Henry County Cloggers performed. Winners in the costume contest - 0 to 6 months - Most original was 5 month old Traci Willis. Character originality was awarded to 2 1/2 month old Levi Wayne and scariest was 6 month old Alexander Clemis. In the 7 to 12 year old group Most Original went to 10 year old Chandler Buchanan. Character originality went to the Smurf's 11 year old Zane Dirr and 7 year old Amanda Couch. Scariest was awarded to 7 year old Brady Heath. Winner in the Teen and Adult category for the Most Original was Mary Miller. Character originality went to Kayla Dowell. Scariest went to Justin Miller. Winner of the Pet category was dog Shaggy who's person is Ramona Pierce. Best overall costume winner was 3 year old Sam Patterson of Puryear dressed as Elvis.
Rally 10/28/06 Saturday's Multi-county Democratic Get out the Vote rally is expected to draw around 500 plus people, according to local organizers. Expected to attend is Gov. Phil Bredesen, Senator Roy Herron, Rep. Butch Borchert, Harold Ford Jr. and candidates from Weakley and Obion Counties. Former Gov. Ned McWhorter is also expected to attend. Rep. John Tanner was scheduled to attend but has been taken ill and as of Friday afternoon it was not known if he would be able to attend. The event begins at 12 noon and will be held in the back portion of the Paris Convention Center behind the Hampton Inn. A Bar-B- Que dinner with all the fixings can be purchased.
Artist Showcase 10/28/06 Relay for Life 10/27/06
The American Cancer Society is
pleased to announce the newest members of the Relay For Life Team Fund-raising
Club Program. The Platinum, Diamond and Purple Club teams were awarded
Thursday at the J.W. Barnes Conference Center in Jackson. The Champion
Homes, Henry County Medical Center, Dana, and Tecumseh teams are all platinum
club teams for the 2006 Relay year. "This was a very special night
where we recognized these teams and also celebrated their fundraising success,"
stated organizers. A platinum club team is a team rising over $10,000
throughout the Relay year. Relay
For Life teams are recruited from businesses, clubs, families, friends,
hospitals, churches, schools, and service organizations. Each group comes up
with a team theme, and members take turns walking or running around a track
during the night. Games and activities held during the event make it a festive
occasion. For
more information about Relay For Life, how you can get involved on committee or
as a team member, please contact the American Cancer Society toll-free at
1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org. The Kick off for the 2007 Relay for Life in Thursday Nov. 2nd at 5:30 in the Security Bank Annex on Washington St.
Spooktacular 10/26/06 The Downtown Paris Association's Annual Spooktacular will be held Saturday, Oct. 28th from 10am to 2pm on the Court square. The day's festivities will include a costume contest at 10am. Pumpkin Pete has been moving from business to business around town and will be on the east side of the court house by Saturday and downtown merchants will be open until 2pm giving out candy to trick-or-treaters. Prizes for the costume contest will include movie passes and Downtown Bucks. Categories for prizes include best pet and best over all costume with a total of 14 prizes to be awarded. There will also be food booths around the square and the courthouse will be open for access to restrooms.
Henry 10/26/06 The City of Henry will be holding a candidates forum at the Henry Civic Center Friday from 5pm to 8pm. Candidates for the city of Henry , including candidates for Mayor, are scheduled to appear. The candidates for the 2nd District Commissioner seat are also scheduled to appear. The event will include a free Bar-B- Q dinner.
BPU 10/25/06 The Paris Board of Public Utilities met for their monthly board meeting in their office on Washington St. after several months of holding the meeting in the board room of Commercial Bank while BPU's meeting room underwent renovations. BPU is still without an official board lawyer and according to General Manager Charles Perry they have been using lawyers affiliated with BPU who have specialized fields. The board approved the actions of the General Manager Tuesday for executing the flat price of Interruptible power (FPI) contract with Dana Corporation. "This is advantageous to both Dana and BPU," explained Perry. "By executing this contract Dana accepts legal responsibility to pay the pre-petition debt of $168,853, associated with the VPI contract." Payments will be 30% in 30 days and the balance due when Dana emerges from bankruptcy. TVA, BPU and Dana have agreed to the terms and the agreement must be approved by the bankruptcy court. Perry explained that BPU would be able to keep the $319,000 Dana had paid as a deposit which was about 2 months worth of utility bills. Presently Dana would be buying power at savings of over $900,000 per year based on current VPI rates. A low bid by Industrial Painting out of Briton TN. for $61,640 was accepted by the board for painting of the water tower on Grove Hill and bids for new vehicles from Joe Mahan Ford were also accepted. They were the only bids received for the 3 trucks and one SUV. A new well was installed on Caldwell St. It replaced Well #4 which lasted for 12 years. BPU's power bill from TVA for Sept. was $3,083,000, $18,000 less than the month before which was the largest TVA bill on record.
Conference Begins 10/24/06
The 132nd West Tennessee Annual Conference, hosted Quinn Chapel AME Church began Monday evening with a reception to welcome Bishop McKenzie to Paris. Although Vice Mayor Sam Tharpe was to serve as Master of Ceremonies for the evening , a sports injury had him walking with crutches as he made an appearance at the evening's event. Filling in for Tharpe was Reginald Caldwell who introduced the Quinn Chapel Mass Choir.
After several selections from the choir and a scripture reading by Andria Todd the Bishop McKenzie and Supervisor McKenzie were welcomed to the city of Paris and Henry County by such distinguished community members as City Commissioner George Moore, County Mayor Brent Greer, NAACP President Terry Fuller and President of the Ministerial Alliance Elder James Travis. "We are proud to help sponsor the Conference," stated Jennifer Wheatley Director of the Chamber of Commerce. "When ever we have needed anything George Combs has jumped in and offered to help." Also honored Monday evening was Rev. Kenneth Golphin, pastor of Quinn Chapel for his one year anniversary at the church. "We are honored and excited to have the conference once again in Paris," stated President of the NAACP Fuller, "We need leaders to be a part of the racial struggle for equality," he stated. Sam Tharpe also stated that "Quinn Chapel has blessed us with a lot of wonderful members who have provided role models as I was growing up. welcome you here," stated Tharpe.
Historic Zoning Board 10/24/06 After much consideration the Paris Historic Zoning Board approved a request for an addition to a home on College St. The addition, different from most will be on the front of the home in view from the street. The home was originally built in1800, was going to be demolished then purchased by the present owner Kevin Allen. Allen told the board that he would be using the same type of building materials, at great expense, to match the existing one story home and when he agreed to reduce the size of the addition by 12 feet the board gave their approval for the addition.
Quinn Chapel 10/23/06 Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Paris will host the 132nd West Tennessee Annual Conference which will be held in Paris. According to Rev. Kenneth Golphin the convention is expected to bring 500 to 600 people to Paris and 2 local hotels have been booked for the visitors from West Tennessee and Kentucky. Part of the planned activities include a reception for the first female Bishop in the history of the AME Church, the Right Rev. Vashti Murphy McKenzie at Quinn Chapel from 6pm to 7pm with Paris Vice Mayor Sam Tharpe to be the master of ceremonies. During the week long conference business sessions and worship services are plan at the Paris Convention Center. A pastor installation is also planned for this week.
Boat Ramp Repair 10/23/06
Paris Landing State Park’s marina boat launch ramp will be closed for repairs
beginning on Monday, October 23, 2006. The
ramp is expected to re-open by Friday, November 17. ParisLanding/index.shtml
or call the park office at (731) 641-4465. Paris Housing Corporation 10/21/06 At the Annual meeting of the Paris Housing Corporation Reverend Kenneth Golphin of Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church addressed the board about the need in Paris for affordable safe housing in good repair and the possibility of receiving a grant through their church. "Some type of housing that is both a safe and decent place to live is needed in Paris," stated the Reverend. He added that church affiliates were doing something similar in KY for the handicapped and are currently looking for suitable property in the area. "Why should the grant money go to larger communities when we need it here," he stated. Speaking of Quinn Chapel's program and board member Bill Williams' Habitat for Humanity, City Manager Carl Holder told the board, "We need to sponsor local housing programs and with our combined efforts we can leverage more state and federal dollars." He added, "We are loosing much of our low to middle income housing." Bob Thornton of Nelson-Thornton Community Planners announced plans for the Peden Hill area where 2 grants, a Community Development Block Grant for $50,000 which will be used in the area of Routon St. and Sparks St. to repair or demolish and rebuild and a Tennessee Housing Development Agency Grant where up to $25,000 could be borrowed from banks who are required to participate in the Community Reinvestment Act. A public meeting will be held at the Sparks Street Church of Christ in the near future where applications for low interest and grant money will be available to those who met certain criteria based on income, number in household and who is the head of household. "We will spread the money to help as many of the applicants as we can," stated Holder. Do to the limited funds a $25,000 cap will be placed on how much can be spent on repairs or replacement housing. An expected 75 houses could benefit from the money, all of which would be owner occupied dwellings. New residences would also have to meet energy efficacy standards and codes. Thornton told the board that these will be for "good blue collar working people who are working hard but don't have the money to replace a roof or doorway."
City Beer Board 10/20/06 The Paris Alcoholic Beverage Control Board heard 3 cases of violations at "Bottoms Up" on East Wood St. The cases of violation were from July and August where they were charged with serving to minors -( Under 21). After hearing from the officers who made the arrests and charges, which included Officer Jamie Myrick, Patrolman Ian Reed, Patrolman Michael Ramos, Patrolman Jeramye Whitaker and Patrolman Jason Mounts the board members suspended Bottom's Up owner and permit holder Richard Lowe's permit for 6 months for selling to juveniles on July 22, 2006. The board did not feel that there was enough evidence that the other 2 cases had involved drinking alcoholic beverages served to them in Bottom's Up since none of the juveniles had been brought before the board to offer statements Thursday evening.
Court House Committee 10/20/06 The Henry County Court House committee met to review improvements in the 2 courtrooms of the courthouse that had been requested by the judges. They are not unreasonable requests and they have been mindful of the costs," stated Ron Meyer, court clerk. Also present was Judge Vicki Snyder who requested changes to the upstairs court room that would allow wheel chair access to the witness stand and the jury box as well as other cosmetic improvements. 'We want to keep the courtroom as original as possible," she stated. Some of those cosmetic improvements will include new spinals for the staircase and a new coat of paint for the stairs. Another change will be the present metal detectors. According to Henry County Emergency Management Director Ron Watkins a "Homeland Security " grant was received that will provide the courthouse with new and additional metal detectors. The one upstairs will be joined by one at the front door area which County Courthouse Maintenance Supervisor Kenneth Charles will frame out to match the interior decor. According to Watkins funds from the grant were also used to purchase a video camera security system. The courthouse annex was also discussed. Employees of in the annex had complained of smells from pigeon droppings. Charles inspected all the floors, including the 4th floor which is only accessible by a ladder on the 3rd floor. He told the committee that there was only a small patch of pigeon droppings on the 4th floor and it had been cleaned up and removed. The county had received a citation from the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration due to the complaint.
Friends of The Library 10/19/06 The Friends of the W. G.Rhea Public Library will have their semi-annual book sale Thursday through Saturday, Oct 19 - 21. Hours on Friday are 9am to 5pm. Saturday the hours are 9am to 4:30. Thursday members of the "Friends" are invited to shop from 5:30pm to 7:30 pm. You can become a member for a $5 annual membership fee.
"Krider
Idol"
Macbeth
comes to Paris 10/19/06
The
Paris Henry County Arts Council is continuing to celebrate the arts, as they
have for 40 years in our area, with a production of Shakespeare's Macbeth.
The Nashville Shakespeare Festival will bring action, intrigue, and samurai
sword fighting to the Krider Performing Arts Center in Paris on Thursday,
October 19th at 7p.m.
Early Voting 10/18/06 Early Voting at the Henry County Election Commission located in the Courthouse Annex on Washington St. begins today, Oct 18th, with polls opening at 8:30 until 4pm. Hours for Saturday will be 9am until 12 noon. Early voting goes through Nov. 2nd. Voters will be choosing a candidate for governor, U.S. Senator. Henry County 2nd District Commissioner, Henry City Mayor and Puryear Alderman. The ballot will also contain 2 amendments to the state constitution, one on same sex marianges and one on tax rates for senior citizens.. Gas Company 10/18/06 The Paris Henry County Natural Gas Utility District met for their regular meeting Tuesday at noon where Utility Manager Don Green told the board of training available for employees, especially meter readers, in dealing with dogs. Green told board members that he had received the training and thought it was very good, giving useful pointers in dealing with dogs. The board agreed to send 2 employees to the training in Murfreesboro at a cost of $75 each. In other employee matters the board will be considering a resolution that would allow gas company employees to become part of the state consolidated retirement program. The board also gave Green the authority to re- bid work on the laying of gas lines in Brook Vale Subdivision. which is off of Hwy 641 and Manleyville Rd. "It is a big project with 12,500 feet of pipe to lay," Green stated. "We are already having developers asking when there will be gas lines in." Due to the time of the year bids will be accepted quickly Green told board members after it was decided by the board's attorney that correct procedures for bids had been followed. The lowest bid had been submitted by Natural Gas Piping Corp. Mr. Green told the board that the phase 2 of the Shamrock construction project was completed and had come in under the estimated cost. Phase 3 of the Hwy 641 project would be complete in a couple of weeks. Total gas customers for the month were 5731 with gas in storage at 97.6%. Industrial use is down slightly due to local plant closures Don Green told the board, "Instead of turning the gas down the customers are cutting the gas off." According to recent information received by the Gas Utility District natural gas rates are still lower than electric rates.
PSSD 10/18/06 The Paris Special School District Board of Education had a very short meeting prior to the board holding their yearly retreat where they intend to develop the school system's '5 year plan'. One thing that was discussed during the regular meeting was the fact that the school system was growing larger but also growing was the number of children in special education and the number receiving free or reduced lunches. "We are growing but we are a high poverty district," stated Dr. Norma Gerrell. Due to that classification the school district is eligible for more Title I funding as well as other federal funding. The schools report card showed that in 2005 76% of the students were white, 22% African American, less than 1% Hispanic with even less Asian and American Indian. The report card also shows that achievement levels continue to rise. "In all we have come a long way in the last 5 years," Gerrell told the board. PSSD is also very hopeful of receiving a grant for $25,000 for Special Education. They are expecting notification by Nov. 1st.
County Commission 10/17/06 The Henry County Commissioners listened to a request from Northwest Tennessee Tourism. They were requesting the commission approve $15,000 from the Tennessee River Resort Act tourism money for a TV show about Match Fishing on the 'Out Door Channel'. The money would be used to produce 12shows, 6 in Henry County and 6 in Benton County, who would also split the cost with Henry County. The shows would run for 26 weeks and will also feature 2 local resorts. "We need to act quickly," stated County Mayor Brent Greer, "but we also need to move forward with this.". The matter will be brought before the TRRA Steering committee for their consideration and approval before the commission approves the request. The commission approved a request from the Henry County Sheriff's office to declare 2 of the departments helicopters as surplus. According to Sheriff Belew they will be sold and the money returned to the drug fund, which is what the aircrafts were originally purchased with. The commission also approved a transfer of funds to the Highway Department. The funds will be returned when wheel tax revenues start to come in for this year. The commission also approved transfers in the Henry County School board's budget. The board, because Henry County is a 3 star community, has the opportunity to receive a non-interest loan for renovations to save energy at the high school, Grove and Henry. According to TVA the loan will be repaid in 6 years with the savings from the energy use improvements. Also approved by the commission Monday evening was an increase in boarding rates for work release prisoners at the Henry County Correctional Facility. The rates will change from the present $12 a day to $20 a day.
County Beer Board 10/17/06 The Henry County Beer Board approved a request for a beer permit Monday evening. the request us for a new business, The Q and Midway Truck stop. The business will be located on the Camden Highway across from Halfway Market. The 2 business will sell beer, gas, groceries and serve food. The owner , Susan Hollingsworth said that the business was planed before she knew that Half Way Market would rebuild.
Salute to Soldiers 10/16/06
It was a beautiful sunny Saturday for the Salute to the Screaming Eagles of the 101st Airborne at Paris Landing State Park where 75 soldiers were paired with 75 fishermen who donated their time and boats to take the soldiers out on the lake for a morning of fishing. One family providing their time to help was the Bob Burgess family who were teamed up with Specialist Travis Petersen.
Petersen was the winner of the 'Ugliest Fish' award Saturday morning and said of his morning on the lake, "This is just great. This has been great fun." stated Petersen who is from New Mexico. "I am use to mainly moody lakes and water.
The boats and fishermen returned at 12 noon to Paris Landing and 'weighed in their catches and received recognition for their service to the country. Each fisherman and soldier received a rod and reel as a gift for the day's event. Other prizes for the service men included including a fishing trip to the Amazon and a new bass boat provided by sponsors and the American Bass Anglers..
Screaming Eagles 10/14/06 Saturday the Paris Landing State Park will play host to the salute to the soldiers of the 101st Airborne with a full day of activities for soldiers and their families. The event is sponsored by the American Bass Anglers. Soldiers will be out fishing in the early morning hours with the help of local fishermen who will take them fishing until the weigh in at noon at the Paris Landing Park boat ramp. Family activities begin at 10am. A talent show for those aged 2 to 12 will be held at 10am on the out door stage. The High School Madrigals will perform from 12 to 12:30 also on the outdoor stage. A fishing casting contest will be part of the day's activities and prize give away will be a part of the fun filled day. The main event of the evening is a free country music concert, USO style, beginning at 6pm featuring such artists as Porter Wagoner, Tanya Tucker, Jerry Reed. Little Jimmy Dickens and others including former and present Miss Tennessee, Miss Alabama and Miss Kentucky. There will be concession stands around the park run by Friends of Paris Landing and Henry County Schools will be running shuttles buses from Lakewood School to Paris Landing and from the Stewart County side to the lake as well. They will also have a handicapped equipped bus available. The event is expected to be the biggest event with the most people ever held in this area.
County School Board 10/13/06 The Henry County Board of Education covered a lengthy agenda at their early evening meeting Thursday. The board approved single sex classes for 8th grade academic classes. According to math teacher Beverly Fridy, girls and boys learn differently. The separate classes will allow teachers to present material in different formats for optimal learning by girls and boys. The separate classes will begin after fall break which is scheduled for Monday Oct. 23 and Tuesday Oct. 24. The board approved adding a position for a service learning coordinator who will support and enhance the service learning methodology in the county schools. The board spent a considerable amount of time listening to explanations of service learning which was part of the board's 5 year plan. The concept is to give students the opportunity to see positive roll models in the community through curriculum based service projects. According to teacher Lisa Wilson, who has started using the curriculum, the difference can already be seen while students work on community projects with community organizations such as the Lion's Club. The board approved a change from Effort Scholars to Tennessee Scholars. According to High School Principal Dawn Poole the programs are very similar but the Tennessee program is recognized by many states and appears on job applications as well as can provide more money for students seeking grants and loans for education. "We are doing our students a disfavor by not offering this program." Director of Henry County Schools Rick Kriesky explained that 'Effort Scholars' is not recognized out side of Henry County. The board approved using programs offered y Covenant Ranch. The outdoor activates, such as archery, were described by Mr. Swisher of Covenant Ranch as character building and will be used for P.E. classes in the elementary schools. "We have had very positive feed back from the schools," stated Kriesky. A bowling team could become one of the extra curricular activates that students can become involved in. The activity, according to Kriesky will offer an additional way for students to become involved. Local bowling alleys will provide team members with free shoes and lane time. "We will be able to reach 25 to 30 students, a different group of students than with regular sports." The Henry County School System will be providing 2 school buses to shuttle people from Lakewood School to Paris Landing State Park for the 'Screaming Eagle' salute this Saturday. The school system will also be providing 3 buses to shuttle people from Dover Elementary and The Cajun Place in Stewart Co. to Paris Landing. "This is a very worthy community activity," stated Kriesky. "We are expecting a large contingent for the tribute." A handicapped bus will also be provided. During the Thursday board meeting new School Resource Officer Buford Taylor was introduced to the board. Officer Taylor's uniformed presence on campus is making a difference Poole told board members. "It is a pleasure to work at the school and have the opportunity to give law enforcement a positive image to the students," stated Taylor who comes from a family with a history in law enforcement. Also recognized Thursday was Leann Durham who was named the state's Gifted Teacher of the Year. Durham told the board, "I go and work with some of the best students.". " "These students are some what neglected and need someone like Ms Durham to motivate them to reach for their full potential." stated Mr. Kriesky.
Planning Commission 10/13/06 The Paris Municipal Regional Planning commission had a short agenda for Thursday's meeting. The commissioners approved the site plan for the Paris Surgery Clinic for Doctors Boyd and Lundberg off of Tyson Ave. and Hospital Circle. The commission approved an amendment to the Storm Water Management requirements regarding water runoff in the No Increase Zone. It will now go back to the City Commission for a public hearing and a 2nd reading. In the matter of an amendment to a zoning ordinance that requires a what was called a expensive site plan, the board decided to table the matter at this time.
Parent Night 10/11/06 Inman Middle School held Parent's Night Tuesday, Oct. 10th to introduce parents and students to the new laptop computers that the 7th graders are using. According to Debra Moon, Technical Coach for Inman, the students started using the computers Wednesday. "Its exciting, the students are excited, the parents are excited. we are excited." Moon was very pleased with the turn out for Parent's Night with 91%, of the 182 7th graders coming to the special night. "We had 400 parents and students here" she explained. "There were only 17 students with no parents attending.". The students will start taking home the laptops after Thanksgiving and many parents have taken out small insurance policies on the $1,000 computers. If the laptop is not covered under the parent's homeowners or renters policies Moon said there are agents in town who are willing to write small policies for the laptops. The laptops themselves are loaded with selected software and textbooks so student can do homework on them when they are not in the building.
Disaster Relief 10/12/06
Governor Phil Bredesen announced the state is providing $3.6 million in
disaster assistance funding to many Tennessee communities that suffered damages
due to thunderstorms, flooding, and high winds and tornadoes in 2003.
Under the plan, the state will provide retroactive matching funds to
eligible agencies and local governments in 70 counties that were declared
federal disaster areas in 2003. These payments will restore a portion – 6.25
percent – of the total eligible damages in these counties that were not
provided when the previous administration suspended state payments for disasters
during a period of budget crisis.
Budget Committee 10/11/06 The Henry County Budget Committee met Tuesday evening instead of Monday due the Monday Holiday. The first item of business was the election of Kenneth Humphreys as Vice Chairman. The budget committee approved the sheriff's department request , which included no new money, for fund transfers for salary changes for Sergeant to Investigator. The new sheriff is also filling long standing vacancies for road deputies and jailers. A correction in the judges salary was approved and money from a grant for the new county voting machines, which is pass thru money, was added to the county's budget. Other pass thru money from grants to Cary Counseling of federal funds was approved as was the grant money for the Henry County School systems Sports complex. Transfer of funds for work at Harrelson School was also approved. The county, the school system and money from the city of Puryear was needed to put in a safety turn lane at the new school. Because Henry County has been declared a "3 Star" community the school will be eligible for a TVA loan to improve the energy efficiency of Grove, the high school and Henry. The interest free loan should pay for its self in energy saving in about 6 years. Changes in the Highway Department budget were approved to cover the rising cost of fuel and materials. Road Supervisor Ray Norwood told the Budget Committee that more money was needed to keep the roads in their present condition and not enough money from present funding such as property tax and wheel tax was generated to providing the funds needed for road improvements. "We will be going backwards soon, loosing ground on what we have improved. Norwood also asked if road improvements would qualify for funds from the Tennessee River Resort Act. County Mayor Brent Greer said that the matter would be presented to the TRRA Steering Committee for consideration.
Nominating Committee 10/11/06 The Henry County Nominating Committee filled many of the empty committee positions at Tuesday's meeting that were left vacant after the new commissioners were elected. All of the nominees must be approved by the commission and others can still be nominated by that body. Recommendations for the Adult Oriented Establishment Committee was Connie McSwain, McSwain was also nominated for the Office on Aging Committee. New commissioner Don Jones was selected for the Agriculture Committee along with Dan Paschall. Jones was also named to the Airport Committee. Named to the Animal Control Committee was Dan Paschall and Randy Veazey. The Beer Board will consist of Don Jones and the winner of the election for District, left vacant by the death of Reed Brewer. The Central Community Service Center Committee will be David Webb. The Courthouse Committee will include Dan Paschall and the new 2nd District Commissioner along with Earl Anderson. Connie McSwain was appointed to the delinquent tax committee. Sheriff Belew will serve on the E-911 Board. The Fire Protection Study Committee will be Don Jones. Health Insurance Committee, Dan Paschall. James Travis was appointed to the Hospital Board at the request of the Hospital Board. Paul Mathenia will be on the Industrial Relations Board, which is the old Henry County Industrial Board. The Joint Economic and Community Development Board will include Don Jones. Connie McSwain and David Webb will be part of the Legislative Committee. Dan Paschall and Tim Wirgau will be on the Liability Insurance committee. Selected for the non-profit committee was Dan Paschall. Bobby Freeman will be on the Employee Personnel Policy and Procedures. Tim Wirgau will be on the Planning Commission. The Solid Waste Committee will be the new District 2 commissioner and Tim Wirgau. Wirgau will also be on the Regional Solid Waste Board. The vacant Property Review Board will consist of Jones, Wirgau, Webb and the new District 2 commissioner. David Webb will be on the Volunteer Committee and Don Jones on the work release committee.
Nine County Rally 10/10/06 The Henry County Democratic Party and Democratic Woman will host a nine county rally on Saturday Oct 28 from 12 to 3pm. The rally will be held at the Hampton Inn Convention Center on Wood St. Counties involved are Henry, Benton, Stewart, Weakley, Decatur, Henderson, Carroll, Gibson and Madison. Humphreys, Huston and Obion are also invited. According to John Thomas tickets are $10 and available at the local party headquarters in each county. A dinner of BBQ chicken, beans, slaw, dessert and a drink will be served. Thomas stated that Gov.. Bredesen, Congressmen Ford and Tanner, state Senator Herron and State Rep Borchert as well as Ned McWherter an all candidates from North West Tennessee have been invited to attend.
Oourism
Survey
10/10/06
In
the name of tourism, we want your opinion about Henry County! Oktoberfest 10/9/06
Oktoberfest 2006 was a great success Saturday with sunny weather and comfortable fall temperatures. According to organizers at Holy Cross Catholic Church, who sponsor the event, the 24th Annual Oktoberfest was the largest they have seen. "Its hard to know exactly, but we are expecting 3 to 4 thousand visitors through here today," stated Chairman Al Luigs. "We have 90 exhibitors and it gets bigger and better every year." The event is the major fund raiser for the church with the money raised going back into the community through local charities.
The festival featured the tapping sounds of the Paris Cloggers and the DJ work of Bill McCutcheon.
If you were in the mood for food there was the traditional German meal of bratwurst, German potato salad and Sauerkraut or a Mexican meal of carnitas, Mexican rice and fried beans. There were also more traditional foods such as steak sandwiches and funnel cakes available. The event is held on the church grounds on Wood. St. City Commission 10/7/06 Thursday evenings meeting of the Paris City Commission started with 2 public hearings, one on zoning of recently annexed areas of Paris which received no comments from anyone in the audience. The matter was later passed on second reading. The other matter was in the issuance of bonds to finance a senior Multifamily residential rental property project to be built and operated by Wesley Housing. The resolution was later approved by the commission during new business. In a utility project update of sewer lines in the annexed area, the commission learned that the project would be completed in 2 phases. Phase I- Hwy 79/218 construction will be in 2007. Phase II, the Whiskey Ridge residential area will be scheduled for 2008 when the city will be eligible for Community Development Block Grants once again. The city just received $500,000 in CDBG funds for the Peden Hill area. Approved on 1st reading was an ordinance that will allow the planning commission to approve additions, such as storage sheds, without site plans. The resolution will now go to the Planning commission for their consideration. The matter of a new bridge at Post Oak was discussed . According to most commissioners who have heard from residents, a new bridge is wanted. "We will continue to monitor the situation," stated City Mayor David Travis. Two years ago the city and the county deeded property on Tyson Ave. to the Paris Henry County Industrial Committee for an Ag. Service building. The land has been given back and was accepted at Thursday's meeting contingent upon the county also accepting it back. According to City Manager Carl Holder Bellsouth will be pushing legislation next session to set higher rates and stay competitive with the technology services they can offer with cable TV franchises. "This will not be good for rate payers," City Manager Carl Holder told commissioners. In other technology news the Henry County Alliance, headed by Joe Mahan will be negotiating the creation of a community based web site for the city, county and the chamber. "We needed to follow this closely and make sure it is what we want." stated the Mayor. The commissioners once again gave the Optimist Club the green light for their Christmas tree sales in Ogburn Park. Also this month the commissioners once again tabled any discussion on the sign ordinance revision.
Homecoming 10/6/06
Although rain threatened all day a few raindrops didn't dampen the enthusiasm of Henry County High school students in their annual homecoming parade and pep rally in downtown Paris. This year's parade featured the Homecoming Court of Freshman Amanda Belew, Sophomore Khristina Grissom, Junior Marie Thorogood and Seniors Beth Ward, Bobo Cheung and Julianna Leach. The Henry County High School cheerleaders rode in on a fire truck followed by the stars of Friday night's homecoming game against Jackson Southside, the Henry County Patriots. What would a parade be without the band, the Henry County Marching Patriots.
This years winner of the best parade entry went to the Skills USA Automotive club featuring Southside's mascot as "Road Kill". Despite the drizzle the court house square was full of Patriot fans who cheered as loud as the cheerleading squad when good sport HCHS Principal Dawn Poole took a pie in the face. The pep rally ended with the Head Football coach Joe Gadolis encouraging everyone to attend Friday night and watch as the Patriots won the game. "Southside is an undefeated team but we are going to escort them out of town with a loss."
HCMC 10/6/06 The Henry County Medical Center Care Van will be giving community screenings at the Morningside Public Housing Authority located on Hospital Circle behind the hospital on Thursday Oct. 12 from 9 to 11am. Free blood sugar, blood pressure checks with cholesterol checks for $3. he Medical Center is also offering a free educational seminar on diabetic foot care and conditions by Dr. David Long on Thursday, Oct 12th at Plumley Rehab Center beginning at 6pm. HCHS Parade 10/05/06 The Annual Henry County High School Homecoming parade will take place on Thursday. Oct. 5th. from 4:30 to 5:00. The parade line up will start at 4pm along Ruff St. beginning at the intersection of Brewer St. It will run eastward toward the entrance of Paris City Cemetery. The parade will go down Ruff to Brewer, right on Washington and end prior to the intersection of N. Market St. A homecoming rally will be held on the north side of the courthouse at 5pm. Work Session 10/5/06 The Henry County Commission held a work session Tuesday evening in which they covered a variety of topics that ranged from animal control to industrial recruitment. The commissioners began with animal control. Concerns and ideas for the animal control committee include enforcement of existing state laws. County Mayor Brent Greer told the commissioners that there were state and other laws that the commission could elect to enforce. "It's a difficult and not easily solved problem," stated Greer. Next the group considered junk cars, trailers and nuisance resolution. There is no codes enforcement officer and currently the job is part of the Highway Department's duty. The commissioners were given a resolution to consider. It was pointed out to the commissioners that "Land Use Control" could be practiced within the 20 year growth plan area which is roughly a 3 to 4 mile area around the lake by East and West Antioch Rd to Hwy 119 and the Cypress area. With regard to zoning which many in the county have long opposed, Mr. Greer stated, "Do we want to grow smartly or do we just want to grow?". The new commission will consider a possible land uses study committee. The county is currently involved in an Adult Oriented Establishment law suit. According to County Attorney Lee Greer the county's regulations have been upheld in federal courts but the county is not enforcing the regulations until a final decision is handed down. In an up date on the Tennessee River Resort Act the County Mayor stated , "We are still getting our money." He added that Walker & Associates, who were hired to develop a marketing plan for Henry County, have an on-line survey. "After Oct. 14th we will see how our ability to handle a large event is," It was also announced that Paris and Henry County has been selected by the state of Tennessee as a pilot community for retiree's. The need for a water district in Springville was discussed. As of yet not enough low income residence have signed up so that a Community Development Block Grant can be applied for. In a discussion of roads in the county, Greer urged the commissioners to push the state and federal legislators for a 4 lane road from Hwy 54 to Hwy 69 to Hwy 641 to complete the 218 By pass. "The engineering is done but we have not been given the clearance to start buying up the right of way." Greer stated that they are aiming for 2007. " It is a moving target, it keeps moving back," he told the Commissioners. "It has been 5 years since the last project. It must be our number one priority." Industrial recruitment continues under the direction of Joe Mahan. Currently Champion Homes is possibly going to expand their production at the Henry plant if they can get the right a way needed from TDOT. County wide fire protection was also on Tuesday's agenda. "We are making great strides but we don't have the money needed and we need grants to help with distribution of water." Added to the agenda was the question of an early alert system for the county. Currently the county has some sirens that were donated by a helpful citizen. They need refurbishing and installing. "That is going to cost some money." stated the county mayor. Since the meeting was not an official commission meeting no action could be taken on any of the topics discussed.
Senator visits Paris 10/4/06
United States Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee made a brief stop at the Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce office Tuesday morning where he reviewed topics that were in the forefront of news and politics for a moderate sized group of citizens, including city and county officials.
Terrorism was the first of several topics the senator spoke on, "Every morning the President receives a briefing on what is going on in the country and the world," stated Alexander. He stated that 50% of the information that has kept America safe from terrorists comes from interrogations of captured terrorists. "We want to do it in a way that upholds our values and standards," explained the Senator. On the topic of jobs he told the audience, "Our economy is better than any other countries. "The U.S. which has 4 to 5 percent of the people produces 85% of the wealth." "We need to create an environment for jobs," The senator said that he believes Tennessee will be the number one state for automotive parts production, and I believe West Tennessee will get a large share of it." He pointed out that Tennessee is a right to work state which is an incentive to locate here. He went on to say that frivolous law suits must be stopped which drives doctors from rural areas where they are needed an that health insurance for small businesses is needed. A proponent of better education he stated that ,"We need to focus on better education and training which means new good jobs." He also stated that he wants to put American history and civics back into the schools curriculum. On gas prices Senator Alexander told the assembled group, "We need to get gas and energy prices down. We need energy alternatives and independence is a crucial goal for this Nation." As far the war in Iraq, the senator stated "I think we will be in Iraq a long time. I don't favor an abrupt turn over and coming home."
Trip to Great Britain 10/3/06
A Henry County community trip to Great Britain is planned for next spring.
The total cost for the tour is
approximately
$2963 for adults and $2623 for |
