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Man of the Year  9/30/06

     At the 54th Annual Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce Membership Banquet Thursday evening  "Person of the Year" for 2006 was announced as his family and friends stood and applauded. 

     Joe Rainey, Plant Manager of Haldex Brake Products Corp. was named as the Man of the Year by outgoing 2005 Man of the Year Tim Wirgau.  Rainey, also known for his collection of Antique cars, turns 65 and told the packed Elk's Lodge,  "I am willing to be the plant manager for another year if asked, probably 2 even"  The local production plant has recently been faced with reductions due to cutbacks by automotive producers.

     The evening was hosted by Master of Ceremonies John Etheridge who commented on the recent remarks of Walker and Associates, hired to promote tourism in Paris and Henry County, who reported that citizens said there was nothing to do in Henry County.  Etheridge's top 10 list  of things to do included  Noon on the Square, antiquing, the Heritage Center, Lee Academy for the Arts, Krider Performing Arts Center,  the historic Paris Cemetery, and outdoor recreation at the Lake.  Also talking about tourism at the banquet was guest speaker Susan Whitaker, TN Commissioner of Tourism.  "Tourism is the 12th growing industry, but it must be done in a way that doesn't mow down the assets that you are promoting."

     Outgoing chamber president Troy Buttrey stated that it has been a very rewarding year and he was ready to turn over the reins to incoming president Michael Murphey of Clifty Farm Ham who stated that contrary to some remarks he would not declare Clifty Farm Country Ham as the official  food. of Henry County.

     The nights dinner was proceeded by a silent auction and an invocation given by former County Executive Herman Jackson.

HCMC  9/29/06

     At Thursday's Henry County Medical Center Board of Trustee's meeting Hospital Administrator Thomas Gee told board members of Governor Bredesen's plan to roll out the Cover Tennessee plan.     "This plan will offer marginal health coverage to uninsured Tennesseans for $150 a month."  Gee added, "This will only cover primary and preventative care with no hospitalization services."  Gee told the board that Tenncare managed care organizations will begin going back under "at risk" contracts starting with the middle Tennessee area and then west Tennessee.  "This means slower payment and increased denials for service," stated Gee.

     In a construction update the administrator stated that the CCU (critical care unit) construction will begin around the first part of Oct. and work on the normal x-ray equipment  will also be done at the same time.    The angiography equipment has arrived and is being installed. 

     Regarding the medical center's information technology, "We had the kick off meeting  with the selected vendor, McKesson on our new computer system.  Most of the activity will occur this winter with a 'go live' date of June 15, 2007."

     HCMC has established a case management department  with 3 experienced staff  workers and new director Pam Hooten who comes from Baptist Huntingdon Hospital.  Case management  staff will work with physicians to guide high resource utilization patients who are paid on a case rate through the hospital stay in the most efficient way possible.  By moving the patients efficiently the hospital will reduce its length of stay and thus the costs for those patients.

     Mr. Gee commented on the community wide disaster drill conducted by Henry County Emergency Management director Ron Watkins on Sept.  14th.  "This was a great opportunity to improve our community readiness and communications for potential disasters we might face."

Downtown Star  9/28/06

Debbie Taylor, an employee at the Paris Post Office, has been

Debbie has been an employee with the local postal service for more than 27 years. “I was the third woman hired to work for the post office,” said Debbie. “That was in 1979. I am the only employee still working here. Everybody that I started with is gone.” Debbie added that over the years she has seen many supervisors and post masters come and go, also.

Debbie says that she had done nearly every job that can possibly be done at the post office. Over the years she has been known as a “jack” of all trades. She has even worked as an Officer In Charge at the Cottage Grove and Henry facilities. She currently works in bookkeeping and is a bulk mail acceptance tech. And anyone that goes into the post office knows that she works at the counter. “I know all of the regulars by name,” said Debbie. “Everything I do, I like.”

Downtown Paris Association member, Lynnet McElroy, of Kristi’s Korner said, “She is always so nice and friendly and informative.” Fellow DPA member, Rick Conger, of Paris Karate, said, “Debbie goes beyond the norm. I hate boring stamps and she always tells me about the new stamps and helps me select the right one.”

Connie McSwain, Director of the W. G. Rhea Library and John Wambles of the Peddler Advantage presented Debbie with a Goody bag full of gifts from the Downtown businesses and their affiliated members.

BPU  9/27/06

     The Directors of the Paris Board of Public Utilities approved a loan from Rural  Electrification Administration for Institutional  Casework Incorporated at Tuesday's board meeting.  BPU borrowed money in 1940 from the Rural Utilities Services  and they are eligible  to borrow  interest free money for economic development.  The  Paris Henry County  Industrial Committee requested the loan for ICI to finance the expansion of their facilities which will be in the Mohan plant destroyed by the tornado.  According to BPU General Manager Charles Perry the 10 year loan will be secured by ICI assets and the Industrial Committee.  BPU is eligible to borrow up to $750,000 interest free with deferred payment up to 2 years.

     In other business the board followed the recommendation of Perry and are terminating the long time appointment of Richard L. Dunlap III as legal advisor for BPU.  "It is time for a change," stated Perry.  Until another lawyer is selected BPU will use  the services of other lawyers that have done various tasks for BPU in the past.

     "This is the largest TVA power bill we can remember," Perry told the board.  The bill was$3,830,000.  VIP, Variable Interruptible Power customers costs were also much higher than normal.  "It has been a very hot summer," stated Perry.    

Board of Adjustments and Appeals  9/27/06

     The Paris Board of Adjustments and Appeals could conduct no business Tuesday night due to a lack of a quorum but they did review the progress of several properties.  

     The Nancy Lassiter property on N. Poplar showed no improvement according to Ida Thornton, City Building Inspector.  Lassiter who was present stated she did not know what was needed to being it up to codes.  "Clean it up and clean it out would be a place to start," stated City Manager Carl Holder.  In 7 to 10 days Thornton will present Lassiter with  a list of things that must be fixed to bring it up to codes.

     Also discussed was the Lea Hassell property on Wynn St.  She was told that supstacial improvements needed to be made before the next meeting which will be in 60 days.  A progress report for the Noel Hart property was presented.  Thornton stated that reasonable progress had been made with 25% completed.

     Of the 92 buildings that have been demolished in the last 10 years, 12 have been rebuilt or replaced either privately or with Community Development Block Grants.

New Year's Eve 9/26/06

     The ‘Friends of Paris Landing State Park’ have announce their New Year’s Eve celebration featuring a dinner, dance, and concert with “The Bouffants,” a Memphis based show band that has received rave reviews.  

     The ‘Friends’ organization will be hosting a show that will provide the local and surrounding area a great alternative to long distant travel and more expensive out-of-town trips to celebrate the year’s biggest night out!  

     Borrowing from a lyric of a favorite oldie, “Proud Mary,” the theme for the event is ‘Rolling On The River!’  The Black Tie/Blue Jean venue, will include a generous buffet complete with salad, entrée, bread, vegetables, dessert, and beverage.  A silent auction, a ‘best big hair’ photo contest, an art exhibit of local artists featuring Paris Landing subjects, a midnight countdown, and a champagne toast will round out the festivities as the night’s celebration centerpiece, The Bouffants, energize the audience throughout the night in the L. Don Ridgeway Convention Center.   

     The Bouffants give a riveting, lively, and very interactive ‘show!’  Their performance is a great combination of oldies from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and today.  These four (4) ladies promise a “hair raising” experience with showy costumes, slick choreography, and a dance beat that will have you dancing all night.  From Motown to Rock & Roll classics, they will keep you on your feet.  Famous for their bouffant hairstyles and flashback fashion, The Bouffants will deliver a show you will not soon forget.  

     “Judging by the interest we’ve experienced while planning the event, we fully expect to sell out quickly, so we urge anyone interested in ‘Rolling on the River’ this New Year’s Eve, to make your plans NOW!” stated Friend member Mike Wilson.  He added,   “This is an age ‘21 & over’ only event.”  

     The Paris Landing Inn will also offer greatly reduced room rates for New Year’s Eve lodging, and a New Year’s Day ‘brunch’ from 10am – 3pm featuring a wide variety of southern breakfast and lunch options. Call the Inn at (731) 642-4311 to make reservations.

     Please visit the website dedicated to this event,

www.newyearsparislanding.com for even more details about the event.  This is one event you will not want to miss!

     Tickets will only be sold in advance for this event, and no tickets will be available at-the-door.  Ticket pricing is $125 per couple for general seating, $75 for individual general seating, and $500 for reserved tables of eight (8) (which is $125 per couple also).  Tickets will be available at the Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce, 2508 E. Wood ST, Paris, TN  38242.  To contact the Chamber office, call (731) 642-3431.

Noon On The Square  9/25/06

     The rain dampened the courthouse lawn but not the enthusiasm of the lunch time crowd, which included David Flowers of Commercial Bank, or the musicians who moved Friday's  picnic into the First United Methodist Church Christian Life Center.  "When the forecast kept calling for rain we decided Thursday to hold the 'Noon on the Square' inside," stated Commercial Bank organizer Kay Foust.

     Friday featured the bluegrass and gospel music of "Wood & Wire.  

Animal Week  9/25/06

     Gov. Bredesen  has proclaimed Sept 23 to Oct. 1 as Animal week.  The W.G. Rhea Public Library has received magazines and materials on animal that may be picked up from the foyer table free of charge.  In honor of the week the library will also be accepting pictures, photos  and drawings of an animal with a short story about the animal.  They will be displayed in the library for the next 2 weeks.  "We are not going to award any prizes," explained Library Director Connie McSwain, "It is j just for the fun of it."  The pictures may be dropped off in the library during regular library hours.

Cover Tennessee  9/22/06 

     State Representative Butch Borchert  brought Susan Cooper and Jim Shulman of Governor Phil Bredesen's office to the Henry County Courthouse Thursday evening to explain and answer questions concerning the proposal to help the states uninsured and uninsurable.    

     Signed into law the health care packages contain strategies completely controlled by the state in order to control costs.   Key themes are accessibility for children, chronically ill and working people.  It will also provide preventative care, primary care and generic drugs.     According to the Governor's representatives there are more than 600,000 Tennessee's without health insurance mainly because they cannot afford it.

     Cover Tennessee offers 3 insurance plans - Coverkids for the 130 thousand Tennessee children with no health coverage, Access TN and CoverTN.  It also has a pharmacy assistance program and promotes healthier lifestyles with Project Diabetes and Coordinated School Health.  There is also a plan to provide health coverage for small businesses at affordable prices.   

     Although some of the details of the program have not been completely worked out registration for the program is scheduled to begin in late Oct. and hopefully  coverage will begin next year.  

     The program is designed for 5 to 10 thousand people  and the state legislature is providing $38 million for the program to keep premium costs down to around $100 to $150 a month.  "We are trying to make this program simple and straight forward," stated Shulman.  He added, "The plan is to start a program that won't fail."   

Park Board  9/22/06

     The Paris Parks and Recreation Boar met in a special called meeting Thursday morning to approve 3 item the board was unable to vote on at an earlier meeting this month due to a lack of a quorum.   "We need to approve several items and get  work started on them before the weather turns on us," stated Tony Lawrence, Assistant Parks Manager.

      The board approved a 'NO' Tolerance policy for coaches, spectators and parents for the  City County Basketball (CCB) League run by the Paris Parks Department.   The policy will allow for 2 technical fouls and then the parent or coach will be barred from the games. "There have been no problems with  the players," explained Lawrence.   There are about 500 children involved in the CCB program.

     The future of Washington Courts was also on the agenda.   Paris Police would like to see the use of the park curtailed due to reoccurring problems in the isolated areas of Washington Court.  The equipment on the skateboard park, which is located  on the old basketball courts  is 5 years old and needs replacing.     Clark Womack, who was representing those interested in the skateboard portion agreed with the general consensus of the board that when the new tennis courts are finished that the skateboarding could be moved to Ogburn Park.  It was also agreed that with limited funds upgrades should be made to Ogburn.    The steps at Washington Court are unsafe and do not meet handicap regulations.  On the recommendation of Lawrence the park board voted to have the steps  removed.

     The park board also approved a new concession stand for Johnson Park.

Pioneer Day  9/21/06

    by Larissa Boyd

     The annual Pioneer Day, celebrated in Henry TN ,drew citizens and visitors Saturday.  The event is a fund raiser for the Henry Volunteer Fire Department and according to  Fire Chief Keith Qualls the event raised approx. $3,000 for the department.

      The day's events included popular figures to amuse the younger set such as Abby Campbell who enjoyed a visit with 'Froggy'.  

     There was also an inflatable castle to romp in which was busy all day long and in to the evening.

    Proud to be from Henry, Joey Flores spent the day  sporting his Downtown Henry T-Shirt as he enjoyed the day.

     And if you didn't want to run and jump there was a cake walk or the Bingo tent for the rest of the crowd.

PSSD  9/20/06

     The Paris Special School District Board of Education discussed the new 'Lap Top Initiative' for Inman Middle School  students at Tuesday's board meeting.  According to Deborah Moon, Technology Coach at Inman the lap top computer carrying cases and carts have been delivered to the school and IBM has informed her that the lap tops will be shipped on Sept. 26.  The lap tops should arrive a few days later.  The computers will be passed out to students at a family Roll Out Night where parents and students will  be made aware of their responsibilities concerning the $1,000 laptop.  "This is a big responsibility for students and parents," explained Moon.  Director of Schools, Paul Doyle told the board that in other schools he has studied that missing lap tops has not been an issue and he doesn't expect it to be a problem here.  Each unit will have a serial number and other  methods to identify the student that it is assigned to.  "We feel that missing lap tops will be a minimal  problem," stated Moon.  If parents  so choose they can elect not to allow the student to bring the computer home.  With the increase in the use of computers plus the availability of books on line the number of text books that the  school will have to purchase is expected to decrease. 

     In a Pre-K up date by Dr. Norma Gerrell it was announced that another assistant had been hired as well as a custodian, which would leave the Pre-K teachers and assistants free to attend the children.  100 parents  and students attended a special family spaghetti dinner where parents were able to see  their children's classrooms.

     Gerrell also reviewed extended contracts.  Because of the contracts the PSSD is able to offer summer and after school programs that are enrichment programs that target poverty level students.  Gerrell also stated that a pre-K summer program will be added this July to prepare the young students for school, teaching such fundamentals as lining up, eating  lunch with others, etc.

     Several new policies were reviewed Tuesday night including the current cell phone policy.  Currently students must keep them turned off and there is no major problem with cheating or texting information to students.

     The board will be holding their yearly retreat following the Oct. regular meeting where they will discuss their 5 year plan, review the pre-K program and the Lap Top Incentive.  The board will be holding other meetings at various schools in the district.    

Gas Co.  9/20/06

     The Paris Henry County Natural Gas Utility District's board members approved  manager Don Green's request at Tuesday's noon meeting  to go with ArcGIS software from Magnolia River Services out of Alabama for their gas system mapping needs.  Green stated that the data format will be compatible with Henry County base map data.  The gas company will be able to locate gas valves,  leaks  and other important information with the software.  The utility will also receive 5 days of training for 2 employees on the software. Green stated that the Dyersburg system and some in Alabama  are using the services of Magnolia River Services.   The software  will cost around 8 to 10 thousand dollars.

     In other business the board was informed that the 1st phase of the Jones Bend Rd project was complete and phase 2 of the Shamrock extension was complete with one customer on the main line while phase 3 of the Hwy 641 project has started.

     The gas utility had 5743 customers in August with gas in storage is at 89.5% capacity.  "We are still looking good," stated Green.  "We have bought a 6 month parcel of gas." 

County Commission  9/19/06

     The Commissioners met in a closed session with the county attorney Lee Greer  during a portion of  Monday's meeting to discuss a pending law suit against the county.  According to County Mayor Brent Greer property was taken and sold  for back  taxes.  The owner, who lives out of town, had made payment but was misinformed of amount due.  When more unpaid taxes were reported on the property,  in southern Henry County,  the land was sold for $2,000 while the land  was valued in excess of $20,000.  Lee Greer was told to go forward with negotiations to prevent the suit.

     In other business the commission approved  authorization for Brent Greer to enter into a contract with Northwest Alternative Corrections for probation services and to end probation services with Supervisory Services Inc.  The Northwest Alternative Correction will give the county 50% of the  probation fees collected by them.  Currently the county receives no reimbursement.  "This could be a substantial amount of money for the county," stated Sheriff Belew.  The county has been working with the current provider for 15 years.  According to the county mayor the service is needed since judges and law enforcement can not perform the  work due to conflict of interests issues.  The probation office will also have it's own office space on Wood St. 

     The commission approved an application for a $106,000 grant  with Delta Regional Authority.  The DRA was designed to promote economic growth.   The grant was approved 2 years ago but the company that was to receive the grant and provide new, needed jobs to Henry County never came.  This grant has been designated to go to Knox Outdoor Products for roof repair of its manufacturing facility.   The grant requires no matching funds from the county.

     The  county's nominating committee  will consist of Commissioners Veazey, Freeman and Travis for the next 2 years and 3 months, filling the remainder of this term plus the next term.  With the change in commissioners because of the last election there are approx. 35 vacancies on standing committees.  The nominating committee  is scheduled to meet at 6:30 on Oct. 3rd.

     On a lighter note Commissioner Randy Veazey took the opportunity to return the 'Ingrown Toenail Award' to Commissioner Dan Paschall.  The tongue -in- cheek  award was made when Paschall left the commission some years ago and served on the Henry County Board of Education.  At that time Paschall said that  serving on the commission and getting things done was like having an ingrown toe nail.  The award has been passed to several commissioners since then with Veazey being the last recipient.  Monday night he returned the award with its accompanying certificate to Paschall.

Garden Clubs  9/18/06

       “CELEBRATING LEE ACADEMY”, a Standard Flower Show, hosted by members of Blossomway Garden Club and Paris Garden Club was held Friday, September 15 at historic Lee Academy for the Arts. 

      The Design Division celebrated R.E. Lee School’s Past, Present and Future in the Paris community with designs made by the members of  the Horticulture Division  who celebrated with horticulture grown by the members.   The Special Exhibits Division emphasized the importance of continued learning with educational exhibits contributed by Blossomway Garden Club, Paris Garden Club, and together as the two member clubs of the Paris Council of Federated Garden Clubs. Pictured is a unique parallel created design by Cindy Newman of the  Paris Garden Club.

Annual Membership Drive & Dinner  9/18/06

    On Tuesday, September 19th, the Paris-Henry Count Heritage Center will be hosting their Annual Membership Drive & Dinner. This dinner is presented to thank all those who support the Heritage Center and to encourage others in the community to learn more about the Heritage Center and become members as well.

     This year's theme will be Creole Cuisine featuring an array of Louisiana style dishes and music. The entertainment will be provided by the Amazing Alonzo Pennington, a premier singer, guitarist, and thumb picker. The event will start at 6:00pm and be held on the grounds of Cavitt Place, the beautiful Italian Renaissance Revival Manor that houses the Heritage Center.
Tickets will be $15.00 each and can be purchased at the Heritage Center.

     For those who are already members of the Paris-Henry County Heritage Center we encourage you to bring friends and family members out to support the Heritage Center. If you want to learn more about the Heritage Center and are thinking about becoming a member or simply want to enjoy a fun evening we invite you all to come.

     For more information, call 642-1030. Visit us at 614 North Poplar St. in Paris, TN, or online at www.phchc.com. Parking lot behind museum off of Market St.

Noon on The Square  9/16/06

    The 3rd Noon on the Square in September saw the largest crowd yet with the courthouse lawn full of people relaxing in lawn chairs or up and dancing to the music of "The Barons".  The yearly September picnic  concerts are sponsored by Commercial bank as a public service to the community. Kay Foust of Commercial Bank stated, "When I arrived at the square just a little past noon you could see people coming from every direction. "   This Friday a group from Lakeside Retirement Center of McKenzie, along with Activities Director Ginny Knott enjoyed the fine September afternoon in downtown Paris.

Democratic Headquarters 9/16/06

     The Henry County Democrats  have opened their headquarters at   112 N. Market Street in downtown Paris where they have yard signs, buttons and other campaign items as well as information about candidates.   The headquarters is staffed by volunteers and  according to one of those volunteers, Mr. John Thomas, the headquarters will be the place to be on election night, Nov. 7th.  Party members will be  holding a reception that evening as they watch TV for the election results.  For more information call 642-0007.

Emergency Response 9/15/06

     Henry  County Emergency Management Director Ron Watkins led an Emergency Response Exercise Thursday morning that involved  Henry County Medical Center Emergency Medical Services, 911 Dispatch, Paris Police, Henry County Sheriff's deputies, Paris Henry County rescue Squad,  Paris Fire Department, Henry County Emergency Management and Tennessee Emergency Management as well as out of county units from the 9 county region.

     The scenario was a tornado that  hit the Henry Healthcare Center, causing the 174 residents to have to take shelter and be evacuated.  According to Sandra Ray, Director of the Health Care Center, the nursing home does conduct regular tornado drills.

      In Thursday's  mock drill  a tornado hits the nursing home at 10am.  Then at 10:10 a gas truck that was turned over in the tornado by the Cancer Care Center  explodes.  That is usually the way it happens," stated EMS Director Mike Shankle, You think everything is covered and then your resources are stretched to the limit."          In the exercise there were 14 'victims', 4 ambulances and helicopters and one plane on call.

     At the end of the exercise Watkins stated, "It went very well with the responders acting in a very professional and capable manner."

     The exercise is part of HCMC's yearly  accreditation and the Paris Fire Departments yearly Hazardous Materials Repose  training which is required for  the $7000 grant awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

Co-op Law Enforcement  9/15/06

     Henry County Sheriff Monte Belew and Paris Police Chief Tommy Cooper, along with Henry County Mayor Brent Greer and City Manager Carl Holder announced in a press conference on Thursday that the two law enforcement agencies would be joining efforts in a Law Enforcement initiative.

     In what Belew termed a 'Metro Crime Unit' the 2 entities would form a joint unit, "one of many cooperative efforts we are going to form in the upcoming months," stated Sheriff Belew.  "We are in the same game, so why not be on the same team," stated Paris Police Chief Tommy Cooper.

A key player in the Initiative will be Investigator Scott Wyrick who will be the team leader for the Sheriff's Department and Investigator Josh Frey for the Paris Police Department along with Rick Watson and his K-9 unit.  The group will place an emphasis on drug crimes.  "Drugs are often the catalyst for other crimes," stated Cooper.  The Crime unit will be targeting major drug offenders and meth houses along with decontamination control .  The law enforcement officers will also be in the federal system, such as the U.S. District Attorney, FBI, TBI and Highway Patrol, which will carry stronger consequences for offences.

     Crime is a definite growing  problem in the rural area of the county." stated  Brent Greer.  Carl Holder added, "Urban crime has also grown and we need cooperation now more than ever." 

          According to Belew the initiative has been in the organizational stage for some weeks and is now up and running.  To report a crime you can call 641-1411 and you do not have to identify yourself.

     County School Board  9/15/06

     The Henry County Board of Education welcomed new board member Georg Todd and re-elected board member Don Williams to the meeting Thursday night.  "I have no hidden agenda," stated Todd,  "My concern is the children of Henry County.    Our county is diverse and I think it is good to have a diverse board of education. " The new board re-appointed Dr. Michael Dunkerson as Chairman and Don Williams as Vice chair of the board.  Also recognized was Susan Neese who was recognized by her peers and awarded the TN Foreign Language Teacher of the Year.  Neese  teaches Spanish at Henry County High School.

     The Family Life curriculum was approved by the board.  The family life and human sexuality curriculum support parents as teachers and promotes abstinence.  "Henry County is 3rd in the state for teen pregnancy," explained Director of School Rick Kriesky.  Principal Dawn Poole stated that there will be a Parent Review of the curriculum at the Grove Tower Building on Thursday, Sept. 21 at 5:30.  Poole also explained that a parent who objects to their child attending the class can have their child opted out of the class.  "This is information they need to know," stated Grove Principal Rockhold.

     Patriot Stadium renovations were once again on the agenda.  The handicapped ramp will not be done by this Friday's game since the handrails have yet to be installed.  Drawings for the press box are completed and will be put out for bids.  Drawings for the Lakewood School road are also ready to be put out for bid.

     A request for the girls softball team to take a  trip to a tournament in Gulf Shores Alabama during Spring Break  was deferred until the cost of the trip and other specific could be presented to the board.  The trip would be 4 to 5 days.

     A proposal for a bowling team was presented to board members Thursday .  Kriesky explained that bowling was a sanctioned TSSAA sport, was inexpensive and would provide an extracurricular activity for some more students.  In a survey of students 59 were interested in bowling.  There are 8 teams in the state with the season beginning in mid October.

     The Oct. salute to the Screaming Eagles will  cost more than originally thought.  4 buses, 2 to shuttle people from Lakewood School to the Lake, 2 to 'The Cajun Place' in Stewart Co. and one for handicapped will be needed.

     A request by the Sheriff's Department for old lockers in the basement of Weston Hall was approved.  The lockers will be removed with inmate labor.

     P I reporter Heather Bryant was awarded the TSBA Excellence in Educational Reporting and will receive the award later this month at the Tennessee School Board Association conference.

Emergency Training  9/14/06

     A full scale emergency training exercise will be conducted Thursday Sept 14 in Paris between 9 and 10am in the area of Henry County Medical Center.  According to Ron Watkins, Director of Emergency Management streets affected will include Tyson Ave., Hospital Circle, Morningside Dr. and Kelley Dr.  This is only a drill and not a real emergency.

Fund Raiser  9/14/06

     The Shady Grove Cemetery Association will be holding a fund raiser Fish Dinner with all the trimmings plus dessert and drink at the Shady Grove Baptist Church  fellowship all on Saturday, Sept. 16 from 5 to 8pm.  Donations will be accepted at the door.  All proceeds will go to the upkeep of the cemetery and purchase of markers for unmarked graves, some of which are more than 100 years old. 

Qualifying 9/14/06

     The deadline to file the petition, signed by 25 voters,  with the County Election Commission  to be on the November ballot for the 2nd District open commissioners  seat was 12 noon, Wednesday Sept. 13.  At noon , election commission time, Administrator of Elections Jill Frey had received qualifying papers from 6 2nd District hopefuls.  According to Frey that was more candidates than for the original election.

     Although the official deadline for filing was August 17th the passing of Commissioner Reed Brewer occurred exactly 60 days prior to the election and therefore allowed for the vacancy to be voted on in the upcoming election.

     The qualifying candidates include,  in the order they filed, Guy Smith, retired BPU employee; Charlie Parker, former county commissioner; David Brewer, son of the late Reed Brewer; Paul Neal,  employee of Haldex Brake; Larry Watson, former president of Liberty Federal Bank; Jeff Hamlin, fire fighter.  Comas Tharpe, former county commissioner did pick up papers but did not file them by the noon deadline.  According to Ms Frey the candidates have one week to withdraw from the election.  Military and absentee ballots will go out next week.

Puryear   9/13/06 

     At the Puryear City meeting Tuesday evening Alderman Bryan Hall presented a proposal to the Mayor and board of Alderman  for a Fire Department Auxiliary.  "this is just a rough look at it," explained Hall  The auxiliary would work to provide aid to families who were displaced due to a house fire in the Puryear fire district and aid families of fire fighters who were injured in the line of duty.  The proposal will be reviewed by City Attorney Beth Belew for legalities.  Different from other volunteer fire departments, Puryear Fire Department is owned by the city of Puryear and Belew was asked to check for possible legal responsibilities to the city that such an organization would create.  The Puryear Volunteer Fire Department will also be at Harrelson Elementary during Fire Safety Week, Oct. 8-14.  Requested by Principal Beth Taylor, pre school to 3rd grade will have a presentation from the firefighters and receive education materials such as coloring books about safety precautions and the do's and don'ts in case of a fire. 

     The board also approved a resolution authorizing the city to once again participate in the 'Safety Partners' Loss Control Matching Grant program.  The grant is for $1,000 with the city matching $500.  In past years the safety grant has been used to purchase bullet proof vests for the Puryear police department.

     The water lines have been relocated that had to be moved when the turning lane was added for Harrelson School.  The project was a joint effort with the county and the Henry County Board of Education.  

     The Puryear Beer Board approved a beer permit for a new business during its beer board meeting prior to the regular city meeting.  Located in the building that previously housed the  Big Apple, the new business Nick's Firehouse Cafe will feature homemade hamburgers, home made breads and deserts.  Located on Hwy 641, the cafe, run by Nancy Davis, will be decorated with firehouse memorabilia and is scheduled to open in mid October.  

Election 9/12/06

          According to the Henry County Mayors office the Henry County Election Commission received word this morning, Sept. 11, that the 2nd District  commissioners slot left open by the passing of Commissioner Reed Brewer will appear on the ballot in November.  The deadline for qualifying is Wednesday Sept. 13 at 12 noon.  To qualify a petition signed by 28 voters, must be filed with the election commission.  According to the County Mayor  4 people have picked up the paper work and more are expensed.

Paris Parks Board  9/12/06

     The Paris Parks and Recreation Commission had a lengthy agenda at Monday afternoons meting in the AP Recreation Center. including a review of revenues made by SBJ concessions.  They showed a net profit of $3697. "That is pretty much in line with last year," stated Tim Check, Director of Paris Parks and Recreation. KY Lake ASA Softball and Paris HC Little League each receive a percentage of the profits.  According to  Check money for cook tops and cook hoods have been included in next year's budget.  Also requested in next year's budget is running water for the girls and hot water for the boys side in concession stands.  The concession stands may also receive a donation from Arbor Place in Puryear.  The steps from the old school, which Arbor Place has purchased, may be donated and used for reaching the 2nd floor of the concession stand.

     Steps at Washington Courts were also discussed by the board.  The steps lead only half way down the hill from Wood St. and should be removed.  Presently the basket ball courts are not used for the sport.  A homemade skate board park was built for the park but currently the skateboarders are using the old shirt factory building, Check told commissioners and although a grant has been applied for Check does not expect to receive it since the city is not providing any funding for the park.

     With regard to the grant for the new tennis courts the parks board is hoping to have the courts ready and have the 1st matches there in 2007.

     The beaver have been moved out of memorial Park by the US department of Agriculture.  Mr. Check also told the commissioners that he now has a person on staff who is qualified to check safety of parks and equipment and plans to put down mulch for safer conditions.  Also announced was a plan to place markers at each of the city's parks with a history of the name of the park such as Johnson Park which was named after former Paris citizen Mordaci Johnson.  Other plans for Johnson Park include taking down the old concession stand and building a new one.

County Road Board  9/12/06

     .The commissioners of the Henry County Road Board approved the low bid for repairs or replacement of the Caledonia Bridge.  Volunteer Bridge Construction's bid was $59,610 with the county providing 20% of that for the grant which will be used to build the bridge. 

      Road Supervisor Ray Norwood told the road board that there is progress being made on the repairs to Pt. Pleasant Rd.,  work on Conyersville Rd. is also being planned and Jones Bend Rd. needs to be mowed." We will see what we can get done." stated Norwood. Norwood also discussed the need to cut or spray the weeds and grass around guard rails.  "The tall grass is blocking the reflectors," he explained.  We wont solve it this year but I have talked to the sheriff about the need for inmate labor and he is willing to help get us inmate labor."

     Norwood also reviewed the highway departments materials budget and told the board members that they needed to prioritize the roads in their district for needed work and repairs.  "If this is all  we  have to work with we are going to need some money from some where." stated Norwood.        

Policies & Procedures 9/12/06

     The Henry County Employee Policy and Procedures committee met to review questions and clarify policies on salary caps.

      With several employees having served as a deputy 1 for 10 years the committee clarified the policy.  Committee member Everett  Moody stated that the way it reads was the intent of the policy.  That an employee who serves as a deputy 1 over ten years in an office  will receive a $400 increase every five years.

Budget Committee  9/12/06

     Although the budget committee members have not been approved by the full commission the members; private citizens, commissioners and the nonvoting commissioners met Monday evening.  

     With only the 3 private citizens; Dorris Kendall, Lyman Black and Everett Moody voting a resolution was approved and  will be sent to the commission that provides for an increase in the Sheriff's budget for captain's salary, an increase for a Sergeant's salary an increase for 2 dispatcher's salaries and an increase for Chief Deputy salary and along with an increase for clerical personnel.  "The funds will come from a clerical position we don' t intend to fill," stated Sheriff Belew.  Belew also returned $15,000 to the unappropriated fund balance from positions that were not filled in his office this year.

     Also to be sent to the commission for their approval is an increase from a part time employee to a full time employee in the trustee's office.  According to Trustee David Stone the full time employee is needed to cover the increase of citizens qualifying for the tax relief program which has jumped from 300 to over 600 citizens.  

Memorial Dedication 9/10/06

     Remembering the Past, Celebrating the  Future, Today!  

      That was the theme for Saturday morning's dedication ceremony of the 9 foot obelisk African -American Memorial Monument in the Paris City Cemetery.

     The brain child of Community Leader Georg Todd and City Manager Carl Holder, the monument represents all of the unmarked graves of nameless slaves and free blacks that helped build the community of Paris with their physical toil.

      The dedication was attended by community leaders, members of the clergy and citizens who wished to be on hand for the historic, if past due, recognition of the unmarked graves.

     Master of Ceremonies for the dedication was Elder James Travis with an opening prayer by Pastor Alvandon Taylor and an original poem for the event read by James Armstrong.

    Costumed characters included Wendell McClain, June Hartsfield, Lakota Brown and Joshua Todd.  

     During the dedication Mr. Todd stated. "We are here to honor the dead, remember the past and right a wrong."  Todd also acknowledged  the artist Jan Foster and landscaper Robert Hill.

    Mayor David Travis, whose monument business made the monument told those gathered that the materials used had come from Africa, "and this monument stands for countless African Americans who contributed to this community and I am proud to be a part of it."

     The Community Choir closed the celebration with several selections and an acknowledgement of the 9/11 tragedy. 

Noon on the Square   9/9/06   

The second 'Noon On the Square' in the month of September drew a large crowd to the courthouse lawn Friday for lunch.  The event, sponsored by Commercial Bank, featured the music of Midnight Flyer.  Their toe tapping music inspired many in the crowd, including John Wimbles and Ellen Wynn to get up and dance.  If dancing on the lawn  at noon in the wonderful weather doesn't interest you there is the opportunity to support Project Graduation who sell lunch.  This Friday Chili Cheese Dogs, with a water, chips and dessert.  Also selling drinks is the Downtown Paris Association who were taking donations for the Christmas Light Fund.  The group is billed separately by BPU and covers the cost of the street light decorations in downtown Paris at Christmas.

Three Star Announcement  9/9/06

     The Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce office was the site of the Three Star Community announcement Friday Morning.  Henry County who has been a part of the 3 Star program since 1982 was awarded level III this year.  Achieving this highest level will entitles them to such benefits as various grants at a lower grant matches for such programs as rural development and tourism development.  The announcement was attended by City and county officials    as well as the state economic and community development specialist Sherri McCarter.   The actual award will be presented at a later date.

County Beer Board   9/9/06

     2 beer permits were approved by the Henry County Beer Board on Thursday, both for off premises consumption.  

     One of the permits went to the new owner of Halfway Point Market.  The original business burnt to the ground but the new owner George Henshall stated that the gas station/ convenience store will be serving the same great BBQ.

     The second permit was approved for Ananiva Patel.  According to Patel they are still closing the purchase of JB's Express on the 218 By pass . 

City Commission  9/8/06

     Michael Long andRichie Bomar of the Paris Fire Department were presented with their Lieutenant Bars at the City Commission meeting Thursday evening.  The recognition of the fire fighters was just one item on the lengthy agenda.

An election date for City Commissioners was also set at Thursday's meeting.  The city charter was adopted in 1946 and traditionally the election has been held in March.  This years election will be held on the 1st Tuesday in March.  Following the rotating election, 3 openings for commissioners will be open.  The terms of George Moore, Pete Lackey and Vice Mayor Sam Tharpe will expire.

     The commission approved the adoption of a municipal code of ethics.  Mandated by the state General Assembly to be in place by July 1, 2007, the ethic's code will set limits on gifts as well as  disclosure of the amounts and full  disclosure of possible conflicts of interest.  The County Commission will also be required to pass a similar resolution.

     The commission also approved on first reading a zoning scheme for the recently annexed area of the city.  "Most of the zones were self defining." stated City Manager Carl Holder.

     The status of Post Oak  Bridge was on the agenda Thursday.  According to Holder the bridge has been placed under sanctions by TDOT and must be either closed,  repaired or replaced.  While under sanction the city will receive no federal funds.  According to Holder estimates from L.I. Smith to replace the bridge will cost $166,000.   The commission approved closing the bridge and to start the grant process to receive funds to replace the bridge.  In other grant information Thursday the commissioners approved the city, along with BPU,  pursuing an application to qualify for the Rural Utility Service Loan program.   With the program interest free loans for up to a million dollars could be offered by the Paris Henry County Industrial Committee  for industrial recruitment. 

     FEMA has provided revised flood maps of the city and they may be viewed at the city business office in Paris City Hall.  "Those in flood prone areas are encouraged to look at the new maps.

County Work Session    9/8/06

      In a work session for county commissioners Thursday evening the commissioners met to discuss future business of the commission in their upcoming term.  "There are 2 areas important for us to deal with today," stated County Mayor Brent Greer.  "8 years ago the commission faced the jail issue, this commission will be dealing with changes that will effect our grandchildren with the development from the Tennessee River Resort Act and fiscal responsibility."

     The commissioners, upon the recommendation of the county mayor approved a change in the makeup of the county's budget committee with 3 citizens as before plus 5 commissioners, one from each district, with only 3 allowed to vote, while would be able to have input into the committee.  The aim of the commission was to provide representation for each district without having to have the state legislature approve a change in the private act that sets up the committee structure.  This will also provide continuous experienced commissioners for he budget committee.  to serve on the budget committee to vote will be Commissioners Paschall, Freeman and Humphries with 2 nonvoting commissioners Veazey and Wirgau.

     Also established Thursday evening was the nominating committee of Commissioner Paschall,  Veazey, Warren and Wirgau, which will meet to fill the committee vacancies caused by the election. 

Arts Council Season Kicks Off With Concert  9/7/06    

      Someone has said," When Mr. Jack Daniel's Original Silver Cornet Band performs, it's more than just a concert. It's like the town of Lynchburg comes to call." Jack Daniel's famous white gazebo and front porch rocking chair will adorn the stage at the Krider Performing Arts Center on Saturday, September 9th at 7pm.

       Turn of the century Lynchburg, Tennessee comes alive on the stage right before your eyes. A wonderful cast of characters, period clothing and even the sound of the cricket's night song create a setting that is perfect for the gentle music of the silver cornet. The Jack Daniel's Original Silver Cornet Band has performed umpteen national tours traveling all around the country. They have recorded three albums that are now considered classics and appeared in two PBS Specials. Audiences around the United States enthusiastically praise their unique sound and their theatrical approach to concertizing. Their show has been called "An echo from another era."

      The Paris Henry County Arts Council, along with local businesses, is sponsoring this event that will charm audiences of all ages. Advance tickets are $12.50 and are available at the Paris Chamber of Commerce, City Hall of Paris, Paris Civic Center, and from any Arts Council Board Member. Tickets at the door will be $15. For more information about Mr. Jack Daniel's Original Silver Cornet Band or any upcoming event sponsored by the Paris Henry County Arts Council, call the office at (731) 642-3955

Ballroom Dancing    9/7/06

     Enjoy a 6 week ballroom dancing class at Lee School Academy for the Arts on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 8 beginning Sept. 5th.  The fee is $75 and singles are welcome.  To register call 642-3411.  

Recruitment Effort  9/6/06

      After being given the green light by the City Commission, the City of Paris staff in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce has initiated the TVA Consumer Connection Program which offers City/County leader tools and information they need to develop additional retail opportunities in their communities and support existing businesses.

       The Consumer Connection program will feature three workshops to help local leaders increase their understanding of retail and commercial development opportunities and determine what options may be appropriate for their community.  Demographic data is provided to help the community analyze its consumer potential and develop a marketing strategy.

       “Consumer Connection, which was developed at the request of our customers, provides information and resources that help communities assess its retail markets and determine what actions can be taken to support commercial businesses in the area,” said TVA Senior Vice President of Economic Development, John Bradley.

      Topics for the workshop facilitated by TVA’s Economic Development staff include developing a community vision for retail, determining retail needs, analyzing retail markets and preparing marketing materials.

      “The Consumer Connection program will help us enhance retail development in our community, adding jobs and boosting the local economy,” said Joe Mahan, Economic Development Director of the Henry County Alliance.  “Armed with this valuable information, we will be able to develop strategies to enhance local shopping in our community.”

      According to Paris City Manager, Carl Holder, a committee has been formed featuring local business and governmental representatives and will begin meeting with TVA staff in early November.

     In the General Sessions Courtroom up stairs in the courthouse Sheriff Monte Belew, who was sworn in at Midnight Sept 1^st, Henry County Deputies raised their hands and took their oath to serve and protect.  The new sheriff told the assembled officers, “I am very honored, very humbled and I look forward to serving the county.”  He told the deputies that he wanted to boost moral and wanted them to follow the chain of command.  Belew also stated that he intended to implement new programs, working with the Paris Police Department, TWRA and the THP, that he wanted to put a resource officer at the high school, bring back the D.A.R.E. program as well as traffic classes.

     Later that day the Sheriff hosted an open house at the Henry County Correctional facility, shaking hand with the citizens that filled the jail lobby.

Noon on the Square   9/2/06

     Well it’s September and that means it is time for Noon on the Square, sponsored by Commercial Bank.

     Every Friday in September you can find citizens of Paris and Henry County taking a break from their hectic day on the courthouse lawn, eating lunch, which you can purchase from Project Graduation, sitting  on blankets or lawn chairs, while they listen to live music from a varity of local musicians.  The One Man Band of Larry Morgan, who performed a wide range of music from Elvis to the Beatles, provided Friday’s music.

Final Day  9/1/06

     Sheriff David Bumpus spent a portion of his last day in office cleaning out his desk at the Henry County Correctional Facility, a facility that he was involved in creating while he was sheriff of Henry County.

     It has been humbling and a privilege  to serve in this position," stated Bumpus.  "I am sure that the new sheriff will do a very good job and he will have some of  the best people working here who will work and serve with him.

     Bumpus stated that he is looking at several options but has not yet decided what he will go into.  "This position has shown me the best and the worst in people," he stated,  "It has been a very rewarding position and after prayerful consideration I  felt it was time to step aside and let others run it." 

     The swearing in of officials begins tomorrow morning with new commissioners at 8:30 in the courthouse.

Steering Committee  9/1/06

     Walker & Associates, the Memphis based Public Relations firm hired by Henry County to develop a marketing strategy to promote and  increase tourism in the county and the city of Paris, as a part of the Tennessee River Resort Act met with the 17 member TRRA Steering committee on Thursday in a meeting that lasted close to 2 hours as members of Walker and Associate reviewed the strategies they planned to use to promote the area.  

     Prior to Thursday's meeting they had conducted what they termed the 1st phase, or discovery audit of Paris and Paris Landing.  "We have asked them to give us an honest evaluation of the community." stated Paris City Manager Carl Holder, chairman of the Steering Committee.  

     With  'secret shoppers' who came to the community and asked such questions as What is there to do in the area?  and study friendliness of the area Walker and Associates found that in random samples of citizens from the age of 16 to 80 they were often told that there was nothing to do in Paris or Paris Landing. 

     The PR firm suggested that a single visitors brochure, done in a more professional style should be developed, that a longer tourism season should also be created and a central place for distributing information should be chosen as well as promoting activities for families and children for those who do not fish, play golf, etc.  They added that the City of Paris and Paris Landing should not be treated as separate entities when trying to promote tourism in the area.  Other attractions in other states and counties surrounding Paris and Henry County could be promoted since they would also draw dollars into the community.

     Walker & Associates intend to do a telephone and internet survey to discover what visitors liked about the area and what drew them to spend time here.  Results from the surveys are expected by Oct.

     "Now is the time for the steering committee to get working .  We don't want to miss another season.  We want to help our merchants." stated County Mayor Brent Greer.