year in review

- Special Edition - Year In Review - The Brownsville States-Graphic -Thursday, January 31, 2013

BROWNSVILLE POLICE DEPT.• Won a fully police equipped 2012 CHEVROLET TAHOE for participation in the “More Cops More Stops” campaign• Brownsville PD wins the FIRST place in the TN Traffi c Safety Award This traffi c safety award was chosen from a review of Crash, Child Passenger Safety, DUI and Community events that were documented by the Police Department. Brownsville Police received the highest overall score of Tennessee Law Enforcement Agencies in the 25-50 man department size.• 2012 – $63565.00 in State and Federal Grants• BPD recognized as a National Child Passenger Safety Center• Participated in Neighborhood Watch meetings in all four wards of Brownsville• Coordinated National Night Out Against Crime• Participated in Ward II CleanUp Day• Coordinated “Saved by the Belt” program to recognize lives saved by seatbelts• Participated in Kids Day, Brownsville Kids Summer Camp, and the Fall Festival• Coordinated our 14th annual MOCK DUI crash program for HHS seniors• Hosted events with Youth and Adult leadership programs• Conducted community and club lectures on drug awareness• Conducted safety and drug awareness programs in Haywood County Schools• Coordinated “Operation Medicine Bottle” prescription drug disposal program and implemented the permanent disposal box within the police department• Responsible Vendor Training – Lt Covington trains business employees on new/updated laws concerning alcohol sales and conducted specialized training for the new liquor stores• Partnered with the Rotary Club to award a student with a bike and safety helmet at 3 elementary schools each 9 weeks

Chris W. LeaChief of Police

118 N. LafayetteBrownsville, TN 38012

Telephone (731) 772-1260Fax (731) 779-3239

Administrative Division

Chief Chris LeaBarry DieboldChuck WillisJudy Mouser

Records Division

Misti DanielsCarolyn JoynerJody Bunney

SRO DivisionJames WatsonNigel Peeples

CID/NarcoticsDivision

Kim WilliamsMike PhillipsPatrick BlackKelvin Evans

Animal Shelter

Mike Walker

Amber HendrixMichael George

Patrol Division

Matthew CarsonMark CovingtonPatrick CozartDavid Culver

Michael ClaybornBrad Davis

James DavisEverett GrayRobert Haley

Jason HaynesDarren JenkinsJaron RockridgeJoshua MastersMike O’ConnellJames DavisTony RankinShaun RibbleDavid Scott

Jason SingletonRandy Taylor

Mitchell TurnerRoy Turner

Special Edition - Year In Review - Brownsville States-Graphic - Thursday, January 31, 2013 -

BY CALVIN [email protected]

Much like the rest of the nation, when it comes to the subject of jobs, Haywood County has witnessed a few rays of hopes. For one the announcement of Marathon Heater taking essentially taking over the late Haywood Company brings the promise of a few more jobs to the area. Recent unemployment reports from the state have also indicated that the rate is gradually dropping, which paints a small picture of a hopeful climb.

And now, thanks to Precision Coils, it appears that the county will receive yet another adrenaline shot to faltering economy.

The company, a business of Unison Comfort Technologies, will expand and relocate from its Somerville facility to Brownsville. Specializing in “competitively-priced, p r e c i s i o n - e n g i n e e r e d replacement and OEM coils,

Precision has secured a lease for an existing 60,000 square feet facility in the Brownsville Industrial Park and will immediately add an additional 20,000 square feet to the facility.

The drive for all this expansion and relocation is rooted in “increasing demand” the company said through a press release. This expansion is expected to represent an investment of $3.7 million and the creation of 26 new jobs.

“The move to the Brownsville Industrial Park enables us to meet growth expectations in a high-quality manufacturing environment for the foreseeable future,” Jay Althof, Unison Comfort Technologies President, said. “We value the work ethic of our employees,” David Pfl um, Precision Coils General Manager said. “One of our objectives was selecting a location in a geographic area that would allow us to retain as many employees as possible.” Geographically, the move may represent a lost to

Fayette County, yet state offi cials appear to have a team mentality about the expansion and move viewing it generally as good news for the state and West Tennessee.

“I appreciate Precision Coils’ decision to expand and grow in our state,” Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam said. “We will continue to work towards our goal of making Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs.”

“Under Governor Haslam’s leadership, our department is continually working to foster a business friendly environment that gives companies the confi dence to invest and expand in our state,” Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty said. “I congratulate Precision Coils on its expansion and appreciate the additional jobs they will create for Tennesseans.”

“I am very pleased that Precision Coils will stay close to their current workforce, while

expanding job opportunities for West Tennesseans,” Senator Delores Gresham said. “I appreciate the work done on this project by the Governor, Commissioner Hagerty, and our local offi cials to keep this company here in West Tennessee.”

“We must continue to foster a good business environment to keep the state a good place to do business and attract new jobs to Tennessee,” Gresham continued. “I look forward to working with Governor Haslam, our Economic and Community Development team and our local offi cials to do just that.”

Of course, locally, any news of new jobs in the area is viewed as nothing but good.

“The citizens of Haywood County are excited about the decision of Precision Coils to move its manufacturing operations to Haywood County,” Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith said. “We believe the strong work ethic of our labor

force and the overall pro-business attitude of our local leadership makes Precision Coils’ decision a very positive and win-win opportunity for both the company and Haywood County.”

“On behalf of the citizens of Brownsville, I want to express my thanks to the leadership of Precision Coils and its parent company for choosing our city to relocate its manufacturing operations,” Brownsville Mayor Jo Matherne said. “Over the next few months, our entire staff is looking forward to working with them to make their transition as smooth as possible. We have always known that our outstanding workforce and reliable infrastructure make Brownsville a logical choice to locate and grow a business and create new economic opportunities for our region, and Precision Coils’ decision to move here reinforces that fact.”

“The Chamber is excited to welcome Precision Coil to Haywood County,” Brownsville Haywood County Chamber Of Commerce Board Of Directors President Bob Wallis said. “Their relocation to Brownsville will not only allow them to greatly expand their operation, but give our citizens new job opportunities. The Chamber stands ready to help in any way we can to assist them.”

“I think this is something that’s just fantastic,” Brownsville Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Administrative Assistant Marty Williams said. “With that that and Marathon, that almost a total of 60 jobs in the last six months. And that means we’re moving forward.”

While the addition is scheduled for completion in the spring of this year, Precision plans to begin moving early summer and become fully operational in July.

Precision will fi nd itself in the Brownsville Industrial Park.

Precision Coils Coming to Brownsville

Photo By Calvin Carter


BY: CALVIN [email protected]

“His funeral was a great tribute to him. There were fi ve speakers, and everyone of them covered a different aspect of him,” Lea & Simmons Offi ce Manager Barbara Dedmon Flores said about the late Rex Bond’s funeral. And given the countless people that Bond touched, it’s easy to see why each speaker would cover a different aspect. He seemed to be so much to so many different people.

Rex, who passed away last week at the age of 73, was a Brownsville native described

by many as full of life. He had a love for

motorcycles and his Corvette. And his home bathroom, decked out in the Volunteer colors and memorabilia of orange and white reveal his passion for the University Of Tennessee Football.

Many families would come to know Rex through the funeral business. In 1958, he began working at the Brownsville-Bells Funeral Home, where

he immediately discovered a passion in the funeral business.

“That was his passion,” wife Harriet Bond said. “Some people never know what they want to do as a career, but he knew from the beginning. He wanted every family to be loved, appreciated and taken care of.”

In 1959, Rex cemented his path by graduating from the John A. Gupton School of Mortuary Science in Nashville, becoming a licensed funeral director and embalmer. In 1979, he moved on to become the manager of Brownsville-Bells Funeral Home and shortly after he bought

Brownsville Memorial Gardens. Many years after Brownsville-Bells had been sold, he became one of the new owners. In 2011, Rex went to work for Lea & Simmons Funeral Home until his death.

He had a number of qualities that set him apart from many involved in the funeral business. For one, many can point out to his attention to detail. Rex had a certain knack for preparing the deceased to look as good as if they were alive thanks to that detailed eye. And that ability extended into another brief talent: painting. He began painting as a youth, but continued to into his adult years. His work on the rural side of the county, like barns, was described as having every bit of detail of the real thing. Some of his work was bought at art shows. But he stopped painting in 1979, when it started becoming more work than hobby Harriet said.

“His daughters and I would try to get him to paint again,” Harriet said. “We’d buy him paints and canvases, but he never would do it. “He said, ‘I don’t think I could do it again.’”

Rex never really seemed to age to family friends. His admirable zest for life was always apparent to others whether it he was sharply dressed, or making a round trip to Knoxville on his motorcycle in a single day.

“He was the coolest dude,” Jody Lea recalled. Kind of like James Bond, you know, calm and laid back. Growing up, I would always say that I’m going to be like Rex one day.”

“He just never got old. He always seemed like a young guy to me,” Harriet said.

Rex was recognized for his hard work in the Funeral Business in 2010, when the Brownsville Bells Funeral Home awarded him for 50 years of service and dedication to a multitude of Haywood County families. For those that knew him, this was recognition was no surprise.

“He always made sure to put service fi rst,” Elliott Simmons said. “He catered to everyone; you got the same service no matter who you were. He taught us that you do whatever you have to do

to accommodate the families.” “He taught me that families

always come fi rst,” Chris Lea said. “It doesn’t matter if they have $20,000 or $2, you always treat families with the best service.”

“In my opinion, Rex was one of the fi nest people that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing,” Ambulance Authority Director Jimmy Studdard said. “Rex never had an unkind word, regardless of how mad he may have gotten. When it came to dealing with people directly, rich or poor, everybody was treated with the same dignity and respect.”

“Rex Bond was not only a great funeral director and embalmer, he was also a wonderful friend. He was kind to anyone he met, loving and compassionate with everyone,” friend Terry Thompson said. And though Rex is gone, it’s apparent to some that his infl uence still runs deep in the community.

“The care that he had fl owed in him, but it just really makes me feel so much better that his infl uence will continue on,” Rex’s daughter Lura Bond Alyea said.

Passing of an icon: Remembering Rex Bond

1280 South Dupree Street, Brownsville, TN 38012 Telephone: (731) 772-8880 Obit Line: (731) 772-8744

www.leaandsimmons.com

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1462 E. Main St., Brownsville731-772-0914


We support the projects that are important to our community as we have since 1823.

RE-ELECTFranklinSMITH

County CommissionersDISTRICT I

Kathy ChapmanJanice Rogers

County Mayor

DISTRICT IIIRobert T. GreenCharles R. Wills

DISTRICT IIAllen King

Richard Jameson Jerry Smith

DISTRICT IVJames “Teddy”

Waldrop

DISTRICT VWally Eubanks

John P. Gorman, Jr.

DISTRICT VIChris Lea

Becky Booth

DISTRICT VIILarry G. StanleyBob C. Hooper

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Marjorie Vaulx

DISTRICT XRobert E. Thornton

Joe Stephens

DISTRICT IXSamuel T. Mathes, Jr.

Leonard Jones, Jr.

- Special Edition - Year In Review -The Brownsville States-Graphic -Thursday, January 31, 2013

By CALVIN [email protected]

State legislators offi cially voted last Friday, January 13, on legislative redistrict changes for the state. No longer a part of District 81 with Tipton County, Haywood County will now be a part of District 82 along with Lauderdale and Crockett County.

That means that Jimmy Naifeh will no longer represent the county, instead, Craig Fitzhugh (D) will serve as Haywood County’s House Representative.

On the Senate and Congressional levels, there were no changes for Haywood.

Senator Delores Gresham (R) will continue to represent the county, as will Congressman

Steven Fincher (R).Haywood County Elections

Administrator of Elections Andrea Smothers noted that the redistricting changes are a result of the annual census.

“Every ten years, after the census, we’re required by county and state to have to redistrict with the census and balance,” Smothers said.

Offi cials examine

everything when considering any changes, including the area’s political affi liation, population number and race make-up.

The changes in the redistricting will not become effective until the November 2012 election.

Fitzhugh, who serves as the House Minority Leader, joined the Tennessee House

Of Representatives in 1995. Fitzhugh earned his BS in Finance from the University of Tennessee in 1972. He went on to receive his JD from the University of Tennessee in 1975. He served in the United States Air Force Reserves as a Major. He worked as an attorney from 1980 to 1992, but is now a banker. He is also a Deacon for First Baptist Church.

Naifeh loses Haywood in redistrict change

By: CALVIN [email protected]

One could easily feel the impact of Tom Lea’s death in Brownsville.

For nearly 30 years, through hard work, sheer determination, and a creative eye rarely found, Tom made the Treasure Chest one of the most iconic businesses in the community.

For those that knew him, or had the great opportunity to work with him, Tom was the type of person that would easily go the extra mile, and it refl ected greatly with the success of the Chest.

Lea & Simmons, who have taken over The Treasure Chest, are now not only keeping the business in the family, but are also aiming to put their own spin into things.

Taking over the Treasure Chest seemed like a natural progression for Lea & Simmons, the new owners noted.

“This was a family business

and everybody in the Lea family grew up working in the fl ower shop...And when Uncle Tom suddenly passed away, Aunt Judy wanted to retire and close it,” Lea & Simmons Co-Owner Chris Lea said. “And we got to thinking that this is an established business that’s deep in this town and it also runs hand in hand with our funeral home. So we all got together, approached Aunt Judy and decided to buy the business and carry the tradition on.”

Lea & Simmons continuing the business fi nally gave an answer to the business’ fate.

“I mean we heard people from all over town say ‘What are we going to do if the Treasure Chest closes?” Lea & Simmons Co-Owner Jody Lea said. “I mean, it’s been here forever. Everybody knew it and knew Tom. It was just going to hurt the community if it was over.”

While reopening a long established business can create some obstacles, for Lea

& Simmons, the transition has been smooth. To them, a huge reason for that has to do with designers Donna Peresotti and Julia Carrie, who are also longtime employees of the Treasure Chest.

“The fi rst thing we did is talk to the help that was already here because without them, you wouldn’t have the Treasure Chest,” Jody said. “So they agreed to stay on. They were needing work, so it just kind of fi t in for everybody.”

Uncle Tom set the standard years ago, but he was an icon in this business, in his own light. We want to provide the service the community needs and with the help that we have here, that’s worked with him for years, and with the support we have from the community, we can. “When Aunt Judy closed on the 22, and we opened, the transition was smooth. There’s no pressure when you’ve got employees that are as good as we have.

It’s clear that Lea & Simmons have trust in the Chest’s longtime employees. And it also seems that the employees have trust in Lea & Simmons.

“They have been a pleasure to work for. They trust us and let us do our thing,” Carrie said.

“I think they had enough trust in both of us that whatever we asked for or needed it would be professional and done to the best of our ability.” Peresotti said.

And while Lea & Simmons are focused on fi lling in the huge shoes left by Tom, they’re still using this opportunity to provide their own twist. The Chest is still in its building stages compared to when Tom owned it, but the new owners have big plans in store for the year, including raising white doves for any occasion.

“When Aunt Judy closed it down, she had a going out of business sale, which sold most of the stock. The front was bare, which worked to our advantage because we came in, put a fresh coat of paint on everything, cleaned and rearranged,” Jody said. “Of course we can never be like Uncle Tom, so we had to do things different, do it our way. So it’s still the same but then again, it’s different.”

“It has the same personal touch. Uncle Tom always preached to us customer satisfaction is number and to always out your heart into everything you do,” Chris said. It’s not just a business sale, everything that leads out of here is personal, whether, it’s a wedding, an anniversary, a birthday or funeral. And it’s not just an order you make up and send out the door. For 30 something years, he put his personal touch on everything. And everything was checked to meet spot on perfection when it left here. And that’s the main thing we’re not changing.”

For Lea & Simmons to

keep the business going and within the family, there are many that would think that Tom would be very proud if he were alive today.

“Aunt Judy came by yesterday and said ‘This is ya’ll’s day. I’m not coming,. I’m not going to be here. We’re retired and Tom’s gone. We’re out of the picture,” Jody said. “But she continued, ‘I want you to know that I’m proud of you. And Tom would be so proud.”

“He worked so hard in this business. I mean I wasn’t even old enough to drive and I was working for him sweeping the fl oors,” Chris said. “And to have it come full circle, and for us to carry on what he started, it’s big shoes to fi ll, but I’m proud to be here.”

“He would be very proud of his nephews, Elliot and Harriet,” Carrie said He lived and breathed this place and he would love to know that it’s still here.”

While this may serve as the beginning of a new chapter, keep in mind that when it comes to the Treasure Chest, Brownsville will still be reading the same great book.

“We’re really not starting over. I think it’s being taken on by the younger generation,” Peresotti said. It’s in the same family. Even though he’s no longer here, he can still be seen. It’s just the younger generation coming on and taking over where he left off.”

Continuing the tradition: Treasure Chest kept open


City of Brownsville Accomplishments – 2012A special Th ank You to all public safety, public works, emergency response, and rescue squad personnel for

their ongoing dedication to meet the everyday needs of the citizens of Brownsville!

Board of Mayor and Aldermen: (from left) Ward III, John Simmons; Ward IV, Thomas Averyheart; Mayor Jo Matherne; Vice Mayor Carolyn Flagg; Ward II and Ward I, Leon King

Brownsville City Hall111 N. Washington

Brownsville, Tennessee 38012731.772.1212

[email protected]

• City of Brownsville awarded the Community Excellence Award from the Southwest Tennessee Development District for “Brownsville on the Move” strategic plan• Tennessee Downtowns Phase I initiative completed, with a Master Plan and design guidelines for the historic Court Square produced and approved• Brownsville awarded a Local Parks & Recreation grant for the construction of Tamm Park on Court Square• City partnered with the school system as part of a GEARUP grant, a seven year commitment to raise high school graduation and college-going rates in the County• Precision Coils opened for business, creating 80-100 jobs in our community• 16 abandoned properties demolished citywide• Over 180 building/remodeling permits issued, representing an increase in valuation of property in the City of over $12 million• Sewer improvements grants totaling over $1 million awarded• Over $63,500 in grant funding for various Police Programs and Projects• Brownsville Police Department recognized for the third consecutive year for traffi c safety programs by the Tennessee Lifesavers’ Conference – the highest rating in the State for law enforcement agencies our size• Brownsville Fire Department answered over 500 calls in the City and County, and presented 20 prevention and education programs to over 1,300 citizens; acquired two new trucks and equipment totaling over $400,000 through CDBG Disaster Grant• Central Dispatch handled 20,500 calls which required a response• The tourism industry achieved a record $13.4 million in direct and indirect spending• West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center welcomed over 22,000 visitors to Brownsville; presented the second annual “Exit 56 Blues Fest” and fi ve “Concerts on the Porch”• Flagg Grove School relocated to the Delta Heritage Center for conversion into an interpretive center for early African-American education

Here’s to a Great 2013 – We’re “On Th e Move!”


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With so much glitz and glamour at College Hill last weekend, you would have thought celebrities had invaded Brownsville.

Instead, College Hill played host to the annual Carl Perkins Dinner and Auction, this time taking on the form of the Dancing with the Haywood County Stars. Many piled into the white tents on the College Hill lawn, to enjoy dinner,

hear a few announcements and partake in the silent auction. Dancers had joined in meeting the crowd shortly after a special kick off party hosted by Judge Roland Reid. Shortly afterwards, attendees moved to the Ann Marks Performing Arts Theater where introductions and recognitions were given out. Among those recognitions included John Gallapsy, who for his many years of dedication to the Carl Perkins Center and

Brownsville Exchange Club was honored with a special plaque.

This was all a prelude to the night’s main event, which featured some of Haywood County’s fi nest dancing in the Ann Marks Theater. Teams included: Dr. Jack Pettigrew and Emily O’Guin, Lyle Reid and Mindy Waddell, Carolyn Flagg and Michael Banks, Robert Rooks and Mary Stoots, Clarke Converse and Susan Evans, Lee Berry and Sheronda Green, Josh Evans and Kristy Jarrett, Chris Turnage and Ann Mann, Joey Conner and Pat Cummins, Andrew Russell and Joan Banks, Russ Stoots and Joanna Morris and Tim Stokely and Mayor Jo Matherne.

Judges on Saturday night’s event were Carlton Viers, Andrea Bond-Johnson and Ronnie Richardson. Judges for the Sunday show were Alicia Cunningham, Jay Clinton and Emma Dew. The crowd was able to vote for their favorite couple by donating.

Both shows provided a hard fought effort from contestants. Still, there could only be a couple of winners. The Saturday Judges’ Winners were Karen Jarrett and Josh

Evans. And people’s choice went to Dr. Pettigrew and Emily O’Guin. The Sunday Judges’ Winners were Clark Converse and Susan Evans, while People’s Choice went to Lee Berry and Sheronda Green.

As a whole, the event’s net gross was $57,000, which is nearly double—$23,000—compared to last year’s dinner and auction. The initial goal this year was actually $25,000 Carl Perkins Director Beth Wilson said. Attendance was numbered at 700 people during the weekend.

“We want to thank all of the people who had an impact on raising the money for this year’s Dinner and Auction,” Wilson said. “It was a phenomenal event, and we hope to match or surpass next years. We couldn’t have done this without the community.”

“Haywood County should be proud of the money they raised in just two days,” she continued.

Wilson also extended thanks to Carl Perkins Board President Lisa Carlton, who she said, “was instrumental in making this event a success.”

“I think it was a great success. We could not have pulled it off without our volunteers,” Lisa Carlton

said. “It completely exceeded my expectations. It was fun. The auction items were wonderful and the dancing was spectacular.”

The event committee also included Debbie Jones, Joyce Moore, Glenda Pettigrew, Pam Russell and Cindy Perry.

As for the dancers, the conclusion to the event could be described as bittersweet. While they can relax, many will miss the special bond formed from the hours of practice and planning, Wilson noted. Some have even, volunteered themselves already should the even take place again next year. And other residents have also shown interest in participating as dancers as well.

As for the future of Dancing With The Haywood County Stars, it’s a little early to tell if it will take place again next year. The Carl Perkins Board will meet for a re-cap meeting to refl ect on the event and its possible future, Carlton said.

If you’re sad that you missed the event, you’ll get the chance to relive it through video. The Carl Perkins Center is selling DVDs for $10. For more information call 772-8378.

To the rhythm of a good cause: Haywood County DWTS a success



“Earlier, someone asked me ‘when is it going to be turned on?’” University Of Tennessee Research Foundation Project Director Paula Flowers said last Thursday afternoon, during the solar farm’s offi cial opening.

“It’s on, okay. It’s generating. It’s live,” she continued to the 200 plus excitable crowd.

Flowers’ direct answers preceded a warning to those present at the opening often heard during grammar school fi eld trips.

“Look, but don’t touch” she said.

Yet the warning wasn’t an attempt to actually protect those 21,000 photovoltaic solar panels, as it was to protect anyone who toured throughout the 25-acre site.

After all, for roughly a month and a half, the farm has managed to generate 1,311,648 Kilowatt Hours.

Project offi cials say that the facility is capable of generating much more than that, fi ve megawatts

of electricity annually to be exact. That’s enough to power 500 homes and offset 250 tons of coal each month.

More than 100,000 working hours from Chattanooga based contractor Signal Energy have gone into completing what is now the largest solar project in the state.

Though regarded by many as a jewel in West Tennessee, it’s a treasure placed in Haywood County. And it’s one that Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith is proud to have.

“In 1986, when I got elected County Executive, I went to orientation and there were about six community executives sitting around the table,” Smith recalled. “And all of our chests were swelled because we were newly elected offi cials. A gentleman walked up, and he said, ‘I don’t know if ya’ll know this or not, but this is Franklin Smith. Let me tell you something, there’s a right way, a wrong way and a Haywood County way to do things.’

“Well I’ll tell you this,” Smith continued. “Haywood

County did this one right.”The University of Tennessee

owns and operates the site, which will be used to not only educate the public about solar energy, but will also serve as a living laboratory on the renewable energy source. For them, the site unveiling served as a link in a 150-year tradition.

“150 years ago, the University Of Tennessee was designed as our state land-grant institution, and we will be celebrating that throughout the state,” University Of Tennessee President Dr. Joe DiPietro said. “And it’s very fi tting that sort of the kick off to that year is this event right here with the solar farm. It’s a far cry from what we would have done 150 years ago in rural Tennessee.”

Although the school is the owner of the farm, the project was and still is a huge collaborative bank of local, state and federal time, effort and money.

This is largely in part due to the farm’s roots with the Volunteer State Solar Initiative, which resulted in $31 million in federal dollars

for the project’s c o n s t r u c t i o n .

Considering the impact r e n e w a b l e energy has had nationally and globally, this push would make sense.

Solar-energy is quickly g r o w i n g .

P r o j e c t offi cials noted that Tennessee has 180 for-profi t companies in its solar value chain, employs more than 6,400 people in s o l a r - r e l a t e d industries and has installed approximately

27 megawatts of solar power.

Bloomberg New Energy Finance reported a $137 billion global market in solar energy that grew by more than one third last year.

And nationally, the Obama Administration wants the country to double their renewable energy sources in the next four years. In fact, according to U.S. Department Of Energy Deputy Secretary Daniel Poneman, the country has already made a $260 billion investment in renewable energy.

With facts like those, it’s no wonder why the farm is an example of where the U.S. needs to go Poneman noted.

“Make no mistake. We are in a battle for the future, Poneman said. “So the question presented is: are we in this game to secede the future, to secede jobs that are created from renewable energy to others? Or are we going to play to win?”

While the celebration did center on the farm’s offi cial opening, the project is still not completely fi nished.

Project offi cials noted that an information and welcome center will be built, setting a date for 2013. The center will house Spectrum, which is an educational solar exhibit.

And Tennessee Department Of Transportation (TDOT) Commissioner John Schroer said that TDOT will begin working on a way to come to the farm off of Interstate-40 West (I-40) in September. The project will cost approximately $10 million. He also added that TDOT will eventually work on a route to the farm eastbound on I-40, once the westbound route and welcome center are completed.

“Hopefully soon there after, we can do the eastbound lanes and the bridge over the solar panels and get people coming from both directions,” Schroer said. “We can tap those ten million cars that come here and maybe we can help them spend money, and maybe they’ll be at the megasite while they’re at it.”

Speaking of the megasite Tennessee Deputy Governor Claude Ramsey took a moment to assure Haywood County that the particular project would end up becoming a reality in the area.

“This is a beginning. The education facility will come along. And we’ve put $25 million additional money this year for the megasite to create jobs in this part of Tennessee,” Ramsey said.

“Governor Haslam couldn’t be here today. He has prior engagements,” Ramsey continued. “But he did ask me to reinforce to you all in this part of the state that the megasite will be built, and we will recruit an industry.”

While the megasite seems like a project set in stone, Ramsey did add that it would still take some time to come to fruition.

“My fi nal thought on that having done a megasite: be patient,” he said.

Shine On: Solar Farm offi cially opens


1169 S. Dupree Avenue • Brownsville TN 38012(731)772-1616 • Fax (731)772-1898

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The story of the Rawls family is a successful tale that extended through generations. However, the beginning emits from one man: Charles A. Rawls.

During the late 1940s, while noticing the state of the poverty-stricken African Americans in Haywood County, Rawls, owner of Rawls Funeral Home reached out to citizens to fi gure out a way to fi nancially aid those who couldn’t afford to bury deceased family members. During the 1950s, the Sons and Daughters of

the golden Circle were formed, later extending to 33 chapters across Shelby and Haywood Counties. Providing aid to African Americans, the organization evolved into Golden Circle Life Insurance Company, which grew signifi cantly throughout Tennessee along with Rawls Funeral Home.

Today, both businesses continue their success and gain great recognition.

Last Friday, February 24, AT&T decided to recognize the Rawls family with a host of other important state fi gures and events in their 2012 African American History Calendar.

“Each year we look forward to the production of the calendar, which honors infl uential Tennesseans who have shaped the course of our state’s history,” said Trey Rabon, Regional Director for AT&T Tennessee in Jackson. “We are privileged to continue this tradition, and we are eager to share this fourth edition of the Tennessee African-American History Calendar.”

“The African Americans from West Tennessee who are honored in this calendar serve as an inspiration to us all,” said State Representative Johnny Shaw. “Their contributions to Tennessee’s history and culture should be remembered, and I’m pleased our students in West Tennessee will learn about them this year.”

The offi cial celebration of the Rawls’ family inclusion in the calendar took place at St. Johns Baptist Church, where a host of local and state leaders gathered to partake in the moment with the family.

“The Rawls family has been an

institution in Haywood County,” said State Representative Craig Fitzhugh. “Their legacy of leadership and community service has served as an inspiration for generations of young people in West Tennessee.”

“Business partners such as AT&T provide engaging resources to our schools, which are targeted to support student academic success,” said State Senator Dolores Gresham. “These calendars serve as an excellent resource to teach students about fellow Tennesseans who have made a positive impact on our community, and helps make the study of African-American history more relevant.”

The event featured musical selections, a warm welcome from Brownsville Mayor Jo Matherne and telling of the Rawls history by Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith. Smith also used the moment to talk about the late Charles A. Rawls infl uence on his political career.

“He said I’m going to tell you something. For some reason, the

white folks don’t think you’re grown until you’re about 45 or 50 years old,’” Franklin recalled when talking to Charles about becoming County Executive. “’But the black people think you’re grown now, and we think you’re ready to run so we want you to think about it.’ If it hadn’t been for Mr. Rawls, I probably wouldn’t be where I’m at today.”

The calendars will be distributed to middle schools across the state, with each month dedicated to an important fi gure or event. The Rawls family occupies the month of July, where you’ll be able to see a picture of Charles A. Rawls.

“We enjoy the calendar Mr. Raybon. We thoroughly enjoy the month of January. And we are enjoying the month of February,” Cynthia Rawls Bond said. “But I must admit that I often turn the months to July and then I see my father, and I smile.”

To download a free copy of the calendar or for more information, please visit www.tnafricanamericanhistory.com

Rawls family honored by AT&T


BY JENNIFER [email protected]

Restorations to Flagg Grove School, once attended by Tina Turner, began August 22.

The current plan is to restore the school over a three-year period. However, with so much generosity and so many willing to help, it is possible that renovations may be completed

earlier than anticipated.“The main objective right

now is to get the building in the dry. That’s why we began with roof restoration,” said Sonia Outlaw-Clark, Director

of the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center. Thanks to generous donations from Rusty Robinson and Dana Moody of Jackson, and Jimmy Outlaw, the roof repairs have been made.

Materials, such as clapboard, are currently being salvaged from Booker Knob School, which is located in Denmark just inside Madison County. Harbert Alexander owns the property, and generously offered to donate materials from the site after hearing about the Flagg Grove restoration project.

“We are very grateful to the City of Brownsville for moving the school. Just having it on the property has garnered a lot of attention from all over the world. As we move forward, it will be the responsibility of the Friends of the Delta Heritage Center to raise the necessary

funds and oversee the project. We’ve learned so much about the history of the school during this process. Many of Benjamin Flagg’s grandchildren have come to see the school and visit with me. I’m looking forward to when we have completed the restoration and begin working on the interpretive work that will chronicle the history of the school, early African-American education in Haywood County and, of course, Tina Turner’s music career,” said Outlaw-Clark.

There will be an offi cial fundraiser September 29, when the International Tina Turner Fan Club brings Starr Fisher to Brownsville for a Tina Turner Tribute show. If you would like to volunteer to work on the project, go see Sonia Outlaw-Clark at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center.

Flagg Grove School restoration begins

225 Margin Street • Brownsville, TN 38012 • Offi ce 731-772-0202

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- Special Edition - Year In Review -The Brownsville States-Graphic - Thursday, January 31, 2013

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2012 marks a very special year for State Farm Insurance Agent Jim McAdams.

The hometown native will celebrate 30 years in business as an agent with State Farm

Insurance in Brownsville. Jim’s successful journey with State Farm started in February 1982 when former agent Bill Thornton retired.

While 1982 may seem like only yesterday in the minds of some, to Jim it’s easy to take account of all the vast changes that have taken place during that 30 year span.

“1982 doesn’t sound like a long time ago, but back then there were no cell phones, fax machines or the internet. Computers didn’t arrive till several years later. Most of our correspondence was mailed to the company and receipts were hand written,” McAdams said. “Over the years, insurance companies have done a great job utilizing technology in order to control cost. Rather than have rows of fi ling cabinets, information is stored on a computer

chip. Adjusters don’t need massive offi ce spaces, now all they need is a laptop and a car. Digital photography and satellite imagery have increased the speed of service. Back then, a new truck cost $10,000 now they are $40,000. There have been a lot of changes in 30 years.”

For 30 years, McAdams has successfully made himself known both in offi ce and outside as an outstanding fi gure in the community.

Jim is a successful graduate of Haywood County Schools, and through various local organizations, is currently in the forefront of civic duty.

McAdams has found himself involved in a number of capacitates, such as serving as Rotary Club President, being a member of the Brownsville Haywood County Chamber Of Commerce, Carl Perkins Center, Country Club and INSOUTH Bank Advisory

Boards, and serving his church, Brownsville Baptist, as a deacon and treasurer.

McAdams is married to Anderson Elementary School Librarian Jan McAdams, and is the father of University of Tennessee Junior Trey McAdams and Haywood High School Junior Molly McAdams.

Thanks to McAdams, Brownsville knows that there’s nothing that replaces the service of a hometown agent. After all, it’s great to be able to sit down with a local agent and talk about important events in your life.

State Farm has awarded Jim one of its highest honors with the Crystal Excellence Award for agencies who have maintained a high level of service and profi table growth for over 25 years.

“With the help of my staff and wonderful clients, I plan on being here for years to come.”

McAdams celebrates 30 years in business


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All the colors just bring you back to that groovy era of the 70s. Just as you drove onto the parking lot was almost like you were in a disco. Friday June 1 EW James & Sons celebrated their 78th year Anniversary with music and dancing outside on the parking lot. All the managers and employees

of EW James & Sons got together for a 70s theme celebration. Along with the music and fun, they gave out coke fl oats, lemonade and snacks to customers through out the afternoon.

“Great to keep it going the people in all the stores are the heart of the community. Want to thank the community

for shopping and hope they continue to for years to come. Very thankful.” David W. James, EW James & Sons CEO

“All the managers together we have over 100 years of experience. We are all local, and if needed for anything we are here for you.” Michelle Russle, Brownsville, TN EW James & Sons Manager.

EW James & Sons celebrating 78 years


It was a close decision, but results from the Brownsville Election show that it is legal for retail package stores to sell alcoholic beverages in the city. Out of 1,237—a low voter turnout—the option to permit won 695 votes or 58.01 percent, while the option against showed 503 votes or 41.99 percent.

The question to have retail stores sell bottles of liquor in stores was brought up thanks to a petition from residents to have it on the ballot. The city already allows the sale of beer and liquor by the drink.

The election also saw

two city aldermen seats contested, but won by the incumbents. Leon King, Alderman of Ward 1, won with 184 votes or 55.93 percent unoffi cial results showed. King went up against Dell Phillips (17 votes or 5.17 percent), Barry W. Presley (16 votes or 4.86 percent), and Samuel Starks III, who took the biggest opposition chunk (112 votes or 34.04 percent).

In Ward 3, John Simmons won by a wider margin than King, with 464 votes or 78.25 percent. His opponent Undrae Johnson managed 129 votes or 21.75 percent.

The next election, the County General and State Primary will take place Thursday, August 2.

Retail Package Stores can sell liquor

The Brownsville-Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors recently announced the hiring of Renee Moss as its executive director. Moss, a native of McNairy County, comes to the Chamber with a variety of skills and will offi cially assume her new responsibilities July 2.

“We’re excited to have Renee,” says Chamber President Bob Wallis. “We look forward to working with her and to what all the future holds for our Chamber.”

For the past seven years, Moss has served as curator of the Buford Pusser Home and Museum in Adamsville,

Tenn., where she is responsible for day-to-day operations. She is an active member of the Adamsville Partnership, a professional organization that works with issues such as business development and livability in the community. Moss is the current

secretary of the Partnership. Moss also serves on the

McNairy County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is a graduate of McNairy County Leadership. She is actively involved in the Youth Leadership program, is an offi cial Miss Tennessee Pageant judge and serves on the Board of Directors of the Tourism Association of Southwest Tennessee.

“I am honored by the warm reception I have received from the citizens of Brownsville and Haywood County,” says Moss. “I am looking forward to meeting everyone and working with such a supportive group of individuals.”

The community is invited to a reception welcoming Moss on Monday, July 9, 4:30 -6:30 p.m., at the First South Community Room on West Main. A short program will be presented at 5:30 p.m.

Moss named new director of Chamber



Haywood County Schools Superintendent Dr. Marlon King announced his decision to resign from his position during the July 10, School Board meeting.

King has accepted a job offer from the Tennessee Department Of Education as the Regional Director for the Southwest Tennessee Center of Regional Excellence (CORE).

King noted that State Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kathleen Airhart praised Haywood County for its increases in achievement and gains.

King said that students vastly improved with the Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS), a statistical analysis of achievement data

that reveals academic growth over time for students and groups of students, such as those in a grade level or in a school.

Dr. King added that he will be working to improve academics in all the districts in his region, which include Memphis and Jackson. His region also includes Haywood County. He also said he will stay in his position until sometime in August to open the school year and to help with a smooth transition.

King’s family will also continue to be a part of Haywood County Schools. His wife will teach at Haywood Middle School and his son will attend Anderson Early Childhood Center, as King believes in the work Haywood County Schools doing.

Board members have not even discussed a replacement for King and won’t be able to fi ll the position until after the upcoming August 2 election.

Dr. King Resignsas School Superintendent


The Arts Council began as a Chamber of Commerce to promote art to this community. Since its inception, it has grown into a mature organization that concentrates on expanding aspects of visual and performing arts.

In 1979, renovations were completed at the College Hill Center, and the County Conservation Board chose to appoint a group to oversee and promote cultural activities. The Chamber’s Art Committee jumped at the opportunity, and has spent the last 32 years as the Brownsville-Haywood County Art Council, with a mission to expose the community to art in all of its various forms. The Arts Council refers to it as “the art and soul of our community.”

The Art Council’s mission statement is “to cultivate the arts within the community; to encourage participation in and appreciation of the arts, and to identify and promote talented individuals in the community.” Over the years, The Arts Council has brought quality entertainment to town and helped bring light to local talent. One way that they recognize local talent is to offer an annual scholarship to a graduating senior planning to major in some form of fi ne art in college. To date the Council has awarded over $50,000 to the students of Haywood County.

In 1992 Betsy Thornton was named Director of the Brownsville-Haywood County Arts Council.

She was born here in Brownsville to Carl and Margaret Mann, and has lived here all of her life. She graduated from Haywood High School, College Hill location, in 1963, and headed to Columbus, MS to study speech therapy for two years at Mississippi State College for Women.

She returned here in 1965 when she wed Robert Earl Thornton. They have three children: Carl, Blanche and Robert. She also has fi ve grandchildren who affectionately refer to her as “Be Be.”

Thornton also acts as the Cultural Arts Supervisor for the Haywood County Parks and Recreation Department.

After serving Brownsville and Haywood County for 20 years,

Thornton retired from her position on August 15. During our interview, it was apparent the love she has for the Arts Council and their mission. She stated “I love working with the community, educating them about the arts, and providing them with a little culture. I love the grounds at College Hill, they’re beautiful.” She joked that the men who kept the grounds wouldn’t trim or spray anything without checking with her fi rst.

When I asked her why she was choosing to retire, she simply stated “it’s time.” She would like to be able to travel and spend more time with her grandchildren. She will, however, continue to serve as a member of the Arts Council Board. She stated she “looks forward to being around and continuing to work with the Council, and is excited about things to come.”

Jay Walker will replace Thornton as Director of the Brownsville-Haywood County Arts Council and as the Cultural Arts Supervisor with the Parks and Recreation Department.

Walker was born in Somerville to Virginia and June Walker. The oldest of fi ve boys, Walker said he has always had a love for music. He graduated from Fayette Academy and went on to Lambuth University where he majored in business management and political science, and minored in English.

He currently serves as Minister of Music at Brownsville’s First Presbyterian Church. Before coming to Brownsville, he served at Faith Presbyterian Church in Huntsville, AL and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Memphis.

If you sit and talk with Walker for more than fi ve minutes, you can see he shares Thornton’s love of music. When asked what made him decide to take the positions, he stated “It was a good fi t for me…I obviously have a love for music.” He is anxious to begin work, and is looking forward to working on his fi rst big project, “Broadway, a Century of Music” that will premiere November 3, 2012.

Walker currently resides in Somerville, and has two daughters, Mattie and Ellie.

Thornton Retires:Walker Named New Director


Town of Stanton

Stanton Mayor, Dr. Allan Sterbinsky Ruffie Jones

Emma DelkVice-Mayor

Frank Fawcett

A.D. Miller

2012 Accomplishments•Grants awarded now total approximately $3.5 Million

•Continued upgrades to the Stanton Cannery

•Awarded $100,000 grant to upgrade the Stanton Health Clinic

•Initiated the Stanton Historic Preservation Commission

•Awarded $1,000,000 grant to mitigate flooding in Stanton

•West TN Cemetary Research Team researched and improved Choady Cemetary

2013 Goals•Work in conjunction with Haywood County and Brownsville to enhance all of Haywood County

•Complete grant projects currently underway

•Continue to identify and record local cemetaries (Wesley Cemetary and others)

•Expand educational opportunities for Stanton residents

•Apply for additional grants to improve Stanton and the surrounding areas

Stanton Aldermen

BY: JENNIFER [email protected]

At the regular monthly board meeting, held September 12, a unanimous vote by the school board named Teresa Russell Superintendent of Haywood County Schools.

Russell is a lifelong resident of Haywood County. She graduated from Haywood High School in 1984, and said that she is “extremely proud of the education that she received from the public school system.”

Russell graduated from Jackson State Community College in August of 1992 with an Associate of Science degree in Elementary Education. She went on the graduate Magna Cum Laude from Lambuth University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and Teaching. In May 2001, Russell received her Master of Science degree in School Administration and Supervision from the University of Memphis. Her areas of endorsement are professional administration, PreK-12 and

elementary education, K-3.Russell began her career

with the Haywood County School System at East Side Elementary in 1994, and then in 1995 accepted a position as a kindergarten teacher at Anderson Early Childhood Center, where she remained until 2001.

In May 2001, Russell was appointed the assistant principal at East Side Elementary. She moved to the Board of Education as Supervisor of Instruction PreK-12 in 2003, and held that position until she was named Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum and Accountability in July 2009.

“My top priority as Superintendent is student achievement, and giving full support to the teachers,” said Russell. “I’d like for the

community to understand all that our teachers do for their students. They do not only work from 7:45 until 3:15. They use their own time and resources to help their students in any way they can, and I stand behind them 100%.”

Russell also stated during our interview that she’d like to focus a lot on student experience. For instance, she now requires that all students at Haywood High School, beginning as early as their freshman year, visit college campuses in an attempt to get their mindset focused on all that is available to them after graduation. “I want them to be in the community. I want them to be exposed to positive things, and leave with memorable experiences that they will be able to look

back on years after they have graduated,” said Russell.

I asked Russell about her plans for the school system, and she responded, “I don’t foresee any major changes. I would like to provide as much stability as possible.”

Russell is married to Dr. Thomas D. Russell, IV, and they have three children: Madison Eubanks (18), Dannon A. Eubanks (15) and Reid T. Russell (8). They are members of First United Methodist Church. Russell is also very active in the community, serving on the Advisory Boards for the Carl Perkins Center, First South Bank, the YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club. She is also a graduate of the 2010 Haywood County Leadership Class.

Teresa Russell named Superintendent of Schools

- Special Edition - Year In Review -The Brownsville States-Graphic - Thursday, January 31, 2013

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BY: JENNIFER [email protected]

Walgreens entered into an agreement to purchase the drug store chain that includes the USA Drug, Super D Drug, May’s Drug, Med-X and Drug Warehouse names on July 5, 2012, from Stephen L. LaFrance Holdings Inc. for an estimated $438 million. The purchase included 144 stores located in Arkansas, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, Oklahoma and Tennessee.

The Brownsville Super D Drug Store closed its doors for the last time Wednesday, September 26 at 6pm. Hundreds of prescriptions that remained with Super D Wednesday at closing were automatically transferred

to Walgreens. The phone numbers have also been transferred; meaning that if you try to call Super D you will now actually be calling Walgreens.

The employees, most of who had been with the company for many years, were sad to see the doors close. Dr. Allan Primrose, pharmacy manager, said, “ We want our former customers to understand how much their business meant to us. We truly appreciated their loyalty, and wish them the best with their future pharmacy needs.”

In a press release about the acquisition, Walgreens CEO Greg Wasson said, “This acquisition expands our business in an important region of the country, and it will provide signifi cant new pharmacy business for us in this region.”

Super D merges with Walgreens


The Tennessee Small Business Development Center is a network of professional business consultants, dispersed across 20 locations in the state, dedicated to providing help to small businesses across Tennessee. They offer business owners their expertise in the following areas: accounting, banking, expansion, international trade, marketing, public relations, sources of capital, tax planning, advertising, employee relations, fi nance, management, operations, sales training and location analysis.

Each year the TSBDC presents the “Rising Star” award to one of the four quarterly “Success Stories” that are nominated by the Center Director and staff. The award recognizes the spirit of entrepreneurship that is displayed by the nominees through the success of their business, as well as their involvement in their community.

This year’s recipient was Ricky Ellington, owner of Ellington Landscaping. He started his business in 1995, known then as Ellington Landscaping and Dozer, as a sole proprietor. The company began by doing demolition work for the City of Brownsville. His business still holds the record for tearing down the most houses

in the city, 67. He continues to do demolition work today.

Over the years, Ellington expanded the business to include parking lot cleaning and maintenance, lawn maintenance, building remodeling and other small contract projects. Ellington also works with banks and

real estate companies cleaning and renovating foreclosed properties. The company has also become a family business, as his wife, Lorri, and son, Jacob, have joined his team.

Regardless of the “ups and downs” the economy has faced, Ellington has established himself as a trustworthy and dependable resource for not only residential clients, but for commercial clients as well.

Ellington’s reputation has enabled him to secure long-term contracts with cities, counties, retail stores, banks and a prison. His hard work ethic has resulted in clients continually seeking him when there is a job, whether it is a small or large one, to be done.

Ellington experienced a small setback in 2008 as a result of the economic downturn. He kept a positive attitude and continued to push forward, and now four years later he has preserved one full-time and one part-time position. And just this year he has added three new full time employees and one part-time employee.

Ellington Landscaping has built a solid reputation in the Brownsville Community, as well as Southwest Tennessee. Some of his customers include Wal-Mart, First South Bank and the Brownsville/Haywood County Criminal Justice Complex.

Ellington receives “Rising Star” award


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The Southern Foodways Alliance awards Helen Turner

Each fall, the Southern Foodways Alliance (SFA), with support from the Fertel Foundation, honors an unsung hero or heroine, a foodways tradition-bearer of note, with the Ruth Fertel Keeper of the Flame Award. The 2012 Ruth Fertel Keeper of the Flame Award went to Helen Turner, the pitmaster at Helen’s Bar-B-Q in Brownsville.

The SFA pays homage

to this individual by commissioning a documentary fi lm. In this case, Helen’s Bar-B-Q, made by Joe York on behalf of the SFA, was shown to an audience of SFA symposium attendees this past Friday night and will be available on the SFA’s website, southernfoodways .org . The Southern Foodways Alliance also conducted an oral history with Mrs.

Turner in 2008; the transcript and an audio slideshow are available online.

The daughter of a farmer father and a homemaker mother who raised ten children, Turner was born and raised in Brownsville, sixty miles northeast of Memphis. After she and her husband, Reginald, began a family, she initially stayed home with their children. But once they were in school, she

was ready to go back to work.Turner began working in

the barbecue business in the early 1980s and returned to the pits in 1996 after several years of factory work. That year, she took over ownership of a barbecue restaurant owned by Dewitt Foster and changed the name to Helen’s Bar-B-Q. From her previous job in the restaurant’s kitchen, preparing barbecue sauce and side dishes, Turner learned her way around the pit.

Since then, Turner has been cooking barbecue six days a week and serving it to scores of loyal customers from Brownsville and beyond. Turner is the undisputed pitmaster of Helen’s Bar-B-Q. Each day she cooks pork shoulders, ribs, bologna, and sausages over oak and hickory coals. She pulls and chops sandwiches to order and douses them with the customer’s choice of a hot or mild tomato-based sauce. The sandwiches are topped with homemade slaw and served alongside potato salad or beans, which Turner also prepares from scratch.

Barbecue is a tough business for anyone, male or female. There is wood to chop, fi res to stoke, and coals to shovel. When the smoke and there’s plenty of it, billowing out of her screened-in pit

room gets in her eyes, Turner doesn’t let it stop her. She keeps cooking because it’s satisfying work, and because she loves interacting with her customers. Black and white, male and female, they savor her food and respect her craft and so do we.

The Ruth Fertel Keeper of the Flame Award is named for Ruth U. Fertel, founder of the Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in New Orleans, LA, and given out each fall by the Southern Foodways Alliance with support from the Fertel Foundation and honors an unsung hero or heroine, a foodways tradition bearer of note. The SFA now pays homage in two ways: through commissioning a documentary fi lm and also with a monetary contribution.

The Southern Foodways Alliance documents, studies, and celebrates the diverse food cultures of the changing American South. The SFA sets a common table where black and white, rich and poor all who gather may consider our history and our future in a spirit of reconciliation. A member-supported non-profi t, based at the University of Mississippi, the SFA stages symposia on food culture, produce documentary fi lms, collect oral histories, and publish great writing.


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BY: S. L. JARRETTOriginally published on www.lifenowblog.com

As the calendar year comes to an end for 2012, plans for the 2013 calendar of events for the West Tennessee Delta Heritage

Center are in full swing. As presented in an earlier multimedia publication, The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center: Impacting West Tennessee and the World, the goal to get visitors off the interstate and onto the back roads continues.

Sonia Outlaw-Clark, the center’s director, said, “We’re making plans now for next year. We have a big art exhibit planned for the fi rst of the year. We’re also planning a birthday celebration for “Sleepy” John Estes in January.”

Restoration of Flagg Grove School has stopped because it’s winter, but not fundraising efforts. “Fundraising events for the school are being planned for early next year. We hope

to have the school completely restored with displays and exhibits by the fall of next

year,” said Outlaw-Clark.The center also continues to

improve exhibits already on display. The West Tennessee Music Museum has added a monitor showing performances by Tina Turner. Graceland has also changed the Elvis Presley exhibit to display the prototype of the black leather jacket worn during one of his most memorable performances.

The current temporary exhibit at the center is from the West Tennessee Solar Farm. The solar farm is more than 25 acres of land located on Interstate 40 west near Exit 42. According to information on display, it contains 21,000 ground-mounted photovoltaic solar panels. Its 5-megawatt rated capacity makes the solar farm one of the largest solar generating facilities in the southeast. It’s not open to the public, but there are plans to construct a Visitors

Information and Welcome Center on the property.

Outlaw-Clark said, “It’s a real honor for us to have this temporary display that helps give our travelers a taste of what the new welcome center will have to offer. The educational opportunity will also serve as a big economic boost for our area as the new center will employ several people and attract more visitors.”

For more information about the solar farm, visit http://solarfarm.tennessee .edu. There’s also information about Spectrum on the site. Spectrum is the educational exhibit on solar energy that will be located at the new information and welcome center. It’s currently housed at the Knoxville Center Mall in Knoxville, Tenn.

Visit the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center’s website at www.westtnheritage.com for updates to its calendar of events.

The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center Welcomes New Exhibits for the New Year


Thank you for a wonderful 2012. As a

Team, we look forward to

helping you with your

insurance needs in 2013!!

www.LeeInsuresMe.com

year in review

Documents

brownsville police

wards of brownsville

safety helmet

tn traf c safety award

brownsville kids summer

stops campaign brownsville

review of crash

drug awareness programs