2008 Days of Action

United Way of West Tennessee is looking for volunteers to participate in the "2008 Days of Action." Essentially, this is an effort to improve lives in our community, and across West Tennessee. The event is planned for August 10-17.

United Way is asking groups and individuals to perform a task or project in our own community. It's a lot like Make a Difference Day that happens in October. The hope is that the organized effort will have a ripple effect and that the common good of our community will benefit. The projects can be just about anything that benefits individuals or the community as a whole.

United Way is also looking for ideas for projects. So even if you have no idea what to do but want to help, contact United Way and they will hook you up with a project that you can give an hour, a day, or as much time as you can spare. Contact our United Way rep. Jennifer Wood at 731-422-1816 or download a Days of Action registration form.

Then, tell us about your project/idea.

Vacant lot purchase shows forward thinking of County/City

I want to congratulate the County Commission on its recent vote to help purchase the vacant lot on the square. I think this is very forward thinking of the group and is the beginning of what I believe will be the center point for downtown renovations and revitalization. The joint purchase shows our local governments are listening to the businesses and citizens who would like to see our downtown thrive and grow.

Creating an attractive, usable space on the court square will, in my opinion, help to bring people back to the square. I can't help but think of all the many photos I've seen of the hustle and bustle that used to be downtown Brownsville. It wasn't that long ago and I believe we can have that again.

Throughout the phases of development, community involvement will be vital. The governments are doing their parts. As we learn more about this project and phases are developed, I hope you will choose to get involved. This is but one of many positive changes happening in our town, and it's going to take all of us -- working together ... making it happen!

"Staycations" can be fun, too

Steve and I took a little road trip this past week. Originally we had planned to travel down Route 66. Start in St. Louis and head towards Oklahoma City. Just see how far we could get in our short time off. I was looking forward to seeing all the old tourist attractions and catching a drive-in movie. (Yes, one still exists along Route 66 in rural Missouri.)

But we were scared by the weather. Flooding and the threat of more rain kept us from taking that particular route. So, we enjoyed a “staycation.” No doubt you’ve heard the expression lately. It’s the new word for what families are doing this summer with gas prices so high — spending vacation close to home or at home. We stayed close and took mostly day trips with one overnight adventure thrown in.

Our one criteria for traveling is to always take the back roads. We are not much for interstate travel. Most times it’s not the destination, as much as getting there that we enjoy so much — finding the less traveled route and enjoying the scenery along the way. I drive Steve crazy with a little habit I have of critiquing every town that we come to. Comparing it to Brownsville and talking about the things that we can do to make our town more inviting. You’d be amazed at the communities who are the size of Stanton, or smaller, who go all out to make their towns stand out.

What stood out more than anything this trip were the towns who have added street banners to their light poles. Some stated a plain “Welcome,” while others were simply a friendly design. Nothing elaborate, but definitely noticeable and impressive. And something that I know the Brownsville Business Association is working on for Brownsville. As Martha Stewart would say “That’s a good thing.” And just in case you might be interested in sponsoring one of the banners, please call, 780-5144, or e-mail me for more details.

The point is this. You do not have to travel far to find interesting things to do and see. As a matter of fact, you don’t have to travel at all. We have 3 museums (College Hill, Dunbar-Carver and Delta Heritage Center) and the Hatchie Wildlife Refuge that can keep you entertained for quite some time. Plus scores of other things. If you’re planning a “staycation,” be sure and check out the local attractions.