Showing posts with label brownsville. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brownsville. Show all posts

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Haywood County Leadership Class of 2013

Introducing the Haywood County Leadership Class of 2013

Johnny N. Bradford
Johnny N. Bradford 
A 21-year resident of Haywood County, Johnny is currently serving as a substitute teacher and also provides sound for various programs and events in the school system. He is also a disc jockey. Johnny is active in his church, Willow Grove Baptist, where he serves as sound technician and a Youth Department committee member. He has also served as an assistant to the Teen Advisors at Haywood High and is a member of the National Education Association. This year he is serving as a Blueminati, a group who helps bridge the gap between Tennessee State University alumni and undergrads. Johnny’s goal in life is to give of his time and energy to help others. He loves to read and is a self-described history buff, an avid sports fan and is trying his hand at video production. Johnny holds a bachelor of science degree from Tennessee State University and is currently working on earning a master’s degree from Bethel University. He believes a major issue in Haywood County is that youth do not realize the importance of a post-secondary education. He wants to see the community come together to solve various pressing issues here. “If we do,” he says, “we will see a dramatic increase in the quality of life here.”

Senica Ann Cephus
Senica Ann Cephus
As office manager at Golden Circle, Senica oversees the day-to-day business activities for the company. She is a Haywood High School graduate, holds an associate degree from Jackson State and a bachelor of business degree from Lane College. Senica also holds a certified license in property and casualty, life and health insurance. She was named to Who’s Who at Lane and earned honors and Dean’s List recognition. She has lived in Haywood County for 30 years. She is a member of Faith Deliverance Church and serves as a youth advisor. Senica enjoys mentoring youth, and in addition to the youth at church, she also served as a mentor at Lane College. She feels it is important to always be helpful to others. Her hobbies include shopping, fashion, spending time with husband and two sons, swimming and helping others. An issue Senica believes is of utmost importance in the community is the lack of recreation for the community’s youth. “When Haywood can come together with a common goal, as a community, we are unstoppable,” she says. She also believes that we have a lack of vision and actions concerning our community.

Terry G. Chambers
Terry G. Chambers
Terry Chambers, who holds certification as a landfill operator, has been in Haywood County for 40 years. He attends Brownsville Baptist Church, has served in the Dixie Youth Baseball program and was a member of the Jaycees. What he believes to be important about his work in the community is helping others, especially children. He enjoys gardening and landscaping, fishing and hunting, and going on beach vacations with his wife. Most of all, he says, he enjoys spending time with family – his children and grandchildren. He believes unemployment is a huge issue and challenge that our city and county leaders face. Terry is concerned for the young people who are looking to settle in Haywood County and raise their families. He also believes that city and county government leaders, the school system and civic organizations are three strong areas in the community.

Timothy Lewis Chapman
Timothy Lewis Chapman 
Tim Chapman, who lives in Stanton, is a senior process/cost reduction engineer at Teknor Apex. He manages a maintenance group in the garden hose plant. He has worked in Haywood County for 6-1/2 years. He is a member of the Society of Plastics Engineers and Wire Association International. Tim has been a teacher of Kung Fu and attained a Black Sash rank. He enjoys attending antique tractor and engine shows, working on old tractors and stationary engines, residential wiring, welding, carpentry, gardening, landscaping and other outdoor activities. Tim holds a bachelor of science degree in plastics engineering technology and an MBA from William Carey College. He also holds an associate degree in landscaping technology. Tim was awarded a patent for a new garden hose design. He believes that Haywood County would benefit from more good-paying employment opportunities. He is impressed with the local schools, the quality of life here and the local hospital. Tim says, “I can make an impact working to keep my employer strong to help maintain and grow the stable, good paying jobs we already have.”

Clinton Francis
Clinton Francis
Clinton Frances supervises the daily operations of the deposit functions of InSouth Bank. He has worked in Haywood County for six years. He is a member of the Exchange Club in Covington and has served as treasurer. He enjoys supporting his children’s sports, hunting and spending time with family. Clinton is interested in learning more about the community he works in, and he sees that the people here have great support for their community.


Gordon Joseph Geter
Joey Geter is a newcomer to Brownsville/Haywood County. He has been here for nine months and is a partner in his CPA firm that also has offices in Jackson, Martin and Paris. He is from Natchez, Mississippi, and holds a master’s degree in accounting with seven years’ experience and attends more than 40 hours of CPE a year. He was a founding member of the Chamber of Commerce – Natchez Young and Upcoming Professionals. He was also named to Who’s Who Among Young Professionals and Executives and is the co-creator of the Brownsville Business column in the States-Graphic. Joey is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Brownsville Rotary Club, the Brownsville Country Club and the Mississippi Society of Certified Public Accountants. He is also a coach and board member for the local Dixie Youth Baseball. He said being in these organizations has helped him become accustomed to the town and how it functions. He enjoys fishing, golfing, going to church, spending time with family and participating in and watching sports. Joey believes that a major issue in the community is city growth and industrial development. He says our rich agriculture history and a welcoming small-town feeling are two of Brownsville’s strengths. He believes we can keep that feeling while growing and modernizing.

Vincent A. Harvell
Vincent A. Harvell
Vincent Harvell is the Chief Financial Officer for Haywood County Schools. In his eighth year with the school system, he is responsible for the management of fiscal operations, maintenance and building operations and technology infrastructure. Vincent holds a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Lambuth University. He’s also taken additional classes through the University of Memphis and Jackson State Community College. He is a member of St. Paul M. B. Church and serves as Trustee and as a Sunday School teacher. He is a member of the Tennessee Association of School Business officials, the BEP Review Committee and a former Lambuth College Alumni Board member. Vincent believes as a Sunday School teacher, he has had the opportunity to mentor children and try to make a difference in their lives. He enjoys his job with the schools, watching basketball games and playing with his granddaughter. His concern for Haywood County is centered on education. He wants to see training opportunities for citizens, and he believes affordable decent housing is also an issue. He also believes that Haywood County’s school system has made tremendous improvement. “It is a work in progress, but has a very good upside,” Vincent said.

Drew Scott Magruder
Drew Scott Magruder
The voice of Brownsville Radio, Drew Magruder, oversees operations for the day part of programming for the local station. He has been in Brownsville for 5-1/2 years and has become an integral part of the community. He attended the Columbia School of Broadcasting. He is also CPR trained. Drew serves on the Haywood County Rescue Squad and is the PA announcer for the Tomcats. He says his training has taught him how to communicate in stressful situations. His hobbies are exercising and biking, and he feels he now has more energy and wants to more active in community. Drew sees race relations as one of the biggest challenges in the community. “Haywood Countians should learn to work together,” he says. “It is the only way our county can move forward.” Drew also believes that the people are the county’s biggest asset. He believes that the good, creative and passionate people of this community can work together to make positive changes.

Renee Moss
ReneƩ Moss
New to Brownsville/Haywood County, Renee Moss was recently selected to lead the local chamber of commerce. Before moving to Brownsville, she served on the McNairy County Chamber Board, on the Executive Board of the Tourism Association of Southwest Tennessee and as the Adamsville Partnership Secretary. She is a certified Tennessee Tourism Professional and is a graduate of McNairy County Adult Leadership 2010. Through her work, Renee has used her skills and experience to organize a number of community events. Her hobbies include spending time with family, shopping, reading, playing games online and Facebook. She believes Brownsville’s challenges are in the areas of education and retail. For community strengths, she listed industrial development, city and county work well together, community involvement and agriculture.

                                                 
Joyce Ann Pirtle
Joyce Ann Pirtle
Joyce is retired from the Haywood County Clerk’s office and spends her time in retirement visiting the nursing home and the sick and shut-in, attending meetings, helping at church and with family members. She has lived in Haywood County since 1975. Joyce is currently a Policy Council Member for the Southwest Human Resource Agency, the secretary for the Haywood County NAACP, and serves as a committee member and secretary for the Relay for Life committee for Willow Grove M. B. Church. She has also served as missionary secretary, Sunday School secretary and Youth Committee member at her church and as a committee member for the United Way. She attended the West Tennessee Business College in Jackson. Joyce has received a number of plaques, certificates and awards for her work at church and in the community. From her work, she has met and worked with people from all walks of life. She likes to listen to ideas and comments from others so that whatever needs there are in the community can be met. Joyce believes that homelessness is an issue in Haywood County, and she is interested in being involved in correcting this problem. She also believes that the people of Haywood County should be proud of their community service and willingness to help others.

David Leonard Prine
David Leonard Prine
David Prine, a 30-year resident of Haywood County, is a machinist for Lasco Fittings. He is a member of Calvary Baptist Church where he serves as Sunday School Director, a Deacon, a Sunday School teacher and is actively involved in numerous committees. He was active in the Industrial Softball League here. He also enjoys hunting, fishing and camping, which he says has allowed him to spend quality time with his grandchildren. He is from Leland, Mississippi, and attended Mississippi Delta Junior College on a football scholarship. He also held the position of commissioner with the Brownsville Dixie Youth Baseball League. David believes that Haywood County lacks activities for our young people to keep them busy and off the streets. He wants a safer environment for the youth, and believes that we need to encourage and train our children to become future leaders in the community. He also believes that the community has a strong industrial base.

Holt Pritchett
Holt Pritchett
Holt Pritchett, who has been with First South Bank for six years, is a commercial lender in the Haywood County branch. He is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin with a business degree, of Barnett School of Banking Commercial Lending Academy and the Southeastern School of Advanced Commercial Lending. Holt is an officer for Habitat for Humanity and has been a volunteer for Relay for Life and March of Dimes and is a member of Rotary. He has assisted numerous families through HFH to better their lives and has helped raise funds needed for numerous other organizations. He enjoys hunting, golf, water sports, sports and running. Holt believes that the local school system and the lack of growth in the community are two of its biggest challenges. He also believes that continued involvement by citizens will improve both of these issues. In his opinion, the fact that the community is so tight-knit will help it overcome its weaknesses. Holt points out that our agriculture base, a beautiful courthouse and downtown area and our close proximity to larger towns are three other assets of the community.

Teri Leann Robinson
Teri Leann Robinson
A 10-year resident of Haywood County, Teri Robinson is in customer service and performs various other duties at Brownsville Utility Department. She holds a BBA in general business from the University of Mississippi. She is active at Westside Church of Christ, in the Republican Women, PTO, Relay for Life and Boy Scouts. She says serving in her church and the community, especially helping children and families, is the most important thing she can do. She appreciates the opportunity to meet others in this service. She is an avid Ole Miss fan and tries to attend all home games. She also likes to read, spend time with her kids and walk. “Fostering an attitude of free enterprise and small business friendliness is a great concern of mine,” Teri says of Brownsville’s challenges. She believes Brownsville can become a hub for small businesses and wants to research our business policies and recruitment strategies to make sure they are the best in the area. Teri believes that involvement and concerns from our citizens during time of need is impressive. “So many of our town come out and support our local charities, businesses, and children’s activities.”

Glenn William Stoots
Glenn William Stoots
Glenn Stoots is a supervisor at Teknor Apex and has lived in Haywood County for 30 years. He has attended seminars to become a more effective supervisor and learn management and leadership skills. Glenn is a member of the Haywood County Volunteer Fire Department District #5. He has also served with the United Way Fund Allocation Team. He says his involvement in these activities has been important to him because it has given him the opportunity to give back and help out in the community. He is also very interested in finding out ways that he may be able to help out in volunteer work in the community, especially with the youth. According to Glenn, one particular issue he feels is critical to the community is creating more activities for the youth. Because of this, he says, our community is losing tax dollars and losing families to surrounding communities. Glenn said that its strongest asset is that the community will come together to help out its fellow citizens.

Regen M. Thornton
Regen M. Thornton
Regen Thornton, who has lived in Brownsville for 10 years, has deep roots in the community. He has been coming here for years to visit Brownsville, and now calls it home. He is an agriculture loan officer for First State Bank. Regen is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin and holds a degree in agriculture business. He is also a licensed land surveyor. He has been training with First State since January learning about farm financial analysis and recently completed a week-long Agricultural Lending School at the University of Missouri. Regen’s hobbies include golf, hunting and fishing. He believes that education is a challenge in Haywood County and that its biggest strength is its agriculture.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

SWTDD presents Impact Award to Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith and Community Excellence Award to City of Brownsville


 More than 220 people gathered at the Doubletree Hotel in Jackson recently for the Southwest Tennessee Development District’s Annual Board of Directors Meeting and its first ever awards program to recognize individuals and organizations who work cooperatively with SWTDD’s Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities (AAAD) and its Economic & Community Development (ECD) divisions. Winners were selected by way of nominations submitted from  throughout the region.  Brownsville-Haywood County was recognized in three different areas at the event.


Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith
Impact Award
For his untiring efforts to help the elderly and disabled in his county, Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith was presented with SWTDD’s Area Agency on Aging & Disability Impact Award. The purpose of the Impact Award recognizes an individual or organization that has made an observable or measureable impact on the quality of life of older adults by providing leadership in advocacy, public policy change, securing new or additional funding, program development and/or cultural enhancement. 

“Mayor Smith has worked diligently for many years to ensure that the elderly and disabled populations in Southwest Tennessee receive services that enable independence and dignity,” said Joe W. Barker, SWTDD executive director. “From being a county mayor, to an executive director at Southwest Human Resource Agency, to serving as the Chairman of the SWTDD Board of Directors, Mayor Smith has advocated not only for his community of Haywood County, but for citizens throughout the region… Mayor Smith is a true statesman with a gentleman’s heart.”

Other AAAD award winners were: Senior Center of the Year: Selmer Senior Center; Partnership of the Year: West Tennessee Legal Services; and Advisory Council Members of the Year: James Pearson of Parkers Crossroads and Bobby Hysmith of Henderson.

Sharon Hayes, Brownsville Mayor Jo Matherne, Thomas Skehan
Community Excellence Award
The City of Brownsville won SWTDD’s ECD Community Excellence Award for its “Brownsville on the 
Move” program. The Community Excellence Award recognizes a community project within the SWTDD boundaries that shows initiative, reflects originality, demonstrates a collaborative effort, has long-term positive impact on the community, includes public participation and can easily be scaled or replicated in another community.

“With the Brownsville on the Move program, local officials recognized the need to create a new vision for their community that would set a course for the next 15-20 years and would impact the economic success of their city,” said Barker.  “Brownsville leaders contracted with the University of Memphis to generate and analyze a comprehensive plan and enlisted the help of local Planners to assist in their effort.  Composed of City leaders and residents, this group defined goals, principles and methodology.  The end product was a dynamic, well-documented and detailed blueprint for the future of their city that is based on extensive public input and creative ‘out of the box’ thinking.”

Regional Collaboration Award
Haywood County was also recognized as an important part in the SWTDD Regional Collaboration Award for its participation in the Tri-County College Summit hosted by Dyersburg State Community College. 

“This collective effort was all about helping the students connect to a college or another form of post secondary education,” said Barker. “The group worked together to host an enormous college fair that included students from the six high schools (400+ students) in the REDI counties of Haywood, Lauderdale, and Tipton Counties, 13 post-secondary institutions from across the State of Tennessee, and the entire 11-county REDI staff. It was of tremendous benefit to the students and has become a catalyst for what will become the new norm with REDI in our region.”

The other two SWTDD ECD awards were the Innovation Award to the Lexington Industrial Development Board for its Virtual Speculative Building Initiative and the Building Block Award to McNairy County for its extensive use of SWTDD services.
 
 “Southwest Tennessee Development District is an organization with a talented and compassionate staff, but it relies heavily on our city and county governments, volunteers and partners to carry out the organization’s mission,” said Joe W. Barker, SWTDD Executive Director. “Tonight’s awards program is a first step in publicly recognizing those who are working to improve the economic climate and quality of life in the SWTDD region. Although only eight awards were presented tonight, there are many other individuals and groups who are working hard for the citizens in this region every day. We look forward to recognizing them in the years to come.”

SWTDD provides services to individuals and governments in the counties of Chester, Decatur, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Madison and McNairy. Also recognized at the event was Parsons’ Mayor Tim David Boaz, the outgoing SWTDD chairman, who passed the leadership gavel to Hardin County Mayor Kevin Davis.

To learn more about the SWTDD, visit www.swtdd.org or call 731.668.7112.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Where the Real America Lives


This was written by  Norm Rourke, freelance author from Beggs. Ok., who stopped over in Brownsville a couple of weeks ago. We're thankful to him for his kind words and sharing his writings with us.

A scene from the August Concert on the Porch. "His Voice" is performing.

Where the Real America Lives 
Returning from a trip to East Tennessee, we stopped overnight in Brownsville; a small town of 10,000 or so, but with the heart and friendliness found only in Small Town America.

After getting settled, we wandered about outside. Across from our motel, we noticed folks gathering with their lawn chairs in the parking lot behind the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center. As a former reporter and still freelance writer (and being nosy), I wandered down the street to see if I could find out what was going on.

Following introductions we heard music…real, down home music. Old time, never-to-be-forgotten Baptist gospel music was being belted out like we’d not heard in many years. We stayed back out of the way behind the seated group tapping our toes and my wife even sang along (My singing would quickly chase everyone away!).

“I remember those songs mom used to sing,” she said.

Folks invited us to sit, but we had been sitting and driving so long it felt good just to stand. A young man at a table offered us bottles of water. Another lady came up and asked where we were from (Oklahoma). Smiles, greetings and friendliness poured forth. We felt like we belonged.

We were invited to tour the heritage center and had planned to do so, but we thought it was closed. There we met a lady whose name unfortunately I’ve forgotten (sorry) who gave us a brief tour and explanation of the various venues. I gave her my business card and later Sonia Outlaw-Clark, director of the center came out and introduced herself. She provided more information about the center, Brownsville and suggestions for sights. We told her we were leaving the next day to continue our return home, but we might squeeze in a quick trip downtown to the square (I like small town squares with their classic court houses).

While touring the Heritage Center, we learned of Sleepy John Estes and other early day bluesmen. We learned that Tina Turner was born not far away—one of my most favorite entertainers! We saw the school she attended that was to be refurbished and placed on display.

The next day before leaving we did make a quick trip to the town square and in the process were able to help a man changing a tire for an elderly lady. Actually, he had pretty well finished before I finally figured out which way to go around the square and could only offer a little last minute help. More friendliness thanks and “have a safe trip home.” We also saw the Mind Field sculpture…what a sight (I mean that positively). It’s hard to get pictures of it all.

As I listened, learned and talked with some of the folks in Brownsville, it was clear this was America at its best. And these are the folks who are the backbone of this great country. No matter which political party they support, no matter the color of their skin, no matter what church they attend, they are all what makes America great.

I thought how sad it was that politicians could not experience this brief visit as we had. If they did, they would see what makes America great. These were not fast talking manipulative hucksters. They were not special interest groups seeking power and influence and wealth.

No, these Brownsville folks were ordinary people enjoying an evening of music and friendship and sharing it with a couple of strangers who were just passing through.

Thank you Brownsville for reminding us there are still good and decent folks in our country. And thank you for sharing your kindness, smiles, handshakes and pride of your town. I don’t know when or if we’ll be back, but the memory of our pleasant short visit washed away some of the weariness of the road.

God bless you all!
Norm & Connie Rourke
Beggs, Oklahoma

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

The Whatif Monster Comes to Brownsville

Michelle Nelson-Schmidt

On Tuesday, August 28, children’s author/illustrator Michelle Nelson-Schmidt will visit the students and faculty of Haywood Elementary School in Brownsville, Tenn., kicking off her first week of school visits for the 2012/13 school year. Nelson-Schmidt will be reading and sharing from her newest book, Jonathan James and the Whatif Monster. 

Traveling with her is a very hairy green and worrisome Whatif Monster who communicates his thoughts by whispering them to Nelson-Schmidt, who then relays them to the students.

“In general, my presentation has a lot to do with hard work, perseverance and following your dreams!  I love what I do and I want to encourage everyone I meet to find their special and unique talent whatever it may be and go after it with everything you’ve got!  The World needs you to,” says Nelson-Schmidt.

An experienced speaker, she inspires students with personal stories and shares her artwork while actively engaging her audience.

Following art school, Nelson-Schmidt spent 10 years working as a graphic designer for Georgia Perimeter College. During this time she began painting pet portraits as a creative outlet and selling her work at local festivals.

After painting animal portraits for about seven years, Nelson-Schmidt began creating her picture books, Dogs, Dogs!and Cats, Cats! Since publication in September 2011, both books made children’s book publisher Kane Miller’s Top 25 best-sellers list, selling more than 3,500 of each title in just three months.

About her newest title she said, “I thought, ‘There is still a lesson to be learned from the Whatif monster. Why don’t I let him come to life and teach that lesson himself?’” 

While Jonathan James and the Whatif Monster is geared toward children, Nelson-Schmidt said it deals with two emotions everyone can relate to: fear and anxiety.

If you would like your own autographed copy of Jonathan James and the Whatif Monster, contact Haywood Elementary School ((731) 772-0732) no later than Wednesday, August 29.  All purchases will benefit the school’s library.

You can get to know Michelle Nelson-Schmidt by visiting her web site at www.michellepaints.com

Monday, April 9, 2012

Court Square closed to traffic next 2 weekends


PLEASE PARDON OUR PROGRESS!
Streets Closed! Businesses Will Be Open!
In order to make some necessary repairs to the pedestrian walkway project around Court Square, the City and TDOT will close all access to the Square over a period of two weekends in April:

Friday, April 13th 6:00 p.m. until 
Monday, April 16th 7:00 a.m.

Friday, April 20th 6:00 p.m. until 
Monday, April 23rd 7:00 a.m.

The streets around Court Square will be fully open and operational during the weekdays, and we hope to keep the inconvenience to a minimum for all downtown merchants and property owners.   

Weekend traffic will be detoured from Main Street to College Street via Jackson and Wilson Avenues.  We apologize for any inconvenience this causes, but these repairs are necessary for the long term stability and beautification of our Court Square.


Please call City Hall @ 731.772.1212 with any questions.  

Remember, although the street will be closed, Brownsville court square businesses will be open during regular business hours.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Free Meal Opportunity for 18 and under


Brownsville/Haywood County (TN) Parks & Recreation Department announces its sponsorship of the 2012 Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), which is administered in Tennessee by the Department of Human Services under an agreement with the Department of Agriculture (USDA). 


Meals will be provided to all children 18 and under, without charge. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability. 


Any and all persons interested in participating may call the Parks & Recreation Office at (731) 772-6693 or come by 100 Boyd Avenue for more information.  

This announcement is not for Summer Camp registration.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Haywood Park wins Excellence Award


Haywood Park Community Hospital earns an 
EXCELLENCE THROUGH INSIGHT Award for Overall Physician Satisfaction 

Haywood Park Community Hospital, Brownsville, Tenn.,  was recently recognized with an Excellence through Insight award for “Overall Physician Satisfaction” by HealthStream, Inc. (NASDAQ: HSTM).  A formal presentation of the award was made during HealthStream’s customer Summit 2012, March 8, 2012, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Haywood Park Community Hospital was awarded this honor for its commitment to excellence in medical staff satisfaction.  To qualify for an award, a hospital must have been a medical staff satisfaction client of HealthStream in 2011, and scored at least in the 75thpercentile or higher.  Haywood Park Community Hospital was chosen for receiving the highest ratings in the medical staff satisfaction from among HealthStream’s clients, as well as exceeding industry standards.

HealthStream CEO Robert A. Frist, Jr., said “We applaud Haywood Park Community Hospital’s high-level commitment to excellence in healthcare – and we are pleased to recognize their achievement through our presentation of an Excellence through Insight award.” 

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Decorating Contest Winners Announced

Every year the Brownsville Business Association sponsors a Holiday Decorating contest for businesses. This year they also included homes. Here are the winners. They were all presented their cash prized at the Annual Christmas Parade on December 3.
1st Place - Business Category
Lock, Stock & Barrel, on the Square ... Santa knows he can find something for the person who has everything when he shops here.
2nd Place - Business Category
The place where Santa buys all his herbal teas and special oils and lotions ... All That's Victoria, on the Square. 

3rd Place - Business Category
This is how Santa can make sure all those gifts get to the right place by Christmas . He ships from  The Computer Patch, on the Square.

1st Place - Home Category
David Markowski, on Coburn Road, invites everyone out to view his acres of Christmas Lights.

2nd Place - Home Category
A long time tradition in Brownsville is to ride down Rooks Drive and see the Christmas Wonderland created by Jim Williams. 

Here are the winners right after receiving their cash prizes at the Brownsville Christmas Parade December 3, 2011. From left, Vickie Cooper of All That's Victoria, Amy Spotts of The Computer Patch, David Markowsi and Jim Williams. not pictured Albert & Paulette Campbell of Lock, Stock & Barrel.


Friday, November 25, 2011

Billy King to sign new book at Delta Heritage Center Open House

Billy King
Billy King
Historian & Author

Mr. Billy King is one of my favorite persons. I love the fun he has with history and learning all he can about the area encompassed by the Big Black Creek Historical Association. And now, Mr. Billy has written a book, "Big Black Creek, Vol. 1" It's a timeline of the history and people of the Big Black Creek area. It's an easy read and full of historical facts and some very interesting character. In his fun Mr. Billy-style, there are some witty observations, too. 

You'll love this book. Cost is only $10 and all that money goes to the Big Black Creek Historical Association and it's efforts to preserve and protect. And you don't want to miss the opportunity for Mr. Billy to sign a personal copy for you.

He will be at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center Sunday, December 4, at 2 p.m. to share some of his stories and to autograph books. It's a public event and everyone is welcome. There'll also be some yummy refreshments, too.

Here's more about the book:

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Trick or Treat with Me a Huge Success

This year marked the fourth year for Brownsville businesses to offer Trick or Treat with Me; and it was the biggest by far. Reports came in of over 1,000 kids in the downtown area between 4 - 7 p.m. Adding to this year's excitement was the addition of a remote broadcast by Brownsville Radio of the event and the donation of Trick or Treat bags by Insouth Bank and Brownsville Utilities. But probably the most popular addition was a  Charity Trunk or Treat in the Brownsville Funeral Home parking lot where area residents were asked to set-up and pass out candy from the backs of their vehicles. Also on site was a huge bouncy house and slide obstacle course. Each vehicle payed a small fee with proceeds going to the March of Dimes. Special thanks to all the merchants and residents who participated and made Halloween a real  "treat" for Haywood County children this year!

Here are some of the fun pictures taken by Brownsville Radio's Carlton Veirs.



Polly the Panda made a guest appearance at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center for Trick or Treat with Me.  The staff had a great time dressing up and greeting all the kid's.
Trick or Treat with Me is presented annually by the Brownsville Business Association.

Monday, October 31, 2011

4th Annual Holiday in Haywood November 11-12

Shoppers at Holiday in Haywood will have lots to choose from this year, including personalized items such as coffee mugs, license plates, t-shirts and ornaments. The annual event will take place November 11-12, at the National Guard Armory in Brownsville, Tenn.

Those looking for special bargains and unique holiday gift items will have the perfect opportunity during the 4th Annual Holiday in Haywood 2-day shopping mart planned for November 11-12, in Brownsville, Tenn. “Holiday in Haywood” will feature over 25 retail and specialty merchants all under one roof and offering a variety of items perfect for your holiday gift giving. The event will take place at the National Guard Armory located at 221 Morgan Street.

New to this year’s event is the addition of Breakfast with Santa Saturday at 9 a.m. Hosted by First South Bank, tickets are $10 per child and include breakfast, a visit with Santa and an activity with Santa. All proceeds from the breakfast will benefit the March of Dimes.

Families, individuals and groups are invited to have their Christmas portrait taken by a professional photographer Saturday. Appointments are encouraged to minimize wait time. Call Laura Bailey at 731-617-0535. Portraits will be available in time for gift giving or holiday cards. Pet portraits will also be taken.

“Last year over 1,000 people came through the doors during the event,” says Monica Bivens, Holiday in Haywood coordinator. “This year we’re expecting even more.”

Doors will open Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m., giving shoppers plenty of time to make their choices. The Haywood High School Show Choir, along with other regional artists, will entertain shoppers during the evening hours.

Saturday at 11 a.m., the Haywood High School Cheerleaders will present a Fashion Show featuring items from participating retailers.

“The response from retailers has been wonderful,” explains Bivens, “and we are very confident in the variety and quality of the items that will be available.”

Among the many items for sale will be handmade quilts, handcrafted jewelry, all natural soaps and lotions, candles, homemade pies, cakes and other culinary goodies, roasted nuts, ladies and children’s clothing, toys and books, wood-crafted items and much more. There will also be a large selection of personalized gift items available including on-site monogramming.

“Holiday in Haywood” is sponsored annually by the Brownsville Business Association. For more information about the event contact Bivens at 731-772-4042, or visit www.ShopBrownsvilleTN.com.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Haywood County Earns Three-Star Certification

Haywood County's Three-Star Award was presented during the Governor's ECD Conference held September 22-23, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn. On hand to accept the award from Governor Bill Haslam are (from left) ECD Southwest Regional Director Cary Vaughn, Brownsville Alderman John Simmons, Brownsville Mayor Jo Matherne, Commissioner Hagerty, Governor Haslam, Brownsville Vice-Mayor Carolyn Flagg, WT Delta Heritage Center Director Sonia Outlaw-Clark and Brownsville Alderman Leon King.

Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty recently announced that Haywood County has achieved certification under the state’s Three-Star program for excellence in economic development.

 “Our goal is to create a business friendly climate that gives companies the confidence to invest and expand in Tennessee,” Hagerty said.  “Solid community development is a crucial aspect in this process by providing the foundation needed for successful economic development.” Haywood County is now eligible to receive additional incentives under the guidelines of the Tennessee Three-Star program.

In order to receive the certification, communities are required to meet criteria in planning, leadership, community, business and education and work force development categories. Incentives for receiving the certification include identification on all FastTrack infrastructure and job training applications; eligibility for matching grants, if criteria set by ECD are met; earning points in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program; assistance from ECD’s regional field staff and the sharing of “best practices” in community development; and the establishment of a strategic plan that is updated annually with measurable goals, specific actions, responsible parties and a timeline.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

City Reviews “Brownsville on the Move” Planning Framework

Representatives of the University of Memphis Graduate Program in City and Regional Planning appeared before the Brownsville City Planning Commission at the request of Mayor Jo Matherne on Thursday, September 21, 2011 to present a detailed outline of the City’s comprehensive plan.

 The primary purpose of the presentation was to receive input on the plan’s overall development goal, improvement objectives, and action strategies from the City Planning Commission before the final draft of the completed plan is presented to the public, City Planning Commission, and Board of Aldermen review, comment, and vote.

 U of M Professors Ken Reardon, Laura Saija, and David Westendorff gave a thirty minute presentation.  The University’s planning recommendations were based upon twelve months of research that included the analysis of past plans; a review of US Census data; interviews with more than forty local business, civic, and religious leaders; focus groups involving small business owners, corporate human resource managers, pastors, high school students, and Latino/a citizens; telephone interviews with more than 320 residents; and a series of open community forums and a city-wide planning summit in which more than 250 Brownvillians participated.

Seeking to build upon the City’s many strengths, the overall goal for the Brownsville on the Move Comprehensive Plan is to:  

Position Brownsville as West Tennessee’s most desirable city recognized for its natural beauty, rich cultural history, artistic attractions and musical heritage, abundant agriculture, exceptional architecture and unique town square, quality public services, faith-based traditions, and love of learning, with a central location with the metropolitan region bounded by the scenic Hatchie River – a thriving community where small town values, quality of life, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit are honored daily”.

Following the City Planning Commission’s discussion of the overall development goal, Professor Reardon outlined seven community improvement objectives local residents, area businessmen, civic leaders, elected officials, and their allies would have to achieve to reach the above stated goal. Among these were the following improvement objectives:

1.)    To preserve and enhance the city’s public spaces and built environment through the skillful application of advanced urban design principles and methods.
2.)    To strengthen the city’s economic and tax base by expanding local employment, entrepreneurial, and investment opportunities for current and future residents and business owners.
3.)    To improve residents’ overall health and wellness by improving access to the city’s many natural areas through a proposed greenway system that will improve storm water management while connecting Brownsville to the Hatchie River and the region’s ever expanding urban trails system.
4.)    To enhance the city’s competitive position within the region and nation through strategic investment in public education, arts, and culture, to make the city a place where lifelong learning opportunities are tied to the city’s ongoing community revitalization efforts.
5.)    To develop the city as a destination for those seeking access to a wide range of recreational opportunities and tourist attractions and events.
6.)    To promote a balanced approach to transportation that enhances access and choice by giving serious attention to walking, biking, driving and public transit alternatives.
7.)    To insure housing choice and security for current and future City residents by promoting creative approaches to housing that includes preservation and infill in established neighborhoods as well as new high quality housing development

 A copy of the preliminary planning framework is currently available for review and comment on the Brownville on the Move website: www.brownsvilleonthemove.com. Local residents, business owners, civic leaders, and elected officials are invited to share their reactions to the plan as well as their suggestions for improving it by emailing Professor Ken Reardon at kreardon@memphis.edu by October 15th. The U of M faculty working on the plan expects to finish the final draft of the plan in time before the next meeting of the City Planning Commission in late October.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Chamber of Commerce announces new Board of Directors


The Brownsville Haywood County Chamber of Commerce recently announced its 2011-12 Chamber Board of Directors. Pictured are Natalie Lane, Emma Delk, Tammy Neal, Carolyn Flagg, Mayor Franklin Smith, Lee Berry, Hayden Hooper, Della Ligon, Diane Hooper, Sonia Outlaw-Clark, Joe Stephens, Bob Wallis, Jody Lea, Robert Morgan Wilde, Richard Carraway, Albert Campbell, Jeremy Gray, Clinton Neal and Chamber Director Joe Ing.

Bob Wallis will serve as Chamber President. Newly elected members are Joe Stephens, Robert Morgan-Wilde, Lee Berry, Diane Hooper, Della Ligon, Jeremy Gray and Sonia Outlaw-Clark.

New Photo ID Requirements for Voting in Elections

 Beginning January 1, 2012, all voters must present an ID, meeting the requirements below, containing the voter’s name and photograph, whether voting early or on Election Day. These requirements DO NOT apply to elections in 2011.

Any of the following IDs may be used, even if expired:
Tennessee drivers license with your photo,
United States Passport,
Department of Safety photo ID
Photo ID issued by the federal or state government, such as an employee ID from the U.S. Department of Energy with your photo,
United States Military photo ID, including a Veteran Identification Card, or
State-issued handgun carry permit card with your photo

What forms of photo ID are NOT acceptable?
A college student photo ID
A photo ID not issued by the federal or state government, such as your discount club or bank card with your photo

Who is exempt?
Voters who vote absentee by mail (view requirements at http://www.tn.gov/sos/election/bymail.htm)
Voters who are residents in a licensed nursing home or assisted living center and who vote at the facility
Voters who are hospitalized
Voters with a religious objection to being photographed
Voters who are indigent and unable to obtain a photo ID without paying a fee

What if I don’t bring a photo ID to the polling place?
If you don’t bring a photo ID, you will vote a provisional ballot.
You will then have until two (2) business days after Election Day to return to the election commission office to show a valid photo ID.

What if I don’t have a photo ID?
You may obtain a free photo ID to vote from the Department of Safety at any participating driver service center across the state. You will need a voter registration card, proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate), and two proofs of Tennessee residency (such as a copy of a utility bill, vehicle registration/title, or bank statement).
If you do not have a photo on your driver’s license and no other form of valid photo ID, the Department of Safety will reissue your license with your photo for free upon request.
You may use the “express service” line at the driver service center to obtain your photo ID to minimize wait times.
NOTE: If you already have a valid government-issued photo ID, the Department of Safety will not issue a free photo ID to you.
Visit the Dept. of Safety website at http://www.tn.gov/safety/photoids.shtml for more information.

Where can I find out more information?
Call or visit your county election commission, or

Please notify your county election commission if your address changes. Contact the Haywood County Election Commission at 731-772-1760.