pages 10-9.indd
BEAUTIFUL STORAGE SOLUTIONS
Twin City Barns, Inc. 1196 N. Main - Dyer
Ph: 731-665-6166
Fax: 731-665-7601
CUSTOM STORAGE BARNS
THE
VOL. 121, NO. 41
School chiefs complain to Haslam Governor supports commissioner’s “dynamic energy” BY STEVE SHORT Several Gibson Co. school superintendents joined about 50 other directors from around the state in September, signing a letter to Gov. Bill Haslam and state lawmakers criticizing Com. of Education Kevin Huffman and pleading to have an active voice in decisions at the state level. But Gov. Haslam responded by supporting Huffman, saying he has brought “dynamic energy” to education reform in Tennessee. The letter criticizing the “office of the Commissioner” was written by Dan Lawson, director of Tullahoma City Schools. It attracted support during a state conference of school directors in Gatlinburg. 56 superintendents eventually signed on to the letter with Lawson. see page 3
TRI-CITY REPORTER WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2013
DYER, TENNESSEE
Discovery Park set to open Nov. 1 Sitting in a cornfield in the middle of rural northwest, Tennessee is the nation’s newest attraction. Opening November 1, 2013, Discovery Park of America was founded by local residents Robert and Jenny Kirkland. It’s a $100 million dollar project, offering jobs to hundreds of people for the past five years. The reason that Discovery Park of America is sitting in the middle of a cornfield in Union City, TN is because of the vision of these native Obion Countians. “We have been blessed, and see it as a mission to bring this exceptional educational experience to this area. But, learning should never be boring, so one of the goals of Discovery Park is to entertain and delight our guests, while providing information about history, science, art and the area in which we live,” Kirkland explained. “Our tag line, ‘See
Beyond’ pretty much sums it up. We want people to see beyond their current level of knowledge and to have the opportunity to see and experience things at Discovery Park that they might otherwise not have.” And, people will see beyond at Discovery Park. From the 120-foot look-out tower, providing a 360 degree view of this rural farmland, to an amazing Starship Theater where guests will ‘blast off’ into outer space to experience a realistic space voyage experience; there are opportunities to play, learn and see beyond around every corner. The 50-acre complex boasts an entertaining ‘grounds-and-garden’ experience, as well as an iconic 100,000 square foot Discovery Center featuring ten learning galleries. “Discovery Park is unique…there’s no place like it anywhere,” Rippy said. The Discovery see page 3
DISCOVERY PARK TO OPEN NOV. 1 Discovery Park of America is set to open on November 1st in Union CIty. The $100 million project will offer a unique learning experience for all ages.
Davy Days Begin
Mother faked son’s cancer, says TBI The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation today arrested a Gibson County mother who solicited funds for her family saying her son has cancer, when in fact, he does not have the disease. Jamie Decker, 35, of Medina, Tenn. was arrested today and charged with one count of theft over $10,000. The 28th Jamie Decker Judicial District Attorney General requested TBI investigate allegations last month that Decker was fraudulently soliciting money from individuals through the media and social media saying that her 11-year-old son Chance Houlihan had cancer. Doctors who treated Houlihan determined that he does not have cancer, but suffers from care giver abuse at the hands of his mother. Decker has made statements that since 2008 she has been making up the story that her son suffered from cancer to raise money for her family. TBI determined at least $10,000 in donations were made see page 3
$1.00
OPENING CEREMONY - Continuing a 20-year tradition, Rutherford Elementary School students sang a medley of songs for the 46th Annual Davy Crockett Days opening ceremony held Sunday at the cabin. Students from kindergarten through fourth grade sang ‘The Ballad of Davy Crockett’ as well as children’s favorites and patriotic songs. See page 14 for more photos.
Rutherford kicks off 46th annual Davy Crockett Days BY CINDY EAST Davy Crockett Days got off to a good start on Sunday, October 6th with the opening ceremony held at the Davy Crockett Cabin/Museum. Alan Abbott welcomed the crowd to the 46th annual celebration of the famous frontiersman. Brother Hobert Walker led the prayer followed by remarks from Mayor Larry Davidson. He said, “It is a privilege to be part of this town, this community and the 46th Annual Davy Crockett Days. I’d like to thank Alan, the Davy Crockett committee and all the volunteers for all you have done. I hope all of you here will participate in as many activities as you can.” Several local officials attended the opening including State Representative Curtis Halford, Judge Clayburn Peeples, County Mayor Tom Witherspoon and Sheriff Chuck Arnold. Halford said, “I’d like to extend congratulations to the committee and all involved. The job they do is to be commended. I always look forward to a fun time and know it will be a good week.” Judge Peeples said, “I am the circuit judge for three counties and there are lots of festivals. I’ve celebrated everything from chitterlings to coon dogs but there are none that are more fun than Davy Crockett Days.” Mayor Witherspoon said, “Is everybody fired up about Davy Crockett Days!?! When I was a kid
growing up in Rutherford there were three things my brothers and I got excited about: Christmas, the Gibson County Fair and Davy Crockett Days. It is a time of community togetherness. It was always a good time for us growing up in Rutherford.” Sheriff Arnold said, “ I encourage you as you go through this week the remember family and friends. Also, remember the one who made us. Remember those who protect us. Enjoy the week and a have a safe one as you celebrate Davy Crockett.” The Dyer Boy Scout Troop #243 raised the flag and led in the Pledge of Allegiance. Tori Abbott sang the National Anthem. Rutherford Elementary School children entertained the crowd with a medley of songs including ‘The Ballad of Davy Crockett.’ Retired teacher Addie Rose Brelsford has taught the songs to the children and has led the singing at the opening ceremony for 20 years with the help of Teresa Fuqua. She thanked all the children, their parents, Fuqua and Rutherford School. Grand Marshals J.W. and Marie King were introduced. Also attending were ladies from the James Buckley Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The winners of the fall decorating contest were announced by Kasey Harris. In the business see page 3
Dyer board approves pay raises, attorney resignation The City of Dyer Board of Mayor and Alderpersons met in regular session, Monday, September 23, 2013. Among the topics discussed were pay increases for some city employees, correcting a sewer problem, awarding the bid for a submersible pump and the resignation of the city’s attorney. Those present for the meeting were Mayor Chris Younger, Alderpersons Judy Baker, Richard Reed, Belinda Oliver, Michael Barron, Robert Johnson, Bitsy Gilliland, Joe Gathings, and Marilyn Williamson. City Attorney Jennifer Deen-McEwen was present. Public Safety Committee Chairperson Baker see page 2
Two-vehicle accident occurs on St. Route 5 Dyer Patrolmen Ken Casey and Sgt. David Paschall were dispatched to a two-vehicle accident with injuries on Thursday, October 3rd at the intersection of State Route 5 (4-lane) and Orr Road. Kenneth Harris, driver of 2011 Ford F150 was traveling east on Orr Road. Harris stopped then proceeded across State Route 5 when his vehicle collided with a 2012 Volkswagon driven by Josh Long who was traveling south on State Route 5. Long was not required to stop. Long was carrying two passengers in his vehicle; Dana Johnson and a minor child. The front end of Long’s vehicle struck the see page 3
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1
Twin City Barns, Inc. 1196 N. Main - Dyer
Ph: 731-665-6166
Fax: 731-665-7601
CUSTOM STORAGE BARNS
THE
VOL. 121, NO. 41
School chiefs complain to Haslam Governor supports commissioner’s “dynamic energy” BY STEVE SHORT Several Gibson Co. school superintendents joined about 50 other directors from around the state in September, signing a letter to Gov. Bill Haslam and state lawmakers criticizing Com. of Education Kevin Huffman and pleading to have an active voice in decisions at the state level. But Gov. Haslam responded by supporting Huffman, saying he has brought “dynamic energy” to education reform in Tennessee. The letter criticizing the “office of the Commissioner” was written by Dan Lawson, director of Tullahoma City Schools. It attracted support during a state conference of school directors in Gatlinburg. 56 superintendents eventually signed on to the letter with Lawson. see page 3
TRI-CITY REPORTER WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2013
DYER, TENNESSEE
Discovery Park set to open Nov. 1 Sitting in a cornfield in the middle of rural northwest, Tennessee is the nation’s newest attraction. Opening November 1, 2013, Discovery Park of America was founded by local residents Robert and Jenny Kirkland. It’s a $100 million dollar project, offering jobs to hundreds of people for the past five years. The reason that Discovery Park of America is sitting in the middle of a cornfield in Union City, TN is because of the vision of these native Obion Countians. “We have been blessed, and see it as a mission to bring this exceptional educational experience to this area. But, learning should never be boring, so one of the goals of Discovery Park is to entertain and delight our guests, while providing information about history, science, art and the area in which we live,” Kirkland explained. “Our tag line, ‘See
Beyond’ pretty much sums it up. We want people to see beyond their current level of knowledge and to have the opportunity to see and experience things at Discovery Park that they might otherwise not have.” And, people will see beyond at Discovery Park. From the 120-foot look-out tower, providing a 360 degree view of this rural farmland, to an amazing Starship Theater where guests will ‘blast off’ into outer space to experience a realistic space voyage experience; there are opportunities to play, learn and see beyond around every corner. The 50-acre complex boasts an entertaining ‘grounds-and-garden’ experience, as well as an iconic 100,000 square foot Discovery Center featuring ten learning galleries. “Discovery Park is unique…there’s no place like it anywhere,” Rippy said. The Discovery see page 3
DISCOVERY PARK TO OPEN NOV. 1 Discovery Park of America is set to open on November 1st in Union CIty. The $100 million project will offer a unique learning experience for all ages.
Davy Days Begin
Mother faked son’s cancer, says TBI The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation today arrested a Gibson County mother who solicited funds for her family saying her son has cancer, when in fact, he does not have the disease. Jamie Decker, 35, of Medina, Tenn. was arrested today and charged with one count of theft over $10,000. The 28th Jamie Decker Judicial District Attorney General requested TBI investigate allegations last month that Decker was fraudulently soliciting money from individuals through the media and social media saying that her 11-year-old son Chance Houlihan had cancer. Doctors who treated Houlihan determined that he does not have cancer, but suffers from care giver abuse at the hands of his mother. Decker has made statements that since 2008 she has been making up the story that her son suffered from cancer to raise money for her family. TBI determined at least $10,000 in donations were made see page 3
$1.00
OPENING CEREMONY - Continuing a 20-year tradition, Rutherford Elementary School students sang a medley of songs for the 46th Annual Davy Crockett Days opening ceremony held Sunday at the cabin. Students from kindergarten through fourth grade sang ‘The Ballad of Davy Crockett’ as well as children’s favorites and patriotic songs. See page 14 for more photos.
Rutherford kicks off 46th annual Davy Crockett Days BY CINDY EAST Davy Crockett Days got off to a good start on Sunday, October 6th with the opening ceremony held at the Davy Crockett Cabin/Museum. Alan Abbott welcomed the crowd to the 46th annual celebration of the famous frontiersman. Brother Hobert Walker led the prayer followed by remarks from Mayor Larry Davidson. He said, “It is a privilege to be part of this town, this community and the 46th Annual Davy Crockett Days. I’d like to thank Alan, the Davy Crockett committee and all the volunteers for all you have done. I hope all of you here will participate in as many activities as you can.” Several local officials attended the opening including State Representative Curtis Halford, Judge Clayburn Peeples, County Mayor Tom Witherspoon and Sheriff Chuck Arnold. Halford said, “I’d like to extend congratulations to the committee and all involved. The job they do is to be commended. I always look forward to a fun time and know it will be a good week.” Judge Peeples said, “I am the circuit judge for three counties and there are lots of festivals. I’ve celebrated everything from chitterlings to coon dogs but there are none that are more fun than Davy Crockett Days.” Mayor Witherspoon said, “Is everybody fired up about Davy Crockett Days!?! When I was a kid
growing up in Rutherford there were three things my brothers and I got excited about: Christmas, the Gibson County Fair and Davy Crockett Days. It is a time of community togetherness. It was always a good time for us growing up in Rutherford.” Sheriff Arnold said, “ I encourage you as you go through this week the remember family and friends. Also, remember the one who made us. Remember those who protect us. Enjoy the week and a have a safe one as you celebrate Davy Crockett.” The Dyer Boy Scout Troop #243 raised the flag and led in the Pledge of Allegiance. Tori Abbott sang the National Anthem. Rutherford Elementary School children entertained the crowd with a medley of songs including ‘The Ballad of Davy Crockett.’ Retired teacher Addie Rose Brelsford has taught the songs to the children and has led the singing at the opening ceremony for 20 years with the help of Teresa Fuqua. She thanked all the children, their parents, Fuqua and Rutherford School. Grand Marshals J.W. and Marie King were introduced. Also attending were ladies from the James Buckley Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The winners of the fall decorating contest were announced by Kasey Harris. In the business see page 3
Dyer board approves pay raises, attorney resignation The City of Dyer Board of Mayor and Alderpersons met in regular session, Monday, September 23, 2013. Among the topics discussed were pay increases for some city employees, correcting a sewer problem, awarding the bid for a submersible pump and the resignation of the city’s attorney. Those present for the meeting were Mayor Chris Younger, Alderpersons Judy Baker, Richard Reed, Belinda Oliver, Michael Barron, Robert Johnson, Bitsy Gilliland, Joe Gathings, and Marilyn Williamson. City Attorney Jennifer Deen-McEwen was present. Public Safety Committee Chairperson Baker see page 2
Two-vehicle accident occurs on St. Route 5 Dyer Patrolmen Ken Casey and Sgt. David Paschall were dispatched to a two-vehicle accident with injuries on Thursday, October 3rd at the intersection of State Route 5 (4-lane) and Orr Road. Kenneth Harris, driver of 2011 Ford F150 was traveling east on Orr Road. Harris stopped then proceeded across State Route 5 when his vehicle collided with a 2012 Volkswagon driven by Josh Long who was traveling south on State Route 5. Long was not required to stop. Long was carrying two passengers in his vehicle; Dana Johnson and a minor child. The front end of Long’s vehicle struck the see page 3
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