Our Small Town is Recognized as Awesome

6/13/2024 (Permalink)

Paris, TN, which is the home base for SERVPRO of Henry, Benton, Humphries, & Hickman Counties, has been named one of "50 most charming small towns in America" by HGTV.  

They have described our pleasant hometown as follows: "Home to a 70-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower, Paris, TN draws visitors to its historic district and winery. It's also known for hosting the World's Biggest Fish Fry where the town serves more than five tons of catfish every year. Reel in your own catch at Paris Landing State Park, shown here, or golf, swim and camp."

There are many great attractions our town is able to offer the tens of thousands of visitors we host throughout the year and couldn't be more proud to be a part of such a "charming" community.

https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/travel/50-of-the-most-charming-small-towns-in-america-pictures

We Love Being a Part of the Community

6/13/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Henry, Benton, Humphries, & Hickman Counties

April is a huge time in Henry County (Paris, TN) as we celebrate the World's Biggest Fish Fry at the end of the month.  This is a widely recognized event as over 90,000 people (from at least 12 different states) visit the fish tent at the fairgrounds where they enjoy the over 12,000 pounds of catfish that is cooked during the week.  

The week is capped off with a Community wide parade that lasts over 2 hours from start to finish.  The whole town shuts down and when I say the whole town shuts down, you have to drive to a different town if you want to do any banking that day because nothing is open, not even the banks.

SERVPRO of Henry County loves to participate in the parade.  This year we blew up over 400 ballons to decorate our float with big 'ol ballon arches.  Our team made a great turn out and represented our company well!  

https://www.radionwtn.com/2024/05/06/statistics-show-fish-fry-was-bigger-better-this-year/

National Have Fun at Work Day

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

January 28, 2021

Our SERVPRO of LBL South community is like a family. We enjoy each other’s company and strive to make the workplace a fun, family, and friendly atmosphere. January 18^th is National Have Fun at Workday. What better way to celebrate then to have a little friendly competition? This morning during our daily WIP (work in progress) meeting, we decided to do a word search that included many keywords that we use often in the world of restoration and mitigation. The first one finished was the winner of some new cool SERVPRO swag! SERVPRO of LBL South is always accepting applications! Looking to join the family?

Contact SERVPRO of LBL South to find your next career move at 731-642-1284.

Community Service during Covid-19

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Although the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, our nation is still going through changes in order to create a 'new normal.' These changes have affected many things, including opportunities for community service. Are you wondering what you can do to still help your community during this pandemic? In these trying times it can be hard for people to still feel like they are helping and being a part of the community. However, there still are ways to get involved, during these trying times. A fun idea for offices and individuals is to send cards to nursing homes, and those individuals that are stuck in isolation. Its an easy and cheap way to get involved with helping others and is fun for all ages. Many nursing homes have residents that are looking for PenPals to help with the loneliness of being in isolation. The CDC stated that “there is no evidence at this time that Covid-19 is being spread through the mail.” This means that this is a safe way for individuals to bring light to people’s life and participate in the community.

Check with the local nursing homes to see if they are accepting letters for their residents! If your local nursing homes are not looking for letters currently, check out the website below that has some locations looking to receive them! It is great to find a PenPal with similar interests, or maybe just share a message that can brighten their day!

Sending Cards to Nursing Home

2021 World's Biggest Fish Fry ... Not Canceled Yet!

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

January 29, 2021

Paris, TN; home of SERVPRO of LBL South, and home of The World’s Biggest Fish Fry. SERVPRO of LBL South was the main sponsor for the Fish Fry last year, however it ended up canceled. SERVPRO is hoping the Fish Fry will be able to happen this year so we can sponsor such a well-loved community event.

The World’s Biggest Fish Fry is a premier event for Paris – Henry County and West Tennessee. The last full week of April annually attracts people locally as well as nationally. Visitors come from across the country to enjoy the festivities.

The whole festival revolves around the “Fish Tent” whereby last account over 12,500 pounds of catfish is served with all the trimmings. In addition to all you can eat catfish you will find parades, carnival, rodeos, catfish races, dances, arts, and crafts to name a few. Events begin early in February with beauty pageants leading up to the weeklong celebration.

The “Fish Fry” as everyone calls it around here evolved from “Mule Day”, which originated in 1938 with the Paris Post Intelligencer as the first sponsor. Farmers came to town on the first Monday in April to trade their mules and other farm products, do their shopping and enjoy the fellowship of their friends. Early in the 1950’s the Chamber of Commerce took over “Mule Day” complete with a parade and beauty queens. When the tractor began to replace the mules the Chamber of Commerce contemplated another event to replace “Mule Day”.

In 1953, the Chamber of Commerce held the first “Fish Fry”. The event was not as successful as hoped. The fish were not from Kentucky Lake and just did not live up to the palates of the fish eating public. The parade was short, and the event was held on the high school football field for one day and night.

In 1961 the Paris-Henry County Jaycees (Junior Chamber of Commerce) took over the “Fish Fry” from the Chamber of Commerce.

Since 1961 and thanks to the Paris-Henry County Jaycees the festival has grown unbelievably from 1,600 pounds of catfish cooked to over 5 tons of catfish and a two-hour grand parade.

An article was released a few weeks ago stating that no decision has been made yet for the Fish Fry this year. It is not cancelled, but the organizers are doing their best to make sure all safety precautions can be handled so that the event can still be put on! In this recent article, Plunk said, “We felt we needed to get the word out there that we are thinking about it and we want everyone to know as last year we want to make sure people are safe and we are doing what is right.” Check out the full article below.

2021 World's Biggest Fish Fry Not Cancelled

Sweet Jordan's Coffee Shop

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Megan, Sales & Marketing Representative, enjoying a Boba Tea and a Breakfast Croissant Sandwich.

January 25, 2021

Here at SERVPRO of LBL South our team often works long hours. This all comes with working for a 24/7, 365 days a year essential business. Water and fire damage emergencies do not always happen during typical 9 to 5 hours. People often wonder the secret to working in such a demanding and unpredictable business…. COFFEE! Our office is a firm believer in coffee and caffeine. Luckily, our office is in Paris, TN, home of the small-town coffee shop known as Sweet Jordan’s. Sweet Jordan’s is a coffee shop that employs people with special needs. “…its goal has been to provide a place for people with special needs to work and find purpose in life” says WPSD Local 6. The staff is always extremely friendly, and the coffee is outstanding. Sadly, Covid-19 has negatively affected this company and has caused many challenges for the business. During these tough times including some shutdowns, they never stopped paying the 28 special needs employees on their payroll. They were struggling but their employees well beings were of top priority to them. Thanks to Barstool Sports and the Barstool Fund, they were able to help keep Sweet Jordan’s door open!

SERVPRO of LBL South loves to enjoy Sweet Jordan’s coffee, and you should too! Give it a try! They are located at 849 Volunteer Dr Suite 1, Paris, TN 38242.

Check out the article below for the full story!

Local business employing people with special needs gets financial help from Barstool Fund

SERVPRO Pet of the Week

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

March 21, 2020

SERVPRO of LBL South Pet of the Week

Do you want your pet featured on our Facebook page, as the SERVPRO pet of the week? Make sure you like our Facebook page and submit your pet photos and fun facts to us. You can submit this information via Facebook messenger or email mmillison@lblsouth.com. We have included a form below for you to get an idea of what fun facts to send. Pets will be selected at random and posted each Friday.

Owners Name (optional):__________________________

Pets Name:_________________________________

Pets Nickname(s):_____________________________

Breed:__________________________________

Age:__________

Favorite Treat(s):________________________________

Favorite Toy(s):__________________________________

Favorite Activities:_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________

Fun Facts/Anything you want shared:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please email the photo and information to mmillison@lblsouth.com , or message it via our SERVPRO of LBL Facebook Page.

THANK YOU!!

Black History Month: Recognizing Gen. Colin Powell

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Gen. Colin Powell Photo Credit: United States Joint Chiefs of Staff

February 5^th, 2020

Black History Month

SERVPRO of LBL South Recognizes United States Army Gen. Colin Powell (ret)

     In honor of Black History Month, SERVPRO of LB South would like to recognize retired Gen. Colin Powell. Gen. Powell was born from Jamaican immigrants on April 5^th of 1937 in Harlem, New York. At the young age of 16, Powell entered into the City College of New York where he joined the Army Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC), where he attained the highest rank any student in the program can achieve.

     Following his completion of college, Gen. Powell quickly climbed the ranks in the US Army by completing various training in US Army Airborne School, Ranger School, then joined the 3d Armored Division in Germany. During his time in the military, which included a stint in the Vietnam conflict, Powell advised a southern Vietnamese infantry battalion. It was during this tour that Powell was injured, thus enabling him to receive the Purple Heart.

     In 1979, after years of active duty commission, Powell was promoted to Brigadier General, and assigned work under the Office of the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF). Not long after this assignment. Gen. Powell was called upon by then President Ronald Reagan to serve as the Deputy National Security Advisor under Frank Carlucci. When Carlucci became the Secretary of Defense, Powell was already in line to succeed him.

    Over the years, Powell served the nation in various roles, working with leaders from both political parties on issues such as Leadership, National Security, and much more. His was so successful in fact, that upon his retirement, was awarded his second Presidential Medal of Freedom. Queen Elizabeth II also made him an Honorary Knight of the Bath. Since his retirement from public service, Powell has spent his time publishing books, and public speaking, using his life experiences as a foundation to encourage growth in various areas. Powell has continued to serve the nation through his limitless advice on Leadership, and how to overcome obstacles using a common sense approach. He is living proof that hard work and determination has no limits, in so long as one is willing to keep an eye trained on the end objective.

“Leadership is solving problems. The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them!” – Gen. Colin Powell

Resources:

Joint Chiefs of Staff. 2020. Colin Lither Powell. Febriary 04. Accessed February 04, 2020. https://www.jcs.mil/About/The-Joint-Staff/Chairman/General-Colin-Luther-Powell/.

The Military Leader. n.d. 11 Priceless Colin Powell Quotes. Accessed February 04, 2020. https://www.themilitaryleader.com/priceless-colin-powell/.

Making a Plan

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

One of the biggest mistakes any family can make is failing to anticipate disaster striking home. Home fires, floods, lightning strikes, earthquakes, tornadoes, etc., all can happen and often with very little warning. SERVPRO of LBL South is taking the initiative in its’ region to ensure the communities it serves are aware of the importance of planning properly. Taking some tips from Ready.gov, we would like to share some of those tips to our SERVPRO community.

1. Receiving Warnings: In the present day, most people have at minimum one smartphone in the home. However, if these smartphones are on silent, vibrate, or are powered down, how else will you receive notice of danger, be it weather or otherwise. Do you have carbon monoxide or smoke detectors in the home? Are the batteries changed routinely? If not, it may be worth your while to either install these devices, or set up a schedule to begin replacing these batteries at the minimum twice annually.
2. Shelter Plan: In the event your home suffers a disaster, which makes living in it temporarily impossible, or dangerous to your health, where will you go? In some cases, your insurance policy may contain provisions which will cover temporary lodging in a local hotel. Perhaps you could make emergency arrangements with a family member, or a neighbor. A shelter plan absolutely MUST be part of your contingency, and all members of the household should know this plan.
3. Where to Go: In the event of a fire, earthquake, tornado strike, etc., where your home is affected while you and your loved ones are in it, a plan should be made as to where to assemble should everyone need to quickly evacuate the home. Perhaps at the end of the driveway, the mailbox, the neighbors house. These are just some examples of where families could agree to meet in the rare event of a disaster strike. Make sure everyone knows the route to get to the assembly point, and that it is one that is familiar to all members of the household.
4. Communication Plan: In this day and age where families are constantly on the go, there is a chance that when disaster strikes some members of the household may not be home. Consider a communication plan that everyone agrees on, and that everyone is aware of that resides within the home. It is also important that immediate family members outside of the home, or neighbors should be included on this emergency plan. In the event an emergency strikes the home, the communication plan should be implemented immediately, with detailed instructions provided as to the 1) the type of disaster, 2) where the family will stay in the event the residence is uninhabitable or a danger to enter, 3) any additional instructions necessary.

These emergency plans should be communicated and discussed with all members of the family, even the little ones, especially since a fire or other emergency could leave the little ones separated from the rest of the family during the event. Find creative ways to share fire safety, earthquake and other natural disaster drills with the little ones and rehearse those on a routine basis. More information can be found by visiting the resources provided below.

Lastly, allow SERVPRO of LBL South to come out and provide to you a free Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) which we will keep on file in the event disaster strikes your home. This will enable the insurance company, SERVPRO, and other entities that will respond to the scene to quickly assess the important components, and begin to restore your home back “like it never even happened!”

Resources:

Department of Homeland Security Ready.gov Website

Department of Homeland Security Ready Kids Website

Man's (and children's) best friends helping out PSSD

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

The Paris Special School District board welcomed two new furry friends to the district Tuesday night.

Henry County Sheriff Monte Belew, along with School Resource Officers Sgt. Michelle Brewer and Sgt. Eddie Crosser, came to the board’s meeting to introduce the board to a pair of new therapy dogs, Jack and Buster.

Brewer’s dog Jack is the therapy dog at Rhea Elementary School. 

Crosser’s dog Buster is the therapy dog at Paris Elementary School.

“We hope the dogs are beneficial to the schools and I hope they’re very beneficial to the kids, to the guidance counselors and overall to help the kids build a good relationship with the school resource officers,” said Belew.

Belew said that Jack and Buster started working as therapy dogs at the schools at the beginning of this school year.

Belew also stated both Jack and Buster were rescue dogs and Sheriff’s Sgt. Ricky Wade, a master trainer, had been training them during the summer to serve as therapy dogs.

Wade has a wealth of experience working with police dogs.

Crosser and Brewer both said that not only have Jack and Buster had a positive effect on the students, but they have also had a positive effect on the staff as well.

Brewer said Jack has already started having a very positive effect on the kids.

“We had a kindergarten kid that had a meltdown and had to be sent to intervention and when he got in there he was pretty upset and inconsolable so they called me to come down with Jack to the intervention room,” said Brewer.

“The little boy was just really emotional… I just took Jack off the leash and he went right over there to the boy and he just lit up and loved on Jack and he was fine the rest of the day.”

Brewer said another instance happened Monday when a little boy crawled under a table, so Jack went under the table and comforted the boy.

“I’ve seen it work twice and I’ve seen it do its job. The kids love it… it’s worth every little bit of hassle,” said Brewer.

“Buster has been great therapy for the kids and the staff to have him up here,” said Crosser.  “He was a little shy at first … but he just loves kids. I think it’s a good program.”

Both Crosser and Brewer said that Jack and Buster love going to school, but they definitely are tired at the end of the day. 

In other business during Tuesday’s meeting, PSSD director of schools Norma Gerrell told the board the district and each school received a Level 5 in Tennessee Value-added Assessment System scores on a five-level rating.

In that rating system, 1 is considered as being significantly below expectations and  5 is considered as being significantly above expectation.

“It’s something to be extremely proud of,” Gerrell said of the district’s score.

What is the meaning of Memorial Day?

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

What is the meaning of Memorial Day, and how is this different from Veterans Day? This U.S. federal holiday is celebrated on the last Monday of May to honor the men and women who have died while serving in the military.

The custom of honoring ancestors by cleaning cemeteries and decorating graves is an ancient and worldwide tradition, but the specific origin of Memorial Day, or Decoration Day as it was first known, are unclear.

In early rural America, this duty was usually performed in late summer and was an occasion for family reunions and picnics. After the Civil War, America’s need for a secular, patriotic ceremony to honor its military dead became prominent, as monuments to fallen soldiers were erected and dedicated, and ceremonies centering on the decoration of soldiers’ graves were held in towns and cities throughout the nation.

After World War I, the day expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars.

No less than 25 places have been named in connection with the origin of Memorial Day, and states observed the holiday on different dates. In 1971, Memorial Day became a national holiday by an act of Congress; it is now celebrated on the last Monday in May.

Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.

While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL who served—in wartime or peacetime—and whether they died or survived. Veterans Day is always observed officially on November 11, regardless of the day of the week on which it falls. 

A Letter to Moms

5/13/2018 (Permalink)

I love that we set aside a whole day to honor and celebrate the women who raised us. My mom was an amazing mother who dedicated her life to her two daughters. She was selfless yet strong- and the most beautiful woman I know. Mother’s Day holds a special place in my own heart because of the little ones who made me a mom. I love waking up to their little feet creeping down the stairs in the morning, little kisses on the cheeks, and their imaginative stories and play. These are the moments that remind me motherhood is a gift, and fostering these little people’s growth is my favorite job of all. 

To honor, here is a letter from another mom, Joanna Gaines, who inspires many females and mothers to celebrate the season we are in. I could not put it in any better words than what she beautifully expresses here. 

"You are enough.
I think at times all moms get this insecure feeling of “I’m not doing enough.”  As a working mom, it’s the hardest when my kids grab onto me as I’m walking out the door and say, “Mommy please stay home!” I don’t want to ignore that, so I always explain to them that being with them is my favorite thing in the world. I explain that I have to work just like they have to go to school. I also let them know what I’m doing at work that day—whether it’s filming the show or going into the office—and what time I’ll be home. Taking a  few seconds to let them in on this other huge part of my life has really helped them understand that mom and dad have a big job to do.

I have had to find creative ways to connect with the kids during the day now that I work, to let them know I am always thinking of them. I’ll send them a little note in their lunchbox or surprise them and pick them up early from school for a fun date.

When I was staying home these same feelings of “not doing enough” would find their way into my mind. In that season I spent a lot of time focusing on balance. Nap time was when I got things done. Whether it was folding laundry, prepping dinner, writing my blog or doing design work—that was my time. It was important I kept myself creatively fed during those years, so I never let myself be filled with feelings of discontent. I hope if you’re in this season now you’ll take the time to allow yourself a few minutes a day to do what you love, too. I found it was the thing that kept me balanced and energized.

Taking the time.
The young stage my kids are in is the sweetest. Chip and I are their favorite people and they still stop what they’re doing to greet us at the door when we get home. I really want to savor this season for as long as I can. When I get home from work I try and leave my phone in the car and make that intentional effort to play and connect face to face with them. Even when I’m tired at the end of a long day, it’s fuel to see the look in their eyes when I ask them to cook with me or go play outside. As a mom, sometimes I have to change my mindset and remind myself what’s important. I only have so many hours a day to spend with these sweet, little people. And they won’t be little forever. So I get up and keep moving.

The littlest things.
The details have always mattered to me, especially when it comes to my kids. Whether I’m making cereal for breakfast or a big, fancy dinner, I want them to know that celebrating them in small ways in everyday life is a big deal to me. When Chip and I are traveling a lot, the first thing I want to do when I get home is cook. I want my kids to have the security that when momma’s home, there will be a good meal. At my birthday breakfast a couple weeks ago, Chip had the kids go around the table to say what they love most about Mom, and each one of their answers was that I cook for them. I’ve been cooking since they were born, and I’ve never heard them say anything like that. The fact that they notice and feel provided for in the kitchen was a sweet moment for me.

Motherhood can be difficult. It’s not an instant gratification thing all the time. When your kiddos are just babies and you’re changing diapers or listening to whining constantly, it can feel overwhelming. But I want to encourage you, because one day you’ll be sitting around a table for your birthday breakfast and you’ll realize that their little hearts are thankful for you. And they do notice things like mom’s homemade meals.

I hope you feel so loved and celebrated this Mother’s Day. And no matter what season you find yourself in, just know that you are doing enough, and you are loved and appreciated. Take a few moments today to look around and appreciate your children and the stage they’re in. I know for me, the thought of them growing up and moving off makes me want to burst into tears! So this Mother’s Day I plan to milk it for all it’s worth, and squeeze them just a little longer."

Graduation Gift Ideas to Help Them Take On the World

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

With graduations right around the corner, here are some ideas for your grad to help them out in the world. 

Grads need (but often can't yet afford) help with their #adulting. So buy them high-quality items that serve everyday needs, from a chic organic-cotton tote to noise-canceling headphones for working in a cubicle.

Or for the dorm-room dweller who’s short on space (and time), a small coffee machine has a tiny footprint and brews a great cup in a minute.

Salad containers are always a smart choice. A lesson they probably didn’t learn in school: Dressing a to-go salad at home means some pretty soggy leaves at lunchtime. 

Quilts are excellent gifts that make a bed instantly feel like home.

Place a cherished family photo into a pretty frame for a timeless gift that your grad will hold onto for years to come.

If your recent grad is moving into his or her first apartment, plates and dishes will come in handy. 

Your student will soon be cooking meals for his- or herself on a daily basis, so make sure they have the tools for success -- like essential pots, pans and skillets. We recommend nonstick pieces for easy care.

And every grown-up needs a robe to lounge around in on lazy mornings. Monogram it as an additional thoughtful option!

Oh the places you will go! Good luck 2018 Graduates! 

10 Ways to Help the World on Earth Day

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

This Earth Day, be part of a movement. On April 22, 2018, more than 1 billion people in 192 countries are expected to join together to protect our common home.  People will clean up their communities, talk to local leaders about their environmental concerns and spend time with their families outdoors. Here are 10 ways you can help.

1. Learn more about climate change.

2. Advocate for our Earth and its people.

3. Plant a tree in your community.

4.  Support farmers and their families.

5. Pray.

6. Attend a farmers’ market.

7. Support ethical trade.

8. Be the change.

9. Fundraise.

10. Connect on social media and share.

And with Earth Day just around the corner, the internet and Pinterest is all a-flutter with Earth Day activities for kids.  The ideas range from recycling arts and crafts to outdoor gardening to fun kid-friendly recipes.  Here are 25 ideas to celebrate Earth Day with your kids.

25 AWESOME EARTH DAY ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

#nationalsmallbusinessweek

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

National Small Business Week 2018 kicks off today with an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. where national award winners including the naming of this year's national Small Business Person of the Year will be recognized and awarded for their achievements.

This is an annual event hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration to recognize the nation's top small businesses, entrepreneurs, small business advocates and champions. Every day they're working to grow small businesses, create 21^st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America's global competitiveness.

SBA Administrator Linda McMahon will personally present all the awards at a ceremony April 29-30 in Washington, D.C.and then will travel to events in Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina.

To honor, celebrate, and support all of our small businesses check out our local Downtown Paris Association page for information on how you can Shop/Eat/Live local in our own community. You can also visit their facebook page for interesting reviews and information about our businesses downtown. 

The Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce is also very active in supporting our local small businesses, often holding functions with the Director and other members of the community. Check out their page for a calendar of events that you won't want to miss. 

When I-Rish Upon A Shamrock

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

Our territory of 8 counties is full of unique and unforgettable experiences and people. Tucked away in Erin, TN, you will find a beautifully green cultural celebration. Every year, to celebrate Irish tradition and St. Patrick's Day, Erin, TN, shows off their green!

In 1963, O.S. Luton and Beverly Price conceived of the idea of a celebration of Erin’s Irish history and traditions. They petitioned the Chamber of Commerce, other local leaders, and interested citizens to help in this endeavor. The focus of this annual event was to be the welfare, progress and promotion of the town and county. The local population went in the venture rather slowly. They liked the idea, but some felt it may be a bit too big for such a small body of citizens. However, the “Wearing of the Green” was a successful event that year and has continued each year to grow in interest and attendance. From the Grand Parade, Leprechauns and banquets to carnival rides, pageants and arts & craft booths, there is something for everyone. Relive the spirit of St. Patrick at one of the top ten celebrations in the United States!

Check out this link for information on Irish Day Events!http://houstoncochamber.com/community-events/irish-day/irish-day-events/

IT'S WORLD'S BIGGEST FISH FRY TIME!

4/4/2017 (Permalink)

WHEN: APRIL 22-30

WHERE: PARIS, TN

The World’s Biggest Fish Fry is a premier event for Paris – Henry County and West Tennessee. The last full week of April annually attracts people locally as well as nationally. Visitors come from across the country to enjoy the festivities.

The whole festival revolves around the “Fish Tent” where by last account over 12,500 pounds of catfish is served with all the trimmings. In addition to all you can eat catfish you will find parades, carnival, rodeos, catfish races, dances, arts and crafts to name a few. Events actually begin early in February with beauty pageants leading up to the week long celebration.

The “Fish Fry” as everyone calls it around here evolved from “Mule Day”, which originated in 1938 with the Paris Post Intelligencer as the first sponsor. Farmers came to town on the first Monday in April to trade their mules and other farm products, do their shopping and enjoy the fellowship of their friends. Early in the 1950’s the Chamber of Commerce took over “Mule Day” complete with a parade and beauty queens. When the tractor began to replace the mules the Chamber of Commerce contemplated another event to replace “Mule Day”.

In 1953, the Chamber of Commerce held the first “Fish Fry”. The event was not as successful as hoped. The fish were not from Kentucky Lake and just didn’t live up to the palates of the fish eating public. The parade was short and the event was held on the high school football field for one day and night.

In 1961 the Paris-Henry County Jaycees (Junior Chamber of Commerce) took over the “Fish Fry” from the Chamber of Commerce.

Since 1961 and thanks to the Paris-Henry County Jaycees the festival has grown unbelievably from 1,600 pounds of catfish cooked to over 5 tons of catfish and a two hour grand parade.

The venue of the festival has moved from the court square, then to what was once known as the hitch lot just blocks from the court square, then back to a parking lot downtown and finally to a building at the Henry County Fairgrounds in the early 1980’s. In the early days the fish cooking was done outdoors and eaten on picnic tables under big tents, hence the term “Fish Tent”. It is now known as the Robert E. “Bobby” Cox Memorial Fish Tent.

The Jaycees continue to do a fantastic job organizing the event but also depend on many community volunteers to pull it off each year. The Paris-Henry County Jaycees are still growing the event and offering new and different things resulting in increased attendance, more catfish cooked and served.

The Jaycees and the community invite everyone to visit Paris and Henry County the last full week of April for a week of fun and southern hospitality!

FOR SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: http://paristnchamber.com/fish-fry-information/