Paris, TN – The Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with the USDA, will offer “Small Business Basics,” six classes designed to serve as a guide to small business development and entrepreneurship. The classes will be open to anyone interested in small business and entrepreneurship, including startups and existing businesses.

Sam Mahan, FirstBank, and Jennifer Hayden, Hamilton-Ryker, will serve as co-chairs and facilitators for the sessions. Mahan said “Last year’s classes were a tremendous success. We had sixteen graduates, equally divided between start-ups and existing businesses.”

Hayden added that “The Chamber is so grateful for USDA’s support as we encourage entrepreneurship.”

Cost is $50.00, which will be refunded with no absences. Classes will meet at the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, 2508 East Wood Street, Paris, Tennessee 38242, from 6:30pm-8:30pm on Tuesday nights, January 10th – February 14th, 2012. All materials will be provided.  

An application is available at www.paristnchamber.com, or by calling 731.642.3431 or visiting the Chamber office at 2508 East Wood Street, Paris,TN 38242.

Paris, TN – The Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and Paris Landing State Park are ready to “Light Up the Lake” with a drive through lighting display for Henry County residents, businesses, schools and organizations.

Create a lighting display in a 20 x 20 space in the picnic area near the pavilion. Cost is $50.00 and there’s lots of room. The display will be open throughout December for everyone to drive through and see, so let’s light up the lake.

Call the Chamber at 642.3431 for more information!

The event rules are:

1. Light Up the Lake is a drive through lighting display opportunity open to Henry County residents, businesses, schools and organizations. This event is designed to encourage visitors to Henry County. The brighter the better!!
2. All participants must have their entry forms and entry fee turned in no later than Friday, November 18th to the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, 2508 East Wood Street, Paris, Tennessee.
3. Cost to display is $50.00. Signage recognizing each sponsoring entity will be provided by the Chamber. No other signage will be allowed.
4. Spaces, approximately 20′ x 20′, will be provided on a first come, first serve basis, but final determination of placement will be made by Joan Williams, Paris Lake State Park, based on traffic flow, safety and other concerns.
5. All participants must have their display up and completely decorated no later than 4 pm, Friday, December 2, 2011, when we will cut a ribbon to welcome guests. 
6. All displays must be removed by January 6th, 2012, but may not be removed until after January 1, 2012.
7. All displays must be appropriate to the venue and spirit of the event. Any style, presentation or decorations that are not in keeping with the family-friendly intent of the event will be disqualified prior to display, as determined by the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s tourism committee.
8. Any questions or clarification may be addressed to Joan Williams, Paris Landing State Park, 731.641.4465, or Jennifer Wheatley, Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, 731.642.3431.
9. Light up the Lake will be open for viewing from 5:00pm – 9:00pm from December 2nd, 2011 through January 1st, 2012.
10. Neither the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce nor Paris Landing State Park will be responsible for any theft or damage to property.

Application Form

 
Business Name: _______________________

Contact Person:__________________

Address: _____________________________________

Phone: ________________

Email:______________________________________

Return with $50.00 fee to:

Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce
2508 East Wood Street
Paris, TN 38242

Paris, TN

(Left to Right) Norma Steele, with the Heritage Center and Susan Jones, Publisher of Paris magazine, at the 19th Annual Small Business Expo.

The Small Business Expo allows small businesses to display their new business or new product lines. It is a marketing tool that highlights valuable members of the Chamber of Commerce. The businesses were allowed to sell their services or merchandise at their booth. Henry County Medical Center gave free health screenings. The event usually takes place around the 3rd Tuesday in October in hopes that businesses that partake in the event will stick in the minds of those in attendance during the holiday season.

Dola Beaty of Dola’s Monograms.

This year’s event was put together by 10 volunteers of Chamber member businesses including Tory Daughrity, Marketing and Public Relations Director at Henry County Medical Center, who was Chair of the event. Each year, the event is slightly different so that it is fresh and new to the public. This year the theme was “The Big 80′s”, and the people in attendance were able to choose the booth that best used the theme. This year’s winner was Eiffel Gardens with their theme of Alf, trolls and all things spatter painted, and they will receive a free booth at next years expo.

Jennifer Wheatley, Executive Director of Paris-Henry County Chamber Of Commerce, was very excited to have two graduates of the Chamber’s small business class, Kevin Buie of K & B Supplies and Dola Beaty of Dola’s Monograms, showcase their new businesses at the expo. Ms. Beaty enjoyed her day at the expo, especially since her only way to reach the public right now is through business cards and events like this one. She currently runs the business from her home.

Kevin Buie of K & B Supplies.

Other businesses at the Small Business Expo were Rogers Jewelers, First Bank, Volunteer Home Care, Paris Country Club, Abbott’s Print Shop, Freedom Fitness, Tennessee Quality Home Care, Foundation Bank, Carey Counseling, Hamilton-Ryker, Eiffel Gardens, St. John Security, Commercial Bank, My Favorite Things, Morningside of Paris, Tennessee Rehabilitation Center, Paris Civic Center, Pepsi, West Tennessee Printing, Adult Learning Center, Grace Clinic, TSBDC, Tennessee Technology Center, Downtown Paris Association, The Toggery, Arrowhead Home Sales, Robbie to the Rescue, Paris Realty, Paris Natural Gas, Henry County Medical Center, WTPR, Paris! magazine, West Tennessee Chiropractic, Circle A Fundraising, Bethel University, West Tennessee Moto Coach, Extendicare Home Health, ComfortMaxx, Hi-Tech Prosthetics and Orthotics, OrthoWorks, Albert Ross Tharpe Associates, Healthsouth Cane Creek, Sign and Trophy Express, Career Center, Hulmes Sporting Goods, McEvoy Funeral Home, Paris Health Care, and Vern Steedly State Farm.

Nashville, TN – With less than a month away, bicycle enthusiasts across the state are encouraged to register for the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee, slated for September 10th-17th. In its 22nd year, this year’s seven-day ride will feature a loop through some of Middle Tennessee’s most stunning landscapes.

Originating at Montgomery Bell State Park, this year’s route will feature a combination of rolling hills, valleys and some flat terrain. Cyclists can expect to experience beautiful, rural Tennessee scenery and interesting back roads along the way, including the Natchez Trace Parkway and visits to several Tennessee State Parks such as Dunbar Cave.

“Highlighting the pastures and farmland of Middle Tennessee, this year’s BRAT will not have the long climbs that were more prevalent on last year’s route,” said Ryan Forbess, director of the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee. “In terms of effort level, the 2011 BRAT will include a balance of some long-distance rides and some shorter distance days – designed to challenge our expert cyclists, while accommodating recreational riders.”

Riders will camp overnight at four Tennessee State Parks along the route, including David Crockett, Henry Horton, Montgomery Bell and Paris Landing. The city of Clarksville will host one overnight stay at Swan Lake Park. As part of this year’s BRAT ride, one layover day is planned on September 14th at Montgomery Bell State Park, giving cyclists an opportunity to do more sightseeing – including nature hikes and canoeing. New this year is a three-day ride option for those who aren’t ready for a weeklong tour or have limited vacation time.

“While the BRAT is not a race, it is a significant ride that requires preparation,” Forbess advised. “Even experienced riders appreciate the support staff we offer along the route that can provide assistance and transportation for those who encounter problems or simply can’t complete that day’s mileage. Our goal is to provide an outstanding experience for participants of all ages.”

The event will begin with check-in at Montgomery Bell State Park starting at 1:00pm on Saturday, September 10th, followed by a rider’s meeting at 6:30pm. On Sunday, riders will be introduced to the route with a scenic 84-mile ride to David Crockett State Park.

Other details include:

• Costs for riders range from $355.00 for the full, seven-day ride to $50.00 for a single-day rider. There is a $125.00 non-rider charge for those using alternative transportation.
• All costs include accommodations and food, excluding single-day riders.
• Each registered participant will receive a commemorative 2011 BRAT T-shirt.
• Daily mileage ranges from 87 miles on the first and longest leg of the route to 52 miles on the final day.
• The early deadline fee has been extended to September 1st. There are only a few slots left for the three-day ride, with several still available for the seven-day ride.

BRAT organizers have added several exciting entertainment options to this year’s schedule of events, including several nights of live music; a wine tasting at Paris Landing State Park, hosted by Paris Winery Vineyards; and a mix-and-mingle social, hosted by the Friends Group of Henry Horton State Park. On the last night of the BRAT, which is Friday, September 16th, the city of Clarksville will host two special excursions, including trips to the Beachaven Vineyards Winery and to downtown Clarksville’s Jammin’ in the Alley festival.

“This annual ride is a unique opportunity for cyclists and one of Tennessee State Parks most time-honored events,” added Forbess. “We’ve added some great events to keep the event fresh and look forward to having a full roster of cyclists joins us for a great ride.”

The 22nd Annual Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee is sponsored by Tennessee State Parks, Whole Foods, Gran Fondo Cycles, REI, Advocate Marketing and Print, the city of Clarksville, Clif Bar, Beachaven Vineyards Winery, I Run for the Party, Swiftwick, McKee Foods, Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Paris Winery Vineyard, Start 2 Finish Events, the Tennessee Department of Transportation, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and Keep Tennessee Beautiful. A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit the Cumberland Trail Conference and the Tennessee State Park Rangers Association, both non-profit organizations.

For registration information or more details about the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee, please visit www.thebrat.org, the main webpage at www.tnstateparks.com/BRAT or visit the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee on Facebook. Riders with questions are encouraged to contact Ryan Forbess via e-mail at Ryan.Forbess@tn.gov.

A triumphant Kevin VanDam after winning the Tennesee Triumph Bass tournament

The victory, VanDam’s 17^th – which inches him closer to the BASS all-time mark of 19 – was accomplished in wire-to-wire fashion and the 20-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier was locked in from the first day of practice. Most importantly, VanDam accumulated a stout number of Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year points and bumped his standing there up to eighth, which puts him safely in the cutline for the Bassmaster Elite Series Postseason with one qualifying event remaining.

Kevin VanDam with the Tennessee Triumph Trophy

While his weight steadily decreased each day of competition, VanDam, who earned $100,000 for the victory, brought in four consecutive limits that weighed more than 20 pounds. His Kentucky Lake ledger includes two firsts, a second and a third-place finish in the previous four times the Bassmaster Elite Series has visited the fishery.

“I kept hearing people say, “Is there something wrong with VanDam,” and it kind of made me laugh,” said VanDam, a five-time Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year. “I mean, I had a pretty good start to the year winning the Classic. There have been a few scenarios this year where key bites just didn’t go my way and that happens. Sometimes you are on a roll and sometimes you aren’t.

“This lake is so special to me and I knew I had a good shot here. It really suits my style. It just feels great.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

It was a typical VanDam setup that propelled him to victory. He primarily worked two Strike King crankbaits, a Series 6 XD and a silent stalker in chartreuse sexy shad, which boated the majority of his weighed bass. He mixed in other lures but as in years past, the crankbaits were the main weapon of choice.

While he stuck with an old friend in his presentation method, it was a new toy that VanDam labeled as “key”. VanDam’s side-imaging unit –he recently inked a deal with Humminbird – gave him the ability to expand on his areas and locate the sweet spots where the bass were holding. In fact, his three best spots were found using the equipment.

A view of the Sidescan & Downimaging feature available from Humminbird

Once he found the schools of bass, it was a matter of long, precise casts that were able to hit bottom. If his cast was right, VanDam said, that the bass were so wadded up in the defined areas, that he couldn’t work his lure without bumping a bass.

“The technology that is available to us nowadays, it’s almost like magic,” said VanDam, a three-time Bassmaster Classic champion. “You can see the schools of bass and I’m not sure why they were relating to the areas they were in, but they were certainly there.”

While VanDam hasn’t struggled by any stretch of the imagination – he will have won more than $600,000 this year with plenty to remain – he has been disappointed. In particular, the previous Elite event on Clarks Hill Lake was the first time VanDam felt he left something on the table. Apparently, he does his best when he’s angry.

Click here to view the embedded video.

“I was really disappointed after the last event,” said VanDam, 42. “So I wanted to come in here and do everything I could to have a shot at the Angler of the Year. That has been my goal when I started the season and it will still be my goal when it ends.”

Edwin Evers of Talala, OK. on Day 4 of the Tennessee Triumph Tournament (BASS Communicaitons/Seigo Saito)

In a distant second was Edwin Evers of Talala, OK. Evers totaled 85-12, nearly 7 pounds off of VanDam’s torrid pace. While Evers lamented some of the bites he failed to put in the boat, the five-time Bassmaster winner took solace in his second-place position in the Angler of the Year standings.

“It’s an eight-event season and you have to perform throughout,” said Evers. “I like where I’m at and I can’t wait to get back to fishing next week.”

Right behind Evers was his brother-in-law Terry Butcher, also of Talala. Butcher amassed 80-4 and moved up to sixth in the Angler of the Year standings with the stellar performance. Sticking to fourth was Jason Quinn of York, SC, with 78-15 while Derek Remitz of Grant, AL, snagged fifth with 78-9. Remitz moved up to third in the AOY standings, which can be found below.

Kentucky Lake has hosted a dozen BASS events, including the 2009 Tennessee Triumph, at which Lane of Lakeland, FL, won his first BASS tournament with a total of 97 pounds, 9 ounces, after leading through all four days. Lane finished a disappointing 52^nd.

Kentucky Lake is 185 miles in length, with 160,000 surface acres and 2,380 miles of shoreline. Lake Barkley adds another 80,000 surface acres.

The top prize of the Tennessee Triumph is $100,000.

The local sponsor of the Tennessee Triumph is the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce.

Photo Gallery

View photos of the 2010 Tennessee Triumph Bass Tournament in our Photo Gallery:

http://www.paristn.net/photogallery/events/2010/tennessee-triumph/

Be sure to catch all the action!

Fishing fans can catch all of the on-the-water action from the Tennessee Triumph on The Bassmasters, which airs Sunday, July 4th, at 10:00am ET on ESPN2. The daily weigh-ins for all regular-season Elite events and the two postseason events will air live on ESPN3.com.

About the Elite Series

Up next for the Elite Series is the regular-season finale, the June 17th-20th AutoZone Sooner Run on the Arkansas River out of Muskogee, Okla. There, much will be at stake as qualifying positions in the Postseason (top 12), the Bassmaster Classic (top 37) and next year’s Elite Series will be determined.

The Bassmaster Elite Series Postseason, Toyota Trucks Championship Week, is set for July 24th-31st and will be played out once again on two productive Alabama fisheries. The first leg, the July 24th-25th Trophy Chase, returns to Lake Jordan out of Wetumpka. The finale, the Evan Williams Bourbon Trophy Triumph, is slated for July 30th-31st on the Alabama River from Montgomery.

Bassmaster Elite Series Official Sponsors: Toyota, Berkley, Evan Williams Bourbon, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Skeeter, Yamaha and Bass Pro Shops.

Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Lowrance, Triton Boats, Nitro Boats and Ramada.

About BASS

For more than 40 years, BASS has served as the authority on bass fishing. The organization advances the sport through advocacy, outreach and its expansive tournament structure while championing efforts to connect directly with the passionate community of bass anglers through its Bassmaster media vehicles.

The Bassmaster brand and its considerable multimedia platforms are guided by a mission to serve all fishing fans. Through its industry-leading publications Bassmaster Magazine, BASS Times and Fishing Tackle Retailer; comprehensive Web properties in Bassmaster.com, BASSInsider.com, ESPNOutdoors.com and ESPN360.com, and ESPN2 television programming, Bassmaster provides rich, leading-edge content true to the lifestyle.

BASS oversees the prestigious Bassmaster Tournament Trail, which includes the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens, BASS Federation Nation and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bassmaster Classic.

BASS offers an array of services to its more than 500,000 members while spearheading progressive, positive change on issues related to conservation and water access. The organization is headquartered in Celebration, FL.

FINAL STANDINGS- TENNESSEE TRIUMPH

2010 Paris, TN 6/9-6/12
Kentucky Lake, Paris TN.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 4

Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings

2010 Tennessee Triumph – Paris, TN Pro Points After Kentucky Lake, Paris, Tenn. Ending 06-12-2010, Day 4

Day 2 Leader Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, MI. with a 2 day total of 49lb2oz.(BASS Communications/Seigo Saito)

PARIS, Tenn. – Kevin VanDam’s Kentucky Lake domination is beginning to get a bit ridiculous. Despite a rough start – VanDam failed to connect on consecutive 5-pounders on his first two bites – the five-time Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year opened up a 6-pound lead at the Tennessee Triumph Friday.

After scoring a first-, second- and third-place finish in the previous three Elite events here, VanDam is closing in on adding another victory to his Kentucky Lake ledger. He ended up toting 24 pounds, 2 ounces, to the scales Thursday, which upgraded his two-day total to 49 pounds, 2 ounces. His consistency was rare as he was only angler to remain in the top five from Wednesday.

VanDam capitalized on a fast-and-furious early-morning bite, which allowed him to vacate his primary areas by 9:30 am and hunt for new water. The search wasn’t fruitless and VanDam feels that he has a number of areas at his disposal that could produce. Still, VanDam was worried about boat pressure – from locals and competitors – with the impending weekend. Last year, perhaps the most lasting image from Bobby Lane’s victory here was the armada of 100-plus spectator boats that crowded his area.

Still, if anyone is used to boat pressure, it’s VanDam. And he’s certainly in a comfort zone on Kentucky, so all things considered, he likes where he is at.

“You have to catch them all four days here to have a chance,” said VanDam, who is looking for his 18^th BASS win. “Each day, guys are figuring out how to catch them and I just have to keep at it. With the boat traffic, I have had to be very selective about what areas I can fish. And that is hurting me a little bit. But it is what it is.”

VanDam played it close to the vest on details of his pattern but given his responses (“I like the way I’m fishing”) and his past choices here, it’s probable VanDam is working a crankbait around the numerous ledges that are so vital to Kentucky Lake tournament fishing.

VanDam said the evolution of side-imaging equipment – VanDam uses a Humminbird – has been key to his success. It has allowed VanDam to explore expanded areas and though it has evened the playing field in terms of finding the subtle areas on ledges where the bass are schooling, VanDam said anglers still have to find a way to put the fish in the boat.

With the lead, and perhaps of most importance to VanDam, he collects another five-point bonus in the Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings. VanDam has moved into Bassmaster Elite Series Postseason position – only the top 12 in the AOY standings qualify – and is closing the tremendous gap that Skeet Reese had opened up heading into this week. After a white-hot start to the season, Reese is experiencing how the other half lives, as he missed his second consecutive cut with a 48^th-place showing.

“My focus is on trying to get in that Postseason,” said VanDam, who scored the AOY last year in come-from-behind fashion. “Anything can happen there.”

Day 2 Kelly Jordon of Mineola, TX. (BASS Communications/Seigo Saito)

Moving up from 32^nd into second was Kelly Jordon of Mineola, Texas. Jordon brought 26-14 to the scales Thursday, which stands as the biggest limit thus far of the tournament. His banner day was anchored by a 10-1 behemoth, the biggest of the tournament. His two-day total was 43-2.

A perennial Bassmaster Classic contender, Jordon came into this week out of the Classic qualifying cutline, but a strong performance here would put him right back in the mix. The 10-1 fell for a Lake Fork Tackle 10-inch worm in red.

“It was a heck of a day,” said Jordon, an eight-time Classic qualifier. “I was really disappointed after Wednesday. I had a great practice and found some serious schools but I just couldn’t get the right bites. Today (Thursday), that all changed.”

Day 2 Jason Quinn of York, SC. (BASS Communications/Seigo Saito)

Moving up from eighth to third was Jason Quinn of York, S.C., with 41-14. In fourth was Edwin Evers of Talala, Okla., with 41-10. Evers was Reese’s closest competitor in the AOY standings heading into this week and has steadily closed the gap on Skeet Reese’s once 250-point lead in the standings. If he can keep the pace, Reese will have to perform well on the season finale on the Arkansas River to maintain a comfortable margin heading into the Postseason.

Rounding out the top five was Elite rookie Keith Poche of Troy, Ala., with 41-8.

Only the top 47 qualified to fish Friday. Along with Reese, defending Kentucky Lake champion Bobby Lane missed the cut. Notables in the cutline include 2006 Kentucky Lake winner Morizo Shimizu of Japan (ninth), 2007 Bassmaster Classic champion Boyd Duckett (15^th) and 19-year-old Bradley Roy (43^rd). Full standings can be found below.

Kentucky Lake has hosted a dozen BASS events, including the 2009 Tennessee Triumph, at which Lane of Lakeland, Fla., won his first BASS tournament with a total of 97 pounds, 9 ounces, after leading through all four days.

Kentucky Lake is 185 miles in length, with 160,000 surface acres and 2,380 miles of shoreline. Lake Barkley adds another 80,000 surface acres.

The top prize of the Tennessee Triumph is $100,000.

The public is invited to attend the daily launches (6:00 am CT) through Saturday and weigh-ins (3:30 p.m.) at Paris Landing State Park, 16055 Hwy. 79 N., Buchanan, Tenn. After Day 2’s competition Thursday, the field will be cut to the top 47 anglers for Day 3. Only the top 12 will go on to compete in Saturday’s Day 4.

Other activities Friday and Saturday at the Tennessee Triumph will begin at noon CT at Paris Landing State Park. All events are free and open to the public.

The local sponsor of the Tennessee Triumph is the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce.

Be sure to catch all the action!

Fishing fans can catch all of the on-the-water action from the Tennessee Triumph on The Bassmasters, which airs Sunday, July 4, at 10:00 am ET on ESPN2. The daily weigh-ins for all regular-season Elite events and the two postseason events will air live on ESPN3.com.

Bassmaster.com will follow the Tennessee Triumph each day with BASSCast, BASSCam, real-time leaderboards during weigh-ins, photo galleries, daily results, and Hooked Up with ESPN Outdoors personalities Mark Zona and Tommy Sanders. Live, streaming video will be carried by ESPN3.com.

About the Elite Series

Up next for the Elite Series is the regular-season finale, the June 17-20 AutoZone Sooner Run on the Arkansas River out of Muskogee, Okla.

The Bassmaster Elite Series Postseason, Toyota Trucks Championship Week, is set for July 24-31 and will be played out once again on two productive Alabama fisheries. The first leg, the July 24-25 Trophy Chase, returns to Lake Jordan out of Wetumpka. The finale, the Evan Williams Bourbon Trophy Triumph, is slated for July 30-31 on the Alabama River from Montgomery.

Bassmaster Elite Series Official Sponsors: Toyota, Berkley, Evan Williams Bourbon, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Skeeter, Yamaha and Bass Pro Shops.

Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Lowrance, Triton Boats, Nitro Boats and Ramada.

About BASS

For more than 40 years, BASS has served as the authority on bass fishing. The organization advances the sport through advocacy, outreach and its expansive tournament structure while championing efforts to connect directly with the passionate community of bass anglers through its Bassmaster media vehicles.

The Bassmaster brand and its considerable multimedia platforms are guided by a mission to serve all fishing fans. Through its industry-leading publications Bassmaster Magazine, BASS Times and Fishing Tackle Retailer; comprehensive Web properties in Bassmaster.com, BASSInsider.com, ESPNOutdoors.com and ESPN360.com, and ESPN2 television programming, Bassmaster provides rich, leading-edge content true to the lifestyle.

BASS oversees the prestigious Bassmaster Tournament Trail, which includes the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens, BASS Federation Nation and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bassmaster Classic.

BASS offers an array of services to its more than 500,000 members while spearheading progressive, positive change on issues related to conservation and water access. The organization is headquartered in Celebration, Fla.

Day 2 Tennessee Triumph Standings

2010 Paris, TN 6/9-6/12
Kentucky Lake, Paris TN.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 2

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 10 49-02 310
Day 1: 5 25-00 Day 2: 5 24-02

2. Kelly Jordon Mineola, TX 10 43-02 295
Day 1: 5 16-06 Day 2: 5 26-12

3. Jason Quinn Lake Wylie, SC 10 41-14 290
Day 1: 5 20-13 Day 2: 5 21-01

4. Edwin Evers Talala, OK 10 41-10 285
Day 1: 5 19-14 Day 2: 5 21-12

5. Keith Poche Troy, AL 10 41-08 280
Day 1: 5 20-01 Day 2: 5 21-07

6. Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, AL 10 41-03 276
Day 1: 5 22-10 Day 2: 5 18-09

7. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 10 41-02 272
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 26-03

8. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, AL 10 41-00 268
Day 1: 5 23-12 Day 2: 5 17-04

9. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, KS 10 40-15 264
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 22-03

10. Rick Morris Virginia Beach, VA 10 39-15 260
Day 1: 5 24-15 Day 2: 5 15-00

11. Takahiro Omori Emory, TX 10 39-10 257
Day 1: 5 19-09 Day 2: 5 20-01

12. Morizo Shimizu Osaka JAPAN 10 38-15 254
Day 1: 5 19-04 Day 2: 5 19-11

13. Matt Greenblatt Palm Beach Gardens, FL 10 38-09 251
Day 1: 5 20-00 Day 2: 5 18-09

14. Matt Herren Trussville, AL 10 38-01 248
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 19-04

15. Boyd Duckett Demopolis, AL 10 37-14 245
Day 1: 5 16-04 Day 2: 5 21-10

16. Terry Butcher Talala, OK 10 37-09 243
Day 1: 5 15-15 Day 2: 5 21-10

17. Scott Rook Little Rock, AR 10 37-07 241
Day 1: 5 15-02 Day 2: 5 22-05

18. Pete Ponds Madison, MS 10 37-04 239
Day 1: 5 19-07 Day 2: 5 17-13

19. Britt Myers Lake Wylie, SC 10 37-04 237
Day 1: 5 19-15 Day 2: 5 17-05

20. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 10 36-14 235
Day 1: 5 19-05 Day 2: 5 17-09

21. Bradley Hallman Norman, OK 10 36-12 233
Day 1: 5 20-15 Day 2: 5 15-13

22. Greg Vinson Wetumpka, AL 10 36-08 231
Day 1: 5 18-14 Day 2: 5 17-10

23. Aaron Martens Leeds, AL 10 35-14 229
Day 1: 5 19-06 Day 2: 5 16-08

24. Jason Williamson Aiken, SC 10 35-06 227
Day 1: 5 18-06 Day 2: 5 17-00

25. Bill Lowen North Bend, OH 10 35-00 225
Day 1: 5 20-02 Day 2: 5 14-14

26. Derek Remitz Grant, AL 10 34-12 223
Day 1: 5 18-11 Day 2: 5 16-01

27. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, MO 10 34-11 221
Day 1: 5 15-01 Day 2: 5 19-10

28. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 10 34-08 219
Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 18-12

29. Shaw E Grigsby Gainesville, FL 10 34-04 217
Day 1: 5 14-13 Day 2: 5 19-07

30. Jami Fralick Martin, SD 10 33-14 215
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 19-11

31. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 10 33-13 213
Day 1: 5 16-09 Day 2: 5 17-04

32. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 10 32-10 211
Day 1: 5 14-02 Day 2: 5 18-08

33. John Crews Salem, VA 10 32-08 209
Day 1: 5 14-08 Day 2: 5 18-00

34. Jeremy Starks Charleston, WV 10 32-06 207
Day 1: 5 21-03 Day 2: 5 11-03

35. Todd Faircloth Jasper, TX 10 31-13 205
Day 1: 5 16-14 Day 2: 5 14-15

36. Marty Stone Fayetteville, NC 10 31-09 203
Day 1: 5 12-15 Day 2: 5 18-10

37. Jeff Connella Bentley, LA 10 31-06 201
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 18-05

38. Cliff Pace Petal, MS 10 31-05 199
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 5 16-07

39. Marty Robinson Lyman, SC 10 31-05 197
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 18-05

40. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, OK 10 31-03 195
Day 1: 5 16-09 Day 2: 5 14-10

41. Gerald Swindle Warrior, AL 10 30-11 193
Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 14-15

42. Chad Griffin Cresson, TX 9 30-11 191
Day 1: 5 22-00 Day 2: 4 08-11

43. Bradley Roy Lancaster, KY 10 30-06 189
Day 1: 5 13-08 Day 2: 5 16-14

44. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, AR 9 30-06 187
Day 1: 4 10-07 Day 2: 5 19-15

45. Mark Tucker Saint Louis, MO 10 30-04 185
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 12-11

46. Yusuke Miyazaki Forney, TX 10 30-04 183
Day 1: 5 17-02 Day 2: 5 13-02

47. Matt Reed Madisonville, TX 10 30-01 181
Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 14-05

48. Skeet Reese Auburn, CA 10 29-11 179
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 15-08

49. Peter E Thliveros St Augustine, FL 10 29-07 177
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 5 16-02

50. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 10 29-03 175
Day 1: 5 18-10 Day 2: 5 10-09

51. Clark Reehm Russellville, AR 10 28-10 173
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 5 15-08

52. Bobby Lane Lakeland, FL 10 28-05 171
Day 1: 5 18-10 Day 2: 5 09-11

53. Paul Elias Laurel, MS 9 28-01 169
Day 1: 4 07-15 Day 2: 5 20-02

54. Byron Haseotes Centerville, MA 10 27-15 167
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 5 14-13

55. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, KY 10 27-15 165
Day 1: 5 13-03 Day 2: 5 14-12

56. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, OK 10 27-05 163
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 5 14-13

57. Cliff Crochet Pierre Part, LA 10 27-01 161
Day 1: 5 12-03 Day 2: 5 14-14

58. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 10 26-13 159
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 5 14-15

59. J Todd Tucker Moultrie, GA 10 26-13 157
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 13-13

60. Byron Velvick Del Rio, TX 10 26-10 155
Day 1: 5 15-04 Day 2: 5 11-06

61. David Smith Del City, OK 10 26-10 153
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 13-06

62. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 9 26-10 151
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 4 14-05

63. Dustin Wilks Rocky Mount, NC 10 26-07 149
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 14-06

64. Dave Wolak Wake Forest, NC 10 26-04 147
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 5 13-08

65. Kenyon Hill Norman, OK 10 26-04 145
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 13-04

66. Mark Davis Mount Ida, AR 10 26-00 143
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 14-06

67. James Niggemeyer Van, TX 10 25-14 141
Day 1: 5 10-01 Day 2: 5 15-13

68. Kevin Short Mayflower, AR 10 25-10 139
Day 1: 5 14-09 Day 2: 5 11-01

69. Denny Brauer Camdenton, MO 10 25-06 137
Day 1: 5 13-10 Day 2: 5 11-12

70. Randy Howell Springville, AL 10 25-02 135
Day 1: 5 14-01 Day 2: 5 11-01

71. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu City, AZ 10 24-08 133
Day 1: 5 09-05 Day 2: 5 15-03

72. Ish Monroe Hughson, CA 10 24-06 131
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 5 14-01

73. Gary Klein Weatherford, TX 10 23-15 129
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 12-05

74. Chris Lane Guntersville, AL 9 23-15 127
Day 1: 4 06-14 Day 2: 5 17-01

75. Mark Tyler Vian, OK 10 23-14 125
Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 12-10

76. Davy Hite Ninety Six, SC 7 23-13 123
Day 1: 5 15-15 Day 2: 2 07-14

77. Fred Roumbanis Bixby, OK 9 23-12 121
Day 1: 4 07-09 Day 2: 5 16-03

78. Scott Ashmore Broken Arrow, OK 10 23-11 119
Day 1: 5 12-09 Day 2: 5 11-02

79. Rick Clunn Ava, MO 7 23-11 117
Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 2 08-06

80. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 10 23-10 115
Day 1: 5 11-01 Day 2: 5 12-09

81. Billy McCaghren Mayflower, AR 10 22-11 113
Day 1: 5 12-00 Day 2: 5 10-11

82. John Murray Phoenix, AZ 10 21-14 111
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 11-08

83. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, CA 7 21-12 109
Day 1: 5 17-01 Day 2: 2 04-11

84. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 9 21-04 107
Day 1: 5 11-13 Day 2: 4 09-07

85. Alton Jones Waco, TX 10 20-13 105
Day 1: 5 10-08 Day 2: 5 10-05

86. Pat Golden High Point, NC 8 19-15 103
Day 1: 5 12-03 Day 2: 3 07-12

87. Vince Fulks Purcell, OK 8 19-14 101
Day 1: 3 08-01 Day 2: 5 11-13

88. Wade Grooms Bonneau, SC 7 16-11 99
Day 1: 3 09-02 Day 2: 4 07-09

89. Guy Eaker Cherryville, NC 6 15-08 97
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 5 13-13

90. Dennis Tietje Roanoke, LA 7 13-02 95
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 2 04-01

91. Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, MD 5 12-06 93
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 0 00-00

92. Mark Burgess Norton, MA 6 10-06 91
Day 1: 4 07-04 Day 2: 2 03-02

93. Zell Rowland Austin, TX 4 07-10 89
Day 1: 2 04-04 Day 2: 2 03-06

———————————————————————–

Totals

Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 84 449 1374-09
2 81 436 1397-08

———————————-
165 885 2772-01

Day 1 Leader Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, MI. 25lb. (BASS Communicaitons/Seigo Saito)

It was more a question of when, not if, five-time Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year Kevin VanDam was going to make a late-season charge. Heading into the Tennessee Triumph this week, the planet’s best angler was in 26^th in the Angler of the Year standings. Respectable for mere mortals, yes, but for VanDam, it wasn’t good enough.

But this week looked like an obvious springboard. VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., has posted first-, second- and third-place finishes on Kentucky Lake in the three previous Bassmaster competitions here. A Wednesday limit of 25 pounds, 0 ounces, on the fish factory has him in the catbird seat to start the week. Just ounces off the pace, Rick Morris of Lake Gaston, Va., registered 24-15 and sits in second.

Unlike in years past on Kentucky, things have been a struggle thus far, VanDam said. The current didn’t run until late in the day and the bass aren’t schooling up and prone to quick flurries, most likely due to the recent flooding.

“It’s not easy out there,” said VanDam, a three-time Bassmaster Classic champion. “The areas that I typically go to have been beat to pieces. The biggest thing that has changed is everyone has the equipment to find fish out here. And it shows. But you still have to know what to throw and how to throw it to get the big bites.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

VanDam didn’t say much about his pattern – the typical VanDam formula is a crankbait over shell beds – but left little to the imagination when he said, “I’m fishing my style.”

Despite the lead, VanDam was hardly all smiles after weigh-in. He missed on a handful of opportunities to upgrade his weight and cull out a 3-pounder that dragged down his total. He is battling local pressure – something that has become constant for VanDam – but said it isn’t hindering his fishing.

“I wanted to have a better day than I had today,” lamented VanDam, 42. “But I wanted to be in the lead and at least I accomplished that. I knew, coming in, I had a great shot at doing well here.”

With the lead, VanDam will accumulate a five-point bonus in the AOY standings and while it might seem minimal, the 20-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier is starved for any points he can get. Facing a virtual unknown next week at the Arkansas River, VanDam said he hopes he can build enough points to put himself in Postseason contention – the top in the AOY standings qualify – heading into the regular-season finale.

“Next week worries me,” said VanDam of the Arkansas River stretch out of Muskogee, Okla. “But most importantly, I need to take care of business this week. I had a good practice and I feel really confident.”

While VanDam wasn’t satisfied, Morris was ecstatic. His weight of 24-15 included the day’s largest bass, an 8-15. The brute came on a 14-inch Prowler worm in plum. If not for an 8-ounce expired fish penalty, VanDam would be trailing Morris heading into the second day of competition.

Like VanDam, Morris has produced on Kentucky. He scored a fifth-place finish here last year and he is an adept crankbait angler. Morris spent most of his day running a pattern where he rotated between a slew of areas, then repeated.

He worked two different crankbaits to areas filled with shellbeds. The key to enticing the biggest bass was long casts, which allowed the crankbait to get to the bottom. Morris isn’t getting a lot of bites but is making it count when he puts one in the boat.

“It’s scary fishing,” said Morris, a four-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier. “I’m not on a massive school. But what a day. I’m going for the gusto and today it really paid off.”

In third with 23-12 was Timmy Horton of Muscle Shoals, Ala. It has been a struggle this season for Horton, the 2000 Angler of the Year, but a trip to Kentucky Lake, where he posted a second in 2008, was just what the Doctor ordered.

In fourth was Kotaro Kiriyama of Moody, Ala., with 22-10. Rounding out the top five was Chad Griffin of Cresson, Texas, with 22-0.

With the race for qualifying berths in the Postseason (top 12) and the Bassmaster Classic (top 37) heating on, anglers are beginning to feel the pressure. Skeet Reese of Auburn, Calif., stumbled to a 48^th-place finish, opening the door yet again in the Angler of the Year race. With a stout lead of 170-plus points heading into this week, Reese had a nice cushion but his closest competitor, Edwin Evers of Talala, Okla., is in 13^th here and charging fast.

Kentucky Lake has hosted a dozen BASS events, including the 2009 Tennessee Triumph, at which then-Elite Series sophomore pro Bobby Lane of Lakeland, Fla., won his first BASS tournament with a total of 97 pounds, 9 ounces, after leading through all four days. Lane was 23^rd Wednesday and 2006 Kentucky Lake champion Morizo Shimizu of Japan was 18^th.

Kentucky Lake is 185 miles in length, with 160,000 surface acres and 2,380 miles of shoreline. Lake Barkley adds another 80,000 surface acres.

The top prize of the Tennessee Triumph is $100,000.

The public is invited to attend the daily launches (6 a.m. CT) through Saturday and weigh-ins (3:30 p.m.) at Paris Landing State Park, 16055 Hwy. 79 N., Buchanan, Tenn. After Day 2’s competition Thursday, the field will be cut to the top 47 anglers for Day 3. Only the top 12 will go on to compete in Saturday’s Day 4.

Other activities Friday and Saturday at the Tennessee Triumph will begin at noon CT at Paris Landing State Park. All events are free and open to the public.

The local sponsor of the Tennessee Triumph is the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce.

To view photos of the Kickoff of the 2010 Tennessee Triumph visit our photo gallery at:

http://www.paristn.net/photogallery/events/2010/tennessee-triumph/

Be sure to catch all the action!

Fishing fans can catch all of the on-the-water action from the Tennessee Triumph on The Bassmasters, which airs Sunday, July 4, at 10 a.m. ET on ESPN2. The daily weigh-ins for all regular-season Elite events and the two postseason events will air live on ESPN3.com.

Bassmaster.com will follow the Tennessee Triumph each day with BASSCast, BASSCam, real-time leaderboards during weigh-ins, photo galleries, daily results, and Hooked Up with ESPN Outdoors personalities Mark Zona and Tommy Sanders. Live, streaming video will be carried by ESPN3.com.

About the Elite Series

Up next for the Elite Series is the regular-season finale, the June 17-20 AutoZone Sooner Run on the Arkansas River out of Muskogee, Okla.

The Bassmaster Elite Series Postseason, Toyota Trucks Championship Week, is set for July 24-31 and will be played out once again on two productive Alabama fisheries. The first leg, the July 24-25 Trophy Chase, returns to Lake Jordan out of Wetumpka. The finale, the Evan Williams Bourbon Trophy Triumph, is slated for July 30-31 on the Alabama River from Montgomery.

Bassmaster Elite Series Official Sponsors: Toyota, Berkley, Evan Williams Bourbon, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Skeeter, Yamaha and Bass Pro Shops.

Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Lowrance, Triton Boats, Nitro Boats and Ramada.

About BASS

For more than 40 years, BASS has served as the authority on bass fishing. The organization advances the sport through advocacy, outreach and its expansive tournament structure while championing efforts to connect directly with the passionate community of bass anglers through its Bassmaster media vehicles.

The Bassmaster brand and its considerable multimedia platforms are guided by a mission to serve all fishing fans. Through its industry-leading publications Bassmaster Magazine, BASS Times and Fishing Tackle Retailer; comprehensive Web properties in Bassmaster.com, BASSInsider.com, ESPNOutdoors.com and ESPN360.com, and ESPN2 television programming, Bassmaster provides rich, leading-edge content true to the lifestyle.

BASS oversees the prestigious Bassmaster Tournament Trail, which includes the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens, BASS Federation Nation and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bassmaster Classic.

BASS offers an array of services to its more than 500,000 members while spearheading progressive, positive change on issues related to conservation and water access. The organization is headquartered in Celebration, Fla.

Day 1 Standings

2010 Paris, TN 6/9-6/12
Kentucky Lake, Paris TN.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 1

1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 5 25-00 305
Day 1: 5 25-00

2. Rick Morris Virginia Beach, VA 5 24-15 295
Day 1: 5 24-15

3. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, AL 5 23-12 290
Day 1: 5 23-12

4. Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, AL 5 22-10 285
Day 1: 5 22-10

5. Chad Griffin Cresson, TX 5 22-00 280
Day 1: 5 22-00

6. Jeremy Starks Charleston, WV 5 21-03 276
Day 1: 5 21-03

7. Bradley Hallman Norman, OK 5 20-15 272
Day 1: 5 20-15

8. Jason Quinn Lake Wylie, SC 5 20-13 268
Day 1: 5 20-13

9. Bill Lowen North Bend, OH 5 20-02 264
Day 1: 5 20-02

10. Keith Poche Troy, AL 5 20-01 260
Day 1: 5 20-01

11. Matt Greenblatt Palm Beach Gardens, FL 5 20-00 257
Day 1: 5 20-00

12. Britt Myers Lake Wylie, SC 5 19-15 254
Day 1: 5 19-15

13. Edwin Evers Talala, OK 5 19-14 251
Day 1: 5 19-14

14. Takahiro Omori Emory, TX 5 19-09 248
Day 1: 5 19-09

15. Pete Ponds Madison, MS 5 19-07 245
Day 1: 5 19-07

16. Aaron Martens Leeds, AL 5 19-06 243
Day 1: 5 19-06

17. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 5 19-05 241
Day 1: 5 19-05

18. Morizo Shimizu Osaka JAPAN 5 19-04 239
Day 1: 5 19-04

19. Greg Vinson Wetumpka, AL 5 18-14 237
Day 1: 5 18-14

20. Matt Herren Trussville, AL 5 18-13 235
Day 1: 5 18-13

21. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, KS 5 18-12 233
Day 1: 5 18-12

22. Derek Remitz Grant, AL 5 18-11 231
Day 1: 5 18-11

23. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 5 18-10 229
Day 1: 5 18-10

23. Bobby Lane Lakeland, FL 5 18-10 229
Day 1: 5 18-10

25. Jason Williamson Aiken, SC 5 18-06 225
Day 1: 5 18-06

26. Mark Tucker Saint Louis, MO 5 17-09 223
Day 1: 5 17-09

27. Yusuke Miyazaki Forney, TX 5 17-02 221
Day 1: 5 17-02

28. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, CA 5 17-01 219
Day 1: 5 17-01

29. Todd Faircloth Jasper, TX 5 16-14 217
Day 1: 5 16-14

30. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, OK 5 16-09 215
Day 1: 5 16-09

30. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 5 16-09 215
Day 1: 5 16-09

32. Kelly Jordon Mineola, TX 5 16-06 211
Day 1: 5 16-06

33. Boyd Duckett Demopolis, AL 5 16-04 209
Day 1: 5 16-04

34. Terry Butcher Talala, OK 5 15-15 207
Day 1: 5 15-15

34. Davy Hite Ninety Six, SC 5 15-15 207
Day 1: 5 15-15

36. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 5 15-12 203
Day 1: 5 15-12

36. Matt Reed Madisonville, TX 5 15-12 203
Day 1: 5 15-12

36. Gerald Swindle Warrior, AL 5 15-12 203
Day 1: 5 15-12

39. Rick Clunn Ava, MO 5 15-05 197
Day 1: 5 15-05

40. Byron Velvick Del Rio, TX 5 15-04 195
Day 1: 5 15-04

41. Scott Rook Little Rock, AR 5 15-02 193
Day 1: 5 15-02

42. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, MO 5 15-01 191
Day 1: 5 15-01

43. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 5 14-15 189
Day 1: 5 14-15

44. Cliff Pace Petal, MS 5 14-14 187
Day 1: 5 14-14

45. Shaw E Grigsby Gainesville, FL 5 14-13 185
Day 1: 5 14-13

46. Kevin Short Mayflower, AR 5 14-09 183
Day 1: 5 14-09

47. John Crews Salem, VA 5 14-08 181
Day 1: 5 14-08

48. Jami Fralick Martin, SD 5 14-03 179
Day 1: 5 14-03

48. Skeet Reese Auburn, CA 5 14-03 179
Day 1: 5 14-03

50. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 5 14-02 175
Day 1: 5 14-02

51. Randy Howell Springville, AL 5 14-01 173
Day 1: 5 14-01

52. Denny Brauer Camdenton, MO 5 13-10 171
Day 1: 5 13-10

53. Bradley Roy Lancaster, KY 5 13-08 169
Day 1: 5 13-08

54. Peter E Thliveros St Augustine, FL 5 13-05 167
Day 1: 5 13-05

55. David Smith Del City, OK 5 13-04 165
Day 1: 5 13-04

56. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, KY 5 13-03 163
Day 1: 5 13-03

57. Byron Haseotes Centerville, MA 5 13-02 161
Day 1: 5 13-02

57. Clark Reehm Russellville, AR 5 13-02 161
Day 1: 5 13-02

59. Jeff Connella Bentley, LA 5 13-01 157
Day 1: 5 13-01

60. Kenyon Hill Norman, OK 5 13-00 155
Day 1: 5 13-00

60. J Todd Tucker Moultrie, GA 5 13-00 155
Day 1: 5 13-00

62. Marty Robinson Lyman, SC 5 13-00 151
Day 1: 5 13-00

63. Marty Stone Fayetteville, NC 5 12-15 149
Day 1: 5 12-15

64. Dave Wolak Wake Forest, NC 5 12-12 147
Day 1: 5 12-12

65. Scott Ashmore Broken Arrow, OK 5 12-09 145
Day 1: 5 12-09

66. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, OK 5 12-08 143
Day 1: 5 12-08

67. Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, MD 5 12-06 141
Day 1: 5 12-06

68. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 5 12-05 139
Day 1: 5 12-05

69. Cliff Crochet Pierre Part, LA 5 12-03 137
Day 1: 5 12-03

69. Pat Golden High Point, NC 5 12-03 137
Day 1: 5 12-03

71. Dustin Wilks Rocky Mount, NC 5 12-01 133
Day 1: 5 12-01

72. Billy McCaghren Mayflower, AR 5 12-00 131
Day 1: 5 12-00

73. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 5 11-14 129
Day 1: 5 11-14

74. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 5 11-13 127
Day 1: 5 11-13

75. Mark Davis Mount Ida, AR 5 11-10 125
Day 1: 5 11-10

75. Gary Klein Weatherford, TX 5 11-10 125
Day 1: 5 11-10

77. Mark Tyler Vian, OK 5 11-04 121
Day 1: 5 11-04

78. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 5 11-01 119
Day 1: 5 11-01

79. Alton Jones Waco, TX 5 10-08 117
Day 1: 5 10-08

80. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, AR 4 10-07 115
Day 1: 4 10-07

81. John Murray Phoenix, AZ 5 10-06 113
Day 1: 5 10-06

82. Ish Monroe Hughson, CA 5 10-05 111
Day 1: 5 10-05

83. James Niggemeyer Van, TX 5 10-01 109
Day 1: 5 10-01

84. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu City, AZ 5 09-05 107
Day 1: 5 09-05

85. Wade Grooms Bonneau, SC 3 09-02 105
Day 1: 3 09-02

86. Dennis Tietje Roanoke, LA 5 09-01 103
Day 1: 5 09-01

87. Vince Fulks Purcell, OK 3 08-01 101
Day 1: 3 08-01

88. Paul Elias Laurel, MS 4 07-15 99
Day 1: 4 07-15

89. Fred Roumbanis Bixby, OK 4 07-09 97
Day 1: 4 07-09

90. Mark Burgess Norton, MA 4 07-04 95
Day 1: 4 07-04

91. Chris Lane Guntersville, AL 4 06-14 93
Day 1: 4 06-14

92. Zell Rowland Austin, TX 2 04-04 91
Day 1: 2 04-04

93. Guy Eaker Cherryville, NC 1 01-11 89
Day 1: 1 01-11

———————————————————————–
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 84 449 1374-09
———————————-
84 449 1374-09

At first glance it might seem like a stretch of the imagination, but all you have to do is drop into Paris, Tennessee, in the early spring to know that this annual festival lives up to its proclaimed title.

To begin with, Paris, Tennessee, welcomes visitors to the city with a huge sign and a sculpted catfish — a declaration that fishing and the prospect of Cajun catfish or any kind of catfish fillets are big business here.

Yes, it is about the fishing. And the people who fish. And the people who have businesses that either supply the fisher-folk. And it is about everyone who simply wants to have a good time. Paris, a West Tennessee country community at the edge of Land Between the Lakes, has created an increasingly complex and continually growing festival to supply some very simple down-home fun. It’s fairly obvious that the entire community is behind this event… eagerly awaiting the fairs, the parades, and the infamous “catfish races.”

So where did it all begin?

“Mule Day.” That was a 1938 event sponsored by the Post Intelligencer, the city’s daily newspaper. “Mule Day” picked up on a tradition where farmers came to town on the first day of April to trade mules and farm products, shop, and enjoy a social reunion with friends and neighbors.

Some fifteen years later, with tractors gradually replacing mules in this rural community, the Chamber of Commerce stepped up to the plate, searching for a new venue to replace what was becoming an out-of-date event.

Thus, in 1953, the Chamber sponsored the first Fish Fry., with less than stellar results. The fish fried were not culled from Kentucky Lake, and failed to please the palates of the locals.  The parade fell short as well.  This original iteration was held on a single day at Barton Field.

The event survived, though, and through the 1950′s began to grow. In the Camelot days of 1961, the Paris-Henry County Jaycees (Junior Chamber of Commerce) took over the event,and the “World’s Biggest Fish fry” was born.  In those early days the “fry” consumed 1600 pounds of fish, an amount that pales in comparison to today’s five tons of deep fried catfish. Yes, FIVE TONS. Cooked and dished up at the “Bobby” Cox Memorial Fish tent.

Another batch of Hush Puppies...keep 'em coming!

Community and business involvement in “World’s Biggest Fish Fry” brings the community together through many events: beauty pageants, parades, a country fair, tractor pulls, dances, a carnival, Catfish races, and the fish fry itself.

With the 2009 edition of the World’s Biggest Fish Fry just weeks away,  the Jaycees expect to continue the trend of “bigger and better’ every year. The fair has exploded from its “one day” origin to a full week of festivities, and some winter events like the beauty contests that feed into the final “Fish Fry” product.

Meanwhile, the Paris-Henry County community is waiting for more of that southern catfish and some flavorful hush puppies on the side. Me? Well, even though I am a newcomer, I hope to be wrangling a catfish in the races on a Saturday morning in April.

This year’s Fish Fry runs from April 20-27. For more information, visit the website: World’s Biggest Fish Fry.

The First United Methodist Church is rich in local history dating back to the Jackson Settlement Purchase. It was established on its present location in 1925. The First UMC offers both contemporary and  traditional services and a special children’s service as well. Outreach programs include televised worship services on Channel Cable 3 and radio broadcasts on WMUF AM/M.

For more information on the morning coffee program, call the  Chamber of Commerce. For more information on UMC programs and services, call 642-4764.

Jennifer Williams and Stacie Plunkett greet Healthcare Expo visitors

In a four hour block of time, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, the Paris Civic Center was a buzz of activity as over six hundred visitors passed through the center’s doors during the sixth annual Healthcare Expo .

Visitors were greeted by Paris Chamber of Commerce representatives Jenifer Williams and Stacie Plunkett, and asked to sign-in and register for free door prizes and give-a-ways. Each visitor received a free gift bag to fill with the free hand-outs and gifts provided by the diverse vendors. Stacie is chairperson of the Chamber’s Healthcare Committee which coordinates the health expo.

At the center of the expo hall’s setup was Henry County Medical Center’s free testing and screening multi-station. Blood pressure checks, blood sugar reading, cholesterol reading, hand grip strength testing and osteoporosis screenings were provided free. The results were recorded and given to each visitor for review with their personal medical care provider.

Paris Civic Center Walking Track

It must be noted that the Paris Civic Center, in addition to being an excellent meeting facility, is a well-rounded fitness center in its own right. Swimming pool, gymnasium and walking track and weight/aerobic fitness rooms are available on a daily full packet price. Daily passes for the separate facilities are also an option.  Annual passes are available at family, senior couple, senior single, adult single and youth single rates. Payment plans are available.  The center offers various fitness programs and classes, for a fee. For more information, please call the Paris Civic Center, 731-644-2517.

The Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce provided free copies of its Medical Services Directory, a guide to healthcare providers and allied services. There was information on the Henry County Medical Center’s rehabilitation services, which include physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech/language pathology. The center offers both inpatient and outpatient services. Also under the Health Center’s broad range of services is the Home Health & Hospice Program. It bridges the gap from hospital to home, providing a special kind of support for people with a limited life expectancy and their families. HCMC Home Health and Hospice serves Benton, Carroll, Henry, Humphreys, Stewart and Weakley Counties.

Free copies of Golden Years, the Peddler Advantage Retiree and Senior Citizen Magazine were distributed at the  Eiffel Gardens station. Eiffel Gardens is an spacious assisted living community whose station was staffed by personnel from the residence. There was a bounty of information of assisted living and the allied medical support services available to their residents.

Dr. Todd Keller,West Tennessee Chiropractic Center

Chiropractic Centers were well represented with West Tennessee Chiropractic and Paris Family Chiropractic each giving free screenings. West Tennessee Chiropractic’s Dr. Todd Keller performed upper and lower back scans and included free x-ray exam follow-up at their 1024 Mineral Wells Avenue office.  Paris Family Chiropractic performed energy balance scans. Dr. Elizabeth Craig of Paris Family  Chiropractic also specializes in acupuncture therapy. Both facilities also offer massage therapy, as does Escape A Day Spa- 1000 Cornerstone Drive and Dr. Robert Wesley, 212 Memorial Drive, both in Paris.

Freedom Fitness Tanning Spa

Fitness and exercise centers were also on hand. Freedom Fitness Spa and Tanning Center displayed a stationary exercise bike in combination with a near-infrared light therapy station. Fitness center and program information was also on display. Freedom is a 24-hour fitness spa center. They also offer massage, skin care and spa. Gift certificates are available. Visit them at www.freedomfitnesstn.com

Behavioral and mental health counseling services were the focus of several vendors. Carey Counseling Center displayed information on their diverse behavioral counseling services and extended stay facilities. Other developmental services vendors included Community Developmental Services and Henry County Medical Center Lake Haven. Youth Villages, 107 Memorial Drive, provides youth and family services.

Orthopedic surgery and sports medicine was the the focus of Henry County Therapy Center, Dr. G. Blake Chandler, Dr. Heather Gladwell, Dr. Eugene Gulish as well as the Henry County Medical Center’s Center for Wellness and Rehabilitation. Displays included mock-ups of knee, ankle, neck and spinal assemblies with informational handouts that discussed the various types of injuries each could sustain. Corrective prosthetics and external supports were also displayed. This included braces of various kinds, venous pulmonary support hosiery and diabetic support shoes. Diabetes information and health tips were available.

Walgreen's hands out sports water bottles

Several pharmacies had also set up displays with free give-a-ways. Walgreens distributed sports bottles, coffee mugs, stress relieves, hand sanitizer samples and printed materials on a variety of health issues covering high blood pressure, diabetes, dental hygiene, heart disease, physical exercise for health maintenance, flu immunizations and more.

In any discussion of health care in the United States health insurance is bound to be part of the conversation. Several insurance vendors provided handouts, mouse pads as give-a-ways, pens, had personnel on hand to answer questions from the visitors. Ricky Rhodes Insurance & Financial Services, Consolidated Insurance, the Allison Insurance Group, Tennessee Rural Health-Henry County Farm Bureau and Dixie Hines Agency were just a few of the agencies on site. Ricky Rhodes provided free juicy tangerines for all visitors to their station. Very tasty treats!

Tomorrow’s Hope Pregnancy Help Center manned a station with information centered on providing pregnancy counseling, natal and post-natal counseling and care, anger management and parenting classes.

All the while the many vendors were interacting with the continuously changing crowd of attendees, door prizes winners were being called out. The ultimate winners however must be acknowledged as the people of the Henry County regional area who have access to the many fine services showcased at this health expo.