Vol 121 - 34 Independent Appeal Newspaper December 28 2022

By Janet Rail Publisher

There was a certain mystery growing up in a newspaper office. As a very young child, I

demands

Pickwick Electric Cooperative was charged with reducing their energy use by 5 percent on Christmas Eve due to the extreme cold temperatures causing a strain on the grid. It was necessary to stabilize the power grid across Tennessee.

This demand resulted in power interruptions for PEC members across the county. According to PEC, on the morning of

December 23, 2022. PEC’s power supplier, the Tennessee Valley Authority, contacted us and other power providers at 9:31 a.m. and asked us to reduce our system’s energy demand by 5 percent. In some cases, this resulted in power interruptions for our consumers. The request to reduce energy demand was lifted at 11:43 a.m.

sat in my father's lap at the linotype as he operated it and got on with his day making a newspaper. The melting lead by it side and all the smells of ink in the office made me smile. It was a mysterious place with all

Liza Smith Vocalist of the Year at Josie Music Award

Among thousands in attendance at the Josie Music Awards, Lisa Smith, of Stantonville, won Vocalist of the Year, Multi-Genre at the Grand Old Opry House at the 8th Annual Josie Music Awards.

“I knew Liza could sing when she was a toddler. She would constantly sing in her carseat and would automatically hear key change and stay in pitch perfectly. As she got older, she would sit in her room for hours and listen to very com-

Food Shortages predicted to

If one was hoping that food shortages that defined the last twelve months would end in 2022, you were wrong. Persistent supply chain issues, the Russia-Ukraine was and climate change are just three of the reasons food shortages are likely to continue.

Products like butter, baby formula, egg shortages are likely to continue but in 2023 are predicted to be worse.

United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Gutterres tweeted recently, “We are on the way to a raging food catastrophe, and the world appears to be

indifferent. People in five separate places are facing famine. At G20 Summit I warned that without coordinated action, this year's crisis of affordability may become next year's global food shortage.”

kinds of people coming and going. Back then, the office was filled with smoke from any number of employees with ash filled trays on their desk.

Janet rail & Betty Rail

Liza Smith

FCE Annual Christmas Luncheon & Awards

On Thursday, December 8, Sharing Hearts Family and Community Education (FCE) Club hosted the annual county-wide FCE Christmas luncheon and awards program. The other clubs in attendance were Selmer FCE and Stantonville FCE. Barbara Isbell, Sharing Hearts President, welcomed everyone and introduced the special guests. The special guests included, Carl Perkins Center Director, Callie Allison, and staff. After the meal, UT Extension Agent and FCE Advisor, Schancey Chapman, recognized members for their volunteer service in the county and the number of books read for the year. Volunteering in the community and literacy is a very important part of FCE. The number of books read in 2022 was 767 among 15 members. The amount of volunteer hours reported for

27 members with at least 75,000 people reached. In the state of Tennessee, a volunteer hour is valued at $29.95. The value of these volunteer efforts was over $463,000, with most of it done right here in McNairy County. Awards for Outstanding FCE Member of the Year were presented. Glenda Barron was nominated from the Selmer Club, Pat Davison was nomi-

nated from the Sharing Heart Club, and Maria Howard was nominated from Stantonville Club. All three of these ladies are very well deserving of this award, but only one could be picked. Pat Davison was selected as the McNairy County Outstanding Member of the Year for 2022. Pat serves as Sharing Hearts Reporter, County Council President, and VP

of Public Policy on the State FCE Board. Lastly, 25-year membership was recognized for one member, Barbara Isbell. Barbara has given a lot of time, effort, and money to FCE over the years and this recognition was very well deserved. Congratulations to all the award recipients.

The luncheon concluded with thanking members for their dona-

tion to The Carl Perkins Center. Approximately $750 worth of Christmas toys was donated. Announcements were made, door prizes were given out, and a warm farewell from Barbara Isbell concluded the luncheon. If you would like to join FCE please contact Schancey Chapman at 731-645-3598.

McNairy County Extension offers programs in agriculture and natu-

ral resources, 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences, and resource development. The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and McNairy County governments are cooperating to bring the people of the county various programs and services. UT Extension provides equal opportunities in all programs and employment.

Short line railroads are a lifeline to large markets for rural Tennessee communities

By Jai Templeton Contributor

Often overlooked and certainly taken by granted is a major West Tn. artery dissecting McNairy County. The West Tennessee Railroad is part of a network of what is commonly known as short line railroads. Simply stated they are smaller versions of the Class I railroads and cover much shorter distances from as little as 50 miles to 180 miles of service line. Together the short lines patch together a network of some 50,000 miles of track connecting rural communities like McNairy County with distribution points across the nation. Short line

rail systems account for about 40% of the railroad systems in the United States.

Short lines are regulated just like the larger railroads by the Federal Railroad Administration. The short lines started over 40 years ago and took over a lot of unprofitable rail segments that in some instances were in a great state of disrepair. The enormous capital investment by the companies have given opportunities to rural America while providing relief to other transportation systems. Trains are a highly efficient means to move bulk goods. In West Tennessee trains move in tons of fertilizer and move

out tons of grain. One rail car will equal about four semi-trucks. A train of grain snaking its way to southern feed mills or even to ports such as Savannah and New Orleans take an enormous amount of pressure from local roads. Not only does the local rail service provide a tremendous benefit to area farmers but also to industries of all types that need thousands of tons of bulk commodities such as lumber, steel, gravel and oil. Transportation infrastructure has long been a competitive advantage for American manufacturing. It will take increased funding to ensure that the short line rail system remains viable.

FCE Club Representatives with Carl Perkins Center Staff . All standing behind the presents donated to The Carl Perkins Center.

Maria Howard (right), nominee for Outstanding Member of the Year and Pat Davison (left) nominee and winner for Outstanding Member of the Year. Not Pictured: Glenda Barron, nominee for Outstanding Member of the Year.

2022 Literacy Award Recipients.

2021 State Volunteer Award Recipients.

Barbara Isbell (right) being recognized for her 25 years of volunteer service to FCE by FCE Advisor, Schancey Chapman (left).

2022 McNairy County FCE Volunteer Award Recipients.

YEARS

SINCE 1902

On Saturday, December 24, the Tennessee Valley Authority, again contacted PEC and other power providers at 4:51 a.m. and asked us to reduce our system’s energy demand by 10 percent. At 9:27 a.m., we were asked to reduce our system’s energy demand down to 5 percent. The request to reduce energy demand was lifted at 10:31 a.m..

PEC interrupted power to a specified area, restored the power and then interrupted power to another specified area. These were done in approximately 30 minute intervals. Reducing energy demand in a systematic, planned way helps to keep the power grid stable and prevents longer, widespread pow-

er outages

Why it happened and what we know: The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) had 35% higher than expected demand for energy on a typical winter day which caused a strain on the grid. At the same time, a few of the coal and gas energy facilities were down because of the freezing temperatures.

It was the first time in TVA's 89-year history to institute energy load reductions, or rolling blackouts, to stabilize the regional power grid amid subzero temps Friday.

According to PEC, TVA and PEC follow a detailed plan to reduce energy consumption during periods of high demand. Under most circumstances, we are able

to do so without having to interrupt power.

Reducing energy demand in a systematic, planned way helps to keep the power grid stable and prevents longer, widespread power outages.

PEC stated on their Facebook page: “We recognize that power interruptions are inconvenient, especially during cold weather and the holiday season. PEC apologizes to those who experienced outages this morning and suggest that you prepare for additional outages to come.”

“We are working with TVA to better understand what led to today's power interruptions, and we will share more information with you as it becomes available.”

In early stories in the Independent, Jai Templeton reported an ongoing fertilizer shortage continuing to wreak havoc on local crops as well as national crops. In addition, CNBC reported an economic recession likely to hit in the early months of the new year as inflation, environmental catastrophes and an economic recession is likely to hit in the early months of the new year as inflation, environmental catastrophes continue to wreak havoc.

The loss in crops due to the increase in environmental disasters are also contributing to the food shortages. Not to mention drought levels across the country were at all time highs which puts less money in the pockets of

farmers and less land to produce foods. Almost every sector in the agricultural industry was touched by these issues resulting in empty fields and loss of viable farmland.

Items expected to be in short supply next year are bread, vegetable oil, corn, butter, tomatoes, champagne, flour, beef and more will be harder to find on the grocery store isles.

Ukraine's production will decline by 35 to 45% in the next harvesting season. They produce 52% of sunflower seed and oil in their country.

In Indonesia, palm oil shortages are expected to compound the problem of vegetable oil availability, according to Mashed. While climate change has also

reduced the production of champagne with extreme weather devastating crops and yields.

Tennessee dairy farmer and agricultural activist Stephanie Nash recently shared she believed 2023 was going to be rough and worse than 2022. “We're going to have a supply chain shortage, an increase in our food prices at the grocery store and Americans are really going to be hurting in their wallet,” she said.

As farmers struggle to keep up with demand. The USDA predicts the global fertilizer crisis prompted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine has affected crop production for farmers and the situation is likely to become “more dire” in 2023.

Pakenham, Jackson and the “Free Man of Color”

By Bill Carey

Idon’t know if everyone has seen the Netflix series “The Crown,” about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, but there’s an episode with a distant connection to Tennessee history.

Season 2, Episode 6, is about Edward VIII’s disgraceful relationship with Nazi German officials after he abdicated the throne. In this episode, Queen Elizabeth II visits her retired private secretary Tommy Lascelles. She finds him setting up toy soldiers on a diorama of the 1812 Battle of Salamanca, between the British and the French.

“Troops of Sir Edward Pakenham’s third infantry division,” Lascelles explains to the queen.

What does this have to do with Tennessee?

Pakenham, a British hero from the Napoleonic Wars, was killed three years after Salamanca at the Battle of New Orleans.

As you may remember from your Tennessee history classes, here’s the backstory of the Battle of New Orleans:

Toward the end of the War of 1812, 15,000 British troops landed in Louisiana, intending to invade New Orleans.

Having previously beaten Napoleon Bonaparte of France, these soldiers and sailors were certain they would defeat the

American troops. The U.S. government ordered General Andrew Jackson to defend New Orleans. Jackson's army marched to Louisiana and set up at a sugar plantation called Chalmette, about five miles south of the city.

Jackson chose a narrow stretch of land, with the Mississippi River on one side and a swamp on the other. He ordered his men to dig a ditch and rampart behind it. Then they waited for the British, and the main attack came on January 8, 1815 – 208 years ago this week.

On paper, this looked

like an easy victory for the British. After all, the British had more experienced soldiers, better armed soldiers and three times as many soldiers as the Americans.

Jackson's army was not as well organized and trained as the British invaders; it consisted of a hodgepodge of soldiers from different places, with no experience fighting together.

About 1,300 of Jackson’s army were members of the Tennessee militia. A few hundred were soldiers from the U.S. Army. Some were Louisiana militiamen –many of whom spoke

French and Spanish, but not English. Sixty-two were Choctaw Indians. Some were privateers from Louisiana known as Baratarians.

Jackson also had nearly 500 free Black men fighting for him at New Orleans. In fact, this was the largest use of African-American soldiers in an American battle until the Civil War.

So the British won, right? Wrong.

In fact, the American army annihilated the British at New Orleans, scoring one of the greatest upsets in world military history. And it was during the peak of the battle

that General Edward Pakenham died, leading his troops in a desperate charge into fire.

And who fired the shot that killed Pakenham?

A day after the battle, General Jackson wrote a letter to President James Monroe about what happened. Jackson described the series of events that preceded Pakenham’s death, said he heard a gun fire, and says he saw Pakenham “reel and pitch” out of his saddle.

Jackson went on to say that “I have always believed he [Pakenham] fell from the bullet of a free man of color, who

was a famous rifle shot and came from the Attakapas region of Louisiana

(The Attakapas region is in the extreme southern part of the state, where it borders the Gulf of Mexico.)

I’ve always known that the British army was humiliated by a rag-tag army of Americans, and outsmarted by a man (Jackson) who had not even attended at a military academy. But what I had not realized until I recently read this first-person account is that the great Edward Pakenham was killed by a free man of color in a country where the vast majority of men of his race were enslaved.

Sadly, this remarkable military anecdote did not affect American history very much. The military skill of one free man of color from Louisiana did not help his fellow African Americans during the next half century, as slavery spread into Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. Black soldiers would be allowed to take part in that war in large numbers after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

That is obviously another column.

Bill Carey is the founder of Tennessee History for Kids, a non-profit organization that helps teachers cover social studies.

Open meetings lawsuit takes aim at two secretive techniques

The Chattanooga Times Free Press filed a lawsuit in December against the Chattanooga City Council over its use of private meetings to decide a significant issue — the new boundaries of city voting districts.

The lawsuit alleges violations of the Open Meetings Act and is important because it takes aim at two autocratic techniques sometimes used by public officials in Tennessee to skirt the law and shut out the public and journalists who report for the public.

In this case, it’s not clear whether the entire city council realized that their normal legislative process was being hijacked. But the process was distinctly different from redistricting in Chattanooga a decade ago.

In contrast to last time, this time, the council member discussions about new boundary lines were done in private, not in public. The

public meetings that were finally held to show and eventually vote on the new maps were mostly a rubber-stamping of what everyone had already agreed upon ahead of time.

So how did Chattanooga manage to do all this behind closed doors? It started innocuously enough.

The city council’s chairman formed a redistricting committee of four city council members to bring forth a recommendation to the full council.

But instead of holding meetings open to the public like other city council committees do, the redistricting committee convened private meetings with executive staff of the mayor’s office. Unlike other committees, the redistricting committee gave no public notice of its meetings nor kept minutes.

Based on comments from the committee’s chair to the press, Chattanooga may try to argue that the redistricting com-

mittee’s meetings were not “meetings” subject to the open meetings act by contending that the committee didn’t decide anything or “deliberate” toward a decision during these meeting, but rather just heard from staff.

This was the first technique used by the committee to justify operating outside public view.

But it’s a technique that takes a narrow view of the open meetings law and we know that governing bodies usually don’t operate this way.

Under this narrow view of the law, anytime a government official gave a presentation to a city council or county commission — such as the mayor giving a presentation on a budget proposal or the sheriff on a new jail plan — the meeting could be closed to the public because the governing body is only “hearing” from someone, not actually making its decision yet or considering what its decision could be.

But the definition set by the Tennessee Supreme Court is specific. “Deliberate” means to “to examine and consult in order to form an opinion.”

A meeting in which the mayor’s staff presents information to a city council redistricting committee about redistricting requirements and choices is very much a part of the “examining and consulting” process and is, in fact, key to the big decision that must eventually be made by the governing body. These types of meetings are normally open to the public and should have been open here. One wonders why they were not.

The second technique used is one that I hear about repeatedly from citizens across the state who are frustrated with methods used to keep important issues outside the public eye until it’s too late for meaningful citizen input.

The redistricting committee instructed the mayor’s staff to meet

individually with each council member about potential district boundaries.

City staff proceeded to spend “hundreds of hours” with council members in these private individual meetings. And when they introduced a proposed map to the full city council in the first public meeting on the issue, it was clear that staff believed all council members were all firmly in agreement with the proposal.

“I think I’ve spent a lot of time with each of you making changes that you wanted to your districts. We’re happy to make more if you want them, but the last word I have from every member of the council is that you’re fine with this,” said Chris Anderson, then the mayor’s administrator of innovation delivery and performance.

These serial meetings in which city staff serves as an intermediary — talking individually with council members to

bring a governing body into agreement behind the scenes — is perhaps one of the most crafty, clandestine ways to rob the public of the opportunity to hear their representatives publicly debate issues.

In this case, citizens interested in the issue had even asked at the time the ad hoc committee was created to be alerted when the committee started its work.

That request fell on deaf ears. A determination to have consequential discussions in private and to come to consensus on a plan in private through mediated conversations with city staff prevailed. That is not what the open meetings law prescribes, nor is it the way citizens want government to operate.

Deborah Fisher is executive director of Tennessee Coalition for Open Government, an organization that has monitored and researched open government in Tennessee since 2003.

Holidays are a recipe for relapse but there is help available

The holidays can be tough on those who have struggled with addiction. It can be a recipe for relapse between holiday stress and family gatherings with alcohol. If you have a loved one struggling with drug or alcohol use, you should seek treatment for them immediately. Being close with family for the

holidays may also have caused you to notice that they are not doing well and struggling with addiction. Take the time to talk to them, ask them what they may be struggling with, and discuss treatment. We hope everyone is having a wonderful Holiday season.

To learn more about the dan-

gers of waiting visit: https:// www.narcononnewliferetreat. org/blog/the-dangerous-waiting-game.html.

Addiction Screenings: Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals 1- 800431-1754.

Rep. Green's Statement on Omnibus Bill

WASHINGTON —Today, Rep. Mark Green released the following statement regarding the Omnibus spending bill: “This omnibus bill, crafted in secret, is an abject failure. The radical left got everything they wanted on their wish list—at Tennessee’s expense. Rather than listening to the American people who are struggling due to historic inflation, Democrat leadership released a

4,155-page monstrosity in the dead of night, filled to the brim with nearly $2 trillion in spending at the expense of our children and grandchildren. This bloated bill fails at addressing our nation’s most pressing problems, yet includes $575 million for abortion clinics and underfunds Customs and Border Patrol agents at the border. I will vote no on this Christmas present for Speaker Pelosi.”

Mental Health Cooperative to begin serving Memphis

Comprehensive mental health provider to expand outpatient treatment in West Tennessee

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – CEO Pam Womack announced that Mental Health Cooperative will open a full-service clinic in Memphis by early 2023. With 10 other locations from Clarksville to Chattanooga, the Shelby County clinic will be the organization’s first in West Tennessee.

“MHC has a holistic approach to mental health care that includes a safe understanding of the whole person to provide the best personalized treatment plan,” Womack said. “The need for accessible, affordable mental health care is more apparent than ever, and we are looking forward to serving the greater Memphis community.”

Over the past year, Memphis has suffered

from a series of tragedies, highlighting the need for increased mental health resources in the community. Children, adolescents, and adults will have access to comprehensive mental health care through the MHC clinic. Services will be available from a team that includes psychiatrists, care coordinators, nurses, and therapists.

“This announcement comes at a time where Memphis, like most cities across the country, is struggling to come to terms with the rising violence in our community,” added Rev. Rickey Dugger, President of the Baptist Ministers Alliance.

“There are countless people in Shelby County

who do not feel safe or heard, and intervention is so important to repair both our physical and mental approach to coping with these challenging times.”

MHC offers psychiatry, psychotherapy, community-based care management and substance abuse services to children, adolescents, and adults. The Tennessee-based nonprofit has operated since 1993.

MHC’s Memphis clinic will be fully operational by early 2023. All Tenncare plans are welcome, as well as those who are uninsured and below the poverty guidelines. For more information, please visit Mental Health Cooperative.

About Mental Health

Events and Happenings

EVERY FIRST SATURDAY PANCAKE BREAKFAST

SELMER MASONIC LODGE

1st Saturdays4The Selmer Masonic Lodge sponsors a Pancake Breakfast the 1st Saturday of every month form 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 153 S. Fourth Street, (behind the courthouse) to benefit Autism. Pancakes, Ramer sausage are served for a donation. Come enjoy and support a great cause.

GOD’S WAY MINISTRIES OF CHARITY GIVEAWAY - EVERYTHING FREE

Tuesdays & Thursdays 43 p.m. to 5 p.m. & Every 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Clothes, dishes, home decor, toys. 1111 Peach Street, Selmer, TN 38375. (CLosed next 2 weeks for holidays)

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH BRINGING IN THE NEW YEAR

December 314The First Presbyterian Church will be bringing in the New Year with a sermon “Putting First Things First” Prepare yourself spiritually to bring in the

Cooperative:

We empower individuals and families to live healthier lives. Through engagement in our collaborative approach to behavioral health, physical health, and substance use services individuals experience hope and a fulfilling life after diagnosis. By providing integrated care for the whole person, everyone can experience hope and live a full life in the community. MHC’s approach combines community-based care management, psychotherapy, psychiatry, crisis services, and primary care into an integrated, person-centered system of care. MHC operates 10 clinics throughout Middle and East Tennessee, including Nashville’s first 24/7 Walk-in Crisis Treatment Center. To find out more about Mental Health Cooperative, go to their website at https:// www.mhc-tn.org/.

New Year 2023 on Saturday, December 31, 2022 at 4 p.m. Dress casual. It may not be popular, but experience a bit of an old-fashioned, old-time religion tradition of seeking God in the preparatin of the New Year. All welcome. 800 Poplar Avenue, Selmer.

GOD’S WAY CHURCH NEW YEAR’S EVE WATCH SERVICE

December 314A New Year’s Eve Watch Service will be held at God’s Way Church, 1121 Peach Street, Selmer beginning at 8 p.m. Eveyone welcome.

Mark Green

Senator Walley to hold Community Listening Meetings in first week of 2023

U.S. farm profitability projected to decline in 2023

By Jai Templeton Contributor

According to the Agricultural Lender Survey that was authorized by the American Bankers Association and Farmer Mac, American farmers and ranchers are projected to experience a decline in profitability over the next year. The American Bankers Association represents banks of all sizes with the goal of strengthening banks and their customers. Farmer Mac was created in 1988 as the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation to provide a secondary market for agricultural real estate mortgage loans, rural housing loans and rural cooperative loans.

al market. While there have been large pockets of financial stress due to volatile environmental conditions overall farm economic stability has improved over the past few years. However, with the improvement there has also been a large increase in the cost of farm related expense. This continued increase leads most lenders to project a decline in farm profits in 2023. Higher interest and inflation rates have shrunk cash reserves on many operations.

producers will see the most dramatic decrease. Ag lenders are most concerned with the impact on increased interest cost which will increase competition among lenders as well as decrease the demand for loans. The growing trend of farm consolidation as well as a decrease in prospective borrower credit quality also presents growing concerns.

NASHVILLE— State

Senator Page Walley will hold community listening meetings in each county he represents in Senate District 26 from January 4 to 6.

He will meet with citizens and hear their concerns regarding issues before the state legislature. Walley will also offer assistance with state services to those who need it. The schedule for the listening meetings is as follows: Jan. 6, 9 a.m. in Har-

deman County at the Bolivar City Hall, Council Chambers, 211 N Washington St, Bolivar. Jan. 6, 11 a.m. in Chester County, Henderson City Hall, Council Chambers, 121 Crook Ave, Henderson. Jan. 6, 1 p.m. in McNairy County, McNairy County Courthouse, Courtroom, 170 W Court Ave, Selmer. Jan. 6, 3 p.m. in Hardin County, Hardin County Courthouse, Courtroom, 465 Main Street, Savannah.

American Legion Post 97 reaching out to all veterans

American Legion Post 97, Adamsville, is reaching out to all veterans regardless of what county or state they live in to join our Post.

If you served honorably DD214 then you owe it to yourself and your community to be a part of the largest and oldest veterans organizations in the United States. Formed in 1919 after WWI. The American Legion adult and youth programs are working with local schools in areas and aiding our local veterans in various ways including working with the VA system.

Come join us as we meet every first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at Hillbilly Wing Shack on Hwy 69, Crump. The restaurant is between Crump and Milledgeville.

Post 97 would love to have you join us and if you have any questions contact Eugene Patten 731-612-6445 or Bob May 731-607-1918. You can just show up on any first Monday and meet them.

The American Legion, commonly known as the Legion, is a non-profit organization of U.S. war

veterans headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is made up of state, U.S. territory, and overseas departments, and these are in turn made up of local posts. The organization was formed on March 15, 1919, in Paris, France, by a thousand officers and men of the American Expeditionary Forces (A. E. F.), and it was chartered on September 16, 1919, by the United States Congress.

The Legion played the leading role in the drafting and passing of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the "G.I. Bill".

In addition to organizing commemorative events, members provide assistance at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals and clinics. It is active in issue-oriented U.S. politics. Its primary political activity is lobbying on behalf of interests of veterans and service members, including support for benefits such as pensions and the Veterans Health Administration. It has also historically promoted Americanism, individual obligation to the community, state, and nation; peace and good will.

The survey questioned 300 lenders in the agricultur-

They worked long nights and were in and out but the core of the work fell on my dad. Most of the rest, like selling ads, was mother's job. A nurse, like me, she had no idea what she was getting into, but we were a family business and you do what you have to do to survive.

Dad would write, cover sports, take photographs and go to the printing plant on a weekly basis. Upon his return, often escorted by us kids, we would get the paper ready for the mail and racks.

I thought every kid lived like this. I have no recollection of major homework as a kid, we did most of that at school. The minute the bell rang and school was over for the day when were were in elementary school and old enough to walk home, we headed downtown Mt. Pleasant and went to the newspaper office. Dad would let us take a dime and go across to the drug store and get an ice cream cone at the counter. It was an old fashioned bar that remains in the building today which houses the Mt. Pleasant Grill.

Those were the days. Dad worked tirelessly but had some interesting friends. I was always listening to his friends when they stopped by. Most of the conversations were about injustices happening in one's life. I found it interesting. There was the occasional man who was thrown out of his home and daddy always put them on a couch in the office. Everyone was welcome there and they knew it. There was always a coffee pot close by and everyone had a cup or two.

Big stories were told and many late nights at the office. Of course, I hated to leave but we had to sleep and be ready for school.

My experience was not much different, after moving here in 1976 at age 15, we met the existing staff and were meeting many new people. We just had each other a first as you know, we were foreigners so it took a minute for others to get to know us. Some kids over the years called me Lois Lane..and I considered it a compliment. I like the news business and most everything my father did.

My dad took a paper with no paying subscribers and built it up to its all time high of 7,000 circulation. He loved his work and has me, my brother William and mother by his side. He sent us on all kinds of assignments. One of mine was getting the obituaries from Shackelford's. I sat in there office and wrote down the information and brought it back to the office to be typed up. It was not a glorious job but we considered it that persons last right of passage and often the first time in a newspaper.

Over the years we did it all. Back then each page was pasted together and shot like a photo to create a negative. That is what

Expectations are that southern U.S. farming operations will see a decrease from 77% to 68% in the number of operations that are operating at a profit. There is an expected 40% decrease across the nation in terms of profitable farms. Corn belt and Plains

U.S. agricultural production and demand remains strong which is helping producers as well as the rural communities that rely on them to remain financially viable. A key to continued financial success will be determined by borrowing costs as well as inflation fluctuations. Supply chain issues remain concerning but appear to be leveling out as 2023 fast approaches.

took so long and why places like “Printer's Alley” in Nashville were truly a favorite of newspaper staff. You have to be pretty tough to do this business and most editors enjoyed some time taking off steam at a local pub.

The years have passed and in the 80's computers were introduced into the office and technology began to make our lives much easier. Of course, I went off to college at Freed-Hardeman and UT Center for the Health Sciences in Memphis for my nursing degree before returning home.

As a nurse you spend your life caring for others and assisting with a diagnosis so you and the doctor and medical team can make a plan to get that person healthy again. It was rewarding and I loved every minute of it.

I found after returning home to work with dad that the newspaper business was much like nursing. Our job was to tell the stories and print the news as truthfully as possible, but we also had an obligation to help move the community in a positive direction. To take a stand on issues that mattered and help others understand through words how things may change their lives for the better.

Dad wanted one of us to take on the newspaper as he aged and continue what he considered important work. It is important and if you ever see a town that has lost a newspaper or has no representation, you often see a dying town or one where the citizens have lost their voice for change.

I purchased the paper in 2000, but daddy was not ready to relinquish control so I did return to hospital management for one last time before returning for good in 2009 when my company was sold.

McNairy County has more fodder than any other place I have lived. Working with many talented people over the years, the stories told will forever be archived in the state and local libraries. They were and are important stories to tell.

When people have no where else to go, they often come to the newspaper office for help. It

is a great day when you can help someone in their journey. Often the problems are difficult and involve a District Attorney's intervention or a local leader or businessman can help. Many people are helped with what I call “walking editorials”. You just need to make a few phone calls and things can happen without any fanfare. The person just needs knowledge or assistance in a personal matter or a public matter.

Often problems are solved getting a state representative or state senator involved. They are willing to help and can navigate issues with ease and come up with solutions. Local politicians are the same and can be helpful.

Helping the people of McNairy County and telling their stories has been a great privilege and I will carry that with me where ever I go. I love helping people and love hearing their stories. I say that everyone has a story to tell. I consider it a great honor and even as I made the decision to close this business, the oldest existing business in McNary County, I leave with a sense of pride in what we accomplished and wish nothing but great things for the many friends left behind.

Thank you for my 22 years and the 43 years my family owned the paper. We love each of you and I will continue to serve the community in ways that will allow me more flexibility and time to be with my family.

I believe in newspapers and that they drive democracy. I grew up with ink in my blood and can serve in different ways in the future as needs demand. I hope you have enjoyed our work and will support the efforts of those who continue the work as it is important. I know now all media has a great reputation in today's society and agree they are not all the same but believe me, a country without quality journalism is one none of us want to live in.

Thank you all for 120 great years. It has been the ride of a lifetime. I will never get the ink out of my blood. Until we see you again.

Senator Page Walley

Malcom F. George was born July 10, 1930 in Michie, Tennessee, the son of the late James Robert and Arbie Farris George.

He was united in marriage to Verlin Horton on July 26, 1951.

Malcom graduated from Michie High School in 1950. He earned an Associate degree in Bible from Freed-Hardeman College and a Bachelor's degree in Bible from David Lipscomb College. Malcom then attended Harding University where he earned a Master's in Counseling. He authored the book "The Role of the Preacher as Counselor" in 1956 and served as Director of the Middle East Bible Training College in Beirut, Lebanon from 1968 to 1970. Malcom served as a faithful minister of the Gospel for various churches of Christ since 1950 and was presently a member of the Lomax church of Christ in Hohenwald, TN.

Malcom departed this life on December 15, 2022 in Hohenwald, Tennessee at the age of 92 Years, 5 Months, 5 Days.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Verlin (Horton)

George of Hohenwald, Tenn.; a daughter, Rose (George)

Spears and husband Jeff of Hohenwald, Tenn.; a son, David George and wife Sherry of Franklin, Tenn.; six grandchildren: Jason George and wife Bridgett of Spring Hill, Tenn., Justin George and wife Reagan of Spring Hill, Tenn., Bree Barry and husband Cory of Panama City Beach, Fla., Brandice Searcy and husband Trent of Spring Hill, Tenn., Brock Spears and wife Kayla of Hohenwald, Tenn., and Breena Carroll and husband Derick of Hohenwald, Tenn.; eight great-grandchildren: Drucilla, Jaxon, Jameson, Beckett, Hudson, Rawlin, Orson, and Ryman; a sister, Jean Smith of Michie, Tenn.; and a multititude of extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, Malcom was preceded in death by three brothers: General George, Ray George, and John George.

A funeral service was held on December 19, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Lomax Church of Christ in Hohenwald, Tennessee, Jeff Spears officiated. Burial followed in the Liberty Cemetery in Michie, Tennessee.

On Monday, December 19th, Perry Everette Holland died peacefully in his sleep. In his 95 years, he lived a full and blessed life as a son, brother, soldier, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, friend, and a McNairy County Commissioner. He was amicable, funny, diligent, and kind. Perry loved his family, God, driving his grandkids around on the tractor, his barn, horses, singing in shape notes, telling jokes and forgetting the punchline, talking about his mischievous childhood deeds with his eight brothers, and watching with pride as his family grew and flourished. He was allergic to almost everything, a horrifically bad driver, quick to forget being wronged, and fast to forgive.

had loved and was loved. He will be dearly missed.

Liza Smith Vocalist of the Year at Josie Music Award

plicated runs and mimic everything until muscle memory would kick in and she could do it exactly right,” said mom Allison Templeton.

Ponderee

2022, at the age of 95.

She was the daughter of the late Dewey and Jo Henry Hazel Faulkner Matlock. Ponderee was united in marriage to Raymond Howard Parmely on June 20, 1947, who also preceded her in death on May 2, 1999. She was a homemaker, assisted her family in running a farm, as well as the Parmely Grocery store in Pocahontas from the mid 1960’s to the late 1970’s. She was a member of the Church of Christ in Pocahontas.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Brenda Gale Parmely; two sisters, Verble Ocborn and Zelma Bright; four brothers: J.D., Cliff, Nig and Leamon Matlock; a great grandchild, Lazarus Parmely.

She is survived by a daughter, Peggy Ree Bearden of Michie, TN; three sons: Kenneth, Rickey (Shelia) and Grady (Maggie) Par-

mely all of Pocahontas; ten grandchildren: Kirk Parmely, Marcus and Bobby Joe Tucker, Lance and Lane Parmely, Kara Davison, Lindsey Parmely, Katherine Parmely, Sarah Parmely, and Kaydence Menzies: nine great grandchildren: Katie and Logan Tucker, Callie and Annabeth Parmely, Skyla McMasters, Xander, Alice Ann, Xaria and KeLeigh Parmely; two sisters, Charlene Vale of Columbus, Mississippi, and Mildred Harrison of Ramer, Tennessee; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers: Kirk Parmely, Marcus Tucker, Bobby Joe Tucker, Lance Parmely, Lane Parmely and Stevie Chessor. Honorary pallbearers: Steve Robertson, Chase Anderson and Brian Sain.

Services will be held on December 28, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at Pocahontas Church of Christ in Pocahontas, Tennessee. Burial will follow in the White Oak Cemetery at Ramer, Tennessee.

Not one to brag, he rarely mentioned his accomplishments - from his service in the Army during WWII (where he demonstrated his compassion to his fellow man with his treatment of POWs under his care), raising four independently-minded children into successful adulthood, retirement from General Electric, admiration of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, and generosity to his community and church. He left us with a head full of snowy white hair, soft blue eyes, and the knowledge that he

Born August 22, 1927 to Eber Columbus and Sula Plunk Holland, Perry is survived by his wife, Frances Lewis Holland of Savannah, Tenn.; children Ronald Holland, daughter-in-law, Janice Holland, Danny Holland, and Phyllis Hoover and husband Roger; grandchildren Renee Holland, Barbara Holland, Brad Holland and wife Nicole, Brent Holland and wife Karen, Chad Hoover, Tiffany DeMeester and husband Brian, Michael Holland and wife Whitney; twelve great-grandchildren: Britney Harmon and husband Davis, Brady Shirley and wife Katie, Celena Shirley, Taylor Hoover, Ella Grace Holland, Brayden Holland, Natalie Holland, Ben Holland, Cannon Holland, Kinley Holland, Beckham Holland, and Easton Holland; six great-great-grandchildren: Emilee Harmon, Caroline Harmon, Adam Harmon, Luke Shirley, Brantley Shirley, Wyatt Shirley, and a host of dearly loved cousins, nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Preceding him in death was his first wife, Edith Eulia Johnson Holland; their son, Gary Holland; daughter-in-law, Rhoda Holland; granddaughter, Christy Hoover; and siblings, Loyce, Charlotte, Carlos, Cleo, Leslie, Elmo, Melvin, Charles, and David.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, December 27th from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Funeral Services on Wednesday, December 28th at 11 a.m. all held at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Selmer.

Christ and American Legion. He loved working on cars, reading, and traveling.

Raymond departed this life on December 26, 2022 in Corinth, Mississippi at the age of 93 years and 2 days.

“At 8 years old she wanted to start singing locally for audiences. She began singing in talent competitions, including McNairy Idol, Adamsville Idol, and even eventually took home the title of Wyn 106 Country Showdown in Jackson. She began singing the National Anthem at Adamsville High School sporting events and when she was in 6th grade, remaining a staple until her graduation in 2020.”

Liza sang the National Anthem at the TSSAA Men's Basketball championship game at Lipscomb University, the Memphis Redbirds vs Nashville Sounds game and won a nationwide National Anthem Singing Competition for the NCBA where she was flown to San Diego to perform prior to Martha McBride's performance.

In high school, Liza performed in a local band 40East, the band Buckshot Daisy opening such acts for Mark Chesnutt, Confederate Railroad and the late Joe Diffe. After this, Liza received a full scholarship to NEMCC to sing with an elite group Campus Country. She has performed in musical theatre, and stands in with other bands. She is focusing on her degree in Entertainment Industry Business at UNA and was elated to receive the Vocalist of the Year at the Josie Music Awards.

It was described as a magical, enchanting and grand evening. The Josie Music Awards is an all genre music award show ceremony which includes a lavish red carpet and many performances. Since its inaugural celebration in 2015, the Josie Music Awards was, is, and remains the largest independent music award show globally.

the ceremonial raising of the Grand Ole Opry House red curtain with Josie Passantino-Boone and Tinamarie Passantino standing in the historical circle.

The evening included award presentations, performances, and special surprise moments. The air was filled with electricity as nominees, families, friends, fans, and spectators arrived to see a lavish red carpet, media outlets, and thousands of attendees from around the globe gathering to celebrate with the largest independent, privately-owned, multi-genre award show, The Josie Music Awards also known as the “JMAs” and “Josies.”

The crowd rose to their feet as founders, Josie Passantino-Boone and Tinamarie Passantino inducted Tim Atwood into the Independent Country Music Hall of Fame, and as they presented Lacy J. Dalton with the Lifetime Career Achievement Award. Bobby G. Rice was also inducted into the Independent Country Music Hall of Fame during JMA Fest the day prior to the award show.

There were outstanding performers during the award show that lit up the Opry House stage. Performers included Claudette King (daughter of BB King), William Lee Golden & The Goldens, The Malpass Brothers, The Heels, The Goodwin Brothers, Tobi, Lee, Annie Dukes, Ada LeAnn, Lacy J Dalton, and Tim Atwood with Jeannie Seely. Special guest presenters joined Josie and Tinamarie on stage throughout the night such as Tyler Dean McDowell, Clarence Jey, Jimmy Bowen, Merlin Gene, and, Tim and Roxane Atwood to name a few.

Raymond Parker Butler was born on December 24, 1929 in Hardin County, Tennessee, the son of the late Fletcher Dewey and Tina Lillie Dunavant Butler.

On December 24, 1966, he was united in marriage to Dot Templeton Butler, who survives.

Raymond honorably served in the United States Marines from September 1951September 1953. He retired from being the owner and operator of Butler Bros. Exxon. He was a member of Adamsville Church of

He is survived by his wife, Dot T. Butler of Adamsville, Tennessee and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Raymond was preceded in death by his sister, Irene Nixon and brothers, Marvin Butler, Holland (Frog) Butler, Gene Butler, and James Butler.

Services will be held on December 29, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at Adamsville Church Of Christ in Adamsville, Tennessee, with Van Vansandt officiating. Burial will follow in the Shiloh Methodist Church Cemetery at Shiloh, Tennessee.

The 8th Annual Josie Music Awards took place on Sunday, October 23rd at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee to celebrate exceptional talent in the independent music community. The show opened with

The fully engaged crowd waited to hear their name attached to the words “The Josie Goes To” throughout the night supporting and cheering for each other. The Josie Music Awards' nominees are an incredible example of just how supportive the independent music community and the Josie Network family are. 2022 Official Winners https://www. josiemusicawards.com/ winners.html.

Ponderee Matlock Parmely December 24, 2022

Mat lock Parmely of Pocahontas, Tennessee died at her home on December 24,

Raymond Parker Butler

December 24, 1929December 26, 2022

Perry Everette Holland

August 22, 1927December 19, 2022

NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S SALE

WHEREAS, default has occurred in the performance of the covenants, terms and conditions of a Deed of Trust dated September 24, 2010, executed by ANNETTE PRATHER conveying certain real property therein described to CLEVELAND HOME TITLE AGENCY, as Trustee, as same appears of record in the Register`s Office of McNairy County, Tennessee recorded October 4, 2010, in Deed Book 400, Page 2748; and

WHEREAS, the beneficial interest of said Deed of Trust was last transferred and assigned to Mortgage Assets Management, LLC who is now the owner of said debt; and

WHEREAS, the undersigned,Rubin Lublin TN, PLLC, having been appointed as Substitute Trustee by instrument to be filed for record in the Register's Office of McNairy County, Tennessee.

NOW, THEREFORE, notice is hereby given that the entire indebtedness has been declared due and payable, and that the undersigned, Rubin Lublin TN, PLLC, as Substitute Trustee or his duly appointed agent, by virtue of the power, duty and authority vested and imposed upon said Substitute Trustee will, on January 19, 2023 at 3:00 PM at the Side Entrance of the McNairy County Courthouse, Selmer, Tennessee, proceed to sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for cash or certified funds ONLY, the following described property situated in McNairy County, Tennessee, to wit:

LAND SITUATED IN MCNAIRY COUNTY, TENNESSEE, TO-WIT: TRACT NO. 1: BEGINNING AT AN IRON STAKE IN THE EASTERN MARGIN OF CEMETARY ROAD, SAID STAKE BEING FIVE FEET SOUTH OF THE NWC OF LOT# 7 IN HOUSTON WEST SIDE ADDITION TO THE TOWN OF SELMER, TENNESSEE, RUNS IN A SOUTHERN DIRECTION, WITH THE EAST MARGIN OF SAID CEMETARY ROAD 45 FEET TO AN IRON STAKE IN THE EAST MARGIN OF SAID ROAD, THE SOUTHWESTERN CORNER OF SAID LOT #7; THENCE IN AN EASTERN DIRECTION, WITH THE SOUTHERN BOUNDARY OF SAID LOT #7 TO A STAKE, THE SWC OF THE HARRIS JOHNSON LOT; THENCE IN A NORTHERN DIRECTION, WITH THE WESTERN BOUNDARY OF SAID HARRIS JOHNSON LOT, 45 FEET TO A STAKE BEING 5 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTH BOUNDARY LINE OF SAID LOT #7; THENCE IN A WESTERN DIRECTION, PARALLEL WITH THE SOUTHERN BOUNDARY LINE OF SAID LOT #7, TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. TRACT NO. 2: BEING A

PART OF LOT #7 AND IS THE EAST HALF OF LOT #7 AND MAKING A LOT 50 FEET FACING COURT AVENUE AND RUNS BACK 95 FEET. TRACT NO. 3: ALSO ONE LOT 5 FEET FACING ON THE HIGHWAY AND RUNNING BACK 95 FEET AND THIS STRIP OF 5 FEET IS OFF OF LOT #6 OF THE HOUSTON WEST ADDITION AND JOINS THE ABOVE LOT, MAKING A TOTAL IN THE TWO LOTS OF 55 FEET FRONTING ON COURT AVENUE AND BOTH RUNNING BACK 95 FEET.

Parcel ID: 080O-A005.00

PROPERTY ADDRESS: The street address of the property is believed to be 464 PEACH ST., SELMER, TN 38375. In the event of any discrepancy between this street address and the legal description of the property, the legal description shall control.

CURRENT OWNER(S): ANNETTE PRATHER OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES:

SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT , REPUBLIC FINANCE, LLC

The sale of the above-described property shall be subject to all matters shown on any recorded plat; any unpaid taxes; any restrictive covenants, easements or set-back lines that may be applicable; any prior liens or encumbrances as well as any priority created by a fixture filing; and to any matter that an accurate survey of the premises might disclose. This property is being sold with the express reservation that it is subject to confirmation by the lender or Substitute Trustee. This sale may be rescinded at any time. The right is reserved to adjourn the day of the sale to another day, time, and place certain without further publication, upon announcement at the time and place for the sale set forth above. All right and equity of redemption, statutory or otherwise, homestead, and dower are expressly waived in said Deed of Trust, and the title is believed to be good, but the undersigned will sell and convey only as Substitute Trustee. The Property is sold as is, where is, without representations or warranties of any kind, including fitness for a particular use or purpose.

THIS LAW FIRM IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

Rubin Lublin TN, PLLC, Substitute Trustee 1661 International Drive, Suite 400 Memphis, TN 38120 rlselaw.com/property-listing Tel: (877) 813-0992 Fax: (470) 508-9401 (10305) (32,33,34)

IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF HARDIN COUNTY, TENNESSEE

State of Tennessee Department Of Children’s Services, PETITIONER, vs. No. 22-JV-3140

KATRINA LEE JONES STRICKLAND BARRY SHAWN TRANUM BRIAN ALAN STRICKLAND RESPONDENTS IN THE MATTER OF:

Brynlee Beth Tranum, D.O.B. 10/24/2019

A Child Under Eighteen (18) Years of Age

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

It appearing to the Court from the allegations of the Petition in this cause and the affidavit of the Petitioner that the whereabouts of the Respondent, Katrina Lee Jones Strickland, are unknown and that ordinary process of law cannot be served upon the Respondent.

It is, therefore, ordered that Respondent, Katrina Lee Jones Strickland, be served by publication of the following notice for four (4) consecutive weeks in the Independent Appeal, a newspaper circulated in McNairy County, Tennessee.

TO KATRINA LEE JONES STRICKLAND:

The State of Tennessee, Department of Children’s Services, has filed a petition against you seeking to terminate forever your parental rights to Brynlee Beth Tranum on the grounds that you have willfully abandoned this child and for other reasons. It appears that ordinary process of law cannot be served upon you because your whereabouts are unknown. You are, therefore, ordered to respond by appearing in Court or filing an Answer to the Petition filed against you. A copy of the Petition may be obtained at the office of the Juvenile Court of Hardin County, 465 Main Street, Savannah, Tennessee 38372. This notice will be published for four consecutive weeks. The last date of publication will be 1/4/23. You must appear in Court on 2/6/23 at 9:00 a.m. to defend, or file an Answer within 30 days of the last publication, or a Default Judgment or judgment on the facts will be taken against you and a hearing to terminate your parental rights will be set. All future hearings and/ or documents filed in this cause shall be filed with the clerk and shall be considered as service upon you. You may request your copy from the clerk.

ENTER this the 5th day of December 2022.

/c/ Daniel Smith, Juvenile Court Judge

PREPARED FOR ENTRY:

/s/ Jeanette Spivey, BPR #023444

Attorney for the State of Tennessee Dept. of Children's Services 225 Martin Luther King Drive Jackson TN 38301

(731) 421-2000

(10308) (32,33,34.35)

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

Mortgager: ANGELA D. REED

Mortgagee/Holder: The Hardin County Bank Date of Sale: January 6, 2023 at 12:30 p.m.

Location of Sale: East door of McNairy County Courthouse, 170 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375

Property Address: 5712 Hwy 57 E., Michie, TN 38357

Other Interested Parties: The Hardin County Bank Assessor's Map: Map 132, Parcel 36.00

DEFAULT having been made in the terms, conditions, and payment provided for in a certain note dated July 15, 2020, payable to the order of The Hardin County Bank, which note is mentioned in and secured by a certain deed of trust of even date executed by the mortgagor listed above to Gordon Majors, Trustee, of record in record book 1, page 1934, in the Register's Office of McNairy County, Tennessee, and said deed of trust conveying the real estate therein and hereinafter described, and which note is now due and unpaid and has been declared in default by The Hardin County Bank, the lawful owner and holder thereof;

NOW THEREFORE, Gordon Majors, Trustee under said deed of trust, having been requested so to do by the holder and owner of the note and by the power and authority vested in him by said deed of trust, hereby gives notice that he will on the date, time, and place listed above, sell to the highest bidder for cash said property conveyed by said deed of trust and described therein and above. Said property was conveyed to the mortgagor by deed of Leigh Ann Hazlett et al, dated July 15, 2020, and recorded in deed book 254, page 688, in the Register’s Office of McNairy County, Tennessee. Reference is made to these instruments, including the deed of trust, for a complete and accurate description of said property.

Such sale will be made subject to all existing highway, roadway, and utility easements; any building and zoning regulations and restrictions; all unpaid taxes; any mechanics' and materialmen's liens; building and use restrictions; any easements and rights of way; and any other matters shown in said Register’s Office. This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Title to said property is believed to be good, but I will sell and convey said property only as Trustee.

DATED at Savannah, Tennessee, this the 12th day of December, 2022.

GORDON MAJORS, Trustee SMITH & SMITH, Attorneys for Trustee 428 Main Street Savannah, Tennessee 38372

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Selmer Fire Department host 4th annual Toy Drive

Operation Christmas Toy Drive provides toys for more than 300 children this year. “The drive has grown every year,” said Selmer Fire Chief Anthony Carr.

The Selmer Fire Department, Selmer Parks & Recreation, Mary Lou Johnson Foundation and City of Selmer come together to collect both toys and monetary donations each year to provide toys for families at Christmas.

The SFD sets up a booth at Selmer Walmart to collect toys from local customers, donations from local businesses and more to assure children get the Christmas they deserve. This year, the fire department received many toys from Lucky Duck's, of Henderson, Tenn.

Lucky Duck's gave toys to Chester County Sheriff's

Dept and Henderson Police Department toys as well.

Three of the four years, the department helped local children. Last year, following the devastating tornado in Mayfield, Kentucky, the fire department opted to deliver all the gifts to Kentucky.

Following the toy drive

the fire department set up a give-away last Wednesday at the Selmer Community Center. Each parent or guardian was able to select two large and two medium toys for each child as well as some stocking stuffers. The toys were of high quality and name brand toys

that all children would love for Santa to bring to their home. You could see the adults breath a sigh of relief on the selection and were very grateful for the help.

The giveaway is always on a first-come, first-serve basis and met the needs of over 300 local children. Toys left over will be donated to the

McNairy County Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse.

In addition, Carr stated that the department also receive some monetary donations and were scheduled to send donations to both St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the McNairy County Carl Perkins Center.

Third night of MCHS Girls Classic

Starting off the night of the MCHS Girls Classic was the Adamsville Lady Cardinals vs TCA Lady Lions. Followed by the McNairy Lady Bobcats vs the Middleton Tigers. This is the last night of the MCHS Girls Classic.

The Adamsville Lady Cardinals and TCA Lady Lions came to the court. Adamsville Lady Cardinals were hoping to be able to take home a win. But as the Lady Lions

came to the floor the Lady Cardinals realized they had a hard game ahead. They tried in each quarter to match and gain on the Lady Lions. With each quarter they kept falling behind. The Lady Lions pushed passed the Lady Cardinals by 30 point.

Leading scorers for the Cardinals were Kay Johnson with 14 and Kayla Godwin 10. Lady Cardinals 34, Lady Lions 64.

To finish up the night the Lady Bobcats took the court

with Middleton Tigers. The Lady Bobcats took such a quick lead that Coach Lott was able to play almost all of his girls. Even with the subs on the court they continued to rack up points in the last half of the game. The Lady Bobcats had a 30 point lead over the Lady Tigers in the end. The Lady Bobcats hit 11 out of 13 foul shots. Lead scorers were Biana Davis 12, Brooklyn Hopkins 10. Lady Bobcats 57, Lady Tigers 27.

MCHS Girls Classic second night action

The Adamsville Lady Cardinals started off the night playing against the North Side Lady Indians and MCHS Lady Bobcats playing against H W Byers Lady Lions from Holly Springs, Miss.

When the Lady Cardinals and the Lady Indians came to the court it was soon realized the Lady Indians were no match for the Lady Cardinals. The Lady Cardinals quickly took the lead by at least 28 point in the first half. This gave Coach Austin a chance to let some of his subs have some play

time on the hardwood. The Lady Cardinals hit 6 out of 15 foul shots. Top scorer was Mackenzie Luna with

15 points. Lady Cardinals 58, Lady Indians 14.

For the second game of the night it was the Lady

Bobcats against H W Byers Lady Lions. This was the third game of the tournament for the Lady Bobcats. They were having a really good time. Jumping ahead of the Lady Lions by 21 points in the first quarter. They were able to keep up the pace as they proceeded through the game. And another night of Coach Lott giving his subs plenty of play time on the court. The Lady Bobcats hit 13 out of 28 foul shots. Top scorers were Biana Davis with 12 and Brooklyn Hopkins with 10 points. Lady Bobcats 57, Lions 20.

By Janet Rail Publisher

Since June 27, 1902 Col.

J.W. Purviance, founder of the McNairy County Independent, provided a means of connection among the people of McNairy County. Telling our stories is a privilege and a task of the newspaper to make this connection possible by providing accurate, unbiased coverage about persons and events and the day to day happenings in life.

The paper dates back to 1879, over 143 years, published in Purdy and spent time in Adamsville, Bethel Springs, Falcon and Selmer when the county seat was determined and where it remains today.

The Purviance, Freeman, Abernathy, Duke, Weeks, Hamilton, Hurt, Houston and Rail families have dedicated time and effort to create a first class paper. In years since, it became a Tennessee Press Association award-winning paper gaining much respect in the industry as the Independent Appeal.

The Rail family purchased the paper in 1976 when William J. “Bill” and Betty Rail took ownership until they sold it to their daughter Janet Rail in

2000 who continued to publish the paper. Prior to purchasing the Independent, Bill published The Mt. Pleasant Record, Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee, his hometown. Bill learned the trade of a linotype operator at the Southern School of Printing in Nashville. It was his good friend, a native of Selmer, Jim T. Hamilton, who practiced law in Mt. Pleasant before becoming a judge in Maury County. Jim and daddy had a great friendship. The ties with the Hamilton family remain close today. Hamilton convinced daddy that he needed to buy the paper in Selmer and before we knew it, we were here.

For our 43 years and counting, the Independent Appeal strived to promote and advance McNairy County, educate and inform its citizens, while protecting the people's right to know, and the rights and interest of our readers and advertisers.

We moved here because daddy was under the opinion that McNairy County would grow due to the fact that two highways, 64 and 45 converge in Selmer and would bring an increased number of people through the area as the roads were improved. Mom, at 90, shared many stories this weekend while in rehab from a short hospital stay, on how society has changed but how much she loved the paper.

McNairy County has a rich heritage and has born a large number of educated and self-educated people who have served at both the national, state and local level and proudly represented our county and community. The friendships made over the years are forever friends and are ones I

cherish. Many a great conversation has happened in the grocery store, Walmart, small businesses or at the front desk.

We have not grown like daddy and others projected. It is not for lack of land, cheap taxes and many assets to attract new business and industry. It's all here, with the diversity of ten incorporated cities, we truly have great potential and the stories are endless.

pandemic changed much in our lives and how we navigate life, but as with anything, we need to adapt and make a plan.

We are attracting many newcomers from across the nation who see value in what we have. Our natural resources are bountiful.

Many businesses continue to struggle as this one, especially following a pandemic. The newspaper industry as a whole is working hard to adapt new ways to share the news and many are going online only due to increasing print cost. Rack sales have up to sixty percent theft which leads to even further declines in profit margins.

accepted an offer to work on a project that may just bring the energy and excitement we need in McNairy County. It will allow me time to care for mom and work fewer hours.

I believe I can serve in another capacity and offer more to the people who have supported my family all these years.

It does not mean I can't share news or present the package in a different way in the future if that is a need.

I spoke to many leaders in McNairy County and each one believes we have what it takes, we are just not progressing as our neighboring counties are that have strategic plans on what they want to be and how to get there, one project at a time. That is not to say that there are not great things going on. McNairy County has some of the most generous givers on earth. I have witnessed many kind and loving acts over the years and many great projects lead by all walks of life.

However, the county is struggling in its efforts to move forward and as much as I would like the Independent Appeal to be there to assist, I have other opportunities that will meet my families immediate needs but I will support the county in any way I can. Many have made great contributions over the years and that needs to be acknowledged. The

For me, working primarily with some lovely friends, freelancers, contributors, colleagues and local children helping with circulation, it remains a challenge. Without them, however, it would have been impossible. Special thanks to contributors David Coy, Bryan Golden, Slim Randles, Duane Abel, Jai Templeton, John Talbott, Sybil Dancer, Dayna Patterson, Carla Hall, Glenn Hall, Greg Mills, Agung Setyawan, Cortez Trice, Ahman Jackson, Nick Bishop, Keonna Trice, Tayshawn Walker, Caroline Swindle, Caeli Swindle and the late Cody Westbrooks. Of course all the loyal advertisers. They all made my life better and am happy our paths crossed.

I have decided to close the paper as hard as that is to do. My mom needs me and I have

Like Purviance did, he decided to take the paper in a new direction. I have decided to follow his lead and move in a new direction. As Yogi Berra once said, “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” I have decided to take it.

I have set my life up to the measure of good parents and will reimburse any person for the balance of their subscription. Just send me a note at 111 N. 2nd Street, Selmer, TN 38375 and over the next 90 days I will honor your request.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of sharing your stories and thanks to all the present and past employees who contributed. We recorded our history and tried to do it well. I truly thank my parents for putting their faith in me and mom for supporting me in my new endeavor. I hate we will not be there for you every week. I pray you understand and I value your friendship.

Thank you McNairy County for a great 120 plus years.

For now, and with little fanfare, farewell.

As we bid farewell, thank you all for your loyal readership and support