Announcements

It’s always a pleasure to visit with folks, not only from our area but from surrounding towns and cities as well. The Arts, Crafts and Book Fair certainly gave attendees the opportunity to do that. The Hickman County Chamber of Commerce and KYGRRO both set up booths this year which gave KYGRRO director, Lindsay Tatum Bowles, and I a great chance to show many people just what we have available for the enjoyment of locals and tourists alike. Plus, the artwork provided by the Hickman County Fiscal Court, the City of Clinton and the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce gave people a glimpse of what Clinton, the county seat of Hickman County could look like in the future. It was quite amazing to see the interest of those stopping by the Chamber booth to express a desire to see that artwork turned into reality.

The Chamber thanks all of you who purchased T shirts and played 50/50 with us. Sue Doering is the winner of the 50/50 drawing. The proceeds from this help the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce to continue to bring events and activities to our county as well as promote our local businesses.

Next, we want to encourage the community to attend the Legislative Breakfast to be held at the Beehive this Friday, November 17 at 7:30 a.m. Contact Deena Pittman at First Community Bank to let her know you’re coming. The Hickman County Chamber is hosting this event and wants to make sure there is plenty to eat for all. A donation of $10.00 is requested toward revitalization efforts from each attendee and you can make this donation at the door.

November 28 the Chamber and local businesses will be promoting Small Business Shopping. We will be announcing more about that soon. We will also be setting up “shop” so to speak during the Christmas season in the location directly next to Clinton Pharmacy. We will be decorating the store in preparation for the holidays and will be offering chili, hot chocolate, cold drinks and desserts during the Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade on December 2. This and more will be offered throughout the month of December. Watch the Hickman County Times for more information on this in upcoming issues.

County Executive Judge Kenny Wilson spoke at the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce meeting on November 14 about area developments occurring in our county. The Mission House is making progress and should see a completion date in the spring. In the meantime, the Mission House continues to serve area residents. One of the ways you can help Mission House provide gifts for low-income children in our community is to drop off a donation there. A suggestion of $75.00 or more if you can give it was made. Many times, youth groups will choose to go to the Mission House and shop for the recipients from a wish list. Help make someone’s Christmas special with your donation.

A meeting on Monday, November 20th at 11:00 a.m. will take place at the Hickman County Executive Judge’s office with Tad Long from Kentucky League of Cities joining with Judge Willson in discussions with the mayors from Clinton and Columbus and others to see where the County Judge Executive’s office can do better in serving and working with these city governments in serving their respective towns.

Judge Wilson encourages local residents to take a walk through the county courthouse to view the newly refurbished deed room.

Lee Jackson reports that the moving and restoration of the shelter house at Columbus Belmont State Park is continuing. Also, plans for totally redoing the concession stand are in the works and the work on it will be done in time for ice cream season.

A new grant is being submitted for a new Rescue Squad Building. In the meantime, Enterprise Park continues to move forward as a well is in the process of being put in. And lastly, be sure and check out the Health Department which will be sporting a new roof.

There’s quite a lot of progress going on in our county as volunteers and elected officials continue to work diligently to make improvements to our community…after all….It’s All About Community.

The weather was perfect, and it was evident that that shoppers were enjoying the Open House of the businesses offering a variety of gifts and services over a four-day period last weekend. Kountry Café’s Tessia Land was very pleased at the response of those coming into her business to purchase shirts, baked goods and have their pictures taken. Shoppers enjoyed meeting the owners of the two newest service businesses in town, Clinton Massage Center, and Body Contouring. In fact, all of the businesses involved declared the Open House a success.

Shoppers will have another opportunity to work on their Christmas lists as the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce hosts the Arts, Crafts and Book Fair this coming Saturday, on November 11. Doors are open from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Hickman County Elementary School. Joan Lacewell will be returning with her popular peanut brittle. Also, on hand another local favorite is Whitlock’s Pottery will again be on site. Other vendors who may intrigue you with their goodies are Chadwick Sheep Company Crafts, Abundant Life Apothecary with their honey, KY Nut, and Soy Wicked Candles. If Joan’s peanut brittle doesn’t fill you up, stop by and pick up some Kay Turner sour dough bread. If you have a book reader on your Christmas list, author, Kenneth Tucker will be returning to the Arts, Crafts and Book Fair this year. This is just a partial list of the vendors that will be available this year. So spread the word, bring your family and friends and join the fun!

If you need a break for lunch, no need to leave. Project Graduation is once again set up to offer a varied menu from which you can choose. Your patronizing this group will help keep our Hickman County seniors safe on graduation night as an evening of fun activities, games and prizes are available for them to enjoy in celebration of their completion of high school into the wee hours of the morning.

The Hickman County Chamber of Commerce invites you to stop by its booth and sign up for the 50/50 drawing.  T-shirts will be available for sale also. Chamber membership forms will be available if you are not yet a member. While you visit with us, we invite you to view the artwork by local artist, Shery Triplett, of the future of how the downtown area of Clinton could look. This artwork is provided for view to the public by the Hickman County Fiscal Court, the City of Clinton, and the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce.

KYGRRO director, Lindsay Tatum Bowles invites you to stop by her booth and check out what she and the board of directors and County Judge Executives are doing in the four river counties of Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, and Hickman to promote Agri-Tourism in our area. And be sure and ask her about the solar eclipse coming in April of 2024 and the events being planned around it. She also has some neat give a ways for those stopping to chat with her.

Mark your calendars for November 17 and join the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce at the Beehive Restaurant for this year’s legislative breakfast. Breakfast will begin being served at 7:30 a.m. The price for the meal is $10.00 and you can pay at the door. Local officials, State Representative Steve Rudy and State Senator Jason Howell will be on hand to speak and answer questions from those attending.

Another event to place on your calendar is the Community Thanksgiving Service on November 19. This year, the Assembly of God Church will be hosting the service which is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.

Last, but certainly not least, the Clinton Rotary Club reported that their barbequed chicken sales were an absolute success. Tickets sold out as the community came together to help provide scholarships for our graduating seniors.  An opportunity to give into the lives of our future generations is of utmost importance and Rotarians very much appreciated the contributions from the community…After All It’s All About Community.

Once again, we are calling all vendors interested in bringing their display of goods to the Arts, Crafts and Book Fair scheduled for November 11 at the Hickman County Elementary School. Hickman County Chamber of Commerce President, Deena Pittman has announced she will receive vendor forms and payments up until November 8. The fee for a booth at the Fair is $40.00. Also, Project Graduation is again offering lunch on site. The fun and shopping begins at 8:30 and continues until 2 p.m. So, call your favorite shopping buddies and make plans to mark names for Christmas gifts off of your list at this popular event.

Clinton Rotary wants to remind you to purchase a ticket from a Rotarian for the pick up chicken dinner fund raiser to help support Hickman County High School Senior Scholarships. The menu includes a half chicken, potato salad, baked beans, roll and a dessert. The pick up will be at the Young Center between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Young Center on Sat, November 4.

That should work out well for those of you attending the various Open Houses on November on that Saturday. See the Hickman County Times for more information on the Open House participating businesses dates and times.

The Hickman County Chamber is hosting a Legislative Breakfast to be held at the Beehive Restaurant on November 17. Breakfast will begin being served at 7:30 a.m. Scheduled legislative speakers are State Representative Steve Rudy and State Senator, Jason Howell as well as local city and county officials. The cost of breakfast is $10.00, and you can pay at the door. Please make your plans to attend. It’s very important to stay updated on what’s happening in the state of Kentucky.

Harvest season is almost finished and the large equipment moving from place to place will be slowing down. Just a reminder that there may still be those out and about, so keep that in mind as you travel the roads in the area.

Remember, when you’re out and about say something good about Hickman County…. After all It’s All About Community.

         With the weather having remained so warm lately, it’s difficult to imagine that Christmas is soon to be upon us. To help the community prepare and get into the holiday spirit(don’t forget Thanksgiving), Clinton Chamber of Commerce, Deena Pitt has announced that retailers and service providers have come together for an open house.

The options provided by these businesses are varied and give everyone an opportunity to call a friend or family member to head out to enjoy the many deals and refreshments available to shoppers.

2 Creative Gals, with its 15 vendors will open their doors November 2-3 from 10-6 and again on November 4th from 10-5 and November 5th from 1-4.. As you browse through the crafts, pottery, paintings, clothing, antiques and other gift items, owners, Christy Kimbell and Deena Pittman want you enjoy refreshments and register for door prizes. Specials and gift certificates will also be offered. This unique little store is a hidden gem in our community and offers so much for your holiday shopping needs.

Heirloom Acres, who recently opened their new and improved store, will welcome shoppers beginning on November 3rd  from 2-6, continuing on November 4 from 10-2 and November 5th from 2-6. As usual you can expect to find some lovely gift as well as some specialty items for your favorite gardener as you enjoy the refreshments that Caroline Webb will have ready just for you.

A couple of newcomers to downtown Clinton will be opening their doors to the public for this Open House as a way for them to further introduce themselves to the community. Clinton Massage is offering refreshments and deals on November 4th from 10-5. Owners, Tasha and Leo Smith look forward to meeting you in their location next to Clinton Pharmacy.

Step next door to the other new service business to our area, Rachelle Pearson’s Effortless Body Contouring. Joining the Open House from November 2-4th with her hours going from 8-5 all three days, Rachelle will offer refreshments and 50% off a new client’s first session. Both of these new businesses are excited to serve the people of our area.

The Barber and Beauty Boutique is joining the Open House on November 2 and 3. Leeann Parrish will be open from 10-5 on both days offering refreshments, gift certificates and a variety of stocking stuffers sure to bring smiles as they are opened at family and friend Christmas gatherings.

Not to be left out, our pharmacies both offer opportunities for shopping as you look for that just right gift. Byassee Drugs is opening for shoppers on November 2-3rd from 8-5:30. Refreshments will be offered along with a special 25-65% off on gift products. Owner, Gretchen Hayden reminds shoppers to be sure and check out the many scented items and candles among the gift items on display in the store.

Shawn and Leila Boaz at Clinton Pharmacy will open their doors for Open House shoppers on November 2-3rd from 8-5:30 treating you to refreshments as you enjoy checking out the gift items offered in their store. You’ll want to take advantage of the  25% off front end boutique items excluding Rowe Casa, and 35% off Christmas items(some exclusions may apply). They look forward to you stopping by to see what they have on hand just for you.

Tessia Land and her husband, Tim have recently stepped up their game with the updates to the popular Kountry Café’. November 3rd from 3-6 and November 4th from 10-3 the Café will open their doors to potential holiday shoppers by offering refreshments while looking at their creative shirts (perhaps that perfect one for you to wear during the holiday season. You know you have to treat yourself, too. As a special treat, they will also be offering Christmas picture taking.

Lastly, Chamber President, Deena Pittman reminds participants in the Halloween Parade that lineup is at 4:00 on October 31.

Arts, Crafts and Book Fair is November 11 at the Hickman County Elementary School. More details forthcoming.

We want to congratulate The Hickman County Museum for a very successful and fun event last Saturday. Check this week’s Hickman County Times for related story. Also, check out the current events in the Times to see what is going on in our county and surrounding community. After all, It’s All About Community.

As Civil War Days gears up for its living history reenactment beginning on October 13 and running through October 15, friends of Cindy Lynch, who served as Columbus Belmont Park Manager for 47 years are sending a call out to honor her memory and service. Jessica Johnson reported on Facebook, that as Cindy’s cousin and she were talking, it was shared that Cindy’s favorite color was blue. All camps are being called upon to keep a lantern lit for the entire weekend to honor Cindy or to have a blue ribbon displayed in camp. Either or both are ways folks can show their love and appreciation for Cindy. Kentucky blue or royal blue are said to be along the lines of the color of blue she favored.

Also, a call to all Friends of Columbus Park has been given to anyone wanting to make a donation in Cindy Lynch’s memory. A check may be made payable to HECDA, INC., adding In Memory of Cindy Lynch on the memo line. Mail to HCDEA, P.O. Box 78. Clinton, KY 42031. If you have any questions, call Columbus Park.

This year’s reenactment will be recognizing the 162nd Battle of Belmont and the 32nd Anniversary of the Civil Wars Days Event. So make sure and mark your calendars, bring family and friends and take a step back in time, enjoying all of the camps and events planned for your enjoyment.

Heirloom Acres continues its fall events with Pics for Pups on September 30th. Marbry Photography will be on hand to take pictures of your and your fur babies in several gorgeous fall settings, including an antique hunter green pickup truck. Spots are filling up fast, so give Holly O’Neal a call at 270-908-1151 to secure your spot.  ALL proceeds go directly to Homeward hounds of western Kentucky. These kind hearted people operate out of their own personal pockets and this event is being held to help offset the costs the occur in caring for these animals, which include veterinary bills.

That be being said, the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce welcomes both Clinton Pharmacy and Heirloom Acres as two of our newest members. The Chamber so appreciates all of our members who show your support of the efforts this board and other members are making to help Hickman County move forward in becoming a productive community serving our community and the areas surrounding us as well.

The Hickman County Memorial Library has announced the dates for its Scarecrow Walk for the month of October that will be featured on the Library lawn. Set up will begin September 30th. Laura Poole invites everyone to come pick your spot, stating their motto, “The more the merrier.”. If you have any questions, please contact Laura at 270-207-8292 or you can leave a message on the library phone, 270-653-2225.

Storywalk will be October 17th. Time and place to be announced.

Women’s Club Bean Supper fundraiser for scholarships, October 20.

Reminders to mark your calendar events include the following events. the Hickman County Museum Fall Fest on October 21st. The fun begins at 10 a.m. and continues until 2 p.m.

October 31-Annual Halloween Parade in downtown Clinton.

November 3rd-Red White Game 6 p.m. at the Hickman County High School

November 3rd, 4th and 5th Heirloom Acres 12 Hours of Christmas event.

November 11-Arts and Crafts at the Hickman County Elementary School.a.m.

November 17-Legislative Breakfast hosted by the Hickman County Chamber at the Beehive in Clinton. 7:30 a.m. Note: Beehive now offers breakfast on Saturday mornings.

December 2, Cookies with Santa and Christmas Parade of Lights This gives everyone notice wishing to participate time to purchase lights for your parade entry that will be in downtown Clinton.

December 2 at 11 a.m.-Arlington Christmas Parade.

Again, we are waiting for news on the demolition of the Old Frame Shop. As we wait, it was announced last week that you could view the artwork for a future downtown Clinton at Clinton Bank. The artwork is presently being framed and will be available to be seen at various locations upon its return. In the meantime, the artwork may also be seen at the Fiscal County Judge’s office.

Also, a reminder that 2 Creative Gals is now open at the old Sweet Gumm building at 106 South Jefferson Street. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday, 10-5 and Saturday 10-1. There’s a lot of great fall items there, so you’ll want to check everything out in the new location.

Soon, the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce will announce plans for Leadership. We are excited to see what plans are being made for the youth participating in this program. Last year’s class presented some phenomenal contributions to the County. It is so encouraging when we see our county’s young people taking an interest in the growth of this community. It appears that they understand as we do…After all It’s All About Community.

Fall is off to a great start as Heirloom Acres opened the autumn season officially with their 2nd Annual Harvest Bazaar showcasing their new building. An array of colorful pumpkins, mums and pepper plants welcomed visitors as did a variety of vendors selling their goods. It was a fun day, as not only could you pick up goodies for home but an opportunity to visit with friends both locally and from the surrounding area presented itself as well. I don’t know about others, but I picked up on come great ideas for Christmas gifts. Caroline announced her September hours. Thursday and Friday, 9-5 and Saturday, 9-1. If you need something at other times, you can give Caroline a call at 270-254-6140. Remember, Heirloom Acres also delivers.

2 Creative Gals and their vendors have made the move to the old Sweet Gumm building. Owners Justin and Stephanie Jackson announced their building is sporting a fresh new look with several coats of paint. Open for business, the hours of operation for 2 Creative Gals are 10-5 Tuesday-Friday and Saturday 10-1. Be sure and stop by and see the new vendor set ups. More ideas Christmas are displayed throughout the shop.

If you’re heading out on a Saturday morning, adding to the breakfast offerings of Jen’s Place, and Beards and Roses is the Beehive Café. Rose has long wanted to add breakfast to her food service. Stop by and give a Beehive Breakfast a try. We’re sure you’ll be in for a tasty treat.

Clinton Hardware announced that their soil test passed, and work has begun on dirt work and pad removal. As previously announced by the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce, after encouragement from the Chamber and the community, an account has been set up at First Community Bank if you would like to help financially bring our much-needed hardware store back into operation. Also, a form is available at both Clinton Bank and First Community Bank if you would like to help physically as hands on will be another way to help in the future. We are appreciative of the fact that Clinton Hardware will again be in operation in the downtown Clinton area. Meanwhile, Craig and April Glasco will continue to serve area customers by being available to meet many of your needs by calling April at 270-559-8176.

Chamber of Commerce Deena Pittman announced the following dates for upcoming events. October 31st, be prepared to line up for the Annual Halloween Parade in downtown Clinton. November 11 area vendors will be setting up for the Arts and Crafts Fair at the Hickman County Elementary School. December 2 will be Cookies with Santa and the Christmas Parade which back by popular demand will be held in the evening this year. Also, Arlington’s Christmas parade will be held at 11 that morning, so lots of fun is planned for that day.

The Hickman County Museum has announced their Fall Fest for October 21st. Beginning at 10 a.m. the fest will offer J’s Party Barn Inflatables, Power Wheels Racing, Corn Pit and Food, Hayride and Face Paint, Pumpkins and Mazes and More! So, mark your calendars to head to 221 East Clay Street for fun that lasts until 2 p.m. A reminder, if you or your group would like a tour of the museum, call 270-994-5530 to set up a time.

As the community continues to wait on the demolition date of the Old Frame Shop Building, drop by the Clinton Bank and see the artist drawings of a vision of a future Clinton that was sponsored by the Hickman County Fiscal Court, the City of Clinton, and the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber continues to add to the Revitalization Fund as we seek to work toward that vision. If anyone would like to donate to that fund, you can mail a donation to Hickman County Chamber of Commerce, P. O. Box 152, Clinton County and designate it for the Revitalization Project in the memo line. If you are not a member of the Chamber and would like to be, the dues are $30.00 for individuals, $40.00 for couples and $50.00 for businesses. We greatly appreciate any and all support as we continue to serve the productive interests of the county and surrounding area. After all, It’s All About Community.

Recently, I had the honor of speaking to Rotary. Perhaps as I share a little bit of what I spoke about, the people of Clinton and Hickman County will be encouraged. With the recent happenings concerning the downtown area of our county seat, Clinton, and its building issues, it would seem all of us could stand some encouragement.

Many of you will remember that at the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce Annual dinner, an artistic rendering of what Clinton could look like in the future by award winning, local artist Sheryl Triplett was placed on display for those attending. If you remember, this was a project sponsored by the Hickman County Fiscal Court, the City of Clinton, and the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce.

Sometimes we all need a glimpse of a vision of the future to wrap our thought around what our part could be in moving us toward that vision.

As Chamber President, Deena Pittman, along with the chamber board have talked, we along with other community leaders realize that even as many actions are being taken to move us forward, a Community Planning Group, a “think tank” or brainstorming with people from different areas of the county made lend itself to ideas to better serve the needs of the people living here. The Chamber is currently working with the PADD office on a survey that will go out to the people of the county seeking their thoughts and ideas. Hopefully, this will be available sometime in October.

If you would like a glimpse of the artwork of Clinton, it is presently on display at the Clinton Bank.

As the town awaits the demolition of the Old Frame Shop building and the effect it will have on 2 Creative Gals, the location at 106 S Jefferson Street (the old Sweet Gumm business location is being prepared and stocked by the vendors. According to owners, Christy Kimbell and Deena Pittman, a date of its opening for business will be announced in the near future.

This community has always stepped up to help whenever a need or tragedy arises. Now is no different as the recent collapse of the Clinton Hardware Store has prompted many to come forward asking how they can help Craig and April Glasco with the rebuilding of their business, Clinton Hardware.

Craig and April have given an invaluable service to this county and surrounding area through the operation of their hardware store. They have continually looked for additional ways to offer new services for their customers, most recently announcing their plans to offer propane as just one of these services. Now this has been put on hold as they work through the process of rebuilding.

Now people are coming forward to say we want to help restore this invaluable service to our community. With prompting from some caring friends and the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce, Craig and April were asked to open an account at First Community Bank to accept financial gifts from a caring community to help them rebuild.

If you are compelled to help, here is the information on how you can do it.

Checks can be made payable to Craig and April Glasco. Put Business Rebuild in the memo line. Mail to Clinton Hardware, 102 West Clay Street, P.O. Box 102 Clinton, KY 42031

Or just drop cash or checks off at First Community Bank in Clinton to deposit into the account that has been opened for donations.

Also, we have people asking us if there is a physical way to help the Glasco’s as they rebuild. Clinton Bank and First Community Bank have agreed to present a form for volunteers to list their name and phone number as an opportunity for on site help as needed.

As a public service announcement, before you make a trip out of town for your business, farming, or household needs, please call April at 270-559-8176. She will be happy to assist you in obtaining whatever you need if it’s at all possible.

We appreciate your consideration in helping Clinton Hardware get going again. After all. Once again, It’s All About Community.

While reading The Hickman County Times last week, it was so encouraging and uplifting to read the positive support of the Hwy 51 project, which most certainly will be providing much needed safety measures for traffic through Clinton. It was music to the ears of those who have come to realize we are responsible for taking measures to create a legacy for upcoming generations that will make them grateful to live and work here and happy to recommend to others that Clinton/Hickman County is a productive and forward-thinking community in which they are invited to come live and do business as well.

Having lived here growing up and remembering an era when we enjoyed the many groceries, retail stores and factories that thrived, a movie theatre and other places were here for people to come together meet family and friends, I’m not advocating we go back to just what it was then., It’s time move forward. The deterioration of the town, while disturbing and unsightly can be remedied, if people will come to understand, we have been called to be good stewards of what we’ve been given, whether it is physical or a gift of talent and creativity. The unity expressed in last week’s paper expresses the realization that it is time to take a stand.

With that being said, Hickman County Chamber President, Deena Pittman is pleased to announce that the Chamber board has unanimously voted to support the Hwy 51 project. It is the general feeling of the board is that it ties right into the Revitalization project that was presented to the public at the annual chamber dinner with the drawings of a future downtown Clinton by local artist, Sheryl Triplett. The presentation of these drawings were a joint effort by the Hickman County Fiscal Court, the Clinton City Council, and the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce to present the community with a physical vision of possibilities.

One last point. I had a mentor once who gave me this advice and I try to remember this whenever I express an opinion, whether positive or even if it’s constructive criticism. He told me, “Whenever you come to me with an idea, a problem, or a criticism, be prepared to offer a solution. The last thing leadership needs to hear is constant negativity with no positive input. And not taking ownership to help implement an effort to bring positive change and or improvement to the situation.”

Right now, there are many in the community stepping up to offer support, ideas, finances, and plain good ole fashioned hard work to improve our towns and county. For those who are not quite on board with this growth movement, we would ask you to take a look around you. Is there something you could do to help our community to move forward, to be more attractive for passersby and to show your love and a desire to be a good steward for this community…After all…It’s All About Community.

Often it is challenging to make progress toward revitalization of a town or community for that matter when certain conditions have been allowed to persist for a lengthened amount of time. Because we are seeing a renewed interest of a younger generation’s desire to move forward in seeing progress begin to take shape… And a desire that calls for a once again vibrant, active, and attractive town for them and their children and their children’s children, steps are being taken to help Clinton move forward in that direction. Sometimes it means structures we have long seen and perhaps even cherished by some may be removed. Hopefully, some may be renovated. Some may be happy to see the changes. Some not so happy. And it’s entirely possible some may even be angry. It’s often hard to give up one’s history, because to be honest, some of these structures have become part of our own stories.

One such structure that opened up for renovation this week was the old John Walker Hales Ashland Station. Lynne Deweese and I spoke about it this morning and she has provided a picture of John Walker, her dad, Bobby Hales and,
Toby.  I spent a many days there with my dad, Woodrow Bryan as he sold cars from that location for many years until he retired. I know many of you reading this will have memories of both.

Having been raised here in Clinton, and then having lived in Union City, TN when that town went through much of what is going on here, I can tell you that the feelings that run strong during revitalization are not just felt in our town of Clinton, but all of the small towns across our country’s landscape that are endeavoring to make their towns more relevant and productive.

When I first returned to Clinton, it was disheartening to see the disrepair that had occurred during the years, places I had enjoyed while growing up, now gone. I guess you could say they had been part of my story of past years in Clinton. However, it is very encouraging to see not just the parental aged young people  taking an interest in pouring their time and money into Clinton, but their children are also very interested in seeing what Clinton can become. We saw some of the Leadership group express this with the projects they envisioned and brought to fruition at Rotary Park, the corner of Clay and Washington streets and at the Senior Citizen Center. They want to actively be involved in their town. They want a town of which to be proud.

Though challenging as it may be to move Clinton and Hickman County even further than it has already come, it is time for new stories to be written. We are seeing one such story in the Highway 51 project. These improvements in the flow of traffic through our town are imperative to the growth of Clinton and are long overdue. Though we all will need to show patience as this project is proceeding, we look forward to the safety and beautification it brings.

My final comment on the revitalization is this. Perhaps it would be prudent to of us all to ask this question. Am I helping or hindering what needs to occur for the future generations of Clinton and Hickman County to live in a clean, aesthetically pleasing productive community. We all are only here for a short time. We are called to be good stewards of what God has given us and lay up an inheritance for our children and children’s children. Recently, a good friend of mine prayed that this community would unite for the sake of its inhabitants and their future generations. It is my hope you would add an amen to that prayer, when asking how you can help.

Now, moving on to another subject. As everyone knows, it is planting and harvesting time in Hickman County. As I’ve spoken to various farmers, they are concerned about the number of folks who ignore the escorts going ahead of wide loads as they try to flag them to slow down. Everyone, please give our farmers with their equipment a wide berth to insure not only their safety but yours.

A reminder! Big celebration coming up at Clinton First Assembly of God, 286 US Hwy. 51 N. in Clinton on June 25th. As I started writing this, I was reminded of the lines from a Neil Diamond song, (Okay, I know I’m showing my age, oh well). The lyrics go as follows, pack up the babies and grab the old ladies, everyone goes to Bro. Love’s show. The Bro. Love mentioned in the song may not be on hand, but praise and worship music by the band, “The Least of These” band will be there. So, bring your lawn chairs, prepare to enjoy live music, bump n jumps for the kids, food, snow cones, ice cream and fireworks as we celebrate the anniversary of our country’s freedom, Fourth of July Celebration. The festivities begin at 7 p.m. on June 25th and last until the fireworks around 9:30 p.m. This event is sponsored by area churches and others. It’s just a good time celebrate and be thankful.

So much going on, please join in and remember…It’s All About Community. 

It was an honor to attend the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Graduation last Thursday evening at the Young Center. It was indeed all about Youth Community that night as a crowd which included Hickman County Judge/Executive Kenny Wilson, Hickman County School Superintendent Heather Spillman and High School Principal Shane Bizzle, as well as many proud family members and supporting friends, were welcomed by John David Tucker. After the invocation by Josh Peyton, everyone enjoyed a delicious barbeque and ham dinner.
Community Education Director Kelli Dalton began an introduction to the group, saying, “I told everyone I have an idea.” She then proceeded to suggest “a hands-on project challenge.” She stated her suggestion was a grow-as-you-go endeavor “which inevitably made a tangible mark in the community by these graduates.”
The graduates, divided into three groups, presented their projects which would be judged for a cash award at the end of the night.
As Macy Fuller, leader for the first group led them to the stage, she, Kaden Grubbs, Ann Marie White, and Kaydince DeJesus each shared different aspects of their project: banners that now fly at Rotary Park. They shared about researching possible projects with a reroute because one was already being done by another community group. Their vision became one of something with curb appeal promoting Hickman County and the beauty the area provides. They adapted their original idea and decided to place pole banners depicting the past, present, and future at Rotary Park. As they researched the price of the banners, fund raising ideas were discussed, and with the support of community funding, the group stated how rewarding it was to them to see the implementation for their project of the banners flying in Rotary Park.
Group leader Jack Byassee, with his teammates, Abbie Frizzell and Kylee Harper, entered the stage area to present their project. It was evident this group saw a need and were quick to respond by calling Senior Citizens Director Debby Watson to offer a problem-solving solution to the need that they saw at the senior citizen building in a storage room. To offer a shelving solution to help resolve a disorganized space in the storage room into an organized and clean space, the group shared how they began checking out the varieties and prices of shelves. With financial help, once again provided by community donors, two shelves were purchased from Lowes and the team began to assemble them with the help of Mike Keller, who was there for instructional assistance. Debby Watson expressed her delight with the project and with the group.
“The Youth Leadership did a wonderful job. They worked well together, stayed busy and were very excited about the entire project.” She was very pleased with the organization she and the staff were enjoying from the work done by this team.
Sydnee Bailey led group three to the stage, consisting of Sydnee, Jaedon Peyton, and Gracie Morris. Sydnee shared with the audience how their group decided to place a bench at the corner of Washington and Clay Street close to the mural next to the Genealogical and Historical Society building. As Clinton Bank owns this piece of property, permission was sought and received with the bank given three choices of bench styles. When the choice was made, the group decided what wood would be the best for the bench project. A bench like they were proposing would come to around $600.00. Sydnee, having suggested from the beginning folks known for their talent, found the group benefiting from the help and direction of her grandparents, Willis and Linda Ward, who had at one time owned a woodworking business. They happily agreed to guide the group as they made a choice of cedar and began compiling supplies and putting the bench together. The group shared that because of the contributions Willis and Linda added to the funding of their time and some of the supplies, the cost was reduced to $100.00 much to the relief and delight of the group.
Following their project presentations, the 2023 Hickman County Chamber of Commerce Leadership were presented their graduation certificates and a corresponding ribbon was placed around their necks by Director, Kelli Dalton.
With a cash award hanging in the balance, the judges retired to another room to make their decision as to who would receive the award for best project. Judge Kenny Wilson addressed the graduates. “You’ve hit a grand slam home run out of the park,” he said. “Not only have you enjoyed working with your teammates on your projects contributing to the community, but in years to come as you pass these places where your projects are, it will bring you good memories.”
He thanked them for their leadership and service in bringing these projects to fruition.
Melissa Goodman, one of the Leadership Committee Members, made her way to the microphone to offer closing remarks. She explained that these participating students had all met the service requirement of 195 volunteer hours in addition to attending to their studies and keeping up their grades as well as other school, church, and personal activities. She made a historical reference of the importance of being a servant leader to others, an example shown often by Jesus in the Bible. One mother shared with a group how she had watched the difference this leadership program had made in her son, as he was more conscious of helping others as he saw needs in the community. He now looks for ways to be a servant to others as he went about his day.
As judges Steven Elder, WAVE AG; Mike Gunn, Fulton City Manager; and Lacie Parham of Kentucky Cares entered the room, Elder made his way over to the group telling them they were all winners with their projects. However, only one cash award could be given. That award went to Macy Fuller, Kaden Grubbs, Ann Marie White and Kaydince DeJesus for the Rotary Banner Project. The evening ended with many congratulatory hugs and a lot of smiling faces.
The Hickman County Chamber of Commerce and the Leadership Committee would like to thank all of the program sponsors, student project sponsors and partners for their support in cultivating young leaders. The Chamber will be posting an ad in The Hickman County Times listing all sponsors and partners as a gesture of our appreciation for your help and donations.
As you drive through the town of Clinton or visit the Senior Citizens building, be sure and note the contributions to the community this 2023 graduating leadership class made. One of the things the graduating class mentioned over and over was their desire to contribute to the community. That they certainly did with their outstanding projects. So that is why in their honor the title in this week’s article for The Times is….It’s All About Youth Community Leadership.