By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Paris, Tenn.–A large crowd was on hand this morning for the opening of the headquarters for the 71st annual World’s Biggest Fish Fry headquarters at 219 Tyson Ave., in Paris.
Two crowd-pleasing announcements were made: This year’s souvenir booklet was dedicated to Jeremy Lindsey and this year’s Grand Marshals of the Grand Parade will be the “Herbison boys”, Mark and Bart.
Lindsey never says no when he’s needed, according to the introduction by Jennifer Starks, assistant general manager. Lindsey and his business partner Jim Adams opened Lakeway IGA in 2005 and he gives back to the community on a regular basis, Starks said. Lakeway was recognized as 2016 Business of the Year and Lindsey was named Person of the Year in 2024.
Lindsey said, “Thank you for this honor. I love Henry County and will do what I can for it.”
Mark and Bart Herbison will serve as Grand Marshals of this year’s parade. Bart currently is ill with COVID and could not be at today’s announcement, but he did watch via zoom.
The Herbisons were born and raised in Henry County and took different career paths.
Bart has worked at the local radio stations, was a news reporter in Nashville, worked for Governor Ned Ray McWherter, U.S. Rep. Bob Clement and is currently executive director of the Nashville Songwriters Association International.
Mark also worked at the local radio stations, was a news reporter in Nashville, worked with the Tennessee Secretary of State, co-authorized a book about Tennessee and was the Henry County Economic Development Director. He has been instrumental in the development of Blue Oval City, which will bring 10,000 jobs to the area.
The Fish Fry is sponsored each year by the Paris-Henry County Jaycees. General Manager is John Paul Casey.
The headquarters has t-shirts, caps and other items for sale.
Top photo: Lindsey reacts as the announcement is made; bottom photo: Mark Herbison listens as he and his brother are announced as grand marshals. (Shannon McFarlin photo).
