Paris, Tenn.–Chili teams are being sought for an upcoming fundraiser to purchase more AEDs for the community.
Leadership Henry County is hosting the Henry County Has Heart Chili Cook-off to raise funds to place lifesaving AEDs (automated external defibrillators) in key public areas in the county.
The fundraiser will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, February 23 at the Henry County Fairgrounds.
Lindsey Gordon of Leadership Henry County explained the need for the AEDs. “With the vast geography of our county as well as the distance from major hospitals, our team quickly identified the need for lifesaving AEDs (automated external defibrillators) to be readily available in an emergency in key public places. Currently, there is no AED at the Henry County Fairgrounds, there is one AED shared by the County Sheriff’s office patrol vehicles, and some of the fire departments in parts of the county do not have one.”
Gordon said, “Our first priority will be to place an AED at the fairgrounds due to the large number of visitors per year for the World’s Biggest Fish Fry, the Henry County Fair, and other events. With additional money raised, we will strive to ensure county fire stations are equipped.”
Advance tickets can be purchased for $10 per adult and $5 per child 12 years or younger at the Chamber, Mineral Wells Animal Clinic, and Eastwood Clinic. Tickets will be available at the door for an additional $2 per ticket. There will also be a silent auction, live music, and training provided by certified local emergency response professionals.
Leadership Henry County is a community development program designed by the Paris – Henry County Chamber that identifies and encourages future leaders. Throughout the 8 month program, participants get a “behind the scenes” look at many of the core components of our community. The class is divided into groups and each group is tasked with developing and executing a community project.
Gordon said, “If you are interested in learning how you can register a Chili Team and compete for the best chili in Henry County, become an I HEART HENRY COUNTY SPONSOR, or would like to donate an item for the silent auction, please contact the Paris- Henry County Chamber for details.”