Disc golf to heat up at Huggins Park
BY CLAY SMITH
Weakley County Press
If you’re looking to prove your disc golf prowess this weekend, Gleason has you covered.The Gleason Downtown revitalization Committee presents their Tater Town Throwdown Disc Golf Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 5 at Huggins Park in Gleason.
Disc golf is a hybrid sport between golf and Frisbee. Instead of throwing a Frisbee to another person, participants tee off to throw Frisbees into “holes,” metal-chained receptacles. Scoring is like that of golf; the objective is to get your Frisbee into each hole in as few throws as possible.
There are multiple divisions for all ages and skill levels including: Kid 8-10, Kids 11- 14, Novice 15 and up, and Open. There will be a check in at 2 p.m., player’s meeting at 2:30 p.m., and the tournament will begin at 3:00 p.m.
Proceeds from the tournament will go for course improvements. Each person that signs up will receive a custom Tater Town Throwdown golf disc (while supplies last). You may throw any discs of your choosing during the tournament. Kids play 9 holes, novices play 18 holes, and open players play 36 holes. Registration is $10 for kids, $15 for everyone else.
Food and beverages will be available at the park. There will be awards presented to the top finishers in each division.
Registration and fees can be paid the day of the event or may be mailed to: Gleason Downtown Restoration Fund, P.O. Box 125, Gleason, and TN 38229 or turned in at Gleason City Hall. Please make checks payable to: Gleason Downtown Restoration Fund. For more information, contact Luke Hughes at 931-305-9233 or Charles Anderson at 731-695-5753. Source: Weakley County Press.
Gleason Downtown Revitalization Notes and News
Helping Enhance the Gleason Community Through Clay:
From its beginning, in June 2014, the focus of the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee has been on the enhancement of downtown Gleason and the surrounding area - including both City Parks.
During the past year the Downtown Revitalization initiative has been involved in several beautification projects that have focused specifically on downtown Gleason. These projects have included the painting of fire hydrants and planting flowers at various locations throughout the downtown area.
Perhaps the largest downtown revitalization project undertaken by members of the Revitalization Committee has been the recent painting of the J & P Car Care building at the corner of Cedar and Main streets. This service station has a long history going back at least to the early 1950's and represents one of downtown Gleason's most notable landmarks. This downtown enhancement effort provides visitors entering the downtown area with the most positive view of downtown Gleason possible.
As a result of having a successful year of funding, resulting from hosting several park events and community calendar sales, other projects have also taken shape. One such project has been an attempt to enhance Huggins Park after several years of neglect.
Here, flowers, trees, and a herb garden have been planted. And, a Disc Golf course has been developed for all to enjoy. The Revitalization Committee has already hosted an initial disc golf tournament - which had a very good turnout.
In terms of structural modifications at the park, two lengthy sections of rusty chain link fence were recently removed which had previously posed potential safety concerns and been aesthetically unappealing.
Upon removing this section of fence it was determined that the old fence should be replaced by a new vinyl fence to separate the park area itself from the driveway and parking area adjacent to the park.
Given the cost of this fence, we were very fortunate that Imerys Ceramics graciously volunteered to serve in the role of Corporate Supporter, by providing the funds necessary for the purchase of the needed 190 foot section of white vinyl fence.
This new fence for Huggins Park was formerly dedicated on Wednesday July 29, 2015, with members of the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee and a number of representatives from Imerys Ceramics being present.
Charles Anderson, President of the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Program, receives a check in the amount of $1,500 dollars from Brent Eugley of Imerys North America Ceramics (formerly KT Clay Co.) for the new vinyl fence at Huggins Park.
Left Side: Imerys Ceramics Representatives:
Front Row: Left to Right: Kim Montgomery - Ball Clay Lab Technician; Katy Lucas (dark green shirt/brown pants) - Geologist
Back Row: Left to Right: Stacy Collins - Ball Clay Technician; Cruz Legens - Ball Clay Lab Technician; Eric Duke (white shirt) Production Supervisor; Kerry Arnold -(EHS) - Environmental Health and Safety Manager; Brent Eugley (with check) - Environmental Coordinator; James Jarrett (right side with bright yellow shirt) - Ball Clay Quality Control Manager/Product Development Coordinator.
Right Side: Revitalization Committee Representatives:
Left to Right: Mayor Diane Poole (behind fence) , Charles Anderson-President (receiving check), Rose Anderson, Gary Doster, James Jarrett (Imerys Representative), Chief Jeff Hazelwood, Doris Owen-Treasurer, Jim Johnson and Matt Cady.
The entire city of Gleason would like to say Thank You to Imerys Ceramics for their very generous donation to cover the cost of this beautiful new white vinyl fence at Huggins Park
Individual and corporate sponsor donations are greatly appreciated as we move forward into the year, and make plans for 2016.
The Gleason Rotary Club, the Gleason Gazelles and the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee have joined forces as volunteers for the City of Gleason's T-ball Tournament at Mike Snider Park. The event will help fund new batting cages for the Gleason Parks.
Gleason's First Disc Golf Tournament Held at Huggins Park
Jim Johnson
www.GleasonOnline.com
As a result of a generous gift from the West Tennessee Disc Golf Club to the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Program and City of Gleason's Park and Recreation department and, with the help of Mr. Luke Hughes of Gleason, it has been possible to develop a disc golf course at Gleason's Huggins Park for use by the people of Gleason and the surrounding area.
The design and development of the course was under the direction of Mr. Luke Hughes, of Gleason, along with Chris Dodson, Will Trimble and Kent Fothergill, all of whom are actively involved with this rapidly growing sport.
The course is open to all Gleason citizens who are interested in the sport and was set up to allow for competitive disc golf tournaments for players of all ages.
Sponsored by the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Program, Gleason's first disc golf tournament, the "TaterTown Throwdown" was held on Saturday, May 23, 2015.
Registration for the tournament began at 1:30. The registration fee was $10, which included a free disc, bearing the "TaterTown Throwdown" logo. All funds derived from this event will be used to support Gleason Downtown Revitalization efforts.
Prior to beginning the tournament, a disc golf workshop was conducted by Tournament Director Luke Hughes. This pre-tournament training session was open to all registrants and served as an introduction to the basics of disc golf, including rules of the game, disc golf fundamentals, and an introduction to the new Huggins Park course.
The tournament itself began at 3:30 and lasted for several hours, with the 36 participants playing varying numbers of holes, depending on their age.
The concession stand was open, serving water, soft drinks, hamburgers, cheese burgers, bologna and various other tasty edibles.
Certificates were given for outstanding play in both the "Novice" and more "Advanced" disc golf participants.
It is hoped that this inaugural tournament will stimulate participants to come out to Huggins Park and use the facilities to develop their disc golf skills and enjoy playing the course with friends over the summer.
Be sure to check www.GleasonOnline.com regularly for announcements of other disc golf tournaments that may be offered this summer.
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Gleason's First Disc Golf Tournament Held at Huggins Park
As a result of a generous gift from the West Tennessee Disc Golf Club to the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Program and City of Gleason's Park and Recreation department and, with the help of Mr. Luke Hughes of Gleason, it has been possible to develop a disc golf course at Gleason's Huggins Park for use by the people of Gleason and the surrounding area.
The design and development of the course was under the direction of Mr. Luke Hughes, of Gleason, along with Chris Dodson, Will Trimble and Kent Fothergill, all of whom are actively involved with this rapidly growing sport.
The course is open to all Gleason citizens who are interested in the sport and was set up to allow for competitive disc golf tournaments for players of all ages.
Sponsored by the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Program, Gleason's first disc golf tournament, the "TaterTown Throwdown" was held on Saturday, May 23, 2015.
Registration for the tournament began at 1:30. The registration fee was $10, which included a free disc, bearing the "TaterTown Throwdown" logo. All funds derived from this event will be used to support Gleason Downtown Revitalization efforts.
Prior to beginning the tournament, a disc golf workshop was conducted by Tournament Director Luke Hughes. This pre-tournament training session was open to all registrants and served as an introduction to the basics of disc golf, including rules of the game, disc golf fundamentals, and an introduction to the new Huggins Park course.
The tournament itself began at 3:30 and lasted for several hours, with the 36 participants playing varying numbers of holes, depending on their age.
The concession stand was open, serving water, soft drinks, hamburgers, cheese burgers, bologna and various other tasty edibles.
Certificates were given for outstanding play in both the "Novice" and more "Advanced" disc golf participants.
It is hoped that this inaugural tournament will stimulate participants to come out to Huggins Park and use the facilities to develop their disc golf skills and enjoy playing the course with friends over the summer.
Be sure to check www.GleasonOnline.com regularly for announcements of other disc golf tournaments that may be offered this summer.
Tournament Registration: Only Ten Bucks
With a Free Disc Included
All Ready to Go!
Concession Stand - Open for Business
Luke Hughes Provides Pre-tournament Disc Golf Workshop
Small Group/Family Instruction
Focusing on Fundamentals
Off to the Course
Somebody Has to Keep Score
On to the Next Hole
This Group Had Spectators !
No - The Next Hole is THAT Way !
Just About Time for a Cheeseburger and Coke!
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Development of Disc Golf Course at Huggins Park
As a result of a generous gift from the West Tennessee Disc Golf Club to the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Program and City of Gleason's Park and Recreation department and, with the help of Mr. Luke Hughes of Gleason, it has been possible to provide a disc golf course for use by the people of Gleason and the surrounding area. The course is located at Gleason's Huggins Park, located off of West Main Street in Gleason.
The design and development of the course was under the direction of Mr. Luke Hughes along with Chris Dodson, Will Trimble and Kent Fothergill, all of whom are actively involved with this rapidly growing sport.
Plans are to have this course open to all Gleason citizens who are interested in the sport and to use this facility to support organized disc golf tournaments for players of all ages.
The development of this disc golf course fits nicely with other plans of the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee to enhance the existing Huggins Park so as to make it more attractive and more suitable for an increasing variety of community activities.
Current plans are to host Gleason's first disc golf tournament on the afternoon of May 23, 2015. Prior to beginning the tournament, an introduction and training session will be offered that will provide an introduction to disc golf and the Higgins Park course itself for those who are new to the game.
Stay tuned to www.GleasonOnline.com for more detailed information regarding these activities.
The Gleason Downtown Revitalization Program is a 501c (3) Compliant, Non-Profit Organization.
Tax Deductible Donations to support " Downtown Revitalization" efforts can be made by mailing a check to the "Gleason Downtown Revitalization Fund"
Donations should be sent to:
Gleason Downtown Revitalization Fund
P.O. Box 125
Gleason, Tennessee 38229
Gleason Downtown Revitalization Fundraiser:
A Big - Small Town Success
James H. Johnson
www.GleasonOnline.com
Charles Anderson, emcee, Mike Snider and Ricky Morgan
On Saturday, August 2nd, 2014, a Fundraiser, designed to support Gleason Downtown Revitalization efforts, was held from 5 until after 8 PM at Huggins Park in Gleason.
The fundraiser was initially organized by the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee (Members: Charles Anderson, Ron Arnold, Mary Margaret Beasley, Andy Carroll, Gary Doster, Police Chief Jeff Hazelwood, Jim Johnson, Doris Owen, and Mayor Diane Poole) and focused on raising funds to support initial downtown revitalization projects that can provide the foundation for grant applications to fund larger projects.
The evening began with an opening prayer, provided by Mr. Jacky Esch and the National Anthem, wonderfully sung by Mr. Wendell Verdell.
The program consisted of gospel music, generously provided by "Witness Southern Gospel of McKenzie, Tennessee, as well as Gleason's own Mike Snider, widely known for being a regular on the Grand Ole Opry, as it is commonly known and referred to, and formerly a regular on the old Hee Haw television show as well as having received other honors associated with the country music industry. Additional musical entertainment was also provided by Ricky Morgan of The Great Pretenders, Wendell Verdell and Charles Ross and family of Gleason. Each of these individuals and groups provided their services freely in support of this initiative.
Those in attendance were provided with plenty of great food, including both BBQ plates and hot dogs from Big Daddy's BBQ, Highway 79, McKenzie, Tennessee. Soft drinks, bottled water, as well as snow cones and desserts were also available at the concession stand.
All in attendance had the opportunity to win more than 20 door prizes, such as gift cards and a variety of other items provided by numerous donors. Numerous attendees purchased chances to win various prizes ranging from gift certificates, to bicycles, to a Winchester Repeating Arms 12 gage shotgun, along with 5 boxes of shells and electronic noise-suppression ear muffs.
With approximately 400 total in attendance, including lots of people from Gleason and the surrounding areas, others coming from further away, and more than a dozen others who were candidates for local, and state offices, this event has to be judged as having been a huge success.
Not only did the citizens of Gleason come out in numbers to support this important event, but many also made cash donations during the evening. Others supported this initiative by simply coming to enjoy the entertainment and fellowship with friends, while enjoying the excellent food and beverages and buying tickets for the various prizes that were offered. Numerous other individuals, groups, and businesses made significant financial contributions, or provided goods or services that were significantly discounted or given freely for this event.
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Valued Supporters: Final Flight Outfitters, Union City; Big Daddy's BBQ, McKenzie; Owen Brothers, Gleason; Pepsi Cola, Paris; Jim Johnson, Huntingdon; Coca Cola, Union City; Flowers by Jan, Gleason; Aletha Jones, Gleason; Simply Southern Restaurant, Gleason; Bank of Gleason, Gleason; WCMT Radio, Martin; Salon 104, Gleason; Gleason Superette, Gleason; Jerry Chestnut, General Manager of Boral Brick, Gleason; J&P Exxon, Gleason; J & J Restaurant, Gleason; Bryant Video, Gleason; Blossom and Blooms, Gleason; Tumbling Creek Baptist Church, Gleason; Weakly County Electric.
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It is heartening to learn that the funds derived from this Gleason Downtown Revitalization Fundraiser were in excess of $4,000.
This figure seems to highlight both the generosity of the citizens of Gleason, as a group, and the degree to which they care for their community and want it to be all it can be!
Candidates for Local, County, and State Offices
Rose Anderson, Mayor Diana Poole, Angie Hazelwood and Doris Owen
CLICK HERE FOR MORE PICTURES
Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee: The Vision
In addition to engaging in several beautification/restorative projects, such as painting fire hydrants and making significant repairs to the Senior Citizens Center to deal with termite damage, members of the Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee have been considering a number of other projects designed to enhance the look of the downtown and related areas. Completing projects such as these is seen as important in laying the foundation for obtaining grant money to support other more costly revitalization projects.
An initial part of this long term plan involves making a number of major improvements to Huggins Park, which has seen very little use in recent years. It is hoped that such improvements can make Huggins Park a more suitable venue for activities such as open-air movies, musical events, and perhaps additional sporting events, that would allow families to enjoy wholesome activities and entertainment while also spending time with friends.
Several other, somewhat longer term activities, involving the downtown area are also envisioned. Here, the committee has been exploring the possibility of acquiring an old caboose, the necessary section of track, and moving the caboose to the site of the town’s old railroad depot. The preliminary thinking of the committee is that this old caboose could serve as a City of Gleason museum or, possibly as Railroad Museum to highlight the role the railroad has played in Gleason's history.
Also under consideration down the road a bit, is the development of a large decorative brick wall with a flagpole, flower beds, and seating area - which would be located in the downtown area - in the vicinity of the Gleason Hardware store on Cedar Street. Initial blueprints for this project have been drawn up by Jan's Plans of Gleason. Jerry Chestnut, General Manager of Boral Brick, has also agreed to help us obtain the brick necessary for this project. Tentative plans are to use scrap metal from old Gleason railroad tracks in the construction of the arches of the wall - to highlight the important role the railroad has played in Gleason's history.
A preliminary view of this decorative wall can be seen in the blueprints provided below.
An ongoing goal of this Committee is to keep Gleason Citizens appraised of the deliberations of the committee and up-to-date regarding the progress of the revitalization of the downtown area.
Gleason Board Endorses Downtown Revitalization Initiative
At a recent meeting of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, Gleason resident Charles Anderson spoke on behalf of the newly constituted Gleason Downtown Revitalization Committee.
Mr. Anderson noted that we all take great pride in our small town and always want it to look its best. He went on to say that unfortunately, Gleason hasn't kept up with the times when it comes to the downtown area, as compared to other towns. While other city's are making improvements, Gleason's downtown area is moving in the opposite direction.
Mr. Anderson indicated that the focus of this committee will be on sprucing up the City of Gleason in all ways possible in order to make Gleason a more attractive destination for visitors. He stated that the Committee hopes to get all citizens involved in turning the downtown area around and making it a more enjoyable place to visit.
He suggested that the purpose of coming before the Board was not to ask the city for money but simply to get support from the board. He said that the committee hopes to use grants and individual donations to fund specific projects.
Some initial ideas for possible improvements include improving sidewalks/parking/awning in front of the school, a new LCD electronic billboard for the school, Flashing Safety Lights in school zones, restoring a Railroad Caboose to commemorate the old long & forgotten train station, new park benches/flower planters, hand painted murals on walls of buildings (looking for volunteers for artwork), the construction of a fountain, and potentially the development of a farmers market.
The Mayor and Aldermen expressed their excitement regarding the committee's ideas for improving the Gleason community and voted unanimously to support this new initiative. Source: Dresden Enterprise.
