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07-12-2006 News Colorful
fireworks glow across region Tuesday
Colorful fireworks glow across region Tuesday
Spectacular bursts of colors could be seen flashing across American skies last Tuesday in celebration of the country's independence on its 230th birthday. Many free shows were available to Overton Countians by various fire departments, churches, and even at Putnam County Fairgrounds, where the above and right photographs were taken. Fireworks are believed to have originated in China some 2,000 years ago. The most prevalent legend is that fireworks were discovered or invented by accident when a Chinese cook working in a field kitchen happened to mix charcoal, sulphur, and saltpeter (all commonly found in the kitchen in those days). The mixture burned and exploded when compressed in an enclosure - Êa bamboo tube. While some sources say that the discovery of fireworks occurred about 2,000 years ago, other sources place the discovery sometime during the 9th century during the Song dynasty (960-1279), although this could be confusion between the discovery of gunpowder by the cook (which the Chinese are also credited with) and the invention of the firecracker. Firecrackers, both then and now, are thought to have the power to fend off evil spirits and ghosts that are frightened with loud bangs, including those that sounded all across the nation last week.
New buntings adorn county courthouse
Beth Underwood/OCN staff
County property tax to remain at $2.14 By DEWAIN E. PEEK, OCN staff Before considering the new tax rate, the County Commission considered an appropriating resolution for all funds. Commissioner John Phillips made a motion that the resolution be put off until next month. "I think we need to look at this some more on the fire department funds," Commissioner Phillips said. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Jeff Keyes. On the vote, the motion failed with only Commissioners Keyes and Phillips voting to put it off. The appropriating resolution for all funds was then adopted, with Commissioners Phillips, Keyes, and Alan Atnip voting against it. The resolution fixing the tax levy for fiscal year 2006-2007 at $2.14 was adopted, with Commissioners Atnip, Keyes, and Phillips voting against, and Commissioner Gary Hollars passing on the vote. The 2.14 breaks down as County General 1.09, down .01 from last year, Solid Waste .10, up .01 from last year, and Highway .05, General Purpose Schools .70, and Debt Service .20, all the same as last year. The first reading of the Non-Profit Funding Resolution was approved, with Commissioners Keyes and Phillips voting against. Calvin Bilbrey, Debbie Reagan, and Brenda K. Sullivan were approved as notaries at-large. The meeting adjourned.
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