Paris, Tenn.–The Henry County Helping Hand Radio Auction board held a very special board meeting Monday to celebrate the service of two very special women and a record-breaking year in every way, having raised over $500,000 for over 80 local charities and non-profit agencies this year.
Henry County Mayor John Penn Ridgeway surprised Mary Kate Ridegway and Susan Bell with the highest honor a Henry Countian can receive. They were both presented Loyal Patriot Awards for their many years of service to Henry County Helping Hand. Mary Kate and Susan had earlier announced they were retiring, with Mary Kate serving 37 years as secretary and Susan serving 22 years as treasurer.
Henry County Helping Hand President Bruce Reed also thanked them for their many years of service and presented them with plaques to commentate their years of volunteering and serving.
The board also voted to donate $500 each in honor of them to a charity of their choice which will come out of the 2023 auction funds.
Anita Peale presented them with baskets from “The Merchants of Henry County” in which there are over $500 worth of local gift cards in each basket from over 35 businesses. Anita said she was overwhelmed with the support shown from local businesses and said not one business declined to give to Mary Kate and Susan.
New board members also were welcomed: Kevin Buie, Oneida Wagoner, Allie Harper, Marilyn Oliver, and David Flowers.
Photo: County Mayor Ridgeway presents the Loyal Patriot Award to Mary Kate, at left, and Susan, right. (Mary Kate Paschall photo).