County leaders make bail to fight child abuse

McNAIRY COUNTY, Tenn. — An agency whose focus is ending child abuse in West Tennessee got a big fundraising boost as supporters kidnapped top officials in their county. These officials were held for ransom money which will help children and families throughout the area.

“I was pretty busy this morning, rounding up trying to get some folks to help me get out from being kidnapped,” Selmer Mayor John Smith said.

Mayor Smith, along with 11 of the most well-known faces in McNairy County, was kidnapped to combat child abuse.

“We’re going to round up what we dub the dirty dozen of McNairy County,” Nicholas Inman said. Inman along with partner Haylee Graham will be ‘Dancing With the Stars’ in April, fundraising for the McNairy County Carl Perkins Center.

Monday the two were setting bonds and raised about $5,000 in a few hours.

“We did really well, and we have a lot of events coming up,” Graham said.

Len Phegly just took over as the center’s director and said it’s events like these which the community needs.

“The heart the people have for the kids here to prevent abuse and also for those who have been abused — I’m excited to be a part of that and get going,” Phegly said.

For Mayor Smith, the center is a major need. “It’s very sad the things that go on here, and without their dedication, these young people could not have any help,” Smith said.

Anyone who needs assistance from the center is helped at no cost, which is why this fundraising effort is so important.

“Without these guys raising money for us, we wouldn’t be able to open up our doors, so we are so grateful for them,” Social Work Manager Callie Forman said.

This year’s goal is to raise about $80,000 with the annual Dancing With the Stars Event April 16.

On Saturday, Feb. 20, Kimberlie Helton and Eric Wood will be at the Crazy K Ranch. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The concert begins at 7 p.m. with a live auction and comedy before the show. All proceeds from this event will also go toward the McNairy County Carl Perkins Center. Tickets are $15 and can be bought at various businesses in Selmer.