By Myra Bean

Panola Partnership is taking the fall forum in a new direction with Connections and Clubs this year, according to Meredith Fleming, economic development assistant,

Instead of making it a whole day in respect for everyone’s work schedule, there will be a min-session at 11 a.m. at the Panola Country club with government affairs advisor Manning McPhillips of Watkins & Eager.

“He will give a good recap of the special session of the state legislature. Then tell of anything that may be coming down the pipeline,” Fleming said.

This will be a brief, very laid back type of situation in an area adjacent to dining room.

At an interactive lunch, Katrina Shirley of Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) of Nashville will be the guest speaker.

She will address workforce trends and statistics.

“We will try to paint a picture of Panola County’s economy today,” Fleming said. “We will brainstorm on action items that individuals can do to be a part of that workforce plan and story.”

Fleming explained through the Partnership, they are recruiting people and companies to the area.

“We want them to have the people. We want them to have the talent,” Fleming added. “We feel everybody is a part of that puzzle. It starts at home, day care centers, goes into the school system. Educators are a very important part of that. Parents should allow their child to be a part of career and technical. That channel is no longer just a shop class. You can have a very good job.”

After lunch will be a golf scramble. After golf, everyone is invited to a putting contest and to have cocktails and hors d’oeuvres from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

The lunch is $20 and open to everyone. Golf fees are $100 per person or $400 for a four-man team.