The Tri-County Journal
& Chattahoochee Chronicle
PO Box 850, 71 Webb Lane
Buena Vista, GA 31803
229-649-6397
tjournal@alltel.net
Editor’s Note: The “Year In Review” features brief summaries of some of the top stories of the past year. They are printed in chronological order with the date of the original issue in italics.
Manufacturer considers Marion for headquarters
Jan. 4, 2006 – Apex Homes, a modular home manufacturer, informed the Marion County Commission that Buena Vista was on its “short list” of sites to locate a new Southeastern headquarters. They gave commissioners an overview of their plans, which included the possibility of adding from 35 to 100 new jobs to the local economy. (Apex wound up locating its headquarters elsewhere, but local officials were encouraged that Marion County had been one of their top prospects).
E-911 Center receives 28,000 ‘911’ calls in first year
Jan. 4, 2006 – The Middle Flint E-911 Center recently completed its first year of operation and Director Ellice Francer gave a review of the establishment of the center, which is located in Ellaville and serves seven counties (including Marion, Schley and Webster), and of its first year. During the first year, the center processed almost 65,000 calls for approximately 70 agencies. They answered more than 130,000 total phone calls, with 28,000 of those being “911” calls.
Ellaville looks to condemn nearly 30 structures
Jan. 11, 2006 – The City of Ellaville says it is in the process of condemning nearly 30 structures that officials have deemed unsafe or unfit. None of the structures were homes that had people still living in them. Several of the properties on the list are located on Chestnut Lane, Spivey Street, and Poplar Circle.
Chattahoochee plans for growth
Jan. 11, 2006 – The Commission of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County voted to create a full-time building inspector position during its first meeting of the year. Chairman Larry Dillard noted the recent sale of several large tracts of land to developers and the growth that is expected to hit Cusseta due to the expansion of the Fort Benning Army base.
“We are getting ready for the future,” said Dillard. “Developers are buying 300, 400 and 500 acres at a time.”
Cusseta Chamber of Commerce hosts Annual Dinner
Jan. 18, 2006 – The Cusseta-Chattahoochee County Chamber of Commerce hosted its Second Annual Dinner. In addition to reviewing the previous year’s activities, highlights of the dinner included the installation of officers for the next year, and the naming of Red Oak Engraving (owner Al Tatom) as “Small Business of the Year.” The dinner was catered by Tim Jones’ Jus’ Bar-B-Q.
Leadership Marion sponsors Family Day
Jan. 25, 2006 – Leadership Marion County sponsored the second annual Region 8 Family Connection Parent/Family Engagement Day at the Josh Gibson Resource Center. Parents came out to gather a multitude of information, network, and hear the wise words of speakers with important messages. Representatives of various state and local agencies were also on hand to talk to parents and other caregivers on many topics, from foster parenting to workforce training.
‘Explosive Growth’ in Chattahoochee
NSA opens local facility; Commission sells 332 acres to developer
Jan. 25, 2006 – National Security Associates (NSA) held a special ground breaking ceremony to officially open its new training location in Chattahoochee County. NSA’s new local operation is on 693 acres that will be used for military and law enforcement types of training.
NSA treated guests to some demonstrations of its training, including an explosion blowing up a door and officers rushing through with weapons drawn. It seemed symbolic of the ‘explosive growth’ beginning to take shape in the county. Just days before, local commissioners had sold 332 acres of land belonging to the local government to a developer. The land, located at the intersection of Highway 27 and Riverbend Road, went for approximately $1.13 million (or $3,100 per acre).
Local teacher killed in auto accident
Feb. 1, 2006 – Shelia Fripp, 43, of Ellaville died in an automobile accident on Jan. 24. Mrs. Fripp was a teacher at L.K. Moss Primary School in Marion County. School officials, teachers, students, family and friends held a special memorial service for the popular teacher on the front lawn of the school on Jan. 27.
Ellaville Chamber hosts Annual Dinner
Feb. 1, 2006 – The Ellaville-Schley County Chamber of Commerce heard reports of progress from local officials during its Annual Dinner. Highlights included: the city of Ellaville receiving a quarter of a million dollars for streets and streetscape improvements; the Schley County Commission approving 51 new building permits and expanding the local water system; and Schley County Middle-High School nearing completion of a new wing consisting of a dozen classrooms, as well as receiving the Governor’s Cup for improved SAT scores.
Cusseta Cowboys bring joy to others
Feb. 8, 2006 – The Cusseta Cowboys are known for visiting area nursing homes to entertain, bring joy and smiles to faces of people who may not have as much joy in their lives as they did in earlier portions of their lives. The ‘Cowboys’ get together twice a month to sing, dance, perform skits, tell stories, and visit with nursing home residents. The group’s members consider it a ministry and include Gospel songs as a major part of the performances.
Webster BOE votes to pull out of TCHS
Feb. 15, 2006 – The Webster County Board of Education is planning to pull its students out of Tri-County High School and operate its own high school in the near future. BOE members voted to request that the Marion County BOE allow them to break the current contract between the two school systems for TCHS. The plan is for Webster County ninth and tenth graders to attend school “at home” beginning with the 2007-08 school year, with other grades being added later. Webster officials say their current school building, which now serves grades K-8, is probably large enough to handle the addition of ninth and tenth graders, but they expect to need additional space when the other graders are added.
Coleman tells governor complaints about sheriff are ‘outrageous’
Feb. 15, 2006 – Commissioner Wade Coleman has written a letter to Governor Sonny Perdue to let the governor know that Commission Chairman Larry Dillard was not speaking for the Commission as a whole when he made allegations about Sheriff Glynn Cooper and requested an investigation into his office. Dillard had made various general allegations of wrongdoing, but did not give specific examples to go with the allegations (with the exception of failing to serve warrants from the local probate court), which Coleman described as “outrageous and unproven.”
Governor rejects request to investigate sheriff
Feb. 22, 2006 – Governor Sonny Perdue has informed Larry Dillard, chairman of the Commission of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County, that he has decided against initiating an investigation into the Chattahoochee County Sheriff’s Office after reviewing a complaint made by Dillard. The governor acknowledged that Sheriff Glynn Cooper had failed to serve a number of misdemeanor warrants from the probate court, but noted that the sheriff was taking steps to address that issue.
Governor Perdue wrote: “In the absence of a continuing willful disregard of the duties the law places upon him as sheriff and in the absence of any findings on our part of criminal activity, I am unable to conclude at this time that his actions meet the necessarily high threshold that should exist in order for me to appoint a review committee and initiate an investigation regarding suspension or removal of a duly elected local official from office.”
TCHS hires new football coach
Feb. 22, 2006 – The Tri-County High School football program has entered a new era, as Calvin Aldridge of South Haven, Mississippi has been hired as the new head football coach. Aldridge is a former college quarterback who has 17 years of experience as a high school coach. His experience includes a number of appearances in the state playoffs with various teams, as well as turning a losing program into a contending one.
STAR students named at SCHS, TCHS
Feb. 22, 2006 – Schley County High School and Tri-County High School have announced this year’s STAR students. At SCHS, senior Bud Nash received the honor, while Logan Walker was named the STAR at MCHS. Each of the students made selections for STAR teacher, with Nash choosing David Bond, and Walker picking Olin Holloman.
Marion democratic official accused of embezzlement
March 1, 2006 – A member of the Democratic Executive Committee has been accused by fellow committee members of embezzling funds. Elizabeth Murray, who also serves on the Buena Vista City Council, allegedly depleted most of the committee’s checking account by writing 13 checks totaling almost $4,000 over a period of eight months. The checks were all made out to “cash” and all bore Murray’s signature alone. Murray said those making the accusations (James Wright and Jackie Robinson) had better have some proof or be ready to be sued. Wright and Robinson said copies of the checks and her lack of an explanation provide plenty of proof.
Man arrested for trying to burn church
March 1, 2006 – Marion County resident Jacob Gaydosh, 18, was arrested for allegedly attempting to burn down New Providence Baptist Church. He was found hiding in a storage building on church grounds after a deacon noticed broken glass and saw evidence of someone trying to start a fire in a portion of the church. Burned matches and some partially burned carpet were found in various areas, and an old gas line that is no longer used had been pulled loose. No significant damage to the church was done.
Ellaville hosts ‘meth’ training
March 15, 2006 – Jesse Hambrick, author of ‘Prisoners of Meth,’ conducted training sessions in Ellaville to help local law officers and various other local workers (including representatives of DFACS, Family Connection, and the Schley County Recreation Department) deal with the problem of the use of the illegal drug “crystal meth.” The training sessions were held not due to any specific surge of illegal drug activity in Schley County, but due to a general spread of the problem of crystal meth across the state and nation.
Chattahoochee rejects Columbus sewage system offer
March 15, 2006 – Cusseta-Chattahoochee County officials have rejected an offer by the City of Columbus to provide sewage service to Chattahoochee County residents, deciding it would be best to forge ahead with plans to create its own system. Manager Elvin Hardy said Columbus basically wanted the local government to pay for the infrastructure needed for the project and also wanted to have Chattahoochee County residents pay higher user fees than Columbus residents pay for the same service.
Webster landmark goes up in flames
March 22, 2006 – Webster County lost a local landmark last week, as the gym of the historic Centerpoint School burned to the ground. Local residents are happy that firefighters managed to save the adjacent school building, but they are sad to see the gym gone. The gym has special memories for many area residents and it has been the site of many events though the years, including skating, basketball and family reunions. It had even once been used as a canning plant. More recently it has been the site of the annual “Holy Smoke Cooking Competition.”
Buena Vista to use $2.5 million to bolster water system
March 22, 2006 – The Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority executed a $500,000 subsidy along with a companion loan of $2 million with the City of Buena Vista. The city will use the money to make a variety of upgrades to its water distribution and treatment system. The goals are to improve water quality and plant efficiency, as well as to correct low flow and pressure problems that occur during periods of peak water demand.
‘Miss Wildcat 2006’ crowned
March 22, 2006 – The standout at the Schley County High School Booster Club’s annual “Reverse Beauty Pageant” was a statuesque beauty named Erica Hooter Hood. Her talent was a monologue in which she pointed out the “obvious superiority of the female sex over its counterpart” in a wickedly funny way. “Frenchie McFather,” a rather large, but poised beauty with grace and style, was the pageant’s runner-up.
Chattahoochee designated as ‘County of Excellence’
March 22, 2006 – Cusseta-Chattahoochee County was designated as a “County of Excellence” in the March issue of Georgia Trend Magazine. Only eight of the state’s 159 counties were selected for the designation. The successful creation of a consolidated local government and the handling of the county’s finances were the main items used as the basis of the honor.
‘Holy Smoke Cookoff’ is a big hit again
March 29, 2006 – The third annual “Holy Smoke Christian Cookoff” was held in Webster County at the Old Centerpoint Schoolhouse. The cookoff, which is sponsored by the Brotherhood of Macedonia Baptist Church, was once again a big success, with 17 churches competing for best sauce, best spare ribs, best chicken, and best barbecue. In addition to the cooking competition, the event included a full day of entertainment and fellowship.
Ellaville PA found not guilty
April 5, 2006 – Charged with two counts of theft by conversion, Physician’s Assistant Randall Campbell of Ellaville was found not guilty in a jury trial in Schley County Superior Court. A charge of practicing medicine without a license had been dismissed prior to the trial. Campbell worked for Flint River Rural Health Clinic in Ellaville when the accusations were made.
Buena Vista Police Chief to retire
April 12, 2006 – Buena Vista Chief of Police Sammie L. Hall Jr. has formally announced that he will retire, effective June 30, 2006. Hall was appointed police chief in August of 1995 by Rev. Floyd Story, who was mayor at the time. He had previously served as a deputy for the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (1977 to 1986). Current Mayor Ralph Brown said, “Chief Hall came into the office of chief at a critical time and quickly moved to bring professionalism and credibility to the agency.”
Springtime Ellaville is a ‘whopping success’
April 19, 2006 – The crowds seem to grow each year for the ‘Springtime Ellaville’ festival and this year’s event was no exception. The parade turned out to be a big one with the grand marshal, Schley County School Superintendent William Johnson, leading it in a red corvette driven by Johnny Wall. The Schley County Department of Family and Children Services won the award for best parade entry. Other highlights of the festival included arts and crafts, entertainment, and a Fun Run for kids.
Wimbledon champ helps dedicate Van Meter Tennis Center
April 19, 2006 – One might not expect a legendary Wimbledon and US Open champion to show up for the dedication of a five-court tennis complex in rural Buena Vista, but that’s just what happened last Monday, April 17, as Stan Smith was the keynote speaker at the ceremony to dedicate and rename the Marion County Tennis Complex as the “Van Meter Tennis Center” in honor of the late Harold Clayton (Van) Van Meter. Some locals were admittedly “star struck,” but at the same time said it seemed fitting that such a famous guest would speak in honor of Van Meter, who may not have been as famous, but who had a larger than life presence and was widely admired and respected.
Murray to return as principal of Schley Elementary
April 26, 2006 – “Sometimes you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.” That popular saying sums up Melody Murray’s feelings on agreeing to return to her role as principal of Schley County Elementary School just one short school year after leaving the position. Murray, who lives in Marion County, previously served as SCES principal for five years before leaving to become the curriculum director for the Marion County School System.
Buena Vista dedicates Josh Gibson Center
April 26, 2006 – There was a celebratory feeling inside the refurbished old Buena Vista High/Elementary School this past Saturday, April 22, as local leaders and community members enjoyed a special dedication ceremony for the building, which is now known as the “Josh Gibson Youth & Family Resource Center.” Kevin Brown, coordinator of Marion County Family Connection, which is one of the agencies already occupying space in the renovated building, said the goal is to attract as many community-improvement related groups as possible to locate offices in the center to form a “one stop shop” that can help local residents with many different needs.
Cusseta man jumps across USA
April 26, 2006 – Walt Rosso, 69, of Cusseta recently stepped out of an airplane and into history. That’s because when he stepped out of the plane he was about 12,500 feet above the earth and becoming one of a small number of people (believed to be under 10) to have skydived in all 50 states of the union. Rosso made his historic jump on April 10 with “Skydive Hawaii” in Honolulu, thus accomplishing this goal of jumping across the United States of America before his 70th birthday, which is on August 8. He began working on the 50-state goal at the age of 65.
Governor gives OK to consolidation in Webster
May 3, 2006 – With the stroke of his pen to sign House Bill 1298, Governor Sonny Perdue started the clock ticking on the formation of the Preston-Weston-Webster County Charter and Unification Commission. This group of nine men and women, to be appointed locally, will study all aspects of the three local governments in Webster County for the purpose of deciding whether or not a consolidated government should be formed. If the commission recommends consolidation, a proposed charter would have to be drafted and then approved by local voters before any change becomes official.
Crystal meth lab raided in Marion
May 3, 2006 – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office led several other agencies in a raid on a crystal methamphetamine lab at a residence in north Marion County on Highway 355 about 12 miles outside of Buena Vista on May 2. Timothy Scott Thorne, 39, was arrested. Thorne was living in his parents’ home, where the meth lab was discovered. Sheriff Horace Snider said Thorne had previously been observed in local businesses purchasing various items that are often used in the production of crystal meth.
Politically motivated vandalism in Cusseta?
May 10, 2006 – Larry Dillard, chairman of the Commission of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee, believes a string of acts of vandalism over the last six months may be related and are likely “politically motivated.” Dillard said there have been several instances of someone entering his office, as well as the office of Manager Elvin Hardy, adding that some “fairly sensitive files” were stolen from his office. He declined to say what was in the files. No files were reported missing from the manager’s office. He also said both of the offices had been shot with paintballs and that his office window was shot with a “BB” gun. Dillard said one of latest incidents was an apparent arson attempt on property owned by the local government. It was reported that it appeared as if someone poured a trail of gasoline from the intersection of Highway 27 and Riverbend Road toward the wooded area and then set it on fire, but the fire fizzled out and did not spread.
Schley High awarded $75,000 grant
May 10, 2006 – It was recently announced that Schley County High School had been awarded a $75,000 grant from the state to institute a “1:1 wireless classroom.” The money will be used to purchase a classroom set of wireless laptops that will be used exclusively for the physical sciences during the 2006-2007 school year. The grant was awarded based on a proposal written by science teachers Joyce Owlsey and Beth Brewer along with Technology Systems Administrator David Bond.
Marion volunteers raise $37,000 for battle against cancer
May 10, 2006 – The Marion County chapter of the American Cancer Society held its annual Relay for Life, an annual event to raise awareness of cancer, as well as funds to assist in research for a cure for cancer. This year’s event was one of the most successful in recent years, with more than $37,000 raised. Approximately 50 cancer survivors walked a ceremonial lap around the downtown square. There were more than 280 participants and 15 teams involved in the ‘relay,’ which also included a wide variety of entertainment.
Class of ’06 marches into the future
May 24, 2006 – The graduating classes of 2006 stepped out of high school life and into the future last Saturday in graduation exercises at Tri-County High School and Schley County High School. The ceremonies included speeches by each school’s valedictorian and salutatorian (TCHS - Darrell Neal Jr. and Charmant Tan; SCHS – Kristin Brock and Bud Nash).
Schley hopes to use funds from out-of-county
water lines to expand its in-county lines
May 31, 2006 – The Schley County Commission is expanding water lines from the county water system into Sumter County and officials hope to be able to use some of the funds from the extra customers to expand lines to serve more people inside Schley County. A line is being installed south along LaCrosse road that will reach Statum Lake Subdivision in Sumter County. It is hoped that this expansion will help the commission to also expand to areas inside the county not yet provided with the opportunity of having treated water.
Cooper supports Webster County firefighters
May 31, 2006 – Cooper Lighting once again showed its support for Preston/Webster County volunteer firefighters by making a significant donation. This year they presented a check for $2,000 to the Preston/Webster County Volunteer Fire Department. Previous donations have helped the fire department with the purchase of new radios and pagers, truck repairs, and other training costs.
Spann continues to be impressive
working toward the ‘Big Leagues’
June 6, 2006 – Buena Vista native Chad Spann continues to be impressive as he works his way toward the ‘Big Leagues’ with the Boston Red Sox organization. Spann, playing for the Red Sox’s Double-A affiliate Portland Sea Dogs, is leading the team at the plate so far this season and was last week’s Eastern League Player of the Week. Spann leads the Sea Dogs with a batting average of .294. He also has three home runs, 14 doubles, 21 runs-batted-in, and an on-base percentage of .441.
SCHS Wildcats reach semi-finals, set school record
June 6, 2006 - After sweeping the heavily favored Bowdon Red Devils in the State Quarterfinals, the Schley County Wildcat Baseball Team traveled to Savannah to take on the defending class A state champions in the Final Four (semi-finals). Calvary Day had won the Region 3 championship and defeated Social Circle in the quarters to advance to the final four. Schley lost the first game of the best-of-three series 9-1 in a game that was much closer than the score indicated. Taylor Hammons led the Cats at the plate with two hits in the game. The Wildcats lost the second game 6-3 to end their fantastic season. Jeremy Royal led the Cats at the plate with a 4-4 performance and a RBI. Schley finished the 2006 season with a 29-5 record. The 29 wins are a school record and the team advanced to the state semifinals for the first time in school history. The Wildcats will lose four seniors off of this year’s team, but will return nine players who will be seniors next year. Coach Cheek said that with a lot of hard work in the off-season this team should be able to make another run deep in the playoffs and possibly contend for a state championship.
Chattahoochee to establish municipal police department;
Officials also vote to slash $1/4 million from Sheriff’s Office
June 14, 2006 – The Commission of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County voted (3-1) to form a municipal police department that will function separately from the Chattahoochee County Sheriff’s Office. The Commission then voted (3-1 again) to spend $578,000 on the new police department, while slashing the budget for the Sheriff’s Office by around a quarter million dollars.
Another official asks governor to investigate sheriff
June 14, 2006 – Another Chattahoochee County official has asked Governor Sonny Perdue to “initiate an investigation into the actions of Sheriff Glynn Cooper,” despite the fact that the governor declined such a request about 3 ½ months ago. Sheriff Cooper said he has nothing to hide and would welcome an investigation, adding his belief that the
complaint is an attempt to discredit him to justify the County Commission’s plan to establish a new police department. The new request for an investigation comes from Chattahoochee County Probate Judge Ken Van Horn. The judge had previously complained about the sheriff not serving warrants he had issued and now says the sheriff is still not serving warrants with diligence. “While it does appear that he entered the Probate Court warrants into GCIC (the state’s computer system), I can discern no clear pattern in my court at this time that he is exercising diligence in serving warrants,” said Van Horn.
Marion official to repay funds
June 14, 2006 – The Marion County Democratic Executive Committee recently voted to allow committee member Elizabeth Murray to make monthly payments to repay $3,363 of committee funds that she allegedly spent over an eight-month period last year. Murray was earlier accused of improperly spending the money by two other committee members, but she denied the accusation. However, according to the minutes of a recent meeting, Ann Bartulettie of the Georgia Democratic Party presented the committee with a letter from the party’s attorney which stated that Murray had agreed to make monthly payments of $75 until the $3,363 was repaid in full. Murray is also a member of the Buena Vista City Council.
Marion residents to get roadside trash pick-up
June 21, 2006 – The Marion County Commission voted during its monthly meeting to begin weekly roadside garbage pick-up service this fall, with the new service to be paid for by user fees. Each household will pay an estimated $15 to $16 peer month for the service. County residents (who reside outside of the City of Buena Vista) currently are responsible for hauling their garbage to one of numerous trash dumpsters in various locations across the county. The county government must then pay to have the dumpsters emptied and the trash is hauled to the landfill in Taylor County.
Webster wreck turns drill into ‘real deal’
June 28, 2006 – Webster County Fire/EMS planned to use a “Survive the Crash” simulation last Friday in Preston to teach youngsters how dangerous vehicle accidents can be, as well as to teach them how to increase their chances of surviving an accident. However, a real-life accident took precedence, as a car collided with a tractor-trailer in nearby Weston. While the emergency crews were diverted to the actual accident scene rather than the mock accident, it’s a good bet that the youngsters who had gathered for the drill were still impacted; as they learned that the accident was a very serious one.
Man shot over land dispute
July 5, 2006 – One Marion County man is in prison awaiting trial and another is in the hospital after a long-running family feud led to a shooting last week. D.C. Barrett is being held in the Marion County Jail for allegedly shooting his brother-in-law, Lee Lane, with a shotgun. According to Marion County Sheriff Horace Snider, there is a dispute dealing with a property/water issue between the two that has been going on for many years. That dispute apparently led to the shooting. Lane appeared to have been hit in the face, head, neck and shoulder areas and was at a location where the two men have adjoining property. Barrett was not present when authorities arrived at the scene.
Sheriff files lawsuit over budget cut
July 5, 2006 – Chattahoochee County Sheriff Glynn Cooper has filed a lawsuit in Chattahoochee County Superior Court to fight the drastic budget cut for his office that was recently passed by the Commission of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County. The sheriff is asking the court to grant an injunction to stop the commission from going forward with its new budget figures. He is also asking the court to order the commission to restore the funding to a level that he believes would make it possible for him to adequately operate the Sheriff’s Office and fulfill his constitutional duties. Sheriff Cooper’s attorney, Richard Hagler, called the budget cut “politically motivated” and “ridiculous.” He said, “To me, this seems to be an obvious attempt to put someone in control that they (the commissioners) can control.”
Grant will help MADE in Ellaville
July 5, 2006 – Making A Difference in Ellaville (MADE) received a grant from Schley County Family Connection to help fund its summer tutoring program. The group has been operating a summer tutoring program for five years running and Family Connection believes it is a program well worth supporting. The most recent summer tutoring program, which was designed to help prepare children for the CRCT test, had 96 children from ages 6 to 16 participating.
Spann makes All-Star Team
July 5, 2006 – Buena Vista native Chad Spann, who plays for the Boston Red Sox’s Double-A affiliate Portland Sea Dogs, has been selected to the 2006 Eastern League All-Star Team. The third baseman has appeared in 69 games so far this season and is hitting .289 with six home runs and 34 runs-batted-in. The 22-year-old was drafted by the Red Sox in the fifth round of the June 2002 draft.
Webster’s new superintendent excited about future
July 19, 2006 – Dr. James “Kip” Stephens recently took the reigns of leadership as the top administrator of the Webster County School System and he’s very excited about the future. He believes the Webster County Board of Education is very committed to giving local children the best education possible and he’s looking forward to playing a role in that effort. Stephens is also serving as the principal of Webster County Elementary/Middle School. The elementary/middle school will begin making the transition to an elementary/middle/high school next year and Stephens said he is also excited about that upcoming transition.
Marion approves 50-home subdivision
July 19, 2006 – The Marion County Commission voted to rezone land for a proposed 50-home subdivision on Pineville Road. Moon Family Properties plans to build the subdivision. Scott Turk of Moon Family Properties said the first homes should be built in the very near future. This is the latest investment the company has made in the Marion County residential home market and it expects to add around 150 new homes to the county in the next years, as growth is predicted due to the expansion of nearby Fort Benning continues.
‘New’ Marion County High gets new sign
July 26, 2006 – The “new” Marion County High School has a nice new sign in front of the school. Marion County Board of Education members and other local officials recently gathered at the school to dedicate the sign. The Marion County Board of Education voted this year to rename the county’s only high school from “Tri-County High” to “Marion County High.” The school originally served three counties (Marion, Schley and Webster), but several years ago Schley County built its own high school and Webster County plans to begin teaching its own high school students (starting with grades nine and ten) in the next school year.
Marion property taxes to drop almost 10%
August 2, 2006 – The Marion County Commission has tentatively adopted a millage rate that will result in a decrease in the total amount of property taxes collected next year. Property taxes are projected to be $161,175 less than last year, which is a decrease of 9.94 percent.
New garbage fees estimated to total $386,322
August 2, 2006 – Based on an estimate of the number of households in Marion County and the Marion County Commission’s estimated price of the new roadside garbage pick-up service, local residents will pay around $386,322 per year. Despite some vocal opposition from some local residents, commissioners say they remain upbeat about this new service and believe it will be good for the community.
Schley High dedicates new wing
August 2, 2006 – The Schley County School System celebrated the expansion of Schley County High School with a special ceremony to dedicate the school’s new wing to the memory of Mervin Johnson Hill and Morris Crawford Hill. The late Mr. and Mrs. Hill were the parents of Robert Johnson, a Schley County native who donated $500,000 for the expansion.
Chattahoochee Leadership Class graduates
August 2, 2006 – Graduates of the inaugural Cusseta-Chattahoochee County Leadership Class were honored in a special ceremony in the Cunningham Center in Columbus on July 27. The goal of the class is to build a network of local leaders with enhanced leadership skills to improve the community. Graduates were: Elizabeth Adams, Renae Annis, Gwendolyn Askew, Gene Burgamy, Pam Burgamy, T.S. Duval, Susie Thornton Foster, Carol Greer, Johnny Jackson, Sadie Jackson, Jim Lawrence, Ken May, Phyllis May, Craig Potter and Kathryne Van Horn.
Ellaville musician has song on iTunes
August 9, 2006 – Brent Cobb, the young country musician from Ellaville, has two songs available for download on iTunes, the online music store. This gives Cobb’s career more momentum as he prepares for the fall release of his first CD, which will be titled No Place Left to Leave. Two versions of his Dirt Road in Georgia (featured on his demo) are already available as 99¢ downloads on iTunes. The 357’s, the band of Shooter Jenkins (son of the legendary Waylon Jennings), play on Cobb’s CD.
Meet the new ‘Top Panther’
August 16, 2006 – Dr. Jimmy Martin is the new principal of Chattahoochee County High School, but if you visit his office, odds are that you’ll find his chair empty. That’s because he prefers to spend much of his time interacting with the rest of the faculty and staff, as well as students. Martin says he has a “team building” style and enjoys working with other administrators and teachers. Prior to joining the staff at CCHS, he was principal of Central Middle School in Coosa County, Alabama. He has also served as the principal of Thomasville Middle School in Alabama.
Judge orders more funding for sheriff (sort of)
August 23, 2006 – It appears that Chattahoochee County Sheriff Glynn Cooper will have at least some of the reduced funding of his office restored, but exactly how much remains to be seen. In a hearing on the matter (the sheriff has sued the commission after it cut his budget dramatically and voted to establish a separate police department), Superior Court Judge Robert Johnston stated his opinion that the amount of the budget cut was so much that it could be seen as effectively abolishing the sheriff’s office. While the judge didn’t make a specific order to restore any set amount of funds, it was clear that was what he expected when he gave the two sides 20 days to “sit down at the table and work this out.”
Webster implements mobile home moratorium
August 23, 2006 – In an initial step towards imposing permanent restrictions, the Webster County Commission has implemented a temporary moratorium that prohibits anyone from bringing into or moving into the county any mobile home that is older than a 1997 model. “Our intention is to adopt reasonable standards that protect property values and add to, rather than detract from, the community,” said Commission Chairman Dave Wills.
Ellaville mayor resigns
August 30, 2006 – Ellaville Mayor Hugh Turner has resigned his position as the city’s top elected official, effective at the end of the year (December 31, 2006). Turner said he needs more time to devote to his business, Turner Insurance & Investments, and that it would be unfair to his constituents to serve as their mayor and not have enough time to do the job in the way it should be done. The city is expected to call a special election for the mayor’s position in March of 2007.
Buena Vista gets ½ million for sewer improvements
August 30, 2006 – The City of Buena Vista has been awarded a $500,000 grant for sewer improvements. The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is being administered by the State of Georgia’s Community Development Block Grant program.
Ellaville hosts 1st ‘Gabbystock’
August 30, 2006 – Gabby’s Motor Speedway in Ellaville hosted a rockin’ fundraiser called “Gabbystock” and to raise funds to help several local residents, including a leukemia patient and two people with spinal injuries. More than $9,000 was raised as area residents enjoyed live music from four bands at the local go-kart racetrack.
Marion attorney says petition won’t stop new garbage system
September 6, 2006 – A group of Marion County residents recently announced their plans for a petition drive to overturn the County Commission’s decision to implement a new roadside garbage pick-up system funded by the user fees each local household will be required to pay. However, the county’s attorney, Wayne Jernigan, has voiced his professional opinion that the commission would not be required to hold special referendum on the issue due to a petition. The petition’s organizers disagree, as they interpret the constitution as requiring a special election if the petition is successful.
Chattahoochee falls to Marion in historic football game
September 6, 2006 – A historic football game took place in Eagle Stadium on Friday, Sept. 1, 2006 as Marion County High School played its first game in the post Tri-County High era. The game was even more historic for the visitors, however, as Chattahoochee County High played its first-ever high school football game. The bleachers on both sides of the field were packed with fans cheering for their teams, as the Eagles of Marion County defeated Chattahoochee’s Panthers by a score of 20-13 in an exciting and competitive contest.
“We set the tone early and then held on for the win,” said MCHS Coach Calvin Aldridge. “Chattahoochee has a talented group of kids – some kids who can really move – and they will win some games.”
Ellaville receives ‘Entrepreneur Friendly’ status
September 13, 2006 – Ellaville and Schley County were awarded an official designation as an Entrepreneur Friendly Community through the Georgia Department of Economic Development. This has come through the work of the Schley County-Ellaville Chamber of Commerce. The Georgia Department of Economic Development's (GDEcD) Small Business & Innovation Division provides a community-based program that helps create an entrepreneur environment, building entrepreneur and small business strategy into the community's overall economic development strategies. A team from the Small Business & Innovation Division spent the day of September 11 in Ellaville. This review team voted that the community was worthy of the designation.
Suddeth named chief of Cusseta’s new police department
September 13, 2006 – Ken Suddeth, former marshal of Muscogee County, has been chosen as the first police chief of the new Unified Government of Cusseta –Chattahoochee Police Department. Chief Suddeth must now help to build the department from the ground up, starting with interviewing and hiring officers, as well as ordering weapons, vehicles and equipment. Finding officers apparently won’t be a problem, as he has around 150 applications for 10 positions. “It is a tremendous challenge, but we will have the department fully up and running as soon as possible,” he said. Suddeth said his goal is to hire good people and give them the most training that he possibly can, believing that training is valuable and makes officers better.
Dime Store celebrates 30th Anniversary
September 13, 2006 – The Dime Store, located “on the square” in Buena Vista, celebrated its 30th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2006 with storewide discounts, refreshments and lots of memories. Owners Dawn and Kim Welch can hardly believe 30 years have passed since they bought the “W&S Shoppe” from Lavonne and Linda Moon and renamed it The Dime Store. “The store is something very personal to me,” said Mrs. Welch. “I feel I don’t have customers; I have friends. When I look back over the years, the friendships I have established have meant so much to me.”
Ellaville woman is ambassador for ACS
September 20, 2006 – Mary Nan Pilcher of Ellaville has been chosen by the American Cancer Society as an ambassador to the Society’s Celebration on the Hill. Ambassadors were scheduled to journey to Washington, D.C. to participate in the American Cancer Society’s Celebration on the Hill 2006, September 19-20. Mary Nan will join thousands of other ambassadors from every congressional district in the nation advocating for cancer-related public policy issues. In addition to her participation in the Celebration on the Hill event, the selected ambassadors will serve two-year terms as legislative advocates for the society, participating in grassroots advocacy efforts to positively influence public policy at the local, state and federal levels.
Spann finishes season as team’s top hitter
September 20, 2006 – Buena Vista native Chad Spann (22, 6’1”) continues to excel in his young professional baseball career. He recently capped off an All-Star season with the Double-A Portland Sea Dogs (minor league team of the Boston Red Sox Organization) by being the team’s leading hitter for the year. He was also near the very top league-wide in several batting categories. The Portland Sea Dogs recently wrapped up the 2006 season by winning their first ever Eastern League Championship. Spann led the team with a batting average of .294 and also had the team’s highest slugging percentage (.472). League-wide, Spann’s .294 average was the fifth highest. He was also 6th in slugging percentage (.472), 8th in doubles (28), and had the 12th highest on-base percentage (.361).
Alleged killer escapes from Marion County jail
September 27, 2006 – An alleged murderer avoided capture after escaping from the Marion County Jail, despite a massive manhunt that included personnel from more than 10 law enforcement offices and agencies. The escapee, Daniel Melendez, 33, was in jail awaiting trial in Marion County Superior Court, where he was to face murder charges when court convenes this November. He escaped by prying the bottom portion of an outside fence just high enough to slip through during “yard call” – a time when inmates, as required by law, are allowed to go outside the jail and into a fenced-in area for a short period. Sheriff Snider said the jailer who was supposed to be watching the “yard” was not at the time of the escape.
Sales is again Buena Vista’s police chief
September 27, 2006 – On Thursday, September 21st, Chief Ray Sales assumed duties as the new chief of police for the City of Buena Vista. This is Sales’ second time as chief. His first time was from 1986 to 1995. He left and returned to the department in 1998 and again in 2000. Chief Sales began his career in June of 1978. He is a certified DARE instructor in several surrounding counties. He enjoys working on the drug and gang related crimes and court cases in Buena Vista and hopes to provide a safer environment for the community. Currently, Chief Sales aspires to buckle down on the curfew for the local youth to keep them out of trouble.
Probate judge rules local petition invalid
October 4, 2006 – Opponents of Marion County’s new roadside garbage service, which will begin early next month, filed a petition with the Marion County Probate Judge’s Office. The petitioners requested that the probate judge validate the petition and call for a voter referendum to allow residents an opportunity to vote to repeal County Commission’s decision to start the roadside service. However, Probate Judge James “Bump” Welch ruled the petition invalid. He gave three reasons: the section of the Georgia Constitution cited by the petition does not apply; the Marion County Commission has the authority to decide how to handle garbage; and the Probate Court does not have the authority to validate signatures and call an election for a referendum.
Chattahoochee Health Care opens in Cusseta
October 11, 2006 – Chattahoochee Health Care opened its doors for a special Open House last Saturday, Oct. 7, 2006 to meet local residents and let them tour the spacious facility, which includes six exam rooms and even a room that will be used as a pharmacy in the near future. A significant number of visitors stopped by, which pleased Dr. Edward Hamilton, who is leading the staff at the center. Around noon he came to understand one of the reasons local residents were so excited, as someone said he was the first doctor to ever have an office in Cusseta – or at the very least the first one in a very long time. “It’s exciting to be here to help get this started from the ground up,” said Dr. Hamilton. The local government helped make it happen, voting to spend around $50,000 to renovate the building and to spend up to $200,000 to subsidize the healthcare facility during its first year of operation.
SCHS improves to 5-0, ranked #10
October 11, 2006 – The Schley County High football team is having its best season ever. The Wildcats won a wild Homecoming Game over Pacelli last Friday, winning 28-26 in overtime) to improve to 5-0. The Wildcats’ 5-0 run has captured the attention of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, which now has them listed as the No. 10 ranked Class A team in the state. Upon hearing the news, Coach McFather laughed and said that while it’s flattering, he doesn’t think they’ve done enough to earn a ranking just yet. “I guess it’s nice to get some recognition, but we’re a long way from being a No. 10 ranked team,” he said. “It’s nice to know that somebody thinks we’re there, but we still have a long way to go.” (Note: SCHS didn’t hold its top ten ranking, but did finish with its best record ever, 6-4, and just missed the playoffs.)
Lady Cats win region title
October 18, 2006 – The Schley County High softball team bounced back from tough regular season losses against region foes Brookstone and Pacelli, defeating them both in the Region 4-A Tournament to claim the region championship. The Lady Cats now advance to the Southern Sectional of the State Playoffs.
Marion resident receives Act of Heroism Award
October 25, 2006 – Several Southwest Georgia residents, including Buena Vista’s Vance Streeter, were among the honorees at the 2006 Governor’s Public Safety Awards held Oct. 18, 2006 in Atlanta. These law enforcement and emergency workers who received the “Act of Heroism Award” from Governor Sonny Perdue were honored for their respective roles in a traumatic shooting in downtown Lumpkin a little over a year ago. Streeter, an emergency medical technician, was shot while rushing to the aid of officers who had been shot.
Cars ordered for Cusseta PD are vandalized
October 25, 2006 -- According to a report obtained from Southern Interceptors, a dealer in Cedar Point, North Carolina that provides used police vehicles to law enforcement agencies, the five vehicles ordered by the Municipal Police Department of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County were vandalized the night before they were due to be shipped to Cusseta. According to sources at Southern Interceptors, the vehicles were so badly damaged they were not salvageable. Also according to sources at Southern Interceptors, only the vehicles slated for delivery to the Municipal Police Department were damaged. (Editor’s Note: The following week, Southern Interceptors informed the local government that it had decided it was too risky to do business with them, so cars were ordered from elsewhere.)
Lady Cats reach Elite Eight
October 25, 2006 – Schley County High’s softball team is one of only eight teams still alive in the hunt for the Class A State Championship. The Lady Cats breezed through the Southern Sectional last week in Brunswick, outscoring their opponents by a combined score of 23 to 5 and winning all three of their games.
Webster hosts Olde Tyme Fair
November 1, 2006 – Despite a bracing cold wind, the Olde Tyme Fair in Preston was a big success and was enjoyed by everyone last Saturday. The parade included a large number of entries. There were a lot of vendors selling a wide variety of food, cakes, and cookies, plus many different types of goods, trinkets, and the like. The entertainment, which started right after the parade, was a long lineup of musicians and singers. The Chamber of Commerce Fair Committee, which was chaired by Melinda Fussell, included Wynelle Holbrook, who handled the booths, Marie Hunter, who took care of the advertising, and Darrell Holbrook, who was in charge of the parade.
Marion puts hunting camp ordinance on hold
November 8, 2006 – The Marion County Commission has decided not to enforce its Hunting Camp Ordinance and will stop collecting fees from hunting camps while revising the ordinance. Some hunting camp owners and hunting groups have strongly criticized the ordinance, even arranging a hearing in federal court. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has also expressed concerns, saying at least a portion of the ordinance is in conflict with state law. “Right now we are seeking the advice of our county attorney, the DNR, and the Association of County Commissioners, while we consider changes,” said George Neal Jr., chairman of the Marion County Commission.
Buena Vista celebrates ‘Rural America’
November 8, 2006 – This year’s Rural America Festival in Buena Vista was once again a great success. The parade was successful and included many children, adults and vehicles. Special thanks go to the Marion High School Band who marched in the parade and also entertained the crowd with a concert. The groups of people who sang throughout the day added to the festive atmosphere. This year cash prizes were awarded for decorated floats. First place winner was the 4-H Club. The second place winner was the float sponsored by New Providence Baptist Church, and the Buena Vista Social Club Chicken Shack won third place.
Cusseta-Chattahoochee incumbents lose
November 8, 2006 – Both incumbents of the Commission of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County lost their reelection bids. In all, there will be three new members of the Commission when the new term begins in January, as a third seat was up for election in which the incumbent did not run. The new commissioners will be Donald Moore, Gerald Douglas and Walt Rosso. Donald Moore received 72 percent of votes to unseat Commission Chairman Larry Dillard in the Post V race. Gerald Douglas (57%) won the Post III seat over incumbent James Morton (35%) and James Roberts Jr. (8%). In the race to fill the Post IV position, vacated by Ben Miller who did not seek reelection, former commissioner Walt Rosso defeated James Bowden (55% to 45%).
Ogan to be new Marion Commissioner;
Swint to face Glass in runoff for BOE
November 8, 2006 – Larry Organ (70%) won the race for the District II seat on the Marion County Commission. He defeated fellow candidate Horace Williams Jr. (30%). Incumbent Ginger Swint received the most votes in the race for the At-Large position on the Marion County Board of Education, but her 42% was not enough to claim victory, so she will face Renee Glass (29%) in a runoff. The other candidates were Ricky Singleton (25%) and George Jackson Sr. (4%). (Note: Swint won the runoff with 67% of the votes.)
Election prompts judge to order halt to police department
November 15, 2006 – It wasn’t officially on the ballot, but the results of the recent election appear to have dire consequences for the Municipal Police Department of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County. Superior Court Judge Robert G. Johnston III used the election results as a reason to order the county to stop the creation of the department. “In view of the vote in Chattahoochee County, it appears that the people, which is what I wanted, have spoken,” Judge Johnston wrote in his order. “That makes the defendant’s argument that I was legally in left field moot. I believe further steps to create a Police Department should be stopped.” Two openly anti-police department candidates, Donald Moore and Gerald Douglas, were elected in convincing fashion over incumbents who supported the police department.
CCHS Panthers claw way into playoffs
November 15, 2006 – Chattahoochee County High visited Schley County’s Wildcat Field last Friday for the final football game of the regular season with both teams still in the hunt for the playoffs. The Panthers and Wildcats put on a wild offensive show for a packed house – combining for around 1,000 yards and 80 points – before the visitors won by a final score of 44-36. Chattahoochee improved to 5-5 overall and 4-3 in the region to claim Region 4-A’s No. 3 seed in the state playoffs. This was CCHS’ first season of varsity football and the team had no seniors.
Marion passes subdivision moratorium
November 21, 2006 -- The Marion County Commission approved a six-month moratorium on new subdivisions. After holding a public hearing, commissioners voted 3-to-1 in favor of the proposed six-month moratorium in which no new subdivisions will be approved. The moratorium does not affect any subdivision plans previously approved. Some of the commissioners had expressed their feeling that the moratorium was needed to make sure there were not too many subdivisions for the infrastructure to support.
Chattahoochee appeals order against police department
November 21, 2006 – The Commission of the Unified Government voted (3-1) to appeal the court order to stop the establishment of the new Municipal Police Department, theoretically setting up a review from the Georgia Supreme Court, although that review is not a sure thing. That’s because none of the three commissioners (Chairman Larry Dillard, Vice-Chairman Ben Miller, James Morton) who voted to appeal the ruling will still be in office come January 2, 2007. That’s when Commissioner Wade Coleman (who voted against the appeal) and Sonny Smith (who was absent due to medical reasons and did not vote) will be joined by commissioners-elect who are expected to withdraw the appeal and shut down the police department.
Developers have BIG plans for Cusseta
November 29, 2006 – While only time will tell if Cusseta-Chattahoochee County will get the kind of massive growth many have predicted due to the major expansion of nearby Fort Benning, it seems that a number of developers are betting that the predictions are right. There are currently at least four major development proposals in various stages of planning, with one already approved by the Board of Commissioners of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County. Just how ambitious are the plans of these four developers? Combined, they propose to add up to around 1,400 homes to the county. According to County Manager Elvin Hardy, there are less than 1,170 homes in the county now, so if the developers’ most optimistic plans pan out, the number of homes in the county could more than double – from around 1,170 to around 2,551.
Two Buena Vista residents die in wreck
December 6, 2006 – A traffic accident claimed the life of two Buena Vista residents — Wanda Kelly, 36, and Sabino Olvera, 30 — in the early morning hours of Monday, Dec. 4, 2006. According to the Georgia State Patrol’s office in Americus, Olvera was driving a GMC Suburban east on Highway 26 about a half mile outside of Buena Vista when the vehicle ran off the road. It traveled down an embankment and rolled over twice, ejecting the driver and the passenger. Olvera died at the scene of the accident, while Kelly passed away a few hours later after being taken to The Medical Center in Columbus.
Cusseta Police Department shutting down
December 6, 2006 – The recently formed – and controversial – Cusseta Municipal Police Department is closing its doors. Elvin Hardy, manager of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County, ordered the department shut down earlier this week and Police Chief Ken Suddeth resigned, effective Tuesday, Dec. 5. The move comes roughly a month after Superior Court Judge Robert G. Johnston III ordered the Commission to stop the creation of the
department, which was already up and running with a chief, officers, dispatchers, vehicles, weapons and other equipment. Hardy gave the order to shut down the department despite the fact that the Commission had filed an appeal in Superior Court to preserve the department. “There was no order from the commissioners, but I’m the one responsible for overseeing the police department (the county manager is also the director of public safety) and it was time to put a stop to it,” said Hardy. “To continue it under the circumstances would be foolish.”
Schley Family Connection has new coordinator
December 6, 2006 – The Schley County Family Connection has a new coordinator, John T. Greene. Greene holds a BBA in business administration and a MA in middle grades education from Georgia Southwestern State University. He is a 1978 graduate of Tri-County High School. Greene is a life long resident of Schley County.
Buena Vista loses ‘trailblazer’ in Langston
December 13, 2006 – She could be called many things – Historian, Trailblazer, Scholar, World Traveler, Senior Southern Lady – but no matter how one describes her, Buena Vista lost a very unique citizen, and perhaps a bit of itself, when Charlie Jane Mathis Langston died last Saturday, December 9 at the age of 103. Mrs. Langston was born the daughter of a slave in 1903. As her life progressed, she blazed a trail for others to follow. She developed a love of reading, acquired formal education, and didn’t let stereotypes stop her ambitions or slow her spirit. She is perhaps best known by the general population of her hometown as the first African-American funeral home owner (Langston Funeral Home, which later became Langston & Sons Funeral Home). However, there were many other milestones along the way. She was also Marion County’s first female African-American probation officer. Her professional life also included the roles of teacher and principal.
Cusseta-Chattahoochee manager resigns
December 20, 2006 – With the knowledge that come January 1 a majority of members of the Commission of the Unified Government of Cusseta-Chattahoochee County would no longer wish for him to serve as manager of the local government, Elvin Hardy tendered his resignation in a special called meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 19. This is the second December in a row that someone has resigned from the top administrative position. Former manager Doug Westberry – the first person to hold the manager position after the local city and county governments consolidated — resigned around this time last year, citing a “hostile environment” as his primary reason for stepping down. After that resignation, Hardy knew he was taking the position in a time in which the community was experiencing some growing pains and controversy, but he thought the problems could all be worked through.