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Atlanta - “The decision by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to deny preclearance of Georgia’s already implemented citizenship verification process shows a shocking disregard for the integrity of our elections. With this decision, DOJ has now barred Georgia from continuing the citizenship verification program that DOJ lawyers helped to craft. DOJ’s decision also nullifies the orders of two federal courts directing Georgia to implement the procedure for the 2008 general election. The decision comes seven months after Georgia requested an expedited review of the preclearance submission.

“DOJ has thrown open the door for activist organizations such as ACORN to register non-citizens to vote in Georgia’s elections, and the state has no ability to verify an applicant’s citizenship status or whether the individual even exists. DOJ completely disregarded Georgia’s obvious and direct interest in preventing non-citizens from voting, instead siding with the ACLU and MALDEF. Clearly, politics took priority over common sense and good public policy.

“This process is critical to protecting the integrity of our elections. We have evidence that non-citizens have voted in past Georgia elections and that more than 2,100 individuals have attempted to register, yet still have questions regarding their citizenship. Further, the Inspector General’s office is investigating more than 30 cases of non-citizens casting ballots in Georgia elections, including the case of a Henry County non-citizen who registered to vote and cast ballots in 2004 and 2006.

“It is important to underscore that not a single person has come forward to say he or she could not vote because of the verification process. Further, while DOJ argues that the process is somehow discriminatory, the historic voter turnout among Hispanic and African-American voters in the 2008 general elections clearly says otherwise.

“This decision provides a specific example of the inherently illogical and unfair nature of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act. It is a sad day for the rights of our state and for the integrity of our elections. I remain committed to continuing the fight for citizenship verification. In the coming days, I will consider every option available to the state, including the possibility of legal action.”

Background:

As required by law and ordered by federal courts in October 2008, the eligibility of new applicants to register and vote is checked against the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) and Social Security Administration databases to ensure that individuals registering to vote report similar information. If information in these databases does not match information reported on the voter registration form, the applicant is asked to clarify the information. Additionally, if the applicant previously reported to DDS that he or she is not a U.S. citizen, that person is asked by a registrar to provide proof of citizenship.

Prior to the November 2008 General Election, Secretary Handel sent letters to 4,771 voter registration applicants whose records at DDS indicated they were not U.S. citizens, asking them to provide documentation of their citizenship. As of March 2009, 2,148 of these applicants still have chosen not to resolve the question about their U.S. citizenship.

In the November 2008 General Election, county election officials reported that 599 individuals cast a challenged ballot because the voter had previously indicated to DDS that he or she was not a United States citizen and had not resolved their status with county officials at the time of the election. Of those, 369 ballots were accepted because the voter provided documentation of their citizenship after the election; and 230 were rejected because the individual chose not to confirm his or her citizenship status.

On October 10, 2008, activist organizations including the Mexican-American Legal Defense and Education Fund (MALDEF) and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit to attempt to prevent Georgia from verifying the eligibility of applicants to register and vote in the November General Election, including whether those individuals were citizens of the United States.

On October 16, 2008, U.S. District Court Judge Jack Camp denied the motion by MALDEF and ACLU; directed the State to continue the verification process; and acknowledged the State’s requirements to verify information under the Help America Vote Act. In his order, Judge Camp stated:

HAVA requires that Defendant Handel match information in the statewide voter registration database with information from the Georgia DDS and the SSA databases “to the extent necessary to enable each such official to verify the accuracy of the information provided on the applications for voter registration.”

Judge Camp also stated:

Since the possibility of fraudulent and inaccurate voting could significantly injure and diminish the public’s respect and confidence in the electoral process, the State’s ability to maintain reliable voter lists is paramount to a temporary and minor inconvenience to a few individuals.

On October 27, 2008, a U.S. District Court three-judge panel again directed the State to continue its voter registration verification process and challenge ballot procedures through the November General Election.

The 2008 elections were the largest in Georgia’s history, featuring record turnout among minority voters with the citizenship verification program in place. The figures below represent voter turnout statistics among Hispanic/Latino, African-American and White voters from the 2004 and 2008 General Elections.

Voter Demographic	Total Number of Votes Cast	2008 Total Number of Votes Cast	Percentage Increase in Votes Cast
Hispanic/Latino	18,000	43,000	140%
African-American	834,000	1.2 million	42%
White	2.3 million	2.5 million	8%

Karen Handel was sworn in as Secretary of State in January 2007. The Secretary of State's office offers important services to our citizens and our business community. Among the office’s wide-ranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting efficient and secure elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities and professional license holders. The office also oversees the Georgia Archives and the Capitol Museum.

Snyder Photography will be offering “Mini-Me” Sessions June 12, 13 & 14 in honor of Father’s Day. We will dressyour child in a Mini-Me version of Daddy or Grandpa.

For complete details and pricing, visit my blog.

Upon completion of the Baby Plan you will receive a complimentary 10×20 Gallery Wrapped Canvas, a DVD slideshow of all sessions set to music,and a custom designed Storybook documenting your child’s “Milestones” during the first year of life. View blog for complete details on this session.

Time to book your senior sessions! Check blog for current senior promos.

Another great option: Book your session online!

Check my blog often for current promos and session sneak peaks!

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We went on a camping trip this spring that took us down below the "Gnat Line" in Georgia. There were a lot of activities and sites in Middle and South Georgia that would make great family vacations.

We like to stay in State Parks so we chose one close to our destination which was the Okefenokee Swamp. Laura S. Walker State Park is very close. We will go back to this State Park in the future, and I highly recommend it for those heading down South.

Of course, there was no swimming in the lake where the alligators live though we did see some crazy people out there on waterskis behind speed boats. And while we looked as we walked the trails and played on the playground equipment, we did not see the alligators. It was peaceful and the sunsets were fantastic on the lake.

www.swampgeorgia.com was a good resource with coupons and suggestions on what was available in the area. Visiting Waycross to watch the trains and just spend family time at the park with the kids was a lot of fun.

The Visitor Center in Waycross was right beside a major train track so we watched the trains and got to walk the “Cartoonist Walk of Fame” featuring Walt Kelly’s comic strip character named Pogo. They had everything that we needed for this trip and for other trips yet to come.

We had a great time at the Okefenokee Swamp Park. We took the guided boat tour and saw the alligators a little too close for my comfort. Of course, my idea of comfort is a fence between me and them and about another 20 or 30 yards between me and that fence! They are beautiful creatures—from a distance—and we all enjoyed it.

We got to see more wildlife and go to a special show where we could touch baby alligators and snakes. (No, Jason, I did not “pet” the snake, but the kids did.) Old stills and alligator nests were very cool to see. We rode the train around the park too. The wild animals that live there as well as the two museums inside of the park are well worth the price of admission.

Our only disappointment was that the Southern Forest World Museum in Waycross was closed. We got to stand inside of a massive hollow tree and check out a train engine that was sitting outside the building, but “Stuckie” the mummified hunting dog was behind a locked door.

Stuckie chased something up the inside of a hollow tree in the 1960’s where he got stuck and petrified right there in the tree. He was found in the 1980’s by loggers who found him staring at them from the back of the logging truck. Stuckie was donated to the museum and put on display for all of the world to see. He was named in a 2002 contest.

Click here to see a picture of Stuckie. After viewing his picture, you will know why I was just heartbroken that we missed him. Our kids would beg to drive all the way to Waycross just to see that poor creature if we knew that the Southern Forest World Museum was open. Ick.

Pictures from the Okefenokee Swamp are on the We Are Pike County page. Be sure to read the warning signs about the alligators. Some people may have no common sense, but I wasn’t getting close enough for a gator to make a run at me!

Part two of this series will take readers to Jekyll Island where we spent the end of our vacation with sea turtles and bunny rabbits and a ship wreck that is no longer located off the shore of the island.

People have difficulty believing that they can have access to quality law firms in North America and Canada for less than the cost of a cup of coffee per day.

Just like car insurance which was started back in the 1950's, people pay a small premium for coverage. The imbalance in wages did not keep up with the cost of car repairs and people are not all going to have an accident at the same time so an industry was born. The 1960's brought us health insurance and HMO's. Wages could not keep up with the rising cost of doctors & hospital fees and again, not everyone is going to be sick at the same time so an industry was born.

With the combined power of over 1.5 million members of Pre-Paid Legal, people can now have access to the legal system that was once only for the rich and powerful. Since not everyone would need an attorney at the same time, an industry was born in 1972... Pre-Paid Legal.

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Carl Veit III decided that he wanted to grow his hair long in order to donate it to Locks of Love, a non-profit organization out of Florida that provides hairpieces to children under the age of 18 in the United States and Canada suffering from long-term medical hair loss. Locks of Love provides based on financial need.

In order to donate to Locks of Love, the minimum length of hair must measure at least 10 inches from tip to tip. Pretty soon, it became a family affair with Carl's Dad, Carl Veit II, deciding to donate as well.

Carl and his Dad grew their hair out together and donated it together on May 13, 2009. Pictures are on the We Are Pike County page. Photos are courtesy of Beth Veit.

LaGrange, GA –The State Public Health Lab has confirmed the novel strain H1N1 influenza A virus in a 31 year-old male from Spalding County.

“I want to stress that there is no need for panic, locally or otherwise. We are further evaluating and responding to the situation and will continue to do so," said Michael Brackett, M.D. District 4 Public Health Medical Director.

“Because of the similarities between the H1N1 virus circulating in the area and seasonal influenza, it is often difficult to tell early on which disease an individual has. But seasonal flu is beginning to die out and most cases of this novel flu have been mild. The important thing now is to slow or prevent spread of this (or any other) disease,” said Brackett.

Brackett also recommends, to help slow spread, anyone who is ill should stay home from work, school, camp, daycare or other congregated settings if they are showing symptoms of influenza. Family members or caregivers should wash their hands and discuss their situation with their family doctor. Current CDC guidelines state that ill persons should stay home and out of work, school or other congregated settings for a period of 7 days after the first day of illness. If symptoms last longer than 7 days, you should stay home for 24 hours after any symptoms such as cough or a fever are gone.

At present, the symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 influenza. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. Severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 influenza infection and seasonal influenza in people with underlying medical conditions. If you become ill with influenza like symptoms that cannot be treated at home, seek medical care.

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against H1N1 flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these important everyday steps to protect your health:
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before you eat or after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective, if needed.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick with flu-like symptoms.

There are currently 29 confirmed cases of H1N1 in Georgia. For more information on testing criteria for novel H1N1 virus please visit www.health.state.ga.us.

Regular updates are ongoing on the CDC’s website www.cdc.gov/swineflu.

I have had to make an incredibly hard choice of which graduation to go to on Friday night and the scales tipped in favor of attending graduation in a neighboring county rather than Pike County.

Please email pics to me and I'll upload them under your name on the We Are Pike County page.

Congratulations to all of our graduates. You are in some of the best times of your life that you will look back on with fondness when you're older. I remember my Senior Year with great fondness because classmates helped to foster the rebellious attitude that helped to bring this newspaper to life many years after I graduated.

I have two pieces of advice for you. Never say never is the first. The sky is pretty much the limit if you are willing to work for what you get. And if you don't let others talk you into saying "never" or "that couldn't happen for me", there is no telling where you will be twenty years from now!

I would be remiss if I did not include that I am a living example of "never say never" because I am perfectly happy right here in Pike County when I thought that I would love to live in the big city.

And second, please remember that all of our actions have consequences. Play and work are both included in that statement. Some things can follow you throughout your life even when you think that they are so small at the time. Always take the time to think things through before you act.

Everyone has things that they would take back in a minute if we were given the chance. You have a clean slate as you go out in life. Make the best of it and enjoy every minute!

This meeting began as usual with a call to order and the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes were reviewed and given the ok and then commissioners got down to business with the rest of the agenda.

Update 5.28.09:

V. INVITED GUEST
    1. Donna Wynn, Pike County Tax Commissioner to discuss the Homestead Tax Relief Grant: Donna explained that the State of Georgia will not be funding a portion of property tax owners' bills after this fiscal year. Pike hasn't received the check yet to pay this portion, but is expecting it soon. Next year's taxes for property owners will go up because of this. The Board of Commissioners (BOC) wanted to be sure that the public knows this is not a result of any vote that they have taken. This is because of a choice made by the State of Georgia. [Note from the Editor: Earlier this year, Governor Purdue announced that the State of Georgia will fund legislation to pay for the homeowners’ relief grants that were handed out last fall. This is that extra $217 property owners' tax bills. Governor Roy Barnes started this program 10 years ago and it ends this fiscal year.]
    2. Deborah Campbell, Liberty National, to discuss providing no cost accidental death benefits to county employees: This is a no cost for the 1st year group term life insurance policy (accidental death) that can be taken with employees when they leave their current employment. $3,000 worth of coverage that will be $10 per year after the first year. The BOC said that the County Manager needs to review this and decide whether or not it will be presented to employees. It does not need a vote from the BOC.

VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES
    A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities: Parrish verified that Gary Hammock said that he thought the county should get a larger portion of the proceeds from SPLOST than the 75% / 25% split that the CATF SPLOST Committee recommended at their past meeting. Motion to accept with that clarification. 3-0.

Update 5.30.09:

    B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners: None.

    C. Commissioners Report:
District 1 Roosevelt Willis: Asked about the Employee of the Quarter program and was told by the CM that Department Heads are notified every quarter and that he has had no nominees. However, the award money is in the budget and the CM will continue this program. * Obtained permission from the Chairman to ask David Allen about zoning and junk car policy in Pike County. Was advised that commercial repair has to be zoned commercial and that hobby repair is different. However, junk cars without tags and insurance are a code violation. There is only one junk yard in Pike County and it has C-3 zoning. Apparently there is a complaint about D&R 4 Wheel Drive that has reached the commissioner's attention. David said that cars are being removed but if they stay, a fence will have to go up. It was said that this has to be handled in the same manner as the complaint out on Hwy 109. * Said that he has received a complaint from someone who told him that a call was made to Planning and Zoning and that someone in the office told her that the yard sale ordinance was not being enforced. David was emphatic that no one in his office said this and that the ordinances in Pike County are being enforced.
District 2 Parrish Swift: Asked about certification for the CM. Was advised that he will take his last class to become certified in the next session. * Asked about the ordinance that requires a developer to take the preliminary plat for subdivision to police, fire, Board of Education, and Public Works before a hearing. Said that we need some common sense legislation about this. This is in our code as a requirement in Section 155.21 [Note from the Editor: I remember this going through and some citizens pointing out that this is a lot of hassle to put on the developer. However, the need for these entities to know about an incoming subdivision outweighed that concern to the BOC at that time.]

    D. County Attorney Report: None.

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
    1. Text Amendment to Chapter 156.139(A) Development Standards for PRD Districts: This is a text amendment [changing the wording of an ordinance] such as removing the words "Hwy 41", etc. Small changes according the county attorney that were approved by the Planning Commission at their last meeting. IN FAVOR: John Morrison OPPOSITION: None. Motion to adopt changes recommended by the Planning Commission. 3-0

Parrish went back to the Junk Car Ordinance and was told that they are labelled as a nuisance and the section of our code from the 2008 Litter Ordinance was cited.

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
    1. Second Reading of the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Ordinance: Discussion: approval from the cities? Molena, Concord, and Zebulon have had first reading. If they do not sign on to this, they will not be eligible for FEMA reimbursement in case of a disaster. Motion to approve. 3-0.

IX. NEW BUSINESS
    1. First Reading of the Pike County Fire District Ordinance: [Note from the Editor: I would recommend getting a copy of this ordinance by email from Planning and Zoning. This is done in other counties but there was some heated discussion about it because citizen amounts for fire (a portion of our taxes is slated to pay for the fire budget) seemed like they would go up--some a little, some a lot if you own a lot of property--and the business portion of that fire would go down because it's based on square footage for business and on appraisal amount for homeowners. Most in the room acknowledged that this is a tax.] This would take fire out of the budget and create fire districts. The money would come from owners of property with dwellings on them and business owners and would pay for their own budget. They would have their own line item and no money would come from the county. All monies collected would stay in this special account to be budgeted for future use, land acquisition, equipment purchase, etc. The idea is to make fire self-sustaining. A citizen made the suggestion that if there needs to be a change for fire districts, that businesses be based on appraisal like homeowners. There was much discussion on this and the BOC allowed many citizen comments. The CM even got his computer out to do some computing on the proposed changes for volunteered information from citizens in the meeting. Motion for 1st reading. 3-0. [Note from the Editor: Changes can be made by the 2nd reading or even during the next meeting where this is discussed.]

Update 6.9.09:
    2. Discussion of extending the work detail contract with the Georgia Department of Corrections until June 30, 2010: There was a lot of discussion about the work crew from the Detention Facility. The CM and head of Public Works are not satisfied with the work that is being done by the crews for the $39,000 contract with the county, but Don Collins countered their dissatisfaction with the 12,000 pounds of trash that was picked up during the week before the Tour de Pike. Roosevelt and Don said that if there is a problem that negotiations need to be made with the warden. [Note from the Editor: I know that this was on the agenda that is made public before the meeting, but I have a problem with there being a discussion of this magnitude without the person being a part of the discussion and to answer questions.] Motion to continue this contract. 3-0.
    3. FY 2009 Budget Amendment # 5 transferring funds to the Capital Outlay-Station Account from the Capital Asset-CD account: This is the 2nd time that a transfer has been made on this. Motion to approve. 3-0.
    4. Intergovernmental Agreement on SPLOST: Cities would have to sign on in order to participate in SPLOST with the county and any excess money collected would have to be used to reduce debt for the county and cities alike. There was also discussion of a bond issue on this. Motion was made for the county attorney to draft an intergovernmental agreement to address bond issue and division of excess funds. 3-0.

X. EXECUTIVE SESSION
    -Land Acquisition pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(4)
    -Personnel-Discussion of staffing needs in the Commissioner’s front office pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(6) [Note from the Editor: This was clarified to be discussed specifically hiring and firing in this office.]
    -Personnel-Public Works-Disciplinary Action

The BOC went into Executive Session at 8 p.m. and exited at 8:27 p.m. Action taken as a result of Executive Session: Motion to direct the CM to advertise for a county clerk with a salary to be determined. Approved 3-0.

XI. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
    None

XII. ADJOURNMENT: Motion to adjourn at 8:30 p.m.

The Pike County Board of Commissioners held a workshop on May 26, 2009 (prior to the 6:30 p.m. BOC meeting) with representatives from all of the cities to discuss the upcoming Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST).

Mayor Gayle Burden, Mayor Sonny Story, Council Member Carol Berry, Council Member Danny Riggins, Mayor Mike Beres, Commissioner Don Collins, Commission Chairman Doug Mangham, Commissioner Parrish Swift, County Attorney Rob Morton, County Manager Steve Marro, and Nancy Cook were in attendance at the front of the room as well as members from the Citizens Advisory Task Force (CATF) SPLOST Committees, various departments in the county, and members of the public.

The discussion centered around what the cities would like from their inclusion into the upcoming SPLOST. With a 75% / 25% split of the six year, $6 million SPLOST to the cities based on population, Williamson would get about $300,000, Molena would get about $170,000, Meansville would get about $170,000, Zebulon would get about $615,000, and Concord would get about $245,000. The cities also asked that the county bonds in order to get their funds up front instead of having to wait for the money to come in over the 6 year period.

These figures are based on the current economy in a slump with an estimate of about $1 million per year. That figure will go up when the economy comes back around. The cities have also asked that if there is more money than anticipated from the SLOST that the overage be split between the county and the cities by this same formula based on city population. Any excess money is mandated by state law to be used to reduce debt.

Each of the cities have met previously according to a detailed timeline put out by the SPLOST and are in agreement with a split according to population. This will require an intergovernmental agreement to be signed between the cities and county on how this will work. There is time for the cities to meet again and discuss and 80% / 20% split if that is what the commissioners decide to go with instead.

There was discussion of what each of the cities plan to do with the money from the SPLOST.

Concord wants to finish out the Strickland Building as it began this task with the current SPLOST and use any overage on the Fire Department building.

Meansville wants to upgrade meters and waterlines in its Water Department that currently serves about 210 customers. The water tank needs repainting as well.

Danny Riggins said that Molena wants to use their funds on the new fire station and city hall that is currently in the works with their current SPLOST money. Molena also needs to replace some water lines and take care of a problem with uranium in the water. It was stressed that even if they get a USDA grant to help with the water lines, they will still need to have matching funds so this project could be included in the upcoming SPLOST. It was stressed that the problem with uranium in the water is being monitored and it is not a health hazard to citizens.

Carol Berry said that Williamson needs a new City Hall. They now have Municipal Court to deal with violations of ordinances, etc. but no place to hold court and Williamson needs a place to vote as well.

Mike Beres said that Zebulon bought the old school and renovated it with the past SPLOST and grants. They will use a majority of the money to pay back loans from this renovation. Also said that they have bought land and need to do street renovations so they will need matching funds for these TE grants.

Steve Marro spoke on behalf of the county and said that the county is still waiting on the environmental review of the old school and the architectural review of the roof and ceiling of the Courthouse. The county will also need money for land acquisition on Jackson Street.

Don praised the SPLOST by saying that it is the most equitable form of taxation for citizens with everyone who visits Pike County and spends money paying one penny on every dollar for SPLOST.

The need for a seamless transition from the current SPLOST to the next SPLOST was discussed. The commissioners are working to get this ready for the ballot in November of 2009 in a Special Election.

Discussion that there were $18 million worth of projects that were presented to the SPLOST committee. The needs in Pike County are great, but the SPLOST committee is going to have to be selective when they make their choices since most of this SPLOST is already earmarked for Courthouse renovations and the beginning of the County Governmental Complex. Mike Beres pointed out that if the Courthouse is not on the SPLOST and county citizens are forced to pay for the upgrades with property taxes, everyone will pay higher taxes.

It was stressed that everyone is going to have to work together regardless of whether their project gets picked to go onto the SPLOST ballot or not. The commissioners asked to see all of the projects so they will know what was presented to the SPLOST committee even though the SPLOST committee will be presenting the BOC with a recommendation that the BOC can either accept or go a different route.

The resolution will have to be passed by the BOC by June 30, 2009. The meeting was adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

[Note from the Editor: Thanks to John Morrison for being my editor tonight. He caught a mistake in this article that was corrected immediately. I welcome a call or email from readers when I have made a mistake.]

The Rock, GA – The Rock Ranch, LLC is preparing for what will be its biggest and best display of family fun yet. The Rock Ranch (5020 Barnesville Hwy.) is the personal ranch of Chick-fil-A founder S. Truett Cathy and provides wholesome family entertainment in an agricultural setting. Dedicated to the purpose of “uniting families to the land and each other”, The Rock Ranch hosts school field trips, camping excursions, corporate picnics and public entertainment through its Fall Family Fun Days and special events. Celebrate America is perhaps the grandest of these special events and this year’s festivities will mark the 10th anniversary of “Celebrate America at The Rock Ranch”. Gates open at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2009 and the day of family fun will conclude with a patriotic program including a spectacular fireworks display at dark. The entry fee is only $20 per family vehicle (regardless of vehicle size or number of occupants) and it includes access to all attractions and entertainment. The entry fee for Buses is $30.

Celebrate America at The Rock Ranch features a World class fireworks display that will rival any professional pyrotechnics show in the state. There will be a wide variety of live musical entertainment. The patriotic program just before the fireworks will feature a concert by Andrew Carlton who is a nationally recognized performing artist of Christian music. Andrew’s hits include “Jesus hold me”, “Hold me up” (to the light), “This is faith” and “I’ll be the start”. Carlton’s music is featured on Atlanta’s J93 and 104.7 The Fish. Festivities will also include informational booths and displays, a wide range of concessions, a gift shop and fun rides and attractions.

Attractions include: a rock climbing wall, locomotive train rides, hay rides, cow train rides, pony rides, 18ft slide, petting zoo, paddle boats, paintball shooting range (fee for additional paintballs), children’s John Deere gators, inflatables, pedal carts, slide hill, the corn box, the watermelon cannon, the new giant jumping pillow, story time at the log cabin and much more.

Also included in the price of admission are special shows throughout the day. There will be reptile shows featuring Jason Clark, of Southeastern Reptile Rescue, who was recently filmed for his own television show on Animal Planet. These shows are interactive and allow those who are brave enough to get an up-close and personal look and venomous snakes, alligators, and a 14 –foot python. Guests will also enjoy shows from master puppeteer Peter Hart, formerly of the Atlanta Center for Puppetry Arts. Peter provides a variety of shows with marionettes and often serves as featured performer at festivals and fairs.

The Great American Duck Derby at The Rock Ranch; hosted By Stepping Stones is an exciting new addition to Celebrate America. Beyond providing wholesome family entertainment, celebrating freedom in America and honoring those who have served to preserve it - through the Stepping Stones duck derby, Celebrate America will also help raise money to benefit children with special needs and provide derby participants with an opportunity to win $1 million dollars. Stepping Stones educational therapy center, located in Griffin Georgia, is dedicated to laying an educational, emotional, and social foundation in children, birth through fourteen years, with developmental, physical, and intellectual disorders and delays. All guests are encouraged to adopt multiple ducks at $5 for their chance at the $5,000 1st prize. If the number of the first place duck matches the number that is randomly pre-selected, before the race, by the facilitator’s computer, the winner wins a million dollars. All proceeds from the duck derby benefit Stepping Stones.

“Each year, the celebration gets more exciting. There are many new additions to this year’s event and The Great American Duck Derby to benefit Stepping Stones will be fun for all,” said Jeff Manley, general manager of The Rock Ranch. “It is a privilege for The Rock Ranch to be able to share this beautiful piece of Georgia countryside with families for this day of fun and fireworks, said event coordinator Adam Pugh.”

Jeff Manley added, “We invite you and your family to come celebrate our freedoms as Americans and those who fought and are still fighting to preserve those freedoms - to ‘Celebrate America’.”

"The celebration doesn’t end until after the last firework has been lit,” added Manley. There will be plenty of fresh treats such as hamburgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes, Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwiches, Bar-B-Q, ice cream, snow cones, pop corn, boiled peanuts, cotton candy, popsicles and more for guests to purchase and enjoy for dinner.

Notice: No outside food or drink and no pets allowed please.

About The Rock Ranch

The Rock Ranch is a 1,250-acre cattle ranch owned by Chick-fil-A founder S. Truett Cathy. Initially intended to be a working cattle ranch dedicated to pure-bred Brangus cattle operations, The Rock Ranch in 1994 opened its doors for school and church groups, and has grown to host corporate events, private parties and events open to the general public including Celebrate America at The Rock Ranch.

In much the same way as Truett Cathy has made it his personal mission to teach young people and provide them with good, quality role models, The Rock Ranch seeks to use its setting and its amenities as a way to reinforce many of the values and principles that are vital to the development of character in children. For additional information, contact The Rock Ranch at (706) 647-6374 or visit www.therockranch.com.

Fun Express, Inc. has expanded its May 12, 2009 recall of face paint items to include two additional face paint colors. The face paints may cause skin irritation, rashes and itchiness. The additional two face paint items are being removed from the marketplace as a precautionary measure.

The face paints were manufactured by Shanghai Color Art Stationery Company Limited, Shanghai, China. Unopened packages of the face paint can be identified as a tube printed with the words Water-Based Face Paint Net Weight 1 oz. (28.3gm) Non-Toxic Made in China. The tube is on a cardboard backing with the words “Face Paint” on the front of the package and an item number in the upper right-hand corner of the backing. Directions for use, ingredients and “Distributed by Oriental Trading Co., Omaha, NE 68127” are also printed on the backing.

The following are the two additional face paint items. The item number is located on the back of the packaging.
85/2338 (White face paint)
85/2339 (Yellow face paint)

The products were distributed primarily to retail stores nationwide between April 2008 and April 2009.

If consumers have any of the recalled products remaining in their possession, they should immediately discard them.

Consumers can contact Fun Express, Inc. by calling (888) 999-0442 between the hours of 9:00 am and 5:00 pm CST, Monday through Friday.

This recall is being conducted in cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration

Fun Express, Inc. is committed to the safety of its products and strives to lead the industry in product safety.

U.S. Rep. Nathan Deal, a Republican candidate for governor of Georgia, has proposed changing the long-standing federal policy that automatically grants citizenship to any baby born on U.S. soil, a move opposed by immigrant rights advocates.

Supporters of Deal’s proposal say “birthright citizenship” encourages illegal immigration and makes enforcement of immigration laws more difficult. Opponents say the proposed law wouldn’t solve the illegal immigration problem and goes against this country’s traditions of welcoming immigrants.

Automatic citizenship is enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which says: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.” That provision, ratified in 1868, was drafted with freed slaves in mind.

Deal and his supporters say the 14th Amendment wording was never meant to automatically give citizenship to babies born to illegal immigrants.

“This is a sensible, overdue measure that closes a clause that was never meant to be a loophole,” said Bob Dane, spokesman for the Federation for American Immigration Reform, which seeks tighter immigration restrictions.

Under Deal’s proposal, babies born in the U.S. would automatically have citizenship only if at least one of their parents is a U.S. citizen or national, a legal permanent resident of the U.S., or actively serving in the U.S. military.

Azadeh Shahshahani, director of the Immigrants Rights Project of the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia, said the proposed law “is not cognizant with the American spirit.”

“We would stand in strong opposition to this bill as it’s in fundamental contradiction to our nation’s long history of welcoming immigrants and bestowing inalienable rights” on all people born here, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, she said.

Supporters of the bill say automatic citizenship provides an incentive for women to risk coming to the country illegally. They call U.S.-born children of illegal immigrants “anchor babies” because, when they become adults, the children can sponsor their parents for legal permanent residency.

“Coming into the country for the express purpose of having a child in order to anchor that child and yourself is, in effect, gaming the system,” Dane said.

Lisa Navarrete, vice president of the National Council of La Raza, a Hispanic advocacy group, said the proposed law wouldn’t stem illegal immigration and would make the problem worse because not only would illegal immigrants be undocumented, their American-born children would be too.

The worst part of it is you end up with potentially millions of children who are stateless, who were born here and have no ties to any other country, yet they’re not considered citizens or part of the United States,” she said.

Roy Beck, president of NumbersUSA, a group that favors restricting immigration, said the policy of granting automatic citizenship to people born here is “out of sync with the modern world.” He and Deal said that the U.S. is one of the few wealthy industrialized nations that still allows birthright citizenship.

Deal, who has submitted his bill to the House Judiciary Committee, said he’s not optimistic about it becoming law this year unless it is tacked onto another bill.

“I think the current makeup of the Congress is such that this will never get a hearing and will never be an issue that we get a chance to vote on,” he said. “But I think it’s important to keep the issues that are part of the immigration problem alive.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., today issued the following statement on the President’s nomination of federal appeals court Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the Supreme Court. Isakson is traveling in Africa this week on Senate business, but issued the statement through his Washington, DC, office.

“I look forward to a thorough examination and debate of her credentials and legal views during the Senate confirmation process.” Isakson said. “I believe a qualified judge is one who understands the value and the strength and the power of the Constitution of the United States of America, who will rule based on the law, and who will not legislate based on the position.”

I am in the process up uploading the last of the National Day of Prayer and Relay for Life pictures. I have pictures from Takeo Spikes' visit to the High School that will be going online shortly. I also attended the Pimiento Festival and have pictures that were sent to me from the May 3rd Friday on the Square.

Pike County has been a busy place this month! It takes quite a bit of time to cut and upload pictures from dial up so bear with me because there is a lot of them.

I will upload pictures from the 1st Annual Memorial Day Benefit for The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation when I get them. [Note from the Editor: These pictures are online. I hope to have more soon.]

The Pike County Memorial Day Ceremony was today and it was wonderful. All of those who played a part in this event are to be commended for your hard work in honoring our veterans. Lance Corporal Walker's official dedication was held today as part of this event. Look for a story and pictures on the Memorial Day Ceremony soon. [Note from the Editor: These pictures are online and the article is online as well.]

I am working on finishing up the past county commission meeting. Tomorrow at 5 p.m. is the SPLOST Referendum meeting to be held before the 6:30 BOC meeting.

SCHAGEN, Netherlands — The massive central door in the side of Noah's Ark was thrown open Saturday — you could say it was the first time in 4,000 years — drawing a crowd of curious pilgrims and townsfolk to behold the wonder.

Of course, it's only a replica of the biblical Ark, built by Dutch creationist Johan Huibers as a testament to his faith in the literal truth of the Bible.

Reckoning by the old biblical measurements, Johan's fully functional ark is 150 cubits long, 30 cubits high and 20 cubits wide. That's two-thirds the length of a football field and as high as a three-story house.

Life-size models of giraffes, elephants, lions, crocodiles, zebras, bison and other animals greet visitors as they arrive in the main hold.

"The design is by my wife, Bianca," Huibers said. "She didn't really want me to do this at all, but she said if you're going to anyway, it should look like this."

A contractor by trade, Huibers built the ark of cedar and pine — biblical scholars debate exactly what the wood used by Noah would have been.

Huibers did the work mostly with his own hands, using modern tools and occasional help from his son Roy. Construction began in May 2005.

Click here to read the rest of the article on Fox News.

Warden Edd Sanders has been notified by the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) that the West Central Pre-Release Center in Zebulon has been chosen as the Center of the Year Award for 2008.

“Allow me to take this opportunity to tell you how much your hard work and dedication I fulfilling the missionof the Georgia Department of Corrections is appreciated,” said GDC Commissioner Brian Owens in a press release. “Our mission is to protect and serve the public and on this day we honor those who have excelled at helping us accomplish this mission.”

Edd has been invited to attend the GDC Annual Awards Ceremony honoring all 2008 award recipients on Tift Campus in Forsyth on Wednesday, May 27th.

[Note from the Editor: A picture of the trophy and a follow up story will be online shortly.]

The Pike County Relay for Life took place on May 8th. Fifteen teams and hundreds of people from all parts of our community gathered together to fight against cancer.

The theme for the year was “Rounding Up A Cure”. It was a night of laughter as well as tears.

Survivors and their caregivers and family members were honored in the first and second laps around the track as everyone else stood on each side of the track and applauded them. The teams then took to the track for the third lap.

After that time, walkers from the teams walked laps around the track continuously from dusk until dawn. This symbolizes the journey of those undergoing treatment for cancer.

The Relay for Life Survivor Dinner was held on April 30th at Farm Bureau of Pike County in Zebulon.

$37,000 was raised to fight against cancer at this year’s Relay for Life. Over 100 survivors took part in the ceremonies.

$3,500 of that was raised from the “Womanless ‘Beauty’ Pageant”. Terrell Moody was the officiator with Andie Grant, Billy Maddox, and Micheal Duncan as the judges. Angela Blount put together the contest this year and it was different from years past because of the addition of an interview question.

Marilyn MANroe (Eric Johnson), Lady Di (Roosevelt Willis), Tootsie (Matt Middleton), Thelma Mae (AJ Holmes), Billy Jean (Billy Smith), Randeesa (Randy Huff), Michelle (Mike Wolf), Marice (Mark Jones), Candy Cleavage (Mike Watts), Edna Mae (Buckwheat King), Delicious (Will Nelms), Markarita (Mark Frank), and Sassy Brown (Albert Walker) competed with their talent, costume, general appearance, and question response.

Talents ranged from dancing and singing to a testimony about cancer. At one point, feathers were flying from a boa as one of the contestants got up close and personal with the judges.

Thelma Mae (AJ Holmes) won the award for Most Talented with “her” version of Taylor Swift’s “White Horse”, Michelle (Mike Wolf) won the award for Most Congenial, and Candy Cleavage (Mike Watts) won the award for Best Dressed.

The Zebulon Fire Department had a coloring station and an obstacle course. The various teams had items to sell like hats and food of all kinds. There were inflatables for the kids and demonstrations throughout the night by Dance Connection of Zebulon, the Pike County High School Regiment Marching Band, karate demonstration by Premier Martial Arts, a tumbling and cheering demonstration by Legion of Allstars, Johnny Williams, and Colt Single Action with Steve Harless as the DJ for the evening.

Several awards were given out to Relay for Life Teams-Best Rookie Team: Curves; Golden Pillow Award-Team Willis; Most-Spirited Team-Friendship Presbyterian Church; and Best Camp Site-Heart of Georgia Realtors.

Solemn ceremonies included the opening with the singing of the National Anthem, the Luminary ceremony, and the Opening Ceremonies where Angie Sandefur, a four year survivor of Breast Cancer challenged everyone to find a 25th hour every month to fight cancer until meeting again next year at the Relay for Life.

Gina Brown, Ed Penland, Janna Thomas, Jennifer Stowers, Charlene Williams, Tammy Mobley, Mike Oxford, and Angel Stowers worked together with many others to make this year’s Relay for Life a reality. Thank you to everyone who supported and took part in this year’s Relay for Life ceremony.

Pictures are going online. Keep an eye out for yours!

The original version of Taps was purely instrumental with several different versions of lyrics being added later. Taps is a bugle call that was composed in July of 1862 by Union Army Brigadier General Daniel Butterfield.

Taps is played at the conclusion of many military funerals and at each one of the military wreath ceremonies that are conducted at the Tomb of Unknowns every year. This includes the ceremony on Memorial Day.

Taps is also played as a call for lights out in military installations at non-deployed locations. It is customary for those in the military to salute if they are in uniform or place their right hand over their heart if they are out of uniform while Taps is played.

The history of Memorial Day begins with many unofficial celebrations in different parts of our country, but it was not until May 5, 1868 that General John Logan, the national Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic declared in General Order Number 11 that May 30, 1868 be a day that flowers were placed upon the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers buried in Arlington National Cemetary.

"Memorial Day" was officially given its name in 1967 by federal law. Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill on June 28, 1968, moving three holidays to Mondays. The celebration of Memorial Day was then changed from May 30th of each year to the last Monday in May. This law took effect in 1971.

Today, we have parades, memorial programs, and laying of wreaths, flags and flowers on the graves of those who died in the service of their country. And because it is a three day weekend, there are many family gatherings for cookouts and celebrations of the official beginning of summer.

As we begin this Memorial Day weekend, let us not forget those who have died fighting for freedom in the service in our country. Attend a Memorial Day program. Observe the 'National Moment of Remembrance' at 3 p.m. on Monday.

Other ways that we can honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice are placing flowers or flags on the graves of fallen soldiers, displaying the American Flag and the POW/MIA flag, and offering our thanks to veterans for their service and showing our appreciation to the families of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation will host its first annual Memorial Day Benefit on Sunday, May 24, 2009 at Nash Farm Battlefield located at 4361 Jonesboro Road in Hampton, GA. Gates open 11am to 10pm. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and join us for a fun filled day.

There will be live music (country, bluegrass and southern rock), a poker run, raffles, native american dance, a 50/50 drawing, a car show, a silent auction and lots of food! There will also be plenty of fun and games for kids of all sizes! Come here after church for a fun filled afternoon! (NO Coolers or outside food will be allowed in).

Adult tickets are now $5.00 and children 6-11 years are now $3.00. Barbeque plates will be sold for $10.00! (provided by Papa Willies). Barbeque plates include 1/4 chicken, slaw, beans, chips, bread, drink and dessert!! Bag lunches will also be sold for $5.00. They include a hot dog, chips, drink and a snack.

There will be vendors on site for you to browse and shop. Some include military t-shirts, Native American items and Fallen Heroes Family Foundation logo items for sale. The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation.org has more information about the event and ways that you can help with this event. Supporters can also contact Teresa Rutledge at 678-233-7819 with donations and ways to help with this event.

Pike Post #197 of The American Legion will be holding The Pike County Memorial Day Ceremony at 11:00 am on Monday, May 25, 2009. Due to projected inclement weather, Post Commander Don Bailey has advised that the Memorial Day Ceremony that is scheduled at the Courthouse Square will be held indoors in the upstairs courtroom of the Pike County Courthouse.

Those who are scheduled to be a part of The Pike County Memorial Day Ceremony include State Representative Billy Maddox from District 127; Teresa L. Rutledge, President and Founder of the Fallen Hero’s Family Foundation, Inc.; Pastor Fred Fowler; and Pike Post #197-Post Commander Don Bailey.

The Courthouse will be open at 8 a.m. for those who are participating, setting up a display, and assisting in the set up for the event. Those who are bringing display items may want to bring your own table for display to ensure that there is enough space for your items in the lower part of the Court House hallways.

Please make plans to arrive at the ceremony early in order to view the military items that will be on display. There will be personnel on hand to answer questions about the items.

The wreath-laying ceremony will still be conducted outside at the Veterans' Memorial shortly after the inddor ceremony is completed. Bring an umbrella in case of rain.

For more information about either of these events, please click on the Calendars of Events link above.

MACON, GA – When Kent Pierce first donated blood at a drive near his place of employment, it was out of convenience. More than 15 years later, he gives regularly out of habit. “To be honest, when I first started giving blood, I did it because it was convenient, and I got off work for a few hours,” he said. “Now, it’s just something I do as often as I can.”

Kent has donated nearly five gallons of blood over the years, and continues to donate regularly at local drives. He recently became a double red cell donor, which allows donors to donate two units of red cells during one appointment. Most double red cell donors are eligible to donate every four months, and while double red cell donation takes about 30 minutes longer than a whole blood donation, Kent doesn’t mind the extra time. “I just sit back and watch a movie. It helps to take your mind off the donation and passes time.”

Red blood cells are the most frequently used blood component, needed by almost every type of patient requiring transfusion. Kent has type O-positive blood - the most common blood type in the U.S. Because O-positive is also considered a universal blood type, which means patients with other Rh-positive blood types can receive type O-positive blood, it is also the type most frequently used by hospitals.

It was while watching an interview with his favorite driver, Greg Biffle, driver of Roush Fenway Racing’s No. 16 Ford Fusion, during a NASCAR race last year that Kent learned of the Red Cross Racing program. Red Cross Racing is a donor rewards program designed to increase the number of blood donors and the number of times they donate.

Kent registered online at redcrossracing.com, and began to accrue points. Points can be earned for a variety of activities including giving blood and/or platelets, and recruiting other blood donors. Registrants can exchange their points for NASCAR-themed prizes, such as limited edition die-cast cars. This Donor Rewards program also has a team element which encourages individuals to recruit teams of donors to participate in a “race” to win both team and individual prizes.

To Kent’s excitement, he was awarded one of the grand prizes – an all-expense-paid trip for two to the Sprint Cup Series race in Charlotte on Memorial Day weekend. Kent’s prize package includes airfare, hotel, two race tickets and pit and garage tours. “I’m a big fan of NASCAR,” said Kent. “My wife isn’t so much, but I’m sure she will be after this weekend. We’re both looking forward to the trip.”

Thanks to a generous donation by 3M, Biffle, a blood donor himself and member of the Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet, will wear the Red Cross fire suit and drive the No.16 Ford Fusion with the full Red Cross paint scheme at the Charlotte race and the Sprint Cup Series race in Atlanta on Labor Day weekend.

Last year’s efforts were a great success as more than 28,000 people joined Red Cross Racing, resulting in nearly 22,500 blood donations. The 2009 program has been revamped to offer participants new and exciting rewards for blood donation activities. Fans can join the program by visiting www.redcrossracing.com. Once registered, individuals can begin accruing points.

About the American Red Cross The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The American Red Cross is a charity, not a government agency, and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission.

There was a bit of excitement outside of Tommy and Lynda Burnsed's house in Meansville this afternoon. This story started with a sale from an estate.

Tommy goes to estate sales and buys items to sell by the piece in his store in downtown Meansville. Many times, he will buy an entire lot of boxes out of a barn or a house with just a quick visual appraisal and then agree to an amount with the seller.

Tommy said they have found some jewels in the past and some other "treasures" buying from estate sales, but today was not one of those days.

Late this morning, Tommy said that he was at home going through some boxes that he had bought from an estate sale and he found something dangerous rather than a hidden treasure.

It was a small cigar box with old blasting caps in it. Tommy said that he immediately called the Sheriff's Office and that the Sheriff's Office called the Georgia Bureau of Investigations Bomb Disposal Unit out of Atlanta to dispose of the blasting caps.

Major David Neal told me that in order to properly dispose of the blasting caps, the Bomb Disposal Unit dug a small hole in the back yard, ran a piece of cord to it, and then detonated the box of blasting caps.

Tommy said that his biggest concern was properly disposing of the blasting caps so no one got hurt later.

"It was the first time that we've found anything like this," Tommy said. "You never know what you'll find when you buy out an estate."

The 11th Annual In Memory Day Observance was held April 20 at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C.

Among those present: Carl Coleman and his wife Becky Moody Coleman of Warner Robins. In regard to the latter, her last name wasn’t always “Coleman”. At one time it was Peugh, after her first husband, Jimmie Lamar. It was for Jimmie they were there.

He was born in 1948 and died in 1986, at the age of 38. He served in Vietnam from 1968-70. Later he was diagnosed with leukemia. Carl Coleman said it was declared “war related” by the Veterans Administration.

Coleman - family members include three daughters, two son-in-laws, three granddaughters and a grandson – described April 20 as a day in which it was “pouring down rain.”

Nevertheless, “There were dignitaries, the pledge and Star Spangled Banner to start and a guest speaker,” he said.

At the designated time there was also Becky – among the other thousands – at the designated time, standing up, reading Jimmie’s name and then carrying a certificate in his honor to the wall where it was placed, Coleman said, in front of a plaque made up especially for the occasion.

“Terminator: Salvation” (Warner Brothers)

“It’s Baaaack!”

Christian Bale and Director McG team up to give us the latest installment in the “Terminator” saga. Once again it is back to the future where John Connor is leading the resistance and trying to keep Kyle Reese alive so he can travel back to the past and father him. It is all complex and complicated but it is also all good fun.

Christian Bale of “Batman” fame plays John Connor. Surprisingly he is not the featured player in the film. That honor would go to Sam Worthington who plays Marcus Wright, a man from the past who shows up in the future. He is trying to save Kyle Reese (Anton Yelchin) which is also what Connor is trying to do.

There is a battle royal raging between the “Resistance” and the machine creatures of an organization called “Skynet.” These almost invincible “terminators” are what Arnold was in the first “Terminator” film. From start to finish of the film it is one battle after another.

There are women in this film. Connor’s wife Kate is played by Ron Howard’s daughter Bryce Dallas Howard. Moon Bloodgood plays Blair Williams a fellow soldier who develops an attachment to Marcus. Jadagrace is a welcome addition as the mute child named Star.

The film tips it’s hat to Linda Hamilton who played John Connor’s mother in the earlier films, and to Arnold whose name is synonymous with “Terminator.” Plus the film is just as action packed as a “Terminator” film is supposed to be.

For the first time a movie in the “Terminator” series is rated PG-13. This is a lenient rating as the movie has profanity, violence and brief nudity.

The acting is not the most important part of “Terminator: Salvation”; the action is. And McG keeps the action coming fast and furiously. You barely have a chance to catch your breath between battle sequences.

Don’t expect to be able to keep all the past, present and future storylines straight. It all just gets too confusing. But when you are having this much fun you really don’t care. The movie speeds by and its running time of two hours and ten minutes seems much shorter.

How many franchises can Christian Bale handle? That is the question. There are bound to be more “Batman” movies and there are bound to be more “Terminator” flix too. Let’s just say Mr. Bale certainly has job security for the next few years.

“Terminator: Salvation” isn’t the best film in the series but it is enjoyable. I missed Linda Hamilton but the show did go on without her.

I scored “Terminator: Salvation” a far from ended 7 out of 10.

©2009 Jackie K. Cooper

Official Website

Jackie has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com including "Star Trek" and "Angels and Demons". Jackie also has reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows as well as columns on life and living in the South.

Pike County was a different place back then. Fred Oxford would know. He grew up in Pike County with his family and lived here from 1912 to 1941.

Fred and his family lived around Concord. Fred was the oldest of five children born to Charlie and Bessie Oxford. Fred was born in 1912, Paul in 1914, Clay in 1915, Kate in 1917, and Eugene in 1919.

Concord was a small farming town with a population of 400 or so with a thriving R.F. Strickland Store, a department store and a few other stores during this time.

There were schools in the major towns like Concord and Meansville until all of the county schools were consolidated in Zebulon with twelve grades after World War II.

Fred's memoirs, written in 2004, tell of a time when life was much simpler than it is today. Fred sent his memoirs to me a year ago and I have scanned them and placed them online with his permission.

Fred worked in the Post Office in Concord from 1933 until 1941. He moved to Atlanta and eventually retired from the Post Office.

When asked if he missed Pike County, he told me that there are a lot of things to enjoy about it. He still has family in this area too.

Fred is now the only one left of the siblings. His three brothers and sister have passed on. He told me the story of his youngest brother, Eugene, and his routine training mission in 1944 where Eugene's plane never arrived at its destination.

This story can be read by clicking www.miarecoveries.org/media-pikearticle.html. A story written by Mary-Kate Roan can also be read at MIARecoveries.org and it can be accessed by clicking www.miarecoveries.org/media-pikearticle2.html. There is access to find out an update on what is being done to bring home our MIA soldiers.

Some interesting facts about Concord include the following: The R.F. Strickland Co. was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The Concord Jubilee began in 1973. "Cold Sassy Tree" starring Faye Dunnaway, Richard Widmark, and Neil Patrick Harris was filmed in Concord in 1989 using the R.F. Strickland Co., several homes in town, a church, and a cemetery as the primary filming locations.

Fred writes about Concord in his memoirs that can be accessed by clicking on the following links. These pages have been scanned two pages at a time for those of us who do not have access to DSL or fast internet. (That includes me!)

Readers can also view a map of Concord from this time that was sent to me by Mr. Oxford by clicking here and view a list of those businesses by clicking here.

The story is broken up into two page increments for those in Pike County and the surrounding areas who do not have DSL. Please note that the story is copyrighted by being a part of Pike County Times.

If anyone has any thoughts that you would like to pass along about parts of Pike County "back in the day", please email them to me and I will get them online. Pictures are welcome too.

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[Note from the Editor: Fred also sent a map to me of Concord in the 1920's and 1930's. The link to this map is in the yellow box toward the bottom of the advertising bar on the right side of the page.]

The Pike County Red-White Game is Thursday, May 21st 3:30pm. The cost is $2 at the gate.

Coach Mac is selling tickets during the week of May 18-21. Students who purchase tickets can leave school early that day.

Come out and support the Pirates!

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., today praised Congressional passage of a financial fraud bill that includes his proposal to create a Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission charged with fully investigating the causes of the near collapse of our financial markets and our economy. The bill now goes to the President for his signature into law.

“The only way to get an objective evaluation of where mistakes were made is to create an independent commission of experts to ask what went right, what went wrong and what could we have done to prevent this. We need a forensic audit of the laws of the United States as it relates to the financial markets and our economy,” Isakson said. “I want to thank Senator Conrad who has been diligent in his effort to help pass this legislation. I’m pleased this Congress understand the importance of making sure we don't miss the mark, that we stay focused, and we get the answers to what caused this financial collapse. It’s what the American people deserve.”

Isakson and U.S. Senator Kent Conrad, D-N.D., originally introduced legislation in January 2009 to examine the causes of the current economic crisis. On April 22, the Senate overwhelmingly passed an amendment by Isakson and Conrad to the Senate’s version of the financial fraud bill that would create a Financial Crisis Commission.

On May 6, the House of Representatives passed the financial fraud bill, including the Financial Crisis Commission, with amendments by a vote of 367 to 59. On May 14, the Senate, on a unanimous consent motion, agreed to relatively small changes to the bill and sent it back to the House. On May 18, the House agreed to the Senate’s changes and sent the bill to President Obama for his signature.

The 10-member, bipartisan Financial Crisis Commission will have until December 2010 to investigate all the circumstances that led to this financial crisis. The panel will have subpoena power and will have the authority to refer to the U.S. Attorney General and state attorneys general any evidence that institutions or individuals may have violated existing laws. At the end of its investigation, the Commission will report its findings and conclusions to the Congress and the President.

This bipartisan Commission will be appointed by Democrats and Republicans in Congress. The Speaker and Senate Democratic Leader would choose the commission’s chair. The Senate and House Republican Leaders would select the vice-chair. Members of Congress as well as federal and state employees would be prohibited from serving on the Commission.

WASHINGTON DC - When Melissa Seligman’s husband left for his second deployment to Iraq, she knew all too well what was expected of her.

“I was expected to be the nice, caring, understanding military wife and mom,” Seligman said. “No military wife wants to admit that she is hurt -- and sometimes angry and very fearful -- of being alone when her husband is deployed, … sometimes for the second or third time. It’s very hard. The guilt we feel from these natural emotions often keeps us silent.”

Seligman said she hopes her new weekly podcast, “Her War,” will help to provide a platform for military wives to openly discuss such anxieties and uncertainties about their husbands’ deployments. The podcast, she said, is dedicated to providing military wives with the tools and resources they need to better equip themselves to deal with separation issues.

Weekly discussions will focus not only on hope, understanding and acceptance, but also on denial, anger, bargaining and depression -- feelings that she said often are hidden.

“‘Her War’ is about honesty,” Seligman said. “Military wives can join our discussions and be fully honest about their inner fears and not worry about being judged. The absolute focus of this podcast is to uplift them. I truly believe giving these wives a chance to speak, hear and take charge will empower them. In doing so, we strengthen our soldiers, our marriages and our abilities to mother.”

Seligman, with the help of another military wife, Chris Piper, launched the “Her War” podcast last week. The first discussion, which included eight military wives, centered on hope and denial.

“The podcast went really well,” said Lucy Brassard, whose husband just returned from Afghanistan. “I was really pleased with the format. I could relate. This is a support group of women who have been there. You can trust them.

“I also liked the anonymity,” she continued. “We military wives are often so closed-lipped. We just don’t discuss these issues out in the open. When you join the podcast, the only name people know is your screen name. It just makes you feel more comfortable and more relaxed.”

This is the type of atmosphere she’d hoped to capture, Piper said.

“I believe military spouses don't feel they have a right to feel a certain way, especially with their spouse in harm’s way,” she said. “With this podcast, they can learn that they are normal and not alone. We sit here in our homes thinking that we are the only ones that are grieving for our husbands while they are gone. Just knowing that we are having normal feelings and thoughts helps. We can learn to rely on ourselves and each other. We can also learn about other resources that the military provides for dealing with deployments.”

Seligman, the author of “The Day After He Left for Iraq,” said her inspiration for this podcast came from a military wife who drove three hours to her first book signing.

“She walked into the store carrying the weight of her burden and told me simply, ‘I'm a military spouse, too,’” Seligman said. “She fell into my arms and cried. I told her she was not alone. Right then, I knew I wanted to create a tool that would uplift spouses and give them a sense of support and normalcy.”

The “Her War” podcast is hosted by Courage Community, a California-based online support group consisting of mental health professionals and volunteers.

“We provide an online network and a lifeline of hope for those looking for peer support, professional help, reconnection to the community or just an understanding friend,” Carlana Stone, founder of Courage Community, said. “Melissa is on a passion-driven pursuit, from her own military experiences in life, to empower and uplift military wives. We wanted to be a part of this. Courage Community wants to be an ally for these women.”

www.blogtalkradio.com/search/melissa-seligman/

Members of Keep Pike Beautiful Authority (KPBA) held an informal dinner at the Molena City Park last week in honor of former Molena City Council member and KPBA board member Rev. Robert Ferguson.

Two oak trees and two flowering cherry trees were purchased by KPBA and planted in the park in Rev. Ferguson's memory by a work detail from West Central Pre Release Center. A plaque memoralizing him will soon be in place.

In attendance were several members of Rev. Ferguson's family as well as board members and City Clerk Beckham and City Councilman Ferguson.

"It was a good evening of fellowship and community service by KPBA and the first project we have done in Molena," said Chairman Edd Sanders. "We had also conducted a clean up/spruce up of the city cemetary in the recent past."

On May 18th at approximately 11:17 p.m. Traffic Units from the Pike County Sheriff's Office responded to a motor vehicle accident on Highway 19 near Highway 109. Two vehicles had apparently struck in a head on collision.

A Toyota Four Runner driven by Timothy Piper of Thomaston struck a Ford Explorer driven by William Dunn of Atlanta after the Four Runner apparently crossed the center line while travelling southbound and entered the northbound lanes of Highway 19.

The Ford Explorer had two additional passengers: Michelle White of Atlanta and one unidentified male who was pronounced dead at Upson Regional Medical Center. All persons involved in the collision were transported to local hospitals.

The Traffic Unit is continuing its investigation into the crash and is awaiting blood results from the drivers of both vehicles. Investigators say that it does appear that alcohol may be a contributing factor in this collision.

An autopsy will be performed at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab to establish the cause of death of the unidentified male.

From www.whoarewepc.com:

Thanks to hard work, diligence, discipline, and exceptional grade point averages, Olivia Swint and Catherine Lovin are at the top of the class. Swint was named the Class of 2009 Valedictorian and Lovin was named Salutatorian. This is the second year the high school has announced the highest achievers in February. In previous years it was not learned until three days before graduation who received top honors.

"Both are outstanding young ladies and excelled in AP and gifted honors classes," said principal Scott John. "They put the rubber to the road."

Baccalaureate will be held on May 27th at 7 pm at Oak Hill Church.

Graduation will be held on Friday May 29th at 8 pm at PCHS Stadium.

Call to order …………… Jeff Kenerly

Softball Restroom remodeling project bid approval

Adjourn

Takeo Spikes (pronounced tuh-KEE-oh) was born on December 17, 1976 in Sandersville, Georgia. Takeo was an all American linebacker at Auburn University and a two-time Pro Bowl starter at linebacker for the National Football League (NFL). He now plays for the San Francisco 49ers.

Takeo has played in the NFL for twelve seasons. It has been longer than that since he was named Georgia’s “Mr. Football” by state coaches during his senior year at Washington County High School. Coach David Cape was Takeo’s coach at Washington County High School, and that football team had a similar experience to that of Pike County during the past year.

Coach Cape introduced Takeo as a great football player, but as a much better person. “He’s a Christian, he’s an American, he’s a great father, a great son, a great student, and he sets his goals very high.” Coach Cape said that one of the greatest honors for Takeo was being named a team captain on the teams on which he has played.

When Takeo took the floor, he commended the entire athletic program for their accomplishments this season with eight regional championships for the school. He told them that was something to be proud of because they put their hard work into it.

He congratulated the Pike County Pirates Football team for making to the first round of playoffs this year but also gave them a word of caution through a story that he told about playing high school football in Washington County.

Takeo said that their football team was in much the same situation as Pike County. They won some and lost some for several seasons. Then a new coach and staff came in and emphasized discipline, sacrifice, and hard work. At the end of that year, the team went all the way to the championship game. Coach Cape was part of that coaching staff.

“We surprised a lot of teams, but it was that much harder for us to come back [the next season] …because everyone knew about Washington County,” Takeo said. He related that experience directly to Pike County now. “You can’t surprise anybody anymore and you’re gonna get everybody’s best game.”

He went on to tell students that Washington County lost the first game of the next season. “We thought that just because we went to the state championship game… it would take us through to the next season, but it didn’t,” he said. “We were very disappointed.”

But he said that loss motivated the team to get it together. After that, they won twelve straight games and went to the semi-finals. In his Senior Season, Washington County won the State Championship while going undefeated.

Takeo gave credit to the coaching staff and encouraged students to listen when they are told something by their coaches because they are trying to help each athlete be the best person that they can possibly be.

Takeo also challenged the students to take advantage of what is ahead of them in High School. “You only have one time, one opportunity to take advantage of where you’re at now,” he said. “When it’s over, it’s over.”

He said that it was ok to have fun but said that they needed to have a different attitude when opportunity is presented to them. “You want to be the best that you can possibly be.”

Takeo told students that a good work ethic helped his childhood dream come true when he was drafted into pro-football and he encouraged students to work hard too. “Once you take full advantage of that opportunity then you’ll never have any regrets at all,” he said.

To check out 2008 Pirate Football, click here.

To check out Pike High School athletics, click here.

Pictures on the We Are Pike County page.

The 2nd Annual Pike County Special Olympics was held on Friday, May 8th. It was held on Friday because of Thursday's rain but it was a great success.

Dan Andersen and Ethan Little kicked off the event with the running of the torch from the Elementary School all of the way to the High School Track by Highway 19.

Five classes of athletes then proudly displayed their banners in the Parade of Athletes to officially begin the opening ceremony.

Mrs. Gresham's class sang a rousing rendition of the National Anthem with the help of John and Nathan Hosch and several teachers and volunteers.

Dr. Duncan led the students in the Olympic Oath: "Let me win but if I cannot win... Let me be brave in the attempt." Then, with the opening command of"Let the Games Begin!", the athletes played the games to the best of their abilities.

The 50 meter dash, lawn darts, softball toss, long jump, and soccer kick were the competitive sports of the morning. Teachers and both parent and High School volunteers cheered on the athletes. Each of the classes encouraged each other as they played too.

Doodle the Clown painted faces again this year and there was popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones to enjoy between games. The bouncer was a big hit with the kids too.

There are opportunities for businesses to donate to make each year special for the athletes and their families. If you missed out on the festivities this year, look for the 3rd Annual Special Olympics next year around the first couple of weeks in May. It will be great!

Picture can be accessed through the We Are Pike County page on the yellow 2009 Special Olympics box at the top of the page or by clicking here.

I am always interested in what our Congressman request money for in their states and what it is attached to in order to get a yes vote. SunlightProjects.org says that most Congressman submitted their earmarks (special requests for money in their states) for the public to review.

It is not easy to find these earmarks normally and these earmarks have been hidden sometimes in the past. But it's taxpayer dollars and we deserve to know what our money is paying for. Thanks to organizations like SunlightProjects.org for their hard work.

Click here to check out SunlightProjects.org and see these earmarks.

Corporal Ryan Casey McGhee, 21, was killed by small arms firewhen his unit came in contact with enemy forces on May 15th. He served with 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Georgia. To date, there have been 4,976 Heroes killed in action. Take a minute to remember them today.

Click Here To View The Site: www.ThankYouSoldier.com.

Here is a good way to "remember" ... the site below will allow you to post a general condolence for those families who have lost a loved one serving our country. It just takes a minute but I believe would mean more than we know for those who view the responses.

www.legacy.com/ledger-enquirer/Soldier/home.aspx.

And don't forget to check us out at twitter.com/thankyousoldier or youtube.com/thankyousoldier as we continue to spread the word through different forms of media. We do have some Memorial Day events planned and hope to have some video up on YouTube sometime soon.

We appreciate your support and your effort to help spread the word and our mission. If you have or know of a service man or woman currently serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, please pass us their name and APO/FPO address so we can ship them a Hero Pack care package too.

God Bless America,
Jonathan Gates
Support@ThankYouSoldier.com.

ThankYouSoldier is an official mission of East Highland United Methodist Church, Columbus, Georgia and is covered under the non-profit statue as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, your donation is tax deductible in accordance with applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.

The Pike County Memorial Day Ceremony is scheduled at 11:00 am, 25 May 2009 at the Pike County Courthouse Square. Pike County Post #197, The American Legion is hosting the event and guest speakers include; State Representative Billy Maddox from District 127; Teresa L. Rutledge, President and Founder- Fallen Hero’s Family Foundation, Inc.; Pastor Fred Fowler; and Pike Post #197-Post Commander Don Bailey.

The Memorial Ceremony will last approximately one hour and limited seating will be available, bringing a lawn chair is encouraged.

We are still asking for community support of military static display items, such as military vehicles, apparel, photographs, and uniforms. If you are interested in providing items for the Memorial Day Ceremony, please contact 770-468-8726 or email pikepost197@hotmail.com.

PLEASE NOTE: State Route 18 between West Concord Street and East Barnesville Street will be temporarily closed on Monday, May 25, 2009 from 10:55 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and Hwy 19 – Thomaston Street between Jackson Street and West Concord Street will be temporarily closed from 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. for this ceremony.

The beef is right here in the Pirate Nation. The Pirate Touchdown club is giving away a fat steer this fall. The drawing will be held Friday, October 30, 2009 at the Pike County versus Lamar County football game here in Zebulon.

Tickets are $5 each and you do not have to be present to win. The steer is being fed by Moser Cattle Company and hopefully will weigh near 600 lbs by the night of the giveaway. The lucky ticket holder will have the option of taking the steer as is or can request to have the steer processed.

The Touchdown Club will take care of the processing fee. All proceeds will benefit the Pike County Football Programs.

For tickets contact any Touchdown Club members or visit our web site www.pcpiratenation.com. Please remember to show your pride and wear the PC on Fridays.

Thanks to Jeff Kenerly for this information.

The Fire District Ordinance workshop was held today. Three commissioners were there--Don Collins, Doug Mangham, and Parrish Swift--along with those who presented this ordinance and were present to answer questions. Three citizens attended as well.

John Morrison faxed me a copy of the draft legislation. I have not read through it yet as the final episode of 24 was on tonight. (What was more important? I've been watching since Season 1 so it's obvious that I can read the legislation tomorrow.) Thanks John!

From a simple glance, it looks like a way to raise funds for fire, EMA, EMS, etc. based on specific criteria such as square footage for commercial industry and appraised values on structures. This tax is small and will be placed in a restricted fund that will be used for specific purposes dealing with operation of fire departments including construction of buildings, acquisition of equipment, improvements to stations, etc.

[Note from the Editor: Some may argue against a tax such as this, but this is something that I don't mind paying in hopes that I never need it. I would hope that it helps to bring down my yearly tax bill. I'll do some digging and let readers know what I find out.

Update 6.11.09: This has been adopted with some changes to make it more fair to individual parcel owners and the business community paying its fair share as well. I do not have a copy of this ordinance but it can be requested through Planning and Developement and I would think that it would be available by email.

It is a lot easier to request documents than it used to be. Thank you to our county government for being open and quickly answering requests by the citizens.]

Mrs. Margaret “Maggie” McCullough Smith, age 56, of Concord, passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2009. Mrs. Smith was born on July 22, 1952 in Spalding County to the late James A McCullough and the late Evelyn Stewart Silvey. She was also preceded in death by her step-father, Clifford Silvey; step-son, Chad Smith; and a brother-in-law, Danny Smith. Mrs. Smith was a member of Rock Springs Church, where she was very active in the Women’s Ministry and helping with the Potter’s House. She and her husband, Doug, owned and operated D & M Construction. Mrs. Smith is survived by her husband, Doug Smith; children, Tonsenia Y. Wiley, A. Chabe and Kim Wiley; step-daughter and husband, April S. and Kyle Beck; grandchildren, Cora Rae Odom, Emily Yonn Odom, Mary Kellen Beck, and Vivi Kate Beck; sister, Nina Ruth Smith; brother and sister-in-law, Roy A. and Wadra McCullough; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Mrs. Maggie Smith will be conducted on Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. at Rock Springs Church. Reverend Jim Hardie will officiate. Interment will follow in Westwood Gardens. Friends may visit the family on Wednesday afternoon at Rock Springs Church from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of service.

Conner Westbury Funeral Home is in charge of arrangments.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Doug and the entire family.

Relay for Life story and pictures. Special Olympics pictures. The last of the Senior Olympics pictures and the rest of the National Day of Prayer pictures.

Thanks to everyone who has sent me pictures and information of late. I'm working to get it online ASAP.

And pretty soon, I'll have a story and pictures from where Takeo Spikes came to Pike County High School to encourage the athletes today. It's pretty cool when people come back "home" to help out those who are coming up behind them. (Sandersville isn't that far from here!)

Update 5.16.09: The Spalding County Senior Olympic Games page is now complete. Thanks for your patience. There is a LOT of pictures on that page. If it does not come up quickly (for those of us with dial up) refresh the page a couple of times until all of the pictures come up.

Click here to see those pictures. They can be accessed all year long by going to the We Are Pike County page and clicking on the 2009 Senior Games box at the top of the page.

The following students from Pike County graduated from Gordon College, May 16, 2009. Guest speaker was Erroll Davis, chancellor of the University System of Georgia.

Anderson, Amanda Michele - Associate of Science in Business Administration; Ard, Vicky Renee -Bachelor of Science in Education; Armstrong, Amanda Brooke - Associate of Science in Business Administration; Bates, Carrie Ann - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Bennett, Kandie Renee - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Boyt, Elizabeth McDaniel - Bachelor of Science in Education; Brewer, Jacob Stephen - Associate of Arts in Psychology; Brown, Kaitlin Evelyn - Associate of Arts in Art; Davis, Angela Susanne - Bachelor of Science in Education; Davis, Tyrena Kaye - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Edge, Cassie Leigh - Associate of Science in Nursing; Gilliam, Aaron Hutcheson - Associate of Science in Biology; Gooden, Candace Darlene - Associate of Science in Nursing; Granger, Susan M -Bachelor of Science in Education; Granger, Taylor Leigh - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Hallmark, Beverly Diane - Associate of Science in Business Administration; Henson, Kyle Scott - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Higgins, Jennifer Kella - Bachelor of Science in Education; Hollar, Amanda Kay - Associate of Arts in Psychology; Kearney, Patrice Nicole - Associate of Science in Business Administration; Laster, Brandon R - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Lively, Benjamin Edwin - Associate of Arts in General Studies; McNutt, Sarah Rebecca -Associate of Arts in English; Moore, Tyson William - Associate of Arts in Psychology; Oswald, Amy L - Associate of Science in Business Administration; Oswald, Amy L - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Parrott, Gregory B. - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Pickett, Ronda G. - Associate of Arts in Theatre; Ralston, Ally Shea -Associate of Arts in General Studies; Sams, Amanda L - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Sarsfield, Gene L. - Associate of Science in Business Administration; Scott, Amber Delores - Associate of Science in Computer Science; Slaton, Ciara Sade - Associate of Science in Nursing; Smith, Kellyn - Associate of Science in Nursing; Smith, Taylor H. - Associate of Arts in General Studies; Steele, Anna G. - Associate of Arts in Foreign Languages; Stoermer, Christie S - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; Wiley, Tammy Marie - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education; and Williams, Kristie L. - Associate of Arts in Teacher Education.

Gordon College, in Barnesville, is a residential state college of the University System of Georgia and offers more than 80 programs of study to more than 3,800 students.

For the weak of stomach or the faint of heart, a mother's job can be overwhelming. There are times that I am both of these things. I find more and more that I am not allowed to gag at the sight of grotesque things or get woozy at the thought of blood. I don't have that luxury when my children are counting on my level-head to get them out of trouble... again.

Being the mother of a toddler is exciting, fun, and exhausting. Especially when you have a toddler as active as Gianna Leigh. She amazes me. When she gets tired, her back-up battery pack kicks in, and it's off she goes. She never slows down and those amazing moments when she wants to cuddle are wonderful, though fewer and farther between. Her insights into life though, now those are more and more frequent. She keeps me in check, watching constantly how I phrase things, and making sure that I'm proper... Always the lady, she forgets that she's the one who still eats bugers, and swallows stuff off the floor.

Her pronunciation of words is hysterical. She gets it right most of the time, but when it's wrong, it would take a team of scientists to figure out her meaning. And she tends to get “flusterated” when she has to repeat herself. Never mind that I have to repeat myself 4,762 and one half times a day because of her selective hearing disorder. (but that's a story for another day).

In the back of my car on the way home the other day, I hear her precious voice from the confines of her car seat. “Mommy, I losed Wilson's binoclears at church tonight.” That would be binoculars, pronounced “bee- nok- clee- ars”. Welcome to the world of Gianna-isms. Then she goes on. “I'm going to bretend to lose them in the car to see wild animals.” Stick with me... Interpretation, “I'm going to pretend to use them in the car... etc.” Now you're catching on... “Wait, wait,” she continues. “I see something. It's a lion, and a tiger. I see a bear. And a goat. But don't worry, it's a wild goat. Not a nice goat Mom. I'm putting my binoclears away. We gotta catch that goat Mom. We gotta handcuff him. We gotta take him to jail.”

Now as tired as I am, I must confess. The thought actually went through my mind. When handcuffing a wild goat, does one use two sets of handcuffs, or does one just cuff the front feet... paws... hands.. hooves... whatever it is goats have? And where exactly would a handcuffed goat fit into jail life? I was tired, and I didn't have any extra thought time to devote to the plight of the goat. I gave up.

She's informed me that “mooshu dada”, (pronounced as spelled) means penguin in Spanish. I'm fairly certain that isn't a Latin derivative of anything I've ever read.

When spending the afternoon at my parents house, it is highly recommended that she takes a nap. In fact she must take a nap daily where ever her location, so as to save herself from the risk of certain death by her weary parents. So, my dad opts to lie down in the room with her, to keep her from wiggling, talking, playing, and burning the house down. She is lying there, quietly whispering. My father, with the greatest of intentions says, “Gianna, be quiet. It's nap time.” To which my very devout and religious 3-year-old replies, “I was talking to God.” My father, being a religious man himself, is a bit taken back. So he opts to allow the 3-year-old to finish her conversation. It's a short talk, as her attention span (comparable to a wet mop) doesn't allow her long conversations about anything. Unless it deals with baby poop or puppies, as those are her favorite subjects. She then proceeds to sit up and get ready to disembark from the nap time ritual. She informs my father, “God told me a don't have to take a nap.” My father, though religious, decided it was time to defy “heavenly instructions” and Gianna lost the battle. My little Sister Knows-It-All took a nap.

My amazing husband, God bless that man, decided to marry me even AFTER getting to know my daughter and her incredibly imperfect mother. He's taken on the role of father, and he does an amazing job. He can make a perfect “peanut butter and sandwich wif chips.” Yes, I typed that right. In the McLaurin household, it's NEVER a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, that would be entirely too normal. It is a peanut butter and sandwich wif chips, made the same way a traditional peanut butter and jelly sandwich would be, sans the jelly's honorable mention. :)

He knows how to tuck the child in, and he manages to wrangle her into bed right before I lose my mind on hard days. He tells the best of bedtime stories, and I overheard him explaining angels to my daughter. It went something like this : “Angels are beautiful creatures that God created to keep him company. They watch over you and protect you if you are God's child. You have an angel.” Interjection by Gianna, “REALLY?” And he continues, “Yes, and you are so busy that I'm guessing your own special angel probably gets combat pay.” Funny that, I'm sure it's true. She never questions him, and why should she? He's Dad. He's probably right. Her angel probably has to wear bullet proof vests and fire proof uniforms... He probably is the most weary angel in heaven, chalking up the days until his retirement.

She loves the fact that Kerry works at Geico. She knows the commercials on television. Who doesn't? Sometimes when he leaves the house she sends the lizard her regards. :) “Tell that lizard I said hello Daddy.” And being the amazing father that he is, I'm sure he does exactly that.

I've given you a glimpse into our world. It's wonderful, though overwhelming. I think it's good to be able to share thoughts, it's calming to have a moment to reflect. I'll continue to do so, when I have the opportunity. Have a blessed day. And never stop smiling... Even in hard times, it'll keep you moving.

[Note from the Editor: If you would like to email Heather, her contact information is in the green box on the advertising bar. And read the story below to find out what she and the teens at Barnesville Nazarene Church are doing to reach out to the homeless.]

Nathan Deal, candidate for governor, has picked up the endorsement of five Republican members of the Georgia Congressional delegation.

U.S. Representatives Phil Gingrey, Tom Price, Lynn Westmoreland, John Linder and Paul Broun have given their support for Deal’s bid for the Republican nomination for governor in 2010.

“Nathan has been an outstanding member of Congress and he is going to be a great governor for Georgia,” said Gingrey, who is chairman of the group of Republican House lawmakers from Georgia, known as the “G-7.”

Westmoreland, who served as a leader in the state House of Representatives before coming to Washington said Deal is respected for his leadership in Washington.

“When Nathan speaks, everyone listens,” Westmoreland said. “He is respected on both sides of the aisle and never compromises his core conservative beliefs.”

Linder, who is a key sponsor of the Fair Tax, said Deal was an early supporter of the effort to replace the current income tax system.

“When we began to line up supporters for the Fair Tax, Nathan was right there and has never backed away from his commitment to real tax reform,” Linder said.

Price, a physician, said Deal is known for his efforts on healthcare reform as chairman and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Health.

“Nathan has been instrumental in getting sweeping reforms for Medicare and Medicaid through Congress," Price said.

Broun said Deal has stood firm, even when that meant opposing his own party, president and party leadership.

“If Nathan takes a stand, I’ve learned that he’s not going to back down or back away from it,” Broun said. “I believe Georgia needs Nathan Deal as it's next governor.”

Deal, who served as president pro tempore of the Georgia State Senate before being elected to Congress is the only candidate for governor with both state and federal elected experience.

Friday, June 19 - Come enjoy solo artists Ben Joiner (7:00-8:00 p.m.) and Julie Gribble (8:00-9:00 p.m.) for a relaxing evening on the Courthouse lawn.

Friday, July 17 - Luke Hardie & Co. will be filling the evening air with some fine blues/rock sounds beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Friday, August 21 - Returning to Third Fridays, The Ben Ratliff Duo will mix it up with a little bit of country and a little bit of rock-n-roll. The performance will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Remember to bring your chairs, blankets, tables, and a picnic, or pick up dinner from one of our local eateries. Come relax - or get up and dance - at the Third Fridays on the Square on the Courthouse lawn in Zebulon!

These concerts are free to the public and brought to us by The Zebulon Downtown Development Authority, M. Callaway-Ingram, Attorney at Law, and The Pike County Arts Council, Inc.

Saturday, May 16 - Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest - Pike County Arts Council will again be sponsoring their Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest for children at the annual Pimiento Festival in downtown Zebulon. Sign-ups for this contest, as well as applications for Art Camp (June 15-19) and for Arts Council membership, will be at the PCAC booth. This free contest will run from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and end with the judging of the artwork. There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places to be announced after the judging. Sidewalk chalk is provided. Bring your kids and let their creativity flow!

Monday-Friday, June 15-19 - Art Camp - Pike County Arts Council will hold its annual Art Camp June 15-19. The theme this year is The Oriental Art Express. For children in grades K-5th, the camp is from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. For children in grades 6th-12th, the camp is from 1:00-4:00 p.m. The price is $40.00 for the first child and $30.00 for each additional child. Location TBA. There will be many opportunities for you to register your child(ren): 1) come to the PCAC booth at the Pimiento Festival on Saturday, May 16; 2) call PCAC at 770-567-5555 and leave a message; 3) pick up registration forms at A Novel Experience, The Pike County Chamber of Commerce, or Freshway Market in Zebulon and mail them to P.O. Box 525, Zebulon, GA, 30295; 4) come by Registration Day on Saturday, June 6 from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Freshway Market in Zebulon.

Art camp is lead by the talented Mrs. Kathy Harper with lots of help from other extraordinary local artists. The children will experience 2D and 3D art through various mediums. They will also tie-dye an Art Camp t-shirt that they will keep as a souvenir of their wonderful time at the 2009 PCAC Art Camp!

Click here to scroll down to last year's art camp pictures. It was a lot of fun!

LaGrange, GA - District 4 Public Health and the Georgia Division of Public Health, with the assistance of the leadership of Eagles Landing Christian Academy, are investigating a cluster of mild influenza-like illnesses caused by the novel H1N1 influenza virus at the school.

Initially, cases were identified primarily among students who traveled together domestically, with later cases occurring among their household contacts and other students. Because of the cooperation of students and parents in practicing prevention activities such as frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes and the exclusion of ill children from school, the number of illnesses has been limited.

Because of the similarities between the H1N1 virus circulating in Henry County and seasonal influenza, we continue to recommend that children stay home from school if they are showing symptoms indicative of seasonal or H1N1 influenza. Current CDC guidelines state that children need to stay out of school for a period of 7 days after the first day of illness and for no less than 24 hours after they cease to experience symptoms such as cough or a fever if these symptoms continue longer than 7 days.

There are currently 2 positive novell H1N1 virus cases and 9 presumptive cases of novell H1N1 virus in Henry County.

Gordon College will graduate its first baccalaureate class in its 157-year history during ceremonies Saturday, May 16 starting at 8:30 a.m.

In a long-held tradition, the graduates, faculty and speakers will be lead in procession by bagpiper Michael Grest. This year’s Marshal and mace bearer is faculty member Linda Hyde.

Thirty students will receive Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education degrees -- more than half of the class is graduating with honors.

More than 450 other students will receive Associate degrees earned in assorted programs of study including more than 90 Associate of Science in Nursing degrees.

"All of our graduation ceremonies are special, but this will have added meaning for everyone," said Gordon College President Lawrence Weill. "The students who are earning advanced degrees have worked very hard as have the faculty and staff who helped educate and support them every step of the way."

Graduation will be held on Lambdin Green, at the center of campus, and will feature Erroll Davis, chancellor of the University System of Georgia, as guest speaker.

A pinning ceremony for the nurses will be held in Alumni Memorial Hall immediately after graduation.

The ECE graduates will be honored during a ceremony in the Fine Arts auditorium at the same time.

Approximately 4,000 guests are expected to attend the ceremonies.

ATLANTA, GA – Lt. Governor Casey Cagle’s reelection campaign today announced an initial list of 75 retired and current sheriffs from across Georgia who have endorsed the Lt. Governor’s reelection effort. The sheriffs, who represent a diverse cross-section of the state, will serve as advisors to the Lt. Governor’s campaign on public safety issues.

“Long before he was elected Lieutenant Governor, Casey Cagle recognized the important work Georgia’s law enforcement community does,” said Sheriff Neil Warren of Cobb County. “As our Lieutenant Governor, he has been one of the sheriffs’ closest allies in keeping Georgians safe. I strongly support Casey’s reelection, and look forward to our continued close association over the next several years.”

“There is no attribute more important to seek out in our elected officials than integrity,” said Sheriff Steve Cronic of Hall County. “Georgia needs Casey Cagle’s honest and thoughtful leadership, and I am pleased to join so many sheriffs in support of his reelection campaign.”

In addition to Sheriffs Warren and Cronic, the following local sheriffs have endorsed the Lt. Governor’s reelection campaign: Sheriff Jimmy Thomas, Pike County; Sheriff Mike Yeager, Coweta County; Sheriff Jeff Watson, Taylor County; Sheriff Lewis Walker, Crawford County; Sheriff Cullen Talton, Houston County; Sheriff Dee Stewart, Spalding County; Sheriff Gene Pope, Butts County; and Sheriff Larry Waller, Lamar County.

The magazine lauded Edward Jones for growing the number of financial advisors in a down market. The St. Louis-based firm, with a reputation for excellent client service, also managed to lead the pack in stock picking, according to the magazine.

The firm has consistently been ranked highly in the SmartMoney survey as No. 2 in 2008, and No. 1 in 2007 and 2005.

Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliates, in Canada and the United Kingdom. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm's 10,000-plus financial advisors work directly with more than 7 million clients to understand their personal goals -- from college savings to retirement -- and create long-term investment solutions that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.

Edward Jones, which ranked No. 2 on FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For 2009," is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones interactive Web site is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting Web site is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.

Bryan T. Oglesby is your local Edward Jones representative in Thomaston. You can reach his office at (706) 648-4393 or check out his website by clicking here.

The National Day of Prayer was held on the first Thursday in May which was May 7, 2009 this year. There were two prayer celebrations with one at noon on the Courthouse Square and the second held in the evening at Zebulon United Methodist Church.

The sun broke through the clouds about halfway though the noon program at the courthouse as citizens came from all walks of life to join in a day of prayer for our county, state, and national leaders as well as for our nation and our security. Prayers also went up for our military and their families and the sanctity of life and protection of marriage.

Old Mount Calvary Baptist Church provided the music.

Bill Stembridge, the regional representative for U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, read a letter from Senator Chambliss in which he said, "It is by God's grace that we are able to gather in the most free and secure country in the world, and today we ask Him to continue to guide us and give us the strength and wisdom to make the right decisions." The letter went on to ask God's special blessings upon our soldiers and their families.

Pastors who gave of their time to participate in this ceremony included Kenneth Koon from Concord Baptist Church, Clarence Burton from Neal Baptist Church, Terry Ison from Nazareth Baptist Church, and Travis Ferguson from Old Mount Calvary Baptist Church. Each spoke from a passage in the Bible and gave the message that God laid on their hearts before they prayed for their specific subject outlined in the program.

The evening program was held at Zebulon United Methodist Church with representation from about a dozen churches, according to organizer Ben Maxedon.

Jackie Bell from Mt. Gilead sang the National Anthem. Justin and Micah Kempson provided the Color Guard. Pastor Greg Burgner from Williamson United Methodist Church gave the reading "I am Your Flag" and David Williamson from Zebulon United Methodist Church led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Gillian Appleton and Cheryl Williamson from Zebulon United Methodist Church played and sang "How Great Thou Art". The message was given by Carol Scroggs, who is Pastor of Zebulon United Methodist Church.

"America the Beautiful" and "God Bless America" were congregational hymns. Musical accompaniment was provided by Gary Tucker on lead guitar, John Williams on bass guitar, and Phyllis Shepard on the piano. Walker Chandler played bagpipes as well.

The closing prayer was given by Robin Humphreys from Friendship Presbyterian Church.

"I think we had a very successful National Day of Prayer in Pike County this year, thanks to our churches and community leaders," Ben Maxedon said. "I pray that next year more people will become involved and our programs keep growing."

The National Day of Prayer programs were sponsored by Prayer Power of Georgia. Prayer Power is a non-profit organization that works to organize and participate in various activities that promote faith and prayer.

Prayer Power has an email prayer chain where believers lift each other up in prayer and has organized prayer walks at the schools and the National Day of Prayer celebrations.

Tax deductible donations may be made to: Prayer Power of Georgia, PO Box 1263, Zebulon, GA 30295. You can find out more about Prayer Power by going to its website at http://www.prayerpower4u.blogspot.com/.

Pictures are going up on the We Are Pike County page.

We celebrated one year of service to our troops on May 9th!Thank you to everyone who has supported our site, our cause, and especially those brave men and women in uniform! We have shipped 171 Hero Pack care packages, posted 2 award recognitions, honored 24 Heroes of the Week, and displayed 19 Letters from the Field from those directly affected by your support. And to date, we have just topped 6,500 hits to the site. It's been a really exciting year and I'm glad you were a big part of it!

Click Here To View The Site: www.ThankYouSoldier.com.

We have also added our site to the Twitter community for those wanting more regular (and short) updates. We can be found at Twitter.com\ThankYouSoldier or in the media section of our menu and look forward to increasing our soldier support through some of these different and new internet mediums. If you are are a registered twitter user, follow us today.

And please share this site with everyone!

God Bless America,

Jonathan Gates
Support@ThankYouSoldier.com

IX. NEW BUSINESS
    1. First Reading of the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Resolution
    2. The American Legion Post #197 would like to request use of the Courthouse grounds on May 25, 2009 from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm for a Veterans Memorial Day Ceremony.
    3. M. Vern Stephens has requested a tax refund in the amount of $326.00

X. EXECUTIVE SESSION
    -Personnel Executive Session – Hiring and firing personnel within the Building and Grounds department (O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(6))
    -Pending and Potential Litigation (O.C.G.A. § 50-14-2(1))
    -Acquisition of Real Estate (O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(4))

XI. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
    None

XII. ADJOURNMENT

[Note from the Editor: Thank you to those who listened to complaints about the Executive Session and added more information for the public to be aware of the topics of discussion. It may not please everyone, but it is better than we had before.]

Update 5.13.09:There were no huge suprises at the meeting today. All five commissioners were at the meeting with Nancy to take the minutes and legal representation by both Rob and Tom Morton.

V. INVITED GUEST
    1. Mark Hardison with Clifton, Lipford, Hardison and Parker to present 2008 audit: This will be added to the county website asap. Click here to go to the Pike County website. Mr. Hardison said that there was a decline in the fund balance with our general budget. Said that there was $9.8 million in expenditures on 10.31.08. Also said that they were seeing a lot of progress being made with Sean going to school to learn more about our accounting procedures. Motion to accept audit as presented. Approved 4-0.
    2. Kevin Teate, Pike County Parks and Recreation Authority Director to request the closure of Twin Oaks Road between County Farm Road and Drew Allen Road on the 4th of July from 2:00 pm until midnight: Motion to approve. 4-0.
    3. S.P.L.O.S.T. Committee presentation to discuss timeline and other requirements: Bobby Blalock and Merritt Spier spoke to the commissioners on the behalf of the SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) committee. The commissioners had originally asked for an 75/25% split between the counties and cities. Bobby said that the SPLOST committee had voted to recommend 80/20% split based somewhat on population of cities. This would be a $6 million SPLOST with $1.2 million going to the cities. Merritt explained that the change was based on 5% going to the library, agribusiness, and animal control so it would reduce the county portion of the SPLOST from 80% to 75%. It was made clear by the commissioners that they have final say on this though and if they don't want that 5% reduction, they can change anything that they want. [Note from the Editor: I was on that first SPLOST committee and saw that first-hand so don't anybody get up in arms about things yet. Make a phone call with a concern if you have it, but be nice because they can do anything that they want to. Added 5.19.09: I had the % on SPLOST backwards to begin with. It has been corrected. Thanks to Commissioner Don Collins for catching that error.] The deadline is a tight one with meetings to be called between the cities and the county and a resolution by June 30th in order to meet the deadline for the November Special Election. Motion to send out letter of intent to the cities on SPLOST. Approved 4-0.

Update 5.14.09:

VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES
   A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities: Only big thing mentioned here was Keep Pike Beautiful has not been able to meet their quorum over the past several months so there have not been any meetings. That has been remedied with the KPB quorum going through the GA Legislature to be reduced from 12 with a quorum of 7 to a 9 member board with a quorum of 5. Edd Sanders, Chairman of KPB, said that KPB is working to update its duties, long-term goals, and structure as well as doing more events here in Pike County and limiting those outside of the county with KPB's focus on keeping Pike beautiful through recycling, etc.
B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners
    1. Invitation to the City Mayors and Councils to meet on a quarterly basis: The CM said that the suggestion was made to have the Chairman, CM, and county representative for each city attend their meetings instead of inviting chaos by having all of the cities and the BOC meet together at once. This will be starting on a regular basis soon and will bring direct contact between the cities and the BOC.
    2. Update on the April 30, 2009 Pre-Disaster Mitigation public input session: There was a meeting on April 30th with about 20 people in attendance. (See the story on this page.) Concord and Molena have already started the process to sign onto this. Probably more are coming on board as well. If the cities do not sign on, they will not be eligible for FEMA and GEMA funding in the event of a natural disaster such as a tornado or flood. Kudos were given to EMA Director Mike Singleton for getting this done ahead of schedule.
    3. ISO rating is still pending: Expecting something on this very shortly. Other counties, etc. that have signed on with this company have had their ISO ratings lowered so the BOC is hopeful that the same will happen for Pike County. [Note from the Editor: A lower ISO rating should lower fire insurance rates for home owners.] During this portion of this discussion, strategic planning sessions and workshops with various officials were discussed. The Courthouse renovations are very much on the minds of the BOC. Discussion about whether to have Carter Watkins (the group that originally did the study on the Courthouse) or Precision Planning (the group that laid out plans for the Judicial Complex) look at the roof was a hot topic. Being frugal with taxpayer money was a big concern. Motion for the CM to contact both. 4-0.
    4. Discussion of Fire District Ordinance proposal: [Note from the Editor: See this workshop and several others on the calendar of events page for next week. There are a bunch of them. Make plans to go and maybe send me a note or two on what you learn because I will not be able to attend these meetings.]
     5. Recognition of the SPLOST committee for their hard work: Kudos were given to the SPLOST committee for their hard work.

Update 5.26.09:
  C. Commissioners Report:

District 1 Roosevelt Willis: Asked about the status of the Purchase Order (PO) System. CM said that one has been selected but needs to be rewritten. Then it will need to be explained to all including Constitutional Officers. This will require all departments to go online in order to get make a requisition and get a PO number. Things cannot be purchased if the department is overbudget. This program will be able to encumber amounts for items as well. * Asked about the right of way with the sink hole that was brought up at the past meeting. CM advised that this hole is behind the house and not even on the right of way. * Asked about road closings and abandonment process. Was advised that this is being finalized. * Said that he has received two complaints from contractors about inspections not being done. The head of Planning and Development (P&D) -- also known as Planning and Zoning -- David Allen addressed this with the commissioners. He said that each call is logged and then the inspection is completed and that is logged. In this case, he said that there is no record of this contractor calling in to ask for an inspection and David said that he did not receive a request. * Asked about Public Works installing driveway pipes. CM said that some of the other counties do this. Roosevelt asked that the county consider doing this for a price at a later time. * CM advised that he is expecting the environmental accessment on the old school next week. * Roosevelt asked what Code Enforcement does all day. David advised that she processes complaints. When she is not in, Kevin and David fill in for her.

District 2 Parrish Swift: Parrish asked about the contents of Executive Session and what should be divulged to the public after each Executive Session. Parrish asked whether information from Executive Session should be brought to light in a case where the county has concrete evidence in a case against a code violation or if that would be a violation of Executive Session. Rob explained that what is discussed in Executive Session is confidential though there are some things that could be discussed. [Note from the Editor: I have no idea what is being referred to and don’t understand why this would be discussed in the first place so I won’t put any more detail on this.]

District 3 Tommy Powers: Tommy said that he had gotten some calls about the roads and the rain but that was it.

District 4 Don Collins: Don said that the entire county asset inventory is completed. Everything has been numbered and will be entered into the county’s asset program when Sean Townsend gets time to do this. Asked for a benchmark for income figures and was advised by the CM that this will be available monthly now. * Asked that SPLOST signs be placed on equipment and at appropriate locations so the public knows that SPLOST paid for them. *Said that the Department of Community Affairs is having a round table discussion on June 10th and encouraged everyone to go. * Asked about Double P Grading and the contingency that was placed on them (buffers and fences in front of the business) in order to get their business license. These items were supposed to screen equipment but they are not placing equipment in front of the building. Rob advised that proper procedure needs to be followed on this with a public hearing where they BOC can modify the stipulation by saying no buffer required if no parking, but if there is parking then the buffer will be required. Motion to proceed. 4-0.

Chairman Doug Mangham: Asked a question about the Scout project for the Fire Stations. Was advised that this has fallen through.

  D. County Attorney Report: Advised that there is an appeal on Tax Assessor issues going before the Board of Tax Assessors in the June 2nd meeting. Said that this person (and he did not give a name) is entitled to have a hearing on this issue.

The BOC went into Executive Session at 10:40 a.m. and returned about 11:50 a.m.

Motions from Executive Session: Motion to advertise again on the Maintenance Supervisor position. Approved 4-0. [Note from the Editor: The top candidate was in the audience that day to answer questions from the BOC if they had any. He did not know why they were readvertising at the end of the meeting.]

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
     None

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
    1. Second Reading of proposed Text Amendment to Section 156.027 (J) of the Zoning Code: This allows the Zoning Administrator to make allow someone to move in a temporary residence while the main residence is being rebuilt due to a catastrophic event such as tornado, fire, etc. This allows the resident to avoid costly fees and valuable time of going before the Planning Board or Board of Appeals to ask permission at a meeting where they will send on their opinion to the BOC who would ultimately make the final decision in a process that will last at least two months and sometimes longer. Approved 4-0.
    2. Second Reading of the DR-6 Ordinance: This is the repeal of the DR-6 Ordinance. Approved 3-1 with Roosevelt opposed.
    3. Second Reading of the PR Ordinance: Repealing P-R District.
    4. Second Reading of Text Amendment 156.027(A): This is a correction from when this was adopted in January distinguishing between one-time and regular special exceptions. Approved.
    5. Second Reading of the Pike County code: Approved.

More soon.

Funeral Services for Ms. Patricia Louise Stout Pitts will be conducted on Thursday, May 14, 2009 in the Chapel of Williams Funeral Home at 2:30 PM. A visitation will take place on Wednesday at the funeral home between the hours of 7 and 9 PM. Interment will be in Lamar Memory Gardens. The Rev. Walter T. Stafford will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made at any Bank of America branch to the Patricia Pitts Memorial Fund (Acct.#334023225402).

For more information, click http://www.williamsfh.net/. Condolences go out to this entire family.

The Spalding County Senior Olympic Games and Expo 2009 was held over a period of weeks with the final day of games and celebration being held on Thursday, April 30, 2009. Bowling, walking, horse shoes, checkers, golf, and bingo were just some of the events that were held.

The Spalding County Senior Games and Expo awarded games, medals, and prizes in a variety of events. Some of the were played down to the finish with contestants playing for bragging rights as the number one player at their event for the year and other events had the contestants playing against themselves to see how well they could throw a softball or a frisbee.

The contestants were all seniors, but don't let that fool you into thinking that they weren't playing their absolute best. Some even played with a handicap--like being legally blind and still playing pool--and it didn't even slow them down.

Diana Clark, who works in the Ceramics Department for Spalding County Parks and Recreation and owns B & D Ceramics, took most of the pictures that you see on the Olympic Games page.

The final day was full of games, entertainment, and food as well as a Senior Information Expo. The Parade of Athletes was led by Torch Bearer Hyson Driver with Banner Carriers Nathan and Betty Cooper. The flag ceremony was performed by the Spalding County Fire Department.

Jo Ellis, the Senior Center Supervisor, gave the welcome to the games as was the officiator for the day. Veterans were recognized as well as the oldest man and woman who were present at the Opening Ceremony.

The oldest woman present, Ethel Gates, was 87 years old and it was a three way tie for the oldest man present with three men who were 85.

The Golden Volunteer award went to Hyson Driver. She was chosen by her peers because she freely gives of her time at the Senior Center.

There were a lot of volunteers on hand to help out with the food. The Rotary Club did the cooking, Spalding County High School students helped out with serving the food, and The Slim Pickin’s Band provided entertainment during the meal.

Laughter and good sportsmanship was the theme of the day. The Golden Olympic Oath said it all: “Let me compete to the best of my potential in the spirit of fun, fairness and fellowship.”

There was a lot of laughter as well as encouragement and comraderie as these seniors competed for medals and bragging rights in the Senior Games. It was a lot of fun! If you missed out this year, make your plans to be a part of the fun next year!

See these pictures by clicking here or by going to the We Are Pike County Page and clicking on the yellow box that says 2009 Senior Games.

The Pike County Historical Society will meet on May 21, 2009 at the Pike County Library at 7:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Ron Alexander will present a program on the Candler Field Museum and Pike County’s connection to the original airfield through Doug Davis. Born in the Second District of Pike County in 1898, Henry Douglas Davis was an early pioneer in the field of aviation. In 1917, eighteen year old Doug volunteered for the United States Army Air Service becoming it's youngest pilot and flight instructor. After leaving service he became a barnstormer, set many air speed records and was tragically killed in a crash during an air race in 1934. His life, though relatively short, was important to the development of the air industry in the South.

From The Newark Advocate and American Tribune, Tuesday, September 24, 1934:

Douglas Davis Dies In Crash At Cleveland
Holder of Two Championships at National Meet Crashes to Death.
Was Leading In Event.
Plane Traveling at 250 Miles an Hour When Accident Occurs.

Cleveland, Sept 4 - (AP) - Death caught up with one of America’s most famous airplane pilots late yesterday as 1931's national air races roared to a close before nearly 100,000 persons. With two major aviation triumphs to his credit in four days and a third almost within his grasp, Douglas Davis, Atlanta, Ga., veteran of a million miles in the air, crashed to death in the final racing event of the year’s program. Davis was on the eighth lap of the 12-lap 100-mile Thompson trophy race and was leading the field by an eighth-mile margin when the wreck occurred. Witnesses said he had just cut inside a pylon about three miles to the rear of the grandstands when he suddenly swerved to the left as if planning to circle back and take the pylon on the other side. His plane was traveling about 250 miles an hour when it shot out of control, twisted crazily through the air and plunged its nose into the ground. Davis was practically decapitated in the crash and his body was badly mangled. His parachute was still strapped to his back and in one hand was clutched a package of airmail letters. Uninterrupted by the hand of death, the race went on to a finish with first place honors going to Roscoe Turner of Hollywood, Calif., at a speed of 218.129 miles an hour. He received the coveted Thompson trophy and a $4,500 cash award. Davis won the Hendrix trophy race in a dash here from Burbank, Calif., last Friday and only a few hours before his death attained his second triumph of this years races by exceeding the world’s land plane speed record of 301.98 miles an hour. Only five years ago he won the event of the national air races which corresponds to the contest in which he died. He is survived by a widow and two children, Douglas, Jr., 6 and Darlene, 4. Friends of Davis recalled that he had feared a tragedy two days ago. "The course is too short,” they quoted him as saying. “I’ve a notion not to enter at all.” In yesterday’s race, Roy T. Minor of Hollywood, Calif., was second, T.A. [?] Worthen of New Orleans, third, Harold Neuman of Moline, Ill., fourth, and Roger Don Roe, of Lansing, Mich, fifth. [Transcribed 2/10/2007 Lynn Cunningham]

Wife of Doug Davis
From The Atlanta Journal and The Atlanta Constitution, January 17, 2001:
OBITUARIES: NEWNAN: Glenna Davis, 96, knew nation's early aviation greats

Glenna Mae Davis knew the greats among the first pilots in America and entertained the famed aviator Charles Lindbergh at her home. She and her husband, pioneer aviator Doug Davis, owned a flying service at Atlanta's first airport, Candler Field. After her husband was killed in a flying accident in 1934, Mrs. Davis went to work with the Civil Aeronautics Board, which became the Federal Aviation Administration. Mrs. Davis, 96, of Newnan died Monday of respiratory problems at Southwest Christian Hospice. The funeral is 11 a.m. today at Hapeville First Baptist Church. Haisten Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Davis, who never became a pilot, flew everywhere with her husband. During their courtship, Mrs. Davis was a passenger in her husband's plane when he flew upside down from Zebulon to Atlanta. Through Davis Flying Service, based at what is now Hartsfield International Airport, Mrs. Davis made friends with early aviators Beeler Blevins, Jimmy Doolittle, Amelia Earhart, Roscoe Turner, Mr. Lindbergh and others. On their flights into Atlanta, most were guests at the Davis house, said her daughter, Darlene Porter of Newnan. In 1927, six months after his flight across the Atlantic, Mr. Lindbergh flew to Atlanta, symbolizing the city's emerging reputation as a major aviation center. Mrs. Davis was there. In 1962, another aviation tragedy killed her son, Doug Davis Jr. Church and family were the focus of Mrs. Davis' life after her husband was killed. She taught Sunday school at Hapeville First Baptist Church for 51 years. "She was a real outstanding lady," said family friend Truett Cathy of Hampton, founder of Chick-fil-A. "She was just a very beautiful, pleasing personality." Survivors include three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Thanks to Lynn Cunningham for this information.

Tomas Lefkovits was born four years after World War II ended. He did not live through the horrors of the Holocaust where people were murdered simply because they were Jews, but his parents did.

Tomas came to tell his parents’ stories to students at Pike County Middle School on March 27, 2009 because they lived through the Holocaust and the effects of the Holocaust still live on in his family. He came on behalf of The William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum which sponsors Holocaust survivors who volunteer to tell their stories to others.

Eighth grade students listened to Tomas as he told his story as a 2nd generation survivor of the Holocaust. The Eighth Grade Military History Club, under the direction of Todd Child, sponsored Tomas Lefkovits to come to the Middle School and speak.

Tomas kept the kids involved in his story by asking questions during the telling of his parents’ Holocaust experiences, and he answered questions afterward. He stressed that is important to keep away from generalizations and stereotypes of others. His message was also one of learning from past history.

Tomas’ parents both lived in Hungary but did not meet until after the war. His father’s experience began when he was required to register for military service.

His father was placed in a slave battalion that had to dig holes for enemy tanks to get stuck in. They were also tasked with repairing railroads that had been bombed by the Allied forces.

One day while his father was repairing the railroad tracks, the Allied Forces bombed the tracks. When workers were put into a building to be safe from the bombing, his father was given the opportunity to escape.

Tomas’ father did not fit the stereotype of what a Jew should look like: he was over six feet tall and had blond hair. When a Catholic friend swapped clothing with him and gave papers and documents to him to enable his escape from the country, Tomas’ father walked out of the building a free man.

Tomas told the students that in the Jewish religion, there is a saying: “He who has saved one life, it is as if he has saved the world.” This Catholic friend of his father saw his Jewish friend in dire need of help and gave help even though they both would have been killed if the authorities had caught them.

But his father’s story does not end there. His father chose to move next door to a Nazi police station and rescued his brother and another Resistance fighter before he moved out of the country. Even with what he had been through, Tomas said that his father felt like he had not been through so much compared to the horrors that others had experienced.

Tomas’ mother had a different experience in Hungary during the war. Hungary was allied with Germany during the war, but Hungary was not sending Jews to the concentration camps in the beginning of the campaign to exterminate the Jews.

When Hungary began to join in the extermination of Jews, it began in rural areas. All Jews were ordered to meet at a particular train station at a particular time in order to be relocated to where the men were sent to work for the Army. They were allowed to bring one suitcase.

Tomas’ mother, age 19, and her sister, age 14, her 21 year old sister, 1½ year old cousin, grandparents who were in their late 40’s, and her great-grandparents who were in their 60’s responded to this demand to go to the train station. When they arrived, they were shoved into cattle cars.

Eight head of cattle normally fit into a single cattle car. Instead, 120 Jewish people were shoved into each cattle car. There was no bathroom, no food, no heat during winter and no cooling in the summer. And that was just the beginning of their misery.

When they arrived at the different concentration camps, the women and younger children were separated from the men. Some of the people worked until they died because of malnutrition, some died in the gas chambers and crematorium.

Tomas' mother and her family were sent to Auschwitz where she, her father, and her younger sister were selected for work. The rest of her family was sent to their death within 24 hours.

Over six million Jews were murdered over a period of five years. Tomas told the students that this was almost like 2,000 9/11’s (September 11, 2001), more than the population of Atlanta including population of greater Atlanta, and almost the same as killing 1/3 of all of those who live in New York.

In the end, only Tomas' mother survived Auschwitz. Her father and sister were also murdered prior to the end of the war.

Tomas’ mother escaped when survivors were taken on a death march when the Russians fought their way into Germany. She and four other women hid in the barn where they had slept the night before because they did not have the strength to answer during roll call. Only three of the women survived because two hid in the hay and were bayoneted by the soldiers before the soldiers left for the march.

These surviving women then walked to a nearby farm where the farmer’s wife thought they were ghosts and called the police. Afterward, she sought shelter afterward during carpet bombing of the Allies and was no longer a prisoner.

Tomas' mother returned to her home after the war to find that someone else was living there. She chose not to contest ownership of the home. She met and married Tomas’ father one year later. They went to Budapest and then to Austria because these were Allied countries and applied for a visa to move somewhere else.

At this time, there were quotas on Jewish immigration and only two countries would accept them as immigrants. In order to move to Venezuela, they had to say that they were Catholic.

Tomas was born there four years after the war was finished and he grew up there. He later came to the United States as an immigrant. He has been married to an American citizen for 38 years.

Tomas also told students that when someone researched his father’s side of the family tree, only 31 out of 126 people survived the Holocaust. And for what? He asked the students. “Because someone thought that a group of people was not fit to live,” he said.

After Tomas told his parents’ experiences of the Holocaust, he told students that he recounted these experiences so that students could learn from it.

Tomas told them history has genocide from 1970 up through today in places like Bosnia, Rwanda, Cambodia, and Nigeria. He also told them that genocide is still happening in places like Darfur and that we, as a country, have an obligation to put a stop to it.

He said that he has traveled to many places, and while this isn’t a perfect country, he said students should feel proud because America is a bastion of freedom and democracy. He also went on to say that hate is learned and that it can be unlearned. “It takes more effort to hate than not to hate,” he said.

Tomas urged students to learn from the past to ensure that history does not repeat itself. “When you’ve heard a survivor speech, you have become a witness.”

After the completion of the program, Tomas spoke with students as they approached him in the gymnasium. One student gave him a small Torah that someone in her church had found in their attic, and Tomas went to look at the Memorial Wall at the front of the school.

Students had made memorials for with photos and information about children who lost their lives because of the Holocaust. Brianna Foster presented Tomas with an honorary plate that she created for him.

For more information about the Breman Museum, visit www.breman.org.

Pictures are on the We Are Pike County page.

The “Smith Family” has an expensive house, a new car and they’d never purchase their chic clothes off the discount rack. If they want it, they buy it. Problem is, by the middle of April the Smith Family had spent all of the money they were going to earn during the entire year.

Huge bills are piling up. What will the Smith Family do?

Well, if the Smith Family is anything like the Obama administration, Daddy Smith will hold a news conference and announce that the family is prepared for “tough choices.”

“From now on, the Smith Family will save money by cutting out sliced fruits such as strawberries and bananas that go on top of our morning cereal,” Daddy Smith will announce solemnly. “Also, we no longer Super Size at fast food restaurants. Instead of buying 50 new designer shirts for each of the kids, we’ll bite the bullet and only get 49.”

This sounds at first as if it might amount to serious savings over the period of a year. But then Daddy Smith gets a question.

“Aren’t these cuts less than one half of 1 percent of your total spending for the year?” the questioner asks. “And isn’t it true that 50 cents of every dollar you spend this year will go on your credit card and you personally will never pay it back?”

“How dare you, sir!” Daddy Smith thunders. “The house, the car, the clothes – they are the change we’ve been waiting for! These aren’t expenses; they are investments in our future. These investments will give my children the tools to earn the money they’ll need to pay for all these things I’m doing for them.”

“But aren’t things getting worse?” the questioner continues. “Last year, your unpaid credit card charges were the biggest ever. This year’s is four times that. How is that sustainable?”

“We can’t just do these investments willy nilly,” Daddy Smith continues. “Besides, the people who lived in this house before broke a lot of stuff. It’s not my fault. I inherited this mess, if you think about it. But I don’t want us to get too far off point. I invited everyone here today to discuss the fact that we’re seriously cutting back. We’re making tough choices. We’re changing …”

“Not so fast, Dad,” said Nancy, one of the Smith children, accompanied by brother Harry and several others at a rival, impromptu news conference of their own. “We need that fruit for our cereal. It’s good for us; it’s nutritious. It might cost more in the short term but it will save us in the long term by keeping us healthy and avoiding costly doctor’s visits. And Super Sizing at hamburger joints gives the family more value for its dollar. We get lots more food and drink for only pennies more. It’s wasteful not to Super Size. Any idiot can see this cut is irresponsible and poorly thought out.”

“And about that trim of the clothes budget,” Harry butted in. “That’s a nonstarter. I’m sure there are lots of wasteful items that we can cut before we slash our fashion options back to the point where we’re the laughingstock of the middle school. Geez, Dad, why don’t we just write ‘We’re poor’ in giant letters on our foreheads?”

“Besides,” said Nancy, “we can just spend less on our home security system. Who needs that anyway? Now that we live here all the neighbors will promise to play nice!”

Daddy Smith looked distressed, not wanting the neighborhood to see such an unseemly family squabble.

“OK, kids,” he said. “No cuts this year. We’ll just add it to your tab.”

Lynn Westmoreland (R-Grantville) represents Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District.

“Star Trek” (Paramount Pictures)

Everything Old Is New Again

Just when you thought the “Star Trek” franchise had squeezed every possible dollar out of its audience, and any new creation using these characters would be gone in sixty seconds; along comes JJ Abrams concept of “Star Trek” and suddenly everything old is new again – and worth watching. Yes, Abrams and company are geniuses for making this new film feel fresh, fun and exciting. They prove once again that any “classic” story can be presented in a relevant and refreshing way if the talent behind the scenes is there.

The new film goes back to the future in the “Star Trek” story and gives an alternate universe type of tale to show the origins of Kirk, Spock and friends. It starts with a battle between a Romulan named Nero (Eric Bana) and the Starship Kelvin. This is the ship on which George Kirk (Chris Hemsworth) serves. His wife Winona (Jennifer Morrison) is also on board this ship and she is pregnant with their son Jim.

When Jim (Chris Pike) grows up he applies to serve in the Starfleet. He meets his future fellow officers of the Enterprise. They are “Bones” (Keith Urban), Uhura (Zoe Saldana), Spock (Zachary Quinto), Sulu (John Cho), and Chekov (Anton Yelchin). Later he meets up with Scotty (Simon Pegg). So it is Hail! Hail! the gangs all here.

The movie tips its hat to the old franchise with a cameo appearance by Leonard Nimoy and the inclusion of some well known phrases. But it goes down its own road due to the “alternate universe” theory which frees it up to travel its own path. This should satisfy the purists who would nit-pick any slight or omission to death.

Abrams keeps the movie on a fast pace and enhances his story with great special effects and a phenomenal musical score (hats off to Michael Giacchino). The acting is also solid with Pine showing true charisma as Kirk and Quinto being unbelievably perfect as Spock. He is so good it is eerie. Bruce Greenwood adds some gravitas to the proceedings as Captain Christopher Pike.

The film is rated PG-13 for profanity and violence.

Before this film arrived there were many, many naysayers – myself included – who just didn’t think there was anything left to say about these characters. Having seen the movie I have to say I was dead wrong. The film entranced me from beginning to end and I look forward to the next installment. Bring it on!!

Hopefully Pine, Quinto and all the rest of the wonderful cast have signed on for many more adventures, but most of all I hope Abrams has. Just like the Enterprise has to have a strong and intelligent captain, so does the “Star Trek” series need a strong director with a vision.

If you have not yet seen this movie, set yourself for warp speed and get to a theater now. Kirk and company are ready to entertain you royally for a couple of hours.

I scored “Star Trek” a futuristic 8 out of 10.

©2009 Jackie K. Cooper

Official Website

Jackie has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com including "Next Day Air". Jackie also has reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows as well as columns on life and living in the South.

“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you have done for one of the least of brothers of mine, you did for me.” This verse from Matthew 25:40 is the theme for Barnesville Nazarene Youth as they collect items for the homeless.

Blankets, shoes of all sizes, socks, lip balm, umbrellas, backpacks, individually sealed toothbrushes, travel sized soap, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and conditioners, and hair brushes are just a few of the things that we might take for granted in our every day life.

Other items like bottled water, granola bars, non-perishable and easy-to-open foods, beef jerky, dried fruits, individually packaged cereal bars, snack crackers, pop-top fruit cans, pop-top meat products, individually packaged nuts and gum, and sugar-free candy are an easy way to share with others.

Barnesville Nazarene Youth, under the direction of Heather McLaurin, went door to door during this campaign and collected many items from people in the Barnesville community. These teenagers knocked on the doors of over fifty homes and apartments in Barnesville.

“Even an old pair of shoes or unopened travel shampoos can be used to bless someone else,” said Heather.

Heather tried out for “American Idol” in Atlanta a couple of years ago and was touched by the many homeless people that she saw that day as she waited in line to audition. When she and her Mom came back for the second audition, they passed out backpacks, granola bars, and bottled water afterward. It was a life-changing experience for them both.

The Barnesville Nazarene Youth will be collecting these items until May 22, 2009. And then on May 30, 2009, these youth and their leaders will distribute these blessings to reach the homeless in our state.

If you have any questions or would like to make a donation, please call Heather McLaurin at 706-741-2633 or Kerry McLaurin at 478-394-1447.

Concord, GA - On May 9, 2009, Sheriffs Office Investigators responded to a residence in Concord, Georgia in reference to a residential fire with a deceased person inside. Upon arrival investigators were advised that a male had been located inside by the Pike County Fire Department. The male was identified as Roger Goolsby, 46 years of age. Goolsby had suffered an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

While investigating this scene, a female was reported deceased at another location in Concord, Georgia. Additional Investigators responded to this scene and discovered Patricia Pitts, 43 years of age, dead in front of the residence. Pitts had at least one gunshot wound to the head.

Investigators were able to link both of the deceased persons as knowing each other through a previous relationship by witnesses. Evidence collected and witness statements currently leads investigators to believe that this case is a murder-suicide.

It is believed that Goolsby drove to the Pitts residence and killed her and then returned home. At that time he started three separate fires in the residence and committed suicide.

Both individuals have been transported to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab for autopsies and Investigators are awaiting forensic results on the suspected weapon used in this incident.

Sheriff Thomas advised this afternoon that the investigation is ongoing.

I have a ton of pictures that I am uploading from the Spalding County Senior Games. More went online this morning and I still have more to upload. And I haven't even gotten to the pictures that I took on the ceremony day!

I have pictures from the National Day of Prayer services at noon and in the evening. Thanks to organizer Ben Maxedon for getting me a disc of his pictures to go along with those that I took. I thoroughly enjoyed the noon service.

The Williamson Music Barn Saturday night and a documentary on Pastor Ron too. There is an awesome quilt that is currently hanging at Truett's Grill in Griffin. It will auctioned off on Saturday sometime during the car show, etc. that is going on there during the morning and early afternoon. The proceeds will benefit abused children.

Go to the Calendar of Events page to find out times and dates for events that are going on in our area. Thanks for reading the Pike County Times!

Update 5.8.09: I went to the National Day of Prayer Ceremony on the square in Zebulon yesterday, the Pike County Special Olympics this morning, and the Relay for Life tonight. Almost $3,500 was raised to fight cancer at the woman-less beauty pageant this year.

I have pictures from both that will be going online next week. Thank you to everyone who sponsored and participated in all of these events.

“X-Men Origins: Wolverine” (20th Century Fox)

The Rest of the Story

For those of you out there who have been hungering to know how “Wolverine” became “Wolverine” we now have the rest of the story. In “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” we learn the beginnings of the X-Men character that Hugh Jackman has so terrifically brought to life on the big screen. If you are one of those who didn’t really care where he came from, well it is still a good action packed movie for you.

We first see James Howlett as a young boy suffering from an illness. He adores his father who basically takes care of him. Then one night Howlett’s father is killed by his friend Victor’s father. Victor’s father claims that he is actually James’ father and James’ mother confirms this. Victor and James take off into the night as two brothers on the run.

Next we see them as adults fighting in the Civil War, World War I, World War II and Vietnam. They don’t seem to age after they get to be adults. James aka Logan (Jackman) and Victor (Liv Schreiber) have each other’s backs but Logan constantly has to tamp down Victor’s more sadistic ways.

Eventually Logan and Victor have a falling out and Logan goes off on his own, but Victor is always looming in the shadows waiting to do harm to Logan or those he loves. Even when Logan becomes Wolverine and Victor becomes Sabretooth the enmity between them is extreme.

The film has lots of explosions, lots of battles, lots of amazing mutants and an okay storyline. You don’t really care why Wolverine is who he is, you just care that he is who he is. Especially when that means he flashes those shiny claws and does battle in great locales – such as Three Mile Island.

Schreiber’s Victor is a worthy foe for Jackman’s character. He isn’t as buff as Wolverine but he is much more evil and he almost drools when he gets to flash his teeth and act depraved. I could watch an entire movie about “Sabretooth” and be entertained.

Ryan Reynolds, Dominic Monaghan, Taylor Kitsch and Will i Am are also in the cast as various mutants but if you expect to see much of them, well think again. Danny Huston plays the evil military mastermind and he is fun to watch. His character figures prominently in Logan becoming the indestructible Wolverine. Still he seemed pretty indestructible before his transformation.

The film is rated PG-13 for violence and profanity.

Hugh Jackman certainly got into great shape for this role. Plus his acting is adequate. But even with his physique and the explosions and other action events this just seems like another “Wolverine” episode. There is nothing really special about it, just fun and mindless entertainment. If that is enough for you, then have at it.

I scored “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” a clawing 6 out of 10.

©2009 Jackie K. Cooper

Official Website

Jackie has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com including "The Soloist" and "Fighting". Jackie also has reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows as well as columns on life and living in the South.

The Special Olympics were scheduled to start at 9:00 a.m. this morning but it has been moved until tomorrow at the same time because of the rain. The event will be held at the High School Track and the public is welcome to come out and cheer on our athletes at the 2nd Annual Pike County Special Olympics.

Thanks to Gina Tharpe and everyone who has worked together to put this event together. Thanks to those who have sponsored it as well. Last year was a lot of fun and I expect this year to be just as good or even better!

I spoke to Ben Maxedon a few minutes ago and he told me that the National Day of Prayer will be held rain or shine. He then added that in the past eight years that he has worked to put this event together that it has not been rained out. We're all praying for shine though.

In case of rain, the event would simply be moved inside. So don't let a few sprinkles keep you from coming out this afternoon!

strong>Update 3:30 p.m. The noon service was wonderful. I felt like I had been to church right there on the Courthouse lawn. If you missed out this afternoon, make a point to go to the evening service tonight. You won't regret. Pictures will be going online in the next several days or even starting on Monday.

Our new "Hero of the Week" is CSM Benjamin Moore Jr. who was killed on April 24th, 2009.An expert infantryman, Moore earned 55 medals during his 26-year career with overseas service in Korea, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq. Thank you for your service to our country CSM Moore. You are our Hero!

Click Here To View The Site: www.ThankYouSoldier.com.

We have a new blog post this week titled "A Soldier's Tear". I hope you will take a minute to read it and remember. Please send me your comments through the contact link, rate and comment on the blog, or even leave a comment on the YouTube site. Your feedback is always appreciated.

God Bless America,
Jonathan Gates, Support@ThankYouSoldier.com

ThankYouSoldier is an official mission of East Highland United Methodist Church, Columbus, Georgia and is covered under the non-profit statue as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, your donation is tax deductible in accordance with applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.

Zebulon Fire Department held a Boot Drive for Relay for Life at the stop light in Zebulon on Saturday. They were able to raise $1108.50 during the 6 hours that they were out there. Thank you to everyone who made a contribution.

Engine 7 will be at the Relay for Life event on Friday night. It will be available for viewing as well as providing medical for anyone who needs it.

There will be fun events for the kids at the Relay for Life event on Friday night as well. Zebulon Fire Department will have a coloring table for the younger kids and there will be a Firefighter obstacle course for the older kids.

Payment will not be mandatory to participate, however, they are asking for $1 donations per child in order to raise funds for Relay for Life.

Thanks to Katie Allen for emailing this information to the Pike County Times.

ATLANTA, GA (May 5, 2009) – From small parks of just a few acres that provide an outdoors escape for local residents to large tracts that are nationally recognized for their natural resource and recreational value, county governments are actively involved in funding land conservation projects throughout the state. The Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) celebrates these efforts as part of County Government Week, May 3 – 9, 2009 which focuses this year on “Greening our Future.”

“Just a decade ago, we did not have many requests for technical assistance on land conservation issues,” said ACCG Deputy Director Ross King. “As Georgia’s population grew, people started making the connection between land conservation, water stewardship and protecting their quality of life. County officials responded by proposing Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) and bond projects that included funding for green space that have been widely supported by local voters.”

In the metro Atlanta area, Cobb, Cherokee and Forsyth counties all passed bonds in 2008 to support a variety of land conservation projects representing an investment of $150 million. Other counties have actively participated in the Georgia Land Conservation Program which provides grants and low-interest loans for land conservation projects.

Some of the counties that have protected conservation lands from funds provided through this program include Bulloch, Wilkinson, Harris, Glynn, Bibb, Bartow and Dougherty.

A common theme in today’s approach to land conservation is partnerships, especially when it comes to funding large acquisitions. County governments are working with the State of Georgia, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service as well as private foundations and conservation organizations including The Conservation Fund, The Nature Conservancy, the Trust for Public Land and others to piece together funds and apply for grants to protect conservation lands of statewide significance. Many of these lands have been identified by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as priorities for protection through the State Wildlife Action Plan.

Projects of statewide significance that have involved financial support from Georgia counties include the protection of McLemore Cove in Walker County, Silver Lake Wildlife Management Area in Decatur County, Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area in Rockdale County, and Paulding Forest Wildlife Management Area in Paulding and Polk counties.

“County government is really stepping up and playing a critical role when it comes to land conservation in Georgia. They are anxious to work with us to ensure these lands are conserved for future generations – even in today’s challenging economic times,” said Rex Boner, Southeastern Regional Director of The Conservation Fund. “The Association County Commissioners of Georgia is providing an important link between county government and the land conservation community, and we appreciate the statewide network that they represent.”

ACCG is committed to assisting counties with land conservation efforts throughout the state. In 2008, ACCG launched its Land Conservation Initiative and dedicated a full-time director to assist counties with land conservation efforts including project identification and funding. ACCG also is partnering with DNR and the Georgia Conservancy on the Coastal Georgia Land Conservation Initiative thanks to a grant provided through the Woodruff Foundation. This project involves mapping species and their habitats in 11 counties along and near the Georgia coast and working with those counties to incorporate this information into future land use decisions.

In addition, ACCG is working with the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) on the Green Infrastructure Project through the Sustainable Community Forestry Program. Through this effort, ACCG and GFC are working with counties to protect tree canopies and promote connectivity.

Pike County has preserved for public use, many tracts of land, commonly located in each city and with the County’s rather large recreation complex site on Twin Oaks Road. Within each city in Pike County you will find conveniently located picnic areas and walking paths for the general public to use as they chose. The City of Zebulon has chosen to move forward and finalize its public area immediately next to the City Hall.

“Land conservation is important to Georgia’s counties, and we want to help facilitate their efforts with state and federal agencies, conservation organizations, private foundations and others to give them the resources that they need,” said ACCG Land Initiative Director Beth Bradley. “We’re excited to see county government taking such a leading role in land conservation and look forward to even more success stories in the years to come.”

First celebrated in 1991, National County Government Week (NCGW) was created by the National Association of Counties (NACo) to raise public awareness and understanding about the roles and responsibilities of the nation’s 3,068 counties.

ATLANTA, Ga. (May 1, 2009) – More than 40 county officials from across the state recently were recognized by the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) for completion of the Commissioners Training Program and the Certified Commissioners Advanced Program (CCAP) at the association’s 95th Annual Meeting which was held at the Savannah Civic Center in Chatham County. These training programs are offered by ACCG in conjunction with the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia and have educated more than 2,600 elected and appointed county officials in the last two decades.

“Our training programs are nationally recognized as an outstanding example of training for county commissioners and other county officials,” said ACCG Executive Director Jerry Griffin. “We are extremely proud of this year’s graduates, who committed the time to complete these training programs and expand their knowledge in many key areas of local government operations.”

The county elected and appointed officials that completed one of the ACCG training programs and were recognized this year include Pike County Commissioner Roosevelt Willis. Roosevelt Willis was recognized as being the only county commissioner in the history of Pike County to complete CCAP Training.

ACCG offers training courses in association with other programs such as the Annual Meeting or Legislative Conference as well as stand-alone opportunities throughout the year. The Commissioners Training Program requires county officials to take a total of 48 hours of instruction, including five required courses and three elective courses. Required courses include County Government Law/Personal Liability, Economic Development, Financial Management I, Fundamentals of Property Appraisal and Taxation, and Personnel/Human Resources. Completion of CCAP requires an additional 48 hours of course instruction, as well as participation in a two-day Advanced Leadership Institute and the completion of a summary project report.

Zebulon, GA - There is an old school located centrally in Pike County that was once vibrant and full of laughing, learning children. As time and progress dictates that old school fell into disrepair and disuse and stood empty for a long time.

I walked through that school today and was impressed by the new roof, new floors, renovated classrooms and restrooms. Modern lighting and modern technology was in abundant evidence. Old classrooms are now meeting places for a large variety of programs. There are GED class rooms with computer stations and learning centers and a separate testing room. There is a modern Juvenile Justice Center and Promise Place and many other rooms for other activities and programs. There is a network of offices for various public officials and a mechanic garage.

This old school is the Zebulon City Hall Complex. I don’t know if that is really the proper name for it but I do know that the Mayor and City Council, with the outstanding leadership and astounding vision of the City Administrator Ms. Kathleen Birney, have transformed this old blight on the landscape to a building complex that any community would be proud of.

If you get a chance to go by and take a look you really should do it. Call first for an appointment because this lady is really busy, but let Ms. Birney tell you about the one million dollar a year budget she works with then let her tell you about SPLOST and grants and outside funding that have helped pay for providing one of the best yet examples of recycling that I have seen.

When you are finished with the tour of the complex, ask about the park. I did. (See article above entitled "County Governments Actively Involved in Land Conservation" to find out more about this park.)

Pictures are on the We Are Pike County page.

[Note from the Editor: Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) is a one cent sales tax that everyone pays when we--or anyone passing through our county--buys something in Pike County.

One penny doesn't add up to much when it's all by itself. But, when you add it with other pennies over the course of several years, it can pay for a lot of needs in our county that property owners don't have to pay for with our tax dollars. And it's a fair tax because everyone pays for it with every purchase that we make. “Continue Pennies for Pike” is the theme for the upcoming SPLOST.

If you are interested in seeing what SPLOST is all about, come to a Citizens Advisory Task Force meeting held on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Board of Commissioners meeting room.]

Locust Grove (May 1, 2009) - SHE DID IT! Ann McLaughlin walked the last four miles to Noah's Ark on Friday, May 1 - accompanied by the City Manager of Locust Grove, GA; the Chair of the Henry County Board of Commissioners; Ann's brother and sister; two newspaper reporters - and members of the Noah's Ark staff. Oh - and we don't want to forget the three rescue dogs who walked as well - Ann's dog Diego, and Luna and Kaiser of Noah's Ark.

If you wish to honor her tremendous effort, you may go to the donation page and make a gift "on behalf of....300 Mile Walk." Or mail in the sponsorship form. (Her walk totaled almost 310 miles.)

Click here to read about Noah's Ark Rehabilitation Center and click over to Ann's page with her blog and pictures of the walk.

Zebulon, GA (April 30, 2009) - Today at 4pm the public hearing portion of the Pike County Pre Disaster Mitigation Plan took place in the Commissioners meeting room. This meeting was hosted by County Manager Steve Marro, Plan Writer Pete Nelms and Emergency Management Director Mike Singleton.

The Disaster Mitigation act of 2000 requires every state, county and municipality to have a “plan of action” to help avert loss of life and property in times of severe weather and other disasters. The deadline for getting a plan approved is June 30, 2009.

With an approved Pre Disaster Mitigation Plan in place Pike County can get money to help put in early warning systems. We can get money to help purchase durable disaster equipment like cots and masks and we can get money to help clean up after a tornado or flood. Having this plan in place may lower insurance costs as areas of risk are defined and plans of action are put in place to help mitigate loss.

As a part of the plan, areas of the county have been identified as being at risk for flood. The many dams in the county have been inspected to make sure they are safe and various programs have been outlined that can lessen the impact of storms on individuals and businesses.

Once the plan is approved by GEMA and FEMA local county officials will put into place actions to be taken in case of disaster. Local shelters will be listed, durable equipment storage places will be decided upon and funding can be sought to help pay for early warning systems. As County Manager Steve Marro pointed out the entire 362 corridor needed sirens going during the last series of storms that went through Spalding County but we don’t have them.

There was also discussion about evacuation plans and it was learned that only 11% of the population usually seek public shelter if there is need for evacuation. Many people have coordinated plans with friends and family, utilizing shared resources. Having a county plan in place can in turn help families plan.

As Commissioner Don Collins said after reviewing the plan “this has been a long time coming”.

LaGrange, GA – The State Public Health Lab has forwarded a lab specimen from a student at Eagles Landing Christian Academy to the CDC. Today it was confirmed for the novel strain H1N1 influenza A. Current CDC recommendations are to close schools for up to 14 days for suspected or confirmed cases of H1N1. School officials have elected to temporarily close according to CDC guidelines.

“We are in constant communication with the State Medical Director and lead state Epidemiologist regarding all cases,” said Michael Brackett, District 4 Medical Director. “We are coordinating with school officials to provide advice and support during this temporary closure. We will closely adhere to the most current CDC recommendations regarding H1N1.” “At this time, we do not know if or how many more cases of H1N1 there are in this area or in the state,” said Brackett.

“We will interview those involved in this case and recommend further treatments using CDC protocol. We are active participants in the collection of samples based on the CDC case definitions and suspicious samples are being forwarded to the State Public Health Lab for testing. You will be contacted by public health staff if you need to be evaluated, but if you are sick you should seek help from your medical provider.”

"Georgia Public Health is actively engaging and addressing this issue with its many community, state and federal partners,” said Brackett “This case diagnosis is one result of that rapid and highly coordinated effort to protect Georgians from this novel virus. These efforts will continue unabated until this threat is resolved."

“I want to stress that there is no need for panic, locally or otherwise. We are further evaluating the situation and will continue to do so. The leadership of Eagles Landing Christian Academy have responded professionally and are on top of this situation. They have done an excellent job at keeping the community safe,” said Brackett.

At present, the symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1influenza. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 influenza infection in people. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

If you become ill with influenza like symptoms seek medical care. There is medication available that can help. There is no vaccine available right now to protect against flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these important everyday steps to protect your health:
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before you eat or after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective, if needed.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick with flu-like symptoms.

If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school; and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

GDPH and the LaGrange Public Health District strongly recommend Georgia residents to:
1) Contact your health care provider if you are not feeling well and have recently traveled to areas that have high numbers of confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza.
2) Keep up healthy behaviors –such as washing hands, coughing or snee zing in tissue or crook of elbow, staying at home when you arefeeling sick, and following your health care provider’s recommendations.
3) Develop or update your Emergency Preparedness plan and Emergency Preparedness kit. Visit www.ready.ga.gov/register to access online tools that will provide step-by-step guidance on how to create a plan and an emergency kit.

Regular updates are also ongoing on the CDC’s website www.cdc.gov/swineflu, Georgia Public Health Hotline 1.888.899.9788 or locally 770.830.2828.

For more information, see the CDC H1N1 Flu website.

International Human Cases of H1N1 Flu Infection

For information about the global situation, see the World Health Organization

What You Can Do to Stay Healthy

The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation is a new non-profit organization that offers help to families of fallen military personnel. It's mission is to identify and meet the immediate needs of the family members of the fallen servicemen and women of the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Each year, hundreds of Marines, Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen make the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the Armed Forces. They leave behind devastated spouses, children, parents, siblings and other family members.

Military loss places difficult burdens both emotionally and financially on the family members that are left behind. You cannot replace the loss of life of these fallen heroes but we can honor the sacrifice of these Fallen Heroes by providing for their families in their time of grief and remember the price these heroes paid for OUR freedom. This gives us as a grateful Nation a way to not only say "I'm Sorry for your loss" but to also say what can I do to help?

That is why The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation was founded.

The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to providing financial, emotional and moral support to the families left behind due to the untimely death of their Fallen Hero while serving in our United States Armed Forces. It is also a way to express our gratitude for their loved ones sacrifice and service to us and our Nation!

The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation was founded by Teresa Rutledge. She is the mother of fallen Marine Lance Cpl Jeffrey D Walker. He was KIA on May 14, 2007 in Al Anbar Providence Iraq. Teresa felt the need to reach out and help other military families experiencing the loss of their loved one, the loss of their FALLEN HERO!!

The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation will host its first annual Memorial Day Benefit on Sunday, May 24, 2009 at Nash Farm Battlefield located at 4361 Jonesboro Road in Hampton, GA. Gates open 11am - 10pm. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and join us for a fun filled day.

There will be live music (country, bluegrass and southern rock), a poker run, raffles, Native American dance, a 50/50 drawing, a car show, a silent auction and lots of GOOD FOOD!! Also plenty of fun and games for kids of all sizes! Come here after church for a fun filled afternoon! (NO COOLERS or outside food will be allowed in).

Adult tickets are now $5.00 and children 6-11 years are now $3.00. Barbeque plates will be sold for $10.00!(provided by Papa Willies). Barbeque plates include 1/4 chicken, slaw, beans, chips, bread, drink and dessert! Bag lunches will also be sold for $5.00. They include a hot dog, chips, drink and a snack.

There will be vendors on site for you to browse and shop. Some include military t-shirts, native american items and Fallen Heroes Family Foundation logo items for sale.

The Fallen Heroes Family Foundation is looking for we are looking for sponsors and needing donations to help with this event.

For more information, please click here.

Kenneth Vaughn has been selected the University System of Georgia Outstanding Scholar at Gordon College.

Vaughn, of Thomaston, will graduate in May with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Degree summa cum laude – the highest honors a graduate can earn.

Vaughn was honored with Senate Resolution 390 and House Resolution 438 during Academic Recognition Day during the recent session of the Georgia General Assembly.

Academic Recognition Day was begun in 1987 as a “celebration of individual academic achievement and recognition of those students who exemplify that which is best about the University System of Georgia and its institutions.”

Vaughn is one of 30 in the first class of teacher candidates in the history of the college to earn a baccalaureate degree, and one of only two men in the class. He hopes to teach in Upson County.

“This is an honor for me,” Vaughn said. “I look forward to starting my career and continuing my education. Our instructors have prepared us well for what lies ahead and I share this honor and my academic success with them as well as my fellow classmates.”

Jerry Stinchcomb, chair of the division of teacher education, admires Vaughn’s dedication.

“Kenny is a fine young man and it is a pleasure to acknowledge his scholarship and dedication to becoming a teacher,” Stinchcomb said. “Wherever his career takes him, he will make a difference for a generation of future students.”

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Gordon College, in Barnesville, is a residential state college of the University System of Georgia and offers more than 80 programs of study to more than 3,800 students.

Picture is on the We Are Pike County page.

The Pike County boys and girls golf teams won Region 5-AA championships Monday, April 20th at Overlook Golf Club in LaGrange. Callaway High was the host of the 2009 region tournament.

The Pike County Pirates (coached by Jeff Tharpe) and Lady Pirates (coached by Brad Weiser) have won their third consecutive region titles.

The Pike boys scored a season-best 321, followed by 352 from second place Callaway.

Scores from the boys included low medalist Brian Forshaw with a 74, Jake McKernan (79), Matthew Peeler (84), Alan Sweatmon (84), Brandon Fennell (84) and Connor Griffis (84).

On the girls side, Pike Co. scored a 218 followed by 237 from Callaway. Olivia Swint scored a 106, followed by Brianna Coursey with a 112. The other girls competing for the Lady Pirates were Mallorie Madewell and Kendell Deel.

Both teams start the state championships on Monday, May 4. The boys will tee off at Rocky Creek Golf Course in Vidalia and the girls will tee off at Brazell’s Creek Golf Course in nearby Reidsville.

Pictures from the LaGrange Tournament of both The Pike County High School Boys and Girls' Teams are on the We Are Pike County page as well as that of Low medalist, Brian Forshaw, who shot a 74. Photos are courtesy of Clark Klinkenberg with www.Get-TheDL.com and article information courtesy of Coach Jeff Tharpe.

Roosevelt Willis was honored in Tuesday night's meeting of the Board of Commissioners for doing something that no other commissioner has ever done. He completed the Certified Commissioners Advanced Program (CCAP) through Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG).

ACCG provides training for new commissioners with the cooperation of The University of Georgia that is required for commissioners to become certified. All commissioners are required to become certified by taking these classes that inform the commissioners about various programs that are available to their counties as well as enhancing their skills as elected officials.

A certificate of recognition is awarded to every commissioner who completes the five required courses which total 48 hours of instruction. All of Pike County's commissioners are certified.

CCAP training is an additional 24 hours of required courses plus 24 hours of elected courses that are not required of our commissioners but have brought additional knowledge to our Board of Commissioners. Before he could complete this course, Roosevelt had to attend training at the Advanced Leadership Institute and complete a project summary report.

Roosevelt Willis was recognized as being the only county commissioner in the history of Pike County to complete CCAP Training. Congratulations to Roosevelt on a job well done.

Picture is on the We Are Pike County page.

Sgt. Jose Guerrerolopez is our "Hero of the Week". We also shipped two more care packages this week bringing our total to 171 Hero Pack care packages. We need more addresses of our service men and women in Iraq and Afghanistan to get some more packs out. Spread the word and let's shoot for 200!

Click Here To View The Site: ThankYouSoldier.com.

We are roughly 12 days shy of our 1 year anniversary so let me take a minute to thank each of you who have supported our efforts over the last year. You are greatly appreciated and I know those WE have served over this past year are appreciative as well of your support.

If you know anyone connected with military units currently deployed, please pass this email to them or pass their name and contact info to me. We struggle to get names and addresses of our Heroes for obvious security reasons. And if you have any local paper or media contacts who can help spread our mission through an interview or ad, please help me work to make that a reality.

God Bless America,
Jonathan Gates, Support@ThankYouSoldier.com

ThankYouSoldier is an official mission of East Highland United Methodist Church, Columbus, Georgia and is covered under the non-profit statue as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, your donation is tax deductible in accordance with applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.

Buzz Baseball, 9U travel team, won USSSA's Battle of the Best held April 25-26 in Villa Rica.

Buzz's record was 5-0, scoring a total of 76 runs and allowing only 19 for the tournament. The 5 foot trophy will be presented to American Pie in Zebulon for their continued support of Buzz Baseball.

Team members include: Jacob Miller, Dylan Lawerence, Coleman Wood, Chandler Yokeley, Ty Ebanks, John Austin Sutton, Marshall Burford, Ian Watkins, Wil Hernandez and Ryan Dyal.

Picture is on the We Are Pike County Page.

SAVANNAH, GA - Third-term Bulloch County Commissioner Jan Tankersley was sworn in as 2009 -10 President of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) by Secretary of State Karen Handel at the group’s Annual Meeting Awards Breakfast on April 28 at the Savannah Civic Center.

With this election by the ACCG membership, Tankersley will continue as President of the 95-year-old organization comprised of all 159 Georgia counties through next year’s annual meeting in April 2010. She first moved into the position in January 2009 to fill an unexpired term.

“The coming year will be a very exciting and challenging time to serve as the ACCG President, said Executive Director Jerry Griffin. “We will be working closely with county officials as they make difficult choices as a result of the economic downturn while at the same time encouraging them to prepare their communities for the future.”

Addressing some 400 county officials present at the association’s yearly awards breakfast at the Savannah Civic Center in Chatham County, Tankersley expressed thanks to her fellow county elected officials and said that as Georgia continues in the midst of the worst economic downturn seen in 70 years, she feels Georgia’s local governments are in a position to help communities weather the downturn.

“I believe it’s a time for government, especially local government, to step forward. Local government officials are most attuned to how our communities are being affected by the sluggish economy,” Tankersley said. “As Georgians, we know we’re all in this together.”

“The good news is, we may also be the most well-prepared to take on the necessary challenges,” Tankersley added. ”Our Association, ACCG, has been at the forefront among state associations of counties, putting programs and resources in place to help us succeed.”

In her Presidential address, Tankersley highlighted the ways in which ACCG has helped county governments effectively plan for growth, advance technologically, promote economic viability, embrace regional coalitions to provide emergency services and environmental facilities and meet new benchmarks in environmental stewardship.

Tankersley, elected to office in 2001, qualified for a third term on the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners in 2008 and ran unopposed as District 2-A commissioner for her home town, Brooklet. The Bulloch County native is a respected leader in her county with a distinguished record of public service that extends beyond the coastal region and has been a member of the ACCG Board of Managers since 2005.

In addition to her role as an elected official in Bulloch County, Tankersley has also assumed regional and state leadership roles. Currently she is serving on the Bulloch County Kiwanis Club Board of Directors and the Georgia Leadership Academy. She also was appointed to the Ogeechee Technical College Foundation Board and serves on the school’s scholarship board and fund-raising committee. In January 2009, she was appointed to serve on the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Council.

Tankersley also has served on several state government boards, including the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Region 12 Advisory Council and the Savannah and Ogeechee Basin Advisory Committee. In 2004, she was appointed by Governor Sonny Perdue to the State - Local Transportation Strategies Task Force, and she co-chaired the governor’s re-election campaign in Bulloch County and served on his 2006 Inaugural Committee in 2006.

Tankersley’s civic affiliations are numerous and include membership in the Statesboro Bulloch County Chamber of Commerce, for which she served on the Board of Directors and as chair of the Community Improvement Committee. She is also a charter member of the Republican Women of Bulloch County and an active Kiwanis Club member, chairing the club’s Blood Mobile Committee and serving as a member of its Program Committee.

In Bulloch County, Tankersley said she is most proud of recent expansions to the county’s fire protection services outside of the "five mile" fire protection district. Tankersley also has recently begun volunteering with a new project through the Kiwanis Club, a Bi-Lo Grocery grant award that will provide free evening meals for children attending the Statesboro Boys and Girls Club.

Within ACCG, she is a past vice chair and chair of the association’s Economic Development and Transportation Committee, the Emory Greene Award Committee and on other special committees within the association.

Tankersley is a graduate of the Certified Commissioners’ Training Program, the Certified Commissioners Advanced Program (CCAP) and the ACCG Academy for Leadership. She also is a graduate of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development and special training programs for zoning administrators.

###

About ACCG: It is the mission of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia to enhance the role, stature and responsiveness of county government in Georgia. Since counties are the level of government closest to the people and serve all the people of the state, ACCG will promote the ability of Georgia counties to provide public services responsibly, efficiently, and cost effectively through cooperative legislative action, education of public officials, provision of quality member services and technical assistance, and increasing public awareness of critical local government issues. For more information, go to www.accg.org.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., today criticized House-Senate conference negotiators for the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget Resolution for removing language authored by Isakson that would have provided for a $15,000 tax credit to individuals who purchase a home in the next year. Isakson voted against final passage of the $3.56 trillion Budget Resolution, which passed by a vote of 53 to 43.

It was the second time this year that a House-Senate conference committee has deleted Isakson’s expanded $15,000 homebuyer tax credit after it had won overwhelming approval by the Senate.

“I would like to thank the Senate for its wisdom in adopting the $15,000 credit, express my deep disappointment in the conference committee for dropping it and encourage our president and the leadership of our country to give a second thought to what this credit could do,” Isakson said. “The greatest stimulus in the world is not a gift of money. It is an incentive for American families to invest and restore confidence in the United States economy.”

On April 1, the Senate unanimously passed Isakson’s amendment to the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget Resolution that would have created a deficit-neutral reserve fund to provide for a $15,000 nonrefundable federal income tax credit for the purchase of a principal residence during a one-year period. It would also have ensured that there was room available in the Fiscal Year 2010 budget for a homebuyer tax credit to be passed at a later date.

On Feb. 4, 2009, the Senate unanimously approved an amendment by Isakson to the economic stimulus bill would have provided a direct tax credit to any homebuyer who purchases any home. The amount of the tax credit would be $15,000 or 10 percent of the purchase price, whichever is less. During conference negotiations between the House and Senate on the final version of that bill, Isakson’s $15,000 tax credit for all purchasers of any home was removed. Instead, House and Senate negotiators made only small modifications to the first-time homebuyer tax credit that was enacted in 2008 as part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008.

Isakson has pushed hard for a non-repayable tax credit for homebuyers because he knows that it will work. In the mid-1970s, America faced a similar housing crisis when a period of easy credit and loose underwriting flooded the market with new construction. Interest rates rose, the economy slowed and America was left with a three-year supply of vacant homes. Congress responded by passing a $2,000 tax credit for anyone purchasing a new home for their principal residence. Isakson, who was in the real estate industry in Atlanta at the time, says the results were clear and swift as home values stabilized, housing inventory dropped and the market recovered.

LaGrange, GA – The Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) confirmed today Georgia’s first human case of swine influenza virus Type A (H1N1) disease in Troup County. The person is currently under treatment.

“What we know at this point is this patient recently traveled to Mexico” said GDPH Acting Director Sandra Elizabeth Ford, MD. At this time, we do not know if or how many more cases of H1N1 there are in this area or in the state. We are active participants in the collection of samples based on the CDC case definitions and those samples are being forwarded to the State Public Health Lab for testing.

"Georgia Public Health is actively engaging and addressing this issue with its many community, state and federal partners,” said Michael Brackett, M.D. District 4 Medical Director. “We are already looking for other cases. We have not found any. This case diagnosis is one result of that rapid and highly coordinated effort to protect Georgians from this novel virus. These efforts will continue unabated until this threat is resolved."

Although this is Georgia’s first human case, the total number of US cases has risen to 110 with 7 of the cases resulting in hospitalization.

“I want to stress that there is no need for panic, locally or otherwise. We are further evaluating the situation and will continue to do so. The medical staff and hospital staff have done an excellent job at keeping the community safe,” said Brackett.

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. If you become ill with influenza like symptoms seek medical care. There is medication available that can help.

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before you eat or after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective, if needed.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick with flu-like symptoms.

If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school; and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

GDPH and the LaGrange Public Health District strongly recommend Georgia residents to:
1) Contact your health care provider if you are not feeling well and have recently traveled to areas that have high numbers of confirmed cases of swine flu.
2) Keep up healthy behaviors –such as washing hands, coughing or sneezing in tissue or crook of elbow, staying at home when you are feeling sick, and following your health care provider’s recommendations.
3) Develop or update your Emergency Preparedness plan and Emergency Preparedness kit. Visit www.ready.ga.gov/register to access onlinetools that will provide step-by-step guidance on how to create a plan and an emergency kit.

Regular updates are also ongoing on the CDC’s website http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu.

There are travel recommendations on the website for travel inside of the US as well as Mexico. Go to the CDC Website to monitor travel recommendations.

Call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information about Swine Flu.

“Obsessed” (Screen Gems)

Don’t Mess with Beyonce’

Beyonce’ Knowles has her perfect role in the new film “Obsessed.” She plays a wife and mother who will do whatever it takes to protect her home. If you don’t believe that then bring it on! She is her own home protection system and she will whup whoever or do whatever it takes to protect her castle.

Derek Charles (Idris Elba) is a vice president for an investment firm in LA. He is married to the beautiful Sharon (Beyonce’) and they have a small son. Life is very good for this couple, but things are about to change. A serpent enters their Eden in the form of Lisa (Ali Larter), a temp who meets Derek and immediately claims him as her own.

It doesn’t matter that Derek rebuffs her advances; she creates a wild scenario in her head and goes full steam ahead. She is a woman obsessed. She intends to have Derek, his child and his home and pity anyone who stands in her way. This of course means she is on a collision course with Sharon.

The movie is reminiscent of “Fatal Attraction” but Larter’s kook is even crazier than Glenn Close’s. Plus Larter is a total seductress whereas Close was just a woman with a goal.

Elba, Larter and Knowles are all good in their roles with Beyonce’ being the best. Everything leads up to the woman to woman all out fight and it is worth waiting through the whole movie.

Jerry O’Connell is the weak link in the movie as Derek’s best friend Ben. Nothing about his character rings true. Christine Lahti plays a police detective in the movie and the role is beneath her talent. It is sad to think she has been reduced to such small roles.

The film is rated PG-13 for violence and profanity.

Beyonce’ doesn’t sing a note in this movie, and while that may bother some it didn’t me at all. I was just enjoying her being who she is and waiting for that final all out battle that the trailers had set up. In truth the trailers for this film all but gave away the entire plot of the movie.

“Obsessed” may be my guilty pleasure of the week. I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. I think you will too.

I scored “Obsessed” a delusional 7 out of 10.

©2009 Jackie K. Cooper

Official Website

Jackie has many movie reviews on his website at www.jackiekcooper.com including "The Soloist" and "Fighting". Jackie also has reviews of the latest books, DVDs, television shows as well as columns on life and living in the South.

Washington DC - U.S. Rep. Lynn Westmoreland said on the eve of President Obama’s 100th day in office that the opening act of this administration probably foreshadows what’s to come over the next four years.

“The first 100 days of the Obama administration have given us a strong indication of how the president intends to govern: For every problem there is a Washington solution. We knew this was going to be a historic presidency no matter what, but we didn’t know just how historic it was going to be. He quickly became the first president to fire an auto industry executive and he’ll set records by racking up more debt than all the other presidents combined over 200 years.

“I have to give the White House credit for its stagecraft, however. At a time when many states have unemployment rates above 10 percent, housing values are still going down, banks are still reluctant to lend, our major manufacturers and employers face bankruptcies and more pink slips go out every day, the administration has effectively turned attention toward a Portuguese Water Dog and a vegetable garden. Those things are much more fun to read about than the fact that Debt Day was Sunday and from now till the end of the year our government will operate on borrowed funds, much of it from nations hostile to our interests.

“For every bad marriage, there was once a honeymoon. The president’s approval ratings will eventually reflect the effects of his policies, not just the glamour of Camelot Restored. When a nation’s debt climbs toward its annual gross domestic product, it never works out well for a nation’s citizens. It leads, without fail, to a devalued currency, rampant inflation and diminished standards of living. Everybody likes the guy who’s buying the next round. Nobody likes the bully who steals your milk money. The president will eventually have to move from Santa to Scrooge, and it’s going to be a rough transition for all. Already, taxes will rise when the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts expire. But there’s going to be more. The “cap-and-trade, or “cap-and-tax” proposals, will impose a huge tax on every family that has electricity in their house.

“I believe in this nation and I’m an optimist that the American spirit can overcome all obstacles. But I’m also a realist that we have to stop digging this hole before it’s too late. If the rest of this play is just like the opening act, this is going to be one expensive production.”

(April 28, 2009) - A 27 year-old man in a stolen tractor was arrested Tuesday afternoon in Monroe County after leading police on a harrowing 70-mile chase that began in a Union City parking lot. Throughout the pursuit, the rig’s driver, Torrey Lang of Lithonia, clung precariously to the back of its cab.

Milo Demetris Banks of Albany is facing charges which include fleeing and attempting to elude, felony obstruction of a law enforcement officer, and theft by receiving the stolen truck.

According to Allison Selman-Willis of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began at 1:40pm when Lang stopped at a cell phone store located in the Kroger shopping center at Union City. While Lang was away, Banks allegedly got into the cab and locked its door. Lang approached as the vehicle was being driven away and jumped onto its side, holding on because the rig was traveling too fast for him to jump off.

Police in Union City spotted the tractor moments after they received 911 calls from both Lang and its owner, U.S. Express. Banks refused their orders to stop, beginning the seven county chase.

Speeds during the pursuit averaged 40 to 50 miles per hour as it meandered down US 19-41 to McDonough Road and the Interstate at Henry County. From there, the chase continued south with at least two police helicopters and dozens of cruisers from multiple jurisdictions.

The rig passed through Lamar County with flattened tires before coming to a stop on its rims in northern Monroe. Banks was forcibly removed at the scene.

Lang jumped into the roadway as the rig slowed and emerged with only minor scratches, authorities said.

According to a Griffin officer with the Georgia State Patrol, Trooper Howard of the Forsyth Post was injured by a ricocheting “friendly fire” bullet and transported from the scene with unspecified injuries. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is assisting other law enforcement agencies, including the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, in the investigation of this incident, Selman-Willis confirmed Tuesday.

Milo Banks previously served a five-year sentence in the Arrendale State Prison on two 1998 convictions in Dougherty County for robbery and entering a vehicle. He was released October 4, 2003.

Banks was transported to Fulton County after Tuesday’s arrest.

Pictures are on the We Are Pike County page.

(April 25, 2009) - The tall flames and smoke visible to the west of Barnesville on Friday night and early Saturday were the result of a controlled burn on about 15 acres off Hwy 18 West just over the line in Pike County, the Georgia Forestry Commission said today.

According to District 4 Ranger Ken Parker, Michael Finley of a Loblolly Drive address, obtained a burn permit Friday morning and started work the same day.

“He had excellent firebreaks and started burning yesterday morning,” Parker said Saturday. “The fire burned into a bunch of logging slash piles that he intended to burn and it made a show. By the fact that it was burning late in the evening, it made more of show. But there really wasn’t anything to it,” he continued.

Witnesses reported an orange sky and said mechanized equipment could be heard working late into the evening. Lamar Fire & Rescue radio traffic also suggested the blaze could be seen from Old Hwy 41 near Milner.

Parker, however, said the flames were never out of control.

“Everything was legal, but the fire department was concerned and we just rode around the firebreaks to make sure everything was good. If it had of happened during the daytime, no one would ever have known that he was back there burning,” he continued.

The spectacle drew dozens of gawkers and heavy smoke lingered in the area through most of Saturday.

“Those brush piles just didn’t take off until later in the evening, and once logging slash piles catch on fire like that they just have to burn - there’s no way to put them out they’re so hot,” he concluded.

Picture on the We Are Pike County page.

The Pike County Boys’ Varsity Soccer Team advances to the second round of the state playoffs tonight on Wednesday April 29th at 7:30 here in Zebulon.

The Boys’ have had an outstanding soccer season accumulating a record of 12-2-1 this year in route to their very first outright area championship. The boys have scored 54 goals this year while only giving up 16. Key games this year have included a 1-1 tie against non area rival Upson Lee, a 5-1 win against area rival Our Lady of Mercy, a 2-1 victory in a shootout against area rival Landmark Christian, and a first round state playoff win last Friday against area 12 #2 seed Paideia of Atlanta in a shootout 3-2.

Pike’s next opponent is Thomasville of area 2 with a record of 8-1-1. Thomasville defeated Callaway 5-0 to advance to play Pike in Zebulon in the second round.

The team includes: Trey Barnett, Josh Gilliam, Captain Dan Andersen, Manager Chris Beyland, Garrett Childers, Karlton Waddell, Garth Laster, Josh Caldwell, Caleb McDougal, Coach Billy Rowell, Raymond Tice, Andrew Chou, Drew Smith, Brett Edmondson, Jarred Ivester, Jarred Sturm, Corey Morris, Coleman Taylor, Captain Cole Mitchell, Andrew Mata-LeClerc, Mason Henderson, Matt Reeves, and Coach Mike McNutt. Congratulations!

Article and picture submitted by Coach Mike McNutt. Picture on the We Are Pike County page.

The press release from LaGrange that was published on the 27th was updated on the 28th at about 4 p.m. for the Pike County Board of Commissioners.

In addition to what is already on Pike County Times, it says:

"As of April 28, 2009, no swine influenza A(H1N1) virus infections have yet been identified in District 4. However, Georgia may see cases of swine influenza A(H1N1) disease, given the unfolding circumstances of this epidemic. Pike County Health Department is working with the county EMA Director, Chamber of Commerce, business and industry, the County school system, and all other participants to the Pike County Pandemic Flu Preparedness Program to review the current situation and address our community's concerns.

We do have in place pandemic influenza plans, which were recently updated to address this exact situation. While the news of swine flue may be alarming to the public we would like for you to know that we have been working on response to this situation for years and are prepared to respond." As of April 29th at 11 a.m. the number of laboratory confirmed cases are as follows:
Arizona 1
California 14
Indiana 1
Kansas 2
Massachusetts 2
Michigan 2
Nevada 1
New York City 51
Ohio 1
Texas 16

There have been 91 laboratory confirmed cases of Swine Flu in the United States. There has been one confirmed death in Texas from the Swine Flu.

From the CDC Swine Flu website today:

"The outbreak of disease in people caused by a new influenza virus of swine origin continues to grow in the United States and internationally. Today, CDC reports additional confirmed human infections, hospitalizations and the nation’s first fatality from this outbreak. The more recent illnesses and the reported death suggest that a pattern of more severe illness associated with this virus may be emerging in the U.S. Most people will not have immunity to this new virus and, as it continues to spread, more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths are expected in the coming days and weeks.

CDC has implemented its emergency response. The agency’s goals are to reduce transmission and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials and the public address the challenges posed by the new virus. Yesterday, CDC issued new interim guidance for clinicians on how to care for children and pregnant women who may be infected with this virus. Young children and pregnant women are two groups of people who are at high risk of serious complications from seasonal influenza. In addition, CDC’s Division of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories to help them respond to the outbreak. The swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir. This is a rapidly evolving situation and CDC will provide updated guidance and new information as it becomes available."

Common sense precautions that people can take to stay healthy include:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
· Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

The flu is thought to be spread through from person to person through coughing and sneezing from those who are infected. If you get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay home from work and school in order to prevent spreading sickness to other people.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a travel warning that recommends everyone avoid non-essential travel to Mexico. The CDC is releasing 1/4th of its antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protective devices to help states respond to this outbreak. The CDC is giving daily updates on this situation at www.cdc.gov/swineflu/.

For more information on Swine Flu, please refer to the District 4 press release below dated 4.27.09. Thank you to Hayla Hall for keeping the media and the public updated on the situation in our area.

CNSNews.com - In the course of a short press conference yesterday, Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania told reporters first that he was changing his party affiliation from Republican to Democrat because of his principles, and then because of his polls.

Early in the press conference, a reporter asked Specter: “Senator, are you putting your personal ambition ahead of principle?”

Specter responded: “No, I'm putting principle at the top of the list. The principles that I subscribe to are my independence, which I will retain regardless of party label.”

Later in the press conference, Specter revealed that he had deciding to change parties after looking at recent polls.

“Can you give us some insights into your conversations with Senator Reid and then, bigger picture, when you made this decision and how you made this decision?” a reporter asked. “Was it, because you have been making a lot of statements recently, I mean, from your statements, it sounded like you are a Republican and you intended to stay in the Republican Party? So what changed?”

In the end, it was looking at polls, Specter conceded.

“The decision has been reached gradually as I have traveled the state in the last several months,” Specter said. “And specifically, I got my own poll results back last Friday--late last week, and consulted with my campaign managers, and had a long discussion with Joan and my son Shanin over the weekend, and came to a decision over this past weekend.”

The American Conservative Union gave Specter a lifetime rating of 44.47% out of a possible 100% for his voting record.

[Note from the Editor: Of course, this will have some impact on the Minnesota race where Coleman and Franken have been neck to neck and no outcome has been determined as of yet. If Al Franken wins there, the Democrats will have a supermajority that end debate on a bill and force a vote or bring a bill to the floor that has been stalled by a single member. The last time that the Democrats had a 60 vote majority was in the 95th Congress of 1977-1979.]

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS

    1. Proposed text amendment to Section 156.027 (J) to Chapter 156 of the Zoning Code to provide for an emergency permit situation in the event of a catastrophic loss of a primary residence.

First Reading of 156.027(J)-Catastrophic loss of a primary residence

     2. SE09-03- Robert Eric Anderson is requesting a Special Exception in an AR zoning district to allow for an air stream trailer to be located on the property for the owner’s use of occasional hunting. The property is located along the southerly side of Hwy 109 in Land Lot 158 of the 9thLand District of Pike County Georgia The said property contains 50.61 acres and is further identified as Tax Map #034-025.

Board Discussion/Action of any.

     3. SE09-04 - Christ Chapel Community Church is requesting a Special Exception in an AR zoning district to allow for outdoor recreation associated with the church.. The property is located along the northwesterly side of US Hwy 19 North in Land Lot 62 of the 2nd Land District of Pike County Georgia. The said property contains 21.31 acres and is further identified as Tap Map #076-031.

Board Discussion/Action of any.

     4. Repeal the DR-6 (Duplex Residential) District, Section 156.120 through 156.124 of the Pike County Code of Ordinances in its entirety.

First Reading of DR-6 Ordinance

    5. Repeal the PR (Planned Residential) District, Sections 156.150 through 156.155 of the Pike County Code of Ordinances in its entirety.

First reading of PR Ordinance

    6. Ratification of the Pike County Code as amended through December 31, 2008

First Reading of the Pike County Code.

     7. Text Amendment 156.027(A) to add back text that was inadvertently omitted from an earlier amendment. (Special exceptions section).

First Reading of Text Amendment 156.027 (A)

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
     1. Don Bailey to give a Friends of Pike County Animals update
     2. Final Plat approval for Etheridge Mill Road Industrial Park

IX. NEW BUSINESS
     1. FY 2009 Budget Amendment #4-reallocating funds from the Contingency fund to the Fire Department-Other Equipment account for the purchase of the Turbo Draft
    2. Refund request for variance application fee in the amount of $200.00 for Carol and Marvin Harris (VAR 09-01)
    3. Discuss contract between the Library Board and the Pike County Board of Commissioners.

X. EXECUTIVE SESSION-None

XI. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
    None

XII. ADJOURNMENT

Update 4.29.09:

I. CALL TO ORDER………………………………Chairman Doug Mangham

II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

III. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
(O.C.G A. 50-14-1 (e) (1))

IV. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
Minutes from Regular Monthly Meeting held April 8, 2009 at 9:00 am pursuant to
(O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1(e) (2)

Minutes from Special Called Meeting held April 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm pursuant to
(O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1(e) (2)

The County Commission Meeting was held last night. All five commissioners were present along with Nancy to take the minutes, County Manager Steve Marro, and County Attorney Rob Morton. Chairman Doug Mangham asked Commissioner Roosevelt Willis to stand at the beginning of the meeting where he was recognized for completing the Certified Commissioners Advanced Program. Roosevelt showed the two plaques that he received for this advanced training. There will be separate story on this soon.

V. INVITED GUEST      1. William Hatley to request the paving of Harden Road.
Mr. Hatley did not show up at the meeting.
    2. Christine Curry/Agribusiness Authority-Request for support letter for two USDA grants for Agribusiness Authority
Chris Curry spoke for the Agribusiness Authority and asked for a letter of support from the BOC in order to apply for a grant. This would be a Partnership with Georgia Organics that would be a way to attract organic farmers to Pike County. Said that we already have two organic farms in Pike County. This 3 year grant would be a way to fund a toolshed, preparation of land, fund a paid position for a couple of years, and maybe even a covered market that could be open five days a week with spots to be leased to vendors. Maybe even work toward a restaurant with organic products. The Agribusiness Authority is teaming up with the City of Zebulon Downtown Development Authority. She advised that there is a 25% match on this, but that the Agribusiness Authority is looking for someone to donation some land that will go toward the match so the BOC is not obligated to match this grant. The BOC agreed to write a letter of support for this. The second grant was already sent in.

VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES

    A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities
A question was asked about Water and Sewer Authority (WSA) fuel from Public Works and whether it is tracked. Yes, it is. There was a question about sinkage on the right of way on Chapel Hill Road that was referred to in their minutes. A property owner had complained to the WSA about this. There was a question of who was responsible for the sinkage. Todd Goolsby from Public Works said that he had not seen a work order on this. Roosevelt asked the CM to look into this. CM and Todd to look into it and make a recommendation. * Tom Lacey from the WSA was asked come forward and address a question about 4 Project Packages that were submitted for Stimulus funds. He advised that the WSA was advised that these projects did not qualify. * There was also a question about George Norris' questions about the Agribusiness contract with the county. George was concerned about the eight month and twelve contract because of the changing of Pike County's year end going to July instead of the current October year end. The wording was clarified and he was satisfied with it. * Keep Pike Beautiful minutes were questioned. A comment was made that one person could not make heads or tails of the minutes. Discussion that there was a lot going on in other places but not in Pike County. One commissioner voiced his opinion that he thought the minutes were being written to justify a paycheck. * Motion was made to accept the minutes from Boards and Authorities in the county.

    B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners
The CM advised that the Pandemic Flu Committee has been activated with Hayla Hall from the District 4 Health Department in daily contact with Pike EMA Director Mike Singleton. (See separate story on this as well as the 4.27.09 update on Swine Flu.) CM advised that the county is purchasing face masks and that test packages for Swine Flu are being sent to Doctor's Offices, and that the county is monitoring this as close as it can. * CM advised that there are three vacancies at the Road Department with a fourth person retiring at the end of the month. Advised that there was an injury at the Road Department today that may leave a fifth vacancy for a time and that the Road Department cannot operate with five vacancies. Said that steps are being taken to fill the vacant positions.

    C Commissioners Report
District 1 Roosevelt Willis: Asked about the final plat on Ranew--this comes up later in the agenda. * Asked about Hollonville Fire Department. The building is complete. Discussion about whether to have the driveway reinforced with fiberglass or rebar. Todd Goolsby recommended the steel over fiberglass. The other two stations had fiberglass AND rebar and Commissioner Garner said that was overkill. Motion was made to amend the agenda to place the grading under New Business. * Asked about the temporary employee down at Planning and Zoning. Said that he thought she was brought in for a specific period of time in order to get them caught up on filing, etc. and then that person would move up to the Commissioners' Office in order to help them catch up with filing. The CM advised that David Allen, Director of Planning and Zoning, said that they use her 40 hours a week, but that the BOC office can pull her to this office to help with filing when she is not being used down there. * District 2 Parrish Swift: Asked about the Capital Improvements part of the Comprehensive Plan and the Capital Improvements Element of the Impact Fees program. Requested copies for himself and the other commissioners and recommended that they all get familiar with the Impact Fee program and what expenditures can be used for. Mr. Ross, who instated the Impact Fee program for Pike County, gave his opinion that the lights at the Soccer Field were not eligible for Impact Fees. There was some disagreement with that but Parrish was more concerned that this matter was not taken care of several months ago when this first came up because there is a five year time limit on when collected fees must be spent. Said that the commissioners need to educate themselves on this. * Said that the Overlay District Ordinance Design Concept needs to be different with a manufacturing corridor and a commercial corridor. * District 4 Don Collins: Said that a lot of work had been done on Courthouse beautification. [Note from the Editor: The work crew from West Central Georgia Detention Facility has put in a lot of work over there over the past couple of weeks along with Jonathan from Building and Grounds.] Said that there is a need for a SPLOST sign at the Williamson Fire House as well as the other two Fire Houses that have been built with SPLOST funds. * Asked about ADA Compliance on SPLOST. Said that the projects were written up by Todd Albritton and that the work was supposed to have been completed and then two more projects came up after there was an attempt to move the leftover funds to the Fire Department expenses. He wants to see a review of the original programs. The CM advised that the SPLOST Committee was disbanded after the last SPLOST was passed and was adamant that the current SPLOST Committee oversee the current SPLOST until it is completed. He thanked Carol Bass for giving this list to the county so they could see what was originally supposed to be done because that document was not on file in the BOC office where it could be easily found. Said that there is also a project to pave the top side of the Soccer Fields. * The old Elementary building has a renovation estimate cost that was given to the county. Rehab cost for the top floor would cost approximately $868,000 for the upper floor and $170,000. * Said that the CM might want to look into e-verification of sales tax funds rather than by check because the county could receive funds in 3 days rather than in two months. He learned this in a recent commissioner class that he attended. * Asked for a work session between the BOC and the department heads and another with elected officials before the budget process starts. * District 3 Tommy Powers and Chairman Doug Mangham: None.

    D. County Attorney Report: None.

More shortly.

The Dolly Goodpuppy Society, Inc. urges the public to please adopt a pet from The City of Barnesville Shelter. Please call Animal Control @ 770-358-1087 or City Hall for a viewing appointment 770-358-0181.

Visit DollyGoodpuppy.org for current photos of pound pets, visit our site, or call for information and training tips 770-468-2626.

"After a detailed evaluation and failure to respond to non-surgical methods, we are pleased that the Lt. Governor followed our team’s recommendation to move forward with his surgery as soon as possible. He had a degenerative disc problem that was affecting his spinal cord and nerve roots causing intense pain and neurologic trouble. The surgery proceeded according to plan. He is currently in recovery and his prognosis at this time is very good. This was a technically exacting procedure, and one that requires sufficient rest and recovery. The Lt. Governor approached his diagnosis and treatment recommendations in a deliberate manner. He intends to approach his recovery in a similar fashion, adhering to his prescribed limitations, as well. It will take time for the outcome of the surgery to be fully measured, and a number of months for the bone grafts to heal. While it is difficult to predict any given patient's response to treatment, we anticipate a full recovery after suitable recuperation and expect that the Lt. Governor will be able to fulfill the duties of his position."

###

The Robert W. Woodruff Health Sciences Center of Emory University is an academic health science and service center focused on missions of teaching, research, health care and public service. Its components include the Emory University School of Medicine, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, and Rollins School of Public Health; Yerkes National Primate Research Center; Emory Winship Cancer Institute; and Emory Healthcare, the largest, most comprehensive health system in Georgia. Emory Healthcare includes: The Emory Clinic, Emory-Children's Center, Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown, Wesley Woods Center, Emory University Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital, the jointly owned Emory-Adventist Hospital, and EHCA, a limited liability company created with Hospital Corporation of America. EHCA includes two joint venture hospitals, Emory Eastside Medical Center and Emory Johns Creek Hospital. The Woodruff Health Sciences Center has a $2.3 billion budget, 18,000 employees, 2,500 full-time and 1,500 affiliated faculty, 4,300 students and trainees, and a $5.5 billion economic impact on metro Atlanta.

The Southern Rivers Energy Trust, Inc. recently awarded more than $13,000 to local organizations. The Trust Board is made up of 11 SRE members who volunteer to review applications and allocate funds according to the funding guidelines. They meet bi-monthly, beginning in January of each year and the deadline for applications is approximately two weeks prior to the meeting.

The program is funded through voluntary contributions from SRE members who allow their electric bill to be rounded up to the next dollar. Program guidelines stipulate that funds be used within the nine counties served by SRE including: Bibb, Coweta, Crawford, Lamar, Meriwether, Monroe, Pike, Spalding and Upson.

For more information about the program, visit the co-op’s Web site at www.southernriversenergy.com.

The most recent grant recipients include:

Monroe County Habitat for Humanity received $5857.56 for materials to finish building a house for a resident in Monroe County. Alzheimer’s Association Georgia Chapter – Central Region received $5000 for their Caring Closet program. The funds are reserved to reimburse families of Alzheimer’s patients in SRE’s service area for hygiene products up to $30 per month. And the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation, Inc. received $2500 to be disbursed at their Macon Clinic for vision and hearing services including eye surgeries for patients in SRE’s service area.

Photos are on the We Are Pike County Page.

The PCHS tennis teams traveled to Barnesville to participate in the 2009 Region 5 tennis championships. The boys’ team captured the region title by defeating Manchester and Heard County. In their first round match against Manchester, the team showed a lot of skill in moving the ball around and playing aggressive tennis in dominating the match four wins to one. The win placed Pike in the finals against Heard County.

In the finals, Pike demonstrated tremendous guts in all of their matches. A lot of the matches were close; however, the determination of the Pike tennis players won out with the team claiming the championships by a score of four matches to one.

The boys finished the season with a record of ten wins and only one loss. Their only loss was to top ten ranked GAC in the opening round of the state playoffs. That match was hard fought with Pike losing three matches to two.

The team was led by Ike Holmes who finished the season undefeated. Other members of the team are Zach Story, Collier Sanders, Jeffrey Hammond, Landon Kompelien, A.J. Holmes, Lewis Charette, and Dylan Gehman.

The girls’ team also traveled to Barnesville and finished third in the region by defeating Lamar County in the semifinals.

[Note from the Editor: This article and accompanying picture on the We Are Pike County Page were submitted by Todd Child.]

Atlanta, GA – Lt. Governor Casey Cagle will undergo surgery to correct a degenerative spinal and neck condition on Monday, April 27th. Cagle announced last week that he will run for re-election and stepped aside in the race for Governor in order to properly address his health.

“It has been humbling to hear from thousands of caring Georgians during this process. My family and I greatly appreciate the thoughts and prayers of so many and especially as I undergo surgery on Monday,” said Lt. Governor Casey Cagle.

A medical update will be provided by Emory upon the conclusion of the surgery. The Lt. Governor and his family appreciate the media's respect of their privacy as they prepare for Monday’s surgery.

This is the official statement released from Congressman Westmoreland's Office:

“It is an honor and a privilege to represent more than 700,000 people in Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District. The last week has given me a chance to think seriously about how I can best serve the people of our state. That process has involved in-depth talks with my wife and children, my longtime supporters and my most trusted friends. I have decided that it is best for me to remain in Congress, where I think I can make a difference as a legislative fighter.”

“I work with a great group of Georgians in Congress, and I believe it’s critical that we rebuild our state’s seniority in the delegation. I’m also excited about leadership roles I’ve taken to help Republicans work toward reclaiming our majority in Congress and returning our federal policy to conservative principles that will best serve America’s economy and its families. While my decision will be good news for some and disappointing to others, I believe it’s best for me and my family. Rest assured that I will do everything in my power to support our party’s nominee for governor. We’ve fought too hard and come too far to lose ground. We must keep the governor’s office in Republican hands, and I’m going to be a large part of that effort as a member of Georgia’s congressional delegation.”

Southern Rivers Energy is a member owned electric cooperative that provides service to approximately 18,000 accounts in nine counties including Bibb, Coweta, Crawford, Lamar, Meriwether, Monroe, Pike, Spalding, and Upson. The cooperative was chartered in 1938 as Lamar Electric Membership Corporation and changed the name to Southern Rivers Energy in January of 2005. The cooperative is headquartered in Central Georgia in Barnesville and was formally dedicated by President Roosevelt.

One of the Cooperative Principles that governs Southern Rivers Energy is "Commitment to Community" and that's something that we take great pride in. This innovative program gives you the opportunity to make a difference in your community by providing financial assistance for charitable and educational projects within our communities.

Operation Round Up® was originally started by Palmetto EMC, a co-op in South Carolina and has now been adopted by a number of co-ops in Georgia. This program is designed to assist a variety of worthwhile community, youth, educational and environmental programs.

How does it work?

Each month, your electric bill is "rounded up" to the nearest whole dollar amount with those extra few cents going into a separate Operation Round Up® fund. So, if your bill is $87. 23, you will actually be billed an even $88.00 and the extra 77 cents will go directly to the Operation Round Up fund. Doesn't sound like much, does it? And, if you figure the average member will only contribute approximately $6.00 PER YEAR, it still doesn't sound like much - until you multiply that $6.00 by about 12,000 members and that equals a lot of change!

Of course, all contributions are tax deductible. Any individuals or organizations seeking assistance through the Operation Round Up® must submit 15 copies of an application (which can be downloaded at the top of this page) that will then be reviewed by The Southern Rivers Energy Trust, Inc. Board of directors at their bi-monthly meeting.

This is a voluntary program and our members can sign up or opt out at any time by contacting our office at 770-358-1383 or toll free, 877-358-1383.

The program at Southern Rivers Energy began in November of 2005 and currently an estimated 75% of our members are participating in the program.

The Trust is governed by a separate Board of Directors made up of community volunteers that were nominated by the Southern Rivers Energy Board as follows:

Frank Fowler - Woodbury; Cecil Harbuck - Culloden; Kelly Hughes - Barnesville; David L. Mincey, Jr. - Roberta; Noel Riggins, Treasurer - Yatesville; Dale Royal, Chairman - Barnesville; Ann Yearwood - Concord; Ann Tidwell, Secretary - Lizella; Nedam Walker - Lizella; Bob Wiggins, Vice Chairman - Forsyth; Ann Yearwood - Concord; and Steven Yerkes - Meansville.

Individuals suffering from hardship such as a tornado or fire can apply for this grant as well as 501(c) organizations. Applications and a list of past recipients are available at www.southernriversenergy.com/oroundup.aspx.

Recipients from the March meeting will be announced soon.

David Henry and Chelsea Statham are set to represent Southern Rivers Energy on the 2009 Washington Youth Tour. Laura West was chosen as the alternate and will take their place on the tour in the event that either is unable to attend for any reason. David and Laura are both juniors at Lamar County Comprehensive High School in Barnesville and Chelsea is a junior at Pike County High School in Zebulon.

The contest is open to public, private and home schooled students in the nine counties served by SRE and consists of a written test and interview.

David and Chelsea will be among 104 high school students from across the state at the weeklong leadership event set for June 11-18. The tour kicks off with a banquet at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel in Atlanta followed by a visit to the Little White House in Warm Springs, GA where they learn about the birth place of rural electrification.

David, a junior at Lamar County Comprehensive High School is the son of Rolfe and Janine Henry of Barnesville. He is on the Varsity Track Team and is involved in a number of school activities including Beta Club, Academic Team and Lamar Literary Team. He is a member of 4-H, is active in church and has been on several mission trips.

Chelsea, a junior at Pike County High School, is the daughter of Marci Gentry and Scott Statham of Griffin. She is a reporter for her FFA chapter, a member of the Varsity Tennis Team, Beta Club, Interact Club, Math Team and National Honor Society. She is also a member of Student Council and is active in several different church youth groups.

Laura West, a junior at Lamar County Comprehensive High School was chosen as the alternate for the 2009 Washington Youth Tour. She is the daughter of James and Tina West of Barnesville. She will represent Southern Rivers Energy at the Georgia Cooperative Council Youth Leadership Conference at the Georgia FFA/FCLA Center in Covington. During the week of July 6-11, Laura will join other students from across the state and learn about the cooperative way of doing business while developing important leadership skills.

THE 300 MILE WALK HAS BEGUN! Ann McLaughlin of North Carolina started her benefit walk for Noah's Ark bright and early on Sunday morning, April 19 (See news story ) You can monitor her progress by going to www.annswalk.info. Read story by clicking www2.statesville.com. Ann invites you to join her anywhere along the way, and she is still seeking sponsors. Sponsors may go to the Noah's Ark donation page and make a gift "on behalf of....300 Mile Walk." Or mail in the sponsorship form. Sponsorships may be per mile or an outright gift. Bless you Ann - we'll be watching your progress and praying for you along the way!

HABITAT SPONSORS NEEDED - Have you ever seen a lion, tiger and bear who live together as a family? We have - and we wish to share them with our many friends who visit Noah's Ark - but we need funding for a habitat.

Evidence the Zebra has settled back down after his big Anniversary party, but still enjoys being a star. This little striped fellow loves when visitors come by to see him in his habitat, and will often pace the fence in front of them as if to make sure they give him his due! If you haven't been to Noah's Ark recently, please stop by and see Evidence and all of his friends. Hardback books, "I'm Evidence," are still available - call 770-957-0888 to order yours!

VOLUNTEER NEEDED - Small engine and lawn mower repair We have some lawn mowers, and we have lawn mower parts - what we don't have is someone that knows how to fix our mowers when they stop working! If you have some time and mechanical ability with small engines and lawn mowers, please bless us with your talents! Please contact noah@noahs-ark.org or call 770-957-0888.

For updates on Noah's Ark or to get on the email list, visit their website at http://www.noahs-ark.org/.

Georgia's annual air quality ban on outdoor burning, mostly in the northern half of Georgia, begins on Friday, May 1, 2009. The annual restrictions will be in place for 54 counties through September 30.

"The Georgia Environmental Protection Division puts this ban in place to comply with Federal Clean Air Regulations," said Alan Dozier, Chief of Forest Protection for the Georgia Forestry Commission. "Ozone levels increase to unhealthy levels in summer," he said. "Most types of open burning are restricted during the ban in an effort to manage the summertime surge in ozone levels."

The following counties are under the 2009 burn ban: Banks, Barrow, Bartow, Bibb, Butts, Carroll, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Columbia, Coweta, Crawford, Dawson, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Fulton, Gordon, Gwinnett, Hall, Haralson, Heard, Henry, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, Lumpkin, Madison, Meriwether, Monroe, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Paulding, Peach, Pickens, Pike, Polk, Putnam, Richmond, Rockdale, Spalding, Troup, Twiggs, Upson, Walker, and Walton.

The outdoor burning ban is under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Environmental Protection Division (EPD), Air Protection Branch.

The Georgia Forestry Commission operates an on-line burn permit system at 1-877-OK2-BURN. The phone system informs callers by county whether or not they can burn. Residents may also call their county GFC office for more information or visit www.GaTrees.org.

Pike County Sheriff's Investigators arrested Kristin Hill, age 17, from Greenville for burglary and false information as a result of an investigation into a burglary that occurred on April 13th on Highway 18 near the Meriwether County line.

The victim in this case returned home to find three individuals had made forced entry in the residence. The suspects fled from the home when they realized that that the home owner had returned.

The home owner was able to provide investigators with a detailed description of the suspect's vehicle and the individuals who fled the scene.

Mr. Hill was arrested on April 20th in Meriwether County. He has been released on $12,000 bond. Additional arrests are expected.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., and Kent Conrad, D-N.D., today praised Senate passage of their amendment to fraud legislation being considered by the Senate that would create a Financial Markets Commission charged with fully investigating the causes of the current financial and economic crisis in the United States. The amendment passed by a vote of 92 to 4.

“When Enron and WorldCom failed at the start of this decade, Congress rushed to legislate and regulate without all the facts. We need to make sure we don’t repeat that reaction as we seek to recover from today’s financial crisis,” Isakson said. “The only way to get an objective evaluation of where mistakes were made is to create an independent commission of experts to ask what went right, what went wrong and what could we have done to prevent this. We need a forensic audit of the laws of the United States as it relates to the financial markets and our economy.”

“The American people – many of whom saw their retirement accounts take significant losses in recent months - demand and deserve to know what caused our financial system to spiral downward so far so fast. We must hold those responsible for this calamity to account,” Senator Conrad said. “The commission the Senate voted to create today will investigate wrongdoing and help establish rules to help shore up our national economy and ensure this never happens again.”

The 10-member, bipartisan Financial Markets Commission will be modeled after the 9-11 Commission, which thoroughly and independently investigated the failures leading up to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and made sound recommendations on where we needed to improve to prevent another attack in the future.

Likewise, the Financial Markets Commission will have 18 months to investigate all the circumstances that led to this financial crisis. The panel will have the authority to refer to the U.S. Attorney General and state attorneys general any evidence that institutions or individuals may have violated existing laws. At the end of its investigation, the Commission will report to the Congress its recommendations for statutory or regulatory changes necessary to protect our country from a repeat of this financial collapse.

This bipartisan Commission will include two appointees each by the Speaker of the House and the Senate Democratic Leader as well as one appointee each from the House Republican Leader, the Senate Republican Leader, the Chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, the Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, the Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee and the Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee.

The Speaker and Senate Democratic Leader will choose the commission’s chair. The Senate and House Republican Leaders will select the vice-chair. Members of Congress as well as federal and state employees are prohibited from serving on the Commission.

Isakson and Conrad originally introduced legislation to examine the causes of the current economic crisis in January 2009. Senator Chris Dodd, D-Conn., Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, is a co-sponsor of the amendment as are Senators Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., Olympia Snowe, R-Maine, and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.

There is a Comprehensive Planning meeting tomorrow night at 6 pm in the Commissioners meeting room. It is vital that citizens attend and give input concerning the future of Pike County. (Margie's words say it all right there.)

The Public Notice from the Journal Reporter reads as follows:

PUBLIC NOTICE
Pike County Comprehensive Plan Partial Update

In accordance with the Georgia Department of community Affairs Standards and Procedures, the Pike County Department of Planning & Development will conduct a meeting on April 23, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Pike County Courthouse Annex, located at 79 Jackson Street, Zebulon, Georgia, to obtain ideas and concerns about the future growth of Pike County from interested citizens and other parties.

Please plan to attend the information-gathering meeting to provide your input to influence the continuing quality of life enjoyed by families and communities in Pike County, Georgia.

For additional information, please contact Brenda Shaw, Pike County Department of Planning & Development at 770-567-2007.

This advertisement has been in the Journal Reporter for the past couple of weeks--running specifically in the April 8th and 15th newspapers--since the Journal Reporter is the legal organ of record for Pike County. This meeting is also posted on the door of the Pike County Board of Commissioners Office.

However, if you are like me, you don't go look at the door to see what is coming up on a regular basis. And I failed to look through the want ads over the past couple of weeks so I missed this ad completely.

Thank you to Margie Trammell for finding about this meeting and getting the word out to the public so quickly.

It would be a shame for there to be a meeting about our future and no one from the public show up to let our commissioners and those in Planning and Development know what kind of future growth we want to see in Pike County. Please make plans to attend this important meeting.

Many companies promote recycling as an important event. Here in Pike County many of us look at recycling as something we would do if it were convenient which it is not.

One local company however has taken recycling to a new level with an innovative use of glass bottles and/or other glass items which would normally end up in a land fill.

B & D Ceramics, located on the corner of Rose Hill Rd and Ga Hwy 109, is a step above the rest when it comes to thinking outside the box. This local ceramic shop holds more in store for the passerby with a large collection of unique melted glass bottles that include single stem vases, interesting paper weights, spoon rests, cheese platters and other serving pieces.

Owner Diana Clark says she never knows how a piece will turn out as there is no way to tell in advance which part of the hot glass will cave in first. Some plain bottles she has decorated with beautiful decals. Other bottles have the decoration in the glass itself as with the melted bottle that boasts geese with a beautiful mountain in the back ground.

These gorgeous recycled pieces are available at the shop now and will be on display later this year at the annual 'A Day in Meansville' craft fair.

Personally I could not wait until then and purchased two pieces on the spot.

[Note from the Editor: Readers can find out more about B&D Ceramics by clicking on B&D's advertisement on the right side of the page and going to their website. Pictures of some of these works of art will be online in the next couple of days.]

Pike Atlas is the Pike County High School Body Building Competition with four weight classes and a 1st and 2nd in each weight class. The 1st place winners competed for Mr. Pike Atlas as the overall winner of the competition. Pike Atlas was held on April 9th.

There were seventeen contestants and close to 400 people who attended Pike Atlas this year. Professional weightlifters James “Pit Bull” Searcy and Chip Edalgo performed during intermission.

The contestants were: Bowen Flowers, Cameron Hatchett, Joe Anthony, Caleb McDougal, Andrew Fortson, Tyler Butler, Adam Adkins, Javiere Cook, Jordon Miller, John Lee, Andricus Rodgers, Dan Anderson, Tyler Carden, Justin Brown, Tyler Morris, Zach Westerfield, and Tim Fenner.

During Pike Atlas, Coach John "Mac" McMillan made the announcement that Dan Anderson made First Team All-State as a punter. Dan is the first Pike athlete to do so. Coach Mac is holding a picture of Dan punting that will be displayed in the school forever on the wall of fame.

Congratulations to Mr. Pike Atlas Javiere Cook. Pike Atlas is a fundraiser for the Pirate Touchdown Club. Photos are on the We Are Pike County page. Photos and Pike Atlas information contributed by Jeff Kenerly.

A public input session for review of the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2009 at 4:00 pm in the Commissioners meeting room, 79 Jackson Street, Zebulon, GA.

The public is encouraged to attend this meeting in order to review and give input on the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan.

The Pike County Board of Appeals met tonight at 7pm in the Commissioners meeting room. In attendance were Chairman John Hoover, Vice Chair Carol Bass, Teresa Crow, Bonnie Gardner and Ron Snowden. Representing the Department of Planning and Development were Director David Allen and Secretary Kim Morris. Also in attendance was John Morrison of the Pike County Planning Commission.

By the time I arrived the meeting had been called to order and after the newly adopted Pledge of Allegiance was accomplished the Board had moved on to approve the agenda and minutes from the January 15, 2009 meeting and new business was started with the following:

VAR 09-01 Carol and Marvin Harris requested a variance that would allow them to construct a barn in the front yard of a double frontage lot. After considerable thought and discussion the board decided that this item should not have been brought to them for a decision. In this case the lot faced two streets and even though the barn would face a street it was actually being placed behind the house if you approach the house from the front. The Director of Community Development concurred with this decision and agreed this applicant’s money should be refunded and the applicant should receive a building permit for the barn.

Next on the agenda was SE 09-03 with Robert Eric Anderson requesting permission to park an Air Stream trailer on his property so he could use it as a hunting camp. The board voted to approve this request 5-0

Last was the request SE 09-04 by Christ Chapel Community Church to be allowed outdoor recreation, which will include a ball field, associated with the church they are building on highway 19 N adjacent to Brookstone Subdivision. The board voted 5-0 to recommend approval of this request with stipulations that included night sky friendly lighting and perimeter buffers.

This last request required more than 1 ½ hours to hammer out the details of a carefully executed compromise that would allow the church to go forward with their plan while protecting the privacy and security of an elderly neighbor.

The meeting ended with Vice Chair Carol Bass commending the Department of Planning and Development for its well put together package for tonight’s meeting. Director David Allen thanked the board and gave credit for a job very well done to Pike County Planner, Mrs. Brenda Shaw.

The meeting adjourned around 9:50.

Mrs. Marsha Williams Gardner, age 57 of Concord passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2009.

Mrs. Gardner was born on November 5, 1951 in St. Louis, Missouri to David Williams and Marilyn Lee Hocker Williams. She is preceded in death by son, Jack Gardner and sister, Pam Moore. Mrs. Gardner was a very active member of First Assembly Church of God where she worked 15 years for the Mission’s Pastor. Marsha’s love for her church was surpassed only by her faith in the Lord.

Survivors include her husband, Woody Gardner; daughter, Rebecca and Rufus Maddox; grandson, Morgan Ford; mother, Lee Williams of Griffin; father and step-mother, David and Brenda Williams of Kennesaw; brother and sister-in-law Eric and Debbie Williams of Orlando; brother, Jeffery Williams of Riverdale; mother-in-law, Reatha Gibson; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Wanda and Josiah Leatherbury; several nieces and nephews.

Friends may visit the family Saturday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services for Mrs. Marsha W. Gardner will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2009 at First Assembly of God in Griffin. Dr. Randy Valimont will officiate.

Conner-Westbury Funeral Home, 1891 W. McIntosh Road, Griffin is in charge of arrangements. www.conner-westburyfuneralhome.com.

Sarena Washington, an eighth-grader at Pike County Middle School, won the school’s annual Rudy Award and Scholarship. The $1000 scholarship is given each year by Rudy Ruettiger, the person on which the movie Rudy was based. PCMS is the only school in Georgia to offer the scholarship. The scholarship is given to a student who demonstrates an ability to overcome difficult situations. It may be used for college, technical school, or leadership camps and seminars.

Washington was nominated by her teachers. They stated that she exemplifies great character and has a great internal drive to succeed. Sarena is the daughter of Roslande Joan Hamil and the late Louis Mack Washington.

Click here for picture. Article and photo contributed by Todd Child.

X. EXECUTIVE SESSION-LAND ACQUISITION PURSUANT TO O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(4)

XI. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
None

XII. ADJOURNMENT

Today's meeting was attended by all five commissioners, the County Manager (CM), Nancy to take the minutes, and County Attorney Rob Morton. A few changes to the agenda including moving

V. INVITED GUEST - 7. FY 2008 Budget Amendment #19 amending the Department’s Budgets to Actual in accordance to Georgia Department of Audits. Tara Winstead spoke on this since she won the bid last year to work with the county on financials and the year end audit. There were some overages in various departments from $9 at the library for utilities to $169,749 for the Sheriff's Office (personnel-$95,000, fuel-$53,000, and various other items such as doctor bills), and $99,627 for the Road Department ($22,131-personnel, $10,183-unemployment, and $69,129-gravel). There were no budget items for the Special Revenue Funds so those items are automatically over. Pike County went overbudget for a total of $405,570. Budget Amendment Click Here

VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES
    A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities: The only comment on this was that Keep Pike Beautiful hasn't filed any reports with the county since January and the county held back this month's check.
   B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners: The CM has a meeting with the environmental services people to begin survey on the old school property next week.
   C. Commissioners Report:

District 1 Roosevelt Willis: Said that Hollonville Fire Dept is almost finished and it is dark around the station while all of the others are lit with photocells. Asked the CM to handle this. Asked about the Turner Road Bridge. Public Works Director Todd Goolsby advised that they were ready to go in before the rain came and set them back. Should begin work soon. Asked about Christmas and retirement bonuses at the Recreation Department. Said it was an injustice for them to get it when no one else did and if they had so much money they could reduce their budget by that amount instead. [Note from the Editor: This is discussed later in the meeting and the Chairman of the Recreation Authority said that these funds did not come from county funds.] Asked why the Road Dept is using Gravel #5 instead of Crusher Run. Todd Goolsby said that if it is muddy, #5 goes a whole lot farther off the tailgate than Crusher Run because a blade has to come out and fix up the Crusher Run if a mistake is made. Advised that Crusher Run is used at intersections, etc. for safety reasons. Update 4.18.09: Roosevelt asked about the Pike Parks and Recreation request for about $170,000 of Impact Fees that are allocated for Parks and Recreation. This will pay for about 86% of the project. Chairman of the Recreation Authority Jeff Kenerly said that the rest of the funds will have to be budgeted or there will have to be a $26,000 fundraiser in order to use the Impact Fee funds.

District 2 Parrish Swift: Said that he is concerned about the lack of lights at the Williamson Fire Station. Suggested that the power bill from Williamson which is without lights to the utility bill from Station 6 which is one of the new stations with lights.

No comments from District 3 or 4.
   D. County Attorney Report: none.

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS-None

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
   1. Second Reading of Chapter 162-Cemeteries:
Motion to approve. 4-0.
   2. Second Reading of Chapter 160-Yard Sales
Motion to approve. 4-0.
   3. Ben Maxedon has requested the reading and approval of the proclamation to set May 7, 2009 as the National Day of Prayer. Permission was given to use the courthouse square at the January 27, 2009 meeting.
The proclamation was read out loud. This proclamation has been place on Pike County Times and I will be attending one of the National Day of Prayer Ceremonies in Zebulon.
   4. Discussion of additional ADA projects.
There was much discussion about additional ADA projects for Pike County. There is not enough enough money left in SPLOST to make everything in Pike County accessible to the handicapped, but a good start has been made with changes at Parks and Recreation, the Commission office, Planning and Development, and the new ramp at the Courthouse. The Magistrate and District Attorney building was discussed as far as attempt to make it handicapped accessible. There is not enough room in the Magistrate front lobby to make it totally compliant. There are plans to lower part of the front desk at P&D and make the doors compliant. There is a restroom at the Rec Fields that will be made compliant as well. If there is anything left in SPLOST after this, maybe the doors at the Zebulon library can be addressed. Motion was made here to accept extending contract on several county offices, but it is amended. Discussion: Commissioners asked for further investigation into Magistrate Court before money is spent there. Motion to extend the ADA contract for Planning and Development and the Commissioner’s office for $21,045.00. Approved 4-0.
   5. Old Bank Building in Williamson.
Tommy said that in the BOC/Library Board workshop that he felt like a majority of that board was not for a library branch in Williamson. He made a motion to give the proposed Williamson Branch Library building to the City of Williamson. 2nd for discussion. Parrish said that he hated to give this away because the county spent money on this. Don said that he would like to see the county recover the Impact Fees that were spent on this. Discussion went into the Intergovernmental agreeement between Williamson and Pike County so Impact Fees could be collected in Williamson and the county would do Williamson's Code Enforcement and building and zoning items. A letter from Mayor Steve Fry asking for the old fire station back is part of this discussion as well. The discussion kept coming back to the Impact Fee money that was spent to move the old bank building to its present location. The CM said that the City of Williamson has deemed the building an eyesore and that they want the building so they can finish it out and use it. Doug did not allow the public to speak on this subject. Motion was made to table this item until after Executive Session. 4-0.

IX. NEW BUSINESS
   1. Ark Builder, Inc. has requested a tax refund in the amount of $2,645.80 for Lot 1 The Shoals Subdivision.
David Allen advised that Mr. Brisendine asked his office to check on Lot 1 in December. According to the S-5 Environmental Ordinance, this is not a buildable lot. It could have a playground, etc. but could not have septic and a house on it. The Tax Office found that $1,360.29 per year has been paid for the past two years on this. The request is for a refund of two years' worth of taxes. Rob advised that Tax Assessor Haddock had a written recommendation that this lot has been incorporated into greenspace and if that is the case, it cannot be taxed. And, according to the setbacks of state and federal law, there is not enough setback for this to be used as a buildable lot. There was some discussion about how long the property owner has known that this was going to be used for greenspace and that the BOC should not return these taxes until something is given in writing to the BOC stating that this lot will be retained as greenspace. Motion to refund contingent upon receiving a written commitment from the owner to use this for greenspace only. Approved 4-0.
   2. Appoint four (4) members to the Keep Pike Beautiful Board:
Joy Walker, Vera Carroll, and Christina Takle were the only three applications to be turned in so there is still one open appointment. Motion to accept these three members. Approved 4-0.
   3. Appoint one (1) member to the Water Authority:
Applications were from sitting WSA member Chris Curry and former Commissioner Jake Garner. Motion to appoint Jake Garner. 3-1 with Collins opposed.
   4. Appoint three (3) members to the Agri-Business Authority:
Ken Gran, George Norris, and David A. Bentoski were approved. 4-0.
   5. FY 2009 Budget Amendment #2 to increase M&R-Roads-Unpaved and Reimbursement Grants State from the Georgia Department of Transportation:
This is refunding Pike County for our expenditure for the Turner Road culvert.

More soon.

Crumb Crazy has expanded their line of cookies to include bite-sized cookies and three new regular cookie flavors. Christy Pollman is also making cakes for all occasions including character cakes for birthdays.

Crumb Crazy's bite-sized cookies include raspberry cheesecake, rum raisin, and chocolate paradise which has chocolate chips and shaved coconut. The new flavors of cookies are smores and chocolate lovers which is dark and white chocoloate chips on a chocolate cookie. The last new cookie is the 'Save the Tatas' cookie and it is only available for limited time.

Christy Pollman is making cakes at Crumb Crazy. Christy brings 17 years of cake-making experience to Crumb Crazy.There are examples of her work at the store and they look good enough to eat!

She makes Red Velvet, German Chocolate, Carrot, and Coconut two layered round cakes. Christy makes Chocolate Pound Cake, Cream Cheese Pound Cake, Lemon Pudding Bundt Cake, and Petitfours too.

Character cakes are available with over 100 character pans to choose from including Barney, Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Poo, and many more! Sheet cakes to feed 20 to 40 people are available as well.

Christy makes cakes for showers and weddings, and bridal and wedding showers. Please allow at least seven days notice for a wedding cake. Fondant is available and her icing is made from scratch. Call 770-567-1319 to get more details on cakes.

There are many new items in the store from chocolate covered pretzels to cheese straws that are made in the store. Go to www.justcrumbcrazy.com to check out their website and see the waving cookie man on the advertising bar for their number and information any time.

Please tell them that you saw this article and their advertisement on the Pike County Times.com!

Saturday night was a night of laughter and sadness at the 14th Annual United Men of Pike for Progress Banquet. It was held at the Pike County Middle School on March 28th at 6 p.m. There was entertainment, fellowship, lots of great food, tributes, and awards. The Man of the Year was named at the end of the Banquet.

A crowd of over 150 supporters came to the banquet to support United Men of Pike for Progress with their mission in Pike County. UMPP strives to promote morals and values, promote education, make children more productive in our society, provide leadership, help reduce crime and violence, advocate abstinence, instill Christian values, encourage involvement in political matters, and encourage more parental involvement in our school system.

Supporters learned that the proceeds from tickets to the banquet go to fund scholarships and fulfill other needs in the community during the upcoming year. Supporters also learned that over 250 bags of trash were picked up and taken out of the Hilltop Community with the help of John Hollis, who passed away last year.

The night was a time of tribute to John Hollis and to his family. His service is missed in the United Men of Pike for Progress organization as well as the many other organizations and events that he worked with in our community.

Judge Johnnie Caldwell, Sheriff Jimmy Thomas, and Bob Cauthen were among those who gave tribute to John. Sheriff Thomas presented two pictures of John in his early years to Priscilla Hollis, John’s widow. On the behalf of United Men of Pike for Progress, Charles Burden and Eddie Parks presented Priscilla with a plaque that honored his contributions to United Men of Pike for Progress.

Special music was provided by Crystal Clemons and Laura Kilby. Crystal sang about praising God no matter what the circumstance and Laura sang “How Great Thou Art”. Fran Clark and Able Johnson provided musical entertainment for the evening on the piano and saxophone. Fran and Able played “Wing Beneath My Wings” as a musical tribute to John Hollis during the ceremony.

Boys & Girls Club of America 2008 National Youth of the Year Demetrice Tuttle was the keynote speaker at the banquet. Demetrice is now a sophomore at LaGrange College and has been accepted into law school.

Demetrice quoted from Robert Frost’s poem “The Road Less Travelled” and related that to the mission of United Men of Pike for Progress. “These men have done this for fourteen years and that has made the difference,” he said.

At the end of the banquet, the award for Man of the Year was awarded to Eddie Parks. The winner of this award is chosen by United Men of Pike for Progress. He accepted this honor with his wife, Carolyn, standing by his side.

The 2009-2010 officers are Secretary Ernest Greer, Treasurer Charles Burden, Vice President Eddie Parks, and President Charles Davis.

Pictures are on the We Are Pike County Page.

Don’t forget that the United Men of Pike for Progress will hold their Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 11th on the field across from the schools on Old Zebulon Road off of Highway 19. Everyone will assemble at noon for lunch and the Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 1:00 p.m. The public is welcome to attend.

1. CALL TO ORDER………………………………Chairman Doug Mangham
   
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
   
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
   (O.C.G A. 50-14-1 (e) (1))
   
4. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES (O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1(e) (2)
   
5. INVITED GUEST-None
   
6. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES
   
   1. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities
      
   2. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners
      
      1. Update of the Courthouse renovation project
         
      2. Update on the road re-construction and repaving program
         
      3. Discussion of the Pike County Transportation Committee
         
      4. Set a date for the review of the proposed Capital Improvements Policy
         
      5. Discussion of the U.S. Department of Energy Block Grant Program
         
   3. Commissioners Report
      
   4. County Attorney Report
      
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
   
   1. SE 09-01 Inman J. Burford, Jr. is requesting a Special Exception in an AR zoning District to allow for a 3D Archery Range.. The property is located along the south side of Wood Creek Road in Land Lots 197,198 and 220 of the 1st Land District, Pike County, GA. Said property contains 52.31 acres and is further identified as Tax Map #052-004.
      
   2. Proposed text amendment to amend the Code of Pike County, GA to add Chapter 162 entitled Abandoned Cemetery and Burial Ground Protection Ordinance.
      
   3. Proposed text amendment to amend the Code of Pike County to add Chapter 160 entitled Yard Sale and Flea Market Regulation Ordinance
      
   4. FPR09-02 (Final Plat-Revised): Lester O. Ranew, Jr. has submitted a revised final plat for the Etheridge Mill Road Industrial Park. The property is located in Land Lot 154 of the 2nd Land District of Pike County, GA. The property is further identified as Tax Map #086-079, #086-080, and #086-081.
      
   1. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
      1. Second Reading of Text Amendments to the Code of Pike County, GA Chapter 159, Sections 159.01 through Section 159.21 US Highway 19 and US Highway 41 Overlay Districts
         
      2. Extension of PR Moratorium
         
   2. NEW BUSINESS
      
      1. Discussion of the ‘official’ meeting record
         
      2. The First Baptist Brotherhood has requested use of the Courthouse grounds on April 18, 2009 for a Chicken-Que
         
      3. Review the existing contract with McIntosh Trail RDC for contract year 2010
         
      4. First Reading of Chapter 162-Cemetaries
         
      5. First Reading of Chapter 160-Yard Sales
         
      6. RFP for environmental studies of old school
         
      7. Discussion of additional ADA projects
         
8. EXECUTIVE SESSION-POTENTIAL LITIGATION PURSUANT TO
   O.C.G.A. § 50-14-2(1)
   
9. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
   None
   
10. ADJOURNMENT
    
    
    Agenda subject to revision.

    Update 4.1.09: The meeting was attended by all five commissioners--District 1 - Roosevelt Willis, District 2 - Parrish Swift, District 3 - Tommy Powers, District 4 - Don Collins, County Commission Chairman Doug Mangham--with Nancy to take the minutes and record the meeting on tape, County Manager Marro, and County Attorney Rob Morton. There was some good and some not so good decisions made at the meeting last night, but overall, I applaud the commissioners for the job that they are doing. It is not an easy job and not a pair of shoes that I would venture to step into at any point.

    The Call to Order was given along with the Pledge of Allegiance, a few changes to the agenda, and approval of the minutes from the past meeting as usual.

    REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES
    A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities - No comments.

    B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners - CM Steve Marro
    1. Update of the Courthouse renovation project - There is a chance that guidelines will be changed on grants so smaller counties like Pike could apply for money like everyone else.
    2. Update on the road re-construction and repaving program - Acting Director of the Georgia Department of Transportation (GaDOT) asked that the list of six roads for repaving and six roads for reconstruction be mixed together in priority order. Right now, the repaving of Reidsboro Road and the reconstruction and repaving of McKinley Road are at the top of that list.
    3. Discussion of the Pike County Transportation Committee - The CM said that he has attended meetings with GaDOT in both Spalding and Upson County where there was direct access to GaDOT on a regular basis rather than the once a year meeting that we have. Said that we could have this type of interaction as well if the BOC would authorize this committee to be formed with members from each city, a member of the BOC, maybe David Allen from Planning and Development and Todd Goolsby from Public Works. We could then meet with other counties and have input into the different road projects that could impact our area. ** This ordinance will be placed on the next agenda for a 1st reading and public hearing. **
    4. Set a date for the review of the proposed Capital Improvements Policy - There is a substantial amount of replacement that is needed in Pike County and some of which is in the next budget. This would put a policy in place and make the public aware of what the county is doing. ** This will be discussed on Monday after the Library Workshop. **
    5. Discussion of the U.S. Department of Energy Block Grant Program - A representative from Chevron came to a BOC meeting some time back and described ways that Pike County could apply for a grant to upgrade our infrastructure. Wanted to know the if commissioners were interested in this or not. Discussion then went all over the board here from Parrish helping to write grants for the county now that he has gone to a 2 day school for this to the financial statements that are on the county website. Click here to go to the Pike County website and view financials, past minutes, etc.

    C. Commissioners Report:
    District 1 - Roosevelt Willis: none
    District 2 - Parrish Swift: Parrish was concerned about the landscaping at the Courthouse and the DDA's original agreement on upkeep. Don Collins advised that upkeep slipped through the cracks on that agreement. Everything inside the yellow lines around the Courthouse is the county's responsibility. The Crepemyrtle Garden Club is working on the sidewalks and outside of the raised areas around the Courthouse but cannot take care of everything. The Audit Report was his next question. When will it be ready? CM Marro said that questions are being answered between the consultants and Sean Townsend, but it should be ready in April. Impact Fee Allocation for the Recreation Department was the next subject. There is $206,171.76 in Impact Fees that are allocated for Recreation. Parrish said that when funds are requested, a quick assessment should be done and the check written or we should do away with Impact Fees. CM Marro advised that he thought this request was part of next year's budget and had not reviewed it yet; however, he was advised that this was not part of next year's budget and he hoped to put this on the April 8th BOC agenda.
    District 3 - Tommy Powers: Said that he's had some calls about problems with the roads but this is normal with the amount of rain that we've had. CM said that there were 15 call outs on the 28th and 10 more on the 29th. Right now the only road that is closed is Dripping Rock Road (see picture and youtube video on the We Are Pike County page) because the bridge is underwater. Tommy said that his callers have understood that the Road Department is working as hard as it can. CM said that work could be done quicker but would have to be paid with overtime. BOC said that with rain that is coming again, overtime is not necessary because the work would have to be done again after more rain hits the county.
    District 4 - Don Collins: Gave update on his Town Hall Meeting last night. Said that the basic premise from those attending was that they want the BOC to spend their money wisely. He then asked some more about grant writing and also about predisaster mitigation. [Note from the Editor: Those who have not gotten Flood Insurance and you are in flood plain had better get it quickly. If you don't have it by the time this program goes into effect, you are going to be forced to buy it regardless and there is a good chance that it will be higher at a later date. Those who already have insurance have a chance to get grandfathered in with their current rates. To read more about this, click on the Past Stories Page and scroll down to the story entitled, "Georgia Floodplain Mapping Program Coming to Pike County" dated 12.24.08. Stories are listed in date order with the latest article at the top of the page.] Predisaster mitigation is expected back next week. There will be a public meeting and then it will be sent to GEMA and FEMA.

    Update 4.2.09: D. County Attorney: There is not going to be a Special Election in March now so Rep. Billy Maddox was asked to pull The Homestead Exemption from the floor of the House.

    VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS

    1. SE 09-01 Inman J. Burford, Jr. is requesting a Special Exception in an AR zoning District to allow for a 3D Archery Range.. The property is located along the south side of Wood Creek Road in Land Lots 197,198 and 220 of the 1st Land District, Pike County, GA. Said property contains 52.31 acres and is further identified as Tax Map #052-004.

    There was a Special Called Board of Appeals meeting on March 3rd where the BOA recommended approval with stipulations: one tournament per month from February through August, groups will begin from 9 a.m. until the final group at 2 p.m., no cap on the number of shooters, no shooting within 50 yards of the property line, no trespassing signs posted every 50 yards around the perimeter, have to buy a Pike County business license, and Planning and Development will determine the minimum amount of liability insurance that will be required. Discussion between the commissioners began immediately. Why one day a month only? This is what the property owner asked for. Why the no trespassing signs? It is protection for adjacent property owners, but one commissioner labeled it potential overkill. Why is Planning and Development determining the minimum amount for liability insurance? One commissioner asked if the county was consulting on insurance now and two commissioners suggested it might be stepping over bounds. Why 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.? Multiple groups of shooters with none starting no later than 2 p.m. The property owner was fine with this. The property owner felt that posting No Trespassing signs every 50 yards was a waste of his money with only one side having residents, a paper company on another with the hunting part already posted, and swamp land on the north side. Roosevelt asked point blank what they required with the go carts and insurance. He was told nothing, but it was an extension of that business. Tommy said that he knew of a hunting club that was posted but did not have insurance. Rob Morton was asked if a person is injured on property that is granted a Special Exception by the BOC, is the BOC liable? The answer was no. The floor was then opened to the public for the public hearing portion of the meeting. IN FAVOR: Vern Stephens is the 4-H Archery Team Coach. The property owner has given the team permission to practice for local, state, and national competitions for 32 kids for free. He tried to ask whether other groups like Band Boosters had to get a business license and was stopped from speaking on that by the Commission Chairman. John Morrison spoke in favor saying that this facility is in character with rural atmosphere. He questioned why they would allow themselves to be limited to meeting once a month and said that the BOC may get calls when the 4-H Archery Team is out there because neighbors may think that they are holding a tournament. OPPOSITION: None. Further BOC discussion: Do they need a business license? This is a private club that collects fees. This is different from something like the Market on the Square. Motion to approve with one tournament per month from February to August, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., no cap on shooters and no shooting within 50 yards of the property line and have to get a business license but excluding the No Trespassing signs every 50 yards around the property and no liability insurance requirement from the county. Approved 4-0.

    Update 4.7.09:

    2. Proposed text amendment to amend the Code of Pike County, GA to add Chapter 162 entitled Abandoned Cemetery and Burial Ground Protection Ordinance.

    This is to enable the county to identify and protect cemeteries as well as establishing a procedure for developers if an unknown cemetery was found on land that was being developed and is a way for Planning and Development to map all of the smaller cemeteries that are in Pike County. IN FAVOR: John Morrison: He just wanted it to be noted that he was in favor of this ordinance. OPPOSITION: None. Motion for 1st reading of this ordinance. Approved 4-0.

    3. Proposed text amendment to amend the Code of Pike County to add Chapter 160 entitled Yard Sale and Flea Market Regulation Ordinance.

    This ordinance establishes a definition for flea market and another for yard sale. Flea Markets will be excluded from residential areas and will give better control of yard sales. IN FAVOR: John Morrison wanted it on record that he was in favor of this ordinance. OPPOSITION: None. Motion for 1st reading of this ordinance. Approved 4-0.

    More shortly.
    
    

    Submitted 3.26.09
    
    

Friends of Scouting is the annual fundraising campaign for the Flint River Council. The Council provides services to the Scouting programs in Butts, Coweta, Fayette, Henry, Lamar, Pike, Spalding, and Upson Counties through the help of 2,600 volunteers and a staff of 18 at the Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America Headquarters located in Griffin. Last year’s annual budget was $2,161,807.

That sounds like a tremendous amount until it is broken down according to how it is spent. The National Charter Fee is 1% of the that cost, operating costs are 21%, and the remainder of that amount, 78% goes to provide camping, activities, Unit Service, and Program Support for the Scouts. And this is spent to provide support for eight counties.

Let’s get even more specific. What does the Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America located in Griffin do for the Scout Leader and Unit? I talked to Marshall K. Steinmann, Assistant Scout Executive, at the Flint River Council to find out.

First off, the Council provides a full-time, trained staff to give guidance for Scouting activities, helps troops partner with community resources that are necessary for Scouting activities, and provides low or no cost training to those who are involved in Scouting as well as to those who are starting up new units in our communities.

The Flint Fiver Council also provides each unit with District and Council activities and services while absorbing overhead costs in order to keep participant expense to a minimum. Anyone who has participated in a Spookeree, day camp, or high adventure trip can tell you how much fun they had being a part of it!

The 2,400 acre Gerald I. Lawhorn Scouting Base is an important part of the camping and outdoor activities for Scouting. Activities are held here all year round and units are offered the use of canoes, sail boats, climbing walls and ROPES courses.

The Flint River Council budget covers the cost of camp facility repairs and replacement costs well as covering the cost of utilities, maintenance, and insurance. The Council employs a full-time camp ranger, program director, high adventure director, and business manager in order to protect the facility and to make it convenient for units to use the facility. Registration fees do not cover these costs.

The Friends of Scouting Campaign is an important part of funding for The Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America.

For years, there were two big fundraising events for the Friends of Scouting Campaign. The first was a big dinner at the speedway in Hampton where members from all eight counties were invited. The second event was a Tri-County area event that involved Pike, Upson, and Lamar Counties.

The idea on the Tri-County event was to involve those who cannot take off from work to drive to Hampton for the annual dinner. This has also been going on for a number of years according to Mr. Steinmann.

Colony Bank President Chris Pettis is the team leader for the 2009 Tri-County Event. Brent Huckaby and Jason Brisendine were chosen to head up this event for Pike County. This year’s tri-county event will be different than in years past.

The 1st Annual 2009 Tri-County Golden Eagle Breakfast and Skeet Shoot will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009 at the Gerald I. Lawhorn Scouting Base--Camp Thunder. The Breakfast and Program will be held at 9:00 AM. The Skeet Shoot will be held at 10:15 AM. There will be a breakfast for everyone who attends and then the skeet shoot will take place afterward for all who want to participate.

During this breakfast, The Flint River Council of the Boy Scouts of America is going to honor three people who exemplify the ideals of Scouting as examples of what Scouting believes in and they live out these ideals in their everyday lives in our communities.

Local community leaders who will be honored are Luke Ellington of Upson, Scott Huckaby of Pike, and Doug Walter of Lamar Counties. Proceeds will benefit Lamar, Pike, and Upson Counties of the Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America.

This will be a chance to show off the facility and the renovations that have been completed to date. “This facility is second to none in our opinion,” said Marshall Steinmann.

The Capital Campaign has raised money to pay for expansion and other needed items at the Scouting Base. Within the past three years, the kitchen has been expanded, a new chapel area was constructed, the Swim and Boat Teaching Pavilion and the Shooting Sports Powder Range were completed along with various shelters and four new climbing towers. Construction was enabled with two $100,000 endowments.

Work began on the Waterfront Bathrooms on February 23, 2009. It is scheduled to be completed this summer with more work on the facility planned for the next two years. Two separate endowments will pay for the work on Shower House II and III, Swim/Boat site work, a Shooting Sports Bathroom, Boat Docks, Howard Lodge, and the Swim Docks.

The Scout/Parent Park is a reminder of the gift given to our communities by park benefactor, Gerald I. Lawhorn, who wanted a place for kids and parents to enjoy. Parents and scouts will be able to see this first-hand at the Breakfast and Skeet Shoot on May 2, 2009.

The Friends of Scouting Campaign is essential to cover operating costs for the Gerald I. Lawhorn Scouting Base as well as other costs associated with all of the programs that are offered for Boy Scouts and their families in The Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America.

For more information about the Flint River Council, Boy Scouts of America, click on www.scoutparents.org and www.flintrivercouncil.org.

Eight boys from the Royal Junior School in Kampala, Uganda are known as "Ugandan Thunder”. These boys will be coming to the states very soon and will live with 'Pennies for Posho' founder Ted Moody and his family throughout the length of the tour. The group is composed of boys from the ages of 8 up to 13 years of age. (Their picture is on the We Are Pike County page.)

"Ugandan Thunder” will share the love of Jesus through song by visiting various churches and events in the Southeast to raise money for the non-profit organization 'Pennies for Posho' . They will be on tour through the month of July.

Their tour schedule can be found by clicking here. It’s going to be a great tour.

"Ugandan Thunder" will be at Southside Baptist Church on Wednesday, April 1, 7:30pm to 8:30pm at in Cochran, GA and Zion Baptist Church on Friday, April 3, 7pm to 8pm in Hampton, GA. Their April Tour Schedule is extensive.

You can read the story of 'Pennies for Posho' on the Past Stories page by scrolling down to the story entitled "Pastor Ted Moody (aka "Big Daddy") Changes Lives in Uganda Through 'Pennies for Posho'" with the date of 1.23.09. Articles are listed in date order with the most current articles at the top of the page.

If you would like to schedule a "Ugandan Thunder" concert for your church, school or business association, please contact Ted Moody at 770-468-1455 or penniesforposho@gmail.com.

'Pennies for Posho' is organizing its 8th trip to Africa in late October of this year. It will be a 10 day trip that Pastor Ted Moody says will be "a life-changing experience". If you are interested in being a part of this ministry, please contact him through the information listed in this article.

My phone has started ringing and the emails have started coming in about various taxpayer protests over spending in Washington D.C. I don't watch a lot of television at my house--though I do monitor the news through the internet--and this movement has really started picking up momentum of late.

Just google or dogpile the words "taxpayer" and "tea party" and the results roll down the screen.

From Nebraska to New York and North Carolina to Macon, Augusta, and the steps of the Capitol here in Georgia, citizens are rallying together to make a point about how our tax dollars are being spent. And not all Tea Parties are created equal.

Some are protesting stimulus packages. Some are protesting federal spending in general. Some are rallying for support of free markets and limited government. But a common theme running through these protests seems to be fiscal responsibility with taxpayer dollars.

An article from CBS News.com www.cbsnews.com dated March 4, 2009 gives some of the background on this phenomenon. Fox News.com gives some background on this as well.

These protests have been popping up all over the country since CNBC Reporter Rick Santelli www.cnbc.com/id/15837966/ gave a rant heard round the world in February where he complained about government subsidies in the mortgage industry on the floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange where he suggested having a "tea party" on Lack Michigan in protest. This is a reference to the Boston Tea Party of 1773 where colonists dumped tea into the Boston Harbor to protest British taxation policy.

Two Moms organized a tea party in Orlando, Florida that drew more than 5,000 people. 912Project.com

http://www.reteaparty.com urges readers from all parties to "send their representatives a Tea Bag in the mail on April 1, 2009, as a sign of our unrest over D.C.’s foolish solutions and overspending".

www.taxdayteaparty.com says that it is a "grassroots, collaborative volunteer organization made up of every day American citizens from across the country" with protests planned for Tax Day, April 15th.

What impact this will have on spending in Washington is anybody's guess. Those who have read Congressman Westmoreland's rants about spending know exactly where he stands. Readers can research votes from their representatives through various watchdog websites listed on Pike County Times or through many others found on the internet.

If you attend one of these events, take a picture--even a cell phone picture will work--or send me a note with your thoughts about the event.

If you have an opinion on government spending (or anything else for that matter!), send it to editor@pikecountytimes.com.

Need a Morning Off? Need someone to take care of your children?

If you are interested in having a 'Parents Morning Out' Program in Concord, we would like to hear from you. This program is designed for you (whether you are a mother or a father) to have a morning off while your child(ren) are taken care of at a local church.

Please respond to this article by calling 404-328-6170.

Last week the Georgia House of Representatives passed House Bill 119, the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget bill. This budget totals $18.6 billion and funds the operation of the state government, its departments, boards, bureaus, commissions, institutions, and other agencies. It also funds Georgia’s university system, technical colleges, K-12 schools, all other governmental activities, projects and undertakings authorized by law. This budget will direct funding for the state from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010.

The current economic downturn resulted in decreased funding to meet our state’s needs. This required the House of Representatives to cut the Fiscal Year 2010 budget by about $2.6 billion, a 12.3% reduction from the original 2009 budget. Currently revenues collected from Georgia taxpayers are down $3.1 billion or 15.5% over 2008 state revenues.

The House 2010 budget also recognizes $1.4 billion in funds from the federal stimulus package. These federal funds allowed us to combat our budget shortfall and restore some programs that might otherwise be eliminated or significantly reduced. Among the organizations supported by these stimulus funds are the Department of Education, Department of Community Health, Department of Human Resources, and public safety agencies.

Although federal stimulus funds and money from the state’s reserve fund have helped mitigate the effects of the revenue shortfall, some state programs and services will be significantly reduced. These cuts were not taken lightly, and were only put in place after considerable study. Just as every Georgia family feels the effects of the economic down turn, state government does as well. No agency escaped scrutiny, and they are all facing some level of reduction. Due to the magnitude of the downturn in revenue, it is inevitable that expenditures for education be included as a part of the reduced spending.

Despite the cuts, Georgia is devoting a higher percentage of the budget to K-12 education. While the education portion has been reduced, the reductions to K-12 are much less than cuts to other agencies. In fact, education spending accounts for 46% of the House 2010 Budget. This is an even higher percentage than in years past. Additionally, the House fully funded school nurses to ensure that our children have access to health care while attending class.

Funding the state’s health care system was aided by the addition of over $450 million from the Federal Medical Assistance Program. These funds, along with $200 million from the federal stimulus package, allowed us to fully fund Medicaid programs. Medicaid provider rates will also remain at the current level for this fiscal year as well.

This budget conservatively applies federal funding to existing programs. While these funds have enabled us to alleviate the painful effects of our decreased revenue, we must remember that they are only a short term solution. The stimulus package is a one-time fix that will not be available for the 2011 Budget. This is why we have worked so hard over this session to pass economic recovery packages such as the JOBS Act. Legislation like this will speed Georgia’s economic recovery by allowing the private sector to grow and create jobs.

All Georgians are affected in some way by the state’s budget. For this reason I want to hear from you. I was elected to represent you, and welcome your emails and phone calls. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at my Capitol office. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Billy Maddox, House District 127
Coverdell Legislative Office Bldg.
Room 504
Atlanta, Georgia 30334
404-656-0188

Arriving from South Carolina, Edward Bevil and his wife, Jane Wise, were among the earliest settlers in Pike County. Edward died a few years after they settled and left Jane to raise seven children-three sons and four daughters. Their oldest son was John Franklin Bevil and Jane made her home with him after his marriage to Serepta McNabb in Pike County in 1842.

The oldest daughter of John and Serepta named "Linnie" was born in 1845. A pretty young lady, Linnie was married to Wiley Harmon Heath Futrelle in 1867 at the age of twenty-three.

Wiley was an educator and he and Linnie moved to various locations in Georgia throughout the course of their lives together as he taught, then served an administrator (principal) in several schools.

Linnie and Wiley had three children, all born in Pike County. Their youngest son, named John Heath Futtrelle, was-a noted author of mystery novels and also a well-known newspaper reporter. John eventually adopted a pen name - Jacques Futrelle. Putting aside the French pronunciation, in family circles, he was simply known as "Jac K."

Jacques married Lily May Peal in Atlanta in 1895, and they embarked on a life that took them to New York where they quickly became a part of the "literary set." After writing several very popular novels, Jacques and Lily decided to visit Europe. There, he wrote several magazine articles and successfully negotiated contracts for his books to be published there.

On the night before sailing for home, friends had gathered in London to celebrate Jacques' birthday. The party did not end until 3:00 A.M. and the Futrelle's never went to bed but packed and headed for Southampton and the Titanic.

On April the 15th, 1912, after putting his wife in a lifeboat, Jacques stood on the deck of the sinking ship and Lily watched he slip from sight.

Lily May Futrelle lived until 1967, dying at the age of 91.

Jacques' mother, Linnie Bevil Futrelle, never recovered from the heartbreak of her beloved son's death. She died on July 28, 1912, just months after her son met his fate. Newspaper articles from that time reported "her death is generally attributed to heartbreak over the loss of her son."

Linnie is buried at Popular Springs Methodist Church cemetery in Adrian, Emanuel County, Georgia. The marble marker at the head of her lone grave is inscribed on the front with the name "Futrelle." The back of the marker is divided into two parts with the top part reading "Linnie - wife of W.H.H. Futrelle - August 10, 1945 - July 28, 1912" The lower Part is a memorial inscribed "Jacques - son of W.H.H. & Linnie Futrelle - April 9, 1875 - Lost on Titanic - April 15, 1912," then "Who in the supreme test proved himself."

The Pike County Historical Society meets once a month at the J. Joel Edwards Library. If you would like to find out more about joining the Historical Society, email Lynn Cunningham at cunningham53@bellsouth.net.

The Pike County Historical Society will be holding its Annual Banquet on April 25, 2009 at Barnstormer's Grill in Williamson. Honors for the "Historian of the Year" and "Volunteer of the Year" will be given at the Banquet.

In a meeting that was attended by two County Commissioners, the County Manager, a representative from the Sheriff's Office, and members from the public and the Pike County Recreation Authority, the Recreation Authority voted 4-0 to hold the annual fireworks.

The Chamber of Commerce voted unanimously not to hold the event this year because of the economy citing that it wanted to be fiscally responsible. However, $12,000 was allotted for the fireworks in the budget for this year by the Pike County Commission, and the Recreation Authority voted to allow Director Kevin Teate to put together a committee to hold this event.

The Chamber of Commerce has offered to act as a liaison between the Recreation Authority and those that they have worked with on this event in the past.

Authority members said that citizens have contacted them and asked them to hold the event. Member Brad Armistead said that he has even had people contact him in order to offer donations.

Total expenses from last year's event were $22,145. Included in these expenses is the $12,000 that the county paid for the fireworks. Total revenue from the event was $22,484. This included the money raised from the $5 per car parking fee that was enacted last year.

Members discussed ways to cut expenses such as the possibility of people bringing their own lawn chairs instead of renting tables and chairs, getting sponsors for the event, and the need for volunteers both on the day of the event as well as cleaning up the day after the event.

"We don't know how big the event is going to be," said Recreation Authority Chairman Jeff Kenerly. He said that a lot is going to depend on how much help they can get from the community.

"We need a lot of people who will be willing to work that day or work part of that day," said Kenerly.

Director Kevin Teate is putting together a committee to plan this event. Details about the event will be released to the public as this event comes together.

Anyone who wants to volunteer or make a donation for the event should call the Director Kevin Teate at 770-567-2027.

Bad Boys House of Cycles is now located on Highway 19 just south of the Courthouse--on the left just before you get to Big Chic and the old Giant Mart or just past the Chevron.

Bad Boys House of Cycles still stands by their service and they offer service you can trust at a price you can't beat.

Call Bad Boys House of Cycles at 770-567-RIDE (7433) and tell them that the Pike County Times sent you!

The Pike County Board of Commissioners and the Pike County Department of Planning and Development held a workshop to discuss Planned Residential and other multi-family housing in the county today at 1:00 PM in the Commissioners Meeting Room located at the rear of the Commission Building across from the County Courthouse.

The meeting was attended by Commissioners Doug Mangham, Chairman, Tommy Powers, Co-Chair, Parrish Swift, Roosevelt Willis and Don Collins as well as David Allen, Zoning Administrator and Brenda Shaw, County Planner from the Department of Planning and Development. Also in attendance were Rob Morton, County Attorney, Steve Marro, County Manager and Nancy Cook Secretary from the Commissioners office, Tony Watkins, Chairman of the Pike County Planning Commission and a small handful of interested citizens which included other members of both the Planning Commission and the Pike County Board of Appeals.

Commissioners’ questions about infrastructure, services, location and density were discussed and answered as well as concerns about the Fair Housing Act and making sure the County meets State and Federal legal requirements while establishing zoning regulations suited to the community.

David Allen explained differences in a PR Ordinance recommended by the Department of Planning and Development versus the PR Ordinance recommended by the Pike County Planning Commission. In addition he referenced the Pike County Comprehensive Plan which outlines the joint recommendations of the Cities and County in regard to the preferred placement of Planned Residential as well as any other multi- family housing. Those recommendations are centered on providing proper infrastructure and services to county residents in a multi-family setting.

County Attorney Rob Morton also answered questions about the Fair Housing Act, the Comprehensive Plan and other legal questions from Commissioners.

The final recommendation from the Department of Planning and Development was that the Commissioners repeal both the Planned Residential and Duplex Residential (DR 6).

Once the questions and discussion between the Commissioners, County Attorney and Planning and Development staff were finished, Commission Chair Doug Mangham excused himself to attend another meeting. At that time Co Chair Tommy Powers opened the floor to questions and comments from citizens.

After questions and comments from citizens were finished Commissioner Tommy Powers said that this matter should be taken up by the Board of Commissioners at the March 31, 2009 Board of Commissioners meeting.

Promise Place will sponsor Pins for Promise Place – Striking Out Against Domestic Violence Bowling Event on Saturday April 4, 2009 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Magnolia Lanes in Griffin, Georgia. All funds raised from this event will go towards the Emergency Shelter and Home, where victims of domestic violence can go for safety, protection and to begin to repair and rebuild their lives.

Domestic abuse occurs at all levels in our society. The victims flee and need immediate shelter and protection. It usually isn’t during an 8 to 5 workday. In most cases, the abused victims have escaped with little or no possessions. Lives must be repaired and rebuilt. That is the business of Promise Place.

In 2008 Promise Place provided service to the Griffin Judicial District which includes Spalding, Upson, Pike and Fayette Counties to a total of 1,572 victims: 848 women, 709 children and 15 men. Our Teen Dating Violence Prevention Program reaches over 1,500 high school students and our Domestic Violence Awareness talks are presented to over 1,400 community members.

Promise Place is a 501c-3 non-profit organization, which depends almost entirely on community support and donations. We provide legal advocacy, crisis hot line help, counseling for victims, and their children, a food pantry, Safe Teen Dating Education in Fayette County schools, law enforcement education and Christmas presents for children.

Please join us for a good time and a great cause on Saturday April 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We hope that you can show your support by sponsoring a team, joining a team or as an advertising sponsor. All donations are tax deductible.

A company, or team, can sponsor a lane for $150 per lane of up to 6 bowlers. This entry fee includes your company, or team, provided banner displayed in Magnolia Lanes, your company or team listed on event program and event banner, one lane of up to 6 bowlers for 3 hours, including shoe rental, barbeque and soft drinks, and 6 tickets for outstanding prizes in the regular prize drawings! Click here to download the registration form. Update 3.31.09: The lane sponsorship price has changed from $300 to $150.

Sponsor banners are going up at Magnolia Lanes now to bring added exposure for this event and to those who are sponsoring the Pins for Promise Place – Striking Out Against Domestic Violence Bowling Event. Email: aplatlanta@bellsouth.net or call 770-632-8733 for more information.

Individuals can also register for $50 per person. Non-Bowling guests are $5 per child, $10 per adult, and this includes food and beverages. There will be activities and games for the kids so feel free to bring them to this event as well.

Companies and individuals can also sponsor Promise Place's first annual bowling event in Griffin by purchasing space in the event program. Click here to download the sponsorship form.

Update 3.9.09: Promise Place was just notified today that they will be able to give away a special, Grand Prize.

Promise Place will hold a special, Grand Prize drawing at the Pins for Promise Place – Striking Out Against Domestic Violence Bowling Event on Saturday April 4, 2009 at Magnolia Lanes in Griffin, Georgia. The Grand Prize Drawing will be held for a Richard Petty Ride-Along Driving Experience.

The winner of this Ride-Along can choose to experience real life racing thrills by riding shotgun in a 2-seat NASCAR-style stock car driven by one of our professional instructors for a 3-lap qualifying run at speeds up to 165 MPH at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, choose to upgrade this prize to the Richard Petty Driving Experience and take command of wheel to experience the thrill first hand, or choose to purchase souvenirs equal to the amount of the Richard Petty Ride-Along Driving Experience prize. The winner does not have to be present to win.

For more information on the Richard Petty Driving Experience as well as driving terms and conditions, go to http://www.1800bepetty.com/Experience/Experience.aspx or call 770-632-8733 for more information. Details are still coming in on the Grand Prize so I will upload them as they are available.

For more information, please call 770-632-8733 or email: aplatlanta@bellsouth.net or by going to www.promiseplace.org.

1. CALL TO ORDER………………………………Chairman Doug Mangham
   
   
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
   
   
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
   (O.C.G A. 50-14-1 (e) (1))
   
   
4. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
   Minutes from Regular Monthly Meeting held February 24, 2009 at 6:30 pm pursuant to
   (O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1(e) (2)
   
   
5. INVITED GUEST
   
   1. Brian Richardson to discuss Veterans Monument.
   
   
   
6. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES
   
   
   1. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities
   2. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners
      
      1. Discussion of the possibility of setting a regular workshop date for the discussion of County issues. If there is no need for the workshop, the staff can notify you of that and cancel.
         
      2. Copies of the Courthouse renovation project have been forwarded to our local legislators. It is hoped that we can be considered for “The American Recovery & Investment Act” funds to accomplish this renovation.
         
      3. Copies of the road re=construction and re-paving program have also been Submitted to our local legislators. Again, it is hoped that we can be considered for “The American Recovery & Investment Act” funds to accomplish this renovation.
         
      4. Discuss conducting an election to be held in 2009 allowing the voters of Pike County to approve or deny the BOC’s recommendation to freeze the Pike County property assessments at the 2007 levels. With the passage of HB 233, assessments are frozen for 3 years anyway and as our assessment levels have not changed from prior to 2007, this action may conceivably hurt Pike County taxpayers.
         
      5. McTRDC update
         
   3. Commissioners Report
      
   4. County Attorney Report
      
      
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
   
   1. Chapter 159, Section 159.01 through Section 159.21 US Highway 19 and US Highway 41 Overlay District
      
      
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
   1. Proposal to donate the old United Bank building in Williamson to the City of Williamson for use as a museum or office. [This and #5 should probably be discussed together.]
      
   2. Second Reading of Chapter 161, Section 161-01 through Section 161.07 Mailbox Construction Ordinance
   3. Don Bailey to give an American Legion update
   4. Don Bailey to give an update on Friends of Pike Co. Animals
   5. Paul Faulds to discuss progress on the Williamson branch library.
      
      
9. NEW BUSINESS
   
   1. The Pike County Chamber of Commerce has requested a one day permit for the sale of beer on May 4, 2009 for their golf tournament at The Cedars.
   2. Wayne Harper with Pike Countryside has requested that the Transfer Station be closed on Wednesdays.
   3. Discuss contract between the Agri-Business Authority and the Pike County Board of Commissioners
   4. Discuss contract between the Water and Sewerage Authority and the Pike County Board of Commissioners.
   5. Proclamation to recognize National Social Work Month 2009
   6. Appoint one member to the Industrial Development Authority
   7. Discussion of increasing the number of members on the CATF Board.
      
      
10. EXECUTIVE SESSION-PENDING LITIGATION PURSUANT TO
    O.C.G.A. § 50-14-2(1)
    
    
11. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
    None
    
    
12. ADJOURNMENT
    
    
    Agenda subject to revision.
    
    
    
    
    Submitted 3.7.09
    
    

The Zebulon Fire Department has contracted with a company to create "Pikeopoly", a board game that is modeled after the popular board game "Monopoly". In Pikeopoly, local businesses are featured on the board, property cards, "fate cards", and even on the money.

This is a fun way for the Zebulon Fire Department to raise funds needed for their department as well as a way for companies to promote their businesses. All money raised from the sponsorships will pay for the production of the games and then the money raised from selling the games will go toward a match for a fire grant or to purchase much needed fire equipment.

For more information about Pikeopoly, go to www.zebulonfd.com/pikeopoly.html.

Questions can be directed to pikeopoly@zebulonfiredepartment.com

UGA Family and Consumer Sciences Cooperative Extension programs place non-biased, research-based information at your fingertips. County agents and specialists throughout the state provide cutting edge knowledge and technology on many topics, including home food preservation, parenting, personal financial management, and healthy eating habits.

Newsletters are available at www.ugaextension.com/pike/fcs/index.html entitled Diabetes Life Lines and Senior Sense. Many other resources are available online as well.

The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension is pleased to offer a new 5th edition of its popular book, So Easy To Preserve. This beautiful book contains the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture recommendations for safe food preservation. So Easy To Preserve is now a 375-page book with over 185 tested recipes, along with step-by-step instructions and in-depth information for both the new and experienced food preserver. Chapters include Preserving Food, Canning, Pickled Products, Jellied Fruit Products, Freezing and Drying. This 5th edition has 35 new tested recipes and processes, in addition to a new section with recommended procedures for home-canned salsas. This book may be purchased in our office for $18.00.

Helen Carter, County Extension Agent - Family & Consumer Sciences can be reached at (770) 567-2010 or through e-mail at Helenc@uga.edu.

Agriculture & Natural Resources are also available at www.ugaextension.com/pike/anr/index.html. UGA Publications available online include: Gardening, Help! Flies are in my House, Help! Fleas are biting my Pet, Help! Ants are everywhere, Diagnostic Guide to Common Home Orchard Diseases as well as links to Gardening in Georgia and Master Gardener Information. Those who would like to buy an Agriculture Tag will find the link on this page.

Soil Samples A routine soil sample will test for pH, lime requirements, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc and maganese. The fee is $8.00 per sample and will take approximately 7-10 business days to process. To find out how to take a soil sample, click here.

Water Samples A basic water sample will test for pH and hardness, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, aluminum, chromium, manganese, copper, cadmium, iron, zinc, sodium, nickel, magnesium, boron, molybdenum and silica. The fee is $15.00 per sample and will take approximately 7-10 business days. To have your well water tested you will need to take one full cup of water and place in a clean, sterilized jar to the Extension office. It is important to obtain the water sample as the first draw of water from your main faucet source (preferably early in the morning).

Pond Samples If you are having problems with weeds in your pond and would like it tested - bring a quart jar of the water with the weeds to the Extension office. This is a free test provided by the agent.

Ag Tag Georgia has created a tag to honor Georgia Agriculture. Please visit the Web site for more information.

Tommy Tyler, County Extension Agent - ANR can be reached at (770) 567-2010 or through e-mail at ttyler@uga.edu.

IX. NEW BUSINESS
     A. Appoint five (5) members to the Keep Pike Beautiful Authority
     B. Appoint six (6) members to the Citizens Advisory Task Force
     C. Prayer Power of Georgia has requested use of the Courthouse grounds on Thursday, May 7, 2009 from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm in observance of the National Day of Prayer.
     D. FY 2009 Budget Amendment #1-Reallocaton of funds from the Contingency to The Fire Department Other Equipment Account for the purchases of the Turbo Drafts.

X EXECUTIVE SESSION
     None

XI. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
     John Morrison to discuss “P&Z Unanswered Questions”.

XII. ADJOURNMENT

Update 2.25.09: All five commissioners were present at the meeting along with both Rob and Tom Morton to provide legal counsel, Nancy Cook to take the minutes and County Manager (CM) Steve Marro. Two items of note from last night's meeting are that the volunteers for county boards, etc. that do not have a requirement for a background check will no longer be required to submit to a background check. DFCS, Rec Authority Coaches, and the Fire Dept have more stringent requirements that will remain. It has been determined that Pike County was the only county around this area to have this stringent requirement.

Approving the minutes was an ordeal of sorts. There was a big discussion about the minutes and what was said and what wasn't. Parrish wasn't happy with how the minutes read and he had gone back and listened to the tape of the meeting to be sure of what was said. Don made a point of order to make a motion that they approve the minutes and if there is a need to go back and address the issue of combining Fire and EMA together at a later time, the commissioners could do that. 3-1 with Parrish voting against.

V. INVITED GUEST

A. Ben Carter, Carter Watkins Associates to present a cost estimate and construction update of the Courthouse facility: Our courthouse was designed by JD Duluth, a famous courthouse designer, who designed courthouses all over the Southeast. Ben gave the commissioners a run down of what will need to be done in order to renovate the Courthouse including the fact that everyone will have to be moved into another facility because of the dangers of lead paint, dust, mold, asbestos, etc. We are looking at a couple of million dollars to restore the Courthouse and make it usable for the next 100 years. A new facility will be a necessity prior to the restoration though. There are some small grants that are available to help with this and stimulus money may be a possibility as well. The BOC and the Board of Education need to meet and talk about that new building if it is a possibility so the hazard study can be done on it.

B. Jim Totten to present Pike County Fire Department first responders: Kenneth Riley, Michael Kuprian, Paul Hutchens, Joni Hellwig and Hannah Suddeth have attended 60 hours of training and testing in order to save lives. Joni Hellwig was present as one of the new First Responders who have completed training at the meeting last night. The others had scheduling conflicts but we are thankful that there now 15 in total who have completed their training and are available to help in times of crisis in our county.

VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES

A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities: No suprises here.

B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners: 1. The job posting for Building and Grounds Maintenance Supervisor is open to in-house bids. If none are received it will go to the newspapers (and on the county website) on Friday, February 27, 2009. There is a possibility of a salary position depending on experience. 2. I want to provide you a copy of the costs estimates from Hill Construction to repave 22.3 miles of roads in Pike County. The other 6 dirt roads will take some engineering to estimate costs for either triple-seal or paving and re-building. We are looking at $600,000 to $800,000 per mile. If easy then closer to the lower number and the higher number if need to have curb cuts, fills, etc. This list was composed in order to get projects ready to be submitted for stimulus money. 3. You should all have your update on the request from the last meeting in your packets. 4. GEMA has notified all of the counties that will receive $5,000.00 from them this year as opposed to $3,500.00 we used to get. We have to match this money dollar for dollar. This is self-explanatory. 5. Update on CATF committee meetings with the County Manager. We are progressing forward on the records storage issues with request submitted to all department heads and constitutional officers as where their records are stored and can we move them? As I have reported in prior addresses to the BOC, the school board has offered us two class rooms for storage and together with the C.A.T.F. we are targeting getting them stored chronologically and systematically in that location. The C.A.T.F. S.P.L.O.S.T. committee has met several times. We met together to get a grasp on current information that they need to help sell the new S.P.L.O.S.T The committee will begin assembling the process in earnest very shortly. Self-explanatory. 6. Please note the updated NACo Prescription Plan data in your packets. More people are taking advantage of this plan. 7. I have received an email back from Pete Nelms about the PDM process. GEMA has reviewed the first draft and has several insignificant recommendations to revise. He says he will get it revised and re-submitted to GEMA. It will then come back to Pike County for a public hearing and review. From there it goes to FEMA. [Note from the Editor: If you are living in a flood area and do not have flood insurance, you need to get it ASAP because it will be significantly more after this state and federal mandated program goes into effect.]

Update 3.3.09: C. Commissioners Report: District 1 Commissioner Willis: Concern about monthly writeup from Building and Grounds. CM to take care of this. District 2 and 3: None. District 4 Don Collins: Asked about the background check for volunteers. Said that Pike County is the only entity that requires a background check for volunteers and thinks that it is unnecessary. Some discussion about those that do require background checks such as the volunteer firemen and emphasis that this would not remove that requirement. Motion to eliminate background check for volunteers on boards and authorities that do not require a background check. 3-1 Willis opposed. Asked about the joint Board of Education and Board of Commissioners meeting. [Note from the Editor: Check the Calendar of Events page for this meeting as well as other workshops that are scheduled for next week.] The topic of the library building in Williamson was brought up and Commissioner Tommy Powers advised that he has asked to be on the next BOC agenda to get rid of the Williamson Library Building.

D. County Attorney Report: None.

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Proposed text amendments to amend the code of Pike County Georgia to add Chapter 159 entitled US Hwy 19 and US Hwy 41 Overlay Districts: The Chamber of Commerce asked that this be postponed until the next meeting because the consultant was not available for this meeting time.

2. Proposed text amendments to amend the Code of Pike County Georgia to add Chapter 161 entitled Mailbox Construction Ordinance: This will no longer allow brick mailboxes, etc. that do not easily break away when a car hits them anywhere in the county except where there are posted speed limits of 25 mph or less such as you would find in a subdivision. This repeals the old ordinance. Citizens were allowed to speak in the public hearing both for and against this ordinance. Commissioners were concerned with grandfathering those mailboxes that currently exist. Commissioner Willis was forced to tear down his permanent mailbox. Emphasis was made on the ordinance going from this day forward and not being retroactive. Motion to deny by Commissioner Willis. No 2nd. Motion died for lack of a 2nd. Motion to approve. 3-1 Willis opposed.

3. SE 08-08 Bryan Ard is requesting a Special Exception in an AR zoning district to allow for a temporary residence in a recreational vehicle during the construction of a new home. The property is located along the west side of Union School Road in Land Lot 157 of the 9th Land District of Pike County, GA. Said property contains 12.08 acres and is further identified as Tax Map #034-052: The Board of Appeals said that the Zoning Administrator could approve this and that it should not have come before them for a hearing. The Zoning Administrator will be asking the BOC to refund the homeowner's application fee at a later part of this meeting.

4. SE 09-01 Inman J. Burford Jr. is requesting a Special Exception in an AR zoning district to allow for a 3D Archery Range. The property is located along the south side of Wood Creek Road in Land Lots 197, 198 and 220 of the 1st Land District, Pike County, GA. Said property contains 52.31 acres and is further identified as Tax Map #052-004: This was deferred to a later meeting by the Board of Appeals and won't be heard at the meeting.

5. SE 09-02 Loretta Snowden, on behalf of Ron Snowden, is further requesting a Special Exception in an AR zoning district to allow for mud bogging. The property is located along the west side of US Highway 19 in Land Lot 232 of the 8th Land District, Pike County GA. Said property contains 9.92 acres and is further identified as Tax Map #069.017. [This came to the BOC with no recommendation from the Board of Appeals. See story below for more details.] There was a list of people to speak for and against this. Those who were on the list to speak would have three minutes each. A line of people came in from outside for this portion of the meeting. Concerns from commissioners were addressed with Ron putting an emphasis on the fact that he has tried to address every issue that has been brought to him. Ron told the commissioners that he does have liability insurance enough to cover this event. Opposed: The attorney read the letter from the McDaniels who have lived behind the property for 22 years and have an easement to get to their property. They complained about it taking 20 minutes to get out of their driveway and that visitors to their home have had problems being allowed to come to their house. Mary Sewell said that if this was a temporary event it had gotten out of hand and complained that she could not visit her parents' house when the event is going on. She asked the commissioners to think about if it was them or their parents living behind this property, asked who would be liable if someone got hurt or killed on the driveway, asked about spectator insurance up to one million dollars, and mentioned bulldozing without a silt fence. George Norris lives down the road about 1/2 of a mile and said that he was speaking for an adjacent property owner who could not attend the meeting. He spoke about the economic impact on the neighboring property, safety and utter disregard for others as well as Ron's disregard of the ordinances of Pike County. He said that Ron eliminated across the highway parking under pressure and asked what keeps Ron from expanding the pond like he did during the week prior to this weekend's event. Mrs. Norris spoke as well. She told of her personal experience around people who were rubbernecking and suggested a tall fence for a blind or beautiful trees that could be planted there. She was adamant about safety. She did say that this is good recreation for young people and children but asked if this is a good influence if what they are doing is illegal. In Favor: Jimmy Bass said that he supported Ron's endeavors. Said that he's been to a lot of meetings and had a problem with the way that Ron is being treated when the BOC has bent over backwards for other businesses with provisional licenses, etc. He said that we cannot keep operating with two sets of rules in Pike County and that changing the ruls for some creates problems. He said that this brings money into the county, there is no alcohol on the premises, and they're not doing this during worship services. John Morrison said that he'd been down there and enjoyed himself. Asked the BOC to approve with stipulations not to cross the highway for parking, require a separate permit, and hold him to the hours that he has already agreed to. Chris Nichols said that he has been there since the beginning, seen steps taken for safety, seen from young to older generation there and said that he thinks if this is given a chance, all of the problems could be worked out. Said he got a call from a guy that got in trouble for four wheeling on private property. Said that maybe this wouldn't happen if people had a place to go. Also compared four or five people complaining to 400 or 500 people enjoying it. Matt Stone said that he has children ages 7 to 15 and the kid want to go. It's a family event and he's working with his boy on a truck. He said that people from all walks of life are out there having a good time. Even teenagers are working together out there. Said that people are there for a common interest. Joey Mays said he is for this because it gives young people something to do. He said that he got in trouble in Spalding County and lost his license for two years for riding a four wheeler. Said that this brings people togethe and presented the BOC with a petition of eight sheets of paper with at least 400 people on it. Then Rob Morton read the editorial by the Osbolts that was printed in that week's Pike Journal Reporter. The letter said it was good muddy entertainment and a family activity--a place where teens and young adults could go to have fun. Said that it was a safe, local place to have fun and it helps businesses in the county too. End of public hearing. Discussion: Tommy Powers stressed that he had been out there and talked to Ron and Ron has done what has been asked of him. Don Collins asked if this was big enough to have required a land disturbance permit and was told no because it was not an acre of disturbance. David Allen also advised that another citation was given on Monday for the weekend's activities. Planning and Development Staff recommended denial. BOC members walked through criteria for a special exception and safety issues as well as improvements. Parrish Swift cited that his problem with this is the problem that the neighbors are having accessing their own property. The first big sticking point was the problem of access to the property behind Ron's property. The second big sticking point was that Ron held the mudbog this past weekend when he did not have a permit. The Board of Appeals had a 2-2 vote on this Thursday night because Ron told them that he was going to hold the mudbog this weekend regardless of the fact that he did not have a permit. Several of the commissioners said that they had no problem with the mudbog though the location was bad but the two above reasons were the big points of contention. Motion to approve was made by Tommy Powers. No 2nd. Motion died for lack of a 2nd. Motion to deny citing safety, etc. Discussion included 2 citations and no special exception and continued with the mud bog this weekend without a permit. Parrish stressed that the event is not the issue. He said that he can't get past the access to the property and that if parents or grandparents of supporters were in the position of that neighbor that they would have a problem with this too. Roosevelt Willis stress that he has no problem with mudbogging either but the location is a problem and neighbors have complained about noise to him. Vote was taken on the motion to deny. 3-1 with Tommy opposed.

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Second reading of Adult Entertainment Ordinance: Question about the 2,500 feet was answered by the county attorney. There is justification on 1,000 from churches, etc. based on studies and 1,000 is substantiated in other AE ordinances that have been upheld in court. David Allen had also done some research and said that 13 out of the 20 municipalities that he researched had 1,000 with the rest ranging between 200 to 1,500 feet. Motion to approve with 1,000 feet. 4-0 [Note from the Editor: Thank you to the commissioners for approving this ordinance.]

B. Second reading of contractual agreement between Pike County and the Industrial Development Authority and C. Second reading of contractual agreement between Pike County and the Pike County Recreation Authority: These were approved together. 4-0.

More soon.

I am searching for sponsors to help bring some of my pages up to date. I have been contacted by readers who enjoy reading the minutes from past meetings in Zebulon and the Board of Education.

These two pages in particular can be reached by clicking here and are very much in need of some programming time to bring them up to date. It will require help from an outside source because I do not have the time to bring them up to date and continue current coverage of county meetings and news.

Advertising opportunities are available on the City of Zebulon page as well as the Zebulon Downtown Development page, the Zebulon Planning and Zoning page, and the Board of Education page. If you would like to have your business advertisement prominently displayed on one of these pages as the sponsor who has made these minutes available to the public, please let me know.

I drew the short straw and got to attend tonight's Board of Appeals meeting that began at 7 p.m. Here's the long and short of a meeting that lasted until 10:33 p.m. tonight.

Ron Snowden, Bonnie Byrd Gardner, Teresa Crow, John Hoover, Carol Bass were present. Kim Morris took the minutes and Zoning Administrator David Allen was present.

The Bryan Ard Special Exception to ask for an expansion of time on allowing a temporary residence on the property while finishing his home. The Board discussed this, read the ordinance, and said that the Zoning Administrator could approve this without a vote. They even went so far as to say that they recommend him getting his application fee back.

Inman Burford, Jr. asked for a Special Exception to allow for a 3-D Archery Range. This would involve 20 or 30 men walking a trail with targets at particular places along the trail and getting one shot at each target. Groups of three or four men at the target at one time. Target arrows only with limits according to the Archery Shooters Association. This area is heavily wooded and swampy. Shooters would aim at the final target with their backs to the property line that is the only place close to a home. Said it was over 400 feet from the residence but the key is that they would have their backs to the residence as they shot. This is not a commercial venture but would be more of a self-sustaining club with a shooter's fee, trophies, plaques, snacks, etc. All money would go back into the club to pay for needed items including new targets. It will be in a tournament setting and would be one meet per month with 5 meets total for this year. It would be open to the public and it was said that 30 or 40 people would probably be a really good turnout for this activity. There is adequate parking in a field and it would not be visible from the road. There would be some signage that would be put out and picked up on the same day. Anthony Rabon spoke in favor of this. Doug Rounds asked if other hunting preserves in Pike County are licensed. Opposition included Nancy Bradshaw and Andrea Washburn who are nearby land owners. Concerns included use of alcohol--which would not be allowed according to Scott Wright who would be in charge of the club--stray arrows, wear and tear on the road, traffic and spectators, and boundaries for the trail. Suggestions of a written proposal with guidelines and liability insurance. After the public hearing was closed, the discussion from the board began. They commended Scott Wright and Patricia Burford for doing the right thing to come before the Board of Appeals on this. They asked for guidelines from the BOA and answered a lot of questions. There was a lot of discussion on this topic from board members. Liability insurance was a question that has to be answered by the county attorney who could not attend tonight's meeting. Whether or not they need a business license was another. Questions were even asked about whether or not this was a permitted use and whether a special use permit would be a better way to handle this. If permission was given for a limited amount of time and they had to come back later, at least one member said that they shouldn't have to pay the fee to come back next year. Asking for proof of liability insurance was a heated discussion with Ron arguing that the county shouldn't ask for it. Motion was made to defer this to a later meeting so the Board can get some answers to their questions from the county attorney. There will likely be a Special Called Meeting on this issue so they don't have to wait an entire month to get this rolling if they can get approval.

Mudbogging was the hot topic of the night with many people speaking for against this Special Exception. Ron addressed concerns from the public at the meeting, those that have been made on paper, and those of the members of the Board of Appeals. He gave a lengthy list of concerns that have already been addressed such as no more parking across the road, etc. However, much was made of the fact that Ron Snowden (who is a member of the Board of Appeals and recused himself for this portion of the meeting) is not in compliance with our county rules and regulations and yet he is coming before the BOA for a Special Exception. He has received two citations during weekends that he has held mudbogging events and is holding another event this weekend. This was a sticking issue during the vote. Many people spoke in favor of this activity and some were frustrated that this has to go through the county process to get an ok. Keeping mudboggers off of county roads, giving people something fun to do in Pike County, and money being spent in Pike County were some of the positive aspects that were given in favor of this event. Some of the concerns that were addressed at the meeting were possible degrading of property value for an adjoining property owner, operating in violation of county code, possible increase in the size of the mudbog, business permit, amount of cars, pedestrian safety as well as the safety of rubberneckers on the highway, and hours of operation. Board members said that there seems to be a need for this activity from the number of people who are attending, but the rules still needed to be addressed with guidelines on future events. Liability insurance and a separate business license were discussed. Presence of public safety vehicles was addressed with an emphasis on this being a private event. Battalion Chief 1 Jim Totten stressed that the Meansville truck was used with the City's blessing (though this is not the case now) and said that no county truck and no county personnel could attend a private event. Discussion of growth of the event and safety of spectators and participants was extensive. A motion was made to recommend a limited duration 90 day special use permit to be renewed upon a review of compliance issues during the Special Exception period with a long list of stipulations that accompanied the motion. The vote was 2-2-1 with Ron abstaining and both Teresa Crow and John Hoover voting against it because he is going to hold an event this weekend even though he has not completed the process to get a permit from the county. The motion failed so the BOA is sending this to the Board of Comissioners at the end of the month without a recommendation. That was a 3-1 vote with Bonnie Byrd Gardner voting against that.

The petition to include an invocation before each meeting failed, but the BOA will be saying the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of each future meeting.

Update 2.20.09: [Note from the Editor: I am reading over my notes from midnight last night and have made a correction to the mudbogging paragraph. John and Teresa asked Ron more than once about whether Ron was going to hold a mudbogging event this weekend even though he knew that he would be cited for it because he doesn't have a permit from the county and will be out of compliance by doing so. A question was even asked if he could cancel it and he said no. John even went so far as to say that Ron was going to hold an event this weekend knowing full well that he doesn't have a permit and Ron said yes. My writeup is now complete.]

A close friend and I took our kids to spend some time immersed in history yesterday. We visited the Titanic Exhibit at the Georgia Acquarium and the King Tut Exhibit at the Atlanta Civic Center.

We bought combined exhibit tickets at the Georgia Acquarium to see both events in one day. Thanks to AtlantaOnTheCheap.com, the price was more reasonable than buying individual tickets for each event. You can buy tickets online, but you're paying Ticketmaster for the privilege of buying on the internet when you can buy these combined tickets at the exhibit, but you need to know that the tickets for King Tut are for a specific time and everything that I saw said that the ticket price was non-refundable.

Take money for parking--$10 for the Acquarium and $5 for the Atlanta Civic Center--and eat before you go or eat in between stops if you want to save more than a few bucks. My family paid $30 just for food because we didn't think to plan ahead.

It's easy to lose track of time as you step back in history and walk through the Titanic Exhibit. It's easy to spend an entire day at the Acquarium looking at the fascinating sights there as well. The entry price includes both.

We each received a ticket when we went into the exhibit according to characteristics such as male or female and whether we were adults or children. Members in my family each received a 1st, 2nd, and a 3rd class ticket when we walked into the door of the exhibit. The reason was apparent by the end of the exhibit.

We examined artifacts from each class of passengers as we walked through the exhibit. By the end of the line, it was glaringly apparent that class did matter as far as who survived overall, but there were some 3rd class passengers who were saved because women and children were placed into the lifeboats before anyone else.

The exhibit was quite moving with the sounds of the wind and the creaking of the ship playing as we walked through to the end. Touching a replica of the iceburg brought that chilly night into perspective as well. There was interactive displays and short features from the Discovery Channel. The creatures of the deep nestled in three jars in one of the final rooms was worth the price of admission for my son! They were pretty gross.

I was pretty shocked to read an eyewitness account on the wall and see Pike County mentioned. The article on the Titanic below was inspired by our trip to the Georgia Acquarium yesterday.

This exhibit is scheduled to continue through Spring of 2009 so don't delay in getting your tickets. For more information, click on this link: www.georgiaaquarium.org/visitUs/TitanicAquatic.aspx.

The next stop was the Atlanta Civic Center to see Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharoahs. The King Tut Exhibit was fascinating--and it was not nearly as packed out as the Georgia Acquarium was on President's Day! We were in the final group to go through the exhibit yesterday afternoon.

There are no words to describe the awe that I felt as I walked through the exhibit. Pictures and priceless artifacts were on display that had been hidden in the sands of the desert for many years. An inscription on one of the walls read: "At 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, 1922 an unusual silence fell upon the Valley of the Kings. The discovery of a step cut into the valley floor. It was the beginning of a stairway... Tutankhamun had been found!"

These priceless artifacts ranged from easily held in the palm of my hand up to a statue that was taller than I am. The jewelry was a sight to behold. And the room describing King Tut's mummy and scientific discoveries after the excavation of his tomb was beyond words. It was also the most fascinating room in the entire display according to one child while the other liked the jewelry. The $1,500 lifesized coffin in the gift shop was pretty cool too.

My friend's son remarked that he would like to have a Shabti or two (this is a servant figure that would carry out heavy work on behalf of the deceased in the afterlife) so he wouldn't have to do any chores at his house. You can imagine that both of the Moms on this trip thought that was a great comment! It was enough to know that the kids were learning at the exhibit and trying to apply it to modern day life.

This exhibit was worth every dime that we paid to see it. I may even go back through it again before it moves to the next stop on the tour and listen to the recordings as we go through as well as visiting the Carlos Emory Museum to view ten years of pictures as the tomb of Tutankhamun from the discovery through the final removal of artifacts.

I wouldn't recommend carrying small children to either of these exhibits unless you have a way to keep them entertained or they have a long attention span. My seven year old was worn out by the end of the day and wasn't nearly as interested in the exhibit as was... until we got to the room with pictures of the mummy or a room where there was a short television program on the screen.

This is a traveling collection of more than 130 artifacts from King Tut's tomb and other Egyptian sites. This collection will be on display until May 22, 2009. The exhibit raises funds for preservation and renovation of Egyptian monuments and museums.

For more information, click on this link:
www.kingtut.org or www.carlos.emory.edu.

On April 10, 1912, a British oceanliner set sail from Southampton to New York. In the dark morning hours of April 15, 1912, this "unsinkable" ship collided with an iceberg and sank in the Atlantic Ocean. In the span of three short hours, 2,200 lives were placed in jeopardy.

Four of those passengers had a link to Georgia. Three of these passengers lost their lives along with the 1,500 people who died in this tragedy. Of the 700 passengers who survived, one survivor had a link to Pike County.

Isidor Straus was born in Rhenish Bavaria on February 6, 1845. Isodor lived in Georgia for about ten years after immigrating to the United States. He lived in Talbotton and Columbus before he and his brother, Nathan, moved to New York after the end of the Civil War to conduct business there. They eventually acquired a controlling interest in R.H. Macy & Co. (Macy's), and Isidor even served as a Congressman for the state of New York between 1895 and 1897.

Isador and Ida Straus were on the Titanic on its fateful voyage. She chose to remain with her husband rather than boarding a life boat.

According to www.encyclopedia-titanica.org/titanic-biography/ida-straus.html, Ida almost entered one of the lifeboats before turning back to join her husband. "We have lived together for many years. Where you go, I go." Friends tried to persuade her to change her mind, but she refused--choosing instead to sit with her husband on a pair of deck chairs as the Titanic sank.

Isidor and Ida Straus both died in the disaster. He was known as a philanthropist who gave his time and wealth to many charitable causes. Reportedly 40,000 people gathered for the Straus's memorial service when it was held in New York City. His body was recovered from the sea though hers never was. There is a fountain memorializing Isador and Ida Straus in New York City and Freshman Dormitory in Harvard Yard is named Straus Hall.

The second man with ties to Georgia was named Archibald "Archie" Butt. He was an Army Major born on September 26, 1865 in Richmond County, Georgia. He pursued a career in journalism after graduating from the University of the South in 1888. He worked at several newspapers including "The Macon Telegraph" before joining the Army during the Spanish-American War. Archie then served as a military aide to President Theodore Roosevelt for one year and served three years as a military aide to President William Howard Taft.

It was during the return trip after six weeks of leave from the White House that Archie boarded the Titanic to return home. According to "Part II: On the Titanic: Archie Butt" published in The Athens Observer in 1994: http://digitalcommons.law.uga.edu/fac_pm/21/, Archie assisted women and children into lifeboats and encouraged those who remained on the Titanic with him. His body was never recovered.

President Taft said that Archie "died like a soldier and a gentleman." A fountain was erected in his memory in Washington, D.C. and the Butt Memorial Bridge, which crosses the Augusta Canal in Augusta, Georgia, was dedicated exactly two years after his death on April 15, 1914.

The third person with ties to Georgia was Lily "May" Futrelle. She was the lone survivor from Georgia. May was born in Atlanta to David and Molly (Thompson) Peel on May 26, 1876. She was an author who married Jacques Futrelle in 1895.

May Futrelle wrote an account of her final evening aboard the Titanic just two weeks after the disaster. It was an article published in a two part series on April 21 and April 22, 1912 in The Boston Post. This piece described her experience in graphic detail.

The Worcester Telegram gives an account of the happy reunion with her daughter upon her return to the United States. According to The Worcester Telegram article posted on www.encyclopedia-titanica.org, May said: "Jacques is dead, but he died like a hero. That I know. Three or four times after the crash I rushed up to him and clasped him in my arms and begged him to get into one of the boats."

"For God's sake go" he fairly screamed at me as he tried to push me away and I could see how he suffered. It's your last chance, go. Then one of the ship's officers forced me into a lifeboat and I gave up all hope that he could be saved." ... "I did not want to leave Jack but he assured me that there were boats enough for all and that he would be rescued later."

"Hurry up May, your [sic] keeping the others waiting were his last words as he lifted me into a lifeboat and kissed me goodbye. I was in one of the last lifeboats to leave the ship. We had not put on many minutes when the Titanic disappeared. I almost saw as I saw her sink that I could see Jack standing where I had left him and waving at me."

Their final parting was fictionalized in the 1997 movie "Titanic" where the main characters were separated with one remaining behind and the other getting into the lifeboat after being assured that he would survive by holding on to the side of one of the lifeboats. Jacques reminded May of her duty to take care of their children while neglecting to tell her that the chilly waters of the North Atlantic would surely kill him. It was also her account of this fateful evening that told of how the band continued to play even as the ship was sinking.

May was the author of several novels and magazine articles. She is best known for her novel entitled "The Secretary of Frivolous Affairs". It was a best-seller for six consecutive years and was made into a movie in 1915. She finished his uncompleted novel and promoted his writing.

According to the 1998 work authored by Patricia Ruby Futrelle entitled, "Titanic's Man of Mystery" http://www.allatsea.co.za/futrelle.htm, "May was instrumental in getting a new Federal Publication Copyright Act enacted in 1940. President Roosevelt presented her with the pen he used to sign the bill into law." May died in 1967 at the age of 91 in Scituate, Massachusetts.

May's husband, Mr. Jacques Heath Futrelle, was born on April 9, 1875 in Pike County, Georgia. Jacques was the son of Wiley Harmon Heath Futrelle and Lennie (Bevill) Futrelle. He attended Pike County Schools as well as private schools and was also tutored by his father, who was a teacher. His mother, Lennie, encouraged her son in appreciation of the arts.

Patricia Ruby Futrelle wrote that Jacques was tutored in basic academics, French, and Greek and Latin Classics, as well as contemporary fiction including the writing of Sir Authur Conan Doyle. According to Futrelle, "Sherlock Holmes became his literary hero."

Jacques began his writing career at The Atlanta Journal at the age of 18. He then worked for the Boston Post for a year, but homesickness caused him to return to Atlanta to set up the first sports department at The Atlanta Journal. He was recommended for a job at the New York Herald because of the success in the sports department, and Jacques married Lilly May Peel on July 17, 1895 before leaving for New York. They later had two children named John and Virginia.

Being a journalist did not allow him to express his creativity, so Jacques began writing fiction in his spare time. Jacques was best known for his detective novels with the fictional character of Professor S.F.X. Van Dusen, who was also called "the Thinking Man". He was also known for his mysteries that involved a "locked room problem". The most famous of these stories is entitled "The Problem of Cell 13" which can be found at a website dedicated to his writing: www.futrelle.com/.

Jacques celebrated his 37th birthday in London before boarding the Titanic for its maiden voyage. By this time, he was a celebrated author with fifty short stories, plays, and many novels. Jacques' final novel, "My Lady's Garter", was published in 1912 after his death. The inscription of the book read, "To the heroes of the Titanic I dedicate this my husband's book". May placed this inscription under a full-page formal photo of her late husband.

Jacques' body was lost at sea. On every April 14th for as long as she was physically able to do so, May stood alone on a cliff on the Scituate, Massachusetts coast and conducted her own private memorial to Jacques and those who died on the Titanic. She threw a bouquet of fresh flowers into the chilly North Atlantic Ocean that took their lives.

To read Donald E. Wilkes, Jr.'s four part series entitled "Georgians Died on Titanic", click on the following link http://digitalcommons.law.uga.edu/fac_pm/21/ and scroll down to the bottom of the page to open the pdf file with the entire series of articles that was published in "the Athens Observer" in 1994.

The Carl Vinson Institute's "A Day In History" http://georgiainfo.galileo.usg.edu/tdgh-apr/apr15.htm was a big help in this article as well. It is a wealth of information for any day in history.

"Titanic's Man of Mystery can be read by clicking on the following link:
http://www.allatsea.co.za/futrelle.htm.

Mystery Scene Magazine published a story by Jeffrey Marks that is a fascinating account of Jacques Futrelle. It can be read on the following link:
http://www.mysteryscenemag.com/articles/76jacquesfutrelle.pdf.

To read many of the works of Jacques Futrelle, go to
www.futrelle.com/.

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
     A. Tom Lacey or Tommy Burnsed from the Pike County Water Authority to discuss the inclusion of natural gas in their enabling legislature.
     B. Discussion of the appointment of Forrest Sanders to the DFACS Board-Risa Price to speak on behalf of DFACS
     C. Discussion of the contract to re-roof the 2nd District Fire Station

IX. NEW BUSINESS
     A. Discuss merging the EMA and EMS functions back into a singe line item/ single department and also merge the current 2008/09 budgets together.
     B. Request approval to issue RFP for Financial Services to lowest bidder.
     C. Discussion of contract to provide services for payment to the Georgia Department of Corrections
     D. Approve or deny contractual agreements for services with various component units of Pike County Government
     E. Request authorization for the County Manager to bring on an IT person
     F. Request permission to refund Mr. Joseph Reid $100.00 for overpayment of plats.
     G FY 2009 Bond Resolution #1

X. EXECUTIVE SESSION
     -Personnel-Fire Chief/Fire Department pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(6)

XI. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
     Carol Bass to discuss finances.

XII. ADJOURNMENT

Overall, this was a pretty short meeting. It ran from 9 a.m. until 11:47 a.m. including the Executive Session. All five commissioners were there looking very professional in their business attire. Nancy was there to take the minutes. The County Manager (CM) Steve Marro was there as well and both Rob and Tom Morton there to provide legal advice.

V. INVITED GUEST

A. Ben Carter, Carter Watkins Associates to present a cost estimate and construction update of the Courthouse facility: Mr. Carter was not present at this meeting. CM Marro apologized and advised that he did not know why Mr. Carter was not present.

B. Tom Morgan to present plaque to Aubrey Boswell for 18 years of service on the Pike County Board of Equalization: Congratulations and thanks to Mr. Boswell for his faithful service. A picture will be on the We Are Pike County page later.

C. Bill Roebuck to discuss changing “Oak Tree Road” to Bill Johnson Trail. Actual road name is Twin Oaks Pass (between Caldwell and Flat Rock Church Road). The Post Office has no problem renaming this road and neither does the BOC. Motion to approve 4-0.

VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES

A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities - All of the BOC members except for Tommy Powers asked for a summary report rather than the detailed reports that they are now receiving. The CM will have the full reports at the meeting so he can answer any questions that are asked. ACCG and McIntosh Trail are sending reports on the Georgia Legislature to the commissioners that go into their boxes. The East-West corridor came was talked about it and the BOC wants to be included. At some point, they will have to pass a resolution on where they would like to see it go. The CM has been talking to various entities from other counties and attending meetings on this corridor. A commendation was given to the office staff for having packets ready by Thursday on the previous meeting so the BOC members can read them ahead of time.

B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners

1. Update on the motion to consolidate costs for re-paving 6 roads, upgrading from dirt to pavement 6 roads, and the updated cost to renovate the Courthouse: Ben Carter had spoken to the CM earlier and advised that he would be at this meeting. An apology was given for his absence. Six roads that are in need of repaving were given at this meeting. Criteria that helped choose these roads for the first repaving were things like: bus route, heavily populated, highly travelled, connects 2 paved roads, main thoroughfare, severity of deterioration, and located off of a state highway. The six roads that were chosen for repaving include Zebulon-Hollonville Road (5.4 miles), Beeks Road (2.8 miles), Kings Road (3.8 miles), New Hope Road (6.6 miles), Hemphill Road (1.6 miles), and Reidsboro Road (2.1 miles fromMidway to Hwy 18). This will come to approximately $855,000 that the BOC will be asking for government help to repave with asphalt. Then the process of choosing dirt roads to pave or chip seal was discussed. From wikipedia: "Chip seal is a pavement surface treatment that combines a layer(s) of asphalt with a layer(s) of fine aggregate." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chipseal. Proposed roads for this surface treatment include: Caldwell Road, Howell Road, McKinley Road, Melvin Brown Road, Old Zebulon Road, and Woodard Road. There was some discussion of a bond referendum for roads and fixing up the Courthouse.

2. Per the Board’s request, the financials and ‘signed’ BOC minutes were posted on the website within a day of the meeting: BOC minutes and financials were on the website on the day after the past meeting. They are working toward getting the financials and agenda online prior to each meeting as well. [Note from the Editor: This is a big step in the right direction and thanks need to be given to the BOC for insisting on this and the CM and Commission Office staff for getting this done!]

3. The National Fire Service has informed the Fire Chief of an opportunity to have the Pike County Fire Department featured in a training video: We can expect a new ISO rating for fire protection within the next month. The goal was to get this done by March 1st. Furthermore, the turbo drafts have been used and work very well at pulling water out of a lake to put out a fire. The National Fire Service has talked about using Pike Fire Service personel to make a turbo draft training video that will be seen all over the world.

4. All elected officials, component units of government and department heads were notified last Friday, Feb. 6th that the budget process has begun for the 2009/2010 fiscal year. An 8 month fiscal year is targeted.Last Friday began the the 2009-2010 budget process. Department heads and elected officials went through training yesterday. Effort is being made to make this as transparent as possible for the public. The new process includes capital assets, capital asset needs as well as replacements and a capital improvements plan with a 5 year history and line item details for needed items. There will also be a series of department goals and objectives for long-term planning. This is performance based budgeting and is an effort to get away from simply asking for the same amount every year plus an automatic increase in taxpayer dollars.

5. Pot-hole repairs have begun as the paving plants are now re-opened. Does the BOC have a policy on repairs to taxpayer’s vehicles when they have made repairs due to the pothole conditions in the County roads?: The pot hole plant opened up last week and Public Works is filling in pot holes again. (Citizens should call the Road Department to get pot holes put on the list to be filled. See the bottom of the Calendar of Events page for that information.) A request came in for the county to pay for a citizen's alignment that was damaged by hitting a pot hole. The county does not pay for this and is working to put something into writing on it.

6. A training report has been provided relative to Mr. Townsend’s training and Accreditations with the Carl Vinson Institute. This is a complete package of Financial training sponsored by ACCG that will provide him with a Certification in Public Finance. The training is being done per the BOC directions last year.: Sean Townsend is enrolled in classes that will have him taking his Finance I and II tests shortly. He will have certification at the end of this training that will be a big plus for the county.

Also: Predisaster Mitigation Plan is ahead of schedule. When it is completed, there will be a Public Hearing on it and the BOC will vote on it with the approved version going to GEMA. This will make Pike eligible for FEMA and GEMA grants. [Note from the Editor: Those who do not have flood insurance need to get that process started as soon as possible. Insurance will be much more expensive after this process is completed. To read about the Flood Mapping that is being done in Pike County, click on Past Stories and scroll down to the story entitled "Georgia Floodplain Mapping Program Coming to Pike County" which is dated 12.23.09. The stories go from top to bottom in date order with the latest stories being on the top.]

And: The Quality Control Review for 9-1-1 was conducted. 911 was commended for a substantial increase in response and accuracy and it was said that they had one of the best inspections in the state of Georgia.

Update 2.12.09: C. Commissioners Report

District 1 Roosevelt Willis: Roosevelt and District 2 Parrish Swift had looked at a culvert in need of repair on Turner Road. They were advised that Public Works is working on culverts on Caldwell and Perkins Roads now but they will replace Turner when they get done with these. Public Works is making the rounds in the county and working as quickly as possible. Roosevelt addressed a problem with Turner Road that he said he was instructed to do at a public meeting. Apparently a neighbor complained that another land owner had the Road Department do work on private property. Todd Goolsby explained that the road was narrow in this section so the Road Department widened the road and cut back the ditch but explained that the Road Department ONLY worked on the county right of way. He went on to say that there was a rumor going around that the Road Department is clearing a lot for a land owner over on Union School Road and that is not true either. He stressed that the Road Department does not do work for the public. In this case, they cut a bank back for a ditch. It was said that there are not many complaints about the Road Department anymore.

District 2 Parrish Swift asked why Hughley Road has not been designated as a school zone because of the high volume of traffic. Said that it might even need flashing lights and reduced speed and complained that it is dangerous because the state did not put in acceleration and deceleration lanes. Motion was made for the CM to address the Georgia Department of Transportation about the school zone and accel/decel lanes.

District 3 Tommy Powers: None.

District 4 Don Collins brought up the subject of mudbogging on Ron Snowden's property on Hwy 19 just outside of Zebulon. Don's question was whether the commissioners were going to allow the mudbogging to happen before the special exception is given for Ron to operate mudbogging on his property. There have been complaints of people paying to park in a field across the 4 lane highway and then walk across to the mudbogging, cars coming to a complete stop in the middle of the road to watch what is going on, and citizens have even been calling the Governor's Office about the mudbogging. The commissioners were advised that Ron has been cited twice on the past two weekends. The citations will go before Magistrate Court on February 26th and Ron Snowden will ask for a Special Exception for mudbogging on his property before the Board of Appeals for rezoning on February 19th. Don asked about the situation with the Community Meeting Room at the Library and was advised that the CM gave them a letter expressing the commissioners' concerns and was told by the librarian and the Chairman of the Library Board that the public was never told this. [Note from the Editor: See the Library Board Meeting article below for more information about their past meeting.] Don said that he would like to se a Human Resource Office in Pike County and that he would like to see a workshop where the commissioners discussed multiple subjects instead of many workshops for separate subjects. Commenting on the topic of Sean Townsend getting his certification, he asked if this also addresses proficiency in the financial software that the county is using. Said that we are not using the software to its capacity. Then he asked for signs to notify the public to call 9-1-1 when they enter the county on main thoroughfares. Was told that this would be addressed.

Chairman Doug Mangham: None.

D. County Attorney Report: Rob said that the PRD is being reviewed as well as the review of our ordinances to update them from 2002 until December of 2008. Hopefully this will be before the BOC by the end of the month. Said that the BOC needs to designate someone to keep up with this information and compile it in the proper places so the county does not have to go through this process again. When it is complete, those on committees will get a copy for their code books and it will go on the county website. Advised that the Planning Commission asked to repeal P-R Zoning in 2002.

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS

First Reading of Adult Entertainment Ordinance: Rob advised that this ordinance was worked on by the CATF Subcommittee on Zoning and Ordinance and has been before the Planning Commission. Said that the 2,500 feet requirement between adult entertainment establishments and schools, churches, etc. is longer than the 1,500 feet requirement that is found in other ordinances around the state. Said that the Planning Commission and the Planning and Development Staff recommended approval.

In Favor: John Morrison said that he is in favor of adopting this ordinance and asked about the 1,500 versus 2,500 feet requirement. Was advised that 2,500 feet had not been tested in court but said that this is the county's ordinance and we can write it any way that we want to. Becky Watts thanked the BOC for addressing this issue, said it's been a long time coming, and that I am very much in favor of this ordinance. [Note from the Editor: I have to point out that we, as a county, cannot outlaw adult entertainment establishments; however, we can make the rules stringent enough that an adult entertainment operation will prefer to go somewhere else because of the hoops that they have to jump through. My words and opinion here, of course.]

More soon.

The Library Board met on February 5, 2009 at the J. Joel Edwards Library. [Note from the Editor: I have tried to attend at least one of all of the county boards and authorities meetings over the past two years. This was my first Library Board meeting. If you attend any of these meetings on a regular basis and would like to send a Guest Column on the proceedings of those meetings that are not on the website, please email me using the editor link at the top of the page.]

Here is a rundown of a few things that have been going on at the library. Two local writers donated their books to the library. Dwain Penn donated a copy of "Christmas Letters from the 20th Century" and Ann W. Yearwood donated a signed copy of "Redbird Farm". The Homeschool Program had a visitor when they met last time. Most of the kids read to the 140 pound therapy dog. It was stated that homebound students appreciate the library's services. (Mary Alice does a great job with the kids!) The Library Board had to meet in the Georgia Room since this was a day when tax help is offered to Pike citizens at the library. Pat said that the line started before the library opened this morning and they cut it off at 12:30 p.m. with the tax representatives working from 1-4 p.m. and later than that today. She said that tax help representatives will be at the library every Thursday until April 9th. And there was one day where it rained a lot and a blockage was a problem with the septic system. It was taken care of though five hours without bathrooms is not something that they want to do again.

The Library was mentioned in the past Board of Commissioners meeting because someone from the Historical Society had spoken to a commissioner and said that they were not going to be allowed to meet after library hours anymore for meetings in order to cut back on heating and cooling costs. The Library Board had received a letter from the County Manager Steve Marro who had been instructed by the commissioners to contact the Library Board and voice the commissioners' displeasure with this. Pat said that there had been a misunderstanding and gave an explanation of what had taken place. The Library Board as a whole basically said that if the commissioners say that they want the meeting room to be available then it will be available. Costs will be addressed at a later point if it they run overbudget. Those who want to reserve this meeting room must call the library and reserve specific dates for the room even if they have been meeting over certain times during the past year. If the meeting has been cancelled, the person in charge should call the library and notify them of this so the heating and cooling doesn't have to be turned on.

The Flint River Regional Library System has a new program for audio books. This includes Macs too. Browse at www.doc.frrls.net to check out and download popular audiobooks from the Georgia Download Destination website which is a virtual branch of the library that includes many of the same titles as the library. (See article above this for more information.)

There was discussion about improvements that need to be made at the library including the need for handicap-accessible doors. There is hope that Impact Fee money set aside for the library can be used for this. Changes will be made to the plants on the islands in front of the library when the weather is warmer. Volunteers and maybe a Boy Scout (or Girl Scout)troop could help with this. Cheryl Fulghum is the new Treasurer for the Library Board. She was elected to the position by those in attendance.

There was much discussion about Bylaws and the Constitution for the Library. There has been discussion in the past about whether to stay with just one library or go to a library system with the J. Joel Edwards Library in Zebulon being the main library with the possibility of a hub or satellite branch in Williamson where the old United Bank building was moved onto a piece of City of Williamson land last year. It has been established that the Board of Commissioners will have to approve any changes to the Bylaws and Constitution of the library. There was a great deal of discussion on whether to change to the Pike County Library System or remain as the Pike County Library. Members decided to come to an agreement and bring it before the Board of Commissioners. The first vote that was taken ended up with three members for it and three members against it with one member abstaining since she will not be on the board very much longer. After more discussion--some of it heated--another vote was taken. The final vote came out 4-2 in favor of going with the Pike County Library System. The Bylaws and Constitution will reflect this change when presented to the Board of Commissioners. On a side note, donations made toward the Williamson library building are tax deductible as they are going though the Pike Foundation. Discussion was tabled on whether to go to a 501(c)(3) for the library itself until later in the meeting.

New Business: The contract from the Board of Commissioners to the Library Board was reviewed and discussed. This contract is one that is being presented to all of the boards and authorities in the county and it addresses required yearly audits and other matters of importance. Authorization was given to the Chair of the Library Board to sign and return this contract to the County Manager.

Keith McClelland is attending grant writing classes and plans to use this new skill to get grants for the library. He has obtained a list of potential sources from this class that will be helpful. Discussion was held during the meeting about whether the library should become a 501(c)(3) so that donations could be tax deductible. This is a long-term solution for helping the library gain donations that will be on hold until the commissioners give approval about the Constitution and Bylaws of the Pike County Library System. Employee benefits and hours were discussed as well. The need for a written policy from the county was stated so that this can be properly addressed. The Library Board will begin working on the budget as soon as possible in order to meet upcoming deadlines for the short budget year that will be the transition for moving to a new year beginning and ending for the entire county.

The meeting began at 4:00 p.m. and ended about 5:45 p.m.

The Georgia Forestry Commission is conducting a controlled burn of about 60 acres of property in the vicinity of Kendrick and Perkins Roads in North Pike County. This burn will rid the land of brush that could catch fire and be a possible hazard later as well as preparing the property for later use.
www.gatrees.org/ForestFire/PrescribedFireGuide/reasons.html

You may obtain a permit for yard debris and leaf piles from the GFC web site at www.gatrees.org. Click on Burn Permits and following the instructions. Citizens may also call the automated permit system at 1-877-652-2876.

For land clearing or acreage burns call your local GFC office. Please note that all “annual permits” are no longer valid. Permits are issued on a daily basis only.

The number for the Lamar, Pike and Spalding GFC office is 770-227-5522 or 770-229-3005.

Pictures will be on the We Are Pike County page. Thanks to Jeff for the phone call. Fire can be scary and yet beautiful at the same time--at least in this case it was because there was no threat to surrounding structures, etc.

The Pike County Middle School had an Awards Ceremony December 19, 2008 to celebrate student accomplishments.

Semester 1 Members of the Pike County Middle School Academic Team include students from both the 7th and 8th grades. 7th graders Matt Boyton, Mara McGurl, Cole Patterson, Hunter Statham, and Drew Wolf are on the Pike County Middle School Academic Team. 8th graders Trevor Banks, Lorna Crom, Sydney Fisher, Anna Heape, Brandon Nichols, and Madison Robey.

Members of the Pike County Middle School Softball Team were honored. 7th and 8th graders comprise the team. 7th graders include: Halley Andrews, Leila Chambers, Melanie Cuviello, Lauren Duncan, Mara McGurl, Amber Miley, Tabitha Mitchell, and Eliza Norton. 8th graders include: Breanna Corbin, Jamie Daniels, Ansley Dowd, Kristen Sandefur, Summer Whitmire, and Autumn Yokely.

Members of the Pike County Middle School Football Team were honored. 7th and 8th graders comprise the team. 7th graders include: Ben Adams, Jarret Beck, Carter Blaze, Josh Boden, Eric Bowles, Brandon Cody, Kurt Cox, Quan Dodson, Keersten Dozier, Michael Estes, Jarrod Fuqua, Tyler Gregory, Dustin Hammond, Drew Howell, Ethan Jacobs, Logan Jones, Luke Kiblinger, Josh Lively, Tyler Lough, David Marks, Patrick McAbee, Tyler McLaughlin, Sean O'Brien, Artez Oglesby, Josh Patten, Josh Perkins, Jacob Rich, Chase Ryan, Jacob Sanders, Eli Story, Justin Straight, Eric Swint, Jacob Teal, MattTurner, Jericho Valasquez, Beau Waychoff, Zac Wilson, and Drew Wolf. 8th graders include: Aaron Aderhold, Jacob Adkins, Tony Anthony, Trevor Banks, Blake Berryman, Kody Billings, Hunter Brannon, Chandler Brazel, Donald Brown, Hunter Brown, Brannon Cape, Ryan Chumley, Aaron Clay, Colby Cleghorn, Jess Devoursney, Thomas Gamble, Jay Gatlin, Dalton Hammond, Ryan John, Chris Johnson, Devan Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Darius Jordan, Decatur Keller, Xavius Lowe, Cody McGee, Kyle Mobley, Josh Peaden, Charles Pendley, David Pickett, Justin Sanders, Chandler Sims, Brandon Starks, Hunter Statham, Chandler Stephens, Bryce Strickland, Cory Timpson, Jordan Turner, Cole Varnadoe, Adam Warren, Clay Watson, Michael Wheeless, Jordan Wilkins, Eric Wimberly, and Matt Wright.

Pirates First Class are students who have been voted by Faculty with only one chosen per team each month—some of the criteria used to select winners are meeting or exceeding expectations of good citizenship demonstrated by honesty, kindness, helpfulness, respectfulness, responsibility, and a good work ethic, as well as good attendance and no discipline referrals. Pike County Middle School Pirates First Class include: Kristen Beckham, 6th, Swashbucklers Team for September; Emory Dean, 6th, Gifted Team for September; Tre Housman, 6th, Buccaneers Team for September; Lauren Colado, 6th, Swashbucklers Team for October; Madison Holt, 6th, Buccaneers Team for October; Austin Britt, 6th, Swashbucklers Team for November; John Flowers, 6th, Gifted Team for November; Ortearia Hamm, 6th, Buccaneers Team for November; Alex Allgood, 7th, Swashbucklers Team for September; Hunter Wallace, 7th, Buccaneers Team for September; Virginia Johnson, 7th, Swashbucklers Team for October; Mara McGurl, 7th, Gifted Team for October; Bridgette Jordan, 7th, Swashbucklers Team for November; Eliza Norton, 7th, Swashbucklers Team for November; Maci Royal, 7th, Buccaneers Team for November; Carly Funderburk, 8th, Swashbucklers Team for September; Sarena Washington, 8th, Buccaneers Team for September; Alegra Britt, 8th, Swashbucklers Team for October; Janneshea Elder, 8th, Buccaneers Team for October; Cody McGee, 8th, Swashbucklers Team for November; and Holly Minter, 8th, Buccaneers Team for November.

Students have been at school each scheduled day with no absences, no tardies, no early check-outs and not late to class are awarded for Perfect, Perfect Attendance. Pike Middle School Students with Perfect, Perfect Attendance during Semester 1 are: Emory Elisabeth Dean-6th; Anthony Glenn Elmore-6th; Feyada Precious Bogan-6th; Carson M. Grant-6th; Micaela Rae Martin-6th; McKenzie Katherine Reese-6th; Cullen Cain Sutherland-6th; Madison E. Adler-7th; Linda Michelle Bugh-7th; Brandon David Eck-7th; Justin Matthew Kempson-7th; Dalton Troy Montgomery-7th; Anna Marie Smith-7th; Benjamin Vizi-7th; Taylor Danielle Asher-8th; Michael Blake Bennett-8th; Chandler Mikala Padovano-8th; Madison Kelsey Robey-8th; Chandler Sims-8th; Austin Thomas Smith-8th; and William Brown-8th.

Students have been at school each scheduled day with no absences are awarded for Perfect Attendance.

6th Grade Students who have been awarded with Perfect Attendance are: Alexandria Nicole Hixon, Alyssa Simone Hanson, Ashley Lauren York, Austin Dontravious Britt, Bailey Brooke Rawlins, Bailey J Kimbrell, Brannon Paul Waddell, Breanna R Eady, Buck, Evan Michael, Charles Elliott Lockhart, Christopher Beeland, Conner McPherson Mathis, Corey Scott Wright, Courtney Faith Caraway, Deanna Lynn Nix, Dustin Pressles, Endia Cianna Forston, Erin Kyesha Davis, Flint Lee Ramsey, Garrett James Kirk, Haleigh Elizabeth Harper, Christian Nickalous Ham, Hannah Alise Crowder, Holly Marie Swetman, Jessie Lee Hunton, Jacob Anderson Crane, Jacob Lee Thomason, Jacob Paul Rivera, Jacob Zackary Peyton, Jade Summer Brazier, James Cody Tibbit, James Jimmy Tomlinson, Jasmine Marie Phinazee, Jessica Ann Licari, Jessica Christian Lester, John David Flowers, John Mark Friend, Johnnie Lee Pilgrim, Jonathan Ray Chastain, Jordan Peeples, Jordan Tyler Bivens, Joshua Kyle Strader, Kaitlyn Dorothy Dublin, Katherine Lee Wood, Katie Nicole Langford, Katie Nicole Langford, Rachel Lynn Klaassen, Kristen Beckham, Kyle Joseph Kenerly, Lacy Nicole Smith, Laurann L. Hill, Levi G. Stewart, Marley Brooke Stowers, Marshall Kate Smith, Ortearia Kadijah Hamm, Morgan Danielle Pilkenton, Rachael Nicole Singleton, Rachel Nicole Burge, Robert P. Housman, Ryan Foster, Samantha Madison Holt, Storm Mykayla Shepard, John Paul Tibbit, Tristin Hall English, Turon DeAndre Dunham, Eli Patrick Williams, and Justin Cousson.

7th Grade Students who have been awarded with Perfect Attendance are: Benjamin Matthew Adams, Alan Bailey Williams, Alexandra Kaitlyn Allgood, Allie Miranda Bennett, Andrew Ross Hay, Austin Mitchell Conine, Ayonna Oglesby, Christopher Baker, Kurtis Craig Cox, Brittany Ann Cyphers, David Blake Phillips, David Blaze Carter, Denise April Killimade, Eric Wesley Swint, Ethan Lawrence Jacobs, Geoffery A. Bottchen, Hailey Renee Chapman, Martigus Vershon Henley, Hunter Austin Wallace, Jacob Ruben Rich, Jacqueline Emily Reid, Jerico Velazques, Jesse Ray Hunter, Kaitlyn Ali Ayers, Maci Royal, Mackenzie Lynn Pitts, Mara Mackenzie McGurl, Matthew Grant Calvert, Michelle Lee Licari, Nicolette Austin Wimberly, Shelby Elizabeth Parker, Ashley Lauren Pippin, Victoria Faythe Reid, Warren Nicholas Snell, Michael A. Watson, Johnathan Wilson, and Zachary Glen Glass.

8th Grade Students who have been awarded with Perfect Attendance are: Aaron Reid Brooks, Alegra Deanna Britt, Alexa R Byrom, Austin Blake Hubbard, Brandon M Allen, Brittany Trucks, Christina Marie Bugh, Elizabeth Brooke Clark, Corey Douglas Timpson, Darius Dion Jordan, Emily Noel Kilcrease, Emily Rose Johnson, Jonathan Matthew Ham, Harley Ray Tibbit, Jacob Paul Adkins, Jake Marlow, Dylan Michael Jeffery, Jeremy Wesley Strader, Jessica M Palmer, Justin Shane Goodman, Kane Marlow, Kayla Dickson, Kirsten Allen, Mary Elizabeth Peeler, Brandon Gregory Nichols, Bryan Dallas Pendley, Charles Mitchell Pendley, Ryan Lee Johnson, Sarah Elizabeth Teston, Savannah Michelle Howard, Josie Micaela Sohler, Timara Echols, Tracy Dzung Nguyen, Doni Renee Wells, Michael Wade Wheeless, and Wyterria Ashia James.

All Year Merit Roll are students who are on the Merit Roll for obtaining all A’s & B’s.

6th Grade All Year Merit Roll students include: Kole Adams, Tara Adcox, Bailey Allen, Kaylee Andrews, Kayla Arnold, Christopher Ballard, Elizabeth Baynard, Christopher Beeland, Bryson Bell, Nathaniel Bray, Courtney Bunn, Courtney Caraway, Matthew Caraway, Jacob Carroll, Gage Chambley, Jonathan Chastain, Joshua Chumley, Lauren Colado, Samuel Coley, Christopher Conner, Chase Corbin, Justin Cousson, Jacob Crane, Stephen Crane, Erin Davis, Johnathan Dawson, Robert DeLoach, Taylor Drawdy, Kaitlyn Dublin, Turon Dunham, Tristin English, Ryan Foster, Joshua Fratt, Madison Gober, Dakota Gordy, Christian Ham, Alyssa Hanson, Cameron Hardie, Haleigh Harper, Dalton Hately, Latasha Holland, Jessie Hunton, Tyler Jonathan Hutcheson, John Hutchison, Makia Jenkins, Rebecca Johnson, Kyle Kenerly, Nicholas Kirby, Garrett Kirk, Rachel Klaassen, Tyler Koon, Christian Laminack, Katie Langford, Jessica Lester, Allison Long, Savannah Lupes, Raley Mathis, Bobby Matthews, Danyelle McCauley, Rebekah Meloy, Tyler Mercer, Baylynn Merritt, Christopher Middleton, Mercedes Miller, Timothy Morris, Kelsie Neath, Mikayla Newton, Bailey Old, Jasmine Phinazee, Morgan Pilkenton, James Privee, Belinda Pryor, Lauren Pryor, Carlie Sandefur, Savannah Sansom, Journi Smith, Lacy Smith, Maggie Smith, Sommer Smith, Jeremy Stahl, Tybee Stanley, Coleman Stephens, Levi Stewart, Anthony Story, Holly Swetman, Elijah Swetnam, Judy Tanksley, James Tibbit, John Tibbit, James Tomlinson, Maci Townsend, Christopher Waller, Jacob Weaver, Savannah Wilkerson, Katherine Wood, and Breanna Woods.

7th Grade All Year Merit Roll students include: Benjamin Adams, Halley Andrews, Jarrett Beck, Dixiana Benefield, Brandee Bertram, Morgen Betsill, Kevin Brock, Elija Bryant, Allison Cagle, Blaze Carter, Brianna Cato, Leila Chambers, Kelsey Coates, Christian Colado, James Collum, Michelle "Nikki" Davis, Aaron Dunaway, Victor Edwins, Garrett Eubank, Jalon Evans, Ashlee Fennell, Gianella Funes, Abigale Garner, Jeffery Garner, Jonathan Garner, Michael Hunter Greene, Tyler Gregory, Kevin Hall, Dustin Harper, Asia Harris, Hannah Hearn, Drew Howell, Jesse Hunter, Kayla Hutcheson, Jovie Ivester, Bridgette Jordan, Leah Kirchner, Hanna Langford, Alyssa Lynch, Amy Mangham, Andrew Marshall, Brianna May, Patrick McAbee, Summer Metts, Amber Miley, Savannah Moore, Sean OBrien, Artez Oglesby, Robert Allen Paynter, Austin Pettis, Mackenzie Pitts, Ansley Ray, Chasity Reagan, Victoria Reid, Hayden Richardson, Tyler Riggins, Ambure Rutan, Jacob Sanders, Kelsey Shelton, Alex Singley, Anna Smith, Savanna Smith, Lindsey Sutton, Hallie Swift, Eric Swint, Sydney Swyryn, Jacob Teal, Darrin Walker, Hannah White, Roosevelt Willis, Zachary Turner Wilson, Daysha Wolfinger, Kenneth Yeoman, and Brittany Young.

8th Grade All Year Merit Roll students include: Aaron Aderhold, Jacob Adkins, Kirsten Allen, Charlsy Anesetti, Elizabeth Anthony, Tony Anthony, Trevor Banks, Shelby Benson, Blake Lewis Berryman, Samantha Biggs, Taylor Blake, Dylan Blount, Tucker Blount, Lyric Bowles, Mia Brandon, Preston Brazel, Cameron Je Bridges, Alegra Britt, Dequandre Brooks, Hunter Brown, William Brown, Donald Brown III, Joseph Bryan, Christina Bugh, Alexa Byrom, Amanda Carbone, Elizabeth Brooke Clark, Jody Clark, Aaron Clay, Colby Cleghorn, Ellie Cleghorn, Breanna Corbin, Makayla Crane, Dakota Cribbs, Lorna Crom, Zachary Devoursney, Kayla Dickson, Ansley Dowd, William Jacob Edwards, Savannah Elledge, Danyale Ford, Matthew Fortson, Jordan Foster, Taylor Fowler, James Gatlin, Christy Gaylor, Justin Goodman, Jonathan Ham, Dalton Hammond, Colton Hatchett, William Hathaway, Rachel Holmes, Georgie Huckaby, Ryan Hyde, Emily Johnson, Darius Jordan, Krista Kelly, Emily Kilcrease, Annie King, Jessica Lifsey, Jade Livingston, Thrayland Lowe, Kayla Lyle, Noah Martin, Kelsey Monaghan, Spencer Muzik, Adam Nichols, Chandler Padovano, Joshua Peaden, Mary Elizabeth Peeler, Bryan Dallas Pendley, Keegan Prescott, Michael Reed, James Roberts, Chelsea Sandt, Hallie Sebaugh, Jessica Simon, Dusty Spradlin, Andrew Stephens, Jeremy Strader, Bryce Strickland, Madison Taylor, Sarah Teston, Callie Thompson, Corey Timpson, Laura Weaver, Summer Whitmire, Marissa Williams, Morgan Williams, Elizabeth Woodall, Macy Worst, Chelease Young, and Justin Zambujo.

All Year Honor Roll students are those who are on the Honor Roll for obtaining all A’s.

6th Grade All Year Honor students include: Trinidy Baird, Kayla Banks, Kristen Beckham, Bradley Biles, Evan Buck, Adam Calhoun, Ellie Cape, Brittany Crenshaw, Hannah Crowder, Emory Dean, Jacey Deel, Cody Fine, John Flowers, John Friend, Ortearia Hamm, Ryan Hilton, Samantha Holt, Robert Housman, Jonathan Jones, Madison Grant Jones, Morgan Jones, Alexia Kee, Bailey Kimbrell, Jessica Licari, Conner Mathis, Benjamin Morris, Mitchell Payne, Jordan Peeples, David Penland, Scott Petty, Lora Rape, Bailey Rawlins, Miranda Rawlins, McKenzie Reese, Rachael Singleton, Lauren Smith, Marshall Smith, John Story, Marley Stowers, Jacob Thomason, Abbey Thompson, Carlie Turner, Holly Turner, Emily Watson, Eli Williams, Corey Wright, Ashley York, and Chelsea Zambujo.

7th Grade All Year Honor students include: Madison Adler, Alexandra Allgood, Hunter Bishop, Dustin Blohm, Candler Caldwell, Chandler Callaway, Katherine Casey, Austin Conine, Kurtis Cox, Melanie Cuviello, Sidney Drawdy, Autumn Grace Futch, Zachary Glass, Rachel Hinkle, Ethan Jacobs, Virginia Johnson, Logan Jones, Justin Kempson, Bryson Lange, Michelle Licari, Katie Lumley, Mara McGurl, Nicholas Morelock, Eliza Norton, Morgan Ogletree, Andrew Pass, Cole Patterson, Hannah Peek, Shelby Peters, David Phillips, Hannah Rainwater, Jared Rawlins, Katie Rawlins, Chase Ryan, Taylor Scott, Kirstie Shelton, Warren Snell, Harleigh Sohler, Emily Stusak, Abigail Turner, Haley Vickery, Benjamin Vizi, Abigail Wheeless, and Timothy Worshum.

8th Grade All Year Honor Roll students include: Brandon Allen, Miriam Anglin, Taylor Asher, Hunter Brannon, Summer Childs, Ryan Chumley, Johnathan Crum, Jamie Daniels, Amanda Danielson, Lindsey Duncan, Daniel Forrest Durham, Morgan Eldridge, Emily Evans, Brandi Fine, Sydney Fisher, Brianna Foster, Winifred Freeman, Carley Funderburk, Savannah Gill, Taylor Hardy, Rebecca Harwell, Anna Heape, Savannah Howard, Dylan Jeffery, Ryan John, Anna Johnson, Christopher Johnson, Devin Johnson, Jessi Johnson, Darius Jordan, Rachel Lovin, Jake Marlow, Kane Marlow, Cody McGee, Holly Minter, Kelly Mitchell, Drew Morton, Tracy Nguyen, Brandon Nichols, Madison Robey, Kristen Sandefur, Rachael Schlieman, Kaylee Scott, Chandler Sims, Austin Smith, Cade Smith, Caleb Teachout, Kathryn Thompson, Brittany Trucks, Cole Varnadoe, Sarena Washington, Clayton Watson, Doni Wells, Michael Wheeless, Anna Whitaker, Matthew Wright, and Autumn Yokeley.

After many months of uncertainty regarding the future of local Red Cross operations, the future is looking brighter now that operations have been transferred to Atlanta.

“We have no local office whatsoever,” said Cheryl Marshall, who is currently the only Red Cross volunteer for Spalding County. “We are a part of the Atlanta-Metropolitan Red Cross. There is no local office.”

According to Marshall, a lack of funding contributed to this change. “We just didn’t have the money to keep the chapter open,” she said.

Although she had concerns about this change initially, Marshall said she is relieved with how smooth the transition has been.

“Actually, it has really been a good situation. I was a little apprehensive about it. I was. I was really anxious and thought it was going to be chaotic, but it’s not,” she said. “It has made it very easy because in the past, I would have to personally handle the process for providing victims with the assistance the Red Cross gives. Now, though, all I have to do is sit down and make a phone call and the process is completed. There was a ton of paperwork involved before that could result in significant delays in getting assistance to victims but now, it’s almost immediate.” Another aspect which has seen improvement is the amount of financial aid currently available to local disaster victims.

“Funding was down to the point where we could only provide shelter, but now we’re able to do more,” Marshall said. “But, the Red Cross is still hurting for money. If that continues, the assistance we provide will change and that will be a shame. If people donate to the Atlanta chapter, it can be designated for use wherever they want. It can be designated for use specifically in our county if donors want it to be. Right now, I know we are giving out more assistance than what is being donated for Spalding County so we are definitely getting our money’s worth being with the Atlanta-Metropolitan chapter.”

Although the need for financial support is always there, Marshall said an even greater need at this time is for volunteers.

"We definitely need volunteers - we have a very great need for volunteers,” she said, explaining that she is the only volunteer currently serving Spalding County with the assistance of one additional volunteer from another county.

“We have an open line for volunteers. We would really like to have more people available to go out to disaster calls, but depending on the training they are willing to take and what their qualifications are, there are different ways to volunteer. There are so many ways people can help.”

For those willing to donate or volunteer, Marshall may be reached for additional information by calling 678-544-0664.

Guardian Soldiers is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to helping our military and their families. This organization is operated in memory of MSG Davy N. Weaver and is located out of Barnesville, Georgia.

Guardian Soldiers supports our military by sending cards and packages overseas to military men and women, supporting their families if tragedy should come, helping disabled veterans, helping children cope with the loss of a parent, sending items for the military to give out to the children, and giving a scholarship to a deserving student.

Cynthia Pierce is the Chairman of Guardian Soldiers. "I started Guardian Soldiers when I lost my brother in Operation Enduring Freedom," said Cynthia. "I felt that I needed to do something to help others who find themselves at the receiving end of the knock on the door."

She said that it would have been easy to walk away from the military as the sister of a fallen soldier, but her brother would not have wanted that. So Cynthia decided to start Guardian Soldiers. "These men and women have dedicated their lives to protecting me, the least I can do is give back to them and their families," she said.

Making sure that soldiers are receiving packages and letters from home is a way to let them know that we are thankful for what they are doing, Cynthia said. Being with families who are grieving is close to Cynthia's heart though. "As they grieve, it is important for them to know that there are others who have been there and know what they are going through," she said.

Children who have lost a parent are especially important to Cynthia. "We need to let each child know that their parent was not lost in vain," she said. " We need to give them hope to look to the future and know that what their parent did was worth all they gave."

The brochure for Guardian Soldiers says it all in this one paragraph that reads: "I am not a counselor, but I can listen and understand because I have been there. I am not a doctor, but I can help in the healing process because I know what others are feeling at this time. I am not a teacher, but I can help others live again because I myself had to learn to live again."

A representative from Guardian Soldiers is available to speak at church, school, or club events. Citizens can join this organization in supporting our troops.

Click here to visit www.GuardianSoldiers.com. Saving pennies is a way that even children can help send packages to our troops. Click on the link to find out how you can help!

If you would like to help you can make your donation to Guardian Soldier by mailing a check to: Guardian Soldiers, 1061 Hwy 36E, Barnesville, Georgia 30204. You can also contact the organization by sending an email to Guardiansoldier@live.com or by calling 770-358-1965.

IX. NEW BUSINESS
    A. Severe Weather Awareness Week 2009 Proclamation
    B Bryant Beeland has requested a refund of $500.00 for rezoning fee
    C. Request approval of Special Exception with BOA approval-Scott family

X EXECUTIVE SESSION
    -Pending and Potential Litigation pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-14-2(1)

XI. PUBLIC COMMENT- (Limited to 5 minutes per person)
    Carol Bass to discuss zoning issues

XII. ADJOURNMENT

Update 1.27.09: Tonight was a huge turnout for the county commission meeting. The commissioners made the decision to hold to move the meeting over to the Courthouse because there were too many people to fit into the regular meeting room. There were people lined up all of the way from the Courthouse doors to the sidewalk and I'm not talking in a single file kind of a line. (I am uploading pictures even as I type.)

Most were there concerning Teen Challenge, but there were still twenty or more people there at the end of the meeting which is pretty good considering that most people leave whenever their topic is finished.

A couple of things of importance that I will mention up front. The issue of Teen Challenge went through on a 3-1 vote with Tommy dissenting. There are stipulations that must be adhered to in order for the facility to operate in Pike County and there are repercussions if the stipulations are not followed. The P-R ordinance is on hold and a workshop will be held during the 90 day moratorium that is currently in place.

Update 1.28.09: The CM is not preparing a consent agenda at this time. He advised the BOC that they will need to review and adopt a Consent Agenda Policy before this will begin.

V. INVITED GUEST

A. Larry Lynch, Nelson Memorial Garden Club, to discuss the landscaping for the Lifsey Springs Fire Station: Larry presented the commissioners with the landscaping design with funding through the Nelson Memorial Garden Club. Motion to approve 4-0.

B. Annette Coward with the U.S. Census Bureau to discuss the ‘Complete Count Committee”: This was removed from the agenda at the meeting.

C. Jim Totten to present new first responders: Brian Michel, Peter and Jennifer Vennett, Tammy Shelton, and Jessica Rogers have passed their First Responder State Certification. All but Jessica (who was called into work) were present at the meeting last night and received a standing ovation for their hard work. These fire personnel have attended 60 hours of training and testing in order to save lives. Kenneth Riley, Michael Kuprian, Paul Hutchens, Joni Hellwig and Hannah Suddeth will be receiving theirs at the end of the February. EMT Basic and EMT Intermediate classes are tentatively being scheduled for March. [Note from the Editor: I apologize that this picture did not turn out because of the poor lighting in the Courthouse. It was very evident last night that we need to get the work done on the Courthouse asap.]

VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES

A. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities: There were no irregularities in the departments. The CM said that Impact Fees have dropped off significantly.

B. County Manager Report presentation to Commissioners: He advised that as of 4:15 or so that afternoon, he received notification from the Georgia Department of Transportation gave the notice to proceed on Turner Bridge Road. This means that Pike County will be reimbursed by the DOT for this $35,000 culvert that is needed to fix this road. Steve told the commissioners that the remodelling of the Courthouse will be on an agenda in February with an update from the company that wrote the original report on restoring the Courthouse.

C. Commissioners Report: District One Roosevelt Willis asked that a culvert on Turner Road be checked on. District Two Parrish Swift asked about uploading financials onto the county website. CM advised that these will be online tomorrow afternoon. District 3 Tommy Powers asked about the ISO fire insurance rating process. Pump testing and exercises are ongoing to show our procedures. This will help to lower our ISO fire ratings around the county and will be ongoing for the next couple of weeks. The goal is to try to lower our ISO by November of this year. District 4 Don Collins asked about whether the six roads that were asked for at the past meeting were ready for the commissioners to review and send on for possible financial help in paving. CM and Public Works Director are working on this list and should have it by next week. There will be a price per mile for resurfacing. They were asked to look at Zebulon-Hollonville Road too. Don asked the other commissioners if it would be fine for him to look into methods of funding to restore the Courthouse. There were no objections. The CM and Mr. Sell are meeting with the City of Zebulon to discuss the grounds soon. There is a possibility of getting dead trees replaced, etc. Don advised that the Chair of the Historical Society said that there has been a policy change at the Library in Zebulon that no longer allows citizens to use the meeting room outside of library hours. He was told that it was to keep down operating costs with heating, air, lights, etc. The CM is going to address this with the Library Board because the commissioners are not happy with this. The commissioners said that "this is not acceptable".

D. County Attorney Report: none

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS

Reconsideration of Special Exception requested by Teen Challenge, previously considered as BOA 06-02, whereby Teen Challenge is seeking approval for the operation of a Teen Challenge Center on property consisting of 36.10 acres located on the east side of U.S. Highway 19 in Land Lots 178 and 207 of the 8th District of Pike County, GA:

This is called Prayer Mountain Boys Academy. Click here for their website. The meeting protocol was strict with only five people being able to speak in favor or against the facility. Three minutes was allotted for each person with a total of fifteen minutes. They signed up prior to the meeting.

In Favor: Margie Trammell said that she had already made the commissioners aware of her opinion that government being involved in this is a violation of church and state and said that she lives by the facility and is not afraid of it. Renee Peters said that she had no experience with the Prayer Mountain Boys Academy or Teen Challenge until November 15, 2008 when she worked with them on a service project. She found out that they help out in the community so her church has asked them to work with them on two projects and worship with them on another occasion. She started calling police chiefs and deputies in various places where there were Teen Challenge facilities and asked if they thought these students were a threat to the community and not one of them told here that these kids posed a threat. She said that they have never posed a threat for the past two years in Griffin and that she thought that the boys had been misrepresented in editorials. Dr. Randy Valimont, who is the Senior Pastor at Griffin First Assembly (and has an editorial on the Letters to the Editor page dated 12.12.08) said that he would never ask the BOC to do something that we haven't done. 700 children and over 1,000 people are on the church and school campus every day of the week, these boys have been in his home, and his daughter is marrying a counselor who was once a Teen Challenge student. Said that these boys will do no harm to the county and that there are over 250 Teen Challenge centers all over the world. Said that they have done everything that they were asked to do and to please allow this ministry to function. Update 1.29.09: An 18 year old young man who had just graduated from the Teen Challenge program gave his testimony. Nick said that he grew up in a Christian home but started hanging out with the wrong crowd and using drugs and alcohol. When his Mom died from cancer, he turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with this loss. A few months into the program, he gave his heart to God and it changed his life. He said that all these Teen Challenge students want is a change in their lives… All they want is a chance. Prayer Mountain Boys Academy Director Greg Keylon then spoke and invited everyone from Pike County who supported Teen Challenge to stand. There were a lot of Pike supporters in the room. He then invited the students from Teen Challenge to stand and they received a round of applause from the room. Greg said that Teen Challenge was given a piece of property to help boys aged 13 through 18. He said that they strive to help teen boys make better choices in their lives through the love of God. He said that there have been no negative issues during the past 2 ½ years in Griffin and reiterated that the goal of Teen Challenge is to see restoration to God and their families. He asked for an opportunity to use the property for God and said that fear is only changed when we realize that God has not given us a spirit of fear. He said that a yes vote will give many teen boys a hope for the future.

Opposed: Rhoda Dunn spoke on behalf of the children, etc. and neighbors. She said that allowing Prayer Mountain Boys Academy to use this facility will change their way of life. She said that there will be no more walks to pick wildflowers with grandchildren and said that they do not want to live next to a multi-million dollar business. “We don’t deserve this… Our voices should matter… Why take a chance with our well-being and safety?... We feel it is just a business and we deserve better.” She gave a packet of information to the commissioners. Sheryl Dunn spoke next. He said that he is worried about his family and about the possibility that someone will break a window in his home to get a ride saying that people on drugs will do anything to get a fix. He was also worried about the hunters’ rights that have always existed on the mountain. He said that neighbors won’t be able to hunt or to use the land on the mountain anymore. Ronald Tyson spoke about his concern for the elderly people who are living around the facility. He said that he was not opposed to Teen Challenge but said that there are concerns that need to be addressed and would like to see this subject revisited at a later date so people can get more information. He also said that a lot of out of town people were in the audience in support of Teen Challenge. Raphael Brumbelow said that we all have family and property in the area of this multi-million dollar corporation. He said that it had nothing to do with age to begin with and cited information from the website that no locals even from adjoining counties will be accepted so it only helps people from other places. He told the commissioners that they are charged to take care of the welfare of citizens and that importing delinquents from other counties is not in the benefit of Pike citizens. Bill Gardner then spoke and cited his concerns about the safety of Pike citizens. He said that one incident is one incident is one too many. He said that there was controversy about Teen Challenge on the internet and that, if this is approved, he would like to see a stipulation added to force them to fence in the facility or add more security if there is even one incident.

At this point, the public hearing portion was then closed. Rob brought documents to the commissioners as a matter of record including a packet of those in support of Teen Challenge from 2006 as well as the emails and letters that have been received in support of late. Parrish said that he was not a commissioner in 2006 and that his vote only concerns those who have contacted him while he has been a commissioner. Roosevelt asked to address questions to Teen Challenge leaders and was given permission to do so. He asked if local kids could be accepted into this program. Greg Keylon advised that early on, they said that they would not accept kids from Pike County but that they would accept a student from Pike County if their parents were insistent even though it could be more difficult. Greg advised that a student could turn 18 during the 15 month program in Pike County but they would have to be able to finish the program while they were 18. Roosevelt then asked whether the program accepted felons and was told that some students have charges against them but the program is never an intervention from the courts—it from families only. No students are accepted with violent or sexual felony charges. Parrish then asked if their foundation would be required to operate with a business license that would have to be renewed each year. Yes. He asked about zoning permits, etc. for additions and was told by legal that these would be required as well and that they would be required to be zoning compliant. The expenses of caring for the students were then gone over with it being $80 per day or $2,450 per month. Security was next on the discussion list. There is a full security system on the dorm facility with a 24 hour staff of volunteers and full-time workers. They are aiming for a 3 to 1 ration of staff to students. The stipulations were read to the audience. STIPULATION 1: The student body of Teen Challenge Prayer Mountain Boys Academy shall be limited to boys from the ages of 13 to 18 years old. No student over the age of 18 shall be admitted to the Teen Challenge program at the Prayer Mountain Boys Academy in Pike County or be allowed to reside at the Prayer Mountain Boys Academy in Pike County. STIPULATION 2: If any student is convicted of bodily harm on any citizen of Pike County, while enrolled or in residence at the Prayer Mountain Boys Academy, the Pike County Board of Commissioners shall have the discretion to reconsider the Special Exception for the Teen Challenge Prayer Mountain Boys Academy under the criteria established by the Pike County Zoning Ordinance. Our zoning code was mentioned--Section 156.027--about the health, safety, and welfare of the people which was the reason for the denial of the rezoning two years ago. Parrish, not one to mince words, asked in reference to a violation of these stipulations, "We could shut them down?" Rob said yes.

Motion to deny was made by Tommy Powers. No 2nd so the motion died. Motion was made to approve with stipulations by Don with a 2nd by Parrish for discussion. Discussion: Tommy said that people in his district that contacted him on this were 3 to 1 against it and he had to vote what his District wanted. Parrish said that his calls were 9-1 in support. Final vote was 3-1 with Tommy opposed.

VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Don Bailey to give an update on the Friends of Pike County Animals: Don walked the commissioners through all that has happened since his friend and neighbor, Dolores Smith, was attacked by dogs at her own home in Pike County and died from wounds received during that series of dog attacks. He walked through it to the point that there was 8 different deputies that responded to three separate attacks (one deputy responded twice) and how the incidents were handled because we do not have animal control in Pike County. He said that there are letters of support from the cities for animal control, that there has been an animal control workshop, an animal control ordinance is supposed to be in the works though it hasn't come back before the commissioners, and a site has been investigated but it hasn't been set as the official site for the animal control facility. Friends of Pike County Animals is WILL SOON BE a 501(c)(3) (thanks Don!) and has been fundraising for the facility but it is hard to do if the county hasn't designated a site. And he reiterated that the City of Zebulon had discussed the donation of a modular building that could be set in place for when the county had an animal control ordinance and was ready to roll on this. He closed by saying that it has been almost two years since his dear friend was attacked and said that it was up to all of us to make this possible. Discussion: The commissioners had talked about the old chipper site inside of the chain link fence as a possible location and the Health Department even said that this would be an acceptable location, but it hasn't been officially designated. Motion to designate the land at the old chipper site inside of the chain link fence as the site of the future animal control facility by Don with Parrish 2nd'ing for discussion. If a better spot is located, the BOC can change the site of the future animal control facility. Final vote was 3-1 with Tommy opposed.

Don Bailey to give an American Legion Post 197 update: Don asked that this item be removed from the agenda and this was done at the meeting.

Update 2.2.09:

B. Second Reading of Proposed 2008-2009 Jail Construction Budget: This change was made at the suggestion of our auditors and acted on in the January morning meeting. Motion to approve 4-0.

C. Second Reading of Safety Coordinator Ordinance: An employee is doing the work included in this position without additional pay so the county can receive discounts on insurance. This was acted upon in the January morning meeting as well. Motion to approve 4-0.

More soon.

It all began early one morning, according to African traditions, with the birth of a baby girl in a garden on a freshly picked banana leaf. No one could have imagined that when she grew up, she would impact the lives of so many in Uganda. And certainly, no one could have guessed that she would travel to Pike County where she would convince a man who loves his college football, ESPN, hot water, and air conditioning to become a missionary.

About five years ago after several members from Mount Gilead Church went on a mission trip to Uganda and met Jalia Kayondo, the head of the Royal School in Uganda. They told Ted how wonderful she was, and encouraged him to go and meet her. He asked that she come to the United States to meet him instead because he felt like he was helping with missions work by praying and donating toward this cause.

“Everything changed for me,” said Dr. Ted Moody in his book “The Banana Leaf Baby”, when I met Jalia Kayondo from Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.” Ted said that missions became a very personal thing for him since “it is impossible to know “Auntie Jalia” and not feel her passion for the children of Uganda.” Jalia’s story may do the same for all who read it.

“Mother Teresa said one time in a speech, 'Find your Calcutta.' Everybody needs to find a Calcutta to live outside yourself,” Ted said. “Uganda is my Calcutta. It’s changed my life.” Everything has changed for him because he now views everything in light of Uganda.

Uganda is located in east Africa on the Equator north of Lake Victoria. It is surrounded by Sudan, Ruwanda, Somalia, the Congo, and Darfur. It is a land that is losing entire generations to AIDS and malaria leaving children as orphans with no where to go. Schools are being built to take care of these children by providing for their schooling as well as food to eat, clean water to drink, and a place to live.

Ted described the living conditions in Uganda. The people live in mud huts. There is no electricity, no running water, and very little food. “As a nation, we are blessed.” In a study done under the Clinton administration, it was found that Americans waste over 3,000 pounds of food every second.

This is very different from Uganda. “Every five seconds, a child starves to death,” Ted said. Each team member wears a shirt with a number five on the sleeve as a reminder of this. “This year, there will be about fifteen million children that starve to death.” Some of those deaths are in Asia, but most are in sub-Saharan Africa in places like Uganda.

Ted said that his church was already helping Royal School when he gave a Pastor’s conference, and he met another pastor who said that his children were hungry and asked for help for his school. Ted said that he lived with this for about year and then one day woke up and it came to him “clear as a bell.” Out of that vision, “Pennies for Posho” was born.

Posho is corn meal that is ground up so fine that it is a powder. It is usually served with beans and is eaten every day in Africa. In the morning, they have porridge consisting of posho, sugar, and water that is thin enough to drink. Later in the day, the posho is cooked so it has a thick consistency and can be cut with a bowl and served with some beans on top of it.

Ted is the founder of ‘Pennies for Posho’, a non-denominational, non-profit, Christian organization with the desire to feed the hungry of Africa. This organization began about three years ago. It is based on James 1:27: “…Take care of orphans… in their distress” and Mark 10:14: “Let the little children come to me, do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.”

Ted said that the schools and orphanages that receive help from ‘Pennies for Posho’ do not receive help from any other organizations. “We now have six schools that we help feed—that’s about 4000 children,” he said. Most of these students are orphans due primarily to malaria and AIDS.

Every penny that is given to ‘Pennies for Posho’ is used to purchase, posho, beans, rice, and cooking oil. When funds are available to do more, donations are also used to purchase mosquito netting that will protect these children from the dreaded disease of malaria.

“No expenses—no salaries—come out of what they give to buy food… there are no salaries,” Ted said. “Nobody takes any salaries.” Ted said that there are some churches that have put ‘Pennies for Posho’ in their budgets so this covers the operating expenses for the organization.

I interviewed Reverend Ted Moody about his last mission trip in October. This was the third food buying trip. “We have now passed 100,000 pounds of food-mostly beans, posho, and rice,” Ted said.

Ted and his wife, Elaine, and thirteen other mission-minded individuals spent ten days visiting the schools and orphanages in Uganda, Africa. “We try to take a group each time because we have different things that team members do,” Ted said. “We always need people to go… and I’m not ashamed to invite people because nobody makes any money off of the trip.”

The airline gives a discount to “Pennies for Posho” because members are doing benevolent work, but a single ticket for the upcoming trip will be $2,200 with the price sometimes being as high as $3,000 per ticket.

“Pennies for Posho” team members help teach the teachers as well as teaching the children while their teachers are in class. A Pastor’s Conference is held while they are there, and there is recreation time too. Ted says that they always take soccer balls to trade for the soccer balls that the children have made from whatever they can find. Ted showed me a soccer ball made out of something similar to plastic bags that we would get from the grocery store.

Ted told me about some of the miracles that have happened with the help of ordinary individuals with “Pennies for Posho”. At a “Pennies for Posho” conference here in the states, Ted mentioned a pastor in Uganda that lived seven miles away from his church and orphanage. He said that one day they wanted to give this pastor a motorcycle so he could ride instead of walking to his church and school. Someone gave him a check to buy the motorcycle at that conference.

“Pennies for Posho” surprised this pastor with the motorcycle during the October trip. Ted said that another motorcycle has been donated to give to a pastor on the February trip.

A Fred’s Department Store in South Georgia had a bunch of shoes with too much glue on one side of them so the shoes couldn’t be sold. This store donated six big tubs of tennis shoes for the past trip to Uganda. “So we were able to put new shoes on all of our teachers,” Ted said. “Some of them had never owned a new pair of shoes.”

A crop duster in South Georgia with a heart for Africa and gave “Pennies for Posho” six cases of Bibles to give to the pastors, and a ladies prayer group in Atlanta gave sent 350 Bibles that “Pennies for Posho” gave to teachers.

Bibles are important because the people there don’t have money to buy Bibles. Ted said that at his first Pastor’s Conference in Uganda, one of the pastors had a green composition book that he used as his Bible because he would write in it every time he heard someone quote scripture. He did not have anything else so he used what he had.

From a church collecting its change and that change filling up a tub to an oral surgeon who worked on a child’s mouth and made a donation to the ministry instead of charging for his services, miracles happen all of the time with “Pennies for Posho”. “It’s amazing what the Lord does,” Ted said. “It’s exciting.”

Members of a singing group from the Royal School have been here in the United States for the past three summers and have raised enough money to build their beautiful, new campus. They traveled by van with a trailer to pull their equipment. These children heard Ted’s grandson, Jake, calling him “Big Daddy” so Ted is simply “Big Daddy” whenever he goes over to Uganda on the mission trips.

Ted is preparing for another ten day trip to Uganda in early February. When he returns, six boys will return with him. They are members of a singing and dancing group called ‘Ugandan Thunder’ and will tour the Southeast. The money that they raise will be used to buy food.

When “Pennies for Posho” went to Africa in October, posho was about $60 per bag compared to the $17 per bag that Ted paid for the first bags of posho three years ago. “Inflation is about 100% per year,” Ted said.

Food went up 50% in one month last June because of the region experiencing drought and flood conditions during consecutive harvests. Without a good harvest, the price of food skyrocketed. One bag of posho will provide about 500 meals in Uganda.

That first time he was told to go and meet Jalia—and he chose not to because he liked hot water and air conditioning, I asked Ted if he had any idea that this is where he would end up? He laughed and said no. “Jalia changed everything and I am glad.”

“There is no greater satisfaction in the world than knowing you’ve been a blessing to people who can’t do anything for you in return—except love you,” Ted said. “That is exciting.”

‘The Banana Leaf Baby’ can be purchased at the Christian bookstore in Griffin. ‘Pennies for Posho’ also has a website that can be accessed at www.penniesforposho.org. Dr. Ted Moody can be reached at penniesforposho@gmail.com .