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Commissioners Decide On New Detention Center Location ( 8/30/10)

WCFD Search For Lost Hikers (8/30/10)

(Cleveland)- The volunteers of the White County Fire Department responded to a total of 12 calls this past weekend; most were medical with two smoke investigations.

Fire Department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said, on Saturday evening at about 8:00PM, the fire department Chief Staff members responded to a call concerning three  lost hikers on Mt. Yonah.  One of the hikers called 911 at 8:00 pm to advise that they were lost on the mountain and had been trying to get off but kept taking the wrong trails and “getting turned around”.  Fire personnel were sounding their sirens in hopes that the hikers would hear and advise if the sirens were near or far.  At one point, the hikers lit a camp fire in hopes of being seen. 

The hikers were finally spotted at 10:00PM and were instructed by the search team to stay put; the search team made their way into the woods just above the Chambers Lake area where they finally met up with the hikers.  All personnel, and hikers, made it back to Command; the search ended just after midnight.  No one was injured. 

Fire personnel were on scene for approximately four  hours.

Williams Named To Professional Standards Commission

Board (8/28/10)

(Cleveland)-  Governor Sonny Perdue announced Friday that a White County teacher has been appointed to serve on the state’s  Professional Standards Commission.   49 year old Valerie Williams a fifth grade teacher at Mossy Creek Elementary Schools was selected by the governor to serve on the board.

In addition to her involvement in local school activities is a member  of the Georgia Association of Educators and the Truett McConnell College Department of Education Advisory Committee. She serves on the 21^st Century Community Learning Center Grant Committee. Williams earned a bachelor’s degree from Piedmont College and a master’s degree from North Georgia College and State University.

Georgia's Professional Standards Commission is responsible for the certification, preparation, and conduct of certified, licensed, or permitted personnel employed in public schools.

B.O.E. Hold Reception For Cliff Hood ( 8/27/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Board of Education held a reception Thursday  to say “Thank You”  to long time board member Cliff Hood who has served 23 ½ years on the board.  Hood recently retired from the board.

Because he said he has the opportunity to work with a company that  deals  with some school boards around the state and did not want to create any type of conflict of interest. 

During the  reception Board of Education Chair Kendyl Brock-Hunter  announced that the new board meeting room will be named the Cliff Hood Room.  Hood said it’s something he ‘s still trying to comprehend and said he has enjoyed serving on the board.  

Thursday nights meeting of the White County Board of Education was held in the new renovated vocational/technology  building on the middle school campus.  The board decided to renovate the older building instead of building a new facility and it save lots of taxpayer dollars. In another cost saving move the schools maintenance department did a lot of the renovations.  

Kelley Crane heads that department, he said he and his staff did much of the work along with some contracted jobs.  He said, there is still a few things they need to do to complete the renovation.

The school system was able to pull together all of the school departments in one location again saving money. 

Truck Loses Part Of It's Load Damaging Other Vehicles ( 8/26/10)

(Cleveland)- Officials say no one was injured Wednesday morning when a truck hauling building rock lost part of  it’s load damaging two vehicles just south of Helen.  Ana Newberry, White County Fire Department spokeswoman said,  Upon arrival of fire personnel, they found a Ford Mustang on the south side of the road that had run over some of the fallen debris from the truck.  The south bound lane had to be shut down due to numerous rocks on the road.

Captain Jim Couch, White County Sheriff’s Office said the truck with the load of rocks was traveling north the other two vehicles were going south on highway 75 near Nachoochee Grill.  Couch said the rocks were in a wire cage on the back of the truck, as it rounded the curve the cage broke open and the rocks spilled on the road.  Two vehicles traveling south ran over the rocks.  Some of the rock struck one of the vehicles.

Couch said the driver was cited for failure to secure load.

Unemployment Rate Down In White County ( 8/26/10)

(ATLANTA )- The unemployment rate in northeast Georgia  is down two-tenths of a percent. Thursday  the state Department of Labor reported that the jobless rate in the region fell to 9.2 percent in July. 

In White County the July unemployment rate dropped to 9-point 7 percent, that’s  down from the June rate of 10 percent.  The labor department said in July the labor force was 12,265 of those 11,075 were employed while 1,190 were unemployed.   One year ago the unemployment rate was 9-point five percent. 

Natural Gas Service Discussed At Lunch and Learn ( 8/26/10)

(Cleveland)- Atlanta Gas Light officials talked with White County officials, business leaders and citizens Wednesday  at an information Lunch and Learn event sponsored by the White County Chamber of Commerce.  Jesse Killings , North Georgia Region Manager  for AGL told the crowd that the gas pipeline expansion into White County is expected to begin soon  and completed in March 2011.  He said the  4 inch gas main will run approximately 10 miles  from Clermont in north Hall County north along U.S. 129 to Cleveland. 

Jodie Huiet, Community Outreach Manager for Atlanta Gas Light said those attending the meeting seem to be  very interested in natural gas service in the county.   

When asked about service to White County Schools,  company officials said they have looked at them, Mossy Creek School and those in the city of Cleveland should be easy to service.  They will

 Click on Map for larger view

have to look closer at how to provide service to the intermediate and High schools, since they are north of the city. 

White County Schools To Receive "Race to the Top Grant Money (8/25/10)

(Atlanta)-Governor Perdue has announced  that the state  has been awarded “Race to the Top” education grand money.  Georgia was one nine state receiving $4.35 billion dollars in funds.   The amounts for each state were expected to be announced later. 

White County schools  was one of the pilot  schools included in the state’s program and Superintendent Dr. Paul Shaw says  this will mean additional funding for the county.  Shaw said they are happy with the announcement but they will have to wait  to see how much money will be available.  Shaw says the grant money will be used to help improve student growth.

White County Sheriff's Office Releases Sketch Of Home

Invasion Suspect (8/24/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public’s help in identifying and locating a suspect in an incident that occurred in White County recently.  Captain Jim Couch, with the White County Sheriff’s office said,  The suspect is wanted in connection with a Home Invasion and Shooting that occurred at 83 Max’s Drive Cleveland, between the hours of 2 – 2:30am on July 31^st.    

In that incident a female resident  was awaken, she got up and got a weapon.  The victim encountered the perpetrator, a male who was attempting to steal items form the residence, and a scuffle took place over the gun.  Couch said during the scuffle the gun discharged.

 The woman was shot in the hand and the bullet went into her stomach and exited her hip.  She was take to  Grady Hospital by a life flight helicopter.

The suspect is described as a light skinned black male in his late teens or early twenties, six foot to six foot two, 150-175 pounds.  According to Couch, the suspect was wearing a black “skull” cap and dark t-shirt. 

The public is asked to contact the White County Sheriff’s Office if they were in the area at the time and noticed any suspicious persons or vehicles or if they have any information regarding the suspect at 7060- 865- 5177.

Heavy Rain Helps With Rain Deficit (8/23/10)

   South Main, Cleveland in front of Glenda's                       Retaining wall behind State Farm Insurance office

(Cleveland)- While the next couple of days  out weather is expected to be rain free, but  over the weekend we received enough rainfall to either  erase the year to date deficit or get very close, according to the location. 

Bill Kinsland WRWH  weather report advised in Cleveland we received enough rain to give us a 2. 34 inch surplus.  That’s after we picked up  5 . 29 inches of rain from Friday morning until Saturday afternoon.  

 Bill reported the Sautee weather station  was  55 hundredths of an inch  shy of  clearing the year to date   deficit.  Bill measured 5-point 72 inches of rain from Friday morning till Sunday morning.   

       Here is   before and after picture of the Chattahoochee River in Helen ( photos by Bill Kinsland)

White County Officials To Monitor Washed Out Area (8/21/10)

Above The Call Of Duty For White County Sheriff's Deputy ( 8/21/10)

(Cleveland)- A call to a mobile home fire Friday  in south  White County  turned out to be more than just a routine  call for White County Deputy Hugh Warwick.  White County Fire Department Public Information Officer  Ana Newberry said the fire call came in  around 4:00 PM   at a residence on Eagle Rock Road.  

The first on scene was  deputy Warwick, as he assisted the male resident in getting out of the home, White County Sheriff’s  Captain Jim Couch said the homeowner insisted that the deputy help get his dog out first.  After the man was finally out of the home he became  upset that his little dog was not breathing, that’s when the deputy went above and beyond the call.  Deputy Warwick performed CPR on the dog and a short time later the dog began breathing. 

The unidentified homeowner, who was not injured, praised the deputy for his action.  The American Red Cross  was called in to assist the homeowner, who’s  mobile home was heavily  damaged by the fire. 

Adam's Foods IGA, Jacky Jones Ford Receive Top Awards  At Chamber

Annual Banquet ( 8/21/10)

      Judy Walker Chamber President-                       Walker, Dennis Green, Berrong Kimsey, and

       Leslie and Greg Adams                                       Jacky Jones

(Cleveland)- Adam’s Foods IGA  in Cleveland has been recognized as the business of the year and Jacky Jones Ford  honored with the Civic Merit award at Friday nights White County Chamber of Commerce annual meeting.  Around 200 people filled Masters Hall at Unicoi State Park  Lodge for the annual business meeting of the Chamber.  

Greg and Leslie Adams of Adam’s IGA  was selected as the top business for the year for their work and service in the community.  Jacky Jones Ford, which has been in business in White County for 25 years was honored with the chambers most prestigious  award, the Civic Merit Award.  

Also recognized at the annual meeting was Donny Parker, with Parker Traffic Marking as the chamber Volunteer of the Year, Nadine Wardenga, who operates Wardenga’s  Catering was  named Entrepreneur of the Year , and Bean Creek resident, school bus drive  and community leader Ms. Andy Allen was honored with the Citizen of the Year award.  

At the conclusion of the annual meeting  Steve Stack received  the Chairman’s gavel  from outgoing chamber board chair Scott Roland.   

W.C.H.S. Principal Accepts Superintendents Position In Gilmer County (8/20/10)

(Cleveland)-  White County High School Principal Bryan Dorsey has  accepted the position of Superintendent of Schools for Gilmer County.  Dorsey, who has been with the White County system for almost 6 years, was approved for the position Thursday  night by the Gilmer County Board of Education. 

Dorsey must receive  a release from his contract with White County Board, which meets next Thursday.  Dorsey said this is a great opportunity and  “ I hope to carry over there some great things I have learned at White County and we will have a great school system.”   

If White County approves the contract release, which it is expected they will do,  Dorsey says he will begin October first as Assistant Superintendent and

will  become  Superintendent January first following the retirement of  current Superintendent Randy Parson.

DOT Holds STIP Open House In Helen ( 8/20/10)

(Cleveland)- The Georgia Department of Transportation held an area Statewide transportation Improvement Program, or STIP  open house  in Helen Thursday.   The open houses gives the DOT a chance to share with citizens transportation projects on the planning table.  

Pope, District DOT spokeswoman said,  one  project that people  in White County always ask about is what is the latest on the Cleveland Bypass project.  She said right now they are still working to complete all the right of way acquisitions. As for construction Pope said there is no money available, but they are perusing different avenues to get that funding, because not only is this project important to the local area is a vital part of the state transportation system.    

She also said, there  are two new projects proposed for White County.  These new projects are called “roundabouts”,  a circular type intersection.  The roundabouts are proposed for two intersections on state route 384, Duncan Bridge Road.  One at highway  255 and 254 intersections. Right now there is no funding for the design  or construction.   

 Cleveland Boil Water Notice Lifted ( 8/19/10)

Drug Task Force Makes Another Marijuana Arrest ( 8/19/10)

(Cleveland)- The  Appalachian Drug Task Force has made  another Marijuana  drug arrest.  Mitchell Posey, Commander for Appalachian Drug Task Force reports on  Wednesday  the task force assisted by the White County Sheriff's Office, the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office, and Hall County MANS Unit, conducted an investigation which resulted in the arrest of 29-year old Allen Chad Dover,  of Ransom Free Road, Cleveland.

Dover was charged with Manufacturing Marijuana.  Four marijuana plants were seized with a street value of $4,800. 

White County Sheriff's Office July Activities ( 8/19/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s Department monthly report for July has been released and it shows the department received over one thousand calls during the month. 

The uniform division had  8  DUI arrest, 44 auto accidents investigated, 38 domestic calls answered. Officers made 113 traffic stops and issued 113 citations.  Total arrest during the month was 149. 

The investigative division has these new cases to probe, 1 each death investigation, assault/battery, forgery rape, and child molestation. There was  three identity fraud, 2 child molestations, 7 burglaries and 7 entering autos during the month.

Nothing Changes Following Vote Recount ( 8/18/10)

(Cleveland)- White County election officials conducted a recount of votes from the August 10^th  Party Primary election Wednesday afternoon  at the White County Courthouse.  The recount was requested by county commission candidate Chris Nonnemaker who lost his bid to rejoin the commission board by 11 votes. 

Election Superintendent Garrison Baker said all votes have been recounted, including all precincts, provisional ballots and absentee ballots there were no changes from the certified results last Friday. Nonnemaker said the recount was just a part of the election process, because of the very tight race. He had stated previously that he did not think there would be a change, but he requested the recount for all the people who either worked on his campaign or who voted for him.  

Nonnemaker gave his congratulations to Craig Bryant and said “I’ll be back in 24 months.”  Craig Bryant expressed his relief that the process is over so that as he put it, “We can get on with county business.”

Trulelove Road Residents Voice Concerns For Proposed Jail ( 8/17/10)

(Cleveland)- A  large crowd filled the main courtroom of the White County Courthouse Monday afternoon, they were there to voice their opposition to the idea of building a new county detention facility  in their neighborhood on Truelove Road.  The county commissioners scheduled a public hearing on the issue to hear what the citizens had to say. Commissioner Jo Campbell said, most of what they heard had been expressed before,  but were valid concerns.     A total of 18 residents spoke  at the hearing expressing their concerns  about  safety, land values,  water runoff  and  extra traffic.  County commission chairman Travis Turner says  no decision has been made on this issue, they want to investigate some other area.  

White County Middle School Traffic Flow  (8/16/10)

(Cleveland)-  It’s just one week before White County school begin classes.  Teachers report Tuesday  to prepare for the student.   Due to construction work at the White County Middle School  the  traffic patterns for the new school year  for parents who drop-off  students in the morning  and pick them up in the afternoon will be a little different from the past. 

Dr.  Kristi Smith White County Middle School Principal says,  In the morning parents will drop off students in front of the  Middle School  gym.   If you have children at both the middle school and Ninth Grade Academy, drop both children off at the Middle School  gym.  The older child will walk to the Ninth Grad Academy.  Morning traffic  after drop off will travel north on  Old Blairsville  Road.  In the afternoon Old Blairsville Road will become a one-way,  with two lanes  from the construction site entrance to the main gate.

Parents will not be able to check out a child from school after 2:30 PM. This measure has been taken to ensure the safety of students as they board the afternoon buses.  Afternoon bus dismissal will occur at 3:20. When all buses  are loaded and the gate on Old Blairsville Road will be opened and White County Middle School and Ninth Grade Academy students will be dismissed and ready for pickup.  After picking students up traffic will then exit the campus On ABC Drive and go out by the Jack P. Nix Primary School.   (See traffic flow sketch below)

Public Hearing Monday On Proposed Detention Center Location ( 8/16/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing Monday  afternoon at 5:00 PM to hear  input on the possible relocation of the White County Detention Center Construction to Truelove Road, south of Cleveland.

The hearing will be held in  the main courtroom at the White County Courthouse and public comments from those opposed to the idea and well as those in support will be heard.  The commissioners have not announced when they will make a decision on the detention center location.

Boil Water Notice For Stacy Drive And Clint Street in Cleveland (8/13/10)

(Cleveland)- A water main break in the city of Cleveland  Friday  has resulted in the issuance of a Boil Water Notice.  Tom Guy, Water Distribution Operator for the city of Cleveland said the water main break was at the Stacey Drive and Clint Street area.  He said the notice only affects water customers in the Stacey Drive and Clint Streets.   

Residents in this area will notice the loss of water or water pressure while the line is being repaired. The Boil Water Notice is required by EPD when water pressure drops below 20 pounds per square inch.  

Guy said, the boiled water is for drinking purposes or you can use bottled water until bacteriological samples can be collected and tested.

Community Day Of  Prayer ( 8/13/10)

(Cleveland)- Cleveland United Methodist Church is hosting a Community Day of Prayer,  at  the church on East Kytle Street  this Saturday.  Pastor Dick Huycke said,   “We firmly believe that prayer is powerful and that prayer is very much needed in this time for our families, our churches, our community, our nation and our world.’”

 Everyone is invited in the special day of prayer.  You can join the church in prayer in the sanctuary or share any  prayer concerns you have.  Contact the church at 706-865-2228.  The prayer request will be included on a written list of prayer requests and made available so all who come can include in their prayers. Some prayer needs are confidential and will not be shared others.

Huycke said in second Chronicles seven- fourteen it says :  "If my people, who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

 

One Injured In Friday Morning Accident (8/13/10)

( Cleveland)-  The male driver of a vehicle involved in  an accident on Duncan Bridge Road  early Friday  morning  was  able to get out of the vehicle on his on, but not before taking quite a ride.   White County Fire Department of Spokeswoman  Ana Newberry said the accident occurred around  7:00AM,  and White County Fire Department volunteers along with automatic aid from  the City of Cleveland were dispatched.  

Newberry said, upon arrival of volunteer firefighters, noticed a vehicle on its roof just a few feet from a residence.  According to Newberry, the driver made his way out of the vehicle on his own but not before leaving the roadway, clipping some tree tops, hitting a small barn, a picnic table and then finally flipping over.   The single occupant was assessed by fire department personnel who was then transported by White County Emergency Medical Service  to Habersham Medical Center with non life threatening injuries. 

The White County Sheriff’s office is investigating the incident.

Tax Notices Are In The Mail (8/13/10)

(Cleveland)- White County property owners are seeing their  tax bills arriving in the mail this week.  White County Tax Commissioner Cindy Cannon said that 19-thousand notices went out to Cleveland, Helen and Sautee residents and she said since the notices have gone out a few days earlier  tax payers will have a little extra time to meet the November 15^th deadline.  

Cannon said her office will work with you on payment, you can stop by the office if you have question or make a payment.  According to Cannon tax payment can be made online or by mail. 

Sheriff's Department Investigate Mail Box Vandalism ( 8/12/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s office is investigating a rash of mail box vandalism.  Captain Jim Couch, sheriff department spokesman said at least 13 mail boxes west of  Cleveland have been knocked down. 

The vandalism has occurred in the Asbury Mill, Alex Stringer, Whiskey Still, Gene Nix and Sandy Flats Roads. The reports started coming in this week and Couch said they are working to gain leads to who might be doing this. Residents of those are  asked to keep a watchful eye and report any suspicious vehicle or noise around your or your neighbors mail boxes. 

WCFD Respond To Kitchen Fire  ( 8/12/10)

(Cleveland)- Wednesday night around  9:30PM, the volunteers of the White County Fire Department  Stations 2, 4, and Automatic Aid from the City of Cleveland were dispatched to the report of fire at  a residence located near the 7200 block of Duncan Bridge Road. 

Ana Newberry White County  Fire Department Public Information  Officer  said, upon arrival of fire units, the homeowner stated she was cooking on the stove and a fire erupted.  She quickly removed the pan and then threw some flour on the eyelet and the entire family left the home to wait for the fire dept.  The home had light smoke throughout and was being vented with doors and windows opened.   Firefighters checked the kitchen area along with the stove using a Thermal Imaging Camera.  

Newberry said, this homeowner followed the proper procedure  for  a possible grease fire.  This particular fire was  most likely  from the grease buildup  on the eyelet; however, she advises NEVER put water on a grease fire  because  it will splash and send the flames upward and outward and will burn anyone and anything in its path.

Nonnemaker To Ask For  Recount  ( 8/11/10)

(Cleveland)- Former White County Commission Chairman Chris Nonnemaker says he does expect to ask  for a recount of the votes from Tuesday’s primary runoff.  Contacted Wednesday morning  Nonnemaker said he concedes the loss for now and wishes Craig Bryant the best.   With Craig Bryant winning with just 12 votes Nonnemaker says he is looking at asking for a recount, for all the people who worked and voted for him. But he admits the doesn't  expect the numbers to change.

Election Superintendent  Garrison Baker has said it would possibly be  Friday before the results have been certified and then Nonnemaker would have two days to submit his request in writing.  

Nonnemaker  told us he might have lost the election, but he’s still going to be

involved helping the commissioners on different projects  and helping to educate  and inform the citizens.    

Results from Tuesday balloting for the two Republican runoff races in White County has Craig Bryant winning the District 4 contest and Terry Goodger taking the top spot in district 1.  Final but unofficial results show Bryant with 50-point 47 percent of the votes to Chris Nonnemaker 49.53 percent.  Total vote count for Bryant 649, Nonnemaker 637.  Terry Goodger received 58.4 percent of the votes to Jerry Nicholson’s 41-point 6 percent. The vote count for Goodger 490, Nicholson 349.  Goodger still faces an Democratic and independent challenge in the November General Election.

(Click Here for Complete White County Election Results)

White County Commission, District 1 and 4 Primary Runoff Results  ( 8/10/10)

Terry Goodger / Commission Chairman Travis Turner                                     Craig Bryant / White County Sheriff, Neal Walden

( Cleveland) -    In District 1  Terry Goodger 490 votes to Jerry Nicholson 349 votes. Republican Terry Goodger will go up against Democratic candidate Bobby Adams and Independent candidate Dennis Bergin in the November 2^nd  General Election.

District 4 results  Craig Bryant 649 votes to Chris Nonemaker 637 votes.   According to Election Superintendent Garrison Baker, there may be an  recount of this race due to only a 12 votes separation.

Election Superintendent Garrison Baker  said  Chris Nonemaker has two days after the results  have been certified to request a recount. The winner of this race has no opposition in November.

15-Milllion Dollars In Marijuana Plants Confiscated In White County ( 8/9/10)

(Cleveland)-  A combined effort by several agencies has resulted in the confiscation of  $15-million dollars in marijuana that was being grown in northern White County.  In a news release from the White County Sheriff’s office  it was revealed that  over a month ago  an illegal marijuana grow was observed by the Governor’s  Task  Force Ariel Unit as part of their annual eradication  efforts.  

Brad Parks Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Appalachian Drug Task Force said they wanted to watch the operation  in hopes of catching those growing the plants, so they kept a eye on the area for a month.  The grow, which has now been cut down and confiscated, took place in a remote area of U.S. Forest Service land off the Richard Russell Scenic Highway.  Parks said the area was ideal for this type of operation  with a water source  near the  area.

 Photo courtesy Marijuana.com
 

No arrest have been made at this time, but Parks says he hope someone will come forward with information that will  assist them in finding out who was involved.  

The month long operation was  the  cooperative  work  by the Appalachian Drug Task Force, National Guard, Drug Enforcement Administration, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia State Patrol, North Georgia K-9 Task Force, Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service and the White County Sheriff’s office.

White County Sheriff Neal Walden said this investigation is ongoing  and his office  will continue a relentless fight against illegal drugs in White County.  Citizens are encouraged to call the Appalachian Drug Task Force hot line at 1-800-497-6121 to  report information that will assist in this case.

Van Overturns Injuring   Five ( 8/9/10)

(Cleveland)-   Five people, including some children were injured Saturday when the driver of a van lost control of the vehicle and ran off the road, overturning.   Ana Newberry, White County Fire Department Public Information Officer  said at 12:30 pm volunteers from station 2 and 4  were dispatched to the area of Duncan Bridge Road near the Habersham County line.  

Newberry said,  upon arrival of fire units, a van heading east on Duncan Bridge  Road  had rolled over with several occupants inside.  Georgia State Patrol officials closed down Duncan Bridge Road for approximately one hour due to debris and numerous responders and patients at the scene. 

According to Newberry a  total of five patients were transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center by White County EMS and Habersham County Fire/Rescue with non life threatening injuries. 

The accident is  being investigated by the state patrol and no details are available. 

D.O.T. To Hold STIP Open House At Helen City Hall (8/8/10)

(GAINESVILLE)  – The Georgia Department of Transportation  has scheduled an open house  in White County to discuss the State Transportation Improvement Program or STIP for the area.  The STIP is a four year plan for rural counties detailing federally funded projects that includes Interstate and State Route improvements, bridge projects, maintenance projects, bicycle and pedestrian projects, transportation enhancement activities and public transit projects. The STIP under review will cover Fiscal years 2011- 2014.  

The second of two open house type meetings will be held Thursday August 19^th from 5-7 PM at Helen City Hall.  Another open house is scheduled for August 17^th at the Jackson County Training Center in Jefferson.  DOT Engineers will be on hand to answer your questions.

Forest Service Plans Work At Anna Ruby Falls ( 8/8/10)

(Gainesville)- The Chattahoochee –Oconee  National Forest Service  has announced that beginning Monday  Anna Ruby Falls Scenic Area will be closed to public access Monday thru Thursday due to the repaving of the Anna Ruby Falls Trail.  The forest service advises the construction is expected to be complete in 3 to 4 weeks, but will not affect weekend activities.

Chamber Holds Lunch And Learn On Natural Gas Service ( 8/7/10)

(Cleveland)-  With  Atlanta Gas Light   extending Natural Gas  service to White County this year the White County Chamber of Commerce has scheduled an informational  Lunch and Learn event for  Wednesday August 25^th  beginning at 11:30 a.m.  The meeting will be held in  Babyland General Hospital's Crystal Ballroom.  

Judy Walker, White County Chamber President said,  during the luncheon representatives from Atlanta Gas Light an AGL Resources Company will present information about  construction-location, schedule, process, traffic implications, environmental considerations and more.

Walker says the Lunch and Learn can be beneficial for  residents, business owners and future consumers.   Advance tickets, which are just $5.00,  are required for the event you can call the chamber at 706-865-5356 for stop by the office on North Main Street to get the tickets or more information .    

July Health Department Inspection Scores Released (8/5/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Health Department has released new inspection scores for Food Service and Tourist Accommodations in the county.   The  inspections  were conducted during the month of  July.

FOOD SERVICE inspected and their scores:

The Black Pearl:   97   

Crosby’s BBQ:    93   

Candy Mountain Homemade Ice Cream & Treats:   100   

Mandala Retreat & Spa:   90   

The Stovall House:     97   

Friendship Health Care:    97    

Subway of Cleveland:   95   

Sonic Drive-In:      95   

Strong Rock Camp & Retreat:    99   

Chief’s Tea & Coffee:    94   

Edelweiss German Inn & Restaurant:    95   

Subway (Walmart):   94    

DJ’S Diner at Mountain Lakes:    90   

Camp Barney Medintz:     93   

Subway (Helen):            79   

Camp Coleman:        94   

Woodlands Camp and Conference Center:     96   

Huddle House of Helen:      91   

Scarlett’s Secret:        100   

TOURIST ACCOMMODATIONS  inspected:

The Stovall House:      100

Gabby’s Country Cottages:       96

O’Brien’s Cabins:      100

Tenbrink’s Cabins:       100

Prowell’s Cabins:         100

Creekwood Cabins and Campsites:       100

Edelweiss German Inn & Restaurant:        100

Brownlee’s Cabins:     100

Roger Lau’s Cabins:       100

Eric’s Cabins:       100

Deer Track Cabins:      100

America’s Best Value Inn:     96

To register a complaint against a food service establishment or tourist accommodation, contact the White County Environmental Health Office at (706) 348-7698.

Windstream Receives Funding In Broadband Grants ( 8/5/10)

(ATLANTA) – Governor Sonny Perdue has announced that three new Georgia broadband projects will receive almost $13 million in federal funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. All three projects are designed to bring high-speed Internet access to unserved homes and businesses in rural communities--many of which are in northeast Georgia.  

Windstream Corporation received two of the three awards, which were announced  as part of a second round of funding from the U. S. Department of Agriculture. Windstream will extend its broadband network to 29,000 people, 750 businesses and 50 other community institutions in areas they serve  throughout North Georgia, including White County.  Governor Perdue said,  "Broadband access is vital in the 21st century, we firmly believe that with the right resources the communities that will benefit from this grant can compete with any other community in the world."
 

Meanwhile, Blue Ridge Telephone Company is receiving $853,768 to bring broadband to its service area around Blue Ridge, benefiting 1,000 people and 16 businesses. The company is matching the award with $284,590.

With these latest awards, Georgia projects are receiving over $109 million to expand broadband services. Governor Perdue previously announced awards totaling almost $96 million.

Governor Perdue began working to bring broadband to rural areas of the state in 2006 when the General Assembly, at his request, appropriated funds to expand wireless broadband access. The OneGeorgia Authority, chaired by Governor Perdue, established a program separate from Wireless Communities Georgia to assist rural communities in establishing broadband networks.

Boil Water Notice Cancelled ( 8/4/10)

(Cleveland)- The city of Cleveland has lifted the Boil Water Notice  that was issued on July 29^th  for the downtown square area only.  Tom Guy, water Distribution Operator for the City of Cleveland Public Works advised this afternoon that the Environmental Protection Division has confirmed that all test are clear and the boil water notice has been lifted.

This only affected City of Cleveland water customers located in the Downtown Cleveland Square and was required by  EPD to insure the safety of the drinking water to the city’s customers in the event of the possibility of a contaminant entering the system.

Search  For Missing Helicopter  Includes White County ( 8/4/10)

(ATLANTA) - A section of north Georgia - from Madison to Blairsville – including White County  is being searched for a missing  helicopter.  The chopper, a Robinson R442, was on a flight from West Palm Beach, Fla. to Blairsville at the time it disappeared Monday.  It was due in Blairsville Monday night at 7:00PM. 

 Maj. Paige Joiner of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) says the helicopter was last heard from during a refueling stop in Madison.  Maj. Joiner says there have been no reports from the public of anyone hearing an aircraft in distress in the area that is being searched but appealed to anyone who heard anything out of the ordinary Monday evening, especially between 6:30 and 7:00 to please call the CAP.  

 According to Joiner  several CAP planes and ground crews are involved in the search along the Madison-Blairsville corridor and several aircraft have been flying over White County. 

     Missing Helecopter similar to this photo

W.C. Commissioners Recognize  Woman On Upcoming 100th Birthday 

( 8/4/10)

Truelove Road Residents Get Public Hearing On  New Jail Facility  (8/3/10)

(Cleveland)- Residents along Truelove Road south of Cleveland, who are upset about plans to build the new White County Jail in their neighborhood,  were back in force Monday afternoon  at a meeting of the White County Commissioners.  The group packed courtroom number two at the courthouse. 

Robelle Reed a spokeswoman for the group questioned the commissioners about changing the original plans for the site from a trash drop off and public works  facility to placing the jail facility there.  After about 30 minutes of questions for the commissioners  and others expressing their opposition, Reed called on the commissioners to hold a special public hearing on this issue.  The commissioners agreed and set  Monday August 16^th   at 5:00 PM  as a date and time  for the hearing. 
 

Robelle Reed- addressing commission board

County Commission Chairman Travis Turner said  this will give the residents an opportunity to voice their opposition and get answers to their questions.  The commissioners said no matter where they decide to locate the jail there will be someone who would have opposition to it. 

In addition to the location issue  resident John Jordan continued to voice his opposition to the cost of the new jail facility.  For quite some time  Jordan has voiced opposition to the new jail facility.  Monday night  he questioned the difference in the  amount listed in the jail budget for inmate housing and figures given by the commissioners as they defend the need for the new facility.

Advance Voting  This  Week, Some Delays In Getting Paper Ballots ( 8/2/10)

(Cleveland)- With just over a week remaining before voters in the state and here in White County go to the polls to vote  in a run-off election advance voting  is going on this week at the  White County Courthouse.  Lisa Manning White County Chief Voter Registrar  says  voting will be held between 8:00 AM till 5:00 PM. 

According to Manning There are a number of voters who receive a ballot by mail and may be wondering why they have not received their ballot yet.  She said  as of Monday  morning  the White County Voter Registrar’s office had not received the paper ballots for the  runoff.  Manning said , “ We are  hoping to receive the ballots by Tuesday at the latest. The registrars office will  get the ballots out as soon  we receive them. “  All paper ballots are due back to the voter registrars office by Tuesday, August 10^th at 7 pm.    

Next Tuesday all voting prescient in the county will be open for voters to cast ballots in the  State, congressional races and  voters in the first and 4^th  county commission districts will voting in the run-off for  county commission candidates.    

Woman Shot During Home Invasion Saturday ( 8/2/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s office is continuing their investigation in connection with a home invasion that occurred early Saturday morning on Max’s Drive in Cleveland. 

White County Sheriff Department spokesman Captain Jim Couch said the female victim was awakened around 2:15 AM by a noise in the house.  She got up and got a weapon.  The victim encountered the perpetrator, a male who was attempting to steal items form the residence, and a scuffle took place over the gun.  Couch said during the scuffle the gun discharged.

 The woman was shot in the hand and the bullet went into her stomach and exited her hip.  She was take to  Grady Hospital by a life flight helicopter.  Couch said she is listed in stable condition today.   Suspect fled the scene and a K-9  unit from Dawson County was called in but they were not able to locate him.   

Commissioners Set Tax Millage Rate ( 7/30/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Board of Commissioners have set the 2010 tax millage rate.  At a meeting Thursday  morning the commissioners agreed to keep the county portion at 9-point  19 mills.  The  state  portion .25 and earlier during  the day White County Board of Education set the education portion of the rate at 14.65 mills with the bond rate at point -339. 

The commissioners said that of the projected revenue for the county of $13-point five million dollars for the general fund, property taxes will provide 72-point 19 percent of the general fund revenue.  The impact on the average homeowner for the county portion with $200,000 dollars in property value would be $1,838- dollars.

White County Business Announces A Recall (7/30/10)

(Atlanta)- A  White County business, Biggers & Callaham LLC has recalled frozen reptile feed in the form of  mice, rats, chicks , and the Georgia Department of Agriculture has issued a stop sale order on live rodents by the company from its Mice Direct facility in Cleveland because of the potential of Salmonella contamination, according to Commissioner Tommy Irvin.

Human illnesses that may be related to the frozen reptile feed have been reported in 17 states. The recalled product should not be fed to animals, even after heating in a microwave oven, since the heating may not be adequate to kill Salmonella.  The recall is based upon sampling by the Food and Drug Administration of frozen mice.  The company continues its investigation.  The Georgia Department of Agriculture does not regulate raw meat sold for pet food. 

Commissioner Irvin said, The Georgia Department of Agriculture issued the stop sale on live rodents “because our state veterinarian says the live rodents have the same risk for Salmonella contamination as the frozen ones and are carriers of Salmonella, posing the same health risks to humans and pets.”  

Consumers who purchased reptile feed or live rodents from Mice Direct are urged to contact  *Mice Direct by phone at 888-747-0736 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST Monday-Friday or by e-mail at sales@micedirect.com for instructions concerning this recall and for credits towards replacement of unused product.

The frozen reptile feed was distributed in all states, except Hawaii, through pet stores and by mail order and direct delivery.

Quinn Graduates From War College ( 7/28/10)

(Undated)- Army Col. Thomas G. Quinn Jr. has graduated from the U.S. Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, Carlisle, Pa., and earned a master's degree in Strategic Studies.  The college is the Army's senior educational institution.  Quinn is a senior human resources officer with 22 years of military service.  He is the son of Carol Quinn of Albert Reid Road,  and the late Tom  Quinn. 

The colonel graduated in 1984 from White County High School, Cleveland, and received a bachelor's degree in 1988 from Presbyterian College, Clinton, S.C.  He earned a master's degree in 2002 from Touro University International, an online college.

Food Bank To Hold Open House ( 7/28/10)

(Undated)- The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia  has announced they will host a covered-dish open house at its new temporary Mountain Branch on Highway 441 in Wiley, just south of Rabun County High School, from 5-6 p.m.  this Thursday.  

The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia works with more than 225 partner agencies in Habersham, Rabun, Stephens, White, Franklin, Hart, Banks, Jackson, Madison, Barrow, Clarke, Oconee, Oglethorpe and Towns counties, as well as some partner agencies in Elbert, Hall, Union, Greene and Wilkes counties. 

Partner agencies include soup kitchens, food pantries, shelters, after- school programs, foster parent associations, churches and other non- profit organizations that serve people in need.

 Food pantry partners in White County include: Cleveland Seventh Day Adventist Church, Pivot Outreach Center and White County Food Pantry.   Mobile pantry partners include St. Paul Catholic Church in Cleveland.

Unresponsive Man Discovered On The River In Helen (7/26/10)

(Helen)- A  Cumming man is ok today after he was found unresponsive on  an inner tube in  the river in Helen on Saturday. 

Sgt. Brian Stevens with Helen Police Department said  an off duty police officer was on the way to work Saturday just before 7:00 PM,  when he was flagged down by people at Riverside Park  on Edelweiss Strasse.  Stevens said the Hispanic male wasn’t breathing when found and CPR was started by the people who discovered  him. Emergency medical personnel arrived a short time later.   

The man was taken by air ambulance to Gwinnett Medical Center.  Stevens said hospital officials reported later in the evening that the man was ok and would be kept in the hospital overnight for observation.   

Summer School Projects Progressing ( 7/26/10)

 Busy Weekend For WCFD ( 7/26/10)

         Skylake Road Accident                                       Highway 255 accident

(Cleveland)- After  what was considered a slow week, this past weekend was quite busy for White County firefighters who responded to a total of 18 calls. White County Fire Department  Public Information officer Ana Newberry said, Saturday morning  just after midnight units were dispatched to Helen Hwy at Duncan Bridge Road to a  single vehicle accident. Newberry said the car ran off the road.  The driver, the only occupant was assisted by Station 3 volunteers and taken to North East Georgia Medical Center by White County Emergency Services, with non life threatening injuries.  The Georgia State Patrol investigated the incident

Saturday afternoon at 3:46  PM another motor vehicle accident on Skylake Rd at Gordon Road. The vehicle left the roadway closing the north bound lane of Skylake Road due to debris. According to Newberry the driver, the only person in the vehicle, refused transport to the hospital.

Monday  morning at 8:43 on Highway 255 off Highway 115 east  a vehicle  had gone off the road once turning onto Hwy 255 South where it came to a stop after striking two trees.  White County staff firefighters responded to the call and were assisted by City of Cleveland firefighters.  The driver refused transport.  The Georgia State Patrol is investigating the incident. 

John Head Road Closed  To Thru Traffic ( 7/22/10)

(Cleveland)- White County Public Works advises road crews  will be doing work, which includes patching, leveling and resurfacing work on John Head Road in the county starting Friday.  Rolann  Smith,  spokeswoman said  a contractor for the road department will be doing the  work  during daylight hours Friday, Monday and possibly Tuesday.   

This a heavily used road, connecting Alternate Highway 75 and Albert Reid  Roads.   Smith said the road will be closed to thru traffic, but homeowners will be able to get to their homes.  

Two Injured In Campbell Street Accident (7/22/10)

(Cleveland)- Two people were injured Wednesday  night when the vehicle they were riding in  ran off the road and turned on it’s side in the City of Cleveland.  Cleveland Fire Chief Ricky Pruitt said they were dispatched  around  8:19 PM to Campbell  Street. 

Chief Pruitt said two people were in the  Jeep vehicle  and  were transported to the hospital with what he described as non-life threatening injuries.  Cleveland fire department was assisted by county station five.  Fire fighters had to cut the female passenger out of the vehicle because of damage to the vehicle. 

No  details were available from Cleveland Police department about the accident.  

Dryer Fire Damages Home  ( 7/21/10)

Lt. Donald Pugh – City of Cleveland FD removing dryer from home

(Cleveland)-White County firefighters responded to a dryer fire call earlier Tuesday  on Pine Brook Trail.  White County Fire Department Public Information Officer Ana Newberry said units from White County with  Automatic Aid from the City of Cleveland responded.  According to Newberry, once on scene, the single wide mobile home was showing light smoke from the outside. 

 A family friend was attempting to put out the flames with a garden hose.  When firefighters went inside the home, there were flames coming from the laundry room wall.  The blaze was  extinguished and the dryer removed from the premises.   All occupants got out of the home and no injuries were reported. 

According to Newberry three working smoke detectors in the home.  The American Red Cross was called to assist the family.  Fire department personnel were on scene for about 1 ½ hours.

Hawkins and Graves in Runoff    Butterworth Wins Senate seat 

Langley new Enotah District Attorney(7-21-2010)

Lee Hawkins and Tom Graves are headed into yet another runoff after neither had enough votes Tuesday night to win the 9th District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.    This will be election No. 4 in what has become a bitter contest for the two former state lawmakers.   Graves brought in 49 percent of the votes, just one percentage point shy of a majority.    Hawkins finished with a little more than 27 percent of the votes . Following Nathan Deal’s announcement to run for governor, six Republicans, one Democrat and one independent announced they would be running to fill his seat.  Graves and Hawkins were the top two contenders in the May 11 special election and headed into a runoff June 8.   Graves went on to Washington to fill the remainder of Deal’s term in Congress, which ends in December.    Runoff will be August 10th.

Senate, District 50 (Banks, Franklin, Habersham, Hart, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, part of White counties): Incumbent Jim Butterworth retains his seat. With 99% of precincts reporting; Butterworth finished with 58% over Terry Rogers. A Democratic candidate is not challenging this seat.

Enotah District Attorney race results...Jeff Langley was the winner with 62.5% of the vote (7226 votes)   Raymond George received 4344,  37.5% of the votes.

Ray & Odessa Davis Honored at 5^th Annual Corn Roast ( 7/19/10)

(Tate)- White County residents  Ray & Odessa Davis,  were honored this past weekend at the 5^th Annual Corn Roast hosted by Congressman Tom Graves  in Tate, GA .  The event held at Sandy Bottoms Farm is an annual event held to give constituents a chance to speak with former Georgia Representative and now  Congressman Tom Graves and this year was expanded to include the entire 9^th Congressional District of Georgia. 

The award is given each year and this year was awarded to  the Davis’s  in honor of their conviction and commitment to the community of Georgia’s 9^th District and their love of country.   The both Ray and Odessa work tirelessly in the community especially at  the White County Senior Center.

Police And Fire Answer Few Calls During Weekend (7/19/10)

(Cleveland)- White County public service agencies had a relatively calm weekend.  Ana Newberry, White County Fire Department  spokeswoman said they had a total of 10 call over the weekend many of those were medical assistance calls. Newberry said they did have an auto fire on Adair Mill Road  and overturned vehicle on Duncan Bridge  Saturday.  Newberry said no injuries were reported in both incidents.

Congressman Graves  Says Business Advisory Council Will  Get To Work

Soon ( 7/19/10)

(Cleveland) – Congressman Tom  Graves  recently conducted a district tour establishing a Business Advisory Council to bring insight, ideas and solutions to create jobs and spur the economy. The congressman has already shared information about the council with his fellow members of congress and Monday  he spoke with us on News-Talk 1350. 

Graves said he has 75- 80 business leaders in the 15 county area that have indicated they want to help with this program. Following the listening tour Congressman Graves said they found there are many different ideas, most center around government regulation.  Graves said the advisory council  will be meeting  starting next month  pulling together and implementing ideas.

 Primary Early Voting Ends ( 7/16/10)

(Cleveland)- The Advance Voting process ended Friday  with several voters getting out early to cast a ballot, prior to next Tuesday 's Party Primary election day.  White County Chief Voter Registrar Lisa Manning said, since the early and advance voting process began June 14^th a little over 500 ballots were cast.  Manning said close to 250 absentee ballots have been returned. 

According to Manning the biggest issue that have had to deal with in the early voting was people not realizing that this is a party primary and will have to choose either Republican or Democratic ballot to vote and that county commission seats are being voted on in separate districts, not county wide as in the past. 

If you want to educate yourself and be prepared when you go to the your polling prescient to vote Tuesday you can visit the Georgia Secretary of state’s website  at  www.sos.georgia.gov/MVP   and click on the different links to see your ballot.

Regional Networking Meeting Attracts  A Large Crowd ( 7/16/10

(Cleveland)- Business owners and representatives from a Six county area  met in Cleveland  Thursday  evening for a regional chamber networking event  in  the Crystal Ballroom at  Babyland General Hospital in Cleveland. 

The business representatives from Dawson, Habersham, Lumpkin, Towns, Union and White County attended and White County Chamber President Judy Walker said it was a great time to exchange business information.

Walker said the ballroom at Babyland was a perfect setting for the event and that residents need to know that the ballroom at Babyland is available for the general public to rent for family and community events.

Congressman Graves Addresses House Members ( 7/15/10)

Cleveland Council Looks At Small Millage Rate Increase ( 7/14/10)

 Development Authority Says Time Step Up The Marketing Of The

County ( 7/14/10)

(Cleveland)-  The  Development Authority of  White County wants to  take advantage of some recent developments in the county to push for  additional business growth here.  The Authority  at a meeting Tuesday explored the advantages that the new natural gas service and north Georgia fiber optics network can provide for the county, to make a push to attract new businesses.  

Authority Chairman John Erbele said they need to get the county commissioners to kick in some kind of incentive

He said that things are looking more positive for possible business development.   

Board member Marc Greene strongly urged the  board to develop  some kind of  marketing material to showcase the positive points for the  county.

Firefighter Training Proposal Could Affect Local Departments ( 7/13/10)

Sheriff's Department Monthly Report  (7/12/10)

 Senator Chip Pearson To Head 9th District Economic Advisory Council

(7/10/10)

(Cleveland)-For the second time this week Ninth District Congressman Tom Graves was in Cleveland on Friday. The congressman was here on the final stop of the day of his tour of the district and announcing the formation of an Economic Advisory Council. Graves said he is calling on business and community leaders in each of the 15 counties in the district to assist him in finding ways to create jobs and help stimulate the economy. He told a crowd at Cleveland City Hall Annex that local citizens have joined his effort and will serve on the council.

Sen. Chip Pearson- Congressman Tom Graves

Graves also announced that State Senator Chip Pearson will chair this council and help provide guidance to those serving.  Pearson told us this council is a way grassroots citizens can get their message to Washington.

Congressman Graves will continue his tour with stops in Dawson, Lumpkin, Hall and Forsyth counties on Monday.

Education Tax Millage Rate To Remain The Same  (7/9/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Board of Education has decided to hold the line on the education portion  of county tax bills this year, even though the county’s tax rollback rate showed they could have increased the rate slightly.  The board made the decision Thursday following a meeting to discuss the tax situation. 

White County Superintendent of Schools  Dr. Paul Shaw said  the millage rate will remain the same as last year at 14.65.  Shaw said that means more belt tightening, with a reduction of $400-thousand dollars in tax revenue locally and more state cuts.   According  Dr. Shaw this is the first time in recent memory that the tax roll back went up. 

White County Tax Commissioner Cindy Cannon said the increase in the rollback rate was the result of a negative re-assessment of property, meaning that the assessed value of some property  in the county went down. 

Cliff Hood Steps Down From BOE Board ( 7/9/10)

(Cleveland)- Long time White County School Board  member Cliff Hood of Helen has resigned his position on the board.   He made the announcement to the board Thursday.   Hood who decided not to seek re-election this year told us he has the opportunity to work with a company that  deals  with some school boards around the state and did not want to create any type of conflict of interest. 

Hood has served on the board for 23 and a half years and he told us he really has enjoyed it.   Hood’s dedication to the county went all the way up to time of his resignation keeping the county interest first saying he wanted to wait until there would not have to be a special election and finish work on this years budget.   

Hood will be replaced on the board in January by Barry Vandiver, who qualified for the position and faces  no opposition in this years election  process.

One Injured  In Accident North Of Helen  (7/8//10)

(Cleveland)- One person was injured Wednesday afternoon  as a result of a two vehicle accident north of Helen.  White County firefighters, with Automatic Aid from the City of Helen Fire Department, were dispatched  at 3:42 PM  to the accident on Hwy 75 at Tray Mountain Road. 

Ana Newberry, White County Fire Department Public Information Officer reports, an occupant from one of the vehicles was entrapped and required assistance by firefighters. According to Newberry it took firefighters almost an hour to free the victim and loaded into  an awaiting Ambulance. White County EMS transported the

 victim to Northeast Georgia Medical Center with what Newberry described as non-life threatening injuries.  

The road was temporarily closed due to debris  in the road  and for firefighters while performing the extrication.  The Georgia State Patrol investigated the accident and no  details are available on   the cause.

Commission District Four Candidate Forum ( 7/7/10)

(Cleveland)- There were no big surprises  Tuesday night at a forum for White  County Commission district for candidates, hosted by the Sautee Nachoochee Community Association.  The candidates; former commission chairman Chris Nonnemaker, current commissioner Craig Bryant and newcomer candidate Terry  Harris. 

The candidates fielded question, that were submitted prior to the event, and ready by SNCA Parliamentarian John Erbele.  The question were about tourism, countywide sewage service, the construction of a new jail  and privatizing some county services.  Both Nonnemaker and Bryant stressed their experience serving on the board, while Harris said, he's a candidate that can offer new ideas. 

Kathy Blandin Executive Director for SNCA said the event, which was well attended, was more than just an association event.  She said, there were non  SNCA members from throughout the  fourth district. 

D.O.T  Awards Road Projects ( 7/7/10)

(ATLANTA) – Georgia Department of  Transportation  Commissioner Vance C. Smith, Jr. Tuesday  announced that  $53- million dollars  was awarded in June for safety, resurfacing and bridge replacement projects throughout Georgia. White County will benefit from some of that money  with a federal project that calls for 8-point 8 miles of milling, plant mix resurfacing, and shoulder reconstruction of State Route 254 beginning at the Hall County line and extending to State Route 115 East. 

The low bidder on the project is C.W. Matthews Contracting Co.  Of Marietta.  The cost of the project is just over $1-point 6 million dollars. Other counties receiving  DOT contract work include Pickens, Murray, Jackson, and Habersham.

Stephens Federal Bank Closes Cleveland Branch (7/7/10)

(Cleveland)- Stephens Federal Bank  has closed their branch office in Cleveland.  The closing  was  official last Thursday  and  Stephens Federal President  Tim Ash said it was another  result  of the slow economy and the Cleveland office was primarily  setup to handle home mortgage loans and that has been down for some time, leading to the decision to close the office. 

Cleveland customers can still  receive services at the other SFB  offices in Toccoa, Clayton and Hiawassee.

Stephens Federal has been in Cleveland for 11 years and Ash said before the housing market downturn  this was a good market for them.    

Congressman Graves Visits Cleveland ( 7/7/10)

(Cleveland)- Ninth District Congressman Tom Graves was in White County Tuesday.  The congressman of only three  weeks  dropped by the Caring Hands Health Clinic in  Cleveland for a tour of the facility.  He was given an overview of the operation there by clinic director Laura Walsh, Jim Hiers, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Dr. Charles White  Medical Director for the Clinic.  

After the  tour Congressman Graves told us that it is important that citizens of  White County know that the free clinic is important to the community and deserves everyone’s financial support. The congressman said he was impressed by the stewardship of  the clinic, for every dollar donated, patients received $22.00 in care.

CHHC  Dir. Laura Walsh and Congressman Tom Graves

Later in the day Graves spoke to the White County Rotary Club giving them an update on his three weeks in office.   The congressman announced that he will conduct what he  called his Economic Business Council Tour of the district between July 8^th and 12^th.   There  will be a stop on that tour in Cleveland this Friday at 3:00 PM at Cleveland City Hall Annex.   

According to the congressman during these meeting they hope to identify ways to help boost the economy and create jobs through an expanded private sector.

Maria Flynn, Rotary Assistant Governor, Congressman

Graves, Rotary President Jack Craig

Disposing of American Flags Properly ( 7/5/10)

(Cleveland)- In addition to fireworks  for the fourth, the American Legion Post 16  in Cleveland held  an official  American Flag disposal ceremony.  The ceremony included lowering the American Flag in front of the legion post and adding it to the more than 200 flags that had been collected for the ceremony, where the flags were properly burned. 

The crowd on hand was described as the largest ever for this type  event.  Following  the disposal performed  by  members of  Boy Scout  Troup 48  of Cleveland a   picnic was held at the Legion Post  south of Cleveland.

W.C. Sheriff Neal Walden Receives Highest Rotary Award ( 7/4/10)

(Cleveland)- The White County Rotary Club has recognized many  of their members and citizens  in the community at their annual end of the Rotary year awards dinner Friday .  White County Sheriff Neal Walden  was recognized with the  Rotary's Highest Award - The Robert S.  Stubbs Guardian of Ethics Award  for  representing  the highest example of Ethics in Business and  the community.   This years  Rotary President Maria Flynn said the Rotary Club of White County is extremely honored to have him as a member, a friend and the most respected citizen in the community.

Others recognized include White County Probate Judge Garrison Baker, with the President’s Award.  Dr. Paul Shaw, White County School Superintendent, the  Lee Arrendale Award for Vocational Excellence. White County Sheriff’s investigator John Murphy, Family of Rotary Fellowship Award for his Commitment to the Spirit of Family.   County Commission Chairman Travis Turner Honored with the Eugene Adams Community Service Award.  Heather Sinyard received  the Jean Harris Volunteer of the Year Award.

After the official "Handing over of the Gavel" by Maria Flynn, new Club President Jack Craig addresses the Rotary Club.  In his remarks he said that he would like to focus on service and asked Rotarians to contribute their time to support projects throughout  the year. Bigger, Better and Bolder...that will be the focus of his Rotary year.  

Enotah Judges Opposed In November Election ( 7/5/10)

(Cleveland)- Qualifying ended Friday  for Non- Partisan candidates who will appear on  the November 2^nd  General Election. Both incumbent Superior Court  Judges in the Enotah Judicial Circuit have picked up opposition.  Attorney David Turk of Dahlonega qualified Friday. 

55-year old Turk currently serves as Juvenile Court Judge for the circuit and will oppose current  Superior Court Judge  David Barrett of Hiawassee.  Incumbent Lynn Alderman of Dahlonega picked up opposition on Tuesday when  Dahlonega Attorney Ridge Rairigh qualified.   

Meals On Wheels Update ( 7/2/10)

(Cleveland)- The Summer Meals for Neighborhood Children, or Meals on Wheels has been providing breakfast and lunch for children  under 18 this summer.  The program has just made a change at one of their  lunch delivery sites.  The Center Grove Baptist Church location has been moved to Center Grove Village Cul-de-Sac  in order to get the food closer to those in need.  

Sheryl Fletcher,  Director  for the White County School Nutrition Program, said this is the second year for the program and in addition to the Center Grove Village site, other lunch delivery sites include Pardue Mobile Home Park, Mossy Acres Mobile Home Park, Brookwood Village, Kinsey Town General Store and  Fest Halle in Helen.  In addition to those  lunch sites breakfast and lunch is served at  Jack P. Nix , White County Intermediate and Ninth Grade Academy schools. 

Fletcher  said they started the program when they saw there were more than 50 percent of the school students receiving free or reduced price meals at school.  

Thomason Retires After 31 Years With School System ( 7/2/10)

(Cleveland)- White County School Transportation System will not be quite the same now that long time transportation director Cathy Thomason has retired.  Thomason’s last day with the system was Wednesday and after 31 years of employment, first as a bus driver and later transportation director  she told us Thursday  the first day of retirement was different. She said the alarm clock didn’t go off and she had been fielding calls from family and friends congratulating her on the  retirement.   

As transportation director Thomason was responsible for many different things including establishing school bus routes each year,  supervise bus drivers,  supervise the bus garage and the  maintenance of buses and other motorized vehicles of the school system.  She also had the awesome task of gathering information and  advises the Superintendent of road hazards during inclement weather for school closing or unsafe conditions and she says that in itself  is a enormous responsibility.  Thomason was appointed Transportation Director in 1990 following the retirement of Gale Abernathy. 

Thomason’s  assistant for the past several years  Donna Dalton was appointed to head that department.   

Cleveland's Hillbilly Hog BBQ Throwdown A State Competition (7/2/10)

(Cleveland)- Governor Sonny Perdue has officially proclaimed the Cleveland Better Home Town’s  Fall  Hillbilly Hog Bar-B-Que Throwdown a State Competition.  Earlier this week  representative from Cleveland Better Home Town included Garrison Baker, chairman of the board, Maria Flynn, Executive Director, Heather Sinyard, the event chair, Tyler Dorsey, Jr. Board Chairman, Emily Carr who serves on the promotions committee and White County Commissioner Craig Bryant were on hand for the  signing of the proclamation in Atlanta.   

The White County Commissioners last week contributed $5,000 from the hotel motel tax in support of the Bar-B-Que  competition because, according to Maria Flynn  they realized the impact that it could have on tourism. 

The fall event has already received the Sanctioned by the Kansas City Bar-B-Que   Society.   Maria Flynn said,  Already, we have 23 judges confirmed that are coming from several states to judge the competition.  They will have to spend at least 2 nights in White County and that translates into additional Hotel Motel revenue. 

 While in Atlanta Cleveland Better Home Town  made Governor Perdue an Honorary Member of Cleveland Better Home Town.  

Thunderstorm Winds Cause  Minor  Damage In the County ( 6/30/10)

        Cedar Tree Behind Old Babyland Hospital            Busness sign  on Campbell Street

(Cleveland)- White and Habersham Counties received some damage from Tuesday afternoon thunderstorms.  No major damage reported  but both counties report some trees and power lines down as a result of high winds.

In White County high wind  and small hail was reported around 2:15 PM.  The winds broke in half the huge old Babyland General Christmas tree  on Underwood Street in downtown Cleveland.  The tree located behind the former Babyland hospital had  become a downtown landmark. 

Judy Lovell with the White County Historical Society said, Mrs. Neal decorated the cedar tree during the holidays for years before she passed away.  After Xavier Roberts opened the Neal Clinic as Babyland General Hospital that tradition continued.  Locals and visitors looked forward to the "lighting of the great tree" at Thanksgiving each year. Lovell said, “ Another Cleveland tradition is "gone with the wind", in reference to the 50’s movie that was filmed in White County.  

Cyndy Johannsen, spokesperson for White County Emergency Management Agency said they had scattered reports of trees being blown down, but no major damage.

Bergin Seeks Commission Seat As Independent Candidate (6/30/10)

(Cleveland)- Former County Commissioner Dennis Bergin has paid his qualifying fee and filed a notice of candidacy to run for a post on the White County Commission Board, as and independent candidate.  White County Election Superintendent Garrison Baker said Bergin must provide  the signatures  of  at least 37 registered voters as part of his qualifying process.  He is running for a district one  seat in the newly expanded five person commission board.

Bergin is the City Manager for the city of Lula and previously served as White County commissioner  from 2003 until 2007.  

When he completes his qualifying Bergin will join three Republicans and one Democratic candidate seeking the district one post.  The republicans will narrow that field down to one in July.

Biggest Looser Announced At White County Senior Center (6/29/10)

(Cleveland)- For most people an incentive to loose weight is the key to seeing progress, that holds true if you’re young or not so young. The White County Senior Center has just completed a weight lose campaign to see who could first loose 30 lbs.  The challenge started the first of the year and Mr. Ray Davis a participant at the center offered  one-hundred dollars to the first senior who could loose 30 lbs. 

Center director Bonnie York said the money gave some an incentive to participate in the program, but a few gave up after a short time.   74-year old Catherine King of Helen was determined from the beginning that she would be the winner and last Friday the senior center  held a celebration to honor her reaching the 30 lb. weight loss. 

King said it was quite a challenge especially since she likes to eat.    King said she did cut back on what she ate and was more selective about the type of food.  She told us that with the weight loss she has gone from size 16 to size 8.  After receiving the $100- dollars prize, King  donated it to the senior center expansion project.

WCSO Monthly Calls Exceeds 900 ( 6/29/10)

(Cleveland)- During the month of May the White County Sheriff’s Office received just over 900 calls  into the department. Captain Jim Couch  in releasing the monthly activities report on behalf of Sheriff Neal Walden said the number of calls has steadily increased the last few months. 

During May there were 6  driving under the influence arrests, 39 domestic calls, and 47 auto accidents.  Officers made 120 traffic stops during the month handing out 66 citations and making 7 traffic arrest.  105 civil papers were served along with 37 subpoenas. 

The investigative division had these additional cases to probe, 2 deaths, 3 assault/battery, 1 forgery, 5 identity fraud, 2 credit card fraud, 1 rape, 2 child molestation, 2 child abuse, 2 motor vehicle thefts  and 10 burglaries. 

Total arrest during the month 142.   Officers spend 51 hours in court and 387 hours in training.