Fayette Front Page

All Fayette County High School Start Times Changed Back to Last Year's Times, No Change to Bus Schedule

2010-08-18T13:25:00.000-04:00

All Fayette County high school students will no longer arrive at school 15 minutes early effective Monday, August 23.

The school day will begin at 8:40 a.m., the same as last year. The end time remains at 3:20 p.m.
This change will not require any adjustments to the bus schedule. Buses will arrive at stops at the same time that was set at the beginning of the school year.

Students are being notified of this change by daily morning announcements made by the principal and messages posted on each school’s marquee. Parents are also being informed through Infinite Campus messages.

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Fayette County Home Values Follow National Trend

2010-08-09T09:26:00.000-04:00

Home values in the Fayette County area are still in a state of decline according to the lastest index released by Zillow Real Estate Market Reports. This report was calculated on August 2, 2010, and includes data through June 30, 2010.

The home value index indicates homes in the 30269 zip code as $233,300, a 3.3% decline since June 2009.

30269 Zillow Home Value Index

30269 Home Values - Interactive chart

Fayetteville home values have not fared as well as Peachtree City. The zip code 30214 home value index has fallen 9.0% to $170,600, while 30215 homes fell 13.2% to $188,200 since June 2009.

30214 Zillow Home Value Index

30214 Home Values - Interactive chart

Overall, Georgia has continued to see a decline in the home value index as calculated by Zillow.com. The latest numbers just released indicate an overall 7.8% fall for Georgia homeowners since June 2009.

Georgia Zillow Home Value Index

Georgia Home Values - Interactive chart

source: Zillow.com
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Changes for New School Year in Fayette County

2010-07-28T14:02:00.000-04:00

As students and parents prepare for the beginning of school, here are a few changes that will be in place on the first day.

The high school start time has been moved up to 8:25 a.m. to allow for a 15-minute instructional focus period for students to get remedial help, work on assignments or participate in additional activities. The end time will remain at 3:20 p.m. The start and end times for elementary and middle school are the same as last year: (elementary) 7:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and (middle) 8:25 a.m.-3:40 p.m.

Lunch prices have increased by a nickel at the elementary level and by a dime at the middle and high school levels. The increase is due to state budget cuts. The new prices are (elementary) $2.10 and (middle and high) $2.25.

Cleveland Elementary has a new principal at the helm following the retirement of Jean Miller who was the school’s first principal. The school’s assistant principal, Angie Southers, has been promoted to principal. Southers has worked within the system for a number of years and was the assistant principal at Tyrone Elementary before coming to Cleveland. She looks forward to working with the students, parents, staff and community in her new position.

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Fayette County Superintendent Finalists Applications Online

2010-07-26T14:11:00.000-04:00

The public can view the applications of the three superintendent finalists on the school system’s website, www.fcboe.org, as well as at the Fayette County Board of Education Office located at 210 Stonewall Avenue West, Fayetteville.

Concerned citizens can submit their comments about the candidates to school board members via a link that has been provided on the website.

The finalists were announced following a brief executive session during a called meeting on July 13 at the Fayette County Board of Education. Dr. Jeffrey Bearden, superintendent of MSAD 35 in City Eliot, Maine; Dr. Roy “Cole” Pugh, superintendent of Eagle Mountain – Saginaw ISD in Ft. Worth, Texas; and Lynda S. Wenzel, state director with the Georgia Department of Education and former assistant superintendent of curriculum for Fayette County Public Schools are the candidates chosen by the board.

The superintendent will be chosen from the list of finalists at a future board meeting.

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Volunteers Help Maintain Local Nature Preserves

2010-07-23T08:55:00.000-04:00

Eagle Scout Henry Bentley constructed a bridge next to the fishing pond at Line Creek Nature Area.

Community volunteers are donating their summer time to help Southern Conservation Trust maintain its public nature preserves in Fayette County. Their generosity helps the Trust stretch its donation income and addresses the wear and tear these popular parks receive from local visitors.

The girls’ Lacrosse Team from Whitewater High School is re-staining the three wetland observation decks at Sams Lake Sanctuary outside Fayetteville – a project spanning three days in the hot sun.

Whitewater Lacrosse Team Stains Observation Deck at Sams Lake

At Line Creek Nature Area, Eagle Scouts Keelan Klarl and Henry Bentley have built foot bridges and re-routed trails so hikers can easily cross wet spots on the Creek and Pond Trails.

Whitewater High student Sarah Blakeslee finished staining the picnic tables near the fishing pond and three young ladies cut back the overhanging branches to widen the entrance drive to the parking lot. In the spring the Brownies of Troop 10314 used money they earned selling Girl Scout cookies to plant native trees at Line Creek.

Peachtree City resident Gary Humphries repaired the damage of vandals at the Flat Creek Nature Area who had painted graffiti on the boardwalk and pulled out the entrance sign. This quiet forested wetland can be entered beside the Peachtree City Amphitheater.

“As a small community land trust, we appreciate the many volunteers who help make our preserves great places to experience nature,” said Trust Executive Director Abby Jordan. ”We have volunteer projects lasting a few hours or over several days. An upcoming Volunteer Work Day in late fall will create landscape beds with native shrubs at the Line Creek entrance on Hwy 54, based on a design donated by Nearly Native Nursery in Fayetteville.”

Southern Conservation Trust is a Fayette County-based conservation nonprofit that owns, manages and protects 1400 acres of farms, forests and environmentally sensitive land in the Southern Crescent. The Trust hosts environmental programs and enhances its three public preserves with trails, overlooks and re-introduction of native species. As a regional land trust the Trust works with willing landowners to permanently protect open space that benefits the community and can offer tax benefits for the landowner.

If you or your service club would like to help maintain community greenspace, contact the Trust at www.sctlandtrust.org .

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Have You Seen Bo? Lost Dog near Pine Lake Estates

2010-07-22T14:53:00.000-04:00

Editor Note:As a public service, we are passing along the following excerpt from an urgent email GA Heartland Humane Society just sent to the Fayette Front Page. Please keep a sharp eye for little Bo.

I got a call this morning to help look for a Silver Toy Poodle named Bo, 4 years old.

The woman had rehomed him due to certain circumstances and this little guy got away from the new owner, maybe trying to find "mom". Original owner frantic and wants her baby back. Please keep your eyes open.

Dog was lost in Fayetteville near the Pine Lake Estates. He went missing yesterday Wednesday July 21st 2010.

Owner: Frieda 770 318-5964
Her friend Tracy: 678 350-8893

Dorlene Ginn
GA Heartland Humane Society

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Burglary Suspects Arrested in Fayetteville

2010-07-22T13:49:00.000-04:00

The Fayetteville Police Department arrested 4 people for a reported residential burglary in Fayetteville, Georgia. 

On Wednesday, July 21, 2010 the Fayetteville Police Department received a 911 call of a possible burglary on Keaton Drive, Fayetteville Georgia. Officers found that someone had attempted to enter the home through a window. While investigating the case Officers received information from neighbors (vehicle and people description). 

Police stopped a car in the area of Keaton Drive. There were 3 adult males and one juvenile male in the car. 

A stolen gun from Henry County was found in the car. 

Further investigation indicated that the four attempted to gain entry into a home on Keaton Drive. 

Quinton Deanthony Jackson, 27 YOA, from Atlanta, Georgia - charged with Criminal attempted burglary and theft by receiving stolen property.

Jermist Djon Russell, 22 YOA, from Ellenwood, Georgia - charged with Criminal attempted burglary and theft by receiving stolen property.

Jewel Francis Hatch, 21 YOA, from Indianapolis, Indiana - charged with Criminal attempted burglary, theft by receiving stolen property, and possession of burglary tools.

Juvenile, 15 YOA, from Fayetteville, Georgia - charged with Criminal attempted burglary and theft by receiving stolen property.

Further charges may be pending.

We're baaaaccckkkk....

2010-07-21T10:00:00.000-04:00

With the downturn in the economy, changes in staffing, and a whole lot of other factors beyond our control, we made the executive decision to merge the Fayette Front Page into the Georgia Front Page. We also focused mightily on our Arts Across Georgia site, which is going great.

However, we missed sharing all the good news with our Fayette County friends! We've decided to rev it back up and do what we do best --- share all the good news and the factual news you've said you love.

We've set up a Facebook page (just do a search on Fayette Front Page) and we have a twitter account (@fayettefp). We now have well over 200 blogs rolling around out there feeding to our sites, our numerous twitter and Facebook pages, fan pages, and wherever we can find an open spot to post .

We're going to be posting more on this blog AND on our Fayette Live blog. Both will feed to Facebook and Twitter giving you numerous ways to keep up with the news (and plenty of places to advertise your business).

Give us a day or so to get the Fayette Front Page 'un-hooked' from the Georgia Front Page, then we hope you'll make it your home page and start following all the interesting things happening in our fantastic county!

County Commission: Maxwell and Smith Lose; BOE: Todd and Tolbert Win

2010-07-20T23:34:00.000-04:00

County Commission Chairman Jack Smith lost to former Peachtree City Mayor Steve Brown by a hefty margin, Brown - 53.24% to Smith - 46.76%. County Commissioner Eric Maxwell's lost by a slightly larger margin to newcomer Allen McCarty, McCarty - 54.26% to Maxwell - 45.74%. Smith and Maxwell were first term Commissioners.

Incumbent School Board member Bob Todd, Post 5, won easily against challenger Charlie Cave, 61.94% to 38.06%.

Sam Tolbert, Board of Education Post 4, took 100% of the vote as he had no opposition.

Turnout in the county was fairly light with only 27.89% of registered voters casting a ballot. There are 69119 registered voters in the county, 19276 cards were cast in the election.

PTC Police Ask for Info re: Mailbox Incidents

2010-07-19T15:58:00.002-04:00

Over the past month, there have numerous reports from citizens that their mailboxes have been damaged, destroyed, or stolen. While these incidents appear to be predominantly occurring in subdivisions north of Highway 54, there have also been reports from citizens who reside in the southern area of Peachtree City. The subdivisions of the southern Kedron Village area appear to be targeted at a greater rate than others.

At least one witness has stated that the offenders appeared to be teenagers and were traveling on a golf cart. Additionally, the witness believed they were using either a bat or a broom handle. The majority of the incidents have occurred during the evening and early morning hours. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the offenders. If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in this or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Police Department at 770-487-8866, or the Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010. You may remain anonymous.

Fayette County School Orientations Scheduled

2010-07-15T12:48:00.000-04:00

As students get ready to head back to school on August 9, many will be entering the school system for the first time or graduating to middle or high school.

In order to help students and parents become familiar with their new schools, orientations will be held prior to the beginning of the academic year. During orientation, parents and students will receive information that will help make their first year at their new school an enriching and successful one.

Teachers, counselors, administrators and bus drivers will be on hand to help answer questions. Representatives from various clubs and organizations will also be in attendance to help introduce parents and students to extracurricular activities available at each school.
The orientation schedule is listed below.

All Elementary Schools will hold orientation on August 5, 4-6 p.m. The following schools will hold special pre-K and/or kindergarten orientations on August 5 at the times listed below by school.
• Brooks: Pre-K and Kindergarten, 8-10 a.m.
• Crabapple Lane: Kindergarten, 9-11 a.m.
• Huddleston: Kindergarten, 9-11 a.m.
• Inman: Pre-K and Kindergarten, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
• North Fayette: Pre-K and Kindergarten, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
• Peeples: Kindergarten, 9-11 a.m.
• Peachtree City: Kindergarten, 9-11 a.m.
• Robert J. Burch: Pre-K and Kindergarten, 9-11 a.m.
• Spring Hill: Kindergarten, 10 a.m.

Middle Schools
• Bennett’s Mill: August 6, (6th – 2-3:30 p.m.) (7th &8th – 4-5:30 p.m.)
• Fayette: August 6, (6th – 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.) (7th & 8th – 9-10 a.m.)
• Flat Rock: August 5, (6th only– 2-3:30 p.m.)
Flat Rock: August 6, (7th & 8th – 3-5 p.m.)
• J.C. Booth: August 4, (6th – 4-5:30 p.m.) (7th & 8th – 2-3:30 p.m.)
• Rising Starr: August 5, (6th – 9:30-11 a.m.) (7th & 8th – 1:30-3 p.m.)
• Whitewater: August 5, (6th – 9-10:30 a.m.) (7th & 8th – 1:30-3 p.m.)

High Schools
• Fayette County: August 5, (9th grade and new students) – 6-7:30 p.m.
• McIntosh: July 29 & 30 (Camp McIntosh Freshman Orientation) July 29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and
July 30, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (parents attend)
• McIntosh: August 5 (for students not attending camp) (9th grade – 6:30-8 p.m.), (10th grade – 5-6:30 p.m.), (11th grade – 3:30-5 p.m.), and (12th grade – 2-3:30 p.m.).
• Sandy Creek: August 5, (9th grade and new students) – 6-8 p.m.
• Starr’s Mill: August 5, (9th grade and new students) – 6-8 p.m.
• Whitewater: August 4, (12th – 8-10 a.m.) (11th – 10 a.m.-12 p.m.) (10th – 2-4 p.m.) (9th – 4-6 p.m.)

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Meet and Greet with Sen. Seth Harp, Republican Candidate for Georgia Insurance Commissioner

2010-07-15T12:20:00.002-04:00

Monday, July 19, noon until 12:30 at Partner's Pizza II at 215 Northlake Drive, Peachtree City, Ga 30269.

Please come out and join Seth for a meet and greet on one of his many stops of the "Harp Fly Around." Seth will be landing at Falcon Field as he flies in from Savannah, and speaking to the crowd, and also speaking with local business owners and customers.

If you are able to attend or have questions, please respond to cindymorley@bellsouth.net. We hope to see you there, and thank you for your continued support of Seth.

Superintendent Finalists Announced for Fayette County Public Schools

2010-07-14T12:40:00.000-04:00

After a brief executive session during a called meeting on July 13, the Fayette County Board of Education has announced three finalists for Superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools.

Dr. Jeffery Bearden, superintendent of MSAD 35 in City Eliot, Maine; Dr. Roy “Cole” Pugh, superintendent of Eagle Mountain – Saginaw ISD in Ft. Worth, Texas; and Lynda S. Wenzel, state director with the Georgia Department of Education and former assistant superintendent of curriculum for Fayette County Public Schools are the candidates chosen by the board.

The applications of the candidates can be viewed at the Fayette County Board of Education Office located at 210 Stonewall Avenue West, Fayetteville. The superintendent will be chosen from the list of finalists at a future board meeting.

Fred Oliver is serving as acting superintendent until the position is filled. Oliver did not apply for the superintendent’s position.

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PTC Police Investigating Two Suspicious Vehicle Fires

2010-07-13T14:43:00.000-04:00

The Peachtree City Police and Fire Departments are currently investigating two suspicious vehicle fires that have occurred over the past two weeks. On July 4th, 2010, at approximately 2:30 am, an early model Toyota Celica was set on fire in the driveway of the residence located at 109 Everhill, Peachtree City. Only several days after that, on July 11th, 2010, at approximately 1:50 am, a late model Chevrolet Aveo was set on fire in the driveway of the residence located at 125 Rockspray Ridge, Peachtree City.

If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in this or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Criminal Investigations Division at 770-631-2510, the Peachtree City Police Department’s Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010, or the Georgia Arson Control Board at 1-800-282-5804. Your tips can remain anonymous and a reward of up to $10,000 may be offered for the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 7 p.m. today

2010-07-13T13:24:00.001-04:00

The NWS has issued a Severe Thunderstorm WATCH for an area that includes Tyrone until 7:00 pm on July 13, 2010.

Advistory from PCPD regarding mailbox damage, trespassing at the FRED, new texting and seatbelt laws.

2010-07-06T20:38:00.000-04:00

The Peachtree City Police Department would like to advise our community of several significant issues that have been reported over the past few weeks. Additionally, one new law, and one revised law were enacted on July 1, 2010.

1) On July 1, 2010, the law banning texting while driving went into effect. This ban on cell phone use for those under 18, and overall ban on texting, applies not only to cars, trucks, and SUVs, but also to golf carts being operated on the roadway and also on the cart path system of Peachtree City.

The following information is the essence of the law:

• It is now illegal for anyone under age 18 who holds a learner's permit or Class D driver's license to talk or text on any wireless device while driving.

o Exceptions allowed to report a crime/accident or while the vehicle is parked; also does not apply to in-vehicle navigation systems.
o Penalties include a $150.00 fine and 1 Point on the driving record.
o Fine could be doubled if an accident is involved while texting or talking.

• It is also now illegal for anyone over age 18 or who holds a Class C driver's license to read, write, or send a text message while driving.

2) All drivers must now wear seatbelts when operating pick up trucks. This revision to the seat belt law removes the controversial exemption that adults had when operating pick up trucks only.

3) The department has received reports of subjects accessing the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater while it is closed, and skateboarding within the facility. As the Amphitheater is closed during the times this is occurring, it is not only a violation of the rule that skate boarding is not allowed in the facility, but also a violation of Georgia Law encompassing trespassing. If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in this or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Police Department at 770-487-8866, or the Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010. You may remain anonymous.

4) Over the past few weeks, there have numerous reports from citizens that their mailboxes have been damaged, destroyed, or stolen. While these incidents appear to be predominantly occurring in subdivisions north of Highway 54, there have also been reports from citizens who reside on the southern area of Peachtree City.

At least one witness has stated that the offenders appeared to be teenagers and were traveling on a golf cart. Additionally, the witness believed they were using either a bat or a broom handle. The majority of the incidents have occurred during the evening and early morning hours. If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in this or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Police Department at 770-487-8866, or the Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010. You may remain anonymous.

"Let Freedom Ring" July 4 in Fayetteville

2010-06-17T09:47:00.000-04:00

The Annual "Let Freedom Ring" Ceremony will take place at 2:00 PM on Sunday, 4 July 2010, at the Old Courthouse Lawn in Fayetteville, Georgia. During this short but meaningful ceremony, the signers' names of the Declaration of Independence will be read, and a bell will be rung in their honor. The event is free and open to the public. Bring lawn chairs for seating.

The James Waldrop Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution and the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter Sons of the American Revolution sponsor this event. For additional information contact Susan Sloan, Commemorative Events Chairman for James Waldrop Chapter DAR, at 770-461-2458 or jandssloan@mindspring.com.

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Fayette County Board of Education Town Hall Meeting & Candidates Forum

2010-06-12T21:38:00.002-04:00

June 17, 2010, 7:00 - 8:30 PM

Christ's Church at Whitewater, Hwy 85 South, Fayetteville (south of Whitewater Middle School, north of Whitewater High School)

Music by Stan & Sheri Henley

The Fayette County Tea Party and Fayette-Coweta 912 Patriots are co-hosting a Town Hall meeting so you can meet, greet and hear from the candidates running in the July 20th primary election for seats on the Fayette County Board of Education.

The meeting will be about Fayette County

Board of Education issues only

An informal 30 minute meet and greet period will be from 7:00 - 7:30 PM.

The formal program will be from 7:30 - 8:45 PM. Each of the candidates will be given time to explain why we should vote for them.

Following their presentations, the audience will be given adequate time to address questions to the candidates.

The event is free of charge and everyone is invited.

Bring your friends!

The primary election date is July 20, 2010. Early voting begins June 7, 2010 in the Fayette County Elections Office on the second floor of the county complex in downtown Fayetteville. Advance voting will be from July 12th - July 16th at the Tyrone and Peachtree City Libraries from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily.

For more information please contact either

David Barlow, Email: davidbarlow@comcast.net
Jim Richter, Email: jimric314@gmail.com

“Let Freedom Ring” on July 4 at PTC UMC

2010-06-11T09:46:00.000-04:00

The community is invited to a “Let Freedom Ring” celebration at Peachtree City United Methodist Church on Sunday, July 4, at 1:30 PM in honor of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and our nation’s 234th birthday. Several Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops will present the flag to kick off the program. Congressional Resolution Number 25, which established the nationwide ringing of bells at precisely 2:00 PM eastern daylight time, will be read aloud, followed by a reading of The Declaration of Independence. The PTCUMC Handbell Choir will perform two selections of patriotic music. The program will conclude at 2:00 PM with the ringing of the church’s belfry bell once for each of the 13 original colonies, with one person representing each state having the honor of ringing the bell. The celebration will be held in the PTCUMC Family Ministry Center at 400 Windgate Road. For further information contact PTCUMC at 770.487.6499 or see the church website at www.ptcumc.org.

Harold Bost Drops Out of Commission Race

2010-05-07T17:33:00.000-04:00

Harold Bost has decided to withdraw from the Fayette County Commission Race. Bost was running against Incumbent Jack Smith. Bost will be supporting former Peachtree City Mayor Steve Brown.

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Peachtree City Camp McIntosh Early Bird Pricing available through May 15th!

2010-05-06T15:34:00.002-04:00

Summer is almost here! This year the Peachtree City Parks and Recreation Department is offering a great incentive. Enroll on or before May 15th and and get Early Bird Pricing for Camp McIntosh Adventure Camp! Two week sessions are only $180 with the discount. Do the math that’s only $90 per week! Only $18 a day! All Peachtree City and Fayette County Residents pay the same price! Out of county residents please add 25%.

Camp McIntosh is an adventure camp like no other! In each two week session, campers will attend 4 trips and swim 6 days. Campers will also play fun games; participate in themed artcraft projects, and group activities. Camp McIntosh offers exciting trips this year including: Wild Animal Safari, IMAX, Georgia Aquarium, Whitewater, Callaway Gardens, Atlanta Braves Game, Six Flags and much much more! Trips are included in the price! Counselor ratios are maintained at 1:8. Camp McIntosh runs from June 7th through July 30th. Session I, III and IV will be held at Glenloch Recreation Center, and new this year, session II will be held at the Kedron Fieldhouse and Aquatic Center!

Session I Theme June 7-18 “Around the World in 10 Days” (Explore the World of Georgia), Session II June 21-July 2 “American Idols Got Talent” (End of Camp Talent Show), Session III July 5-16 “Wacky Wet and Wild” (if you like to get wet you will love this camp, and Session IV July 19-30 Camp MacAttackular (Funny Name, Serious Trips, Everyday!!!)

Camp McIntosh is open to children ages 5 ½ -11 including home schooled children. Hours are 9am-3:30pm. New this year, for an additional fee, Pre Camp is available as early as 7am and Post Camp is available as late as 6pm. For more information on Camp McIntosh please call the Peachtree City Parks and Recreation Department at 770 631-2542 between 8am-5pm Monday through Friday, or Register Now by visiting www.ptcrecreation.org

May Early Bird Prices are only valid through May 15th or when camps are full, whichever comes first.

Town of Tyrone Launches New Code Enforcement System to Collect and Manage Citizen Complaints

2010-05-03T13:56:00.000-04:00

The Town of Tyrone launched a new web-based software program today that will automate, track, and store code enforcement complaints and other service requests from the public.

Citizens can go to www.tyrone.org/codeenforcement or click on "Submit a Request for Service" under the "I want to..." menu at the top of the website to submit a complaint or inquiry. The citizen will receive automated responses via email each time their complaint is updated through such time as the issue is resolved, keeping them in the loop of what is going on and allowing them to see the code enforcement process in real time.

Once a complaint is submitted, it goes to staff at Town Hall who then direct it to the appropriate department for action. Assigned employees then update the complaint in the system, which creates automated responses to the complainant and logs the work in a database for archiving.

Citizens without an email address, or those who do not wish to provide one, may contact Town Hall at 770-487-4038 to file their complaint. These complaints will be entered into the system by staff for internal tracking.

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Illegal Tire Dumping Leads to Felony Arrest

2010-04-30T13:17:00.000-04:00

Investigators with the Tyrone Police Department made an arrest Wednesday in connection to an unlawful dumping case involving scrap tires. Charles Ejemba of John’s Creek was arrested at his home on a warrant and is currently being held in the Fayette County Jail awaiting bond. The Tyrone Police Department received a complaint on April 19, 2010 that a large quantity of used tires had been dumped on private property in the Town limits and began an investigation. Evidence located in the pile of tires led police to Manheim Auto Auction in Red Oak and then to the suspect, who operates a scrap tire removal service. The Georgia EPD is also looking into charges that the suspect falsified State manifests and used another carrier’s ID number on the paperwork. Ejemba has been charged with one felony count of Unlawful Dumping for Commercial Purposes. Aside from being unsightly and expensive to dispose of, scrap tires pose a public health risk because water pools inside of them making them perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Fayetteville Police Host 2010 Junior Police Academy

2010-04-27T08:06:00.000-04:00

This year the Fayetteville Police Department is hosting their seventh annual Junior Police Academy. This is an academy for children who have completed the sixth grade and/or going into the seventh, eight, or ninth grades and live in Fayette County. The dates for the academy are July 26-29, 2010. The academy day begins at 8AM and is over by 4PM. The week consists of the recruits learning many different facets of police work to include but not limited to Defensive Tactics, Traffic Laws, DUI laws, K-9, Crime Scene Processing, Handcuffing…just to name a few.

If you are interested, please come by the Fayetteville Police Department and pick up an application. The applications are due in no later than June 1, 2010 by 5PM.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Lieutenant Debbie Chambers at 770-461-4441.

Fayette Chamber's 11th Annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast May 14

2010-04-26T09:58:00.000-04:00

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce will recognize the 2010 Outstanding Business Partners of the Year at their annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast on Friday, May 14, 2010, 7:30 am at New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville.

This year’s program will include; guest speaker Kathy Cox, Georgia’s State Superintendent of Schools. Under Superintendent Cox’s leadership, Georgia has seen unprecedented gains in student achievement. A special recognition will be given in honor of retiring Fayette County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John DeCotis, plus the annual awards presentation for the 2010 Outstanding Partners of the year. New this year will be an award given to a Fayette County School recognized for its strong relationships with its business partners.

The community is cordially invited to attend the breakfast. The cost is $10.00 per person. Pre-registration required by Wednesday, May 11th. You may register online through the Chamber’s event calendar at www.FayetteChamber.org or contact the Chamber at (770) 461-9983 for payment options.

Sponsors for this year’s breakfast are Delta Community Credit Union, Piedmont Fayette Hospital, and The Southern Federal Credit Union. Additional support is provided by Huntington Learning Center, Progressive Tutoring of America, Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services, and Primrose School of Peachtree City.

The Partners in Education program is a joint effort of the Chamber and the Fayette County Board of Education that provides an avenue for businesses to form partnerships with public schools and educational programs in Fayette County. Business “Partners” work with the school system to prepare the workforce of tomorrow by providing enhanced educational opportunities for students. To learn more about getting involved with the Partners in Education program, contact Joyce Gaglione at the Fayette Chamber (770) 461.9983 or go to www.FayetteChamber.org/PartnersinEducation.
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The Woodruff Arts Center Honors Bennett’s Mill Middle School Band Director, Ricky Williams

2010-04-25T19:27:00.000-04:00

The Woodruff Arts Center is pleased to announce Ricky Williams as an honoree for the third annual Woodruff Salutes Georgia Arts in Education Leaders program. Mr. Williams’ commitment to musical education has earned him this recognition.

Mr. Williams has been the Band Director for Bennett’s Mill Middle School since the school opened in 2007 and has served as a band director for the past 20 years. He demands hard work, discipline, and teamwork, and holds students to a high standard. He strongly encourages all students to take private lessons and has established a Private Lesson Academy at the school to make lessons more accessible to students. Mr. Williams is dedicated to student growth, volunteering his time before and after school to work with any students who need extra coaching. Mr. Williams finds opportunities for his band to perform in the community and competitively, having won many awards and honors in a very short time. Carolyn Callison, a parent of one of Mr. Williams’ students said of his efforts, “As a parent, I am very happy that my children have had the opportunity to be a part of such a first-rate band program. Mr. Williams is dedicated to providing top quality music education and has inspired a love of music in many students that they will enjoy for a lifetime.”

As one of five honorees, Mr. Williams will receive $2,500 to contribute to the arts program of his choice. He will also be recognized with a reception at Bennett’s Mill Middle School on April 15 and at a culminating reception for all honorees to be held at the Woodruff Arts Center on May 22, 2010.

You’re Invited! Join us as we celebrate Woodruff Salutes Georgia Arts In Education honoree Ricky Williams.

WHEN: April 15, 2010, 4:00 pm
WHERE: Bennett’s Mill Middle School, Media Center
SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: Joseph R. Bankoff, President and CEO, The Woodruff Arts Center
ITINERARY: Guests will arrive, mingle and enjoy catered refreshments. Joe Bankoff will then say a few words about Mr. Williams and the importance of art in education in Georgia schools. Mr. Bankoff will then present Mr. Williams with a check for $2,500 to be donated to the Bennett’s Mill Middle School Band Boosters. Woodruff Salutes is a program designed to honor teachers, school and arts administrators, community leaders, and volunteers throughout Georgia who have championed and demonstrated the ability of the arts to impact positively the lives and learning of young people in grades PreK– 12. Honorees were selected by the Woodruff Arts Center Education Task Force.

The Woodruff Arts Center recognizes the power and potential of opening young minds through the arts. Woodruff’s divisions – Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, High Museum of Art and Young Audiences – share a mission to provide arts learning experiences of the highest quality. This campus-wide commitment makes arts education uniquely based on performances, exhibitions and school curriculums accessible via one arts center. Through the Woodruff, the arts bring learning to life for more than a million students across Georgia and neighboring states each year.

For more information about Woodruff Salutes, please visit http://www.woodruffcenter.org/Center-Initiatives/Woodruff-Salutes.aspx.
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Read our other Arts related blogs:
http://backstagegeorgia.blogspot.com/
http://artsacrossga.blogspot.com/
http://musicmattersga.blogspot.com/
http://hummingbirdhollowstudio.blogspot.com/
http://georgiaswriter.blogspot.com/
http://artzapalooza.blogspot.com/
http://gaclicks.blogspot.com/
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Fayette County Google Fiber Survey Results Released

2010-03-23T16:09:00.000-04:00

Fayette County Residents, Businesses Receptive to Google Trial Concept

The Fayette County Internet Usage Survey, created by the City of Peachtree City and distributed to County residents and business owners through a variety of sources, closed on March 23. The results of the survey give information regarding the County's Internet profile to the County and municipalities finishing the RFI response to Google for the Google Fiber for Communities project.

Over 1,000 Fayette County citizens and business owners responded to the survey. Some of the statistics include:

· Over 63% of residents who responded live in Peachtree City, followed by Fayetteville with 17% of the respondents, the unincorporated County having nearly 12%, Tyrone with almost 6%, and Brooks and Woolsey residents rounding out the totals.

· The majority of residents who responded pay between $31 and $50 per month for Internet services in their home.

· The majority of respondents reported their speeds are in the "broadband" range (73% report download speed over 3 Mbps, and 68% report their upload speeds are over 1Mbps).

· In terms of reliability, nearly half of residents responded their service was "fairly reliable" and 15% reported their service "never goes down." Nearly half of all residents report their customer service experiences with Internet providers as "average," 20% report "above average," and 6% report "excellent" customer service.

· On the business side, 53% of business owners who responded to the survey have a business in Peachtree City, followed by Fayetteville with 18%, the unincorporated County with 14.5% and Tyrone with 12%.

· Ninety-four percent of those business owners who responded use the Internet as a part of their business, either as an amenity or to conduct business.

· More than 72% of business respondents reported their monthly costs for Internet were above $41 per month.

· Sixty-eight percent of business respondents report their speed in the "broadband" range for downloads, while 70% have upload speeds at 1 Mbps or higher.

· Reliability and customer service scores for business Internet were similar to the resident responses, with 63% of business owners reporting "fairly stable" or above reliability and nearly 70 percent reporting customer service of average or above.

When asked to provide comments and feedback about the potential of a Google trial in Fayette County, an overwhelmingly positive response was received, with 73% of the comments in support of the Google trial. Comments from the community included the benefits to business, education and overall competition in the market.

The summary results are available at http://www.peachtree-city.org/google , as well as a link to allow citizens, businesses and community groups to get their last-minute nominations in to Google for Fayette County as a home of the trial network. Fayette County and its municipalities are finishing their response document now, but still would like the citizens to make their voices heard to Google. The nomination deadline is Friday, March 26.
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9th Annual Spring Yard Sale --- HUGE!

2010-03-12T16:59:00.000-05:00

Calling all bargain hunters! Visit over 50 yard sales at one location during the 9th Annual Spring Yard Sale on April 3, 2010. This community yard sale will be held at Kiwanis Park (980 Redwine Road, Fayetteville). With over 14,000 square feet of bargains, this special event will be open to the public from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The Fayette County Parks and Recreation Department holds community yard sales biannually (Spring and Fall). Vendors are local residents from Fayette and surrounding counties. It is worth the drive! Past sales have attracted hundreds of bargain-hunters from Marietta to Macon, Columbus to Norcross, and everywhere in between. FREE admission and parking for all bargain hunters! All vendor booths have been sold. The 10th Annual Harvest Yard Sale is expected to be held in October with vendor registration starting in August.

9th Annual Spring Yard Sale

April 3, 2010
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Kiwanis Park
980 Redwine Road, Fayetteville
(next to baseball fields)

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Expected items for sale include:

§ Clothing (infant – adult), baby & early childhood items, dolls, and toys!
§ Antiques, home décor, books, videos, music, kitchen & bath accessories!
§ Furniture, household items, handmade arts & crafts and baby blankets!
§ Lawn mowers, yard equipment, auto supplies, tools and hardware!
§ Sports & exercise equipment and Relay For Life items!
§ Music, videos games, electronics and tools!
§ Holiday gifts, decorations, and handmade greeting cards!
§ Floral arrangements, new and custom-made jewelry, and Avon products!
§ Fayette County Special Olympics fundraiser with limited food, baked goods, drinks, and much more!

Directions: From intersection of Hwy. 85 and Hwy. 54 in downtown Fayetteville, take Hwy. 85 south. After City Café & Deli, take a slight right onto Beauregard Blvd. Continue about 1.8 miles straight through several stop signs during which the road will change name to Redwine Road. Turn left after the baseball fields when you will see the “Fayette County Activities House” sign on left. Arrive at 980 Redwine Road, Fayetteville (Kiwanis Park).

Call 770-716-4320 or visit www.fayettecountyga.gov for more information.

The Spring Yard Sale on April 3 will feature a fundraising booth for the Fayette County Special Olympics. The goal of the Fayette County Special Olympics is to help bring persons with intellectual disabilities into the larger society under conditions whereby they are accepted, respected, and given the chance to become useful and productive citizens. When we achieve this goal through our sports program, we demonstrate that Special Olympics has a unique value: to show the world that every person counts and that every person can be something good when we work together.

Fayette County Special Olympics invests in people with intellectual disabilities, helping them to develop athletic skills, while also promoting the abilities of the athletes off the field. When our athletes succeed, attitudes change, the community develops, health and self-esteem are built, and the eyes of the world are focused on all that is good and hopeful and positive. Athletes gain skills for employment, learn independent living skills, form relationships and help others understand their extraordinary capabilities despite health issues they experience daily.

Twenty-three different sports are offered on the state-level of Special Olympics for athletes to experience; Fayette County actively participates in nineteen of those sports including badminton, swimming, soccer and gymnastics. The Special Olympic athletes in Fayette County range in age from 8 years old to 63 years old!
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Former Tyrone Officer arrested for Child Molestation

2010-03-12T15:19:00.000-05:00

On March 11, 2010 Matthew New was arrested by Fayetteville Police Department for Child Molestation. The arrest was a result of an investigation that began on February 2, 2010. New was a police officer in Tyrone at the beginning of the investigation and resigned from the department on February 24, 2010 because of an unrelated issue.

The allegation of molestation was filed by a member of New’s family and occurred in November 2007. During the investigation, several pieces of New’s computer were taken for examination. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation conducted a forensic examination of New’s computer which revealed evidence of the crime. In addition to that evidence, other evidence of additional crimes were also located.

Mr. New faces additional charges for Child Molestation, Sexual Battery, Enticing a Child for Indecent Purposes, and Child Pornography.

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Piedmont Fayette Hospital Minor Emergency Care Center Temporarily Closed for Renovations

2010-02-26T21:18:00.000-05:00

The Piedmont Fayette Hospital (PFH) Minor Emergency Care Center (MECC) is closed for one week for renovations and will reopen on Tuesday, March 9.

The renovations will bring diagnostic services closer to the MECC for increased efficiency in patient flow. Included in the redesign are new finishes and a rearranged MECC and Outpatient Diagnostic Center (ODC). The ODC will not be closing, but renovations will make for better patient flow and access to PFH services.

The MECC is staffed by physicians, nurses and other emergency staff professionals who are able to treat a range of emergency conditions. Some of these conditions include cuts, bruises, ear aches, cold and flu symptoms, broken bones and other injuries or illnesses that are not perceived to be life, limb or vision threatening, including chest pains.

“We are pleased to be making these renovations to more comfortably serve our patients,” said Darrell Cutts, president and CEO of Piedmont Fayette Hospital. “We are doing everything we can to make this a seamless transition, and when renovations are complete; we will have a new and improved Minor Emergency Care Center for community members.”

The MECC is located less than two miles away from Piedmont Fayette Hospital at 105 Yorktown Drive, Fayetteville, Ga. Please call 770-716-2082 or visit fayettehospital.org for more information.
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Fayette County Deputies are looking for a potential predator/suspect in attempted kidnapping in North Fayette.

2010-02-24T08:49:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday February 17, 2010 a black male allegedly attempted to kidnap a young girl in the Landmark Mobile Home Park on Milam Road just north of Tyrone.

According to news reports, the man approached the girl as she was playing outside and asked her to help him find his dog. The girl said "no" and began to run away, but the suspect grabbed her by the shirt. An unknown passerby in a white van with red lettering yelled at the suspect who then ran from the scene.

We have received information that a black male matching the description in the composite drawing was observed driving a white mid-90's model Lincoln Town car some time prior to this incident.

If you observe anyone matching this description, please call 911 or contact Det. Josh Shelton at the Fayette County Sheriff's Office at 770-716-4777

Road Update

2010-02-12T20:16:00.002-05:00

Georgia DOT crews are currently working to clear the roadways, bridges and overpasses throughout the West Central Georgia area as snow and ice is rapidly accumulating on the roadways.

The following roads have been reported closed:

Lamar County – SR 36 between Barnesville and I-75

Stewart County – SR 1, 1 lane westbound closed

Talbot County – SR 190, closed due to fallen tree

Harris County – SR 354 is closed between SR 1 and SR 190 (near Pine Mountain)

Georgia DOT crews are currently working to clear the roadways, bridges and overpasses on the following routes where snow and or icing have occurred:

Taylor County – SR 3 and 96 – plowing and salting icy spots

Stewart County – SR 39 –salting bridges

Sumter County – SR 27 – scraping road

Webster County – SR 41 – scraping road

Marion County – all roads starting to ice

Peach County – salting all State Routes

Dooly County – SR 90 – salting bridges

Houston County – salting bridge and ramps at Exit 127, 128, 134

Pulaski County – SR 11 - salting road

Bibb County – I-75, I-475 and I-16 – salting road, bridges and ramps

Monroe County - I-75 – salting road, bridges and ramps; SR 19 – plowing and salting icy spots

Twiggs County – I-16 – plowing and salting bridges

Butts County – salting all bridges on State Routes

Fayette County - salting all bridges on State Routes

Henry County - salting all bridges on State Routes and the intersection of SR 138 and SR 42, and the intersection of SR 138 and SR 155

Spalding County - salting all bridges on State Routes and SR 92 between Jim Goodsen and Vaughn Road

All other counties are experiencing snow and ice accumulation on the roadways. Georgia DOT Crews continue to salt, plow and scrape all interstates and primary state routes.

Snow Accumulating in Fayette

2010-02-12T16:29:00.002-05:00

Snow beginning to accumulate on Peachtree City streets

At about 4:00 p.m., the Peachtree City Police Department advised that snow was beginning to accumulate on Peachtree City streets, making the roads slick. Those who must go out are urged to drive slowly and with extreme caution. The Peachtree City Public Works department continues to put sand at major intersections.

Clover Green closing Monday

The City of Peachtree City will be closing Clover Green, which runs between Paschall Road off Highway 74 South and Clover Reach, on Monday, February 15, to repair the sewer line serving Fire Station 81. The fire station will be accessible from Paschall Road, and the businesses on Clover Green will be accessible from Clover Reach. Staff expects the roadway to be closed for approximately three days during the repairs.

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Twitter: @hhpotterystudio

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9th Annual Spring Yard Sale (posted as the snow falls...)

2010-02-12T14:10:00.000-05:00

Calling all bargain hunters! Visit over 50 yard sales at on location during the 9th Annual Spring Yard Sale on April 3, 2010. This community yard sale will be held at the Kiwanis Park (980 Redwine Road, Fayetteville). With over 14,500 square feet of bargains, this special event will be open to the public from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The Fayette County Parks and Recreation Department holds community yard sales biannually (Spring and Fall). Vendors are local residents from Fayette and surrounding counties. It is worth the drive! Past sales have attracted hundreds of bargain-hunters from Marietta to Macon, Columbus to Norcross, and everywhere in between. FREE admission and parking for all bargain hunters! All vendor booths sold out in the first five days of registration. The 9th Annual Spring Yard Sale is expected to be held in April 2010 with vendor registration starting in January.

9th Annual Spring Yard Sale
April 3, 2010
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Kiwanis Park
980 Redwine Road, Fayetteville
(next to baseball fields)

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Expected items for sale include:

§ Clothing (infant – adult), baby & early childhood items, dolls, and toys!
§ Antiques, home décor, books, videos, music, kitchen & bath accessories!
§ Furniture, household items, handmade arts & crafts!
§ Lawn mowers, yard equipment, auto supplies, tools and hardware!
§ Sports equipment, music, videos games, electronics & tools!
§ Holiday gifts, decorations, and handmade greeting cards!
§ Floral arrangements, new and custom-made jewelry, and Avon products!
§ Limited food, baked goods, drinks, and much more!

Directions: From intersection of Hwy. 85 and Hwy. 54 in downtown Fayetteville, take Hwy. 85 south. After City Café & Deli, take a slight right onto Beauregard Blvd. Continue about 1.8 miles straight through several stop signs during which the road will change name to Redwine Road. Turn left after the baseball fields. You will see the “Fayette County Activities House” sign on left. Arrive at 980 Redwine Road, Fayetteville (Kiwanis Park).

Call 770-716-4320 or visit www.fayettecountyga.gov for more information.
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Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
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Seniors Rally to Oppose Budget Cuts

2010-02-10T15:38:00.001-05:00

Members of the Fayette Senior Advocacy Council and elder services advocates from all over Georgia rallied at the state capitol on January 28, 2010 to state their opposition to proposed budget cuts to services that help older adults remain healthy and living independently. The Governor’s budgets (amended 2010 and proposed 2011) were formally submitted to the state legislature on Friday, January 15. As expected, both budgets reflect fund reductions in areas critical to the health and welfare of seniors and their families in the community.

Under the auspices of Fayette Senior Services, Inc. the Fayette Senior Advocacy Council serves to further advocate for the common good and general welfare of Fayette County’s older adults. Fayette Senior Services (FSS), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, provides social services that promote the emotional, social, and physical well-being of older adults to improve their quality of life and help them to maintain their independence. Fayette Senior Services (FSS) is the designated aging service provider for Fayette County as contracted by the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Area Agency on Aging. FSS coordinates and manages the delivery of social services on behalf of Fayette County government. These services include Meals On Wheels, Adult Day Referral Service, Information & Assistance, Transportation, Congregate Meal Program, In-Home Personal Care/Homemaker Services, Case Management, and Home Repair. FSS also provides a wide variety of social, educational, recreational, and fitness programs for active older adults at its Life Enrichment Center in Fayetteville.

Fayette Senior Services has already felt the direct impact of state’s budget cuts in 2009 when funding for kinship care (grandparents raising grandchildren) and respite care services were eliminated. Fayette Senior Services Executive Director, Debbie Britt says the worst is not over. “The state budget reductions, coupled with decreased funding from our local government, have caused some seniors to be placed on waiting lists to receive one or more of the social services we provide.” She adds “It’s very likely that the state will cut our funding even further this year and we’re very concerned about the financial challenges that our local governments our facing and how that will impact the services we provide to Fayette County’s seniors.” Britt adds, “When you consider that Fayette County has the third fastest growing senior population in metro Atlanta, it’s no surprise that the demand for social services continues to grow each month. We’re looking to create innovative solutions with our local government to better address the diverse needs of our aging population.”

The Fayette Advocacy Council were among hundreds of other senior advocates from across the state who were at the Capitol to deliver a simple message to Senators and Representatives – “Don’t cut funding to programs that help seniors get their basic needs met or to those that provide respite to family caregivers.” The Fayette Advocacy Council will continue their efforts to raise awareness for the needs of older adults by meeting with state Senators and Representatives during Senior Week at the Capitol, February 24, 25, and 26. For information about Senior Week or the Fayette Advocacy Council contact Susan Landais, FSS Program Manager at slandais@fayss.org.

Concerned citizens are also encouraged to contact the Fayette County Board of Commissioners to address budget considerations and support for senior services. Currently the county funds less than 10 percent of the overall cost to provide senior social services. Citizens are also welcomed to contact Debbie Britt, Executive Director at dbritt@fayss.org for more information and facts about Fayette Senior Services (www.FayetteSeniors.org - 770-461-0813).
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Fayetteville Main Street Program Recognized for 10 Years of Activity

2010-02-10T11:43:00.001-05:00

Fayetteville Main Street Director, Brian Wismer, and Main Street Chairman, Lane Brown, received recognition from Commissioner Mike Beatty of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for being an active Georgia Main Street city for over 10 years.

The Main Street program is a nationwide effort created by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1980.

It was designed to help revitalize historic downtown districts across America.

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SBA Holding Workshop on Micro-Loans At the District Office in Peachtree Center

2010-02-06T14:23:00.001-05:00

A free workshop on how to obtain an SBA-back Micro-Loan will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on March 4th at the agency’s Georgia District Office in Peachtree Center. The SBA District Office is located downtown at 233 Peachtree Street, Suite 1900-Harris Tower, Atlanta, GA 30303.
The two-hour workshop will provide information about who are the local micro-lenders and what are their eligibility requirements for obtaining a small business loan ranging from $500 to $50,000. Other general information will be provided on all types of SBA guaranteed loans and proposals to increase their dollar amount and expanded use.

Presenters will include staff from the Women’s Economic Development Agency (WEDA); the DeKalb Enterprise Business Corporation; Georgia State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC); the Atlanta Micro-Loan Fund; and the SBA Georgia District Office.

Pre-registration is required for the workshop. To register online, go to www.sba.gov/ga and cursor down to Spotlight-Public Training and Seminars-Register Now! Select seminar date from the drop down list. Complete relevant information and click “Register.” A registration form can be faxed to 404/331-0101, Attention: Dorothy Fletcher.

SBA’s participation in this workshop is not an endorsement of the views, opinions, products or services of any person or entity. All SBA programs, services and cosponsored activities are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Please contact Dorothy Fletcher at 404-331-0100, ext. 305 or via email at Dorothy.Fletcher@sba.gov.

CRCT Scores Best in State

2009-07-13T16:31:00.001-04:00

The 2009 CRCT results show Fayette’s students leading the state in subjects tested at all grade levels.

In comparison to the critical grade levels where students must pass reading in third grade and both reading and math in fifth and eighth grades to get promoted, only a handful of smaller school systems posted higher scores in some subjects. These systems had fewer than 1,000 students taking the tests compared to Fayette’s more than 1,400-1,700 students, depending on the grade level.

The CRCT is a curriculum-based test given to students in grades 1-8 in the subjects of reading, English language arts and mathematics. In grades 3-8, science and social students are added. This year all of the CRCTs were aligned with Georgia’s new curriculum, resulting in more rigorous tests.

Overall, test scores remain high across all subjects and grade levels, soaring will above state averages. The largest gain in scores was seen in science in grades 3, 5 and 8 with increases between 4-6 percentage points.
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Fayette Citizens for Open Government Hosts FREE Cookout Recall Rally

2009-07-13T08:34:00.002-04:00

Tuesday, July 14; Whitewater Creek Amenities Center; 7 p.m. FayCOG is hosting a Cookout Rally at the Whitewater Creek Amenities Center starting at 7:00 PM to kick off the effort to recall County Commissioner Robert Horgan. ALL registered voters and interested Fayette County citizens are invited to attend. Please RSVP to hbostmail@aol.com to ensure there's plenty of food!

Plus just a few of the items you'll find on the Fayette Front Page:

Twilight Theatre Presents Oliver at the Fred
6/16/09 Oliver is a British musical, with music and lyrics by Lionel Bart. The musical is loosely based upon the novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens. Directed... More

Fayette Chamber Invites Business and Community Leaders to Apply for Leadership Fayette
7/12/09 The Fayette Chamber is now accepting applications for the next Leadership Fayette with classes beginning... More

PTC Police Host Free Community Emergency Response Team Class
7/7/09 The Peachtree City Police Department will be hosting a basic Community Emergency Response Team class beginning September 3rd, 2009. The classes... More

Tyrone: June 2009/2nd Quarter Crime Stats Posted
7/11/09 We've just added our statistics summaries for June 2009 and 2nd Quarter 2009 on our website for your review. We experienced a slight... More

Local Art Society Launches Website
7/9/09 Fayette Society of Fine Art (FSOFA) celebrated its fifteenth birthday with the launching of its website... More

Shelby Barker's Contract with Peachtree City
7/8/09 The last couple of months have been an awesome start to our campaign. I have met many people around the community that have expressed concerns... More

South Metro Young Republicans Host July Social
7/8/09 The South Metro Young Republicans is hosting its July social night Wednesday, July 15 at 7:00 pm at the Irish Bred Pub in Peachtree City (273 Highway 74 N). Summer is hot... More

Obesity Among U.S. Adults Continues to Rise
7/8/09 The proportion of U.S. adults who are obese increased to 26.1 percent in 2008 compared to 25.6 percent in 2007. The data come from CDC's... More

Fayette County to Host the Georgia Games' 2009 Lacrosse Championships
7/11/09 The Georgia State Games will be bringing their annual State Games Championship to Peachtree City this summer for the Youth Lacrosse Tournament... More

Fayette Chamber Invites Business and Community Leaders to Apply for Leadership Fayette
7/12/09 The Fayette Chamber is now accepting applications for the next Leadership Fayette with classes beginning... More

Rep. Ramsey to Speak to Young Professionals of Fayette County July 29
7/11/09 Professionals ages 21-39 are invited to join join Young Professionals of Fayette County for their next Business to Business Breakfast to be held... More

Governor Announces New Design for Georgia Licenses, IDs
7/9/09 Governor Sonny Perdue today announced that Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is preparing to issue new and improved driver’s... More

Newt Gingrich: How Team Obama Hijacked "Change" And How We Can Take It Back
7/8/09 It all started in the summer of 2007 when part of one of my speeches was posted on YouTube. It was a short, three-minute clip in which I explained the ... More

Free Concert with Erica Nicole Downtown Senoia
7/11/09 Erica Nicole LIVE Debut CD Release Concert Thursday, July 16, 7:00 pm. Historic Downtown Senoia. FREE Concert. Opening Act: Southern Pride Band. Bring chairs or blankets and enjoy this free outdoor concert. Erica Nicole’s First Album is out and will be sold at the show. For concert information: Gail Downs 770.599-9155. www.ericanicolemusic.com

Much more at www.FayetteFrontPage.com!

Fayette Commission to Consider Special Local Option Sales Tax Monday July 13

2009-07-11T17:26:00.001-04:00

July 13, 2009; Public Meeting Room, Fayette County Administrative Complex
7:00 p.m.; The purpose of the meeting is to discuss possible projects for inclusion in a special local option sales tax referendum being considered for November 3, 2009. The meeting may also be used to discuss the apportionment of sales tax proceeds.

5/3/09 Fayette Headlines and News

2009-05-03T14:08:00.003-04:00

Special Swine Flu Section <--- Click to visit

Tyrone to Dedicate Veterans Memorial Park
The Tyrone Veterans Memorial Park Committee would like to invite the public to the dedication of Veterans Memorial Park to be held on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 1:00 p.m. The Park is located on Senoia Road in downtown Tyrone across from the Post Office.

Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy food, fun and patriotic music. National, state and local elected officials will be in attendance. The Ft. MacPherson Army Reserve Command Honor Guard will present and the American Flag, flags for each branch of service, and the POW/MIA flag will be raised. The keynote speaker will be Colonel (Ret) Don Dickinson.

Memorial Bricks may be purchased at the dedication or by going online to http://www.tyrone.org/ and downloading the form. For additional information please contact Patsy Couch, 770-487-4394.

Peachtree City Mayor Harold Logsdon Announces Candidacy for State Insurance Commissioner

Stellar Job by Witness and Peachtree City Police Nab Robbers
On May 1, 2009 at approximately 2:15 pm, an armed robbery occurred at the United Community Bank located at 307 North Hwy 74, Peachtree City. One witness followed the vehicle that two subjects fled the scene in and called the Fayette County E911 Communications Center. The witness relayed the location of the two subjects and the vehicle to the dispatch center as it attempted to leave Peachtree City. Officers were able to locate the vehicle and the offenders on Hwy 54 near Huddleston Drive. Officers stopped the vehicle and have two subjects in custody. An undisclosed amount of money and a weapon were observed in the vehicle after the traffic stop. Charges are pending and further information will be released as the investigation progresses.

"Amigos Don't Let Amigos Drive Drunk": Pick A Designated Driver Before Cinco de Mayo
5/1/09 Cinco de Mayo has become a big night-out on the Georgia social scene, especially for young adults. Fiesta plans north of the Border have become another ‘six-pack-tradition’ here on the all-American party calendar, just like on St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween... More

R.O.M.E.O. Breakfast Club Retired Old Men Eating Out
5/1/09 Monday, May 4, 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.; $4.50 per person includes a full, hot breakfast; Okay guys, this group is for you AND you don't HAVE to be retired to come have breakfast with the guys! Join us the first Monday of every month for a "real man's breakfast" prepared by Chef Todd Rossi. Every month will... More

Local Teen's Vision Brings Inspirational Film and Star to Fayette May 8th
4/27/09 Darius Goes West, an award-winning documentary, tells the story of Darius Weems, a young man from Athens, Georgia who had a dream of being... More

Best Book Sale in Town May 9th
4/27/09 Plan now to attend the Friend's of the Fayette County Public Library's Spring/Summer Book Sale on Saturday, May 9th, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Fayette Library. Over 9000 gently read books in 23... More

Isakson Criticizes Elimination of Expanded Tax Credit for Homebuyers
4/30/09 U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., yesterday 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... More

Local Student Among Select Group Named Coca-Cola Scholar
4/30/09 A Fayette County High School student, class of 2009, is one of only 250 in the United States named a Coca-Cola Regional Scholar. Cecelia Ogechi Oparah has been awarded a $10,000 four-year scholarship ($2,500 per... More

North Georgia College & State University Drill Field Dedicated in Honor of Fayetteville General
4/28/09 On April 18, 2009, North Georgia College and State University dedicated the historic drill field in honor of General (Retired) William J. ‘Lipp’ Livsey of Fayetteville. The drill field has served as the site of countless Corps of Cadets... More

The Chickenpox Shingles Connection May 12th
5/1/09 Anyone who has ever watched someone suffer through bouts of extremely painful Shingles, would probably tell you that they would be interested in knowing how they could avoid going through the same painful condition. Shingles, also known as varicella zoster virus (VZV), is a leftover of the... More

958 Pounds of Marijuana Seized in Traffic Stop
5/2/09 The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Narcotics Team concluded an investigation on Thursday, April 30, 2009 that resulted in a traffic stop on Hwy 74 in Tyrone. TNT Agents seized 958 pounds of Marijuana and arrested three... More

Spivey Hall Schedule for Next Weekend
5/1/09 (Blog) Clayton State University’s Spivey Hall will feature Friday and Saturday night performances by European artists, followed by a Sunday afternoon program by the Georgian Chamber Players, on the weekend of May 8 to May 10... More

Rep. Matt Ramsey: Final Legislative Wrap Up
4/27/09 The General Assembly adjourned for the year on April 3. I have previously written an update on several initiatives that were passed during the last week of the session. However, I wanted to follow up with information on some additional measures that were passed by the General Assembly and are on the Governor’s desk... More

The Sky’s the Limit… Clayton State – Fayette to Offer Astronomy Courses
5/1/09 Beginning in the fall semester of 2009, Clayton State University will offer a sequence of Astronomy courses at its instructional site in Peachtree City. “These courses will satisfy a core curriculum requirement we have been unable to offer at Peachtree City due to a... More

The Fred Features Local Talent at Open Mic Night
5/2/09 Looking for an inexpensive night of great entertainment and fun? The Fred will showcase local bands, musicians and even comedy on Saturday, May 9th beginning at 7 pm. Doors will open at 6:30 and the “ticket” for the night is a Fred wrist band that may be purchased for $5.00 in advance or $10.00... More

FC Parks & Rec Summer Program Registration May 4th
5/1/09 The Fayette County Parks and Recreation Department will begin registration for the Summer 2009 brochure on Monday, May 4, 2009. Registration will be taken at the Activities House, 980 Redwine Road, Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m... More

Due to Popular Demand Bodies...the Exhibition and Dialog in the Dark Extend Atlanta Run
4/30/09 Due to the tremendous response and sell-out crowds at the Premier Exhibition Center in Atlantic Station organizers have extended the Atlanta run of BODIES . . . The Exhibition and Dialog in the Dark until January 3, 2010. Initially slated to close in... More

Young Scientists Discover Fernbank Museum’s Summer Camp
4/30/09 Fernbank Museum of Natural History offers a world of adventure and discovery to young explorers during Summer Camp 2009. One week-sessions of day camps are offered throughout June and July. Campers will transform into ecologists, paleontologists, geologists, marine biologists, entomologists and more. Highly trained staff and a low counselor-to-camper ratio ensure each child a unique and fun-filled week of learning, exploration, activities, crafts and games. Three... More

Puppets Take Atlanta & Beyond (July 6 - 31)
4/28/09 This July, Atlantans won’t have to travel across an ocean to experience the work of some of the world’s premier puppet artists! The Center for Puppetry Arts and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau are pleased to join together with over ten other leading... More

A few Fayette Front Page weekend stories:

2009-04-12T21:01:00.003-04:00

Shelby Barker Announces Run for Peachtree City Council Post 1
4/11/09 Shelby Barker, business consultant and executive board member of the Fayette County GOP, officially announced his candidacy Friday for the Peachtree City Council Post 1. The winner of the Post 1 race will fill the remaining two years of Don Haddix's... More

Fayette County Attorney Shows His Stuff…
4/10/09 (Blog) Thursday night after the Fayette County Commission meeting the County Attorney, Scott Bennett, came over to the press area and said he wanted to talk with the press. I didn’t catch the entire statement so I asked one of the other reporters what he’d said. The reporter indicated he wanted us to stick around so he could talk to us. We immediately “assumed” it had to do with the lawsuit filed by former County Administrator, Chris Venice... More

Fayette Sheriff's TNT Makes Drug Busts in Multiple Counties
4/12/09 The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Narcotics Team (TNT) executed four Search Warrants simultaneously in the Shiloh mobile home community that resulted in the arrest of six persons. TNT with the assistance of the Sheriff’s office Swat team, CID, K-9 Unit, Hawk one helicopter, and uniformed patrol officers executed the warrants at 7am on Friday April... More

One Accord in Concert at NFUMC
4/12/09 The public is invited to attend North Fayette United Methodist Church on Sunday, April 19, as One Accord, a 12-member vocal ensemble auditioned from the Atlanta Christian College Concert Choir performs at the 8:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services, and then again that day at 3:00 p.m. when the group performs in a special concert... More

Senoia Celebrates Earth Day with "The Art of Green"
4/12/09 Green isn't just the color of Spring in Coweta County; it's also the theme of a new arts event sponsored by the Cultural Arts Committee of Senoia's Downtown Development Authority. On Saturday, April 25th from 10 to 6, Historic Downtown Senoia... More

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Announces More Shows at Delta Classic Chastain
4/12/09 The GRAMMY® Award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra announced four more performers for their 2009 Delta Classic Chastain summer concert series at the legendary Chastain Park... More

Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre Proudly Announces Its 2009-10 Season
4/10/09 Atlanta’s nationally acclaimed Alliance Theatre, recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award®, and Artistic Director Susan V. Booth are proud to announce the 2009–10 Season for the Alliance Stage, the decidedly underground Hertz Stage and the Alliance Children’s Theatre... More

Atlanta Tea Party Info
Where and When? Atlanta State Capitol 206 Washington St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30334-9007 , Recommended Arrival time 6-7 p.m. (Note: we'd advise getting there even earlier! A lot of people will be coming to hear Sean Hannity, express their frustrations, etc. Plus, Dick Armey is doing a book signing at 3:30 in the Capitol, might be something you'd want to check out - FFP)

What to expect at the Tea Party? The purpose is to let Congress and the President know there are many, many Americans across the country that are fed up with bailouts, large budgets, and high taxes... More

Fayette County Unemployment Insurance Claims Jump 229%

2009-04-10T10:10:00.002-04:00

According to new numbers released by the Georgia Department of Labor (DOL), Workforce Information & Analysis, unemployment insurance claims have jumped a whopping 229% since March of 2008.

While the percentage sounds high, the numbers aren't quite as scary. Claims in March of 2008 totaled 144. Claims in March 2009 totaled 475. If you are one of the individuals experiencing a loss of income, percentages and totals are meaningless. It's devastating to most to lose a job.

Unemployment insurance claim numbers include initial unemployment claims only; they do not include people who have run out of unemployment benefits without finding employment, neither do they include claims by people who had previously claimed unemployment.

Preliminary unemployment rates for February 2008 show an increase from 4.3% in 2008 to 7.9% in 2009. Unemployment numbers indicate statistics for the civilian labor force over the age of 16 living in the county. The unemployment numbers reflect those who are "actively seeking jobs".

Currently, according to the DOL, 4,152 are unemployed in Fayette. In February of last year the 2,287 were listed. The unemployment rate in January of this year was 6.9%.

Source: Interview with Department of Labor; http://www.dol.state.ga.us/pdf/pr/initialuiclaims.pdf and http://www.dol.state.ga.us/pdf/pr/laborforce.pdf

Fayette County Commission sued, passes defined benefit program and county attorney gets nasty with reporter...

2009-04-10T07:44:00.002-04:00

Interesting "doings" at the Fayette County Commission chambers Thursday. The Commission voted to hire GEBCorp to manage the new defined benefit (DB) program for county employees at the evening Commission meeting (3 yes, 1 abstention, 1 no). In late 2007 Eric Maxwell, Herb Frady, Jack Smith and Robert Horgan voted to implement a DB program (former Commissioner Peter Pfeifer opposed).

GEBCorp is the company that initially helped the Commission study committee determine the feasibility of moving from the current award-winning retirement plan to a defined benefit plan.

After the meeting the County Attorney Scott Bennett asked reporters to step into his office. When yours truly walked back the attorney got nasty. He noted I'd written some bad things about him back when the Commission hired him and so he didn't want to talk with me. He said more -- and I'll be sharing more about it later.

Christine (Chris) Venice, former County Administrator filed a sexual discrimination lawsuit against the county earlier this week. Venice was let go without cause in April 2007. Attorney Harlan Stuart Miller III, an Atlanta attorney, is representing Venice.

The suit asks for damages resulting from breach of contract, lost retirement / pension benefits, back wages and other issues.

Since the County's spokesperson in legal matters, Scott Bennett, refused to talk with me I talked to Jack Krakeel, the current County Administrator who stated he had no knowledge of the suit beyond knowing it was filed.

Krakeel referred me to County Chairman Jack Smith who initially referred me to their attorney, but spoke to me when I indicated the attorney had refused to talk with me.

Smith said he was informed of the lawsuit this evening via email, just finding out around 6:15. He had not had time to delve into the details.

- jmd

Fayette County Headlines are back

2009-04-10T07:23:00.003-04:00

We had put the Fayette Front Page newsletter and blog aside for a variety of reasons. However, we've decided to start using it again. It won't be an every-day newsletter as we attempted before. We'll simply be trying to highlight some important issues. Those who have subscribed will get a maximum of one email a day as the system consolidates all messages into the one email.

Hope you enjoy getting a bit of Fayette County news in your inbox and on your screens occasionally!

We're on Twitter and Facebook now! Check us out at http://twitter.com/gafrontpage (@gafrontpage).

Don Haddix: Why Am I Running for Mayor?

2009-01-11T19:08:00.000-05:00

The 2007 election was a rejection of the direction Council had chosen over the prior two years. An incumbent was defeated and two Council Members were elected that promised to work to return Peachtree City to the Village Concept, as demanded by the Comprehensive Plan and the will of the Peachtree City residents. A message was clearly sent to the new Council as to what the citizens wanted.

While both Council Members, elected in 2007, have kept their promises, the message has been ignored by the remaining three. The actions and goals, of the prior two years, have been continued by the other members of Council.

There is a strong division of goals and visions on Council.

The 2009 election is where the voters will decide the direction of Peachtree City for the next four years and the tone of the years that follow. Do you wish to continue to see votes supporting Big Boxes, high density and annexation for growth purposes? Or, complete the change to the path of Smart Growth, versus any growth, and more open government versus less?

While the Mayor and Council Member offices are equal in legislative powers, the office of Mayor does hold many additional powers and advantages, such as some additional executive powers, chairing Meetings, having the only Council office at City Hall, greater contact and influence outside of Peachtree City, being able to control some information flow to Council Members, even though it is not supposed to, and being the accepted voice of Peachtree City.

These issues make it critical as to who holds that office.

With that in mind, I am announcing my candidacy for the office of Mayor of Peachtree City.

Why now, so early in the year? Because of the many contacts and requests to do so I have received, to say I am running and why and to give an alternative to the status quo.

So, why should I be elected as Mayor?
I keep my promises and hold to my goals. As promised, you can find the goals and promises of the 2007 election in the donhaddix.com forum.
Peachtree City was founded on the Village Concept. This concept is being successfully moved to by an increasing number of other cities while, for the last three plus years, Peachtree City has been moving away from that vision.
The Comprehensive Plan, says all proposals must be economic, environment and traffic impact studied and be Village Concept. The Mayor is supposed to be the chief advocate for Peachtree City, not developers, on these issues.
Peachtree City needs employers, not more retail. I have worked with the Development Authority of Peachtree City in that goal as Council Liaison in 2008. It was on the shelf, when I took it on, but now it is working hard for Peachtree City. But this effort has been opposed. Mayor Logsdon has considered disbanding the DAPC, replacing their seat on the County Authority with the City Manager, cutting their funding, putting all functions through the Fayette County Development Authority and centralizing all efforts into Staff. His thinking has been wait for development to come to us, not seek it out, which normally means more retail development, which he views as very desirable. Further, redevelopment requires an active DAPC, since FCDA does not do redevelopment, business retention or seeking occupancy for empty stores.
Already serving on Council provides:
An understanding of the office of Mayor.
A knowledge of City Hall and working relationship with Staff.
Already developed working contacts and relationships with our State level representatives, Fayette County, other cities, agencies, organizations and so forth.
Already completed required minimum training plus advanced training.
No need to learn and grow from ground zero.
A known commodity with a known voting record and extremely clear positions. No surprises or guessing as to what the voters will get.

Peachtree City needs to move forward or be left behind. Moving to what is failing in the rest of the nation, and away from what was proving successful, will leave us far behind. The office of Mayor is critical in that effort.

If you agree with these goals and approve of my conduct as Councilman, please support my bid for the office of Mayor.

Thank you.

Don Haddix
Mayoral Candidate
donhaddix.com/elect

Newsletter status

2008-12-10T09:02:00.002-05:00

In case you haven't noticed... we've been rather slack on posting to the newsletter.

We've finally decided to stop doing a newsletter for a number of reasons which I'll be happy to share if anyone is interested.

We WILL be keeping this blog. So, if you keep your subscription off and on you'll get things. However, we're going to concentrate on our bread and butter, the main Fayette Front Page site. If we think something is particularly interesting or have some spare time we'll be adding things on here.

Thanks so much for signing up and hanging in there with us! I hope you'll visit the Fayette Front Page daily (consider making it your home page).

New Computer for the Kids? 10 Tips to Keep Them Safe Online

2008-12-10T07:01:00.001-05:00

If the gifts under your holiday tree this year are going to include a new computer for the kids, now is the time to think about how you're going to shield them from the unsavory side of the Internet. For all the merits of cyberspace as a source of information, entertainment and community, there are also dangers.....More

Johnson Controls Announces Call for Creative Energy Projects Entries

2008-12-09T19:45:00.001-05:00

Fayette County Students, Here's your chance to shine!

Johnson Controls (NYSE:JCI) , the global multi-industrial leader in energy efficiency and sustainability, has developed an innovative program to engage kindergarten through 12th grade students across North America in developing ways to make the environment more energy efficient....More

Sandy Creek Financial Aid Night December 15

2008-12-09T11:10:00.001-05:00

Seniors who will be graduating from Sandy Creek High and their parents can learn how to get funding for college during the school’s Financial Aid Night on December 15 at 6:30 p.m.....More

Messages From Our Great American Warriors!

2008-12-09T09:22:00.001-05:00

Fayette County Man On the List!

Being separated from our loved ones is difficult at best. Knowing our loved ones are fighting for our country and our freedoms make us proud and fearful for their safety.....More

DNR Board Approves Chris Clark as Next DNR Commissioner

2008-12-04T12:38:00.000-05:00

The Board of Natural Resources has approved the recommendation of Governor Sonny Perdue to name Chris Clark as the next Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Clark currently serves as the Executive Director of the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA). He will succeed Noel Holcomb as DNR Commissioner when Holcomb retires in April.....More

Santa Claus is coming to... The Clothes Less Traveled!

2008-12-03T13:38:00.003-05:00

Dec. 6th , 10 a.m. - Noon; 459 Hwy 74 South, Peachtree City (near Gil-roy's); Come see Santa and tell him what you'd like for Christmas! Parents, enjoy a bit of shoppping while you're there! Great Christmas section.

The Clothes Less Traveled Thrift Shop is a not-for-profit thrift store, serving the needs of south Atlanta and providing an opportunity for people to have a place to volunteer and perform community service in a positive and productive way. They resell gently used clothing and household items at a fair and reasonable price. Profits, after expenses, are disbursed to needy organizations in the community.

If you are looking for previously owned quality goods, at a great price, visit the thrift store in Peachtree City. Click here for directions

Marketing Your Business

2008-12-02T13:13:00.001-05:00

Recent survey information shows business now spends about 47% of the marketing budget online. No longer is the question........More

Delta to Manage 2009 Capacity Due to Global Economic Slowdown and Softening Traffic

2008-12-02T10:00:00.001-05:00

Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today issued the following memo to its more than 75,000 employees worldwide.....More

Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Level This Year

2008-12-02T09:11:00.001-05:00

Mortgage rates fell dramatically last week, due to the government's decision to purchase mortgage-backed securities. Rates for 30-year fixed mortgages declined.....More

Wanted: Director of Communications

2008-12-01T11:24:00.001-05:00

The Georgia Budget and Policy Institute (GBPI) seeks to hire a Director of Communications.... More

Join us: Blog, chat, and share!

2008-11-28T18:34:00.001-05:00

We've set up a new feature! Hope you'll click and check it out! Be the second to join (I was first ;-). - jmd

Vote for the Dessert You Want to See for the Holidays

2008-11-27T09:38:00.000-05:00

The aroma of freshly baked pumpkin pie fills the air today. Now that the dessert is taken care of, do you need help with the turkey?....More

Thanksgiving Thoughts: 1621 Style

2008-11-27T09:00:00.001-05:00

Edward Winslow, a passenger on the Mayflower at the age of 25 and one of the first pilgrims to step on shore, wrote about his 1621 Thanksgiving experience in "A Journal of the Pilgrims at Plymouth.".....More

Will Retailers Have a Merry Holiday Season?

2008-11-26T09:27:00.001-05:00

As the holiday shopping season approaches, retailers are traditionally shivering with anticipation...More

Georgia Aquarium Welcomes New 'Toothy" Sharks

2008-11-25T11:26:00.000-05:00

Georgia Aquarium announced today that new sand tiger sharks have been added into the Ocean Voyager gallery, built by The Home Depot.....More

RNC Chairman Mike Duncan in Fayetteville November 25

2008-11-24T13:01:00.000-05:00

Fayetteville, GA
RNC Chairman Robert M. "Mike" Duncan
Co-Chair Jo Ann Davidson
Fayette County Victory Center Visit
Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 11:30 am EST
Fayette County Victory Center
111 South Glynn Street
Fayetteville, GA 30215

Jingle Bell Trail Ready to Ring in Holidays December 6 in Peachtree City

2008-11-21T12:06:00.001-05:00

Get ready to put on your jingle bells in support of students at Peachtree City Elementary.... More

Ramblin' Jan: One Giant Flush for Mankind on World Toilet Day

2008-11-21T11:51:00.001-05:00

One Giant Flush for Mankind on World Toilet Day....More

Fayette County Tiger Pals Help Younger Counterparts

2008-11-21T10:38:00.002-05:00

Tigers and honeybees make great pals or at least that is the case for Fayette County High and Hood Avenue Primary....More

Fayette County Whitewater’s InvenTeam on Discovery.com

2008-11-19T15:14:00.001-05:00

The five Whitewater High students who won a $10,000 grant from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to make a prototype invention of a combined dehydrator/condenser have caught the attention of the Discovery Channel....More

Fayette County Excels For Exceptional Children

2008-11-19T11:56:00.001-05:00

The Fayette County School System strives to ensure that all students receive the best education possible while arming them with the skills they will need to succeed in today’s competitive environment....More

Braelinn Elementary Holiday Bazaar Saturday, December 6, 9AM-2PM

2008-11-18T17:27:00.002-05:00

Come one, come all to share in the excitement and magic of the North Pole and our Old Fashioned Christmas Village! Do lots of shopping in the Christmas village with a cup of egg nog or pumpkin latte while your child is having a grand time in the North Pole. Pictures with Santa, live holiday music, and special story time area. Free admission. Vendor booth space available. For more information, please email braelinnholidayfestival@gmail.com. Sponsored by Braelinn Elementary PTO.

Medicare Part D Information Session to be Held at Fayette Senior Services

2008-11-18T16:08:00.001-05:00

The annual enrollment period for Medicare Part D began November 15, 2008 for eligible participants. Medicare prescription drug coverage is insurance that covers both brand-name and generic prescription drugs at... More

Peachtree City Fire Dept. Changes Format for Santa Run 2008

2008-11-18T16:07:00.003-05:00

In an attempt to save on fuel, wear and tear on equipment and due to budget cuts, the Peachtree City Fire Department has changed the format for Santa Run... More

Fayette County’s Newest Nature Preserve is Open to the Public

2008-11-18T16:07:00.001-05:00

Sams Lake Bird Sanctuary opened to the public in September. The 56-acre site, a drained lake bed reverting to a natural meadow, was donated to the Trust by the Ferrol... More

Sleep Apnea May Be Risk Factor for Sudden Cardiac Death, Mayo Clinic Research Concludes

2008-11-18T16:06:00.003-05:00

After studying the sleep characteristics of nearly 11,000 adults in an overnight sleep laboratory, Mayo Clinic researchers suggest that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) - and, in particular, the low nighttime oxygen saturation of the blood it causes - may be a risk factor for sudden cardiac... More

Honor Flight Fayette Thanks... Us!

2008-11-18T16:06:00.001-05:00

As a board member of Honor Flight Fayette, I would like to express our appreciation to Fayette Front Page for your consistent support of our efforts to take our World War II veterans to Washington D.C. to... More

Get in the Christmas Spirit at the 4th Annual Fayette Festival of Carols

2008-11-18T16:05:00.001-05:00

The Southern Nights Chorale® is proud to present the 4th Annual Fayette Festival of Carols® on Sunday, December 14th at 4:00 PM. This 90-minute multi-media extravaganza will take place at Heritage Christian Church, 2130 Redwine... More

B 98.5 Radio Wants Help Saying Merry Christmas to Soldiers

2008-11-18T16:01:00.000-05:00

Steve and Vikki want to make sure none of our servicemen and women are forgotten around the holidays. http://b985.com/steveandvikki/operationhohohope.html

Public Invited to View Proposed Math Textbooks

2008-11-18T11:15:00.000-05:00

The mathematics textbook adoption committee has selected materials to recommend for use in the Fayette County School System beginning with the 2009-2010 school year...More

Chamber Announces 2008 Small Businesses of the Year

2008-11-18T11:08:00.000-05:00

The Fayette County Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of the 2008 Small Business of the Year Award at their annual awards luncheon held on November 12 at Flat Creek Country Club in Peachtree City....More

National Report Ranks Georgia 50th in Protecting Kids from Tobacco

2008-11-18T10:04:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Ten years after the November 1998 state tobacco settlement, Georgia ranks 50th in the nation in funding programs to protect kids from tobacco, according to a national report released today by a coalition of public health organizations....More

ROTC Cadets Answer Early Call

2008-11-17T10:16:00.000-05:00

While their friends were still sleeping, nine Sandy Creek High Air Force Junior ROTC cadets were getting up at 4:30 a.m. to pay tribute to some very special people...... More

Voting Now Open to Name Zoo Atlanta's Giant Panda Cub

2008-11-14T11:53:00.001-05:00

Atlantans who did their civic duty on Election Day now have a second ballot to cast. Voting to name Zoo Atlanta’s new giant panda cub officially opened..... More

Chambliss, Huckabee, Linder and Boortz Guests at Fair Tax Rally

2008-11-13T20:48:00.001-05:00

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.) will join Governor Mike Huckabee and special guests for a Fair Tax rally Sunday, November 16, at 2:30 pm, at the Gwinnett Center. 2:30-4:30 PM, Gwinnett Center- Grand Ballroom, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. U.S. Representative John Linder and the ‘Talkmaster’ Neal Boortz, authors of two books on the Fair Tax, will also attend.

Georgia Aquarium to Introduce New "Toothy" Sharks

2008-11-13T19:52:00.002-05:00

Georgia Aquarium is excited to announce the arrival of six new sand tiger sharks. The sharks are currently located at the Aquarium’s offsite quarantine facility and will be introduced into the Ocean Voyager gallery built by The Home Depot before... More

Clayton State Student Organizations Sponsoring Thanksgiving Food Drive

2008-11-13T19:52:00.001-05:00

The Clayton State University Teacher Education Club and the Honors Student Association are working together this Thanksgiving season to sponsor a canned food drive through... More

The Fayette Front Page Welcomes Another GREAT Organization to our FREE Helping Hands Directory!

2008-11-13T19:51:00.001-05:00

With our US offices located in Tyrone, Georgia, local Christians from all denominations have the opportunity to get involved in world missions in a number of different ways!
Operation Mobilization is an international Christian mission agency with over 5,400 workers in more than 110 countries and onboard two ocean-going ships. OM seeks to demonstrate and proclaim the love of God through evangelism, church planting, discipleship, and literature distribution and also by providing relief and development in many areas of the world... More

Arts Clayton Names Grant Recipients for Butts, Clayton, Coweta, Fayette, Henry, Jasper, Lamar, Newton, Rockdale and Spalding Counties

2008-11-13T19:50:00.001-05:00

Arts Clayton has announced its annual Grassroots Arts Program (GAP) grants to organizations in Butts, Clayton, Coweta, Fayette, Henry, Jasper, Lamar, Newton, Rockdale and Spalding Counties. Over the next year, the projects of thirty-one organizations will be partially funded through the GAP... More

DePoy’s “Christmas at Sweet Apple” Showing at Theatre on the Square in Marietta

2008-11-13T19:46:00.000-05:00

Playwright Phillip DePoy, director of the Clayton State Theatre and assistant professor of Theatre, invites you to join him at the latest presentation of his play, “Christmas at Sweet Apple,” at Marietta’s Theatre in the Square... Click to read: DePoy’s “Christmas at Sweet Apple” Showing at Theatre on the Square in Marietta

Oxendine Announces Arrest of Suspects in Insurance Fraud Bust

2008-11-13T17:41:00.000-05:00

Insurance Commissioner John W. Oxendine said arrest warrants have been issued on 19 suspects in an insurance fraud ring that allegedly collected $995,641.75 in misappropriated claims from a Japanese insurance company... Click to read: Oxendine Announces Arrest of Suspects in Insurance Fraud Bust

Peachtree City Meeting Notice

2008-11-12T09:14:00.001-05:00

Meeting Notice
December 1, 2008
9:30 a.m.
City Hall

The Selection Committee for the Airport Authority of Peachtree City will meet at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2008, in the small conference room at City Hall, 151 Willowbend Road, Peachtree City. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss and make a recommendation about the Airport Authority appointment to Council. The public is invited to attend.

First Presbyterian Church Invites All to New Service

2008-11-12T08:23:00.001-05:00

11/11/08 The First Presbyterian Church congregation is inviting the public to join them Sunday, November 16 at 6 pm for an evening of praise and worship. All are invited to this new service led by Jay and Abby Akins, along with Senior Pastor Dr. Miller. The sanctuary will be filled with the sounds of Modern Praise... More

First Presbyterian Church Presents The Festival of Lessons and Carols

2008-11-12T08:22:00.000-05:00

11/11/08 The Sanctuary Choir of First Presbyterian Church will present A Festival of Lessons and Carols on November 30 at 11:15 am. The Festival of Lessons and Carols is a format of Christian worship service celebrating the birth of Jesus and traditionally followed at Christmas... More

Opinion: Fayette Citizens Asked to Speak Out Thursday, Nov. 13th Regarding County's Defined Benefit Plan

2008-11-11T23:36:00.001-05:00

Recently I was speaking with a client who began to ask me some questions regarding the differences between a Defined Benefit and a Defined Contribution Plan for employees saving for retirement. After some lengthy discussion that hi-lited the significant differences and stating that DEFINED BENEFIT plans were going away due to their extraordinarily high cost to the employer, I asked why all the questions. This person informed me that they were concerned that the Fayette County Commission had approved a Defined Benefit Plan (pension) for county... More

Third Honor Flight Fayette Takes Off Wednesday

2008-11-11T21:53:00.001-05:00

The third Honor Flight Fayette mission to take World War II veterans to visit the memorial in Washington DC is this Wednesday, November 12. If you would to participate in the send off, meet at the Fayetteville Methodist Church (in downtown Fayetteville next to the old court house). The veterans assemble early at 6 a.m. and leave for the ATL airport at 6:30 a.m.. If you missed the last send-off back in October, don’t miss this time. Well worth getting up a little early to help honor these WWII veterans.

Fayette County BOE Chairwoman Terri Smith Appointed FRN Member

2008-11-11T14:36:00.000-05:00

Fayette County Board of Education Chairwoman Terri Smith was among the 1,300 school board members nationwide appointed to participate in the Federal Relations Network (FRN) this year.

FRN is a program of the National School Boards Association that involves local school board members from every congressional district in the country who are committed to grassroots advocacy for public education. State school board associations appoint members to the network, usually up to five local school board members for each congressional district in the state.

Responsibilities as a FRN member are significant. During the course of a year, participants receive vital information concerning federal education legislation and national issues. Collectively, they make their voices heard by responding to calls-to-action that involve phoning, faxing or writing federal legislators on various educational issues. They also keep their fellow board members apprised of issues by distributing background materials to get them and others involved.

Because school board members stand on the front lines of education, they are able to tell members of Congress what will or will not work in local districts. Many senators and representatives have come to rely on FRN members to advise them on the vast array of issues that affect public schoolchildren.

This year, members of the network were able to accomplish the following:

1. Continue Medicaid reimbursement to schools.

2. Restore $1.645 billion for four years in funding for the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act.

3. Successfully oppose proposals to cut education funding.

4. Successfully defeated a measure in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 that would have limited local school districts’ abilities to raise tax rates, having a negative impact on school budgets.

5. Intensify the discussion about the flaws in the No Child Left Behind Act and increase the urgency to fix the law.

6. Secure federal support to help districts recruit and retain quality teachers for high-need schools and subjects.

7. Successfully continue the fight against vouchers.

8. Generate awareness about the importance of early education.

9. Secure final passage of Head Start reauthorization.

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Fayette County WW II Veterans Say “Thanks” on Veterans Day

2008-11-11T11:54:00.001-05:00

World War II veterans Calvin Graves (left center) and Gibbs Ramsey (right center) lead the student body in the Pledge of Allegiance along with Gail Sparrow and assistant principal Ron Plauche.

Students at JC Booth Middle School in Peachtree City have worked hard to help some very special veterans. On Veterans Day, some of those who benefitted from their generosity came to the school to say thanks.

Collectively, the student body has raised over $1,400 for Honor Flight Fayette, a nonprofit organization that flies World War II veterans, at no cost, to see their memorial in Washington, DC. The organization is able to provide the free one-day trips through monetary donations that are used to cover the travel costs.

The Booth students have raised enough money to send five veterans to the memorial. Calvin Graves was one of the first veterans sponsored by the school and was part of the inaugural flight on May 14, 2008.

“I was honored to do what I did for my country and I was proud of my service but I have never been more honored than when 70 of us old guys went to see the WW II memorial. Thank you,” Graves said to the nearly 1,000 students who had packed into the gym to see and hear from the veterans they had helped.

Joining Graves was Gibbs Ramsey, the grandfather of the school’s reading teacher, Courtney Bremer. Gibbs, another veteran sponsored by the school, is going on the Honor Flight scheduled for November 12, the day after Veterans Day. He served in the US Navy during the war and said that he had only one regret.

“We had a great time. I enjoyed every minute of it. My only regret is that I didn’t stay in the Navy,” he said.

Former Fayette County teacher Gail Sparrow, who has been instrumental in heading up Honor Flight Fayette, was also in attendance to thank the students for supporting a cause that is near and dear to her heart.

“Your generosity has sponsored five veterans so that they could go and see their memorial. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you do for these veterans,” Sparrow said.

Honor Flight Fayette accepts donations from individuals and groups throughout the year. To learn more about the program, visit www.honorflightfayette.com.

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WICKED Breaks Box Office Records at The Fox Theatre in Atlanta

2008-11-10T17:16:00.000-05:00

Broadway’s biggest Blockbuster, WICKED, flew out of The Fox Theatre Sunday night, November 2, after a record-breaking engagement. Over 136,000 patrons were in attendance at a total of 32 performances. WICKED broke The Fox Theatre’s Box Office record in each of the four weeks it played... Click to read: WICKED Breaks Box Office Records at The Fox Theatre in Atlanta

Twilight Theatre Announces Workshops for Youth and Teens

2008-11-10T16:25:00.001-05:00

The Twilight Theatre and The Twilight Apprentice Company are excited to offer a Christmas workshop: Little Cosette and Father Christmas. Directed by Dana Spears with Music Director Barbara... More

Nominations Now Open for 45th Georgia Author of the Year Awards

2008-11-10T16:24:00.003-05:00

The oldest literary competition in the Southeast, the Georgia Author of the Year Awards (GAYA), announced this year's call for nominations. All Georgia-resident authors with books published in 2008 are eligible to enter the 45th Annual GAYA... More

"Fayette Pep Rally" to Air on Comcast Soon

2008-11-10T16:24:00.001-05:00

Comcast customers in Fayette will now receive a weekly high school sportscast focusing on the five Fayette athletic programs, the show's producer announced today. "Fayette Prep Rally", a highlights and features program, will debut Tuesday November 4 on Comcast... More

Remembering Troops with Treats at the Holidays

2008-11-10T16:23:00.002-05:00

When I was 12 years old, my brother was a sergeant in the U.S. Army. Yep, Sgt. Peppers. He was stationed in Germany, guarding the border between East Germany and West Germany. As Christmas neared, we worried he’d be lonely there without the usual hubbub of our house... More