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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Thursday, June 17, 2010
"Let Freedom Ring" July 4 in Fayetteville
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Fayette County Board of Education Town Hall Meeting & Candidates Forum
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
Friday, June 11, 2010
“Let Freedom Ring” on July 4 at PTC UMC
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.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Harold Bost Drops Out of Commission Race
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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Thursday, May 6, 2010
Peachtree City Camp McIntosh Early Bird Pricing available through May 15th!
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.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Town of Tyrone Launches New Code Enforcement System to Collect and Manage Citizen Complaints
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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Friday, April 30, 2010
Illegal Tire Dumping Leads to Felony Arrest
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.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Fayetteville Police Host 2010 Junior Police Academy
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.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Fayette Chamber's 11th Annual Partners in Education Recognition Breakfast May 14
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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Sunday, April 25, 2010
The Woodruff Arts Center Honors Bennett’s Mill Middle School Band Director, Ricky Williams
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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Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Fayette County Google Fiber Survey Results Released
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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Friday, March 12, 2010
9th Annual Spring Yard Sale --- HUGE!
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
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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Friday, February 26, 2010
Piedmont Fayette Hospital Minor Emergency Care Center Temporarily Closed for Renovations
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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Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Fayette County Deputies are looking for a potential predator/suspect in attempted kidnapping in North Fayette.
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
Friday, February 12, 2010
Road Update
- 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)
- 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
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.
9th Annual Spring Yard Sale (posted as the snow falls...)
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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www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
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Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Seniors Rally to Oppose Budget Cuts
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
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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Saturday, February 6, 2010
SBA Holding Workshop on Micro-Loans At the District Office in Peachtree Center
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.
Monday, July 13, 2009
CRCT Scores Best in State
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
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!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Fayette Commission to Consider Special Local Option Sales Tax Monday July 13
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.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
5/3/09 Fayette Headlines and News
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
Sunday, April 12, 2009
A few Fayette Front Page weekend stories:
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
Friday, April 10, 2009
Fayette County Unemployment Insurance Claims Jump 229%
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...
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
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).
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Don Haddix: Why Am I Running for Mayor?
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
