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Celebration for 12th Anniversary of Stardust Ball Room Dance on Friday, May 8, 2015 in the Gym of Christ’s Church in Fayetteville, at Whitewater.

April 28, 2015, 2:21 pm
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Come and help us celebrate our 12th Anniversary on Friday, May 8, 2015 in the Gym of Christ’s Church at Whitewater. A Rumba lesson will be taught by our resident instructor and dance host, Al Marshall.  The lesson will be a “mixer” format. The beginner lesson starts at 7 p.m. and the intermediate lesson at 7:30 p.m.  Come to either or both lessons!  Dance from 8-10:45 p.m.  Attire: smart casual.  Finger foods, water, and sodas are provided. All dancers and dance students are welcome! Come dance foxtrot, waltz, swing, rumba, cha cha, tango, night club two-step, and more!  Music and lighting by DJ Bill Mitchell.

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Griffin Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy to be held May 15 thu July 16.

April 28, 2015, 2:40 pm
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The 2015 session of the Griffin Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy will be held May 14, through July 16, 2015

The Griffin Police Department will be conducting its annual “Citizen’s Police Academy” Thursday nights from 6:30pm to 9:00pm, May 14 – July 16, 2015. In this free 10 week program citizens will have the opportunity to see the inner workings of the Griffin Police Department and participate in open forums where they will be encouraged to ask questions and interact with officers and staff while learning how the police department operates.

During this popular program, Citizen’s Police Academy students will be exposed to many different aspects of law enforcement such as search and seizure, criminal procedure, narcotics, criminal, and juvenile investigations, crime scene processing, use of force and force options, patrol function, traffic law and enforcement, vehicle pursuits, criminal street gangs, firearms familiarization, Special Response Team and K-9 operations, court room procedures, law enforcement ethics, and community outreach programs. Most of the class sessions will involve practical exercises designed to encourage student participation accompanied by classroom lecture.

If you are interested in attending, applications may be picked up at the Griffin Police Department located at 868 W. Poplar Street Griffin Georgia 30224, or you may download an application from the City of Griffin’s website at WWW.CityofGriffin.Com.

NOTE: All applications must be returned to the Griffin Police Department no later than Friday May 8, 2015. Class space is limited to 25 students. Prospective applicants must be at least (18) years of age. Applicants will be required to sign a Hold Harmless Agreement and will be subject to a criminal history and background check as a pre-condition to acceptance into the academy.   If you have questions you may contact Lt. Darrell Dix at the Griffin Police Department (770) 229-6450 ext. 394 or by email at DDix@CityofGriffin.Com.

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Griffin-Spalding County Board of Education Superintendent Search Process Update

April 28, 2015, 2:43 pm
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Griffin-Spalding County Board of Education Superintendent Search Process Update

GRIFFIN SPALDNG BOARD OF EDUCATION

GRIFFIN SPALDNG BOARD OF EDUCATION

The application window for the Griffin Spalding County Schools (GSCS) superintendent closed Friday. Numerous candidates from across the state and nation applied. Applications were accepted as long as they were postmarked before or on the deadline date, as directed by the GSCS Board of Education.

Twenty-one people applied for the position. “We are pleased to receive such a strong group of applications from manywell-qualified candidates. This is a very positive reflection on the Griffin-
Spalding community.

People from across the state and beyond hold the local school system in high regard, and recognize this area as a wonderful place to live, work, and play” stated Dr. Stephanie Gordy, Executive Director of Griffin RESA, the organization helping to facilitate the search.

The GSCS Board of Education will review all applications in early May in order to complete interviews and identify finalists by early June. The Board intends to hire the new Superintendent to begin on July 1, 2015.

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Atkinson Elementary School Principal Mr. Aveory Allen and a teacher, Coach Derek Wilder arrested and charged with Cruelty to Children in the 2nd Degree and Battery.

April 28, 2015, 2:50 pm
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griffin pd badge    GRIFFIN SPALDNG BOARD OF EDUCATION

PRESS RELEASE FROM GRIFFIN POLICE DEPARTMENT  

On April 1, 2015, the Griffin Police Department was notified by the Department of Family Children Services and contacted by officials from the Human Resource Department of the Griffin-Spalding County School System in reference to an incident that occurred at Atkinson Elementary School on March 26, 2015.  According to school officials, parents of two children reported that the school Principal Mr. Aveory Allen and a teacher, Coach Derek Wilder allegedly used excessive physical force with two students during an after school detention incident.  The case was assigned to the Juvenile Investigations Division of the Police Department which began an extensive investigation into the allegations.

Over the course of the next several weeks, with cooperation from the school system, lead Investigator Sergeant Karen Yancy conducted several forensic interviews with multiple student witnesses, and the alleged victims.  Additionally, there were several other interviews conducted with parents, school staff and other witnesses.  During the investigation it was determined that there were discrepancies in statements made by Mr. Allen to parents, school officials, and the police department.  Based on those inconsistencies, including one by Mr. Allen that the two juvenile victims were fighting at the time of the incident that were not true, the evidence and testimony of all those interviewed it was determined that the physical contact made by the principal and teacher exceeded what would normally be used during a disciplinary action and constituted a battery defined by Georgia annotated code.

Upon completing the investigation and consulting with the District Attorney’s office the decision was made to file charges of Cruelty to Children in the 2nd Degree and Battery.  Both Mr. Allen and Mr. Wilder were charged with one count each of the aforementioned charges.  On Monday, April 27, 2015, the warrants were signed and the attorney representing Mr. Allen and Mr. Wilder was notified at which time arrangements were made for them to turn themselves in to the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office early this morning.  Both Mr. Avery and Mr. Wilder have complied.

The Griffin Police Department would like to state that we are very familiar with the good character and reputation of both of the men involved in this incident.  In as much as it is an unfortunate event for all parties involved we make our decisions based on the facts and evidence.  Further information regarding actions taken by the school system should be addressed to the Griffin-Spalding County School System Executive Director of Communications, Judy Parker at 678-603-7716.

PRESS RELEASE FROM GRIFFIN SPALDING SCHOOL SYSTEM. 

GSCS Places Employees on Leave

 

Two Atkinson Elementary School employees are on leave for an incident where they are alleged to have had physical contact with students during an altercation in after school detention.  Principal Aveory Allen and teacher Derek Wilder agreed to administrative leave pending further action. The incident was reported to police and investigated by both Griffin Police Department and Griffin-Spalding County School System.

Complaints were filed with district officials by the parent of each student.  School administrators immediately began an investigation that included interviewing witnesses.  Statements affirmed that two male students were grabbed by the neck.

GSCS notified Griffin Police as required by law.  GSCS was notified today by Griffin Police Department that felony warrants were issued for child cruelty and a misdemeanor battery.

Assistant Principal Tiffany Campbell is guiding the school in the interim and the school district will provide additional administrative support as needed.

 

 

 

 

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City Commissiohners met Tuesday night.

April 29, 2015, 2:37 pm
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CITY COMMISSIONERS REGULAR SCHEDULED MEETING HELD TUESDAY NIGHT  AT 6PM .  THE MEETING WAS HELD TG THE OFFICES AT 100 SOUTH HILL STRET

 The first order of business at the Griffin City Commissioners Meeting 04/21/15:

The commissioners recognized: Captain Donald Britt with the Police Department, for 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Griffin. Captain Britt has worked in nearly every position with the P.D. He currently commands the Criminal Investigation unit.

After a lengthy discussion the commissioners tabled for further information, a request for a variance of the Griffin Unified Development Code to subdivide a lot creating two non-conforming lots, for property located at 728 E. Tinsley Street/228 Morris Street, submitted by Russell Johnson.

The Variance request stems from the applicant’s property having dual frontage along two (2) roadways with two (2) single family homes constructed on a single lot. The applicant wishes to subdivide the property so that the houses can be sold separately.  One house was built in 1940. Another was built in 1989 but there is no record of a plat showing the lot being divided when the new house was built.

The commissioners Approved:    a request to amend the Unified Development Code, of the City of Griffin, for Historic Character Signs. The purpose of the ordinance amendment is to include the “Killed in Action” plaques as a permitted sign.  The pintail plaque design was approved by the Historic Preservation Commission based on size and style.

Approved:  a Standard Office Lease between the City of Griffin and Portal Labs, LLC for suite #403 of One Griffin Center in the amount of $4054.80 per year. This is an annual lease with two one-year renewals effective May 1, 2015.

The Commissioners accepted:   Recognition of Still Branch Water Treatment Plant and Harry Simmons Water Treatment Plant Platinum Awards, and Shoal Creek Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant Gold Award from the Georgia Association of Water Professionals.  Director Public Works and Utilities Director Brant D. Keller presented the Recognition.

The commissioners Accepted:   Recognition by the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAPW), for “Plant of the Year Award,” in the Category of Surface Water 9MGD – 14.99MGD to the Still Branch Water Treatment Plant.  Dr. Brant Keller, Director of Public Works and Utilities presented the award.

Approved:  a Resolution in recognition of Water Professionals Appreciation Day on Monday, May 4, 2015. The Georgia General Assembly recently amended the Official Code of Georgia, relating to holidays and observances, to designate the first Monday in May of each year as “Water Professionals Appreciation Day” in Georgia.  The City of Griffin approved this resolution, to designate May 4, 2015 as a special day of recognition for men and women who work tirelessly in our City to ensure that our tap water is safe and that our water resources are protected and properly managed.

 

Approved:  a Resolution amending the City of Griffin’s Water / Wastewater Utility Fund Fiscal Year Operating and Capital Budget by appropriating $50,000.00 (expense) to equipment rental and $50,000.00 (revenue) to insurance claim (pending insurance reimbursement), in order to cover expenses resulting from a catastrophic pump motor failure. On January 8, 2015 the Still Branch Water Treatment Plant (WTP) experienced a catastrophic motor failure on its High Service Pump #2.   At the time of motor #2’s failure, the drive on High Service Pump #1 was in route to Magna Drive, located in Washington State, because of a suspected malfunction inside the drive.  With both High Service Pumps down, the Still Branch WTP needed to install temporary pumps in order to have the ability to provide water to the distribution network in the case of an emergency.

Approved:    a Task Order for the Bid Documents and Construction Management for Intersections and Signalization, in the amount of $206,700.00, for the Public Works and Utilities Department. These projects are programmed in the 2008 SPLOST. They consist of the re-design of Experiment Street, Broad Street and 10 th Street, the vertical alignment of West College Street with 12th Street, and 3 signal upgrades with mast and arms at West Broad and 8 th Streets, College Street and 8 th Street, and College Street and 9 th Street.

Approved:   a Timber Sales Agreement with Piedmont Forestry, LLC for the harvesting of timber at Still Branch Regional Reservoir for the Water and Wastewater Department of the Public Works and Utilities Department. The spray field used for sludge management at the Still Branch Water Treatment Plant needs thinning and expanding. The area consists of approximately 75 acres. The sale price per ton is $10.25 for pine pulpwood; super pulpwood is $15.30; pine chip and saw $18.30 per ton; pallet wood is $22.50; and hardwood pulpwood is $5.40 per ton. The City of Griffin will receive $7,000.00 in advance and the balance upon completion of timber sale.

Approved:   of Bid Award and Work Contract from Steele & Associates, Inc., for the Thomaston Mill Village (CDBG)  Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $572,859.00 for the Water and Wastewater Department of the Public Works and Utilities Department. This is Phase VI of the water and wastewater renewals of water distribution and wastewater collection systems in the Thomaston Mill Village. The bid price was negotiated from $617,625.00 down to $572,859.00 to meet the allotted funding of the construction budget.

Approved:  to accept a grant from the Central Georgia EMC in the amount of $1,200.00 to fund a regional seminar on fireworks compliance and safety (the Enforcement Officials Fireworks Training Program).  Seminar to be taught by the American Pyrotechnics Association on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 at the University of Georgia, Griffin Campus. All metro Atlanta and EMC member agencies will be invited, as well as a statewide invitation to all Georgia fire departments. There is no matching funds required in the grant.

Approved:  a Request for the acceptance of the Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) from the Department of Justice in the amount of $15,876.00 for the purchase of in-car cameras for the Police Department. There is no matching funds required with the grant. No impact on the City budget.

Approved:  to execute a Non-Residential Gas Extension Contract between Atlanta Gas Light Company (AGL) and the City of Griffin for installation of natural gas at 1010 N. Hill Street, commonly referred to as the Thomas Property, to serve a generator.  The new building is total electric except for the standby generator, which is dependent on natural gas. Because the natural gas service will only be needed for a standby generator, the City is required to contribute $1788.02 in order to initiate the installation.  The installation costs will be funded by the Thomas Property Development (Construction Phase) Capital Budget Item.

Approved:  to amend the Storm Water Fund for the Public Works and Utilities budget for $17,000 for culvert repairs.

The Commissioners:   Appointed:  Commissioner Doug Hollberg as the voting delegate for GMA 2015 Annual Convention for Membership Business Meeting on Sunday, June 28, 2015.  Member cities designate a voting delegate for the GMA membership business meeting and respond in writing to Georgia Municipal Association by June 1.

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City of Griffin Poloice Report an arrest in relation to a Fraud and Scam in the City.

April 29, 2015, 2:39 pm
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In March of 2015 the Police Department issued a fraud alert in reference to a scam involving two individuals using a U-Haul truck attempting to fraudulently obtain merchandise from Blake’s Building Supply in Griffin and another business in Jackson, Georgia.  On April 17, 2015 the suspects attempted to commit their scam on another local business.  Remembering the alert that had been posted the business notified the Police Department.  Investigators Cpl. Mike Morris and Inv. Stacy Beckom put together an undercover operation which was executed on April 20, 2015.  As result of the operation the suspects were apprehended attempting to pick up property that they believed was approved by the fraudulent transaction from Friday the 17th.  The two suspects were identified as Gerald Deshazor, 29 years of age from of Hampton and Alondzae Reeves, 32 years of age from Jonesboro.  Both suspects had recently relocated to this area from Pennsylvania where the U-Haul was confirmed to be rented during an earlier investigation by Inv. Beckom.  Both subjects are currently incarcerated in Spalding County Jail.

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OUTDOOR BURN BAN BEGINS MAY 1st IN SPALDING COUNTY

April 29, 2015, 2:49 pm
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SPALDING COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION

A ban on outdoor burning will begin May 1st in 54 Georgia Counties primarily in the northern half of the state including Spalding County. This annual restriction is required by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Environmental Protection Division to enhance air quality during the summer months when high ozone levels negatively impact citizen’s health. “Elevated ozone and particulate matter can contribute to watery eyes, breathing issues, and lung and heart disease” says Surgeon General Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy, M.D.
“The air is typically hot and stagnate when the summer ban on burning yard and land-clearing debris is in effect,” said Spalding County Fire Chief, Kenny West. “That mean less particulate matter that may influence air quality being released in the most populated areas of Georgia. Our fire personnel in conjunction with the Georgia Forestry Commission will be closely monitoring and responding to any outdoor burning, whose smoke could impact air quality.”
The burn ban will be in effect from May 1 through September 30, 2015 and affects the following counties: Banks, Barrow, Bartow, Bibb, Butts, Carroll, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Columbia, Coweta, Crawford, Dawson, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Floyd, Fulton, Gordon, Gwinnett, Hall, Haralson, Heard, Henry, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, Lumpkin, Madison, Meriwether, Monroe, Newton, Oconee, Paulding, Peach, Pickens, Pike, Polk, Putnam, Richmond, Rockdale, Spalding, Troup, Twiggs, Upson, Walker, and Walton.
“As we move into late spring and the summer months in Spalding County, everyone needs to monitor their local conditions and remain vigilant when burning outdoors”, said Chief West. “Even a campfire, barbecue grill, or an overheated lawnmower can spark a wildfire. By being vigilant we make it a safe and healthy summer of 2015.”
For more information about the annual EPD summer burn regulations and burn permits, visit www.SpaldingCounty.com or www.GaTrees.org.

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Registration for 2015-16 Kindergarten will start May 2.

April 29, 2015, 3:04 pm
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Griffin-Spalding County School System (GSCS) Kindergarten registration for the 2015-16 school year will be held May 4 – 22, from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (M-F). Kindergarten registration is located at the Parent Service Center, 234 East Taylor Street.

Students enrolling in kindergarten must be five years old by Sept. 1, 2015. Students currently enrolled in a GSCS pre-kindergarten class do not need to register for kindergarten.

Parents/guardians are asked to bring their future kindergartener to registration to assess their readiness levels prior to beginning school. This consists of asking your child a few questions about basic skills (colors, letters, numbers, etc.). This will help ensure your child is placed in a class that best meets his/her academic needs and strengths.

Required registration documents include:

  • Certified copy of the Certificate of Birth.
  • Certificate of Immunization, Form No. 3231.
  • Certificate of Eye, Ear, & Dental Screening Examination, Form No. 3300.
  •  Social Security Card.
  • Proof of Residency – either a dated mortgage statement/payment OR a rental agreement copy with the names of all people living in the house.
  • Any one of: utility, telephone or cable bill; current property tax bill; homeowner’s insurance policy; current year income tax form
  •  Photo ID of LEGAL parent/guardian.
  • Proof of custody/guardianship and any legal custody documents.

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Spalding Commissioners will meet Monday May 4th.

April 30, 2015, 10:57 am
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SPALDING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SPALDING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

The Spalding county Commissioners will meet May 4, 2015 at 6:00 PM in Room 108, of the Annex

Terri Jenkins, Fire Management Specialist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will present the Fire Service Leadership Award to Eric Mosley, Spalding County Assistant County Manager.

During the Meeting the Commissioners will Consider approval of Proclamation designating Tuesday May 19, 2015 as “Iris Charter Chapter 1620 American Business Women’s Association Day” in Spalding County.

Consider approval on second reading an ordinance amending the Animal Control Ordinance by striking subparagraph (g) and inserting a new paragraph (g) regarding the establishment of fees and designation of Veterinary Clinics.

Consider approval on second reading: Amendment to UDO #A-15-03: Article 2. Definitions of terms to Amend definition of Manufactured Home, Class A.

Consider approval of the following amplification permits as requested by Chris Smith of the Griffin The Moose Lodge for several outdoor events to be held on the following dates at the Griffin Moose Lodge located at 1435 Zebulon Road:

1. May 25, 2015 Memorial Day Family Pool Event from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
2. June 20, 2015 Luau Pool Event from 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
3. July 4, 2015 July 4 th Family Pool Event from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
4. September 7, 2015 Labor Day Family Pool Event from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Consider approval of an Amplification Permit submitted by Union Baptist Church to host a Memorial Day Celebration and Picnic at 1405 N. McDonough Road on Sunday, May 24 th, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Consider request from Eagles Way Church for the use of the Annex Parking lot and meeting room for their “Mid Georgia Doc Holiday Festival” September 25-26, 2015.

Consider approval of an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Georgia Department of Corrections for the contracted care and custody of State Offenders at the Correctional Institute in Spalding County.

Consider renewal of lease with the Department of Veterans Services located at 819 Memorial Drive.

Consider approval of an addendum to the Intergovernmental Agreement between Spalding County and the City of Griffin for the North Hill Street Corridor Transportation Project, Intersection No. 2.

Consider approval of the Service Agreement for Operation of the Three Rivers Regional Transit System in Spalding County.

Establish date for Public Hearing on proposed Animal Sterilization Requirement Ordinance and Unaltered Animal Permit Ordinance.

Consider appointment of two members to the Executive Committee of the Griffin-Spalding County Archway Partnership.

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Board of Commissioners FY 2016 Budget Review has been rescheduled to begin on Tuesday May 12, 2015 at 9:00 AM in the Courthouse Annex Meeting Room 108.

April 30, 2015, 4:00 pm
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SPALDING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

SPALDING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

 

FY 2016 BUDGET REVIEW RESCHEDULED
Spalding County Manager William P. Wilson Jr. announced today that the Board of Commissioners FY 2016 Budget Review has been rescheduled to begin on Tuesday May 12, 2015 at 9:00 AM in the Courthouse Annex Meeting Room 108. The proposed FY 2016 Budget will be distributed to the Board of Commissioners, Department Heads, Elected Officials and News Media on Monday May 4, 2015. The rescheduling of the Commissioners Budget Review will not require any additional changes in the FY 2016 Budget Calendar and a copy of the revised FY 2016 Budget Calendar is available on the County’s website at www.spaldingcounty.com.

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Civil War Ordnance turned into HIgh Falls Fire Station.

May 1, 2015, 4:41 pm
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HIGH FALLS FIRE DEPT BADGE AIR AFORCE EOD  MONROE COIUNTY SO

The Explosives and Ordinance Disposal unit from Robbins Air Force Base responded to High Falls Fire Station Friday afternoon when a call was received by the Monroe County Sheriffs Office indicating that a piece of military ordnance had been delivered to the High Falls Fire Station. The High Falls Fire Station contacted the Bibb County Bomb Disposal Unit to dispose of the ordnance.
The ordnance is about six inches in length with a conical nose and is about three to four inches in diameter. The person who turned the ordnance in stated that he took possession of it after it was found in Jonesboro while digging for a sewer line. He told deputies he had the ordnance in his home for three or four years.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit from Robins Air Force base responded to the High Falls Fire Department and disposed of the ordnance Friday afternoon. The Robbins Air Force EOD unit stated the munitions were to be of the Civil War era.

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Rock Springs Christian Academy’s Middle School Girls Tennis Team won Runner-Up in the 2015 GICAA Team Championship

May 5, 2015, 12:26 pm
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.Winners of the middle school tennis team from left to right: Ally Viars (7th grader), Brittany Anderson (6th grader), Amber Lester (8th grader).

Rock Springs Christian Academy’s Middle School Girls Tennis Team won Runner-Up in the 2015 GICAA Team Championship April 23, 2015. We are proud to announce that Coach Mary Anne Anderson has lead the RSCA Eagles to victory for the first time; in their first season competing.

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A individual riding a bicycle was struck by a pickup truck and killed Thursday afternoon May 7th near Molena in Pike County.

May 7, 2015, 5:56 pm
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Pedestrian-killed
Law enforcement and emergency personnel were on the scene in Molena Thursday afternoon where a pedestrian riding a bicycle was hit and killed by a vehicle.

The following press release was sent by the Pike County Sheriff’s Office around 4 p.m. Thursday.

Pike County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Investigators responded to Highway 18 in the area of Hamilton Road at approximately 1 p.m. Thursday May 7 th. The accident involved a pick up truck and a bicyclist. The truck was traveling westbound on Highway 18 when it struck a bicyclist that was also traveling in the same direction. The rider of the bicycle was deceased at the scene and has been identified as Henry Wellmaker of Concord.

Sheriff Jimmy Thomas said the investigation is in its initial phase as the Investigators are trying to determine what was the actual cause of the fatal collision.

Pike Coroner Terrell Moody has had Mr. Wellmaker’s body transported to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab for a determination as to the exact cause of death.

The driver’s name is not being released at this time and no charges have been filed pending completion of the investigation.

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The 2015 Junior Deputy Trip to our Nations Capitol a great success.

May 8, 2015, 3:09 pm
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The Griffin Spalding County Junior Deputy trip to Washington DC for 2015 is now over. More than 300 sixth grade students and chaperones took the great trip which has been an ongoing event since 1946. The original program was stared by WKEU and the Spalding Sheriffs Department in 1946 and the trip was made at that time by Train. This year and since the late 1950′s the event has been made by Tour Bus Lines. Sheriff Wendell Beam said the 2015 trip proved to be an exciting event for the 6 th Grade students and many of the chaperones that made the trip for the first time. Planning for next years trip is already underway and is a labor intensive program to put together said sheriff Beam. The Sheriff also said he especially wanted to thank the Chaperones that took their time to make the trip and Kay Perdue that was the event coordinator.

The Sheriff said that the work of Kay Perdue is invaluable to the Trip and to the Department each year. He also thanked the parents of the children for entrusting them to me for the 2015 trip. The children were extremely well behaved and is a reflection of their parents, and teachers. Planning is underway for next year to make the trip more enjoyable for the 6 th graders that work so hard during the year to keep up heir grades, attendance, and behavior, to qualify for the trip.

We of WKEU wish to thank the Chaperones, and especially Sheriff Wendell Beam for his dedication to our Children to continue this Great Educational Program. Also to Sylvia Chapman who was the WKEU representative on the trip that interviewed the kids and insured we had a constant supply of taped interviews for their families, and loved ones to hear their excitement. Sylvia went far beyond he assigned duties to insure the tapes were ready for Fed EX pickup daily.

Also to our staff that took the time from their schedule and family to interview each bus when the students left for Washington. They rode with the children interviewing each bus until the initial stop. Those individuals included Tony Broski, WKEU Sports Director, Ted Taylor Vice President and Program Director of WKEU and The Rock 88.9 FM, Sylvia Chapman, and Bill Chapman of The Rock 88.9 FM, and Lynn Futural who has made the trip many times as a representative of WKEU news to interview the students. Ronnie Lowe, Larry Johnson, Lee Taylor, and Sidney Daniel the behind the seen’s staff that made it all happen. To these individuals have my deep respect, and admiration. Most of all the many sponsors that are dedicated to Children’s education and great educational events like this to bring you the voices of your children while they are away in Washington. Be sure and tell them how much you appreciate there dedication to our students, their teachers, and families as they support this great educational event, that for many, will be a once in al lifetime opportunity. As owner and General Manager of WKEIU I thank each of them with my very deep gratitude for their dedication to our area youth activities. You our listeners are the WKEU family, you have relied on us for the past 81 years and our commitment is to never let you down. Thank you always for your support to WKEU and The Rock 88.9 FM Georgia Public Radio.

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Four Griffin Spalding School System Employees have been approved for positions at Bibb County School System.

May 8, 2015, 5:32 pm
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GRIFFIN SPALDNG BOARD OF EDUCATION

GRIFFIN SPALDNG BOARD OF EDUCATION

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Four individuals from the Griffin Spalding School System have been approved to head up new positions at the Bibb County School System in Macon.
The Macon Telegraph announced that the individuals were approved by the Bibb County Board of Education on Thursday and will fill the following positions there.
Jamie Cassady will be the Bibb County School System Chief Student affairs Officer.
Eclan David will be the new Principal at Ballard-Hudson Middle School.
Dexter Martin will be the new Southwest High School Principal.
Keith Simmons will be the new Chief of Staff and operations officer for Dr. Jones at the Bibb County System.
WKEU congratulates these great educators and wish for them a great career in the Bibb County System.

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A call of a shooting incident received by Pike 911 Sunday evening thought to be a hoax.

May 10, 2015, 7:08 pm
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Pike County Sheriff’ Jimmy Thomas advised WKEU news that late Sunday evening his deputies responded to a 911 call of a shooting incident at 1880 Cook Road.  The caller advised the Pike 911 center that an altercation had occurred between himself and his father, and he had shot his father.  He also said that he would kill any law enforcement officer that came to the residence. Deputies attempted to make contact with anyone inside the residence but were unsuccessful.  The Pike SWAT team and K-9 unit made entry into the residence and found no one inside.

The investigation is now underway to find out who made the initial 911 call. It has been determined that notification was made by SCYPE on the Internet.  Sheriff Thomas also said that the Investigators will follow any and every lead to identify the caller.  There were no injuries to any law enforcement personnel, or neighbors close to the residence, and no one was shot at that location.  The Sheriff also said that the residence at 1880 Cook Road had been vacant for several weeks.  The investigation is continuing and more information will be released as the investigation continues.

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Board Member files suit against RESA and the Griffin Spalding School Board

May 11, 2015, 4:43 pm
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Griffin Spalding School Board member Michael Kendall has filed a mandamus law suit against Griffin RESA, and the Griffin Spalding Board of Education in Relation to the applications RESA, the agency tasked with conducting a search process and announcements to fill the Superintendents position in the school system, after Dr. Curtis Jones accepted a position as the Bibb County Superintendent.

Kendal’s suit alleges that RESA and the Board of Education are illegally withholding the applications for School Superintendent and preventing him Kendall from carrying out his legal responsibility to hire a qualified superintendent.

On Monday afternoon May 11th, WKEU news talked with Board Attorney Tim Shepherd about the law suit.

CLICK  TO HEAR THE INTERVIEW WITH ATTORNEY SHEPHERD

The Board of Education issued the following Press Release Monday afternoon.

The Griffin-Spalding County Board of Education was served with a lawsuit this morning by one of its members.

Michael Kendall filed a lawsuit against the Griffin-Spalding Board of Education on Monday, May 11, 2015. In his suit, Kendall, who is also a member of the Board of Education, complains about the process by which the school board is conducting the search for a new superintendent of schools.

The school board had previously agreed to employ the services of Griffin RESA to assist in conducting the superintendent search.  On March 30, 2015, the school board with Kendall in attendance voted unanimously to approve the search process.  The board is currently following the approved process in conducting the superintendent search.

On Tuesday, May 5, 2015, the school board met in a called meeting for the purpose of reviewing the applications that were received as part of the search process.
Thursday, May 7, 2015, Mr. Kendall requested that he be given additional time to review the applications.

Contrary to Kendall’s public statements, arrangements were made for Kendall to have additional time to review the applications.

James Westbury, board chair, stated “It is disappointing that Mr. Kendall has chosen to file this merit less lawsuit against his fellow school board members.  The board is following the procedures in the superintendent search that were unanimously approved by the board members.  When Mr. Kendall asked for additional time to review the applications, the board, in conjunction with Dr. Stephanie Gordy of Griffin RESA, made arrangements to accommodate his request.  The board intends to continue the process of finding the best qualified superintendent to lead our school system and will not allow Mr. Kendall to disrupt the process with this frivolous lawsuit.”

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Griffin Spalding School System employee resigns after investigation.

May 12, 2015, 3:55 pm
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E;pwesea Caldwell

A former School System Employee Eloise Caldwell has been arrested by the Griffin Police Department following an investigation into a incident on a special needs bus carrying students.  Caldwell was a bus monitor at the time of the incident.  A bus video camera caught Caldwell first slapping on student then striking another with a rolled up magazine in the face. 
WKEU contacted the School System and Board Attorney Tim Shepherd and was advised that the employee has resigned following a investigation by school officials.  Under law incidents of this type are reported to DEFACS and the Griffin Police Department.  Eloise Caldwell is in the Spalding County Jail.

 

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City Commissioners Met Tuesday Night May 12th.

May 13, 2015, 3:55 pm
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The Griffin City Commissioners met Tuesday night in the meeting room at 100 South Hill Street.
During the meeting the commissioners recognized Amanda Carmichael, with the Finance Department, as the April 2015 “Strongest Link” award recipient. The “Strongest Link” Award is given monthly to a deserving employee who has demonstrated excellent performance and productivity, loyalty, professional pride, and other noteworthy accomplishments.
The Commissioners recognition of Officers of the Griffin Police Department for the awards received at the Annual District Attorney’s Banquet held on May 5, 2015. 
Lt. Mike Richardson – Officer of the Year;
Sgt. Joe Hudson – Heart of a Hero;
Officer Emily Blackmon – Rookie of the Year;
Sgt. Richards Phillips, Officer Pete Spahn and Officer Chardannay Hurst – the Team Work Award; and The Griffin Police Department was awarded the Agency of the Year.  
The Commissioners approved a Proclamation for May 10 through May 16, 2015 as City of Griffin Police Week to coincide with National Police Week, and the day of May 15, 2015 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The Griffin police department is sending a two-person delegation to Washington D.C. to escort the Kevin Jordan Family during the week.  Officer Kevin Jordan will be recognized for his service and death in the line of duty,  during the National Memorial Ceremony.  Additionally, flags in the City of Griffin shall be flown at half-staff on May 15. 
The Commissioners also approved a Proclamation declaring the week of May 17-23, 2015 to be National Public Works week and Public Works Week in the City of Griffin.
During the Citizen Comments portion of the meeting Ralph Jones of the Kiwanis Club addressed the board in relation to the Purchase of the Fair Grounds property.  The plan will be reviewed with both City and County Officials and the FAA to see if the plan is within the requirements  of the FAA  for the sale of FAA Government Property.
After much discussion and by a 4/3 vote the commissioners ddenied a request for a Special Use Permit to allow an Adult Day Care Center to operate at 127 W. Solomon Street, submitted by Cambridge House Enrichment Center.  The property is zoned Central Business District (CBD) which requires a special use permit to allow a daycare to operate at this location.
The Commissioners aapproved lifting from the table and dismissal of a request for a variance from Section 708, Medium Density Residential (MDR), of the City of Griffin Unified Development Code to subdivide a lot creating two non-conforming lots, for property located at 728 E. Tinsley Street/228 Morris Street, it was discovered that the two lots are already zoned as two separate locations.
Approved a contract with PKF Consulting USA to conduct a feasibility study for a downtown hotel & convention center development. The cost of the study will be shared between the City of Griffin, Spalding County and the Griffin-Spalding Development Authority as approved in the memorandum of understanding on April 14, 2015.  The accepted proposal cost $31,000 and the City of Griffin will be responsible for 1/3 of the contract amount or $10,333. 
Approved a contract with Preservation South, LLC to conduct an existing conditions report for old  City Hall which is on the historical buildings list of Griffin. The recommendations of the report will be used to estimate rehabilitation cost for this facility.  The cost of the study will be $5000 which will give  an estimated rehabilitation cost.  Funds were not budgeted for this line item in FY 15. The funds will be taken from Commissioners’ Professional Services.
Approved:  a tiered Distribution Generation Tariff for customers in all areas served by the City of Griffin. Recent State Legislation has mandated utilities allow a minimum of 177 kW distributed energy plants on their systems.  The tiered tariff, as discussed at a recent Board of Commissioners’ workshop, will prepare the City for the growth of distributed energy systems for many years to come.  Approximately 77% of the City’s purchased power costs are fixed plant costs.  The tariff will ensure that the City’s energy plant commitments are met. 
The Commissioners appointed Commissioner Joann Todd and Electric Director Bill Bosch as an alternate to represent the City of Griffin at the Annual MEAG meeting and board election, July 14, 2015.
Approved:  a budget amendment resolution reallocating funds for the settlement of Rights of Way for the Still Branch Regional  Reservoir  in the amount of $20,400.00.  The reallocation of funds is necessary to pay for legal fees and payments to the claimants for the acquisition of right-of-way on the transmission pipeline coming from the Still Branch Regional Reservoir back to Griffin. 

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I-75 accident in Monroe county results in two individuals being transported to the Macon Medical Center.

May 13, 2015, 4:05 pm
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MONROE COIUNTY SO

A single vehicle car crash today on I-75, May 13, 2015, injured two Ontario women after the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The accident occurred near mile marker 185 southbound on I-75 in Monroe County shortly after 12:00 p.m. Evidence from the scene suggests that Ingrid Newberry, 76, was driving her Pontiac Montana in the far right lane, then crossed all lanes of traffic, hitting the median wall. The vehicle then caught fire. Newberry and her passenger, Karen Newberry Nutt, also from Ontario, Canada, were both pulled from the vehicle by Monroe County EMS. Newberry was transported to the Medical Center in critical condition and Nutt was transferred in stable condition.
The cause of the accidentremains under investigation.

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