8-26-16
Billy Chism holding a copy of the special edition of the paper his staff put together
(Cleveland)- It was a special day in Cleveland and White County Thursday, as friends came together to say “ Thank You” and “Goodbye” to White County Editor/Publisher Billy Chism.
Chism will retire his position next Wednesday and the White County Chamber of Commerce hosted a reception for Billy Thursday afternoon at the Roy Ash Community Room in Cleveland.
During a special time of recognition commendations were presented by State Senator Steve Gooch, White County Commissioner Terry Goodger, who read a resolution designating the day as Billy Chism day in White county, he also announced that the county would name one of the two new bike trails in Yonah Preserve, The Old Billy Chism Trail.
Others from the city of Cleveland, Helen, the Helen Arts and Heritage Center and White County Historical Society had special recognition to Chism.
Chism told us as he signed copies of a special editions of the paper, it was beyond his expectation how the community has shared their feeling. “ we have so many great citizens in White County if you don’t believe it you needed to be here today, they are from all walks of life, and they are here to say thanks Billy, they are also here to say we love our community and I love our community, so it’s a great day for everybody,” said Chism.
He was asked, after he puts the newspaper to bed next Wednesday, what’s his plans, Billy said, “my immediate plans, I’ve worked all my life, I’m 65 years old and I plan to go home and rest. My wife and I have a cabin here and we’re going to spend a lot of time in White County.”
Billy Chism accepting a special gift from Russ Keen and the White County Chamber of Commerce
State Senator Steve Gooch presents special resolution honoring Billy Chism
White County Commissioner Terry Goodger presents trail sign for The Old Billy Chism Trail at Yonah Preserve
Cleveland Mayor Shan Ash with City of Cleveland Proclamation for Billy
Helen Commissioner Jeff Ash and Paula Ash, Helen Arts and Heritage Center congratulate Billy Chism
Billy and his wife Patti accept rooster pottery from Judy Lovell with the White County Historical Society
Bill celebrates the day with the newspaper staff: front reporter Debbie Gilbert, Billy, Sales associate Heather Howell, back: reporter Linda Erbele, sports editor Mark Turner, production Sarah Smagur, office manager Stephanie Wiggins and sales associate Jeff Gore.
