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Commissioners Vote That Chris Mote Must Follow County Permitting Regulation ( 2/6/12)

(Cleveland)-  The White County Board of Commissioners at a Monday meeting  by a unanimously vote  said  that Chris Mote with  Mote Pumping Service  located north of Cleveland must  follow the county’s  Land Application System (LAS) regulations  if he wants to operate a proposed  septic waste disposal facility on Paradise Valley Road in the county. 

Mote appeared before the commissioners on  January 23, during a work session  and said the county planning department refused to issue a land disturbance permit for his facility because he did not have a LAS  permit.  The commissioners did not take any action at that time  because  it was a work session but  waited until their regular meeting  Monday to act on the issue.  

Around 140 people attended the Monday meeting and some  expresses their opposition to the commission board among those was Lena Dowdy, who lives adjacent to the proposed site she told the commissioners “ you’ve got two kids camps, you’ve got wineries, you’ve got subdivisions, you’ve got trout streams, a retirement RV park.. this is not the place for this type of facility.” 

One person did speak in support of the project Kim Fletter told  commissioners, “ your septic tank who has been grandfathered in for centuries in this county creates more waste in our environment that this system that this man is proposing.”  

The  commissioners approved  in May of 2009  a set of strict  ordinances   regulating septic waste disposal,  Mote  contends that he is grandfathered in.    Commission Chairman Travis Turner has a different  view he  said, “ it is the belief, by the vote of this board, that he is not grand fathered in, that he needs to go through this application process like any other applicant.”

Mote has threatened court action if the commissioners did not allow him to move forward with the operation.  

United Way Of White County Makes Funding Allocations ( 2/3/12)

                     Darrel Chaney                                                            Agency representatives receiving funding

(Cleveland)- United Way of White County handed out checks Thursday  to area  agencies funded by  donations to the organization, but officials said this years allocation dollars were down from last year.  United Way president Cheryl Vandiver said last year the agency was able to distributed  $100-thousnad dollars, but this years allocations were down by 20 percent.  

Eighteen agencies that serve white county residents received funding and each representative who accepted the checks thanked  United  Way for their funding.  Like Dennis Turner with  White County Caring and Sharing, which helps people with  groceries, rent  and home heating.  Turner  said, “ without  United way we would do less.”  

Also Jim Hiers, Chairman of the Board for  Helping Hands Health Care Clinic in Cleveland who   said 27 percent of the people in the  county are without  healthcare  and United Way fund helps provide care to these people.

Cheryl Vandiver told the crowd that we  will do better this year for you, she said they want to return  to the $100-thousand dollar mark.   

Former baseball player and play-by-play announcer Darrel Chaney was the featured speaker, he  along with other united way volunteers started the annual United Way golf tournament in the county.  It is the largest fundraising events for United Way.   In his talk Chaney challenged those present to not settle with, “ what we’ve got , but to step forward “ and make this years golf tournament and other fundraising events better.

Vandiver reminded employees, no matter where or what county  you work you can make payroll deduction to  United  Way of W White County and help people in your home county. 

Serious Injuries In South Main Street Accident ( 2/2/12)

(Cleveland)- One person  received serious injuries last just before 7-o’clock  Wednesday night  when a vehicle ran off the road  at  Wendy’s  on south main street in Cleveland.  Cleveland Fire Chief Ricky Pruitt said the vehicle went down an embankment and crashed into the ditch.   

The driver got out of the vehicle and was apparently ok, but a passenger was injured and trapped in the vehicle.  The fire department and  Emergency Medical personnel removed the victim and he was transported to the Northeast Georgia Medical Center. 

Pruitt said the Georgia State Patrol was called in to investigate the accident, which included the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team.   No further details are available. 

Fire Destroys North White County Home ( 1/31/12)

(Sautee )- No injuries were reported in a house fire in northern White County early Tuesday.  Authorities said units responded to a 2,500-square-foot home shortly  after 8:00 AM.  White County Assistant Fire Chief Norman Alexander said the fire, located  down a narrow dirt road off the 1200 block of Skylake Road, consumed a roughly 2,500-square-foot wood-frame residence. He added there was minimal damage to an adjacent wood-frame, barn-style garage.
 

Alexander said personnel from White County stations 8 (Helen), 7 (Chimney Mountain), 3 (Sautee-Nacoochee) and a tanker from Station 2 (White Creek) responded, as did two tankers from Habersham County Fire Department and the Lee Arrendale State Prison Fire Team from Alto.

Water had to be shuttled from a hydrant in Skylake subdivision, with incoming tankers having to wait for outbound tankers due to the narrow dirt road.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation, Alexander said.

Voter Registration Deadline Next Monday ( 1/31/12)

(Cleveland)- White County Chief Voter Registrar Lisa Manning reminds White County residents that if you are not already registered to vote and want to cast a ballot in the upcoming  Presidential Preference Primary and SPLOST special election on March 6^th  you  must be registered by this coming  Monday, February 6^th.

White County residents can register to vote at the White County Voter Registrars office, any county library, online at www.whitecounty.net  or  online at  www.sos.ga.gov/elections   or through the Georgia Department of Drivers Services.

Manning says, voters can utilize the Secretary of State’s My Voter Page or MVP voter education website which allows voters to view their sample ballot, find the in-person advance voting locations in their county and their polling location, check registration status, track the status of their absentee ballot and more. The MVP website can be accessed at from the county's website.  Manning reminds voters that absentee ballots are now available.

If you would like to vote by mail, please call the White County Voter Registrars office at 706-865-7812 or email lmanning@whitecounty.net to request a ballot.

In-person advanced voting for the March 6^th presidential preference primary and SPLOST  vote will begin Monday, February 13^th, at the White County Voter Registrars office from 8 am until 5 pm.  A special Saturday  voting will be held on  February 25^th the registrar’s office  from  9 am until 4 pm.

High Fire Danger Advisory Issued ( 1/31/12)

(Peachtree City )- The National Weather Service has issued a  high fire danger statement for north Georgia Tuesday afternoon  into the evening hours.  

The weather service says low relative humidities  less than 24 percent  and winds up to 20 miles per hours  along with dry fuels prompted the advisory.

The weather service says please refer to local burn permitting authorities concerning whether you may burn outdoors. If you do burn outside… use extreme caution.

Sunday Fire Destroys Camper ( 1/30/12)

(Cleveland)- The White County Fire Department reports a relatively quiet weekend, except for a camper fire that occurred Sunday afternoon  on Rocket Drive in Cleveland. 

White County Fire Department  spokesman Norman Alexander said the call was just before 2 PM and according to Alexander the camper which was just 10 feet from a residence was a total loss.  

According to Alexander the home was not damaged by the fire.  He said, “ the wind was blowing in the right direction.”  

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

W.C. Board Of Ed Joins Effort For Traffic Signal At Wilford Ash Parkway  And West Kytle ( 1/30/12)

(Cleveland)- The White County Board of Education has agreed to back a movement by the City of Cleveland to get a traffic signal lights at the intersection of Wilford Ash Sr. Parkway and  West Kytle Street in Cleveland.  The parkway is used by lots of people to avoid downtown traffic, but  with no traffic signal there traffic gets backed up at times, and making a left turn at times is almost impossible.  

At a Friday meeting the board heard a request from the city to help get the Georgia Department of Transportation to install the lights.  School board member Charlie Thomas passed along the request and he said he talked with State Senator  Steve Gooch, who advised if they would get the letters of request to him he would assist in working with the  DOT.  

Thomas says the  signal lights  will help with school traffic.  He said, “ That would greatly help with the afternoon school traffic, with the 6^th grade coming into the middle school and also as the bypass begins to be built  they are going to use that as an alternate route on a short period of time there at Wilford Ash. I just thing it would be a great idea, it would help with traffic control at Jack P. Nix.”

White County Schools Congratulated On Emergency Plan ( 1/30/12)

(ATLANTA) — The White County School System has been congratulated by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency  on the completion of their  district emergency management plan.  The updated plan was approved by the  board of education during a meeting  Friday.    

GEMA Director Charley English in a  news release said, “We also applaud them for their continuing efforts to ensure safety and security in all seven schools.”  Each school principal was recognized for their efforts in developing the plan.
By law, every public school in Georgia must develop and implement a wide-ranging safety plan that addresses acts of violence or terrorism, natural disasters, hazardous materials and radiological incidents.

White County School Superintendent Jeff Wilson said, following Friday approval. “ we are going to practice this Spring with  this plan.”   White County School emergency plan coordinator Laurie Burkett, commended White County Emergency Management Agency Director  David Murphy for his assistance in developing the plan. 
 

Relay For Life Kicks Off 2012 Campaign With Sonny and Cher ( 1/27/12)

(Cleveland)- White County Relay for life kicked off a new campaign season Thursday  at White County High School. The event featured special appearances by Minnie Pear,  aka  Juanita Partin of Cleveland  and Relay co-chairs Lynn Hogan and Marshall Anderson appeared on stage as Sonny and Cher… That’s Marshall as Cher and Lynn as Sonny.  They spotlighted this years event theme “ Tuning out Cancer”.    

The crowd got fired up for this years campaign when Anderson share successful figures from last years campaign.  Anderson said, “ we’re  really excited we  just came off a year where we were ranked number 1 in Georgia,  number 2 in the district  and number 3 in the entire nation, so White County does relay wonderful.  It’s something we do great, it’s something we do as a community. It’s not a regular relay, it’s a  community event, it’s a family reunion. “  

  Marshall Anderson, Lynn Hogan and Juanita Partin 

The Relay for Life  event will be held this year on  May 18^th at White County High School.  It’s the biggest social event in the county.   

White County Sheriff's Office Activity Reports Released ( 1/26/12)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s Office monthly activities report for  December shows there was 918 calls during the month, with 42 domestic calls,  34 auto accidents, there was 195 civil papers served, officers made 161 traffic stops, with 76 citations issued.  

The investigative division had these additional cases to probe, 1 death, 1 assault/battery, 2 identity fraud, 3 credit  card fraud, 22 burglaries, 1 entering auto, and 3 motor vehicle thefts.  During the month there was 72 arrest made by officers.

The yearly activity reports from the sheriff’s office for 2011 shows the department had  decreases in  DUI’s, auto accidents, domestic calls,  Identity fraud, child molestation and child abuse cases along with burglaries and thefts.  There were increases in  Civil Papers and subpoenas served, traffic stops and citations issued, credit card fraud, entering autos and motor vehicle thefts. 

Total  number of calls into the office for the year was down by just over a 100 calls, compared to 2010. 

Cleveland Man Arrested And Drugs Confiscated  ( 1/25/12)

(Cleveland)- Local officials say they made a big drug arrest Tuesday night in Cleveland.  Mitchell Posey, Commander of the Appalachian Drug Task Force said,  his agents along with White County Sheriff’s Office deputies  arrested  22-year old Jordan David Dorsey, of Cleveland .   According to Posey,  Dorsey was stopped by a White County Sheriff’s officer for driving recklessly,  after a search of the subject’s vehicle 104 Roxycontin  (oxycotin)  pills were found.  

The drug is a narcotic painkiller used to treat moderate to severe pain and prescribed by doctors. Posey said the street value of this drug is  $3,120. 

               Jordan  David Dorsey

 According to Posey, this drug can be deadly making this a very important arrest and seizure.  He said, “last year the GBI’s medical examiners office determined that 729 people died of drug overdoses, 171 of them died from this particular drug, which is number two on the list.  So it’s important because  by taking these 104  Roxycontin pills off the street today, no questions we saved lives here in White County.”

Heavy Rain Forecast Thursday - Friday Morning ( 1/25/12)

(Peachtree City)- Northeast Georgians are being advised that heavy rain is expected over the area during the day  Thursday  through early Friday morning, which could result in some low area flooding.  The National Weather Service says storm total rainfall amounts will be 1- 3 inches. 

Forecasters say the area has already seen 2-4 inches over the past 7 days, consequently  moist soil  conditions exist and some areas are still saturated.  This will allow any heavy rain to be quickly absorbed then run off into nearby streams, creeks and rivers. The weather service says isolate flash flooding will be possible if the heavy rain repeatedly moves over the same area.

House Fire  And Auto Accident Keep Firefighters  Busy ( 1/25/12)

(Cleveland)-A fire Tuesday morning on Charter Hill Drive in The Grove subdivision east of Cleveland totally destroyed an unoccupied home.  White County Fire Department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said the home owners were in the process of moving full time to White County from Atlanta. According to Newberry a neighbor state they saw the smoke and went to check where it was coming from and discovered the blaze.    

White County fire stations 2 and 4 were dispatched with Automatic Aid from City of Cleveland, and Mutual Aid from Lee Arrendale lady firefighters along with Habersham Fire Services all responded.  ,

 White County Fire Investigator Robi Wilkins was called to the scene to investigate.  No injuries were reported.

Newberry also reported Tuesday afternoon at 1:00 PM  the White County Fire Department was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident on Duncan Bridge Road, near River Road.  Newberry said, the vehicle was heading west on Duncan Bridge Rd, had left the roadway and flipped.  

Two people in the vehicle had to be removed by fire personnel and White County Emergency Medical Service personnel.  Both were taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center  with non life threatening injuries.

White County High School  Students Recognized ( 1/23/112)

By: Stephanie Adams

White County

Christmas Tree Recycling

   More Info

Home Heating Assistance Now Available  ( 1/23/12)

(Cleveland- The Ninth District Opportunity, Inc. has re-opened, to all income eligible households,  the low income home energy assistance program.  Starting  today (1/23/12) residents can call and arrange an appointment to  apply for the assistance from the Georgia Department of Human Serves. 

Yvonne Cruse, Community Resource Coordinator for Ninth District opportunity in Cleveland said all interested applicants are asked to contact Ninth District Opportunity, Inc by phone  only at 706-865-6220.  No walk-in will be accepted. 

When applying for assistance, person will be require to present verification of all household income received within the past 30 days.  A one-time payment will be made by check issued to the home energy suppliers

Slow Weekend For White County Fire Department Volunteers ( 1/23/12)

(Cleveland)-It was a slow weekend for White County fire fighters, Ana Newberry spokeswoman said there were several medical calls, one smoke investigation and a motor vehicle accident Saturday evening.  The single vehicle accident occurred around 7:00 PM on Kinsey Town  Road, off Highway 115 east of Cleveland. Newberry said, upon arrival, firefighters found a Jeep Cherokee that had run off the roadway, up a burm  then flipped about  two times landing  on it's side.  The single occupant was already out of the vehicle by the time firefighters arrived. 

Firefighters assisted the driver until the arrival of medical personnel and law enforcement.  The driver was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center with what was described as non life threatening injuries. 

Newberry advised Monday morning around 7AM, firefighters from Station 2 were called to the area of the Cottage House on Hwy 115 East of Cleveland, where a two vehicle accident occurred.  There were no injuries; however, the East bound lane of Hwy 115 was blocked and caused drivers some delay passing the area.

2011 Another Rainfall Deficit Years ( 1/23/12)

(Sautee)- 2011 was an exciting year weather-wise in White County.  WRWH weather reporter Bill Kinsland  has been reviewing  information for the past  year and he noted that the year  started with a snowstorm which dumped 6 inches of snow. Emergency Management  Director David Murphy told the White County News this event cost taxpayers some $64,000.  

April brought numerous storm alerts. Then on April  27th, tornadoes struck in northern White County. There was  major damage to several homes around Tray Mountain. Downed trees and power lines closed Highway 75 above Helen and  Highway 129 north of Turners Corner for 2 days.  June was also eventful. On  June 9th, a low-pressure  trough developed over western North Carolina and moved over  White County, suddenly dumping nearly an inch of  rain, and dropping local temperatures by 20 degrees in two   hours. This instability set the stage for stormy weather  over the next 48 hours.

The Cleveland area took a   beating with downed trees, power lines and transformer  fires.  Kinsland said, “ Excitement rippled across the county on August 23rd when an aftershock from the Washington DC earthquake was felt by local residents.”    

Temperatures overall were nearly normal. Our average  high temperature was 68.8 degrees, which was 0.4 degrees  below normal. Highest daily temperature recorded was  100 degrees on July 12th at Helen City Hall.  Average low temperature was 46.5 degrees which was 0.7 degrees above normal. Lowest recorded temperature  was  8 degrees on January 13th at WRWH.  

Altogether, an average rainfall total of 65.03 inches,  was recorded,  some 2.63 inches below normal. Highest   24-hour rainfall was 3.92 inches on March 27th at Helen City Hall.  Kinsland says  5 of the past 6 years have ended with rainfall deficits.

New Water Lines Helps With Fire Rating  (1/20/12)

(Cleveland)-The White County Water Authority has just completed the installation of water lines and fire hydrants along a section of Town Creek Road  starting at Hooper Road north then  all of Adiar Mill Road over to U.S. Highway 129 north of Cleveland. This work not only  opens up the opportunity by residents of those areas to take advantage of county water service, but it could help save them money. 

With the completion of this project the areas  ISO, Insurance Service Office, rating has been affected.  White County Fire Chief Dickie Howard says this means a lower classification rating and insurance companies use that determining premiums.  Howard said, “ so the residents of that area may be eligible for the  class 6 rating which will reduce their insurance premium.”   Howard says those in the affected area are strongly  urged to contact their insurance agent. He said, “ It would be a good thing along that corridor especially because those hydrants have just gone in service. If there has been an instillation of any fire hydrants near the residence anywhere else in the county recently it would be a good time to check with their insurance representative also.”

The White County Fire Department is in the process of having water sites qualified for an  alternative water supply.  This process requires a considerable amount of paperwork and research in order to qualify  these water supply sites, but should be in motion in the near future.

The White County Water Authority is expanding the water supply system as grants and money becomes available.  The more residents that are able to tap on and  take advantage of the lower insurance premiums.

Mt Yonah Elementary Recognized By Governor Deal ( 1/20/12)

(ATLANTA)  - White County’s  Mt. Yonah Elementary School  is among the 370 schools in the state that Governor Nathan Deal has recognized  for improvement and achievement.  The schools are being singled out under performance and achievement categories as part of Georgia's Single Statewide Accountability System. Awards are presented to schools that show excellence in student achievement and/or progress in student achievement.

The Mt. Yonah School  received a Platinum  award for  greatest Gain.  Dr. Jeff Wilson, White County Superintendent of Schools said, “ we are extremely proud of Mt. Yonah’s accomplishments and we look forward to more good things from the school.”  

The U.S. Department of Education recently  named Mount Yonah Elementary School in White County as one of 304 schools as 2011 National Blue Ribbon Schools based on their overall academic excellence or for their success in closing achievement gaps. 

 Governor Deal said in making the announcement, "The principals and teachers at these schools are to be commended for maintaining a focus on providing every student with a world-class education."

 

No Injuries In Fire And Accident Calls ( 1/19/12)

(Cleveland)- Apparent electric problem is believed to be the cause of a fire  Wednesday afternoon around 5:30 PM east of Cleveland at Hogan Automotive.   Ana Newberry White County Fire Department  Public Information  said station 2 firefighters handled the call.

 According to Newberry, apparently the electrical panel area had some loose wiring and caught fire.  Damage was contained  to the electric panel and a few sheets of plywood. 

At 8:00AM  this   morning, firefighters from Station 2 were dispatched to the area of Chattahoochee Grocery east of Cleveland to the report of a  two vehicle accident.   Newberry said there were no injuries.

Rotary Club Receives Banking And Economic Outlook Report (1/18/12)

(Cleveland)- The White County Rotary Club received  a report  on  local banking operations  and economic look for White County and Northeast Georgia Tuesday when local bank presidents Don Allison with Mtn. Valley Community Bank and Gene White With United Community Bank reported to the club about their business. 

White, who told the club that his comments were just his opinion,  said that North Georgia’s  economy is different from the rest of the nation and while other parts of the county seem to be moving out of an economic downturn but  our area  will take a littler longer.  He said, “ I think we’ve reached the bottom, but I’m not sure if we are getting off the bottom we seem to be bouncing along the bottom.  You know it’s hard to put a figure on it but you’re looking at 2013 or 2014 before you see some type of increase particularly in the real estate market, which we are all real estate driven in North Georgia."      

               Gene White- Don Allison

White said turning around the real estate market is the key to seeing out economy improving.  

Allison told the club one of the biggest challenges they have is meeting all the regulations put on them.  He said,  “ The new regulations that came out last year, the Dodd-Frank act has 2,600  written text  laying down that regulation and we haven’t even began to  interpret what that means and what that will do, but it will be a costly undertaking.”

Allison said the mountain of regulations they must meet that in some cases restricts their operation and this could be a factor that will result in  fees being added by the banking industry.

Busy Extended Weekend For W.C. Fire Department Volunteers ( 1/17/12)

(Cleveland)- In addition to the  previously reported  two  structure fires on Friday night on Chimney Mountain Road and the  early Saturday morning  fire south of  Cleveland on Hamilton Drive , White County Fire Department Spokeswoman Ana Newberry says  they had several other calls during the extended weekend.

Newberry said, on Sunday at 5:00 PM they responded to a chimney fire at a home on  Asa Dorsey Road south of Cleveland.  Station 4 handled that call with minimal damage.  No injuries reported. Later that evening at 7:30 PM another chimney fire, this one was at a home on Spring Creek Farm Road  again, south of Cleveland.  There was some  heat related damage to the roof shingles, but  no injuries reported.

Monday around 3:00 PM fire units were dispatched to a  single motor vehicle accident on highway 115 east near Poultry Road.  There were no injuries in this accident.  

                Highway115 east accident

Newberry said Monday night around 9:00 PM  fire units were dispatched to a single vehicle accident on Highway 75 North of Helen, just past the Airstream Park.  According to Newberry the driver of the vehicle ran off the road and down an embankment.   The driver and  passenger where transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for further evaluation.

Firefighters also responded to various medical calls throughout the weekend.  All totaled  White County Fire Department  volunteers responded to 12 emergency calls over the weekend.

Forest Workshop Meeting Friday And Saturday ( 1/17/12)

(Gainesville) -  The outcome of a groundbreaking effort by the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests to work with trail users to identify and maintain a diverse, quality trail system on the national forest will be unveiled during a weekend of public workshops and meetings beginning  this Friday  at Unicoi State Park north of Helen.

Last year the Forest Service began the Collaborative Trails Initiative, or “CoTrails,” by bringing together trail users to address shared concerns.  The result is a five part strategic plan that the Forest Service and CoTrails volunteers are now ready to start implementing.

Forest Supervisor George Bain says,  “The influence of this effort will be far-reaching, benefitting not just trail users by offering a more satisfying recreation experience, but also by protecting watersheds, improving forest health, and contributing to local and regional economies that depend on forest-related recreation.”    “This collaborative effort has the potential to have a lasting impact on quality of life for generations to come.”

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests receives 2.2 million visitors each year, and   The CoTrails Strategic Plan outlines five objectives that include engaging volunteers, inventorying and assessing existing trails, creating a forest-wide interactive online map of the trail system, and identifying unauthorized trails and opportunities to incorporate new system trails on the national forest.   

The weekend of CoTrails activities begins on Friday, January 20 at 6 p.m. with the CoTrails Strategic Plan launch and general meeting followed by a social hour. This meeting is open to anyone interested in supporting the efforts.

Weekend Fire Investigations Continue ( 1/16/12)

          Chimney Mountain Road Fire                                                     Hamilton Drive Fire

(CLEVELAND)- Two structures fires in White County had  firefighters busy  Friday night and early Saturday morning.  White County  Fire Department  spokeswoman  Ana Newberry said the first blaze was reported around 11:00 p.m. Friday night on Chimney Mountain Road north of Cleveland. Upon arrival, firefighters found a 1500 sq ft structure with heavy flames showing.   Fire Investigator Robi Wilkins says since the home was unoccupied and without power or LP gas, the fire looks suspicious.

Newberry says the second call came in at 6:00 a.m. Saturday to the south side of Cleveland on Hamilton Drive as a 2,000 square foot garage erupted in flames.  Firefighters from Stations 4, 6, City of Cleveland  and the ladies from Lee Arrendale  Institute responded.

Cleveland Fire Chief  Ricky Pruitt said  a couple of the vehicle suffered substantial damage and the building had extensive damage to one end.

Saturday Morning Blaze Damages Shop And Classic Cars ( 1/14/12)

(Cleveland)- Local fire fighters had to battle a blaze in the early morning freezing temperatures Saturday morning south of Cleveland.   Ricky Pruitt, Cleveland Fire Chief said the call came in at 6:19 AM to the Hamilton Place Subdivision off Highway 75 South.   Pruitt said the blaze was in a shop building that contained several antique vehicles. 

According to Pruitt a couple of the vehicle  suffered substantial damage and the approximately  1,000  square foot building had extensive damage to one end.

Pruitt said the owner, Paul Norris was treated at the scene after breathing in some  smoke.  County units from station four, the city of Cleveland and the ladies of  Lee Arrendale Institute responded and   had to contend with water freezing on the ground around the area where they battled the fire.   

The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time.  

Six Sex Offenders Arrested In Compliance Sweep In The County (1/13/12)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s Office reports that six  sex offenders in the  county were arrested earlier this week as part of a organized  sweep of the county by the department and  nine other agencies.  They were  checking all registered sex offenders for compliance with the law.  

White County Sheriff Chief Deputy Bob Ingram said a total of  40 offenders were checked in the roundup on Wednesday, with six individuals taken into custody on various charges.  Ingram identified those arrested as; 34-year old Michael Anthony Ford, 58 –year old Steven Lee Garland, 39-year old Randy Allen Foster, 29-year old Roger Lee Roberts, Jr. , 64-year old Ralph Crosby and 40-year old Michael Gene Sturdivant.  

Ingram said, during the operation  one hand gun, three computers and a small amount of drugs were seized. 

In addition to the sheriff’s office, other agencies participating were the U.S. Marshal Service, U.S. Secret service,  Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Enotah  District Attorney’s Office, Appalachian Drug Task Force,  Pardon and Parole, Department of Corrections,  Probation and North Georgia K-9 Task Force.

Chief Ingram said, “ White County Sheriff’s Office is committed to remain proactive to ensure sex offenders are  in compliance with all requirements and conditions.”

Wilkinson Completes First Week In State Senate ( 1/13/12)

(ATLANTA) State Senator  John Wilkinson of Toccoa has just completed his first week in the 2012 Legislative Session by assisting the Georgia State Senate in the passage of two education bills.  Wilkinson also helped welcome a special guest to the Senate Chamber.   

On Day Two the Senate welcomed Senator Johnny Isakson to the Senate Chamber where he encouraged senators to voice their opinions to him directly.  Senator Wilkinson noted, “It was a pleasure and honor to meet Senator Isakson and I look forward to working with him in the future.”  

Senator John Wilkinson stated.  “My first week at the State Capitol exceeded my expectations and I look forward to continuing to represent the voice of my constituents in District 50.”

Sen. Johnny Isakson and Wilkinson

Countywide Emergency Notification System Tested Monday ( 1/13/12)

(Cleveland)- As White Countians  deal with the affects of a winter weather event with downed trees, power outages and possible road hazards, the  White County Emergency Management Agency is  working to put in place a new county wide emergency phone notification system. 

White County Emergency Management Agency Director David Murphy said, this new system is in addition to existing services.  He said, “ it is a well rounded notification system for our residents, we can utilize it for weather, we can utilize it for hazardous materials events where we have to do evacuations, dam failures, flooding, escape prisoners, crime alerts and things like that, that really needs to get out to the public.”    

Murphy says this new system has the capability to call all landline telephones in the county at one time.  The EMA office will be testing the system on Monday between 6 and 7 PM.  Murphy says, “ When we do the test call to all the residences they will have the option to opt out of the system if they don’t want to be a part of it, if they choose to do that we will follow up with a phone call to explain the system  to them and see if that is really what they want to do.”     

According to Murphy a  couple of hundred people have already  called their office  at 706-865-0911 and added their mobile phone to the list for receiving  the notices.  This new system has been paid for by a federal grant and Murphy says they will continue to work and refine the operation and explore new avenues of service that it  can provides.   

 Weather Related Incidents Keep Fire Department Busy ( 1/12/12)

(Cleveland)- The White County Fire Department were kept busy Wednesday with mostly  weather related calls.  Spokeswoman Ana Newberry said they assisted with 3 medical call,  had two trees on power line calls and three motor vehicle accident calls.  Newberry said they also had an interesting call where a child had  got their head caught between the slats of a chair.  The child was removed successfully without any injury.

White County Fire Department volunteers will be preparing Thursday  for whatever weather that comes our way Thursday night  and Friday morning.  Newberry said they don’t expect much in the way of snow, what they worry about is the ice that could form late night and early tomorrow from the moisture on the roadway.   

December Inspection Scores Released (1/12/12)

(Cleveland)-  The White County Health Department has released December  Food Service and Tourist Accommodation scores.   

FOOD SERVICE:

Sunflower Restaurant (Cleveland):  Score:  92    Grade:  A

12/02/2011.  Multiple containers of food not properly covered in walk-in cooler and freezer (repeat).  Ladles stored in container with dirty standing water in bottom.  Knife rack in need of cleaning.  Tongs stored touching dirty side of fryer.  Bulk storage containers and pan rack in need of cleaning.  Cook line equipment in need of cleaning.

Inspector:  Jarrett

La Cabana Mexican Restaurant:   Score:  94    Grade:  A

12/05/2011.  Label residue left on pan.  Ensure all label residue removed to allow for proper cleaning & sanitizing.  Dried chili container damaged.  No hot water at hand sink in kitchen (repeat).  Floor tiles missing on cook line (repeat).  Replace damaged vent hood filters.

Inspector:  Jarrett

 Huddle House (Cleveland):   Score:  96    Grade:  A

12/06/2011.  Dried food debris left in bowls.  Debris collecting in bottom of plastic container holding metal pan lids.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Subway (Walmart):  Score:  96    Grade:  A

12/07/2011.  Food residue left in cleaned pans.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Sautee Nacoochee Community Assoc:  Score:  96    Grade:  A

12/08/2011.  Debris in large pan and on metal pot lids.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Best Bar & Grill:  Score:  83    Grade:  B

12/08/2011.  Raw eggs, sausage and pork chops stored over ready to eat food items in refrigerator.  Multiple dirty pans and plates stacked with clean plates.  Unlabeled spray bottle.  Person in charge did not know what it contained, discarded voluntarily. 

Inspector:  Jarrett

Road Side Drive Thru:  Score:  98    Grade:  A

12/12/2011.  Wood roller pin cracked, not properly cleanable.  Personal items stored with food.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Subway of Cleveland:   Score:  98    Grade: A

12/12/2011.  Hose attached to mop sink with no vacuum breaker. 

Inspector:  Jarrettt

Huddle House (Helen):   Score:  91    Grade:  A

12/19/2011.  Cook handled raw eggs, bacon and sausage then changed gloves without washing hands.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Dynasty Chinese Restaurant:  Score:  92    Grade:  A

12/20/2011.  Spray bottle of degreaser not labeled.  Working containers must be labeled with common name of product.  Cleaver stored between prep cooler and steam table in between uses (repeat).  No hot water in women’s restroom.

Inspector:  Jarrett

White County Middle School:   Score:  100    Grade:  A

12/28/2011.  Permitting inspection for new facility.  Permit issued.

Inspector:  Sullivan

 TOURIST ACCOMMODATION:

Cabins on the Creek:   Score:  100

12/02/2011.  No violations.

Inspector:  Jarrett

The Lodge at Windy Acres:   Score:  100

12/08/2011.  No violations.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Hilltop Haus:  Score:  100

12/09/2011.  No violations.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Castle Inn:   Score:  98

12/15/2011.  Ice machine for customer use does not automatically dispense ice as required by regulations.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Lion’s Pride Inn & Apartments:    Score:  100

12/15/2011.  No violations.

Inspector:  Jarrett

Riverbend Motel & Cabins:Score:  96

12/19/2011.  Caulk separating from top of shower and mildew starting to form in rooms 121, 132, 126.  Exhaust vent needs cleaning in room 132.  Floor in bathroom separating from subfloor in cabin 1.  Upstairs and downstairs smoke detectors not working in cabin 4.

Inspector:  Jarrett

W.C. Family Promise Looking For More Churches To Help ( 1/11/12)

(Cleveland)- Family Promise of White County, a community group working to develop a program to assist homeless families in White County is seeing some progress.  That was the message shared Tuesday  night at an informational  meeting held at Cleveland First Baptist Church.  It was revealed that there are 250 homeless people in White County this group want to help them get back in a home and working. 

One of the organizers for the group Ana Nix said since their start last April they have made some positive steps, she said, “ They told us that it would be maybe 2 years at opening, we already have half of our congregations signed up and we are well on our way to raise funds to open,  I’m hoping that  means that during 2012 we’ll be able to open the doors. “

Family Promise needs a day center, transportation, funding and volunteers, but  Nix says the most urgent thing they need now is  churches to get involved, they have about half  of what they need now.

The group has set up a website and is attempting get the word out through the news and social media.  For more information check out their website www.familypromiseofwhitecounty.com  or call 706-878-8766.   

NDO To Re-Open Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program ( 1/10/12)

(Cleveland)-  Ninth District Opportunity, Inc. has announced they will be re-opening the Low Income Home Energy Assistance program  to all income eligible households that have not yet applied.  They will start accepting applications on January 23^rd. 

All interested applicants are asked not to call before the 23^rd and no walk-in will be accepted. Beginning at 8:30 AM on the 23^rd you can call 706-865-6220.  

The Georgia Department of Human Services will help pay heating costs.  One time payments will be made by checks issued to the home energy suppliers on behalf of eligible households.  Eligibility  for the program is based e on the income for everyone living in the home. 

Cleveland Police Activity Up In December ( 1/10/12)

(Cleveland)- The Cleveland Police Department had a very active December. Police Chief John Foster reported to the City Council Monday night that the department saw an increase in the number of incident reports and Family Violence calls.  Foster said they had a total of 200 incidents and 24 Family violence calls. 

The police chief said they had 15 field interviews during December, he said that means that officers interview 15 people who were out wondering around the city in the early morning hours and the officers spotted them.

The number of auto accidents were also up  with 29 reported during the month.  

Wild Turkey Federation State Convention And Trade Show  (1/9/12)

(Helen)- The Georgia  Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will hold their  annual State Convention & Trade Show this Friday and Saturday (January 13^th and 14^th)  at  Unicoi State Park Lodge. Events include the Georgia State and Dixie Classic Open calling contest championship. Georgia Top Gun Chapters, D.N.R. and other awards will be presented by the State Chapter.

Wes Dorsey Georgia District Director of National Wild Turkey Federation says Admission to weekend activities is free, tickets are available for the awards banquet.     

Dorsey said this  is an education and  fund raising event which  funds several youth sporting and conservation events and during the year. 

For details http://www.georgianwtf.org/

No Injuries In Saturday Accident ( 1/9/12)

(Cleveland)- Two people escaped injury following a single vehicle accident  Saturday morning around 11 AM on Duncan Bridge Road just east of Hwy 255 South. Ana Newberry White County Fire Department spokeswoman said, the vehicle was travelling west towards Helen when it rounded a curve started to skid across the road then hit a slight embankment flipping the vehicle on its roof. 

Newberry said the two occupants were not injured, the vehicle however; sustain significant damage. The White County Sheriff’s Office investigated the accident.

Also Saturday afternoon a man was injured when he was hit by a tree that he was cutting down on Hellyer Drive, West of Cleveland. According to Newberry the man, who suffered a laceration was taken to the hospital by private vehicle.

WCMS Students Get First Look At New School ( 1/7/12)

(Cleveland)-  It’s back to school for White County Students Monday  after an extended  Christmas –New Years break.  White County Middle School students got a  first peek at their new school on Friday afternoon  as the school held an student open house as  students were able to pick up their class schedule and try to find where there classes will be.

Student  Chandler Mauney said  the new building has a lot of room and she  admitted it’s a little difficult finding her way around, but they will learn it soon.    

Students will begin classes at the new school  Monday  along with the new school facility there will be a new traffic plan for the school you can check out the changes in the route  by clicking the link above.

City And County Officials To Explore Bypass Detour Route Details         (1/6/12)

(Cleveland)- White County Commissioners say they have some concerns about an upcoming construction detour route that the  Georgia Department of Transportation will implement when they  begin construction on the first phase of the Cleveland Bypass.   The commissioners met Thursday  after being contacted by Cleveland officials about concerns they had with the route. 

During Thursday's  meeting  White County Public Works Director Doug Dockery  suggested  to the  commissioners that the detour route  on old  Gainesville Highway at Walmart up to the intersection with US Highway 129  be inspected before the detour begins and after,  and if any damage is done by the extra traffic, someone will need to fix it.  

Commission Chairman Travis Turner said he will be meeting with Cleveland City officials  and  both governments  plan to  explore with the DOT their concern. 

The DOT is expected to implement the detours sometime  in early spring when the work begins on the Bypass  on the south side of Cleveland. 

No Serious Injuries In Duncan Bridge Road Accident ( 1/6/12)

(Cleveland)- The driver of a single vehicle accident early Friday  was not injured.  White County Fire Department spokeswoman said they were dispatched at  1:00AM, to Duncan Bridge Road near Hwy 255 South.

According to Newberry for unknown reasons, the female drive of the  vehicle ran off the highway, taking down a mailbox and striking a tree.  Newberry said, the driver was not injured but quite shaken-up. 

White County Emergency Medical Service was called to the scene but the driver  declined  to be transported to the hospital.  The vehicle sustained significant damage on the drivers side.  

Mt. Yonah Church Embarks On  "The Story"  Bible Reading Program  (1/5/12)

(Cleveland)– The Bible is the best-selling book in history, but how many people in White County  are actually reading it?  A Gallup survey reports the average American household has four Bibles. However, research by Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life  found that only 16 percent of Americans read the Bible every day.

Mt. Yonah Baptist Church, north of Cleveland, is hoping to reverse this trend, starting with its own congregation. Pastor John Yarbrough believes that  the Zondervan best-seller “ The Story” is the right tool to increase Biblical literacy, helping readers understand God’s story from Genesis to Revelation.  

 Pastor Yarbrough said, “We want the folks in our congregation as well as all of  White County to come to a realization of the incredible love of God and discover their story in his story as we go through the Bible. You know I just came aware this evening about one of the things that people have on their bucket list, things they want to do before kicking the bucket is read through the Bible.  Well for the next 31 weeks, as a church, we will go through the whole Bible from Genesis one  through Revelations twenty-two.”  

The Story church campaign is a unique program providing up to 31 weeks of curriculum for children, teen and adult Sunday school classes.  Mt. Yonah plans to begin the new program this Sunday.   Mt. Yonah would like to invite you to experience, The Storey.  

Sunday School for all ages begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Worship celebration starts at 10:45 a.m. For more information, visit the churches website at  www.mtyonahbc.org  or call the  church at 706-865-5044.

WCFD December Activities Report ( 1/5/12)

(Cleveland)- The White County Fire Department reports they had a total of  75 calls during  December.  Fire Department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said during the month the department answered 34 medical calls,  10 motor vehicle accidents, 8 smoke investigations, 5 false alarms, 4 each structure fires, smoke alarms and  explosion investigations, two odor investigations and 1 each equipment  fire, brush fire, illegal burn and juvenile playing with fire.

Cold Temperatures And Light Snow In NE Georgia (1/3/12)

(UNDATED) - Temperatures plunged well below freezing across Georgia Tuesday morning, prompting  several  school districts to close for the day. White County is already out on a delayed opening following the holiday break, because of the new Middle School  opening.

 A high wind advisory and wind chill advisory was in effect during the morning with some wind chills were expected to be below zero. The National Weather Service has  issued a high fire danger advisory for Tuesday  afternoon and evening due to low relative humidity and strong winds.  Relative humidity values of 25 percent or less can be expected.  Several locations reported a light dusting of snow this morning including northern White County, Blairsville, Amicalola Falls, Ellijay and Blue Ridge.

As a high pressure moves over the state during the day the winds will decrease, but forecasters say temperatures are expected as cold or colder Wednesday morning with a hard freeze expected. 

First Baby Of New Year At Habersham Medical Center ( 1/3/12)

(DEMOREST) – The Habersham Medical Center Family Birth Center’s first baby of  2012 was Alex Hayden Wehunt.  Born at 5:20 a.m.  Tuesday.  Alex weighed six pounds, 10 ounces and was 19 1/4 inches long and was delivered by Dr. Katherine Frizzell Bryant. 

Proud parents are Lauren Wehunt and John McConnell of Alto.  Alex received numerous gifts from the Habersham Medical Center Auxiliary and a $50 savings account from Community Bank and Trust.

Low Call Volume During New Year Holiday Weekend ( 1/3/12)

(Cleveland)-  White County fire officials report they were able to enjoy the New Year holiday weekend, because the call volume was way down.  Spokeswoman Ana Newberry said the weekend was almost call free.  Station 5 firefighters did respond to a brush fire on Long Mountain Road at Partridge Drive yesterday around 1:00PM.

She said, "Well, our New Year “holiday” was almost call free."   According to Newberry  Georgia Forestry was called in to plow a break around the blaze and douse the flames with water.  There were no immediate exposures and the fire burned about 2 ½  acres.  How the fire started is unknown.

ABC Board Approves Two Late Renewal Applications (12/31/11)

Another Structure Fire Call ( 12/30/11)

(Cleveland)-  Early  Friday morning  White County firefighters responded to yet another  structure fire call, but  fire department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said when they arrived there was no fire, just smoke.   The call at 4:30 AM was to a home on Cantrell Road in Cleveland near Allison Drive.

 According to Newberry, upon arrival, firefighters found a 1,000 sq ft home with no signs of fire from the outside.  Once inside, they found  light smoke in the residence.  The occupants advised that they awoke to the smell of “something electrical”.  They located the faulty outlet and called 911.  Firefighters turned off the power for that outlet and advised the occupants to contact an electrician before turning on the power to the outlet.

Newberry reported there were no smoke detectors in the home so firefighters installed two before leaving.  She said this family was very fortunate and  strongly advises all  homeowners or renters to have a working detector in your home.  If you need one, you can get one free at the fire department office.  Newberry say, “ there is no excuse for you not to have one, also if you don’t have a 9 volt battery we have those also.  So I don’t want anyone else not having a smoke detector or not operating with batteries.”  You can come by the Fire department office in the lower level of the Allen Mauney Building on the Helen Highway.  

Fire department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said Friday  that fire investigator Robi Wilkins has advised  the cause of the fire Thursday  morning on Asbury Mill Road  was a wiring fault in the wall of the bedroom/bathroom.

Wilkins also advises the fire  in the outbuilding on Phillips Drive earlier this week is unknown, but is believed to have resulted from a power surge.  He said this is based on statements from the homeowner and appliances in the main house being damaged.

Second Structure Fire In Less Than 24-Hours ( 12/29/11)

(Cleveland)- White County firefighters  responded  to a second structure fire in less than 24-hours.  Ana Newberry, fire department spokeswoman said  the fire call came in at 1:00 AM Thursday.   Stations 4,5 and city of Cleveland responded to the blaze in a single wide mobile home on Asbury Mill Road west of Cleveland.

There was a single occupant in the home at the time of the fire who was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center with smoke inhalation.  The patient was treated and released later this morning.  The Red Cross is currently assisting the family.

Fire Investigator Robi Wilkins was called to the scene.  His initial investigation points to  the fire started in a bedroom/bathroom area.  Cause of the fire is under investigation, but it’s deemed not suspicious in nature.  No smoke detectors were noted in the home.

Newberry reminds everyone,  as the colder weather develops and we use our space heaters, fireplaces, etc.,  the fire department urges every homeowner/renter to make sure they have working smoke detectors.  If you need a detector or if yours is more than 10 years old, please come by our office during regular business hours and get one for FREE!!!  Also, always have 2 ways out of your home and PRACTICE an escape plan.

WCSO November Activities Report ( 12/29/11)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s Office has released information  about their  monthly activities during November.  During the month the department received 901 calls.   There  were 55 auto accidents, 18 domestic calls, 140 civil  papers served, 74 subpoenas served. Officers made 137 traffic stops, issuing 95 citations.  

The investigative had these additional cases to investigate 3 deaths, 1 forgery, 2 identity fraud, 3 credit card fraud, 1 child molestation, 1 child abuse, 6 sex offenses,  16 burglaries, 3 criminal damage /trespass calls and two  entering auto cases.  A total of 93 arrest were made during the  month. 

Large Outbuilding Destroyed By Fire (12/28/11)

(Cleveland)- White County fire fighters responded to a structure fire west of Cleveland  early Wednesday in Peaceful Valley area.  Ana Newberry fire department spokeswoman said they were dispatched at 8:00 AM  to Phillips  Drive  to a blaze in a large 2,000 square foot out building. 

Newberry said the building was far enough away from the residence that it didn’t pose any danger.   The building did have  some antique cars and pool chemicals in it.   No one was injured in the blaze. 

Newberry noted that  the building did have a wood stove in it, but they don’t believe that that was the cause of the fire. 

Fire investigator Robi Wilkins investigated the fire he determined it was not suspicious and presently undetermined. The building and its contents sustained heavy smoke and fire damage.

Spangler Named Interim Chamber President ( 12/28/11)

(Cleveland)- The White County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced that Russ Spangler, of Sautee has been selected as interim chamber  president. He will fill the position part time replacing Judy Walker who announced last month her retirement.   Spangler  begins his work next week. 

Holly Hunt, Chamber board chair said, “ we are excited and grateful that Russ has agreed to do this for us, as it will allow us adequate time to determine our next president.

John Erbele, a member of the chamber president search committee said, "Russ has stepped in and helped the White County Chamber before under very similar circumstances. Russ is knowledgeable and friendly and knows this community.” Spangler has served as interim president  for the White County Chamber three times in the past.

Explosion Calls Keep Officials Busy ( 12/28/11)

(Cleveland)- Local officials have been kept busy since Christmas, because  apparently Santa Clause brought someone, what officials say are Exploding Targets.  Law enforcement and fire department volunteers have responded to several calls since Sunday where neighbors report a loud explosion. 

 White County Fire Department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said,  They are a binary explosive that is composed of two chemical compounds, Ammonium Nitrate and Flash Aluminum. The Ammonium Nitrate what provides the explosive charge power. The Flash Aluminum is known as a sensitizer, it is what allows the Ammonium Nitrate to combust.

Both White County  Fire Department and White County Sheriff’s Office report  All this is completely LEGAL and can be purchased locally. Newberry says,  It does, however, keep us in Public Safety busy.

Over 500 Participate in Community Christmas Dinner ( 12/27/11)

(Cleveland)- Organizers of this years  annual  Community Christmas Dinner report over 500 were fed and several hundred children received Christmas presents, clothes and house ware items were distributed for those in need  as well. 

The event was held at the White County Agri-Science Center north of Cleveland.  Spokesperson Lafaye Murphy said, an additional 120 plates were delivered to people who were not able to get out of their home to attend.

Officials Report Uneventful  Holiday Weekend ( 12/27/11)

(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s office and White County Fire Department both report a relatively quiet holiday weekend.  Sheriff’s Department spokesman Captain Jim Couch said, only a couple of accidents and a few other calls, nothing major.  

Ana Newberry, White County Fire Department spokeswoman said,  “ we were pretty blessed over the weekend with no major incidents, one auto accident and several medical assist calls.” 

Most  White County employees had a long holiday weekend from  Friday through Monday. 

Unemployment Rate In White County Down A Bit In November  (12/22/11)

(Atlanta)-White County’s unemployment rate has slipped to 8-point 9 percent in November, the rate was 9-point 4 percent in October.  State Labor Commissioner Mark Butler says the unemployment rate in the county last year at this time was 9-point 8 percent. 

The labor force in November was 12,708 of those 11,571 had jobs and 1,137 were unemployed. 

The unemployment rate for the  Northeast Georgia Mountain area was 9-point 3  percent.  

2011 Allied Health Pinning Ceremony Held  ( 12/22/11)

(Clarkesville)- At special ceremonies on both the Blairsville and Clarkesville campuses, North Georgia Technical College students from the Allied Health programs were recognized for academic achievements.

The Fall Allied Health Pinning Ceremony was attended by family, friends, faculty and staff, filling the room with an atmosphere of pride and accomplishment.Each student was called individually and proudly pinned either by family members or by the instructor. 

Among those recognized was  Pharmacy Technology student Robert Ellison of Cleveland.  He  is employed at Northeast Veterinary Hospital in Cornelia.  He is enjoying exploring the veterinary side of medicine. 

Robert was pinned by his lovely wife Starla of 11 years. 

White County Man Wins Big Lottery Prize ( 12/21/11)

(ATLANTA) – A White County man can expand his holiday shopping plans since winning a prize from the Georgia Lottery.  Daniel Barry of Cleveland won a $125,000 prize playing KENO! from a November  23^rd  drawing.  

The 59-year old Barry   played one 10-spot game, selecting the multiplier that led to his top prize win.  He claimed his winnings recently at the Georgia Lottery District Office in Duluth. He told lottery officials, “I had a lucky feeling, I  just felt like it was going to happen.” 

Kountry Kupboard,  on  West Kytle Street  sold the winning numbers.

One Injured In Tuesday Afternoon Wreck ( 12/21/11)

(Cleveland)- One person was injured in a single vehicle accident Tuesday afternoon north of Cleveland on Antioch Church Road. Fire Department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said headquarters staff and volunteers from station 6 were dispatched.

According to Newberry, when they arrived they found a car that had left the roadway and had flipped approximately five times landing on its roof.  The driver was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center, by White County Emergency Medical Service Ambulance, with what Newberry described as non-life threatening injuries.

Newberry noted the roadway was slick and it was drizzling at the time of the call, which could have contributed to the accident.

Commissioners Approve  New Voting District Maps ( 12/20/11)

 Chairman Travis Turner points out map changes

(Cleveland)- Following a public hearing  Monday on new district voting maps for White County Commissioners and Board of Education the board of commissioners voted to approve a resolution adopting the new district maps  that reflect 2010 census figures and will be asking the general assembly to approve the same.  

The new district maps, which involve  two minor changes and affects around 250  must also be approved by the White County Board of Education. 

John  Erbele Recognized By Commissioners ( 12/20/11)

(Cleveland)- The White County Commissioners took time at the beginning of a called meeting yesterday to salute and recognize  local resident and community leader John Erbly, the General Manager of Smithgall Woods  Conservation Area,  for his contribution to the community.  The commissioners approved a proclamation designating a day in Erbly’s honor. 

The commissioners also approved  Kim Westmoreland  of Cleveland to serve on the White County Library Board.

The commissioners, after a lengthy discussion about the size of the proposed building, approved funding up to $7,000 for architect  George Hlavenka to design a fire department station/ headquarters building to be located on Asbestos  Road.  The commissioners made it clear they were not approving funds for the construction just the design fees. 

Two Injured In Saturday Wreck ( 12/19/11)

(Cleveland)- Two people were injured Saturday morning around 9:45 AM when their vehicle ran off the road and overturned. 

White County Fire Department spokesperson Terry Sosebee said, the vehicle was traveling on Post Road south of Cleveland when the driver lost control and ran off the road in the area of Allen Anderson Road.  The vehicle flipped on its top. 

According to Sosebee the female driver and a female passenger were both transported to the hospital with non life threatening injuries. 

Cleveland Police Recognizes Officers ( 12/19/11)

     Officer 1st class Seth Dyer, Corporal William Dorsey                         Officer 1st class Evie Barrera

(Cleveland)- The Cleveland Police Department has recognized the special achievement of some of their officers at their  recent  Christmas Dinner.   Cleveland Police Chief John  Foster said, officer first class Evie Barrera was named the Police Officer of the Year,  in voting by her fellow officers.

 Foster said in presenting her with the award,  Barrera has performed her duties, assisted other officers, and has shown extraordinary commitment to the policing profession and the citizens of Cleveland. Through her relentless dedication to duty, she has repeatedly exhibited courage and compassion when faced with the challenges of her daily activity.

Officer first class  Seth Dyer was awarded the Medal of Merit, Dyer performed acts of exceptional bravery after responding to a call of shots fired on May 26^th  2011. Foster said,  Dyer made significant, outstanding, and sustained achievements contributing to effectiveness and out come of the incident. Chief  Foster said he acted with professional skill and judgment.

Corporal William Dorsey was presented with the Metal of Valor.  According to Foster, On the night of  May 26^th  2011, Corporal William Dorsey performed an act of exceptional bravery after responding to a call of shots fired. Corporal Dorsey entered and physically removed one wounded victim and assisted a second victim to safety while under gunfire.  Foster said, Corporal Dorsey’s actions were above and beyond the call of duty with the awareness of the possibility that his actions could result in great bodily harm or death to himself.

 Friends Wish Walker Good Luck In Retirement ( 12/16/11)

                                                                                     Vicky Frankum Chamber Executive Assistant and Judy Walker

(Cleveland)- A large number of friends turned out Friday to wish White County Chamber of Commerce President Judy Walker good luck in  her retirement.  Walker announced last month that she was retiring to spend time with her family, which includes a  forthcoming new grandchild.  Walker has served as chamber president for nine years.   

Following  her announced retirement  Josh Kinsey, Chamber Chairman Elect said a  search committee  made up of  10 community leaders.. five of  those are from the Executive Committee. The other five are made up of various community leaders, primary elected county and city officials would work to find a replacement. The chamber board is expected to announce an interim president around the first of the year, as they continue their search  for permanent replacement.     

Walker tried to hold back tears as people shared with her memories of the past years and said she appreciated  the friendship and help  from everyone.  

New Middle School Ready After Christmas Break ( 12/16/11)

(Cleveland)- White County Middle School  7^th  and  8^th   grade students will have a nice Christmas present awaiting them when they return from the Christmas break on January 9^th.  The new  middle school building  will be ready for classes by then. 

Principal Dr.  Kristi Smith  said they have been able to do some things this week in preparation and she tells us what’s next “ on January 6^th there will be an open house from 1:30 -3:30 PM  for all of our students they will have an opportunity to pick up their schedules, to do a self tour of the school and to look at the new facilities.”   

With  the opening of the new school facility there will be a new traffic  flow pattern and Dr. Smith says parents need to pay close attention to the new route they have developed along with the assistance of  Cleveland Police Chief John Foster.  There will be different patterns for morning and afternoon.  The traffic flow diagram will be posted on the schools website and we expect to have that posted on our webpage as well.  

The new school will only be open to the 7^th and 8^th grade students for the remainder of this year beginning with the fall 2012 school  year the 6^th grade students will be attending classes at the new school. 

First Reading  Of 2012-13 School Year Calendar ( 12/16/11)

The Board of Education had the first reading of the proposed 2012-13 school calendar at Thursday's meeting.   Superintendent Dr. Jeff Wilson said  there are just a few minor chances over last year, adding in a couple of teacher in service days and the placement of weather related make-up days. 

The Board of Education welcomes comments on the new calendar.  It will be posted on the school website. 

White County Recognizes Employees For  Years Of Service ( 12/16/11)

(Cleveland)- White County held their Christmas luncheon on Wednesday at the White County Park YMCA  gym  and during the luncheon several people were recognized for their service to the county. 

back row L - R:  Wayne Hulsey, Chris Ernst, Ben Couch, Chad Dorsey, Sue Pickel, Leigh Standley

Front row L - R: Tom O'Bryant, Jeanette Deyton, Seth Herrin, Janice Nix

Twelve employees were recognized for  five years of service to the county. Andrew Burbage – Sheriff’s Office, Ben Couch – Drug Task Force, Jeanette Deyton – Assessors Office, Chad Dorsey – Sheriff’s Office, Chris Ernst – GIS, James Harper – Sheriff’s Office, Seth Herrin – Maintenance, Wayne Hulsey – Road Department, Janice Nix – Building Inspections, Thomas O’Bryant – Community and Economic Development,  Susan Pickel – Finance, Leigh Standley – Clerk of Court.   

Eight people received recognition for 10 years of service Jason Davis – Sheriff’s Office, Katherine Forrester – 911, Sharron Garrett – Sheriff’s Office, Lee Johnson – Assessor’s Office, Vicki Mays – Finance, Jennifer Saxon – Assessor’s Office, Shelia Simmons – Maintenance Department, Robyn Still – Sheriff’s Office.

Four people  Greg Burdine- Detention Center, Jim Couch-Sheriff’s office, Bryan Payne- Assessors Office  and  Daren Welborn- Sheriff’s Office  were recognized for 15 years .

Glenda Hunt- Library received 20 year recognition.  

 Sherrill Dockery-Soil Conservation and Harry Baron- Planning   were recognized for 30 years of service to the county. 

The White County Commissioners recognized County Manager Carol Jackson for her service to  the  county and presented her with a gift basket. 

Fire Destroys Camper At Mtn. Lakes ( 12/15/11)

(Cleveland)- A fire late Wednesday  night destroyed a camper in the Mountain Lakes Community. Fire department spokeswoman Ana Newberry said  The call came in from a neighbor who was awaken by the smell of smoke and called 911 for a smoke investigation.  Upon arrival of the first units, a camper was fully involved with fire. 

According to Newberry, the residents were at home at the time and were able to get out safely; they were treated by White County Emergency Medical Service  on scene for minor smoke inhalation.  It is unknown whether the camper was equipped with smoke alarms.

Firefighters from Station 6 with automatic  aid from the city of Helen and Cleveland responded.

Fire Investigator - Robi Wilkins was called to the scene and is currently investigating the fire.

The Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the owners.  No other injuries were reported. 

Sheriff's Department Investigating Shooting ( 12/15/11)

City Officials Take The Oath Of Office ( 12/14/11)

(Cleveland)- Cleveland Mayor Donald Stanley and Council members Annie Sutton and Rush  Mauney have  the oath office and loyalty oath. The three who were re-elected  to office in November  took  the oaths administered by Probate Judge Garrison Baker prior to Monday’s  city council meeting. 

 Stanley serves as city mayor  and Mauney Ward 1 and Sutton Ward  2 council.   

One Injured When Two Cars Collide At Walmart ( 12/14/11)

(Cleveland)- One person was taken to the hospital following a two vehicle accident at  Wal-mart in Cleveland.  Cleveland Fire Chief Ricky Pruitt said the accident occurred at the tire and lube side of the store. 

According to Pruitt it appears the accelerator on one of the vehicles became stuck and it struck another vehicle in the side causing it to spin around.  One person was transported to the hospital to be check out.  

Cleveland Council Appoints Alcohol Review Board ( 12/13/11)

(Cleveland)-The city of Cleveland is getting  closer to issuing  beer and wine license  to businesses in the city.  The council heard during the meeting Monday  night that the application process has started and at least  three businesses have  picked up applications forms.   During the Monday  night meeting  the city council agreed to the appointment of three people to serve on the alcohol review board.   The council  named Bea Chambers, Kevin Stanley and John Burrows to that board.  

Cleveland Council Recognizes Outstanding Citizens ( 12/13/11)

      Kevin Wren, Bob Sands, Mayor Don Stanley,                               Mayor Stanley and Judy Walker

      and police Chief John Foster

(CLEVELAND) – Two White County men were honored Monday  night for their efforts  in helping apprehending an armed robbery suspect  back in  May.  Robert “ Bob”  Sands and Kevin Wren were recognized at the Cleveland City council  meeting. 

Cleveland Police Chief John Foster said, “ these two gentlemen were instrumental in assisting the police department  with the armed robbery that occurred at the Kountry Kupboard  on West Kytle Street. They observed the individual notified law enforcement kept him in visual contact until law enforcement  got there, which made it very easy for us to make the apprehension.  The two men were presented with certifications of appreciation for going above and beyond the call duty to assist police. 

The Cleveland Council also gave special recognition to White County Chamber of Commerce President Judy Walker, who is stepping down after  nine years of service at that post.   The mayor and city council presented Walker with a plaque and expressed their appreciation for  her service to the community and city of Cleveland. 

Active Weekend For W.C. Fire Department ( 12/12/11)

          Highway 115 East accident                    Webster  Lake Rd. Accident

(Cleveland)- It was an active Saturday for White County Fire Department.  Spokeswoman  Ana Newberry said, at 3:00 PM they were dispatched to a single vehicle accident on highway 115 east of Cleveland near the Cottage House Restaurant. The vehicle had veered off the road, down an embankment just miss hitting a tree. The driver was not injured, but the vehicle an SUV received extensive right side damage.

Later around 10:30 PM on Webster Lake Road near Possum Trot Road, a two vehicle head-on crash occurred.  Newberry said  two occupants in each vehicle were transported to the hospital for treatment. 

According to Newberry none of the injuries were lift threatening.  Traffic on Webster Lake Rd was  restricted to one lane due to widespread debris from the vehicles. 

Habersham EMC  Seeks Washington Youth Tour Applicants ( 12/12/11)

(Clarkesville)- Habersham EMC is seeking applicants for the 2012 all-expense paid Washington  Youth Tour. Each year two rising high school seniors are selected for this unique learning experience.  Each year, the  youth tour allows delegates to experience national monuments—the Jefferson, Lincoln and FDR memorials, among others—and reflect on the words of leaders who helped make America great. In addition they are provided with  opportunities for leadership development and inspiring students to become strong, motivated leaders within their communities—and their nation.

The 2012  tour  will be June 14^th -21^st.  To qualify, applicants must be a high school junior at least 16 years of age and the primary residence of  parents or guardians must be in the HEMC service area of Habersham, Hall, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens and White counties.

To enter, students may download an entry form from the HEMC website, visit your school counselor’s office for a form; or pick up an

2011 delegates  Allison Fortner and John Thomas Justus,

both of Cleveland.

entry form from the HEMC office in Clarkesville or Cleveland. Completed forms must be returned to HEMC by February 3, 2012.

(Dahl