By Taelor Rye
At the most recent meeting of the Dodge County Board of Education on Thursday, April 14, Dodge County Superintendent Dr. Melinda Dennis announced her retirement, which the board approved, effective June 30.
In a letter to Dodge County Board of Education employees, Dennis outlined her decision and plan for the remaining two and a half months of her contract.
Dennis wrote, “When I was selected as Superintendent of Dodge County Schools, I stated that it was my desire to retire here. That time has come.”
Praising employees for their hard work during her time as superintendent, Dennis continued, “Before my final days as superintendent, we still have some major tasks to accomplish: updating our Strategic Plan, renewing our E-SPLOST, completing the FY17 budgeting process, beginning the renovations at both elementary schools, celebrating the accomplishments of our present students, planning for next year, and graduating the Class of 2016.”
In closing, Dennis stated, “I challenge you to continue doing the right thing because it’s the right thing to do, fighting the good fight on behalf of students, and expecting excellence from yourself and all those around you. Serving with you and working on behalf of the Dodge County Schools and this community has truly been one of my life’s highest honors.”
At an earlier meeting on March 21, the board also approved the resignation of Angie Pritchett, a former math teacher at Dodge County High School (DCHS). At the same meeting, board members moved to advertise the now empty position as well as to provide other math teachers covering Pritchett’s classes with extended day pay until the end of the year.
At the March 24 called meeting, the board approved Kristi Brewer’s resignation as DCHS history teacher, again approving to advertise the position for the upcoming school year. Additionally, the board approved a leave request from Ashley Dixon, an employee at Dodge County Middle School (DCMS).
Further personnel actions followed the approval of Dennis’s retirement at the April 14 meeting. Specifically, the board approved the resignations of Cassandra Hamilton as DCHS softball coach, Lorine Mosely – who works with maintenance – and Shawn White, a teacher at South Dodge Elementary School (SDES). Joan Maddox was granted a leave of absence.
White was approved as a DCHS math teacher, and Hamilton was approved as the head coach for girls basketball at DCHS.
Further, JD Carter was approved to be the DCHS head wrestling coach, and Meghan McCranie was approved as the assistant coach for DCHS softball; Jerry Thomas was approved as a bus driver.
In addition, Amy Barron and Amanda Dupree were approved as new teachers at North Dodge Elementary School (NDES), and Kenneth Cofer was approved to teach health and physical education at NDES.
[Full Story »]
Top Stories
Eastman to celebrate Georgia Cities Week
City of Eastman officials announced the city will be celebrating “Georgia Cities Week” April 17-23. The city will be holding a variety of events throughout the week, including: A State of the City meeting, “Business after Hours” and a Council Work Session. The theme of this year’s Georgia Cities Week is “Go to Town,” showing the importance of a central gathering place for people and communities.
This is the 17th year Georgia Cities Week has been celebrated in the state and the third year the City of Eastman has participated.
“We’re very proud of our city and the services we provide that make it attractive to residents and visitors,” said city manager Jason Cobb. “Cities provide the services and infrastructure to help businesses grow, and set the stage for events where families and individuals can gather as a community.”
Events planned for the week are: State of the City, Monday, April 18, 2016, 6:30 pm at Magnolia Theatre; Business after Hours, Tuesday, April 19, 2016, 6:00 pm at Roy’s, 234 Main Street and council work session, Thursday, April 21, 2016, 3:30 pm at Dodge County High School.
Cities across Georgia will be celebrating Georgia Cities Week, sponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), to showcase and celebrate cities and the many services they provide. Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 521 member cities.
This is the 17th year Georgia Cities Week has been celebrated in the state and the third year the City of Eastman has participated.
“We’re very proud of our city and the services we provide that make it attractive to residents and visitors,” said city manager Jason Cobb. “Cities provide the services and infrastructure to help businesses grow, and set the stage for events where families and individuals can gather as a community.”
Events planned for the week are: State of the City, Monday, April 18, 2016, 6:30 pm at Magnolia Theatre; Business after Hours, Tuesday, April 19, 2016, 6:00 pm at Roy’s, 234 Main Street and council work session, Thursday, April 21, 2016, 3:30 pm at Dodge County High School.
Cities across Georgia will be celebrating Georgia Cities Week, sponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), to showcase and celebrate cities and the many services they provide. Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 521 member cities.
Fire destroys home
Fire completely destroyed a singlewide mobile home on Saturday, April 2 at approximately 4:10 p.m. The trailer was owned and occupied by Mary Oxley. The trailer was a total loss. The trailer was located at 366 Bill Hambrick Road. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. No one was at home at the time of the fire.
Williamson named grand marshal of Pondtown parade
Outstanding members of the community deserve recognition for their contributions to the community. The Pondtown Festival committee is pleased to announced that Sybil Williamson will be the grand marshal of the 2016 Pondtown Festival Parade. “Williamson’s many years of dedicated service to the Rhine community make her more than worthy of this honor,” says Jennifer White, a member of the Pondtown Festival Committee.
“It’s really an honor,” says Williamson, “I love Rhine, it’s my hometown. I moved here in the fourth grade, and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else; Rhine is my Mayberry.”
Williamson “loves the festival. It is good for the town for people to come and see it. I am really excited for all of the festivities that the festival brings. It also brings back people to Rhine that haven’t been in a while, and it brings new people into the community as well.” Williamson says.
Williamson is the widow of Lynn Williamson. The couple were married for 34 years before he passed away in October of 2015. They began the tradition of the Rhine Christmas Parade. Williamson fought cancer in 2015 and early 2016, but is now happy to be able to say that she is cancer free.
Williamson is a devout member of Rhine Baptist Church, and has worked at the Rhine branch of CB&T since 1998. Williamson has two dogs, Coco and Fancy. She enjoys reading, connecting with people on Facebook, and completing word searches.
The Pondtown Festival will be held this Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. with lineup at 1:00 p.m. at the old school. Buddy Jewell will perform beginning at 8:00 p.m.
“It’s really an honor,” says Williamson, “I love Rhine, it’s my hometown. I moved here in the fourth grade, and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else; Rhine is my Mayberry.”
Williamson “loves the festival. It is good for the town for people to come and see it. I am really excited for all of the festivities that the festival brings. It also brings back people to Rhine that haven’t been in a while, and it brings new people into the community as well.” Williamson says.
Williamson is the widow of Lynn Williamson. The couple were married for 34 years before he passed away in October of 2015. They began the tradition of the Rhine Christmas Parade. Williamson fought cancer in 2015 and early 2016, but is now happy to be able to say that she is cancer free.
Williamson is a devout member of Rhine Baptist Church, and has worked at the Rhine branch of CB&T since 1998. Williamson has two dogs, Coco and Fancy. She enjoys reading, connecting with people on Facebook, and completing word searches.
The Pondtown Festival will be held this Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. with lineup at 1:00 p.m. at the old school. Buddy Jewell will perform beginning at 8:00 p.m.
Candidates report signs taken
With the election season under way in Dodge County, many candidates will be advertising their candidacy with signs placed in different locations throughout the county and on personal vehicles.
Recently, several reports have been filed that signs from private property and on personal vehicles have been stolen. Sheriff Lynn Sheffield reminds citizens that it is illegal to remove candidate signs from private property or from a vehicle without the owners’ consent. If a citizen is caught removing those signs from private property, they can be charged with theft by taking and/or criminal trespass and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
In other news from the sheriff’s department, Daniel Gaultney, age 24, of Cochran was charged with financial transaction card fraud.
Brenton Antwan Gibson, age 32, of Chester was charged with pedestrian under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Denis Osmary Guerrero Flores, age 25, of Bowlinggreen, KY, was charged with knowingly driving motor vehicle on suspended, canceled, or revoked registration expired or no drivers license.
James Thomas Manus, age 41 of McRae was charged with probation violation.
Brian Lee Miller, age 41, of Eastman was charged with parole violation.
Devonte Miller, age 24, of Loganville, GA, was charged with expired or no drivers license.
Tammy Pirkle, age 50, of Eastman was charged with entering automobile or other motor vehicle with intent to commit theft or felony and burglary- 1st degree (felony).
Rivero Sara Ramirez, age 52, of Hawkinsville was charged with driving without a valid license (felony) (fourth or subsequent offense).
Robert Kyle Rowland, age 40, of Eastman was charged with simple assault- family violence.
Socorro Sanchez, age 36, of Eastman was charged with DUI- driving under the influence of alcohol, expired or no drivers license, and failure to maintain lane.
Latred Gregory Spikes, age 23, of Eastman was charged with affray (fighting) and possession of marijuana less than an ounce.
Recently, several reports have been filed that signs from private property and on personal vehicles have been stolen. Sheriff Lynn Sheffield reminds citizens that it is illegal to remove candidate signs from private property or from a vehicle without the owners’ consent. If a citizen is caught removing those signs from private property, they can be charged with theft by taking and/or criminal trespass and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
In other news from the sheriff’s department, Daniel Gaultney, age 24, of Cochran was charged with financial transaction card fraud.
Brenton Antwan Gibson, age 32, of Chester was charged with pedestrian under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Denis Osmary Guerrero Flores, age 25, of Bowlinggreen, KY, was charged with knowingly driving motor vehicle on suspended, canceled, or revoked registration expired or no drivers license.
James Thomas Manus, age 41 of McRae was charged with probation violation.
Brian Lee Miller, age 41, of Eastman was charged with parole violation.
Devonte Miller, age 24, of Loganville, GA, was charged with expired or no drivers license.
Tammy Pirkle, age 50, of Eastman was charged with entering automobile or other motor vehicle with intent to commit theft or felony and burglary- 1st degree (felony).
Rivero Sara Ramirez, age 52, of Hawkinsville was charged with driving without a valid license (felony) (fourth or subsequent offense).
Robert Kyle Rowland, age 40, of Eastman was charged with simple assault- family violence.
Socorro Sanchez, age 36, of Eastman was charged with DUI- driving under the influence of alcohol, expired or no drivers license, and failure to maintain lane.
Latred Gregory Spikes, age 23, of Eastman was charged with affray (fighting) and possession of marijuana less than an ounce.
Farmer’s Market Successful
The inaugural Dodge County Farmer’s Market was held on Saturday, April 2 on the Dodge County Courthouse grounds. The market was a huge success. Sharon Cobb Flanagan, of the Dodge County Farmer’s Market Development Authority, said that several vendors sold out early and left, and the Future Farmers of America had to make roughly six trips back to the greenhouse to restock plants that they were selling at the farmer’s market. In all, over 500 people were estimated to have attended the opening day of the farmer’s market. The open-air market will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Saturday from April 2, 2016, to December 17, 2016 on the Dodge County Courthouse grounds, except in cases of severe weather.
Eastman man shot in leg
Officers were called to shots fired on Cooper Avenue on Sunday, April 3, 2016 at approximately 10:20 p.m. Upon arrival on Cooper Avenue, officers found evidence there had been shots fired.
At this time 911 notified the Eastman Police Department that a subject came into the Dodge County Hospital Emergency Room with a gunshot wound to the leg.
According to the victim, Thomas Luke Taylor, age 20, of Eastman, he was on Cooper Avenue when he was stopped by a subject in the street. The subject told him to hand over his money and the keys to his truck. When Taylor refused, he was shot in the leg by the subject. Taylor then drove himself to the hospital.
He was later transferred to a hospital in Macon.
In other news from the police department, Tammy Pirkle, age 50, 958 McRae Highway of Eastman was charged with entering auto with intent to commit theft.
Jimmy Hayes, age 29, of 525 Plaza Drive Apt. H-47 in Eastman was charged with financial transaction card theft.
Eldon Little, age 35, of 5016 Page Street in Eastman was charged with possession of ounce or less of marijuana and drugs to be kept in original container.
April McTier, age 23, of 5016 Page Street in Eastman was charged with possession of ounce or less of marijuana and drugs to be kept in original container.
Sherri Purvis, age 50, of 1248 Friendship UMC Road in Eastman was charged with driving while license suspended/revoked and no insurance.
Angela Mullis, age 42, of 5210 Clay Street in Eastman was charged with driving while license suspended/revoked.
Jacraig Stanley, age 23, of 96 Sage Circle in Eastman was charged with theft by receiving stolen property less than $500 value and driving while unlicensed or expired/new resident.
Curtis Rushing, age 22, of 126 3rd Street in Rhine was charged with theft by receiving stolen property less than $500 value, marijuana possession less than 1 ounce, and open container violation.
Barry Dennis, age 23, of Eastside CT Drive, Apt 57 in Eastman was charged with public drunkenness.
A juvenile, age 15, of 5823 Dorough Street in Eastman was charged with unruly, battery (family violence), cruelty to children in third degree, criminal trespass-private, and littering.
At this time 911 notified the Eastman Police Department that a subject came into the Dodge County Hospital Emergency Room with a gunshot wound to the leg.
According to the victim, Thomas Luke Taylor, age 20, of Eastman, he was on Cooper Avenue when he was stopped by a subject in the street. The subject told him to hand over his money and the keys to his truck. When Taylor refused, he was shot in the leg by the subject. Taylor then drove himself to the hospital.
He was later transferred to a hospital in Macon.
In other news from the police department, Tammy Pirkle, age 50, 958 McRae Highway of Eastman was charged with entering auto with intent to commit theft.
Jimmy Hayes, age 29, of 525 Plaza Drive Apt. H-47 in Eastman was charged with financial transaction card theft.
Eldon Little, age 35, of 5016 Page Street in Eastman was charged with possession of ounce or less of marijuana and drugs to be kept in original container.
April McTier, age 23, of 5016 Page Street in Eastman was charged with possession of ounce or less of marijuana and drugs to be kept in original container.
Sherri Purvis, age 50, of 1248 Friendship UMC Road in Eastman was charged with driving while license suspended/revoked and no insurance.
Angela Mullis, age 42, of 5210 Clay Street in Eastman was charged with driving while license suspended/revoked.
Jacraig Stanley, age 23, of 96 Sage Circle in Eastman was charged with theft by receiving stolen property less than $500 value and driving while unlicensed or expired/new resident.
Curtis Rushing, age 22, of 126 3rd Street in Rhine was charged with theft by receiving stolen property less than $500 value, marijuana possession less than 1 ounce, and open container violation.
Barry Dennis, age 23, of Eastside CT Drive, Apt 57 in Eastman was charged with public drunkenness.
A juvenile, age 15, of 5823 Dorough Street in Eastman was charged with unruly, battery (family violence), cruelty to children in third degree, criminal trespass-private, and littering.
Oconee Judicial Circuit planning a drug court
By Taelor Rye
Senior Superior Court Judge H. Frederick Mullis, Jr., visited the Dodge County Board of Commissioners at its April 4 meeting to provide contextual information regarding the use of the Drug Abuse Treatment and Education (DATE) fund for the impending area drug court.
The DATE Fund, or the drug fund, was discussed at the board’s last meeting, and Mullis sought to clarify the fund’s intention.
Mullis stated that the Oconee Judicial Circuit is “on the verge of establishing a drug court,” one of the last circuits in the state to do so; he added that rural circuits have generally been more reluctant.
Mullis also said that the local money required to support such a court has been here all along and is not taxpayer money but rather money from the DATE fund, set aside by the governor for local input.
Mullis provided board members with information regarding a skeleton budget for the upcoming drug court – “a type of alternative treatment rather than sending someone who’s accused of a drug crime to court. The governor’s interest is to keep people out of prison. Prison’s no place to rehab drug offenders. I know that; everyone knows that.”
The proposal of this budget contracts with the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia (formerly the Community Mental Health Center of Middle Georgia) in Dublin, who will “provide the testing, the counseling… We want to use a combination of mental health and drug court for drug offenses and those offenses that involve mental health. There’s a good bit of crossover there,” he added.
The local share required of the county is approximately 10 percent, with the rest funded strictly by grant money. Anticipated costs range between $175,000.00 and $190,000.00. The local share is designated under Georgia Code § 15-21-101, which states, “Moneys collected pursuant to this article and placed in the “County Drug Abuse Treatment and Education Fund” shall be expended by the governing authority of the county for which the fund is established solely and exclusively for drug abuse treatment and education programs relating to controlled substances and marijuana.”
A resolution similar to the one that Mullis presented the board with was also presented to Telfair County, where – Mullis stated – a previous sheriff used drug fund money to “pay for the sheriff’s toys. That was clearly not what was anticipated for the drug fund.” Upon adoption, Telfair’s DATE fund is well into six figures, Mullis relayed.
The resolution allows the court to have an equal say-so on how the DATE funds are therefore spent. Specifically, the text of the resolution states “that any person or entity who desires that the Dodge County Board of Commissioners expend monies from the Drug Fund must obtain an Order from the Chief Judge of the Dodge Superior Court directing the board of commissioners to make such disbursements.”
County attorney John Harrington added that it is better for the county to pay any required fees from the drug fund rather than from general funds, which come from taxpayers rather than “moneys arising from fines and forfeited bonds,” as Georgia Code states.
The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.
Sharon Cobb Flanagan of the Dodge County Farmer’s Market Development Authority revisited the board to restate the farmer’s market’s purpose, which she stated to be among the following items: to provide fun for family on a recurring basis, to provide local farmers a venue wherein to sell products that they grow, to allow craftsmen and cottage food suppliers to sell their products as well, and to provide regular entertainment, among other reasons. Every objective was proven successful at the inaugural farmer’s market on Saturday, April 2, Flanagan stated.
The measure of success is graded not only by word of mouth from those who attended and regulated the event but also by the fact that several vendors sold out early and left, Flanagan said. In fact, the Future Farmers of America had to make roughly six trips back to the greenhouse to restock plants that they were selling at the farmer’s market.
Additionally, Flanagan relayed that craft vendors typically stated that their sales were better at the farmer’s market than at many other venues and that the meat vendor reported sales to be better than expected.
All in all, over 500 people were estimated to have attended the opening day of the farmer’s market, even with the irregular rain patterns of the day.
Lastly, Flanagan formally requested county funding for the farmer’s market. The board moved to provide sponsorship at $1,000.00. [Full Story »]
Senior Superior Court Judge H. Frederick Mullis, Jr., visited the Dodge County Board of Commissioners at its April 4 meeting to provide contextual information regarding the use of the Drug Abuse Treatment and Education (DATE) fund for the impending area drug court.
The DATE Fund, or the drug fund, was discussed at the board’s last meeting, and Mullis sought to clarify the fund’s intention.
Mullis stated that the Oconee Judicial Circuit is “on the verge of establishing a drug court,” one of the last circuits in the state to do so; he added that rural circuits have generally been more reluctant.
Mullis also said that the local money required to support such a court has been here all along and is not taxpayer money but rather money from the DATE fund, set aside by the governor for local input.
Mullis provided board members with information regarding a skeleton budget for the upcoming drug court – “a type of alternative treatment rather than sending someone who’s accused of a drug crime to court. The governor’s interest is to keep people out of prison. Prison’s no place to rehab drug offenders. I know that; everyone knows that.”
The proposal of this budget contracts with the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia (formerly the Community Mental Health Center of Middle Georgia) in Dublin, who will “provide the testing, the counseling… We want to use a combination of mental health and drug court for drug offenses and those offenses that involve mental health. There’s a good bit of crossover there,” he added.
The local share required of the county is approximately 10 percent, with the rest funded strictly by grant money. Anticipated costs range between $175,000.00 and $190,000.00. The local share is designated under Georgia Code § 15-21-101, which states, “Moneys collected pursuant to this article and placed in the “County Drug Abuse Treatment and Education Fund” shall be expended by the governing authority of the county for which the fund is established solely and exclusively for drug abuse treatment and education programs relating to controlled substances and marijuana.”
A resolution similar to the one that Mullis presented the board with was also presented to Telfair County, where – Mullis stated – a previous sheriff used drug fund money to “pay for the sheriff’s toys. That was clearly not what was anticipated for the drug fund.” Upon adoption, Telfair’s DATE fund is well into six figures, Mullis relayed.
The resolution allows the court to have an equal say-so on how the DATE funds are therefore spent. Specifically, the text of the resolution states “that any person or entity who desires that the Dodge County Board of Commissioners expend monies from the Drug Fund must obtain an Order from the Chief Judge of the Dodge Superior Court directing the board of commissioners to make such disbursements.”
County attorney John Harrington added that it is better for the county to pay any required fees from the drug fund rather than from general funds, which come from taxpayers rather than “moneys arising from fines and forfeited bonds,” as Georgia Code states.
The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.
Sharon Cobb Flanagan of the Dodge County Farmer’s Market Development Authority revisited the board to restate the farmer’s market’s purpose, which she stated to be among the following items: to provide fun for family on a recurring basis, to provide local farmers a venue wherein to sell products that they grow, to allow craftsmen and cottage food suppliers to sell their products as well, and to provide regular entertainment, among other reasons. Every objective was proven successful at the inaugural farmer’s market on Saturday, April 2, Flanagan stated.
The measure of success is graded not only by word of mouth from those who attended and regulated the event but also by the fact that several vendors sold out early and left, Flanagan said. In fact, the Future Farmers of America had to make roughly six trips back to the greenhouse to restock plants that they were selling at the farmer’s market.
Additionally, Flanagan relayed that craft vendors typically stated that their sales were better at the farmer’s market than at many other venues and that the meat vendor reported sales to be better than expected.
All in all, over 500 people were estimated to have attended the opening day of the farmer’s market, even with the irregular rain patterns of the day.
Lastly, Flanagan formally requested county funding for the farmer’s market. The board moved to provide sponsorship at $1,000.00. [Full Story »]
Dodge County Probate Court disposes of cases
Dodge County Probate Judge Al McCranie heard and ruled on the following cases on March 22, 2015.
Charles J. Bowen pled guilty to driving under the influence (DUI), failure to maintain lane and open container. Bowen received a $1,000.00 fine, two days in jail, 40 hours of community service and two years of probation which can be terminated after 12 months with payment of fine and completion of terms.
Chelsey Marie Carter pled guilty to reckless driving, possession of drug related objects and driving without lights. Carter received a $1,200.00 fine, 36 months of probation, which can be terminated after 12 months with payment of fine and completion of terms.
Scott Jackson Collins pled guilty to DUI-less safe. Collins received an $861.00 fine, 12 months of probation, one day in jail and 40 hours of community service.
Alton Daniels III pled guilty to driving without a license. Daniels received an $800.00 fine, 12 months of probation and one day in jail.
Brittany Farmer pled guilty to driving without a license. Farmer received a $710.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Timothy Paul Howell pled guilty to suspended license. Howell received an $800.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Jonathan Neil Long pled guilty to DUI. Long received an $861.00 fine, one day in jail, 40 hours of community service and 12 months of probation.
Anthony McLeod pled guilty to reckless driving and failure to stop at a stop sign. McLeod received an $800.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Emory Edward Rix pled guilty to reckless driving. Rix received an $861.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Charles Ben Sheffield pled guilty to DUI. Sheffield received an $861.00 fine, one day in jail, 40 hours of community service and 12 months of probation.
Charles J. Bowen pled guilty to driving under the influence (DUI), failure to maintain lane and open container. Bowen received a $1,000.00 fine, two days in jail, 40 hours of community service and two years of probation which can be terminated after 12 months with payment of fine and completion of terms.
Chelsey Marie Carter pled guilty to reckless driving, possession of drug related objects and driving without lights. Carter received a $1,200.00 fine, 36 months of probation, which can be terminated after 12 months with payment of fine and completion of terms.
Scott Jackson Collins pled guilty to DUI-less safe. Collins received an $861.00 fine, 12 months of probation, one day in jail and 40 hours of community service.
Alton Daniels III pled guilty to driving without a license. Daniels received an $800.00 fine, 12 months of probation and one day in jail.
Brittany Farmer pled guilty to driving without a license. Farmer received a $710.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Timothy Paul Howell pled guilty to suspended license. Howell received an $800.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Jonathan Neil Long pled guilty to DUI. Long received an $861.00 fine, one day in jail, 40 hours of community service and 12 months of probation.
Anthony McLeod pled guilty to reckless driving and failure to stop at a stop sign. McLeod received an $800.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Emory Edward Rix pled guilty to reckless driving. Rix received an $861.00 fine and 12 months of probation, which can be terminated upon payment of fine.
Charles Ben Sheffield pled guilty to DUI. Sheffield received an $861.00 fine, one day in jail, 40 hours of community service and 12 months of probation.
Farmer’s market to open this Saturday
Sharon Cobb Flanagan, of the Dodge County Farmer’s Market, approached the Eastman City Council to remind members of the grand opening of the farmer’s market this Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with the official ribbon-cutting taking place at 10:00 a.m.
In fact, the open-air market will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Saturday from April 2, 2016, to December 17 on the Dodge County Courthouse grounds, except in cases of severe weather.
Entertainment at the opening will include music from Morning Train, a raffle, a petting zoo – including pony rides – courtesy of Tom Cranford and a cooking demonstration, which will take place at 10:30 a.m.
Additionally, the farmer’s market will have a suggestion box at its information table.
Produce available at the inaugural event will include kale, broccoli, lettuce, sweet potatoes, onions, carrots and strawberries, among other options. Flanagan stated that more will be available in the future, according to commitments from other vendors.
Other availabilities include eggs, hanging baskets from the Dodge County High School Future Farmers of America and fresh meats.
After making these reminders, Flanagan formally requested sponsorship from the city at the amount of $1,000.00.
City council member Milton Johnson moved instead for a sponsorship of $1,500.00 “to the Dodge County Farmer’s Market Development Authority to assist in establishing a farmer’s market at a county-owned facility, with the council finding that such expenditure is in the interest and of a particular benefit to the City of Eastman and its development.”
In keeping with development of the city, Flanagan noted that the official logo for the farmer’s market states, “Dodge County Farmer’s Market Downtown,” as Flanagan and her crew foresee increased foot traffic in the downtown area.
Downtown development was also addressed at the meeting in terms of city budgeting, as the line item allotting funds for downtown beautification was slightly altered to read “downtown development,” opening up different avenues for the city and the downtown development authority different access to funds for other programs in the area.
Henry Whitfield of Middle Georgia State University (MGSU) requested from the council sponsorship for its upcoming air show.
The Second Annual Heart of Georgia Air Show will take place at the Eastman campus of MGSU on Saturday, November 5, 2016. The gates will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the actual show beginning at 12:00 p.m.
The air show celebrates the 20th anniversary of the MGSU School of Aviation as well as the 50th anniversary of the airport.
Due to this milestone, city council member Buddy Pittman moved to fund the air show at an amount of $5,000.00, noting that – although this number is high – the city has “put out a lot for other programs and schools.”
Charles Williams, director of the chamber of commerce, commented, “This airport is the future of this community,” commending the council on its decision.
The council approved a resolution recognizing the week of Sunday, April 17, to Saturday, April 23, as Georgia Cities Week, with planned programs during the week.
On Monday, April 18, there will be no city council meeting, as regularly scheduled. Instead, the city will hold a State of the City address at the Magnolia Theater downtown.
On Tuesday, April 19, the council will hold a business after-hours session to be hold at a downtown location to be determined.
On Wednesday, April 20, the city will hold a question-and-answer style work session at Dodge County High School to address young citizens’ interests regarding city government.
[Full Story »]
In fact, the open-air market will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Saturday from April 2, 2016, to December 17 on the Dodge County Courthouse grounds, except in cases of severe weather.
Entertainment at the opening will include music from Morning Train, a raffle, a petting zoo – including pony rides – courtesy of Tom Cranford and a cooking demonstration, which will take place at 10:30 a.m.
Additionally, the farmer’s market will have a suggestion box at its information table.
Produce available at the inaugural event will include kale, broccoli, lettuce, sweet potatoes, onions, carrots and strawberries, among other options. Flanagan stated that more will be available in the future, according to commitments from other vendors.
Other availabilities include eggs, hanging baskets from the Dodge County High School Future Farmers of America and fresh meats.
After making these reminders, Flanagan formally requested sponsorship from the city at the amount of $1,000.00.
City council member Milton Johnson moved instead for a sponsorship of $1,500.00 “to the Dodge County Farmer’s Market Development Authority to assist in establishing a farmer’s market at a county-owned facility, with the council finding that such expenditure is in the interest and of a particular benefit to the City of Eastman and its development.”
In keeping with development of the city, Flanagan noted that the official logo for the farmer’s market states, “Dodge County Farmer’s Market Downtown,” as Flanagan and her crew foresee increased foot traffic in the downtown area.
Downtown development was also addressed at the meeting in terms of city budgeting, as the line item allotting funds for downtown beautification was slightly altered to read “downtown development,” opening up different avenues for the city and the downtown development authority different access to funds for other programs in the area.
Henry Whitfield of Middle Georgia State University (MGSU) requested from the council sponsorship for its upcoming air show.
The Second Annual Heart of Georgia Air Show will take place at the Eastman campus of MGSU on Saturday, November 5, 2016. The gates will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the actual show beginning at 12:00 p.m.
The air show celebrates the 20th anniversary of the MGSU School of Aviation as well as the 50th anniversary of the airport.
Due to this milestone, city council member Buddy Pittman moved to fund the air show at an amount of $5,000.00, noting that – although this number is high – the city has “put out a lot for other programs and schools.”
Charles Williams, director of the chamber of commerce, commented, “This airport is the future of this community,” commending the council on its decision.
The council approved a resolution recognizing the week of Sunday, April 17, to Saturday, April 23, as Georgia Cities Week, with planned programs during the week.
On Monday, April 18, there will be no city council meeting, as regularly scheduled. Instead, the city will hold a State of the City address at the Magnolia Theater downtown.
On Tuesday, April 19, the council will hold a business after-hours session to be hold at a downtown location to be determined.
On Wednesday, April 20, the city will hold a question-and-answer style work session at Dodge County High School to address young citizens’ interests regarding city government.
[Full Story »]
Spring is here
Even with the cooler weather on some days, Spring has arrived in Eastman and Dodge County as flowers begin to bloom. These Azaleas are blooming on Fifth Avenue in Eastman in Jessup Heights subdivision. (Photo by Chuck Eckles)
Dodge summer school dates are set
By Taelor Rye
During the summer of 2016, Dodge County Middle School (DCMS) and Dodge County High School (DCHS) will hold summer school. Both schools will hold a session that begins on June 13 and ends on July 1. DCHS will hold a second session that begins on July 5 and ends on July 28. Although the first session will hold classes Monday through Friday, the second session will only be from Monday to Thursday.
For DCMS’s session, in-county students will be required to pay $150.00 while out-of-county students will be charged $300.00. Students making up attendance will be charged $10.00 each day.
DCHS’s sessions will charge the same price - $150.00 and $300.00, depending on student address. However, each session only counts as half of a unit for the course – an equivalent to one semester.
DCHS also offers an instructional extension during the regularly scheduled sessions for students whose average in a given class lies between 65 and 69, inclusive. The cost for this program is $5.00 per hour spent.
The board of education approved the motion to utilize a network specialist to help with technology two days out of every month. Rick Rogers’s letter of request to Dodge County School Superintendent Dr. Melinda Dennis states that the cost is $750.00 per day for a total of $1,500.00 each month.
Rogers details that the Dodge County School System has 3,100 devices connected to its network with over 482 users and over 3,000 students. Therefore, the need for another technology specialist is evident.
The board also approved the motion to remain as a fiscal agent for Family Connection for 2017 as well as to continue providing the Seamless Summer nutrition program.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the intent of this program is to continue “the same meal service rules and claiming procedures used during the regular school year… [through] a streamlined approach to feeding hungry children” in the community.
The program will be operated from within the Dodge County High School (DCHS) cafeteria, according to Dena Barrows, the school nutrition program director, and will take place “Monday through Friday, June 13, 2016 through July 22, 2016 with the exception of July 4 – July 8.”
The board approved Middle Georgia State University’s (MGSU) request for a school bus for the Second Annual Heart of Georgia Air Show at the Eastman campus of MGSU on Saturday, November 5, 2016. The gates will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the actual show beginning at 12:00 p.m.
[Full Story »]
During the summer of 2016, Dodge County Middle School (DCMS) and Dodge County High School (DCHS) will hold summer school. Both schools will hold a session that begins on June 13 and ends on July 1. DCHS will hold a second session that begins on July 5 and ends on July 28. Although the first session will hold classes Monday through Friday, the second session will only be from Monday to Thursday.
For DCMS’s session, in-county students will be required to pay $150.00 while out-of-county students will be charged $300.00. Students making up attendance will be charged $10.00 each day.
DCHS’s sessions will charge the same price - $150.00 and $300.00, depending on student address. However, each session only counts as half of a unit for the course – an equivalent to one semester.
DCHS also offers an instructional extension during the regularly scheduled sessions for students whose average in a given class lies between 65 and 69, inclusive. The cost for this program is $5.00 per hour spent.
The board of education approved the motion to utilize a network specialist to help with technology two days out of every month. Rick Rogers’s letter of request to Dodge County School Superintendent Dr. Melinda Dennis states that the cost is $750.00 per day for a total of $1,500.00 each month.
Rogers details that the Dodge County School System has 3,100 devices connected to its network with over 482 users and over 3,000 students. Therefore, the need for another technology specialist is evident.
The board also approved the motion to remain as a fiscal agent for Family Connection for 2017 as well as to continue providing the Seamless Summer nutrition program.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the intent of this program is to continue “the same meal service rules and claiming procedures used during the regular school year… [through] a streamlined approach to feeding hungry children” in the community.
The program will be operated from within the Dodge County High School (DCHS) cafeteria, according to Dena Barrows, the school nutrition program director, and will take place “Monday through Friday, June 13, 2016 through July 22, 2016 with the exception of July 4 – July 8.”
The board approved Middle Georgia State University’s (MGSU) request for a school bus for the Second Annual Heart of Georgia Air Show at the Eastman campus of MGSU on Saturday, November 5, 2016. The gates will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the actual show beginning at 12:00 p.m.
[Full Story »]
Sheriff’s department launches new sex offender/notification website
Recently, Dodge County Sheriff Lynn Sheffield and the Dodge County Sheriff’s Department launched a new sex offender registration and public notification website called OffenderWatch®. Dodge County will now be part of a nationwide network of over 5,000 law enforcement. The new service is a citizen-friendly, easy to use website that enables citizens to search for potentially dangerous sex offenders and predators, which may be in close proximity to their homes, places of work, schools, churches and day care centers. The information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is updated in real time by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office as offender information changes and is reported. As part of this new, innovative service, citizens may enter any address of interest to them, and see a map and listing of all offenders within a user defined radius (of .25 miles out to two miles) of that address. Citizens can then register the address to be continuously monitored by the Sheriff, who will send to them an email alerting them if an offender or predator should register an address within their specified radius of their address. Citizens may confidentially register as many addresses as they like, at no cost to them.
[Full Story »]
Commissioners approve Georgia Military College agreement
By Taelor Rye
Charles Williams, of the development authority, approached the Dodge County Board of Commissioners, stating that the deal with Georgia Military College (GMC) to occupy the building previously used by Mercer University’s Academic Resource Center was “down to [the county] tonight.”
Williams presented the intergovernmental agreement among the Dodge County Murrell Memorial Public Library, the Dodge County Development Authority, the City of Eastman and the County of Dodge. An update to the agreement allows the library to receive funds such as grants that would require a matched donation from the city or county. A previous draft of the agreement prevented the library for asking for other funds, but the revision allows the library to request a matched amount of money from the city or county or money to replace lost state funds or funds from other sources. The first three of the four involved parties had already approved the changes, and the newly altered agreement was pending county approval; the board approved the agreement.
The hope for the GMC property is that the board of commissioners and city council at the end of the ten-year lease will elect to donate the property back to the library after receiving the total of their investment back so that the library may continue to use the property as a source of income for upkeep.
Because the upcoming Eastman campus will be GMC’s 13th campus in Georgia, the grand opening of the school will take place on Friday, May 13, Williams stated.
Sharon Cobb Flanagan of the Dodge County Farmer’s Market Development Authority visited the board to update its members.
Flanagan relayed that the authority held its first meeting last week, stating, “It went very well.” The authority also held training for vendors on Monday, March 21, and the list of vendors keeps growing.
[Full Story »]
Charles Williams, of the development authority, approached the Dodge County Board of Commissioners, stating that the deal with Georgia Military College (GMC) to occupy the building previously used by Mercer University’s Academic Resource Center was “down to [the county] tonight.”
Williams presented the intergovernmental agreement among the Dodge County Murrell Memorial Public Library, the Dodge County Development Authority, the City of Eastman and the County of Dodge. An update to the agreement allows the library to receive funds such as grants that would require a matched donation from the city or county. A previous draft of the agreement prevented the library for asking for other funds, but the revision allows the library to request a matched amount of money from the city or county or money to replace lost state funds or funds from other sources. The first three of the four involved parties had already approved the changes, and the newly altered agreement was pending county approval; the board approved the agreement.
The hope for the GMC property is that the board of commissioners and city council at the end of the ten-year lease will elect to donate the property back to the library after receiving the total of their investment back so that the library may continue to use the property as a source of income for upkeep.
Because the upcoming Eastman campus will be GMC’s 13th campus in Georgia, the grand opening of the school will take place on Friday, May 13, Williams stated.
Sharon Cobb Flanagan of the Dodge County Farmer’s Market Development Authority visited the board to update its members.
Flanagan relayed that the authority held its first meeting last week, stating, “It went very well.” The authority also held training for vendors on Monday, March 21, and the list of vendors keeps growing.
[Full Story »]
Authorities make arrests in recent thefts
On Friday, March, 18, 2016 investigators, deputies and officers of the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and Eastman Police Department executed a search warrant at 1069 Hawkinsville Highway in Eastman. During the search, numerous items connected to the recent vehicle break-ins were recovered. The search resulted in the arrest of Treyvon Bradley, age 20; Leslie Bradley, age 40; Paul Henley, age 44 and Ivelitza Colon, age 27, all from Eastman, for crimes including entering autos and theft by receiving stolen property. Numerous items were recovered including firearms, electronics and other items.
Investigators are currently inventorying the suspected stolen items and attempting to identify all potential victims. If you were a theft victim, please ensure you have a report on file regarding the theft with either the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office or Eastman Police Department. Please contact investigator Roy Conley or investigator Glenn Conley at the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office at 478-559-1130 or investigator Gary Widener with the Eastman Police Department at 478-374-7788, if you have any questions or concerns regarding stolen property.
Dodge County Sheriff Lynn Sheffield and Eastman Police Chief Becky Sheffield would like to thank the public for their help during this investigation. Both departments invested numerous hours following leads, processing scenes and conducting surveillance, which culminated in these arrests.
Both the sheriff and chief believe that best outcomes are achieved when the public and law enforcement work together to ensure a safer community for us all.
Investigators are currently inventorying the suspected stolen items and attempting to identify all potential victims. If you were a theft victim, please ensure you have a report on file regarding the theft with either the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office or Eastman Police Department. Please contact investigator Roy Conley or investigator Glenn Conley at the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office at 478-559-1130 or investigator Gary Widener with the Eastman Police Department at 478-374-7788, if you have any questions or concerns regarding stolen property.
Dodge County Sheriff Lynn Sheffield and Eastman Police Chief Becky Sheffield would like to thank the public for their help during this investigation. Both departments invested numerous hours following leads, processing scenes and conducting surveillance, which culminated in these arrests.
Both the sheriff and chief believe that best outcomes are achieved when the public and law enforcement work together to ensure a safer community for us all.
Comments