The long journey for the three finalists vying for Fayette County Teacher of the Year came to an end Thursday night at New Hope Baptist Church, North Campus, with the naming of the winner.
All eyes were fixed on Superintendent John DeCotis as he opened the sealed envelope and announced that Carrie Collins, a kindergarten teacher at Peeples Elementary, had been selected as the 2010 Fayette County Teacher of the Year.
The other two finalists were Jamie Munzo, sixth grade science teacher at Bennett’s Mill Middle, and Sally Meyer, gifted teacher at Crabapple Lane Elementary.
Collins thanked a long list of teachers and administrators who she said helped pave the way for her success, including her former principal Sandra Watson.
“Thank you for taking a risk on hiring a newbie and for telling me after your first observation in my classroom that you thought I was a natural. What a great way to instill confidence in a new teacher,” Collins said.
Collins noted that the teacher of the year process has caused her to reflect on who she is and who she wants to be as a teacher. She said teachers have a big part to play in how students feel about their educational journey.
“I definitely do no think that I am the smartest teacher, the teacher who performs the coolest science experiments or the teacher who has the best hallway displays, but I do love my job and I have a passion for what I do each and every day as a kindergarten teacher,” she said.
While the notion of being selected as Fayette’s 2010 Teacher of the Year is still sinking in, Collins said she doesn’t know if she is comfortable with the title and suggested something else that might better identify her.
“I can accept much more easily being called a teacher that is Teacher of the Year-ish.”
Collins finished her acceptance speech with laughs from the audience as she went down a list of the top 10 reasons why she loves teaching kindergarten: #10 – “I am constantly reminded that the world really does revolve around 5-year olds,” #5 – “I know within 10 minutes of school starting if I am having a good hair day or bad hair day,” and her #1 reason on the list, “I am blessed to have the opportunity to encourage my students to become creative thinkers, to help them develop wonderful problem solving skills and to observe them becoming individuals that have a life-long love for learning.”
The finalists were selected from among 29 different teachers of the year at each school. An independent panel of judges, including last year’s TOTY, rated the application of each teacher to select the three finalists. The final judging stage consisted of a classroom observation followed by a one-on-one interview with the finalists. Judges individually rated each finalist. Their scores were combined to determine the winner.
As Fayette’s 2010 TOTY, Collins will represent the county in the Georgia TOTY competition next spring.
Fayette’s annual TOTY program honors the county’s 29 teachers of the year from each elementary, middle and high school. The program would not be possible without the generous contributions of local businesses and organizations.
TOTY winners from each school received plaques from the Coca Cola Bottling Company and a portrait courtesy of Life Touch Photography. Also, Dell Computer, Inc. donated computers to all three finalists and Allan Vigil Ford in Fayetteville gave $500 to both runners up and $1,000 to the winner. Additionally, the winner received a commemorative ring from Balfour and roundtrip airfare for two from AirTran Airlines.
Other top sponsors included Chick-fil-A, Delta Community Credit Union, Southern Federal Credit Union, The Avenue Peachtree City, and numerous other local businesses and organizations.
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Friday, April 23, 2010
Collins Named Fayette County's Top Teacher
Honor Flight Fayette Prepares for 6th Trip to Washington DC
Board members, volunteers and guardians are just as excited to be planning this trip to our nation’s capitol, to take World War II veterans to see their memorial, as they were for the first flight 2 years and 420 veterans ago. In fact, this non-profit organization has not waned in their determination to see that as many veterans as possible take this trip.
The project has a sense of urgency since all of the World War II veterans are over 80 years of age and many are in declining health. In fact, we are losing them at the rate of 1,000 per day in this country.
The next trip is planned for May 4th, and everyone is invited and encouraged to give this group a warm send off. They will leave First United Methodist Church in buses around 6:30 a.m. and travel west on Highway 54 to Highway 85 north, taking 314 toward the airport.
The Patriot Guard will lead the buses as combined members of all local law enforcement agencies smooth the way for the buses to the airport. The veterans are always very surprised at those waving flags on the sidewalks, traffic stopping at intersections and police officers saluting them as they pass by in the buses. They usually say they don’t understand what all the fuss is about, but they really do appreciate and enjoy it.
Every measure is taken to insure the veterans’ safety on this excursion. A doctor, 2 nurses and 4 medical personnel are on each flight, and the guardians must attend a training session before they are allowed to accompany a veteran.
If you would like to volunteer, make a donation or obtain further information about this organization, please check honorflightfayette.org or call 770-719-1024.
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Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Holliday-Dorsey-Fife House Museum Hosts Western State DAR Regents
John Lynch of the Holliday-Dorsey-Fife House Museum in Fayetteville brought western and southern history to life recently as six state regents of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution toured the museum while at the Georgia State Society NSDAR meeting in Peachtree City. Lynch's vast knowledge and love of American history demonstrated the perfect touch of old South, and in particular, Fayette County history. The ladies were astonished to hear of the connection Fayetteville has with Doc Holliday of the OK Corral shootout. In addition, the stories of Margaret Mitchell and her famous heroine, Scarlett O'Hara, had the women envisioning Scarlett as she would have strolled about the house during her time, had she lived. James Waldrop Chapter DAR members Becky West and Ann Eldredge escorted the ladies as they shared a love of American history, and in particular, their Southern roots. Pictured are (l-r) first row: Becky West, James Waldrop Chapter DAR, Lemira Parks, Missouri State Regent NSDAR, Cristy Trembly, Mexico Regent NSDAR, and Mary Duffe, Oklahoma State Regent NSDAR. Back row: Lillian Stewart, Oregon State Regent NSDAR, Joy Hagg, Texas State Regent, NSDAR, and Susan Harris, Iowa State Regent NSDAR.
The tour was organized by the James Waldrop Chapter DAR which is chartered in Fayetteville.
Photo and story by Ann Eldredge
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Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Dixieland Looking To Fill Over 80 Positions For 2010 Summer Season
Ride Operators, Food Service and Custodial, are just a few of the job positions that will be available at Dixieland during this summer’s operating season.
Dixieland will hold its second annual Job Fair for more than 80 positions from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 22 in the park’s main building at 1675 Hwy 85 North, Fayetteville.
All applicants are asked to be 18 years and older or a graduating Senior in High School. Applicants are asked to complete an application prior to attending the job fair. The application can be found online at www.dixielandfunpark.com. Acrobat Reader or another PDF reader is required to view and print the application. Applications will be available during the job fair as well.
Other available positions include: Supervisors, Ride supervisors, Cashiers, Performers, Entertainers, and Haunt Actors (October only).
Dixieland offers positions starting at $6.25 per hour to $10.00 per hour. Other employee benefits include admission to the park during all operating hours, employee discounts at other local businesses, onsite employee food program, and employee activity program.
Dixieland will be open Weekends until May 30. Dixieland opens 5 days a week (Thursday to Monday) from May 31 to August 8th. The park will reopen Sat Aug 14 for weekend operation through Oct 31.
To obtain additional information about jobs at Dixieland, please call 770.460.5862 or visit dixielandfunpark.com/Jobs.html
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Monday, April 19, 2010
WWII Heritage Days in Peachtree City April 24-25
“Remember Pearl Harbor!”, Rosie the Riveter, and Glenn Miller. Experience the sights and sounds of the Greatest Generation when the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Dixie Wing hosts the seventh annual “WWII Heritage Days” April 24-25, 2010. The public history event will be held at The Historical Airpower Facility, Falcon Field, Peachtree City from 9am-4pm both days.
The weekend will again feature vintage aircraft, period vehicles, education displays, guest speakers and demonstrations, including mock battles between reenactors portraying American and Axis troops.
“WWII Heritage Days is a community celebration that will entertain and educate the entire family.” said Jim Buckley, CAF Dixie Wing leader. The community focus has resulted in the program being designated a Peachtree City 50th Anniversary event in 2009.
Why turn a flying museum into a living history classroom? “Our goal is to honor the Greatest Generation, the men and women who won the Second World War.” explained Buckley, who also flies several of the group’s aircraft.
Over 50 World War II veterans have attended the history festival’s opening ceremony each of the last two years.
A weekend highlight is “Keep ‘em Flying”, a WWII-theme hangar dance featuring the Peachtree Jazz Edition and Vintage Vocals, a trio that reprises the unique sound of the Andrews Sisters. Proceeds from the dance benefit historic aircraft preservation and “Education Through Living History”, the group’s WWII history program made available to schools and youth groups free of charge.
Sunday morning will begin with a jeep-top religious service familiar to millions of American servicemen during and since the Second World War.
Participating organizations include the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment (reenacted), Kelly’s Zeroes, History Flight, FDR’s Little White House, the Southern Wing of the Airmen Preservation Society, the U.S. Army Signal Corps Museum and Atlanta World War II Round Table.
Local civic organizations and schools are also invited to create and display 1940’s exhibits.
“WWII Heritage Days” is an annual program that promotes historic preservation, education and citizenship. The CAF Dixie Wing is a non-profit education organization that relies on donations and fundraisers to restore WWII aircraft and teach WWII history.
Suggested donation for “WWII Heritage Days” is $5 for Adults, Children 13 and under admitted free. The public is also asked to bring a canned food item to be donated to the Fayette Samaritans food pantry. “WWII Heritage Days” will be held rain or shine. Please no pets. Tickets for “Keep ‘em Flying” are $35 before April 19th, $50 at the door. Reserved tables for eight are $300. For more information, please visit WWW.WWIIDAYS.NET or call 678-364-1110.
The Commemorative Air Force is a non-profit organization dedicated to flying and restoring World War II aircraft. Based in Midland, Texas, the organization has over 9,500 members and operates a fleet of over 150 World War II aircraft. www.commemorativeairforce.org
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Friday, April 16, 2010
Citizens Invited to Weigh In on Public Education
There is a movement to transform public education in Georgia and citizen input is needed to help develop a plan for change.
“A Vision for Public Education in Georgia,” an initiative created by the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) and the Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA), is the focus of eight community conservations that will be held throughout the state allowing citizens to voice their ideas about the transformation of public schools.
The closest location for Fayette County residents is the meeting scheduled at Henry County High School in McDonough on April 29 at 6:30 p.m. It will last approximately two and a half hours. There will be an introductory session to prepare participants for the discussion.
The success of the initiative requires the active participation of as many citizens as possible. More information can be found at www.visionforpubliced.org. The website also has links to follow the initiative on Facebook and Twitter.
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Thursday, April 15, 2010
SAR Honors Grimes with Daughters of Liberty Medal
Liz Grimes of Clayton Co. was recently awarded the Daughters of Liberty Medal for her continued support and outstanding service to the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, Georgia Society.
Grimes is a member of the Augustin Clayton Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, where she serves as Registrar.
The Maquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR is chartered in Fayetteville.
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Purple Hair for a Great Cause
Staff members at Inman Elementary are sporting some colorful new hairdos this spring.
Visitors walking into the front office might do a double take when they see school clerk Sharon Langston sporting purple hair extensions. She, along with paraprofessional Cheryl Schwertfeger and school counselor Leslie Fear, agreed to wear the extensions if the students could raise $300 to benefit cancer research for Relay for Life.
Anxious to see the staff members in purple hair, the students came through with flying colors collecting $460 for the school’s Relay for Life fundraiser.
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Chamber Luncheon Offers Sales Strategies for Small Businesses
] The Fayette Chamber’s monthly B2B Luncheons offer free learning sessions to help small business members improve their business practices and boost their bottom line. The April luncheon featured Rob Benson of First Steps Training and Development who gave sales strategies to help businesses capture opportunities that are often lost without a good process. He described the current sales climate and offered some ideas for overcoming hurdles that sales people face as they compete for decision makers’ time.
Other recent topics for B2B lunches have include low cost marketing, surviving in a tough economy, and building business through social networking.
If you are interested in participating in monthly B2B lunches or want to learn more about Chamber membership, contact the Fayette Chamber at 770.461.9983.
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Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Carolyn Cary Named Outstanding Woman in American History for 2010 by Local DAR
Carolyn Cary was recently announced as the Outstanding Woman in American History by the James Waldrop Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. Cary has resided in Fayette County since 1966 and has witnessed Fayette County firsthand.
Cary has done more to preserve Fayette County history than most natives of the area. In 1981 the Fayette County Board of Commissioners crowned her the official Fayette County Historian. Since her arrival she has held leadership positions in Georgia Writers Association, Fayette County Emergency Medical Association, and Fayette County Chamber of Commerce (now housed in the Fayette County Courthouse which she help to save after its burning in 1983) and is the Co-founder of the Fayette County Historical Society.
The Historical Society is her enduring passion where genealogical research offers 2000 folders and books donated by local families. In 1971, the year the Society was founded, Cary and C.J. Mowell organized the Sesquicentennial Celebration for Fayette which included speeches, parades, a costume ball, and Creek Indian dances. This also led to her compilation of articles making up the publication in 1977 of the History of Fayette County.
She has published other works-William Thomas Overby Proud Partisan Ranger and the most recent, Historic Fayette. Cary is a writer for “The Citizen”, the local newspaper and contributes articles to “Fayette Woman”. One of her greatest thrills was to be chosen to be a Torch Bearer for the 1996 Olympics. It was a double treat for her as she received the torch at the dedication of Heritage Park which she worked tirelessly to bring to fruition. Other accolades for Mrs. Cary include two time winner of Chamber of Commerce Awards, Fayette County Citizen of the Year, and recognition by the Creek Indian and McIntosh Clan for her work on their behalf.
The James Waldrop Chapter DAR is chartered in Fayetteville.
Photo by Ann Eldredge
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Spring Bird Walk at Sams Lake Sanctuary April 17th
Join fellow nature lovers on a fun and informative morning Bird Walk on Saturday, April 17th at Sams Lake Sanctuary in Fayette County. Brock Hutchins will lead the guided walk at the scenic wetland preserve owned by Southern Conservation Trust.
Hutchins has led many field trips and is the coordinator of the Peachtree City Christmas Bird Count for Audubon.
Sams Lake was donated to the Trust by the Ferrol Sams family in 1995. The shallow ponds and nesting islands draw many native and migrating bird species, including green and blue heron, egrets and hawks. Visitors may also see wild turkey, deer, beaver and armadillos.
Southern Conservation Trust is a local conservation organization that owns, manages and protects over 1300 acres of environmentally sensitive land in the Southern Crescent. The Trust manages the Flat Creek and Line Creek Nature Areas in Peachtree City and is currently developing a new preserve near the Flint River. As a community land trust the Trust also works with willing property owners to protect their land with a conservation easement that may provide significant tax benefits.
Saturday’s participants should bring binoculars and meet at the Sams Lake parking lot on Old Senoia Rd at 7:30 am. For directions or more information about community conservation and Southern Conservation Trust, visit the Trust’s website www.sctlandtrust.org.
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Whitewater Middle School Students Sew to Help Others
Whitewater Middle School students proudly display their handiwork before donating the pillowcases to Heritage Quilts
Students are putting their sewing skills to good use as they help people in the community, one stitch at a time.
Family and Consumer Science students at Whitewater Middle have quilted and sewn items throughout the year that have been donated to local charities. As the school year draws to a close, students are still busy stitching together items to bring comfort to those who need it the most.
Their most recent project is the One Million Pillowcase Challenge sponsored by American Patchwork and Quilting magazine. Seventh grade students, under the supervision of their teacher Laurel Hinze, made 47 pillowcases that were taken to Heritage Quilts in Newnan, a local retailer participating in the challenge.
The One Million Pillowcase Challenge provides pillowcases to local charities. A pillowcase can provide comfort for a cancer patient, hope for a foster child, encouragement for a battered woman or beauty for a nursing home resident. Heritage Quilts has identified a number of charities to receive donated pillowcases including the Hole in the Wall Gang camp for children with serious illnesses and the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
“Our students have once again shared their sewing skills, knowledge and encouragement to families with serious illnesses and those who are in need of assistance. What a positive and rewarding experience for both the students and recipients,” says Hinze.
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Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Fayette Students Earn National Achievement Scholarships
Two Fayette County High and two Whitewater High School students are among 700 nationwide receiving National Achievement Scholarships through the 2010 National Achievement Scholarship Program, a competition for African American high school students.
Helen M. Agha and Ifeanyi O. Awachie, both of Fayette County High, and Alana L. Davis and Omoyemen O. Osehobo, both of Whitewater High, are all recipients of a $2,500, single payment scholarship, which can be used for undergraduate study at any regionally accredited U.S. college or university. Helen plans to major in computer engineering, Ifeanyi’s probable major is journalism/law, Alana is looking into pharmacy and Omoyemen is planning a career in obstetrics/gynecology.
More than 160,000 students entered the 2010 National Achievement Program by requesting consideration when they took the 2008 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) as high school juniors. In September 2009, approximately 1,600 of the highest scorers were named semifinalists on a regional basis. To continue in the competition, semifinalists had to fulfill requirements for finalist standing, which included having a record of consistently high academic performance, being endorsed and recommended by an official of their high school, earning SAT scores that confirm the PSAT/NMSQT performance and submitting an essay about personal interests, attainments and goals.
Approximately 1,300 semifinalists advanced to the finalist level. Achievement Scholar awardees are the finalist candidates judged to have the strongest record of accomplishments and greatest potential for college academic success.
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Monday, April 12, 2010
Booth Student Takes Fourth In State Geo Bee
A top four finish at the Georgia National Geographic Bee is a great achievement and proves that one Fayette sixth grader really knows his geography.
Aditya Ronanki of J.C. Booth Middle was among the 100 fourth to eighth grade Geography Bee school champions who competed at Georgia College and State University on April 9. Aditya proved that he could hold his own by eliminating competitors through the preliminary rounds and then a tiebreaker round to earn one of 10 spots to compete for the championship.
Although he outperformed 90 students to get the championship round and then beat another six to earn a fourth place overall finish, Aditya will not be satisfied until he wins the state championship. He plans to return to the competition next year with a first place victory as his goal.
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Sloan Honored by Local SAR for Service
Pictured (l-r) is Susan Sloan as David Jessel, President of the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR presents her with the Martha Washington Award
Susan Sloan, a Fayette County resident and member of the James Waldrop Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, was recently honored by the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter Sons of the American Revolution. Sloan was presented the Martha Washington Medal for her continued support and outstanding service to the SAR.
The Marquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR is chartered in Fayetteville, GA.
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Family Day at Nature, Undisturbed Saturday April 24th
Southern Conservation Trust, a community land trust, is hosting a Family Day on Saturday afternoon April 24th during Nature, Undisturbed, a nature photography exhibition at the Dogwood Gallery in Tyrone.
The fun starts at 3 p.m. with a live Birds of Prey program with Dale Arrowood and his Winged Ambassadors. Featured raptors include a vulture, falcon, several owls and two hawks. Visitors can have their photo taken with a rare eagle owl from Russia, the world’s largest owl. Dale’s trained birds have either been raised in captivity or rehabilitated from injuries and cannot survive in the wild. This is a wonderful opportunity to see these magnificent birds up close.
Then enjoy our local greenspace from a bird’s perspective with a free tethered ride on a hot air balloon provided by RE/MAX of Georgia. Balloon rides begin at 5pm, weather permitting, and riders must be over 6 years of age.
Visitors will also enjoy hot dogs, face painting and nature crafts.
Nature, Undisturbed is a two week nature photography exhibition at the Dogwood Gallery kicking off April 16th that celebrates the glory of wildlife and our natural landscapes. Sixty photographs were chosen out of 400 entries from 10 states.
Other events during the Exhibition include a presentation on Saturday evening April 17th. by Susan Todd-Raque about collecting photography with a wine and cheese tasting. Proceeds from the sale of photographs will help maintain the Trust’s three public nature preserves - Sams Lake Sanctuary south of Fayetteville, and Line Creek and Flat Creek Nature Areas in Peachtree City.
Dogwood Gallery is located next to the Legacy Theater on Hwy 74 in Tyrone, at 1175 Senoia Rd. For more information about Nature Undisturbed visit www.natureundisturbed.com or the Trust’s website www.sctlandtrust.org, or call 770-774-3524.
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Sunday, April 11, 2010
Chamber Brings Washington Here
The Fayette Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing the community with up close and personal updates from Washington by hosting a series of briefings by our congressional representatives. Last week, U.S. Congressman Lynn Westmoreland spoke to a group of over 100 citizens interested in how changes in Washington will affect their businesses. Represented in the audience were financial institutions, utility companies, small businesses, nonprofits as well as private citizens. The Congressman spoke on a range of topics and then opened the floor for questions for an equal amount of time.
One of the key issues addressed by the Congressman was the need to have a better connection between the legislative process and the bureaus and agencies that administer the legislation. Currently, when legislation is enacted, the laws are interpreted by various agencies that create rules and regulations that are not reviewed by the legislators. This can leave room for a misinterpretation of the original intent of the legislation and cause negative impact that was not intended. Congressman Westmoreland urged citizens to pay close attention to what’s going on in Washington and stay involved in the process. In addition to domestic policies, he highlighted the serious nature of many foreign policy issues and stressed the importance of remaining diligent, keeping America strong, and supporting our troups.
There were a variety of questions from the audience on topics including the new healthcare legislation, immigration, Cap and Trade, Card Check and the Fair Tax. Many of these issues would have major implications for the business community and the economy. The Congressman stated that he believes the majority party is weighing the outcome of the November elections in deciding how many of these issues to push ahead now. In response to one concerned citizen’s question about how to pray for him, the Congressman replied, “Pray for wisdom and discernment.”
The Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee is in the process of planning another briefing from Washington in August with one of our U.S. Senators. Chamber members interested in getting involved with local, state and national legislative issues are encouraged to be part of this dynamic committee. For more information, contact the Chamber office at 770.461.9983.
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Sparrow of Honor Flight Fayette Honored by DAR with Community Service Award
Gail Sparrow was recently honored by the James Waldrop Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution by being named the 2009 Community Service Award recipient. According to Sparrow, Honor Flight Fayette is all about honoring the veterans. This is their day to tell and demonstrate how special they are, and how grateful America is to them for preserving our freedoms.
World War II veterans in Fayette County have many reasons to be grateful. The mighty warriors who fought in the world's biggest war some 65 years ago helped maintain the freedoms American patriots have fought and sacrificed for over 265 years. Today, these same warriors are shown how much their efforts are remembered by Honor Flight Fayette and its founder, Gail Sparrow.
Sparrow had heard of the National Honor Flight mission to take World War II veterans to see their memorial in Washington, DC at no cost. Sparrow had a vision to start this tribute in Fayette County. With Mark Westmoreland, Mark Buckner, Brenda Smith and George Sparrow at her side, Gail Sparrow started Honor Flight Fayette in 2007.
Each trip takes over $40,000 to make it happen. Chartered flights, medical personnel and many volunteers are needed to make each flight a success. Sparrow talks to anyone who will listen, and Fayette County has listened well. Countless students, corporations and individuals all reach deep into their pockets to help Sparrow's dream come true. It's not just Sparrow's dream to honor our veterans. Her enthusiasm has spread and the whole community has embraced her vision. Over the last couple of years, Honor Flight Fayette has raised over $250,000 for our veterans to take them to their monument. Waiting lists of World War II veterans are kept and more flights are added on a regular basis.
It is with many thanks to Gail Sparrow for her vision to honor America's Greatest Generation that the James Waldrop Chapter DAR was able to honor her. The James Waldrop Chapter DAR is chartered in Fayetteville.
Story and photo by Ann Eldredge
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We Can Be Heroes: WHS Hosts 2010 Special Olympics for Fayette County Schools
Special to the Fayette Front Page
Written by Jessie Harris and Brittany Riley, staff writers for The WHS Observer
It’s a cold and windy Friday morning, and as usual excitement is in the air at Whitewater High School. However, instead of the “it’s-almost-the-weekend” vibe, people are buzzing about in a flurry of activity as they prepare for the Annual Fayette County Special Olympics. A caravan of school buses are lined up outside the football stadium carrying hundreds of eager competitors hoping to bring home the gold. As they stream through the gates, they are greeted by the cheers and smiling faces of high school students from all across the county. For the athletes it is the most exuberant day of the year.
For the past three months, Mrs. Suzanne Spatz, the administrative assistant to the principal of Whitewater, and Debbie Parrish, with the Fayette County Board of Parks and Recreation have been organizing this event to be held at WHS. When asked about the preparation for Special Olympics, Mrs. Spatz listed several tasks that needed to be completed, including designing tent layout, assigning athletes to their buddies, and collecting donations for water and other provisions. Staff members also had to coordinate the band, flag corps, and singers for the National Anthem. All these tasks were worth completing because it is “a day for students to come and support the athletes. We can learn a lot from them,” according to Spatz.
The participants, too, felt this event was worthwhile. “It was fun!” athlete Matthew Hayes excitedly said after competing in his first event, the long jump. Even the volunteers felt the surge of joy when watching the competitions.
Erin Mahlbacher, president of the PALS Club at Whitewater, “felt really helpful and glad to be a part of this day because [she] knows firsthand how exciting it is for them.”
One of the main reasons this annual event is possible is Debbie Parrish, who works with the Parks and Recreation of Fayette County. For her, the best part of the day was “seeing the smiles on the athletes’ faces when they succeeded.”
The staff and students of Whitewater High School were thrilled to host the 2010 Fayette County Special Olympics. Principal Gregory Stillions applauded his school for getting involved and volunteering for a worthy cause. He stated that “it can’t get any better than this. With everyone cheering, you can’t help but get goose bumps. It’s our job to make them feel important, and I believe that’s what we’ve done here today.”
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Wise Joins Marquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR
Pictured (l-r) are Mike Tomme, Sr. Vice President of the GASSAR, Bob Wylie, Chapter Registrar of the Marquis de Lafayette SAR Chapter, Tom Wise and Dottie Wise
Recently, Tom Wise of McDonough was sworn in as a member of the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution. Wise, a native of Thomasville and a graduate of Presbyterian College, Clinton, SC, has resided in McDonough for the past 25 years. He is a retired Vice President of Bank of America with 32 years service in Branch Banking. He is a former chair of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, and the Henry United Way and a former President of the Rotary Club of Henry County. He has served as an elder in McDonough Presbyterian Church and as chairman of the Endowment Committee. He is married to Dottie, and has three grown children, Henderson, Winn, and Betsy and seven grandchildren. Tom is a Master Gardener, and in addition to gardening, enjoys singing, playing the piano, reading, and genealogy.
While chartered in Faytteville, the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR serves Fayette County, Henry County, Clayton County, South Fulton County and Spalding County. If interested in joining the Sons of the American Revolution, please contact Chapter Editor, John Michael Tomme, Sr., at 678-432-1161.
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Dunn Sworn in as New President of Marquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR
Pictrued (l-r) are Michael Tomme as Lewis Dunn take the oath of office as President of the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR
Lewie Dunn, a resident of Fairburn, was recently elected and sworn in as President of the Marquis de Lafayette Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. Dunn will be in command of the SAR Chapter that serves the entire Southern Crescent of Atlanta.
The SAR is involved in educational, historical and patriotic activities that include visitations to 4th and 8th grade classrooms and various civic and veterans groups. The SAR also works on programs that assist elderly and needy veterans and mark the graves of veterans who served in the Revolutionary War.
The Marquis de Lafayette Chapter SAR is chartered in Fayetteville.
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Friday, April 09, 2010
Silver Award Book Drive Benefits Gracie’s Closet
Gracie’s Closet has an additional 1,000 children’s books thanks to the efforts of a girl scout and her school.
Karson Mizell, an eighth grader at Rising Starr Middle and member of Girl Scout Troop 39000, collected over 1,000 books for Gracie’s Closet, which provides clothing, books and school supplies for the county’s foster children.
Karson organized a gently used book drive at Rising Starr during the months of December and January. Not only did she oversee the collection of the books, but she also organized them into categories so that children could easily pick out those of interest to them. The book drive was Karson’s Girl Scout Silver Award Project.
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Thursday, April 08, 2010
A Banner Year for Sandy Creek ROTC Program
Bettering the community through various service projects is a major focus for the cadets of Sandy Creek High School’s Air Force Junior ROTC (AFJROTC).
This year has been extremely productive for the cadets. Their annual school-wide food drive brought in over 5,000 items for the Real Life Center in Tyrone, the color guard and saber team saluted veterans leaving with Honor Flight Fayette to visit the WWII memorial in Washington, D.C., and the unit honored all veterans through participation in Veterans Day parades and activities, performances at various dedications and visitations to assisted living facilities.
A major achievement for the unit was the completion of a flag display featuring all 50 states that graces the main entrance to the school. The project, which has been two years in the making, was dedicated to former Sandy Creek High AFJROTC Cadet Josh Ivey who passed away in September 2003.
The program also received numerous awards and honors. The drill team, under the guidance of Chief Master Sergeant Mark Davidson, competed in three major meets earning a total of seven trophies and a third place overall rating. Honor Flight Fayette honored the unit with the presentation of a flag from the WWII memorial. The honor highlighted the dedication and commitment of the cadets in serving the community.
The Air Force Junior ROTC program at Sandy Creek is the only Junior ROTC program in the Fayette County Public School System. Students from any high school in the county can participate in the program, but must enroll at Sandy Creek and provide their own transportation to and from school. Interested students should contact their guidance counselors. Colonel Douglas Pearson and Chief Master Sergeant Mark Davidson are available to answer any questions; they can be reached at 770-969-2840, ext 278.
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Play Golf at Whitewater and Help Support Kenya Mission Work April 24
Join First Presbyterian Church of Peachtree City in a Golf Scramble at the Whitewater Golf Club on April 24 to help support mission work in Kenya. It's easy. Just pay your green fees and add a $25 donation for the missionary work. Sign in at 11 am for a shot gun start at noon.
Want to help more? Opportunities are available to sponsor a hole for $150. For more information, contact Tom McCann at 770-486-5596.
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PTC First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten is Now Accepting Applications for the Fall School Year
The PTC First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten is now accepting student applications for the 2020-2011 school year. The PTC First Presbyterian Kindergarten is conveniently located in the heart of Peachtree City at 206 Willow Bend Rd. Contact Susan Gilbert at 770-487-3699 for more information.
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Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Frightful Weather Is Delightful for Annual Troop Fundraiser
Not even rainy and cool weather could dampen the spirit of the annual Cookout for the Troops hosted by the Fayette County Public School System’s Transportation Department.
Mother Nature may not have cooperated, but the smell of hotdogs roasting on the grill and displays of red, white and blue beckoned to over 250 participants who showed up to enjoy a hearty lunch and try their luck at winning some fabulous prizes, all for a great cause.
Eight years and counting, the department has hosted the fundraiser to generate funds to purchase gift cards for the county’s men and women serving in the United States military. This year’s event netted over $2,500, all of which will enable the transportation department to send gift cards to deployed troops throughout the year as well as provide Christmas gifts.
Fayette residents who have a friend or loved one serving in the military can request to have a gift card sent to their solider by mailing his or her name and address to: The Troops, 210 Stonewall Avenue, Fayetteville, GA 30214. Please include a local contact and telephone number. The deadline for submitting names is May 15.
Each March, the county’s school bus drivers and monitors work countless hours organizing the cookout, and going door to door to Fayette businesses soliciting give aways and monetary donations. The drivers also provide the food and desserts that are enjoyed by those who attend.
Businesses throughout the county generously supported this year’s cookout by donating prizes that included handmade quilts, rugs, jewelry, gift certificates and artwork.
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Honor Flight Fayette Prepares for 6th Trip to DC
On May 4th, Honor Flight Fayette will take another group of World War II veterans to Washington, D.C. to see their memorial, bringing the total to about 420 men and women who have been honored by this non-profit organization since May of 2008.
A very dedicated group of volunteers has worked tirelessly for 2 ½ years to insure that members of our “greatest generation” have a day trip that they will not forget, because we are losing these men and women at the rate of over 1,000 per day. Also, a doctor, 2 nurses and 4 members of the Fayette county emergency medical staff accompanies each flight.
The day begins with breakfast, often provided by Chick-fil-A or Waffle House, at Fayetteville First United Methodist Church. There the veterans mingle for the first time that day with others of their era to reflect and remember. Then they board buses from FFUMC and First Baptist of Fayetteville, and leave to cheers and waving of flags by appreciative members of the community.
In addition to being escorted by the Fayette County Sheriff’s office, Fayetteville police department and Peachtree City police officers, the buses are led by members of the Patriot Guard motorcycle group. Many of these men and women have flags mounted on the rear of their motorcycles, and they form an “honor guard” for the veterans to pass through from the buses into the Atlanta airport. The veterans have always stated their appreciation for all of these groups, and are amazed that cars stop and police officers salute as they pass through intersections.
Air Tran makes this flight memorable for everyone involved in so many ways. They have extra security lines open just for this group, as many of them move slowly or are in wheelchairs, which are always provided at no charge by Absolute Medical. When the plane lands at Reagan Airport, and when they return to Atlanta, they are greeted by crowds cheering and waving flags who have been alerted by Air Tran of their arrival. There are many tears and smiles by the veterans who often ask in surprise “are these people all here for us?” When they returned from World War II there was no fanfare, just concern about finding jobs and returning to civilian life, and they are very moved by this display of patriotism and gratitude.
In Washington, D.C. they board comfortable motor coaches and are taken to their Memorial where they spend time observing and recalling memories of their service during war time. Some of them have never shared with their families their experiences of being shot down, as prisoners of war, or hiding from the enemy with the help of those on our side in foreign lands. They were at Pearl Harbor, Omaha Beach, Normandy or served stateside, and many of them have been decorated, but all are heroes.
A group of active and guard military personnel meets every flight at Reagan Airport and assists Honor Flight Fayette, and their guardian volunteers, with the veterans throughout the day. Their support, led by SSG Joshua Romans of Fayetteville, is invaluable and much appreciated by HFF and the veterans.
If time permits, a stop is made at other memorials. However, a stop is always made at Arlington Cemetery where they watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown. This solemn ceremony never fails to evoke appreciation from those who have, or those who have not, served in our military.
Dinner is back at Reagan Airport in a space provided by the local USO. By now, tired but at the same time energized by their experiences, the veterans share with each other about the day they have just enjoyed, and are enlightened by the stories of those who served in different areas of combat than they had experienced.
Back in Atlanta, the veterans are once again greeted, even late in the day, by Air Tran personnel and everyone else in the area who has heard the announcement that they are arriving. Once again they hear “thank you for your service” and receive hugs or handshakes of appreciation. They board the church buses for Fayetteville and a day, many say, was the “best day of my life”, although some add “after my marriage” or “the birth of my children”. Any way you look at it, Honor Flight Fayette and the citizens of Fayette county have given a special gift to those who made our many freedoms of life today possible.
A few weeks after each flight Fayette Senior Services volunteers their facility so that Honor Flight Fayette can host a reception and reunion of the veterans, their family members, their guardians, volunteers and the HFF board members. More surprises await them at this reception, and it is a memorable time for all involved.
If you would like to contribute to Honor Flight Fayette, are a veteran, or wish to be a volunteer or guardian, please call 770-719-1024. However, no donations will be accepted from World War II veterans as the sole purpose of Honor Flight Fayette is to thank them for their patriotism and sacrifices.
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Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Sandy Creek’s Les Miserables Nominated for Six Awards
Sandy Creek High’s Les Miserables has received six nominations in the Shuler Hensley Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre.
The nominations were announced at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on March 30. The school’s performance received nominations in the following categories: Ensemble or Chorus, Music Direction (Choral Director Millie Turek), Supporting Actor (Paul Merrill), Leading Actor (Jesse Alexander), Leading Actress (Stephanie Earle), Overall Production.
Winners will be announced at a Tony Awards-style ceremony on April 13 at the Cobb Energy Centre. Sandy Creek will do a live number at the show as one of the six nominees in the “overall production” category.
The Cobb Energy Centre awards are named for Marietta native and Tony Award winner, Shuler Hensley. The awards program is an initiative of the ARTSBRIDGE education program of the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Foundation to recognize excellence in high school musical theatre.
Tickets for the Shuler Hensley Awards Ceremony are on sale for $10 each plus applicable fees. They can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the box office of the Cobb Energy Centre.
Call 770-916-2808 for general information.
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Booth Middle Hopes to Secure Georgia’s 11th Win at International Science Olympiad
Months of practicing for events such as feathered frenzy, crime busters and disease detectives paid off for two middle school Science Olympiad teams.
J.C. Booth Middle and Rising Starr Middle placed first and fifth, respectively, at the Georgia Science Olympiad last month in Augusta. To get to the state level, teams must win their regional tournaments. Schools with overall placements 1-5 receive trophies and plaques; first and second place teams advance to the international competition.
Science Olympiad teams spend countless hours outside of school preparing for tournaments, often practicing before and after school and on weekends. Both Rising Starr and Booth have won the international title for Georgia 10 out of the last 12 years. They are the only schools in the state that have won at the international event.
As Georgia’s first place finisher, Booth will represent the state at the International Science Olympiad at the University of Illinois in May. This marks the school’s 17th trip to the international event.
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Thursday, April 01, 2010
Revolutionary Grave Dedication for Fayette County Resident Set for April 10
The James Waldrop Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution invites the public to join them as they mark the final resting spot for Patriot James Waldrop (1751-1846) , a Virginian who fought in the American Revolution, on Saturday, April 10 at 11 am. The dedication service will be in the Bottoms Cemetery on Hewell Rd on Hwy 54 between Fayetteville and Jonesboro.
Waldrop served the Americans as a private in the Continental Army and is recorded as spending time at Valley Forge. He received land in the 1821 and 1827 Georgia Land Lottery and moved his family to what is now Fayette County. Waldrop applied for his war pension in 1828 at the age of 72. For his service to the new country, Waldrop received a pension of $8 per month. Waldrop was also the great grandfather of Henry Simpson, the first baby born in Fayette County of permanent record. Waldrop and his wife, Mary, are both buried in Fayetteville.
Several of Waldrop's descendants still live in the area and are members of the James Waldrop Chapter DAR. The James Waldrop Chapter DAR was chartered in Fayetteville in 2007 and has quickly become a rising star in the Georgia State Society DAR.
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Saturday, March 27, 2010
Aabby Hosting Pancake Fundraiser
The employees of Aabby Group will put down their landscaping tools and pick up spatulas for a pancake/sausage breakfast fundraiser to benefit the 2010 Fayette County Relay For Life. The breakfast fundraiser will be held Wednesday, April 14, 2010 from 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM at the company’s headquarters located at 205 Shamrock Industrial Blvd in Tyrone. Tickets will be sold in advance and at the door. Patrons may eat in or take orders to go. Tickets for the fundraiser are $5.00 each. All proceeds from the Aabby Group pancake/sausage breakfast will go to the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Fayette County.
The Aabby Group has participated in the Fayette County Relay For Life for the last 5 years. Owner Mike Leedy’s grandmother passed away from lung cancer and Mike’s father also died from lung cancer at the age of 57. It is in their honor and memory, and the memory of all of the employees loved ones who have battled cancer, that the company participates in Relay. If you would like to join the Relay For Life in Fayette County as a volunteer or team participant, call Kim Westwood, Community Manager at (770) 631-0625, or email kim.westwood@cancer.org.
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Wednesday, March 24, 2010
High School Musicals Up for Nominations
Three high school musical performances are vying for nominations for the 2010 Shuler Hensley Award for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre.
Among the 40 metro-Atlanta contenders are McIntosh High for “HONK, The Musical;” Sandy Creek High for “Les Miserables;” and Starr’s Mill High for “Guys and Dolls.”
Nomination announcements will be made March 30 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre at 5 p.m. for the following 15 categories: overall production, choreography, costume design, stage crew and technical execution, ensemble/chorus, featured performer, leading actor/actress, lighting design, musical direction, orchestra/musical accompaniment, scenic design, supporting actor/actress.
A panel of judges attended performances during the September 2009-March 2010 season. The awards program is sponsored by the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Foundation and is fashioned after Broadway’s “Tony Awards.”
Winners from this year’s nominees will be announced on April 13 at a “Tony Award” style ceremony at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. The ceremony will also feature numbers from the nominated shows.
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Thursday, March 18, 2010
SkillsUSA at Sandy Creek Makes History
SkillsUSA students at Sandy Creek High achieved milestones for the school at the annual Georgia SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta.
For the first time in the history of the school’s chapter, a student was elected to the slate of officers. Sophomore Addie Davis was among the seven candidates chosen with the highest ballot count. As an officer, Davis will assume a leadership role representing the more than 8,000 members of the SkillsUSA Georgia organization. The office she will hold will be determined during the State Officer Training held in June. The official offices are President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Reporter, Parliamentarian and Historian. Davis will attend the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Kansas City, Montana in June, fulfilling her first official duty as a state officer.
Another state conference winner was competitor Dylan Stinchcomb who was a third place medalist in Diesel Equipment Technology. He received $14,500 in scholarships toward his post-high school plans to enter the field of Automotive Service Technology.
Other contestants included: Iffie Awachie, Addie Davis, Katie Humphries, Molly Jones, Andrew Kampras, Alex Koury and Julian Miller (Quiz Bowl), Robbie Chontos (Graphic Communications), Kaney Cowart (Advertising Design), Josh Duhon (Promotional Design), Mike Dukes (Automotive Brakes), Jared Johnson (Promotional Design), Chris Matthews and Briana Courtois (Web Design), Jonathan Strickland (Promotional Design), Marissa Shenkle (Extemporaneous Speaking), Chris Matthews and Briana Courtois (Web Design).
The Sandy Creek SkillsUSA chapter also was one of five in the state recognized for having the most increased membership for the current school year. The school’s chapter is the 10th largest in the state.
SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry leaders working together to ensure a skilled work force for America. More than 310,000 Career & Technical Education members work in SkillsUSA to develop leadership, technical, and professional skills. These students partner with industry to develop their skills through leadership development, competition, and community service.
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Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Whitewater Students Donate Stitches of Warmth
What some consider a lost art is being rekindled with students at Whitewater Middle School.
Seventh grade students in Laurel Hinze’s Family and Consumer Science connection class are learning the skill of hand quilting. This semester the students have been working on a community project, the completion of three quilts that will be donated to Promise Place in Fayetteville, a shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children.
“The students demonstrated great skill and cooperative teamwork in sewing the three quilts. What an opportunity for our students to share their skills with our community,” says Hinze.
The students have received a special invitation from the Quilters Guild of the Southern Crescent to attend the group’s monthly meeting in March to present the quilts and meet the members. The guild will donate the quilts to Promise Place on behalf of the students. The presentation will take place March 25 at the Fayette Presbyterian Church beginning at 7 p.m.
This is not the first community service project completed by students in Hinze’s connection class. In December, students made a quilt that was donated to the Atlanta Homeless Mission.
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Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Practice Test Helps Fayette County Students and Schools
Nearly 400 Fayette County high school students are better prepared to take the SAT and ACT; and their counseling departments are reaping benefits, too.
Students at all five of the county’s high schools took advantage of a practice SAT and ACT fundraiser offered by ClubZ In-Home Tutoring Services. Workshops were held at each school where students and their parents received an extensive diagnostic results package and a self-study guide. Students paid a $25 fee per test with $20 going back to their school’s counseling department. All totaled, ClubZ helped the schools raise $7,940.
“We are very pleased with the number of students who participated. This was a successful activity for both the students and their schools. We are pleased to be able to offer an opportunity to help both students and their schools succeed,” says ClubZ Director Peggy Thomas.
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Saturday, March 13, 2010
PTC Police Announces Next Teen C.E.R.T Class
The Peachtree City Police Department would like to announce the next Teen Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) class being offered this summer. The class will be held at the Police Department the week of June 14th—June 18th from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. each day . This hands-on class will cover topics such as emergency preparedness, fire suppression, medical operations, CPR, light search and rescue, and moulage. The week culminates with a full scale disaster exercise where the students can put the skills they learn during the week into practice. There is no cost to participate. The class is open to all students age 13 to 17. Applications can be picked up at the Peachtree City Police Department or by following the Teen CERT link at www.ptcpolice.org. For questions contact jraspberry@numail.org.
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Sara Harp Minter Challenges Brooks Elementary
The faculty members of Fayetteville’s Sara Harp Minter Elementary School have challenged the faculty members from Brooks Elementary School to a volleyball tournament. The tournament is a fundraiser for each schools 2010 Relay For Life team. The volleyball fundraiser will be held on Friday, March 26th at Whitewater High School located at 100 Wildcat Way in Fayetteville. The event starts at 6:00 PM. A $3.00 donation will be collected at the door, or patrons may purchase tickets in advance for $2.00 from Sara Harp Minter and Brooks Elementary students or faculty. Food concessions will be available at the event.
Relay For Life is a fun-filled overnight event designed to celebrate survivorship and raise money for research and programs of the American Cancer Society. During the event, teams of people gather and take turns walking or running laps. Each team tries to keep at least one team member on the track at all times. The 2010 Relay For Life of Fayette County will be held on Friday, April 30th at the Kiwanis Fairgrounds. If you would like to join the Relay For Life in Fayette County as a volunteer or team participant, call Kim Westwood, Community Manager at (770) 631-0625, or email kim.westwood@cancer.org.
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Thursday, March 11, 2010
Fayette County Students Sees Gains on Eighth Grade Writing Assessment
Fayette County student scores on the 2010 Georgia Eighth Grade Writing Assessment show a four percent gain in the “meets standards” category and improved scores for both African American and Hispanic students.
A total of 1,632 regular program students took the test with 80 percent “meeting standards,” 16 percent “exceeding standards,” and four percent “not meeting standards.” Fayette’s scores remained above that of the state where 76 percent of Georgia’s eighth graders “met standards,” seven percent “exceeded standards,” and 17 percent “did not meet standards.”
Fayette’s African American and Hispanic students posted the greatest improvement from last year. African American students went from 16 percent “not meeting standards” to 10 percent, and increased from 76 to 83 percent in “meeting standards,” – a seven percent gain. Hispanic students dropped from eight to three percent in “not meeting standards,” and increased from 77 to 79 percent in “meeting standards” and from nine to 13 percent in “exceeding standards.” In comparison to Georgia’s scores, the students performed well above their peers with 29 percent of the state’s African American students and 25 percent of Hispanic students “not meeting standards,” 69 percent of African Americans and 72 percent of Hispanics “meeting standards,” and three percent of both African American and Hispanic students “exceeding standards.”
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Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Whitewater High’s HOSA Going to National Competition
Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) at Whitewater High are advancing to the national competition after earning top four placements in the region Competitive Events Program.
A total of 26 students are heading to nationals in Orlando, Florida this June. HOSA’s Competitive Events Program brings health careers to life through rigorous testing of knowledge, performance, skill, and leadership capabilities aimed at developing, encouraging, and recognizing the brightest future healthcare professionals.
Competitive events are divided into six different categories: Health Science, Health Professions, Emergency Preparedness, Leadership, Teamwork and Recognition. The competition is a means of recognizing those students who are willing to pursue excellence by preparing for competition and having the determination to attend a conference and demonstrate competencies gained through the health occupations program.
Regional winners advancing to the national competition include: (First Place) Laura Brunks, Kelsey Harp, Kaedy Harp, Madison Ray, Sager Pattani, Tori James, Kevin Li, Tanner Martin, Morgan Simmons, Lauren Jennings, Alysa Glaze, Lauren Sweatman, Claire Kegley; (Second Place) Alec Wan, Elly Clayton, Rasmin Momin, Trey Hollins, Eden Baker, Tyler Stanford, MacKenzie Kirchner, Mary Groover; (Third Place) Sarah Lee; (Fourth Place) Megan Herring, Jacob Maslak, Amanda Harmsen, Abby Richards.
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Whitewater DECA Students Head to Nationals
Over half of Whitewater High’s DECA Club members who advanced to the state competition earned top placements, qualifying them for the national tournament in Louisville, Kentucky next month.
Students who earn top 6 placements are advanced to the national competition. Whitewater’s national competitors include (Second Place) Sean Curtis, Jessica Still, Lee Frye; (Third Place) Devyn Lee; (Fourth Place) Deanna Solly-Trentman, Alex Resnak; (Fifth Place) Megan McDowell; (Sixth Place) Devyn Lee, Kayla Chapman, Frances Wilkes, and Drew Huelfer.
Additional students placing at the state level are (Seventh Place) Deanna Solly-Trentman; (Top 10) Katie Cassidy, Megan McDowell; (Top 20) Kayla Maxwell, Erin Mahlbacher, Ashley Mackorell, and Andrea Campuzano.
DECA is a business marketing, management and entrepreneurship organization that strives to educate its members about general marketing, entrepreneurship and general business strategies and decisions. DECA aims to prepare members for future careers in general marketing and business.
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Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Voice Your Opinion on Fayette’s School Superintendent Search
What qualities and qualifications do you want in the next Fayette County school superintendent? Now is the time to let your voice be heard.
The Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) has been hired by the Fayette County Board of Education to conduct a nationwide search for the next superintendent. Stakeholder input is needed to find the most qualified candidate for the position.
GSBA has posted an electronic survey on the school system’s website, www.fcboe.org
Responses are sent directly to GSBA. The organization will collect the results and use the information as screening criteria for qualified candidates. The online survey will remain on the school system’s website through April 5.
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Monday, March 08, 2010
Public Hearing Set for School Superintendent
A public hearing has been planned for March 15 to gather input on the qualities and qualifications for the next superintendent for Fayette County Public Schools.
The hearing will take place at the F.A. Sams Auditorium, located at 205 LaFayette Drive in Fayetteville, beginning at 7 p.m. The Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) will moderate the hearing.
GSBA has been hired by the Fayette County Board of Education to conduct a nationwide search for applicants interested in the superintendent position. Input collected from the hearing will be used in the applicant screening process.
In addition to the public hearing, GSBA has also posted an online survey to gather information from the public regarding Fayette’s next school superintendent. The survey is on the school system’s website, www.fcboe.org. All responses are sent directly to GSBA. The survey will remain on the site through April 5.
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Thursday, March 04, 2010
McIntosh Mock Trial Team Headed for State Finals
The mock trial team at McIntosh High has become the second in the school system’s history to advance to the state competition.
The team won the regional championship competing against Sandy Creek High and Starr’s Mill High (the first team to compete at the state level last year), in addition to three Newton County schools. McIntosh is one of 16 schools in the state that will compete in the Georgia Mock Trail Competition at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center March 13-14.
Team members include Christina Bowman, Femi Brinson, Moroni DeMoors, Dalton Hoyer, Maragaret Jones, Zainab Kamara, Evan McCloskey, Taylor Morgan, Cailin O’Brien, Hope Slaughter, Maegan Stalvey, Rachel White, and Matthew Winn. The primary school coach is Marcus Broadhead and the attorney coach is Brandon Taylor.
The winner of the state tournament will represent Georgia in the national competition May 5-9 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania competing against 42 state champion teams from across the country and around the world.
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Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Education Foundation Awards Grants for Fayette County
Over $8,650 in grants has been awarded to educators by the Fayette County Education Foundation to help fund innovative teaching ideas at public schools throughout the county.
Among the grants funded this year include the purchase of four SMART Boards, a robotics kit for the county’s first robotics club and programs to help students better understand chemistry, physics and various mathematical concepts.
The grants give educators the monetary assistance they need to bring innovative and creative programs into their schools and classrooms to help enhance the curriculum that is already in place. These programs are in addition to what is funded by the school system. Without assistance from the Fayette County Education Foundation, funding for many of these programs would not be possible.
Counting this year’s grants, the Fayette County Education Foundation has given over $170,000 to the school system’s teachers since it awarded its first grants in 2002. Funding for the grants would not be possible without the generous support of the business community, Fayette County Public School System employees and local individuals.
The foundation is a cooperative effort between the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce and the Fayette County Public School System. Each fall, educators are given the opportunity to submit applications for grants to fund programs that are beyond the scope of their schools’ budget.
Anyone interested in becoming a supporter of the Fayette County Education Foundation can contact Melinda Berry-Dreisbach at the Fayette County Board of Education, 770-460-3535.
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Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Anderson Named Outstanding Teacher of American History by James Waldrop DAR
Rhonda Anderson with James Waldrop Chapter DAR American History Chairman Phyllis King.
Rhonda Anderson, who teaches at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School, was recently named Outstanding Teacher of American History for 2010 by the James Waldrop Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution.
Anderson is the Social Studies Department Chair and views the study of history as "life enrichment" that should be offered to all students. According to Anderson, history should be recalled, quoted, performed, sang, memorized, and celebrated both inside and outside the classroom.
The James Waldrop Chapter DAR is chartered in Fayetteville, Georgia.
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100 Percent of Fayette County Science Projects Place at Regional Fair
All of Fayette County's middle and high school science students who advanced to the Griffin RESA Regional Science and Engineering Fair earned placements and two of their projects were selected to compete in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.
A total of 17 out of 23 projects that were selected for the regional fair brought home first place honors. The first place winners are eligible to attend the State Science and Engineering Fair March 31-April 2 at the University of Georgia.
Middle school first place winners include: (Bennett’s Mill) Matthew Harmon; Michael Koenig and Matthew Melatti; Mamie Smith; Monica Schwingshakl; (Fayette) Menaka Reddy; (Flat Rock) Helen Davidson; (J.C. Booth) Alex Marty; (Rising Starr) Shannon Lea McKillip.
High school first place winners include: (Fayette County) Rebecca Otwell; Omar Martinez and Landry Grymes; Sonika Reddy; Sarika Reddy; Tuure Pasto, Michael Martin and Sonya Jooma; (McIntosh) Karen Anderson and Nathan Pearson; Jackie Roshelli and Cara O’Brien; (Starr’s Mill) Leslie Perez and Torie Legere; Hannah Feltner and Regan Chewning.
Other placements include (Bennett’s Mill Middle) Tori Toth and Dale Chapman, second place; Jamie DeCicco, Jordan Watson and Katy Lewis, third place; (Fayette Middle) Juan Luis Munoz, third place; (Rising Starr Middle) Stephanie Clark, second place; Connor Chewning, third place; (Whitewater High) George Harris, third place.
The science fair judges selected four first place winners from Fayette County High to advance to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. Sonika Reddy advances as an individual along with the team of Tuure Pasto, Michael Martin and Sonya Jooma.
Special awards from various organizations and institutions were also given to the following teams and individuals: Leslie Perez and Torie Legere, Starr’s Mill High, Mu Alpha Theta; Rebecca Otwell, Fayette County High, National Society of Professional Engineers; Jackie Roshelli and Cara O’Brien, McIntosh High, Stockholm Junior Water Prize; Tuure Pasto, Michael Martin and Sonya Jooma, Fayette County High, U.S. Air Force; Menaka Reddy, Fayette Middle, U.S. Navy/U.S Marine Corps; Helen Davidson, Flat Rock Middle, U.S. Navy/U.S Marine Corps; Sonika Reddy, Fayette County High, Director’s Award; Tuure Pasto, Michael Martin and Sonya Jooma, Fayette County High, Directors Award.
The Griffin RESA Regional Science and Engineering Fair is a regional competition among middle and high schools in the Griffin RESA region that consists of Butts, Fayette, Henry, Lamar, Newton, Pike, Spalding and Upson counties.
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"Prisoner of Passion" to be Presented at PTC First Presbyterian on March 21
The power of the Resurrection takes on a new light as London native David Payne portrays the apostle Paul in a Prisoner of Passion. This drama is sure to bring life to the New Testament Scripture as Paul (David Payne) is under house arrest in Rome and faces almost certain death. Paul interacts with a servant girl and tells her more of God's love.
Come experience the rejoicing of past events and the hope for the future with Paul as he cites many letters he wrote to the early churches. Payne's portrayal of Paul as he neared the end of his life will inspire your Christian journey on Sunday, March 21 at 6:30 at the Peachtree City First Presbyterian Church.
Ticket required. $5 adult and $3 child/student. Childcare will be 
provided for ages 4 and younger.
For more information, contact First Presbyterian Church at 206 Willow Bend Rd 770-487-7757 or email concerts@firstpresptc.com.
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Hypnotist Mike Harvey will be Performing at The Legacy Theatre this Friday and Saturday Night!
Performances: March 5-6, 2010 at 8 PM
Tickets are only $15 per person!
Come see this fun and exciting show, that everyone is talking about! It is "The #1 Comedy Show of the South!" Mike Harvey, a hypnotist, will be returning for a second weekend to perform on The Legacy Stage! Mike Harvey has been performing for over 38 years as a hypnotist. He has performed on Carnival Cruise Line for many years, and has performed in 15 states in the US. Mike Harvey has hypnotized more than 175,000 volunteers, while more than 11 million spectators have watched.
Mike creates the ultimate comedy show using the power of hypnosis over and over with each show being different, because of his use of many different volunteers. Mike's shows are clean, using no blue humor, and he does not suggest that his volunteers do anything that may embarrass them. Mike Harvey has respect for the individual's sense of self. This show will amaze you, and the volunteers will become the stars of the show!
For more information about hypnosis and Mike Harvey visit www.hypnotistmikeharvey.com.
To purchase tickets visit www.thelegacytheatre.org, or give us a call at 404-895-1473!
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Monday, March 01, 2010
Starr's Mill Students Shine at Regional STAR Events Competition
FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) members at Starr’s Mill High showcased their skills at the regional STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) Events competition with 24 of them advancing to the state contest.
STAR Events are competitive events in which members are recognized for proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills and career preparation. Each event is designed to help members develop specific lifetime skills in character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge and career preparation.
All totaled, the students brought home eight gold and 16 silver awards from eight different events. Winners include: Tiana Morris, silver, Career Investigation; Katie Walker, Jon Reives and Jeremy Holzschuh, silver, Chapter Service Project Manual; Hanna Weaver, Tara Powell and Layne Hatcher, gold, Chapter Showcase Display; Chelcee Putters and Katelynn Pappas, gold, Chapter Showcase Manual; Abbey Miller, Callie Hughes and Ariel Luke, silver, Environmental Ambassadors; Madison Houck and Amanda Rubenstein, silver, Focus on Children; Kaitlin Arnold, Kelley Peterson and Jules Shipe, gold, Focus on Children; Rebekah Livingston, Cassidy Sparkman, Rachel Edison, Beth Dixon and Izi Wagner, silver, Illustrated Talk; Brittany Bomba and Mandie Pfannenstiel, silver, Life Event Planning.
The state competition will take place March 18-20 at the Classic Center in Athens.
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