Powder Springs, GA News - The Powder Springs Messenger Newspaper
PLEASE NOTE!!!
Fireworks
Display TYPO IN THE CITY'S INFORMATION IN THE MESSENGER! Sorry Powder
Springs Your editor goofed and didn't catch the typo about the Fireworks
Display. Correct date is the following weekend on Saturday, October 8th
not on Saturday, October 1st
FIREWORKS DISPLAY WILL BE ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8
NOT ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1ST
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McEachern's FBLA Chapter Compete in Region 9 Competition
(above) McEachern’s FBLA chapter Future Business Leaders of America recently competed at the Region 9 Competition and came away with a record amount of medals for McEachern High School. Out of 28 events, 21 McEachern students placed in the Top 5 while earning a total of 24 medals. McEachern’s FBLA also had a record number of Region Champions with 6 students earning 1st Place medals. The following students were Region 9 Champions: Jacob Torres: Digital Design and Promotion, Darian McGee: Database Design, DeAngelo Williams and Arailia Dent: Entrepreneurship, Darian McGee and Bradley Townsend: Management Information Systems. The next stop for McEachern’s FBLA will be at Georgia FBLA’s State Compe-tition on March 18-19th. McEachern’s FBLA members will compete in the following events: Business Law, Business Proce-dures, Computer Game and Simulation Programming, Database Design, Digital Design & Promotion, Economics, and Tech-nology Concepts. To advance to the National Competition, the competitors must at least place in the Top 2.
Wedding Announcement
Michael Hoffman and Roxanna Panzel were united in marriage January 1, 2011. The ceremony was held at Clark-dale Church. Michael is the son of Mike and Linda Hoffman owners of Major Service Center in Powder Springs, Geor-gia. Michael is a biomedical equipment technician and a senior airman in the United States Air Force. Roxie is an aero-space medical technician. Roxie is the daughter of Daniel Panzel of Maryville, Illinois and Brenda Lutes of Mitchel, Illinois. They are both assigned to McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey.
Powder Springs Police Chief Terminated
Wednesday, March, 16, 2011 - 6:19am
Staff Reporter
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - After a 4-hour executive session to discuss the termination of Powder Springs Police Chief Rick Richardson, the Mayor and City Council supported the personnel action taken by City Manager Rick Eckert in early February. According to Mayor Pat Vaughn, however, no vote was taken concerning the termination.
The executive session was called after Richardson waived his earlier request for an appeal hearing in an email sent by Richardson's lawyer on March 7, 2011, to Powder Spring City Attorney Richard Calhoun. The hearing, scheduled for Wednesday, March 9, 2011, was cancelled and the governing body met in an executive session instead. Because there was no appeal hearing, a vote was not required by law.
“Chief Richardson elected not to pursue an appeal because an adverse decision in that forum might negatively impact his ability to pursue the matter in another forum before a judge and jury,” said Harlan Miller, Richardson’s attorney. “At this time Chief Richardson is considering all his options and hopes that litigation will not be necessary.”
During the executive session the elected officials discussed Richardson’s termination and possible litigation, though no lawsuit has been filed against the city at this time. The Mayor and City Council also thoroughly reviewed the Cobb Sheriff's Office investigation of Richardson's actions which originally prompted Eckert to dismiss the 17-year employee. Though the report was completed in late November 2010, the officials had not been permitted to review the findings because of Richardson’s request for an appeal hearing.
In a letter sent from Eckert to Richardson concerning his termination, Eckert explains the termination is due to “an overall loss of confidence in your judgment and ability to effectively run the City of Powder Springs Police Department.” Eckert’s letter lists four central reasons for his loss of confidence: 1) the unauthorized sale of three police vehicles, 2) the fact that these vehicles were sold at “significantly below fair market value,” 3) Richardson’s approval to donate an in-car video camera system to another municipality; and 4) Richardson’s inconsistent testimony at various times concerning these items.
According to the Sheriff’s report, two 2002 and one 2003 Ford Crown Victorias were among the surplus city property that the Mayor and City Council directed to sell at a public auction in a resolution approved by elected officials in March 2007. Two of the vehicles were fully equipped police vehicles. The other was a public works vehicle.
The report states that instead of being sold at public auction, the vehicles were sold privately in March 2007. One vehicle was sold to former Chief Robert Lucas of the Braswell Police Department who used personal funds to purchase the car for the department. The second vehicle was sold to Mike Bowman of Code 7 Police Supply and the third was sold to the Rockmart Police Department. According to OCGA 36-37-6, all municipal surplus property must be sold at public auction, or may be sold directly to another governing authority for public purposes. According to the Sheriff’s report, the sale of the vehicle to Mike Bowman violated this section of the Georgia code, and the sale of all three vehicles violated the City Council’s resolution to sell them at public auction.
All three vehicles were sold for $1,500, which, according to City Manager Eckert was well below their fair market price, particularly due to the additional police equipment installed on each vehicle.
“Some comparable models – same model and year - were recently sold at public auction and brought approximately $3,000,” said Eckert, adding that the vehicles should have sold in “the neighborhood of $4,000” at the time of the sale.
The Sheriff’s report states that the police vehicle situation came to light during a federal lawsuit between former Braswell Police Chief Robert Lucas and the City of Braswell in regards to ownership of the car purchased from Powder Springs. Mayor Pat Vaughn and Richard-son were subpoenaed to testify during this lawsuit, as well as former Powder Springs Police Department employee Walter “Trey” Williams, who was in charge of vehicle maintenance and equipment at the time and had been assigned by the Chief to dispose of the surplus vehicles. Williams also worked part-time for the City of Braswell at the time of the sale.
According to the report, during his federal testimony, Richardson denied previously having knowledge that “Williams had held any vehicles out of the auction, stating he only became aware of the occurrence after being deposed in the federal case.”
But the Sheriff’s report also states that Chief Richardson did personally approve of the sale as evidenced by his signature on the sales agreement. The report states, “Chief Richardson acted outside of his lawful authority in authorizing the sale of an equipped police vehicle to Code 7 Police Supply.”
The report further states, “In a December 14, 2010 interview pursuant to the Sheriff’s investigation, Richardson characterized his role in the vehicle auctions as being ‘kind of out of the loop,” stating that he ‘...never questions how he [Williams] handled them [the auctions].’” The report also states that Richardson said, “I didn’t know the law or…the City Charter” in this December interview.
Also mentioned in the Sheriff’s report is a Powder Springs in-car video camera system that was given to the City of Braswell by Wil-liams at no cost. Williams indicated that the video system was provided to the Braswell Police Department with the knowledge and consent of Richardson. According to the report, in an interview on May 14, 2008, between Williams, Richardson, Powder Springs Lieutenant Matt Boyd, and Investigator Charles Spann, Richardson stated [in reference to Williams’s testimony], “Everything that you’ve told me about that camera I remember.”
According to the Sheriff’s report, in an interview pursuant to its investigation, Richardson later “indicated he did not recall if he autho-rized the transfer of the camera to the City of Braswell.”
“Your trial testimony denying the donation of any equipment to the City of Braswell is inconsistent with your earlier statements to Lt. Boyd during the investigation conducted in 2008. Therefore, your inconsistent statements regarding these events raise significant concerns about your credibility and integrity,” writes Eckert in his termination letter.
“Any seeming “discrepancies” [in Richardson’s statements] are illusory,” commented Miller. “Chief Richardson had different infor-mation available to him at the differing times he was questioned concerning the matter. He gave truthful answers to all questions, based on the information available to him at the time.”
“Chief Richardson has served the City of Powder Springs with distinction since 1983,” Richardson’s attorney continued. “Chief Rich-ardson is a peace officer, not a bookkeeper, accountant or lawyer. Nonetheless, there is absolutely no suggestion in this case that he sought to or did enrich himself in any fashion. All he did was try to help a smaller police department.”
“It should be clearly noted that this investigation has not revealed any evidence of criminal motive or gain in regard to the conduct of former Chief Richardson in this incident,” said the Sheriff’s report. “It should, however, also be noted that the narrow focus of this investi-gation was administrative in nature (as opposed to criminal).
Powder Springs Coffee and Bake Shop Open for Business
Powder Springs Coffee Shop owners, Larry and Joan Evans and Coffee Shop Manager Tres Barnes, wife Heather and their son Santiago also. Larry and Joan also own Powder Springs Tea at Seven Springs. Check them both our you're in for a real treat!
Article by J. Wilkes, REPORTER
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - The historic Powder Springs Town Square is known for its phenomenal antique stores, quaint restaurants, floral and gift stores and now it’s got its very own coffee shop. So grab your favorite book or morning newspaper and head on over to the Powder Springs Coffee and Bake Shoppe.
The shop, which officially opened on February 22, is located at 4458 Marietta Street, directly beside the Tea Room at Seven Springs.
“I laugh when I tell people the tea room birthed the coffee shop,” said Larry Evans, owner of Powder Springs’ newest hot spot. “My wife (Joan) and I have owned the team room for seven years, and we are thrilled about our new addition.”
Although two separate companies, the locations do operate from one kitchen. According to Mr. Evans, Tracey Simmons and her mother, Marilyn Guntterson, had had dreams of opening a bakery in Powder Springs. The two began work on building out the space, work which was actually being completed by Mr. Evans, and then the economy took a turn for the worse.
“When the economy went south, they could no longer afford to complete their dream,” he said. “For almost three years the space had been vacant, and I am excited to be able to pick up where they left off on the store.”
Mr. Evans said the interior of the store is exactly as the two women had planned, and he very proudly states he “did not change a thing.”
“The mission of our coffee shop is to serve the highest quality coffee that is available,” he said. “We will never be a fast food coffee shop. We have bought the best equipment and ingredients you can get.”
Mr. and Mrs. Evans both believe that this shop will catch the attention of real coffee connoisseurs, offering some of the finest coffees in town. The shop has developed a menu of traditional espresso drinks as well as a rotating, seasonal selection of single-origin coffees sourced directly from a network of small-scale, artisan coffee farmers from around the world. And the food options range from scones to bagels… all prepared fresh in the kitchen. Mr. Evans added that any menu item you can order at the tearoom will be available at the coffee shop.
“Not only am I proud of the coffee and food we are serving, but this is community owned,” said Mr. Evans. “We hire local people and we are helping bring business to other businesses on the square.”
Told by other local merchants how they have already seen a positive impact, the coffee shop is also growing in popularity in the social media world. In only two short weeks the shop has more than 500 friends on its Facebook page!
Store manager, Tres Barnes, could also not be any more excited about the sudden popularity of the coffee shop. Asked by Mr. Evans to manage the shop, Barnes and his wife Heather are no strangers to the world of coffee.
“My wife Heather was my inspiration for getting into coffee, with our church adding a café, the two of us were some of the first to be trained as Baristas,” Barnes said. “From there I wanted to learn everything about coffee and to be excellent in making the drinks, with that I have been through Barista training in Atlanta to achieve the highest quality of coffee education and preparation.”
Along with rich aromatic coffees and scrumptious baked goods, the coffee shop also is a place for students to study, readers to read and music lovers to enjoy live music at upcoming open mic nights. There is a TV to enjoy, free WiFi and the shop can even be booked for special events such as birthday parties.
“We want to help businesses around us too,” Mr. Evans said. “We are actually working right now with the Book Worm to plan readings from some wonderful local authors.”
Powder Springs Coffee and Bake Shoppe will be having its official Grand Opening on Friday March 18th with a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring Powder Springs Mayor Pat Vaughn at 10am. They ask that you join them for this special event. Store hours that day will be from 8 AM to 9 PM, and there will be live entertainment beginning at 7 PM. There will be having giveaways and free samples throughout the day, and the grand opening festivities will continue on Saturday from 8 AM to 3 PM.
The coffee shop is currently open Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 AM to 5 PM, Thursday and Friday from 8 AM to 9 PM, and Satur-day from 8 AM to 3 PM. end
***NOTICE***
Monday Sanitation Routes - Have Been Moved To Fridays
After careful review of operating efficiency, the Sanitation Department has determined the need to transfer all Monday garbage collections to Fridays.
If your household garbage is normally collected on Mondays, it is now collected on Friday ONLY.
Yard waste and brush collection will remain on Mondays.
Only the household collection routes are being rescheduled for Fridays.
Monday garbage routes are discontinued.
Only yard waste and brush pick up will be on Mondays.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
City of Powder Springs - Sanitation Department - 770-943-8010
Next City Council Meeting - Monday, March 21, 2011 at 7:00 PM. Powder Springs City Hall, City Council Chambers, 4488 Atlanta Street.
POWDER SPRINGS POLICE - Robert Bach Arrest (3/2/2011 1:36 PM)
Attorney, Robert Bach, 78, of Powder Springs was arrested on 02/22/11 and is currently charged with 25 counts of Theft by Taking and 5 counts of Theft by Conversion. This was the result of an investigation that was initiated after clients of Robert Bach reported that Bach failed to file Chapter 7 Bankruptcy paperwork through court, after he was paid to perform those services. The investigation is still ongoing; however persons with information regarding this case or persons that are victims of similar circumstances involving Robert Bach are encouraged to contact Detective J. Echeverry of the Powder Springs Police Criminal Investigations Division at 770-943-1616.
Cameron A. Kimber, has been placed on the Dean's List of Wofford College (Spartanburg, SC) in recognition of outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of 2010. (per the card we received) In order to be on the Dean's List a student must complete 12 hours with a 3.6 GPA. Cameron is the son of Clarence and Terrilyn Webb, of Powder Springs and is a 2009 graduate of Joseph Wheeler High School.
The Hillgrove High School Foundation Presents Performing for the Dream
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - An afternoon of fine arts at the Earl Strand Theatre on Sunday, March 13, 2011 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Come enjoy visual and performing arts by Hillgrove High School students. A silent auction will also benefit the Hillgrove Foundation. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at The Strand box office, EarlStrand.org or at Hillgrove High School.
Ward Recreation Center Offers Exciting Programs For Spring
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - Ward Recreation Center will be offering School Break Day Camps for Kids ages 5K-11 and Teen camp ages 12-15 on April 4-8. The fee for each camp is $100 per week with payment required at registration. Registration is in person only. Call (770) 528-8885 for more information.
Ward Recreation Center will be offering $4 Zumba classes every Thursday at 9:30am. and every Tuesday at 5:45pm starting February 1st. Your first class is free! No sign-ups or commitment, just pay as you go. We hope to see you there!
Spring Basketball Academy is registration in progress. Girls and boys in grades 1-8 can participate in a funda-mentals program that has been designed to help your child improve and learn the game of basketball. Fundamental workouts will be on Saturdays and game times on Sundays from March-May. Register in person only at Ward Recreation Center. Fees for the academy are $99 plus a $25 registration fee.
Piano lessons will be offered to youth and adults at Ward. Cost is $10 per lesson plus the initial book cost. Open house for enrollment will be Thursday, February 3rd from 6:30-7:30pm. After registration, lessons will be every Thursday from 6:30pm-7:30pm (ages 5-7) 7:30pm-8:30pm (ages 7-12) and 8:30pm-9:30pm (ages 12-adult).
For information on any Ward Recreation Center program, call (770) 528-8885.
POWDER SPRINGS MESSENGER
Homestead Exemptions Due by April 1st: Homeowners have until April 1 to apply for Homestead Exemptions for this tax year. Applications not received by the deadline will be processed and applied the following year. The applicant must occupy the property and his or her name must appear on the deed in order to qualify. Homeowners must apply for all exemptions for which they are eligible; exemptions are automatically renewed thereafter unless there is a change in ownership or eligibility. Homeowners must notify the Tax Commissioner’s Office if they are no longer eligible for an exemption. It is not necessary to reapply if the home has been refinanced. Most new property owners will be mailed a tax exemption brochure after the first of the year. Tax bills are mailed on Aug. 15 and payment is due within 60 days to avoid late charges. Applications and payments must be received or U.S. Postmarked (metered postmark not accepted as proof of timely mailing) by the filing or payment deadline to be considered timely. Applications, detailed information, tax bills and year round on-line bill pay are available at cobbtax.org or by calling 770-528-8600.
CLICK HERE FOR MILITARY NEWS FOR POWDER SPRINGS
CLICK HERE TO SEE LATEST POWDER SPRINGS GA CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Don't Wait to Get Flood Insurance!
Increased Flooding Trend Across the United States
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - The increased flooding trend across the United States serves as another reminder that NOW is the time for you to act to protect you family, home or business by obtaining flood insurance. Flooding is the one of the most common and widespread of natural disasters. The winter months bring wet and snowy conditions that lead to increased flood risks. Spring brings heavy rains, thunderstorms and tornados. Late summer marks the beginning of peak hurricane season. In short periods of time, massive amounts of rainfall can occur. Property and business owners should be prepared for these weather impacts, and it is important to act before it is too late. Most insurance policies do not cover flood damage and once purchased, there is typically a 30-day waiting period for a flood insurance policy to become effective. Just inches of water can cause tens of thousands of dollars of damage. The national flood insurance program reports that last year, the average individual flood insurance claim was nearly $28,000. Without flood insurance protection, property owners may have to absorb the financial losses on their own. Take the time now to talk to your insurance agent to obtain flood insurance coverage. The City of Powder Springs is part of the National Flood Insurance Program, and having flood insurance coverage is critical for participation in any future hazard mitigation grant program. It is important to know your policy terms to ensure there is adequate coverage; contents coverage can be included.
Visit http://www.floodsmart.gov to find essential information and tools that can help you prepare for flood risks. The website provides a tool to allow you to see how expensive just a few inches of water can be to re-build and explains the reality of flooding risks. Additionally, flood insurance rate maps produced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency can be found online at www.msc.fema.gov. Both also contain information about flood safety. For example, do not drive in a flooded area, and do not walk through flowing water. Stay away from electrical wires and be alert to gas leaks. Keep children away from flood waters, ditches and storm drains. In the event of a flash flood, you may be the first to notice; please notify the police department.
Development within the special flood hazard area requires a permit prior to the development, whether it is construction, filling, excavating, fencing, or other activities. Please contact Community Development for information about requirements in the special flood hazard area. If a building is substantially damaged or if substantial improvements are planned, all floodplain management requirements must be implemented, such as elevating the structure three feet above the base flood elevation. Be cautious of people going door to door selling home repairs. A permit from the City is required for repairs and renovations, and a permit is required for door to door solicitations.
McEachern Wrestling Team Wins Region Championship and Will Compete in State Tournament on February 25, 26
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - On January 8th the McEachern Wrestling Team competed at the Region Dual tournament at Harrison High School. These young men went into the tournament as the fourth seed and came away as the Region Dual Champions. They defeated top seed Hillgrove in the semifinals and Kennesaw Mountain in the finals to win the region championship and qualify for the state tournament for the first time since 2007. Unfortunately because of the snow, they were unable to compete in the state tournament the next weekend, which is rescheduled for February 25, 26 at Mountain View High School. All of these young men have displayed great sportsmanship this entire season and you all should be proud of how they are representing McEachern High School in Powder Springs, GA. 2011 team(Pictured above) Region Dual Champion Wrestlers: Ethan Still, Zach Murphy, EJ Sheppard, Kyle Munn, Jordano Figueroa, Devon Potler-Jack, Spencer Tillman, Sir Holloway, Carl Matthews, DeAndre King, Joey Visockis, Jonathan Hill, Troy King, Cody Munn, James Patrick, Antoine Jones, Sharrod Pittman, Ben Hamburg - Head Wrestling Coach.
Powder Springs Police Chief Fired
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - The decision has been made to terminate Chief Richardson's employment with the city, and he has exercised his right under the city charter to appeal this decision. Accordingly, the city will be proceeding through the appeal process according to its charter, and will be unable to offer any comment on this matter until the appeal process has been completed. As soon any updates are available in the appeals process we will let you know.
McEachern Wins State First Time Ever in Debate
McEachern High School Earns Prestigious National Charter Membership POWDER SPRINGS, GA - McEachern High School has been granted charter membership in the National Forensic League (NFL). charter membership is the highest level of membership in the NFL, and reflects sustained commitment to speech and debate education over several years. The National Forensic League is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit honorary society whose mission is to promote high school and middle school speech and debate activities as a means to develop a student's essential life skills and values. Last year, more than 112,000 high school and middle school students, representing more than 2,800 high schools and nearly 100 middle schools, built their communication, leadership, cognitive, and presentational skills as members.
Cobb County Police Precinct V Bulletin West Cobb Residents and Business Owners POWDER SPRINGS, GA There has been considerable media coverage regarding the ability of thieves to utilize personal information posted on social media sites such as Facebook to steal your identity. While these sites are a great way to stay connected with friends and relatives, and to reconnect with people from your past, it is important to control who has access to your personal details. Many people post their addresses, birthdates, and primary email accounts to their sites which can make identify theft extremely easy. But seemingly harmless information such as the city you were born in, the high school you graduated from and the year you did, and the name of your pet can provide the answers to the security questions that are required to reset your password on many financial accounts. Remember, your close friends and relatives already know your personal information so reconsider the need for posting it on the internet. Also, detailing vacations or business trips will only let people know when your home is vulnerable for a potential burglary. Dates and times you are away should never be posted and that information should only be limited to emergency contacts that are trusted family members or close friends.
Lowell Lovinggood Named Powder Springs Volunteer of the Year
POWDER SPRINGS, GA Pictured above: Mayor Pat Vaughn and the city council, at the Annual PS Volunteers Banquet, presented the Powder Springs Volunteer of the Year Award to Lowell Lovinggood. Lowell, who is president of Seven Springs Museum, was honored with the prestigious title because he contributed countless hours, resources and a whole lot of energy to saving and reviving the flooded museum during and after last years flood. Mr. Lovinggood's timely leadership, hard work and dedication prevented numerous priceless documents and artifacts from being lost forever. Mayor Vaughn stated, "The City of Powder Springs is forever indebted to Lowell Lovinggood for being a 'Citizen Extraordinaire'. "A Council member remarked, "When it comes to the museum, Lowell lives up to his name and we are all Loving his Good works."
Varner Elementary School Travel Back to the 1800's
POWDER SPRINGS, GA (Pictured above) Students were given an opportunity to meet and touch Dr. B's greyhounds who were special guests; PopNGo (Poppy) and BookerBooBoo (BooBoo). Varner Principal Pamela Adeli reports that every student at Varner Elementary School in Powder Springs, GA had the opportunity to travel back to the 1800's. They were invited into the "home" of Columbia College professor, Dr. Clement Moore (Dr. Linda Beving, media specialist) and his wife Mrs. Moore (Mrs. Michelle McLane, media assistant). Mrs. Moore served each student some of her special recipe, delicious hot chocolate. Professor Moore was a Biblical and a Hebrew Scholar and he shared with the students some historical significance of the religious holidays celebrated in December. Dr. Moore ended their visit with a special reading of his famous poem, "Twas the Night Before Christmas."
Atlanta Red Cross Sees Major Spike In Home Fire Responses Planning, Preparedness Touted As Keys to Holiday Home Fire Prevention
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - As temperatures plummet and the holiday season moves into full swing, the Atlanta Red Cross urges families to follow simple safety tips to keep the season merry and to prevent holiday fires. During the winter holiday season the incidence and severity of home fires dramatically increases. In fact, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, each year fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of over 400 people, injure 1,650 more, and cause over $990 million in damage. Many of these fires are caused by home heating sources, unattended cooking, and candles.
“Our response activity has risen almost 100% over the same timeframe last year", said Eva Coffey, manager of disaster re-sponse for the Metro Atlanta Red Cross. “From October 1 through December 8 of 2009 our dedicated Red Cross volunteers have provided food, clothing, shelter, prescription medications and other emergency assistance to 165 families following home fires. Since October 1 of this year, we have helped 309 families following home fires and we're only halfway through our fiscal year," added Coffey.
“Many home fires are preventable, and that’s what makes this type of disaster so devastating,” said Hal Simmons, volunteer captain of the Atlanta Red Cross' Disaster Action Team. “We urge all families to make safety an important part of their holiday preparations," added Simmons.
Holiday lights and candles need to be turned off or extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed, and especially before leaving home. If you are entertaining guests, designate a responsible family member to walk around your home ensuring that candles and smoking materials are properly extinguished once guests leave. If you must use space heaters place them level, hard and nonflammable surfaces (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs, or carpets or near bedding or drapes, and turn them every time you leave the room or go to sleep. Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord
At a minimum, smoke alarms need to be installed outside of each sleeping area and on each level of your home. If you sleep with closed doors, install alarms inside sleeping areas too. Use the test button to test each smoke alarm once a month. All smoke alarm batteries need to be replaced once a year. Fire escape plans should include at least two escape routes for every room in the home. Also chose a convenient meeting place at a safe distance from your home. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year with all family members.
You can help the Red Cross continue to be ready to respond and help fire victims by making a financial contribution to the Atlanta Red Cross. Visit www.atlantaredcross.org , or mail a check to American Red Cross, P.O. Box 101508, Atlanta, GA 30392-1508. You can also help Red Cross disaster clients by giving gifts that save the day through the Red Cross Holiday Giving Campaign. Visit RedCross.org/gifts or call 1-800-REDCROSS for more information.
Claim Those Tax Deductions: Social Security Numbers for Kids
By Bobbie Sims, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist, Marietta, Georgia
There’s good news for tax filers in 2011. The due date for your 2010 Federal income tax returns is Monday, April 18, 2011, instead of the usual date of April 15. As you prepare your tax documents, don’t forget you’ll need Social Security numbers for your children if you want to claim them as dependents on your return.
In most cases, parents request a Social Security number for their child when applying for a birth certificate. The state agency that issues birth certificates shares the child’s information with us and we mail the Social Security card to you. However, if you didn’t apply for a number at the hospital, you must apply at a Social Security office or by mail. To do so you will need :
• A completed Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5);
• Original documents proving your child’s:
• U.S. citizenship;
• Age; and
• Identity; and
• Original documents proving your identity.
After you apply, we will verify the child’s birth record and mail your child’s Social Security card to you. If you do not get a Social Security number for your child before the April 18 tax filing deadline but you still need to claim the child as a deduction on your tax return, you can:
• File your income tax return without claiming the child and then file an amended income tax return when the child has a Social Security number; or
• File with the Internal Revenue Service to extend the deadline for filing your tax return.
Parents can claim their adopted child for tax purposes while the adoption process is still pending. You will need to contact the Internal Revenue Service for Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions. We can assign your adopted child a Social Security number before the adoption is complete, but you may want to wait. Then, you can apply for the number using your child’s new name, with your name as parent.
Remember, a Social Security number is not just for taxes. Your child also may need a Social Security number for government benefits or other reasons, such as opening a bank account or obtaining medical coverage.
If you need to apply for your child’s Social Security card and number, now’s the time.
To learn more, read our online publication, Social Security Numbers For Children, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10023.html
McEachern's First Robotic Team Participate in Kickoff
Powder Springs, GA --- Members of McEachern's First robotic Team participated in a kickoff for this year's competition by one of their corporate sponsors. General Electric sponsored the event to introduce the team to their volunteer engineering mentor Jonathan Davidson. They met with other teams sponsored by General electric and other team mentors to compare notes and see how other teams completed the same project. They also met with Senior Vice President of Energy services Heintz Elman. Participating students: Heintz Elman, Students: Sky Dainty, JT Gassert, Rochelle David.
McEachern HOSA Shop for Needy Children in Cobb County
POWDER SPRINGS, GA --- For the past 3 years McEachern HOSA has participated in shopping for those children of Cobb county in the greatest need for the holiday season. This year's age group was 8-10 year old girls and boys. Gifts of toys and other items were donated to CAMP to be distributed to families in need. Shown in picture are Alexis Jones- HOSA President, Adwoa Agyepong, Mrs. Sandra Null HOSA Advisor, Courtney Lindsay, Kristal Rolle, Erica Nichols and Daja Tatum. Service is a large part of Health Occupations Students of America and this group does many activities to promote and engage students in those opportunities to serve others.
City of Powder Springs, GA RECYCLING IN 2011 You may bring your recyclables to Powder Springs Public Works Monday thru Friday from 7:00am-5:00pm. Acceptable recyclables are paper, cardboard, magazines, books, plastic, metal and glass. All household recyclables can be in plastic bags and deposited in the recycle bin inside the fenced area at Public Works. This is a FREE Service.
City of Powder Springs Agenda Meetings Agenda Meetings are held the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the Month at 7PM
City Council Meetings City Council Meetings are held the 1st & 3rd Mondays of the month at 7PM - For more information contact Powder Springs City Hall at 770-943-1666
Author Visits Cooper Middle School
POWDER SPRINGS, GA --- Mrs. Wendy Raven McNair, Marietta resident and author of the Asleep trilogy, visited Cooper Middle School on December 9, 2010, to record a book reading. The performance will be shown to the student body as part of the school’s literacy advisement program. The author explained that she was inspired to write the story while searching for a teen fantasy novel with a black heroine. Mrs. McNair’s daughter is an avid reader and discusses with her mother the many books she reads. During these discussions, the author discovered that there is an absence of African-American heroines in current literature. This encouraged Mrs. McNair to create a teen romance serial portraying an African-American teen “super hero”. The story includes a teen heroine who will help to save the life of the main character and a suspenseful plot which is set in modern day Atlanta. Further information about the book and author can be found at Mrs. McNair’s website, wendyravenmcnair.com.
PSBA Donates $1,000 to Tapp Middle School Mike Keesee, President of the Powder Springs Business Association presented a check for $1,000.00 to Dr. Jerry Dority, Tapp Middle School Principal during the Association’s December meeting. The funds for the donation were proceeds from the PSBA Annual Golf Tournament. The donation will be used to assist Tapp Middle School purchase a new outdoor sign for announcements.
Congratulations McEachern girls!
Brittany Hodges, Emily Benton and Lauren (Moo) Coleman each awarded sports scholarships
POWDER SPRINGS, GA --- On November 15, 2010 Brittany Hodges signed with Furman University in Greenville, SC to play basketball. Pictured with her parents Brenda and Darren Hodges, Coach Phyllis Arthur, Principal Regina Montgomery and AAU coach Percy Gordon. Emily Benton signed with Bryan College in Dayton, TN to play fast pitch softball. Pictured with her parents Angie and Mike Benton; sister, Kayla; Coach Stewart Thomas, Coach Ben Hamburg, Coach Russ Russell, Principal Regina Montgomery and Bryan College coach Rocky Stinson. Lauren (Moo) Coleman signed with Georgia State to play fast pitch softball. Pictured with her parents Diane Archer and Phil Coleman, Coach Stewart Thomas, Coach Ben Hamburg, Coach Russ Russell, Principal Regina Montgomery.
McEachern High School's Robotics Team Secures Position in 2011 Peachtree Regional Competition
POWDER SPRINGS, GA --- McEachern Robotics Team Students are: Trey Solari, Brandon Davis, Kelsie Lake, Chidi Onwuzuruona, and advisor Paul Eubanks. John E. McEachern High School’s Robotics Team 3265 has secured a position in the 2011 Peachtree Regional Competition. Last year, McEachern competed against 53 teams by building a remote control robot which was designed to play soccer. This year’s objective for the challenge will be revealed on January 8, 2011. With an increase in interest from the MHS student body, Mr. Paul Eubanks and Mr. Robby Blakemore, hope to build two robots this year further enhancing the skills of the students at MHS. So far, McEachern has received grants from JC Penney’s, General Electric, as well as NASA. More information about this robotics challenge can be found at USFIRST.org
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Powder Springs Football
By Dr. Chris Wizner
POWDER SPRINGS, GA --- The Hillgrove Hawks, in their first year in Division AAAAA, went to the final eight in the State Playoffs. First winning against past State Champions, Camden County on their home field, during the Sweet Sixteen. Then being defeated in a close game by Brookwood High School in the Final Eight, with the game played at Brookwood. For the first year in this division this is quite an accomplishment for the Hillgrove Hawks. Relatively unknown in Division AAAAA, the Hawks had quite a few people asking, Who is Hillgrove?
Two other Cobb County High Schools made it to the Sweet Sixteen, those being McEachern and Kell. Unfortunately, none of the Cobb County Schools made it to the Final Four. As for the McEachern Indians they played Valdosta in the Sweet Sixteen brackets. Although McEachern played a fantastic game, coming from behind to lead part of the game, they were defeated in the end in a close scoring game. McEachern played at home, giving them a chance to showcase their new stadium renovations and the game was televised on CCS cable channel 45.
For next season Hillgrove and other Cobb County Schools are getting artificial turf on the football field, as McEachern did several years ago. This is thanks to the SPLOST III fund that was voted on by the taxpayers of Cobb County. Many people complain about the cost of the turf, however in the long-term tax money is saved with less maintenance; savings on water conservation and up keep of mowing and replacing traditional sod.
McEachern has been able to fund their stadium renovations due to the McEachern Trust Fund. Unlike McEachern, Hillgrove is a younger school and does not have these funds available. Cobb County has decided to allow the two newer high schools, Hillgrove and Allatoona, to use any excess turf fund money allocated to the school to go towards visitor stands. This will cover about half the cost of the stands, leaving the schools to raise the remaining needed funds. With increased attendance at Hillgrove, due to their Division AAAAA status, visitor stands are needed for visitor comfort and more importantly, visitor safety reasons. Currently visitors are expected to sit in a few portable bleachers that are brought over from the baseball fields or on a dirt hill.
Hillgrove has established a Foundation to allow for private or corporate tax deductible donations to help build the visitor stands and to benefit the Academic departments within the school if the donor should so choose. If you or you know of a company who may wish to make a donation please contact the HHS Foundation though Hillgrove High School.
AIAA Foundation Recognizes Outstanding Educator Vaughan Elementary Teacher Christy Garvin
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2011 AIAA Foundation Educator Achievement Awards. They are:
· Christy Garvin, Vaughan Elementary School, Powder Springs, Ga.
· Penny Glackman, Merion Elementary School, Merion, Pa.
· Roger Kasselbaum, Milken Community High School, Los Angeles, Calif.
· Benjamin McLuckie, Hoonah High School, Hoonah, Alaska
· Christopher Miko, Meadows Elementary School, Manhattan Beach, Calif.
· Dr. Carl Steven Rapp, Linwood Holton Governor’s School, Abington, Va.
· Jill Wall, Farnsworth Aerospace PK–8 Magnet School, Minneapolis, Minn.
In addition to the seven winners, three educators were selected for honorable mention. They are:
· Gary Bodman, Madison Middle School, Albuquerque, N.M.
· Vana Richards, Kenneth J. Carberry Intermediate School, Emmett, Idaho
· Sandra Trevino, Buena High School, Sierra Vista, Ariz.
The AIAA Foundation presents the Educator Achievement Awards every two years to pre-college educators who have demonstrated exemplary efforts in exciting students in grades K–12 about the study of mathematics, science, and related technical studies, and in preparing them to use and contribute to tomorrow’s technologies.
AIAA President Mark J. Lewis stated: “The seven individuals receiving this year’s AIAA Educator Achievement Awards, and the three named as Honorable Mentions, are living testaments to the influence that educators can have on the lives of their students. Often, all it takes is that one special teacher to ignite an initial spark of interest, or encourage and nurture an existing fascination towards a career in the technical disciplines.
Each winner will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., along with a guest, and will be honored at the AIAA Aerospace Spotlight Awards Gala on May 11, 2011.
The Educator Achievement Award has been presented to over 45 educators since 1997, and has become a sought after honor in the education community.
AIAA is the world’s largest technical society dedicated to the global aerospace profession. With more than 35,000 individual members worldwide, and 90 corporate members, AIAA brings together industry, academia, and government to advance engineering and science in aviation, space, and defense. For more information, visit www.aiaa.org.
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Powder Springs Resident Joshilyn Jackson One of 10 Finalists Named for GPC’s Townsend Prize
A gory conspiracy to stop the translation of the Bible into English; a dead girl in a family swimming pool; and black maids’ stories of raising white children are some of the tales that constitute the list of 10 finalists for the state’s oldest and most distinguished literary prize.
The Georgia Perimeter College 2010 Townsend Prize for Fiction will be held at the Margaret Mitchell House from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, April 22, 2010. A book signing will begin at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
The Townsend Prize is presented to the Georgia writer judged to have published the best book of fiction in the previous two years. The award, sponsored by the Writers Institute of Georgia Perimeter College, honors the legacy of Jim Townsend, founder of Atlanta magazine. Co-sponsors include The Georgia Center for the Book, The Atlanta Writers Club and the Margaret Mitchell House.
“It's a great honor and a great responsibility for GPC to serve as custodian of the Townsend Prize and for The Writers Institute to host the award ceremony every two years,” said Rob Jenkins, director of the Writers Institute at Georgia Perimeter College. “We're very pleased to be working with our partners at the Georgia Center for the Book and the Atlanta Writers Club to present this year’s Prize. We're also excited to be hosting this year's reception at the historic the Margaret Mitchell House, where Ms. Mitchell wrote her Pulitzer-Prize winning novel, Gone with the Wind.”
This year’s finalists include:
• James Braziel: Snakeskin Road (Bantam Books)
• Phillip DePoy: The King James Conspiracy (St. Martin's Press)
• Tom Edwards: Blue Jesus (Academy Chicago)
• Amanda Gable: The Confederate General Rides North (Scribner)
• Joshilyn Jackson of Powder Springs: The Girl Who Stopped Swimming (Grand Central)
• Sang Pak: Wait Until Twilight (Harper)
• Kathryn Stockett: The Help (Putnam)
• Bailey White: Nothing with Strings (Scribner)
• Susan Rebecca White: Bound South (Touchstone)
• Philip Lee Williams: The Campfire Boys (Mercer)
For more information on the event, please call Debra Riggs at 678-891-3275.
Georgia Perimeter College, the third largest institution of the University System of Georgia, serves more than 25,000 students through four campuses and several sites in metro Atlanta. For additional information, visit www.gpc.edu.
The following students from Powder Springs graduated from Mercer University’s College of Continuing and Professional Studies during the College’s commencement in the University Center in Macon. Mercer President William D. Underwood conferred the degrees. Dr. Margaret Koepke, coordinator of the Governor’s Teaching Fellows program at the Institute of Higher Education at the University of Georgia, gave the keynote address to the more than 230 graduates who participated in the ceremony. In all, the University held nine ceremonies in May in Macon and Atlanta and conferred approximately 1,700 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.
Graduates:
Dwayne M. Bates Bachelor of Science in Social Science, Human Services Powder Springs
Kim R. Bates Bachelor of Science in Social Science, Human Services Powder Springs
Aldrika Patrice Boyle Bachelor of Science in Social Science, Human Services Powder Springs
Marie O. Delille Bachelor of Science in Social Science, Human Services Powder Springs
Tamara Jane Johnson Bachelor of Science in Social Science, Human Services Powder Springs
Terri L. Garnsey Bachelor of Applied Science in Organization Leadership Powder Springs
Carolyn Pusey-Wade Bachelor of Applied Science in Organization Leadership Powder Springs
Nicole Shaquawn Raynor Bachelor of Applied Science in Organization Leadership Powder Springs
Anna Marie Goodman-Williams Bachelor of Liberal Studies Powder Springs
Becky B. Whitener Bachelor of Liberal Studies Powder Springs
About The College of Continuing and Professional Studies: The College is committed to meeting the educational goals of working adults. The College offers undergraduate degree programs in organization leadership, public safety, liberal studies, human resources administration and human services, and graduate programs in counseling, school counseling and public safety leadership. Its programs are offered on Mercer’s Macon and Atlanta campuses and at the University’s regional academic centers in Henry County, Douglas County and Eastman.
Three Powder Springs Residents Graduate from Mercer University’s Tift College of Education
Paula Mundi Webb, of Powder Springs, Ga., earned the Bachelor of Science in Education cum laude from Mercer Univer-sity’s Tift College of Education during the College’s commencement on the University’s Atlanta campus. Mercer President William D. Underwood conferred the degree. Kelly C. Henson, executive secretary of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, delivered the keynote address to the College’s 281 graduates. In all, the University held nine ceremonies in May in Macon and Atlanta and conferred approximately 1,700 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.
Delinsa Annalatice Maiden, of Powder Springs, Ga., earned the Bachelor of Science in Education cum laude from Mercer University’s Tift College of Education during the College’s commencement on May 23 on the University’s Atlanta campus. Mercer President William D. Underwood conferred the degree. Kelly C. Henson, executive secretary of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, delivered the keynote address to the College’s 281 graduates.
Theresa L. Stegall, of Powder Springs, Ga., earned the Bachelor of Science in Education cum laude from Mercer University’s Tift College of Education during the College’s commencement on May 23 on the University’s Atlanta campus. Mercer President Wil-liam D. Underwood conferred the degree. Kelly C. Henson, executive secretary of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, delivered the keynote address to the College’s 281 graduates.
Allison McLean Elected to Student Senate at Bryan College
Allison McLean, daughter of Bruce and Rence McLean of Powder Springs, Ga., has been elected senior class female representative to the student senate for the 2009-10 academic year at Bryan College. Allison will work with senate members to plan programs and activi-ties for students, and to represent their interests to the college administration. Bryan is a four-year Christian liberal arts college offering bachelor’s degrees in 18 areas. The college has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for 14 consecutive years as being among the Top Tier of Southern liberal arts colleges.
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VOLUME 16 ISSUE NUMBER 3 - MARCH 2009
Compton Elementary School in Powder Springs Thanks Lowe’s and Borders! Compton has received more wonderful conservation educational resources from their Lowe’s grant in the form of books! Students and teachers can now access a wide range of conservation topics and reading levels in our own library. Borders helped them put together an amazing selection for their school library.
Cobb County 4-H Club 
Powder Springs would you like to put your favorite milkshake recipe to the test? These 4-H members did by competing in the Cobb County 4-H Club’s Annual Milkmake Competition in February. Milkmake is a competition where 5th grade 4-H members create their favorite milkshake recipe and “demonstrate” making the shake, while high school 4-H members judge them on nutrition, presentation, ingredients, and taste. Winners received an official “Milkmake” T-Shirt, sponsored by the Southeast United Dairy Industry Association. Other participants received bookmarks. (Pictured above) Myriah Haynes, Jadea Blencowe, Abigail Sutton, Giordan Haynes, and Abigail Sattler. For more information on Cobb County 4-H Youth, please call 770-528-4076 or visit them on the web at: www.cobbextension.com
CLICK HERE FOR LATEST OBITUARIES FOR POWDER SPRINGS
Local Entrepreneur Inventor Reaches Out to Kemp Elementary (ABOVE) POWDER SPRINGS, GA - in an effort to connect the Target curriculum to real life, Mrs. Groenveld organized a time for a local entrepreneur to come and talk with her class about the process in developing a solution to our everyday problems. Fortunately, Kemp Elementary in Powder Springs has one of those local entrepreneurs on staff! Mrs. Roxanne Kirkland, inventor of the Coupon Organizer, shared with 5th grade students the process in inventing a product, patenting the product and marketing the product. After hearing about the process Mrs. Kirkland went through to develop the Coupon Organizer, students were motivated to brainstorm their own solutions to everyday problems and become an entrepreneur like Mrs. Kirkland. You can learn more about the Coupon Organizer by visiting Mrs. Kirkland's website at www.couponcontrol.net.
9th Annual Spring Chicken Run 2011 Saturday, March 26th
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - Race Against Hunger You Can Run! You Can Walk! You Can Even Stay at Home! Pictured above: Runners from last year's Spring Chicken Run! Join us on Saturday, March 26th for the 9th Annual Spring Chicken Run - A Race Against Hunger to benefit C.A.M.P. - Christian Aid Mission Partnership. This road race has become a favorite for hundreds of runners of all ages and will be hosted at Macland Presbyterian Church, 3615 Macland Road in Powder Springs. You can register online at Active.com, in store at Big Peach Running Co. or visit www.svcamp.org for information and registration form. If you would like to help fight hunger, but can’t run on race day, register as a “Phantom Runner” and we will mail you your shirt - NO SWEAT!
Ward Recreation Center in Powder Springs Offers Exciting Programs For Spring
POWDER SPRINGS, GA - Ward Recreation Center will be offering School Break Day Camps for Kids ages 5K-11 and Teen camp ages 12-15 on April 4-8. The fee for each camp is $100 per week with payment required at registration. Registration is in person only. Call (770) 528-8885 for more information.
Ward Recreation Center will be offering $4 Zumba classes every Thursday at 9:30am. and every Tuesday at 5:45pm starting February 1st. Your first class is free! No sign-ups or commitment, just pay as you go. We hope to see you there!
Spring Basketball Academy is registration in progress. Girls and boys in grades 1-8 can participate in a funda-mentals program that has been designed to help your child improve and learn the game of basketball. Fundamental workouts will be on Saturdays and game times on Sundays from March-May. Register in person only at Ward Recreation Center. Fees for the academy are $99 plus a $25 registration fee.
Piano lessons will be offered to youth and adults at Ward. Cost is $10 per lesson plus the initial book cost. Open house for enrollment will be Thursday, February 3rd from 6:30-7:30pm. After registration, lessons will be every Thursday from 6:30pm-7:30pm (ages 5-7) 7:30pm-8:30pm (ages 7-12) and 8:30pm-9:30pm (ages 12-adult).
For information on any Ward Recreation Center program, call (770) 528-8885.