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Articles by Kevin Wood
What School Leaders Can Learn From ‘How to Train Your Dragon’
A couple weeks ago, my wife and I went to the 3:50 p.m. opening-day showing of the new, live-action “How to Train Your Dragon” movie. Our own children are now grown and scattered across the country, but our 27-year-old daughter thought it would be fun to buy us tickets for the premiere for Father’s Day weekend. I should mention, we forgot our wallets. Tickets were on our phones, but no cash or card for popcorn. Classic.
What Principals Get Wrong About Teacher Wellness
Twenty years ago, I experienced my first ever wellness-focused professional development day. Our staff was given a menu of physical, emotional, and social activities that offered us a chance to press “pause” on our usual work. Then a 7th grade teacher, I appreciated the novelty, but I was left wondering if the time provided to escape teaching actually resulted in improved wellness. At that time, at that school, I am not sure any of us needed an escape. We loved the work we were doing.
James Michael "Mike" Breland, Age 66 Mt. Airy
James Michael “Mike” Breland, age 66, of Mt. Airy, went to be with God on Saturday, March 30, 2024. He was a good man, a loving husband, a talented man, a hard worker, a loving father and papa, a great cook, a daring kayaker, and loved the water (fishing lakes, ocean waves, and river bends). He suffered from a massive stroke and fought for 30 days in the hospital before returning home per his request.
Commissioners Recognize Child Abuse Prevention and Exceptional Children's Week
(Cleveland)- Last week the White County Board of Commissioners approved a proclamation declaring the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in White County in recognition of the work to help and protect children by the South Enotah Child Advocacy Center, White County Family Connection, White County Department of Family and Children Services and Enotah Court Appointed Special Advocates, CASA.
Sautee Nacoochee Center History Museum Undergoing Transformation
By:Jennie Inglis (Sautee, GA)- The respected History Museum at the Sautee Nacoochee Center is set to undergo a remarkable makeover, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the SNC History Museum Committee. The committee’s tireless work in researching, planning, and securing funds has paved the way for a complete overhaul of the museum’s exhibits and guest experience. Beginning this spring, all museum artifacts will be cataloged and stored in preparation for the renovation project.
White County BOE Takes Time Out In Head Basketball Coach Selection Process
(Cleveland)- The White County Board of Education decided to take a time out during their regular meeting Thursday night to deal with the hiring of a new high school basketball head coach. Quint Moss was named the interim girls’ basketball head coach for the 2023-2024 season last August following the resignation of then-head coach Jarvis Davenport, who accepted a coaching position at North Hall High School.
W.C. Assistant Superintendent Accepts Position At Lakeview Academy
(Gainesville)- White County School System’s Assistant Superintendent has been named Middle School Director at Lakeview Academy in Gainesville. Lakeview head of school John Simpson made the announcement on Wednesday. “Scott Justus brings over 26 years of experience from two different public school systems to Lakeview,” said Simpson.
Travis Chapel United Methodist Church Holy Week Services
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Unemployment Rate Unchanged In February
(Cleveland)- The Georgia Department of Labor Thursday reported that the February unemployment rate in White County was unchanged from the previous month. The preliminary rate of 2.3 percent was the same as the revised January rate. The labor department said that in February the labor force was 17,705 or those 17,297 were employed while 408 were unemployed.
White County Detention Center Report Week Ending March 26
(Cleveland)- The White County Sheriff’s Office has released the following information from the county detention center for the period ending March 26, 2024. This report is a list of people arrested and booked into the White County Detention Center. The individuals identified have been charged with a crime, but are not presumed guilty.
Lisa Ann Hulsey, Age 54 Blairsville
Lisa Ann Hulsey, age 54, of Blairsville, passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024. Mrs. Hulsey was born on January 28, 1970, in Gainesville, Georgia, to Larry and Judy Hulsey. She was the office manager at Jacky Jones Ford. Lisa loved the beach, dogs, traveling, and barrel racing.
John Thomas "Tom" Wilson, Age 74 Gainesville
John Thomas “Tom” Wilson, age 74, of Gainesville, Georgia went home to be with the Lord on Monday, March 25, 2024 at Northeast Georgia Medical Center following an extended illness. Mr. Wilson was born on March 13, 1950 in Brunswick, Georgia to the late John Henry Wilson and Lutrelle Gipson Wilson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-son, Keith Dodgins; and sister, Peggy Burke. During the Vietnam era, Tom served his country honorably in the Army National Guard.
Denise Smith Holland, Age 59 Baldwin
Denise Smith Holland, age 59 of Baldwin, Georgia took her heavenly flight home to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 23, 2024. Born in Demorest, Georgia on November 04, 1964, she was a daughter of the late Charlie Ellington Smith & Mildred Tench Smith. Denise was a graduate of Habersham Central High School, Class of 1983, and worked for many years as a Pharmacy Technician with KMART Pharmacy.
White County Board of Commissioners Work Session & Called Meeting Monday March 25
The White County Board of Commissioners will hold a Work Session & Called Meeting on Monday, March 25 at 4:30 p.m. in the Board Room at the County Administration Building. The public is welcome to attend. The White County Board of Commissioners will hold a Regular Meeting on Monday, April 1 at 4:30 p.m. in the Board Room at the County Administration Building. The Public is welcome to attend. There are currently no active weather alerts. Chastain Insurance Agency
Events At Young Harris College O Wayne Rollins Planetarium March 22 and 28
Everything from a Magic Tree House to the skies of Georgia will illuminate the O. Wayne Rollins Planetarium at Young Harris College in March. On March 22, at 7 PM, Magic Tree House: Space Mission will be presented. A special program for children and families. Travel with brother-sister duo Jack and Annie in their Magic Tree House as they answer questions left for them in a mysterious note.
Roy Joseph Middleton, Age 71 Cleveland
Roy Joseph Middleton, age 71, of Cleveland, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024. Mr. Middleton was born on January 2, 1953, in Arkansas, to the late George and Thelma Cannon Middleton. He was a veteran of the United States Army with 24 years of service. After serving in the military, Roy worked for the White County Sheriff’s Office for 10+ years. Survivors include his wife, Karen Middleton; sons, Jason Middleton, Daniel Middleton, and Eric Middleton. No public services are planned.
No. 14 Nighthawks Hoping To Make Southeast Regional Final With Win Over Catawba
(DAHLONEGA) – With an 89-80 win over Wingate in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Division II Southeast Regional, the No. 14 University of North Georgia men’s basketball team now shifts its attention toward its next opponent in No. 25 Catawba. The Indians are coming off a marathon victory over UNC Pembroke in their opening game as they were able to pull off a stunning comeback for the 98-94 overtime victory.
No. 23 Nighthawks Extend Win Streak To Nine Games Over USC Beaufort
(DAHLONEGA) – The No. 23 University of North Georgia baseball team extended its win streak to nine consecutive games with a 6-2 Peach Belt Conference win over USC Beaufort Sunday afternoon. The final of three games from Bob Stein Stadium at Lynn Cottrell Park saw a consistent scoring attack lead to the four-run victory for the Nighthawks.
Piedmont Track & Field Competes at the University of North Florida
(JACKSONVILLE, Fla.) – The Piedmont University track and field program traveled to the University of North Florida for the Bob Hayes Collegiate Invitational this past weekend. The Lions faced strong competition as multiple NCAA divisions were represented at the meet. Junior Garrett Stadler and sophomore Silas Goolsby showed out at the meet, recording multiple top ten finishes. In the men’s 110m hurdles, Goolsby placed third with a time of 15.22 while Stadler turned in a 15.80 for sixth place.
Men's Golf B Team Concludes Play at The Manor Invite
(FARMVILLE, Va.) – The Piedmont men’s golf B Team wrapped up play at The Manor Invite on Sunday afternoon, finishing in fourth place out of the eight teams competing. Cam Lucas led the Lions on Sunday with a 3-over 75 as Piedmont once again saw all five players in the team lineup shoot in the 70’s. Lucas improved by three strokes over his first round, The junior made two birdies on the day, both coming on par-5’s on the front nine.
Piedmont Lions Race Past Berea in Opening CCS Series
(BEREA, Ky.) – The Piedmont University softball team raced past the Mountaineers of Berea in both Sunday afternoon contests. Piedmont’s offense totaled 38 runs across the two games while recording 47 hits in the doubleheader. GAME 1 – Piedmont 21, Berea 1 (F/5) Piedmont jumped on the Mountaineers early, plating six runs in the first frame on four hits. Heartly Nepveux, Jasmine Lowery, Megan Steinmeyer and Kennedy Votava all recorded hits in the inning as the Lions batted around.
Five-Run First Leads Baseball to Series Win Over Emory
(DEMOREST, Ga. )- The Piedmont baseball team used a big first inning and strong pitching to take the finale of its series with Emory 6-1 on a beautiful Sunday afternoon at Loudermilk Field. The Lions began the day with an offensive onslaught, putting up five runs before Emory’s Ryan Reynolds recorded the first out. Kaden Stephenson was hit by a pitch to start the game and was followed by a Tyler Nelson walk and a Trace Cate infield single.
TMU stumbles in final game at Bryan
(DAYTON, Tenn.) – The Truett McConnell University baseball team competed in their final game of the Appalachian Athletic Conference series against Bryan College on Saturday, where TMU fell after battling the Lions a complete nine innings to a score of 13-8. PLAY-BY-PLAY The Bryan bats stayed hot in game with two home runs in the bottom of the first inning, but two individual RBIs from Mikal Mascarelli and Jacob Karvelos evened the score in second inning (2-2).
No. 14 Nighthawks Advance To Southeast Regional Semifinals With 89-80 Win Over Wingate
(DAHLONEGA )– The No. 14 University of North Georgia men’s basketball team took down eighth-seeded Wingate in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Division II Southeast Regional tournament Saturday afternoon. The Nighthawks used a run in the second half to pull away with an 89-80 win as they fought off a late-game comeback attempt from the Bulldogs.
No. 1 Nighthawks Sweep Hurricanes As Ward Homers Three Times In Game Two
(AMERICUS, Ga. )– The No. 1 University of North Georgia softball team got back to its winning ways with a three-game Peach Belt Conference sweep over Georgia Southwestern on Saturday. The first game of the three-game set was paused in the fourth inning Friday due to heavy rain. UNG led 1-0 before the stoppage. The two teams resumed Saturday afternoon before finishing the scheduled doubleheader. The Nighthawks won a thrilling 6-4 game in the first contest, prevailing in extra innings for the victory.
No. 23 Nighthawks Earn Eighth Straight Win In Sweep Of USC Beaufort
(DAHLONEGA) – The No. 23 University of North Georgia baseball team took both games of a Peach Belt Conference doubleheader against USC Beaufort Saturday afternoon. With a 17-7 win in game one and a 12-6 win in game two, the Nighthawks extended their win streak to eight straight games, the longest mark of the season. Both wins came at Bob Stein Stadium at Lynn Cottrell Park, giving UNG a now 13-2 home record so far this year.
Missing White County Teen Found Safe
(Cleveland)- A local teenager who went missing over the weekend has been found safe. Authorities had been searching for Christina Nichols for several days. On Tuesday, March 12, the White County Sheriff’s Office updated information about the search for Nichols, saying the 16-year-old had been located. Nichols disappeared from her home in the Mossy Creek area on March 9. Social media posts asking for help to find her were widely shared.
White County Voters Choose Trump And Biden In Primary Voting
(Cleveland)- White County voters as expected showed their support for Donald Trump in the Republican Party Presidential Preference Primary Tuesday and in early voting. Information from the Secretary of State’s office showed 3,437 ballots were cast for the former president, while the next closest vote-getter was Nikki Halely, who even though she has dropped out of the race received 326 votes.
Presidential Preference Primary Voting Today
(Cleveland)- It’s election day in Georgia and White County as voters who didn’t participate in the advance voting process for the Presidential Preference Primary are asked to cast a ballot at their designated prescient location. Amie Veator, White County Elections Supervisor said that 2,013 people cast advance ballots prior to today’s voting process and her office has received 79 absentee ballots.
Ernest Adams, Age 76 Cleveland
Ernest Adams age 76, of Cleveland, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024. Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced by Barrett Funeral Home To share a memory or to leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.barrettfh.com Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland. Views: 2
Lawrence Clinton “Clin” White, age 63 of Lula
Lawrence Clinton “Clin” White, age 63 of the Rock Springs Community, Lula, Georgia took his Heavenly flight home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 06, 2024. Born in Gainesville, Georgia on August 02, 1960, he was a son of Brooksy Nell Wright White of Lula, Georgia & the late Doyle Milton White, Sr. Clin was a graduate of East Hall High School, Class of 1978 and worked for the Georgia Department of Transportation with over 34 years of dedicated service before retirement.
WWII Veteran Andy Negra Makes History at Historical Society Meeting
(Cleveland)- The White County Historical Society had one of its biggest crowds at their Thursday night program to hear 99-year-old Andy Negra recount his time serving in the Army in WWII. Negra told about growing up, then off to war at age 19, marrying the love of his life, raising three children, and then at age 98 traveling back to Normandy, France last year where he landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day.
Anna Ruth Sisk, Age 80 Cleveland
Anna Ruth Sisk, of Cleveland, GA, passed away on March 6, 2024, at the age of eighty. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Ellene Sisk of Clarkesville, her sister, Eva Rogers of Cleveland, and her beloved son, Phillip Sisk of Cleveland.
Flood Watch Friday And Saturday
(Cleveland)- The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for North and Central Georgia from Friday evening through late Saturday night. Another storm system will bring widespread rainfall to the region between Friday afternoon and Sunday morning. Additional rainfall amounts between 1 and 4 inches are expected, and locally higher totals are possible. Given the saturated state of our local soils, this rainfall may lead to additional flooding concerns.
Hendrix Named VP Development and Church Relations At TMU
(Cleveland)- Dr. Stacy Hall, Vice President of Advancement at Truett McConnell University has announced that Danny Hendrix has been appointed Associate Vice President for Development and Church Relations with the university. In the position, Hendrix will cultivate and maintain positive relationships with donors, prospective donors, and churches while implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies that help meet the university’s needs.
Cleveland Council Extends Agreement With City Administrator Kevin Harris
(Cleveland)- The Cleveland City Council has secured the services of City Administrator Kevin Harris for at least another five years. Following an executive session Monday night the council voted to extend a contract through December 31, 2029, to Harris. Harris agreed and signed that contract. He commended the council for their working relations, “ All five of them are really committed to the city and I think we are growing in a positive direction.
It Only Takes A Spark Talent Show Friday March 15 (Entry Deadline March 8)
ALL people with disabilities of ALL ages are invited to participate in the, “It Only Takes a Spark” talent show to be held March 15th at 6:00 P.M. at White County High School. You will see some amazing talent! To register, email davida.shepherd@white.k12.ga.us – The deadline to enter is March the 8th. Tickets are $5.00 each at the door. Everyone is invited to attend and show your support for these great talents!
Commissioners Proclaim Dr. Amos Samuel Wipf Day In White County
(Cleveland)- Not many people can say they have lived for 100 years but for Dr. Amos Samuel Wipf of Cleveland, that’s a fact. Thursday, March 7th Wipf will celebrate his 100 birthday and to recognize the occasion the White County Board of Commissioners took time during their meeting Monday to issue a proclamation honoring him and the milestone.
James "Henry" Grizzle, Age 80 Dahlonega
James “Henry” Grizzle, age 80, of Dahlonega, Georgia, passed away on March 3, 2024. He was born in Murrayville, Georgia, on June 21, 1943, to the late Carl Grizzle and the late Nelle Peck Grizzle. James, affectionately known as Henry, lived a life deeply rooted in love, family, and community. In addition to his parents, Henry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nellie Noblet Grizzle, and seven siblings.
Ninth District Opportunity To Offer Home Cooling Assistance
(Cleveland)- Brenda Dalin, Program Director, Ninth District Opportunity, Inc. has announced Home Cooling Help for the Elderly and Medically Homebound for White and other Ninth District counties will be available again this year. Households in which every member is 65 and older -OR- is medically homebound due to health reasons may apply for assistance with their cooling bills beginning on April 1. One-time payments will be made by check issued to the home energy suppliers.
Deborah Wright, Age 58 Alto
Deborah Wright, age 58, of Alto, passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2024. Born on May 11, 1965, in Gainesville, she was a daughter of the late Alice Chadwick. She worked as a Manager at Popeyes and was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Mt. Airy. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husband, Deacon Michael Jerome Wright; brother, Harold Chadwick; and nephew, Douglas Martin. Survivors include her sister, Mary Ann Martin; two nieces; and several cousins.
Phillip Hoke Gresham, Age 92 Demorest
Philip Hoke Gresham, 92, of Demorest, formerly of Duluth, died March 1, 2024. Born Aug. 20, 1931, he was a stoic man—a U.S. Navy veteran, business owner, and an independent thinker. He grew up working a dusty farm share near Winder, the second oldest of nine children and the eldest son. In his early years of working the soil, he mastered an innate ability to grow things. A keen intellect. Strong sons. Political viewpoints. He knew education was the pathway to a different sort of life.
Mrs. Bulah Black, Age 78 Cleveland
Mrs. Bulah Black, age 78, of Cleveland, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024, at her residence, surrounded by her family. Funeral services are scheduled for 2 P.M. Thursday, March 7, 2024 from the Chapel of Barrett Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 12-2 P.M., prior to the service. Interment will follow in Yonah View Memorial Gardens. A full obituary will follow. To share a memory or leave a condolence with the family, visit barrettfh.com. Barrett Funeral Home, Cleveland.
United Way Awards $90,000 to 16 Not-For-Profit Agencies
(Cleveland)- United Way of White County has awarded funding totaling $90,000 to 16 not-for-profit organizations providing vital human services to the local community. Four of the organizations received funding for the first time: Amped Kids, Creative Enterprises, I See U Ministries, and White County Family Connections. Combined, the 16 organizations served 15,868 residents of White County in 2023. United Way held an allocation ceremony Thursday at the Roy Ash, Jr. Community Room in Cleveland.
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Marie McCurley, age 77, of Dahlonega
Local artist, Marie McCurley, age 77, of Dahlonega, Georgia, unexpectedly passed away on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. She was born in Panama City, Florida, on October 1, 1945 to the late Curtis Barfield and the late Alice Gilbert Barfield. Marie was passionate about art and the outdoors. She loved flower gardening and always kept beautiful sanctuaries of flowers surrounding her house. She was a woman who was strong in her faith and above all else, loved her family dearly.
Flois Massey Duckett, age 100, of Demorest
Flois Massey Duckett, age 100, of Demorest, passed away on Saturday, July 1, 2023. Born on March 22, 1923, in Hollingsworth, she was a daughter of the late George and Iona Massey. Flois worked for many years as the Treasurer for Piedmont College. Mrs. Duckett loved her family and was a member of Demorest Baptist Church.
$2.6M in state funds to help AAR Corp. grow its jet-repair workforce in Rockford
By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The state will provide AAR Corp. an additional $2.6 million to help the company build a pipeline of future aviation mechanics for its jet-repair hub at the Chicago Rockford International Airport. Gov.
Rock Valley College’s newest piece of equipment will help new careers take flight
By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Rock Valley College‘s aviation maintenance technology students have a new piece of equipment that sets them apart from other schools in the country. The Rockford airport hangar that serves as a hands-on classroom for students is now filled with a working Bombardier CRJ 200 airplane. That’s something no other program in the country has, according to Ryan Goertzen, vice president of maintenance workforce development for AAR Corp.
The Cleveland Convention (of 1864): Discontented Republicans Nominate a Brash Self-Promoter
Things were not going very well for President Abraham Lincoln in the spring of 1864. The Civil War had been dragging on for three years, with no end in sight. The northern populace, already very tired of the war, were horrified by General Grant’s heavy losses in early May in the Battle of the Wilderness and by the prospect of continued such losses in a bloody war of attrition.
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