Wednesday, November 27, 2002

Commission to keep voting in secret sessions

Despite an opinion from the Georgia Attorney General's office saying their executive session votes are illegal, the Fayette County Commission decided Friday to keep doing business as usual. That means the board will continue voting during sessions closed to the public.

Grumbling increases over Dunn leadership

It looks as if the election of a chairman for the Fayette County Commission could be interesting this January.

Industrial park not for homes, PTC says

A rezoning proposal for a 124-home subdivision on the southern edge of Peachtree City on Ga. Highway 74 was denied unanimously by the City Council Thursday night.

Cops bust SCHS teacher for Internet sex

A teacher at Sandy Creek High School was arrested Friday morning after sheriff's detectives caught him using a webcam on a computer in his classroom to display "a sex act" via the Internet, according to police.

Mayor kicks off 'Shop PTC' campaign

With Thanksgiving and the biggest shopping period of the year approaching, Peachtree City Mayor Steve Brown wants to encourage residents to shop in local stores. He proclaimed "Shop Peachtree City Month" at the Nov. 21 City Council meeting.

Holiday events in Peachtree City

Brown: 1st shot fired in rezoning revolution

On Nov. 21, the City Council of Peachtree City unanimously voted to deny a rezoning request, firing what Mayor Steve Brown calls the first shot in a revolution of evaluating rezonings based on the impact on the local school system.

F'ville adds nonlethal weapon that's sure to shock bad guys

It looks like a handgun, feels like a handgun and almost shoots like a handgun.

Jolt from Fville police's taser weapon is jarring, effective

The electrical jolt from the Fayetteville Police Department's new taser weapon doesn't just get your attention; it commands it.

Stillions picked to head new high school

McIntosh High School principal Greg Stillions was named Tuesday morning to the same post at the new Whitewater High School, which is slated to open next fall.

Judge denies bond for woman who led police on deadly chase through PTC

A Riverdale woman accused of murder for the death of a Peachtree City man in an auto crash while she was being chased by police in July was denied bond Tuesday morning.

PTC council approves tweaked version of hotel-motel tax pact with Development Authority

The Peachtree City Council has unanimously signed off on a deal to cut the hotel-motel tax funds it provides to the city's development authority.

PTC appoints separate city attorney and solicitor to replace Lindsey

Beginning next year, Peachtree City will have a separate city attorney and municipal court solicitor.

County OK's radio system purchase

The Fayette County Commission gave unanimous approval last Saturday to buying the county's new communications systems from Motorola for $7.6 million.

Smith estate denied at Tyrone, town continues in greenspace program

The last time the Tyrone Town Council discussed the 36.724-acre tract known as the Smith estate, developer Burt Clark had offered several compromises to the council to get the development built. The council members appreciated the compromises but the concerned citizens wanted time to examine the proposed compromises. Further discussion was delayed.

Cannon looks back on six years on Tyrone Town Council

During the public comment portion of last Thursday's Tyrone Town Council meeting, a number of citizens came forward to thank Ronnie Cannon for his six years of service to the town and for his friendship.

FCH leaving PROMINA

Fayette Community Hospital and its parent hospital, Piedmont Medical Center, will no longer be a member of the PROMINA Health System.

Council tweaks zoning ordinance

Several amendments to Fayetteville's zoning ordinance were approved last week at the regular City Council meeting.

Georgia gets top grade for its DUI prevention efforts

Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the GuideOne Foundation have given Georgia a "B" grade for its efforts to prevent drunk driving and underage drinking.

Local man serves in Afghanistan

Fayetteville resident David Michael "Mike" Harris, a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, is currently deployed to Bagram Air Base, north of Kabul, Afghanistan, as part of Operaton Enduring Freedom and the war against terrorism.

Endangered whooping cranes reach Georgia skies

Sixteen whooping cranes following four ultralight aircraft landed in Pike County, Georgia Tuesday on their 1,250-mile fall migration from Necedah National Wildlife Refuge in Wisconsin to Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge along Florida's central Gulf Coast.

Area students receive Ty Cobb scholarships

A number of students from the Fayette/Coweta/South Fulton area are recipients of scholarships provided by the Ty Cobb Educational Foundation, including:

Whitewater makes history with Positive Label certification

Whitewater Middle has become the first middle school in the nation to complete an innovative, national, four-week character education program designed to break the name-calling/bullying cycle, stop violence before it starts and teach students self-esteem.

FCCDV benefit successful

The Fayette County Council on Domestic Violence's recent silent auction and luncheon, the organization's only major fundraiser, was declared a real success, according to the organizers.

Students decorate boxes for good cause

The Student Council at Rising Starr Middle School sponsored a Thanksgiving Food Drive Nov. 4-18. Food was collected by homeroom and each class was asked to decorate a box with a Thanksgiving theme. This year's winners for best decorated box were (sixth-grade homeroom) Suzanne Quattlebaum, (seventh-grade homeroom) Amy Maddox and (eighth-grade homeroom) Julie Gray. The overall school winner was the seventh-grade homeroom of Greg Parsons.

Cathy Cox to speak at CCSU graduation

Georgia Secretary of State Cathy Cox is the scheduled speaker for Clayton College & State University's upcoming graduation ceremonies, scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m. in the Athletics & Fitness Center.

Colder weather keeps Red Cross disaster teams busy

The weekend before Thanksgiving provided proof that the fire season is here.

Oxendine offers fire safety tips for holidays

Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John W. Oxendine urges Georgians to keep safety in mind when decorating their homes for the holidays.

Health Wise

 

In just days ...
By GREGORY K. MOFFATT, PH. D
Child's Play

I can't help but think about what my children will see in me when they are grown.

There's still time to fight the flu

The holidays are a hectic time of year. There are meals to prepare, lists and calls to make: just a frenzy of activity. Don't be sidelined by the flu; get a flu shot today.

Is there anything new in the cold and flu arsenal?

Medical doctor says people who start protecting themselves now may prevent or lessen the severity of symptoms this winter.

Maintain your weight during the holidays

It's holiday time again, and you know what that means: turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, cakes, cookies, and pies.

Free screenings and education in December

South Fulton Medical Center will host several free and discounted screenings and health education seminars during the month of December.

Red Cross provides unique holiday giving idea

If you are wondering what to get your co-workers and friends for the holidays, the Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter of the American Red Cross has a suggestion. According to Salisha Evans, director of the program, a financial donation in the name of a friend or loved one will not only warm the heart but will help Red Cross continue to save lives in the community.

A new stop in Fayette for tea

Did you know that drinking two or more cups of tea a day could help to increase your chances of surviving a heart attack?

Southeastern Primary Care Specialists' diabetes education program merits ADA recognition

If you have diabetes, or you know someone who has diabetes, you are not alone.

Support group in Fayette

The Fayetteville-Newnan Lupus Support Group conducts its monthly meetings the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Fayette Community Hospital. Lupus patients, their families and friends are invited to attend. The Lupus Foundation of America, Inc.'s Georgia chapter is sponsoring this support group. For more information, call the chapter office at 770-952-3891.

Southern Regional utilizes latest technology to detect breast cancer

Southern Regional Health System is now using two new, minimally invasive devices for early detection of breast cancer. The Advanced Breast Biopsy Instrumentation and the Mammotome Breast Biopsy System are helping physicians in the accurate diagnosis of early stage cancer while minimizing patient wait time for results.

South Fulton Medical Center starts stroke support group for community

South Fulton Medical Center will sponsor a stroke support group for stroke patients and their families starting in January. The meetings will provide an opportunity to share thoughts and feelings, as well as to exchange information and ideas in a supportive environment.

South Fulton Medical Center offers free education, and diagnostic screening during National Diabetes Month

In recognition of National Diabetes Month in November, South Fulton Medical Center has been providing education and diagnostic screening to help combat a disease affecting more than 17 million people in the United States. The program is part of South Fulton Medical Center 's continuing effort to improve health through preventative medicine and education.

Hospice gala continues tradition of community giving

Visiting Nurse/Hospice Atlanta celebrated 25 years of service to the Atlanta community at the 14th annual Hospice Atlanta Gala in October at the Piedmont Driving Club. Approximately 400 friends and supporters of Visiting Nurse/ Hospice Atlanta attended the gala evening to raise over $325,000 for the Hospice Atlanta Center, a residential hospice facility offering terminally ill patients who are unable to remain at home an alternative to hospital or institutional-based care. This year's "Messengers of Joy" Gala was chaired by Dr. and Mrs. James Hinkle and honored Sally and Warren Jobe, a devoted couple whose early belief in the mission of Hospice Atlanta and years of hard work helped make the in-patient facility a reality.

Tree lightings start day after Thanksgiving

The Christmas season officially starts the day after Thanksgiving with big holiday sales and local tree lightings. Peachtree City will have their second annual lighting of the Peace Tree at The Avenue on Friday, while Fayetteville will get into the holiday spirit on Saturday and Tyrone will have their ceremony on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

Newnan Community Theatre presents a twisted version of a holiday classic

The story of "A Christmas Carol" is familiar to almost everyone, whether they have seen the Muppet version, the Disney version, the Bill Murray version, the Mr. Magoo version or the traditional, Dickensian version. However, the Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen's Guild Dramatic Society production of "A Christmas Carol" is one that probably has Charles Dickens rolling in his grave.

Newnan Community Theatre presents a twisted version of a holiday classic

As Georgia Youth Ballet members prepare for their seventh annual production of "The Nutcracker" at The Studio in Fayetteville, sightings abound of a large number of elaborately attired creatures, people and objects. Child-sized snowflakes, candy canes, dolls, tea leaves, and flowers are seemingly everywhere. These objects are mingling with an international potpourri of Russians, Arabians, Spanish, and Chinese, who are themselves beset by a host of mice led by their Rat King.

FCHS Chamber Orchestra to perform at Governor's Mansion

Governor and Mrs. Roy Barnes will host the annual lighting of the Holiday Tree at the Governor's Mansion (391 West Paces Ferry Road) Thursday, Dec. 5, at 6:30 p.m. Members of the public are invited to attend the event, which will include entertainment on the front lawn beginning at 5:45 p.m. and tours of the Mansion holiday decorations immediately afterward.

GWF wreaths on sale through Nov. 29

The Georgia Wildlife Federation nnounces that it is selling balsam fir wreaths as a fundraiser this holiday season. You may order via phone, fax or online through Nov. 29. The money raised from the sale of the wreaths will be used to fund GWF's environmental education programs.

Give the gift of history this Christmas

Sloan Superior Tutors in Fayetteville is offering a special holiday discount on their genealogy classes and a fundraising opportunity for local historical preservation organizations.

Classical Dance Theatre hosts annual dance concert

Classical Dance Theatre in Fayetteville holds its second annual Holiday Dance Concert Saturday, Dec. 14, at Creekside High School, 7405 Herndon Road, Fairburn. Performances are scheduled for 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for children and seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at the dance studio, located at 155 Bradford Square, Suite E, Fayetteville, GA 30215.

Movies

Religion

Being thankful beyond the grief
By JOHN HATCHER
Religion Columnist

Thanksgiving is a tough holiday for widows, widowers, and parents of deceased children. Often times, they ask, "For what do I have to be thankful?" It's not that they indeed are ingrates, but the enormity of their grief dwarfs any of the brighter moments of the year.

Christ Our Shepherd Lutheran plans service of healing Dec. 2

Christ Our Shepherd Lutheran Church in Peachtree City will offer a special prayer and healing service Monday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m. The theme is "Finding Joy in difficult times."

Nativity Episcopal to offer weekly Advent services Dec. 1-22

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity will offer a reflective service of Holy Eucharist on the Sunday evenings of Advent, Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22 at 5:30 p.m.

Special Holiday Events

Kids at Christ Our Shepherd to present 'Operation Christmas Child' December 8

The children of Christ Our Shepherd Lutheran Church in Peacxhtree City will present a Christmas program, "Operation Christmas Child," Sunday, Dec. 8, at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of the church.

Messiah sing along planned for Dec. 8

The First Presbyterian Church in Peachtree City is planning its annual "Messiah Sing Along," an event for the entire community, Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4:30 p.m.

North Fayette UMC to present Christmas musical Dec. 7 & 8

North Fayette United Methodist Church will present its Christmas musical, "How Do you Welcome A King?" Saturday, Dec. 7, at 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8 at 9:45 a.m. in the church activities center.

Opinion

In just a few hours, a lifetime of memories
By MONROE ROARK
mroark@TheCitizenNews.com

There were favorite professors and favorite classes; there were friendships formed, some of which last forever (for many, a college acquaintance later became a spouse); there was, for many, the apprehension and exhilaration of being away from home for the first time.

Pre-Thanksgiving post-occupation
By BILLY MURPHY
Laugh Lines

Now that I have lost my job I have plenty of time to think. And yes, I had a real job besides writing this column for the newspaper.

Helping teens make right choices under pressure
By Stephen Wallace
Psychologist & national chairman and chief executive officer of SADD, Inc.

"Jump the shark," a recently popularized term of art forecasting the failure of everything from sitcoms to politicians, has roots dating back believe it or not to an episode of the 70's megahit, "Happy Days." It seems the Fonz vaulted one such predaceous fish while water-skiing, thus beginning an irreversible slide into syndication, at least according to jumptheshark.com pioneer and "When Good Things Go Bad" author Jon Hein.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Is F'ville Council about to OK overcrowding?

After attending several city council meetings regarding the development of major Southside properties of Fayetteville between Ga. highways 92 and 85, I was shocked to see what is about to happen to our community.

If council remakes Southside, F'ville becomes Fayette-dale

The South Pavilion, Fayette-dale They are coming, if you don't speak out against it. Be at the City Hall Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. Let the Fayetteville City Council know how you feel.

Big Brother isn't hiding behind every computer

Granted, every American is wary of new technology. But making a huge deal this early in the game is irrational.

Democrats lost because we saw them as they are

We all watched in amazement on election eve as George Bush almost single-handedly handed the Democrats a defeat of enormous proportions. We in Georgia were especially awestruck as we watched the stranglehold of the Democrats come to an end after 130 years.

2nd, 3rd marriages redux

Father David Epps takes exception to the critical views I and another person expressed towards the Rev. John Hatcher's column on second and third marriages. He insists we "miss[ed] the point" and that "all good pastors" try to preserve first marriages.

Avoid pastor-politicians

I read the opinion polls from the Citizen Review. I believe in a separation of church and state. Father Epps seems to be a good politician.

World traveler finds gem of a restaurant right here in F'ville

I saw the ad in the Citizen for the Thanksgiving meal at the Village Cafe, and it prompted me to write what I have been wanting to for nearly a year.

Reader reviews reviewer

After reading your pathetic review of the movie "The Four Feathers," I can no longer laugh your reviews(?) off.

Mammogram becomes local ordeal

Since I was diagnosed with breast cancer, every six months I must take a mammogram. My last experience was depressing. My appointment was at 10:30, and I walked out at 12. When I say walked out, that is what I mean.

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