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The Worth County Class of 1970 held their 40-year reunion tonight at Southern Woods Plantation. The event also included live entertainment from the local high school band tha year, The Lovin’ Feeling. Mike Carter and Len Dorminey were two original band members of the four that entertained while former classmates took to the dance floor.  Carter laughingly said before picking up his guitar and singing that his band finally got a 30-minute practice in yesterday. But they played as if they just picked up where they left off in high school, belting out rock tunes of that era as former classmates were taken back to 1970 in Worth County. See OnScene photos below:

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Family physician Louise Wilder, M.D. with Sylvester Family Practice recently traveled to the Haitian island of La Tourtue as part a mission trip that provided medical care for local residents.

 The mountainous island of La Tourtue was not affected by the earthquake that rocked the Haitian mainland earlier this year.  Armed with donated supplies and medications, the mission group, sponsored by CrossPoint Church of Gadsden, Ala., held a clinic this past June on the island.  With the assistance of local translators, the group provided care for 852 patients within five days.

 The group consisted of 12 people, including Dr. Wilder, one other physician, a nurse practitioner, a nurse anesthetist, a nurse, executive pastor Richard Harper and a missionary couple from the Bahamas that maintain a small house on the island where they stayed. 

 “My best friend Dona Barnes, who is a neonatal nurse practitioner in Gadsden, called and asked if I would like to be a part of a mission trip to Haiti,” said Dr. Wilder.  “I felt compelled to go because of the many economic disadvantages of the Haitian people and their dire need for medical care.”  The CrossPoint Church sponsors a mission trip to LaTourtue, or Tortuga, twice a year.

The group flew into Port au Prince, transferred to a smaller plane for a flight to Port de Paix on the coast, then traveled seven miles by sea to La Tourtue on a handmade sailboat—one made of logs and a hand-stitched sail, piloted by local sailors. 

 “Once we reached La Tourtue by boat, we couldn’t dock on the shore because there were no piers or marinas,” said Dr. Wilder.  “We had to take a smaller vessel from the boat to the island, anchor close to the beach, and then some of the local men literally carried us and our supplies and gear from the vessel to the shore, trudging through the waves.  Once on the island, we rode in the back of a large pick-up truck to the top of the mountain, where the village was located.  The beautiful island was luscious with mango, banana, coconut, and flowering trees. We had breathtaking views of the ocean on both sides of the mountaintop where we stayed.”

Dr. Wilder said she knew about the level of poverty in Haiti, but was still startled by the living conditions of the villagers, most of who lived in shacks.  “I was amazed at how happy and content the children who flocked around us were, despite their meager means,” she said.

 The group slept in a small house with six bunk beds in each of two bedrooms.  “There was a generator that provided power for the stove, lights and refrigerator,” she said.  “All 15 of us had to share one bathroom.  I was really thankful for those amenities, as most of the island had none.”

 On the first day, the group performed physicals for school kids.  On other days, they held a general care clinic for the community at a nearby school house.  Once word spread about the clinic, islanders hiked from all over the island to be seen.   

 “I examined a five-month-old baby girl who was limp, barely conscious and suffering from acute asthma and pneumonia,” said Dr. Wilder.  “I gave her a steroid shot and amoxicillin, but I was not hopeful that she would make it through the night.  Her mother brought her back the next day for a follow-up visit and her condition had vastly improved.  It was a miracle and the family was so grateful.”

Dr. Wilder said her friend Dona examined a 100-year-old woman who was in good health and looked amazing.  Dr. Wilder removed fluid from an 80-year-old man’s knees and treated his arthritis. He had agreed to the procedure as long as he could walk back to the seaside where he lived.  The group also donated a wheelchair to a 10-year-old boy who was unable to walk.

 “The villagers were so friendly, made us feel welcome, and just seemed to be appreciative of our efforts,” she said.  “I had never thought about doing something like this before, but now that I have done it, I want to go back next year.  It was such a rewarding experience.” 

Dr. Wilder and nurse practitioner Todd McDonald, NP-C provide family medicine at Sylvester Family Practice, located at 1010 West Franklin Street, adjacent to the Worth County Health Department.

A TIFT REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER news release

The first annual Worth County/Sylvester Night Out Against Crime was a huge success tonight as hundreds came to Jefford’s Park in Sylvester supporting a  united stance against crime in the community. The event proved to be positive and informative, as well as an exceptional family event and community gathering. The public in attendance was able to learn pertinent information regarding fighting crime and in identifying drug activity in a community. Law enforcing officials of every category, city and county, were in attendance to meet the public.

Numerous sponsors stepped up to support the effort in Worth County’s fight against crime. Sylvester-Worth County Chamber of Commerce Director Karen Rackley said once the fliers started going out announcing the event, sponsors immediately began calling to find out how to support the cause.

See On-Scene photos below: Also check out this website for more pics and video: http://georgia.exclusiveaccess.net/content/2010/08/09/national-night-out/?nggpage=5

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Worth County choral student, Amber Woodall, recently performed with The American High School Honor Choir at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City June 22-26, 2010. Woodall, the daughter of Paul and Kelli Woodall of Sylvester, was nominated by WCMS Choral Director, Lesli Holton.   Woodall submitted an audition recording and application and was selected as a finalist among students across the United States and Canada. 

 The American High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall challenges elite students to perform at their very best. Students rehearse and perform under master conductors and have the opportunity to perform before invited representatives from collegiate and professional music programs. Though much of the student’s time is focused on performance preparation, the week also allows students to experience the best of the sights and the performance arts in New York City.  They will also participate in a Juilliard Music School seminar and receive special recognition on the CBS Early Show, attend a Broadway show, and experience New York at its finest. 

Students rehearse and perform under the direction of renowned conductor, Dr. Eph Ehly. Declared as “one of the most sought-after choral conductors/clinicians” in the American Choral Directors Journal, Dr. Eph Ehly has conducted over 80 All-State Choirs and more than 600 Festival Ensembles. As a conductor, author, lecturer, and clinician he has appeared in 48 states, Canada, Brazil, Japan, Mexico, and various countries throughout Europe. Dr. Ehly retired from the Conservatory of Music, University of Missouri-Kansas City after 27 years of service. He has additionally served at the University of Oklahoma and University of New Mexico, having supervised nearly 200 graduate students. Dr. Ehly is the recipient of numerous teaching and performance excellence awards and grants, including the Missouri Choral Directors Association Luther Spade Choral Director of the Year Award and the AMOCO Foundation Outstanding Teaching Award.

This was Amber’s second opportunity to sing with an honor choir in a prestigious New York location. In 2008, she was selected to perform with the Festival of Gold National Honor Choir in Avery Fischer Hall at Lincoln Center. Woodall will be a 10^th grader this fall and is a member of the Worth County High School Choir.  She is also a member of the Pinson United Methodist Church Choir.

 Article submitted by Lesli Holton

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Local expectations of many Worth residents for Friday night plans came to a halt around 7:35 P.M. when power went out in a major portion of the Sumner/Sylvester area. Mitchell EMC immediately began receiving calls regarding the outage. A representative for EMC in Camilla stated a major outage occurred in Worth County due to a ‘fault on line’ they were unable to detect and repair until almost two hours later. The rep stated outages had affected at least seven areas to include Whiddon Mill Road, Shingler/Sumner Road, Ephesus Church Road, Sumner Road, and some Sylvester area residents.

One particular business was affected while in the beginning process of operation, 3 G’s Auction. The business was holding its first annual Christmas in July auction which initially brought a full house of potential bidders. The auction house is located on Hwy 82 east in Sylvester. With an atmosphere decorated in house for the occasion to bring Christmas to July for early shopping bargain hunters, power and air condition suddenly dissipated, along with customers.

Auctioneer Sherry Spence, seeing customers leave quickly, gathered a plan and announced she would move the much anticipated auction outdoors. Chairs were set up, free beverages were given to the night’s potential customers and the auction continued outside of the business as volunteers stepped up to offer their auto headlights for auction lighting . The Christmas in July event went on for the hard-core shoppers who willingly fought off gnats, mosquitoes, and the heat just to take advantage of local, early shopping deals.

Power was restored around 9:30 P.M. as the auction came to an end. Auctioneer Col. Sherry Spence said she will definetely look into the purchase of a generator. The business and its supporters during this set- back deserve the Worthit2u.net Worth a Mention.

Support your local businesses and enjoy extra savings when you see this sign:

Check out auction photos below:

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The top photo and the immediate photo below by Abby Thompson:

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(Left to Right) Mrs. Jimmie Holley, Past President Frank Jones, President Debbie Bridges, Jan Sinclair, 1^st VP Jody Yarbrough and Duncan Sinclair. Not pictured are 2^nd VP Steve Miner and Secretary/Treasurer Angela Hitt.

(Sylvester, GA) – The Sylvester Lions Club is working with the Georgia Lion’s Lighthouse and members of the Community to help provide vision and hearing assistance to those in need. The Sylvester lion’s Club was instrumental in acquiring hearing aids for Mrs. Jimmie Holley. The mission of the Lions Club is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs. The Sylvester Club was chartered in May 2009 and for the past year has worked to serve the community and provide assistance to those in need. The club meets the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesdays of each month at the Sylvester Fire Department Community Room.  The club is actively recruiting members and working on community projects.  For more information please feel free to contact Mr. Frank Jones at 777-9590.

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Susan Rhodes, a resident of Worth County, was recently awarded a prize pack from Moultrie Technical College (MTC).  Rhodes became the 750^th fan of the college’s Facebook social networking site and won lots of MTC logo items as well as gift certificates to the MTC Cosmetology salon for hair and nail services.  Her husband, Jim, is a Spring 2010 graduate of the college’s Air Conditioning Technology program. Moultrie Tech will give its next prize pack when the Facebook page reaches 1,000 fans.  Rhodes, right, is pictured with MTC Marketing and Public Relations Director Jana Wiggins.

Ten years ago in Worth County, the Phoebe-Worth Medical Center in Sylvester was known as Georgia Baptist Hospital and the facility operated a helicopter unit known as Life Flight 3, utilized in conjunction with the hospital’s emergency medical service.

On July 24, 2000, a crew of three was returning to Sylvester from Savannah via helicopter after transporting a critically ill patient to St. Joseph’s Hospital. Hospital Shift Supervisor Holly Bailey said her shift would initiate a search when Atlanta dispatchers contacted her near 3 A.M. reporting they were unable to contact the Life Flight pilot. According to EMS/Life Flight Director Jimmy Hudson, the crew did not fly out in the usual Life Flight helicopter, but instead a blue and white helicopter used for back-up.

“[The hospital] called me about 3:00 in the morning…” Typically on Sundays before he went to church, Hudson said he would have breakfast with the crew. The early morning phone call would report the Life Flight crew had not been responding to contact attempts from Atlanta. He instructed some of his team at the hospital to go towards Ty Ty to see if the helicopter might have had some mechanical trouble and had to land in a field. “I got up and took off in the EMS car and we started searching,” Hudson said.

 “We contacted the Sheriff’s Department here and in Tift County to help search.” He said what started as only a few people quickly turned into about 500 people searching for the helicopter. Apparently one of the paramedics saw smoke later that morning in Sumner at C.A. Harrell Farms. It would be the remnants of the helicopter they were searching for, a scene which indicated there were no survivors. The helicopter was only 5-minutes from touch down.

Michael Ray ‘Stick’ Elam, 28, Renee’ Welch Chapman, 29, and James Barton ‘Bart’ Bradshaw, 31, died in the crash that initiated a unified mourning throughout the state of Georgia.

The story of Life Flight in Worth County and the ending of those three lives, begins with the passion for saving lives by everyone involved.

With a helicopter service at the Georgia Baptist Hospital in Atlanta and in Cummings, Jimmy Hudson set out to learn what it would take to get a medical helicopter service in Worth County. At the time he said there was no such service available south of Atlanta to transport patients in a critical state. He was told if he could raise the funds for the service a helicopter may be provided. Hudson went to surrounding EMS centers to gain support for the service. He explained its importance in conditions such as having trauma patients or heart patients that require quick transport to Emory or burn victims needing to go to Augusta or Atlanta, etc. “They said ‘yeah, they would love to have one’,” Hudson said.

Mark Taylor was Lt. Governor of Georgia at the time and Hudson started meeting with Taylor to get the ball rolling. Needless to say after a series of meetings, proposals, and handshakes a grant and funding was achieved along with a great deal of support.

 The landing pad and fuel station was set up at the hospital in Sylvester and applications were then taken for a nurse and paramedic per shift so the service would operate 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Pilots were hired through Atlanta.

Lisa Hamsley worked as a Nurse in Phoebe Putney’s ER and during that time, worked closely with Stick and Renee at that facility. “I remember when they both found out that Life Flight was coming to Sylvester and when they both found out that they got the jobs.” Ms. Hamsley apologized for crying as she spoke, “They were so excited that they were gonna get to do that. And I know that when they died, they died doing what they loved.”  

“They were not only good with their patients they were extremely good with kids. A lot of people don’t go into medicine for the right reasons. But those are two that did. When they went to work they went because they loved it. You will not find two more wonderful and dedicated people to do what they did.”

Hamsley said that during the Flood of ’94, she contacted Renee to assist her in an emergency clinic set up in east Albany. Several of the injured were flown by military helicopter. “We flew the patients back and forth, and I think that when [Renee] did that, is when she fell in love with flying…Not a day goes by I don’t think of them.”

Jimmy Hudson said after the helicopter was finally assigned to the hospital they were required to prove its service beneficial and put it to immediate use. “We started landing on scene. We landed on I-75, We landed here in Worth County when they would have a wreck and different things. We started taking transfers from hospital to hospital.” Hudson would attend several meetings to prove the service essential in time sensitive situations and numerous Georgia doctors agreed.

He recalls the many patients lives saved because of the service including a small boy who had drowned in a pond in Sylvester. Hudson said the team on duty resuscitated him and ‘Life Flighted’ him to Atlanta. “He’s about 13 or 14 years old now.” Another instance was a Warwick farmer whose arm got caught in a combine and he was flown to emergency care. The man has since told his story of survival at various events, giving credit to Life Flight services.

Hudson said FAA investigated the incident and ruled the crash was due to ‘Pilot error’. But Hudson tearfully expressed, “I will never believe that. I will go to my grave believing something happened to the helicopter, something mechanical. [Bart] was one of the best pilots we had.” 

Pilot Bart Bradshaw was a certified flight instructor and a pilot for ten years. According to the National EMS Memorial Service, Bart had relocated his family in May, 2000, to accept the pilot position with the Southwest Georgia Life Flight Service that had formed a month earlier.

Former EMS Paramedic Randy Balkcom worked as Stick Elam’s partner for about 5-years in Dougherty County. “It ended up being a very entertaining five years to say the least,” he said, “with Mike being the fun nature that he was.” Because of Renee’s history as a nurse in the ER, Randy said he was also friends with her for several years. He happened to be leaving Savannah and headed to Charleston when he received a call from Dougherty County the morning of July 24, 2000, reporting the Life Flight helicopter was missing. He turned around to head to Sylvester, but within the hour he learned both of his friends were on the helicopter and they had not survived.  “Five hours driving back, it was very emotional, coming home by yourself and having to deal with that.”  

Renee’s sister, Lois Braswell of Sylvester said she was told by Renee’s EMS Director that her sister would write on her paperwork she turned in that she loved her job and ‘I have the best job in the world. I can’t believe you pay me to do this.’ Ms. Braswell said Renee’s motto was ‘Nobody dies on my watch’.

In January of this year, Stick Elam’s sister Allison Peugh and her cousin Mary Mckinny of Rockledge FL, acknowledged July of this year would mark a decade since the tragic event. She said, “I knew we needed to do a tribute for the 10th year.” She approached the City of Sylvester with an idea of a monument to pay tribute to the lives lost from the Life Flight team. Although Allison had to overcome many obstacles along the way, she along with many supporters, has achieved her personal mission to have a memorial set up in honor of the three heroes.

“I know Michael, Renee, and Bart are in our hearts and minds but I wanted something to show that. That’s why we decided on a monument that can be seen and to be around for a long time so we can tell our great grandkids about it…We want people to come out, see the ‘unveiling’ of the monument, have a few people speak and say a prayer and just remember them together.”

Michael Ray Elam was to be a father just weeks following his death. Allison said her brother was very excited about being a father and that he helped his wife Kristi decorate the baby’s nursery. Dougherty County EMS Director Bobby Tripp is quoted as saying, “He would have been such a wonderful father.” Allison said her niece, McKenzie Ray, will be 10 on August 19th.

When Randy Balkcom first teamed up with Stick, he said his partner who loved the movie Top Gun, wanted to coin their paramedic team ‘Maverick and Goose’ after the main characters of the movie. Randy said he and Stick went out one day visiting a few print companies to purchase a decal made in the color to match the ambulance that would read ‘Maverick and Goose’.

“During the course of that drive we were cutting up about it,” he said. “In the midst of it I said, ‘Well, you know Goose died in the movie’. And that’s when Mike (Stick) said, ‘Well if I could die doing what I love, then I will love the way I die’.” To that Randy said, “Now I understand it.”

The unveiling of the monument ceremony will be held at T.C. Jefford’s Park this Saturday beginning at 10 A.M.

For more information on the Life Flight crew, visit the National EMS Memorial Service website at www.nemsms.org

 See photos (submitted by Allison Peugh, Holly Bailey, and Jimmy Hudson) below:

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Bart Bradshaw

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Renee´ Welch Chapman

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Michael ‘Stick’ Elum

McKenzie>>

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 The Worth County Board of Commissioners and the Department of Natural Resources sponsored the annual Fishing Rodeo hosted by the Worth County Public Works Department on Rebecca Drive Saturday. The event held for kids up to age 16 started at 7 A.M.  and ended at noon.  At least 100 people turned out for the event. Worth County Board of Commissioners Chairman Matt Medders even enjoyed a bit of fishing with the kids. See more photos of the smallest to some of the biggest caught below:

Italian Cuisine Coming to Worth County

International Chef Allen Torres (pictured right), along with his father and mother Benito and Monica, brothers Christian and Alex, and  sister, Monica (mother’s namesake), will soon open Isabella Street’s new dining experience, Reserva Romana. Passers-by can see the extension development next to business Curves at the corner of Isabella and Railroad Street. The restaurant will be in operation from within that extension, which will include an outdoor dining area, to behind the Insurance office on the corner of Liberty Street, making for a large dining area.

Sylvester and Worth County are very familiar with this family and their reputation for delicious food as they own and operate Old Mexico, also on Isabella Street.

Restaurant Manager Christian Torres (pictured w/ Chef Allen) is currently preparing the menu. He said the dishes will be prepared from all fresh and organic ingredients. Vegetables are purchased locally to ensure quality and to maintain local spending. Chef Allen says he plans to prepare traditional rich classic Italian dishes with all natural ingredients, but also a menu of healthy food choices, serving meals with fresh salads. “Sylvester does not have a lot of options,” Chef Allen said adding in exception of fast foods. “That’s why we think we need something where you can sit down and enjoy. If you want a healthy salad, you can have a healthy salad. If you want a nice cut of Italian steak, you can have a steak [at Reserva Ramona].” A nice wine selection will also be available with a wine section visible inside the dining area.

The menu will also include freshly made Italian bread and pasta prepared from scratch. The ingredients that make Italian dishes so delicious including creams, butter and Parmesan will be ‘all natural’. “No hydro-organic oils, margarines, the real deal. Seafood Fettuccine and Alfredo dishes are just better with the real deal,” Chef Allen said and laughingly adds, “You won’t have to have a degree in chemicals to understand what you are eating.”

Christian said as usual with the Torres family, diners can expect good service and a great family atmosphere, and reasonable prices. The family’s goal is to open the restaurant in the middle of fall, but anticipate definitely within the Year. Chef Allen Torres studied to be an International chef for four years in Mexico and has been a restaurant chef for ten years. More photos below:

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The Sylvester Worth County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Jimmy Sanders, Inc. to the chamber as well as Worth County on Wednesday with a ribbon cutting. Jimmy Sanders, Inc, which specializes in farm supply technology, has been in business for half a century.The newest of operations is in Sylvester on Industrial Blvd in Sylvester.

EDA Director Greg Sellars said the business is a great asset to Worth on many levels. “They sell agricultural chemicals not only as a distributor but retail as well. Our area is so heavily agriculteral based, they are a great product in the right place. Not to mention it’s a new business in our community.” He said the new business opened a few new jobs. “We embrace any new jobs that we can get”, Sellars said. Welcome to Worth County Jimmy Sanders, Inc.!

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Vinson awarded prestigious Carnegie Medal for heroism

Click here to read article from Albany Herald on Sylvester native D.J. Vinson’ Carnegie Medal honor. Vinson lost his life saving another in 2008: http://www.albanyherald.com/home/headlines/97128934.html

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The Best Friends Humane Society in Worth County visited Shipp’s Senior Center Wednesday morning and introduced some of their special little friends to the seniors - The four-legged guests were greeted with open arms! The senior center has decorated their display in a cat theme for Adopt-a- Cat month.

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To benefit local foster children -

Greg Millette, Executive Director (Local District includes Worth County)

Coastal Plain CASA, Inc.

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Announcements & Events:

Worth Canning Plant Opens!

The Worth County Canning Plant will opened, Tuesday, June 15, 2010.  The canning plant will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays during June and July.  The plant will open at 8:00am.  All food that will be canned must be ready to cook no later than 2:00 pm.  The phone number at the canning plant is 776-2068.  John Lindsey will be managing the canning plant, this summer.  For additional information, call the Worth County High School Agricultural Education office, 777-8492, and leave a message.

Two food processing options are available:  blanching for freezing and preserving food in steel cans.  Can prices fluctuate with the cost of steel.  The current price for cans is $0.50 each.  The cost for blanching for freezing is $0.50 per tray.  One to 1 ½ bushels of shelled beans or peas fit in a blanching tray.  (Patrons of the cannery must supply their own freezer bags, non-iodized salt, preparation containers, measures, etc.  Patrons must clean processing area upon completion.)  Agricultural education staff will be available to facilitate the food processing operations. 

The Worth County Agricultural Education Food Processing Center (Canning Plant) is located at the back of the Worth County Board of Education Complex across from the maintenance department.

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Support a great cause and earn a chance to win a new car!!

Pick up your tickets at Bibby Insurance in Sylvester located at 513 N. Main Street

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Reception for Porter’s 60th Year

The staff of the Sylvester Local News cordially invites the public to join them on July 1, 2010 from 5 p.m. – 7 P.M. in the Davis Room of the Margaret Jones Library. There will be a special reception in honor of John Porter, recognizing his 60 years of service to local news in Worth County and the newspaper.

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The Worth Lodge #194 F&AM  is accepting orders for cooked Boston butts to be picked up in the building located next to the Sylvester City Hall (Masonic Lodge Hall 103 N. Main Street) on Saturday, July 3 from 2 – 6 P.M.. Call 229-776-1050 to order- leave message including your name and contact number. $20 for 10 lb avg grilled/smoked butt – Have your meat already prepared for your July 4^th event! Friday, July 2nd is the final day to order.

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Benefit for 9-year old burn victim, Dalton Shiver - 

The benefit will be held July 10^th at the Sumner Auditorium beginning at 6 P.M. with refreshments including Hot dogs, chips and soda. Southern Majesty and other musical entertainment will entertain!

An account is set up at Sun Trust Bank in Sylvester for those choosing to make a donation prior to the benefit.

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Best Friends Humane Society Benefit Trail Ride

Description

Saddle Up and Ride for the Best Friends Humane Society!
All proceeds go to their building fund.
Ride at 9:00 a.m. Lunch served at 12:30
Optional – You may pull in Friday night & camp.
$20 per Rider
Raffle tickets will be sold for a chance to win some wonderful items, which includes a day of “Quail Hunting at Southern Woods” $400 value.
Call 229-777-7774 for more information!!!

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MTC- Summer Quarter  Wonderful Education Opportunities for Sylvester/ Worth County

      Business Administrative Technology – Fall Quarter September 29^th

      Fire Science – Fall Quarter, September 29^th

For more information about class schedule please call Kris Strawder’ at (229) 777-2177.  The HOPE grant is available to most students.  Let’s support Moultrie Tech in their attempts to grow their program in Worth County!

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Steve Scott Memorial Golf Tourney 3-Person Scramble

2-Day Tournament, Saturday & Sunday, July 17 & 18, 2010.

8:30 A.M. and 1 P.M. Start times with 7:45 .M. Devotion on Sunday

Pineknoll, Sylvester – $300/ team (includes mulligans and lunch each day)

Team Prizes, Silent Suction and 50/50 Raffle

ALL  proceeds will benefit the benefit the family of Steve Scott

Contact info: Chris Burrell 229-343-1538, Jamie Pritchard 229-347-6115, or David Cooper 229-344-3046

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Moultrie Technical College’s Adult Education program celebrated its winter and spring quarter graduating classes of 2010 at a semi-annual Commencement ceremony held Thursday, June 17, at the MTC Tifton Campus.  The college recognized more than 170 GED program graduates from the college’s four-county service area of Colquitt, Tift, Turner and Worth. 

Many of those GED graduates were from the college’s Sylvester-Worth County Adult Literacy Center in downtown Sylvester. Former MTC GED graduate and 2001 State of Georgia EAGLE (Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education) winner Sophia Johnson of Tifton, who obtained her GED credentials at age 56, addressed the graduating class with an inspiring message. Pictured, left to right, are MTC Adult Education instructor Mattie Grant, GED graduates Micah Moore and Cheri Garrett, MTC Adult Education instructor Kim Oliver, graduates Rebecca Harnage, Aron McCaffity, Dexter Armstrong, Amanda Griffin, Gavin Perry, Garrett Ryan and Deshawn Powell, with MTC Executive Director of Adult Education Liz Keith. 

For more information on GED classes and testing in Worth County, contact Oliver at 777-2175 in Sylvester or the MTC GED main office at 229-217-4181. Additional information is available by clicking the MTC ad on this website and then Adult Ed/GED tab.

Michael Carter, 33, (left) is the guitarist for Country Music sensation Luke Bryan (right). Luke is revered in Lee County, which is his home town, as he is soaring in the industry. He just picked up his second CMT award and currently up for a Teen Choice Award. But something is to be said for his loyal guitarist from Worth County who has chased the dream with Luke for 15 years to get to where they are right now.

Michael and Luke got together and started performing around 1995 as they attended Darton College, went to Georgia Southern together and have been rocking  the masses ever since.  Although Michael is still giving his all to what he loves, there is quite a change now from those college days. He calls Tuesday from his high rise condo in downtown Nashville, taking in the view of the skyline from his window and says, “Pretty scenic. If I had a good camera I would send you a picture.” He said it is surprising that his back is still intact after lugging speakers and equipment to gigs he and Luke played at over the years and it’s a little hard to consider his career ’work’ these days. “You can’t beat it with a stick,” he said of his current (and yes, single) lifestyle.

He is doing exactly what he set out to do, according to his father Mike Carter. Carter has served in the Magistrate Court as a judge since 2003 in Worth County.  He said Michael’s mother, June recently located there son’s first drum set up in their attic, a Muppet Show drum set. Judge Carter made his living in high school in a band called ‘Lovin’ Feeling’. “Michael first played in public with me when he was six years old at the Agrirama.” Judge Carter said Michael started off in gospel music. He then picked up one of his dad’s guitars and started playing. ”He has always been musically oriented and he has always had it in his mind that is what he wanted to do, was play music.”

“And what was cool, he actually signed his first autograph when we played over at the Agrirama – and he was six! “There were a bunch of kids there from out of town and they just thought it was cool.” He said Michael was about 10 when he heard the theme song from Smokey and the Bandit played by Jerry Reed. “He sat there in his room and had that on a tape. And he sat there all day just backing it up and backing it up, and finally he came and got me. He said ‘Daddy I want you to hear something’ and he played that guitar line just like Jerry Reed.”

Michael has a loving and obviously supportive family including his sister, Cara Hill, a nurse practitioner in Dougherty County. Michael said a lot of his inspiration to play music evolved from his parents, including his mom who played the organ in church. He has entertained with Luke in nearly all 50 states and just getting started as their songs continue to hit the charts. This week, their album, Doin’ my Thing, is number 11 on the Billboard, and has been on the chart for 36 weeks.

Michael and Luke started out playing in fraternities and became best friends in the process. They also played in the club scene a bit including in Albany. “We helped open the Cab Stand,” he said adding they were also there for the Lee County club’s closing. He and Luke opened for 80’s hit maker Eddie Money when the music artist played at the Cab Stand around 1999. To earn a little of their tuition money back, Michael said they played college clubs at least two or three times a week. They also did the ‘back dirt road’ concerts, when someone donated their land for a night, where they generally performed from a flat bed trailer.

After college when the two moved to Nashville, Michael said Luke was turned down by several record labels, including two ‘no’s’ from his current label, Capitol. “You can’t be afraid to hear ‘no’. You hear that a lot more than you hear ‘yes’. Persistence pays off after a little while,” he said.

Their current group consists of fiddle player, Kristy Jo Steinmetz, who has been with them four years, and drummer, Kent Slucher, who has played with the group for two years and the two newest members, joined in January. But Michael and Luke have remained a team throughout it all and got to this place they are now because of their sheer talent, love of music, and their loyalty to each other and their shared dream.

“They had a real good partnership and it has always worked out well for them,” Judge Carter said. “How many musicians from South Georgia have played live on the Tonight Show? Not many!” The group played on Jay Leno’s Tonight Show earlier this month.

And check out Michael jam this past season on NBC’s Celebrity Apprentice:  http://www.nbc.com/the-apprentice/video/luke-bryans-performance/1219632/.

Judge Carter worked with the Georgia State Patrol beginning at age 18 and was a Troop Commander when he retired in 1999. He said Michael went into law enforcement briefly. “I think trying to follow in Daddy’s footsteps. But it just wasn’t for him.” Judge Carter said he was somewhat relieved Michael left the GBI because of the dangers involved in the job.

Soon after college, Michael and Luke moved to Nashville. Within a year Michael achieved a song writing deal with Murrah Music – Roger Murrah is inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Michael said he got his first cut on Luke’s latest Spring Break 2 EP and he said he is very excited about that. “Writing is an awesome thing and that is definitely where it all starts. If you don’t have good songs, you’re not going anywhere. It’s fun to be a part of it. Luke and I write real well together.” He said it is a great feeling to be on stage, “and see people singing along to a song you wrote. That’s really cool.” He and Luke vowed when they were around 18-years old that no matter what, they were going to hang together and end up in Nashville.”We just never really thought about anything different since then.”

More recently their merchandise manager, Cole Swindell, who is also a former Southern fraternity brother, is writing songs with Michael and Luke. “Writing is fun anyway, but it’s all that much more fun when you can do it with your two best friends.” In referring to their collected style of writing he said, “It’s not the big city and we all kind of grew up similar (Leesburg, Sylvester, and Bronwood). We can relate to everything and it’s a lot easier to write.”

“What I do is just so much fun it is impossible to call it work,” he said laughing. “But there is a lot of sacrifices and a lot of hard times to go through to get to where I’ve gotten now. And I’m very fortunate.”

“It’s been a good little journey for him,” Judge Carter said of his son. “He works hard and he’s good at what he does and he loves what he does… He’s just following his dream.”

Luke Bryan and the band are headed to Bossier City, LA with Sugarland tonight after their show in Kansas City. And check out info on the Flood Recovery Benefit Concert www.nashvillerising.org where they will play in Nashville, along with a star studded list of performers to help raise money for flood victims June 22.

Top photo as posted by a fan on Michaels Facebook page – The photos below were submitted by Michael Carter:

After 23 years, local band Autumnreunited for a fully-charged stage concert in Sumner Saturday night. The band rocked the house with cover songs like Johnny B. Goode, Blueberry Hill, the Twist, and many more. Toes were tapping and dozens sang along as lead singer and guitarist Rodney Duckworth, lead guitarist and vocalist Rocky Duckworth, Keyboard player Johnny Slappey, Drummer Mark Davis, and bass player Jimmy Hurst rekindled and old flame with several members of their original audience from former stage performance days.

The concert excitement was somewhat bitter-sweet  however, as the community was just getting to know the old local band again it was also a bid farewell. The concert Saturday night from Autumn was also their last stage performance together, but what a show to enlist in the Sumner Concert series ongoing in the former Sumner School auditorium. The events set the stage for the soon-to-be SOWEGA Music Hall of Fame & Performing Arts, Inc. of Sumner, GA which will vacate the old Sumner School building in the very near future. See Autumn concert photos below:

A photo of Clint Bugg of Worth County won the Creek Bottom Trail Rides contest for six passes to the next Creek Bottom Trail Rides open weekend on June 19th.  The passes are good for two adults and up to four kids and can be used both Saturday and Sunday with optional camping on the grounds.

Clint’s wife, Shellie, sent in this photo. She said Clint is on his 2007 Kawasaki Brute Force ‘tearing up some mud with his new 29.5 Outlaw mud tires’. Shellie said the photo was taken at their favorite mud hole, Creek Bottom Trail Rides in Doles.

Out of 18 entries, this photo was chosen for several reasons. The picture was local, down-right muddy, and shows there is still a lot of ‘kid’ in a grown man when it comes to ATV fun. We apologize for the problems we had in the beginning of the contest with photo submissions but we thank everyone for their patience and participation. We will have more exciting promotions coming soon. Congratulations to the Bugg family! Have a great time!

In the late 1800’s, schools were set up in various Worth County communities including Minton, Warwick, and Sumner. The Sumner School was rebuilt in 1939 on Walnut Street after a fire claimed the original school building, but operations ceased in the building after the schools consolidated into one county school system beginning in 1960. The front office of the old school building however has been in use as the town’s City Hall operations and a conference room in the building is used for city council meetings. The theatre is also used on occasion for concerts including the reunion concert of Sumner 70′s band, Smokedream, which included special guest and country music recording artist, John Berry. It will also house an upcoming affair this weekend as another local 70’s band Autumn will perform their 23-year reunion and final concert.

 A school reunion is also held every year in the school building, but other than such occasions an overwhelming amount of space, classrooms, and hard wood flooring is dormant. The hallways and classrooms depict neediness for children who desire to learn and teachers who yearn to teach. And frankly the school building has the persona of a school of arts reminiscent of the one portrayed in the 80′s dance television series Fame. (Remember this? – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZww6gzG0D4 )

 Now, the school is reviving and taking on a new life as plans are in the works to develop an arts school within the building to include dance, singing, and music teachings as well as acting/theatre. Dona Duckworth, co-founder of the up and coming SOWEGA Music Hall of Fame & Performing Arts, Inc. of Sumner, GA, said during her childhood, many children, including herself, in the Sumner/Worth County area had dreams to pursue these type venues.  But if you weren’t wealthy or had financial help somehow, she said it could be difficult to chase such dreams. She and her husband Rocky Duckworth began thinking over the years, “of what we could develop that everybody can do and everybody can participate in.” Nearly 25 years of thinking in fact. Dona and her longtime musician husband, Rocky have wanted to operate a performing arts school for kids and Sumner welcomed the idea with open arms, and an open building.

The Duckworth’s idea is to operate the arts school under a program where a student can attend under payment terms based on a household income, so that everyone interested in arts education can take part. Dona said the goal is to have the school open and operating with at least a guitar program in place by this fall.

Rocky, who is an original part of the 70’s local band Smokedream, will serve as the school’s Director of Music. Forming a Board of Directors of the school is already underway to include several musicians. They seek diversity in their board of directors Dona says adding, “However, we want to focus on the arts.” Kim Plunkett of Nashville will also serve on the board and is someone Dona says has been a major source of income for the program, along with John Berry.

Dona introduced teacher Russ Hill to Facebook friends last week. Hill has agreed last Wednesday to join the school as Theatre Director for the Arts Program. Dona writes, “Russ brings many years of stage and theatre design to the table and will be teaching the aspects of stage design and performance. Russ will also direct our onstage performances.”

Dona said one of the requirements of students in the arts school is they will have to remain in regular school. “If they drop out of high school, we drop them out of here.” The art school desires education to be a priority for each student. Learning at the arts school will take place in a classroom setting Dona said. “If you are going to be performing for others you need to know how to act and interact with other musicians.” She said students will also be required to perform a community service. Parents will remain on campus while students are in class. Dona said parents can take advantage of their free time by utilizing the walking track around the school or the wireless internet allowing parents/guardians to hook-up laptops in the school’s break-room/coffee shop.

Dona and Rocky feel another benefit of the new school is helping to keep many kids out of trouble and away from drugs and plans are to build a school for these local kids, “With the purpose of showing them there is life to match the dreams they might have, and that there is something other than drugs out there to spend their money on and occupy their time.”

The school will require donations and community support, such as volunteers, to help achieve this vision. For information on how to be a part of this venture that will benefit, on so many levels, many of the children of Worth County, contact Dona Duckworth at 615-319-5139. Pictures of Sumner School below:

A local business in Sylvester that services Worth County and surrounding areas delivers a message regarding earning the most money for your valuables, while at the same time benefitting your community. In this economy, many people have found they must resort to selling jewelry and coins they may have saved due to sentimental value more so than dollar value.

Commercials are constantly seen on television announcing the convenience of packaging up your precious gold and metals and shipping them to another state to complete strangers who will determine a dollar amount for your keepsakes. In such a case, one may never know what you will earn for that package until a check arrives in the mail. Or how about the businesses that set up shop in a nearby town for a day to pay you cash on the spot for your gold jewelry? They spend hundreds to thousands of dollars advertising their one day visit to weigh your gold, put cash in your hand and then they are off to the next city.

Understandably, there may be a sudden need to take advantage of such an offer. One must consider however, with all the expense these one-day operations put into their business venture, how much of what your personal belongings are valued at are you actually receiving after they pay for traveling expenses, advertising, and a cozy stop in between gigs?

That is what a new business in Sylvester wants you to consider next time you find yourself in a pinch and need extra cash. K&L Gold Buyers on Westberry Street is local. They maintain they have a location with low rent, with operations cost at a minimum.  Chris along with his wife, Kathy, his daughter Angela and her fiancé Todd together operate their family owned business. Chris says he has seen many local people fall on hard times and he has seen cases where valuables brought in obviously held a great sentiment to their owner. He said K & L, unlike the claims of these tour businesses, actually pay top dollar for gold and coins. Not only that, if they discover your jewelry has a value beyond weight in gold, or a coin is valued at more than its metal value, he said his business is quick to educate the seller.

Chris said a lady from Sylvester recently came into his store with a coin they paid her $4 for, which was its metal weight value. He said he and Todd later discovered the coin itself was valued at over $100. Todd said they immediately contacted the woman who paid back the $4 and was able to take the coin and pursue a buyer who may pay the mint value of the coin.  Chris prides his business with serving customers under honest terms. He points out that the businesses that are set up in nearby cities to buy gold for one or two days buy your jewelry or gold keepsakes and then they are gone for good. There is no way to get the jewelry back after the transaction. But Chris says if a seller calls within a few days and they still have the item at their store, they will sell it back to the buyer, no questions asked.

Another advantage to selling your gold jewelry and coins to a local business is the money stays within the city of Sylvester. The family that operates this business says they will spend any money their business earns within Worth County. So take the time to stop in and meet Chris and Todd. Bring any gold items or coins under no obligation to sell and see what they will tell you about your possessions, or just drop by to greet the people who operate one of Worth County’s newest businesses.

Visit www.goldbuyersgeorgia.com for more information.

The First African Baptist Church on Pope Street in Sylvester has just entered its 130th year of existence. The church originally began on Pope and Main Street under the direction of Rev. Johnson A. Carter and was first named Brooks Chapel after a deacon who helped begin the church, Charles Brooks. The church later moved to Isabella Street.

Moderator of the Fowlstown Baptist Association, Rev. Willis Warren along with Deacon Julius Caldwell, Charles Brooks, and Augustus Carter, purchased the land and built a wooden structure at the church’s current location for worship service. Rev. Tilman Sims served as pastor of the church from 1885 until 1915.

The wooden church burned down in the late 1920’s under the leadership of Rev. T.J. Simpson, according to history records. Deacons R.G. Braswell and J.T. Ayers served as builders for the current structure. The cornerstone was never laid until a later date, however. The first service in the new building is reported to be the funeral service of Mrs. Lille Braswell on January 8, 1928. The name was changed in 1900 to First African Baptist Church by vote of the church.

Many of the church’s elders recall attending the church from their childhood. Ruth Allen, 80, attended with her father, Columbus Smith.  Her great-grandfather, Augusta Carter, helped build the current church.

Inez Goins, 88, also has attended the church since her childhood along with her mother, Mary Shefton Thomas. Ms. Goins is the oldest member of the church.

Lottie Faulk, 76, has attended the First African Church since 1963 when she and her family moved to Sylvester from Alabama.

Foster Evans, Jr., 62, attended the church as a child with his mother Ora Jean and his father. Foster Evans, Sr., 86, still attends the church and has done so since 1946, when he started attending with his parents. The church’s cornerstone lists Evans as a Deacon of the church beginning in 1976.

The elders say the church also served as a school when they were children. The school was located just across the street from the church building. “Every Friday we would come over here (the church) and have chapel,” Ms. Allen said. This group of elders grew up together attending FABC. “In other words the church is where we got our education,” Ms. Goins said. She said that along with their school teachings they were also taught about Christ. She said a big part of the success in their lives is they started off their childhood days with prayer. “Prayer was in school and we really were successful during that time.”

“We had one pastor here for about 38 years,” Ms. Allen said. “He baptized me and all my children.” She said that pastor was Rev. Henry L. Flowers, Sr. “Our next pastor was Rev. Clark,” Ms. Goins said. “He was here 22 years.” Ms. Goins said in earlier days when they celebrated a special occasion at the church, they would set up the pews outside and each family would share a boxed dinner outdoors until the community center became available. “We didn’t have a fellowship hall or an annex then,” Ms. Goins said.

The group said their church’s baptismal was located outside behind the church when they were children. They began to reminisce of how the group from Macedonia would march to FABC for their baptismal services. “They would come down the street singing and praying,” Ms. Allen said.

The group burst into laughter as they recalled their source for heat in the church when they were children. “A pot-belly stove,” Mr. Evans, Sr. chimed in. They recalled it was set up in the center of the church. A deacon of the church would come and light the stove before services and the families who loved to worship would come to church in the cold and take part while trying to warm around the stove. Their source for cool air during the summer was to open the windows and use a hand fan. “Back in the days, people were more dedicated to the church,” Ms. Allen said. “I remember those older ladies used to be walking down the sidewalk every week, come in here and clean the church.” She said they were never paid but simply volunteered their services.

Ms. Allen said she sang in the choir as she was growing up. Her father was a member of FABC but her mother was a member of Macedonia. She said she loved singing in the choir so much she sang for both church choir groups.  

Currently, Rev. Marcus L. Stroud serves as the 10th pastor in the church’s history. He has been with the FABC church family for four years. He said the church has a strong influence on FABC’s youth group and attributes a big part of the church’s durability to the ‘strong family unit’. Pastor Stroud said there were only five youth in the church when he began preaching at FABC. There were at least 35 youth at Wednesday night’s service.

Rev. Stroud, who feels he has found his permanent church family, said Wednesday night, “We can definitely say that we have come this far by faith.” He accredits a large portion of the church’s longevity ‘through the Jim Crow days and the civil rights struggles’ to that faith. “Our safe haven, our place of comfort is the church.”

Stroud is also a history teacher. “I’m always reading and researching our heritage, our background and where we’ve come from. And if you really want to know where our strength came from as a people, we found it came from the church. It came from the church.”

(l to r) Foster Evans, Jr., Marie T. Davis, Lottie Faulk, Inez Gones, Foster Evans, Sr. and Ruth Allen with Pastor Marcus Stroud. A few of the elders of FABC . Church Cornerstone pictured below;

The 4th Annual Two Wheel Chicken Cook-Off was underway at daybreak this morning in Jefford’s Park. Cooks loaded up their grills and slow- cooked special recipes aiming to win 1st place in the competition. A Poker Run was part of the event from the Tifton Harley-Davidson dealership and event supporting  groups included Independent Harley Riders, Tifton Harley Owner’s Group, Deep South Riders, Freedom Seekers Motorcycle Club, Deep South Fab. and Machine Shop, Joy Riders, CMA, Warriors of Faith, and Heaven’s Saints.

First through third place trophies were awarded in the cook-off as pictured left to right – 3rd place winner Roger May (Warriors of Faith), 2nd place – Randy Curles (ABAT of GA), AND 1st place- Sammy Smith (CMA). Participating businesses donated several prizes for the event which were given away to winning ticket holders as numbers were drawn at noon.

Each team supplied and cooked 40 leg quarters and sold plates at the park for $5 each. The event this year was held to benefit Special Youth Ministries, raising over $2000 today for the cause. More OntheScene photos below:

During the recent national hospital week celebration at Phoebe Worth Medical Center employees had the opportunity to give back to the local community.  This year the hospital’s activities committee introduced a new element to the weeks’ events by deciding to do a community service project.  Phoebe Worth Chief Administrative Officer Kim Gilman stated that “the activities committee here at Phoebe Worth wanted to add a community service project to this year’s events as a way to demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to our local community, and to what is going on here in Worth County.” She also shared that employees felt that it was a way they could directly give back to the community that supports the hospital.

At the final committee meeting before hospital week kicked off, members selected Best Friends Humane Society as the beneficiary of this years’ project.  Employees were able to donate in a variety of different ways including a raffle, paying to dress down, and a donation jar.  Thanks to great participation from hospital staff employees were able to raise a total of $770.00 to be given to the humane society. 

 At a recent humane society meeting Phoebe Worth pharmacy employee and BFHS volunteer Doris McDonald (pictured on left)presented the check to BFHS Vice President and Coordinator of Events and Fundraising, Shelly McPhaul.  Phoebe Worth Medical Center would like to thank hospital volunteers, staff, and physicians for their dedication to the hospital and the community by participating in community service projects that support local organizations.

A recent photo of the Best Friends Humane Society building development (pictured below) on Ephesus Church Road in Sylvester:

A Phoebe-Worth Press release – photos submitted

Flags and memorials were placed all over the county this weekend in honor of our men and women who have fallen in battle, have battled and are in battle for the United States in war. Flags were placed at cemeteries in Worth County Thursday on the grave sites of veterans as done each year for Memorial Day. Worth County High School JROTC placed the flags on the grave sites and VFW of Sylvester placed the flags on grave sites in Poulan. JROTC Sgt Major Beard said the participation from local churches along with the help and donation of flags from the local VFW helped make this honorary act possible. In Hillcrest Cemetery alone (pictured at right) over 100 flags were placed on grave sites.

A memorial ceremony was held this morning at the Worth County courthouse grounds which included families of military along with city and county officials. Many citizens and local businesses displayed memorial wreaths at the ceremony in honor of local veterans. See more photos below:

The Air Evac Lifeteam helicopter is pictured landing behind Phoebe Worth Friday. Last week was National EMS Appreciation Week. The hospital held an event Friday in recognition and served Worth EMS employees and their families a steak and potato dinner under the pavilion.

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 Three members of Worth County’s Fire/Rescue team completed  a FEMA Community Response Team  (T3) Instructor course and were presented certification to become members of the Presidents Citizen Corps on May 15th. Pictured ( l to r) Tom Whittington, Chad Salter, and not pictured is Peyton Barwick.

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Last week was National EMS Week, which is to recognize paramedics for their hard work and dedication to emergency response. Bikers and biker groups from Thomasville, Tifton, Moultrie, Valdosta, Albany, and Cordele met up in Sylvester Saturday during a Poker and Dice Run that ended at Albany’s Harley Davidson location. The money collected in the event goes to EMSC and is for emergency paramedic equipment for children. See photos below of the stop at Worth County’s football stadium Saturday:

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Students Landscape DAR Grounds

Worth County High School’s Agri Science Class and Plant Science Class students participated in landscaping at the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) meeting house under the supervision of WCHS teachers  Mr. Gilman and Mr. Lindsey.

Students have participated in the landscaping project for three years. It began when Albany Tech invited WCHS students to participate in renovating the landscaping for the historical society building. Since then, WCHS has been a part of the program and the students who participate earn extra Ag class credits. Approximately twenty 9th – 12^th students took part Thursday. See photos below:

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During the May 11 meeting of the Sylvester City Council, Sylvester Shriner’s Club #65 presented certificates honoring Sylvester Police Chief Alfred Anderson (left) and Sylvester Fire Chief Chief Jody Yarbrough for Outstanding Support in the Easter Egg Hunt held in April at Shipp’s Park -  SPD and SFD were major contributers in the successful family event. __________________________________________________________________

The new Worth County Elementary School opened its doors Thursday hosting a Partners in Education event. Attendees were also treated to a tour of the building before gathering in the school’s cafeteria, pictured below:

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The Unique Ryder’s Motorcycle Club of Worth County held a 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament at Shipp’s Park in Sylvester Saturday. The event was held to provide fun and fellowship for families and proceeds went to the back-to-school Book Bag Program. Hundreds turned out for the event including surprise evening guest, Bishop Freddie Williams of Albany’s Gethsemane Worship Center. See photos below:

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Progress at the Best Friends Humane Society structure development located on Ephesus Church Road pictured below:

Worth County’s Honor ceremonies last week included over 230 honor recipients including Valedictorian and Star Student Karradyne Alayne Carter (pictured below on left), Salutatorian Amber Leigh Blake (right), and nearly 30 honor graduates (group photo below). Those Honor graduates names are listed below along with the honorees from the Worth County High School Guidance Department Honor’s Night 2009-2010. Congratulations to all from Worth County and Worthit2u.net!

Photos submitted by: Heather Faircloth

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WCHS Guidance Dept. Honor’s Night

Georgia National Guard

Commitment to Service – Chasity Moody

Highest SAT Scores 2010:

Rachel Crew, Joel Howell, Michael Jenkins, Savannah Jenkins, Blake Johnson, Britni Pinson, Orlando Rivero,  William Snelson

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Worth County native Jamie Cash landed this big cat out of the Altimaha River, famous for its huge catfish, on May 1st in the Wayne County Catfish Tournament. His catch weighed in at 31 pounds, measured 44″ in length and earned Jamie 4th place in the tournament along with a $1000 cash prize.

First place was a $10,000 prize in the tournament that included 362  participants and 117 boats. Jamie, 34,  is the son of the late Ben Cash of Worth County.

See full length photo (submitted) below… Way to go Jamie!

Worth County Probate Judge Sheryl Hall, along with the majority of county employees, plan to surround the flag pole located on the court house grounds this Thursday, May 6^th, in observance of National Day of Prayer. With prayer taken out of so many public entities such as the school system, many take advantage of the public union held annually. Following the 9/11 incident that affected America as a whole, Worth County employees would gather at the flag pole to pray for our nation. Even after the group’s praying together regularly tapered off, Judge Hall said she recalls when a pastor from Isabella Church came out every day for nearly a month to pray at the courthouse flagpole. Employees inside the courthouse were re-inspired by his actions and would come out to join him. The flag pole has been the designated area since for the county employees that choose to participate in the national observance of prayer. (See photos at page bottom)

The majority of Worth County’s local governing authority and officials, cities and county, open their public meetings with prayer and has done so for numerous years. As well, all 50 state governors are signing proclamations declaring the 59^th Annual Observance as the National Day of Prayer

A U.S. District Judge in Wisconsin, Barbara Crabb, said the Day of Prayer violates the First Amendment’s clause, which bans the creation of a “law respecting an establishment of religion” in the Constitution, according to a CBS news report. “It goes beyond mere ‘acknowledgement’ of religion because its sole purpose is to encourage all citizens to engage in prayer, an inherently religious exercise that serves no secular function in this content.”

But regardless of the anti-National Prayer Day observance individuals and groups, people all over the country publicly and privately open their hearts to prayer. HOOK FM is a positive music format radio station in Sylvester that will observe the day of prayer over the airwaves. Jason Bishoff  of HOOK FM said the radio station will be broadcasting the prayers they receive from local pastors, youth pastors, laypersons, community leaders, and community business men and women, all day on May 6^th.

“So many times people get caught up in the daily business of life and forget about these important events like “National Day of Prayer,” Bishoff said. “Our view point at the Hook is that we want to be a catalyst to help get the word out about events like the National Day of Prayer. This is our out of the box way of doing this by having local folks Pray over the airways for our church’s, our community, our county, and our country.”

Prayers will be recorded during the morning at the Hook studio’s this week Monday through Wednesday. To be a part of the schedule, contact Jason at 392-8998 or e-mail jason@hookfmonline.com.

The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the U.S. congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. Truman then declared an annual National Day of Prayer. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed into law the designation of the first Thursday in May to be observed as the National Day of Prayer. Before it was ever signed into law however, the annual observance by Americans dates back as far as 1775, when the first Continental Congress called for a national day of prayer. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln called for such a day, followed by the joint resolution, and then the law being amended and signed by President Reagan some 213 years later. Each U.S. President has called for a national day of prayer since 1975 and every president has signed a National Day of Proclamation since 1952. The current president is no exception. President Barack Obama signed a proclamation for a National Day of Prayer in America on Friday.

Within the Proclamation, Obama writes:

“Let us remember in our thoughts and prayers those suffering from natural disasters in Haiti, Chile, and elsewhere, and the people from those countries and from around the world who have worked tirelessly and selflessly to render aid.  Let us pray for the families of the West Virginia miners, and the people of Poland who so recently and unexpectedly lost many of their beloved leaders.  Let us pray for the safety and success of those who have left home to serve in our Armed Forces, putting their lives at risk in order to make the world a safer place. As we remember them, let us not forget their families and the substantial sacrifices that they make every day.  Let us remember the unsung heroes who struggle to build their communities, raise their families, and help their neighbors, for they are the wellspring of our greatness.” 

“Finally, let us remember in our thoughts and prayers those people everywhere who join us in the aspiration for a world that is just, peaceful, free, and respectful of the dignity of every human being.”

SOURCE: www.nationaldayof prayer.org, CBS News

Magistrate Judge Sheryl Hall stands at the courthouse flag pole describing the day county employees gather to observe National Day of Prayer each year.

The Worth County Relay for Life event turned out hundreds of attendees of all ages at Worth County’s Ag Pavilion Friday night. The fund raiser event is held to help support funding for the American Cancer Society. Each year participants walk a lap around the perimeter of the event  as a survivor of cancer, or in honor of someone who is a survivor.

 A very special and silent Luminary Ceremony is performed in honor of those who lost the battle with cancer and for those currently fighting the disease. Names of those honored are written on white paper bags containing a candle in each. The candles are lit during the ceremony and remain in a serene display for by-passers to regard. The skies lit up as Karen McDonald and the scouts of Troop 100 lit flying lanterns and released them into the night sky, also in remembrance of those lost to cancer .

The Relay for Life planning is a community effort as schools, businesses and organizations work all year to raise money in various events for this cause. Terry Giddens is Relay Life Chairperson and oversees Worth County’s fundraising and event coordinating. Last night’s event included live local bands, car racing games, a puppet show, vendors and more. Entertainment was arranged by Charlotte Jolley. On Thursday night, cancer survivors Lisa Deal and Diane Sikes along with Jean Wingate put together a dinner that was for local cancer survivors. 

Sylvester-Worth County Chamber of Commerce Director Karen Rackley said this is her first year witnessing the ‘behind-the-scenes’ of the local fundraiser. “It is incredible to me  how people take their time and efforts….hours and hours and hours of time put into this. And people say there is nothing to do in Sylvester. What a wonderful family event this is.” She said she is very impressed with the effort and hours given by each individual working so hard. “No one is paid. They are all volunteers.” Rackley encourages Worth Countians to take part all year round in giving to Relay for Life. Numerous events are held including dances and BBQ plate sales. “You have to eat anyway. Why not buy a plate where your money goes entirely to this cause.”

The events this year totaled over $73,000 raised for the American Cancer Society. Salute to everyone involved in organizing,  fundraising and donating. All of the hard work paid off in delivering another hefty blow against cancer from the people of Worth County. See event photos below:

WCMS Choirs Achieve High Ratings

The Choirs of Worth County Middle School scored high ratings at the annual Georgia Music Educators Association District Performance Evaluation Festival at Cairo High School on Thursday, March 18th. The WCMS Treble Choir achieved Superior Ratings on Stage Performance and Perfect Superior Ratings in Sight Reading. 

 The Sixth Grade Chorus received Superior Ratings in Stage Performance and a Perfect Superior Score in Sight Reading.  According to Choral Director, Lesli Holton, both the Sixth Grade Chorus and Treble Choir achieved their Perfect Score in Sight Reading by correctly reading an eight measure pitch and rhythm example with only a five minute preparation time.  The sixth grade students have only been reading music since August. 

On Friday, April 30^ththe WCMS Treble Choir will travel to Valdosta State University to perform at the Wild Adventures Classic Music Festival.

Photo (by Lisa G. Jones) and story were submitted.

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Worth Choral Students Participate in Solo & Ensemble Festival

 Eighteen Worth County Choral students in grades 5-8 participated in the Georgia Music Educators Association District 2 Solo & Ensemble Festival at Abraham Baldwin College on Saturday, April 17th.  The students earned a total of 19 Superior Ratings and 1 Excellent Rating. 

The following participated in Solo Performance:  From Sylvester Elementary- Ali Reiman, Superior Solo; From WCMS- Emily Brooks- Superior Solo; Courtney Cook, Excellent Solo; Bobbi Coxwell- Superior Solo; India Harria- Superior Solo; Tonja Howard- Superior Solo; Diamond Kirk- Superior Solo; Carlmalita Parker- Superior Solo; Haleigh Smith- Superior Solo; Eric Steedley- Superior Solo; and Anna Wray- Superior Solo.

The following WCMS Students also participated in Ensemble Performance: Beth Langley & Lauren Shiver- Superior Duet; Tonja Howard & Carlmalita Parker- Superior Duet; Karlee Causey & Savannah Land- Superior Duet; and Tia Harris, Nastassja Lawson, & Alexus Hill- Superior Trio.

         Photo  and story submitted                                                               

The Worth County High School observed a four-day alcohol and drug awareness curriculum this week to include a program specifically designed to reach teens, The Ghost Out. Traffic crashes are the number one killer of teens and over one-third of teen traffic deaths are alcohol-related, according to a press release from Sylvester’s Fire Chief Jody Yarbrough.

Members from the Worth County FFA coordinated the Ghost Out and also distributed literature concerning teenage drivers during the first part of the week. The brochures provided information on the hazards and consequences of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence, as well as the importance of wearing safety belts.

Also throughout this week, facts concerning alcohol and drug related crashes were read daily over the school’s intercom system during school announcements. On Wednesday, each student received a Ghost Out Trivia Quiz. The students who correctly answered all trivia questions were eligible for a drawing which would award random prizes at the student advisement center.

This morning, a guest dressed as the Grim Reaper stalked the hallways of the school and selected 15 ‘victims’. The chosen victims represented the average number of people killed in alcohol or drug related crashes during a school day and are declared dead. Yellow T-shirts were made for students for the program, but the victims had to wear black T-shirts to be identified and they had to remain silent throughout the day.

An assembly was held today (Thursday) for the grand finale during the last half hour of school. Guest speakers addressed the dangers of driving while impaired to the students. Prizes for the trivia quiz were awarded and a memorial service was conducted for the 15 ‘victims’ selected by the Grim Reaper. The objective of the program is to create a strong impact on the students. The Ghost Out was sponsored by Worth County High School, Worth County FFA, the City of Sylvester, the Sylvester Police Department and Sylvester Fire Department. See more photos below:

(Pictured: Will Giddens and his dog Lucy at GT Wrecker Service in Sylvester)

Will Giddens was facing a typical Friday morning last week at his place of business, GT Wrecker Service on Hwy 82 in Sylvester, along with best friend and family pet, Lucy. Will said he and Lucy were still trying to wake up at that time of the morning. All was typical that is until just after opening, sitting at the parts counter and facing the highway, he saw a shirtless male run by his storefront. “Then I saw patrol cars come whizzing by and I said, ‘He’s running from the police’. I looked over at Lucy, she was laying by the chair, and I hollered at her and she got up and ran to the door with me.”

Will grabbed Lucy’s head the same way he does to get her attentive when working with hogs and said, ”Get ‘im Lucy!’ “She struck out after him and I caught her over in the yard - I didn’t think it would be a good idea for me to let her get a hold to him.”  Will said he held Lucy by the collar and she stood on her hind legs as the runner attempted to run back towards the wrecker service shop from the Domino’s Pizza store area where police were attempting to cut him off.

The runner explained to Will he was trying to get away from police and didn’t want the dog to get him. Will said he told the runner, “Well if you run, I’m gonna turn her loose and you ain’t going to out run her.” With that, Will said the runner stayed where he was. SPD Chief Alfred Anderson detained and handcuffed the subject. Anderson then turned Kendrick Jackson, 34, over to Worth deputies who apparently initiated the chase near the courthouse building. “[Lucy] didn’t single-handedly catch him,” Will said about his friend who on any other occassion greets visitors with affection, “but she slowed him up. He didn’t want to run after he seen her.”

Jackson, who resides in Sylvester and was reportedly wanted on a misdemeanor offense, spent the following day, his birthday, in Worth County Jail and remains there as of today (Tuesday) charged with two misdemeanors and obstructing an officer.

Will and Lucy at GT Wrecker Service and Giddens Parts store in Sylvester.

As the first day of Spring, March 20^th, approaches please join with us in helping to make sure our community is prepared. Hurricane season begins June 1^st and runs until November 30, and as we all remember, severe weather and flooding are a threat to our community. Taking time now to prepare a disaster supply kit can help ensure a safer piece of mind when weather threatens us.

Everyone should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs. Following is a listing of some basic items that every emergency supply kit should include. However, it is important that individuals review this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of their family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will meet these needs. Individuals should also consider having at least two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time.

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
• Local maps

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

• Prescription medications and glasses
• Infant formula and diapers
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. You can use the EFFAK (Emergency Financial First Aid Kit) developed by Operation Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your information
• Cash or traveler’s checks and change
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
• Fire Extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container – Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

While these are a few general guidelines, only you know what your family needs so adjust your emergency supply kit to better fit your family. As spring approaches, take a few minutes to make sure your prepared. If you need additional information please feel free to contact the Sylvester Fire Department at 776-8511.

Chief Jody Yarbrough

Pictured: The office of Veterinarian Charles Land in Sylvester received a Golden Paw award from Best Friends Humane Society in Worth County. The award is given quarterly to recipients for various contributions to the BFHS. Dr. Land is a December recipient who according to BFHS, “has been a haven for many unwanted animals. He has been a vital member of the building committee and is now providing low-cost heart-worm treatments to our fosters in need.

BFHS is constantly in need of support from the community. Although support in the past has been generous, general costs have caused depletion of funds. It may seem the adoption fee of $100 is costly however, the cost to BFHS for each animal prepared for adoption is approximately $180. This adoption fee includes spaying/neutering, worming, rabies, and required shots to ensure your newly adopted pet is healthy. State funds have also depleted in the spay/neuter program available to Georgia residents. These funds are collected through a car tag program that allows low cost spay/neuter assistance to veterinary clinics statewide under direction of the GA. Department of Agriculture . You can help by spending a little extra this year on a new (and adorable) car tag.  

Please call 229-777-7774 to find out how you can adopt or assist with BFHS, a much needed organization in Worth County.   Also remember the BFHS Yardsale/Adoptathon this Saturday, March 6th beginning at 7am on the corner of Hwy 112 and Franklin Street facing the Train.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 December recipients of the Golden Paw award also include: Piggly Wiggly – “For continual support and generous donations beginning with our first event! ‘The Pig’ is always ready to help.” 

Teri Spurlin – “For always showing up to help at every fundraiser.”

Lisa Johnson – “For ongoing fostering support and being there, with her smiling face, when another pair of hands is needed.”

 Worthti2u.net – “For support in all our advertising, publicizing fosters and many, many other ways.”

 September recipients included: 

Cindy’s Flower & Gift Shop -  “For ongoing donations and support.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Doris & Glen McDonald – “For spending a long night over the hot coals tending the pork for our BBQ! And Doris is our unstoppable prize collector for all events!”

Hollie Powell & Rene Whidby – of the Chamber of Commerce – “For working so hard to make the Poker Run/BBQ a great success.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Larry & Gail Daugherty- “For ongoing donations and support.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Dr.’s  Gardner & Hydrick-  “For ongoing donations and sponsorships.”