Worth County Schools’ Open House events took place this week after a summer vacation that was extended 20 extra days. Students reunited with classmates and teachers with many getting familiar with a new school building altogether. This school year, elementary students in Worth County will enjoy a brand new school following a two-year development, ribbon cutting and open house at the school this past Sunday.

School traffic routes information on this page below.

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New Best Friends Humane Society website!

 http://bfhsinworthcounty.intuitwebsites.com/index.html 

 Best Friends Humane Society 16 Month Calendars!!!! Only $15!!!! Call 229.776.0173 for more info. They can be purchased at Countryside Animal Hospital, Sylvester Chamber of Commerce, Sylvester Animal Hospital and Jessie’s & Salon. Great Photos contributed by Photography by Design.

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Benefit for Terri Griffin

One slab of Ribs – $18 

Or Boston Butt – $25 

September 4, 2010 

Pick-up time 10 A.M. until 1 P.M. 

First Baptist Church of Acree 

No Deliveries 

Tickets available at D&B, 109B E. Franklin Street in Sylvester

 All items that are not picked up by 1 P.M. will be sold

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Celebrating 50 years 

 Worth County High School is celebrating 50 years! This year’s Homecoming events will include the 50 year celebration featuring the Class of 1961. The Class of ’61 has been invited to join in the Homecoming Parade/ game and will be guests at this year’s Homecoming Dance! If you or if you know someone that may have photographs from the 1961 class available for the committee to use, please call Heather at 229-776-8600.class available for the committee to use, please call Heather Faircloth at 776-8600.

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New Hope Baptist Church

 Welcome Back Homecoming Celebration on September 12, 2010.

Ronnie Goodwin is guest speaker and Three 4 One will provide worship music. Brunch will be served after the service. New Hope Baptist Church is located at 4454 Hwy 256 in Scooterville. The service begins at 10:30 A.M. Come join our church family!

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School traffic is rerouted for the upcoming school year due to the opening of the new Elementary school. Click the link below to view a map of designated routes for each school for drop-off and pick-up.

http://worthit2u.wetpaint.com/page/School+Traffic

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Sumner Egg Festival

Egg Festival Car show and Street Dance: 

Friday September 17, 2010 Sumner Auditorium.   Please contact Dallas burger for more info  229-776-5823 or 229-215-0102

 Sumner Egg Festival:

Saturday September 18, 2010.  Please join us for our parade and  festival.  For parade applications contact Pam Nelms @ 229-776-5562. 

If you would like to be a part of our entertainment please contact Delores Burger at 229-776-5823 or Sumner City Hall at 229-776-7384.

Arts and Crafts and Food vendors contact Amy Gray 229-347-8313, Anya Goldinger at 229-395-2518 or Sumner City Hall 229-776-7384

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Shrine Club Charity Ride

Over 60 riders showed up at the Worth County Shrine Club Saturday, August 21st for the first Charity Ride Fundraiser for the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.  The riders unloaded and set out about 9am on a 9 mile course that took them through Southern Woods Plantation.  After the ride, the riders were treated to lunch prepared by the Worth County Shrine Club and several door prizes were given away. Overall, about $1600 was raised to give to the Shriner’s Hospitals.  Photos (submitted) below:

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Remember to shop local and earn extra savings where you see this sign:

Back-to-School Giveaway Successful

Brown’s Chapel on Livingston Street in Sylvester held a Back-to-School Giveaway Saturday morning. The organizers and volunteers worked from 10 A.M. until 3 P.M. giving out free school supplies from each Worth County school supply list. Jean Parker, Rosemary Hicks, Sandra Cindy, Debra Jackson, Vera Dathea, Earl Kelly, Ms. Carter, Laura Lewis, Gloria Yulmis, and more were on hand to distribute the school supplies, free clothing, and free hotdogs and candy. The Dougherty County School System along with local sponsors below helped sponsor this event which supplied at least 100 students with back-to-school supplies.

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VBS

Worth County Churches have annually made sure local youth have summer church activities through Vacation Bible School. This year was no exception with at least 25 churches in Worth County hosting a VBS program.

Sylvester Church of Christ on Isabella Street in Sylvester held their VBS program recently serving supper each night to attendees. The youth had a blast!

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Class of ’70 Reunion

Class of 1970 is having a reunion on August 28th at Southern Woods Plantation. The cost is $25 per person. Mike Carter and Len Dorminey are practicing to put their band “The Lovin’ Feeling” back together for the event. It should be a lot of fun! If you would like to join us, we have a FB page (Worth County High School Reunion – Class of 1970) for additional contact information email dpreg@msn.com for additional information. The reunion has been open for other classes as well.

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New Best Friends Humane Society website!

http://bfhsinworthcounty.intuitwebsites.com/index.html 

Best Friends Humane Society 16 Month Calendars!!!! Only $15!!!! Call 229.776.0173 for more info. They can be purchased at Countryside Animal Hospital, Sylvester Chamber of Commerce, Sylvester Animal Hospital and Jessie’s & Salon. Great Photos!!! Thanks to Albany Printing & Photography by Design 

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 SAFEKIDS Event!

Greetings to All!

 Great things are happening here in Sylvester and Worth County. As with all great things there is often a duplication of efforts to make them great. It is with this in mind that we invite you to the first meeting of the Sylvester/Worth County SAFEKIDS coalition. The coalition will work together to tap into some of the resources from each partner and bring them together to improve the safety of the kids in our community. The first meeting will be held at the Sylvester Fire Department on Tuesday, August 31st at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in the community room and should last for about an hour. Please bring another member of our agency so that we can have two contacts for each partner. We have already received 100 bicycle helmets through a grant and are working on additional resources for our community.

 The biggest need we have right now is your participation. I will be calling on several of you over the next few weeks as we prepare for the meeting. If you are aware of another agency or department that would contribute to the group please forward me their information so we can get them an invite or just forward this to them. I am attaching a link to the State of Georgia SAFEKIDS website, please visit it as you prepare for the meeting. We are working on a web-site for our coalition as well. The focus will be to take what we already do and combine our efforts and support one another to prevent unintentional childhood injury. Please join us on Tuesday, August 31^st at 10:00 a.m. in the Sylvester Fire Dept. Station 1 Community Room.

 Please let me know if you have any questions and I look forward to seeing you on the 31^st. THANKS,

SFD Chief Jody Yarbrough

Safe Kids is dedicated solely to preventing unintentional childhood injury. The focus is on one specific problem: more children 1 to 14 die from accidents such as motor vehicle crashes, fires, drowning, poisoning and falls than any other cause. Accidents kill one million children around the world each year and permanently disable many more. Almost all of the injuries are preventable. www.safekidsgeorgia.org

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Benefit for Terri Griffin

One slab of Ribs – $18

Or Boston Butt – $25

September 4, 2010

Pick-up time 10 A.M. until 1 P.M.

First Baptist Church of Acree

No Deliveries

Tickets available at D&B, 109B E. Franklin Street in Sylvester

All items that are not picked up by 1 P.M. will be sold

Former Worth Countian Pastors Cedartown Church

http://www.cedartownstd.com/view/full_story/9192228/article-Arrival-of-new-pastor-spurs-church-cleanup?instance=home_news_lead_story

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Bowlegs Added Money Event

 Bowlegs Arena’s next scheduled Added Money event this month is August 28th, showtime is 2 P.M. This event is free to spectators and include the Poles, Arena Race, and Cloverleaf events. For more information including directions and complete listings,

click here > http://www.bowlegs.8k.com/index_2.html 

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Community Children’s Choir Performs

Make plans to attend a musical presented by First Baptist hurch in Sylvester that is sure to be enjoyed by the entire family, on Sunday, August 29, presented by the Community Children’s Choir.  The children’s project is called God’s Plan for Salvation (GPS) and involves not only children of the First Baptist Church, but from the overall community. For more information, contact Sylvester FBC at 776-3337.

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Restoring Old 100 ! The City of Sylvester recently announced they are taking bids on the paint renovation project for the historical symbol of Worth County located in T.C. Jeffords Park. City Manager Debbie Bridges expressed those intentions early in May and asked for community participation through donations. Since then, the Chamber of Commerce and several local businesses have stepped up to assist in preserving ‘the Train’ through donations. Many citizens have also contributed. Bridges said any person or business donating $100 or more will have their names on a nameplate/plaque that is to be hung on the fence surrounding the train. Plans are to have the renovation complete by Christmas.

  The Train

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Actions Taken by the Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers at its August 5 Meeting

Macon, Ga. (August 9, 2010) — The Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers held its meeting on Thursday, August 5, 2010.

The Board approved 13 applications for licensure.

The Board voted to ratify the following cease and desist orders for unlicensed practice:
Burnham Auto Parts, Albany
John Rice, Poulan
Brent Riley dba Rare Corvettes, Ray City
Wilson Motor Mart Inc., Swainsboro
Wade Hamilin & Derrick Kelley, Eric Lavley, Sylvester

The Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers will hold its next meeting Thursday, October 7, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at the Professional Licensing Boards Division office in Macon.

Source: The Weekly  http://www.theweekly.com/news/2010/August/09/Used_Vehicle_Parts.html

Worth County Night Out Against CRIME

On Friday, August 6, 2010, the Sylvester Police Department along with other Worth County Law Enforcement agencies will host a night out against crime at Jeffords Park in Sylvester.

All Worth Countians are invited to come out and meet with the Chiefs, Sheriff, GBI Agents, State Troopers, Game Wardens, E-911, EMS, EDA, Code Enforcement, Fire Department, Light Department, SPD Bike Patrol, and all other emergency personnel as well as Marine Base and all City and County dignitaries.

There will be free food and drinks for all. The Antioch Baptist Church puppets, Slides, Clogging, Singing and much, much more will serve as entertainment at the event. DJ music provided throughout the evening by D Gray’s Entertainment – DJ Magic Man

Let’s get together and send a message to criminals letting them know that we are organized and ready to fight back. We will join together and give crime and drugs a ‘Going Away Party”. The event begins at 7 P.M. until…

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The Sylvester Church of Christ presents its 2010 Vacation Bible School with theme, ‘Rise & Shine for Jesus’. The VBS is August 9 -12 with supper served at 6 p.m. and classes following from 6:30 P.M. until 8:30 P.M. The church is located at 406 N. Isabella Street. See the ad on this page for more information.

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Want to be a Firefighter in Worth County?

The Worth County Fire/Rescue D will be hosting its annual NPQ Firefighter 1 Class this year starting August 14, 2010 at 8am. Anyone interested in taking this course please feel free to come by our office and sign  up on the roster located in the radio room.

Orientation will be August 14 starting at 8am. Everyone will be required to fill out an application which requires a background check, medical and VFIS forms. The Worth County Fire/Rescue Department would like to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of our exiting firefighters and look forward to working with our future firefighters. If you should have any questions please feel free to contact Lt. Chad Salter and/or Assistant Fire Chief Jason Brooks at (229)776-8223.

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Back to School Charity Ride   

Join the Unique Ryders of Sylvester in collecting school supplies for local youth on August 14^th.

Meet at the UR Clubhouse @ East Liberty Ave. Registration begins at 10 A.M.

$20 per bike / $15 with a backpack

$5 for passengers

Kickstands up @ 12 P.M. !! For more info contact T-Kut (Prez) (229)256-1340

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Class of 1970 is having a reunion on August 28th at Southern Woods Plantation. The cost is $25 per person. Mike Carter and Len Dorminey are practicing to put their band “The Lovin’ Feeling” back together for the event. It should be a lot of fun! If you would like to join us, please contact Dianne Register. We have a FB page (Worth County High School Reunion – Class of 1970) or email dpreg@msn.com for additional information. The reunion has been open for other classes as well.

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Sumner Egg Festival Pageant:

Saturday August 14, 2010 @ Sumner Auditorium, Sumner Georgia

0-4 years 4:00pm  7+ 7:00pm, Check in starts @ 2:00 pm

Age Divisions based on day of the pageant (30 day grace period)

Baby 0-23 mths                 Teeny 2-3 yrs                     Tiny 4-6 yrs         Little 7-9 yrs

Miss 17-23 (Single, never married, no children)                  Ms 24+ (married, single, divorced)

For Applications:  Please contact Amy Gray 229-347-8313 or email at amy1980@gmail.com

Sylvester-Worth County Chamber 229-776-7718 or Sumner City Hall  229-776-7384

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Charity Trail Ride

Proceeds to benefit the Shriner’s Hospital for Children

Hosted by Deep South Trail Riders, August 21, 2010

$20 per rider, Proof of negative Coggins

Ride Out time is at 9 A.M. at Southern Woods Plantation in Sylvester

Food provided by Worth County Shrine Club/ Door Prizes!

Contact 229-881-6353 for more details

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Bowlegs Added Money Event

 Bowlegs Arena’s next scheduled Added Money event this month is August 28th, showtime is 2 P.M. This event is free to spectators and include the Poles, Arena Race, and Cloverleaf events. For more information including directions and complete listings,

click here > http://www.bowlegs.8k.com/index_2.html 

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Community Children’s Choir Performs

Make plans to attend a musical presented by First Baptist hurch in Sylvester that is sure to be enjoyed by the entire family, on Sunday, August 29, presented by the Community Children’s Choir.  The children’s project is called God’s Plan for Salvation (GPS) and involves not only children of the First Baptist Church, but from the overall community. For more information, contact Sylvester FBC at 776-3337.

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GSP NEWS RELEASE

 State Troopers from the Albany Post of the Georgia State Patrol investigated 17  traffic crashes during the month of July in Worth County.  Sergeant First Class Eddie Edwards said the traffic crashes resulted in 0 traffic deaths.

 SFC Edwards said Troopers from Post #40 also issued 154 traffic citations in the county during the month.  The total includes arrests for driving under the influence, citations for speeding, seatbelt violations, and child restraint violations.  Troopers also issued 131 warnings.                             

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Ready For Back To School? (WCBOE Press Release)

Sylvester, Georgia – July 28, 2010 –The Worth County Board of Education has set the Open House schedule for the 2010-2011 school year.

 Students will return to school on Tuesday, September 7, 2010 with Open House for schools as follows:

 Kindergarten ~ Worth County Primary School     Tuesday, August 31 ~ 6pm-7pm 

6^th, 7^th & 8^th Grade ~ Worth County Middle School     Wednesday, September 1 ~ 3pm-5pm9^th, 10^th, 11^th & 12^th Grade ~ Worth County High School     Wednesday, September 1 ~ 4pm-6pm 

Pre-K ~ Worth County Primary School     Thursday, September 2 ~ 10am-11am3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade ~ Worth County Elementary School     Thursday, September 2 ~ 1pm-3pm

 1^st & 2^nd Grade ~ Worth County Primary School     Thursday, September 2 ~ 4pm-6pm 

*Parents are encouraged to attend Open House to meet their child(ren)’s teachers.Registration Dates and Times: 

Worth County Primary School:Beginning Aug 9 ~ 9am-3:30pm 

Amelia Leggette, Registrar

Worth County Elementary School: 

Beginning Aug 9 ~ 9am-3:30pm Dianne McDonald

 Worth County Middle School: 

August 25, 26, 27 ~ 8am-3pm (closed for lunch from 12pm-12:45pm) Belinda Harris, Registrar 

Worth County High School:August 26 ~ 9am-3pm 

August 31 ~ 9am-12pmSeptember 1 ~ 9am-12pm 

Guidance Office

*Registration Forms for each school can be found online at www.worth.k12.ga.us for you convenience.    

School Supply Lists are available online at www.worth.k12.ga.us and at these locations: 

CVS, Dollar General, Walgreen, Fred’s, Family Dollar, Wal-Mart (Albany, Tifton and Moultrie locations), Office Depot (Albany), Staples (Albany, Tifton), The Sylvester Local, all schools, August edition of Worth The Read, www.worthit2u.net and at the Worth County Board of Education.The Worth County Board of Education adopted a 160 day calendar for the 2010-2011 school year.  This calendar can be viewed at www.worth.k12.ga.us and select the link 2010-11 160 Day School Calendar.  Students are required to receive a specific number of instructional hours each day, and the school day has been lengthened to accommodate this requirement.  The instructional day will begin promptly at 8am.  The start and end times for each school are as follows: 

Worth County Primary School           8am-3:30pm

Worth County Elementary School      8am-3:30pm 

Worth County Middle School                        8am-3:35pm

Worth County High School                8am-3:40pm

 The Worth County Rams will be playing their first scrimmage game of the year Friday, August 13, 2010

against Rutland High School at 7:30 pm.  The game will be held at the Worth County Stadium. 

 The Worth County Lady Rams will be playing their first scrimmage game of the year Monday, August 9, 2010 against Colquitt Co. High School at 5:30pm in Colquitt Co.  

 Below is a calendar of events for the 2010-2011 school year:

New Teacher Orientation                    Aug 27 

Teacher Workdays                              Aug 30- Sept 3

Labor Day Holiday                             Sept 6 

First Day of School                             Sept 7

Teacher Workday                                Nov 1

End of 1st eight Weeks                      Nov 2 

Report Cards                                       Nov 9 

*Parent/Teacher Conference               Nov 11 

Thanksgiving Holidays                       Nov 24-26 

Christmas Holidays                             Dec 20-31 

End of 2nd eight Weeks                     Jan 14 

Holiday                                               Jan 17 

Teacher Workday                                Jan 18 

First Day of Second Semester                        Jan 19 

Report Cards                                       Jan 21 

Holidays                                              Feb 14-18 

Teacher Workday                                Mar 21 

End of 3rd eight Weeks                      Mar 23 

Report Cards                                       Mar 30 

*Parent/Teacher Conference               Mar 31 

Spring Holidays                                  Apr 4-8 

Last Day of School                             May 25 

Teacher Workdays                              May 26 & 27 

Graduation                                          May 28
 

Note: Dates above are subject to change as a result of inclement weather. Refer to 

www.worth.k12.ga.us for a current calendar of events.  *Students released early  

2010-2011 School Meal Prices 

WCPS & WCES: Reduced-Price Lunch: $.40, Regular-Price Lunch: $1.25, Regular Adult Lunch: $3.50 

WCMS & WCHS: Reduced-Price Breakfast: $.30, Regular Student Breakfast $1.10, Adult Breakfast $1.75, Reduced-Price Lunch: $.40, Regular-Price Lunch: $1.50, Adult Lunch: $3.50 

Smart Start! – Breakfast in the Classroom (The Most Important Meal of the Day)

Beginning the 2010-2011 school year, all students at WCPS and WCES will have “Breakfast in the Classroom.” Students will no longer report to the cafeterias to eat breakfast. Students will report directly to their halls, pick up their breakfast components from our new colorful breakfast cars and eat their meals in their classrooms…all for FREE! No student will have to pay for breakfast at either school. Students must get to school on time to receive these meals. Breakfast will be served from 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM daily. 

It has been proven that “Breakfast in the Classroom” shows: 

• Better overall performance in class ·  Children are more alert ·  Fewer complaints of stomachaches and headaches/fewer nurse’s visits ·  Less absenteeism and tardiness  *ANY STUDENT, Reduced-Price or Regular Paying, the 2nd Lunch purchased is the Regular Adult Lunch Price of $3.50. Free and Reduced-Price Meal Family Meal Applications will be available at all school main offices, school cafeterias, and the Worth County School Nutrition Office at the Board of Education. All completed applications should be returned to the school cafeteria managers or the Worth County School Nutrition Office. If you have any questions about completing the application, please contact Janet Smith at 229-776-8600.  School Nutrition representatives will be in the schools during Open House to assist with Free and Reduced-Price Meal Family Meal Applications. Register Online for PAYPAMS You can now pay for your students’ meals online from the comfort of your home or office. All you have to do is go to www.paypams.com and register. You will be able to check your students’ balance and receive an email when an account has a low balance.  You can now use your  paypal account to make payments.   Transportation Department The Worth County Schools Transportation Department welcomes you to the 2010-11 new school term. The following information will help us with the job of transporting your children in a safe and timely manner. 

  To help with the traffic flow, Bryant Drive will be closed from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on schools days.  Traffic will be allowed to cross Bryant Drive at the intersection of Bryant and Isabella. 

  Please review and remind your children of the following basic rules to help keep them safe. 

              *Always stay seated on the bus 

              *Keep conversations to a normal tone 

  *At your bus pickup points, always stay a safe distance away until the bus comes to a complete stop 

  *Obey and respect the driver 

  *Be on time and do not run to or after the bus 

  *If you need to discuss a bus issue or have a bus question, please contact your child’s principal not the bus driver. 

  *Children who need to ride a bus other than their assigned bus must provide a written note to the school. 

  For further information on the rules and policies, refer to your student handbook. 

  Thank you and have a great year! 

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Restoring Old 100 ! The City of Sylvester recently announced they are taking bids on the paint renovation project for the historical symbol of Worth County located in T.C. Jeffords Park. City Manager Debbie Bridges expressed those intentions early in May and asked for community participation through donations. Since then, the Chamber of Commerce and several local businesses have stepped up to assist in preserving ‘the Train’ through donations. Many citizens have also contributed. Bridges said any person or business donating $100 or more will have their names on a nameplate/plaque that is to be hung on the fence surrounding the train. Plans are to have the renovation complete by Christmas.

  The Train

BFHS Trail Ride a Successful Family Event

Saturday’s Best Friend’s Humane Society benefit brought participants statewide and an estimated $1700 for BFHS funding. 

Horse riders gathered to saddle up to take on the 8-mile trail rides, beginning at 8 A.M. and 9:30 A.M, through the beautiful wooded grounds of Southern Woods Plantation in Sylvester. Magistrate Judge Tony Strenth was among the 81 riders of the BFHS event.

The trail ride produced horse riding enthusiasts of all ages from 14-year old John Michael Stalvey to 74-year old Jean Brooks, both from Worth County. BFHS would like to thank the many helpful volunteers who helped make this event a success.

Another BFHS event is scheduled for this month on Saturday, July 31, beginning around noon in T.C. Jeffords Park. BFHS will have BBQ plates on sale in the park. More details to be announced. Tickets may be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce.  Advance Sales $6.00 – Day of event $7.00/Plate. 

 See more photos below:

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Bowlegs Added Money Events

Get Ready for another Worth County event for horse lovers. Bowlegs arena will have two Added Money events this month beginning July 24th at 2 P.M. and on August 28th, showtime is 2 P.M. These events are free to spectators and include the Poles, Arena Race, and Cloverleaf events. For more information including directions and complete listings,

click here > http://www.bowlegs.8k.com/index_2.html 

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Dalton Shiver Benefit

The benefit event held July 10, in Sumner for burn victim Dalton Shiver was a great success. The family is very thankful for the support Worth County has given since Dalton’s go-kart accident. Dalton attended the event with his family and enjoyed performances by Southern Majesty on stage in the Sumner auditorium. Family members say although skin grafts have been verypainful for the 9-year old, Dalton is doing great.  

The family says the benefit raised over $2700.00. “We are very thankful for all who was involved in any way. Thank You!”

Pictured below is Dalton with his mother and his little brother (photos submitted) the evening of the benefit concert. 

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Worth County Night Out Against CRIME

On Friday, August 6, 2010, the Sylvester Police Department along with other Worth County Law Enforcement agencies will host a night out against crime at Jeffords Park in Sylvester.

All Worth Countians are invited to come out and meet with the Chiefs, Sheriff, GBI Agents, State Troopers, Game Wardens, E-911, EMS, EDA, Code Enforcement, Fire Department, Light Department, SPD Bike Patrol, and all other emergency personnel as well as Marine Base and all City and County dignitaries.

There will be free food and drinks for all. The Antioch Baptist Church puppets, Slides, Clogging, Singing and much, much more will serve as entertainment at the event.

Let’s get together and send a message to criminals letting them know that we are organized and ready to fight back. We will join together and give crime and drugs a ‘Going Away Party”. The event begins at 7 P.M. until…

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Annual Worth County Youth Baseball Clinic will begin Monday, July the 19th for 7-9 year old players and also the following week for 10-12 year old players. Times are from 9-12 M-F. More forms are available at the Rec. fields on Monday if needed. Assisting in the program is future college players Allen Fender (Darton), Tyler Hembree (ABAC) and current Southern Union college player Buster Jackson. _____________________________________________________

Life Flight Monument

A monument will be erected in T.C. Jefford’s Park, Sylvester in honor of the passengers who died in flight of the Worth County Life Flight helicopter. The monument will commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the incident and honor those aboard the flight. The unveiling event is scheduled for July 24, from 10 A.M. until 1 P.M.

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Restoring Old 100 ! The City of Sylvester recently announced they are taking bids on the paint renovation project for the historical symbol of Worth County located in T.C. Jeffords Park. City Manager Debbie Bridges expressed those intentions early in May and asked for community participation through donations. Since then, the Chamber of Commerce and several local businesses have stepped up to assist in preserving ‘the Train’ through donations. Many citizens have also contributed. Bridges said any person or business donating $100 or more will have their names on a nameplate/plaque that is to be hung on the fence surrounding the train. Plans are to have the renovation complete by Christmas.

  The Train

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Slumber Party for the Classes

Ladies, the night you have wanted to plan but felt like you were “too grown up to plan it let alone re-live it!

A night spent in pajamas with your hair either pulled back or up in curlers, and not caring who sees you this way
Hours spent talking about the boys now being grown men (they really did grow up) SoWeGa Music Hall of Fame and Performing Arts is having a contest for a Slumber Party of the Classes…(ladies only, please)..it is to raise money for the Arts Program that is being started in the old Sumner school…

The slumber party is reunions for ladies with friends from their graduating class to be held in Sumner. The more ladies who sign up, the less the individual cost for the venue. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Arts Program with the rest going to the town of Sumner to cover costs (for electricity used, etc. For details call the Sumner City Hall at 776-7384 or call Dona Duckworth at 615-319-5139.

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  Margaret Jones Public Library:   Margaret Jones Library is scouting for contestants in the 2^nd Annual Sylvester’s Got Talent Contest to be held on July 22 at 2 pm. Cash prizes for top three finishers. DJ O-T will be with us once again to spin the tunes. Make a splash, Read!!

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Sumner Pageant News
Miss Dixie Sweetheart Pageant , July 24 @ Sumner auditorium

Gospel Sing , August 7,  7:30 pm @ Sumner auditorium

Sumner Egg Festival Pageant , August 14, Sumner auditorium

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3 G’s Auction July schedule:

Friday, July 23rd: New Merchandise with Cathy Parlor from Hazelhurst GA.

Tuesday, July 27th: This & That Auction with various sellers from all over.

Friday, July 30th: A special Christmas in July Auction will be held.

Located Hwy 82 East in Sylvester

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Political Ad paid for by the candidate 

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 will perform!

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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Vacation Bible School at Isabella Baptist Church on July 12-16 from 7-9. Big VBS Kickoff on July 11th from 6-8:30 at the church – Bouncie houses and slides, snow cones, popcorn, and  lots of fun and games! Everyone is invited to attend!!

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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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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

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Life Flight Monument

A monument will be erected in T.C. Jefford’s Park, Sylvester in honor of the passengers who died in flight of the Worth County Life Flight helicopter. The monument will commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the incident and honor those aboard the flight. The unveiling event is scheduled for July 24, from 10 A.M. until 1 P.M.

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 Slumber Party for the Classes

Ladies, the night you have wanted to plan but felt like you were “too grown up to plan it let alone re-live it!

A night spent in pajamas with your hair either pulled back or up in curlers, and not caring who sees you this way
Hours spent talking about the boys now being grown men (they really did grow up) SoWeGa Music Hall of Fame and Performing Arts is having a contest for a Slumber Party of the Classes…(ladies only, please)..it is to raise money for the Arts Program that is being started in the old Sumner school…

The slumber party is reunions for ladies with friends from their graduating class to be held in Sumner. The more ladies who sign up, the less the individual cost for the venue. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Arts Program with the rest going to the town of Sumner to cover costs (for electricity used, etc. For details call the Sumner City Hall at 776-7384 or call Dona Duckworth at 615-319-5139.

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**Chamber Announcements -

Worth County High School Century Club Tickets are now available.  See the attached for specifics or call Teresa Odom at 229-776-8423 or 229-776-8625 for further information. (See attachment).

Coastal Plains Casa, Inc. is a local non-profit, serving local foster children, is working hard to win $20,000.00 from JP Morgan Chase through a competition on Facebook.  Top 200 Charities win cash awards.  Your business can help spread the word!!  Voting ends on July 12.  Just FaceBook Coastal Plains Casa for more details!  

 July 15^th- SBA will have a Workshop on Starting a Restaurant/Food Service Business.  SBA also announces funding available to support Regional Clusters, Job Creation (see attached Flyers).

    July 31^st the Humane Society will be hosting the 2^ndAnnual BBQ Dinner at Jefford’s Park.  You can buy your tickets at the Chamber of Commerce.  Advance Sales $6.00 at the door $7.00/Plate. 

   July 20^th Primary – you can vote early at the courthouse in the Registration office until July 16^th please visit www.sos.georgia.gov/MVP/Login.aspx to view a sample ballot

   Margaret Jones Public Library:   Margaret Jones Library is scouting for contestants in the 2^nd Annual Sylvester’s Got Talent Contest to be held on July 22 at 2 pm. Cash prizes for top three finishers. DJ O-T will be with us once again to spin the tunes. Make a splash, Read!**

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Sumner Pageant News
Miss Georgia Pearle Pageant , July 17 @ Sumner auditorium

Miss Dixie Sweetheart Pageant , July 24 @ Sumner auditorium

Gospel Sing , August 7,  7:30 pm @ Sumner auditorium

Southern Miss Dixie Pageant ,July 5, 2010 at 11 am, Sumner auditorium

Sumner Egg Festival Pageant , August 14, Sumner auditorium

Keetra Barnes and Kaye Ireland are hosting a pageant August 28, @ Sumner auditorium (More details to come!)

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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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3 G’s  Auction July schedule:

Friday, July 9th: New Merchandise with Dennis Weeks from Adel GA.

Tuesday, July 13: This & That Antiques and Uniques with Tony Pearson from Cairo GA.

Friday, July 16th: New Merchandise with Andy and Phyllis from Blakely GA.

Friday, July 23rd: New Merchandise with Cathy Parlor from Hazelhurst GA.

Tuesday, July 27th: This & That Auction with various sellers from all over.

Friday, July 30th: A special Christmas in July Auction will be held.

Located Hwy 82 East in Sylvester

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An honorary Ceremony was held last Thursday for Sylvester Local employee of 60 years, John Porter of Poulan. His 60 years of service was recognized with several special guests including pioneer comrade of print and current owner of the Sylvester Local, Bill Ledford of Vidalia; previous SLN owner, Leigh Ford of Worth County; and Worth County Board of Commissioners Chairman, Matt Medders. Robert Williams also spoke at the event (pictured shaking hands with Porter). Williams is former president of the Georgia Press Association and Publisher of the South Fire Newspaper group which owns five Georgia newspapers including the Blackshear Times.  He congratulated Porter for his long (and continued) service with local news for Worth County.

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:

Worth a Mention segments are proudly sponsored by: 

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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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Monday- Woodmen of the World Sylvester lodge 172 commemorated Flag Day today by
putting out flags along Hwy 82 at T.C. Jeffords Park in Sylvester (pictured right). Lodge members, adult and youth, met this morning at 10 A.M. to put up the flags

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Worth Canning Plant Opens!

The Worth County Canning Plant will open for the regular season, 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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Touchdown Club Golf Tournament - Saturday, June 19, 2010- $40 per player or $120 per team.  The 3-man scramble will be held at Pine Knoll CC. Contact Coach Perry Pylant @ 478-230-7318 with questions or more information.

Immediately following the golf tourney there will be a fundraising event at Pine Knoll to raise money for the Steve Scott family, specifically for Steve’s daughter, Emilyn. Steve Scott was an active member of the Touchdown Club and died suddenly in late April and leaves behind his wife, Julie and a 15 month old daughter, Emilyn.  A fund for donations has been set up at Colony bank if you cannot make it to the event.  Please see Gina Young at Colony Bank, all checks must be made payable to ‘RAMS for Emilyn’. 

There will be entertainment by the band, Dusty Boots, and a silent auction and raffle with many great items donated.  Admission to the event will be a donation to the Scott family. We still need items for the auction. If you would like to donate please call Coach Ken Holland @ 229-347-6061 or Beth Holland @ 229-347-0417.  Special thanks to all individuals and businesses that have donated! Everyone come out and enjoy the entertainment and contribute to this worthy cause. 

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2^nd Annual Poulan Police Department

Batting Against Crime Men’s Softball Tournament 2010

 Date:  Saturday, June 26, 2010

Start Time:  8 AM

Place: Poulan Community Field, Poulan, Georgia

 An assortment of snacks and drinks will be available at the concession stand!

Requirements

• $175 entry fee per team 
• Men only
• Each Team must provide their own softballs (.44 core only)
• 2 to 5 Home Runs per Team – Per Game
• 1^st and 2^nd place trophies
• 1^st place team members will receive a special gift
• ASA Approved Bats Only

Sponsored by

Poulan Police Department

***All Proceeds Go To The Neighborhood Watch Program***

 For more info or to register call Jessica Jones at 229-776-4097 or 229-326-0454 (cell) or Donnie Scott at 229-317-0069

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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.

See why the Shrine do what they do -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFJouPPoi8c&feature=player_embedded#!

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Free Meals for Kids

Food That’s in When School is Out

Hey Kids and Teens . . .

Join us for FREE Meals!

All children and teens from 0-18 years of age are invited to attend our Seamless Summer Nutrition Programsponsored by the Worth County School Nutrition Program. Meals will be served in numerous areas of Sylvester and Worth County between the hours of 10:45 AM and 12:30 PM. Children of all ages are encouraged to attend.

Click the link for more info-  http://worthit2u.net/?p=6390

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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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Moultrie Tech to Exchange Quarters for Semesters

MOULTRIE, GA.– Moultrie Technical College (MTC) and its 28 sister schools in Georgia’s Technical College System (TCSG) have set the date – July 1, 2011 – as the time for a major class switch from the current quarter system to the semester system.

The quarter to semester conversion (Q2S) puts all three of Georgia’s major educational systems of K-12, the University System of Georgia and the TCSG on an aligned academic calendar.  With the change, Moultrie Tech will join the 80 percent of colleges and universities in the U.S. that follow a semester calendar.

Working groups comprised of TCSG system staff and Moultrie Tech administrators in Colquitt, Tift, Turner and Worth counties have been at work throughout the last year to address all necessary curriculum, scheduling, financial aid, information technology and operational aspects of the conversion.
MTC President Tina Anderson said of the conversion, “Some of the benefits to students will be the ease of transfer for those who need that option, calendar alignment with the majority of colleges and universities in Georgia and across the country, and extended instructional time for greater mastery of program content and necessary job skills.”

 The TCSG cites other benefits as ease of scheduling for high school dual and joint enrollment students, extended learning opportunities for students completing a clinical rotation or internship, and fewer entry points and disruptions for clinical partners and internship hosts.

 According to Anderson, “Along with our TCSG Board, the Q2S conversion has the support of the Governor’s Office as well as key stakeholders like the Commission on Colleges accrediting agency.”

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 To: Business and Community Leaders of Worth County

 Subject: Moultrie Technical College, Worth County Campus needs your help with a “Workforce Training Needs Survey”

 The State of Georgia requires Technical Colleges to assess the educational needs of the community.  We have a short survey that asks for your opinion on what educational and technical training programs you would like to see the Worth County Campus teach. We sincerely need your help in determining what programs will be successful in this community and will be supported by the businesses and leadership here. Initial funding from the State to support current programs or start new programs is determined by how many responses we receive requesting a program of study. If you do not have a business or agency you wish to represent please insert “private citizen” in the business name section. As a leader in the community we need your input.  Please complete your form and return it to Moultrie Technical College by email to kstrawder@moultrietech.eduor mail to: Moultrie Technical College, Attn: Kris Strawder, 1210 N. Monroe St., Sylvester, GA 31791  

Or you may drop it off at our campus or at the Chamber of Commerce. If you did not receive a survey, please contact Kris Strawder at the email address above or call 777-2177.

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:

Food That’s in When School is Out

Hey Kids and Teens . . .

Join us for FREE Meals!

All children and teens from 0-18 years of age are invited to attend our Seamless Summer Nutrition Program sponsored by the Worth County School Nutrition Program. Meals will be served in numerous areas of Sylvester and Worth County between the hours of 10:45 AM and 12:30 PM. Children of all ages are encouraged to attend. Please be mindful of the following:

 Any person under the age of five must be accompanied by an adult or older sibling. 

Days of operation:  Monday through Friday, June 7- July 23, 2010.

Summer Feeding Sites with Approximate Serving Times:

The Gazebo at Warwick: 10:45 AM                      Shipp Park: 11:00 AM

First African Baptist Church: 11:00 AM           Mossy Oaks Subdivision: 11:15 AM

Pebble Hill Trailer Park: 11:15 AM                     Jackson/Hamilton Circle: 11:15 AM

The Poulan Fire Dept: 11:30 AM                         Sylvester Housing Authority/Henderson St.: 11:30 AM

Sylvester-Worth Rec Dept: 11:30 AM              Pope Park: 11:30 AM

Jones’ Chapel: 11:45 AM                                       Pentacostal Full Gospel Church, Poulan: 11:45 AM                    

Family Vision Outreach/Jesus Christ Tabernacle of Deliverance: 11:45 AM                      

Kingsway Apartments/Hwy 82 E: 11:45 AM         Margaret Jones Public Library: 12:30 PM             

Please call Kristen Popham or Janet Smith at 229-776-8600 if you have any questions about this program.

School’s Out for Summer!

Friday was the last day of school for Worth County schools  and faculty members seemed just as excited about that as the students were. See photos below:

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Bryce Johnson, Solicitor-General of Worth County State Court, has been elected to the executive board of the Georgia Association of Solicitors-General.

Johnson was nominated by Richard Shelton, Solicitor-General of Lowndes County, and elected to the board by the current solicitors-general of Georgia at the group’s annual conference in Savannah in May.  The executive board serves as the governing body of the Solicitors-General Association of Georgia, coordinating association efforts on legislation and other issues facing its members and their constituents. Solicitors-General are responsible for the prosecution of misdemeanor crimes in Georgia. Johnson was elected Worth County’s Solicitor-General in 2008.

A press release from: Office of the Solicitor General Worth County State Court

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Free housing and budgeting classes

Who should attend: any worth county resident who wants to know more about how to save money, budget their income, purchase an affordable home, and/or clean their credit for a higher score.

Date and time: June 3, 2010 first class is open to public, class begins at 6:30p.m

Place: 102 south Main St. (old police department)

What will be taught: household budget, credit analysis, pre-purchase counseling, & home buyer education.

Georgia Dream, DCA, and USDA loans and grants are available for those in the fields of; nursing, fire, EMS, police, and teachers

All counselors are certified. The citizens interested in pursuing these classes are asked to consider the eight week counseling program which will aid in the rebuilding of a person’s credit and reduce debts as well setting your saving goals.

For more information concerning this opportunity please contact angel gray or Beki Gibbs at 229-776-5717

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Children’s Book Week dress up day
Worth County Primary celebrated Children’s Book Week May 10^th through 14th, with various activities culminating in the dress-up day on Friday.  Children could come dressed as their favorite children’s book character and compete for prizes to be awarded by the media center. 

 Pictured are winners from each hall who received a book of their choice from a selection of books provided by the media center. From these winners the first place prize of $25 was awarded to Brandon Potter, dressed as the character from How I Became a Pirate; second place prize of $15 went to Anna Lavender, dressed as “Fancy Nancy” from the book by that name; and third place prize of $10 to Laura McPherson, dressed as “Gigi” from the book of the same name.

Photos and info submitted by Heather Faircloth

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1st Annual Worth County Football Kids Camp!

  The Rams are holding their first ever football kids camp. The camp will teach the fundamental skills of blocking, tackling, punting, kicking, passing, and catching. The Worth County coaching staff is dedicated to teach the proper technique to insure safety while learning the skill that will take a young child far in the sport of football. We will have players from the 2009-2010 football teams to assist in these skills and to have fun with the kids.

 Skills to be taught:

Blocking                                   Tackling                                  

Punting                                      Kicking

Passing                                       Catching

We will also play a version of football called Bowden ball; this is not tackle football.

Where: Milt Miller Field

 JUNE 7th, 8th, and 9th, from 9am. – 12pm.

Price $25 (Cash Only Please)

Ages: 7 to 12 years old

For Information Call: Perry Pylant or Anna Garrish

Worth County High School 229-776-8625 or 229-777-8427

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The 2010 Worth County High School Baseball Banquet will be held June 8^th  at 7 pm in the High School Cafeteria

Sylvester-Worth County Recreation Department registration date for Cheerleading, Football, and Soccer is scheduled for Monday, June 7, 2010, 5p – 8:30p at the Rec Department, 701 W. Wallace Street. Registration will continue until August 2nd. Registration fee applies. For more info call 776-6509.

Congratulations to Erica Vinson of Warwick:

http://cordeledispatch.com/local/x712225234/Vinson-named-student-of-quarter

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SmokeDream and SoWeGa Music Hall of Fame & Performing Arts Present:
AUTUMN’s  23 Year Reunion Concert
The group Autumn will be performing a free public concert on June 12, 2010 at 8:00PM in the Sumner School Auditorium in Sumner Georgia. 

The group is made up of Rocky Duckworth of Sylvester, Georgia and Nashville, Tennessee; Rodney Duckworth of Nashville, Tennessee; Mark Davis of Albany,  Georgia; Jimmy Hurst of Poulan, Georgia and Johnny Slappey of Sumner, Georgia. 

Autumn played all over the Southwest Georgia area performing a lot of ‘Southern Rock’ from the 60′s, 70′s and 80′s as well as covering the “Country Genre’ of the 80′s.

Allen Poole, of SmokeDream will manage all Audio Production of the event. Allen also serves on the Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Program.

Managing the concert stage will be Jimmy Chambless of Poulan, Georgia.  Jimmy has worked on production with SmokeDream in concerts dating back from the 1970′s as well as worked in production the past two years for events with the Performing Arts Program.

For directions and tickets, call 615-319-5139 and ask for Dona.
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Save money – Shop local and support our local businesses and economy!

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:

MOULTRIE, GA. – Moultrie Technical College (MTC) and its 28 sister schools in Georgia’s Technical College System (TCSG) have set the date – July 1, 2011 – as the time for a major class switch from the current quarter system to the semester system.

The quarter to semester conversion (Q2S) puts all three of Georgia’s major educational systems of K-12, the University System of Georgia and the TCSG on an aligned academic calendar.  With the change, Moultrie Tech will join the 80 percent of colleges and universities in the U.S. that follow a semester calendar.

 Working groups comprised of TCSG system staff and Moultrie Tech administrators in Colquitt, Tift, Turner and Worth counties have been at work throughout the last year to address all necessary curriculum, scheduling, financial aid, information technology and operational aspects of the conversion.

MTC President Tina Anderson said of the conversion, “Some of the benefits to students will be the ease of transfer for those who need that option, calendar alignment with the majority of colleges and universities in Georgia and across the country, and extended instructional time for greater mastery of program content and necessary job skills.”

The TCSG cites other benefits as ease of scheduling for high school dual and joint enrollment students, extended learning opportunities for students completing a clinical rotation or internship, and fewer entry points and disruptions for clinical partners and internship hosts.

 According to Anderson, “Along with our TCSG Board, the Q2S conversion has the support of the Governor’s Office as well as key stakeholders like the Commission on Colleges accrediting agency.”

 An MTC Press Release

The Sylvester Fire Department would like to update the community on their ongoing activities:

With four personnel on shift each day we respond two on our Engine and two on our Ladder. The National Standard calls for four on the Engine and 6 on the Ladder, but we make the most of our resources.  This is done for multiple reasons and allows for the most efficient use of our equipment. When dispatched to a fire scene we need both trucks to begin firefighting operations. The Engine arrives on the scene and begins firefighting while the Ladder delivers the hose and water from a hydrant if needed. The Ladder also is utilized in the event of a large fire and/or to rescue our citizens who may be trapped in upper stories of buildings. This format also helps to ensure that we keep two firefighters inside a fire and two outside in case the ones inside need help. Additional firefighters would increase our personnel on scene but would not change the need for both trucks. For our ISO rating the Ladder must respond to all structure fires in the City 

During our Daily Operations we send both trucks out accomplishing our task as needed. To date this year we have tested all the hydrants north of Franklin Street and are preparing to complete those south of Franklin as well. We have conducted over 120 Pre-Incident Surveys at businesses throughout our City. During the hydrant testing our personnel are not only studying hydrant locations but are also training to respond to the homes in the area and evaluating the water supply needed throughout the City The Pre-incident Surveys allow for our personnel to visit each business and gain valuable information to be used in the event that we have a fire or other emergency in the business. All members attend so that if they have to fight a fire in the building they are more familiar and can more safely do their jobs. Both hydrant testing and pre-incident surveys have to be completed twice a year to keep our ISO rating where it is.

The other area we are out and about for daily is our training. As you know we have no practical training area so we utilize the various areas of our City to prepare. This requires both trucks so that they can train as a team. To meet the needs for both ISO and State requirements we must have over 300 hours of training per firefighter per year.

Additionally you might see us out at a school conducting Fire Safety Education or participating as a Partner In Education. It may be that we are teaching a local business how to use fire extinguishers or that we are putting up one of the over 300 free smoke detectors that we have installed in houses throughout the City over the last year. 

With the start of our First Responder Program, we respond to citizens who are experiencing medical and trauma emergencies.  The program has been successful and is a great partnership between Phoebe Worth EMS and our department.

 With both trucks at these activities we are prepared at all times to respond to emergencies. Our average response time for the 279 incidents we have had from May 1, 2009 until May 1, 2010 is 2.36 minutes. This is from the time we get the call until we arrive on scene. This total includes several responses out in the county as well. The National Standard calls for four minutes 90 percent of the time. In the City we are lower than that 100% of the time. These are numbers we are extremely proud of.

 The City and our Department are committed to not only keeping our ISO rating low, which leads to lower insurance cost on your home or business, but to proving the safest community for our citizens to live in. We have accomplished all of these activities while still staying in budget for our fuel cost. We have attempted to minimize our use as we can but must maintain our high level of readiness. We continue to review our current uses and look for additional ways to improve our operations.

 The ultimate goal for our department as stated in our Mission Statement is to “to identify and respond to the needs of the Citizens of Sylvester while providing them the highest level of protection from all hazards.” While we have made many changes to our operations, the majority have been our involvement out in the community. We have made great strides and with those improvements come new changes. The appearance of our personnel and trucks out in the public are new to many but are an area we hope they grow accustomed to and come to expect as part of our attempt at “KEEPING SYLVESTER SAFE!”

A night of fun and entertainment was had by all during last night’s BFHS presentation at Southern Woods Plantation in Sylvester. The Best Friends Humane Society put on a skit that involved the spectators by allowing them to do the detective work in determining who killed Big Daddy Sugarbaker. The delightful cast of southern characters included Bill Boone, Bryce Johnson, Freddie Tompkins, Maria Hughes, Virginia Andrews, Jean Brooks, Ginny Pike, Becky Greer, Roger Medders, Billie Medders, John McPhaul, McGee Strickland, and Irvin McDonald. Mrs. Shelly McPhaul is the events coordinator for BFHS. She arranged and chose the enjoyable skit performed as a BFHS fundraiser.

The actors and actresses were in character upon the guests’ arrival. As they mingled with the audience members during skit intervals, participants would ask them questions leading to clues in solving the case. The plot of comical rivalry, sparked after the reading of the will, led up to an unforeseen twist as Big Daddy Sugarbaker (Boone) had actually faked his death along with his nurse mistress (Pike) who in the end spiked the champagne of Big Daddy’s family members with arsenic.

At least three audience participants guessed the killer and were recognized as ‘detectives’ with a badge presented by SPD Chief Alfred Anderson. Along with  numerous donations, the production and silent auction earned an estimated $4,000 for the BFHS fundraiser. See event photos below:

Remember to enter your pet in the BFHS Calendar contest – click on the Pet Page for details!

Worth County Sports on Worthit2u.net is proudly sponsored by:

Although Pope Field in Sylvester was quiet earlier today, in exception for a little field grooming and prep, tomorrow night Rams fans will fill the stands, plant the folding chairs, and cheer the home team on as state play-offs are played at home field.

Two games will be played tomorrow night with the first at 4pm. The opponent is Macon’s Rutland High. The following game will be at 7pm. A Game 3 will be played in case of a split on Saturday beginning at 1pm at Pope Park.. Gate prices — The price will be $7 for adults and children. This is set by the Georgia High School Association and is not a Worth County pricing policy. 

Rams Coach Will Smith informs attendees that Century club tickets will not get you into State Play-off games. “They are for regular season games only. We appreciate your support of Worth County athletics,” he said but added regrettably that state play-off games do not count.

Coach Smith also expressed his gratitude to the fans and following his recent statement below are emails that have made numerous rounds regarding Coach Smith’s performance throughout this baseball season. “I want to thank each of you for your support of our ENTIRE athletic program. Our athletes take an awful lot of pride in representing Worth County. We as coaches try to put a quality product on the field that you as a community can be proud of. -  Coach Will Smith

 - Congratulations to Coach Will Smith and the Varsity Rams Baseball team for their Region “AAA” Championship! This has been a great year of baseball with a lot of highs and lows, but these boys pulled together and peaked when it counted. I cannot express how proud I am as a parent and as a fan. These kids have supported each other and created a unique Cinergy among them that will bond them for many years to come. I am especially proud for our seniors; they have been great leaders and have gained respect from their peers and parents! I believe Coach Smith has done an excellent job as well by bringing these kids together for a championship team, many of us forget the old saying never judge a man until you have walked in his shoes… We would not be human if we did not criticize each other and we are all guilty of knowing more than the coach… but at this point “ praise “ is in order for the job that Coach Smith has performed this year and I think he may know a little more about coaching then we do.

…Once again congratulations to the Rams baseball team and Coach Will Smith!! – Jerry D. Cooper

 Mr. Cooper,

I must say that I don’t believe you could have said that any better!    I may be WAY out of line replying to your email but feel that you should be commended on your remarks regarding Coach Will Smith.

We are all very proud of our RAMS.  As a coach’s wife, I must say that it is wonderful to know that there is a group of parents and fans that truly understand and support the coach.  It is hard to see your husband be defeated on the field of play, but when we have to sit in the stands and hear people degrade them; it becomes even harder.  I know personally that Coach Smith’s purpose as a coach is to help young men prosper on and off the field.  He is much more than a baseball coach. The young men who play for Coach Smith, as well as my husband and other coaches, will look back after high school and be able to say they learned life lessons though the sport they played for them.  Even though we don’t all agree with the decisions coaches make on and off the field; as wives, parents and fans we have to support them.  A coach receives lots of extra stress even when they are coaching a perfect game; therefore, we should show them even more support during their “slump.”  You are right in saying we are all human and criticizing the coach just comes naturally.  BUT we have to find the right place and time to say these things or sometimes just bite our tongue.
 
Once again, I must thank you for showing your support for the team and your coach.  I hope that your support will spread throughout the community and we can continue to pull together to lead the RAMS to a state championship! 

 - Kara Pylant 

And Now …..FOOTBALL News!

The Touchdown Club is sponsoring a Boston butt sale for May 29th. Pickup times are 1-4 P.M.  Please support the TD club so we can help our young men get the equipment and supplies needed for a safe and successful football season. Butts are $20 each. See any coach or TD club member for your ticket. 

Spring Scrimmage – May 21st.  Worth County Middle School starts at 5:30 Varsity follows at 7.  Will have a meet the players, parents, social afterwards to try to boost our TD club enrollment. Football spring game admission is $5.

Golf

Steve Scott Memorial / TD club golf tourney will be held on June 19^th. Further information to be announced

‘Rec Plus’ Soccer Academy

The Rec Plus Program will be run at GUFC’s north facility in Sylvester at JW Holley School off Carter Road. Practices will be scheduled on Mondays and Thursdays with times pending registration numbers. The Sylvester site coordinator is Butch Jenkins at 229-206-0042 and the program coordinator is Mike Wallace at 229-985-1154.
The ‘Rec Plus’ program is designed to provide the basis and the skills for years of competitive and recreational soccer. The goal is to provide a continuous approach for a player to improve and develop their skills. This will be a nine week program that will work on small and full size age appropriate fields. It will work in part with GUFC to provide professional coaching, scheduled play dates, and program uniforms.

Rec Softball

 – Softball Photos submitted

Happy Cinco de Mayo Worth County! Celebrate tonight at the only restaurant in Worth County serving Margaritas and authentic Mexican food- Old Mexico in Sylvester. See more info on Cinco de Mayo at page bottom…

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Get your tickets now: Tickets are available at the Chamber or by calling Shelley McPhaul at 229-776-0173 for the Best Friend Humane Society’s Murder Mystery Program/ Dinner to be held this Friday, May 7^th at the Southern Woods Plantation.  The evening starts at 7:30 PM all proceeds go to the Best Friends Humane Society building fund.   Please visit their website:  www.bestfriendshumanesociety.org.  for more information and other exciting  fundraisers.

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Plans in Process for Train Engine 100 Renovations  Sylvester City Manager Debbie Bridges said the City of Sylvester is currently raising funds to renovate the town’s community landmark at Jeffords Park – Train Engine 100.  Further details are to be announced on this project but in the meantime contributions are being accepted at the Sylvester City Hall or you can mail in a donation to: Sylvester City Hall, P.O. Box 370, Sylvester, GA 31791. Be sure to put on your check or money order that the donation is for ‘The Train’.

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WCMS Choirs Take Top Honors at Wild Adventures Classic Festival

 The WCMS Treble Choir and Jazz Choir took home Superior Ratings at the Wild Adventures Classic Music Festival on Friday, April 30^thin Valdosta.  The Treble Choir also received recognition as the top performing ensemble of the festival.  According to WCMS Choral Director, Lesli Holton, there were performing groups from Georgia, Florida and Alabama in attendance.  The students were treated to a full day in the Wild Adventures Park at the end of the festival.  (Pictures are Treble Choir top and Jazz Choir below)

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Worth County Health Department Food Scores  for April

Sumner Headstart 4/12/10 100-A
Worth County High School 4/14/10 97-A
Worth County Child Development Center 4/27/10 100-A
Sylvester Elementary School 4/14/10 93-A
McDonald’s 4/27/10 95-A
Burger King 4/9/10 96-A
Kentucky Fried Chicken 4/27/10 84-B
Worth County Neighborhood Service Center 4/9/10 89-B
Pizza Hut 4/28/10 93-A
White’s BBQ Pit 4/13/10 87-B
B&G Country Cookin 4/13/10 82-B

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The Touchdown Club is sponsoring a Boston butt sale for May 29th. Pickup times are 1-4 P.M.  Please support the TD club so we can help our young men get the equipment and supplies needed for a safe and successful football season.  Butts are $20 each.  See any coach or TD club member for your ticket.  ___________________________________________________________

National School Nurse Day

 The National Association of School Nurses, Inc. (NASN) has chosen May 12, 2010 as National School Nurse Day.  National School Nurse Day was established in 1972 to foster a better understanding of the role of school nurses in the educational setting.  Today, school nursing is recognized as a specialized practice that advances the well-being, academic success, and life-long achievement of students.  To this end, over 66,000 school nurses across the country promote health and safety; intervene with actual and potential health problems; provide case management services; and actively collaborate with others to build student/family capacity for adaptation, self management, self advocacy, and learning. 

National School Nurse Day falls on the Wednesday during National Nurses Week, May 6 – 12, ending on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of nursing.  On this day of celebration, Missy Culpepper, Suzanne Moree, Kimberly Kitchens, Claudia Johnson, and Suzanne Lasseter, Worth County School System will be honored.  The Worth County School System and the community of Sylvester is encouraged to join with their school nurses in celebrating this important day.   

For more information on National School Nurse Day, visit the NASN Web site at www.nasn.org.  

Photo: Back Row Left to Right: Suzanne Lasseter, RN, BSN, Worth County
High School; Suzanne Moree, RN, BSN, Worth County Primary School;
Missy Culpepper,RN, Worth County Primary School
Front Row Left to Right: Kimberly Kitchens, RN, Sylvester Elementary
School; Claudia Johnson, RN, Worth County Middle School

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The Annual Store Manager of the Year Banquet for Harvey’s was held recently.  There were several people from the Harvey’s store in Sylvester and employees from other locations who reside in Worth County that won awards:

Ted Thongbai from Sylvester is the store manager for Harvey’s on Dawson Road in Albany- He won the Store Manager of the Year for his District.  He also received an award for excellence in achievement.

Randall Walker who is the pharmacist for Harvey’s in Sylvester won the Pharmacist of the Year award.

Dianna Short from Sylvester won the Produce Manager of the Year for her district and she works in an Albany Harvey’s as well.

The awards are based on sales, payroll, inventory, customer service and multiple other areas and these employees from Worth County worked hard to achieve them. Congratulations!.

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Beatle-Mania Is Here!  

The Worth County High School choral program will present a spring concert on Thursday, May 13 in the high school multi-purpose room at 7:00 p.m.

This year’s concert will feature the music of The Beatles including many of your favorites:  “Ticket to Ride”, “Hey Jude”, “Hello, Goodbye”, and many more.  “All You Need Is Love” will be the show’s finale. 

This exciting night will also include the annual auction with many fun items up for bid.   The feature auction item is a beautiful, handcrafted, full-size black and gold afghan which was donated by the Alice Blackwell Family.

An evening of great entertainment is happening right here in Sylvester!  It’s cheaper than a movie…and BETTER!  So dig out your old tie-dyed shirt and bell bottoms and join us. You’ll fit right in!_____________________________________________________________

Excerpt from Viva! Cinco De Mayo – The 5th of May is not Mexican Independence Day, but it should be!  And Cinco de Mayo is not an American holiday, but it should be.  Mexico declared its independence from mother Spain on midnight, the 15th of September, 1810.  And it took 11 years before the first Spanish soldiers were told and forced to leave Mexico. So, why Cinco de Mayo?  And why should Americans savor this day as well?  Because 4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City on the morning of May 5, 1862.

It might be a historical stretch to credit the survival of the United States to those brave 4,000 Mexicans who faced an army twice as large in 1862.  But who knows?

In gratitude, thousands of Mexicans crossed the border after Pearl Harbor to join the U.S. Armed Forces.  As recently as the Persian Gulf War, Mexicans flooded American consulates with phone calls, trying to join up and fight another war for America.

Mexicans, you see, never forget who their friends are, and neither do Americans.  That’s why Cinco de Mayo is such a party — A party that celebrates freedom and liberty.  There are two ideals which Mexicans and Americans have fought shoulder to shoulder to protect, ever since the 5th of May, 1862.  VIVA! el CINCO DE MAYO!!

For more detailed history, visit the website at www.vivacincodemayo.org

Old Mexico photos – Worthit2u.net. All other photos are submitted

Worth County High school students Kaitlyn McDonald, Trey Shipp, and Haley Davis, are part of the nearly 40 high school students taking advantage of early Cosmetology certification offered at the Moultrie Tech Sylvester Campus and will be ‘Work Ready’ upon graduation from high school.

Grant is presented at event from the Governor’s Office

The Sylvester-Worth County Chamber of Commerce held their first Business After Hours of 2010 hosted by Sylvester-Worth County Moultrie Technical College Campus. The Tuesday night event included a visitor from the Georgia Governor’s office and a check presentation to the community. Because Moultrie Tech in Sylvester plays such a vital role in preparing students to be work ready upon leaving high school, it was the suitable place for the $10,000 presentation to the community. Fred McConnell, Work Ready Program Coordinator of the Governor’s Office of Workforce Development made the presentation to MTC President, Dr. Tina Anderson. 

The Campus Administrator of the MTC Sylvester-Worth County Campus, Kris Strawder, said Sylvester’s technical facility offers not only Cosmetology, but also computer information systems programs (PC and Network repair), web design for building Internet pages, and welding classes.

Welding is currently also open to adults and Strawder said the facility is preparing to open other courses to adults this summer. The school is also planning to open a program for local firefighters this summer. Each of over 200 firefighters in Worth County are required to certify every two years. “We’re trying to get that so they don’t have to drive to Albany, Moultrie, or Tifton to take those courses,” Strawder said.

Adult computer programs will open October 1st and Strawder said 37 people have already pre-signed an interest card for the adult summer cosmetology class offering 24 slots. MTC”s Economic Development Department offers a variety of programs to benefit professional and personal development in the community. “Those programs are designed to prepare you for international certification,” he said. The Sylvester campus also provides the GAP training through the MTC Adult Education department for those who want to boost their scores.

Strawder said the Work Ready program of the governor’s office made a request for tech schools in Georgia to assist in testing members of the community to calculate the population having the base skills to acquire a job. He said the testing is similar to the ACT tests that high school students take in preparation for college. Critical reading ability and basic math skills make up the test. The number of people in a community passing these tests will speak volumes to new businesses looking to open in Worth County. “We’re going to ask those people to please come and apply (for those jobs) because we know they are going to make an impression and they are going to pass that company’s tests… Worth County is off to a very good start to have these skilled people,” he said and added the existing businesses in the community also benefit from work ready citizens.

Strawder said the goal of the Sylvester MTC is to get every senior in high school work ready before they graduate, as well as certify adults who are established in their field. “It sometimes helps to brush up on your skills.” He said Miller Brewing Co. is a prime example of a company that accepts only Georgia Work Ready certified applicants.

The $10,000 check is a two-year grant. Strawder said a portion of the money will be to hire someone part time visit with local business owners and gain their interest in the Georgia Work Ready program, with the remaining going towards incentives and advertisement. For more information on the Worth County Work Ready stats, http://www.gaworkready.org/certificate_files/CWRC_2010_01_03_3321_Worth_County.pdf or click the Moultrie Tech ad on this page for course information.

Pictured below are some of the event participants of the MTC Business After Hours held Tuesday to include aforementioned guests and Karen Rackley, Sylvester-Worth County Chamber President; Greg Sellars, Worth County Economic Development Director; MTC local board member Bill Boone; Sylvester Mayor, Bill Yearta; Chamber Board member Shelly McPhaul; Assistant Principal, CTAE Director and WCS Coach, Scott Chafin; WCHS Principle Stacey Bell; Beverly Hendricks, Family & Consumer Science teacher; and many more——

 Worth County Sports on Worthit2u.net is proudly sponsored by: Southwest Georgia Therapy—

The Sylvester-Worth County Spring games have begun at the Industrial Park in Sylvester. This season’s games include T-ball (girls & boys ages 4-6); Coach pitch baseball (ages 7 & 8); Girl’s softball ages (7 -9); Minor league baseball ages (9 & 10); Girl’s softball ages (10- 12); Little league baseball ages (11 & 12); Girl’s softball ages 13-15); and Pony league baseball (ages 13 & 14).

Join numerous supporters tonight (Thursday), in family entertainment to include three T-ball matches, beginning at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30pm. Also scheduled tonight are two matches from the Coach Pitch Baseball, two match-ups for Machine Pitch Baseball and a Live Pitch game is also on the agenda.

Support Worth County’s kids and our Recreation Department and bring family and friends to watch these events.

The Rec Department offers a year-round sports program for children of all ages. Soccer will follow beginning in August and Football begins September 1^st. Cheerleading programs are also available. Over 500 children generally sign up for the baseball program alone each spring. Volunteers for coaching or helping with Rec Department activities are always appreciated as well as donations, which are tax deductible. For more information and to view the complete spring sports schedule, visit www.swcrd.com or call 776-6509.

See photos below:

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Become a Foster or Adoptive parent. For more information call Worth County DFCS @ 229-777-2000 or 877-210-KIDS. A child is waiting for You!

Sylvester Recreation Department  Picture Day

Pictures will be made on April 26th. This is for both team and individual pictures, so even if you are not planning to purchase individuals please come and support your team! Times are to be announced.
There will be no make-up day so please plan to attend!  Call for info at 776-6509 or visit the website at www.swcrd.com.

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Worth County High School students Shikendres L. Burley and Brandy Hustetler passed the Certified Nursing Assistant State Exam on March 27, 2010 at Albany Technical College.  

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Young Georgia Authors’ Writing Competition Worth County Primary School Winners 

Photo Left to Right: Co-Principal-Tiffany Sevier, Kindergarten – Frank Canady, 1st grade – Samantha McDonald, 2nd grade – Donald Terry

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Food & Restaurant Scores: (Provided from the Environmental Health Specialists of the Worth County Health Department)

Mary Alice Shipp Senior Center – March 26 – 96-A

Worth County Middle School – March 26 – 96-A

Worth County Primary School – March 30 – 96-A

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Sylvester Police and Fire Departments receive decision based drivers training for their Officers 

All members of the Sylvester Police and Fire Departments as well as several members of the Worth County Fire Rescue attended simulator training held on April 6^th and 7^th. The training is part of the City of Sylvester’s Safety Program. . 

Following classroom training came  the actual hands on training in the simulator.  One student observes and the other sits in a realistic driver’s seat where they are put through a series of driving scenarios from a list of over 80 available scenarios.  When a driver makes an incorrect decision the instructor can back the program up and replay it showing the driver the situation, discussing driving techniques that would apply, and then can have the driver repeat the same scenario using the techniques learned. 

Hydrant Testing in Sylvester

Please make note of the following dates for hydrant testing in the City of Sylvester. We will begin testing Monday – Friday with some Saturdays and evenings in the downtown area. Testing will be from 9 till 12 each day and then again each afternoon as needed. Please limit your water usage during these times andwash laundry later in the day so that the testing will not affect your water. Please find attached a guide for what to do if your water appears cloudy. If you have any questions please feel free to let me know.

 Remember, we have to test twice annually as part of our efforts to keep the insurance rates lower for our residents.

 April 19^ththru April 27^th North of Franklin, West of Isabella

 April 28^ththru May 7^th     North of Franklin, East of Isabella

May 10^ththru May 18^th   South of Franklin, West of Isabella

 May 19^ththru May 28^th South of Franklin, East of Isabella

 May 31^stthru June 11^th  The Isabella Community

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An update from the Chamber of Commerce Director, Karen Rackley:

We want to update you on some new and exciting things happening during the month of April and May  in Sylvester and Worth County. We hope that you will make as many of these events as possible in order to support Worth County.   

Congrats! to the City of Warwick and the Lake Blackshear Business Association for a Great Grits Festival this past Saturday, April 10th.  The weather was great and so was the attendance!  Great Job!

Don’t forget to ask our local merchants about the Stop and Shop at Home campaign.  Let’s keep our tax dollars at home in our community.    

HealthPlus/ Sylvester Family Practice is hosting:  the “Audible Hearing Aid Center” Free Annual Hearing Test on Friday April 16th.  For more details please call (229) 382-6051 to schedule your test or speak with the receptionist

Don’t miss out on the HealthPlus/ Sylvester Family Practice’s fundraiser for the Relay for Life.  Buy your raffle ticket for a chance to win six (6) free visits to the Sylvester Family Practice Weight Loss Clinic.  Call 229-776-3500 for further information.

Our first Business After Hoursof the year will be held at the Moultrie Tech Sylvester Campus on April 20^th.   We hope to see you there!  Open to the Public starts at 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Relay for Life Pageant applications are also available at the Chamber.  Pageant is scheduled for April 24th starting at 2:00 PM.  Location:  Worth County High School Gymnasium

Heritage Bank of the South in Albany and ShredEx are hosting a FREE shred day!   The 2010 Community Shred-A-Thon will be held on April 24thfrom 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon in the parking lot of the main office in Albany Georgia at 721 North Westover Blvd.  Contact Mary Beth Hobby at (229) 878-2111 or Mr. Britt Garwood at (229) 888-5555.

The City of Sylvester will be hosting is 8th Annual Great Sylvester Clean-up on April 24th from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM at the old Police Department

Please help the Chamber of Commerce welcome the Wandering Wheels bicyclist on April 27th.  The bicyclist will be coming through Sylvester throughout the day on April 27th stopping at the Chamber briefly and will have dinner at the Margret Jones Library at 5:30 PM.

Tickets are available at the Chamber for the Best Friend Humane Society’s Murder Mystery Program/ Dinner to be held on May 7^th at the Southern Wood Plantation.  The evening starts at 7:30 PM all proceeds go to the Best Friends Humane Society building fund.   Please visit their website:  www.bestfriendshumanesociety.org.  for more information and other exciting  fundraisers.

If you have any questions concerning any of the events, please contact us at (229) 776-7718.

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State Troopers from the Albany Post of the Georgia State Patrol investigated 17 traffic crashes during the month of March in Worth County. Sergeant First Class Edwards said the traffic crashes resulted in 10 injuries and 0 traffic deaths.

SFC Edwards said troopers from Post 40 also issued 120 traffic citations in the county during the month. The total includes 3 arrests for driving under the influence, 66 citations for speeding, 10 seat belt violations, and child restraint violations. Troopers also issued 68 warnings.

Become a Foster or Adoptive parent. For more information call Worth County DFCS @ 229-777-2000 or 877-210-KIDS. A child is waiting for You!

Photos submitted

This year’s Grits Festival in Warwick could not have been celebrated on a more beautiful day. Sun-tinged faces were seen from one end of Warwick’s park to the other enjoying shade under Dogwood trees and afternoon treats offered from various vendors. The biggest crowd-pleaser of all, as is every year, was the Grit Pit. Many local and out of town people participated in the event. Two adults from Atlanta even joined in scooping up pounds of grits earning cheers from the surrounding audience.

One of today’s many guests at the festival included Ken Bevel who played Lt. Michael Simmons in the movie Fireproof. Apparently Bevel is originally from Worth County and today he served as the Grits Parade Grand Marshall. A special appearance by the Air Evac Team out of Cordele made a landing by helicopter at the festival. A couple just married was actually enjoying a part of their honeymoon at the festival and a Sylvester Police Officer takes a shot at staying on the mechanical bull (to no avail). The festival was a great success. The events scheduled throughout the day along with musical entertainment, local and special guests, and wall-to-wall sunshine made for a great Saturday in Warwick, Georgia! See photos below:

(Pictured right- Marine Corps Brass Call visits Worth Primary School) As we go into the Easter weekend, not only do the pollen and bumble bees remind us Spring is upon us, but everything that has been dead throughout the winter is coming to life again in beautiful Azalea and Dogwood splendor. Christians celebrate Easter this Sunday in recognition of Christ’s resurrection. What an extravagant symbolism in nature for life to literally resurrect so timely as Christians celebrate this faith and belief.

Another celebration recognized in the county was held on Friday for Music in Our Schools Month by many Worth County students and faculty. The primary school students enjoyed music from the Marine Corp Logistics Base Brass Call on Friday. Photos below:

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Today (Saturday) a citywide Easer Egg hunt was held at the Sylvester Housing Authority resource center. The event included food, entertainment, bouncy rides and games. Many sponsors helped to support this event including the City of Sylvester, SPD, Unique Ryders and many more. See photos below: Following the event, another Citywide event was held for the children at Shipp’s Park beginning at 1pm. An Easter event was also held at Bryant Drive Baptist Church in Sylvester for children community wide. Pictures below:

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 SMILE:  A ‘little pet’ humor…

HAPPY EASTER WORTH COUNTY!

The Worth County weekend, laced with mild temperatures and a little sunshine, comes to an end but what an eventful weekend it was. Saturday morning began with an Easter Egg Hunt at Warwick Methodist Church. Saturday night in Sylvester, the Relay for Life Team City of Sylvester held their annual 70′s dance with tie-die, hoop earings,(pictured right)afro and hippie wigs, bell bottoms with dancing to 70′s music, food and socializing at the Margaret Jones Library.

On Sunday afternoon, Unique Ryders Motorcycle Club and First African Baptist Church held a 100 Men and Women Bikers Program at the Sylvester Pope Street church location. The public was invited to ride their motorcycles, cars, trucks, RV’s and buses and join in for fun and fellowship.

While the Worth County Rams baseball team was earning another region win in Crisp County Friday night, Sylvester Police and Georgia State Patrol units conducted traffic stops at Hwy 33/Hwy 112 intersection and later on Hwy 82 west. Stats from those stops will be reported Monday which include a few drivers stopped from driving while unlicensed and under the influence of alcohol/drugs. Photos below of the traffic stops reveal a drug search with the Sylvester K-9 unit and a driver being tested for alcohol.

 Also, a very special candlelight vigil was held on Red Rock Road in Sylvester on the two-year anniversary of the death of teen Stephen Dietzel Friday evening. (See page bottom for photo).

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In Memory of Steven W. Dietzel, Jr. (2/3/90 – 3/26/08)

                   The date of the 13th Annual Grits Festival in Warwick is approaching soon. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, April 10th. As usual, the Grits Festival is held the 2nd Saturday of every April beginning with a delicious Quaker Grits breakfast. The breakfast typically also  includes homemade biscuits, sausage, eggs, coffee and of course, a healthy helpin’ of grits!

Events and entertainment are scheduled throughout the course of the day to include the annual Grit Pit, which draws spectators and participants from all over the world! A detailed list of this year’s events is located at the bottom of this page or you may visit the Warwick Grits Festival’s official website at www.gritsfest.com.

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City of Sylvester’s 70’s Dance  

Saturday March 27, 2010 beginning at 7:00 P.M. at the Margaret Jones Library, 205 E. Pope Street in Sylvester.

Come join us for a night of fun and dancing to raise funds for the Relay for Life Team City of Sylvester.  Light refreshments will be served. Admission:  $5.00 per person.

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Two of the Grits Fest photos are courtesy of the Grits Festival Committee.

A beautiful Saturday afternoon made for a fun-filled day at 100-year old Pope Park. To further celebrate the centennial anniversary of the oldest playing field in Georgia, an Old Timers Baseball game was scheduled which attracted participation from players who headlined in the sport as early as the 1950′s. The oldest batter stepping up to the plate was Mr. Carol Brown, (pictured right) a pitcher for Sylvester in 1951. His brother Bobby Brown and Gene Overton, also of the 1950′s Sylvester Eagles, watched the game from the fan-filled stands.

After The Eagles’ 1959 region championship, it would be nearly 50 years before the next region championship was earned by any high school team in Worth County. The team won region in ’51, ’52, ’53, and ’59, but it wasn’t until 2006, under former baseball player, Valdosta State and Florida State Coach, and forever baseball enthusiasts, Will Smith. He’s the first coach in the history of Worth County that achieved a region title with his team. Smith, who has been coaching Rams baseball since 2001, said of the Old Timers,  ”They are the ones who made everything happen for us. They’re the ones that raised the kids to enjoy, appreciate and respect the game of baseball.”

Several home run hits were slammed over the Pope Park fence including one from 1979 MVP Hal Proctor. The announcer for the game, Glen Parkman, is also an Old Timer in Worth County baseball. Parkman announced former nicknames of players, humorous anecdotes for how they earned those nicknames as well as a few stats. The ball park and stands were filled with smiling faces as young and old alike enjoyed America’s favorite sport. See more photos below:

Tonight the Worth County Rams secured a victory over region opponents Peach County Trojans in a home game. Rams are now 2 – 0 in region. Runs were close until 5th inning when Rams made three runs to be up 5 -3. The game ended with a Rams 5 – 4 victory. Monday’s upcoming game against 1W-A Baconton Carter Blazers (6-2) will also be played at Pope’s Stadium in Sylvester beginning at 5:30pm. See more photos at page bottom.

Tonight in Worth County was also the newly titled Colonel Sherry Spence’s opening night as a professional auctioneer at 3G’S Auction Company. The auction business, located at 1121 E. Franklin Street in Sylvester, is brand new to Worth County and will offer weekly auctions every Friday night beginning at 6:30pm with early registration beginning at 5pm. Auctions include quality new and used merchandise, estate sales, benefit auctions, business liquidations, antiques and more.

Pictured: Colonel Spence, left and Auctioneer’s Clerk, Arlene Schippang warm-up before auction time. Other pics include some of the guests that came to bid opening night.

AS PROMISED…… MORE RAMS BASEBALL!

Enter Your Pet!

Is your cat, dog, horse, pig or hamster the best looking pet around?  Does your Best Friend crave the spotlight?  Well, here is their chance to shine.  Best Friends Humane Society is looking for 16 great looking animals to feature in the upcoming calendar, Best Friends All-Year Long.

Beginning April 1, 2010, the BFHS will begin accepting applications for the Pet Photo Contest.  Photos receiving the highest number of votes will be featured in the calendar. The top 16 will have their photos taken by a professional photographer and published on each of the 16 months of the calendar, and the cover.  All entrants will have their submitted pictures included in the calendar in a collage format.

Entry forms will be available before April 1, 2010.  They can be copied & pasted from the Pet Page of www.worthit2u.net and will also be available at Countryside Animal Hospital, Sylvester Animal Hospital and the Chamber of Commerce.  The entry photo must be at least 4 x 6 inches and not larger than 8 x 10 inches. The entry fee is $10.00.

Contest applications may be submitted online at inquiries@worthit2u.net with a scanned photo and the fee paid via Pay Pal on Worthit2u.net.  Submissions may also be sent in by mail to BFHS, attn: Calendar, P.O Box 5894, Sylvester, GA 31791.  Be sure to include the entry form, a photo of your pet and your entry fee.  All entries must be received no later than May 1, 2010.

Voting will take place during the month of May.  Photos of all entries will be available for review online at www.worthit2u.net where you can place your vote via PayPal for $1.00 per vote– Be sure to make a note of the photo entry number with your vote.  You may see the photos at all BFHS events from April 1 through May 31. The photos will also be on display at the Chamber of Commerce. Votes may be placed wherever the photos are displayed. You may also send in your vote with your payment to our P.O Box address, noted above.  You may vote as many times as you like, for $1.00 per vote.  All votes must be in by May 31, 2010.

Winners will be notified the first week of June and must be available for a professional photo shoot to be scheduled during the first or second week of June.

The calendar will be published and ready for sale by July 31, for $15.00 each. Calendars may be purchased in advance and pre-sales are encouraged.

Three dogs were adopted at Saturday’s adoptathon and yard sale in Sylvester held by Best Friends Humane Society. The adoptions included two puppies and one adult dog. This was the first time BFHS had combined a yard sale with their monthly adoptathon and the organization managed to raise $436.00 in doing so.

BFHS is currently: making preparations to print a 16-month calendar to begin in July 2010; planning Bark in the Park, combined with BBQ lunch; A Dinner and Play to be held at Southern Woods Plantation in May, which will include the audience’s participation in solving a murder mystery(tickets are $20 and will go on sale around April 1st); and for horse enthusiasts, BFHS will be holding a Horse Trail Ride. Dates and further information on these events are to be announced.

Workers unassembled Poulan’s old water tower Saturday. The tower that stood over a residential area and the Poulan Police Station will not be missed according to a resident residing directly under the tower. “You can hear it rocking back and forth when it storms.”

 The tower was broken down into several pieces as the top portion came off first and was placed in the residential area across the street from the tower’s original location during the process.

The Unite Revival continues in Sumner. The Worth County community-wide revival service began Sunday night (pictured) with hundreds attending and will continue through Wednesday. Church groups are encouraged to spend their usual Wednesday night service at the revival.

WCHS TENNIS SCHEDULE  

DATE           OPPONENT            LOCATION               DEPART    MATCH TIME

 2-9-10            WESTOVER           ALBANY                    3:15             4:00

2-11-10          DOUGHERTY        ALBANY                    3:15             4:00

2-18-10          CAIRO                     CAIRO                        2:45             4:00

2-23-10          PEACH CO              SYLVESTER             ——-           4:00

2-25-10         CRISP CO                 SYLVESTER             ——            4:00

3-2-10            PERRY                     SYLVESTER              ——           4:00

3-3-10            MONROE                 ALBANY                    3:30            4:30

3-9-10           DOUGHERTY          SYLVESTER              —–            4:00

3-11-10           MONROE                 SYLVESTER              —–           4:00

3-15-10           WESTOVER            SYLVESTER              —–            4:00

3-16-10           CAIRO                      SYLVESTER              —–            4:00

3-18-10            PEACH CO             FT VALLEY                2:15           4:00

3-23-10            CRISP CO               CORDELE                   3:15           4:00

3-25-10            PERRY                     PERRY                        2:30            4:00 

4-8-10              TURNER CO           ASHBURN                  3:30             4:00            

Worthit2u.net is proud to be a part of Rams sports and the Pope Park baseball field in its centennial year anniversary… Go Rams!

Pictured:  A car overturns off Hwy 82 last Saturday just east of Poulan. Georgia State Patrol Trooper Johnny Kirk investigated the incident and questioned the driver. ”He told me his cell phone rang, he looked down and looked up and he was going off the road,” Trooper Cook said Wednesday. Mealo Jatez Alford, 26, of Tifton was transported for medical treatment but suffered no injuries, according to Trooper Kirk. 

The Sylvester Police Department received a report of a stolen vehicle last weekend from 205 McPhaul Street. 911-Dispatch received a call Sunday night around 10:20pm regarding a vehicle dicovered in woods near 4100 Hwy 256, approximately 1 1/2 miles of Lolly Creek . The caller suspected the vehicle had been wrecked and reported to 911 he was going into the woods with a flashlight to inspect. Worth County Rescue, WCSO, and EMS arrived on scene within minutes only to learn the driver was not on scene.

It was determined the vehicle was the one SPD had listed as stolen. A WCSO deputy apparently went to the McPhaul Street for further questioning regarding the vehicle. Upon his visit to the residence, the deputy took two individuals into custody. SPD Investigator Nathaniel Newton said Deputy Lenny Davis arrested Corey Spears on a warrant out of Dougherty County and James Donald Stoyle III. Spears was turned over to Dougherty County police but Stoyle (pictured) has waived extradition on a warrant for probation out of state and remains in the Worth County jail as of Friday.

Involvement of the two individuals regarding the alleged stolen vehicle found wrecked has not been determined.

State Troopers from the Albany Post of the Georgia State Patrol investigated 17 traffic crashes during the month of February in Worth County.  Sergeant First Class Edwards said the traffic crashes resulted in 19 injuries and 2 traffic deaths. (Mary Ann Ellis and Michael Dale Thomas)

SFC Edwards said troopers from Post 40 also issued 150 traffic citations in the county during the month. The total includes 11 arrests for driving under the influence, 67 citations for speeding, 15 seat belt violations, and 8 child restraint violations. Troopers also issued 153 warnings.

Restaurant news in Worth County includes Ed’s Truck Stop ownership change (the business is resumed  by Ed Souter) and the opening of a new restaurant in Warwick, B&G Country Cookin. B&G is located in the former Willie’s Hot dog location. These were the only restaurants involved in Food inspections by Worth’s Environmental Health Specialist for the month of February.

B&G Country Cookin   2-12-10   100-A

Ed’s Truck Stop  2-15-10   96-A

Support your local restaurants including these and the new restaurant located in the former Parker’s BBQ building on Franklin Street as of the new year, The BBQ Pit.

Get ready for John Berry in Sumner! The country music artist will take the stage as a guest at the annual SmokeDream concert. Apparently Writer, Producer, Director and Actor, Kaine Riggan has accepted an invitation to the event as well.

Beverly said the business has always been profitable even though their business caters to only small children’s entertainment. She considers her ponies family and  prefers to keep them, but if a buyer does not have their own ponies, she said she will consider including some of the ponies with the inventory.

The Sylvester-Worth County Chamber of Commerce announces their new program-  ”Stop and Shop Worth County”. This program is designed to encourage Worth County citizens to make purchases locally and support  community businesses. Shopping at home will:

• Increase local sales

• Create additional job opportunities for Worth Countycitizens

• Attract new businesses, which in turn will add to shopping opportunities 

The “Stop and Shop Worth County” campaign is designed to help citizens understand the full impact of spending their dollars in Worth County …

• Saves gas

• Helps hold down property taxes (helps alleviate the need for additional residential property tax increases)

• Assists in local funding for recreation, road improvements, libraries, police and fire departments, utilities, parks, etc.

• Increased sales in existing businesses equates to more jobs for citizens

• Improved quality of life for all

How can local businesses get involved? Display the “Stop and Shop Worth County” logo in your window! The Chamber will give a window decal and a flyer on the program to all local businesses free of charge. Businesses can choose what they would like to do for the program. Some examples include offering discounts, freebies, or a chance to enter a drawing when someone visits your place of business. The program will be open to all businesses in Worth County. The Chamber may use the following outlets to promote the program: window decals, signs, banners, website, local newspaper, and radio. Help us help our citizens understand the importance of shopping at home in Worth County. For more information cal 776-7718.

Worth County High School has entered the Dell Super Prom contest.  The grand prize is an all expense paid dream prom for the school.  A video was submitted by Savannah Jenkins and Kasey Strawder about WCHS and our school pride.  Help support our students by voting for the video. You are required to register to vote and are allowed to vote once daily until February 28th.  Click to participate http://delllounge.com/superprom/.  The link is also on our WCHS website.  Please spread the word throughout the community! Click here  to see the video.

 The 10th Annual Grits Pageant is March 20, 2010 ,  beginning 12:00pm at the Crisp County Middle School.

For more information, email jireland@mchsi.com or tabdupriest@aol.com.

 Pictured below is a submitted photo of the Ram Seniors at the Worth County ’09 Football Banquet. Also at the event, Dr. Alan Grimsley was the recipient of the Bill Smith Award.

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Baseball Head Coach Will Smith reports there will be a JV game on Friday in Brooks County. “Initially they did not think they would have enough players to field a JV team. We have that worked out so our young guys can get some playing time.” Coach Smith said game time is set at 4:00pm followed by the Varsity game. Speaking of the Varsity baseball team, the Rams had an incredible first game of the season by winning in a shut-out victory over Turner County Rebels. The five-inning game ended at 10-0.

The next game is Thursday, February 25, as a guest to the Dodge County Trojans, and on Friday the 27th,  at home against Brooks County beginning at 6pm.

Soccer season ‘kicked off’ Tuesday with the boys and girls teams facing Brooks County. The boys team lost by one goal at 3 – 4 with senior Desmond Thomas scoring two goals and senior Arturo Sanchez scoring 1. The girls finished a very strong defensive game with a tie at 1 -1 with senior Samantha Fowinkle scoring for the Lady Rams. The soccer teams will face Berrien Thursday, February 25th in an away game, boys at 5pm, girls at 7pm. They will face Americus-Sumter on Friday 26th with girls playing at 5:30 and boys at 7:30pm at the home field.

Below are photos of Worth County’s tennis teams at practice Tuesday afternoon. Schedule dates are to be announced:

Upcoming Meetings:

Sumner:

City Council meeting is Tuesday, March 2nd, beginning at 7pm.

Poulan:

City Council meeting is Tuesday, March 9th, beginning at 7pm and Tuesday, March 23 at 7pm. 

Sylvester:

The regularly scheduled City of Sylvester Workshop is Monday, March 1st. City Council will meet March 15th at 7pm.

Warwick:

City Council meeting is Tuesday, March 16th beginning at 6pm.

Worth County:

Worth County Board of Commissioners will meet Tuesday, March 2nd at 8:00am and Thursday, March 18th at 7:00pm.

Worth County School Board of Education will meet Thursday, March 11th at 7pm.

March 9th is the end of the third nine-week period and report cards are issued Tuesday, March 16th.

Fun, muddy fun is ongoing in Doles this weekend as Creekbottom Trail Rides kicks off their 2010 season with the Southern Mud Racing Series. The ATV park allows visitors to play and ride throughout the grounds as well as provide competition events that draw participants nationwide . The first five photos below are taken by Worthit2u.net during a Bog-in event held Saturday in outstanding weather conditions.  

……………………………………………………………………… The three (3) photos following are of another event that took place in today’s beautiful weather, the 50-inning game as part of Pope Field’s 100th anniversary salute. The game was played in Sylvester on the oldest baseball playing field in Georgia. 

The Worth County Rams baseball team played Colquitt County in a scrimmage game Thursday, as pictured with sophomore Brandon Weaver at bat. The first home game to be played is Monday at 6pm against Turner County in Pope Park.

During a basketball game at Worth County’s Recreation Department in Sylvester, the referee talks with each team during a game Thursday evening, as pictured.

Worth teen Cole Hayes (pictured with guitar) entertains shoppers Friday to earn a little extra cash for ‘gas money’. The talented young musician attracted a small audience in front of Sylvester’s Dollar General during his performance.

  In the news, Worth County resident Larry White (pictured with EMS and ambulance) had to be transported to Worth County jail for an indictment process Thursday. White is apparently bed-ridden. The indictment involved child molestation charges. It has reportedly been nearly a decade since this type of special detail was performed by EMS, WCSO and the local D.A.’s office but Worth County Sheriff Freddie Tompkins said it is a necessary procedure in a circumstance such as White’s.