WMUM News

Headlines for July 14, 2009

2009-07-14T08:53:00.002-05:00

The Bibb County Commission now has a fourth site being considered as a location for the new courthouse. The Telegraph is offering its downtown building as well as some surrounding property to the county for just over 2-million dollars. A final decision on where to locate the courthouse will be made by the Bibb County Commission. They must also vote whether to include the Telegraph's property in their study of proposed sites. Those currently under consideration include a parking lot at 1st Street and Mulberry, the Bb&T Building, as well as land near the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.

President Barack Obama's choice to become the new surgeon general has ties to Macon. Dr. Regina Benjamin came here in the 1980's after receiving her doctor of medicine degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1984. She was also a member of the second class at the Morehouse School of Medicine. She served her internship and residency in family practice at the Medical Center of Central Georgia.

Representative Jim Marshall is suggesting that military bases look at becoming energy independent by building nuclear power plants. According to the Telegraph the proposal is included in the 650-page House Defense Authorization Bill. It asks for a study yo look at the feasibility of developing nuclear power plants on bases. The bill recently cleared the U.S. House of Representatives. Marshall says it comes as a response to the military's mandate to have clean, efficient, secure energy. No new nuclear plants have been built in the U.S. since a 1979 accident at 3 Mile Island Power Plant in Pennsylvania.

Headlines for June 30, 2009

2009-06-30T08:51:00.002-05:00

The Environmental Protection Agency has released a list of potentially hazardous coal ash ponds, and one of them is in Milledgeville. It is only one listed in Georgia. The agency says it will inspect each of the 44 sites across the country to make sure they are structurally sound. 'the ash ponds are similar to one in Tennessee that collapsed, sending ash and sludge into a neighborhood, damaging 40 homes and contaminating a river. The EPA says the sites are being listed as hazardous because they are near where people live, not because they have found any problems. Officials with Georgia Power say they inspect the coal ash pond at Plant Branch regularly and have not found any problems. Coal ash is a by product from burning coal to produce electricity.

The Bibb County Commissions has adopted its 2010 budget. It goes into effect Wednesday. The budget is just over 115-million dollars and includes a probable tax increase. That translates into an additional 13 dollars a year for a 100-thousand dollar home.

A new state law could make hundreds of Bibb County students eligible for transfers. According to the Telegraph, House Bill 251 allows parents to move their children to different schools if those schools have space. The law goes into effect Wednesday and requires school systems to notify parents about the option. The law does not allow students to transfer to newly built schools. Nineteen Bibb County schools are on the list of eligible schools. So far 50 parents have requested information about transfers.

Headlines for June 29, 2009

2009-06-29T09:12:00.002-05:00

The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to consider a last minute hearing this week for Georgia Death Row inmate Troy Davis. If the court does not decide by Tuesday to hear the case, Davis may have to wait until the fall. Davis is petitioning the court for a retrial in the 1991 murder case. He was convicted for murdering Savannah Police officer, Mark MacPhail. Since the trial, seven of nine witnesses in the case have recanted their testimony and some have indicated another man as the shooter. Today the NAACP is expected to deliver a petition with thousands of signatures to the Chatham County District Attorney. Davis is currently on death row in Jackson.

The Judicial Nominating Commission begins the task today of finding candidates to fill a vacancy on the State Supreme Court. The Commission, headed by former State Attorney General Michael Bowers will interview 38 candidates to replace Chief Justice Leah War Sears, who is stepping down. The commission expects to hold 20 minute interviews with each candidate and then make recommendations to Governor Sonny Perdue.

After two months of increases, gas prices in Georgia are expected to drop heading into the 4th of July weekend. In the last week the price for a gallon of gas has dropped 5 cents. Huge inventories and weak demand are the reasons for the decrease. Triple AAA has also predicted that 25-thousand fewer Georgians will take road trips over the holiday weekend.. More people are expected to fly, taking advantage of affordable plane tickets.

Headlines for June 25, 2009

2009-06-25T09:58:00.002-05:00

State budget cuts will cause the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame to close Sundays and Mondays, beginning July 1st. The museum will also have to lay off six workers, leaving only five full-time employees. In March, local legislators attempted to pass a bill that would allow the museum to use money from the county’s hotel/motel tax for funding, but an agreement was never reached. In the upcoming fiscal year that begins on July 1st, the Sports Hall of Fame will receive about $512,000 from the state.

Macon City Council members met Wednesday to discuss changes to retiree health benefits. Changes such as withdrawing health insurance coverage for future retirees, charging retirees more for retirement health insurance and changing city policy for new hires, informing them at their time of hire that they won’t have city health insurance after they retire were proposed during the meeting. No action has been taken on any proposals because council members say they need more time. The changes will not affect current retirees but futures ones, which may cause workers to retire early. A change already made compels city employees to pay monthly premiums that will increase August 1st to about $113 per month. Next month, the council’s Employee Development and Compensation Committee meet.

Headlines for June 24, 2009

2009-06-24T09:30:00.002-05:00

The Macon City Council has approved its 2010 budget. Despite the approval, officials know they may have to revisit the budget in coming months because of declining revenues. The 112-million dollar budget includes cuts to funds set aside to close Macon's landfill. Dollars were also cut from the city's vehicle maintenance budget and there will be less money to pay fuel costs. City employees will not get a raise, but they will also not face furloughs or unpaid vacations. However, the city council is still waiting for a report that could recommend cutting more than 100 jobs from city payrolls at a later date.

Meanwhile, Fort Hawkins is getting a new visitors center. An empty service station on Emery Highway will also house an office, and classroom. Marty Willett is with the all volunteer Fort Hawkins Commission. He says the center will educate visitors and let them know of the fort's future plans. "How we want to keep archaeology going on in Middle Georgia forever. How we have plans to rebuild the fort. How we have plans to practice living history every day here." Willett says the commission will raise the money needed to renovate the new facility. The building was made available through a land swap involving the city, Mercer University, and a donation from the Peyton Anderson Foundation.

Agricultural experts say South Georgia's blueberry crop is in good shape. Originally they thought it would be a bad year, but yields are turning out higher than expected.

Headlines for June 23, 2009

2009-06-23T09:15:00.002-05:00

Mercer University has received a 5-million dollar grant to help revitalize the neighborhood near its Macon campus. The Knight Foundation is giving the College Hill Corridor Commission the money to implement a master plan to fix up parks, bring in businesses and enhance the local arts scene. Mercer President, Bill Underwood says the money will help increase public and private investment in the 1.5 mile stretch. "It can provide a catalyst to generating the resources necessary to make the College Hill Corridor an even more attractive, livable, lively, and sustainable residential commercial and recreational district in the heart of our historic neighborhoods." The grant could help bring even more money to the area. Congressman Jim Marshall has included close to 6-million dollars in transportation funding for the project in a bill now before Congress. Mercer says it will match a portion of those funds if the bill is approved.

A soldier with Georgia's 48th Brigade has died in Afghanistan. Sgt. John Blair of Calhoun died over the weekend after a grenade struck his vehicle. He was assigned to the brigade's 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry base in Lawrenceville. He's the fourth member of the 48th killed since soldiers began arriving in Afghanistan in May. More than 2-thousand members of the 48th based in Macon have been deployed to Afghanistan to help train the country's police and security forces.

Headlines for June 22, 2009

2009-06-22T08:21:00.002-05:00

Convicted Perry physician, Spurgeon Green is being sentenced this week. According to the Telegraph, he faces up to 20 years in prison. Back in November a federal jury convicted him of wrongfully prescribing medications that led to the death of a patient. He was also convicted for postdating prescriptions. Prosecutors referred to his medical practice as a "pill mill". Green also dismissed his first attorney and was assigned court-appointed counsel. He later asked the judge to remove that lawyer. The judge denied his request and told him to either accept that counsel or represent himself.

A judge has sided with Macon-based Security Bank in a lawsuit. Former CEO Rhett Walker filed the suit alleging breach of contract after the bank failed to pay him more than 800-thousand dollars in severance pay. The bank claimed they could not pay him because the Federal Reserve deemed the money a "Golden Parachute" payment. The term is used to describe payments to executives of troubled banks. Walker claims the money was supposed to be paid months before the bank was deemed to be in troubled condition. Security Bank is currently under a cease and desist order from the FDIC and under federal regulation.

Federal regulators have shut down another Georgia bank. Southern Community Bank in Fayetteville will now be run by United Community Bank of Blairsville. The Federal deposit Insurance Corporation estimates that Southern Community bank's failure will cost the insurance fund 114-million dollars.

Headlines for June 19, 2009

2009-06-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

Dozens of employees from the Medical Center in Macon showed up at the Bibb County Commission meeting on Thursday to protest cuts to the hospital. The county's proposed 2010 budget removes nearly 75-percent of funding for indigent care. That amounts to nearly 3-million dollars. Officials with the Medical Center claim indigent care will cost them about 17-million dollars next year. Last year the Medical Center laid off more than 200 employees and they warn more layoffs could come if they do not get more funding. Some commissioners suggested the Medical Center dip into their reserves of 3-400 million dollars to cover any shortfalls.

Officials say a federal cease and desist order against Colonial Bank will have no effect on day-to-day operations. The FDIC order imposes more federal oversight and management and requires the bank to take steps to increase capital and decrease problem loans. Colonial Bank has three branches in Macon and one in Warner Robins. Macon-based Security Bank has been under a similar order since April.

Last night strong storms moved through some parts of middle Georgia bringing high winds. In Washington County some people lost power after winds took down trees and power lines. Damage was also reported in Johnson, Peach, Monroe, and Bibb counties. Power has been restored to most customers.

Headlines for June 18, 2009

2009-06-18T08:43:00.003-05:00

Engineers with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers were in Macon Wednesday inspecting the levee. More than a year ago they contacted the City of Macon and told them they had to remove trees and make repairs or risk losing certification. Losing that certification could make it hard to get flood insurance and federal assistance in the event of a flood. Phil Smith is with the Corps and headed up the inspection. "We just kind of walk along at a slow pace just looking for any visual signs that there's any like animal burrow's or erosion or trees getting too close to the toe of the levee." The City in partnership with the Macon Water Authority spent months and hundreds of thousands of dollars removing trees and making repairs. They are hoping for a good report from the Corps in the coming weeks.

The Macon Water Authority is celebrating an award from the American Water Works Association. The group named Macon as having the best tasting water in the nation. Macon Mayor, Robert Reichert says he's proud of their achievement. "I'm delighted for the Macon Water Authority that they have achieved this level of distinction where they are recognized nationwide as having the best tasting water in the country." Macon competed against other regional winners from across the country. Macon's water comes from the Ocmulgee River.

Headlines for June 17, 2009

2009-06-17T10:44:00.001-05:00

Bibb County officials are planning to get together in July to consider an additional penny on sale tax. According to the Telegraph a vote on the Special Purpose Local option Sales Tax could not take place until November, but could raise the millions of dollars needed to fund a new courthouse. If voters approve the tax it would probably raise enough money to fund additional projects. County officials say they'll look at other eligible projects such as storm water improvements.

In Houston County, officials have approved their 2010 budget. The nearly 108-million dollar's includes an increase in the general fund, meaning property taxes will go up. The new budget also includes several road improvement projects.

The Perry City council has adopted its new budget as well. Officials cut funds for a drug prevention program but ended up keeping a school officer originally scheduled to be cut. The cost of their new budget is just over 10-million dollars.

Mothers Against Drunk Drivers is no longer operating in Middle Georgia. The mover comes after local MADD volunteers spoke out against Bibb County Sheriff, Jerry Modena, who testified on behalf of a friend convicted of driving drunk. The volunteers believe the state MADD office did not do enough to support their position. The work that used to be done in Macon will now be handled out of Atlanta.

Headlines for June 16, 2009

2009-06-16T09:37:00.004-05:00

The Warner Robins City council is looking at raising the mayor's salary. The ordinance would raise the mayor's pay from 100 to 125-thousand dollars a year. The move would also raise city council pay by more than 2-thousand dollars. The increase would not go into effect until January of next year. Current Mayor Donald Walker says he is against raising the mayoral salary during these trying times. The proposal would affect the new mayor who will take office in January. City elections will be held in November and Walkers says he is planning on running. Tax payers will have a chance to comment on the proposal before any vote is taken.

Some City council members in Macon want to shrink the size of that political body. Erick Erickson and Nancy White say 15 council members are too many. They prefer 11. They submitted a resolution to the council's ordinances and resolution committee. Their idea is to remove all but one of the citywide Post One seats. This would save 40-thousand dollars in salaries. Prior attempts to cut the size of city council have failed. In a separate resolution they're also asking that the city end partisan elections. Macon is the only city in the state that still holds them.

A new car dealership has opened in Macon. Kia Motors will replace the Saturn dealership at Hutchison Auto Mall. This is the second Kia dealership to open in Middle Georgia in the last few months. In October, Riverside Ford sold its Kia dealership to Jeff Smith Chrysler in Perry. The Korean Kia is currently building a new plant in the Columbus area.

Just one year ago, researchers at the University of Georgia predicted blueberries would emerge as a profitable fruit crop in Georgia. This year, high-gusting winds, cold temperatures, and flooding rains ruined nearly fifty percent of the harvest. In an already struggling economy, market demand for blueberries has also decreased, farmers are getting less money for the crop and quality is low. Despite these challenges, growers in Georgia’s southeastern blueberry belt remain optimistic. They’re already planning next year’s crop.

Headlines for Tuesday, April 21, 2009

2009-04-21T07:45:00.003-05:00

Property values up in Bibb County following tax reevaluation

Following a recent reevaluation, property tax values in Bibb County are going up an average of 30-percent. Bibb County has not had an accurate reevaluation for several years, even though state law requires one. The state has fined Bibb County 500-thousand dollars because of that. The Board of Tax Assessors plans to send out notices to property owners on May 1, 2009. They will be given time to file an appeal. However, taxes may or may not go up. They are determined based on property values and local millage rates, set each year by local governments. The Board of Assessors will meet on Friday to approve the reevaluation,

Massive development approved despite resident's protests

The Bibb County Planning and Zoning Commission has approved a major housing development at the corner of Bass Road and Rivoli Drive. The controversial project has angered neighbors who say the Founders Pond development is too large. The commission is asking developers to scale back the number of apartments, townhouses, and assisted living homes. More than 100 residents showed up at the meeting to voice their opposition.

Warner Robins switches from gas chamber to lethal injection

The City of Warner Robins has changed the way it euthanizes stray animals. Mayor Donald Walker says they originally planned to wait until the new shelter was opened to make the switch from the gas chamber to lethal injection. However, opposition from several people in the community caused them to make the switch earlier. Warner Robins has come under fire in the past for its use of the gas chamber. The City of Macon is also scheduled to make the switch in the coming months.

News Headlines for March 10, 2009

2009-03-10T04:55:00.002-05:00

Thirty-nine people have been arrested after a lengthy drug investigation. The operation included law enforcement from Jones, Bibb, Twiggs, and Butts Counties. Police say the drug network was responsible for bringing methamphetamine from Atlanta to middle Georgia. The investigation started after Jones County Police made a traffic stop, and began surveillance on a man and woman in Macon. Police hope the arrests will slow the flow of meth between Atlanta and Macon. More arrests are expected in the case.

State lawmakers have moved to restrict embryonic stem cell research in Georgia. The move comes after President Barack Obama lifted a ban on using federal money for that propose. A State Senate panel quickly approved the measure after a subcommittee approved it earlier in the day. The bill defines an embryo as a person and bans the destruction of an embryo for scientific research. Critics say it would inhibit a recently surging bio tech business in Georgia.

Attorneys for U.S. Seanator Saxby Chambliss are heading to Savannah to fight a subpoena by an attorney suing the Imperial Sugar Company. Attorney Mark Tate wants to question Chambliss about whether company executives asked him to help them avoid blame in the 2007 explosion at their refinery in Port Wentworth. Senate lawyers claim Chambliss is immune from being deposed under a clause in the Constitution which prohibits members of Congress from testifying about legislative business in business lawsuits.

News Headlines for October, 2, 2008

2008-10-02T10:41:00.003-05:00

Eighth District Congressional candidate, Rick Goddard is criticizing Congressman Jim Marshall for his vote on the 700-billion dollar bailout package. Marshall is just one of two Georgia House members who supported the measure, which failed in the House. Goddard says he would have voted against the plan. Just last night the Senate passed a similar measure. Georgia's two Republican Senators, Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson, both voted in favor of the plan.

The Carl Vinson VA Medical center is opening an outpatient clinic in Perry later this month. This means some veterans will not have to travel so far medical care. Veteran's can come to the clinic for primary care, mental health care, as well as eye exams and nutritional advice. Officials with the VA say the goal is to be able to treat patients closer to their homes.

The Georgia National Fair opens today in Perry. The ten day event is the largest fair in the state. Last year nearly 450-thousand people attended. The fairs Michelle Treptow says in light of the tough economic times organizers are changing their marketing strategy this year.

"We know that people have not been taking the big vacations, that they're staying closer to home. Thus the concept, staycation. Well we've taken that a further step and we're calling it a faircation. We're inviting everyone to come out to the Georgia national Fair October 2-12 and enjoy a faircation."

The fair is also important to Middle Georgia's economy. Each fair visitor spends an average of fifty dollars.

Headlines for September 25, 2008

2008-09-25T05:39:00.004-05:00

DayJet discontinues service into Macon

DayJet has discontinued service into the Macon Downtown Airport. The on-demand air service company made it possible for customers to fly into sixty cities across the Southeast for a yearly membership fee and the cost of a ticket. Officials with the Florida-based company say they were unable to arrange financing to continue operations. They will not honor reservations or issue refunds. Atlanta-based ImagineAir is a similar service. They serve more than 600 airports across the Southeast and say they will pick up many of DayJet's abandoned routes. They will fly out of Macon's Middle Georgia Regional Airport.

Medical Center of Central Georgia cutting millions from its budget

The Medical Center of Central Georgia is attempting to cut 33-million dollars from its budget. Hospital officials sent an email to employees and trustees informing them of the cuts. The hospital is in the midst of an initiative to reduce costs and has asked employees for their input. They say operating margins are the weakest in recent memory. They also cite state budget cuts, increased competition, and reductions in the number of patients. They say job cuts are likely as a result of the upcoming changes.

Flu vaccines are coming soon

Several local health departments in Middle Georgia will begin offering flu vaccines next week. They say supplies are good this year and that they should have plenty of the vaccines on hand. In recent years shortages have plagued doctors and health departments across the country. Officials say the elderly and very young are particularly at-risk for the flu. Flu kills around 36-thousand Americans every year.

Headlines for September 24, 2008

2008-09-24T09:40:00.004-05:00

Bibb County Grand Jury issues more indictments

A Bibb Coutny Grand Jury has re indicted four men involved in the shooting death of a Bibb County Sheriff's deputy. Damon Jolly and Antron fair are already charged with the murder of Deputy Joseph Whitehead, who was shot and killed while serving a no-knock warrant. The additional charges name Thomas Porter and Hassan Harclerode and include drug and gun possession, aggravated assault, and additional counts of murder. Jolly is scheduled to go on trial in January. A judge ruled that those proceedings will take place in Savannah. Jolly and Fair both face the death penalty if convicted.

Trial begins for Perry doctor

A trial is underway for a Perry doctor. Dr. Spurgeon Green is accused of prescribing medication that caused the deaths of seven patients. Prosecutors allege he prescribed vast amounts of painkillers, sometimes seeing more than 150 patients in one day. He is also accused of manipulating medical records. Defense attorney's say he was an affordable physician who was also a certified pain specialist. A physician's assistant and pharmacist are also charged in the case.

Bibb County School students are putting on their walking shoes

A new policy is taking some Bibb County students off the bus. The school system sent letters to the parents of children who live within 1 1/2 miles of their schools. They will now be required to walk. Officials say 45-hundred students live within designated walk zones. The State of Georgia will not provide funding for bus transportation for kids in walking zones. The school system says the changes are as a result of Governor Sonny Perdue's budget cuts.

Headlines for September 23, 2008

2008-09-23T10:54:00.002-05:00

DOT Chief in Macon

Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner, Gena Evans was in Macon Monday evening. The city was the first stop on a seven city statewide listening tour. The audience was filled with residents and politicians who were there to give input on local roads projects. More than fifty groups have banded together to try and block the proposed changed to the I-16/I-75 Interchange. They attended the hearing, but left with little hope that the project would be scaled back. Macon Mayor, Robert Reichert supports the 300-million dollar plan for the highway. He says interstates are good for Macon.

"I for one appreciate the fact that the interstate highway system runs through Macon. I think it has been a key to our success thus far. I think it is a big part of our promise for the future."

Commissioner Evans also expressed her support for commuter rail service and the use of tolls to fund road projects.

Macon City Council looks at alcohol tax

The Macon City Council is not showing much enthusiasm for Mayor Robert Reichert's proposed alcohol tax. The mayor's administration requested the 3-percent tax as a way to raise revenue. Council officials say the new tax would drive business away from the city to the county. They suggest the city work with the county to pass a similar tax at the same time.

Macon's Drought Plan

2007-11-13T13:54:00.000-05:00

Emergency workers are preparing for possible drought relief with help from Macon.

In 1994 Tropical Storm Alberto flooded Macon. The city's water treatment plant shut down and residents spent 21 days without water.

Now as the state's record drought continues, Macon officials are helping others around the state plan on how to live without water. Johnny Wingers is with Bibb County's Emergency Management Agency. He coordinated the relief in 1994 and says two things are very important.

"First thing is porta potties. Then they thought no water, no sanitation you know. The next thing they thought of was the number of volunteers it's going to take to run this operation."

During the flood Wingers and 23-hundred volunteers set up water distribution points with help from FEMA and the National Guard. He will train more emergency workers in December.

News Headlines for November 5, 2007

2007-11-05T08:40:00.000-05:00

Jury selection begins today in Baldwin County, On trial is one of four men accused of several violent crimes over Labor Day weekend in 2006. Rafael Crawford is the only one in the group to not plead guilty. The others have already been sentenced for crimes that range from manslaughter to armed robbery. Police officials say the weekend was memorable for the large number of violent crimes that took place.

Bibb County Commissioners gathered for a retreat over the weekend. The group discussed several issues including consolidation, education, and raising the sales tax. One of the major sticking points was the power of Commission Chair, Charlie Bishop. Some of those present said they were uncomfortable with the fact that he is entitled to vote on every committee. They say this ties up the vote on many issues. Newly elected Commissioner Lonzy Edwards called for the retreat.

The Governors of Georgia, Alabama, and Florida may be nearing an agreement in the tug-of-war over water. The three states have been locked in a bitter battle over water rights since 1990. An epic drought in the Southeast has intensified the fight. Governor Perdue called the meeting pleasant to some degree. The group reached a short term agreement to reduce the amount of water flowing downstream out of Lake Lanier by 16%. Georgia and Alabama are still locked in lawsuits with the Army Corps of Engineers who control water releases from Lake Lanier.

In sports the Mercer women's basketball team opened its season with a 92-63 victory over Georgia College in an exhibition game on Saturday. The regular season starts November 9th.

Headlines for Monday, October 15, 2007

2007-10-15T08:19:00.000-05:00

Bibb County will begin a new property tax evaluation in the coming weeks. Tyler CLT will handle most of the work. The work will cost the county about 2-million dollars. The Bibb County Commission expects to approve the contract this week.

Closing arguments are expected today in a Milledgeville murder trial. Brian Duane Brookins was found guilty over the weekend for shooting his wife and stepdaughter. The prosecution has asked for the death penalty in the case. Brookins lawyers say their client is mentally retarded and therefore should not qualify for the death penalty.

Macon police are still looking for the killer of Macon businessman Waldo Sheftall. Police now say they believe he knew his killer. Last week police discovered Sheftall dead in his Washington Avenue home of multiple gunshot wounds. Funeral arrangements are still pending.

Headlines for Friday, October 12, 2007

2007-10-12T08:39:00.000-05:00

Macon police detectives continue to investigate a murder that has shocked the community. Local businessman and community volunteer Waldo Sheftall was found shot to death in his Washington Avenue home late Wednesday evening. Police say robbery may have been the motive and that no suspects have been arrested at this time.

Meanwhile a double murder trial is continuing in Milledgeville. Brian Duane Brookins is accused of murdering his wife and step-daughter and faces the death penalty. Defense attorneys put a psychiatrist on the stand Thursday who testified that Brookins is mentally retarded. Prosecutors dispute these findings saying the defendant has an IQ of 72. Legally a person must have an IQ of 70 to be considered mentally retarded. Those found mentally retarded cannot face the death penalty.

Bibb County's Chief Tax Appraiser, Jim Davis, is staying in Macon. Davis was offered a job in Glynn County but turned it down. This means he will oversee a massive reevaluation project set to begin in a few weeks.

A Macon woman remains in jail after being charged with theft. Trudy Rutland is accused of stealing nearly a quarter million dollars from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth. Investigators discovered the theft after the center's anniversary celebration. Proceeds from the celebration could not be found, and when officials checked the account they discovered the shortage.

A Bolingbroke zebra is back home. Ziggy was given back to his owners after they paid fines and fees to the Department of Natural Resources. Officials confiscated the animal in August saying the family did not have the proper permits.

Headlines for Thursday, October 11, 2007

2007-10-11T08:16:00.000-05:00

Macon Mayor, Jack Ellis is refusing to sign off on a deal to build a hotel in the parking lot of the Wilson Convention Center. The documents, awaiting his signature, will secure bond financing and allow construction to begin. But, attorney's say the project will move forward with or without his signature. The Macon-Bibb County Urban Development Authority has already approved the deal. Macon City Council President, Anita Ponder says she can sign the documents if the mayor continues to refuse to do so.

Georgia College and State University will move forward with plans to buy and renovate Milledgeville's Downtown Campus Theatre. According to the Telegraph the State Board of Regents will fund the project to convert the Art Deco facility into a bookstore and performance space. The board also approved a new stadium for Fort Valley State University.

On Wednesday a Central State Hospital psychiatrist testified in a Milledgeville murder trial. The doctor said Brian Duane Brookins, accused of a double murder, is not mentally retarded and therefore competent to stand trial. She did say that he suffers from several personality disorders. Brookins is accused of killing his wife and step-daughter and faces the death penalty.

For the first time in years the flu vaccine is here on time. Starting Monday the Bibb County Health Department will begin its week long flu shot clinic. The shots cost 25 dollars.

Three members of a prominent Mennonite family from Montezuma have survived a plane crash in Virginia. Richard Yoder, his brother Wade and father Melvin Yoder remain hospitalized after their small plane was flipped by a strong gust of wind while landing. They are listed in fair condition and expected to recover.

In today's weather we'll have mostly sunny skies with a high of 78 degrees. Tonight skies will remain clear and the temperature will dip to 45.

Headlines for Tuesday, October 9, 2007

2007-10-09T08:08:00.000-05:00

Lawyers for a Baldwin County man, accused of killing his wife and step-daughter, say he suffers from mental illness and mental retardation and therefore should not receive the death penalty. Brian Duane Brookins is accused of shooting and killing the two women and faces the death penalty. His trial is underway in Milledgeville.

Bibb County's Chief Tax Appraiser, Jim Davis, has still not accepted a job in Glynn County. Davis was offered the top appraisers position just as Bibb County is set to begin a massive reevaluation. Glynn County officials say they are still looking for someone to fill the position.

A local teach has announced that he will run against Congressman Jim Marshall in the Democratic primary for the Eighth Congressional District. Robert Nowak, who lives in Macon but works in Warner Robins, joins Macon Mayor Jack Ellis in the growing field of potential candidates. Nowak says he disagrees with Marshall on funding for children's health care programs and the Iraq War.

Macon Mayor, Jack Ellis, has reserved the city council chambers this evening for a celebration. The mayor, along with the Macon Islamic Center, will host an event to mark the end of the Islamic holiday, Ramadan. Ramadan does not officially end until Friday. The event includes a panel discussion and a community feast. Ellis converted to Islam last December.

In today's weather we'll have partly cloudy skies with a high of 91 degrees. There's a 20% chance of rain this afternoon.

Headlines for Monday, October 8,2007

2007-10-08T07:52:00.000-05:00

The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday. On Georgia over 6-million people are eligible to vote, but just over 5-million are registered. Registration is open to all legal residents over the age of 18. Voters casting ballots in person must have valid forms of photo ID when they show up to vote.

According to the Telegraph two deputy appraisers in the Bibb County tax Assessors office continue to receive the same pay, even though they have been demoted. The two men were moved from their deputy chief positions, but kept their salaries of nearly 75-thousand dollars a year. Officials say it's because county policy only allows them to reduce workers wages when they can prove poor performance.

Middle Georgia Technical College in Warner Robins is experiencing record enrollment. This Fall there was a seven percent jump in students. The campus leads all other technical schools in the state in both enrollment and the number of credit hours their students are taking. Officials cite a strong economy, low unemployment, and population growth as reasons. They also attribute the rise to programs that work closely with local businesses and others that allow dual enrollment at local high schools and the college.

The Washington County Sheriffs office has arrested a man and charged him with setting a fire that destroyed Holly Springs Baptist Church in June. Kevin Tanner was arrested after police found the meter box from the church at his home. He is also a possible suspect in an arson fire that destroyed Mount Sinai Baptist Church around the same time.

Today's weather partly cloudy with a high of 88 degrees.

Napier Home May Be Saved

2007-08-28T08:23:00.000-05:00

The City of Morrow is trying to save a historic home in Macon. The Napier house, built in 1842, will be torn down if nobody steps forward to move it. The home is being demolished to build a new Central High School. Morrow officials plan to cut the home in four sections and reassemble it on their own site. Morrow has moved other structures to their, "Olde Town" development in an effort to create a downtown. Morrow will pay up to 200-thousand dollars to move the home.

Cemetary Vandals

2007-08-28T08:14:00.000-05:00

A third Bibb County cemetery has been hit by vandals. According to the Bibb County Sheriffs Department the thefts occurred in the last week. Criminals took bronze plaques, used to mark military graves, and hundreds of brass vases. Police report that the thefts have also occurred in Atlanta.

News for Tuesday, August 28, 2007

2007-08-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

The City of Warner Robins turned out in force last night to welcome home their world champions. The Warner Robins American Little League team returned home after winning their final game Sunday against japan. Team manager, Mickey Lay, encouraged the hundreds in the crowd to give the boys a big welcome.

"When these guys walk out of this bus, I want them to know they are world champions, which I know they are. But I also want them to know that all y'all are part of it. This is a championship for Warner Robins, the State of Georgia, and the United States."

The city will celebrate the teams victory on Saturday with a parade and rally in Warner Robins.

News for Thursday, August 23, 2007

2007-08-23T08:44:00.000-05:00

The Bibb County Commission says it will not accept Monroe County's latest decision on a border dispute. They claim a recent survey is not accurate, and that the border needs to stay where it has been for the last 100 years. Monroe officials adopted a survey this week that puts the new Bass Pro retail center within their borders.

The city of Forsyth has settled one of five racial discrimination lawsuits. Former police officer, Elijah James, says he no longer believes his dismissal was racially motivated. The seventeen year veteran was let go after he refused to force a relative, who was a convicted felon, to move from his property. Lawsuits by four other former city employees are still pending.

The Small Business Administration is making loans available to businesses in Georgia hurt by the drought. The federal money is available to farm and non-farm related businesses that have lost money due to the weather.

The Warner Robins American little league team is advancing to the semi-finals in the Little League World Championships. They beat New England on Wednesday by a score of 8-1. They face off against the Western region (Arizona) tonight at 7:30pm.

News for Wednesday, August 22, 2007

2007-08-22T05:53:00.000-05:00

The Macon City Council has approved an ordinance preventing city money from being spent on travel to countries that do not support anti-terrorism efforts. The legislation comes in response to a letter Mayor Jack Ellis sent to Venezuelan officials declaring solidarity and expressing admiration. That letter was later read by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez in a radio address. The mayor later announced plans to visit Venezuela, angering residents and city officials. The council members present at the meeting voted unanimously to pass the measure.

The Bibb County Commission has voted to raise taxes. This is the first increase since 2004. Commissioner Joe Allen cast the only dissenting vote. The increase does not include a recent tax hike by the Bibb County Board of Education, city taxes, or state exemptions.

The Monroe County Commission is one step closer to resolving a boundary dispute with Bibb County. Monroe commissioners voted to approve a boundary set by a 2004 survey. The line would move the boundary further south, placing much of the Bass Pro retail center in Monroe County. However, Monroe officials say they would allow Bibb County to collect tax revenue from that development. Bibb County disputes the proposed property line.

The Warner Robins American Little League Team will wait until today to resume play. The game was stopped last night due to rain. The game will be today at 11:00am on ESPN2. Warner Robins leads New England 2-0 in the second inning.

Weather for today. Hot and sunny with a high of 102. Heat advisory is in effect. The heat index will make it feel like 103.

News for Tuesday, August 21, 2007

2007-08-21T10:06:00.000-05:00

The Macon City Council will take up a new ordinance when it meets tonight. The document bans the use of city funds for travel outside the United States to countries the U.S. Government deems uncooperative in combating terrorism. Mayor Jack Ellis angered residents and city leaders when he sent a letter to Venezuelan officials declaring solidarity. He also announced plans to visit Venezuela. City Council wants to prevent such a trip from taking place at city expense. The mayor plans to return to Macon on Monday, following trips to Africa and England.

Macon officials will have to dip into a savings account to keep the city afloat. The account was created last year in an attempt to avoid taking out a short term, tax anticipation note. For the last three years the city has borrowed millions of dollars to meet expenses, until property tax bills are sent out. Officials say the cash flow problem could be more severe than first thought.

In Jones County a property tax reevaluation is making things difficult for the Jones County Commission and School Board. The tax digest is being held up after nearly 2-thousand appeals were filed. The tax digest can n0t be set with that many appeals pending. The reevaluation was needed due to increases in property values in Jones County over the last five years.

The4 Warner Robins American Little League team plays tonight at six, at the Little League World Championships. Last nights scheduled game was postponed due to weather.

In today's weather we'll have partly cloudy skies with a high of 99 degrees.

News for Monday, August 20, 2007

2007-08-20T08:46:00.000-05:00

A soldier from Winder, Georgia says he did nothing wrong. Army specialist Christopher Phillip Shore says he was ordered to kill a man in Northern Iraq, but purposely missed him. He says the bullets that hit the man were fired from far away. The man died two days later from his wounds. Shore and his commander were later charged with murder. The Army will hold a hearing on the case in the fall.

Children covered by Peach Care could have a hard time finding dental care. The state is terminating contracts with two of its largest dental providers, Help a Child Smile and Kool Smiles. The changes could affect 110-thousand children. State officials are hoping to adopt a single administrator program that allows individual dentists to sign up as providers, and increases reimbursements.

The Bibb County School Board is taking applications. The board needs to fill a position left vacant by board member Terry Tripp, who resigned to run for a seat on the Bibb County Commission. Applicants must live in the District One area which includes; Northeast High School, Appling Middle School, and Burdell-Hunt Elementary. Applications will be taken through the end of the month.

A loss by New England means the Warner Robins American Little League team is still in the running. That loss evens up all the teams, 1-1. The boys play New England tonight at 6:00pm on ESPN 2. If they win that game they will advance to the next round. The boys made it to the Little League World Championship in Williamsport, Pennsylvania after winning the Southeast Regional Championships.

Weather: Partly cloudy skies with a high of 98 degrees. Heat index of 103.

New symphony CEO

2007-05-24T08:40:00.000-05:00

The Macon Symphony Orchestra has a new CEO. After a yearlong search the board hired Eugene Carinci of Portland, Maine. The new CEO will focus on fundraising and boosting attendance. Two issues faced by symphonies all over the country. Carinci has experience as both an administrator and musician.

Hamilton Elementary says goodbye

2007-05-24T08:37:00.000-05:00

Hamilton Elementary School is closing its doors after fifty-three years. The Bibb County elementary school held its final sixth grade graduation on Wednesday. The school serves children in the Unionville neighborhood. In March the school board voted to close Hamilton citing declining enrollment. Students from Hamilton will be moved to Hartley Elementary.

Commuter rail talks in Atlanta

2007-05-24T08:33:00.000-05:00

Officials met in Atlanta Wednesday to discuss commuter rail, again. Former State Representative, Larry Walker, who serves on the board of the Department of Transportation says it's time to make a decision on the rail issue. Some of the option's discussed; going ahead with the Atlanta-Lovejoy portion of the line, hiring a consultant, or getting rid of the project all together. DOT officials say plans for a Macon to Atlanta route are not looking good.

Help coming for Middle Georgia farmers

2007-05-24T08:28:00.000-05:00

Middle Georgia farmers will be getting some help from the Federal Government. The U.S. Farm Service Agency says 152 counties around the state will be eligible for low-interest loans. An Easter eve freeze damaged or destroyed many crops. The cold weather caused 258-million dollars in damage statewide. Hardest hit were blueberries, peaches and pecans.

Peach crop is worse than expected

2007-05-17T07:59:00.000-05:00

Damage to the Middle Georgia peach crop is far worse than expected. After a freeze on Easter weekend, damage estimates were about 50 percent. However, farmers now estimate the losses at 80 percent. Officials from the Peach County Extension office say the reduced crop also means five hundred fewer migrant workers will be coming to the area. These workers contribute to the local economy. Officials with Lane Packing, one of the largest growers in the area, say the freeze is the third worst in the company's 100 year history.

Macon-Bibb tax assessors get to work

2007-05-17T07:54:00.000-05:00

The new Macon-Bibb County Board of Tax Assessors is up and running. The board elected Bill Vaughn as Chairman, and voted to mail out the 2007 tax notices. The new assessors took office after the Bibb County Commissioners voted to remove the previous board. They came under fire after 18-thousand property owners appealed their assessments. There is still one vacancy to be filled on the new board.

Macon Marine dies in Iraq

2007-05-17T07:27:00.000-05:00

A Macon Marine died fighting in the Anbar Province of Iraq on Monday. The United States Department of the Military says Cpl. Jeffrey Walker joined the Marines in 2004 and was stationed at Camp Lejune, North Carolina. Cpl. Walker was assigned to combat logistics and deployed to Iraq earlier this year. He received the Iraq Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Sea Service Ribbon prior to his death.

Animal cruelty suspects charged

2007-05-16T07:03:00.000-05:00

Three Macon teenagers have been arrested and charged with animal cruelty. Two 14-year old's and a 13-year old are accused of setting a dog on fire. The dog was still alive when fire officials arrived on the scene, but died soon after. Animal advocates are calling this one of the worst cases of animal cruelty they have ever seen.

Oil spill cleanup

2007-05-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

It's been more than a month since an oil spill was discovered in a drainage ditch near Central City Park. The spill originated at the City of Macon's vehicle maintenance department, and quickly spread. The city will have to spend 130-thousand dollars to clean up the mess. The City Council is hoping the Environmental Protection Agency will help pay for the cleanup.

Commissioner Sam Hart steps down

2007-05-16T06:57:00.000-05:00

Bibb County Commissioner Sam Hart has formally stepped down. Hart was forced to leave office after purchasing a new home and moving out of his district. However, he is not leaving politics. Hart says he will run for Chairperson of the Bibb County Commission during the next election. Harts departure leaves the commission with two Republicans and two Democrats.

Rick Hutto annouces run for citywide council seat

2007-05-16T06:53:00.000-05:00

Macon City Councilman, Rick Hutto is leaving his Ward 1 council seat to run for a citywide post. He will run against Councilwoman Brenda Youmas who defeated him in 2003. Hutto says he stands a better chance this time because of his record on council. Formal qualifying for the race is in June.