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.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Headlines for June 30, 2009
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.
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.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Headlines for June 29, 2009
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.
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.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Headlines for June 25, 2009
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.
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.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Headlines for June 24, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Headlines for June 23, 2009
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.
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.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Headlines for June 22, 2009
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.
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.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Headlines for June 19, 2009
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.
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.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Headlines for June 18, 2009
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.
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.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Headlines for June 17, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Headlines for June 16, 2009
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.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Headlines for Tuesday, April 21, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
News Headlines for March 10, 2009
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.
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.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
News Headlines for October, 2, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Headlines for September 25, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Headlines for September 24, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Headlines for September 23, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Macon's Drought Plan
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.
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.
Monday, November 5, 2007
News Headlines for November 5, 2007
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.
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.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Headlines for Monday, October 15, 2007
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.
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.
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