News-Reporter

Washington-Wilkes work force academy gets state approval: 'This is our future...'

By KIP BURKE news editor — 07/03/2008

After years of work, the development of a Washington-Wilkes workforce academy has been approved by the state of Georgia to meet the pressing needs of the Wilkes County work force and employers. "This is our future," said team member Ed Geddings.

Celebrate the Fourth with 8 a.m. parade, stay for fun, food, fireworks on Square

07/03/2008

Tomorrow's annual Washington- Wilkes Fourth of July observance will start early with an 8 a.m. parade and end with a big fireworks display on The Square, said Tourism Director Ashley Barnett.

Registration opens July 11 for Miss Wilkes Co. Pageant set for Sept. 27 at Pope Ctr.

07/03/2008

Registration will open July 11 for the Second Annual Miss Wilkes County Pageant, set for September 27, and this year the pageant will include little boys. "We have set the date for our Second Annual Miss Wilkes County Pageant and we're very excited!" said Ashley Barnett, who is co-directing the event with Ed Franklin.

City of Washington designated Certified City of Ethics by GMA

07/03/2008

The City of Washington has now joined some 200 Georgia cities that are designated "Certified Cities of Ethics." City Councilmen Pamela Eaton, Nathaniel Cullars, Edward Pope Jr., Maceo Mahoney, and Ames Barnett were present to receive the designation at the Georgia Municipal Association's Annual Convention June 24.

Fire hits Metasville barn full of hay

07/03/2008

Fire fighters from all over Wilkes County turned out to fight a stubborn hay fire last Thursday evening on the Metasville Road near the Lincoln County line. Neighbors who reported the fire said the property owner was Brian Collins, who was out of town at the time of the fire. He lost a barn half full of increasingly valuable hay and a nice tractor, a neighbor said. Dozens of fire fighters from Metasville, Tignall, Washington, Rayle, and others turned out to haul and pump the thousands of gallons of water it took to fight the fire and ensure it did not reflash in the dry, hot, and windy conditions. Fire fighters warn that the county is tinder-dry and ask that everyone take special care to prevent fires.

Washington mayor elected to GMA leadership position

07/03/2008

Washington Mayor Willie Burns was elected to the board of directors for the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) during the association's annual meeting in Savannah June 24. Burns will serve as president of GMA's 7th District.

Eight candidates run for Probate Judge as Wilkes nonpartisan qualifying ends

07/03/2008

Qualifying for nonpartisan offices ended Friday with a change in the District 3 Board of Education seat, and numerous candidates for probate judge. Wilkes County Supervisor of Elections Judge Jim Burton said that, as of press time, eight candidates have qualified for Probate Judge, two for Magistrate Judge, and three for a Board of Education seat.

Amos Martin Invitational tournament set for July 5-6 on Country Club's course

07/03/2008

The stage is set for some serious record setting in the 81st playing of the Amos Martin Invitational golf tournament set for this weekend, July 5-6 at the Washington-Wilkes Country Club. Billy Craycraft is positioned to become the tournament's only five-time winner and also the only back-to-back-to-back winner.

Collection of historic bottles featured at historical museum

07/03/2008

The Washington Historical Museum is presenting a collection of historic bottles in its new exhibit, "Checking Out the Past in Glass: The Collection of Bill Baab, Jr." The exhibit opened July 1 and will run through September 30.

Rotary leadership changes hands

07/03/2008

Outgoing president of the Washington Rotary Club Paula Stevens reminded members of the meaning of being in Rotary in an inspirational farewell address before welcoming Joey Fievet as the new club president. Fievet told the club of his goals for the coming year and presented Stevens with a silver spoon in appreciation of year of leadership.

Water use still restricted here to even-odd days as 'extreme' drought conditions return to N. Ga.

07/03/2008

Local officials are reminding Washington and Wilkes County residents that the area has returned to extreme drought conditions and is still under Level 4 outdoor watering restrictions that only allow watering every other day from midnight to 10 a.m.

More than half a century of champions

07/03/2008

Tournament winners and scores for the past 53 years, as compiled from The News-Reporter files, are: (Changed to 36 holes) (Scheduled 36, rain shortened) (27 holes,

don't forget

07/03/2008

Newtown Baptist Church will have homecoming on Sunday, August 3, at 11 a.m., with Rev. Andy Perryman, Georgia Baptist Association Missionary, as the speaker. Revival services will be held August 4-6, 7 p.m. each evening with Rev.

Washington-Wilkes work force academy gets state approval: 'This is our future...'

By KIP BURKE news editor — 07/03/2008

Celebrate the Fourth with 8 a.m. parade, stay for fun, food, fireworks on Square

07/03/2008

Tomorrow's annual Washington- Wilkes Fourth of July observance will start early with an 8 a.m. parade and end with a big fireworks display on The Square, said Tourism Director Ashley Barnett.

Registration opens July 11 for Miss Wilkes Co. Pageant set for Sept. 27 at Pope Ctr.

07/03/2008

City of Washington designated Certified City of Ethics by GMA

07/03/2008

Fire hits Metasville barn full of hay

07/03/2008

Washington mayor elected to GMA leadership position

07/03/2008

Eight candidates run for Probate Judge as Wilkes nonpartisan qualifying ends

07/03/2008

Amos Martin Invitational tournament set for July 5-6 on Country Club's course

07/03/2008

Collection of historic bottles featured at historical museum

07/03/2008

Rotary leadership changes hands

07/03/2008

Water use still restricted here to even-odd days as 'extreme' drought conditions return to N. Ga.

07/03/2008

More than half a century of champions

07/03/2008

Tournament winners and scores for the past 53 years, as compiled from The News-Reporter files, are: (Changed to 36 holes) (Scheduled 36, rain shortened) (27 holes,

Salvation Army sponsors campers

07/03/2008

These 10 Washington-Wilkes students spent the week of June 23 at Camp Grandview in Jasper. The annual camp is a great opportunity for children ages 7-12 and is sponsored by the Salvation Army and funded by the Rotary Club Optimist Club, the Cornelia Johnson Circle of the First United Methodist Church, and the Mary Burton-Primetime Sunday School Class of the First Baptist Church. Campers are Cole Howard, Kori Bentley, Kathy Hicks, Brian Price, Kendranna Hall, Marlecia Mills, Alex McCord, Clarence McCord, Deon McCord, and Adrian Buchanan.

Choose the right primary to vote and confirm address is correct

07/03/2008

Wilkes County voters need to be mindful of choosing the right primary in which to vote on July 15, said Wilkes County Supervisor of Elections Judge Jim Burton,

Contributions still needed for Fourth fireworks display

07/03/2008

Contributions are still needed for tomorrow's spectacular Fourth of July Celebration here. "We are still fund-raising, and we still need your help," said Chamber of Commerce Director Ashley Barnett, "The fireworks happen because of the donations of the people and businesses of Washington-Wilkes. Thank you to those who have already donated, we appreciate it very much.

Bookmobile is set to make county rounds all through month

07/03/2008

The Bartram Trail Regional Library Bookmobile based at the Mary Willis Library, Washington, will be making its rounds in Wilkes County during July at the following locations and times.

Smith Family Association holds tenth family reunion

07/03/2008

The Smith Family Association held its tenth reunion on June 21 and 22. Descendants of J. Belknap and Jane Septima Shank Smith met at the Alexander Stevens State Park in Crawfordville. The association has met outside the immediate Smith home place of Little River in Wilkes County only three times over the years.

W-W Parks and Rec offers summer lunches, activities

07/03/2008

The Washington-Wilkes Parks and Recreation Commission in cooperation with the Wilkes County Community Partnership announces the sponsorship of the Bright from the Start -- DECAL Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge.

Unemployment up across CSRA and higher statewide

07/03/2008

Sta rtting a t The Georgi a D epartment of Labor has reported that the unemployment rate in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) rose to a preliminary 6.2 percent in May, up six-tenths of one percent from a revised 5.6 percent in April.

Peers pick Roberts as Greene Academy Teacher of the Year

07/03/2008

Phil Roberts has been selected by his peers as teacher of the year at Nathaniel Greene Academy in Greene County. Roberts teaches history and social studies. He is a graduate of Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School and Clemson University and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Roberts of Washington.

The Retro Cinema Rolls The Classics

By BLAIR RIVKIN, in Flagpole — 07/03/2008

It's the kind of town that you usually pass through on your way to a "bigger and better" destination: relics of classic Southern grace, hometown charms, drivers in pick-up trucks who throw up a hand in greeting along the road seem to accompany any sort of road trip through small-town Georgia.

Sounds like a nice little town to visit. And a great article, too. Anonymous

07/03/2008

I absolutely love Washington. The amount of history and incredibly stunning architecture in this little town is second to none. If you've never been, its definitely worth the visit. Be sure and see the Mary Willis Library...the first in the state. Absolutely Gorgeous! Here's the city website if anyone is interested. www.washingtonwilkes.

Start your July 4th celebration with parade at 8 a.m.

07/03/2008

The eleventh annual Independence Day Parade will leave Fort Washington Park at 8:00 a.m. on July 4. Following the parade a short program will be held at the park. Walkers, bicycles, strollers, wagons, pets, and scooters will be all decked out in red, white, and blue and will be vying for prizes for best dressed and decorated.

3 Wilkes students make dean's list at GCSU for spring

07/03/2008

Three Wilkes County students have been named to the dean's list at Georgia College and State University for the spring semester. They are Lindsay Sherrer of Rayle; Lindley Hall and Krystle Kvalheim of Washington. Announcement of the honor was made by Georgia College and State University President Dorothy Leland.

Walker and Wright noted for academic excellence at ACS

07/03/2008

Two Wilkes County students have been recognized for their academic achievement during the fourth quarter of the school year at Athens Christian School. Taylor Walker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Walker of Rayle, a fifth grader, was named to the headmaster's list.

Legal fireworks still need close adult supervision, Georgia insurance commissioner Oxendine says

07/03/2008

While sparklers and similar nonexplosive fireworks are legal in Georgia, Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John W. Oxendine is urging citizens to use extreme caution to avoid injuries and fires when using fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday.

'Dig History!' will let kids 11 to 17 study, explore archaeology

07/03/2008

The Ark of the Covenant, Crystal Skulls, Mummies, Tombs, and Temples, (but not dinosaurs) - are all part of the fabulously fascinating science of archaeology. If your older child or teen is fascinated by these things and by Indiana Jones then "Dig History!" is just the summer program you are looking for.

Pet of the week

07/03/2008

This beautifully marked female cat would like to be somebody's housecat and a special place in the sun with her own person. She is vaccinated and spayed. Cats like eating at the same time each day and an occasional taste of people food. They like gentle brushing or combing, a play session with their own person, or other cats.

Tignall News

By CAROLYN GAMMON Please call 706-285-2736 — 07/03/2008

We would like to welcome Tony Harris to the neighborhood. Tony bought Mrs. Ida Norman's house on Church Street. He has really been busy cutting down bushes and trees. I understand he is sending Miss Ida pictures or the houses in the stages as he remodels. His brother, Derrick Harris, is his neighbor.

Lundberg News

By SAMILLE SHERRER Please call 706-678-7363 — 07/03/2008

I hope everyone has a happy and safe Fourth of July. I think everybody who attend the fireworks on The Square will really enjoy it. ƒI would like to wish my brother, Philip Huff in Athens, a happy birthday. He will be 75 on July 5. ƒJames and I left on Friday to spend the weekend with his family in Bennettsville, S.C.

Clotheslines in use point to a shaky economy

07/03/2008

This roving reporter has been out looking for clothes lines. Seeing clothes lines being in use is a dead giveaway that the economy is getting shaky. Evidently the economy is pretty good around here because I have found very few clothes lines.

Lizzie Taylor Arnold

07/03/2008

Graveside services for Lizzie Taylor Arnold, 95, of Bogart were held Thursday, June 26, 2008, at Resthaven Cemetery, Washington, with Rev. Charles Jones and Rev. Amy Shorner Johnson officiating. She died Tuesday, June 24. Mrs. Arnold was a native of Oglethorpe County and was the daughter of the late John Quincy and Emma Echols Taylor.

A team of grandsons

07/03/2008

I had my first Wilkes County tomato for 2008 this week! It was delicious! Kip Burke brought me one from his garden and then Billy Hopkins brought some from his garden. There are not many things more tasty than a Wilkes County tomato. . . .

Zero Tolerance

By GARY TOOLE — 07/03/2008

You know, it seems like the world has turned upside down. Society wants us to be receptive and totally tolerant of sin -- any kind of sin, and God forbid if we say anything about it or take a stand against sin. Yet the law is cracking down on many things like smoking in public places.

Political Cartoon

07/03/2008

Book Review

By Felipe Fernandez-Armesto — 07/03/2008

It has never seemed fair that, though Columbus was first, and other explorers went farther, it was Amerigo Vespucci who gave his name to the Americas. Felipe Fernandez-Armesto, professor of history at Tufts University, seeks to explain why the supposed adventures of this obscure Florentine trader caught the imagination and approval of the "sages of St.

Vox Pop

07/03/2008

How will you celebrate the Independence Day holiday? Are you planning to attend the morning parade or the fireworks show on The Square? What activities would you like to see included in the events of the day?

Mary Hannah Batrous, Donald Harold DeMore III exchange marriage vows May 31 at Abilene Baptist

07/03/2008

Mary Hannah Batrous of Thomson and Donald Harold DeMore III of Wrens exchanged wedding vows in an impressive double-ring ceremony Saturday, May 31, at three-thirty o'clock in the afternoon at Abilene Baptist Church in Martinez. Rev. Bill Harrell of Evans officiated.

Andrew Meech and Harper Smith enjoy Under the Sea party June 20

07/03/2008

Harper Elizabeth Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Trey Smith, and Thomas Andrew Meech, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Meech, celebrated their second birthdays at an Under the Sea party on June 20 at Harper's home. Harper's birthday was June 19 and Andrew celebrated his birthday on June 28.

Reese Bailey celebrates third birthday June 13

07/03/2008

William Reese Bailey, son of Mr. and Mrs. John D. Bailey of Washington, was three years old on June 13 and celebrated on two occasions. Rees e cel - ebrated on June 5 with his oldest brother, John David, who turned nine on that day. They spent the evening swimming at the home of Papa and Nana, Mr. and Mrs. Winston Bailey, and then enjoyed a cake made for them by Nana.

New Beginnings

07/03/2008

Audrey Virginia Fowler Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Nathan Fowler of Statesboro announce the birth of their daughter, Audrey Virginia, on Wednesday, June 25, at East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro. She weighed 6 lbs. 15 ozs. and was 19 ½ inches long.

Washington Personal Mention

07/03/2008

Alice and Buddy Lindsey, their children and grandchildren, Jane, Glen, Jordan, Jesse and Graham Echols of Tignall, Lisa, Kenny, Connor, Vivi and Colin Isham of Washington and Laura, Tony, Audrey and Abby, of Thomson vacationed last week in St. Augustine, Fla., and enjoyed a trip to Silver Springs.

Local anglers have a chance to fish with pro J. Todd Tucker

07/03/2008

Always wanted to get fishing tips from a pro? Well, here's your chance! Local fishermen have an opportunity to win a bass fishing trip with professional bass angler, J. Todd Tucker.

W-WPRD enforces policies concerning coaches and others

07/03/2008

The Washington-Wilkes Parks and Recreation Department and its employees enforce its policies regarding all volunteer coaches, managers, and individual who provide services to the recreation department. As part of the Child Protection Program, coaches in all programs are required to have a background check before being considered for a coaching position.

Kearney is certified to continue with basketball career at Tampa

07/03/2008

Former Tiger standout Ashley C. Kearney has been notified of her certification to play NCAA Division I and Division II women's basketball based on her athletic potential and her 4.0 GPA at Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School.

State DHR launches channel on YouTube, invites all to see

07/03/2008

The Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) has launched the agency's official video channel on YouTube.com and is inviting all Georgia residents to subscribe to YouTube.com/dhrcomm for free information about its services and resources.

Cheerleading signup for basketball, football to run July 14-Aug. 31

07/03/2008

Signup for the Washington-Wilkes Parks and Recreation Department 2008-2009 basketball and football cheerleading will begin July 14 and continue through August 31. The cheerleading program is for girls ages 5-12. To be eligible a girl must be five years old by September 1, 2008.

W-W Parks & Rec hosts soccer camp set for July 14-17

07/03/2008

The Washington Wilkes Parks and Recreation Department (W-WPRD) will host a Soccer Camp the week of July 14-17 from 4-8 p.m. Both newcomers and experienced players are welcome to attend. Signups are being held through July 1 for four age groups: 4-6, 7-8, 9-11, and 12-14. Applications are available at the W-WPRD office.

A team of grandsons

07/03/2008

Zero Tolerance

By GARY TOOLE — 07/03/2008

Political Cartoon

07/03/2008

Book Review

By Felipe Fernandez-Armesto — 07/03/2008

Vox Pop

07/03/2008

Local anglers have a chance to fish with pro J. Todd Tucker

07/03/2008

Always wanted to get fishing tips from a pro? Well, here's your chance! Local fishermen have an opportunity to win a bass fishing trip with professional bass angler, J. Todd Tucker.

W-WPRD enforces policies concerning coaches and others

07/03/2008

Kearney is certified to continue with basketball career at Tampa

07/03/2008

State DHR launches channel on YouTube, invites all to see

07/03/2008

Cheerleading signup for basketball, football to run July 14-Aug. 31

07/03/2008

W-W Parks & Rec hosts soccer camp set for July 14-17

07/03/2008

Lizzie Taylor Arnold

07/03/2008

Mary Hannah Batrous, Donald Harold DeMore III exchange marriage vows May 31 at Abilene Baptist

07/03/2008

Andrew Meech and Harper Smith enjoy Under the Sea party June 20

07/03/2008

Reese Bailey celebrates third birthday June 13

07/03/2008

New Beginnings

07/03/2008

Washington Personal Mention

07/03/2008

don't forget

07/03/2008