Commissioners approve FY21 Financial Report

Board of Commissioners
BOC approve alarm ordinance

FANNIN COUNTY, Ga. — The Fannin County Board of Commissioners approved the 2021 fiscal year audit and budget adjustments and the final draft of Fannin County’s Annual Financial Report during their latest meeting.

Chairman Jamie Hensley briefly explained the financial report and audit, emphasizing notable portions.
He first explained that the budget adjustments were mostly made up of salary changes, specifically noting a 3% salary increase and ARPA compensation that was given to county employees.

Hensley then explained that uncertainty from the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020 led to the “flat” budget for the fiscal year of 2021. He noted that the county made a conservative estimate of revenues, accounting only for property taxes. Despite that, Hensley said the county received more than anticipated: “The general fund increased in fund balance by a little over six million dollars.”

Commissioner Johnny Scearce, who attended the meeting online, said he was “very happy with it.”
“We don’t know what tomorrow is, it’s kind of an uncertain time. So it’s good to have a little cushion,” Commissioner Glenn Patterson followed. He also mentioned two upcoming projects for the county, referring to two recent agreements between the Fannin County Board of Commissioners and other governmental bodies. One will bring a free-standing library to the county, and the other will create an improved recreation center for both county and city residents. Patterson called the projects “good things for Fannin County,” adding, “and we need some funds to make that happen.”

The only other action item on the board’s agenda was the approval of a variance request. The commissioners approved the request, from Fred Glennon and Helen Johnstone, made to place a garage on property off of Highland Gap Road. During the public commentary portion of the meeting, the commissioners also heard from county residents about development and traffic concerns. Expressing the board’s interest in responding to growth in the county, Chairman Hensley told one commentator: “Whether anybody likes it or not, change is inevitable. It’s going to happen. It’s how we manage it.” He continued, “We’re fairly young in our seats. We’re trying to find those answers as quickly as possible.”

Fannin County Libary introduces new Historic Digitization Project

News

Fannin County Library Branch Manager Ginia Wood introduces FCPL’s Historic Photographic Digitization Project. She encourages everyone to submit photographs of Fannin County pre-1970’s.

PRESS RELEASE

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Fannin County Public Library is excited to announce the Fannin County Historic Photographic Digitization Project. FCPL is collaborating with Georgia HomePLACE and The Virtual Library of Georgia to create a digital archive of Fannin County photographs.

All of the photographs must pertain to Fannin County History in some fashion such as historic events, locations, citizens and pre-1970 (if possible).

Patrons will fill out forms allowing the display of their photographs.

Photographic sessions are by appointment only. Patrons will be interviewed during the photographic sessions and answer questions such as: who, what, when, where and why and the context of the photo. After the interview the photos will be digitized and the owner of the photograph will keep their photos.

FCPL has the right to refuse any photo. When FCPL has collected 100 to 200 photographs the collection will be sent to GAHomePlace and they will upload the photos into a public database to be used for research and informational purposes.

We anticipate lots of public interest in this project!

Fannin County Public library located in the FC Courthouse building

FetchYourNews.com attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month for ad server. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 to 60,000 per week Facebook page reach. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email [email protected].

Library to host history event Monday, May 21

Community

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – According to Branch Librarian Andrew Vickers, the Fannin County Public Library is hosting a History Night at the library on West First Street in downtown Blue Ridge Monday, May 21, at 4 p.m.

Library patrons and history enthusiasts attending the event can bring small family heirlooms, family photographs and, of course, stories to the history event. Light refreshments will also be served as local residents share and learn about the county’s history with others.

Lirbary assistant Vanessa Pittman and Sophia Queen will be leading the discussion during the event. Queen, a local college student seeking her master’s degree, recently created a website, http://rememberingfannin.com/, for a school genealogy and local history project. She hopes to collect further stories, pictures and photos from residents in an attempt to preserve these and show how Fannin County has changed over the years.

For anyone with questions concerning this event, please contact the library at 706-632-5263.

 

Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]

Author

Jason Beck

Born in Merrillville, Indiana, raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, and currently resides in Copperhill, Tennessee. Graduated from Bradley Central High School in 1996 and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, eventually earning a B.A. and M.A. in English. Hobbies include hiking, camping and fly-fishing. Interests include baseball, hockey and cliff jumping.

Circulation, juvenile attendance continue to rise at library

Community, News

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Branch Librarian Andrew delivered positive news in his branch manager’s report during the April 19 Fannin County Public Library Board meeting.

Vickers announced that total circulation for the library’s third quarter of fiscal year 2017-18 (January, February and March) was up by 6 percent over the third quarter of last year. According to Vickers’ report, 16,386 items were checked out during the quarter this year as opposed to 15,386 in last year’s third quarter.

Despite the fact that overall attendance experienced a 3 percent decline from last year, Vickers did report that juvenile attendance was up for the quarter by 20 percent. Overall for the quarter, 11,388 patrons visited FCPL in the first three months of 2018.

“With the weather we’ve had, to only be down 3 percent (in total attendance) that strikes me as being actually pretty good,” FCPL Board member John Turner stated.

“Every time I come in, I’m always impressed with the number of people that are in the library, using the library, using the computers, wandering the stacks,” FCPL Board Chairman Gordon Riddoch said. “I always think, for myself, we have to park down the street and walk over here. It’s amazing the attendance we have (because) we have to fight all the elements and everything else to get here.”

Vickers also presented the financial report for the third quarter. According to the report, the beginning balance for the quarter was $9,521.13 and as of March 31 stood at $11,322.50. However, Vickers explained that since the end of March, the library had purchased about $1,400 in furniture upgrades. Regarding the purchase of the new furniture, Vickers stated, most of the cost was covered from $1,200 in donations to the library in memory of longtime library patron Dan Berry, who recently passed away.

Other donations received by the library during the quarter included a $250 donation from Emily Griesinger, who works in the English department at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Vickers stated Griesinger specifically requested for the donation to be spent purchasing Caldecott Award-winning and Honor books for FCPL. Another donation of $500 was given to the library from Rhapsody in Blue during the quarter. Vickers also said the Friends of the Library had approved a $750 donation that had not yet processed.

Also in the financial report, Vickers mentioned the library had purchased 241 unabridged audio books for just over $1,500.00, which amounted to a $6.40 cost per audio book. “Which is definitely a bargain,” Vickers added, “especially when you look at the average cost of an audio book is about $25.”

The financial report was approved by the board unanimously.

Vickers also updated the board on recent library activities and upcoming library events. In March, the library celebrated the birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, with a birthday party and a Cat in the Hat performance from Reuben Haller. According to Vickers, 50 children and 45 adults attended the event held at First Baptist Church of Blue Ridge.

The library recently added a second Storytime session with library assistant Darcy Arnell on Tuesdays. Arnell now leads Storytime sessions at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. every Tuesday. Vickers stated that the 11 a.m. Storytime session Tuesday, April 17, saw 20 children and 13 adults in attendance. “That’s a big number for it not being the summer. That’s a good number,” Mountain Regional Library System Director Vince Stone commented.

A children’s wishlist has also recently been created by the library on Amazon.com. “We’ve made that wishlist public in case any patron or business wants to donate to our summer reading program,” Vickers said. Anyone wanting to fulfill donations from the library’s children’s wishlist can visit the link on the library’s Facebook page.

On Friday, May 4, FCPL will hold a Star Wars Day event starting at 5:30 p.m. at the library. Star Wars themed snacks and activities will be available at the free event, aptly dubbed “May the Fourth Be With You.” A showing of the latest Star Wars release, Episode VIII: The Last Jedi, will start at 6:30 p.m.

Vickers also reminded the board of the upcoming Friends of the Library Book Sale to be held May 25 through 27. Vickers said volunteers are still needed for the days of sale as well as before and after the dates of the sale for preparation and breakdown. Anyone interested in helping with the book sale can contact the library at 706-632-5263 for more information.

The Summer Reading Program schedule was announced during the meeting as well. The theme for this year’s program is “Libraries Rock!” Among the many events occurring during June and July this summer will be the program kickoff event Tuesday, June 5, at 11 a.m. and the teen Summer Reading Program kickoff Thursday, June 7, at 4 p.m. The library will also hold four Flicks in the Sticks movie showings in the city park: Coco will be shown Friday, June 15; Wonder will be shown Friday, June 29; The LEGO Ninjago Movie will be shown Friday, July 13; and the Fannin County Fire Department will sponsor a Family Fun Night Friday, July 27, at 7 p.m. where Cars 3 will be shown. All other Flicks events begin at 9 p.m. For a complete schedule of all the library’s summer events and activities, visit the FCPL website at http://www.mountainregionallibrary.org/fannin-county-public-library.

 

Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]

Author

Jason Beck

Born in Merrillville, Indiana, raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, and currently resides in Copperhill, Tennessee. Graduated from Bradley Central High School in 1996 and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, eventually earning a B.A. and M.A. in English. Hobbies include hiking, camping and fly-fishing. Interests include baseball, hockey and cliff jumping.

Fannin County Public Library announces event, book donation policy

Community, Press Release

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – On Tuesday, March 13, the Fannin County Public Library is proud to present the Cat in the Hat for a Dr. Seuss Birthday Party! Join the party at the Blue Ridge First Baptist Church Youth Center for an afternoon of FREE entertainment, games, refreshments, and snacks! The show starts at 4 p.m., so come grab your seat, enjoy the show, and get ready to have some fun!

Fannin County Public Library: Book Donations
Dear Citizens of Fannin County,
Please be informed, due to space and storage constraints, the library can no longer accept large volume donations. We will only accept boxed donations on Mondays. One to two boxes may be brought in at any time on Mondays, and donations of three to four boxes may be accepted, but only by appointment. We will not accept five or more boxes at one time under any circumstances. Please contact the library at 706-632-5263 to set up a time for drop off. Smaller donations of ten items or fewer may be accepted during the week, so please plan your donations accordingly.
Also, the library will NOT accept donations of textbooks, cassettes, encyclopedias, or VHS tapes. We cannot accept books that are moldy, damaged, or over twenty years old. Please check the condition of the books you plan to bring in, because we will not accept books if they are in poor condition. Also, boxes that have been in storage for a long time tend to collect small animals such as roaches, spiders, and other creatures. Please check all boxes before bringing them in or they too will be turned away.
Thank you for your cooperation!

[Featured image: Reuben Haller performs as The Cat in the Hat at last year’s Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration Party.]

Author

Jason Beck

Born in Merrillville, Indiana, raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, and currently resides in Copperhill, Tennessee. Graduated from Bradley Central High School in 1996 and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, eventually earning a B.A. and M.A. in English. Hobbies include hiking, camping and fly-fishing. Interests include baseball, hockey and cliff jumping.

Technology upgrades headline Mountain Regional Library System meeting

News

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Several technology upgrades throughout all four Mountain Regional Library System (MRLS) locations were discussed during the quarterly regional board meeting Wednesday, Feb. 7, in Blue Ridge.

All four locations – Towns County Public Library in Hiawassee, Mountain Regional Library in Young Harris, Union County Public Library in Blairsville and Fannin County Public Library in Blue Ridge – now have mobile WiFi hotspots available for checkout to patrons, according to MRLS Director Vince Stone. These units allow anyone to establish a portable Internet WiFi zone using a cellular connection. All units, however, carry a replacement fee of $150 should they become lost or broken while checked out. All of the branch librarians reported the overwhelming popularity of these devices at their locations.

The regional board also discussed and watched a tutorial detailing the recent addition of the RB Digital mobile app to the library system. Patrons using a mobile device can download the RB Digital app and register using their library card number to receive eBooks, audiobooks, and digital magazines. According to FCPL Branch Librarian Andrew Vickers, the app is compatible with most cell phones and mobile tablets. “And the apps are very easy to use,” Vickers added.

Other upgrades within the library system have included, or will soon include, 3D printers, digital scanners, and mobile device charging stations, all available for patrons to use.

Referring to all of the upgrades throughout library system, John Turner, regional board member, stated he was encouraged to see the improvements being utilized by patrons at the locations. “This stuff is really, really neat,” Turner said.

Stone also reported that he had completed all evaluations for the branch librarians in the system. He explained the evaluations were completed by inspecting each facility, performing an audit of the branch’s financial information and conducting a question and answer session with the librarians. Of the evaluations, Stone said, “They were all outstanding.”

The board accepted and approved the second quarter of fiscal year 2017-18 (October through December) financial statement and balance sheet for MRLS. Currently, the library system’s expenses as of Dec. 31 stood at $563,231.78 of the projected $1,033,205.92 for the fiscal year. Reported total revenues stood at $433,289.82 of the projected $1,048,507.03 for the fiscal year. Of this revenue amount, $172,074.03 has come from the state and $218,382.59 has come from local taxing agencies, such as counties and municipalities. Other forms of revenue, Stone explained, come from donations, local Friends of the Library groups, and branch-generated revenue, such as fines, fees and vending.

Stone clarified that although there appears to be a large over-budget amount seen in the year-to-date expenses versus revenue category, state and local revenues tend to increase greatly during the last two quarters, which inevitably balances the finances before the end of the fiscal year.

In other business, Casey Hunley, MRLS interlibrary loan coordinator, will replace Lynn Bartlett as MRLS business manager during the upcoming quarter. Bartlett will be retiring at the end of March, according to Stone.

The regional board also unanimously approved and ratified the hiring of two new employees: Michael Lavery at FCPL and Wendy Erneston at Mountain Regional.

The Food for Fines program is continuing again at MRLS locations throughout the month of February. For each can of food or non-perishable food item with an unexpired date that is received by the library, the patron will receive a one-dollar credit toward any outstanding fines. At the end of the month, all food received will be donated to local area food banks within that library’s county.

The board also heard reports from the branch librarians of the four MRLS locations:

Towns County Public Library (Hiawassee)

TCPL Branch Librarian Debbie Phillips reported the total attendance for the library during the second quarter of fiscal year 2017-18 was 7,887 with a total circulation of 7,808. Phillips stated 39 new library cards were issued during the quarter and the library received 176 new items. As of December 31, the account balance of the library stood at $2,473.78, according to Phillips.

As for events during the quarter, Phillips stated the holiday season, and especially December, was a busy time for the library. Phillips stated the library hosted a Twelve Days Before Christmas series of events, which included a Polar Express-themed event and performances from the Mountain Regional Puppet Company. “Most of the whole month (of December), we had something going on every day,” Phillips explained.

Phillips stated the library is beginning to prepare for its summer reading program and the weekly Storytime is continuing every Thursday at 11 a.m. An Essential Oils for Wellness program will be offered for adults Thursday, March 1, at 1 p.m. Phillips also said plans are in the works for offering an adult class for cooking with an Instant Pot. On Saturday, March 10, at 11 a.m. the library will also host an American Girl party, featuring a hair salon and nail station for girls and their dolls.

The TCPL branch librarian also reported the library is still waiting to receive a 3D printer, which was made available through a technology grant from the Georgia Public Library Service. The Dremel Digilab 3D20 printer, Phillips said, was expected to arrive sometime in January. Once it arrives, the printer will allow patrons to build 3D models by controlling and viewing the building process. Other library upgrades included installation of a computer, which is available for legal professionals to use at TCPL, designed to access the law library of the Towns County Courthouse.

Union County Public Library (Blairsville)

Susie Brendle, UCPL branch librarian, reported second quarter circulation for the library was 39,216 with a total attendance of 28,647. During the quarter, 111 new library cards were issued and 603 new items were received, Brendle said. As of December 31, the account balance for UCPL was $15,090. The library also received a $500 check from Friends of the Union County Public Library in January for the quarter, according to Brendle. “And that brought our 2017 total of Friends money to $3,000,” Brendle explained.

Brendle announced the Friends bake sale held Nov. 22 was a success, bringing in close to $1,000. She said Friends will begin collecting newer books from 2013 forward on Tuesday, Feb. 13, for the May bake sale.

Other upcoming library events will include the continuation of Lego Club the last Wednesday of the month at 3:45 p.m. through April and a Friends-hosted book signing Thursday, Feb. 8, at 3:30 p.m. featuring local author Sylvia Dyer Turnage and promoting her book Flying Off Rattlesnake Mountain. The Feb. 26 Storytime at the library at 11 a.m. will include a Dr. Seuss birthday celebration party with refreshments. On Friday, March 2, which is Theodor “Ted” Seuss Geisel’s 114th birthday, the library will host a Dr. Seuss movie marathon. On Monday, March 5, The Cat in the Hat will visit the library. “Our Friends of the Library have purchased The Cat in the Hat book that they will be handing out to the children,” Brendle explained. “So, we’ll be busy for the next month or so.”

Fannin County Public Library (Blue Ridge)

FCPL Branch Librarian Andrew Vickers reported a total second quarter circulation of 15,723 – a 6 percent increase over last year’s second quarter – with an attendance of 10,458. During the quarter, 95 new library cards were issued and 842 new items were received. The FCPL account balance as of December 31 stood at just over $9,600, according to Vickers. For donations, the library received a $200 donation from the Fannin’s Women Democratic Society, a $500 donation from local resident Linda McDonough and a $2,018 donation from Friends of the Fannin County Public Library.

Vickers said two new county board members, Kathy Tickner and Steven Miracle, were recently appointed to the local library board and two other seat positions from the city of Morganton remain vacant. Vickers reported that he, along with library staff member Darcy Arnell, recently met with Sarah Welch, the literacy coach for Fannin County Schools, in an effort to collaborate with the school system on ideas to help promote early childhood literacy throughout the county. Vickers added Arnell has also worked with seven Head-Start classrooms by doing a Storytime session with each class. In response to popularity of the Tuesday 11 a.m. Storytime session at the library, Vickers stated FCPL is considering adding an afternoon session at 4 p.m.

Upcoming events for FCPL will include the return of Reuben Haller, who will perform as The Cat in the Hat Tuesday, March 13, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Blue Ridge in celebration Dr. Seuss’ birthday.

Mountain Regional Library (Young Harris)

Vince Stone, director at Mountain Regional Library, said the Young Harris location will also host a Cat in the Hat party Saturday, March 3, and the library will be giving hardcover Dr. Seuss books to all families attending the event. “Last year, we had about 50 kids,” Stone explained. “This year, we’re hoping for 75 to 80.”

Stone also stated MRL will host a subcommittee meeting of the the Georgia Public Library Service Tuesday, Feb. 13. The director said the meeting will allow him a chance to meet and discuss library-related issues with other directors and GPLS representatives from similar-sized libraries and library systems across north Georgia.

 

 

 

Author

Jason Beck

Born in Merrillville, Indiana, raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, and currently resides in Copperhill, Tennessee. Graduated from Bradley Central High School in 1996 and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, eventually earning a B.A. and M.A. in English. Hobbies include hiking, camping and fly-fishing. Interests include baseball, hockey and cliff jumping.

Dixie Carter announces bid for Fannin County Post 2 Commission seat

Election, Election 2018, News, Politics

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Another name will appear on the May Primary Election ballot in a bid for the Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner seat that will be voted on in the General Election to be held on Nov. 6, 2018.

At the Feb. 5 Democratic Party meeting, current member Dixie Carter addressed the crowd, “I am Dixie Carter and I am announcing my candidacy for the Post 2 Commissioner seat.”

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, Fannin County Board of Commissioners, Post 2 Commissioner, Dixie Carter, Democratic Party

Dixie Carter announced candidacy for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner seat at the Feb. Democratic Party meeting.

“I have decided to run to be a voice and advocate for the people of Fannin County,” Carter explained. “I want to be a public servant for the people of Fannin County. One who listens to all people.”

Carter has a history of service work both professionally and personally. Holding undergraduate degrees in psychology and social work, and a master’s degree in social work, Carter’s career has covered many areas of social welfare.

Carter served as a case manager and therapist in mental health facilities across north Georgia, worked as a child protective service investigator with the Georgia Department of Family and Children’s Services, and was a medical social worker in Home Healthcare and Hospice.

“I’ve volunteered a little here in the community,” Carter spoke of her charity work. “Feed Fannin, I’ve been involved with them over the years. Also, the Fannin CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) team. I’m a member of the National Association of Social Workers, also the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club.”

“I’ve always had that passion as a social worker,” Carter spoke of her desire to help people. “It’s really a natural progression to want to help the community.”

Carter brought up a couple of the key issues she would like to address if elected. One of these issues was increased public access areas on Lake Blue Ridge.

Carter sited Morganton Point as being the only public access point of that nature and stated that the summer months bring more visitors, leading to the area being overcrowded.

Another area where Carter would like to see change is in the Fannin County Public Library. Carter would like to see the library increased in size and moved out of the courthouse.

“Public libraries are a very important public space in the community,” Carter stated, explaining the need for this change, “and can be a key hub to community activity in many ways.”

Carter concluded her announcement to the Fannin County Democratic Party by saying, “I look forward to being a voice for the people of Fannin County, and I would consider it a privilege to represent the community.”

Carter currently runs unopposed for the Democratic seat in the May Primary Election.

Glenn Patterson announced his bid for the Republican seat for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner at the January Fannin County Republican Party meeting. Incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee is expected to officially announce his intention to run for re-election later this month.

Qualification for the May Primary Election will begin March 5 at 9 a.m. and will close March 9 at noon. Those wishing to run in the May Primary Election for any open seats in the county must qualify during this time.

 

Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]

Fannin County Library Board holds quarterly meeting

News

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – At the quarterly meeting of the Fannin County Public Library (FCPL) Board Thursday, Jan. 25, Branch Librarian Andrew Vickers reported total circulation is up 6 percent at the library and attendance is up 2 percent overall during the second quarter of the 2017-18 fiscal year, which spanned the months of October through December.

Specifically, Vickers stated audiobook downloads saw a 44 percent increase from last year’s second quarter while eBook downloads were up 11 percent and physical book circulation saw a 10 percent increase. Vickers did note, however, that slight decreases occurred in the categories of juvenile, easy reading, adult non-fiction and audiobook checkouts.

In his financial report, Vickers reported the library received three monetary donations during the quarter. In November, the library received a $200 donation from the Fannin’s Women Democratic Party, and in December, Fannin County resident Linda McDonough donated $500 to the library. The Friends of the Fannin County Public Library also donated $2,018 during the quarter. Vickers also stated the current funding balance for the library stood at just over $9,500 at the end of the second quarter.

Vickers also announced the recent hiring of a new part-time library staff member, Michael Lavery, and spoke highly of his performance during the last month since joining the library staff. Two new county trustees to the local library board, Kathy Tickner and Steven Miracle, were announced and introduced by Vickers during the meeting. Two other trustee seat positions from the city of Morganton remain vacant.

Vickers reported that he, along with library staff member Darcy Arnell, recently met with Sarah Welch, the literacy coach for Fannin County Schools, in an effort to collaborate with the school system on ideas to help promote early childhood literacy throughout the county.

Concerning future library events, Vickers announced the upcoming return of Reuben Haller (aka The Cat in the Hat) will take place Tuesday, March 13, at 11 a.m. in celebration of the 114th birthday of Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel), which is March 2.

Also during the meeting, Mountain Regional Library System (MRLS) Director Vince Stone reported the Fannin County Board of Commissioners recently approved the library’s budget, which allows for a cost-of-living raise for librarians at FCPL in the total amount of $4,500. Stone also noted the upcoming MRLS quarterly meeting will take place this quarter in Fannin County in the commissioner’s meeting room on the first floor of the courthouse Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 10 a.m.

 

Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]

Author

Jason Beck

Born in Merrillville, Indiana, raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, and currently resides in Copperhill, Tennessee. Graduated from Bradley Central High School in 1996 and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, eventually earning a B.A. and M.A. in English. Hobbies include hiking, camping and fly-fishing. Interests include baseball, hockey and cliff jumping.

Fannin Public Library will host Holiday events

Community

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – A number of upcoming Holiday events will be held at the Fannin County Public Library (FCPL) in the next few weeks, according to Branch Librarian Andrew Vickers.

On Thursday, Dec. 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the Friends of the Library will be hosting an open house event at the library. Door prizes and refreshments will be followed by a Christmas puppet show from the Mountain Regional Puppet Company.

A Christmas Pajama Movie Night will take place Friday, Dec. 15, at 6 p.m. at the library. The featured showing will be the cartoon version of the classic Holiday film How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

The Hampstead Stage Company, in conjunction will FCPL, will be performing A Christmas Carol at the Blue Ridge First Baptist Youth Center Monday, Dec. 18, at 4 p.m.

Everyone is invited to come out and enjoy the festivities as the library celebrates this joyous time of the year. For more details on the events, contact Vickers at [email protected] or call the library at 706-632-5263

 

Author

Jason Beck

Born in Merrillville, Indiana, raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, and currently resides in Copperhill, Tennessee. Graduated from Bradley Central High School in 1996 and attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, eventually earning a B.A. and M.A. in English. Hobbies include hiking, camping and fly-fishing. Interests include baseball, hockey and cliff jumping.

2017 SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Community

BUILD A BETTER WORLD

2017 SUMMER READING PROGRAM THEME

Local area adults, teens, and children will be able to explore all things building and construction as Fannin County Public Library presents “Build a Better World” during their summer library program. Activities will include stories, crafts, music, movies, puppet shows, guest entertainers, and more. The 2017 Summer Reading Program is open to all ages and will consist of programs, prize drawings, storytimes, a reading club, and more. Families are invited to join the Read-to- Me portion of the program.  Registration for “Build a Better World” begins on May 15, 2017. For more information, call the library at (706) 632-5263, like us on Facebook, or visit our website at www.mountainregionallibrary.org.

 

All programs are free of charge.

A class “Starting Plants from Seeds” will be offered at the Fannin County Library

Community

A class “Starting Plants from Seeds” will be offered at the Fannin
County Library at 5 pm on Thursday,  March 23.  Charlotte Dickinson from
the North Georgia Master Gardeners and Sue Campbell from Feed Fannin
will teach the class.  It will feature starting seeds indoors as well as
starting seeds in the ground outdoors.  The class will be informal with
lots of time for questions or comments from the audience. This marks the
beginning of the 2017 planting season. Seeds that were donated at the
end of the growing season last year have been packaged by Feed Fannin
and Master Gardener members and are now ready for “check out” at your
public library! There are many different varieties of vegetable seeds
available, as well as some herbs and flowers, for free!


Clare Barton, Librarian
Fannin County Public Library
[email protected]
phone 706-632-5263 fax 706-632-7719
400 W. Main St. Suite 104
Blue Ridge, GA 30513

fannin libray seed1 Fannin Library seed

Cat in the Hat Dr. Seuss Celebration at Fannin County Public Library!

Community

On Monday, February 27, at 4:00 join the Fannin County Public Library at
the Blue Ridge First Baptist Youth Center on East First Street for The
Cat in The Hat Dr. Seuss Celebration! First, the Cat in the Hat himself
will present Dr. Seuss’ famous book, and afterwards we will serve Dr.
Suess-themed snacks to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss. Everyone is
welcome and the event is free!


Clare Barton, Librarian
Fannin County Public Library
[email protected]
phone 706-632-5263 fax 706-632-7719
400 W. Main St. Suite 104
Blue Ridge, GA 30513Cat in the hat

Friday Family Fun and Film from Fannin EMA and Library

Community

Starting at 7 pm in the Blue Ridge’s downtown city park, Fannin County EMA and Fannin County Public Library will celebrate the end of summer break with fun activities and the movie the “Good Dinosaur”.  The movie begins at 9 pm.

Between 40 to 80 children attend the Tuesday Story Time during the summer.

Between 40 to 80 children attend the Tuesday Story Time during the summer.

The celebration is part of Fannin County Public Library Summer Reading Program.300 adults, teens and children took on the summer reading challenge.  The children’s challenge was to read at least 20 books, the teens’ was read at least 500 pages, and the adults’ was to finish the Books Bingo game card.  Library Branch Manager Clare Barton says that the summer program is about personal best and enjoying books.  Anyone of any age level can join.  Even a parent can sign up a two-month old and read 20 books to the child during a summer’s worth of bedtimes and the child is part of the summer reading program, says Ms. Barton.  She also shared a hidden tool in the Adult Bingo – get your children or grandchildren to suggest the books for each category.  “I like to read books my kids suggest.  It keeps me connected with their world,” says Ms. Barton.

Christa Edmonds helps children make a key-chain. At the end of each story time, the kids make a craft that goes with the story themes.

Christa Edmonds helps children make a key-chain. At the end of each story time, the kids make a craft that goes with the story themes.

The Summer Reading Program is really a community-sponsored activity that serves everyone in Fannin says Ms. Barton.  Of course, the Friends of the Library are huge sponsors.  The Downtown Business Association lends the Library the equipment needed for hosting the films in the park.  Downtown businesses also provide items for prizes and giveaways.  “The Downtown Business Association realizes a healthy library is an asset to the community,” says Ms. Barton.  She thanks other businesses that help out with building excitement for reading in the summer program, like the local Waffle house, Taco Bell and Dairy Queen as well as Lake Winne Amusement Park in Chattanooga.  The Library’s neighbor, Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association, shares prizes and space for classes with the summer program.

The last event for 2016’s Summer Reading Program is a pizza party on the Blue Ridge Mountain Association lawn on Tuesday, July 26th at 11 am.

Fannin County Library Starts Sponsorship Program

News

Dr. Gregg Codelli of Mountain Periodontics and Implant Dentistry and Claire Barton, Fannin County Public Library Branch Manager

Fannin County Public Library and the Friends of the Fannin County Public have started a new annual Corporate Sponsorship program. Each Corporate Sponsor’s donation of $250 will support book buying, technology increases, class offerings, children’s programs and adult programs. Corporate sponsors are recognized through an annual decal for their door, display of their business card in the library, and membership in the Friends of the Fannin County Public Library.

Dr. Gregg Codelli of Mountain Periodontics and Implant Dentistry is the first Library Corporate Sponsor. Doctor Codelli states, “I was asked by a patient who is a member of the Friends of the Public Library, and I am glad to help.  I challenge all dentists and doctors to join me in being Corporate Sponsors of our Public Library.

Donations are tax deductible. Donations may be sent to:

Fannin County Public Library

400 West Main St. Suite 104

Blue Ridge, GA 30513

For more information contact Clare Barton, Librarian, at 706-632-5263 or [email protected].

 

State Gives Money for New Materials at Library

News

Fannin County Public Library Director Clare Barton

The Fannin County Library, along with hundreds of other Georgia libraries, could see money to increase the library’s collection coming its way.  The 2017 Georgia Budget, which Gov. Deal must sign by May 3rd, carries allocations for purchasing library materials, the first such allocation in almost a decade.  The allocation gives each library 25 cents per capita.  According to Clare Barton, Fannin County Public Library Director, Fannin County Library has a service area of 25,000, at 25 cents each that represents $6000.

When funds become available for material purchase, Ms. Barton spends smart, making the money last and giving the most impact to the collection.  One way is by purchasing books through guilds.  For years, the library has had a subscription to a guild which sends out large-print, unabridged versions of national bestsellers.  She also belongs to children’s book guilds which lets her purchase award-winning children’s books at low prices.

Ms. Barton says that the library takes requests about what new material to purchase.  Fannin County residents can suggest materials, technology, books, CDs and videos for the library to purchase.

Robust funding for Georgia’s library operations additionally bolsters Fannin County citizens’ campaign to have funding for a new stand-alone library on the SPLOST ballot.  Through budget allocations, the Georgia Legislature has continued its practice of funding library renovation projects at the top of the years-long waiting list.  The state library budget will pay $2 million to build a  Valdosta-Lowndes County Library, $2 million to expand and redesign the Neva Lomanson Memorial Library in Carrollton.  $2 million to expansions and upgrades for the Doughtery County Public Library and $1.8 million to expand the library in Bogart.

Fannin County library supporters hope to have the library listed as one of the recipients of Fannin’s SPLOST 2016 money.  If Fannin County can contribute $2.5 million, then the state will match it with $2 million, giving the library a total of $4.5 million to buy land, design and build a stand-alone library.

Board of Commissioners: Vintage Firetrucks, Water Authority and Fuel Prices

News

 

Wilds Pierce, former owner of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, has a unique gift for Fannin County fire engine lovers.  He wants to donate a 1934 fully restored fire engine along with some of 1930’s fire- fighting equipment to Fannin County.  Since the truck runs, he suggests that it can be used in a parade.  Along with the truck he wants to give a calliope that Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad used on its trains.  The only thing holding up the gift is that Fannin County needs to find a place to store the engine.

Appointment of a new member to the Fannin County Water Authority invoked an unexpected reaction from Fannin County citizen Joe Webb at the latest Board of Commissioners meeting.  Mr. Webb asked the Commissioners to speak out-of-order.  Mr. Webb brought up several topics about the Authority including irregular financing, potential SLOPST funding and authority appointment processes. Mr. Webb said that Water Authority has not correctly accounted for its revenue streams and referred to its 2012 and 2015 audits.  He also said that Water Authority use of funds must be clear since the Water Authority will be asking for more financing on the SPLOST 2016 November ballot. The majority of Mr. Webb’s other remarks centered on the appointment process to different authorities.  He would like the process to be more open to the general public.  Even though Mr. Webb did not know the qualifications of the individual appointed to the Water Authority, Mr. Webb stated that there are several people in the community that would serve well in the position.

John Scalera, Director of the Fannin County Recreation Department said that the 1st Annual Spring Fling celebration accomplished its purpose of bringing the community together.  Post Commissioner Sosebee told Mr. Scalera that he had heard there were some horses that didn’t like Spring Fling’s fireworks and took off out of their pastures when the fireworks started.

Mr Scalera also gave some good news to Toccoa river enthusiasts.  TVA is looking at putting boat, as in kayak or canoe, ramps into the river at Tammen Park and at Horseshoe Bend Park this summer.

Claire Barton, Director of Fannin County Public Library, invited people to participate in the Seed Exchange.  People can pick up organic and heirloom okra, flower, herb, tomato and other seeds at the library and bring back seeds for 2017 after the harvest.  Fannin Co-op, University of North Georgia, Feed Fannin and Georgia Master Gardeners are also part of the seed exchange.

Robert Graham,  director of EMS and 911 said that last week EMS spent six hours rescuing two hikers in the Cohutta Wilderness.  The two hikers, enamored by lovely spring weather, set off on their hike without tents or adequate winter clothing.  When the two were finally rescued, they were nearly frozen.  In fact, one of the hikers had a short hospital stay due to hypothermia.

The 2016 county budget is rolling along in the black.  Current funds are $ 8.3 million in general fund, $2.3 million in SPLOST and $1.1 million in capital SPLOST.  The 2015 audit is expected back around the first of May.

In the Public Comments period, Ralph Garner spoke on behalf of Ombee Gas.  It seems that Ombee had been supplying Fannin County with fuel until 2015.  Then the county suddenly stopped buying from them.  Turns out, in fuel quotes from June to October 2015, Fannin County only sought two bids for fuel – one from Jones Oil and one from Conoco.  The county never contacted Ombee or another company for a bid and by law the county must have three bids for purchases over $4,500.  Mr. Garner finished with asking why Ombee has been kept out of the process and if the county would contact them for a bid again.

 

See related post:  Helton Responds to Webb’s Water Authority Comments

Back to Top