Fannin County May 2022 Primary Results
Board of Commissioners, Board of Education, Election May 24, 2022FANNIN COUNTY, Ga. — Georgia’s May 24, 2022 primary has received nationwide attention over its U.S. Senate and gubernatorial races. For Fannin County voters, the ballots also included two seats on the Fannin County Board of Education and the Post 2 seat on the Fannin County Board of Commissioners. The primary results came in late on Tuesday evening.
After polls closed at 7 p.m. Tuesday evening, results from all 12 voting precincts were not given until after 10 p.m. Fannin County saw a total of 2,184 early and absentee ballot votes, and unofficial results from the Georgia Secretary of State website show a turnout of almost 32%. While an official summary and certified results were not yet ready, the initial primary results were given at the Fannin County Courthouse.
Board of Commissioners
In the Republican primary for Post 2 Commissioner, Incumbent Glenn Patterson was challenged by Greg Staffins, Larry Sosebee, and Anita Weaver. Patterson won the Republican primary for Post 2 Commissioner, and will face the lone Democratic candidate, Larry Syputa, during the November 2022 general election.
Glenn Patterson received a total of 3,500 votes across all 12 voting precincts, early votes, and absentee ballots. Larry Syputa received a total of 455 votes in his primary.
Board of Education
The incumbent, Bobby Bearden, was challenged by Debi Holcomb and Clarence “Junior” Farmer in the Republican primary. Bearden won his primary with a total of 3,690 votes across 12 voting precincts, early votes, and absentee ballots.
Incumbent Mike Cole will also return to the Fannin County Board of Education after an uncontested re-election bid. Cole has served on the board since he was elected in 2018. He received a total of 5,011 votes.
Full election results can be found here.
An interview with Board of Education candidate Bobby Bearden
Board of Education, Election May 11, 2022FANNIN COUNTY, Ga. — Bobby Bearden has served on the Fannin County Board of Education for almost twenty years. “There’s two priorities that I have. Number one is the students. I want a quality education. Number two is the taxpayers and the citizens of Fannin County,” he told FYN during an interview discussing his re-election bid. Bearden is the incumbent candidate but is facing a challenge from both Debi Holcomb and Clarence “Junior” Farmer.
Bobby Bearden has lived in Fannin County for 48 years and currently works for the City of Blue Ridge. He has also served in the US Army, and he ran Bearden’s Muffler Shop for over thirty years. Now, Bearden is finishing his twentieth year working on the Board of Education. “Education, to me, is number one,” he said, adding, “not just for them to go to school, but I want them to get a quality education while they’re there, and I believe they’re doing that.”
Bearden said the board has made many accomplishments during his twenty year tenure. He specifically mentioned the updates and renovations that have been made to several buildings throughout the county. He also touched on the expansion of vocational education in the county during his time on the board. While they have already established a welding class and nursing program at the high school, Bearden said he would like to see an auto-mechanics and small engine class created. He believes those classes will expand opportunity for Fannin County students: “Not everybody that goes through school is going to go to college, and they need something to do.”
Another accomplishment, Bearden noted, is the purchase of 160 acres to be utilized by the school system, “It’s a tremendous thing, I think, that we was able to purchase that land next to the high school for future use.” He said the board will begin conversations on how to use the property this month.
Bearden, responding to criticism of the board’s transparency with the community, said “I think we are. The only thing that we can’t put out in public is what happens in executive session.” He said most people are aware of what is happening, especially because of online options that allow parents to see how their children are doing in school. “That’s one thing that I can tell you that I’m 110% for, is transparency,” Bearden added, “That’s how the school board and the school system and the community gets along.”
Bearden said he believes the school board does work well together and with the community as a whole: “We don’t all agree, but when it comes down to it, we agree for the good of the school.” That cooperation allows them to accomplish things like pay raises for employees, he emphasized: “They deserve it, all the people that work for us. Whether it be a custodian, a bus driver, a school teacher or whatever, they deserve all the money that they can get.” Bearden also said that the board has worked to decrease the millage rate over the last five years and has used special-purpose local-option sales tax (SPLOST) funding to remodel the school buildings.
He also touched on state and federal government influence in Fannin County schools, which was a topic at a recent candidates forum. Bearden said that while “there’s certain things that you have to abide by,” being a charter system allows “more control over what happens at all of our five schools.” He also noted that there is a School Governance Team (SGT) at each school that meets to discuss the schools’ needs. “They know exactly what the school needs and the people in Atlanta don’t,” Bearden emphasized.
There are two board of education seats on the ballot this May, but only one seat is contested. Incumbent Bobby Bearden is being challenged by both Debi Holcomb and Clarence “Junior” Farmer. More information about the election on May 24, 2022 can be found here or the Fannin County Board of Elections website.
Qualified Candidates for 2022 General Election
Board of Elections, Election March 8, 2022FANNIN, COUNTY — Fannin County candidates hoping to fill one of three county positions had until March 11 at noon to qualify. During the May 24, 2022 General Election, one county commissioner seat and two school board seats will be on the ballot.
Nine candidates qualified before the March 11 deadline.
Post 2 on the Fannin County Board of Commissioners:
Incumbent Republican Glenn Patterson qualified to run for re-election for the Post 2 seat. Four other candidates have also qualified for the Post 2 seat. The three Republican candidates are Larry Sosebee, Greg Staffins, and Anita L. Weaver. Larry Syputa is the only Democrat candidate that has qualified
Two seats on the Fannin County Board of Education:
Incumbent Vice Chair Mike Cole, a Republican, has qualified for an unopposed re-election campaign. Bobby Bearden, also an incumbent Republican has qualified, but will face a challenge from Republican candidates Clarence Farmer and Debi Holcomb.
Election information can be found on the Fannin County Board of Elections’ website, and at https://sos.ga.gov/qualifying-candidate-information.
Ramsey named new High School Principal
Education, News, Rebel's Corner April 30, 2021Blue Ridge, Ga. – Dr. Scott Ramsey will be Fannin County High School’s new Principal after the Board of Education (BOE) voted 3-2 in favor of the hire for the 2021-22 school year.
The search for Principal of Fannin County High School began in 2020 with then Principal Erik Cioffi giving his resignation.
Cioffi resigned in August of that year after accepting the position of Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Personnel with a school system in Massachusetts.
“This move allows us to be closer to our immediate families in New England,” Cioffi said of his decision, adding, “I was born and raised in Massachusetts so I will be returning home.”
The search for a new high school Principal came to a brief halt as the BOE voted to name Debbie Decubellis Interim Principal. At the time Decubellis had been serving as Interim Assistant Principal of West Fannin Elementary.
In a special called meeting held on Friday, April 30, 2021. The BOE voted in favor of moving Ramsey into the position of Fannin County High School Principal.
The vote was 3-2 in favor of the move, with Board Members Chad Galloway and Bobby Bearden voting in opposition.
Ramsey is currently employed as an Assistant Principal at Fannin County High School and has served the school system previously in the role of Athletic Director.
See Something, Say Something. SafeSchools Alert.
Community, News, Rebel's Corner January 12, 2020Blue Ridge, Ga. – School safety continues to be a top priority for the Fannin County School System. Assistant Superintendent and District Emergency Planning Coordinator Darren Danner wants to remind the citizens of Fannin County of a very important tool the district utilizes to keep the children in our area safe.
SafeSchools Alert is Fannin County School District’s tip reporting service. This online service can allow students, teachers, and parents to report incidents of bullying, intimidation, harassment, weapons, drugs or other threats, and remain anonymous.
“The best information we can get, is what we hear from the kids,” Danner spoke of SafeSchools Alert’s importance and the role the students themselves can play in keeping their schools safe for all. “They’re (students) are on the frontline, so to speak. They see what’s happening. They know what’s going on.”
SafeSchools Alert can be accessed on Fannin County School System’s website by scrolling to the bottom and clicking the SafeSchools Alert icon located at the bottom left of the page. SafeSchools Alert also offers an app that can be downloaded onto mobile devices, and it is this app that students generally choose to use.
According to Danner 95 to 98 percent of tips from the student body come from the use of the downloadable app.
Once a tip has been submitted, SafeSchools Alert will send out numerous emails to faculty within the district. Danner acknowledged that not all tips are reliable, but that some have proven to be very accurate and that all tips are taken seriously and looked into.
“The district has used this going on two years now,” Danner continued. “We’ve had some things that have been put to rest very quickly because of this.”
The Fannin County School System urges everyone that has information about a threat to report it.
Click here to read about Fannin County School System’s 2019 Award of Excellence in School Safety
School Resource Officers honored by Fannin County Board of Education
Community, News, Police & Government, Rebel's Corner January 12, 2020Blue Ridge, Ga. – The Fannin County Board of Education took time during their Jan. 9 regular monthly meeting to recognize a special group of personnel that work every day to keep the children of Fannin County safe.
“Our relationship with the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office is special,” Fannin County School Superintendent Dr. Michael Gwatney spoke of the importance of Fannin County’s School Resource Officers (SROs).
Jan. 9, 2020 marked National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. This day is set aside for citizens to show their support for their local law enforcement.
Gwatney displayed a photo and recognized each individual SRO, as well as Assistant Superintendent Darren Danner whose duties, among others include District Emergency Planning and School Resource Officer Coordinator.
Currently the following officers are stationed at each of the five schools in the district:
- Lt. Darvin Couch – Fannin County High School
- Deputy Anthony Walden – Fannin County Middle School
- Deputy Thomas Kay – East Fannin Elementary School
- Deputy Tracy Summers – West Fannin Elementary
- Deputy Jim Burrell – Blue Ridge Elementary School
Before presenting a certificate to Fannin County Sheriff Dane Kirby, Gwatney concluded, “I am thankful for these individuals. I’m thankful for the relationship that we have with the Sheriff. We couldn’t do it without them.”
Upon accepting the certificate, Kirby acknowledged that Gwatney’s sentiment goes both ways: “We really do cherish this relationship.”
Fannin County opts to remain a Charter School District
Community, News, Rebel's Corner January 22, 2019Blue Ridge, Ga. – The Fannin County Board of Education (BOE) voted unanimously for the Fannin County School System to remain a charter school district.
Fannin County schools officially became a charter school system July, 01, 2015. According to the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE), a charter district must renew their intent and contract with the state every five years.
Deputy Superintendent Betsy Hyde spoke to the BOE, “They (GDOE) asked us if we would amend our charter and say that we would review in 4 years.”
Upon Fannin County looking to obtain AdvancedED accreditation, the Georgia Department of Education asked administration to review their charter application a year early.
AdvancED is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that conducts rigorous, on-site external reviews of schools and school systems. Every five years a school system must participate in a targeted self-reflection process.
The AdvancedED helps to evaluate purpose and direction, governance and leadership, teaching and assessing for learning, resources and support systems, as well as engagement with stakeholders.
The charter renewal as well as the AdvancedEd accreditation are expected to have coinciding site visits to Fannin County Schools.
Hyde explained that during 2015, when Fannin County officially entered into the charter system, the state of Georgia offered three flexibility options for districts to pick from.
The first of these options was Status Quo. Under this option the school system would not be allowed waivers and have limited flexibility on the local level to customize the school learning environment.
The second option presented was the IE2/Strategic Waiver. This gave districts the ability to ask for specific waivers, but did not allow for School Governance Teams (SGT) to be established.
Lastly school systems had the option of becoming a charter district. This option did not restrict waivers and required the formation of SGT. With this option Fannin County would be provided more flexibility in exchange for maintaining at or above state levels in reviews.
“One of the things that we do in our system is we had to have waivers for instance to do block scheduling, class size, different things like that,” Hyde said explaining the benefits of being a charter district.
The decision to initially become a charter school system was not one that was taken lightly, Hyde explained that countless hours of research went into the decision, including speaking with other charter systems and visiting different districts.
Some of the advantages to being a charter district include flexibility to innovate educational opportunities, financial savings from waivers, and possible additional funding in Quality Basic Education (QBE) if appropriated.
One of the outstanding characteristics is the creation of SGT within each of the Fannin County schools. The first SGT was established in June of 2015. These teams, comprised of 7 members, each meet on a regular basis and include school system faculty as well as parents.
Hyde explained the role of SGT more in depth,”Student Government Teams kind of help us distribute our leadership instead of you all being the only board in the whole system. You all are still over the whole system, but this gives some government back to the schools.”
BOE Chair Lewis Deweese admitted to being skeptical of the formation of SGT in the beginning but said of his feelings now, “I think what we’ve really created are some advocates for public education.”
Before taking vote, board member Terry Bramlett questioned, “Whenever we chose to become a charter system it seemed to be the fairer choice of offering the most flexible options and the greatest opportunity for our students. Would you agree that that’s still the case?”
Hyde replied that she still felt very strongly that being a charter system is the best option for Fannin County and added that it also allows the school system a wider range of options as future needs within the district arise.
The BOE took the first step in renewing its contract to stay a charter district by passing a resolution updating their procedures. While there are still many steps to take before this renewal is official, administration is confident in their choice and ability to continue with charter district status.
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Fannin County election winners speak after hearing results
Uncategorized November 10, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – The Nov. General Election has come to a close in Fannin County. After a large number of early voters, it was not surprising that the local polls were packed as Tuesday Nov. 6 marked the last day to have your voice heard.
Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner will now be held by Republican candidate Glenn Patterson. Patterson won out over Democratic challenger Dixie Carter with 81.71 percent of the vote.
“I’m very excited! It hasn’t hit me yet. It’s kind of overwhelming,” Patterson spoke of his win shortly after hearing the results.
Of his plans once sworn into office Patterson said, “I’m brand new but I plan to learn fast and just do things for the people. That’s why I ran and I won’t forget after the race that the people put me in there.”
“I want to help Fannin County,” Patterson also acknowledged the division among political parties across the nation and locally. “Not just the Republicans or the Democrats but all of them. I will look at the issues critically. While I think we are headed down a good path, there is always room for improvement.”
One of the two seats open with the Fannin County Board of Education will now be held by Republican Mike Cole. Cole won the republican nomination in the May General Primary over several challengers and incumbent Steve Stanley. He then went on to defeat Democrat Susan DeMoura in the General Election with 82.31 percent of the vote.
“I’m excited about it,” Cole said as the final results were announced.
During his campaign Cole was an enthusiastic proponent of bringing vocational training back to the schools of Fannin County and he plans to continue to advocate for these classes.
“It’s all about policy,” Cole said speaking of ways in which to make more vocational options a reality, and while not knowing if he would be elected at the time Cole still began making progress by contacting agencies concerning welding and looking into possible grants for the school system.
Although Cole will be a newcomer to the Fannin County Board of Education, he looks forward to working with fellow board members and Fannin County Superintendent Dr. Michael Gwatney: “Gwatney is a great guy. I’ve had some interaction with him before and I like him a lot.”
In the closest race locally, incumbent Republican Bobby Bearden won over challenger Democrat Jeff Depaola with 79.49 percent of the vote. Bearden has held a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education for 16 years and will serve another four year term.
Bearden is no stranger to winning elections but humbly spoke of hearing the results: “I’m just thankful for everyone who believed in me, had faith in me, thought I was doing a good job and was willing to have me for four more years.”
“The children are first and the taxpayers are second,” Bearden spoke his platform as he did during the campaign. For the taxpayers, Bearden would like to focus on keeping Fannin County’s millage rate one of the lowest in the state of Georgia.
“I’m really honored and blessed to live in a place like Fannin County. I tell people all the time that we have the best schools and I still believe that,” Bearden said of his years on the Fannin County Board of Education.
All three candidates will take office in 2019 to serve a 4 year term.
You can see all of Fannin County’s Election Results by following the link below:
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]
5,355 turnout to early vote in Fannin County
Election, Election 2018, News November 3, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – Lines filled the hall of the third floor of the Fannin County Courthouse on Friday Nov. 2 as citizens awaited a chance to cast their ballots in the 2018 General Election.
The last day of early voting saw an all time record high turnout for a single day of voting in Fannin County with 539 residents choosing to have their voices heard.
Both state and local races have had the residents of Fannin County paying close attention to the future of Georgia.
With the Governor’s Race, between Brian Kemp (Republican-R) and Stacey Abrams (Democrat-D), making national headlines, talk of the importance of this race rang out as voters waited in line. Some expressed their feelings of “not letting Atlanta speak for all of Georgia” while others spoke of a “much needed change”.
Despite differing views, those waiting in line Friday kept discourse civil.
Locally 3 seats are up for grabs in Fannin County. Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner is without an incumbent and the seat will fall to either Glenn Patterson (R) or Dixie Carter (D).
The Fannin County Board of Education has 2 seats that are seen on the 2018 General Election ballot. One seat has challenger Jeff DePaola (D) facing incumbent Bobby Bearden (R), and another seat has two newcomers Mike Cole (R) and Susan DeMoura (D) seeking the nomination.
There is no denying the importance of the 2018 General Election to local voters when looking at a comparison of past early voting records.
According to the Fannin County Office of Elections and Registration, in 2016 Fannin County had 15,385 registered voters. This number has risen to 17,361 registered voters in 2018.
The 2016 General Election had a record number of voters showing up to the polls due to the highly intense presidential race and Fannin County saw 5,922 early voters at that time. Move forward to 2018, without a presidential election in play, and Fannin County early voting still showed a strong turnout with 5,355 early voters.
With most statewide races being dubbed “too close to call” and several key local seats up for grabs, this Tuesday Nov. 6 is sure to see a large voter turnout in Fannin County and across the state of Georgia.
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]
Raffensperger wins nomination for Secretary of State
Election, Election 2018 July 24, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – Brad Raffensperger has defeated David Belle Isle in the July Runoff Election.
Raffensperger and Belle Isle vied for the Republican nomination to seek the seat of Georgia Secretary of State. The Secretary of State seat is open with no incumbent as current Secretary of State Brian Kemp moves forward in the gubernatorial race.
With all 159 counties reporting, Raffensperger was able to receive 61.76 percent of the vote while Belle Isle fell short only receiving 38.24 percent.
Raffensperger will move forward to the November General Election where he will face Democratic nominee John Barrow.
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]
Duncan wins tightest race in July Runoff
Election, Election 2018 July 24, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – Geoff Duncan narrowly beats out David Shafer in the July Runoff Election.
In what was by far the closest race to take place during the runoff, Duncan beat out Shaffer by a mere 1672 votes. In some precincts across the state this race showed wins by a margin of only 2 votes.
Duncan and Shafer vied for the Republican nomination to seek the seat of Georgia Lt. Governor. The Lt. Governor seat is open with no incumbent as current Lt. Governor Casey Cagle chose to throw his name in the hat for the Republican nomination in the gubernatorial race.
With all 159 counties reporting, Duncan was able to receive 50.15 percent of the vote while Shafer fell short receiving 49.85 percent.
Duncan will move forward to the November General Election where he will face Democratic nominee Sarah Riggs Amico.
July Runoff Election Results
Election 2018 July 24, 2018***UPDATED: Tue. July 24 @ 11:38 p.m.
With the July Runoff Election officially coming to a close, candidates have now been selected for the Nov. General Election.
Locally Challenger Glenn Patterson won the Republican nomination for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner over Incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee receiving 64.45 percent of the vote. Patterson will go on to face Democrat Dixie Carter in the General Election.
In another upset Challenger Mike Cole was able to beat out Incumbent Steve Stanley for the Republican nomination and recieved 52.69 percent of the runoff vote. Cole will now face Democratic opponent Susan DeMoura for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education.
Having already been decided in the May General Primary, the the second seat with the Fannin County Board of Education that is open for election will see Incumbent Bobby Bearden (R) face Challenger Jeff DePaola (D).
After what became dubbed as a “nasty” campaign by many, Secretary of State Brian Kemp has won the Republican gubernatorial nomination over his opponent, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, and will face Stacey Abrams (D) in the General Election.
Another closely watched campaign has come to a close as Geoff Duncan beat out opponent David Shafer and will represent Republicans in Nov. as he moves on to face Sarah Riggs Amico for the seat of Georgia Lt. Governor.
The Secretary of State seat was also seen in the 2018 runoff. Brad Raffensperger was able to defeat David Belle Isle for the Republican nomination. Raffensperger is set to face John Barrow (D) in November.
The General Election will be held Nov. 6, 2018.
*These election results are unofficial until being certified by the Secretary of State’s office.
**The results for state seats in this article reflect the voters of Fannin County only and do not reflect voting statewide.
FANNIN COUNTY POST 2 COMMISSIONER
Glenn Patterson (R) – 64.45% 2114 votes (Challenger)
Larry Joe Sosebee (R) – 35.55% 1166 votes (Incumbent)
FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
Steve Stanley (R) – 47.31% 1529 votes (Incumbent)
Mike Cole (R) – 52.69% 1703 votes (Challenger)
GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
Casey Cagle (R) – 33.94% 1113 votes
Brian Kemp (R) – 66.06% 2166 votes
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
David Shafer (R) – 50.03% 1518 votes
Geoff Duncan (R) – 49.97% 1516 votes
SECRETARY OF STATE CANDIDATES:
Brad Raffensperger (R) – 62.28% 1768 votes
David Belle Isle (R) – 37.72% 1071 votes
STATE SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT CANDIDATES:
Sid Chapman (D) – 57.89% 44 votes
Otha Thornton (D) – 42.11% 32 votes
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 candidates speak at local forum
Election 2018 May 14, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – The Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, along with the Blue Ridge Community Theater, hosted a candidate forum May 3 to give voters an opportunity to hear first-hand local candidates’ responses to questions about issues facing our area.
All persons running for positions on the Fannin County Board of Education and for the seat of Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner were present to share their views and explain why they should have your vote in the upcoming election.
SCHOOL BOARD
First to take the stage were Marvin Allen (R), Bobby Bearden (R), and Jeff DePaola (D).
Allen is challenging incumbent Bearden in the May General Primary for the Republican nomination. The winner of the primary will face Democrat DePaola in the November General Election.
BOBBY BEARDEN (R) INCUMBENT
Bobby Bearden, who has served on the Fannin County Board of Education for 16 years, said, “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Bearden added about his time serving, “It’s more than a privilege. It’s a blessing and an honor.”
While agreeing with his fellow candidates on many of the issues such as a board member must be a liaison between the community, parents, teachers, and students, Bearden gave insight into his feelings about what it takes to be an effective board member and what it means to serve.
“A lot of people think that the school board runs the schools, but the school board does not run the schools,” Bearden said. “The superintendent runs the schools. The school board makes sure the superintendent carries out the policies.”
Bearden spoke of accomplishments of the school board during his service specifically citing the Performing Arts Center (PAC) and the construction taking place of the new agricultural facility located on Ada Street: “I’ve got so much behind me I couldn’t tell you all of it.”
“I just heard today that we applied for a grant, a literacy grant for over 1 million bucks,” Bearden said, smiling, “and we got it.”
Bearden’s platform is unwavering, stating his top priorities are “children, children, children, and the tax payers of Fannin County.” He states that safety and quality education are his main focus.
MARVIN ALLEN (R) CHALLENGER
Marvin Allen is a product of the Fannin County School System and has raised his children in Fannin County where they all attended our public schools.
“The platform I’m running on is my concerns for the children of Fannin County,” Allen addressed the crowd of voters. “Their safety is certainly number one. Next on the list is education. Another issue I am concerned about is the consideration of the tax-paying citizens of the county.”
Allen would like to work with the superintendent to produce quality policies that make a difference and to be a good steward of taxpayers dollars when it comes to the budget.
Having helped initiate the school system’s fishing program and by being involved with his children’s educations as well as their extracurricular activities, including sports and band, Allen feels that he is qualified for a position on the Board of Education.
When asked what makes an effective school board member, Allen replied that listening and communicating with the community is a large part of the responsibility, but also being able to effectively take care of business: “There are policies you’ve got to set and a budget you’ve got to monitor.”
JEFF DEPAOLA (D) CHALLENGER
Jeff DePaola has worked with youth via mentoring programs and shows a strong resolve in helping children through community involvement.
DePaola feels that this mentoring background along with his career provides him with the experience needed to serve on the Fannin County Board of Education.
DePaola began his career with Delta at the young age of 19. Through Delta, DePaola learned the field of computer programming and went on to write and implement many programs used in this field.
“I’ve got kind of an entrepreneurial spirit about me. I feel like I have a good eye for looking at a situation and seeing opportunities to make it better,” DePaola spoke of how his career will translate on the school board.
DePaola would like to be a liason if elected to the school board. He feels that a large portion of the duty of a board member is to gather as much information as possible from students, teachers, parents and the community, and relay that information into meaningful policies.
“The platform I’m running on is opportunity through community,” DePaola stated of his goals if elected.
SCHOOL BOARD
Next to come to the stage was the race with the largest number of candidates. These candidates include Ron Bolin (R), Mike Cole (R), Susan DeMoura (D), Steve Stanley (R), and Mike Sullivan (R).
Bolin, Cole and Sullivan are all challengers of incumbent Stanley for the Republican nomination in the May General Primary. The winner of the primary will go on to face Democrat DeMoura in the November General Election.
RON BOLIN (R) CHALLENGER
Ron Bolin opened his statements by giving voters a glimpse into his background: “I’m a retired educator. I’ve taught at all three grade levels, elementary, middle, and high school.”
Beyond having taught, Bolin has also spent time in coaching and in school administration.
Bolin is a proponent of literacy and would like to focus school assets into providing a number of tools to promote and teach these skills. Having served many years in education, Bolin stated, “When a student lags behind in this area, it makes more difficulties throughout their entire education.”
Bolin would also like to see focus put on bringing back vocational training to our schools. He believes that education has “made a huge mistake” by putting all the focus on college education and that many students do not attend college and would greatly benefit from vocational training.
MIKE COLE (R) CHALLENGER
Mike Cole is a product of the Fannin County School System and credits his success to the start he got in our county’s schools.
Cole, a small business owner, began his training at Fannin County High School in the now un-offered vocational and technical programs. Having a successful career with General Motors (GM) and Chrysler, Cole returned to Fannin County to open his own automotive repair shop.
Cole is now a strong advocate for returning programs such as transportation class, cosmetology, residential wiring, plumbing, and welding to Fannin County schools.
“I’m not just a salesman,” Cole said, speaking of his opponent Bolin’s stance to bring back vocational classes, “but I am a client. I went through this vocational system, and I now own a business doing my career path from career tech.”
Cole now has a young child enrolled in the school system, and from involvement in his child’s education, he sees areas of what he feels are wasteful spending and mismanagement.
Citing that he has personally had to provide water to children on a field trip and has seen first-hand large amounts of food being thrown away in the schools’ cafeterias, Cole stated, “If we are a charter school and can make some decisions, we need to make decisions about the waste and mismanagement in that area.”
Cole also brought to the table the idea of using Georgia Virtual on snow days. He stated that if each child were provided a Chromebook that this option could be used to alleviate the issue of make-up school days due to inclement weather.
SUSAN DEMOURA (D) CHALLENGER
Susan DeMoura shared her experience of being a director of a rehabilitation center. With a master’s in speech language pathology, DeMoura worked many years managing a large staff and being in charge of an equally as large budget.
“I believe that my experience has prepared me to sit on this board,” DeMoura explained that she is used to working with many diverse people, “and become a liaison between the superintendent and the students and the teachers and the parents.”
When asked if school boards should be moved to a nonpartisan position, DeMoura stated that she is proud to be a member of her political party, but “I don’t see this as an area where politics need to come into play.”
DeMoura said that a key area she would like to research and try to resolve is the issue of absences in Fannin County. She cited that not all absences are due to illness and some stem from a child’s home life. DeMoura would like to provide options for these children to ensure that they are able to attend school everyday.
“My goal is to try to bridge any gap that exists,” DeMoura said of her hopes if elected,”with our students and our parents and teachers and provide the very best options, the very best alternatives for them.”
STEVE STANLEY (R) INCUMBENT
Steve Stanley has served on the Board of Education for eight years and would like to be re-elected for another four year term.
Stanley is proud of his record with the Board of Education citing several successes that have come to pass during his terms. He spoke of grants that have been awarded and progresses that have been made on all school campuses.
With Quality Basic Education (QBE) being fully funded by the state of Georgia for the first time in a number of years, Stanley stated that he will continue to be an advocate for equal state funding for Fannin County schools.
“This board will continue to work,” Stanley stated of his expectations if re-elected, “and I will continue to work.”
Stanley stated that the one thing he would do differently if elected for another term would be to spend more time in the schools.
“That has been the one thing I have wanted to do since I have been on the board is spend more time in schools,” Stanley said, explaining that his work has kept him away from spending as much time as he would like in the schools.
MIKE SULLIVAN (R) CHALLENGER
Mike Sullivan remains steadfast in his platform. Two of Sullivan’s key issues are that of school safety and of complete transparency on all levels.
Sullivan would like to see no stone left unturned when it comes to the safety of the children of Fannin County. Pursuing every option to acquire top notch safety is an issue the Sullivan is very passionate about.
Sullivan was asked of what he has done to prepare himself for the school board position if elected. He cited that beyond having attended the Board of Education monthly meetings, his military background is another advantage that he possesses.
“The military really prepares you a lot for working with diverse people,” the Air Force veteran spoke of his credentials for the Board of Education, “and I believe our board is comprised of some diverse individuals. It really prepares you for conflict.”
Sullivan agreed with his opponents on a number of issues, including that the school board should be a nonpartisan position and that the best way to keep quality teachers is to offer competitive pay and incentives.
When asked what he would do differently from incumbent Stanley, Sullivan replied that he would have active engagement on all levels, with students, parents, teachers, and fellow board members.
“We really have tremendous capabilities here,” Sullivan stated enthusiastically of his intentions, “to really excel with our kids and to lead them beyond being just 21st century learners.”
POST 2 COMMISSIONER
The final group of candidates to take the stage were those running for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner. These candidates included Dixie Carter (D), Glenn Patterson (R), Larry Joe Sosebee (R), and William “Tripp” Ritchie (R).
Ritchie and Patterson are facing incumbent Sosebee for the Republican nomination in the May General Primary. The winner of this primary will go against Democrat Carter in the November General Election.
DIXIE CARTER (D) CHALLENGER
Dixie Carter holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work, and she feels that having worked many years in this field, she has a good understanding of people and their needs and for this reason would make an ideal candidate.
Carter is a proponent of improving the county’s recreational areas and of seeking ways to move the county’s library out of the courthouse and into a stand-alone location.
A library is a hub for many communities, according to Carter, and a place where not only learning can take place, but a facility that can offer community classes and lectures, Internet for those without, and social work and aid for those in need.
When asked about a county aquatic center, Carter replied that she would be in favor and that it would be “very beneficial to focus on our health and wellness.”
Rather than just fund this center locally, Carter feels that we could look into regional funding: “Regional collaboration is a very good thing.” She feels that surrounding counties might take interest since the center would be beneficial to their residents as well.
Carter would be in favor of expanding the current Fannin County Board of Commissioners from a three-person panel to a five-person panel.
“With three there’s a monopoly on the vote,” Carter stated of the matter. “It’s almost like it’s rigged.”
If elected, Carter said she will work to represent all citizens of Fannin County and work to change the atmosphere of the Board of Commissioners meetings, which she feels has a negative tone.
GLENN PATTERSON (R) CHALLENGER
Glenn Patterson is an educator of 33 years and has spent approximately 23 of those years as a teacher, administrator, and coach in Fannin County. Patterson currently serves on the Board of Directors at the Fannin Christian Learning Center and is chairman for Fannin County Sports Hall of Fame.
Patterson said that he has no private agenda in running, just a vision and a want to make Fannin County better.
Being a good steward of the taxpayers’ money is a key element to Patterson’s platform, and a topic that he reiterated in his answers.
When asked about the county collaborating with the cities to provide an aquatic center, Patterson replied, “I would be open to look at it. I really would. A lot of factors come into play, especially paying for it.”
One area where Patterson seemed to agree with incumbent Sosebee was in not expanding the Board of Commissioners to a five-member board and keeping it at its current three member status. While he did not say that he was completely against the move, Patterson did cite that there is another way to approach the matter.
“I think the biggest thing is to get good people,” Patter said, explaining his stance. “Get people that you can trust. Get people that will work together collaboratively for a common goal.”
LARRY JOE SOSEBEE (R) INCUMBENT
Larry Joe Sosebee has held the Post 2 Commission seat since 2011 and will be seeking a third term in office.
Sosebee stated that his platform has never changed and that he will be running on the same ideals: “When I first ran for this office, my platform was for the safety and prosperity for each citizen of Fannin County.”
Not in support of turning the Board of Commissioners into a five-member board, Sosebee spoke frankly on the matter: “Three people is enough to butt heads on these decisions we make.”
Sosebee told the crowd that he would be in favor of a stand-alone building for the county library: “I’ve always supported a stand-alone library.” He then added,” I wouldn’t put the county in any bond debt whatsoever for any facility.”
Rival candidate Tripp Ritchie questioned the county’s planning strategy for the future and in particular cited the county’s emergency departments. Sosebee took offense to Ritchie’s comments and replied about these departments, “We are top notch in the state of Georgia.”
“All it takes is common sense to run this office,” Sosebee said and added that with his experience, he feels that he is the man for the job.
WILLIAM “TRIPP” RITCHIE (R) CHALLENGER
Tripp Ritchie, a sixth-generation Fannin County resident, co-owner of Ritchie Creek Farm, Inc., and a veteran of the United States Marine Corps., did not hold back during the forum as he spoke frankly about areas of the county that he feels need to be improved.
Ritchie has held strong to his belief that the county lacks proper strategic planning, and one downfall of not having such a plan is in newly constructed facilities: “We need a five-year capital improvements plan.”
“If it’s not in a capital improvements program,” Ritchie added, “you end up starting construction without knowing how you are going to pay for it.”
Ritchie also noted areas in how the Board of Commissioners run that could be improved for the public: “I don’t think we have enough public debate or public comments.”
Accusing Fannin County Commission Chairman Stan Helton of “weaponizing” his position by having complete say in meeting agendas and arrangements, Ritchie added, “We should encourage everybody to have input from the community. We seem to forget that we are representing the citizens of Fannin County.”
Ritchie said that he would support changing the current commission board from three members to five members: “Yes, and I would go a step further. I’d change the form of government between a volunteer-elected board and a manager.”
Having a county manager to organize and oversee all areas of the county government, according to Ritchie, would be beneficial not just in efficiency but also in transparency.
Finally, Ritchie addressed the issue of our emergency management departments and said that this is another area that would greatly benefit from strategic planning. He feels the county should do more to prepare these departments for future demand.
Ritchie also cited that he had been informed that our fire department facilities are not up to code, some not being properly vented, and that firefighters had expressed concern to him about their safety: “They asked me to bring these issues to the commissioners attention. They felt like the commission didn’t have their back.”
Ritchie maintains that he is the right person for the job because he will proactively seek solutions: “I’m not a politician. I’m a pragmatist. I see a problem, and I go try to fix it.”
Early voting continues in Fannin County through May 18. You can place your early vote at the Fannin County Courthouse, 3rd Floor, Office of Elections and Registration. Regular voting for the General Primary will take place on May 22. The 2018 General Election is to be held Nov. 6.
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 and State Election Results 2018
Election 2018 May 22, 2018UPDATED MAY 22, 2018 @ 10:15 p.m.
The May General Primary came to a close in Fannin County. As many had predicted some races locally will now be voted on in the General Primary Runoff.
Republican candidates will now choose between challenger Glenn Patterson and incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee for the seat of Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner. Patterson received 1678 votes totaling 47.77 percent and Sosesbee received 1100 votes totaling 31.31 percent. Democrat Dixie Carter will face the winner of this race in the Nov. General Election.
A seat with the Fannin County Board of Education will also be seen on the General Primary Runoff ballot. Incumbent Steve Stanley will face challenger Mike Cole. Stanley received 1440 votes totaling 42.04% and Cole received 875 totaling 25.55%. The winner of this race will run against Democrat Susan DeMoura in the Nov. General Election.
Incumbent Bobby Bearden beat out challenger Marvin Allen in the closest local race for the Republican nomination. Bearden will now run for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education against Democratic challenger Jeff DePaola.
The General Primary Runoff will be held on July 24, 2018.
*These election results are unofficial until being certified by the Secretary of State’s office.
**The results for state seats in this article reflect the voters of Fannin County only and do not reflect voting statewide. Statewide results can be viewed at : https://fetchyournews.com/election/election-and-politics/ga-state-election-results-2018/
FANNIN COUNTY POST 2 COMMISSIONER
Glenn Patterson (R) – 47.77% 1678 votes (Challenger in General Primary Runoff)
Larry Joe Sosebee (R) – 31.31% 1100 votes (Incumbent in General Primary Runoff)
William “Tripp” Ritchie (R) – 20.92% 735 votes
Dixie Carter (D) – 100% 408 votes (Moves forward to General Election)
FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
Bobby Bearden (R) – 52.29% 1782 votes (Primary Winner : Moves forward to General Election)
Marvin Allen (R) – 47.71% 1626 votes
Jeff DePaola (D) – 100% 371 of votes (Moves forward to General Election)
FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
Steve Stanley (R) – 42.04% 1440 votes (Incumbent in General Primary Runoff)
Mike Cole (R) – 25.55% 875 votes (Challenger in General Primary Runoff)
Ron Bolin (R) – 17.69% 606 votes
Mike Sullivan (R) – 14.72% 504 votes
Susan DeMoura (D) – 100% 395 votes (Moves forward to General Election)
GEORGIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 7
David Ralston (R) – Totals – 75.10% 3,529 votes (Primary Winner : Moves forward to General Election)
Results by County:
Gilmer: 70.80% 536 votes
Fannin: 75.99% 2674 votes
Dawson: 75.41% 319 votes
Margaret Williamson (R) – Totals – 24.90% 1,170 votes
Results by County:
Gilmer: 29.19% 221 votes
Fannin: 24.01% 845 votes
Dawson: 24.59% 104 votes
Rick Day (D) – Totals – 100% 570 votes (Moves forward to General Election)
Results by County:
Gilmer: 100% 92 votes
Fannin: 100% 373 votes
Dawson: 100% 105 votes
2018 Georgia Primary Election Results
GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
Casey Cagle (R) – 38.03% 1351 votes
Brian Kemp (R) – 27.79% 987 votes
Hunter Hill (R) – 16.13% 573 votes
Clay Tippins (R) – 9.99% 355 votes
Michael Williams (R) – 7.07% 251 votes
Eddie Hayes (R) – 0.68% 24 votes
Marc Urbach (R) – 0.31% 11 votes
Stacey Abrams (D) – 61.37% 286 votes
Stacey Evans (D) – 38.63% 180 votes
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
David Shafer (R) – 47.14% 1475 votes
Geoff Duncan (R) – 27.13% 849 votes
Rick Jeffares (R) – 25.73% 805 votes
Sarah Riggs Amico (D) – 77.98% 340 votes
Triana Arnold James (D) – 22.02% 96 votes
SECRETARY OF STATE CANDIDATES:
Brad Raffensperger (R) – 37.95% 1109 votes
David Belle Isle (R) – 30.56% 893 votes
Buzz Brockway (R) – 15.85% 463 votes
Josh McKoon (R) – 15.64% 457 votes
John Barrow (D) – 52.33% 225 votes
Dee Dawkins-Haigler (D) – 34.65% 149 votes
R.J. Hadley (D) – 13.02% 56 votes
Smythe Duval (I) – N/A
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES:
Jim Beck (R) – 62.95% 1886 votes
Tracy Jordan (R) – 18.86% 565 votes
Jay Florence (R) – 18.19% 545 votes
Cindy Zeldin (D) – 54.57% 221 votes
Janice Laws (D) – 45.43% 184 votes
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES:
District 3 –
Chuck Eaton (R) – 100% 2580 votes
Lindy Miller (D) – 67.47% 280 votes
John Noel (D) – 24.10% 100 votes
Johnny White (D) – 8.43% 35 votes
District 5 –
Tricia Pridemore (R) – 52.39% 1559 votes
John Hitchins III (R) – 47.61% 1417 votes
Dawn Randolph (D) – 76.53% 313 votes
Doug Stoner (D) – 23.47% 96 votes
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]
Mike Sullivan seeks Fannin County Board of Education seat
Election 2018 April 7, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Mike Sullivan addressed the Fannin County Republican Party at their March meeting to let the citizens know of his intentions if elected to the Fannin County Board of Education.
Sullivan, a veteran of the Air Force, states that education has always been a priority. While enlisted Sullivan pursued and obtained his Bachelors in Psychology and Masters in Organizational Leadership.
“Having served 20 years in the Air Force, I am ready to serve again,” Sullivan began.
Sullivan states that the Air Force has a set of core values, ones in which he carries with him today, and those are integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.
“I’ll utilize skills acquired during my years of service to be your champion for education in our county,” Sullivan said explaining how these values will carry over to help him serve the youth in our area.
His platform is set on three key issues: school safety, financial responsibility, and accountability of teachers and administration.
In the area of safety Sullivan states, “Nothing is more important to me than the safety of our children.”
He would like to continue to see a collective approach to safety in our schools, one in which the schools along with local law enforcement work together for the benefit of the children.
“Seeking out and researching all avenues of protection,” Sullivan stated on the subject of safety, “and implementing those which make the most sense and will be the most effective no matter the cost.”
He feels safety should be a top priority because “when fear and anxiety are replaced with confidence and certainty, our teachers are free to teach and all students can focus on learning.”
Next Sullivan points to financial responsibility, “Fiscal year 2018 is on course to spend nearly 1 million dollars more than it takes in. To me this is not how things should be done.”
Sullivan would like to develop and stick to a Fannin County Public School Strategic Plan that would provide a clear road map. He would like to see school board members and administrators remain transparent with easy to read accountability of expenses, tax revenues, and money received.
Finally Sullivan spoke of the need for transparency in all areas. He would like to see increased reporting on teacher and administration performance, and hold staff accountable if they are not meeting certain standards.
“We cannot accept mediocrity and spend money in areas that do not bring results,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan concluded by saying, “My platform can be summarized into four words: safety, communication, transparency, and accountability.”
Sullivan will face challengers Mike Cole, Ron Bolin and incumbent Steve Stanley in the May General Primary in hopes of receiving the Republican nomination for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education.
The May General Primary is scheduled to take place May 22, 2018. Voter registration deadline for the General Primary Election is April 23.
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]
Marvin Allen will face Bobby Bearden in May General Primary
Election 2018 April 18, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Republican candidates lined up to speak at the March and April Fannin County Republican Party meetings. One such candidate was Marvin Allen, who is seeking a seat with the Fannin County Board of Education.
Allen is a lifelong resident of Fannin County and a graduate of Fannin County High School. Allen is also is the father of four children who have all attended and graduated from the Fannin County School System.
“I am not a politician,” Allen said opening his dialogue to the Republican party.
“I have a great concern for our children’s safety and well-being while they are receiving the best education possible,” Allen spoke of what led him to run for this public office.
Allen also expressed that his concerns lay with the taxpayers of the county. If elected to office, he hopes to work with the board on spending issues that will allow for continuing to maintain “a fair millage rate that the citizens of Fannin County can afford.”
Allen stressed, “I do care about the children of this county, and I care about their safety and their education.”
Allen will face incumbent Bobby Bearden for a seat on the Board of Education in the May General Primary. The winner of this primary will go on to face Democratic nominee Jeff DePaola in the November General Election.
The May General Primary is scheduled to take place May 22, 2018. Voter registration deadline for the General Primary Election is April 23.
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]