City of Blue Ridge creates Downtown Development Authority

Downtown Blue Ridge, News

Blue Ridge, Ga. – A Downtown Development Authority (DDA) could be in the near future for the City of Blue Ridge.

Opposition from some to creating this organization became overshadowed by the need for the city to obtain more funding, and certain funding and grants can only be obtained by a DDA.

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, City Council, Mayor, Downtown Development Authority, DDA, Attorney, Resolution, Sunset Provision, Donna Whitener, Kenneth Gaddis, Rhonda Haight, Nathan Fitts, Robbie Cornelius, Harold Herenden, James Balli, Ann Arnold, Board members, Jay Hamilton, Gene Holcombe, Michelle Moran, Nichole Potzauf, Cesar Martinez, Jeff DePaola

Proposed boundaries of the downtown district in which the DDA will focus and serve.

Beyond gathering extra funds for the City of Blue Ridge, a DDA will also be a policy-making body and a major decision-making entity that plans and manages the downtown area.

Ann Arnold, who has 31 years of experience with DDAs and their development, was asked by the Mayor and Blue Ridge City Council to step-in in assisting with the creation and structuring of Blue Ridge’s DDA.

Arnold not only created a draft of the outlines for the new DDA, but also examined Blue Ridge for appropriate boundaries of a designated “downtown area” and interviewed potential applicants to fill the 7 member board.

In a special called Blue Ridge City Council meeting Arnold laid out her recommendations on all areas including who she felt would be ideal members of this inaugural board.

“I really was impressed with these people,” Arnold explained of the applicants that she interviewed, “You absolutely cannot go wrong with this board.”
Arnold stated that many of the applicants had already researched the role of a DDA and was familiar with the laws in which they would be working. Some applicants even went as far as to reach out to other DDAs in researching the role they would potentially be filling.

In the interview process Arnold asked each applicant the same questions. She took into account the applicants backgrounds and strong points in hopes of creating a diversified board. Her recommendations are as follows:

  • John (Jay) Hamilton to serve 6 years through Jan. 1, 2019 – Dec. 31, 2024.
  • Nichole Potzauf to serve 6 years through Jan. 1, 2019 – Dec. 31, 2024.
  • Gene Holcombe to serve 6 years through Jan. 1, 2019 – Dec. 31, 2024.
  • Michelle Moran to serve 4 years through Jan. 1, 2019 – Dec. 31, 2022.
  • Cesar Martinez to serve 4 years through Jan. 1, 2019 – Dec. 31, 2022.
  • Jeff DePaola to serve 2 Years through Jan. 1, 2019 – Dec. 31, 2020.

Originally it was discussed that Mayor Donna Whitener would serve as the seventh member. However, as Arnold saw that the Mayor position was already full-time she offered a different recommendation: “One of the board members, one of the seven will be a council member.”

“It would be nice to have different councilmembers, maybe every two years rotate and have some different insight,” Arnold explained her thoughts on this recommendation, “but also an opportunity for each of the council members to really understand the day to day work of the Downtown Development Authority.”

After Arnold gave her recommendations for board members she moved on to discuss the boundaries of the designated downtown area.

“The resolution does require that you (the city) designate the downtown development area that the downtown development would be serving,” Arnold said explaining the need to have clear boundaries.

The recommendations show the boundaries being roughly East First Street to the East, West Second Street to the West, McKinney Street to the South, and River Street to the North.

Questions arose from council members concerning areas already containing businesses that were not included, to which Arnold replied, “You really want to protect that residential. You have got some beautiful homes all around a number of these areas, and what you have by having that residential is you’ve got a built in audience. Those people are going to use goods and services. They can walk downtown.”

Blue Ridge City Attorney James Balli addressed the council about previously discussed concerns after listening to Arnold’s recommendations: “Once you activate them (DDA approval), they’re out there, whatever is in the resolution.”

Balli recommended that the council go through the DDA resolution more thoroughly and input provisions limiting control of the DDA and the permanence of the directors: “I would heavily recommend that you leave in the provisions about being able to remove directors for cause.”

A 7 year sunset provision was also recommended. This would essentially give the council the ability to dissolve the DDA after 7 years. Balli said of this precaution it “is as close as you are going to get to be able to kill it.”

Arnold questioned the sunset provision and said to the council that DDA and the City Council should be viewed as a team.

Further discussion and possible enactment of the DDA is expected to take place at the upcoming Blue Ridge City Council meeting to be held Tuesday, Dec. 11 at City Hall.

 

 

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 election winners speak after hearing results

Uncategorized

Blue 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.

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, General Election 2018, Election 2018, Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Republican, Democrat, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Bobby Bearden, Jeff DePaola, Mike Cole, Susan DeMoura, Superintendent, Dr. Michael Gwatney

Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner Elect Glenn Patterson.

“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.

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, General Election 2018, Election 2018, Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Republican, Democrat, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Bobby Bearden, Jeff DePaola, Mike Cole, Susan DeMoura, Superintendent, Dr. Michael Gwatney

New Fannin County Board of Education board member Mike Cole with family.

“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.

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, General Election 2018, Election 2018, Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Republican, Democrat, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Bobby Bearden, Jeff DePaola, Mike Cole, Susan DeMoura, Superintendent, Dr. Michael Gwatney

Set to serve another term, Fannin County Board of Education board member Bobby Bearden.

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]

Jeff DePaola for Fannin County School Board ~ Opportunity Through Community

Election 2018, Politics

 

  • Graduate of Kennesaw State University  
  • 20 year career as a Computer programmer for Delta Air Lines
  • Active member of the Benton MacKaye Trail Association
  • Active member of Feed Fannin
  • Past board member of the Boys & Girls Club
  • Multi-year mentor to as-risk youth from Capitol Homes-Atlanta
  • Currently an active broker with Mountain Place Realty in Blue Ridge 
  • Watch the interview below:

    Jeff DePaola asks for your vote in the upcoming election for Fannin County School Board.  Mr. DePaola shares his platform and his vision for the future of the Fannin County School System:

Q:  What do you see as the board’s top priority ?

A:   Maintaining and attracting quality educators to our system.

 

Q:  What is your vision for education in this community?

A:  Continue to increase the graduation rate from Fannin County High School and ultimately achieve our mission of 100%, which I believe is possible.        I would work closely with the school system administration and the superintendent to identify creative opportunities to achieve this goal.

 

Q:  How can you contribute to a successful achievement of this vision?

A:  Achieve 100% graduation rate though more comprehensive mentoring and tutoring programs that reach more of our students starting early in              their education experience and continuing through high school. Also, identify vocational programs that could be  offered in Fannin County schools        that target meaningful career paths for our student population who may not want to attend college after graduation.

 

Q:  What kind of relationship should a district/the board have with its community? With its parents and families?

A:  My campaign slogan is Opportunity Through Community so I intend to be a bridge between the school system needs and our growing Fannin                County community. I believe we have an outstanding base of quality full and part-time residents that would be willing to participate in expanded           education related mentoring and tutoring programs.

       Also, with our business and higher education community expanding rapidly, there will be more opportunities for partnerships that will benefit       our student population. 

Jeff was born in Phoenix, AZ and graduated high school from Schaumburg, IL.  He started with Delta Air Lines in Chicago shortly after high school in 1978 and transferred to Atlanta in 1982 to be trained as a mainframe computer programmer.

He put himself through school and graduated from Kennesaw State University with a business degree in 1988 after part time evening/weekend/summer classes while working full time at Delta.  If you would like to contact Jeff DePaola with any questions he can be contacted at 404.550.4488 or email him at Email Jeff DePaola for Fannin School Board (click here)

 

 

5,355 turnout to early vote in Fannin County

Election, Election 2018, News

Blue 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.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Geoff Duncan, Stacey Abrams, Brian Kemp, Doug Collins, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Georgia’s Gubernatorial Race has caught the attention of the nation. Pictured Republucan Brian Kemp (Left) and Democrat Stacey Abrams (Right).

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

Blue 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

Blue 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

***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.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Challenger Glenn Patterson (R) moves forward to the November General Election to run for the seat of Post 2 Commissioner.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Dixie Carter (D) will be seen on the ballot for the November General Election for Post 2 Commissioner.

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.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Challenger Mike Cole (R) pictured with family will move forward to the November General Election for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Susan DeMoura (D) will be on the November General Election Ballot 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).

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Incumbent Bobby Bearden (R) will be seeking re-election for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Jeff DePaola (D) will challenge the incumbent for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education.

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.

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.

Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp (R) will move forward to the November General Election ballot for seat of Georgia Governor.

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.

Stacey Abrams (D) will be seen on the ballot for the seat of Georgia Governor.

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.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Geoff Duncan (R) moves forward to the seat of Lt. Governor and will appear on the Nov. ballot.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Sarah Riggs Amico (D) will appear on the Nov. General Election ballot for seat of 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.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

Brad Raffensperger (R) will seek seat of Secretary of State in the Nov. General Election.

Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Public Service Commissioner District 3, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Insurance Commissioner, Secretary of State, Sarah Riggs Amico, Triana Arnold James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, John Hitchins, Tricia Pridemore, Dawn Randolph, Doug Stoner, Chuck Eaton, Lindy Miller, John Noel, Johnny White, Jim Beck, Jay Florence, Tracy Jordan, David Belle Isle, Buzz Brockway, Josh McKoon, Brad Raffensperger, John Barrow, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, R.J. Hadley, Smythe Duval, Democrat, Republican, Post 2 Commissioner, Larry Joe Sosebee, Glenn Patterson, Dixie Carter, Fannin County Board of Education, Mike Cole, Steve Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Jeff DePaola, Bobby Bearden

John Marrow (D) will be on the November ballot for seat of Secretary of State.

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
qualifying election

BLUE 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

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Fannin County Fire Department, Fannin County Emergency Management, Fannin County Chairman, Stan Helton, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, Democrat, Republican, Candidate Forum, Platform, Issues, Blue Ridge Community Theater, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce

Pictured are, from left to right: Jeff DePaola (D), Marvin Allen (R), and Bobby Bearden (R).

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

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Fannin County Fire Department, Fannin County Emergency Management, Fannin County Chairman, Stan Helton, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, Democrat, Republican, Candidate Forum, Platform, Issues, Blue Ridge Community Theater, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce

Pictured are, from left to right: Susan DeMoura (D), Mike Sullivan (R), Mike Cole (R), Ron Bolin (R), and Steve Stanley (R).

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

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Fannin County Fire Department, Fannin County Emergency Management, Fannin County Chairman, Stan Helton, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, Democrat, Republican, Candidate Forum, Platform, Issues, Blue Ridge Community Theater, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce

Pictured are, from left to right: William “Tripp” Ritchie (R), Glenn Patterson (R), Dixie Carter (D), and Larry Joe Sosebee (R)

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

UPDATED 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

BLUE 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.

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, Fannin County School System, Board of Education, Steve Stanley, Bobby Bearden, Ron Bolin, Mike Sullivan, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Susan DeMoura, Mike Cole

Mike Sullivan seeks seat currently held by Steve Stanley on 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

BLUE 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.

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, Fannin County School System, Board of Education, Steve Stanley, Bobby Bearden, Ron Bolin, Mike Sullivan, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Jeff DePaola, Marvin Allen, Susan DeMoura, Mike Cole

Marvin Allen seeks Republican nomination for a seat on the 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.

 

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Candidates qualify for 2018 Election

Election 2018

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Qualifying week has officially closed in the state of Georgia. Candidates made their intentions known as they filed in to get their names on the May General Primary ballot.

Statewide, Georgia has many seats up for grabs in the November General Election, including that of governor, which is currently held by Nathan Deal. Also being watched closely is the House of Representatives District 7 seat, which is currently held by Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives David Ralston.

Locally, in Fannin County, three races are taking shape as candidates qualified to run for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner and two of the five seats with the Fannin County Board of Education.

FANNIN COUNTY POST 2 COMMISSIONER

The seat of Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner has been held by Incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee since 2011. Sosebee will be seeking a third term in office.

Dixie Carter qualified to run on the Democratic ballot for the seat of Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner. Carter will run unopposed as a Democrat and will automatically advance forward to the General Election taking place Nov. 6, 2018.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Dixie Carter (D) for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner.

Qualifiers on the Republican ballot for the seat of Post 2 Commissioner include incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee, and challengers Glenn Patterson and William “Tripp” Ritchie.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee (R) for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Glenn Patterson (R) for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

William “Tripp” Ritchie (R) for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner.

FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Fannin County Board of Education (BOE) has two seats currently up for election in 2018.

The first of the two seats is held by incumbent Bobby Bearden. Bearden has been a member of the BOE for 16 years and is seeking another four-year term.

The second of the two seats being sought after on the BOE is currently held by incumbent Steve Stanley. Stanley has held a seat on the BOE for eight years.

Jeff DePaola has qualified on the Democratic ballot to run for the BOE seat currently held by Bearden. DePaola faces no other Democratic challengers and will automatically advance to the November General Election.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Jeff DePaola (D) for Fannin County Board of Education.

Incumbent Bearden will face a challenger, Marvin Allen, for the Republican nomination in the May General Primary.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Incumbent Bobby Bearden (R) for Fannin County Board of Education.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Marvin Allen (R) for Fannin County Board of Education.

Susan DeMoura qualified on the Democratic ballot to run for the BOE seat currently held by Stanley. With no other Democratic challengers in this race, DeMoura will automatically advance to the November General Election.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Susan DeMoura (D) for Fannin County Board of Education.

Incumbent Stanley will face three challengers for the Republican nomination on the May General Primary ballot. These Republican challengers are Mike Cole, Mike Sullivan and Ron Bolin.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Incumbent Steve Stanley (R) for Fannin County Board of Education.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Mike Sullivan (R) for Fannin County Board of Education.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Mike Cole (R) for Fannin County Board of Education.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Ron Bolin (R) for Fannin County Board of Education.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 7

The House of Representatives District 7 seat has caused much discussion since Margaret Williamson announced her intentions to run against Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives David Ralston.

Ralston was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2002 and represents House District 7, which includes Fannin County, Gilmer County and a portion of Dawson County. Ralston is the 73rd Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives, a position he has held since 2010.

Both incumbent Ralston and challenger Williamson have qualified to run for the Republican nomination on the May General Primary.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Incumbent David Ralston (R) for Georgia House of Representatives District 7.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Margaret Williamson (R) for Georgia House of Representatives District 7.

Democrat Rick Day has qualified and is running unopposed. Day will advance to the November General Primary and face off against either Williamson or Ralston for the seat of Georgia House of Representatives District 7.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Rick Day (D) for Georgia House of Representatives District 7.

GEORGIA LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

Georgia’s lieutenant governor is currently held by Casey Cagle. Cagle will not be seeking re-election for this seat as he has announced his intent to run in the Georgia governor race.

On the Democratic ballot in the May General Primary, voters will see Sarah Amico and Triana James run for the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor in the November General Primary.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Sarah Amico (D) for Georgia Lt. Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Triana James (D) for Georgia Lt. Governor.

David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, and Rick Jaffares will face each other for the Republican nomination in the race for Georgia’s lieutenant governor.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

David Shafer (R) for Georgia Lt. Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Geoff Duncan (R) for Georgia Lt. Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Rick Jaffares (R) for Georgia Lt. Governor.

GEORGIA GOVERNOR

The Georgia governor seat, currently held by Governor Nathan Deal, will be open without an incumbent.

Deal was first elected in 2010 and has served two consecutive four-year terms. According to Georgia state law, this seat is popularly elected every four years by a plurality and is limited to two consecutive terms.

Governor Deal has met the term limit criteria and will be ineligible to seek a third term in 2018.

The Democratic Party will have two candidates to choose from in the May General Primary.  Stacey Abrams and Stacey Evans both qualified this week in hopes of seeking the Democratic nomination.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Stacey Abrams (D) for Georgia Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Stacey Evans (D) for Georgia Governor.

Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, and Michael Williams will seek the Republican nomination in the May General Primary.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Brian Kemp (R) for Georgia Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Clay Tippins (R) for Georgia Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Eddie Hayes (R) for Georgia Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Hunter Hill (R) for Georgia Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Casey Cagle (R) for Georgia Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Marc Urbach (R) for Georgia Governor.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Michael Williams (R) for Georgia Governor.

UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 9

The United States Representative District 9 seat is currently held by Doug Collins. Collins has served as a U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 9th Congressional District since 2013.

Collins will run on the Republican ballot unopposed and advance straight to the Nov. General Primary.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Doug Collins (R) for United States Representative District 9.

Dave Cooper and Josh McCall will be seen on the May General Primary in hopes of winning the Democratic nomination. The winner of this primary election will face Collins in the General Election.

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

David Cooper (D) for United States Representative District 9.

 

Blue Ridge, Fannin County, Georgia, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Qualifying Week, Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner, Fannin County Board of Education, Georgia House of Representatives District 7, United States Representative District 9, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Dixie Carter, Larry Joe Sosebee, William Tripp Ritchie, Glenn Patterson, Bobby Bearden, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Stave Stanley, Susan DeMoura, Mike Sullivan, Mike Cole, Ron Bolin, David Ralston, Margaret Williamson, Rick Day, Sarah Amico, Triana James, David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, Rick Jaffares, Stacey Abrams, Stacey Evans, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, Michael Williams, Doug Collins, Dave Cooper, Josh McCall, Democrat, Republican

Josh McCall (D) for United States Representative District 9.

 

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]

Bolin enters race for Fannin County Board of Education seat

Election 2018

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Ron Bolin, a retired educator and U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, has announced that he will seek a position on the Fannin County Board of Education.

Fannin County, Blue Ridge, Georgia, Fannin County School System, Board of Education, Steve Stanley, Bobby Bearden, Ron Bolin, Mike Sullivan, May Primary Election 2018, General Election 2018, Jeff Depaola, Marvin Allen, Susan DeMoura, Mike Cole

Ron Bolin hopes to receive the Republican nomination for a seat with the Fannin County Board of Education.

Bolin, who will be running against incumbent Steve Stanley on the Republican ballot in the May General Primary, spoke at the Fannin County Republican Party March meeting about his background and his platform.

Bolin served as an educator for 30 years in the Cobb County school system. During his 30 years, his duties included teaching on all three levels (elementary, middle, and high school) and spending the last five years in administration as assistant principal of Floyd Middle School in Mabelton, Georgia.

“I have proven, effective leadership in education,” Bolin stated of his experience. “For me, education is very personal.”

Bolin has also served many positions locally. He is a past chairman of the Fannin County Republican Party, the Fannin County Library Board of Trustees, and the Mountain Regional Library Board of Trustees.

Bolin strongly emphasizes the role literacy plays in the development of a child: “Because if a child can read, he or she will be successful in other areas. It transfers over.”

Bolin suggests that strongly utilizing Fannin County’s Public Library as a tool in education would be beneficial to the community.

“Unfortunately, so many people do not understand that connection between education and a public library,” Bolin explained of the need to make use of this existing county facility. “It’s a vital connection.”

Bolin would like to bring back more technical and vocational training to Fannin County’s youth. While he supports the academic pursuit of college, he feels that “education made a huge mistake years ago” by putting almost all focus on the area of college.

“We have gotten away from vocational and technical training, and I strongly feel that education needs to do some very serious thinking about what we want to do to help these kids,” Bolin said on the matter.

Bolin cited industries that are constantly looking to fill positions such as welding, mechanics, and heavy equipment operators.

If elected, Bolin states that he will “work to make sure our students have a safe and secure learning environment in the classroom and the school campus.”

“I would greatly appreciate you consider voting for me,” Bolin concluded.

Bolin will face off with challengers Mike Cole and Mike Sullivan and incumbent Steve Stanley in the May General Primary in hopes of receiving the Republican nomination.

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]

Mike Cole seeks seat on Fannin County Board of Education

Election 2018

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Various candidates spoke at the March Fannin County Republican Party meeting after qualifying week officially came to an end. Mike Cole is one such candidate who will seek a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education.

Cole, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and current business owner, is a lifelong resident of Fannin County.

“First of all, I am proud of the Fannin County School system. I love this small town that I was born and raised in,” Cole explained of his roots.
Cole credits much of his direction and success in life to teachings he received while at Fannin County High School.

“While attending Fannin County High, my education path was vocational training. I attended automotive transportation with Tommy Cole as my teacher,” Cole explained of the impact of his personal experience in Fannin County schools. “I have never even told him what an impact he has made on my life with the knowledge he instilled in me.”

Cole went on to work for General Motors and Chrysler and now owns his own automotive repair shop. He is disappointed that the school system has done away with many of its vocational and technical classes such as transportation class, cosmetology, residential wiring, plumbing, and welding.

According to Cole, all of these skills are vital to the growth of our community.

“Not all students that walk in the door are going to go to college,” Cole said, explaining that current school standards do not fit the needs of its students, “so we need to be able to distribute funds in an equal way.”

Cole, who is the father of two Fannin County graduates and has one child currently attending school in the county, said that he does see some areas of concern when it comes to waste and neglect, citing that he has personally taken supplies and toiletries to school to help fulfill the needs of the students.

He would like to put a stop to wasteful spending and make sure that money is being used to truly fulfill the needs of the students and “that every student has the resources available to them whether they plan to enter the workforce, attend vocational school, or attend college.”

“I believe that all of us want to see a return our investment,” Cole stated.

“If you are looking for a yes man, that ain’t me,” Cole said, explaining that if elected, he will truly pursue what is right for the youth of Fannin County.

Cole stated that he is a man of vision and wants “to work with other board members to acquire the assets and resources that will challenge and stimulate the imagination of the students in this Fannin County we call home.”

Cole will face off with challengers Mike Sullivan and Ron Bolin and incumbent Steve Stanley in the May General Primary in hopes of receiving the Republican nomination.

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]

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