Dream season over Get your Vidalias! All-Region players named 5 lb bag with subscription Read more on page C1 Read more on page C8 The Clayton Tribune THURSDAY, May 16, 2013 Vol. 116, No. 20 ■ 75 CENTS theclaytontribune.com County SPLOST bonds validated other cities March 27 The Clayton Tribune, that they will get their wanting to settle its in Rabun County Supe- Lawsuit with challenging the legality the county’s legal or- money back, he said. If lawsuit with the county rior Court. The state fi led of the SPLOST resolu- gan. Stockton said the a SPLOST statute were and other cities would its complaint through Clayton could tion, intergovernmental city didn’t have legal struck down, which is fall under attorney-client Mountain Judicial Cir- agreement and SPLOST standing to challenge what Clayton’s lawsuit is privilege. cuit District Attorney referendum. The action the bonds at the hearing aiming to do, a SPLOST “I can’t speak for the Brian Rickman. be null and void taken May 8 may have because it is not a party measure could continue county, but I think cer- The complaint states By Blake Spurney rendered Clayton’s legal to their issuance. For a since the bonds were tainly the city of Clayton that pursuant to law, an Editor action null and void, ac- challenge to have merit, validated. would be open to any rea- election was held “and cording to County Attor- he added, a claimant The $9.1 million in sonable discussions, and the results of the Elec- A superior court judge ney Allyn Stockton. He would have had to fi le bonds is less than half as their attorney would tion were prima facie in has validated $9.1 mil- said the issuance of the a motion to intervene. of the projected revenue advise them to listen and favor of the issuance of lion in bonds for the bonds was “conclusive.” Only if the motion was of $20 million the 1-cent weight matters accord- the Bonds and the im- disputed Special Purpose “It means this lawsuit granted could the pro- sales tax is projected to ingly,” he said. position of the Sales and Local Option Sales Tax is like a Lamaze class, cess have been impeded. bring in during the next Baker met with Clay- Use Tax.” referendum that is part and we wound up with a Stockton said mul- six years. ton City Council for an Rabun County voters of a pending lawsuit fi led C-section,” Stockton said. tiple examples of case City Attorney Mitch hour in closed session approved the SPLOST in by Clayton against the In other words, the law backed the county’s Baker said Monday he Tuesday to discuss pend- a March 19 special elec- Rabun County Board of validation of the bonds contention that Clayton couldn’t comment on ing litigation. tion by a 60-40 margin, Commissioners and the validates the entire pro- no longer has anything how the bond validation The process to validate and the election results other fi ve cities in the cess. No one challenged to challenge. The public might affect the case bonds is a routine court were certifi ed. Superior county. the bonds after the legal policy behind those deci- since he hadn’t heard action in which the state Court Judge Russel Clayton fi led suit notice for the hearing sions allows the lend- about the action. Any fi led a petition and com- against the county and was twice published in ers to have confi dence discussions of the city plaint against the county Please see BONDS, A9 Fur Ball Man pleads for pets is in stabbing Sunday death By Blake Spurney By Shelby Harrell Editor Staff Writer A 51-year-old Clayton Rabun County residents man pleaded guilty May 9 will be having a ball this to voluntary manslaugh- weekend in support of ter in the Oct. 12 stabbing local pets at the inaugual death of Alden Leland Paws 4 Life Fur Ball. Hass. The ball, which starts William Edward Owen at 5 p.m. Sunday at the was sen- Rabun County Civic tenced Center, is raising money to fi ve for Rabun Paws 4 Life, a years in no-kill open-admission prison animal shelter. followed The shelter is a nonprof- by 15 it organization and has years of only been in operation proba- since last October. Paws Trevor Metcalfe/The Clayton Tribune tion as 4 Life is ineligible to re- part of ceive Wildcat football heads back to the fi eld a negoti- OWEN state No. 3 Ashton Hopper and no. 81 Jordan Oliver run a noose drill while center Tommy Chevalier looks on. The Rabun ated plea. fund- County High School football squad began spring practices May 6, and ends with a scrimmage Tuesday. Assistant District At- ing torney Maggie Hastings until explained the circum- it has stances that led up to the been encounter between Owen open City plans anticipate no SPLOST revenue and Hass at 519 Joe Speed for Road. The two men had a a year. Jenny Wilson, By Shelby Harrell maintenance costs and more agreement in December for the history of violence, and chairwoman of the Fur Staff Writer specifi c water and sewer fi gures. SPLOST that was approved by Hass, 57, previously had Ball, said she hopes the Barrick said Clayton should voters in March. been convicted of simple event raises suffi cient Clayton City Council is work- make some budget cuts since it “With resurfacing and road assault against Owens in money to support the ing on reorganizing and trim- wouldn’t be receiving any Spe- maintenance, because we don’t South Carolina. shelter’s needs. ming expenses from its 2013-14 cial Purpose Local Option Sales get any SPLOST money, we have Mountain Judicial “We need to have a fi scal year budget. Tax revenue for the next six to pay for every little bit of that Circuit Public Defender fundraiser because that’s During a budget workshop years. The Rabun County Board ourselves,” Barrick said. “Last Drew Powell said his how we support our mis- Tuesday, Moody Barrick, pub- of Commissioners and every city time, when we tore our roads client had a good self- sion,” she said. “We need lic works director, proposed a in the county except Clayton en- defense claim since there to raise a lot because we budget suggesting reduced road tered into an intergovernmental Please see CITY, A10 were questions as to have lots of dogs and cats whom actually started we need to take care of the fi ght and whom was and to keep our shelter defending oneself. open-admission and no- “Basically it was a com- kill.” Coach Saban’s $11M house up for auction promise between us all. The event will include the defendant didn’t want both live and silent auc- By Blake Spurney to risk going to prison for tions, featuring items the rest of his life, and the such as a golf package Editor state didn’t want to risk from Old Edwards Inn, him being acquitted,” a trip to Napa, Calif., a University of Ala- bama football coach Powell said. trip to the British Virgin According to Hastings, Islands, original artwork Nick Saban and his partner are selling the Owen and his girlfriend, and rare bottles of wine. Debra Baynard, had got- “So many people have $11 million house they co-own on Lake Burton ten into an argument the given such great stuff, previous day. She then so I’m really excited for at a June 6 live auction. Concierge Auctions is went to Hass’ residence people to come out and in Walhalla, S.C. The two buy, buy, buy,” Wilson holding the auction for the six-bedroom, nine- hitchhiked back to the said. residence on Joe Speed The event kicks off bathroom house with- out a reserve. Saban Road so Baynard could with a cocktail hour fol- retrieve her belongings. lowed by dinner at 6 p.m. and Jim Suddes built the house on a 1.7-acre All three got into an ar- catered by local restau- Submitted Photo gument. rants. The live auction lot as an investment property. The Lighthouse Pointe, which has been on the market for a couple of years, is being sold Sometime during the begins at 7 p.m., and live at auction June 6. Previously listed at $10.95 million, it is owned by University of Ala- argument on Oct. 12, bama football coach Nick Saban and builder Jim Suddes. Please see BALL, A9 Please see SABAN, A9 Please see OWEN, A10
3 sections, 24 pages INDEX WEATHER
Calendar ...... B6 NASCAR ...... C3 High 78-81 Church ...... B4 Obituaries ...... A6 Low 57-60 Classifi eds ...... C4 Police Blotter ...... A2 Honor Roll ...... A7 Sports ...... C1 Isolated Letters ...... A4 Your Pet...... A8 thunderstorms. Medical Directory ...... B3 Weather ...... A9 See page A9. A2 May 16, 2013 COMMUNITY The Clayton Tribune POLICE BLOTTER CONTACT US Main Line: 706-782-3312 Friday, May 3 property, and he wanted ● Joshua Lee Justus, verbal dispute between Fax: 706-782-4230 them cleaned up. Those 25, Mountain City, was two middle school girls. Mail: 120 North Main St., P.O.Box Woman’s ● A woman reported who cut the trees didn’t arrested and charged The matter was referred 425, Clayton, GA 30525 that $900 was missing want the man back on his with driving on a sus- to school resource offi cer Email: thetribune@ from her residence on neighbor’s property. He pended license and a Kevin Woodard. theclaytontribune.com death Dotson Street. She told was referred to magis- headlight violation. Website: www.theclaytontribune.com an investigator she be- trate court. ● Authorities were lieved she knew who took ● A man reported that called to a residence on Friday, May 10 ADMINISTRATION remains a it. The matter remains his dog had been shot on Carnes Road for a report ● Michael Whitney under investigation. Bowie Lane. He had let of a trespasser. A woman Buchannon, 32, Deca- ● About 5:50 p.m., W. Publisher the dog out, and he heard told authorities that her tur, was arrested and Michael Leonard mystery Vaughndell Stancil, Clay- a gunshot a short time daughter and grand- charged with driving [email protected] ton, was driving a 2002 later. The dog returned daughter were welcome without a license, creat- Authorities are investi- Ford F-150 on Highway home with a gunshot to live at the residence, ing a hazardous condi- gating the cause of death 76 East when he lost wound. but her daughter’s boy- tion, open container, ADVERTISING of a 36-year-old woman control and ended up in a ● Authorities were friend was not because giving false information whose body was found ditch about 300 feet east called to a residence on he allegedly was abusive to police, speeding, fail- Sales Director outside her car during of Country Club Drive, Chesnut Mountain Road toward her daughter. A ure to wear a seat belt, Cyndy Brogdon the evening of May 9 on according to sheriff’s re- for a report of a woman deputy told the daughter attempting to elude, pos- [email protected] Overfl ow Creek Road, ports. He told authorities who had attempted that she could stay there, session of drug parapher- about fi ve miles north of he felt his blood sugar suicide. She had taken but her boyfriend could nalia and obstruction of Sales Associate Warwoman Road. getting low just before a large amount of medi- be charged with criminal an offi cer. Debbie Martin Natasha Dawn Inman the accident. A wrecker cation, and she told a trespass if authorities ● Norman Gene Ad- [email protected] showed no signs of trau- pulled the pickup from deputy she didn’t want were called back to the kins, 28, Clayton, was ma, said Rabun County the ditch, and he drove it to live anymore. She was residence. The daugh- arrested on a warrant Customer Service sheriff’s Chief Investiga- home. charging him with theft taken by ambulance to ter and her boyfriend Jeri McCall tor Gerald Johnson. Habersham Medical Cen- agreed to leave. All were by shoplifting and two [email protected] “There’s no indication Saturday, May 4 ter for an evaluation. referred to magistrate warrants charging him that someone did this to court. with failure to appear. her,” he said. “But at the ● About 3:20 p.m., ● Tabitha Lynn Hob- ■ To place a display or time of report, we were Cindy Lona Carlin-Chis Tuesday, May 7 good, 24, Loganville, was classifi ed advertisement, call unable to determine the was driving a 2001 Ford ● Dean Scott Hopper, Thursday, May 9 arrested and charged 782-3312. cause of death.” Expedition on Highway 18, Lakemont, was ar- ● Danny Mitchell with open container, Johnson said pre- 197 when it hit a 2008 rested and charged with Gragg, 49, Clayton, was creating a hazardous Graphic Design liminary autopsy results Toyota Sequoia parked theft by taking. A man arrested on a warrant container and possession [email protected] were inconclusive, but in- about 20 feet off the road had reported the same charging him with a of drug paraphernalia. vestigators are confi dent just south of Anderson- day that a backpack con- probation violation. ● Patrick John Kenney, Accounting that toxicology results ville Lane, according taining a trail camera ● Adam Donald Cline, 47, Clayton, was arrested will shed light on the to sheriff’s reports. She Heidi Cook and other hunting equip- 20, Wiley, was arrested on a warrant charging [email protected] cause of death. Return of allegedly fl ed the scene ment was stolen from and charged with be- him with terroristic those results is expected and was followed by U.S. the back of his pickup on ing a pedestrian under threats and acts. A man to take between three Forest Service offi cer Taylor Valley Road. the infl uence of alcohol. had reported May 6 that NEWSROOM and six months. Jeff Angel. Union County ● Authorities were Authorities were called Kenney had threatened Inman last sent or deputies later arrested called to a dispute about 6 a.m. about a man harm to his property and Editor received a text message her. She faces charges of between neighbors on walking south on High- family in the 300 block of Blake Spurney about 30 minutes before leaving the scene of an Rocky Mount Lane. A way 441 near Walmart, West Sugarbush Drive. [email protected] a passer-by discovered accident, failure to report man told authorities that 1455 Highway 441 S. According to sheriff’s her outside her Toyota, an accident, hit and run, his neighbor was cutting ● James Bryan Taylor, reports, the problem had News Johnson said. Her car failure to maintain lane a tree that he thought 44, Lawrenceville, was been ongoing since early Shelby Harrell was still in gear. T]he and speeding in Rabun was on the property of arrested on a warrant January. [email protected] passer-by had gone up to County. the fi rst man’s landlord. charging him with a ● Peter Mathews the car believing some- The fi rst man confronted probation violation. Nagle, 34, Lakemont, was Sports one was having mechani- ● Monday, May 6 his neighbor, who point- Authorities were arrested and charged Trevor Metcalfe cal trouble, and her body ed a fi nger in his face and called to the Rabun was on the other side of ● Jeffrey Todd Saun- [email protected] told him he was tres- County High School Please see BLOTTER, A3 the car. ders, 51, Wiley, was ar- passing. The fi rst man Fine Arts Building for a ■ rested and charged with told authorities that his To submit a news item simple assault under neighbor poked him in for publication, please Murder suspect the Family Violence the shoulder and poked Hours call 706-782-3312, drop Act stemming from an him in the back while he Furry Affair items off at 120 North Main victim of theft incident on Lagoon Lane. was leaving on a lawn- Tuesday - Friday St., Clayton, fax items to Saunders’ 19-year-old mower. A deputy told the Dog Grooming 8:30am - 5:00pm 706-782-4230 or e-mail to: son told authorities that The mother of murder fi rst man not to return to Saturdays thetribune@theclaytontri- his father tried to start a his neighbor’s property suspect Travis Groom re- fi ght by yelling obsceni- bune.com. ported that someone had until he learned where For Services & Prices by appointment ■ It is our policy to correct all ties and shoving him. the property line lay. stolen his checks from ● A man reported a errors of fact that appear in his camper at 1065 Mc- trespasser on Sylvester FurryA air.com 62 Dotson St. news columns. If you Crackin Road and passed Creek Road. Some people Wednesday, May 8 are aware of an error, please them without authoriza- Call: 706-746-2022 Mtn. City, Ga had been cutting trees ● Enrique Berrera, 34, contact Editor Blake Spurney tion in South Carolina. on his neighbor’s prop- www.facebook.com/furrya air at 706-782-3312. Clayton, was arrested dm51313-23wr Nora Susan Groom erty, and the trees were told authorities that a and charged with simple falling on his property. battery. 38-year-old Seneca, S.C., The trees were left on his man had stayed at the residence between Dec. HONESTY, INTEGRITY, PERIOD. 14-23 and from March 19-22. She also said she Trusted Vision Greg’s Tire & Service Center believed the checks were 828-524-9881 taken in December. Care Travis Groom, 38, had )JHIXBZ/PSUIt("/$4UBUF-JOF been incarcerated at the Jack Chapman, MD )PVST.PO'SJBNQNt4BUBN/PPO time of the theft on a of Gainesville Eye Associates charge of malice murder in the Dec. 5 shooting is associated with our office on a Buy any set of four new MICHELIN® brand death of James Eugene consultative basis. passenger or light truck tires, and get a $70 Close Jr. at 1065 Mc- MasterCard® Reward Card after submission.* Crackin Road. He was re- Dell Engram, O.D. leased earlier this month Dell'HOO(QJUDP2' Engram, O.D. OFFER VALID MAY 17 – JUNE 18, 2013 on $100,000 bond. Groom Robert'DYLG*UHHQH2'Dr. David Chapman, Greene O.D. is restricted to Oconee Jack M. Chapman, Jr., M.D. County, Ga., until his Comprehensive eye exams Ophthalmologist trial. Laser vision correction procedures Thursday, April 25 LASIK & PRK ● A man reported that Corneal refractive therapy Cataracts & Glaucoma his fence was damaged Including multifocal & toric lens, Monday - Saturday on Webb Road. He said implants, laser & Surgical treatments 9am - 7pm someone was doing some Diabetic eye care Sunday 1pm - 6pm grading work, which Dry eyes & Eye infections caused a tree stump to Macular degeneration 1455 Hwy 441 South roll off a bank and into management his fence. Clayton, GA 30525 SEE US TO RACK UP Botox & cosmetic injectables 706-782-6961 Eyeglasses & Contact lenses dm42213-20 MILES OF MEMORIES MasterCard® AND GET A Reward Card after submission.* cb51313-15
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611011-2 Copyright © 2013 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved. The Michelin Man is a registered trademark owned by Michelin North America, Inc. 617844-43723 The Clayton Tribune COMMUNITY May 16, 2013 A3 BLOTTER Potable water plant in the works By Shelby Harrell ■ CONTINUED FROM PAGE A2 “That’s a little bigger In other business, Dar- pointments,” he said. Staff Writer than what we originally nell said the county also Authority member talked about, but at the was moving forward with Randy Speed inquired Rabun County Com- same time we realized appointing members to about the timeframe mission Chairman Butch with the future growth the future Rabun County when new members with DUI and failure to a warrant charging him Darnell told the Clayton- it might be a hit with the Water and Sewer Author- needed to be chosen. maintain lane. with failure to appear. Rabun County Water and community school up ity. The new authority “It will take a little ● ● Herman Gerald Richard Pierce Mc- Sewer Authority Tuesday there,” he said. “One of eventually will take over while to get the word out Shuemake, 38, Logan- Carthy, 38, Rabun Gap, the potable water plant in the businesses (at Rabun the current authority’s and give them time to ville, was arrested and was arrested and charged Rabun Gap was becom- Business Park) will take assets. Its nine-member fi nd their appointments charged with creating with simple assault under ing an even larger asset. water from that as well, board will consist of two and so forth,” Darnell re- a hazardous condition, the Family Violence Act The county received and they’re one of the members appointed by sponded. “I’d say you’re possession of prescription stemming from an inci- a $2.5 million Georgia larger manufacturers in the county and Clayton looking at at least two medication outside its dent in the 100 block of Environmental Finance the county, so we went and one appointee each months.” original container, open Sherin Drive. His mother Authority loan to fund with a million.” from every other munici- Speed said he hoped container, possession of and brother told au- the development of a Darnell said a larger pality in the county. to work with some of the drug paraphernalia, ob- thorities that he returned potable water plant at capacity also would be “The county will be appointees before they struction of an offi cer and home after being out all Rabun Business Park. useful in an emergency. contacting all the differ- joined the new authority. failure to wear a seat belt. night drinking. They Darnell, who also is on “I think having that 1 ent (entities) and letting “It would be nice if ● Unspecifi ed items walked him down to his the water authority, said million gallon tank, that them know to be think- whoever they’re going to valued at $530 were camper, and his mother the plant would have a will allow us to turn a ing about who they want appoint could come to a reported stolen from the told him to go inside and capacity to hold 1 million valve and keep operat- to put on there, and then couple of meetings before former Southern Fever lie down, according to gallons of water per day. ing,” he said. we’ll line up those ap- being appointed,” he said. night club, 9198 Highway sheriff’s reports. Mc- 441 S. The items were Carthy left the camper, discovered missing after however, and walked into the door was found open. the yard and yelled at his PUBLIC MEETINGS ● A house was reported brother to come outside. This Week MAY SPECIALS! broken into in the 200 His brother tried to get block of Dover Lane. him to calm down, but Rabun County Board of Education, 5:30 p.m. today, $ #6$,-6/$) Someone had forced open McCarthy tried to hit regular meeting at board offi ce in Mountain City. 5 the front door, and $1 was him. His brother then hit Rabun County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Every(YHU\'D\LQ$SULO Day 11-4 in May reported missing. McCarthy in the face. 5:30 p.m. Monday, regular meeting at Community &KLOL&KHHVH'RJ/XQFKSF&KLFNHQ6WULS/XQFK ● A 41-year-old ● Terry Edison Neely, Bank & Trust conference room. OE*ULOO%XUJHUZ&KHHVH/XQFK Clarkesville woman re- 38, Highlands, N.C., was Sky Valley City Council, 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, regular ported being the victim of arrested and charged meeting at Chapel of Sky Valley. $OOOXQFKHVLQFOXGHPHGGULQN VPDOOVXQGDH stalking on Burton Dam with driving on a sus- Clayton City Council, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, regular t#MJ[[BSEPGUIF.POUI Road. She told authori- pended license and illegal meeting at Clayton Municipal Complex. ties that her ex-boyfriend window tinting. Choco Peanut Butter Brownie came by where she works ● Police were called t/FX.JOJ#MJ[[BSEJOB8BGýF$POF and followed her until she about 12:30 a.m. for a Correction t/FX1SFNJVN4NPPUIJFT pulled into the Mountain fi ght outside Main Street Josh McDaniel was incorrectly identifi ed in a story Patrol parking lot. She Bar & Grill, 69 N. Main %HUU\3RP2UDQJH%HUU\3LQD&RODGD
on C1 in the May 9 edition. McDaniel fi nished second cb51313-13 previously had told him St. A 21-year-old woman in state in the high jump by setting a school record of +Z\1RUWK&OD\WRQ*$ to leave her alone, but he told police that the father 6 feet, 6 inches. We regret the error. keeps following and ha- of her baby was talking rassing her. Deputy Kyle smack about her and she Shook followed her to the told him to stop. Accord- Habersham County line ing to her, he hit her in and had her call her par- the jaw. He then walked ents to tell them to expect down the sidewalk tear- her within fi ve minutes. ing his shirt off, and he He also referred her to broke the windshield of a FAITH and Circle of Hope Ford Bronco. Witnesses in Habersham County to said the man left with a get a temporary protec- woman driving the Bron- tion order. co. The 21-year-old had no marks or bruises on her face. She told police that Saturday, May 11 she saw he was getting ● Sean Richard Mc- ready to hit her, so she Clure, 39, Clayton, was ducked and received only arrested and charged a glancing blow. She said with driving on a sus- he had been abusive to pended license, no proof her in the past. She was of insurance, affi xing referred to FAITH about license plate with intent getting a temporary pro- to misrepresent and tection order. damaged windshield. ● A 51-year-old Florida His passenger, Carl Alen man reported that his Bleckley, 52, Clayton, was 1993 Dodge pickup was arrested and charged damaged while it was with possession of a parked at the Covered controlled substance and Bridge Shopping Center. possession of prescription It had a rusted area at the medication outside its bottom of the rear driv- original container. er’s side door, and he said ● Samuel Joseph no rust had been visible Marsengill, 23, Clayton, before. was arrested and charged ● A 75-year-old woman with driving on a sus- who lives on Taylor Val- pended license and defec- ley Road reported that tive tires. someone had been calling ● Ranulfo Soriano, 21, her and breathing into Clayton, was arrested the phone. The calls have and charged with driv- happened all during the ing without a license and night, and she had to failure to wear a seat belt. unplug the phone. ● An unknown person spun up the lawn in front Sunday, May 12 of Pleasant Hill Baptist ● Lucas James Hast- Church, 7245 Warwoman ings, 20, Wiley, was ar- Road, by cutting two rested and charged with doughnuts in the grass. DUI and failure to obey a stop sign. ● Gilberto Garcia, 25, Monday, May 13 Clayton, was arrested ● Hayden Lanier and charged with driv- Dancisin, 20, Vero Beach, ing without a license and Fla., was arrested and suspended registration. charged with simple ● Seth Tucker Henson, possession of marijuana, 29, Clayton, was arrested possession of drug para- and charged with driving phernalia, speeding and on a suspended license. illegal window tinting. He also was arrested on
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4772 Hwy 441 N., Rabun Gap, Ga. 706.746.2887 A4 May 16, 2013 VIEWPOINTS The Clayton Tribune OUR OPINION Time for both sides to give in a little Now that Clayton’s lawsuit against Rabun County and the other fi ve cities in the county appears to be moot, one only can hope that rational heads will get together and fi nd a way to end the squabble. The voters spoke, the bonds have been validated, a new water authority has been created via local legislation and all but a small faction support the ef- fort to consolidate water and sewer services in the county. As Italians would say, Basta! (or enough). Clayton City Council elected to bring the lawsuit (on a 3-2 vote) upon the claim that making its case at an injunction hearing ■ would not cost more than $3,000. That prediction he money is doubtful, but a more salient point is that any “Tcomes out of money spent is a drain the same pockets, on other services the public could be getting. and all will be THEIR OPINION Council members heard Tuesday a request to cut better off if an $45,500 from the road accord is reached.” Georgia has a new ethics law, department. Clayton is planning for a reduction ■ in revenue based on the erroneous claim that it with room for improvement has been left out of the SPLOST spoils. Like every other city, it could get a portion Until last week, Georgia had ◆ represents progress,” said Sen. of the SPLOST designated for water and sewer improve- been one of only three remain- Josh McKoon (R-Columbus), ments if it agreed to turn over its water and sewer plants to ing states that put absolutely one of the most persistent the new authority. The money it would get, estimated at $2 no limits on how much money advocates for a limitation on million, would be unencumbered, to be used how the city lobbyists could spend to infl u- lobbyist spending. “We all have wishes. In other words, problem solved. ence the passage or defeat of work to do in this area. I’m in- The Rabun County Board of Commissioners also is trying legislation in a General Assem- tending to come back next year to fi nd ways to pare another $500,000 from its budget. Such bly session. and seek some changes.” cuts also will affect road maintenance. Residents tend to Gov. Nathan Deal removed Tom It may turn out that the complain about roads more than any other issue. County Georgia from that list when he Crawford loophole for lawyers will not be offi cials say they need more revenue, so they have pro- signed the ethics revision bill columnist the problem that some people posed charging the various cities for dispatch services. The into law. anticipate. county always has provided the service at no expense to the It’s easy to criticize legisla- ◆ There are numerous attor- cities. tors for their reluctance to neys who now register as lob- A fair solution for both issues would be for Clayton to derail this lobbyist gravy train breaks from lawmakers worth byists such as Dan Lee, Skin withdraw any legal barriers for what is an established fact that so many of them have millions of dollars — is held to Edge, Boyd Pettit, Brad Carver, and start negotiating with the county for the sale of its ridden over the years, but in be legal under the new law. Pete Robinson, Bruce Bowers, water and sewer infrastructure. The more of a fi ght Clay- fairness, there are some com- A section was added to Robert Highsmith, Tom Har- ton puts up, the less negotiating strength it will have. The mendable aspects to the new the ethics bill that provides rold, and so on. law. a loophole for attorneys. A It will be an easy matter to county should then agree to continue with the status quo For the fi rst time, there will lawyer can claim that he or see if these lawyers and their for providing dispatch services to the various police de- be a limit on what lobbyists she is “representing a client” professional colleagues regis- partments. The money comes out of the same pockets, and can spend when they entertain and would not be required to ter as lobbyists for next year’s all will be better off if an accord is reached. a lawmaker: $75. Legislators register as a lobbyist. legislative session. If they do can no longer accept tickets The new law also does not register, then I don’t think we to concerts or sporting events take effect until Jan. 1, which will have to be too concerned unless they pay the face value means lobbyists can continue about the lawyer exemption in The Clayton Tribune of the ticket. to spend unlimited amounts the new law. Lobbyists will not be allowed of money on legislators for Despite all its fl aws, the new to pay for legislative trips out the next few months. In fact, ethics law is at least a foot in theclaytontribune.com of the country. This provision several lawmakers have been the door. was a response to the media spotted at Atlanta Braves’ The mere concept of a limit Michael Leonard Published: On Thursdays at 120 North Main uproar caused by the free games in recent weeks using on lobbyist spending, however St., P.O. Box 425, Clayton, GA 30525 junket to Europe provided by tickets supplied by lobbyists. loosely defi ned, is now written Publisher Telephone: voice, 706-782-3312; a lobbyist for House Speaker On top of all that, Speaker down in state law. Blake Spurney fax, 706-782-4230 David Ralston and his family a Ralston, who often blocked Legislators will have the au- Editor E-mail: [email protected] few years ago. attempts to put limitations on thority, if they choose to use it, No legislation is perfect, lobbyist spending, still does to amend the spending cap and and this particular ethics law not think that lobbyist infl u- the law’s other provisions to OUR MISSION has more holes than a piece of ence is that big a problem. put even more limits on what The Clayton Tribune is published with pride for the people of Rabun Swiss cheese. Ralston attended the bill lobbyists can do. and adjoining counties by Community Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 792, There is no limit in the new signing ceremony for the If enough of these amend- Athens, GA 30603. We believe law on how many of these $75 ethics legislation, which he ments can be made to the that strong newspapers build Tom Wood, Chairman gifts a legislator can accept. sponsored, and told reporters: ethics law, it is possible that strong communities, that: Dink NeSmith, President Several lobbyists could theo- “Is there a cause and effect be- one day lobbyists really won’t “Newspapers get things done!” Alan NeSmith, Regional Publisher retically pool their resources tween (lobbyist) spending and have the kind of infl uence over Our primary goal is to publish and provide a lawmaker with legislative action? No. I don’t legislators that they now enjoy. distinguished and profitable community oriented newspapers. Our mission something worth a lot of think there was a cause and It is something to hope for, will be accomplished through a teamwork of professionals dedicated to money so long as no individual effect.” anyway. truth, integrity, loyalty, quality and hard work. lobbyist chipped in more than The concerns about the new Tom Crawford is editor of $75. ethics law are valid ones, but The Georgia Report, an internet In the event of errors in advertisements, The Clayton Tribune will The practice of providing the problems are not so bad news service at gareport.com be responsible only for the space occupied by the actual error. Original legislators with free airline that they can’t be fi xed in fu- that reports on government and writing and artwork are copyrighted. © travel upgrades — a tactic ture legislative sessions. politics in Georgia. He can be Member Georgia Press Association employed by Delta Air Lines, “It’s not ideal, it’s not ev- reached at tcrawford@gareport. SUBSCRIPTION RATES which has received special tax erything I wanted, but it still com. In County: $25 per year Out of County: $31 per year USPS-117-000, Second Class Postage paid at Clayton, Georgia. POSTMASTER: Send 3579 to The Clayton Tribune, PO Box 425, Clayton, Georgia 30525 YOUR OPINION Doctors, nurses help deserving students con- a difference in the community tinue their dreams and educa- by exposing area youth to OUR LAWMAKERS appreciated tion for their future. healthy outlets like cycling. This is to commend the staff Megan Houston This effort was channeled Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Georgia 111 Green St., S.E. doctors and nurses for the care Clayton through the Students Against United States Senate Gainesville, GA 30501 I received at Mountain Lakes Destructive Decisions pro- www.isakson.senate.gov Phone: 770-297-3388 Medical Center last week, Bike series appreciates gram. We designed the event Georgia offi ce along with my regular doctors, to work as an intervention for One Overton Park Washington offi ce Charles Pennington and Larry local support youth and provide them with 3625 Cumberland Boulevard, Suite 513 Cannon House Offi ce Building Bennett. They are doctors who From all of us at the Gran the opportunity to help at the 970 Washington, DC 20515 really care about you. Fondo National Championship water/aid station along the Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: 202-225-9893 Bennett is my “home visit” route. In addition GFNCS made Phone: 770-661-0999, Fax: Series, we thank you for your doctor every month, and you contribution to make the in- a $400 donation to the local 770-661-0768 Stephen Allison, R-Blairsville could not ask for a more caring augural Tour of Georgia Gran SADD program. As we contin- Washington offi ce House of Representatives, physician. Thanks for all of Fondo held April 14 in Clayton ue to build this event for future 120 Russell Senate Offi ce Building 8th District, Email: Stephen. years, we look forward to mak- Washington, DC 20510 your tender, loving care. a success. [email protected] Faye Fuson ing a substantial increase in Phone: 202-224-3643 Capitol offi ce The vision is to make this Fax: 202-228-0724 Tiger event a part of the community; the donation amount and the 504 Coverdell Legislative Offi ce number of youth we expose to Saxby Chambliss, R-Georgia Building your support has done just that. Support for this event the healthy outlet of cycling. United States Senate Atlanta, Georgia 30334 Students to benefi t We look forward to continu- www.chambliss.senate.gov Phone: 404-656-0188 could be seen on many levels, The Interact Club at Rabun including local government, ing to work with all of you to North Georgia offi ce District offi ce County High School and Chris- develop this nationally recog- 100 Galleria Parkway, Suite 1340 90 Blue Ridge Street community groups and in rider tine Byrd would like to thank turnout. We received great nized event; to make this event Atlanta, GA 30339 Blairsville, Georgia 30512 a highlight for the area’s coun- Phone: 770-763-9090, everyone who participated in feedback from participants Phone: 706-781-3929 ties and towns, as well as an Fax: 770-226-8633 either giving or buying a cake regarding the route as well as from the cake auction for the event in which our community Washington offi ce John Wilkinson, R-Toccoa to the politeness and support Coach Byrd Scholarship Fund. can take great pride. 416 Russell Senate Offi ce Building Georgia Senate, 50th District of staff and offi cials involved. We would like to proudly say Contact us with your Washington, DC 20510 E- m ail: jo h n.w ilkin so n@ We look forward to working Phone: 202-224-3521 the fund is able to give scholar- with all of you to make this a thoughts and improvement senate.ga.gov ideas. We strive to improve in Fax: 202-224-0103 Capitol offi ce ships of $500 to three Rabun great annual event. You made a any way possible, and feedback 303-B Coverdell Offi ce Building County graduates this year. substantial impact on the suc- is highly encouraged. Atlanta, Georgia 30334 This could not have been pos- cess of this event; without your Doug Collins, R-Gainesville Reuben Kline Phone: 404-463-5257 sible without the generosity of support and belief, this event United States House of Frederick, Md. Fax: 404-463-1386 the Rabun community and its would not have been success- Representatives, 9th District, He serves as president of the hwww.dougcollins.house.gov District offi ce supporters. ful. P.O. Box 2227 Thank you so much, and we The GFNCS strives to make Gran Fondo National Champi- Gainesville district offi ce Toccoa, Georgia 30577 hope to keep this fund alive to onship Series. The Clayton Tribune COMMUNITY May 16, 2013 A5 Carnival to raise funds for fair
Staff reports rides for children and goat shows, a petting zoo, adults as well as famil- cattle, vegetables, home Residents are urged iar games of skill and canning, quilts, arts and to visit the Family Fun chance. Family Attrac- crafts — just a traditional Spring Carnival ongo- tions on the Midway is county fair.” ing through Saturday the amusement company. The spring carnival at Rabun Arena to help “We’re trying to make hours are 5-10 p.m. raise funds for the fi rst some money to have the through Thursday, 5-11 Rabun County Fair, to be county fair Sept. 19-21 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.-11 held this September. here at the arena,” Cabe p.m. Saturday. Discount Steve Cabe, president of said. “Rabun County has coupons are available Rabun County Fair Asso- never had a fair that I can for today at Georgia New 2013 Heartland New 2013 Keystone ciation and director of the remember. Farm Bureau, Highway arena, said the carnival “This one will have an- 441 North, or at Rabun PIONEER I7', SPRINTER 269RLS was a traditional amuse- tique tractors, we’re go- Arena, Highway 441 HI@L9H)+.&*,$DGK&%'(,(-"BHGE'+!*', HI@L9H&%''%-'BHGE(+!'(, ment event. It offers 17 ing to try to have hog and South. Parking is free. $ * $ $ * $ 17,795 OR 167/MO.* 29,850 OR 243/MO.* Payment based on 10% down at 5.99% APR for 144 mos. Payment based on 10% down at 5.99% APR for 180 mos. Rabun homemakers win awards WE CARRY TOP RV MANUFACTURERS, INCLUDING: Photo courtesy of Rabun County Homemakers Right: Dot Cannon displays her casual constructed outfi t that won her fi rst place at the Georgia State Homemakers meeting held recently in Athens. She also won a second-place ribbon for dressy con- structed outfi t. OFF ANY TOWABLE $250 RV PURCHASE
This coupon entitles you to receive $500.00 off the purchase of any RV. Must present this Northeast Georgian ad at the time of purchase. Not applicable to prior sales and may not be combined with any other offer. Limit one discount per household. Offer valid at Camping World of Atlanta in Oakwood, GA only. See dealer for details. Offer expires 5/25/13. OFF ANY MOTORIZED $500 RV PURCHASE
This coupon entitles you to receive $500.00 off the purchase of any RV. Must present this Northeast Georgian ad at the time of purchase. Not applicable to prior sales and may not be combined with any other offer. Limit one discount per household. Offer valid at Camping World of Atlanta in Oakwood, GA only. See dealer for details. Offer expires 5/25/13.
FREE GET GRILLIN’ FREE LUNCH SEMINARS FRI & SAT 11AM-1PM MAY 17TH-18TH MAY 16TH - 19TH. CALL US FOR MORE INFO
Photo courtesy of Rabun County Homemakers Above: Pat Myers shows her handcrafted quilt that won her a fi rst-place ribbon at the Georgia State Homemakers meeting held recently in Athens. Right: 4696 Smithson Blvd. in OAKWOOD, GA 30566 Jean Alexander holds the cross-stitch that won her RV Sales Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm sweepstakes and blue ribbons at the Georgia State 877.709.5788 | CampingWorldOfAtlanta.com Homemakers meeting held recently in Athens. Over- *Prices and payments not inclusive of tax, title, license, and dealer doc fees. Payments to qualified buyers with approved credit. all, she won 13 ribbons, including blue and sweep- Subject to lender terms. Advertised inventory available at time of printing. New unit photography for illustration purposes only. May stakes ribbons for dressy constructed outfi t. not be combined with any other offer and not applicable to prior sales. See dealer for details. Offers expire 5/25/13. ORV23732-0413 8406-2
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