Weather Summary for 2018

Community, Outdoors

Weather Summary for 2018

By: Eddie Ayers, County Extension Agent

Back in December and already this year there’s been a lot of talk about how wet it’s been in the last year and while I agree with the comments I’ve been getting, I thought I’d do a little investigating and use facts to report on the weather of 2018. My data is coming from the UGA AEMN area weather stations.

The Automated Environmental Monitoring Network (AEMN) in Georgia was established in 1991 by the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. The objective of the AEMN is to collect reliable weather information for agricultural and environmental applications. Each station monitors air temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, solar radiation, wind speed, wind direction, soil temperature at 2, 4, and 8 inch depths, atmospheric pressure, and soil moisture every 1 second. Data are summarized at 15 minute intervals and at midnight a daily summary is calculated. A microcomputer at the Georgia Experiment Station initiates telephone calls to each station periodically and downloads the recorded data. The data are processed immediately and disseminated via the internet at www.weather.uga.edu.

We are fortunate to have three reporting stations in our area. They are Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay, Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge and the Georgia Mountain Research and Education Center in Blairsville. For the purpose of this article, data has been averaged, but you can visit the web site and get more details and up to the minute weather.

Since rain has been the topic of conversation lately, let’s look at that first. In Blairsville, the total rainfall for 2018 was 76.01 inches and there were 164 rainy days. In Blue Ridge, the rainfall was 74.89 inches and 185 rainy days. In Ellijay there was 79.12 inches of rain and 168 rainy days. The average for our area is around 62 inches, but the statistic that stands out is the number of rainy days. During rainy days the plants did not receive good sunlight and that affects plant growth.

In looking at the month of December in 2018 Blairsville received 10.96 inches of rain and 17 rainy days. Blue Ridge received 11.21 inches of rain and 17 rainy days. Ellijay received 10.92 inches of rain and 17 rainy days. This may seem like a lot of rain, but back in 2015 Blairsville got 13.35 inches of rain with 13 rainy days. Blue Ridge got 16.57 inches of rain with 16 rainy days. Ellijay got 16.04 inches of rain with 17 rainy days. 2015 was not that long ago, but it seems we have gotten more rain lately. It might be the number of rainy days that is making us think we are getting more rain that we actually are getting.

As for temperatures the average maximum temperature in Blairsville was 68.53 and the minimum was 47.26. The overall average was 57.23 which is about normal, but the number of days below 32 was 761 which is up from before, but below 2015. In Blue Ridge the average maximum temperature was 68.12 and the minimum was 48.46 and the overall average was 57.59, which is also about normal. The number of days below 32 was 699 which is up from before, but also below 2015. In Ellijay the average maximum temperature was 69.17 and the minimum was 48.81 with an overall average of 58.48 which is about normal. The number of days below 32 was 625 which is above earlier years except for 2015.

In conclusion the UGA weather stations are a great resource for information that provide facts about our weather conditions and now when people ask if it’s ever been this wet, you have the facts to say yes. If you need more information or different facts, visit the website and explore, or contact me in the Gilmer County UGA Extension office.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Organization

Chamber names Citizen of the Year

News

ELLIJAY, Ga. – The Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce held their Annual Meeting this week to both look back and forge ahead in the community.

Part of preparing for the new year includes announcing awards that span both years in their importance. Winners are awarded because of so much they have contributed to the community, honoring the life achievement these citizens and businesses have accomplished. Yet, moving into the new year, they stand as leaders and examples the community may follow.

 

 

This year, Gilmer’s 2018 Member of the Year was named Sally Daniels.

 

 

 

 

 

Piedmont Mountainside received the award for Business of the Year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 2018 Citizen of the Year award went to Steven Purvis.

 

 

 

Purvis later took to social media saying, “I want to begin by thanking God for giving me the ability and the opportunities that have been laid before me. I want to thank my parents for giving me my work ethic and teaching me that the things you do everyday impact many more people than you will ever know. I want to thank my wife for putting up with me and all my crazy ideas over the years and my kids for challenging me to be a better father and a better person every day. I want to thank the staff at Huff’s and Huff’s Express for all the support and encouragement they have given me over the years and for covering for me all the times I was out and about occupied with different groups. Thank you to all my patients who have supported Huff’s Drug Store over the years and given me the opportunity to practice pharmacy in Ellijay for the last 20 years. I am very humbled by this honor and can only hope that I live up to the standards set for such a prestigious award.”

The day also saw the official transition as Board of Directors Past-Chairman Trent Sanford passed the gavel and position to Chairman John Marshall. The formal transition came mid-meeting before the awards were handed out.

A Christmas Message

Opinion

Thanksgiving 2018 has come and gone and about all we really know about it comes from
commercial sources. Through the constant drumming of the media we are basically told all we
need to know about Thanksgiving, when to start, when to stop and, by the way, ‘don’t forget
those great deals on Black Friday’ because, well, Christmas is just around the corner and after
all, America’s economy depends on commercialism. Their point is, It’s okay to go into debt but
don’t eat the Romaine lettuce. Is it who we really are? Apparently!

But this year I sense a distinct change in the atmosphere. I’ve heard more detailed explanations
of the real Pilgrims story at Plymouth, Mass. in attempts to correct the re-written history some
elements in our society want us to accept. I feel a perceptible shifting of moral values going on
and I sense a not so subtle shift back to religious faith especially as the destructive tenants of
Islam are flooding our country. The leadership of our churches, long beaten into compliance to
accept the dictates of a secular society, must return to their mission of spreading the gospel and
abandon the demand that we must accept the perverted deviancy of 1% of our population that
demands acceptance, without consequence.

What Americans know about Christmas is mostly suggested to us by the years of Macy’s Day
parades, Hollywood movies and Coca-Cola. TV quickly changed our values. Decades ago,
Coca-Cola embraced Clement Moore’s poem, A Christmas Carol, “Twas the Night Before
Christmas” and lo, we now have an indisputably accepted short, fat, happy ol’ elf who enters
homes down chimney pipes, never gets dirty and enjoys their product while winking at us.
When I was a little boy, a world war was underway yet the traditions of Christmas, and even
then they were commercial, were anticipated and observed. We decorated Christmas trees, had
special seasonal attractions and attended Church programs singing hymns while we little
children read or recited memorized snippets of scripture to the audience. I recall my surprise
upon learning that even Germans soldiers observed Christmas, indeed was responsible for
introducing the Christmas tree as a tradition. And, they sang “Silent Night.” What a revelation.

Among the big traditions were Christmas cards. My mother saved Christmas cards for years
and she gave them out in profuse qualities herself. Those that came to me, mostly from mothers
friends and sisters, were scenes depicted as cartoons. Family cards were actually incredible
works of art depicting scenes of happy home fires or snow, doubtless of a Victorian England, the
country where greeting cards and Santa Clause were introduced as a tradition.

Until Coca Cola’s depiction, St. Nick was tall and skinny, a poor emaciated figure, hungry
looking with a limp bag hanging over his shoulder. None of that has changed except Santa’s
size, but I am sensing once again, with Christmas day still weeks away, a change in the public
attitude, a realization that a prosperous America is returning even with all its social problems of
drug addictions, homelessness and hunger. I feel a sincere longing to return to our old traditions
where good cheer and happiness are not feigned but heartfelt; where charity is freely given
without conditions and people actually enjoy helping other people.

But, we must be careful and not allow the Left to peculate our good thing and introduce social
changes we know to be destructive to a free peoples. Government in the hands of Progressives,
will sweep all that away and the once shining city on the hill idea, as Ronald Reagan coined it,
will be but a footnote in history. We must strive to preserve all of our God given liberties.
Remember, freedom is the goal, the Constitution is the way. Now, go get ‘em! (29Nov18)

Gilmer County – State Election Results (FINAL)

Election 2018, News

 2018 Georgia Election Results from Gilmer County

Unofficial and Complete

 

Governor:

Brian Kemp (R) – 10,439

Stacey Abrams (D) – 1,911

Ted Metz (L) – 121

 

 

 

Lieutenant Governor:

Geoff Duncan (R) – 10,050

Sarah Riggs Amico (D) – 1,956

 

 

 

 

Secretary of State:

Brad  Raffensperger (R) – 10,026

John Barrow (D) – 2,024

Smythe DuVal (L) – 211

 

 

 

Insurance Commissioner:

Jim Beck (R) – 10,053

Janice Laws (D) – 1,883

Donnie Foster (L) – 295

 

State School Superintendent:

Otha Thornton (D) – 1,854

Richard Woods (R) – 10,345

 

 

 

Agriculture Commissioner:

Gary Black (R) – 10,306

Fred Swan (D) – 1,860

 

 

 

Labor Commissioner:

Mark Butler (R) – 10,213

Richard Keatley (D) – 1,941

 

 

 

 

U.S. House District 9:

Doug Collins (R) – 10,290

Josh McCall (D) – 1,997

 

 

State House District 7:

David Ralston (R) – 10,413

Rick Day (D) – 1,833

 

 

ESPLOST Election:

Yes – 7,408

No – 4,432

SPLOST Election:

Yes – 6,246

No – 5,497

This Week at Gilmer County Library: August 8, 2018 – August 15, 2018

Community
county services close

Heath Lee – Library Manager

All Ages Programs

Lego Lab
Saturday Aug 11 @ 2:00 PM
At Lego Lab kids of all ages can use the library’s Legos and K’nex sets to make their own creations, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Idea books will also be available for inspiration! All ages, under 9 years of age with an adult please.

 

Youth Programs

Family StoryTime
Wednesday Aug 8 @ 10:30 AM & 4:00 PM
Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Story time is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Family StoryTime
Wednesday Aug 15 @ 10:30 AM & 4:00 PM
Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Story time is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.



Young Adult Programs

Teen Taste Test Challenge
Monday Aug 13 @ 6:00 PM
Are you a chip, snack, or cookie connoisseur? Challenge your taste buds when you judge if its store brand or name brand, salsa flavor or jalapeno, lemon lime or citrus as you eat samples of various foods. Who will be the ultimate taste test champion? Join us to find out! Food provided, may not be suitable for those with food allergies. Ages 12+

 

Adult Programs

Food Talk: Sweet Enough!
Wednesday Aug 8 @ 9:30 AM
Food Talk: Better You is a series of 4 interactive sessions aimed at helping you identify ways to make small changes for big results! Expect easy movements, a cooking demo, food tastings, and free gifts for all at each session. Session 2: Find out the hidden sugars in your food and drink favorites, how to read a food label, and all the words that still equal sugar. Presented by Becca Pritchett, UGA SNAP-Ed Program Assistant. Registration Required: 706-635-4426. Come to one or come to all!

 


Food Talk: Small Change = Big Results!
Wednesday Aug 15 @ 9:30 AM
Food Talk: Better You is a series of 4 interactive sessions aimed at helping you identify ways to make small changes for big results! Expect easy movements, a cooking demo, food tastings, and free gifts for all at each session. Session 3: Discover simple changes every day can have huge results. Presented by Becca Pritchett, UGA SNAP-Ed Program Assistant. Registration Required: 706-635-4426. Come to one or come to all!

The Friends of the Library Bookshelf

Remember that the library welcomes donations of gently read books and magazines. Those that the library does not need come to the Bookshelf, with all the proceeds benefiting the library.  Do not forget to visit the “back room” of the Bookshelf for newly stocked non-fiction and magazines.

Bookshelf hours are from 10:30-5:30 on weekdays and from 12:00-2:00 on Saturdays

Library Location & Contact Information
Address: 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540.
Phone: 706-635-4528.  Fax: 706-635-3528.
http://www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org/gilmer
https://www.facebook.com/GilmerLibrary
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9AM-8PM, Friday and Saturday 9AM-6PM.

This Week at Gilmer County Library: June 27, 2018 – July 4, 2018

Community
county services close

Heath Lee – Library Manager

GCL will closed on July 4th to celebrate Independence Day.

The 2018 Summer Reading Program (SRP) is HERE. This year’s theme is “Libraries Rock!” SRP is super beneficial for all children. It is a great way to beat the dreaded Summer Slide by continually offering literacy related programs, social events, and experiencing new concepts. However, SRP is not solely for youngsters. SRP activities are for all ages. Expect fun times and plenty of programs for all ages this summer. Check our Facebook page in the coming weeks for full SRP details.

 

All Ages Programs

None

Youth Programs

Family Story Time
Wednesday June 27 @ 10:30AM & 4:00 PM
Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Story time is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Tennessee Aquarium: Insects All Around Us
Thursday June 28 @ 3:00 PM
Come face to face with some of these incredible creatures! We’ll explore the fascinating world of insects through insect specimens, live insects, and cool costumes!


The Kid & I: Musical Painting
Saturday June 30 @ 11:00 AM
Children and their adult will be inspired to paint their own masterpieces while listening to different genres of music! This program encourages children to creatively express themselves through the medium of paint!

Young Adult Programs

Dungeons & Dragons
Monday July 2 @ 5:30 PM
Whether you’ve been playing for years or would love to learn, join us for the popular tabletop role-playing game: Dungeons & Dragons! All materials are provided, or you may bring your own.

Adult Programs

Seed Saving for the Future
Thursday June 28 @ 6:00 PM
Learn the tradition, science, and methods of seed saving presented by Josh Fuder, Cherokee County UGA Extension Agent.

Morning Creatives: Fresco Painting
Friday June 29 @ 9:30 AM
Join us for creativity, coffee, and conversation. This month build your creativity toolkit with Fresco Painting, a method of painting water-based pigments on freshly applied plaster. Join us as we prepare our dry pigments with water to then set with the plaster so that the stone does not appear painted, but the pigment and the stone is one. All materials provided.

The Friends of the Library Bookshelf

Remember that the library welcomes donations of gently read books and magazines. Those that the library does not need come to the Bookshelf, with all the proceeds benefiting the library.  Do not forget to visit the “back room” of the Bookshelf for newly stocked non-fiction and magazines.

Bookshelf hours are from 10:30-5:30 on weekdays and from 12:00-2:00 on Saturdays

Library Location & Contact Information
Address: 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540.
Phone: 706-635-4528.  Fax: 706-635-3528.
http://www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org/gilmer
https://www.facebook.com/GilmerLibrary
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9AM-8PM, Friday and Saturday 9AM-6PM.

Tomorrow’s Georgia Republican gubernatorial primary run-off

Opinion

Reposted with permission from the Dustin Inman Society blog

Atlanta, Georgia, President of the United States, POTUS, Donald Trump, Secretary of State, Lt. Governor, Governor, Gubernatorial, Election, 2018, Runoff, Republican Nomination, Campaign, Brian Kemp, Casey Cagle, National Rifle Association, NRA, President, President Elect, Lt. Colonel, Oliver North, Second Amendment, Stacey Abrams, Democratic, George Soros, July 24

Lt. Governor Casey Cagle (left) and Secretary of State Brian Kemp (Right)

 

D.A. KING

While the liberal media ignores the fact, both candidates in the bruising two-month Georgia Republican gubernatorial primary race have avoided immigration issues where the eventual governor can make the biggest difference.

With run-off day looming tomorrow, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp have mostly kept their immigration focus away from topics that may offend the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and narrowed to “sanctuary cities” and on illegal aliens who have already committed additional crimes in the United States – or “criminal illegal aliens.”

The main driver of illegal immigration is illegal employment, which was not mentioned in either campaign.
In addition to black market labor, they are also both dodging obvious and voter-popular immigration issues where a governor can play a central role, including drivers licenses to illegal aliens and official English for government.

No mention of protecting jobs for American workers
When asked in a statewide December 2015 poll, “Who should get the future jobs in Georgia? – Americans, including legal immigrants already here, illegal immigrants already here, newly arrived legal immigrants and guest workers or it doesn’t matter, workers who will work for the lowest wage.” A whopping 90% of Republicans said Americans, including legal immigrants already here should get priority.

Silence on allowing voters to decide on constitutional official English
Nearly 86% of Republicans – and 76% of all voters polled – answered “yes” when asked “would you support an amendment to the Georgia constitution that makes English the official language of government?” in the same poll conducted by Atlanta-based Rosetta Stone Communications

Despite the objections of the business lobby and with a unanimous party-line vote, in 2016, the Republican-controlled Georgia state senate passed a Resolution that would have allowed all Georgia voters to answer a ballot question that year on English as the state’s constitutional official government language.

But the legislation quietly died with Democrat “no” votes when Republican House leadership instructed Republicans to stay away from a sub-committee hearing which killed the bill.

Official English is not a voluntary campaign topic for either of the Republican candidates for Georgia governor. This despite one metro-Atlanta school district boast that 140 foreign languages are spoken by its students.

While it is not widely understood by voters, currently, the state of ten million offers the written road rules portion of the drivers license exam in eleven foreign languages.

Drivers licenses for illegal aliens – not a campaign issue
The same statewide poll that asked about official constitutional official English showed that 80% of Republicans and 63% of all Georgians also want to end the practice of giving any drivers license to any illegal aliens.

Many voters are unaware of the fact that Republican Georgia has issued more than 20,000 drivers licenses and official state photo ID Cards to individuals who the United States Immigration and Citizenship Services classifies as lacking lawful immigration status – but who have been given work permits by both the Obama and Trump administrations.

This group of aliens includes recipients of the Obama DACA deferred action on deportation amnesty, aliens who have been granted deferred action outside of the DACA amnesty and aliens who have already been ordered to be deported by federal officials.

Work permits, officially known as Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) are issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services which is an agency in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The 2005 REAL ID Act implemented after the horror of 9/11 says that illegal aliens who have been granted deferred action on deportation or who have been ordered deported but then apply for permanent residence use that temporary condition as “evidence of lawful status” for the purpose of obtaining a federally approved drivers license or state ID card.

⦁ In a direct contradiction, USCIS says  “Current law does not grant any legal status for the class of individuals who are current recipients of DACA. Recipients of DACA are currently unlawfully present in the U.S. with their removal deferred.”

⦁ Through an official spokesperson, USCIS has provided a breakdown of the classification codes contained on the work permits that illustrate the immigration status of the bearer.

⦁ USCIS also operates the SAVE verification system for official agencies to determine immigration status of applicants for public benefits. Drivers licenses and ID cards are public benefits in Georgia.

⦁ Appointed by current governor, Nathan Deal, Georgia’s Attorney General, Chris Carr, has told an Atlanta NPR affiliate that “We have continuously and clearly taken the position in ongoing legal cases that DACA does not confer legal status.” (July 17, 2017 WABE News).

Georgia is among the states that issues the identical drivers license to legal immigrants with ‘green cards’ and foreigners who entered the US lawfully on temporary visas – including Mercedes Benz executives – as are issued to the aliens the state Attorney General and USCIS says lack legal status. The defacto national ID, these credentials are used as valid ID to enter military bases, federal buildings and board airliners in America’s airports.

Atlanta, Georgia, President of the United States, POTUS, Donald Trump, Secretary of State, Lt. Governor, Governor, Gubernatorial, Election, 2018, Runoff, Republican Nomination, Campaign, Brian Kemp, Casey Cagle, National Rifle Association, NRA, President, President Elect, Lt. Colonel, Oliver North, Second Amendment, Stacey Abrams, Democratic, George Soros, July 24

Drivers license issued to all non-citizens in Georgia, legal status or illegal status. Photo: DDS

Sponsored by conservative state Senator Josh McKoon, in 2016, legislation passed the Georgia Senate by a two-thirds majority – with every Republican vote except one – that would have clearly marked driving and ID credentials to note the illegal immigration status of the bearer. That measure was allowed to expire without a hearing in the GOP House, controlled by business-oriented Speaker David Ralston. McKoon also sponsored the official English Resolution.

Most Georgians do not realize that under state law the same aliens USCIS says have no lawful status but have been issued a work permit are eligible for state unemployment benefits.

The jobs-for Americans, drivers license/illegal alien/unemployment benefits issue is not a topic in either Republican candidate’s campaign for the Republican nomination for Georgia governor.

Georgians deserve to now where the candidates stand.

The powerful Georgia business lobby has long worked against protecting jobs and wages for legal workers, use of E-Verify, immigration enforcement and official English. Georgia ranks ahead of Arizona in its population of illegal aliens, according to estimates from DHS and the Pew Research Center. One estimate is that the crime of illegal immigration costs Georgia taxpayers $2.4 billion annually.

The current governor, two-term, business-first Republican Nathan Deal, has avoided the illegal immigration issue since his first year in office. But, Deal boasts that Georgia is named number one state in which to do business by Site Selection magazine.

The influx of migrants and the anti-enforcement power of the business lobby will eventually result in a Democrat in the Georgia governor’s office. This year’s far-left, anti-enforcement candidate for the office, Stacey Abrams, has a real chance of winning and has recently received a one million-dollar donation from Georgia Soros.

Kemp trumps Cagle : I see your Governor and I raise you a President

Election 2018, Politics

Blue Ridge, Ga. – What has come down to a battle of endorsements over the last two weeks has played out with some big name backers. Secretary of State Brian Kemp landed perhaps the largest endorsement of all as President Donald Trump tweeted out his support of the Georgia gubernatorial hopeful.

Kemp’s campaign announced recently the backing of several Republican opponents from the May Primary. Among those to officially announce their support were Michael Williams, Clay Tippins, and Hunter Hill.

Opponent in the gubernatorial runoff, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, was unable to receive any backing from Republican challengers that were faced earlier this year.

Cagle did however land some big name endorsements recently as he continues his campaign. While holding the title of the only Georgia candidate in the governor’s race to be backed by the National Rifle Association (NRA), Cagle drove this message home as the President Elect of the NRA, retired Lt. Colonel Oliver North, hit the trail with Cagle to show his personal support of the candidate.

Cagle’s big name endorsements didn’t stop there. Earlier this week current Georgia Governor Nathan Deal also personally endorsed Cagle to be his replacement.

Although it seemed that the cards had become stacked in Cagle’s favor, Kemp showed his final hand and delivered a fourth ace by officially getting an endorsement from the President of the United States Donald Trump.

With less than a week left in the runoff, it seems that Cagle will be unable to top Kemp’s latest move.
Atlanta, Georgia, President of the United States, POTUS, Donald Trump, Secretary of State, Lt. Governor, Governor, Gubernatorial, Election, 2018, Runoff, Republican Nomination, Campaign, Brian Kemp, Casey Cagle, National Rifle Association, NRA, President, President Elect, Lt. Colonel, Oliver North, Second Amendment, Stacey Abrams, Democratic, George Soros, July 24

Follow FetchYourNews for the latest election information and Cagle’s thoughts on Kemp’s latest round of endorsements.

 

 

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]

This Week at Gilmer County Library: July 18, 2018 – July 25, 2018

Business, Community
county services close


Heath Lee – Library Manager

GCL will closed on July 4th to celebrate Independence Day.

The 2018 Summer Reading Program (SRP) is drawing to a close. SRP officially ends July 31st.  We still have plenty of activities and programs happening over the next couple of weeks, and you still have time to complete the activity sheets and claim your prize. Continue to check our Facebook page for full SRP details.

 

All Ages Programs

Gelatin Painting
Wednesday July 18 @ 3:00 PM
Gelatin printing uses a water soluble ink and a gelatin slab as a printing “plate’ to create beautiful and unique prints. Join us to learn the basics of this mono-printing technique. Then, we will turn you loose to create your own basic print, to consider making a more challenging collage print, or to experiment with positive and negative image layering. All materials provided. Registration recommended: 706-635-4528.

Footloose Dance Party and Music Jam
Thursday July 19 @ 2:00 PM
Play a variety of instruments, make your own, and then show off your moves as we dance to popular tunes from yesterday and today! Yummy snacks provided!

 

Ellijay Rocks
Tuesday July 24 @ 10:30 AM
Everyone is joining in the fun of painting, hiding, and finding rocks around Ellijay! Come meet founder Laura Wilson. Learn how to prepare rocks and paint with us. Supplies provided but the hiding place is up to you. Build our community and spread joy one rock at a time


Rock n’ Roll Spheros Challenge
Wednesday July 25 @ 3:00 PM
Your challenge, if you choose to accept it, is to maneuver a round robot through various challenges and an obstacle course, all while rocking out to music. Rock and roll. Control. Play.

Youth Programs

Just Breathe Family Yoga
Saturday July 21 @ 2:00 PM
Certified instructor Noor Moody presents introduces family yoga for fun and relaxation using simple poses and breathing techniques.

 



Young Adult Programs

Dungeons & Dragons
Monday July 23 @ 5:30 PM
Whether you’ve been playing for years or would love to learn, join us for the popular tabletop role-playing game: Dungeons & Dragons! All materials are provided, or you may bring your own.

 

Adult Programs

Coosa and Coosawattee
Thursday July 19 @ 6:00 PM
The “Coosa Kingdom” was the last of the advanced temple mound building cultures in N.W. Georgia. They controlled the “Great Valley” trade routes and villages between Tennessee and Alabama and their artifacts show extensive trade contacts with the tribes on the Gulf and the Atlantic coast. Join Wayne Hooper of the Blue Ridge Archaeology Guild (B.R.A.G.) and the Gilmer Co. Historical Society as he speaks on the “Coosa Kingdom” as described in 1540 by the conquistador, Hernando De Soto. This presentation will feature local artifacts, combined with archaeological and written historical information about this lost culture.

A World Down Under – Spelunking
Tuesday July 24 @ 6:00 PM
Enter the fascinating and fragile underground world of caves. This program will include the science and art of speleology, cave exploration, conservation, and the many challenges involved in a sport that explores a part of the natural world that many never see. Exciting, beautiful, and even deadly if one is not properly prepared, caving is guaranteed to get the heart racing and adrenaline pumping! Cave location discussions will center on the TAG region, (Tennessee-Alabama-Georgia).

The Friends of the Library Bookshelf

Remember that the library welcomes donations of gently read books and magazines. Those that the library does not need come to the Bookshelf, with all the proceeds benefiting the library.  Do not forget to visit the “back room” of the Bookshelf for newly stocked non-fiction and magazines.

Bookshelf hours are from 10:30-5:30 on weekdays and from 12:00-2:00 on Saturdays

Library Location & Contact Information
Address: 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540.
Phone: 706-635-4528.  Fax: 706-635-3528.
http://www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org/gilmer
https://www.facebook.com/GilmerLibrary
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9AM-8PM, Friday and Saturday 9AM-6PM.

This week at Gilmer County Library: June 13, 2018 – June 20, 2018

Community
county services close

Heath Lee – Library Manager

The 2018 Summer Reading Program (SRP) is HERE. This year’s theme is “Libraries Rock!” SRP is super beneficial for all children. It is a great way to beat the dreaded Summer Slide by continually offering literacy related programs, social events, and experiencing new concepts. However, SRP is not solely for youngsters. SRP activities are for all ages. Expect fun times and plenty of programs for all ages this summer. Check our Facebook page in the coming weeks for full SRP details.

All Ages Programs

Barnyard Friends Petting Zoo
Thursday June 14 @ 11:00 AM
Snuggle up to soft and woolly animals! Llamas, sheep, rabbits, and more will be on hand for petting and feeding, as well as photo ops!

Youth Programs

Family Story Time – The Return
Wednesday June 13 @ 10:30AM & 4:00 PM
Wednesday June 13 @ 10:30AM & 4:00 PM
Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Story time is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Dinosaur Dig
Tuesday June 19 @ 10:30 AM
Become a Paleontologist for a day when you excavate dinosaur bones, dig for fossils, and play dinosaur games at this educational and hands-on program!

Family Story Time
Wednesday June 20 @ 10:30AM & 4:00 PM
Wednesday June 20 @ 10:30AM & 4:00 PM
Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Story time is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Young Adult Programs

Open Mic & Lip Sync Battle
Monday June 18 @ 6:00 PM
Show us what you can do, whether it be singing, playing an instrument, or lip syncing! Feel free to express yourself in a welcoming atmosphere. Refreshments served.

Dungeons & Dragons
Tuesday June 19 @ 5:30 PM
Whether you’ve been playing for years or would love to learn, join us for the popular tabletop role-playing game: Dungeons & Dragons! All materials are provided, or you may bring your own.
Adult Programs

Geology of Georgia
Thursday June 14 @ 6:00 PM
Gilbert “Rockman” Treadwell will be presenting about the metamorphic rocks under our feet here in the Southern Appalachians, South Georgia deposits, and Northwest Georgia’s Paleozoic rocks. There will be many samples of the different rocks to examine and a geological map of Georgia.


Free Photo & Document Scanning and Preservation
Tuesday June 19 @ 2:30PM
Preserve your paper documents by making a digital copy for FREE! Family pictures, letters, legal, and ledger sized documents. Scan any object that fits on our generous 12″ x 17″ sized scanner bed. Call 706-635-4528 to schedule your 15 min appointment time. Participants must bring a usb flash drive (recommended) or a working email address.

The Friends of the Library Bookshelf

Remember that the library welcomes donations of gently read books and magazines. Those that the library does not need come to the Bookshelf, with all the proceeds benefiting the library.  Do not forget to visit the “back room” of the Bookshelf for newly stocked non-fiction and magazines.

Bookshelf hours are from 10:30-5:30 on weekdays and from 12:00-2:00 on Saturdays

Library Location & Contact Information
Address: 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540.
Phone: 706-635-4528.  Fax: 706-635-3528.
http://www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org/gilmer
https://www.facebook.com/GilmerLibrary
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9AM-8PM, Friday and Saturday 9AM-6PM.

Cagle campaign brings out the big guns

Election 2018, Politics
Hall County, Gainesville, Georgia, Secretary of State, Lt. Governor, Governor, Gubernatorial, Election, 2018, Runoff, Republican Nomination, Campaign, Brian Kemp, Casey Cagle, National Rifle Association, NRA, President, President Elect, Lt. Colonel, Oliver North, Second Amendment, Stacey Abrams, Democratic, George Soros, July 24

Lt. Colonel Oliver North was met by large crowds as he hit the campaign trail supporting Casey Cagle in becoming Georgia’s next Governor.

Gainesville, Ga. – “There’s only one candidate who’s been endorsed. There’s only one candidate for Governor’s office who actually meets the standard of what we need and that’s Casey Cagle,” retired Lt. Colonel Oliver North enthusiastically spoke to the large crowd gathered in Gainesville, Ga. this weekend.

Lt. Governor Casey Cagle has been the center of controversy for several weeks after the release of a secret recording in which Cagle speaks candidly to former gubernatorial candidate Clay Tippins about politics over policy.

Regardless of this recent smear on Cagle’s bid to be Georgia’s next Governor, one fact remains and cannot be disputed, Cagle is the only candidate for governor in Ga. to receive the coveted endorsement from the National Rifle Association (NRA).

With this point being perhaps one of the largest differences between Cagle and his opponent, Brian Kemp, Cagle’s campaign decided it was time to bring out the “big guns”.

President elect of the NRA, North, hit the campaign trail with Cagle on July 14 making three stops across the state to share with constituents why Cagle is the only candidate that will uphold the values of the NRA.

“I’m here because there is only one candidate for governor who has been endorsed by the National Rifle Association,” North said explaining his stance on Georgia’s heated gubernatorial race.

According to North, Cagle has “sterling record as supporter of the Second Amendment”. North went on to say that Cagle “is going to make sure that your gun rights and others are going to be defended when he’s in office as your Governor.”

Doting on Cagle’s record of fighting for the rights of gun owners in Ga., North also brought attention to Cagle’s support of firearms manufacturing and the jobs that have created in this field.

“He’s created the best, pushed through the best legislation, I think, in the country for giving you the right to defend yourselves,” North was met with cheers from the large crowd as he presented Cagle’s record on the Second Amendment.

North added, “I’m just reassured by what he’s already done, and what he’s committed to do.”

Constituents also got a peek into the private life of North as he shared personal stories of how the fight to defend the Second Amendment hits close to home threatening a long standing family tradition.

Hall County, Gainesville, Georgia, Secretary of State, Lt. Governor, Governor, Gubernatorial, Election, 2018, Runoff, Republican Nomination, Campaign, Brian Kemp, Casey Cagle, National Rifle Association, NRA, President, President Elect, Lt. Colonel, Oliver North, Second Amendment, Stacey Abrams, Democratic, George Soros, July 24

Casey Cagle with wife Nita stand beside North as he addresses the crowd.

North, grandfather to 17 grandchildren, shared this tradition, “I get to give them a present. The only present I get to give them. Everything else comes from Betsy (wife) and me.”

This present given by North when each child turns 14 is a box containing three items, a Bible, a map and compass, and a 20 gauge shotgun.

North labels each box with “There are three things in this box that you have got to learn how to use, and if you do learn to use all three things, you’ll never go hungry, you’ll never be lost and you need fear nothing, but you have to learn to use all three.”

Each child is then told to read Proverbs, one Proverb per day for a month. After this task is completed and understood, North teaches the children how to use the compass and map. The final item that the child can then master is the use of the shotgun.

North told of how each child must learn to take apart, put together and clean the firearm before they can tackle the task of learning to shoot.

A bonding experience for a grandfather and a grandchild, one which his family holds dear, North joked, “The kids call me by my first name…Colonel.”

But according to North this tradition is threatened and he pointed to the fact that a couple of states have already passed laws where it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or purchase a firearm.

Speaking of Virginia, the Lt. Colonel’s current state of residence, North said, “If that happens in Virginia, you know where I’m moving? I’m moving right here.”

North concluded his endorsement with a request, “I want each one of you, if you would please, go out and find a family member and a co-worker and a neighbor and a friend. So now you’re talking four of each one that you know that’s not here today and get them to the polls on the 24th of July so that this man….”.

Upon saying this North turned to Cagle and was drowned out by cheers from the audience.

Cagle briefly shared his thoughts on North’s personal endorsement: “I just value, not only what he has done in his life but also what he is doing by standing up for the Second Amendment.”

Referring to North as a good friend and speaking of the encouragement that North has given him, Cagle simply added, “This man is a real patriot.”

 

 

 

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]

Kemp defeats Cagle for Republican nomination

Election, Election 2018

Blue Ridge, Ga. – After a heated runoff race, the results are in and Georgia’s Secretary of State Brian Kemp has beat out opponent Lt. Governor Casey Cagle for the Republican nomination.

What was polled as a tight race between the two candidates ended up being what some would consider a landslide victory for Kemp. Kemp received 69.46 percent of the vote statewide with Cagle pulling in 30.54 percent.

Kemp will now face the Democratic nominee Stacey Abrams for the seat of Georgia Governor.

Abrams and Kemp are not strangers, as they have gone head to head over election issues while Kemp has served as Secretary of State.

“All of these liberal groups that are going to be in play in Georgia supporting her (Abrams), I’ve fought,” Kemp said about his past experiences with Abrams.

Citing that he has already faced George Soros, Eric Holder, Thomas Perez, Common Cause Georgia and New Georgia Project, Kemp is confident that he can beat them again.

Kemp explained where some of these groups came into conflict with the Secretary of State office, “They sued us and several counties saying that we weren’t registering voters, 10 different counts. Then they wanted us to settle. I wouldn’t do it. I made them go to court and we won all 10 cases.”

“I know what’s coming,” Kemp said about his preparation for proceeding in the gubernatorial race. “I know how to fight.”

Short Takes – What We Learned From Helsinki, 2018

Opinion

What We Learned From Helsinki, 2018.

We watched a clash of two techniques at the Helsinki Summit yesterday, Trump’s The Art of the Deal and the other, The Art of Deception, as practiced by KGB’er Vladimir Putin. After the joint press conference two things emerged that need to be understood. President Trump is a deal maker. He thinks in those terms and he employe’s the idea of let’s not fight, but let’s both succeed, so long as it doesn’t harm America and is good for you.  Putin is a czarists!

In the American political scene, those techniques managed to sweep away all opposition from Republican contenders challenging him for the GOP nomination. They worked to bring along American voters to drive the Democrats from the field. It worked and by doing so drove the Left crazy. It did not work against Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Trump looked weak and that’s a danger to the base. I hope he will learn from that experience. He usually does.

I do not doubt that President Trump was fully briefed on the deceptive characteristics he would face with his Mano-a-Mano with Vladimir Putin, a career KGB officer who is skilled, not in the Art of the Deal, but in the Art of Deception. Russians are not New York real estate brokers. They seek a restoration of empire and power, not buildings. Therein lies the differences.

Putin’s post “Summit” interview with Fox News reporter Chris Wallace, revealed to even the most casual observer, the purest application of the techniques of the Art of Deception by Putin. His body language, when examined in minute detail, as it will be, was so evident of deception that practitioners of Kinesic interview techniques will be able to write thesis on what Putin revealed through his body language alone, lies and deceptions. He is a practiced Russian politician and the history of Russian politician’s suggests they don’t make deals unless there’s a gun to their head.

What gun does Trump hold to Putins head? It’s what Trump knows best, how to make profits, especially when his opponent is in deep economic trouble. Trump’s gun is his continued sanctions against Russia. They’re working and it’s hurting. What does Putin have to counter Trump? It was Russia’s new natural gas deal with Germany a project soon, I fear, to come to an end. It’s also Russia’s support for Syria, which, as foreign policy, Russia cannot afford, and the massive amount of GDP Russia is pouring into it’s military, especially it’s deep water navy.

Trump was not coruscating in his post “Summit” interview and it has alarmed his base. It drove the American media wild with cheers and jeers and predictions of Trump’s early demise. But, as they’re already demented and would seized any rumor as a truth and exploit it, fewer people will believe them. Beware the Russians because they will exploit this apparent weakness.

Winners and losers are already being touted or jeered and by all accounts, at least by the Leftist media, Trump lost and Putin won. Not only did Trump lose, he was made to look the fool and so, therefore, must be guilty of treason. But, regardless, Russia is still in the throes of economic decline unable to afford their adventurism, still needs relief for its infrastructure expenses. It  needs to earn some serious cash.

If we suspected that nothing noteworthy would come out of the Summit, the Left’s reaction would still hover between sneering contempt and laughter while Trump’s base will experience their first bout of mild depression. The late night comedy shows will be veritable clown shows regardless of the truths. And, this too shall pass. Trump is still our best fighter yet!  

Remember, Freedom is the goal, the Constitution is the way. Now, go get ‘em! (17Jul18)

This Week at Gilmer County Library: May 23, 2018 – May 30, 2018

Community
county services close

Heath Lee – Library Manager

The 2018 Summer Reading Program (SRP) is HERE. This year’s theme is “Libraries Rock!” SRP is super beneficial for all children. It is a great way to beat the dreaded Summer Slide by continually offering literacy related programs, social events, and experiencing new concepts. However, SRP is not solely for youngsters. SRP activities are for all ages. Expect fun times and plenty of programs for all ages this summer. Check our Facebook page in the coming weeks for full SRP details.

 

Youth Programs

Touch-A-Truck
Saturday May 26 @ 10:30 AM
Meet our local heroes from the police, fire, and other local departments, including Smokey the Bear! And a Life Force Helicopter! Take a tour of their vehicles, play games, and cool off with ice pops! All ages, children must be accompanied by an adult.


Kids & I: Pot Painting and Seed Starting
Wednesday May 30 @ 3:00 PM
“Join the Gilmer County Master Gardeners as we paint ceramic pots with a colorful design of your choice! Pick your plant and learn how to transplant and care for your plants at home. Registration recommended. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.”

Young Adult Programs

None


Adult Programs

Gilmer County Museum Discussion
Wednesday May 23 @ 5:00 PM
Hear our history and help us decide our future! This month, Gilmer County Historical Society and Tabor House Museum is celebrating their eleventh anniversary. During these years, we have had a tearoom, restaurant, Civil War venue, quilt show, doll show, art show and exhibited local Cherokee history, to name a few. We urge interested persons to become involved in the future direction of the museum.

 

Morning Creatives: Rock Art
Friday May 25 @ 9:30 AM

Join us for creativity, coffee, and conversation. This month build your creativity toolkit with rock art, using stones, pebbles, and embellishments to create a 3D form. All materials provided or bring your own unique stones.

 

The Friends of the Library Bookshelf

Remember that the library welcomes donations of gently read books and magazines. Those that the library does not need come to the Bookshelf, with all the proceeds benefiting the library.  Do not forget to visit the “back room” of the Bookshelf for newly stocked non-fiction and magazines.

Bookshelf hours are from 10:30-5:30 on weekdays and from 12:00-2:00 on Saturdays

Library Location & Contact Information
Address: 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540.
Phone: 706-635-4528.  Fax: 706-635-3528.
http://www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org/gilmer
https://www.facebook.com/GilmerLibrary
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9AM-8PM, Friday and Saturday 9AM-6PM.

This Week at Gilmer County Library: June 20, 2018 – June 27, 2018

Community
county services close


Heath Lee – Library Manager

The 2018 Summer Reading Program (SRP) is HERE. This year’s theme is “Libraries Rock!” SRP is super beneficial for all children. It is a great way to beat the dreaded Summer Slide by continually offering literacy related programs, social events, and experiencing new concepts. However, SRP is not solely for youngsters. SRP activities are for all ages. Expect fun times and plenty of programs for all ages this summer. Check our Facebook page in the coming weeks for full SRP details.

 

All Ages Programs

None

Youth Programs

Family Story Time
Wednesday June 20 & 27 @ 10:30AM & 4:00 PM
Wednesday June 20 & 27 @ 10:30AM & 4:00 PM
Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Story time is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

 

Young Adult Programs

Teen Music Challenge
Monday June 25 @ 6:00 PM
Are you a music genius? Be the first to “Name that Song” and compete in Music Trivia and Mystery Lyrics! Cool music, food, fun, and prizes!


Adult Programs

Garden Club of Ellijay Flower Show
Friday & Saturday June 22-23
The Garden Club of Ellijay Invites You to a Flower Show! Come experience delicate beauty and intricate design with this year’s European Garden theme. Then, complete your visit by voting for your favorite. Visit with us Friday, June 22nd, from 3:00 PM-6:00 PM and on Saturday, June 23rd, from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM.

Gardens of Georgia’s State Parks
Saturday June 23 @ 1:30 PM
As part of this year’s annual flower show, join the Garden Club of Ellijay as we welcome Heather Adams, Interpretive Ranger at Ft Mountain State Park and learn about the Beautiful Gardens of Georgia’s State Parks.

Stout, a Confederate Surgeon
Tuesday June 26 @ 6:00 PM
Welcome back Brian Quinlan, author, historian, and battlefield war guide as he speaks about Samuel H Stout, Confederate Surgeon and Medical Director. During the Civil War, Stout was a surgeon to the Army of Tennessee and later in charge of sixty hospitals for the Confederate Army. After the war he taught at the Atlanta Medical College (now Emory School of Medicine), and the Baylor College of Medicine.

The Friends of the Library Bookshelf

Remember that the library welcomes donations of gently read books and magazines. Those that the library does not need come to the Bookshelf, with all the proceeds benefiting the library.  Do not forget to visit the “back room” of the Bookshelf for newly stocked non-fiction and magazines.

Bookshelf hours are from 10:30-5:30 on weekdays and from 12:00-2:00 on Saturdays

Library Location & Contact Information
Address: 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540.
Phone: 706-635-4528.  Fax: 706-635-3528.
http://www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org/gilmer
https://www.facebook.com/GilmerLibrary
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9AM-8PM, Friday and Saturday 9AM-6PM.

I support Casey Cagle for Governor

Election 2018, Letters to Editor

On July 24th –  it is vitally important that we cast our ballots for a strong leader who is prepared to be our state’s next CEO. As your state Senator, I want you to know that I’m 100% behind Casey Cagle for governor. I have served with him for 8 years in the Senate now and I am confident that he is the best choice on the ballot.  

Casey is a proven, consistent leader who has always delivered for our state – as well as our community and North Georgia. Due to his leadership as Lt. Governor, Georgia has been named the number one state to do business for five straight years, and we’ve added nearly 700,000 jobs and 40,000 new businesses. This year, Casey was the leader who fought to deliver the largest tax cut in Georgia history

Casey has also led to advance nationally renowned education reform measures – including the Charter Systems Act, College and Career Academy Network, and GA CATT apprenticeship program – which have been integral in transforming Georgia’s one-size-fits-all education system into a revolutionary model that puts students first. Not every student needs to get a four year liberal arts degree to be successful, and Casey is leading to prioritize workforce development so that all Georgia’s students graduate from high school with post-secondary experience or technical training that gives them the skills to attain rewarding careers.

Casey has stood up for our conservative principles his entire career. He has led to outlaw and defund sanctuary cities in Georgia, expand gun rights (earning him an A+ rating from the NRA), protect innocent life (earning him the Champion for Life award from the Georgia Life Alliance), and reform our adoption/foster care system to give faith-based organizations more opportunities to help children find loving homes.

Please join me in supporting Casey Cagle and voting to elect him as our next Governor on July 24th.   I have been honored to serve as your Senator and I look forward to working with the next Governor to continue the progress we have made.  

Steve Gooch
State Senator
District 51

Back to Top