The Henry County Update - Newsletter

May 23, 2014

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Regular Meetings June 3rd - 9:00 AM June 17th - 6:30 PM

Meetings held at: Administration Building Community Room 140 Henry Parkway McDonough, GA 30253

Regular Commission meetings will air Fridays, Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays on Henry TV Channel 14 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99, at 9 a.m. & 7 p.m.

County and City Officials Cut Ribbon On Phillips Drive & SR 20/81

Henry County Commissioners, together with the McDonough City Council, Mayor Billy Copeland, the Henry County Department of Transportation and the Henry County SPLOST Department cut the ribbon on May 21, 2014, in celebration of completing the much anticipated road and intersection improvement project at Phillips Drive and SR 20/81.

With more than 20,000 vehicles entering the intersection each day, it has been the site of several accidents over the past three years. McDonough Mayor Billy Copeland said that he and Henry County Commission Chairman Tommy N. Smith, had discussed the need for the project back in 2006, when Smith was the Executive Assistant to the Board.

“We have been talking about this

for many years, and I’m glad it’s finally finished,” said Copeland. “This is a classic case of a wonderful partnership between two jurisdictions.”

To alleviate the precarious traffic conditions, the intersection has been redesigned, allowing for the realignment of Phillips Drive to intersect SR20/81 further east, across from Autumn Lake Drive, as well as the installation of a traffic signal and turn lanes at the intersection.

“I appreciate the mayor and the city council joining with the county on this project and coming together for the citizens and all who travel through this area,” said District I Commissioner Bo Moss. “And I want to thank everyone who had a hand in bringing this project together.”

McDonough city councilman

District I McDonough City Councilman Rufus Stewart and Henry County District I Commissioner Bo Moss, surrounded by county and city officials, cut the ribbon celebrating the completion of intersection improvements to Phillips Dr. and S.R. 20/81 in McDonough.

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May 23, 2014 Memorial Day Service Set for May 26

The somber sound of bagpipes will fill the air at this year’s Memorial Day Service, to be held at the Veterans Wall of Honor on Monday, May 26 at 11 a.m., to honor and remember the men and women in our military who have paid the ultimate price for America’s freedom.

The Keynote Speaker will be Gary Freedman, Col., U.S. Army (Retired) who served his country for 26 years, and whose extensive military career included two tours of duty in Vietnam as well as assignments in several other countries, such as South Korea, Somalia and the Middle East. Lieutenant Colonel Freedman’s military awards include the Legion Of Merit, the Soldier’s Medal for heroism, two Bronze Stars, the Purple Heart, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, three awards of the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, two Army Meritorious Unit Commendations, two National Defense Service Medals, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, seven Viet Nam Service Medals, the Southwest Asia Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, two Overseas Service Ribbons, the United Nations Medal, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry Unit Citation w/Palm, the Republic henrycounty-ga.org

of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Parachutist’s Badge.

The Memorial Day service will also include a presentation of the colors by the Ola AFJROTC Color Guard and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Larry Head, Commander of American Legion Post 516.

Rick Berry, CSM (Retired), Commander of American Legion Post 55, will provide the welcome and opening remarks and the invocation and benediction will be given by Pastor Charles E. Jackson LTC, U.S. Army (Retired). A special reading will be recited by Helen Busbin, Regent, Andrew McBride Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a wreath will be presented by CPO Richard McLeod, USN (Retired) and SSG Darrell Woodall, USA. Reverend Joey Seabolt, pastor of Philippi Baptist Church, will perform the National Anthem and the service will be peppered throughout by various musical interludes provided by bagpiper David Gregory. Jim Houston, with Bugles Across America, will close the service with Taps.

The Veterans Wall of Honor is located in Heritage Park at 101 Lake Dow Rd. in McDonough.

For more information, please contact Jim Joyce with Henry County Parks and Recreation at 770-288-7300 or visit www.hcprd.org.

Ribbon Cutting from page 1 Rufus Stewart said that the project was a long time in coming and will go a long way in terms of safety. “This project is really a plus for the whole community. Not only does it enhance the area, but more importantly is makes this intersection much safer for everyone,” said Stewart.

The city of McDonough and Henry County had an intergovernmental agreement to split the cost of the

$1.5 million intersection improvement project as follows: Henry County: $642,580.41 City of McDonough SPLOST: $300,000 City of McDonough (via LMIG): $600,000

The project was designed by McGee Partners and was constructed by Southeastern Site Development.

Motorcycle Ride to Benefit HCPD

The Henry County Police Department will host its inaugural motorcycle benefit ride called Wings for Warriors, on May 31, 2014, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Henry County Police Department Headquarters.

Proceeds from the ride will go toward the Henry County Police Benevolence Fund to assist Henry County police officers in need, and there will also be a raffle and silent auction.

Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. at the HCPD headquarters with kickstands up at 10:45 a.m. Riders will be escorted by the Henry County Motor Unit, and the ride will end at O.B’s BBQ, located at 725 Industrial Blvd. in McDonough. Registration is $25 for rider and passenger.

Henry County Police Department Headquarters is located at 108 S. Zack Hinton Parkway in McDonough.

For more information, contact Motor Sgt. R. Patten at 770-990-5656 or at rpatten@co.henry.ga.us.

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May 23, 2014 Outdoor burning prohibited from May 1 through September 30

As we approach the outdoor burning ban that will be in effect until October 1, 2014, Henry County Fire Department reminds citizens to use safe practices as they wrap up their debris burning. The number one cause of wildfires in Georgia is burning debris. “Many of these wildfires could be prevented if everyone would follow the rules for outdoor burning and NEVER leave their fire unattended,” stated Captain Sabrina Puckett.

Debris burning is caused by humans and humans can prevent wildfires by using safe practices when burning outdoors.

• Residential Burning is for natural debris such as tree limbs from storm damage, leaves, and grass cuttings.

• Clearing of lots for building of structures requires a commercial permit.

• No burning of stumps or whole trees.

• No more than one pile 6 x 6 and 5’ high at a time.

• No burning construction/building material, household garbage, tires, paints, roofing materials, plastics, or other materials that produce toxic gases or obnoxious odors.

• No burning before 10:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m.

• No burning on Sunday

Citizens are required to obtain a daily or annual

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permit through the Georgia Forestry Commission.

Options for obtaining a residential burning permit are to call 1-877-OK-2-BURN (1-877-652-2876) or online at www.gatrees.org. For acreage burns, please contact the District Office for a permit, at 770-784-2480.

Commercial permits still require a permit from Henry County Fire Department and a fee of $100.00.

Henry County and the metro Atlanta area, is under a total outdoor burning ban that began May 1, 2014. All outdoor burning will be prohibited. The ban is scheduled to be lifted October 1, 2014 however that date is subject to change based on weather conditions.

The State of Georgia Environmental Protection Division mandates this ban. During the time of the ban no residential or commercial burning will be permitted.

Violators will be subject to a fine of up $1,000.00 per day, per violation or 60 days in jail, or both (Henry County Code, Section 3-4-113, page 1710.3). The Henry County Fire Department strongly urges citizens to comply with this ban and appreciates, in advance, all cooperation concerning this matter.

For further information, contact Henry County Fire Department @ 770-288-6600 or visit the Georgia Forestry Commission @ www.gfc.state.ga.us.

Board of Commissioners Recognize Older Americans Month and Local Centenarian

The Henry County Board of Commissioners recognized lifelong resident Agnes Fisher Beers with a proclamation at the May 6 regular Commission meeting. Mrs. Beers will be celebrating her 100th birthday this month, and is well-known and respected throughout the County for her many years teaching in the Henry County Public School system.

In related news, the Board of Commissioners recognized the senior population, by issuing a proclamation designating May as Older Americans month, with the theme Safe Today, Healthy Tomorrow, which highlights the importance of focusing on injury

The Henry County Board of Commissioners proclaimed the month of May as Older Americans Month and presented the proclamation, which was accepted by the Henry County Senior Services Department.

prevention and safety to encourage older adults to protect themselves and remain active and independent for as long as possible.

The proclamation read in part, “Henry County has approximately 30,000 residents age 60 and older, who have made countless contributions and sacrifices to ensure a better life for future generations and …

We recognize the value of injury prevention and safety awareness in helping older adults remain healthy and active, as we are committed to helping all individuals live longer, healthier lives.”

Henry County Commission Chairman Tommy N. Smith presents a proclamation in honor of Agnes Fisher Beers 100th birthday, to her great niece, Donna Holder, who accepted the proclamation on her behalf. Pictured in the first row (l. to r.) are Chairman Smith and Donna Holder; second row (l.to r.) District V Commissioner Bruce Holmes, District I Commissioner Bo Moss and District III Commissioner Gary Bowman; third row (l. to r.) District IV Commissioner Reid Bowman and District II Commissioner Brian Preston.

The Henry County Police Department is now using YouTube! The purpose is to work in partnership with our citizens in solving and reducing crime.

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May 23, 2014 Safety and Protection Night Set for May 27

The fourth annual Henry County Commission District V Safety and Protection Night will be held on Tu e s d a y, May 27 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Home Depot parking lot in Ellenwood.

This annual event is being hosted by Commissioner Bruce Holmes, along with the Henry County Public Safety Departments.

Similar to National Night Out, the evening is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime programs and strengthen neighborhood spirit and community partnerships. It’s also an excellent opportunity to meet with local public safety personnel and learn about the programs and services they offer, and talk to elected officials, who will be on hand to answer questions and concerns.

The event is free and open to the public and organizers hope that this event will enable the c o m muni ty and local government to interact and continue to build on their established relationships. In addition to various displays by Henry County law enforcement and public safety, McGruff will make an appearance and there will be booths set up by local businesses. There will also be a DJ, entertainment and free food and beverages. henrycounty-ga.org

Vendors are welcome.

A special addition to this year’s event is the nonprofit organization, The Soul Project, which will be on site collecting gently worn shoes for children in need across the United States and abroad. Since 2007, The Soul Project has collected more than 500,000 pairs of shoes with the mission of bringing encouragement to the lives of the children throughout the U.S. and throughout the world and the organization is dedicated to improving the lives of those less fortunate by providing practical and meaningful materials and services to those in need, mainly through the provision of shoes. Families are encouraged to bring shoes to donate.

The Soul Project hosts drives throughout the year collecting shoes and donations, believing that every person should have a decent pair of shoes on their feet.

“I encourage everyone to come out and join their neighbors and local businesses for a fun evening of food, music and fellowship with our Public Safety Professionals,” said Bruce Holmes, District V Commissioner. “This is also a perfect time to give back a little by bringing shoes you no longer wear but are still in good condition to help children and adults in need, by donating them to Project Soul.”

The Home Depot is located at 65 Fairview Rd. in Ellenwood. For more information, please contact Sgt. Jimmie Spence at 770.288.7141 or Lt. Chuck Simmons at 770.288.8215.

To learn more about The Soul Project or to make a donation, please visit www.soulprojectint.org.

Blue wins the Memorial Blue vs. Brown Exhibition Basketball Game

The Henry County Police Department, last year’s champions, once again faced-off against the Henry County Sheriff’s Department in the annual Blue vs. Brown Memorial Exhibition Basketball Game, held on Saturday, May 10 at the J.P. Moseley Recreation Center.

This was the 11th year for the basketball exhibition game with the purpose of honoring all fallen heroes in uniform, including public safety and all branches of the military.

The Henry County Police Department defended their title with a winning score of 40 to 35.

Pictured (L to R) Chief Nichols, Officer Bear Ferebee, and Officer Maceo Brayboy

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May 23, 2014 Henry County Government Television Switching to Charter Cable Channel 180

Henry County’s Government Access channel, Henry Television, currently Henry TV14, will be making the move to Charter Cable channel 180 on or after May 28, 2014, as the result of Charter moving to an alldigital format and having to reorganize and restructure certain channels.

The new channel name will change to Henry Television, and be known as Henry TV, and although the channel is changing, what will remain the same is the outstanding, original programming and extensive coverage of Commission meetings that viewers have come to rely on.

The station will maintain its current coverage of the Henry County Commission meetings and the Zoning Advisory Board meetings, as well as original programming such as the Commissioner-based talk

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show Henry Insider and Garden Delights, a cooking show produced in collaboration with the Henry County Extension Office. Henry Television, also located on AT&T U-verse channel 99 and available on-demand on the county’s website, will also sport a new logo, dropping the number 14 from its name.

Henry Television was launched in 2007 to provide direct, non-editorial information to the citizens of Henry County concerning the operations and communications of the County government, and is operated and maintained by the Henry County Communications Department.

For more information on Henry Television and its programming, please visit w w w. h e n r y c o u n t y - g a . o r g / C o m m u n i c a t i o n s / HenryTV14.shtml.

Henry County Parks and Recreation Offers Summer Day Camp

The end of another school year will be here before we know it and what better way to keep your children busy, safe and happy all summer long than by participating in Henry County Parks and Recreation’s Summer Day Camp?

The Henry County Parks and Recreation Department is once again offering a Summer Day Camp in what promises to a be fun-filled, summer experience. Camp field trips include High Falls swimming, a Braves game, Fern Bank, Sky Zone, the World of Coke, Medieval Times and the Rock Ranch.

Camps begin May 27 and continue all summer long until August 1. Summer camp runs from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. each weekday and is for children ages 5 to 13. There will be no camp the week of June 30 to July 4. Camps will be held at Heritage Park in McDonough, the Locust Grove Recreation Center in Locust Grove, J. P. Moseley Recreation Center in Stockbridge, the Fairview Recreation Center in Stockbridge and Nash Farm Park in Hampton.

These camps are one of the most affordable camps in the metro area. Each week of camp costs just $100 and $90 for each additional family member and the fee includes all of the field trips and activities.

Families may register for any or all weeks of camp, but space is limited.

Registration is open and is being held Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Heritage Park or any of the recreation centers mentioned above.

For more information, call Henry County Parks and Recreation at 770.288.7300 or visit www.hcprd.org.

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