By Helen Burkett Prencke
On Monday, June 11, the Appling County Board of Education gathered for its June meeting. Chairman Reid Lovett welcomed everyone to the meeting before members Stewart Reeves and Armon Griffis gave the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, respectively. After the agenda was approved, Superintendent Scarlett Copeland gave her report. Dr. Copeland stated the Back 2 School community event will be held on July 21 at ACHS as well as the dates for Pre-Planning and the Open Houses at all six schools.
[Full Story »]
News - Topics from June, 2018
Country Financial holds Ribbon Cutting
On Tuesday, May 29, the Baxley-Appling County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Country Financial/The Wheeler Agency to the business community with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Chamber and local community members gathered to wish the business well at the ceremony and owner Mike Wheeler expressed his great appreciation to the people of Appling County for supporting his business. Country Financial is located at 118 Azalea Road, Suite 5 in Baxley. The business focuses on retirement and insurance products. Mike’s Alma office has been serving the area since 1985.
Council welcomes Fryer
By William Gardner
The Baxley City Council met with much excitement on June 13 as they welcomed their newest member Santina Fryer. Fryer was recently elected to fill the council seat left vacant due to the untimely death of George Skipper.
[Full Story »]
The Baxley City Council met with much excitement on June 13 as they welcomed their newest member Santina Fryer. Fryer was recently elected to fill the council seat left vacant due to the untimely death of George Skipper.
[Full Story »]
CPA says county’s in good financial shape
By Jamie Gardner
CPA Chris Harris, of Jesup, reported to the Appling County Commissioners that the county is in good fiscal condition during a monthly meeting of the commission held on June 5. Harris conducted the county’s annual audit recently and gave an overall report of his findings. [Full Story »]
CPA Chris Harris, of Jesup, reported to the Appling County Commissioners that the county is in good fiscal condition during a monthly meeting of the commission held on June 5. Harris conducted the county’s annual audit recently and gave an overall report of his findings. [Full Story »]
Hands Free Law starts July 1
House Bill 673 also known as the “Hands Free Law” was passed by the Georgia General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Nathan Deal. The Hands Free Law will take effect on July 1. The following is a brief description what the law states and some frequently asked questions. A link to the complete law can be found at www.gahighwaysafety.org.
* A driver cannot have a phone in their hand or use any part of their body to support their phone. Drivers can only use their phones to make or receive phone calls by using speakerphone, earpiece, wireless headphone, phone is connected to vehicle or an electronic watch. GPS navigation devices are allowed.
* Headsets and earpieces can only be worn for communication purposes and not for listening to music or other entertainment.
* A driver may not send or read any text-based communication unless using voice-based communication that automatically converts message to a written text or is being used for navigation or GPS
* A driver may not send or read any e-mails, social media or other internet content
* A driver may not watch a video unless it is for navigation.
* A driver may not record a video (continuously running dash cams are exempt)
Exceptions to the law are as follows:
1. Reporting a traffic crash, medical emergency, fire, criminal activity or hazardous road conditions.
2. An employee or contractor of an utility service provider acting within the scope of their employment while responding to an utility emergency.
3. A first responder (law enforcement, fire, EMS) during the performance of their official duties.
4. When in a lawfully parked vehicle—this DOES NOT include vehicles stopped for traffic signals and stop signs on the public roadway.
Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators
1. Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators can only use one button to begin or end a phone call
2. Cannot reach for a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device that it no longer requires the driver to be a seated position or properly restrained by a safety belt
School Bus Drivers
1. The driver of a school bus cannot use a wireless telecommunication device or two-way radio while loading or unloading passengers.
2. The driver can only use a wireless telecommunication device while the bus is in motion as a two-way radio to allow live communications between the driver and school and public safety officials
Enforcement
When the Hands-Free law takes effect July 1, the Georgia Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement have the option to issue warnings for violations as part of the effort to educate and to help motorists adapt to the new law. However, citations can and will be issued starting July 1 for any violation of the Hands-Free Law, including those where the violation involves a traffic crash. There is not a 90-day grace period provision in the Hands-Free Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is this law needed in Georgia?
A: Our state has seen significant increases in vehicle traffic crashes, fatalities and bodily injury. The vast majority of these increases have been in rear-end crashes, single-car crashes and crashes by drivers from 15 to 25-years-old. State and local law enforcement have stated that these incidents are a clear indication of driver inattention. The 15 states that have passed hands-free driving laws saw a 16 percent decrease in traffic fatalities in the two years after the law was passed. In addition, traffic fatalities were reduced even further in subsequent years.
Q: Could I still talk on my phone while driving?
A: Yes, as long as it is done hands-free. Drivers would be able to use their phone’s speakerphone, Bluetooth technology, an earpiece, a headphone or other device to allow them to communicate on a hands-free basis.
Q: Could I touch my cellphone to dial a number or receive or end a call?
A: Yes. The law would simply prohibit drivers from holding or supporting the phone.
Q: Would I be required to purchase a hands-free accessory, such as a mount or bracket?
A: No. The proposed law simply states that a driver cannot hold or support a mobile phone. A phone can be left on a vehicle’s console, a front seat, etc. However, for the safety of all Georgians, state and local law enforcement recommend the purchase and use of a hands-free device if using a mobile phone while driving.
Q: My vehicle does not have Bluetooth technology/capability. How could I comply with the law?
A: Many online retailers offer a Bluetooth adapter for vehicles without Bluetooth or similar technology built into the vehicle. These adapters can be found at local retailers or online by searching “Bluetooth hands-free car kit” in an internet search engine.
Q: What would the fines/penalties be?
A: • First conviction: $50, one point on a license;
• Second conviction: $100, two points on a license;
• Third and subsequent convictions: $150, three points on a license.
Q: Could I listen to online radio apps while driving? (Updated information)****
A: A driver cannot touch their phone to activate or program a radio app while they are on the road (the road includes being stopped for traffic signals and stop signs). A driver can activate a radio app before getting on the road and listen to the programming. A driver can also listen to programming from their app if it is connected and controlled by the vehicle’s stereo (radio), and the driver is not touching their phone while driving. We caution drivers that music streaming apps that also include video do violate the new law which specifically prohibits drivers from watching videos. The rule of thumb here is you can listen to your radio app as long as you do not touch your phone when driving on the road AND it’s use does not distract the driver in any manner in the safe operation of their vehicle.
Q: Could I listen to music stored on my mobile phone, thus not requiring an internet connection?
A: Yes, as long as the driver is not holding or supporting the phone.
Q: Could I talk to someone via video telephony apps, such as FaceTime or Skype, if doing so “hands-free?”
A: No. The proposed hands-free driving law states that a driver shall not “record or broadcast a video” on any mobile phones, iPads, computers, etc. while operating a vehicle.
Submit specific questions about the Hands-Free Law to: https://www.gahighwaysafety.org/contact/.
* A driver cannot have a phone in their hand or use any part of their body to support their phone. Drivers can only use their phones to make or receive phone calls by using speakerphone, earpiece, wireless headphone, phone is connected to vehicle or an electronic watch. GPS navigation devices are allowed.
* Headsets and earpieces can only be worn for communication purposes and not for listening to music or other entertainment.
* A driver may not send or read any text-based communication unless using voice-based communication that automatically converts message to a written text or is being used for navigation or GPS
* A driver may not send or read any e-mails, social media or other internet content
* A driver may not watch a video unless it is for navigation.
* A driver may not record a video (continuously running dash cams are exempt)
Exceptions to the law are as follows:
1. Reporting a traffic crash, medical emergency, fire, criminal activity or hazardous road conditions.
2. An employee or contractor of an utility service provider acting within the scope of their employment while responding to an utility emergency.
3. A first responder (law enforcement, fire, EMS) during the performance of their official duties.
4. When in a lawfully parked vehicle—this DOES NOT include vehicles stopped for traffic signals and stop signs on the public roadway.
Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators
1. Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators can only use one button to begin or end a phone call
2. Cannot reach for a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device that it no longer requires the driver to be a seated position or properly restrained by a safety belt
School Bus Drivers
1. The driver of a school bus cannot use a wireless telecommunication device or two-way radio while loading or unloading passengers.
2. The driver can only use a wireless telecommunication device while the bus is in motion as a two-way radio to allow live communications between the driver and school and public safety officials
Enforcement
When the Hands-Free law takes effect July 1, the Georgia Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement have the option to issue warnings for violations as part of the effort to educate and to help motorists adapt to the new law. However, citations can and will be issued starting July 1 for any violation of the Hands-Free Law, including those where the violation involves a traffic crash. There is not a 90-day grace period provision in the Hands-Free Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is this law needed in Georgia?
A: Our state has seen significant increases in vehicle traffic crashes, fatalities and bodily injury. The vast majority of these increases have been in rear-end crashes, single-car crashes and crashes by drivers from 15 to 25-years-old. State and local law enforcement have stated that these incidents are a clear indication of driver inattention. The 15 states that have passed hands-free driving laws saw a 16 percent decrease in traffic fatalities in the two years after the law was passed. In addition, traffic fatalities were reduced even further in subsequent years.
Q: Could I still talk on my phone while driving?
A: Yes, as long as it is done hands-free. Drivers would be able to use their phone’s speakerphone, Bluetooth technology, an earpiece, a headphone or other device to allow them to communicate on a hands-free basis.
Q: Could I touch my cellphone to dial a number or receive or end a call?
A: Yes. The law would simply prohibit drivers from holding or supporting the phone.
Q: Would I be required to purchase a hands-free accessory, such as a mount or bracket?
A: No. The proposed law simply states that a driver cannot hold or support a mobile phone. A phone can be left on a vehicle’s console, a front seat, etc. However, for the safety of all Georgians, state and local law enforcement recommend the purchase and use of a hands-free device if using a mobile phone while driving.
Q: My vehicle does not have Bluetooth technology/capability. How could I comply with the law?
A: Many online retailers offer a Bluetooth adapter for vehicles without Bluetooth or similar technology built into the vehicle. These adapters can be found at local retailers or online by searching “Bluetooth hands-free car kit” in an internet search engine.
Q: What would the fines/penalties be?
A: • First conviction: $50, one point on a license;
• Second conviction: $100, two points on a license;
• Third and subsequent convictions: $150, three points on a license.
Q: Could I listen to online radio apps while driving? (Updated information)****
A: A driver cannot touch their phone to activate or program a radio app while they are on the road (the road includes being stopped for traffic signals and stop signs). A driver can activate a radio app before getting on the road and listen to the programming. A driver can also listen to programming from their app if it is connected and controlled by the vehicle’s stereo (radio), and the driver is not touching their phone while driving. We caution drivers that music streaming apps that also include video do violate the new law which specifically prohibits drivers from watching videos. The rule of thumb here is you can listen to your radio app as long as you do not touch your phone when driving on the road AND it’s use does not distract the driver in any manner in the safe operation of their vehicle.
Q: Could I listen to music stored on my mobile phone, thus not requiring an internet connection?
A: Yes, as long as the driver is not holding or supporting the phone.
Q: Could I talk to someone via video telephony apps, such as FaceTime or Skype, if doing so “hands-free?”
A: No. The proposed hands-free driving law states that a driver shall not “record or broadcast a video” on any mobile phones, iPads, computers, etc. while operating a vehicle.
Submit specific questions about the Hands-Free Law to: https://www.gahighwaysafety.org/contact/.
Livvy Hiers and Briana Hayes to compete in Miss Georgia
Two of Baxley’s own, Livvy Hiers (left) and Briana Hayes (right), will be competing in the Miss Georgia Pageant this week. The contest is being held in Columbus from June 8-16. Livvy is the reigning Miss Fitzgerald and is the daughter of Joey and Teresa Hiers. Briana is the reigning Miss Altamaha and is the daughter of James and Danita Hayes. Congratulations and best of luck to these two beautiful young women.
For more on the Miss Georgia Pageant visit https://www.facebook.com/missgapageant/
For more on the Miss Georgia Pageant visit https://www.facebook.com/missgapageant/
Busy weekend at the Park
By Helen Burkett Prencke
This weekend the benches were bursting at Water Works Park with the Arts Council hosting a concert on Friday night and then on Saturday morning the Farmer’s Market and the City of Baxley’s Splash in the Park kicking off the summer.
On Friday night, Station Number 7 played a variety of folk and gospel songs while concertgoers enjoyed discounted BBQ from a nearby vendor. Bandmembers include David McCluney, JoAnne Switzer, Laurie Upchurch, Bedell Mayers, Roger Kicklighter, Anthony Draper, Jimmy Johnson and Jay Reppert. This weekend FUMC Pastor Steve Meguiar made a guest appearance playing his harmonica with the band. While parents listened to the sweet notes of the dulcimer and banjo, children splashed in the cool water and chased each other across the warm concrete circle.
Saturday morning came bright and early with tables of squash, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers and other produce as well as sweet breads, cakes and tarts at the Farmer’s Market. Shoppers could sniff homemade soaps and taste fresh zucchini bread (a personal favorite of the author!) or inquire about what other fruits and veggies would be coming into season in as the summer progresses.
Later in the morning the water hoses began to flow as Splash in the Park kicked off with two inflatable water slides and free ice creams and slushies for everyone. Children ran through muddy grass between the slides and waited in line for rainbow slushies loaded with sour gummy candies. Little ones enjoyed the corners of the wading pools at the bottom of the slides. Parents sat in pockets of shade or continued to peruse produce at the Market while children whooped and hollered in wet delight. When the hoses were turned off at noon and the slides began to deflate, parents wrapped their soggy children in towels to take them home or migrated to the fountains on the far side of the park to continue celebrating summer.
Even though the event “Splash in the Park” has come and gone, there will be more opportunities to play in the Water Works Park fountain all summer long. The Farmer’s Market will be open every Saturday morning until the fields are finished and there will be two more summer concerts on July 13 and August 10.
This weekend the benches were bursting at Water Works Park with the Arts Council hosting a concert on Friday night and then on Saturday morning the Farmer’s Market and the City of Baxley’s Splash in the Park kicking off the summer.
On Friday night, Station Number 7 played a variety of folk and gospel songs while concertgoers enjoyed discounted BBQ from a nearby vendor. Bandmembers include David McCluney, JoAnne Switzer, Laurie Upchurch, Bedell Mayers, Roger Kicklighter, Anthony Draper, Jimmy Johnson and Jay Reppert. This weekend FUMC Pastor Steve Meguiar made a guest appearance playing his harmonica with the band. While parents listened to the sweet notes of the dulcimer and banjo, children splashed in the cool water and chased each other across the warm concrete circle.
Saturday morning came bright and early with tables of squash, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers and other produce as well as sweet breads, cakes and tarts at the Farmer’s Market. Shoppers could sniff homemade soaps and taste fresh zucchini bread (a personal favorite of the author!) or inquire about what other fruits and veggies would be coming into season in as the summer progresses.
Later in the morning the water hoses began to flow as Splash in the Park kicked off with two inflatable water slides and free ice creams and slushies for everyone. Children ran through muddy grass between the slides and waited in line for rainbow slushies loaded with sour gummy candies. Little ones enjoyed the corners of the wading pools at the bottom of the slides. Parents sat in pockets of shade or continued to peruse produce at the Market while children whooped and hollered in wet delight. When the hoses were turned off at noon and the slides began to deflate, parents wrapped their soggy children in towels to take them home or migrated to the fountains on the far side of the park to continue celebrating summer.
Even though the event “Splash in the Park” has come and gone, there will be more opportunities to play in the Water Works Park fountain all summer long. The Farmer’s Market will be open every Saturday morning until the fields are finished and there will be two more summer concerts on July 13 and August 10.
Police report thefts, arrests
Baxley Police Chief James Godfrey reports the following activity over the past few weeks.
On May 14 at approximately 4:17 a.m., officers answered a call to a suspicious person around the area of Beach Street. On arrival officers canvased the area but didn’t locate any person. As officers were checking in the area, they did recover several items of food, a blue and white cooler, a H.P. computer monitor, a set of gear head speakers, an power adapter, a surge protector, a computer mouse, a H.P Pavilion computer, a H.P. keyboard, a tackle box with assorted items in it, two packs of printing paper, a back pack, a Peavey speaker, a pair of shears, a Bose equalizer, several items of cleaning products, some cords and cables, a Samsung flip phone, a projector and other items. After an investigation of the seized items, it was discovered that the items had been stolen from Dunn Memorial Church. The seized items were released back to the church. As the investigation continued several other items were returned back to the church, and dropped off, and later on a projector was also returned.
On May 14 at approximately 1:30 p.m., officers met with the clerk at the Pineland Bank in reference to some fictitious checks they had received. On arrival the clerk told officers that they had received three checks from a person; one he had used to start a savings account with, the other two he cashed. The clerk told officers that they later discovered the checks were on a closed acc....
To continue reading this artcile subscribe to The Baxley News-Banner by calling 912-367-2468 or click here.
On May 14 at approximately 4:17 a.m., officers answered a call to a suspicious person around the area of Beach Street. On arrival officers canvased the area but didn’t locate any person. As officers were checking in the area, they did recover several items of food, a blue and white cooler, a H.P. computer monitor, a set of gear head speakers, an power adapter, a surge protector, a computer mouse, a H.P Pavilion computer, a H.P. keyboard, a tackle box with assorted items in it, two packs of printing paper, a back pack, a Peavey speaker, a pair of shears, a Bose equalizer, several items of cleaning products, some cords and cables, a Samsung flip phone, a projector and other items. After an investigation of the seized items, it was discovered that the items had been stolen from Dunn Memorial Church. The seized items were released back to the church. As the investigation continued several other items were returned back to the church, and dropped off, and later on a projector was also returned.
On May 14 at approximately 1:30 p.m., officers met with the clerk at the Pineland Bank in reference to some fictitious checks they had received. On arrival the clerk told officers that they had received three checks from a person; one he had used to start a savings account with, the other two he cashed. The clerk told officers that they later discovered the checks were on a closed acc....
To continue reading this artcile subscribe to The Baxley News-Banner by calling 912-367-2468 or click here.
Concerts continue June 8
The Arts Council of Appling County will continue hosting its free Summer Concert Series at Baxley’s Water Works Park on Friday, June 8. This concert will feature Station #7 and begins at 7:00 p.m. A food vendor will be on hand for the event.
The park is located at 93 Tippins Street. Bring your own seat. The concert series will continue through August.
The park is located at 93 Tippins Street. Bring your own seat. The concert series will continue through August.
Splash in the Park Saturday
This Saturday, June 9 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., children are invited to play in the splash fountain and on water slide inflatables at Water Works Park. Ice cream treats will be served at this free event sponsored by the City of Baxley. Bathing suits are appropriate attire. Please bring a towel.
For more information, contact the Baxley/Appling County Chamber of Commerce at (912)367-7731 or events@baxley.org.
For more information, contact the Baxley/Appling County Chamber of Commerce at (912)367-7731 or events@baxley.org.
Farmer’s Market is back
By Helen Burkett Prencke
Just when I thought the day would never come and I’d have to sneak across the Altamaha River to find fresh garden goodies, the Appling County Farmer’s Market has finally returned! Four vendors set up their tables loaded with cabbage, zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, jalapeños and new potatoes as well as loaves of zucchini bread, bricks of soap and bottles of cane syrup [Full Story »]
Just when I thought the day would never come and I’d have to sneak across the Altamaha River to find fresh garden goodies, the Appling County Farmer’s Market has finally returned! Four vendors set up their tables loaded with cabbage, zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, jalapeños and new potatoes as well as loaves of zucchini bread, bricks of soap and bottles of cane syrup [Full Story »]
Badcock holds grand reopening
Badcock & More held a Grand Reopening Ceremony on Wednesday, May 30 to celebrate the store’s recent remodel. Owners Paul and Amy Carter are shown above with staff members at the ceremony. Paul Carter stated that he has owned the business for the past 11 years and added that he appreciates all of the support Badcock & More has received over the years. He also stated that he looks forward to serving Baxley and Appling County for many years to come.
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