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Make a Difference, Plant a Tree Woodstock residents can take advantage of an Arbor Day seedling giveaway on Feb. 19 to enhance their landscapes. The plan is to distribute 700 dogwood, redbud and bald cypress tree seedlings. A free booklet with important tree care information, including how to care for, plant and prune trees, as well as current water restrictions, is available online at www. woodstockparksandrec.com.
From left, Fire Chief Tim Prather, Assistant Fire Chief Eddie Robinson and Field Operations Chief Shane West with Raymond Gunnin, seated.
Gunnin Retires From County Commission Raymond Gunnin has retired from his position on the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, representing District 2. In honor of his service, the commissioners surprised Gunnin with a resolution naming Cherokee County Fire Station No. 7 on Barnes Road in his honor. Gunnin started his service to Cherokee County in November 1977, volunteering with the Little River Fire Department. After volunteering for three years, he became part of the paid fire service and earned ranks over the years from sergeant to lieutenant, captain, battalion chief and operations chief. He retired after leading Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services as fire chief for six years. “I was able to work a job I truly loved. We answered calls and were able to help people in what might have been the worst day of their lives,” Gunnin said. “Some of my best memories in the fire service include the other firefighters I became lifelong friends with, and the things we did together, along with the training and what I was able to learn over the years.” Gunnin hung up his fire hat after more than 30 years of service in 2011, and ran for office in 2012. He was sworn in as the District 2 county commissioner in January 2013. “Raymond has been a faithful soldier and leader for Cherokee County for 40 years,” said Chairman Harry Johnston. “He’s been part of a lot of change in the Fire Department and the county as a whole. Nobody loves our county more than Raymond. I’m proud to call him my friend.” Richard Weatherby was sworn in last month to take over the District 2 seat. www.cherokeega.com. 8
AROUND WOODSTOCK | February 2021
Seniors at the William G. Long Senior Center assembled the seedling packages, which can be picked up at the following locations: • City Hall Annex 12453 Highway 92 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store, 8588 Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • The senior center 223 Arnold Mill Road 9 a.m.- 4p.m.
A tree also will be planted in the name of Woodstock staff celebrating 20 years of employment with the city. Congratulations to Police Lt. Michael Decocq, Community Development Administrative Coordinator Venis Ponce, Fire Lt. Daniel Allen and Fire Administrative Coordinator Sherry “Faye” Doss.
