June 18 Fayette County News

Fayette County

News

THE TRUTH SINCE 1886

INSIDE Senoia looking for artists.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2020

VOL. 148, NO. 25

INSIDE: Newnan man charged in bizarre aggravated assault. A2

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INSIDE: Fayette Views: Defending the Constitution. A4

Commissioners support hate crimes legislation

BY CHRISTOPHER DUNN CHRISTOPHER@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

The County Board of Commissioners added their voices to a growing call for Georgia to pass hates crime legislation, approving a resolution in support of House Bill 426 at their June 11 meeting.

Proposed by Commissioner Charles Rousseau, the resolution expresses the county’s support for passing House Bill 426, a hate crime bill for the state of Georgia.

“We have an opportunity before us, in my humble opinion, to show support in this particular state and in this particu-

lar moment in our country’s history to show support for the passage of a hate crime bill,” said Rousseau, acknowledging that the bill is not perfect but it is important.

According to Newsweek, Georgia is currently one of only four states (along with Arkansas, South Carolina and Wyo-

ming) with no laws criminalizing offenses committed on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sex, or disability.

“I think we are at a critical moment to show our support for the state legislature doing something and putting Georgia on the map for not being one of four states who does not have

something of this nature,” said Rousseau.

HB 426 was introduced and passed in the Georgia House of Representatives in spring 2019 and is currently awaiting a vote in the Georgia Senate. It would enhance penalties in cases SEE CRIMES, PAGE A2

County’s budget process continues with tweaks

BY CHRISTOPHER DUNN CHRISTOPHER@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

Hood was able to contact two state representatives via social media and get them to attend the rally despite their busy schedules. She connected with Alice Cook via Facebook, and Cook was instrumental in pulling them together.

“She got me all of these connections, and it’s just, I have no idea how she did that,

Fayette County’s 2021 budget is coming into clearer focus. The June 11 County Board of Commissioners meeting included the first public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2021 budget, offering some tweaks since the first look was offered in May. One of the additions is to add $50,000 for next year’s bicentennial celebration. Fayette County was officially founded on May 15, 1821, and preparations are well underway for next year’s 200th anniversary. The funds would go toward celebratory activities, street banners, historical marker tours, publicity and promotional items.

The county has also been exploring the possible acquisition of the 13 private water systems around Fayette, and staff is proposing sitting aside $250,000 per year toward those potential acquisitions. The private water systems are among the county’s oldest and include a golf course, trailer parks, and subdivisions. Financial analysis has shown that each of the 13 requires approximately $1 million of upgrades necessary to bring the systems up to county water system standards.

SEE PROTEST, PAGE A3

SEE BUDGET, PAGE A2

PHOTO BY GRANT WHITE

Organizer Kaitlyn Hood, a rising sophomore at McIntosh High, speaks with state Rep. Derrick Jackson.

MHS student organizes protest for Black Lives Matter

BY JORDYN MOBLEY VIA THE MCINTOSH TRAIL

Organized by rising McIntosh High sophomore Kaitlyn Hood, the community gathered at Peachtree City’s Drake Field on June 7. The PTC Police Department estimated at least 700 people took part in the rally to demand justice for the black community due to recent events with police.

It was not an easy process for Hood to put together such a large event with such little time, but seeing the community unified was well worth the effort.

“How loud the crowd was and how much they were into the whole thing, that was just incredible,” Hood said. “I was so stressed because I had to speak up there, and I have never done anything like this before.”

Councilman Matthews dies

Primary victors crowned

Longtime Tyrone City Councilman Ken Matthews passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 9.

Matthews, age 56, served on Tyrone’s council for more than a decade and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Susie, daughter, Ashley, and siblings and grandchildren.

Matthews was laid to rest Friday, June 12, at Parrott Funeral Home with the Rev. Greg Mallett and Tyrone Mayor Eric Dial officiating.

In a day with election issues on center stage around the state, local primary race competitors had to hold their breath longer than usual, as results did not start trickling in until the clock neared midnight on Election Day, June 9. Due to an overwhelming number of mail-in ballots — pegged at over 16,000 — it would be late in the after-

INSIDE

FAYETTE VIEWS A4, A6 OBITUARIES A5

CRIME A2 THIS WEEK IN HISTORY A3

BY CHRISTOPHER DUNN CHRISTOPHER@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

noon the following day before the victors could be decisively declared.

For County Commission District 1, incumbent Eric Maxwell (77.68 percent) beat Sonja Gibson (22.32) in the Republican primary. Maxwell will face Democrat Vickie Butler in November.

For County Commission District 2, challenger Lee Hearn (51.79) bested incumbent Randy Ognio (48.21) in the Republican primary. Hearn faces no chal-

lenger in November.

For County Commission Dis-

SPORTS B1 CLASSIFIEDS B3

CONTACT US: editorial@fayette-news.net • (770) 461-6317 • fayette-news.net

SEE VICTORS, PAGE A2

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FAYETTE COUNTY NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2020

Newnan man charged in bizarre aggravated assault

BY JOHN THOMPSON JOHN@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

A Newnan man is behind bars after a strange incident June 10 in Peachtree City.

Peachtree City Police Department spokesperson Chris Hyatt said the incident started at a check-out line at the RaceTrac gas station on Ga. Highway 54 West.

A customer was standing in line when the customer behind him, Tavares Warner of Newnan, said something confrontational to the customer, Hyatt said.

The customer turned around and noticed Warner was pointing a knife at him. The customer ran around the store, and Warner pursued him and knocked various items off the shelf, Hyatt said.

The customer and Warner left the store and went their separate ways. Hyatt said the store manager called the department, and the police reviewed the video.

Later that day, a patrol car spotted Warner walking alongside Hwy. 54. Police pulled over to talk to Warner, and at the same time the victim was driving by the scene. The victim exited his car

and told officers that Warner had pulled a knife on him earlier.

Warner was transported to the jail and charged with aggravated assault.

In other crime news, a night out for ice cream turned into a criminal case.

On June 11, the Fayetteville Police Department headed to 760 Jimmie Mayfield Blvd. in regards to a theft call. The victim said he noticed that two rifle scopes that he had in his vehicle were stolen.

The victim said on June 6 he went to Bruster`s and then American Deli. The victim said he believes

that during those hours and at either one of those places his black rifle optic and his black magnifier were taken from his vehicle.

According to the report, the victim noticed they were gone at approximately midnight June 6. He said there was no forced entry to his vehicle due to him leaving his vehicle unlocked.

He said both scopes were on the floorboard and placed the value at nearly $1,500.

On June 10, the Fayetteville Police Department responded to the Piedmont Wellness Center in reference to an entering auto. The

victim told police she returned to her car to find the passenger side front window broken and her purse missing out of the front passenger seat. The purse was described as a Michael Kors shoulder bag, pale blue, valued at $300. The purse contained a Louis Vuitton cosmetic bag valued at $250, prescription glasses valued at $375, and a Louis Vuitton Zippy wallet valued at $850. The wallet contained the victim’s license and debit and credit cards from multiple creditors, as well as $120 cash in unknown denominations.

CRIMES: ‘We will not tolerate hatred, bigotry, or racism’ FROM PAGE A1

where it can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant targeted any victim, group of victims, or property “because of the actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, mental disability, or physical disability of such victim or group of victims.”

Gov. Brian Kemp has said he will sign the bill if it reaches his desk.

Former State Rep. Virgil Fludd and current State Rep. Derrick Jackson both spoke in favor of the resolution.

“There’s never been a greater time for Georgia to fight, not only the threat of injustice but the reality of prejudice and racism,” said Fludd.

“We’re one of only four states that doesn’t have a hate crimes bill. That’s nothing for us to be proud of.”

Fludd reflected on the community’s activism, including a massive march through Fayetteville just days prior.

“The assault on black lives is real,” he said.

“The practice of hate and racism still exists, and I think you and I both know the time for change has come, and the time for change is now. The time to do the right thing is always right now.”

Jackson said the bill

sends an important message.

“A hate crime bill will not stop hatred. A hate crime bill will not stop crime. A hate crime bill will not stop racism,” he said. “However, a hate crime bill will communicate to our society that we will not tolerate hatred, bigotry, or racism.”

Jackson, a retired Naval officer with more than 22 years of service, said he did not fight so that the country could remain divided.

“It is amazing to me that we fight a battle for a democracy that not everyone gets a chance to enjoy.”

Commissioner Edge Gibbons echoed his sentiments.

“I spent 27 years as an Army infantry officer, and I didn’t do that to have different kinds of justice back home for the people I was defending.”

Commissioner Eric Maxwell gave his vote of approval but bemoaned the commissioners getting involved in issues that the county does not directly control.

“If we vote on this, it’s once again opening the door of getting out of our lane,” he said.

Perhaps the most notable instance of pushing state legislation came in early 2018 when the Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to support a controversial

“religious freedom” bill proposed at the state and national level that critics said opened the door to discrimination. Commissioners Maxwell, Charles Oddo, Randy Ognio, and then-commissioner Steve Brown voted in support, with only Rousseau in opposition.

Commissioner Oddo reluctantly voted for the hate crime resolution, saying that, while he thought the particular house bill in question left many unanswered questions, he still supported hate crime legislation.

Commissioner Ognio was the lone vote in opposition. He wondered how you can prove a person’s intent, though the bill maintains the legal burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

He also expressed concern that it does not include crimes committed out of hatred toward the police.

“We seem to be a country where if one entity does something bad, we blame the whole entity. One bad apple don’t spoil the whole bunch,” he said, referring to protests against police brutality. “We talk about hate. We got people out there hating the police.

How do we stop this?

This bill won’t stop this.”

Jackson assured there is no language in HB 426 that could be construed as anti-police.

BUDGET: Meeting June 25 FROM PAGE A1 SPECIAL TO THE FAYETTE COUNTY NEWS

Fernway families take break for sweet treats Families of Fernway Estate gathered together on June 1st to enjoy a sweet treat from Peachtree City’s TCBY Frozen Yogurt Truck.

PTC residents to get first look at city budget

BY JOHN THOMPSON JOHN@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

Peachtree City is set to unveil its first post-coronavirus to its citizens June 25.

In May, Peachtree City Manager Jon Rorie delivered the sobering news of a budget shortfall.

Preliminary estimates indicate the city could face up to a $2 million shortfall in revenue due to the pandemic. A large part of the losses come from sales tax dollars that dried up during the height of the pandemic.

Rorie said the city will move forward with a plan to plug the fiscal hole, including reducing personnel.

Any reductions in force would likely occur in October when the city’s new budget year starts.

“I’m just not going to tell people they have to leave now,” he said.

Rorie is not counting on getting any money from the federal government, but any contributions would be nice, he said.

Instead, the city plans to couple a reduction in force, along with using money from the city’s reserves.

“We hope that we won’t have to draw $2 million from the reserves. We’re currently looking at between $11.5 million,” he said.

Last year’s budget was $39 million.

The 13 systems would be prioritized to determine which would come online first.

The Town of Brooks has already requested Fayette County take ownership of its existing water system. The system is operated by the county and owned

by Brooks currently, and Brooks has offered to gift it to the county, but it cannot be accepted until the system is brought up to standard.

The second public hearing and budget adoption is scheduled for the regular county commissioner meeting on Thursday, June 25 at 6:30 p.m.

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VICTORS: Check out the winners FROM PAGE A1

trict 5, incumbent Charles Oddo (70.12) held off Ann Wittenberg (21.84) and Bill Yarde (8.04) in the Republican primary. Oddo will face William Lightle in November.

For Board of Education District 3, incumbent Scott Hollowell (57.67) beat Marion Key (31.04) and Neil Sullivan (11.29). He will face Independent Chuck Lenahan in November.

For Board of Education District 5, incumbent Brian Anderson (82.27) beat Mike Krehbiel (17.73). Anderson will face

Democrat Catherine Remkes in November.

Board of Election Post 1 will see Republican Randy Hough, Democrat Candace Aaron, and Independent Danny Dolan face off in November.

For Magistrate Judge post 1, incumbent Christy Dunkelberger (58.84) beat Pamela Patterson (43.16).

For Magistrate Judge post 2, incumbent Kathy Brown Valencia (60.48) beat Sheila Huddleston (39.52).

For Magistrate Judge post 4, incumbent James White (52.39) beat Natalie Ashman (47.61).

CITY OF PEACHTREE CITY NOTICE OF FY 2021 PROPOSED BUDGET Staff will be submitting a proposed FY 2021 Budget to the City Council for review and discussion at a special called meeting on Thursday, June 25, at 6:30 PM. The next review is scheduled is for Tuesday, July 7, if needed. The fiscal year will begin October 1, 2020, and end September 30, 2021. A public hearing will also be held to gain public input on the Proposed FY 2021 Budget, and is currently scheduled for Thursday, July 16, at 6:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 151 Willowbend Road, Peachtree City.

Fund General Fund Confiscated Assets Building Fund Downtown Development

FAYETTE WEATHER

winds NNE at 5-10 mph High: 80 Low: 63

Thursday

PM thunderstorms; chance of rain 30% High: 82 Low: 64

Friday

2020 Amended Budget 18,232,582 45,500 286,200

Budget Amendment 98,130 40,200 25,175,000

Amended Budget 18,330,712 85,700 25,461,200

713,906

18,439

732,345

A complete copy of the amended budgets for fiscal year 2020 is available at City Hall for public review. City Hall is located at 240 South Glynn Street, Fayetteville, GA 30214. The public is encouraged to attend the public meeting, and/or submit written or oral comments or questions concerning the proposed budget amendments. Information may be obtained by telephone at 770-461-6029, extension 4161 or 4169.

A detailed copy of the proposed budget will be available for review at City Hall during the hours of 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday – Friday, in the City Hall lobby. It can also be viewed on the city’s website, www.peachtree-city.org.

Wednesday Partly cloudy;

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FY 2020 AMENDED BUDGETS The Mayor and Council of the City of Fayetteville will hold a public hearing to amend the Fiscal Year 2020 budgets on Thursday, June 18, 2020 at 6:00 PM via zoom meeting and on July 2, 2020 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers located at 240 South Glynn Street in Fayetteville, GA. Per (Section 2.13(b)) of the City ordinance, the text of the original ordinance and the full text of the proposed ordinance shall be available at City Hall for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office during regular business hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Information pertaining to these requests is available at City Hall between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

A summary of the amended budgets are as follows:

Mostly sunny; winds light and variable High: 86 Low: 65

Saturday

Mostly sunny; winds light and variable High: 89 Low: 69

Find us online!

fayette-news.net facebook.com/ FayCoNews On Twitter: @FayetteGA

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2020

COVID-19 cases top 55,000 The Georgia Department of Public Health on Friday said confirmed coronavirus cases in the state count are at 55,783. The 24-hour increase is 810 cases.

The department defines confirmed COVID-19 cases as those who have a lab-confirmed infection. Some confirmed cases from the last 14 days might not be reflected or accounted for as recent illnesses might not be reported yet or might have pending test results.

Delays in reporting can cause the number of COVID-19 cases reported on previous days to increase and might not reflect cases that have yet to be reported. Given the time taken to conduct laboratory testing, confirmed cases from a previous day might be added to the daily counts a few days later.

Fayette County has 259 cases, 40 cumulative hospitalizations, and 14 deaths. Neighboring Coweta County has 507 cases and 11 deaths. Of the confirmed cases, 16 percent required hospitalization, and the disease has a 4 percent mortality rate. Statewide, more than 586,000 tests have been conducted. The state has an 8.6 percent positive test rate.

Nearly half of state’s COVID-19 deaths found in nursing homes More than 46 percent of the state’s deaths and 30 percent of the county’s deaths from the COVID-19 virus stem from the state’s nursing and long care homes.

An analysis of the state’s deaths from June 11 show 1,120 of the state’s 2,418 deaths are in longterm care homes, while four of Fayette’s 14 deaths occurred in the facilities. In Coweta County, 10 of the county’s 11 deaths come from nursing homes.

The state’s Department of Community Health said June 11 that several of the state’s long-term care facilities are experiencing coronavirus cases.

Twelve of the facilities are in Fayette and Coweta counties. Arbor Terrace in Peachtree City has two staff cases and one patient case, Ashley Glenn in Peachtree City has three patient and two staff cases, and Avalon in Newnan has 12 patient cases and four staff cases. Ansley Park in Newnan has 41 patient cases and one staff case. Condor in Fayetteville has one staff case, and Newnan Health has 46 resident cases, 10 resident deaths, and nine staff cases. Southland in Peachtree City has nine resident cases and five staff cases. Gardens of Fayetteville has two resident cases, two resident deaths, and five staff cases, while Heartis of Fayetteville has two resident cases, two resident deaths, and two staff cases. Hope Center Memory Home in Fayetteville has one staff case. The Plaza in Newnan also has one staff case, while Watercrest in Newnan has four staff cases and three resident cases.

Planning Commission OKs new PTC hotel The Peachtree City Planning Commission voted unanimously June 8 to approve a new hotel on the city’s south side.

Widget Hotels, LLC submitted a conceptual site plan for a four-story Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel to be located on Widget Drive. Widget Drive is located just off south Ga. Highway 74, near the Pit Stop convenience store.

The new hotel will have 107 suite units and 112 parking spaces. The subject tract is 2.46 acres, and the lot is currently vacant. The tract is zoned LUC-31, Limited Use Commer-

FAYETTE COUNTY NEWS

cial district 31, which permits the use as proposed.

The hotel owners will provide a multi-use path easement to allow for the city’s golf cart paths to connect at some point.

New development headed to eastern Coweta County Coweta shoppers will soon have a new option on Poplar Road.

The Coweta County Commission approved the development at their most recent meeting that features several uses.

The property is located at the southeast corner of Poplar Road and Yeager Road. The 27.59-acre property was being proposed for a retail/medical/office campus with a requested C-6 Commercial Minor Shopping District. The site plan incorporates a mixed-use of commercial daycare, medical care and office uses for residents of the nearby subdivisions. Fronting Poplar Road will be a country store (convenience store with fuel) and a retail shop on five acres. A medical office is located behind on three acres with a daycare off Yeager Road utilizing four acres. The office park will be in the rear with a potential of five buildings.

Duke Blackburn said he wants a quality development.

“We’re not speculators or developers. We want to provide a development that provides income for children and grandchildren,” he said.

Leslie Yeager spoke against the proposal.

“We’re getting 500 new homes and now this. I don’t want a daycare with up to 200 kids and another convenience store,” she said.

— John Thompson

PROTEST: ‘Imagine another four minutes’ FROM PAGE A1

but it’s all to her,” said Hood. “It’s seriously all to her.”

Due to the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic, participants were asked to wear their masks and stay at a safe distance from each other in order to ensure safety.

“I was concerned,” Hood said. “I felt like the field is this big, and if people wanted to social distance they could. And the spreading of the virus decreases when everyone

wears masks, so that’s why it was such a big issue for me for everybody to wear them.”

The hour-long rally brought men, women, children, teens, and pets out to participate. It was an experience that brought people in the community together to help realize that we are stronger together than against one another. There were local speakers and singers performing, and there was a moment where participants were asked to take a knee to honor the life of George

Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. His death sparked protests and riots in all 50 states and in many foreign countries.

“That was only half the time George Floyd was on the ground,” said Hood, when the moment of silence ended. “If you thought that was a long time, imagine another four minutes.”

To see a gallery of photos from the protest, visit fayette-news.net.

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| THIS WEEK IN FAYETTE COUNTY HISTORY | As we surge full speed ahead into the future, the Fayette County Historical Society has their sights on the past. Ramping up preparations to celebrate Fayette County’s coming bicentennial in 2021, the Fayette County Historical Society will present interesting tidbits from the past from the last 200 years.

June 9, 1893 Fire destroys much of Downtown Fayetteville

A devastating fire occurred in Fayetteville Friday evening, June 9, 1893. Several businesses were destroyed including the drugstore operated by Doctor N. J. Gizzard. The adjacent building, a family grocery store of G.P. Yates, in which the post office was located, was the next to burn, but most of his goods were saved. A concrete building of Silas A. Burks was engulfed; however, his inventory was rescued. A store of R.G. Kitchens and Company was also destroyed but fortunately his goods were removed before the flames could do much damage.

Three of the stores were owned by Cam Bennett, who like Mr. Yates and Grizzard were uninsured.

Undaunted, Mr. Bennett rebuilt four new brick stores and Mr. Burks built two. Mr. Burks owned a row of professional offices west of the jail including a barbershop, doctor and lawyer offices and a millinery shop. He also owned the elegant Burks Hotel, which ironically would fall victim to a fire in 1907.

Mr. Bennett owned most of the buildings on the west side of the square, many which are still standing today.

By: John Lynch Sources: History of Fayette County 1821 – 1971 Fayette County News

June 9, 1893 Local Men serve as Honor Guard for Late President The Fayetteville News of June 9, 1893, carried a column by “Kenwood Kracker,” a regular contributor to the paper concerning local residents Samuel Bailey Lewis and William S. Miller. Mr. Lewis was one of the honorary guards over the remains of the late Confederate president Jefferson Davis, as they passed through Atlanta on May 29, 1893. Mr. Milner was one of the three Honorary guards carrying the colors bearing both the U.S. and Confederate flags. The Confederate States flag was draped in mourning. Mr. Davis died on December 6, 1889 and was originally buried in Metaire Cemetery in New Orleans. His remains were being transported to Richmond, Virginia, where they would be re-interred in Hollywood cemetery.

The funeral train was scheduled to stop in several southern cities, including Atlanta. He was the only president to lie in state in the state capitol of Georgia (May 29, 1893). Mr. Lewis and Mr. Milner were both Confederate veterans from Fayette County.

Judge Lewis was Ordinary for Fayette County for 18 years and a postmaster for 13 years.

By: John Lynch Sources: Fayette News June 9, 1893 Confederate Veterans Magazine, February 1925

Fayette Views A4 Fayette County News

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Tick magnet

Defending the Constitution

N

ow that I’m retired, I spend a lot more time outdoors than I did when I was working the old six-to-six (don’t let anyone tell you there’s such a thing as a job that’s nine-to-five because they don’t exist, at least not in this country). Whether it’s hiking through the woods with my grandson or working in the yard, I find that I’m out of the house for a lot more reasons besides getting in my morning run.

I’ve learned there are three things I can count on when I’m outside: (1) I will find any and all sharp objects and SCOTT they will all make me bleed; LUDWIG (2) if there is poison ivy anywhere in the local zip code, I will break out in a rash; and (3) when I return to the house afterwards, I’m going to bring at least one souvenir along with me: a tick.

You may not know this, but ticks are technically arachnids, specifically the kind that will feed on your blood. I haven’t counted how many ticks I’ve accumulated during the couple of years since I’ve been retired, but I’m pretty sure there have been enough to fill a table-sized salt shaker. (I would have said peppershaker, but I was afraid that would make you think twice before peppering your steak the next time you ate at your favorite steak joint. You’re welcome.)

Cindy and I took our grandson hiking on Pine Mountain recently, and when we got home I did the requisite body inspection and found a tick on the inside of my left thigh – one tick being about par for the course. A few days later, I was in the middle of my morning run and found another tick on a part of my body that I am no longer particularly familiar with.

The four miles I had left to get home were in all probability the fastest four miles I’ve run in several years. Cindy, recently certified and accredited in tick removal, performed an impromptu extraction and placed the culprit on the paper towel inside the plastic bag right next to the tick she removed the afternoon of our hike – in case the ticks needed to be examined later should I come down with a case of Lyme disease.

I checked online to see what the symptoms of Lyme disease were, just in case: fatigue, dizziness, a cognitive decline…

I stopped when I read joint pain, because by then – thanks to another disease I have that I previously diagnosed, Web-M-Dementia – I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that having suffered through a double shot of tick infestation, the damage had been done.

Now, as sort of a public service announcement for you, the reader, here is what you should do if you discover a tick on your body: • Remove the tick from your skin with a pair of tweezers (it’s best to have someone else do it so you don’t have to witness a parasite being surgically removed from your own body).

• Ensure none of the tick’s mouthparts are left in your skin (easier said than done). I’m not really sure about what to do if there are indeed remnants of a tick’s mouth left inside of your body, so just be really, really careful.

• Clean the bite location with soap and water, iodine or rubbing alcohol. (I use all three, just to be safe.)

• Flush the tick down the toilet; better yet, save it for a doctor to examine if you come down with Lyme disease.

• Identify the tick. There are several ways to do this online or, if you’re an expert like me, you can do this on your own. The two that bit me recently, for example, are of the species I like to call “squished.”

• Observe the site of the tick bite. If you detect a rash, redness, or swelling in the area of the bite – or if you are suddenly able to climb walls and develop an urge to fight crime – consult a doctor.

The most important thing is this: during the warmer months of the year, remember to inspect your body thoroughly if you spend any time outside of the house. No matter where you go or what you do, if you venture out in the wild – hiking in the woods, picnicking in the park, shopping at the mall – when you return, look yourself over in the mirror to ensure you haven’t brought any unwanted guests home with you.

Just make sure to have a pair of tweezers close at hand. And don’t forget to check the parts of your body you’re not too familiar with.

SCOTT LUDWIG lives, runs, and writes in Senoia. His latest book, “Southern Charm: Columns from a small town Georgia newspaper,” as well as the rest of his books, can be found on his author page on Amazon. He can be reached at magicludwig1@gmail. com.

T

his past Wednesday I traveled to the Capitol to be formally appointed by Gov. Kemp as your District Attorney. It was an extraordinary moment, and I am proud to accept a historic role serving the citizens of Fayette, Spalding, Pike, and Upson counties.

As my husband and daughter stood at my side, I placed my hand on the Bible, and I swore an oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of MARIE the State of Georgia.

BRODER I have always strived to defend the Constitution in my role as an Assistant District Attorney, and I was reminded, as I took my oath, that this takes precedence over every other act that I take in life.

After leaving the Capitol, I began following the news about protests throughout the country. These protests called to mind the very First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which I had just sworn to uphold. The very first limitation that our country’s founders placed on our government was to protect “the right of the people to peaceably assemble” and to “petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” To protest is part of our American DNA, and our system of government is designed to tolerate peoples’ right to complain publicly about their government.

However, there is no constitutional right to destroy property or injure your fellow citizens. I will work diligently to protect our citizens, while supporting the right to peacefully protest. Fortunately, the protests and assemblies that have taken place in our local communities have been peaceful and productive. I have seen private citizens, law enforcement, and government officials sharing public spaces without the wanton destruction we have seen elsewhere, and I am thankful for that.

I would be remiss if I did not offer you my perspective on what has transpired over the past few weeks.

What happened to George Floyd is horrifying. The man that killed him, and those that stood by and allowed it to happen, will face the consequences for those actions. Having seen what happened to Mr. Floyd, I respect the cause for these protests and what they stand for. Perhaps, what we should also do is look past what may seem to be just an angry mob and challenge ourselves to understand the hurt and anger that occasioned these protests.

As someone who has comforted mothers and fathers who have lost children to violence throughout my career, I can tell you that grief affects all of us.

Grief is something that we all feel.

Perhaps, grief in this moment, might bring us together.

Law enforcement has been heavily criticized. From my perspective, I work with law enforcement every day and can assure you that those in our Circuit want to do the right thing when they get up and go to work every

day. Most of us have no idea what it is like to run into danger, rather than from it. That is what our police officers do. Is every encounter that they have perfect? No. But the expectation is that they will continually strive to do and be better. I can assure you that I am here to hold accountable those that abuse their power.

Do we need change? Yes. But, if things are going to improve, we need to start in our own lives. Reach out to someone different from you and engage in a conversation about your differences. Try to learn something new. What you might find is that even though you might disagree, chances are that you both want the same things: Comfort, security, justice, and a better life for your children. We may look different, but we all have common ground if we are just willing to open our ears and our hearts. Let us listen to each other, hear each other, love each other.

In the words of a man that I admire, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Darkness cannot drive out Darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

Now, more than ever, is a time to be kind to one another. Love your neighbor. Drive out hate.

MARIE GREENE Broder is the District Attorney for the Griffin Judicial Circuit which includes Fayette, Spalding, Pike, and Upson Counties. Her office is in Fayetteville. She resides in Griffin with her husband, daughter, a very rambunctious Labrador, and a precious cat, Cutie. You can reach her at mbroder@fayettecountyga.gov or call the Fayette office.

GOP Convention: Trump and Kemp, Twiddle Dee and Tweedle Dumber

Senoia looking for artists for unique project

BY JOHN THOMPSON JOHN@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

It’s not everyday that a culvert becomes a work of art. The city of Senoia is seeking applications for a mural on a cement wall of a culvert that is at one of the city’s entrances.

The city is considering painting an aesthetically pleasing mural on the wall that fronts Ga. Highway 16. The mayor and city council are inviting Senoia residents to submit ideas for this mural that would represent the city’s past as well as its current status.

All submittals will be reviewed by mayor and council for applicable content. The submittals will be placed on the city’s website for review. City residents will have an opportunity to vote on their preferred mural ideas by emailing the city manager. Once the final selection is determined by the majority of votes and cost is determined, the outcome will be announced during the July 6 council meeting.

Please submit all ideas to City Manager Harold Simmons at hsimmons@senoia.com. The deadline for submittal is July 1.

fayette county news P.O. Box 96, Fayetteville, Ga. 30214 • Phone: 770-461-6317 Fax: 770-460-8172 • fayette-news.net Award-winning member of the Georgia Press Assoc. and the National Newspaper Assoc.

The Staff Geneva Weaver...............................................................Publisher Christopher Dunn................................................Managing Editor John Thompson ..................................................... News Reporter Christopher Fairchild.............................................Graphic Design Jennifer Lyons........................................ Legals Editor, Classifieds Debra Lee.................................................. Advertising Consultant

Fayette County News (USPS 188-420) is published Wednesday for in-county rates of $40 yearly. Georgia out-of-county is $50, and out-of-state is $60. Senior Citizens get a 10 percent discount. Published by GFW Holdings, LLC, 210 Jeff Davis Place, Fayetteville, GA 30214.

Periodicals postage at Fayetteville, GA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the GFW Holdings, LLC, PO Box 96, Fayetteville, GA 30214.

Our Goal: Fayette County News is proudly published for the citizens of Fayette County and East Coweta by GFW Holdings, LLC. Our goal is to produce a quality, community-oriented newspaper of which you, our readers, can be proud. We will reach that goal through hard work, loyalty, teamwork, and a strong dedication to printing the truth. Fayette County News is the legal organ of Fayette County.

Our Policies: Signed letters to the editor are welcomed. We do not edit for content, only grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Unsigned, libelous, or profane letters will not be published. • We reserve the right to edit all submitted materials. • Liability for errors in advertising will not exceed the space occupied by the error.

The opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by the various authors of the editorial page do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints of GFW Holdings, LLC.

“Unfortunately, Democrat Governor, @RoyCooperNC is still in Shutdown mood & unable to guarantee that by August we will be allowed full attendance in the Arena.”

— Trump tweet, 5-25-20

“With the Nation, the State of North Carolina and the City of Charlotte still under states of emergency it’s important to conduct the RNC convention accordingly.”

— Cooper to RNC Chairwoman (6-2-20)

In reaction to Cooper’s statement, Trump announced that he will be moving the Republican National Convention from North Carolina, saying that the Governor is “not allowing us to occupy the arena as originally anticipated and promised” (6JACK 2-20). Let’s put BERNARD this action in context.

On May 29, Trump called Gov. Cooper of North Carolina to demand in advance that there be no pandemic safety restrictions (masks, social distancing, etc.) at the upcoming Republican NaSEE CONVENTION, PAGE A6

The Meeting Place

Fayette County Commission meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Fayette County Planning Commission meets the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.

Fayetteville City Council meets the first and third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m.; work session on Wednesday eight days prior to meeting.

Fayetteville Planning Commission meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

Peachtree City Council meets the first and third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

Peachtree City Planning Commission meets the second and fourth Monday at 7 p.m.

The Fayette County Board of Education meets the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

Tyrone Town Council meets first and third Thursday at 7 p.m. Brooks Town Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m.

Obituaries Fayette County News A5

Wednesday, June 17, 2020 Jeffrey Wade Warlick Jeffrey Wade Warlick of Peachtree City, GA passed away on May 16, 2020, at the age of 71. He is survived by his brother, James Warlick and sister-in-law, Joanne, of Dunwoody, GA, his nephew, Andrew J. Warlick of Reston, VA, his niece, Jacqueline Warlick of Sandy Springs, GA, and his beloved five grandchildren: Alexandria Barker of Riverton, KS; Lauren Barker of Kansas City, MO; Nicholas Barker of Joplin, MO; Savannah Willard of Joplin, MO and Colby Wolfe of Neosho, MO. He was preceded in death by his mother Nanalie Stokes Warlick; his father, William Albert Warlick (LTC-Ret); his daughter, Heather Ann Wolfe; and his son, Andrew Richard Warlick.

Jeff was born in Sendai, Japan on January 17, 1949 where his father was stationed following World War II. The son of a U.S. Army officer, Jeff lived in numerous locales while growing up: Sendai, Japan; Ft. Benning, GA; Heidelberg, Germany; West End, NJ, New York City, NY; San Antonio, TX, and Knoxville, TN. Jeff graduated from Farragut High School in Knoxville, TN where he was Senior Class President. He attended the University of Tennessee prior to enlisting in the Army in the late 1960s.

Following his honorable discharge, Jeff attended Georgia State University and received his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Economics and Quantitative Mathematics and Graduate of Finance. His professional life included major national bank executive, investment banker, financial consultant, CPA, and most recently, Broker/Realtor for Peachtree Fine Properties, and Broker/Owner of InSight Real

Luther Cornelius “L.C.” Cole Luther Cornelius “L.C.” Cole passed away on June 6, 2020, in Fayetteville, Georgia. Born on January 13, 1926, in Morganton, Georgia, life brought L.C. from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia to the big cities of Atlanta, Georgia, and Miami, Florida. In 1960, he and his wife, Elizabeth, settled their family in Forest Park, Georgia.

That year, he joined the Forest Park Fire Department where he served as a firefighter and was quickly promoted to chief of the department. During his time as chief of the fire department, he placed a strong emphasis on public safety and fire safety, winning many state awards for these programs. He was also a founding member of the Georgia State Fire Chief’s Association working with then Governor Jimmy Carter to ensure the establish-

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Estate Advisors.

Warlick first moved to Peachtree City in 1978. He served his community as a volunteer fireman, paramedic and Director of the Peachtree City Volunteer Fire Department.

As a tribute to his selfless community service, October 1, 1984 was declared “Jeff Warlick Day” in the City of Atlanta by then Mayor Andrew Young.

Jeff moved to Austin, TX in 1996 and from there to Alexandria, VA in 1998.

While in Alexandria, Jeff was a member of the First Baptist Church of Alexandria and served as Deacon and Sunday School Director.

In 2006 Jeff returned to Peachtree City and renewed his community involvement. For almost 14 years he was an active and passionate member of the Peachtree City Rotary Club, dedicated to serving others, locally and internationally. He earned the distinction of Rotarian of the Year in 2008-2009, served as District Trainer, and was elected Club President for 2012-2013.

He was an energetic and engaged member of the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, the Fayette County Board of Realtors (2014 President), the Georgia Association of Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors.

Jeff believed in living life to the fullest. He was an energetic and adventurous individual. An avid runner, in 1983 along with three close friends, he became one of the founding members of the Peachtree Running Club.

He ran seven marathons including the Boston Marathon, the Marine Corps Marathon (Quantico, VA) and the Walt Disney World Marathon, as well as numerous half-marathons. He ran the Atlanta Air Show in Peachtree City with the Blue Angels

ment of the organization.

In 1988 and 1989, he was appointed to the Georgia Standards and Training Council by state Governor Joe Frank Harris. L.C. served as chief of the Forest Park Fire Department for over 30 years before retiring in 1994. In 1996, the fire service called again, and he accepted the position as the State Fire Marshall for Georgia serving for four years before retiring a second time. Even after his retirement from the fire service, L.C. remained active building furniture for his granddaughters, deep-sea fishing, and following his favorite sports. Throughout his life, he maintained a spirit of exploration, eagerness to learn, and humor.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Birdie Cole; son, David Cole; and his wife of 69 years, Elizabeth Cole.

He is survived by his daughter, Angela Cole Guess (Newton); grand-

Martha Sue Balchuck

in 2015. He could often be found at Falcon Field Airport helping with charity events or flying helicopters. Over the years, Jeff’s activities included snow skiing, skydiving, scuba diving (PADI certified “Rescue Diver”) and riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. One of Jeff’s greatest joys was sailing in the British Virgin Islands. He was a licensed charter catamaran captain and member of the United States Sailing Association, from whom he held several sailing certifications. BVI Yacht Charters considered him part of their family, having organized over 26 trips through them. Jeff contributed his time and finances to many charities here and abroad, including the Real Life Center in Tyrone, GA. Jeff was a member of Southside Church where he volunteered his time helping with video and recording and as a men’s group leader.

Jeff’s body has been cremated and his ashes will be spread in the waters of the British Virgin Islands.

He will rest in peace. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a memorial service will be held for Jeff through Southside Church at a date to be determined, most likely in August, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Real Life Center, 975 Hwy 74 North, Tyrone, GA 30290 or online at: www.reallifecenter.org.

daughters, Kristen Glover (Scott), Kayla Pacana (Matthew), Kaci Cole, and Katie Guess; and great grandson, David Glover.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, June 9, 2020 at the Chapel of Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Fayetteville. Burial will be at Camp Memorial Park, Fayetteville. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Monday, June 8, 2020 at the funeral home.

Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Fayetteville – mowells.com

fayette-news.net facebook.com/ FayCoNews On Twitter: @FayetteGA

Martha Sue Balchuck, 63, of Fayetteville passed away June 9, 2020. She was born in Newnan, Georgia on September 13, 1956 to Walter Phillip and Martha Guwin. Sue was raised in Fayette County.

She always loved painting and drawing. Sue enjoyed spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Sue was preceded in death by her brother,

Martha Hall Lanier Mrs. Martha Hall Lanier, age 90, of Fayetteville, Georgia passed away June 9, 2020 after a hard fought battle with Alzheimer’s.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents, John David Hall and Louise Wheeler Hall; her “one and only true love”, James Aubrey Lanier, her husband of 56 years. She

Bobby Guwin; sisters, Louise White and Kathy Guwin; grandchild, Wesley; and her father. She is survived by her husband, Robert Balchuck, Sr. of Fayetteville; daughter, Melissa (Chris) Toney of Williamson; son, Robert Balchuck, Jr. of Fayetteville; grandchildren, Lexy (Michael) Boutwell, Trey Balchuck, Jaydn Toney, and Dalton Balchuck; great-grandchildren, Kinsley and Cameron Boutwell; mother, Martha Guwin of Fayetteville;

brother, Jerry Guwin of Fayetteville; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, June 12, 2020 at Westminster Memorial Gardens, Peachtree City.

The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:30 AM prior to the service at Mowell Funeral Home, Fayetteville.

is survived by her son, David Lanier (Sheila); daughter, Suzanne Cooper (Terry); her granddaughter, Chelsea Lanier Moore (Bobby); her grandson, James Alexander Lanier (Jennifer); and her three great-grandchildren, James Hudson Lanier, Maddox Montgomery Lanier, and Aubrey Lewis Lanier; her cousin and BFF, Jane Milam.

A private graveside

service will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday June 11, 2020 at Westminster Memorial Gardens, Peachtree City, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that you donate to your favorite charity or to the Alzheimer’s Foundation.

Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Fayetteville – www.mowells.com.

Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Fayetteville – www.mowells.com.

A6

G

FAYETTE COUNTY NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2020

Ga. legislature reconvenes to make cuts

eorgia’s legislature will reconvene June 15 to finish the 40-day session that was abruptly suspended March 13 – officially the 29th legislative day – as the state began to shut down for the COVID-19 pandemic. With 11 business days remaining, legislators must pass a budget prior to the July 1 beginning of the state’s fiscal year.

Any other bill that has passed either the House or Senate prior to the recess is game for consideration. In these unusual times, one might even consider that bills not yet on the table could be viewed favorably if they address matters that have become a priority since March. It doesn’t take a lot of parliamentary maneuvering to cannibalize an active bill for the cause, when required.

As for the budget, the state got some relatively good news from May’s revenue report. Tax collections were off 10.1 percent from a year earlier, which is an improvement over April’s drop of 35.9 percent. State agencies have been asked to prepare for 11 percent across the board cuts,

which is also an improvement on earlier directives asking for 14 percent.

Most are aware the Georgia is required by law to balance the state’s budget. There are also other legal, constitutional, and political limitations that box legislators into cuts should additional federal assistance not arrive.

While the state entered the shutdown with approximately $2.7 billion in the rainy-day fund, legislators must leave 5 percent of the prior year’s revenues in the reserves – with 1 percent remaining available to be used in the next mid-year supplemental budget. Thus, only a bit more than half of what is on hand can be used to fill next year’s budget hole. Eleven percent of this year’s budget would be about $3 billion.

As for additional revenue, it’s an election year and Republicans still hold both chambers of the legislature plus the governor’s mansion. While it’s possible to see some excise taxes and user fee “adjustments” close some of the revenue gap, you wouldn’t want to place any

wagers on broad tax increases.

That’s not to say that additional revenue sources aren’t on the table, or at least won’t receive consideration. Casino gaming and horse racing proposals have been floated as ideas for both job creation and additional tax revenues.

Both measures would require statewide ratiCHARLIE fication if they HARPER were to pass both chambers to let Georgians ultimately decide the fate of either.

Given the difficulty in getting hemp cultivation in Georgia started, it’s probably less likely that you’ll see full scale marijuana legalized, medical or otherwise. Though other states have been down this road (and raking in state revenue because of it), expect legislators to find easier “difficult decisions” to close the revenue gap while just over four months from a general election.

As for the potential of excise tax increases, Georgia’s cigarette tax is among the lowest in the country at 30 cents per pack. Even neighboring North Carolina – a major tobacco growing state – is higher at 45 cents per pack. For those of you that keep asking how two of our neighbors have no income tax and pay for state services, Florida’s cigarette tax is $1.34 per pack.

There remain proposals to cut tax credit programs, but each would have immediate impacts. If the state were to cut back or eliminate the Student Scholarship Organizations, taxpayers would end up paying even more for these students to return to public schools than the cost of the tax credits that fund their scholarships.

Likewise, Georgia’s film and entertainment industry is poised to gear up fast to produce a backlog of fresh content while California and New York remain partially closed to film, and limitations on international travel make production in other tax havens abroad uncertain.

The film industry was a key part of bringing Georgia out of the last recession – especially in Delta-employee concentrated south metro Atlanta.

With airline layoffs forestalled by federal assistance until October, the economic effects of the COVID-19 shutdown won’t be known for months. Now is not the time to risk inflicting additional economic pain by knee-capping this region’s other major industry.

One cut that will receive particular attention isn’t budget related. House Speaker David Ralston has signaled his intention to cut Georgia from the small number of states without a hate crimes statute. At a time when many state services will have to be cut due to the intersection of law and math, this is one cut that should receive favorable odds.

CHARLIE HARPER is the publisher of GeorgiaPol.com and the Executive Director of PolicyBest, which focuses on policy solutions in the areas of business climate, education, science & medicine, and transportation.

CONVENTION: If you are concerned with the pandemic ...

FROM PAGE A4

tional Convention scheduled for Charlotte August 24-27. In other words, he demanded a packed room (50,000 people) at Charlotte’s Spectrum Center, regardless of pandemic guidelines or the status of the spread of COVID-19 in August.

This followed a nasty tweet by Trump saying that the convention would be relocated unless safety restrictions were lifted and a letter to Gov. Cooper from the Republican National Committee.

The letter indicated that attendees would be asked if they were ill and their temperature taken. But the RNC did not commit to masks and social distancing guidelines or put forth an action plan to ensure the safety of attendees, despite repeated requests from NC health officials.

North Carolina is a swing state, and Cooper is up for re-election in November. As has become customary with this President, he is seeking to use his leverage to help himself electorally,

regardless of the heath impact upon North Carolinians. In Trump’s devious mind, it was a “no-lose” situation. If Cooper had caved in, the President looks strong to his base. If Cooper stood his ground, as he did, the base and some independents will be upset to lose the convention, and that will probably translate to votes for Trump in November.

Meanwhile, Governor Kemp of Georgia quickly inserted himself into the mix. On May 26, Kemp tweeted “Georgia would

be honored to safely host the Republican National Convention,” the first Governor to do so. And he further stated, “I feel like we could do that in a safe way” but gave no details at all as to how.

Apparently, Kemp is not concerned with 50,000 people being packed tightly into a convention center with no social distancing and no face coverings. As has been true from the start, Kemp appears to only be interested in politics and the economy.

Moving the convention

here will be a positive for the GOP, and Senators Perdue and Loeffler (or Collins who is facing her in the GOP primary) who are up for election and in very tough races due to Trump's falling poll numbers, and, in Kemp’s opinion, it’s good for business. Apparently, Kemp believes that if people have to die to help the economy, so be it.

According to the RNC, Tatum Gibson, as of 6-10 at least, “Several cities are still being considered.

No final decision has been made. Convention

officials are touring Phoenix, Savannah, Dallas, and Jacksonville this week. But the NYT and the Wo Po both have said that Jacksonville has been tentatively selected.”

If you are concerned with the pandemic, hope that's it's not here.

JACK BERNARD, a retired SVP with a large national healthcare firm, has worked extensively with hospitals across the nation regarding cost containment and insurance. He was also the first Director of Health Planning for Georgia.

Sports FAYETTE COUNTY

Fayette County News B1

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

PHOTO BY FURMAN ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

The lone senior in their Class of 2020, Jordan Lyons led Furman basketball to unprecedented heights, setting school records for career wins, career 3-pointers, and single-season 3-pointers.

Paladin Pride: MHS alum Lyons leaves lengthy legacy

BY CHRISTOPHER DUNN CHRISTOPHER@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

Jordan Lyons makes history. Whether at McIntosh High or Furman University, the sharpshooter made a habit of doing what has never been done before.

McIntosh has always been a soccer school first, but the Chiefs turned into a basketball force during Lyons’s time with

the green and black. Lyons, along with the core of Will Washington, Dishon Lowery, and Chase Walter, turned the Chiefs into a perennial contender. Their rise culminated in a 29-3 campaign for 2015-16 where they reached the Final Four for the first time in program history.

“The highlight of my McIntosh playing days was being a large part of the best teams in school history,” said Lyons.

“Being a large part of the first two region championships in school history and making it to the Final Four my senior year was special.”

While Lyons rewrote the individual record books, including finishing as the county’s all-time leading scorer with 2,351 career points, it was the strength of the team that stuck with him.

“What I learned at McIntosh was that when you have a team

that truly buys in and embraces their roles and cares about each other, special things can happen,” he said. “The relationships that were built during the special four-year run were such a blessing.”

Despite being one of the state’s best shooters and averaging 19.3 points a game as a senior, college recruiters missed a gem in Lyons, but Furman University knew they found a star in the making.

Slept on by bigger schools because he is considered short at 5’11”, he’s taken it out on the opposition. With a silky smooth shot and a mercenary’s mentality, he is capable of getting scalding hot on a moment’s notice.

“Honestly, people can say whatever they want about me being ‘undersized.’ I’ve heard it my whole life, and I’ve chosen to never let it bother me. The SEE LYONS, PAGE B2

Furman’s Future: FCHS grad Gurley tasked with continuing ascension

BY CHRISTOPHER DUNN CHRISTOPHER@FAYETTE-NEWS.NET

One local talent has graduated, but another familiar face is tasked with taking the reins of Furman basketball. Rising junior and Fayette County High alum Noah Gurley is primed for big things next season.

Gurley cut his teeth playing for Coach Andre Flynn’s Fayette County Tiger powerhouse. He blossomed his last two years, earning All-State honors as both a junior and a senior.

“During my time at FCHS I learned that nothing would be handed to you in this game,” Gurley said. “No matter how talented you are, you must work twice as hard if you want a chance to be special.”

As a senior, the Tigers raced all the way to the Final Four in a campaign that also saw them win the region championship.

“We had home court advantage and beat some quality teams on the way to the Final Four,” he remembered.

“It was good to see the community and school rally behind us.”

Loyalty played a major role in leading Gurley to Furman. While most schools overlooked him, they spotted something special.

“They were the first and most consistent Division 1 school to recruit me,” he said.

He was also drawn to their academic reputation and familiarity with

‘During my time at FCHS I learned that nothing would be handed to you in this game. No matter how talented you are, you must work twice as hard if you want a chance to be special.’

Noah Gurley Rising junior at Furman and Fayette County High alum McIntosh alum Jordan Lyons. The relationship he built with then-assistant and now-head coach Bob Richey helped make up his mind.

After redshirting his first year, Gurley earned Southern Conference All-Freshman Team honors in 201819, starting 26 of his 31 appearances and averaging 8.8 points and 3.6 rebounds. He took a leap into the stratosphere this year as a redshirt sophomore, starting all 32 games and filling the stat sheet nightly with averages of 14.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists on 53.4 percent shooting from the floor and 40.7 percent on 3-pointers.

“The most important factor was opportunity. We lost a key player, and I knew that I would have to step up.

Coach Richey constantly reminded me of this which motivated me to work,” he said. “During that offseason I was able to work with Coach (Tim) Johnson to refine and continue to develop my game. I worked with Coach Matt (Aldred), our strength

coach, to transform my body and increase my endurance. Also, just having a year of experience playing helped me for this past season.”

The team was playing well this year, winning 25 games for the second-straight year, when the season was cancelled due to COVID-19. The unexpected end to the season was jarring, but it has given Gurley reason to be grateful.

“The pain we felt by having our season cut short is something I still haven’t recovered from. It hurts especially because this was my last year with Jordan, so to have not just our season but school year ended hurt,” he said. “Whether we played in the NCAA or NIT tournament, we felt that we could’ve made a run. However, I’ve been using these emotions to motivate me to work in this time of quarantine. This time has reminded me how much I love this game.”

He won’t let the program backslide SEE GURLEY, PAGE B2

PHOTO BY FURMAN ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

Noah Gurley came into his own as a redshirt sophomore for the Paladins, notching 14.3 points and 4.6 rebounds a night for a 25-win team.

B2

FAYETTE COUNTY NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2020

LYONS: “What’s next for me is professional basketball’

McIntosh alum Jack Hartman is set to sail the high seas after the Pittsburgh Pirates selected him in the 4th round of the 2020 MLB Draft.

Hartman started his Hartman collegiate career at Tallahassee Community College in 2017, moving on to College of Central Florida in 2018. He signed with Appalachian State in in 2019 where he switched his focus to pitching. He pitched in 20 games, good for third most appearances on the team, posting a 4.98 ERA. This season, Hartman made 10 relief appearances before the season was cut short due to COVID-19.

He posted a 3.00 ERA and was tied for first in the Sun Belt Conference with 4 saves. The 6’3” right hander can touch 97 mph on the radar gun with his fastball.

FROM PAGE B1

Lord made me who I am, and the best thing I can do is try to outwork everyone and prove them all wrong,” said Lyons.

“My entire life I’ve used it as fuel and motivation because I love proving people wrong. People didn’t think I would be able to excel at the Division 1 level being 5’11”, nor did they think I would be able to become a pro, and I’ve been able to accomplish both of those feats. That’s all just realizing the gifts and blessings God has given and working as hard as you can. At the end of the day, all it takes is for you to believe in yourself.”

The Paladins and Lyons were a perfect fit, a team in need of a turnaround and a player with something to prove.

“What drew me to Furman the most was the coaching staff and the players. While I was a recruit, I was able to build a solid relationship with the staff and the players that gave me a feeling of home,” he said. “Furman wasn’t very good at all when they were recruiting me, and I wanted to be a pioneer of change. I wanted to be a large part of the rebuild into an elite program.”

Lyons wasted no time making a mark. As a true freshman, he appeared in 34 of 35 games, scoring 5.9 points a night as a reserve. He kept improving, playing in every game as a sophomore and starting eight times, improving his scoring average to 8.3 points. He made a leap as a junior, starting 32 games and posting 16.2 points a night. This year he led the team in scoring at 16.4 points a game, earning Lou Henson Mid-Major All-America Team honors.

His improvement mirrored that of the team.

Prior to Lyons arriving on campus in Greenville, S.C., the Paladins hadn’t won 20 games in a season since 2011, but they hit that mark each of his four seasons.

“The key to turning the tide has been just complete buy-in from everyone in the program. It all starts with belief. Belief that we have what it takes to get what we want done. We believed we were going to rebuild the program, and we worked relentlessly every single day with that belief,” he said. “There has been a complete buy-in that has resulted in success.

When you love people, hold people accountable, and do things for people other than yourself, special things can happen.

As long as future classes keep that up, which I’m 110 percent positive they will, Furman basketball

Hoops stars makes college choices

Calhoun

Rice

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER DUNN

Lyons pushed McIntosh basketball to the best stretch in school history, including a Final Four berth his senior year.

Along the way he scored more points than any player in county history. will continue to rise and get better.”

After a junior year that ended in a disappointing upset loss in the conference tournament, the Paladins bounced back. They matched the 25 victories and reached the Southern Conference quarterfinals before losing. A postseason trip seemed likely, but those hopes were dashed when COVID-19 brought the sports world to a screeching halt.

“When I realized the college basketball season was being shut down, it was one of the most disappointing and hurtful things I’ve ever heard,” he recalled. “Being a senior and the leader of our team, the chance to play in the postseason for the last time, whether

it was the NCAA Tournament or the NIT, was something I was looking forward to more than anything. That was going to be my last chance to put on the Furman purple. It hurt so much because I believe with my whole heart we still had legacy to create.”

The only senior in Furman’s Class of 2020, Lyons leaves his name all over the school’s record books. Along with placing 15th in school history with 1,529 career points, he finished with a school-record 288 career 3-pointers, a school-record 105 3-pointers in a season, and a school-record 96 career wins. He also wrote his name in NCAA annals when he tied the collegiate alltime single-game record

with 15 3-pointers against North Greenville in November 2018.

He had to close the book early on his college career, but Lyons still has plenty of exciting chapters left to write.

“What’s next for me is professional basketball.

That’s been my childhood dream, and it’s a blessing that I will be able to live it out. COVID-19 has slowed the process down a tad bit with all sports being paused, but we are starting to get back Into a flow and leagues are starting to figure out to plans to get back rolling,” he said. “My agent works relentlessly to get the best opportunities for me, so I’m doing my part by constantly working and staying ready. If I do that, I trust that the Lord will

GURLEY: ‘Right now my focus is on Furman’ FROM PAGE B1

when they return to the court.

“The loss of Jordan is going to be a major hit for our program, but his mentorship to the team has prepared us to press forward in his absence,” Gurley said. “This year’s team is more talented than the previous years, but we must remember the work ethic and mindset those teams demonstrated to get us to this point. As a fourth-year player, the same qualities have been

MHS alum Hartman picked by Pirates in 4th round of MLB Draft

instilled in me and two of my other teammates (Alex Hunter and Clay Mounce) the most, so it is our task to ensure that this team has same culture that will lead to success.”

Standing 6’8” and versatile to enough to play all around the court, Gurley is starting to hear some NBA buzz, but he’s tuning out the noise.

“Having the opportunity to play this game at a higher level is something I have always aspired to do, but currently I still have my focus on my college

career,” he said. “There are certain goals I wish to accomplish with my teammates and this program, so the exposure is nice, but

right now my focus is on Furman.”

His focus is on his Paladins, and the opposition is in for a long season.

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lead me where I need to be.”

The message to rising stars looking to follow in his footsteps to play college ball is simple: Be ready to work.

“It takes 100 percent buy-in to excel at the next level,” he said. “To be successful at a high level, a lot of your habits will have to change. You will have to make numerous sacrifices, and you must be humble enough to realize there is always someone better than you and always someone working harder than you. So, knowing that, you have to have a mindset that you can’t be outworked. It’s a grind, it’s hard, but it’s well worth it.”

Jordan Lyons has put in the work and his rewards are rolling in.

Lyons

Dolhancyk

A batch of local hoops stars have chosen their college destinations.

Fayette County High’s King Calhoun committed to Middle Georgia Prep. Sandy Creek’s Darryl Rice committed to Maryville College, where he will join FCHS alum JeKobe Coleman who committed earlier in the spring.

McIntosh teammates Camerin Lyons and Cooper Dolhancyk will again be teammates at LaGrange College.

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B6

FAYETTE COUNTY NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2020