Peach BuzzChildren's Book Week
Children's Book Week is May 12-18, 2008, a time to celebrate books and reading in the classroom, the library, and the home.
http://bookweekonline.com
Posted by: Billie Tripp on May 9, 2008
Last Modified by: Billie Tripp on May 9, 2008 Recreation Youth Baseball/Softball News Read More PICTURE DAY Picture day is scheduled for Saturday, May 10th. Check with your coach for times and places. Be sure to show up early. You will receive your uniform and must be picture ready at your team's scheduled time. If you do not want to purchase pictures, you should still attend so that you can be in the team picture. You will also receive a copy of your league's game schedule on picture day. Basic picture packages are $15.00 and must be paid on picture day with cash or check (no credit or debit cards). Additional items are also available at an additional cost if you purchase the basic package. GAME SEASON Monday, May 12h will be the opening day of the game season. Look for game schedules to be posted on this site shortly.
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on May 1, 2008
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on May 1, 2008 Library Summer Reading Clubs Signup
Signup for this year's Summer Reading Club "Catch The Reading Bug" and Teen Reading Club "Metamorphosis @ Your Library" begins Saturday, May 24, 2008 at the Thomas Public Library in Fort Valley and the Byron Public Library in Byron.
Posted by: Billie Tripp on Apr 16, 2008
Last Modified by: Billie Tripp on Apr 16, 2008 Students Say Hello Chengdu
Posted by: Webmaster on Mar 19, 2008
Last Modified by: Webmaster on Mar 19, 2008 Group visits China origins of cash crop
Peach County is going international in a big way this month. About 20 local residents will be winging their way to China as two peach-growing areas on opposite sides of the planet kick off their sister county relationship.
Read More Business people, county officials, a dance troupe and a band will be bringing a bit of Middle Georgia culture to the Longquan International Peach Blooming Festival. "The main thing we want to accomplish in this is to strengthen the ties between these two peach-growing areas," said Bill Sirmon of the Georgia Peach Festival. "Our peach trees come from there." Another goal of the trip is to establish a business relationship, he said, noting the state and local chambers of commerce have expressed an interest in the trip. Rich Bennett, president of the Georgia Peach Festival, said the first itemon the agenda after arriving in Chengdu, China, is the signing of the sister county agreement by Peach County Commission Chairman James Khoury, along with a presentation to him of the key to the city. But the focus is on the fruit, Bennett said. "They are really intrigued with our peach industry," Bennett said. "They take pride in the fact our trees are from there." He said he expects to meet some of the groups from Chengdu who will be coming to Peach County in June, and start setting up arrangements for them. The cultural exchange is planned to be a recurring event, he said, with Peach County rotating with Chengdu. This year, the first, both places will send a contingent, he said, adding they have yet to arrange whose turn it will be in 2009. As part of his duties as a liaison among the different groups, Bennett said, he has been busy ensuring all have passports and paperwork for visas, and has been collating various video welcomes to Chengdu from the area. "It'll be broadcast on television over there, and they told me between 4 to 6 million people will be watching," Bennett said. "I've got greetings from county officials, Governor Sonny Perdue, even a kindergarten and second-grade class at Byron Elementary." Bennett said the video greetings from the schoolchildren will soon be on Peach County's Web site. Other Peach officials on the trip include J. Frank Funderburk, county coordinator for the University of Georgia County Extension Service, and Charles Sims, director of the Development Authority of Peach County, Bennett said. If there's one cloud over the trip, he said, it's that he wasn't able to get any peach farmers or members of the Rumph family to go. "The Chinese know our history, and they wanted to meet someone in the Rumph family," he said. Samuel Rumph perfected the Elberta peach in the 19th century, and it was the dominant variety of peach grown in the state until about 1960. "And, not specifically related to peaches, we want to introduce the Chinese to Georgia," Sirmon said. One way to introduce them will be via the universal language of music and dance, said Karan Kendrick of Bliss & Feet Center for the Arts in Fort Valley. Kendrick will be leading a group of seven dancers, a chaperone and an archivist to the festival. She said after an invitation came in December she auditioned dancers and has been conducting rehearsals since January. The troupe has two routines worked up, she said. "One is 'Breakthrough' by Tia Fuller," Kendrick said. "We felt it was important to bring American classical music - jazz - to China. The dance defines who we are, and will incorporate elements of modern dance, ballet, tap and jazz dancing. It's a jazz piece with saxophone, piano, trumpet and drums." The routine is designed to show the Chinese "who we are in Peach County, the life and liveliness of the county," Kendrick said. The second routine, by assistant choreographer Karen Davis, is called "Everybody's Talkin'." Kendrick said it's a modern dance piece, similar to what one would see from the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. "The two routines will use the whole company," she said of the dancers. "We're using universal language of music and dance, and hope that we can represent Peach County very well." The trip to Chengdu - an 18-hour flight - fits in with the mission of her dance studio, Kendrick said, even with the short time to develop the routines and prepare for the trip. Traveling has been paramount in her mind, she said, and to date the dancers have performed throughout the state. "Sometimes there are things you look forward to, but you better be prepared because you never know when the opportunity will come," she said. By Jake Jacobs, reprinted from the Macon Telegraph
Posted by: Webmaster on Mar 19, 2008
Last Modified by: Webmaster on Mar 19, 2008 BOC sets Public Hearings for Proposed SPLOST
There will be a public hearing to seek input for an upcoming SPLOST referendum to take place in September of this year. The public hearing will take place on Wednesday, March 12, at 6:30 PM at the Peach County Courthouse.
Read More All Citizens are invited to hear a presentation of possible proposed projects from the Board of Commissioners and the City Councils of Byron and Fort Valley. This will be an educational forum with the opportunity to ask questions of the elected officials and department heads. Public input and support is important to the passage of this referendum. A second forum will be held in Byron on March 26 at the old Byron School lunchroom in case you are unable to attend in Fort Valley on March 12. The time for the Byron public hearing is 6:30 PM.
Posted by: Rich Bennett on Mar 10, 2008
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on Mar 10, 2008 BOC Applauds Rep James’ Vote Against SR796
SR 796 ignored realities of local government and would have had a detrimental effect on the county’s ability to serve the citizen’s of Peach County.
Read More PEACH COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS APPLAUDS REPRESENTATIVE LYNMORE JAMES’ VOTE AGAINST SPEAKER’S TAX PROPOSAL PEACH COUNTY - The Peach County Board of Commissioners joins county commissioners, city officials, and school board members from throughout Georgia in expressing thanks to the members of the House of Representatives that stood up for the citizens of Georgia and for our system of local government in voting against Speaker Richardson’s property tax proposal SR 796.
SR 796 contained artificial revenue caps that would have removed control of property tax revenues from local governments and crippled a county’s ability to cope with local needs. While proponents of the legislation hailed it as a means to constrain the growth of government, the concept is a proven failure in other states. The Colorado legislature, for example, had to pass a constitutional amendment to suspend the revenue caps in order to recover from the negative impact on local services including education.
“This tax plan was too good to be true. The plan would impose unrealistic caps on cities, counties, and school boards and limit their ability to manage their own resources,” said James Khoury, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. Critics of the measure said legislators would be able to take credit for constraining local revenues while forcing local elected officials to make the politically unpopular cuts to services.
The county does continue to support responsible tax reform and tax relief for property owners. The county is an active member of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG), which supports the repeal of property taxes levied on motor vehicles, a realistic limit in property tax assessments and other measures.
“SR 796 was a false choice,” said Jerry Griffin, Executive Director of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia. “The legislation was loaded with harmful provisions with a couple of cherries on top to try to convince legislators to support it. ACCG lauds the members of the House of Representatives who recognized the damage this legislation would have caused that voted against SR 796.”
Tax experts across the country agree that arbitrary caps on county property tax revenues, such as those in SR 796, are shortsighted and not in the best interest of the community for the following reasons:
· Revenue caps would have been imposed without any regard to local conditions, local needs or local resources.
· Local elected officials would not have been able to plan for or accommodate growth through improved transportation systems or other infrastructure.
· Local elected officials would not have funds to address emergencies or respond to natural disasters.
· Many expenses, such as fuel costs, the costs of materials, insurance costs and workers compensation costs, are beyond the control of local governments.
· Maintenance and improvement of local road and infrastructure would have to be canceled or deferred. Doing so, would result in more expensive taxpayer-funded fixes in the future or bridge or road failures.
· Counties and cities could be forced to stop police patrols, reduce fire protection, cancel greenspace acquisition and otherwise limit existing services.
· The proposal provided no protection against new unfunded costs forced on counties, cities and school boards by the state legislature, the federal government or the courts.
Posted by: Rich Bennett on Mar 10, 2008
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on Mar 10, 2008 2008 Recreation Basketball Read More FOR CURRENT INFO 6-7-8 Tournament Bracket 9-11 Tournament Bracket FINAL GAME STANDINGS PHOTO GALLERIES: 6-8 LEAGUE RULES
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Jan 7, 2008
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on May 8, 2008 Georgia flag makes way toward namesake submarine The flag is bound for the refurbished nuclear-powered submarine USS Georgia stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay near St. Marys. The flag is traveling to all 159 counties in the state, then will be permanently displayed on the submarine after it is returned to service in a ceremony to be held March 28. Read More Thursday, the flag made its first appearance in the midstate, with ceremonies held in Monroe, Crawford and Peach counties. The commission board in each county approved a proclamation in recognition of the event, and attendees signed a log book that will be kept with the flag. The Navy League, a group of citizens who support the Navy, came up with the idea, said Don Giles, who lives in Atlanta and is a national director of the Navy League. Giles did not attend Thursday's ceremonies but said earlier in the week that he is not aware of anything like it having been done for another Navy vessel. "We wanted to do something special to let the folks in Georgia know about the ship and to let the crew know that the folks in Georgia appreciate what they are doing," Giles said. "It's turned into a very nice, positive thing to draw attention to what the ship does." The 156-foot sub was originally launched in 1982 and commissioned in 1984, christened by former first lady Rosalynn Carter, whose initials are still on the ship. It was equipped to fire nuclear missiles, but after the demise of the Soviet Union, it became one of four ballistic missile subs slated to be scrapped. But because of the young age of the ship, the Navy decided to retrofit it for a new mission. It now fires non-nuclear cruise missiles and is equipped to deploy SEAL teams. About 40 people attended the ceremony in Peach County, with the Peach County High School Navy Junior ROTC acting as honor guard. Commission Chairman James E. Khoury read a proclamation from the board declaring Thursday as USS Georgia Day in Peach County. Retired Navy Lt. Commander Jeffrey Treude, who leads the Junior ROTC at Peach County High School, told people attending the ceremony that it is unique for a ship to be stationed in its namesake state. The flag, he said, will mean something to the 160-man crew. "It will show that all the people of Georgia recognize the need for a military," he said. After the ceremony, nearly everyone in attendance waited in line to sign the log book that will travel with the flag. The flag's journey began Jan. 14 with a ceremony at the Capitol led by Gov. Sonny Perdue. The flag had visited 58 other counties before arriving in Middle Georgia this week, Giles said. Almost every ceremony has drawn media coverage, he said, and the news reports will be put into a scrapbook that also will be displayed with the flag. The state's Regional Development Centers are taking care of transporting the flag and coordinating the ceremonies. Diane Swain of the Middle Georgia Regional Development Center is coordinating the flag's journey through the 11 counties in the region. The ceremonies in Crawford and Monroe counties on Thursday were held at school board offices, and students attended to learn about the submarine. By Wayne Crenshaw
Posted by: Rich Bennett on Feb 1, 2008
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on Feb 3, 2008 Recreation Department Receives $1000 Grant Danny Thorpe presents Wal-Mart check to the Athletic Director, Jerry Allen. Read More Coach Thorpe is pictured with his 2008 Basketball team while presenting the Wal-Mart check to Jerry Allen, Athletic Director for the Recreation Department. Robert Stump, Parks and Recreation Director, was presented with the actual check in a ceremony at the Wal-Mart Return Center earlier in the day.
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Jan 29, 2008
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on Feb 6, 2008 Recreation Department Receives $1500 Grant 2007 Football Season Opening Day Read More Over 100 agencies received funding to enhance programs and create stability for the future of youth football at the grassroots level. Peach County Parks & Recreation Department was awarded a grant in the amount of $1500. This grant was used to purchase football helmets. For more information on youth football at Peach County Parks & Recreation Department please visit our news and photo galleries at www.peachcounty.net or contact us at (478)825-3334. The National Recreation and Parks Association’s mission is to advance parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people. The National Partnerships Department at NRPA seeks to create mutually beneficial relationships with likeminded national organizations to increase participation in healthy lifestyle activities that foster livability by: adding value, improving practice and advancing the field.
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Jan 4, 2008
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on Feb 6, 2008 Georgia Center for the Book License Plate
The Georgia Center for the Book is now offering a Georgia license plate in support of Georgia's Public Libraries. One thousand people must sign up for the license place before 12/31/2008 so it can be produced. 1st year cost $50.00 plus regular tag fee. Thereafter $25.00 plus regular tag fee. Sign up at your local tag office.
Posted by: Billie Tripp on Dec 7, 2007
Last Modified by: Billie Tripp on Dec 7, 2007 2007 Fall Sports Review Read More
v At the end of the game season, Peach Cup (Soccer) and Superbowl (Football) single elimination tournaments were played in each league, where first and second place teams received individual trophies. The final games were video taped and aired on a local Fort Valley Channel on Thanksgiving Day. Tapes of the final games can be purchased by contacting Valley Cable T.V. in Fort Valley. Ø BRACKETS Ø PHOTO GALLERIES § SUPERBOWL § PEACH CUP GAME SEASON Ø RESULTS & STANDINGS Ø OPENING DAY PHOTO GALLERIES § TEAM PHOTOS (ALL) § 9-11 FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADING
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Nov 28, 2007
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on May 8, 2008 Scrap Tire Round-Up
KEEP PEACH COUNTY CLEAN & BEAUTIFUL HAS RECEIVED A GRANT FROM THE GEORGIA ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION DIVISION TO CONDUCT AN 8 DAY SCRAP TIRE ROUND-UP. EACH HOUSEHOLD IN PEACH COUNTY MAY BRING 4 TIRES EACH. YOU MAY BRING PASSENGER AND LIGHT TRUCK TIRES.
Read More TIRES FROM DEALERS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. YOU MAY DROP OF TIRES AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS FROM OCTOBER 13TH – 20TH BYRON PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FORT VALLEY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT KEEP PEACH COUNTY C&B/RECYCLING CENTER FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT JO GUYNES AT 478-825-3041.
Posted by: Rich Bennett on Oct 17, 2007
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on Oct 17, 2007 North Peach Park Expansion Update Read More The next phase of development will take place in two years, when the public votes in the SPLOST to include the continued development of NPP.
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Sep 26, 2007
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on Sep 26, 2007 Peach County Finds Link to China Think along the lines of a truly international peach festival. At Tuesday's commission meeting, Khoury introduced "my new friend," Song Yang, vice chairman of the board of the U.S.-China Cultural and Educational Foundation, based in Snellville in suburban Atlanta. Read More
Yang's hometown, Chengdu, has one big thing in common with Peach County - Prunus persica, better known as the peach.
Chengdu is located in Longquan County in southwestern China, and has been cultivating the fruit for about 3,000 years, Yang said. The area has 17 million peach trees, with more than 40 varieties, covering 2.8 million acres. If that weren't enough to spark interest, Georgia's signature crop came from that area of China, as seeds and seedlings were brought from there to what would become the Peach State in the 19th century, he said. Yang's proposal from the foundation is to link the peach festivals of Chengdu and Peach County, set up a sister-city type relationship between Peach and Longquan counties, and engage in cultural exchanges of artists and students." I hope one day we can be one family," Yang said Tuesday. In his proposal he amplified the remark, writing that "the peach becomes a link that binds the culture of two countries."The globe-spanning proposal is pretty far-reaching, and local movers and shakers are receptive. "There's lots of potential here," Khoury said. "We owe our peach industry to them. "Fort Valley Mayor John Stumbo said over the years he has resisted sister-city relationships with other government entities, but Yang's proposal is different."We have a shared history - the peach - and this gives it substance," Stumbo said. "I'm intrigued by the idea and would encourage this." Duke Lane Jr., of Lane Packing Co. in Fort Valley said the proposal presented "an interesting scenario" for the county and the local peach industry."It would be good for publicity, for Peach County and the Georgia peach, this opportunity to co-mingle with them and have them travel here," Lane said. "It's a chance to see for ourselves what we've been reading about China all these years, to see their culture, how they make life pleasant for themselves, how they work and put bread on the table, see what they do to make their proverbial clock tick." Lane said that as a grower he would be interested to see how the Chinese grow, pick and process peaches."The bottom line, it would be great to be able to observe how they go about it," he said. "As a grower there are so many things I know about what goes into the process, and I hope all growers here would be able to go there. There's a wealth of knowledge to be gained, and not just the peach industry." "I think everyone would benefit from this proposed relationship," Stumbo said. "It would broaden our perspectives and improve a sympathetic understanding of the Chinese. It would help ensure the future. As we become more understanding of others there will be less suspicion. Yes, the world is flat and the world is getting smaller." The foundation's proposal includes an invitation for a small local delegation to attend the Longquan Mid-Autumn Peach Festival, also called the Moon Cake Festival, on Sept. 25 in Chengdu. A delegation from Longquan would in turn visit Peach County in October and discuss plans for an international peach festival to be held next year. In March, a ceremonial signing of the sister-county relationship would take place simultaneously here and in China and would be broadcast on the Internet. "I'm glad you're here," Khoury told Yang at Tuesday's meeting. "We'll consider this proposal and I look forward to this sister-county relationship." Khoury then removed a Peach County pin from his lapel and pinned it on Yang's lapel. "Wear it with pride, like we do," Khoury said. "Now I can say I'm more than a visitor to Peach County," Yang replied, smiling. By Jake Jacobs, Macon Telegraph
Posted by: Rich Bennett on Sep 18, 2007
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on Sep 19, 2007 Chairman Orders Flags at Half-Staff
County Commission Chairman James Khoury has directed that all flags in the county be flown at half-staff today in honor of Patriot's Day, a solemn occasion to honor the 2,985 innocent people who lost their lives six years ago in terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
Read More President George W. Bush called upon Khoury and other elected officials in the United States to support this effort. The text of President's Bush's proclamation follows: After the attacks on 9/11, America resolved that we would go on the offense against our enemies, and we would not distinguish between the terrorists and those who harbor and support them. All Americans honor the selfless men and women of our Armed Forces, the dedicated members of our public safety, law enforcement, and intelligence communities, and the thousands of others who work hard each day to protect our country, secure our liberty, and prevent future attacks. The spirit of our people is the source of America's strength, and 6 years ago, Americans came to the aid of neighbors in need. On Patriot Day, we pray for those who died and for their families. We volunteer to help others and demonstrate the continuing compassion of our citizens. On this solemn occasion, we rededicate ourselves to laying the foundation of peace with confidence in our mission and our free way of life. By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress has designated September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day." NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2007, as Patriot Day. I call upon the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Patriot Day. I also call upon the people of the United States to observe Patriot Day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and remembrance services, to display the flag at half-staff from their homes on that day, and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time to honor the innocent Americans and people from around the world who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second. GEORGE W. BUSH
Posted by: Webmaster on Sep 11, 2007
Last Modified by: Webmaster on Sep 11, 2007 Peach Firefighters Raise Money for MDA Read More The funds collected over the weekend helped push the total amount donated to the 2007 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon by Peach County's firefighters to more than $12,000. These funds were raised through various methods over the past year including a successful golf tournament. Full-time firefighters, volunteers, the Explorer Troop from Station 1 and employees of the Peach County Sheriff's Department started their Labor Day holiday around 7 a.m. in the Burger King parking lot at Five Points in Fort Valley. In spite of inclement weather, this group of volunteers continued to solicit donations until about 2 p.m. Jerry Lewis, an 81-year-old comedian and film star, rasied a record $63.8 million during his 42nd annual telethon with much of it coming from firefighters all over the United States.
Posted by: Rich Bennett on Sep 10, 2007
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on Sep 19, 2007 NFL and College Football Players Coach Local Youth Read More At the first station, Corrie Collier (played with McMicael at UGA) and Atlanta Falcons’ Martrez Milner coached the “5-10-5 Short Shuttle”. Two at a time faced off and shuttled back and forth between cones. The last one to reach the last cone paid dearly with a 10 pushup penalty, but no one complained. Verron Haynes of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Jermaine Phillips of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, had campers running forward, backward, and sideways in a “Four Corner Drill”. Many knocked over cones or stumbled in the fast paced demand for accurate footwork, but everyone persevered as coaches encouraged their determination and commitment. Channing Crowder of the Miami Dolphins not only entertained everyone with continuous rallying for Florida, he coached the “Running Dummies” drill with University of Florida’s Tremaine McCollum. The “Back Peddle” was being coached by Tony Gilbert of the Jacksonville Jaquars and University of Florida’s Jermaine McCollum. It wasn’t unusual to see the entire group of campers doing penalty pushups at the “Bag Drill”, coached by Charles Grant of the New Orleans Saints. After working up a sweat and a big appetite, campers were given goodie bags and sent to the picnic shelter for lunch. A free festival for the public was offered from 12:00 to 4:00 with a variety of blow-up slides (some with water) and bounce houses, a dunking booth, rock climbing, clowns, and snow cones. Hot dogs, grilled by McMichael’s father-in-law, chips, and drinks were also provided at no charge.
The Randy McMichael Foundation was established in January, 2006, by Randy and his wife, Cawanna. The foundation was established to promote programs that enhance the quality of life for young people and assist in the recreational and educational development of youth in south Florida and Middle Georgia communities.
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Jul 20, 2007
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on Jul 20, 2007 "Go wild in Georgia" at Peach Public Libraries
Wildlife found in Georgia, as well as wildlife artifacts, are currently on display at Thomas Public Library in Fort Valley. Thanks to the generosity of Troy Windham, owner of Aartistik Taxidermy of Centerville, young readers participating in the “Reading Takes You Everywhere” vacation reading program, will be inspired to continue learning about our great State.
When you visit the library, be sure to look for the fawn, fox, and opossum babies artistically preserved by Robin Windham. “Go Wild in Georgia” will be available for viewing until the end of July. Young travelers participating in our book trek through Upcoming programs: Story Time for toddlers and preschoolers through age 5: · · E-I-E-I-O Georgia farms!, Monday, July 23, 11:00 a.m., Byron Public Library School age Kids Discovery programs for ages 6 to 12: · Dinosaur Stomp!, Thursday, July 19, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Thomas Public Library · Family Movie time for everyone: · Tuesday, July 17, 10:00 a.m., Byron and Thomas Libraries · Tuesday, July 24, 10:00 a.m., Byron and Thomas Libraries For additional information, contact Nancy Rairdon, Youth Services Coordinator, at 478-825-1640.
Posted by: Sandra French on Jul 13, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on Jul 13, 2007 Find Romance @ Peach Public Libraries
Thomas Public Library, 478-825-1640; Byron Public Library, 478-956-2200.
Posted by: Sandra French on Jul 10, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on Jul 10, 2007 American Heritage Resources @ Peach Libraries • On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. After hearing it read on July 8, 1776, Americans gathered to celebrate the nation's first "Independence Day." Citizens across America later celebrated on July 4th. However, the Fourth wasn’t set aside as a national holiday until 1941. • The American flag may be displayed on buildings and outdoor flagpoles from sunrise to sunset. However, the flag should only be left out at night if illuminated. • Feasting has always been part of July 4th celebrations. Indoor grand banquets evolved into outdoor parties because most areas in America observed warm weather at this time of year. By mid-nineteenth century, the Fourth of July picnic became a national tradition. Favorite picnic foods of this time included fried chicken, potato salad, lemonade, chocolate cake, and all sorts of pickles. Yum!
Call 956-2200 or 825-1640 for information.
Posted by: Sandra French on Jun 29, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on Jun 29, 2007 2007 Baseball/Softball Season Review
Our 2007 Baseball/Softball game season has come to an end. All of our T-Ball teams received individual trophies at their last season game. The first place team in all other leagues also received individual league trophies. A single-elimination tournament for all leagues except T-Ball brought the season to a close. First and Second Place teams in each tournament were provided individual trophies. Click on the following links to view Tournament Brackets, Final League Standings, and photo galleries of league and tournament champs, as well as candid shots of the game season.
Read More CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LEAGUE TO VIEW TOURNAMENT BRACKETS:
There are no T-Ball tournaments because all teams received individual trophies. In all other leagues, only first place teams receive individual league trophies. CLICK HERE TO VIEW FINAL LEAGUE STANDINGS Remember - Wildcard games are not included in standings! CLICK TO VIEW ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PHOTO GALLERIES: TOURNAMENT CHAMPS LEAGUE CHAMPS GAME SEASON CANDID SHOTS Thanks to all of our sponsors
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Jun 20, 2007
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on Jun 29, 2007 Video games, DDR and Guitar Hero II at the library Summer teen programming is scheduled as shown below at Byron Public Library (478-956-2200), 105 West Church Street, and Thomas Public Library (478-825-1640), 315 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Fort Valley. • “Pimp your library card” -- Wednesday, June 27. 1:00 p.m. Byron Public Library; 3:00 p.m.; Thomas Public Library. • CSI Time: Catch the Killer! — Wednesday, July 18. 1:00 p.m. Byron Library; 3:00 p.m.; Thomas Library. • Game rooms — Every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. in Byron and Fort Valley. • Anime movies -- Every Friday at 10 a.m. in Byron and Fort Valley
It’s not too late to sign up to “get in the game” at Peach Public Libraries. For additional information, contact Nancy Rairdon, Youth Services Coordinator, at 478-825-1640.
Posted by: Sandra French on Jun 15, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on Jun 15, 2007 2nd Annual Randy McMichael Youth Football Camp
Hey Kids… Do You want to play with the Pros? Randy McMichael of the St. Louis Rams is bringing his friends from around the NFL to South Peach Park in Fort Valley for his 2nd Annual Youth Football Camp.
Read More
Posted by: Malinda Counselman on Jun 14, 2007
Last Modified by: Malinda Counselman on Jun 18, 2007 Travel into the "wild and unusual" world of llamas Ken Chestnut of Hillclimber Farms is bringing his llamas to Peach Public Libraries! Chestnut takes pride in breeding and raising these calm and friendly animals that he says are a joy to be around. The Hillclimber Farms llamas travel to the Thomas Public Library, 315 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, in Fort Valley for a program on Wednesday, June 13th, at 9:30 a.m. Chestnut will repeat the program at the Byron Public Library, 105 West Church Street, on Wednesday, June 20th, at 9:30 a.m.
Groups wishing to attend should contact Nancy Rairdon, Youth Services Coordinator, at 478-825-1640. Everyone is welcome!
Posted by: Sandra French on Jun 1, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on Jun 1, 2007 Thomas Public Library gets new computer software
On Thursday, June 7th, Thomas Public Library in Fort Valley will install new software that enables self-service sign up for public access computers and new options for managing printing. The new software is designed to ensure that all library users receive fair and equitable access to computers. Automated features allow everyone with a valid PINES library card to sign up for computer use at Peach Public Libraries.
Features of this new software offer patrons better privacy, convenience and control, make finding the next available computer easier, and provide patrons with more information and control over print jobs before sending them to the printer. During installation on June 7th, there will be no computer services available at Thomas Public Library. We appreciate your patience as we implement these new services.
Thomas Public Library (478-825-1640) is located at 315 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Posted by: Sandra French on May 31, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on May 31, 2007 Raptors: Hunters of the Sky at Peach Libraries Two “Raptors: Hunters of the Sky” programs, featuring the Hawk Lady, Monteen McCord, are scheduled for Wednesday, June 6th. The Fort Valley program takes place at noon at the Thomas Public Library, 315 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, and will be repeated at 2:00 p.m. at the Byron Public Library, 105 West Church Street. The “Hunters of the Sky” programs showcase un-releasable birds of prey that can be found in Georgia. “All of these animals are permanently injured and cannot survive on their own in the wild. I use them for education after they’ve been trained,” says McCord. Funding for these programs is provided by a grant from the Library Services and Technology Act.
Groups wishing to attend should contact Nancy Rairdon, Youth Services Coordinator, at 478-825-1640. Everyone is welcome!
Posted by: Sandra French on May 31, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on May 31, 2007 New Software for Public Computers at Byron Library
On Wednesday, May 30, Byron Public Library will install new software that enables self-service sign up for public access computers and new options for managing printing. The new software is designed to ensure that all library users receive fair and equitable access to computers. Automated features will allow everyone with a valid PINES library card to sign up for computer use at Peach Public Libraries.
Features of this new software offer patrons better privacy, convenience and control, make finding the next available computer easier, and provide patrons with more information and control over print jobs before sending them to the printer. During installation on May 30, there will be no computer services available at Byron Public Library. We appreciate your patience as we implement these new services.
Byron Public Library (478-956-2200) is located at 105 West Church Street.
Posted by: Sandra French on May 17, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on May 17, 2007 Progress Continues on Tennis Courts at North Peach
Commissioner's Corner
by James Khoury Progress is being made on the expansion of North Peach Park thanks to efforts of Recreation Director Robert Stump, Public Works Director Billie Segars, and their crews and staff. As part of the Phase 1 Master Plan, the base asphalt for four new tennis courts has been laid and the final coating will soon be applied. Read More Robert Stump has been instrumental in planning and designing the park expansion as well as finding funding sources to implement the plan. Billie Segars and the Public Works Department have cleared the land for the courts by removing pecan trees and prepared the base for the paving. The Public Works Department will also clear the land needed for the adjoining parking lot. Billie Segars estimated that by doing this work in house, his department has saved the county approximately $75,000. Add-In Tennis Courts and Fence Company will do the finish work and their plans are to have the courts completed by June. Still need to be completed are the finished coating, striping, nets, lights, fencing and parking lots. Commissioners Martin Moseley and Roy Lewis have taken a major role in overseeing the project on behalf of the county. The expansion of the Recreation Park was made possible thanks to the voters of Peach County when they approved the 2004 SPLOST. Thirty-eight additional acres were acquired with the SPLOST funds. In addition to the tennis courts, new ball fields and walking trails will be incorporated into the project. Total cost of the improvements including land acquisition will be around $1,000,000.  Public Works Department grading the land
 
Posted by: Rich Bennett on May 14, 2007
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on Nov 6, 2007 Teens "get in the game" @ Peach Public Libraries Other activities planned for registered teens this summer include crafts, weekly anime movies, and a CSI: Catch the Killer! program. Meet your reading and participation goals and attend the end of summer party and “dance off”! Registration begins Saturday, May 26th, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., at either Thomas Public Library, 315 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Fort Valley, or at Byron Public Library, 105 West Church Street. Event calendars will be available the week prior to registration. Teen gaming times start Tuesday, May 29th.
For additional information, contact Youth Services Coordinator, Nancy Rairdon, at 478-825-1640.
Posted by: Sandra French on May 17, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on May 17, 2007 "Reading takes you everywhere" @ Peach Libraries Children, up through age 12, can register for their “tickets to read” beginning Saturday, May 26th, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., at either Thomas Public Library, 315 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Fort Valley, or at Byron Public Library, 105 West Church Street. Event calendars will be available the week prior to registration.
For additional information, contact Youth Services Coordinator, Nancy Rairdon, at 478-825-1640.
Posted by: Sandra French on May 17, 2007
Last Modified by: Sandra French on May 17, 2007 Byron wildfire caused by train Read More The malfunctioning brakes of a Norfolk-Southern train started the wildfire that covered 25 acres in Byron and had firefighters from multiple agencies trying to get it under control. The brakes overheated and the wheels locked, causing sparks. The fire burned in the area of Kirkland Drive, Richardson Drive and Tucker Road, reaching as far as Interstate 75. Peach County Fire Chief Jeff Doles said the fire started at about 1:27 p.m. Units from the Peach County, Byron, Houston County and Macon-Bibb County fire departments helped fight the blaze, he said, along with the Georgia Forestry Commission. Firefighters placed four firebreaks to deter the fire from entering populated areas. Doles said the dry conditions in addition to high winds and low humidity made for a difficult environment to tackle the fire. However, the conditions changed as the evening approached. "Once the sun starts going down, the humidity starts going up," Doles said, adding crews would remain on the scene into the night to maintain a watch.
Posted by: Rich Bennett on May 11, 2007
Last Modified by: Rich Bennett on May 11, 2007 |