July 2014 - Page 2 of 14 - Henderson County Now

Toni Garrard Clay Joins Athens ISD

By Michael V. Hannigan

I would personally like to congratulate Toni Garrard Clay on being hired to be the Public Information Officer for Athens ISD. I have worked with and known Toni a long time and she is an excellent journalist. As a former aid to State Rep. Clyde Alexander and a former editor of the Athens Daily Review, she knows how both the government and the news business works. She is the right person for the job.

I also congratulate the Athens ISD school board for hiring a Public Information Officer. I believe it is a vital role in today’s communications environment, and I hope other governmental entities in the county consider following suit.

Malakoff Housing Authority Back-to-School Bash

Press release

The start of a new school year is once again upon us and the Malakoff Housing Authority is preparing for our 2nd Annual Back-to-School Bash to help prepare our families for the ever rising cost of getting their kids back in school. Our goal this year is the same, to help ease that burden by putting together an event where parents who reside in the Malakoff Housing Authority can bring their children to get school supplies and basic hygiene items. We want our youth starting the new school year the right way, prepared and confident! In order to accomplish this we must reach out for the help of our generous community. Continue reading “Malakoff Housing Authority Back-to-School Bash”

Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Bust

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office press release

On Monday, July 28, at approximately 10 p.m., HCSO Deputy Brad Beddingfield observed a disturbance occurring near the Catfish Corner restaurant in Seven Points. Beddingfield initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle that fled the scene and made contact with the driver, Terri Jean Franklin.

A search of the vehicle yielded a small quantity of suspected methamphetamine. Franklin was taken in custody and transported to the Henderson County Jail where she was booked in for Possession of a Controlled Substance PG 1 1 g.

If convicted of the State Jail Felony charge Terri could face up to 2 years in a State Jail Facility and up to a $10,000 fine. HCSO Sgt. Jistel and Deputy Nutt spoke with an additional subject that was involved in the original disturbance.

Bond has yet to be set on Franklin who remains in custody.

Athens Council OKs Budget Adjustment for Burton Severance Package

By Michael V. Hannigan

The Athens City Council voted 3-2 Monday, July 28, to approve a budget adjustment from reserves to pay the severance package for City Administrator Pam Burton, who is stepping down in December.

Charles Elliott and Joe Whatley voted no.

Burton’s contract calls for her to receive six months salary, plus unused vacation and unused sick time, as a severance package when she leaves city employment. The city has been told by multiple attorneys that the contract is binding. Continue reading “Athens Council OKs Budget Adjustment for Burton Severance Package”

Eustace Rockies Win State Championship

The Eustace Rockies 8 and under boys player pitch team sponsored by Henderson County District Attorney Scott McKee finished up its undefeated season with a State Championship finals win over the Bosqueville Heat. The Rockies swept the TTBA State Tournament in four games. The Rockies allowed only 2 runs and 4 hits over those four games. The Rockies are coached by James Mullins, John Mullins, Gabriel Shue, and Scott McKee.

Pictured from left to right back row: Coaches Scott McKee, James Mullins and John Mullins. Middle Row: Jayden Manken, Ethan Mullins, Nick Dunn , Ryan McKee, Justice Pinkert, Mason Logan. Bottom Row: Bobby McGlaughlin, Jack Hustead, Colton Yarbrough, Asa Mondrago, Grady McClemee, Ranger McKee, Coty McClemee. Not pictured is Gabriel Shue.