Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office Arrest Report 04/01 to 04/07
Arrest Reports April 9, 2019
Arrest report and photos provided by the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office. The Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. 35-01-18) allows for www.fetchyournews.com to obtain and post the arrest records of any and all individuals arrested in Lumpkin County. Those arrests are posted on www.fetchyournews.com for viewing pleasure. Please remember that all individuals listed have been arrested and charged, however, they are presumed innocent until guilt has been proven in a court of law.
LCHS students plan walk-out to support their principal
Community, News March 22, 2019
LUMPKIN CO., GA
Lumpkin County High School students are planning a walk-out at 12:30pm on Wednesday, March 13, to protest the resignation of the LCHS principal, Billy Kirk, according to the #weneedbilly social media page.
It was announced on Monday, March 11 that Kirk had resigned. School officials are remaining quiet in regards to the reason for Kirk’s resignation. Angry students are planning to walk out of the school, in a peaceful protest against the Board of Education’s decision.
This is an ongoing story; please follow Fetch Your News for updated information.
LCHS students hold a peaceful walk-in to show support for the principal
Feature News, News March 22, 2019
LUMPKIN CO., GA
Several students at Lumpkin County High School held a peaceful walk-in on Wednesday, to show their support for the LCHS principal, Billy Kirk.
Students at LCHS give cheer on orator in support of principal
The Lumpkin County Board of Education announced to employees on Monday, March 11, that Kirk had resigned without revealing the cause of his resignation. Once this news went public, LCHS students, parents, and staff began sending emails, letters, and phone calls to the Board of Education advocating for Kirk to be reinstated. Other Lumpkin County residents have even begun a petition titled, “Prevent Principal Billy Kirk From Leaving,” which has collected almost 400 signatures in the few hours since it has gone live.
Students at LCHS give cheer on orator in support of principal
Students at LCHS decided to hold a peaceful walk-out to show their support for Kirk. LCHS officials required that students host a walk-in, held in the LCHS gym, for the safety of the students. According to LCSS Chief Financial Officer, Shannon Christian, “We are allowing the students to hold a peaceful protest in the gym, but it is the desire of the principal for no press to be in attendance.” Although all press was denied access to the event, Fetch Your News was able to obtain a video and images of the event.
There were a number of students who spoke out, in support of Kirk, and the crowd erupted when one orator stated, “There are a lot of people at this school who look up to Mr. Kirk as a father figure.”
Lumpkin County Sheriff, Stacy Jarrard, stationed himself outside the LCHS entrance to further ensure the safety of any student that may have decided against going to the gym. Jarrard also told the press, “Let it go on the record that it is not the decision of LCSO to deny media access to this event.”
LC BOE votes against reinstating LCHS principal Billy Kirk
Featured, Lumpkin County High School March 18, 2019
LUMPKIN CO.,
The Lumpkin County School System held a special called meeting on Monday morning at 7AM to discuss personnel recommendations, in response to the public backlash over the recent resignation of LCHS principal, Billy Kirk.
The meeting began with a motion to go into executive session, but no other board members second that motion. BOE member, Craig Poore, addressed the sizeable public crowd stating he refused to enter an executive session, “What happened down there [the walk-in at LCHS] was unprofessional, and I am embarrassed by what we did down there. I am not going into an executive session, and I will not sit there and talk about this, where you bow my hands and I can’t speak no more on it.” Poore then went on to explain, “I think the level of unprofessionalism is awful; we ought to be ashamed of ourselves.”
Before adjourning, LCSS Superintendent, Dr. Robert Brown, then presented personnel recommendations to the board, “I have a recommendation for the board to rescind the resignation submitted from Mr. Billy Kirk on March 11, and to recommend him for employment as the principal of LCHS for the 2019/2020 school year.”
After Brown’s recommendation was made, Poore requested to speak his opinion on the walk-in once more, explaining that he would have been more open to considering rescinding Kirk’s resignation if he had not, “gone up there [LCHS]… using and abusing those kids in that building [referring to the walk-in]…” Poore’s comments received a strong reaction from the crowd, as citizens expressed their disagreements. One citizen yelled out, “You’re wrong,” and another asked Poore to “step down” from his BOE position.
Poore further explained his dissatisfaction with Kirk’s decision to allow the students participate in the walk-out without any disciplinary action, “I received 12 phone calls alone from parents that said they didn’t want their child participating in that event [the walk-in].” One LCHS student who was in attendance then responded with, “They didn’t have to,” in which Poore responded, “They may not have had to, but you know what? They were children.” Although students are protected by the First Amendment to the right to free speech, according to the American Civil Liberties Union, (ACLU) schools do have the right to discipline students for participating in a walk-out, “The law in most places requires students to go to school, schools can discipline you for missing class. But what they can’t do is discipline you more harshly because of the political nature of or the message behind your action.”
Self then presented Brown’s recommendation to the board, with McClure making a motion to approve it. However, no other board members seconded the motion, resulting in the denial of reinstating Kirk as the LCHS principal. Lumpkin County citizen, John Dowdy, expressed his anger with the board’s decision, “You can say no public comment if you want to, but if we aren’t going to get a second on this, [recommendation] all five of you [BOE members] will answer to us [the public] for what you’ve done.”
LC resident, John Dowdy, [far left] expresses his disappointment in the board’s decision regarding LCHS principal, Billy Kirk
Brown released a statement to FYN, regarding the results of the board meeting, “I am very disappointed with the circumstances of today’s called school board meeting. I hope that our school board can work together to get this issue resolved and to ensure our school system continues accomplishing great things. We have seen many successes in recent years, and it is my hope that can get through this conflict and get back on track as soon as possible.”
Poore summed up his statements by telling the crowd that he does not have any regrets, “Four years from now…I’m going to leave here and my conscious is going to be clear.”
The public will be allowed to imput regarding Kirk during the next board meeting, which is scheduled for April 15, at 7PM and will be held at the LCSS Central Office in Dahlonega.
FetchYourNews.com attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month for ad server. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and has between 15,000 to 60,000 per week Facebook page reach. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or visit [email protected]
BOLO released for burglary suspect in Lumpkin County
Community, News March 15, 2019
LUMPKIN CO.,
According to the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office, there has been a ‘Be On The Look Out’ (BOLO) released for a female suspect, after an attempted break-in.
Deputies responded to a call for a possible break-in the Pecks Mill Creek area on Friday, March 15. While trying to run from the scene, the female suspect swerved her vehicle towards a police officer, who then shot at the tire of the vehicle to prevent escape.
Investigators and police know who the suspect is and are currently are looking for her. The LCSO released a statement on their social media page, “A short time ago, deputies responded to the Pecks Mill Creek area on a possible burglary in
progress. Deputies confirmed while on location that the home is secured and we know who the suspect is.
You may see an increase in patrol units in the area. At this time, we do not believe anyone is in danger but just be aware and if you see anything suspicious, call 911. This is an ongoing investigation.
Thanks!
Sheriff Stacy M. Jarrard”
Anyone with information on this crime is encouraged to call 911.
This is an ongoing investigation. FYN will have more information as it is received.
FetchYourNews.com attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month for ad server. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and has between 15,000 to 60,000 per week Facebook page reach. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or visit [email protected]
Roy Polaske: Obituary
Obituaries March 14, 2019
Roy Polaske
November 20, 1947 – March 10, 2019
Roy Joseph Polaske, age 71, of Dahlonega, Georgia passed away Saturday, March 9, 2019. Visitation will be from 11AM to 4PM, Thursday, March 14, 2019, with a Celebration of Life Service at 4PM in the Chapel of Dahlonega Funeral Home. Mr. Polaske loved football and poker, most especially Texas Hold’em. He is survived by his life partner of 16 years Gail Sosebee, of Dahlonega, Georgia; sons and daughters-in-law Roy Polaske, of Denver, Colorado; Tracy and Tracy Lynn Polaske, of Port St Lucie, Florida; Michael and Chris Polaske, of Cutback, Montana; daughter and son-in-law April and Robert Stivers, of Hollywood Seminole Indian Reservation, Florida; brothers and sister-in-law Rick Konover, of Polacka, Florida; Neil and Sheri Polaske, of New Port Richey, Florida; sister and brother-in-law Ava and Galen Fudge, of Baton Rouge Louisiana; grandchildren Robert Polaske; Tyler Polaske; Laura Polaske; Kayla Polaske; Katie Milton; Austin Polaske; Aaron Polaske; Michael Polaske-Canaveral; Dominick Josef Reid; Ginamarie Flores; Elizabeth Reid; 15 great grandchildren and many other extended family members also survive. Care and trust placed in Dahlonega Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 20 Gibson Road, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533. 706-864-DOVE (3683)
A Division of McDonald Family Funeral Homes
Willa Koretz: Obituary
Obituaries March 14, 2019
Willa Koretz
May 15, 1949 – February 21, 2019
Pending Arrangements
Mildred Cowart Freeman: Obituary
Obituaries March 14, 2019
Mildred Cowart Freeman
October 06, 1929 – February 25, 2019
Mrs. Mildred Cowart Freeman, age 89, of Dahlonega passed away Monday, February 25, 2019.
Mrs. Freeman was born in Cumming on October 6, 1929 to the late William Guy Cowart and Nola Cowart Miles. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Billy D. Freeman, son-in-law Robert Jack Peck, grandson-in-law Cecil Peels, brothers James Cowart and Lloyd Cowart. Mrs. Freeman was a seamstress and homemaker. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Adairsville. Mrs. Freeman faithfully attended Yellow Creek Baptist Church and she was an active member of the Yellow Creek Ladies Goodwill Circle. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and she was affectionately called “Mawmaw”.
Survivors include her daughter Patricia Ann Peck, Dahlonega; son and daughter-in-law Charles Marion Freeman and Sherry Lynn Sutton; grandchildren Stephanie and Jerald Sargent Jr., Tracie and Jeremy Grizzle, Trina and Casey Jones, Christy Peels, Deeann Freeman, and Tonya and Ryan Brown; great-grandchildren Drew Sargent, Madison Peels, Haleigh Sargent, Jordan Jones, Carson Peels, Autumn Freeman, Gavin Grizzle, Emma Kate Brown, Peytyn Freeman, Bella Freeman, Enslee Brown, Colton Jones, and Gabriella Grizzle; ex-daughter-in-law Barbara Freeman; several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Funeral services are scheduled for 3:00 PM Friday, March 1, 2019 at the Yellow Creek Baptist Church. The Rev. Steve Barrett and the Rev. Jason Buffington will officiate. Interment will follow in Sawnee View Gardens. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM Thursday at the funeral home.
Flowers are optional or you may make contributions to CHOA at give.choa.org.
To share a memory of Mrs. Freeman or a condolence with the family visit andersonunderwood.com.
Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home of Dahlonega, formerly Banister Funeral Home
Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office Arrest Report 02/25 to 03/03
Arrest Reports March 4, 2019
Arrest report and photos provided by the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office. The Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. 35-01-18) allows for www.fetchyournews.com to obtain and post the arrest records of any and all individuals arrested in Lumpkin County. Those arrests are posted on www.fetchyournews.com for viewing pleasure. Please remember that all individuals listed have been arrested and charged, however, they are presumed innocent until guilt has been proven in a court of law.
UNG softball opens with 7-1 win over Southern Wesleyan
University of North Georgia February 15, 2019
LUMPKIN CO., GA
According to the University of North Georgia Athletics Department, junior, Marley Stowers, hit a grand slam over the left field wall, pushing No.3 UNG softball team to a 7-1 win over Southern Wesleyan Friday afternoon.
Marley Stowers (Photo courtesy of UNG Athletics)
Kaylyn Anthony scored the game’s first run on a SWU error in the first inning of the opening game of the Cottrell Foundation Loyal Blue Classic. After loading the bases, the Nighthawks got Stowers up to bat and, with a full count, she put the softball well out of the park to push the lead to 5-0.
Kaylyn Anthony (Photo courtesy of UNG Athletics)
Anthony struck an RBI single in the fourth inning before Katelyn Perry tacked on another run ins the sixth on an RBI single. The Warriors pushed a run across in the top of the seventh to bring the game to its final score.
300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month for ad server. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and has between 15,000 to 60,000 per week Facebook page reach. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or visit [email protected]
Smith named PBC pitcher of the week
University of North Georgia February 12, 2019
LUMPKIN, GA
University of North Georgia softball player, Kylee Smith, has been named the Peach Belt Conference Pitcher of the Week. The conference announced their consideration on Tuesday afternoon.
Smith was 2-0 in three NFCA Leadoff Classic appearances, allowing just two hits in 13.2 innings, with a total of 24 strikeouts. She also picked up her first win against No. 19 Lenoir-Rhyne University, going all seven innings with two hits allowed and one walk while striking out 15.
The UNG sophomore pitched five, no-hit innings, landing a 6-3 win over Hillsdale. Overall, Smith struck out six, before pitching 1.2 innings of relief against California University of Pennsylvania, where she struck out three with no hits nor walks allowed. Smith is currently tied for the league lead in wins and is second in strikeouts.
FetchYourNews.com attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month for ad server. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and has between 15,000 to 60,000 per week Facebook page reach. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or visit [email protected]
James (Jim) Roderick McFarland: Obituary
Obituaries February 6, 2019
James (Jim) Roderick McFarland
June 29, 1931 – January 31, 2019
James (Jim) McFarland, age 87, of Dahlonega, GA died Thursday, January 31, 2019. He was born on June 29, 1931 to Russell and Vera McFarland in Niagara Falls, N.Y.
Jim graduated from LaSalle High School in Niagara Falls, N.Y. in 1949 and from Alfred University in 1953 with an Accounting Degree. He then served in the U.S. Navy including two years as a buyer for the Navy Commissary in Norfolk, VA and two years with the Supply Division of the 6th Fleet in the Mediterranean.
Following his honorary discharge, he joined the Cost Accounting Department of Moore Business Forms in Niagara Falls, N.Y. in 1957. In 1962, he was transferred to the Thurmont, MD Plant as Accounting Supervisor. Six years later, in 1970, he was transferred to Manchester, N.H. as Cost/Accounting Manager for the new Moore Plant that was then under construction. In 1972, James was transferred to the Rediform Division of Moore in Paramus, N.J. as Accounting Manager and later was named Comptroller. He remained at the Paramus location until his retirement in 1987, with 30 years of service.
He married Sandra Helm Bredfeldt on June 27, 1987 in Roscoe, N.Y. at a weekend long celebration shared by 50 guests, including five of six children from former marriages. Their marriage was performed by Sandra’s brother Bob, a Presbyterian minister. Jim was an avid golfer and played varsity basketball for LaSalle High School, Alfred University, and the U.S. Navy in the Mediterranean.
Jim is survived by his loving wife Sandra; sons Michael (Margaret) of Corning, N.Y., Steven (Karen) of East Hampton, N.Y., and William (Nicole) of Wilmington, N.C.; daughter Dianne (John) Connolly of Warwick, N.Y.; stepdaughter Robin (Michael) Prucha of Osprey, FL; and stepson Erik (Kathryn) Bredfeldt of Gainesville, FL. Jim is also survived by grandchildren: Dianne’s children Kevin, Megan, Shane, and Brian; Steven’s daughter Darcy; Williams’s children Camden and Hudson; Robin’s daughter Brielle; and Erik’s children Shearod and Emma.
Following Jim’s wishes, there will be no Memorial Service in Dahlonega after his cremation. Rather, his ashes will one day be combined with Sandra’s and strewn in the Appalachians. They moved to Dahlonega in 2010 and felt they already had a toehold in Paradise.
To share a memory of Jim or a condolence with the family visit andersonunderwood.com.
Andrew Louis Minns: Obituary
Obituaries February 6, 2019
Andrew Louis Minns
December 08, 1943 – January 31, 2019
Andrew Louise Minns age 76 of Dahlonega passed away on January 31, 2019. Private service at a later date.
UNG President visits LC Library to discuss her new children’s book
Community, Education February 1, 2019
DAHLONEGA, GA
University of North Georgia President, Dr. Bonita Jacobs, visited the Lumpkin County Library for a book reading/signing of her new book, “UNG The Gold I See!” on Thursday. The children’s book is one of five that will be released by Dr. Jacobs and the UNG Press.
Dr. Bonita Jacobs visits Lumpkin County Library
Dr. Jacobs told FYN that she was inspired to write the children’s books after she was gifted a copy of Barbara Walsh’s “The Poppy Lady.” “I loved the idea of using a children’s book to tell the history of North Georgia.” She also explains that the “genesis” of the book was to raise money for scholarships, “I’m very passionate about scholarships.” Dr. Jacobs explained, “and all profits from my books go straight to scholarship funds.” Jillian Murphy, Assistant Managing Editor with UNG Press added the book has sold enough copies to fund a few scholarships already.
Dr. Bonita Jacobs visits Lumpkin County Library
Dr. Jacobs also expressed gratitude for the book’s illustrator, J’anell Short, who is also Dr. Jacob’s sister, “We were able to save a lot on costs and also have a quick release date, thanks to her willingness to help.” She also added, “I’m very heartened by how well the book has been received.”
Dr. Bonita Jacobs visits Lumpkin County Library
Copies of “UNG The Gold I See!” are available at the UNG Bookstore.
Joyce Parrish: Obituary
Obituaries January 25, 2019
Joyce Parrish
April 27, 1953 – January 15, 2019
Mrs. Joyce Sullens Parrish, age 65, of Dahlonega passed away on Tuesday, January 15, 2019 at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville following a period of declining health.
Born April 27, 1953 to parents Floyd W. and Alma Hulsey Sullens, Joyce was a native and lifelong resident of Lumpkin County. She was a retired customer service manager with Walmart and was of the Methodist faith.
In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by siblings; Hoyt Sullens, Mary Nell Jarrard and Joe Hulsey. She is survived by her three sons; Jeremy (Elizabeth) Wyatt, Statem, GA, Shannon (Nicole) Parrish, Dahlonega, Shane (Danielle) Parrish, Dahlonega, siblings; Bob (Elizabeth) Sullens, Murrayville, Lucy Eiker, Columbus, Ga, Bill (Louise) Sullens, Dahlonega, Dorsey (Carol) Sullens, Dahlonega, Doris (Tony) Couch, Gainesville, David (Paula) Sullens, Cleveland, Marie Sullens, Jonesboro, and Harold Jarrard, Dahlonega, grandchildren; Tavin Parrish, Hunter Parrish, Corbin Parrish, and Bryce Parrish.
Funeral services will held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 19, 2019 in the chapel of Dahlonega Funeral Home with Rev. Mike Owens and Rev. Eric Watson officiating. Interment in St. Paul United Methodist Church Cemetery will be private. The family will receive friends also on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the service hour.
Arrangements by the professional staff of Dahlonega Funeral Home 20 Gibson Road Dahlonega GA 30533 706-864-DOVE (3683)
Online condolences may be expressed at www.dahlonegafuneralhome.com
Dr. Hollis Tanksley: Obituary
Obituaries January 25, 2019Dr. Hollis Tanksley
March 22, 1937 – January 16, 2019
Dr. Marion “Doc” Hollis Tanksley, age 81, of Blairsville passed away Wednesday, January 16, 2019.
Dr. Tanksley was born in Habersham County on March 22, 1937 to the late A.L. and Esther Eller Tanksley. He served his country honorably in the US Marine Corps and also in the US Navy as a pilot. Dr. Tanksley was a husband, father, surgeon, physician, and missionary. He was a finisher! After Dr. Tanksley retired from practicing medicine in the United States, he lived in China where he taught, practiced medicine, and served his Lord Jesus Christ on the mission field.
Survivors include his brothers Verlyn Tanksley (Sarah), Roswell, and Wallace Tanksley (Janet), Atlanta; and sister Dorothy Guyton, Loganville.
Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 PM Saturday, January 19, 2019 at the chapel of Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home. The Rev. Kris Butler will officiate. Interment will follow in Zion Baptist Church Cemetery in Suches, GA. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.
To share a memory of Dr. Tanksley or a condolence with the family visit andersonunderwood.com.
Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home, of Dahlonega formerly Banister Funeral Home