Truett McConnell University Archives

Cam Greene is a candidate for Probate Judge

News February 9, 2020 , by Bill Johnson

WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — Cam Greene has announced his candidacy for Probate Judge. A graduate of Truett McConnell University with a bachelor’s degree in history and a White County resident for 35 years, he is a member of First Baptist Church of Cleveland and an active member of the Kiwanis Club.

Cam has been employed with Barrett Funeral Home since 2010 and has owned and managed his own landscaping business, Greene Grass since 2012.

He is seeking the position so that he can serve his fellow citizens. His family has a history of service and leadership beginning with his grandfather, Tom Hood, who served as State Representative and State Senator. This service has extended to his father, Bradley Greene, who has served on the Cleveland City Council for 15 years. Now, at the age of 35, he feels led to continue this legacy of service to the citizens of White County.

He believes the following five qualities that he possesses are essential for success in this position: Honesty, compassion, integrity, fairness and sound judgment. He also believes that his education and experiences in both owning his own business and working in the funeral service business are solid foundations that further qualify him to serve in this capacity.

Working in the funeral service industry he has been able to connect with and help people of all ages and backgrounds during the most difficult and emotional times of their lives. As Probate Judge, Cam will have the foundation necessary to respect and connect with individuals on a personal level while helping them understand the probate process which will make it easier for all involved.

Over the years, has communicated with and helped many people in his own community, and he plans to continue those efforts in the position of White County Probate Judge. It would be an honor for Cam, a native son of White County, to serve the people and community that he care’s so deeply about… and he humbly ask for your vote.

Truett McConnell to hold Graduate Open House

News February 7, 2020 , by Bill Johnson

By: Jenny Gregory

Truett McConnell University’s Office of Graduate Admissions will host its first Graduate Open House on the university’s campus, Saturday, March 7th.

Those considering pursuing graduate studies at the master’s level are invited to attend this free event beginning at 11:00 a.m. in the Miller Hall atrium.

Participants will meet with graduate admissions specialists who will provide more information about what Truett McConnell University has to offer, as well as, the differences between a master’s degree from TMU, where courses are taught through a Christian worldview, and other universities.

“The Graduate Open House event will benefit any student who is considering enrolling in graduate studies in the next two years,” said Timothy Agee, Admissions Counselor & Graduate Admissions Coordinator, “or those simply interested in learning about the graduate programs we offer here at Truett McConnell University.”

Graduate program representatives will be on hand providing degree program information on the Master of Business Administration, Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, Master of Science in Biology, Master of Education, and Master of Arts in Theology. Information pertaining to both on campus and online studies (if available) will be covered.

Participants will be provided with lunch, attend breakout sessions led by program faculty, and partake in a question and answer session toward the conclusion.

“My hope for participants,” said Agee, “is that after attending and discussing with faculty members the various programs that are offered, they will have gained a dynamic understanding as they prayerfully consider enrolling in a graduate degree program.”

Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that covers Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYN attracts 300,000+ page views per month, 3.5 million impressions per month and approximately 15,000 viewers per week on FYNTV.com and up to 60,000 Facebook page reach. If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of those counties, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com

Truett McConnell University

TMU ranks as one of Georgia’s best Christian colleges

News January 28, 2020 , by Bill Johnson

By Jenny Gregory

CLEVELAND, Ga. – Just released by EDsmart, a company that provides college rankings, reviews, and ratings according to the latest U.S. Department of Education, Truett McConnell University (TMU) is ranked as fifth best Christian college in the state.

To be considered for this ranking, EDsmart assesses Christian colleges in Georgia based on data that covers four main areas: cost (average net price), academic quality (graduation rate), student satisfaction (retention rate), and salary after attending (the median earnings of former students who received federal financial aid, at 10 years after entering the school).

“This specific ranking is greatly encouraging to the University as it assesses a combination of factors most important to TMU including academic quality, student satisfaction, and graduation rates,” said TMU President Dr. Emir Caner.

Truett McConnell was received a 55.9% graduation rate according to 6-year National Student Clearinghouse Total Completion Rate (As of: November 2016). TMU’s target graduation rate is 50% and its peer group’s average is 52.1%.

The university offers 40 undergraduate and 10 graduate programs of study, some online, taught from a Christian worldview. TMU is a Bible-centered institution built on four pillars: love the Lord, love His Word, love the Church, and love the lost.

“Due to the investment of our faculty and staff, our students not only receive a distinctively biblical education, but a top-notch education that is of the highest order academically and professionally,” added Caner.

For more info on this ranking, visit edsmart.org. For information on Truett McConnell University, visit truett.edu.

Jenny Gregory is the Digital Content Specialist for TMU.

Georgia Truett McConnell University

TMU online Theology Degree receives national rank

News January 22, 2020 , by Bill Johnson

By: Jenny Gregory
CLEVELAND, Ga., –Truett McConnell University (TMU) was recently ranked in the top 35 of the nation’s best online Master of Arts in Theology degree programs for 2020 by Online Schools Report (OSR).
“We are thrilled once again to be nationally recognized as one of the top universities for students to be equipped for ministry through an online graduate degree in theology,” said TMU President Dr. Emir Caner.
TMU is the only school in Georgia named to the list and is grouped with schools like Liberty University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. The university received a ranking of 25 from Online Schools Report with high remarks in student satisfaction and admissions rate.
According to OSR, the determination was based on six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the median debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that institution graduated from that department. For more information on rankings, visit onlineschoolsreport.com.

Similar to the structure of TMU’s residential degrees, online students are taught by experienced Christian professors and from a Biblical world view. Theology professors provide a foundation of knowledge and skills in the areas of classical theological studies and applied ministry, preparing students for Christian ministry.

“As I look at our program, I see many characteristics that make it excel,” said Balthasar Hubmaier School of Theology Dean Dr. Maël Disseau. “Academically, each concentration has the vital components needed for students who have chosen to continue their theological education.”

“Devotionally, our smaller ratio classes and family atmosphere, both on campus and online, afford us the ability to customize the discipling of our students, which is turns results in increased learning and application of Biblical concepts to the students’ ministry and lives.”
“Extracurricularly,” Disseau added, “we continue to add many opportunities for our students to put into practice what they have learned, providing opportunities that are usually only associated with larger schools, while keeping the small school advantage.”

Truett McConnell University makes it possible for students to customize their online Master of Arts in Theology degree. Students can take on concentrations in Local Church Ministry or Missiology. The online program offers additional opportunities like mission trips and research.
To learn more about Truett McConnell University’s online Master of Arts in Theology degree program, contact the office of Graduate Admissions at [email protected] or 706-865-2134, ext. 4305.

Jenny Gregory is the Digital Content Specialist for Truett McConnell University.

Truett McConnell University

TMU names Bucky Kennedy Campus Pastor

News January 3, 2020 , by Bill Johnson

PRESS RELEASE

By: Jenny Gregory

Truett McConnell University (TMU) announces Evangelist Bucky Kennedy as Campus Pastor to begin Spring semester 2020.

“Our TMU family recognized earlier this academic year the incredible need of a campus pastor,” said TMU President Dr. Emir Caner.” The position will reach those on campus–staff and students–who need a word of encouragement and who need spiritual counsel.”

Since 1983, Kennedy has been involved in global, national, state, and local ministries from youth ministry to senior church pastor to evangelism and global missions. His involvement with the Southern Baptist Convention afforded him the opportunity to serve on numerous committees and as president of the Georgia Baptist Convention from 2008-2009.

In 2016, Kennedy founded Bucky Kennedy Ministries, an evangelical organization, traveling to churches and local organizations, participating in events, conferences and revivals. Kennedy has also served on TMU’s Board of Trustees and spoken numerous times for the university’s weekly chapel service.

“I’m confident that the administration, faculty, and staff of TMU share my burden for the next generation,” said Kennedy. “I’m asking God to raise up an army of young men and women to use in ministry positions and marketplace missionaries to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in the way they live and the way they talk.”

“This is a new adventure for me,” Kennedy said. “There is so much I have to learn, and that really excites me.”

President Caner expressed the university’s appreciation for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board as they fund the new position. “The kindness of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board in funding this position will bless our campus through a healthier environment, stronger retention, and more men and women coming to faith in Christ.”

“I believe being a part of what God is doing at Truett McConnell excites me,” said Kennedy. “I pray God will raise up a generation from the TMU student body that will love Jesus deeply, obey Him completely, and defend the faith fearlessly.”

Jenny Gregory is the Digital Content Specialist for Truett McConnell University.

Truett McConnell University

TMU asks commissioners to authorize tax exempt bond issuance

News October 30, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

CLEVELAND, Ga. – White County Commissioners heard a request from Truett McConnell University Vice President for Finance and Operations Jason Graffagnino at Monday’s work session to approve a bond issuance that would allow it to refinance its long term indebtedness at a considerable savings.

The issuance would be through the White County Development Authority and must be approved by the Board of Commissioners but it does not obligate county taxpayers.

“We are looking into refinancing long-term debt tied to a major project we did in 2011,” Graffagnino said. The project included construction of a new dormitory, expanding the dining hall and administration building and the addition of a new student wellness center.

Graffagnino said the current bond is being paid back at a rate of between 5.75 and 6.0 percent.

“In the current economic environment, we have done our due diligence and through a public bond offering, we are able to ascertain a long term rate for 30 years at 3.6 percent,” he said. “As Mr. Chairman (Travis Turner) said and Mr. Manager (Michael Melton) said, this does not encumber the citizens of White County or the citizens of Cleveland. The collateral is the University. We are taking financial responsibility It will be a tax-exempt offering. For that to be something the public can invest in, and buy tax exempt bonds, we need a government authority to be the issuer so that is why we are coming before you.”

The Board generally discusses issues during work sessions then votes on them at the next regular session.

Commissioners also discussed future options for the administration of county elections since Probate Judge Garrison Baker, who currently oversees elections, will retire at the end of 2020.

A number of agenda items were placed on the consent agenda for the next meeting, including:

A request by Director of Public Safety Director David Murphy to place some obsolete equipment belonging to his department to be sold as surplus;

Bids received for two certificates of deposits currently held by United Community Bank.

Most of the rezoning requests on Monday’s agenda also will be placed on the consent agenda.

Commissioners will place one request for annexation into the city of Cleveland and another by the City of Helen under New Business and vote on them separately at the next meeting.

Michael Melton Travis Turner Truett McConnell University White County Board of Commissioners

Truett McConnell ranks third among online colleges

News June 1, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

PRESS RELEASE

By Jenny Gregory

CLEVELAND, Ga. – While the online program at Truett McConnell University (TMU) has not yet met the ten-year mark, the university was recently ranked third in best online college programs in Georgia. The distinction was made by EDsmart with consideration of over 70 public colleges, universities, and technical colleges, and more than 45 private institutions.

To be considered for this ranking, schools must provide online courses and are ranked based on three categories: affordability (financial aid, net price), student satisfaction (retention rate), and student outcome (four-year graduation rate).

“We are grateful to receive statewide recognition as the No. 1 private university and the No. 3 school overall in online education in Georgia,” said TMU President Dr. Emir Caner. “We are thrilled that 66 percent of online students graduate, a feat that is very rare in the online community. That is in no small part due to our faculty and staff and how they serve our student body.”

According to EDsmart’s website, rankings are determined based on the extent to which colleges and universities provide the best opportunities and value for students seeking online training and educational programs. TMU Online offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees taught from a Christian worldview. Completing a TMU Online degree equips you for your chosen career with the confidence of a fully accredited education and the certitude of strong biblical convictions.

“TMU Online offers the benefits of flexibility combined with small class sizes,” said Amy Hayes, TMU’s Director of Online Learning. “Because assignments are usually due at the end of each week, students with families and/or full-time jobs can schedule their work around times that work best for them. Small class sizes mean that online students can easily build connections with both their professors and the other students in their programs, which can help them feel less isolated and more supported in their learning.”

“With more than 100 choices available for the student,” said Caner, “we are thrilled so many are choosing TMU Online for their undergraduate and graduate education.”

For more info on this ranking, visit edsmart.org. For information on Truett McConnell University online program, visit truett.edu/online.

Jenny Gregory is the Digital Content Specialist for TMU.

Truett McConnell University

Tony Perkins addresses TMU’s largest graduating class

Business May 14, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

PRESS RELEASE

by Jenny Gregory

CLEVELAND, Ga. – Tony Perkins, President of the Family Research Council, ordained minister, US Marine Corps veteran, and nationally recognized speaker delivered Truett McConnell University’s (TMU) commencement address to 143 bachelor’s and master’s degree candidates, Saturday.

The class of 2019 carried great significance, not only as the school’s largest graduating class but as the 70th anniversary of our first graduation. Truett McConnell President, Dr. Emir Caner welcomed friends and family by saying, “This is an incredibly special day as we are honored to have five of the twenty-six members of the original Truett McConnell graduating class: John Carpenter, Betty Sue Hawkins Carpenter, Betty Highsmith, Virgil Hunt, Jr., and Ethelene Dyer Jones.”

“Graduates you now enter into the next seven decades,” said Caner, “as you become the 71^st class to walk across this stage.”

After a brief introduction from Caner, Perkins took the podium amid the welcoming applause, thanking everyone for the honor of speaking to this year’s graduating class of TMU students.

“Graduates, you have studied hard and you have excelled in challenging work,” said Perkins. “You have established life-long friendships and some of you may have even met your spouse or future spouse. But all of you have done one thing. You have studied the Bible and you have leaned into God’s truth and I trust you have grown in the faith.”

Perkins charged graduates that as they leave Truett McConnell, they will be “strong and courageous in the Lord” and always have the “courage to stand on holy ground” as he referenced Joshua in the Bible. “The courage that Joshua was commanded to have was not to face the giants of the land, but to face our own fallen nature.”

Perkins concluded by telling the graduates “my prayer and my message for you today is simple–that you would have the courage to be obedient to God wherever He leads you.”

Truett McConnell’s Felix Manz School of Music Chamber Singers, led by Dr. Kenneth Gabrielse, Professor of Music, followed Perkins by performing “O Church Arise,” an arrangement by Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Dr. John Yarborough, TMU’s Director of Alumni Relations and Public Policy, echoed blessings to each graduate and welcomed them into the school’s alumni association, reminding them to represent and recruit Truett McConnell University as they leave campus and to come home often.

“We welcome you to the Alumni Association and we ask you to constantly keep this school in your prayers,” he said. “I pray that you will not only start well, as you have, but that you finish the race well; God bless and welcome alumni.”

Dr. Brad Reynolds, TMU’s Vice President for Academic Services then presented the bachelor’s and master’s degree candidates to the university’s president who then awarded those candidates with their degree as they walked across the stage. Those receiving Master of Education and Master of Arts in Professional Counseling degrees were the first in the school’s history.

A special posthumous degree was received by the family in honor of Richard Chris Scarborough at what would have been his graduation ceremony. Caner confirmed upon Scarborough a bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies.

After each graduate left the stage, Hank Humphrey, member of the TMU Board of Visitors, concluded the ceremony with a word of prayer.

Jenny Gregory is the Digital Content Specialist for Truett McConnell University.

Alex Parker receives BBA Degree from TMU President Dr. Emir Caner.

Members of TMU’s first graduating class pose prior to Saturday’s graduation ceremony.

Truett McConnell University

Career Coach will visit White County Job Fair Oct. 24

News October 12, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

PRESS RELEASE

CLEVELAND, Ga. — The Career Coach will visit the White County Job Fair in Cleveland on Thursday 24th, 2019 from 3 PM – 7 PM. The event is located at Truett McConnell College 100 Alumni Dr. Cleveland, GA 30528.

We will help local residents search & apply for jobs, write resumes & cover letters, discern their career interests, and learn about WIOA funded training opportunities. This is a Public Event, and there is No Charge for our Services!

Truett McConnell University

Annual audit shows White County in strong financial position

News November 5, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

CLEVELAND, Ga. – Clay Pilgrim of the accounting firm of Rushton Company presented a positive annual audit report to the White County Board of Commissioners during their voting session Monday.

Pilgrim said the county is in a strong financial position. “Nothing came to our attention to prevent us from issuing an unmodified or clean opinion on the financial statement for White County,” he said.

The county’s total net position is $51,328,861, an increase of $1,942,074 from the previous year. General fund revenue increased $1,630,497 while expenditures increased by $935,627. The unassigned fund balance is $3,946,540 which represents about 2.7 months of operating expenses.

Commissioner Terry Goodger said, “The county has come up $11 million in the last five years. That really shows a tremendous amount of growth in the county.”

Kevin Hamby followed Pilgrim’s report with more good financial news about the special purpose local option sales tax.

Commissioners then took time out to recognize two important groups during the meeting – farmers and public safety workers.

“Farming is still the No. 1 economic engine for White County,” Chairman Travis Turner said “It provides food for out tables, more than we realize.” Turner then read a proclamation declaring Nov. 21-29 Farm City Week in White County.

Commissioners then heard from Public Safety Director David Murphy, who paid tribute to the hard work and dedication of the men and women under his command.

Murphy said public safety workers respond to calls covering 242 square miles. “So far this year, they have responded to 1,968 calls, performed eight fire inspections, reviewed 187 pre-fire plans, provided fire prevention education to 4,709 students and community members. We have given away and installed 80 fire detection devices to our most vulnerable population.”

These things have been accomplished with only 12 career firefighters, 45 volunteers and three administrative personnel.

Murphy singled out the county fire chief for special recognition. “The leadership of this group came from Norman Alexander,” Murphy said. “He has served as fire chief and assistant fire chief since 2004. He has led these individuals from an all-volunteer to the combination department we have today. Under his leadership style and integrity he has moved this department forward into a position where the goals of protecting lives, property and the environment can be accomplished with excellence.”

Many of the members of his department — both career and volunteer — attended the meeting and Murphy said “I would like to publicly thank them for their service to White County and the diverse communities we serve today.”

The Board unanimously approved all consent agenda items, including a request by Truett McConnell University to authorize a revenue bond issuance through the White County Development Authority. The bond issue does not obligate White County taxpayers in any way, but will allow the university to refinance its existing debt at a more favorable interest rate.

Under New Business, the Board approved a request by Clyde Fleming for a conditional use permit for 2.77 acres located at 672 Foothills Drive in Cleveland to be placed in the county’s short-term rental program. The vote was 4-1 with Commissioner Craig Bryant opposed.

The Board also approved two annexation requests. One is for property located at 1847 Hwy. 129 South to be annexed into the City of Cleveland. The other is for 4.55 acres located at 52 Comer Circle to be annexed into the City of Helen.

The Board also approved amendments to the fiscal year 2018-2019 budget and fiscal year 2019-2020 budget establishing a pooled account for jail telephone commissions.

David Murphy Meeting Truett McConnell University White County Board of Commissioners

Mike Huckabee is keynote speaker for TMU’s Faith and Freedom Celebration

News March 31, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

CLEVELAND, Ga. – The Faith and Freedom Celebration will be held Saturday (April 6) at 6:30 p.m. in the George Blaurock Student Center at Truett McConnell University with former Governor Mike Huckabee scheduled as keynote speaker and Fox News Channel’s Todd Starnes as master of ceremonies.

Singer Jake Cowley will also perform. The program is part of TMU’s Empower the Call scholarship campaign.

Prior to the program, a reception will be held from 4 p.m. until 5:15 p.m. with dinner and entertainment to follow. A book signing will be held from 8:15 p.m. until 8:45 p.m.

for 4 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.

For more information, on tickets and reservations, call 706-865-2134 ext. 3801.

Truett McConnell University

Truett McConnell University invites community to Trick or Treat

News October 23, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

CLEVELAND, Ga. — Truett McConnell University will host its annual Treats at Truett event on Thursday, October 31 from 6:00-9:00 PM.

Families with elementary-aged children are invited to attend the campus-wide event and enjoy a safe environment for trick-or-treating, games, hay rides, face-painting, magic show and more!

The event will be held on the TMU campus at 100 Alumni Drive, Cleveland, Ga. 30528. Treats at Truett is a free event and open to the public.

Truett McConnell University

TMU offers new criminal justice degree concentrations

News June 3, 2019 , by Bill Johnson

PRESS RELEASE

Cleveland, Ga. – New criminal justice degree concentrations will be offered through Truett McConnell University’s (TMU) Michael Sattler School of Public Service beginning fall semester 2019.

Along with the general Criminal Justice concentration, prospective students interested in the criminal justice degree will now have the opportunity to focus on concentrations in forensic psychology, forensic science – biology, forensic science – chemistry, law enforcement, leadership and executive management, and pre-law.

J. Marie Griffin-Taylor

“The chance to expand opportunities for students to enter their called mission field by giving them training aligned with the needs of our criminal justice community is so powerful,” said J. Marie Griffin-Taylor, Associate Dean of The Michael Sattler School of Public Service and Assistant Professor. “Students will also gain knowledge under faculty who all have a minimum of ten years’ experience within their field.”

“The opportunity to provide greater focus for our students, all geared towards what the job market needs, is what excites me the most about our Criminal Justice concentrations,” added Griffin-Taylor.

The program as a whole provides an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system while developing leadership and managerial skills to allow the opportunity for promotion in the work force. Prospective students receive on-site training via internships through partnerships from other public safety branches and are equipped with coursework such as Criminology, Social Science Research Methods, Policing in America, and Ethics in Criminal Justice, all taught by professors through a Christian worldview.
Criminal Justice concentrations include:

Forensic Science – Biology offers two tracks–Anatomy and Physiology and Environmental/Ecological. These tracks are for students desiring a focus on the biological investigative aspects or wanting to work for the Department of Natural Resources.

Forensic Science – Chemistry is suited for students who are interested in working as a crime scene and lab analyst or technician, responsible for collecting and processing evidence and completing chemical analyses

Forensic Psychology is designed for students who are interested in delving into the criminal psyche, aiding victims in dealing with their trauma, and helping first responders develop positive coping mechanisms.

Law Enforcement provides the required knowledge for those entering a law enforcement career and expands the skillsets of those currently working in the field of law enforcement at the local, state, and/or federal level.

Pre-Law is designed to prepare students for law school with inclusion of criminal and civil aspects at the national and international levels.
Leadership and Executive Management will provide the necessary skill set to excel in a leadership capacity, either to individuals currently serving in a leadership capacity (command staff) or to anyone who seeks an edge to attain one of these positions.

General/Independent allows students an opportunity to build a program suited to their specific needs and wants.

Learn more about requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree by visiting truett.edu/criminaljustice or by emailing [email protected].

Jenny Gregory is the Digital Marketing Specialist for Truett McConnell University.

Truett McConnell University

Lt. Col. Oliver North, Todd Starnes will highlight Faith and Freedom celebration at Truett McConnell Friday

News April 16, 2018 , by Bill Johnson

CLEVELAND, Ga. – A star-studded lineup will highlight the Faith and Freedom celebration Friday, April 20, in the George Blaurock Student Wellness Center at Truett McConnell University (TMU). Doors will open for bleacher seating at 7 p.m.

Fox News Commentator Todd Starnes will be the host and decorated combat veteran and former deputy director of the National Security Council Lt. Col. Oliver North will be a featured guest.

North served 22 years in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He was awarded a Silver Star and Purple Heart for his service. He is now a best-selling author and frequent guest commentator on Fox News.

Fox News commentator Todd Starnes

All proceeds from the event will fund the Empower the Call campaign, which provides assistance for student mission trips, creates retention scholarships, and reduces missionary student debt, allowing TMU alumni currently on the mission field to remain and continue sharing the gospel message.

Event ticket options include: bleacher seating for $25 or table seating with dinner for $250. Dinner tables of eight are also available for $2,000, which includes a reception with North and Starnes.

In addition to the program, all participants will have the opportunity to view a replica of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier inside the Student Wellness Center. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit truett.edu/faithandfreedom or call the TMU office of Advancement at 706-865- 2134, ext. 3801.

Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that covers Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYN attracts 300,000+ page views per month, 3.5 million impressions per month and approximately 15,000 viewers per week on FYNTV.com and up to 60,000 Facebook page reach.If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of those counties, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com

Fox News Truett McConnell University

BOC called meeting and work session Monday

News May 20, 2018 , by Bill Johnson

CLEVELAND Ga. – The White County Board of Commissioners will hold a combined work session and called meeting Monday (May 21) at 4:30 p.m. Aside from tomorrow’s meeting, however, there will be several changes in the meeting schedule over the next three weeks.

County offices will be closed and there is no meeting scheduled May 28 in observance of Memorial Day. The June 4 meeting is also canceled. On June 11, commissioners will hold a budget public hearing and called meeting. Then, on June 18, there will be a called meeting to adopt the fiscal year 2018-’19 budget.

Commissioners have a busy agenda to address at tomorrow’s meeting, including consideration of SPLOST-funded road improvements to be approved for bidding this spring.

Other agenda items to be addressed, include:

Approval of jail use agreements with the cities of Helen and Cleveland;
Approval of a resolution supporting Truett McConnell University’s request to reduce the posted speed limit from 45 mph to 35 mph in proximity to the campus on Hwy. 115;
Renewal of the memorandum of understanding with the International Mountain Bicycling Association/Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association;
Approval of White County Chamber of Commerce’s request for funding of a grant request for the Passport to Outdoor Adventure Tourism Product Development;
Review of the contract with Advanced Disposal for operation of the White County Transfer Station;
Adoption of an amendment to the county vehicle use policy;
Appointments to the Department of Family and Children’ Services Board, Development Authority, Chamber of Commerce Board, Avita Community Partners Board of Directors and Industrial Building Authority.

Truett McConnell University White County Board of Commissioners

Council approves resolution to reduce speed at Truett McConnell

News May 8, 2018 , by Bill Johnson

CLEVELAND, Ga. – The Cleveland City Council unanimously approve a resolution in support of reducing the speed limit in front of Truett McConnell University (TMU) Monday. The resolution now goes to the White County Board of Commissioners and, if approved, Senator Steve Gooch will deliver the resolution to the Georgia Department of Transportation for final approval.

TMU Director of Alumni Relations and Public Policy Dr. John Yarbrough addressed council, saying, “With our growth of property and students, we now have eight points of agress and egress within a quarter mile.” The reduction in speed from 45 to 35 mph, he said, would increase safety for students.

Council voted unanimously to enter into an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the Board of Commissioners to accept the historic Oak Springs School and property from the county. The school, which was the first one in White County for black students, will be converted into a community center.

“Due to the historic nature of the school, city council is very interested in preserving it,” said City Manager Tom O’Bryant.

Council also approved the Georgia Municipal Association District Directors Ballot that includes Annie Sutton as second vice president and a request for City Clerk Connie Tracas to take an online course for accounting at a cost of $419.

O’Bryant met with White County and city of Helen officials last week to negotiate an intergovernmental agreement with regard to a division of funds from a proposed 2020 special purpose local option sales (SPLOST) tax.

In earlier SPLOSTs, the two cities each received about 20 percent of the revenue. Both, however, agreed to settle for 13 percent in the last two SPLOSTs to help fund the county jail. Now they want a return to the 20 percent level.

O’Bryant said the city has identified a list of projects it would like to fund. Those projects would cost about $5.4 million and require about 20 percent of projected revenue. Any future SPLOST, however, must be approved by White County voters before it can be implemented.

Council approved the purchase of a Dodge 1500 pickup truck from Jacky Jones Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram to replace a city-owned truck that had a blown engine. Funding for the vehicle will come from voter-approved SPLOST funds.

Callie Armour, a White County Middle School student and 4-H member, told council about a project that her 4-H class is working on involving the building of a planter for the city square with plants and colorful plants.

Cleveland City Council Tom O'Bryant Truett McConnell University

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