Towns County GOP draws State candidates days before run-off election
Election 2018, News, Politics July 23, 2018
Vendors set up shop, selling their wares
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Republican Party hosted an “Old-Fashion Rally and BBQ” on Hiawassee Town Square, the weekend prior to the state run-off election. Towns County GOP Chair Betsy Young organized and orchestrated the event, drawing Gubernatorial candidate Casey Cagle , and Secretary of State candidate David Belle Isle, to visit with constituents.
Towns County GOP Chair Betsy Young and County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw review the day’s agenda
Georgia State Senator Josh McKoon spoke on behalf of Lieutenant Governor candidate David Shafer, and former State Representative Stephen Allison represented Gubernatorial candidate Brian Kemp. Kemp was unable to attend due to an engagement with U.S. Vice President Mike Pence in Macon, Georgia.
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton and his band rocked the Square
Vendors set up shop along Berrong Street, and K&K Killer Kue served smoked pork barbeque sandwiches to guests.
The Republican Party held a bake sale, and the President’s Team manned an information booth.
Radio host of EXtreme Carolina, Michael Levi Borkman, served as Master of Ceremony.
Former Towns County Republican Chair Mark Wolchko streamed music, leading up to the candidate “stumping”.
(L-R) Master of Ceremony Michael Levi Borkman and Secretary of State candidate David Belle Isle
Chris Clinton, who serves as Towns County Sheriff, and his band provided live entertainment.
Hiawassee Police Department chipped in, providing not only security, but supplying a needed tent and table for visitors.
Local resident Betty Phillips visits the President’s Team booth
Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, staying throughout, and Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales made a brief appearance at the event.
The State Run-Off Election takes place tomorrow, July 24. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
(Feature Image: Blairsville Mayor Jim Conley shakes hands with Gubernatorial candidate Casey Cagle)
Sheriff Clinton shares valuable emergency preparedness advice
Sheriff's Desk January 7, 2018
From the Desk of Towns County Sheriff Christopher M. Clinton:
There are a number of things that each family can do to be prepared for an emergency situation. There are any number of weather events that can create an emergency on a very large scale and for those who are unprepared the consequences can be devastating.
Events such as tornadoes, flooding, winter ice storms, heavy snow, and extreme cold don’t happen all the time, but when they do happen, families can be stranded for days without help. During a major event, it may take rescue workers and utility crews several days to reach certain locations. Tornadoes and winter storms may make roads impassible for long periods of time, in essence, trapping people in their homes and preventing help from getting to them until roads can be cleared. Other events, such as flooding, may require people to evacuate their homes.
Because these types of events can and do happen, there are some things that families should do to be prepared for an emergency. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency offers many tips. The following information is compiled in large part from their recommendations and I believe they are helpful if implemented:
- Families should consider installing safety features in their homes. A NOAA weather radio can alert you to rapidly changing weather conditions and let you know if a serious event is likely. Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers should be in each home.
- Home owners should regularly inspect their home for potential hazards such as items that can fall, break, or catch fire and correct these issues.
- It is a good idea for family members to learn CPR and first aid, as well as how to use a fire extinguisher, or how and when to turn off water, gas, or electricity to the home.
- Children should be taught how and when to call 9-1-1 for help.
- Families should keep enough supplies, including medical supplies and medicines to last for at least three days.
- Families should have a plan and discuss where to go in the home in the event of a severe thunder storm or tornado and what to do in the event of a flood. Children especially need to know and practice this.
- In the event you need to evacuate your home you will need an emergency supply kit. A good kit should include enough water to last three days (one gallon of water per person per day), food that will not spoil, a change of clothes and shoes for each person, a blanket, or sleeping bag for each person, a first aid kit that includes any prescription medications, emergency tools, extra car keys, cash. Infants and disabled persons may need specialty items and they should be included. A kit should be ready to transport in easy to carry containers such as back packs or duffel bags.
While the possibility of experiencing a disaster is unpleasant to consider, having a well-considered, discussed, and practiced plan can make a tremendous difference in the safety of all concerned.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
From the Desk of the Sheriff: Winter Weather Driving Hazards
Sheriff's Desk December 11, 2017
From the Desk of Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton:
With the wintry weather of the past few days and the promise of more to come, it seems an appropriate time to talk about winter driving. It is always best not to drive during snowy or icy conditions. Whenever possible avoid driving during extreme winter weather. Even front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-`drive vehicles are susceptible to snow and ice. If you must drive, the following suggestions are meant as helpful tips to avoid increasing the risk.
During winter you should always make certain that your vehicle is prepared. Vehicle preparation should include keeping your vehicle properly tuned up and making sure that your tires are in good shape. Tires should be properly inflated and have a tread depth of at least an eighth inch. Always keep plenty of fuel in your vehicle’s tank and make sure that your battery is up to date and properly maintained.
There are several items that are recommended to be kept in your vehicle during cold weather. These are especially important if you are traveling long distances. Good items to have on hand include bottled water, a flashlight with extra batteries, spare warm clothing, a warm blanket or sleeping bag, jumper cables, snow chains, a tow strap, wooden matches in a water proof container, a fully charged cell phone, and road flares, safety triangles, or both, to make your vehicle more visible. Cat litter can be used as a traction aid, much like gravel, but is easier to carry in a vehicle.
Some things to consider when driving include slowing down by at least half the speed normally recommended and allowing at least twice the distance between your vehicle and another. Remember to use more gentle controls during slippery conditions. You should start, steer, and stop your vehicle in a gentle, steady, and smooth fashion. If you are breaking and your brakes start to lock, ease up on the pressure. If your rear wheels start to skid take your foot off the brake and steer the vehicle in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. Do not try to accelerate during a skid and never use cruise control during snowy, icy, or wet conditions.
If you become stuck or stranded in the snow, it is almost always better to stay with your vehicle and wait for help. If you run the vehicle to use the heater, be sure that the exhaust is not obstructed and always leave at least one window slightly open to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only leave your vehicle if you know exactly where you are and are certain that you will improve your conditions by doing so.
It is always better to stay off the roadways during winter weather conditions such as snow and ice. The information I have provided is by no means a comprehensive list and is only meant to offer some suggestions for being safer. All the preparation in the world cannot guarantee that you will arrive safely to your destination if you choose to drive in poor conditions. My first advice is that you not drive during extreme weather. If you must, please take precautions and drive carefully.
(Photo: Robin H. Webb/FYN – Towns County, GA – Dec. 8, 2017)
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton
Community, News August 7, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Christopher M. Clinton –
Towns County Schools were back in session as of Thursday, August 3rd. Please be aware that in the mornings from approximately 7:30 AM until approximately 8:00 AM there will be increased traffic in front of the school. Traffic will again increase around 3:00 PM. The Sheriff’s Office will be providing traffic control to assist with safety.
Also, please be mindful that school buses will be picking up and dropping off children in the mornings and afternoons. It is the duty of any driver of a motor vehicle, when passing or overtaking a school bus from either direction, to come to a complete stop before reaching the school bus at any time the visual signals of the bus are on. The driver shall not resume travel until the bus has once again resumed travel and has deactivated the signals. Passing a stopped school bus is a serious traffic offense. School bus drivers are authorized and directed under Georgia law to make a report describing any vehicle committing the offense. Said report will then be turned over to the local law enforcement having authority and a citation issued.
The following information, provided by Safe Kids USA, is offered to parents of school age children. These are helpful ideas that may help keep your child safe.
School buses are generally considered one of the safest ways to travel; however, an estimated 5,000 children are injured each year in school bus related accidents. Many of these injuries occur when children are entering or exiting the bus. This is likely due to the fact that the driver has a blind spot of about 10 feet around the bus. This is sometimes difficult for younger children to understand. Half of all school-age pedestrians killed in bus-related crashes are between 5 and 7 years old (SAFE KIDS USA)
• Help keep children safe by teaching them to wait until the bus comes to a complete stop, the door opens, and the bus driver says that it is safe to board the bus.
• Make sure children know that they should never walk behind or close to the sides of a bus.
• Teach children to never run across the road to catch a school bus.
• Pay extra attention and never speed when driving in a school zone and around school buses and pedestrians.
As any parent will tell you, our children are our greatest blessings in life. As your Sheriff, I am committed to doing all that I can to help our children remain safe. Please help by being extra alert when driving and reminding others to do so as well.
Seventh-grade student delivers powerful speech on school shootings
News December 19, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – The sudden sound of automatic gunfire rang out in the courtroom of the Towns County Courthouse on Thursday, Dec. 18, a simulated start to a powerful, passionate speech on school shootings, delivered by Eastgate Life Academy student Hannah Minchew.
Minchew plans to address state leaders in Atlanta early next year in an effort to shine a spotlight on a significant subject, one which is clearly close to her heart.
“Did you not here that? Why are you still all sitting here? Do you even know what that was? That was the sound of an assault rifle,” the seventh grader began with conviction, referencing the Columbine shooting, “That was the sound heard by those students on April 20, 1999, when Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris started one of the worst school massacres in history. They killed 13 people, and wounded 24 others before turning the guns on themselves and committing suicide.
Hannah Minchew, a seventh grade student at Eastgate Life Academy
“Did you know that there has been 494 school shootings? 494, and 18 of those have occured in Georgia, and in most every case of a school shooting, the signs were there. These attackers had planned their attacks for weeks to months, but no one noticed,” Minchew continued, leading the 12-year-old to recap the warning signs present prior to the Sandy Hook tragedy.
“But are our schools really safe? Do barriers, locked doors, and armed guards really make us safe? Does the banning of assault rifles really make us safe? These are all hard questions with no easy answers. I believe that it takes all of this and much more. It takes everyone in our community being vigilant and aware,” Minchew pleaded, concluding with a heartfelt, “Will you notice?”
Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw praised Minchew’s speech, acknowledging that it was, “sore, sad, subject matter.”
“We have worked, as commissioner, we have worked with Sheriff Clinton, and your school Superintendent Darren Berrong,” Commissioner Bradshaw said, “We’ve had several meetings on school safety, on what we can do to try to make our school safer, and that’s why we put on the other DARE officer, hoping that it would make a difference. Our school campus is so spread out.”
FYN has extensively reported on school security in our counties of coverage, and we will continue to pursue future developments.
Sandy Springs Police Department gifts Towns County Sheriff’s Office with equipment
News December 3, 2018YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. – On Monday, Nov. 26, the Towns County Sheriff’s Office received over $25,000 worth of donated equipment from the Sandy Springs Police Department. Sheriff Clinton expressed that he is “very happy” to receive the donated surplus equipment for the Sheriff’s Office, adding that Santa Claus came early this year.
The equipment received includes the following items: six blue light bars for patrol vehicles, a tag reader, push bumpers, window bars, consoles, laptop brackets, dry erase boards, various blue light marker lights, and other miscellaneous items. According to the sheriff, the items will be highly beneficial in savings to the Sheriff’s Office budget.
Sheriff Clinton thanks the Sandy Springs Police Department for the donated equipment.
Sheriff’s Office seizes vehicle, over $13K in drug distribution arrest
Arrest Reports, News September 29, 2018
Joseph Carson Loog
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – On the morning of Saturday, Sept. 22, Towns County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop on a 2003 Black Chrysler PT Cruiser on Kelly Road in Hiawassee. Towns County Sheriff’s Office investigators assisted the deputies with the traffic stop. Upon investigation, the vehicle was impounded and a search warrant was obtained.
Towns County Sheriff’s Office arrested Joseph Carson Loog, 41, of Paris, TN.
Loog was charged with the following crimes:
- 1 Count Violation of Georgia Controlled Substance Act, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute
- 1 Count Violation of Georgia Controlled Substance Act, possession of methamphetamine
- 1 Count Violation of Georgia Controlled Substance Act, possession of marijuana
- 1 Count Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- 1 Count Possession of Firearm during the Commission of a Felony
- 1 Count of Giving a False Name to Law Enforcement
- 1 Count of Driving on Suspended License
- 1 Count of No Proof of Insurance
- 1 Count of No Seatbelt
Towns County Sheriff’s Office Investigators, during the course of the investigation, seized a 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, $13,973 in cash, a 9mm handgun, a portable scanner, a set of scales, along with other miscellaneous items.
The investigation is active and ongoing; additional arrests and charges are probable.
The case will be forwarded to the Enotah Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
Loog is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Feature Photo: (L-R) Investigator Jay McCarther, Sheriff Chris Clinton, Lt. Aaron Deyton
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet, attracting over 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Towns, Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, and Murray counties, as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Calvary Alliance Church hosts Appreciation Luncheon for Local Public Safety
Community, News September 26, 2018HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Calvary Alliance Church hosted a hamburger and hot dog cookout for Towns County Public Safety employees on Tuesday, Sept. 18, in a show of appreciation and support. Reverend Brian Schmidt , along with church members, welcomed first responders from each of the public safety divisions to the luncheon.
Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw and Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton were on hand in show of gratitude in reciprocation to Reverend Schmidt and church members for the outreach of support for public safety personnel.
Sheriff Clinton Announces Christmas Parade; Empty Stocking Fund
Sheriff's Desk, Upcoming Events November 6, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton:
This year, the Sheriff’s Christmas Parade will be Saturday, November 25, beginning at 5:30pm. The parade will start at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds and end at McConnell Memorial Baptist Church in Hiawassee. Anyone can enter the parade and participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy. Those who wish may also donate to the Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Fund. The proceeds from the Sheriff’s Empty Stocking fund go directly to benefit underprivileged children in Towns County, children who might not receive Christmas gifts otherwise.
Last year, thanks to all those who donated, we were able to provide gifts for hundreds of Towns County Children. This year we hope to continue to meet those needs for children who otherwise would not receive Christmas gifts, but we will need your help and continued support. We have already begun to receive donations for the children, and I would like to thank those who have joined us to help in this effort. Each year since 2007, I have had the honor to be a part of something that brings joy to the hearts of those who give, as well as to the children who receive. I am thankful to serve such a caring community.
This year we are again asking those who will, to continue their support of the Sheriff’s Empty Stocking fund. The program is designed in such a manner as to allow the parents to pick up the gifts, or if unable to pick them up due to transportation issues, we will deliver the gifts to the parents. The idea behind the program is to allow the parents to be the ones who give the gifts to their children. It is a wonderful program that brings joy to the hearts of many young children each year. I would like to take this opportunity to say a personal thank you to the entire Sheriff’s Office staff and our CLEA volunteers for working so hard each year to ensure that local children and families have a merry Christmas!
If you are interested in helping by participating in the parade, simply call the Sheriff’s Office at 706/896-4444. You may also drop off donations at the Sheriff’s Office Detention Center located at 4070 State Highway 339, Young Harris, or the Towns County Sheriff’s Office located in the Towns County Courthouse at 48 River Street, Hiawassee.
Thank you for your continued support of this wonderful program. We look forward to another successful year of helping Towns County’s children in need, made possible by your generosity this Christmas season.
Towns County leaders weigh-in on massive early voter turnout
Election 2018, News November 3, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Early voting in the 2018 midterm election came to a close on Friday, and Towns County Board of Elections saw a massive turnout at the Hiawassee polling precinct. Of the 9,386 registered voters in Towns County, 4,030 residents chose to cast their ballots ahead of Tuesday’s general election. A total of 257 absentee ballots had been returned to the election board as of Friday afternoon.
The 2018 turnout rivals that of the 2016 presidential election. Two years ago, 4,564 of the 8,608 voters registered in Towns County turned up to cast early ballots at the polls, with 420 ballots returned by mail. Midterm elections historically do not draw such a high amount of voters to the ballot box.
FYN reached out to Towns County leaders and gathered their thoughts on the phenomenon.
Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton believes that the south-of-the-border “caravan of criminals” that are headed toward the U.S. border plays a part in the impressive turnout at the Georgia polls. “The future of our nation and our state rides on this election. Anyone being honest about these caravans understands what is at stake. If the left wins, the caravans are just the beginning. If the Republicans stay in, I’m willing to bet they turn around,” Clinton warned, “We must stop this madness or we will cease to be a sovereign nation…They aren’t coming for jobs or safety. Mexico offered those. They sure aren’t coming to be Americans. Those aren’t American flags they are carrying during these border assaults.”
Sheriff Clinton recently endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Kemp, reiterating on Friday that Stacey Abrams’ “radical, socialist ideas are extremely dangerous.”
District 8 State House Representative Matt Gurtler is optimistic that Georgia will remain a “red” state, adding that according to the Secretary of State’s office, Georgia has seen the highest early voter turnout in the state’s history during this year’s general election. “Our district is the most active in the state and the most conservative by far,” Gurtler explained, “I expect to see the 8th House District in the lead once again this coming Tuesday, and I believe and have great faith in the people of Georgia, that we will see a ‘red wave’ sweep the entire state.”
While Towns County Republican Party Chair Betsy Young is enthusiastic,the GOP leader believes that the race for Georgia’s next governor, in particular, is tight. “I think this is going to be close, but if only legal voters vote – all Democrats and Republicans – we will win. The area around Atlanta will be heavily Democrat, but I believe some who have never voted anything but Democrat will vote Republican because of two things: hate by liberals and their awful demonstration of it, along with the economy and immigration.”
“The fate of our state and our county is at stake,” Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw expressed, “Towns County realizes how important this election is for our future, and I’m very thankful for that.” Commissioner Bradshaw served as Master of Ceremonies at a recent “Get Out the Vote” event sponsored by the Towns County Republican Party.
While the four local leaders agree that the high voter count is good sign for their affiliated political party, the Republicans stressed the importance of an equally healthy turnout at the polls on election day.
Towns County polling precincts will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 6.
Count on FYN to deliver local election results as soon as they become available.
Questions surface after school lock-down drill
News March 20, 2018HIAWASSEE, Ga. – On the morning of Wednesday, March 14, a lock-down training exercise took place at Towns County School at 10 a.m.
While there was a call for a nationwide walk-out in remembrance of the 17 lives lost Feb. 14, 2018, at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, many schools across the nation chose a proactive approach.
FetchYourNews (FYN) learned of the drill and hoped to highlight the positive measures taken.
In the aftermath of the Parkland tragedy, FYN has reported on the subject of school safety in Towns, Gilmer, Fannin, Union, Lumpkin, and Dawson County, Georgia, as well as Cherokee County, North Carolina.
While the ultimate safety of students is not being called into question, with FYN maintaining conviction that security is of the utmost concern for Towns County School administrators and Towns County first responders alike, unexpected questions arose during our research.
Letter sent to the parents of elementary school students
In a letter forwarded to FYN, dated March 13, 2018, and signed by Towns County Elementary Principal Dr. Sandra Page, parents of elementary school children were advised a day in advance that the drill would occur. The letter reads, in part, that “during an active shooter drill, it is necessary to reenact the scenario of a shooter on campus in order to find strengths and possible weaknesses in our emergency plans.”
The letter goes on to state that “local agencies such as the police, EMS (emergency medical services), and the fire department will be involved in this drill and will be arriving on campus.”
Following an unsuccessful, in-person attempt to acquire sufficient information on the active shooter drill from the Towns County Sheriff’s courthouse office, FYN contacted the emergency agencies listed as participants in the training exercise.
FYN was surprised to learn that the Hiawassee Police Department, Towns County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Towns County Fire and Rescue, as well as the Towns County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) were not notified that a drill was scheduled, and therefore did not participate.
At a Movers and Shakers meeting held Feb. 23, Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, along with Towns County School Superintendent Dr. Darren Berrong, spoke with concerned citizens regarding school safety. The sheriff divulged that a few years had passed since an active shooter drill was conducted.
Sheriff Clinton opened his speech by recalling a recent conversation with Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith.
“The chief and I were just discussing this, what, a week ago maybe, that it’s about time that we do another one, and that we do it together,” Sheriff Clinton assured.
Sheriff Clinton continued, “How do we make our children safer? Now. Not some place down the road at some philosophical perfect normal for you, but right now. How do we do that? Frankly, at the end of the day, we have to make it a harder target.”
After referencing the 1999 Columbine tragedy, Sheriff Clinton asked, “What’s been done by the government to make our children safer? Not a single thing. Because a lot of people think they can get up and talk about it, and they can harp on whatever their pet issue is. I’m pro-gun, I’m anti-gun, whatever, but as long as they’re talking about it and people are listening, they are getting political mileage out of it, and they really don’t care. I’m sorry, but I care.
“I’m coming to silence the gun. I’m not coming to survive it. I’m coming to silence the gun,” Sheriff Clinton emphasized. “Frankly, that’s what I expect from every deputy sheriff and every law enforcement officer in this nation. God help me if I have to walk past my own children while they bleed. I’m coming to silence the gun.”
At the conclusion of the forum, Sheriff Clinton acknowledged a need to ensure all first responders are familiar with the school’s campus and lock-down procedure. The sheriff told those in attendance that it is up to the community to decide what level of security they want in place. “I work for you,” Sheriff Clinton reminded.
FYN contacted Sheriff Chris Clinton on the evening of the lock-down in anticipation of learning why his plans to include other emergency agencies had changed.
Sheriff Clinton failed to provide an explanation, focusing rather on garnering the individual identities of FYN’s sources. Shortly after asked if proper protocol was followed, a concern brought to the attention of FYN by an emergency official, Sheriff Clinton ended communication.
The following day, Thursday, March 15, FYN Chief Executive Officer Brian Pritchard sat down with Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales, Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith, and Towns County Fire Chief Harold Copeland, reconfirming the lack of communication and coordination.
FYN met with Superintendent Dr. Darren Berrong on Friday, March 16, in search of further clarification.
Berrong revealed that the active shooter drill was implemented between himself and Sheriff Clinton, following the Movers and Shakers forum.
When the question was posed concerning the absence of agencies, Berrong replied, “Well, (the school) wasn’t sure of everyone who was involved. I think there were some of those individuals there.” Upon learning that was not the case, Berrong stated there may have been a miscommunication in verbiage, saying, “Personally, for me, it wasn’t about the fire department. It was about the police officers.”
Berrong was then asked to recap the drill.
“At 10:00, Mr. Perren came over the announcement through all three schools and informed them we were going into a lock-down, that there would be police officers walking through the hallways, make sure to keep your doors locked, and to keep the kids in a safe area,” Superintendent Berrong explained. “While that was going on, police officers were making their rounds through the building, just to make sure they were still familiar with what the campus actually looks like, what’s going on during a lock-down, where can you go and where can’t you go in case there is a shooter in the school, and what areas can we access. They made their rounds through the school while we were in lock-down. We were in lock-down probably ten minutes. Our school isn’t a very big building, you can make a round through there fairly quickly. So ten to fifteen minutes, and pretty much that was the end of the drill.”
FYN inquired if there are plans to hold a subsequent active shooter exercise. “We may have further drills. We don’t have any planned currently,” Dr. Berrong said. “Sheriff Clinton and I are in discussion about this summer, getting together with all personnel, fire department and everyone, just to sit down and make sure everyone has plans of the school building, and make sure everyone has access to the ‘Crisis Go’ app, which alerts people when there is an emergency on campus, and just have another round-table discussion about what we are going to do when something like that happens, how do we shut the campus down. We had one of those several years ago, but it’s about time we had another one.”
FYN contacted Towns County School Facility Director Roy Perren. Director Perren relayed that the exercise was exclusively planned for the Towns County Sheriff’s Office and that there was never an intention to include other emergency agencies. The facility director added that a Towns County School meeting will be held in conjunction with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) April 13 concerning the involvement of all first responders, should an emergency situation arise.
Elementary School Principle Dr. Sandra Page returned FYN’s request for comment on the afternoon of Monday, March 19.
Page stated that to her knowledge, the active shooter exercise was changed to simply a lock-down drill on the morning of March 14, shortly before the training occurred, excluding the need for the involvement of agencies other than the Towns County Sheriff’s Office. “I just wanted to get the information out so that students, parents, and teachers were aware that a drill was going to take place,” Dr. Page said. “That was my main concern.”
This left FYN with more questions than answers, considering that none of the emergency agencies listed in the letter had been notified that an active shooter drill had been scheduled.
Hiawassee Police Department, Towns County EMS, Towns County Fire and Rescue, and Towns County EMA state that their departments expect to take part in future training exercises.
Sheriff warns of circulating telephone scams
Sheriff's Desk March 14, 2018
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton
Towns County, Georgia
The Towns County Sheriff’s Office has received several reports recently in reference to telephone scams. In some of these scams the callers have identified themselves as being representatives of the Sheriff’s Office. These callers have told victims that they had outstanding warrants against them. The scammers go on to tell victims that the warrants can be taken care of if the victims pay certain amounts of money. Neither I, nor any employees of the Towns County Sheriff’s Office, will ever contact you to solicit money.
Other recent scams involve scammers claiming to be representatives of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These callers claim the victim owes back taxes and that law enforcement officers are in the area awaiting word to arrest the victim if they do not provide a certain amount of money. The IRS does not solicit payment over the phone.
Many of these recent scams have involved payment via iTunes cards or other forms of direct payment. The scammers attempt to get the victim’s money immediately before they realize this is a scam. At least one caller actually had an individual call and represent himself as Sheriff Chris Clinton. That is when the victim realized it was a scam and advised the caller that they knew Chris Clinton and that the caller was not the Sheriff.
No legitimate law enforcement agency should be calling you to solicit money, nor would a legitimate law enforcement officer attempt to keep you on the phone until you had paid money.
Anyone who receives a call asking for funds to take care of outstanding warrants or back taxes are urged to report these scammers to your Sheriff’s Office at 706-896-4444.
From the Desk of the Sheriff
Sheriff's Desk November 27, 2017
From the Desk of Sheriff Chris Clinton:
Most of us have family traditions that we enjoy during the Christmas season. Families with small children may spend Christmas Eve baking cookies for Santa or listening to Christmas carols while enjoying eggnog by the fire. As a small child, I remember the anticipation of Christmas being so intense. I was in awe and wonder, dreaming about what might be inside all those presents wrapped so nicely under the tree. I would just stare at the Christmas tree and daydream about Christmas Day.
For me, even at 49, Christmas is still the most magical time of year. I love Christmas lights and the sounds of Christmas carols everywhere. The world just seems to be a nicer place during the Christmas season. I love to watch young children open gifts and see their eyes light up with joy. There is no other feeling like the feeling of Christmas. While Christmas is about much more than material possessions, the spirit of Christmas is certainly captured in the joy of a child receiving a gift on Christmas morning.
So, what about the children who are less fortunate? Imagine the child whose family has fallen on hard times. Do they wake up to just another day of struggling to make ends meet? Imagine if you were a parent who loved your child, but had lost a job because of the poor economy. I doubt that there would be anything much harder than not being able to provide your child, whom you love, the wonder of Christmas morning. It breaks my heart to think that, as the rest of the world enjoys the most blessed day of the year, some families wake to another day of not having enough. While providing toys for these children isn’t going to make the rest of their problems go away, I can’t help but believe that, at least for a time, their world becomes a little brighter and things seem a little better than before.
Each year the Sheriff’s Office attempts to provide the joy of Christmas gifts for Towns County’s less fortunate children. This effort is only made possible by the help of generous people in the community who donate to this cause. Names of children in need are collected and toys are gathered. We try whenever possible to provide at least one item that the child has specifically asked for. The toys are then given to the parents of the child to handle Christmas in their family’s tradition. It is all done in such a way as to protect the dignity of the family and allow them to share in the joy that many of us take for granted.
This year has been a tough one for many local families. We are hoping to provide for each child, but we need your help. If you would like to help us with this effort or if you know of a family with children that needs help, please contact your Sheriff’s Office at 706-896-4444.
I hope that each of you has a blessed and joyous Christmas this year!
Sheriff Weighs in on Confederate History
News September 17, 2017
Hiawassee, GA – The hot topics of Confederate monuments reached a local level on Friday, September 15, during the Movers and Shakers weekly meeting at Sundance Grill.
Sam Fullerton, a co-founder of the community discussion group, invited Sheriff Chris Clinton to address the crowd before the forum adjourned.
Although it was a impromptu request, Sheriff Clinton took the podium and began to tell the sentimental story of how his grandparents met and married in Towns County after World War II. The tale formed the foundation for what was to follow:
The sheriff’s views on the eradication of history.
Sheriff Clinton didn’t mince words and spoke with passion about his beliefs.
“Monuments are being torn down. Books are being burned. We cannot destroy history,” the sheriff said, “There’s a vacuum in the media and the pulpits. The only way we can move forward and heal this nation is by teaching our children the truth about about the past.”
“Many people don’t realize that George Washington wasn’t our first President because it isn’t taught in schools. George Washington was actually our ninth President. There were eight before him under the Articles of Confederation.”
Sheriff Clinton went on to say that while slavery was a “horrible thing” and acknowledged the role it played, he explained the Civil War was fought by Confederate citizens in defense of state sovereignty , in opposition of Union taxation.
“That’s the part the media fails to mention,” the Sheriff said, “Robert E. Lee, he hated slavery. Abraham Lincoln was originally willing to keep the Union intact by either preservation or abolishment of slavery. How can we teach our children, our children’s children, if we erase history?”
“I believe I’m responsible for telling the truth,” Sheriff Clinton concluded, “What’s done with it isn’t up to me.”
Fetch Your News reached out to the Towns County Democratic Party for their general take on the controversial issue.
Although a reply as to whether the comment was “on record” wasn’t returned, a member of the Party, who identifies as a Progressive, wrote in an email, “History is important to remember. But when it offends an entire group like Jews, ethnic minority tribes in Asia, and maybe African Americans, a non-combative conversation should take place by officials in charge with input from the community.”
Due to in explicit permission to publish the quotee’s name, Fetch Your News respects the privacy of the individual.
Towns County Sheriff warns Abrams win could lead to violence
Election 2018, News November 5, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton took a solid stand on social media in the days leading into the general midterm election, warning Georgia voters of what he believes will result in dire repercussions should Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams prove to be the victor on Tuesday, Nov. 6.
Clinton – a self-professed Constitutional Conservative serving his third term as Towns County’s lead lawman – insists that the caravan of migrants swelling toward the southern U.S. border is nothing short of an orchestrated invasion.
“This is for real, folks,” Clinton cautioned, “This is an invasion that will end Georgia and America if it is not stopped. The left wants to destroy everything you and I love about our great state. Abrams and her out-of-state friends want to destroy everything we love about America.”
In a shared post on social media, the sheriff added, “Vote Brian Kemp Georgia’s next Governor and stop this extreme and dangerous socialist agenda.”
The sheriff stressed that the motive behind the migrant caravan is to add future backup supporters for the Democratic candidate’s socialist cause, claiming that violent MS-13 gang criminals are embedded within the mass of the estimated 12,000 foreigners.
“MS-13 is an extremely violent and brutal gang with no more respect for your front door or your family than they have for any nation’s borders or civil authorities,” Clinton warned.
“Abrams thinks the folks doing all this are good people and should be allowed to join her cause,” Clinton went on to explain, “Meanwhile, she believes that the law enforcement officers risking their lives to keep us safe are like terrorists.”
Clinton concluded with an expressive plea for Georgians to cast their vote for Republican candidate Brian Kemp in order to “stop this radical, extremist, socialist, anti-American, anti-Georgian, anti-farmer, anti-law enforcement, anti-unborn child, anti-liberty” agenda.
The sheriff later reiterated his outlook in a conversation with FYN on Nov. 2. “I am certain that Towns Countians are informed and are doing our part,” Clinton assured, “Let us all pray for a healing of our nation. While praying, vote.”
Sheriff Clinton is scheduled to address the Town County Republican Party on Thursday, Nov. 15, speaking on the encroaching caravan, gangs, guns, and the opioid epidemic.
Towns County GOP meets on the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Towns County Civic Center in Hiawassee. Meetings are open to the public.
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Towns County officials discuss animal control
News May 21, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Animal control was the topic of spirited discussion at Mountain Movers & Shakers Friday, May 18, 2018.
Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton, Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith, and representatives from the Mountain Shelter Human Society spoke on the subject.
Many residents were unaware of how to handle stray or problematic animals in the area, and those in the know set out to clear the confusion.
A dangerous dog ordinance was in place when Commissioner Bradshaw was elected to office in 2016, with the issue recently being turned over to the Towns County Sheriff’s Office. Prior to 2018, the sheriff’s office was not actively involved and could only take reports. Commissioner Bradshaw said there have been two calls pertaining to the mandate this year.
“There’s a lot that needs to be talked about, and there’s always room for improvement. I realize this, as the county grows,” Commissioner Bradshaw began. “Where I live, it’s no problem. We’ve got elbow-room, my neighbors have elbow-room, and in most places in the county, that is the case, right? It is a fact. But there are neighborhoods, and pockets of neighborhoods that maybe you need some more animal control than what the county’s got. That’s entirely up to your homeowners association, and if you want to have stronger rules or regulations, or leash laws, then I would say go for it. But I’m going to tell you that where I live, I’m not going to tie up my dogs. I’m just not going to do it, but I’m a responsible dog owner, and that’s where the problem comes in.”
“As far as a leash law goes, I understand animal control,” Bradshaw continued. “I’ve talked to (Union County Commissioner) Lamar Paris about it. People say, ‘Union County has leash laws,’ and they do. I’ve read it. But a lot of times there’s just no teeth in it. I’m just going to be honest with you. What about barking? A dog barking all night, keeping the neighbors up? We’re still a small area, and I’ve had this happen twice. I called the neighbor with a barking dog, and I talked to them, and I asked them to help me. I said I need your help, and they did. We got it taken care of. I’m not saying everything we’re doing is perfect, but I’m saying much more than we are doing now, I don’t see it. In time, as the population grows, I can definitely see more ordinances, and leash laws, but I just don’t think the county is there yet. Your neighborhood may be, but the county as a whole is not.”
Sheriff Chris Clinton spoke on Title 4, a state law requiring the sheriff’s office to respond to animal complaints. Sheriff Clinton noted that it is a crime to abandon pets. Roaming livestock falls under the responsibility of the sheriff’s office as well.
“There is a leash law in the city,” Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith said. “It applies to city property. If you have a domestic animal on the sidewalk, the square, or Mayors’ Park – city property or city streets – then it’s supposed to be restrained. It doesn’t apply to personal property or your neighbor’s property, but it does apply to city streets. There’s also an ordinance that discusses loud noises, the barking and howling from animals. I’ll echo the commissioner’s sentiment from earlier. The best method is to call your neighbor and say your dog is annoying me. We can address it from an ordinance perspective if it’s something that goes on and on. As far as strays in general that don’t have an owner that we can contact, I think that’s something that the council and mayor will need to address.”
Mountain Humane Society Board President Bob Levy said that the shelter has improved considerably in recent years. “We have a facility, and our facility continuously grows, based on the donations that we get,” Levy said. “We adopt out a tremendous amount of animals every year. We try to take in every animal that we possibly can. It’s difficult for us to take in sick animals because it can affect the entire operation, but we do have a quarantine area.”
Mountain Shelter Humane Society is a no-kill shelter, and the organizations accepts as many well-disposition, healthy animals that are suitable for adoption as their facility can accommodate. “We are limited on our funds, but we are trying our best to take in animals with minor illness and injuries,” Lisa Collins, the executive director of the shelter explained.
According to Board President Bob Levy, an average of $200 to $500 is spent on each animal housed at Mountain Shelter.
Pit bulls, due to workman’s compensation and liability insurance, and feral cats, because of their wild nature and sparse adoption rate, are not accepted at the shelter.
While Mountain Shelter Humane Society cannot pick up animals, strays can be taken to their facility, provided space is available, at 129 Bowling Dr. in Blairsville.
Mountain Shelter Humane Society can be reached at 706-781-3843.
Bill and Lynn Hall, founders of Katz n Dawgs Helping Hands, a local 501(C)(3) non-profit animal rescue organization, provided contact information. Katz n Dawgs Helping Hands can be reached at 706-896-7931 or [email protected].
FetchYourNews will include information on additional area resources should they become available.
In summary, the course of action is to contact Towns County Sheriff’s Office for issues related to animal aggression or general animal control. Towns County Sheriff’s Office can be contacted by dialing 911 or 706-896-4444.
In addition, Commissioner Bradshaw can be reached at 706-896-2267.