WINTERVILLE GAZETTE WINTERVILLE GAZETTE

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VOLUME XXI, ISSUE 1 JAN–MAR 2019

MAYOR'S MESSAGEWhew...I cannot believe that three years have passed since we walked down to the auditorium after my swearing-in ceremony. It seems like it was just yesterday. As I sit in my office looking out onto the city square and all of the beautiful decorations this holiday season, I think about what has transpired during that time and the good things that have happened to Winterville. I then think about how grateful I am to be a part of it with so many of you who have the same love for this town as I do. We all have a lot to be grateful for as citizens of this special place and more good things are on the horizon in 2019. Gratitude has been my theme this season with family, my work, and the charity events I am a part of. I am going to continue that theme and

hope that all of you know how grateful I am to serve the City of Winterville. Have a very Happy New Year, and I’ll see you on the streets!

Sincerely, Mayor Dodd Ferrelle

CITY NEWSSafe RouteS to School

We requested a Safe Routes to School project from Athens Clarke County using their Safe Routes 2011 SPLOST dollars, and we recently received approval from Mayor Denson and the ACC commissioners to move forward. Approximately $90,000 in County funds will go toward new stamped-brick crosswalks on Cherokee and Henry Meyer Roads and at our Five-Points intersection. New crossing signs will be installed, as well many other enhancements to the area around Winterville Elementary School and Five Points. Work is scheduled to begin in 2019 with a March target date for completion. Visit the City’s website to see a detailed breakdown of the project.

Second fox theatRe InStItute GRant Thanks to our expert grant writer David Matthews-Morgan, we have received a second grant from the Fox Theatre Institute, this time for $47,500. We also received a generous matching donation of $50,000 from Andrew Ratcliffe, owner of Tweed Recording Academy in Athens, and his family foundation. We are very grateful to Andrew, Holli, and their family. This phase of the project will include sound and lighting systems that will be operated from a booth behind a soundproof wall at the rear of the auditorium. This phase will begin in early 2019 with June as a target completion date.

CITY NEWS, cont.StReetScapInG athenS Road

This project includes piping and grading the ditch in front of the Dollar General, after which we will place a five-foot wide sidewalk connecting the driveway at the Peach Pit to Henry Meyer. Trees will also be planted as we begin streetscaping the entire parcel of land known as the Fite Property. Funding for this project will come from GDOT’s Local Maintenance Improvement Grant (LMIG) with a 30 percent match from the city. Look for completion by the end of 2019.

thank You, Jack!Jack Eisenman has retired as director of the Center for Community and Culture. With his experience in Adult Education and his passion for the people of Winterville, Jack took charge of a project that the city was not expecting to direct and built the Center into a valuable city resource. We will be forever grateful to Jack for turning an unfortunate situation into something we will enjoy for years to come. The Center is thriving and will continue to do so under the guidance of Managing Director Joann Snow. Joann has been a big part of Jack’s successful team, and we look forward to the new year with JoAnn and Marketing Manager Michelle Vetter steering the ship. Please show your appreciation by visiting the center and enjoying the various programs offered throughout the week. Many thanks, Jack, and enjoy your labyrinth!

plannInG and ZonInG VacancIeSThe City of Winterville has two vacancies on the Planning & Zoning Committee. Anyone wishing to serve is encouraged to submit an application to Winterville City Hall. Applications are available at City Hall, or you may request an email application from CityHall@CityofWinterville.com. Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2018. We will install new members at the February meeting, and they will begin serving immediately. For more information, contact George Chandler at GeorgeChandler@Windstream.net or 706-540-2062.

The Planning and Zoning Commission of Winterville reviews and approves building projects and commercial signage, and ensures compliance with existing zoning ordinances and the comprehensive plan. It consists of five members appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. You must be a resident of the City of Winterville to serve on this Commission. The P&Z meets on the first Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. (first Wednesday if Monday is a holiday) in City Hall (125 North Church Street). The presence of three members is necessary to constitute a quorum. This is an open meeting, and the public is invited to attend.

Members Term ExpiresGeorge H. Chandler 12/31/2019Diana Y. Hartle 12/31/2018Linda L. Reynolds 12/31/2018Robert White 12/31/2020Ronald Jones 12/31/2020

next SploSt decISIonSDiscussions have begun surrounding the 2021 SPLOST. Be on the lookout for a town hall meeting to discuss needs, ideas, and a citizen advisory board.

Eisenman receiving Key to the City

All events held at City Hall.

Wednesday, January 2 Council Workshop, 5:30 p.m.

Monday, January 7 Planning & Zoning, 5:30 p.m.

Monday, January 14 Municipal Court, 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, January 15 City Council, 6:30 p.m.

Monday, January 21 MLK Day, City Hall Closed

Monday, February 4 Planning & Zoning 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, February 5 Council Workshop 5:30 p.m.

Monday, February 11 Municipal Court 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, February 12 City Council, 6:30 p.m.

Monday, February 18 President's Day, City Hall Closed

Monday, March 4 Planning & Zoning, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, March 5 Council Workshop, 5:30 p.m.

Monday, March 11 Municipal Court 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, March 12 City Council, 6:30 p.m.

CIVIC CALENDAR

Winterville's current and past mayors, Dodd Ferrelle and Emily Eisenman, expressed the city's appreciation for ACC Mayor Denson and Commissioner Dickerson as they move on to new endeavors. ACC's incoming mayor is Kelly Girtz, and the commissioner for District 1 will be Patrick Davenport.

Each year on Veteran's Day, American Legion Post 20 places flags around the replica of the double-barrelled cannon at Pittard Park to honor those who served. Known as Armistice Day and Remembrance Day in other countries, this date celebrates the end of World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.

WINTERVILLE CHESS CLUB IS PLAYING TO WINChess enthusiasts can now enjoy a game of chess at the recently founded Winterville Chess Club at the Winterville Center for Community and Culture. The club is an affiliate of the United States Chess Federation (USCF) and is granted permission to run scholastic and regular tournaments in which players earn a rating and may increase in rank as they improve their playing skills at the chessboard. The chess club is open to players of all ages regardless of their level of experience. The club will offer chess lessons and lectures, simultaneous exhibitions, rated tournaments, and an annual club championship.

The start of the chess club was sparked when JoAnn Snow of the Winterville Center for Community and Culture sent out an inquiry for someone who could teach a chess class to a couple of adults who had expressed an interest in learning more about the game. Dr. Tomas Ramirez, who is the School Programs Support Coordinator at the Athens Community Career Academy, was glad to answer the call. “As someone who has been playing competitive chess for over 40 years, having competed in state and regional chess tournaments as a member of the Brown University chess team, and having taught chess to Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, I could not resist the offer to teach the class,” Ramirez says. The initial class consisted of six members and met once a week for six weeks. The classes consisted of introductions to various king-pawn and queen-pawn openings, middle game tactics and strategy, endgame strategy, and analysis of games from various world champions through the ages. The class members, despite substantial age gaps, forged friendships over their shared interest. “Chess had the magic of bringing us all together,” Ramirez explains. “I am reminded of a quote by former world chess champion Viswanathan Anand: ‘You bring to chess facets of your personality and what you are.’ I could not agree more. I have made friends over the chess board that have lasted a lifetime. Hopefully, the Winterville Chess Club will serve as a catalyst for forming lasting friendships."

The Winterville Chess Club recently had the pleasure of hosting Candidate Chess Master Carlos Avalos (shown right) for an evening. Carlos had just come from taking part in an international chess tournament in Panama. He shared his favorite chess opening, The London System, with club members and gave tips on how to play it confidently against any set up of the black pieces.

The Winterville Chess Club is open Monday nights from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and, starting in January, will begin an additional meeting on the second Friday of each month from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. The entry fee for Monday night play is $2 per person for non-rated chess games and $3.00 per person for rated chess games. All proceeds benefit the Winterville Center’s programs. For additional information, email WintervilleChessClub@gmail.com.

Left: Adam Levin considers the board.

Right: J.P. Caillault ponders his next move against Candidate Master Avalos.

LIBRARY NEWS

FRONT PORCH BOOKSTOREStart the New Year right by volunteering at the Front Porch Bookstore, where all the books are donated and all sales support the Winterville Library. Two-hour shifts are available. Contact Jan Mazzucco at the Front Porch Bookstore or at jmazzucc@uga.edu.

The bookstore, run by the Friends of Winterville Library, will be celebrating its tenth anniversary concert season in both the spring and fall concert series. The celebration begins April 6 with Kate Morrissey followed by Dodd Ferrelle and the Wintervillians. On April 13, Rachel O’Neal and the Redstone Ramblers will perform. Each concert will feature two bands, starting at 6:00 p.m. on our outdoor stage. Bring your family, friends, and lawn chairs! All concerts are free, but the musicians appreciate any donations.

pRoGReSS on RenoVatIonMuch progress has been made on the $170,000 library renovation. Most of this funding came through the Athens Clarke County Library system using an Major Repair and Renovation Grant from the State. We have beautiful new flooring and a spacious feel. The door in the center of the porch and a new ADA-compliant ramp will make entry easier for all. Meanwhile, work continues on the new bathrooms and circulation center. Renovations will be complete mid-January. We plan to have a Grand Re-Opening party shortly after we re-open. Do come help us celebrate!

Remember that the Winterville Library Book Club meets the last Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. Numbers are growing and discussion is lively! Story Time will start up again in February. Bring the children or even just yourself to hear Ms. Hannah read every Wednesday morning at 10:30.

Stay tuned for a very special Valentine’s Day program on February 14. We will post specifics on our website and on Facebook and Instagram as the date approaches.

WINTERVILLE CENTER FOR COMMUNITY AND CULTURE371 N. Church St. Winterville, GA

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. www.WintervilleCenter.com

The WCCC accepts cash, check, or credit card for class fees. Free parking. Call 706-742-0823 for more information.

Monthly EventsPotluck Lunch & Lecture. First Thursday of every month, 12:30–1:30 p.m., Rooms 101 & 102. Open to all adults. FREE admission. Join us for a good old-fashioned potluck lunch on the first Thursday of every month. Each month’s program features a theme, guest speaker, concert, demonstration, or other program. Check our website for details on upcoming luncheons. Please bring a dish to share. Beverages are provided.

Poets of Winterville. First Thursday of every month, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Room 103. This group’s mission is to support and encourage the writing of original poetry. Poets of all ages and experience are welcome. We are all poets at heart. Even if you have never written a poem but like poetry, come join us. Walk-ins welcome. Your poetry can be submitted to the Winterville Arts Council for consideration for inclusion in the quarterly art exhibits and poetry readings.

Winterville Chess Club Friday Night Action. Second Friday of every month, Room 104. Instructor: Tomas Ramirez, Ph.D., United States Chess Federation. Three rated games. Registration: 6:00–7:00 p.m. Games: Rd. 1, 7:15 p.m.; other rounds ASAP. Time control: G/25, d5. Entry Fee: $15 cash only. Prizes: 1st, 2nd, and more, based on number of entries. 60% of entry fees returned as prizes. Remaining proceeds benefit the Winterville Center’s programs. Send questions to WintervilleChessClub@gmail.com.

MondaysOil Painting. 1:30 p.m., Room 104. Instructor: Dortha Jacobson. Cost: $10.00 per session. This class is for the adult who wants to try a new craft for the first time or to renew an interest now that there is more time in life for leisure activities. Each class will focus on a different aspect of oil painting, starting with creating a color wheel in order to understand color and ending with an individual completion of a landscape. Oil painting is a solitary activity but with a group of like-minded people. Classes will also include learning how to critique a painting and discussing what is effective in a painting and what can be improved. Please check the website for supplies and materials to bring.

Winterville Chess Club. 6:00–8:00 pm, Room 104. Chess players of all levels are invited to the Winterville Chess Club. The club is an affiliate of the United States Chess Federation (USCF) and offers rated tournament chess play for beginning to experienced players. Players must be members of the USCF to participate in rated tournament games. Players can also participate in non-rated chess games for which USCF membership is not required. The entry fee is $2 per person per night for non-rated chess play; $3 for rated tournament play. For ages 10 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For questions or information, please send an email to WintervilleChessClub@gmail.com.

TuesdaysCoffee with a Veteran. 9:00 a.m., Room 102 (Coffee House). Come socialize with other vets. Most just sit around and gab, but you are welcome to play cards or other games. You will be close to the coffee pot and donuts. Visit as long as you like.

Threadworks Group. 9:00–11:00 a.m., Room 101. The Threadworks Group is a social group for those who share a love for all things thread, yarn, rope, and needlework of any kind. Anyone who crochets, knits, embroiders, cross-stitches, does macramé or any other fabric craft should stop by. If you would like to learn one of these crafts, someone should be available for teaching. We hope you can join us for stitches and conversation. Cost: FREE (unless you need to purchase materials for beginning crochet: $5 for instructions, hook, needle, and yarn.) Facilitators: Patty Boyd & Valerie Hayes.

Square Dancing. 2:00–4:00 p.m., Room 102. Instructor/Caller: Bob Morrison. Cost to be determined based on the size of the class. Learn to square dance. Friendship, fun, and exercise for the mind and body! “The only physical activity that decreases the risk of dementia is frequent dancing” (New England Journal of Medicine). Lessons start January 8. Partners not required. For more information, please contact Kathy at 317-855-0009 or Susan at 770-315-9319. Minimum participants: 8.

WednesdaysBelly Dance for Any Body. 7:00–8:00 p.m., Room 104. Instructor: Jennifer "Rajni" Kay-Williams, Certified Level 1 TOBD Instructor. Cost: $10.00 per session. Learn and practice belly dance in a relaxed and welcoming class for people of all ages and abilities. Learn basic posture and combinations as well as our unique Tribal Odyssey Belly Dance (TOBD) format for group improvisation. You will be shimmying right away! This class is a fun introduction to Middle Eastern dance and music in a body-positive environment.

ThursdaysMah Jongg. 1:00–3:00 p.m., Room 101. Beginning and experienced players welcome. What is mah jongg? A Chinese game that is one of the oldest games in human history, mah jongg has evolved today to suit the tastes of modern Chinese while keeping its roots intact. It's included in all major happenings of Chinese life, from the birth of a baby to weddings to Chinese New Year. Call it Mahjong, Ma Jong, Mah Jong, MahJongg, Ma Diao, Ma Cheuk, MahCheuck, Baak Ling, or Pung Chow—for the Chinese, the brain game is as vital as the beating heart!

Marigold Coffee House. 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Enjoy the company of friends as you sit around tables sipping coffee and eating donuts. Chew the fat, play a game, read the paper, do some writing...we even have Wi-Fi, so bring your laptop. Suggested donation: $1.00. We are a help yourself and honor system coffee house.

WCCC, cont.

WCCC, cont.

SilverSneakers FLEX Classes with Cheryl Jensrud Are Back!SilverSneakers Morning Stretch: Prepare your day with gentle stretching—both in standing and seated versions—to keep your joints functional and help you remain pain-free while improving flexibility, range of motion, and balance. The positions are designed with participants' needs in mind and are easy to perform no matter your fitness level. This 45-minute purposeful and relaxing class teaches you how to continue this vital part of self-care at home on other days.

SilverSneakers Yoga: Designed for seniors and older adults, Silver Sneakers Yoga leads you through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of postures designed to increase flexibility, balance, and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and relaxation help reduce stress and increase mental clarity. Class time is 45 minutes.

Both classes will be held weekly on Mondays and Wednesdays in Room 102. Morning Stretch begins at 10:00 a.m.; Yoga at 11:00 a.m. Classes are free for SilverSneakers members and $7.50 for non-members. We accept cash, check, or credit card. Punch cards are available for purchase. Parking is free. All participants should register by calling 706-742-0823 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, but walk-ins are welcome.

AARP Smart Driver Course On Friday, January 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Winterville Center for Community & Culture, located at 371 N Church St, will present the AARP Smart Driver Course with instructor James Rundorf.

Cars have changed, and so have traffic rules. Learn how to operate your vehicle more safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. You’ll learn adjustments to accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time. You will also learn the following: how to minimize the effects of dangerous blind spots, the safest ways to change lanes and take turns at busy intersections, the proper use of safety belts, air bags, anti-lock brakes, and new technologies used in cars, the effects of medications on driving, and the importance of eliminating distractions, such as eating, smoking, and cell-phone use.

The class fee is $15.00 for AARP members; $20.00 for non-members. Bring a bag lunch and your AARP membership card. The Winterville Center will provide hot and cold beverages, pastries, and snacks.

Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a certificate that can be presented to your insurance agent for a possible reduction in your auto insurance premium. You will have to call your insurance company to learn whether they offer this benefit.

Make your reservation and payment at the Winterville Center now by calling 706-742-0823. We’ll be happy to answer any questions, as well.

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PROGRESS FROM END TO ENDThere is so much to report on the Firefly Trail, it's hard to figure out where to start. Let's begin in Winterville and then take a look up and down the 39-mile length of the future trail.

Recently, the Firefly Trail Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Winterville City Council Member Mary Quinn, one of our founding members, with regret and deepest thanks. Mary continues to volunteer with us by handling our online store and acting as a voice of wisdom. Mayor Dodd Ferrelle recommended Bruce Johnson to replace Mary in representing Winterville, and the Board unanimously agreed. Welcome, Bruce!

Derek Doster with the Athens-Clarke County SPLOST office reports that the county is currently acquiring property for the trail from Five Points to near the Oglethorpe County line. Everything is on track for the first part of the trail in Winterville to open in a year or so.

In Athens, an engineering firm has been retained to start work on a railroad-grade crossing of Trail Creek. Athens-Clarke County is also working on extending the existing trail east to Spring Valley Road and has authorized staff to acquire property for a trailhead. Discussions are underway with the Georgia Department of Transportation to bridge the proposed new onramp from Lexington Road to Outer Loop 10. Also, a major corporate sponsor is working on a Family Fun Day in Dudley Park in April. (That's as much of a hint as we can give right now!)

In Maxeys, volunteers have hacked a rough route for the trail through dense overgrowth. A couple of large trees must still be removed, after which construction can begin as soon as the weather allows. Maxeys is also planning its first-ever road race to benefit the trail. Mark your calendars for the “Maxeys in May 5K” on May 18 and watch for more details coming soon.

Union Point is going full speed ahead on its model mile. A newly formed Local Action Committee is hard at work raising funds to match the city's $100,000 Recreational Trails Grant and is building strong ties with leaders in the school district, unincorporated Greene County, and the City of Woodville to begin planning trail sections in those areas. Elsewhere, trail development coordinator John Kissane has started conversations in Crawford and Oglethorpe County to augment awareness and support across the middle of the route.

Finally, the eighth annual Firefly Trail Ticket to Ride will be held Saturday, March 23. This on-road, non-competitive bike ride attracted nearly 300 riders in 2018, and has registration/starting points in Winterville as well as Athens and Union Point. Thanks to the City of Winterville for sponsoring the ride as the host of our start/SAG stop at the Depot. Because the Ticket to Ride is an out-and-back course and riders can choose how far they want to go (from one mile to 87), it's a perfect ride for people of all abilities. Registration is open on Active.com, and you can easily reach the registration page from www.fireflytrail.com.

The Firefly Trail is bringing opportunities to safely walk, run, and ride to Winterville and beyond. Join the movement!

The trail corridor takes shape in Maxeys, where a series of volunteer workdays cleared space for the trail through heavy brush. Grading and paving will begin in dry weather.

OFF THE VINE PRODUCE WINS AWARDOff the Vine Produce won a People’s Choice award at this year’s Third Annual East Side Eats fundraiser for the YWCO—or, as YWCO representative Becky Galvin says, “a friend-raiser for east Athens. We want people to see that this side of the county has great places to live, shop, and eat.”

Seventeen restaurants from the east side participated, with almost 300 people in attendance who sampled food, enjoyed live music by Steve Shiver, and participated in a cork pull (a sort of raffle for wine) and a silent auction. Attendees were asked to vote for their favorite restaurant. Off the Vine won one of the three People’s Choice awards, along with Mannaweenta and Sweetie Pie by Savie. Sweetie Pie also won the Kids’ Choice award. Winterville’s Wok Star also took part for the third year in a row. This was the first year for Off the Vine.

The event raised $12,000 to support YWCO programming, including the Girls Club Summer Day Camp for girls from low-income families.

FERRELLES FEATURED ON HGTVWinterville’s First Family was featured on the HGTV program House Hunters on November 27. The program documented their move from their old historic house on Georgia Avenue down the road to their new historic house, the home built by one of Winterville's founders, John Winter, in 1861 and previously owned by Bob and Leita Cobb. Of course, many of you knew that the Ferrelles were in their new digs before the show aired, but producing even a half-hour show is a lot of work. It’s showbiz! The episode showcases Winterville nicely, including local spots like Off the Vine Produce. If you missed the show when it first ran, you can watch it online at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ch-SqyIcA0o.

As it happens, Winterville is not the only small Georgia town to be featured on national television! Clarkston's Mayor Ted Terry was the subject of a recent episode of Queer Eye. You can stream the show through Netflix.

Dodd and Cameron with the HGTV crew The Ferrelles' new home

Lynn Hammock and LC Culbertson of Off the Vine display their award.

WINTERVILLE TREE COMMISSIONAs part of our obligations as a Tree City USA, the Winterville Tree Commission is committed to preserving our 57 percent tree canopy. You can check it out on Google Earth—more than half of the area of Winterville has tree cover! That’s great for Winterville, and it’s great for the health of our planet. In 2019, construction of our city’s section of the Firefly Trail begins, mostly along the old rail bed. But in the 60 years since the last train ran through Winterville, many trees have grown up in or too close to the old rail line. At least some of these will have to be removed, and other nearby trees that are overcrowded or undesirable species will be taken out. We will replace any significant trees lost during construction and

will coordinate their replacement with our highly successful Commemorative Tree Program. Nineteen trees have already been sponsored and eight have been planted! There is room for two more commemorative trees along Main Street. If you wish to sponsor a tree, information and forms are available at City Hall and on the City website.

Further activities of the Tree Commission in 2019 will include the start of the City’s tree labelling program. A format we might follow is shown in the photograph at right, taken recently at Pendleton King Park in Augusta. The label includes a QR code, which enables your smart phone to display information about the species and even the history of the individual tree. If you are interested in this project, and especially if you know the history of some of our landmark trees, please email us at wintervilletreecomm@gmail.com.

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MLK Day of Service Tree Planting at Winterville Elementary PlaygroundPlease join teachers, students, community volunteers, the Winterville Tree Commission, and the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) for an exciting morning planting trees at the Winterville Elementary School playground on MLK day, January 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Refreshments and tools will be provided, but please bring a sun hat and water bottle and dress appropriately for planting. This tree planting is supported by the GFC and USDA Forest Service program Making the Shade, which is designed to create healthier, shaded playground areas on elementary school campuses throughout Georgia. The program provides schools with technical assistance and finance matching up to $5,000. Come out and join the fun!

Winterville Arbor Day CelebrationPlease join other community members, the Winterville Tree Commission, and the City in planting a tree to celebrate Arbor Day, Wednesday, February 20. Time and location details are forthcoming. The Winterville Tree Commission is also collaborating with Winterville Elementary to carry out an Arbor Day celebration activity with second- and third-graders.

For more information about upcoming events: http://cityofwinterville.com/tree-commission

PROFESSIONAL TREE-CLIMBING COMPETITION IN PITTARD PARK

The best professional tree climbers in the Southeast will be in Pittard Park on Saturday and Sunday, March 23 and 24, for the 21st Annual Georgia Tree Climbing Championships (GTCC). In addition to seeing some of the best climbers in the country up close, you can enjoy food trucks and a free family tree climb that will get you or your kids safely up in a tree. The event is hosted by the Georgia Arborist Association and City of Winterville and is free and open to the public. The GTCC gives public exposure to professional arborists as climbers showcase their skill and agility in the treetops, competing for a spot at the International Tree Climbing Competition held by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).

The competition follows rules established by the ISA and includes events that test a competitor’s ability to maneuver professionally and safely in a tree while performing work-related tree-care tasks in a timely manner. The event also provides an opportunity for working arborists to share new climbing techniques, equipment, and safe work practices.

Professional Preliminary Climbs will begin on Saturday at 7:00 a.m. Male and female competitors compete separately in five timed events. Those with the highest scores from the preliminary events will compete in the Masters’ Challenge on Sunday. The Family Tree Climb will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. The Masters Challenge (final rounds) will take place on Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Neil Norton, Executive Director, Georgia Arborist Association at 404-913-1422 or neil@georgiaarborist.org.

Anyone who is interested in renting, renewing, or just learning about boxes in the Community Garden is invited to join us for a potluck dinner and registration on Monday, February 18, at 6:00 p.m. in the Depot. The garden steering committee will provide main dishes (including a vegetarian one) and drinks, and folks are welcome to bring side dishes and desserts.

We are encouraging gardeners who want boxes in 2019 to register at once, and forms will be available. We cannot accept credit cards, so please bring cash or a check. The cost per box is $40 a year, and the rental period is March 1, 2019 through February 29, 2020. Rental fees help cover the cost of box maintenance and weed control in the public areas of the garden.

Some boxes are available at half price for low-income folks who are willing to do some extra volunteer work in the garden. All gardeners are expected to use only organic methods and to participate in care for the garden as a whole. Anyone who is interested in helping is welcome, whether or not you rent a box.

We will also talk about garden issues and projects, and accept nominations for the steering committee. You may nominate yourself if you are interested. We hope to see you in February! For more information, email wintervillecommunitygarden@gmail.com.

WINTERVILLE COMMUNITY GARDEN

CITY SPOTLIGHTThis column features local businesses, artists, and notable citizens. If you have ideas for Spotlight features, please contact the Gazette editor at wintervillegazette@gmail.com.

BuSIneSS SpotlIGhtPulliam Tree Service

Todd Pulliam started Pulliam Tree Service in Winterville about twenty years ago. He and his grandfather, James Pulliam, would cut down oak trees for people in Winterville in order to obtain the firewood James needed to heat his house. In 1991, Todd began working for Clarke County Sheriff Jerry Massey but continued cutting trees in his spare time. Upon his retirement from the county in 2014, he turned the tree service into a full-time business and has "enjoyed helping neighbors with their tree needs."

Pulliam Tree Service specializes in pruning, removal of dangerous trees, and ameliorating storm damage. It also offers firewood and mulch. As Todd explains, "We strive to use every portion of the tree, reducing waste and avoiding unneccesary dumping at the landfill."

Todd has recently started Pulliam Wood Products, making lumber out of useable logs. This aspect of the business offers specialty-cut lumber, slabs, and beams. Todd adds, "We also cut boards from less desirable species of trees, such as sweetgum and pine, to produce lumber for the pallet industry."

Pulliam Tree Service is insured and a member of the International Society of Arboriculture. Contact Todd at todd.a.pulliam@gmail.com or 706-338-7525.

cItIZen SpotlIGhtJudy Logue

This issue celebrates and extends gratitude to Judy Logue, who was responsible for all the newly added Christmas decorations throughout the city, particularly the beautiful wreaths. Many of you commented on how pretty the city looked this past holiday season. An artist and interior decorator, she is a member of the Winterville Arts Council and a very active member of this community.

Judy was one of eight children raised in a hard-working family in Pike Road, Alabama. She graduated high school in Montgomery and attended Auburn University. Always smart and talented, Judy was a successful business owner of McGillis Flower Shop in Marietta. She and Tom Logue raised five children while contributing to the community and schools. She later found herself working as a wedding coordinator for Mt. Paron Church of God in Atlanta. Simultaneously, Judy continued her floral work with special events throughout the Atlanta area. A resident of Winterville for 12 years, Judy’s positive energy, generosity, and talents are felt wherever she goes.

Matt Brewster was born and raised in Winterville and is a graduate of Cedar Shoals High School and the University of Georgia. He is the founder of Marigold Solutions, a company that specializes in photography, including the use of drones for aerial photography, videography, and inspection services to help with real-estate, construction, and other businesses promotion. Matt began this company in May 2016 after his photography website, Marigold 84, began to attract interest from companies needing photo services. Marigold Solutions focuses on real estate and commercial work but also provides web design and social media assistance for small companies and nonprofits. Beyond that, Mark has an art photography collection that features nature scenes and landscapes from around Georgia, a few of which are featured below. You can view the full collection by going to the Marigold Solutions website and clicking on “Print Collection” at the top right of the screen. These prints are available for purchase.

Even with the increase in business, Matt still makes time to provide photography and video services for his hometown Marigold Festival and the annual Shady Dale rodeo in Jasper County. To learn more about Marigold Solutions, please visit www.MarigoldSolutions.co. You can contact Matt directly at 706-207-1500 or matt@marigoldsolutions.co (no, those aren't typos; there really is no "m" after ".co"). You can also keep track of his latest work by following him on Instagram @Marigold_84.

aRtISt SpotlIGhtMatt Brewster

Alcovy Trestle Winterville Depot

Brasstown Bald

Iron Horse

SCHOOL NEWScoIle StudentS awaRded ScholaRShIpS

Two eighth-grade students at Coile Middle School were recent recipients of the Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen (REACH) scholarship, a $10,000 award. Destiny Strickland and José Jimenez Cortez signed pledges to maintain good grades, behavior, and attendance throughout high school. Upon graduation, they will be eligible to receive a $10,000 scholarship to a two- or four-year REACH eligible institution.

The Athens REACH Scholarship program earmarks money for selected eighth-graders who have undergone the application process. Not only does the REACH program supply money for college, it also provides ongoing academic and social support from mentors and coaches to help these students fulfill their potential. Since the program’s inception in 2012, all REACH scholars have maintained eligibility for the scholarship program throughout their high school years. The scholarship program is a public-private fund supported in part by the Athens Area Community Foundation. To donate, visit www.athensreach.com.

For additional information about the Coile Middle School student awards, contact Dr. Marsha Thomas, Coile Middle School Principal, at thomasm@clarke.k12.ga.us or 706-357-5318. For additional information about the REACH Scholarship program, please contact Sarah McKinney, Athens Area Community Foundation President, at smckinney@athensareacf.org or 706-357-7148.

Destiny Strickland, Principal Thomas, and José Jimenez Cortez hold a check at the REACH signing day presentation.

wInteRVIlle SchoolS wIn aRt GRantSIn September, AthFest Educates awarded $40,612 in grants to Athens-area educators and youth development specialists to provide music and arts education in the 2018–19 school year for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Last year, Winterville Elementary received a grant for 274 students to create their own stop motion films. Both Winterville schools were awarded small grants this year. Samantha Barnum and Sharon Purucker of Coile Middle School received $619.49 to create a Makerspace in the school’s library that enables all sixth- through eighth-grade students to engage in open-ended, design-oriented, creative learning through origami, fiber arts, puppet making, fashion designing, and more. Students will work in small groups or individually to respond to design challenges, such as converting an old textbook into a bee habitat, designing a pair of shoes from recycled materials, and folding paper to create a miniature city. All activities are designed to develop creativity and complex problem-solving skills. Carlin Brownlee of Winterville Elementary School was awarded $596.00 to enable 65 fifth-grade students to create a lasting legacy project for the school. Each student will create a clay tile by hand and then paint their self-portrait on the tile. The tiles will be mounted on wood and permanently displayed at Winterville Elementary. The project enables the students to see themselves as public artists and understand the value of public art. Congratulations to these wonderful teachers and their students!

SCHOOL NEWS, cont.

weS Staff appRecIatIon paRtYMayor Dodd Ferrelle and First Lady Cameron Ferrelle hosted a staff appreciation holiday party for Winterville Elementary. Principal Dr. Donna Elder has taken the school from last place to fourth in the district's College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) scoring. Way to go! The Winterville Civitan club, the WES PTO, and the city joined forces to celebrate this achievement and show the faculty and staff at WES our appreciation this holiday season. Every employee at the school received a gift card.

WES staff gather on the Ferrelles' front porch.

Mayor Ferrelle and his son Lucas pose with Dr. Elder at the teacher and staff appreciation party.

The "Appreciation Tree" decorated with gift cards.

WES personnel admire the Appreciation Tree and search for their envelopes.

WINTERVILLE ARTS COUNCIL

Coming in 2019: A Holiday Lights Contest! Stock up on after-Christmas sales to get ready for the contest in December. We will also continue to decorate in traditional Victorian style to celebrate another Christmas season inspired by the works of Charles Dickens, author of A Christmas Carol. More details will follow in the fall issue of the Gazette.

Please join us for the opening reception of the annual exhibit of art done by students of Winterville Elementary School at the Center for Community and Culture on Thursday, January 10. We will have finger foods and soft drinks from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The exhibit will run from January until the end of March and will be available for viewing when the Community Center is open. The energy and color in these works makes this exhibit a favorite each year, so don’t miss it!

Please check our website at http://cityofwinterville.com/winterville-arts-council to see the Call for Artists for the next exhibit, which will coincide with the Marigold Festival. For more information, please email wintervilleartscouncil@gmail.com.

REMEMBERING HERSCHEL REEVESLong-time Winterville resident Herschel Reeves died Monday, December 3, having recently celebrated his 90th birthday. “Mr. Herschel,” as many of us knew him, relocated his barbershop from Athens’ Five Points to Winterville in the 1980s, and his decades as a barber generated a dedicated following of customers from every profession imaginable. Many came for the haircut but all admit to enjoying the political discussions, the corny jokes, and just talking with Mr. Herschel.

Always loyal to his church and community, Mr. Herschel and his wife, Ann, could be depended upon to support every activity and event designed to benefit their home town. It is well known that his love of family was foremost, but his love for this community and his determination to be an example of honor, respect, and integrity will not be forgotten.

Mr. Herschel, 2018

Herschel Reeves, 1939

WINTERVILLE CIVITAN SNOWFLAKE 10KThe Winterville Civitan Club is excited to announce its fifth annual Winterville Snowflake 10K run. This year, Golden Pantry is the community partner Platinum Sponsor for this landmark event. Winterville's Civitans began hosting the 10K in 2013 and have held very successful races since. The 10k is open to runners of all ages, and there are awards for many age categories.

The race will be held at 9:00 a.m. on January 26, 2019, in the historic city of Winterville. Online registration is open through Classic Race Services, www.classicraceservices.com, where runners will find online and mail-in registration options. Final registration is at 8:00 a.m. in the Depot. The race course is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier, certified by USA Track & Field, and awards points in the Classic Race Series.

Since December 7, 1944, members of the Winterville Civitan Club have devoted their time to serve their community and improve the lives of adults and children with developmental disabilities. The activities of this volunteer service club include providing support to local families and schools, local charities such as Extra Special People and Camp Big Heart, construction of wheelchair ramps, cleanup of city streets, and two annual college scholarships of $2500, as well as supporting Winterville’s Scouting programs. On a larger scale, the Civitans support medical research through the Civitan International Research Center.

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARKThe weather wasn't very cooperative for Winterville's annual holiday celebration, but the city looked pretty! Thank you to Matt Brewster (this issue's Spotlight Artist) for the photographs.

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF WINTERVILLE

P.O. Box 306 Winterville, GA 30683-0306 WintervilleArtsCouncil@gmail.com

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

About the GazetteThe Winterville Gazette is the official newsletter of the Winterville Municipal Government. It is a function of the Winterville Arts Council. Have an idea for a story? Contact the editor at WintervilleGazette@gmail.com.

Editor: Lee Ann PingelContributors: Wendy Bond, Robert Bonsall, Matt Brewster, Julia Holly Campbell, Emily Eisenman, Leigh Ellis, Cameron Ferrelle, Dodd Ferrelle, Becky Galvin, Jill Helme, Brenda Keen, Jan Mazzucco, Dierdre Murray, Neil Norton, Todd Pulliam, Mary Quinn, Mark Ralston, Tomas Ramirez, JoAnn Snow

Look for the Gazette online at http://www.cityofwinterville.com/city-publication