Fayette County Firefighters Win Big At Charitable Event

Three members of the Fayette County Fire and Emergency Services Department participated in the American Lung Association's 18th Fight for Air Climb. This event serves to increase awareness about lung disease and raise funds for those suffering from the condition. All three Fayette County firefighters won first place in their respective categories. Captain Anderson secured the win in his age group, while Megan Roberts claimed first place in the female firefighter overall category. Firefighter Sarah Baxter also emerged victorious in her female age group.

Lowndes County Emergency Management Director Receives AEM Credentials

Lowndes County Emergency Management Director Ashley Tye recently received the Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) credentials. Since assuming the role of EMA Director in 2007, Tye has been at the forefront of leading the community through various emergency situations, including floods, the COVID-19 pandemic, and more. The AEM designation, held by only 327 individuals in the emergency management profession worldwide, underscores Tye's dedication and expertise in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community during times of crisis. 

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded a $434,131 grant to Walker County to help fund the direct connection for pedestrians and cyclists between the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. The ARC grant will be paired with a local match to connect two existing trails into a 2.2-mile trail.

ACCG and Georgia Counties Recognized with Clean 13 Awards

ACCG, along with five Georgia counties, recently received Georgia Water Coalition’s Clean 13 Awards. Wilkes, Madison, Oglethorpe, Elbert and Warren counties along with the Savannah Riverkeeper and ACCG were recognized for their efforts to raise awareness about soil amendment pollution issues. Their advocacy led to additional funding from the Georgia Department of Agriculture to strengthen the agency’s regulation program. Additionally, former ACCG Associate Director of Governmental Affairs Kathleen Bowen was honored for her work in getting the fees collected for the Hazardous Waste Trust Fund dedicated so that they could be used as intended. For more information on the Clean 13 Awards, click here.

Leadership Awards Gala Affords Walton County Director Long-Awaited Prom Experience

Walton County Human Resources Director Melissia Rusk and her husband Jay Rusk share a love story that spans decades. As high school sweethearts, circumstances prevented them from attending their senior prom together, but fate intervened 30 years later at the ACCG Annual Conference where the couple joyfully celebrated their long-awaited senior prom experience during the Leadership Awards Gala. They are pictured with Walton County Commissioner Kirklyn Dixon and his wife Denise (pictured left).