Sheriff of the Year - Georgia Sheriffs` Association
Transcription
Sheriff of the Year - Georgia Sheriffs` Association
The GEORGIA SHERIFF Volume 15, No. 3 Guardian of the Public Peace, Safety and Security Love • Support • Opportunity SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT Dan Torbert—Sumter County Golf Tournament Organizer “It’s a community effort, it really is,” says Mr. Dan Torbert of Sumter County. Known as the face for the very successful and highly recognized Sumter County Golf Tournament, Torbert is a pillar for this fundraising event. Just completing his 28th consecutive year, the well-known organizer has worked with a number of sponsors, volunteers, participants, and law enforcement officials. Torbert stated, “I’ve worked with a variety of people through all my years, even several different sheriffs of Sumter County…and I just enjoy getting together with the community to help support the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. I have kids I got attached to, ya know, in the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. There is a gentleman that’s now 35 years old who is currently on the board of my golf tournament committee, who was once a youth in the GSYH. It all comes around and I just enjoy it.” Twenty eight years ago, a committee of three men with a heart for children, rallied to raise $6000, and is now one of the most acknowledged fundraisers in the state, with a board of 15 plus people. Established and marked on the calendar year round, the May event is recognized as the longest standing golf tournament in the state. The team of competitors has grown to include names of fame, athletes, local heroes, businessmen and women, and more. When asked how this fundraiser has become so prosperous, Torbert quickly explained, “It’s a good bunch of people working together and most of them have been doing it for 20 years. We have long standing sponsors and so many people who open their hearts and give. The committee works diligently for about three months prior to the event each year by notifying sponsors, and then the word of mouth in the community takes off.” One of the sponsors that Torbert said was worthy of an honorable mention is the late Roy Lee Smith who donated willingly and earnestly every year and sometimes in substantial amounts. Torbert also contributes the establishment of an annual set time of year, that has remained the same for 28 years, has helped to keep people looking forward to and ready to take part in the event. Sumter County Sheriff Pete Smith could only sing praises of Torbert’s dedication to the children; and it’s not only to the GSYH children. During the 1994 flood, Torbert swam in the dangerous flood waters to rescue children from the Methodist home in Sumter County. Without his heroic actions, the childrens’ lives probably would have ended that day. “It’s all for the kids.” The most recent Sumter County tournament was held at the Griffin Bell Golf Links on May 6, 2015. Each year all proceeds from this worthy project are used to help meet the needs of the dependent and neglected children who are served by the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. This tournament not only is a day of fun and recreation, but it also helps the Youth Homes provide a warm caring retreat for the needy, dependent and abused children of Georgia. As with most years, this past event reflected beautiful weather and a sell out crowd of competitors and spectators. The sheriffs and the Youth Homes extend a colossal thank you to Mr. Torbert for his 28 years of dedication and zeal for the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. He has been an instrumental part of the event’s success and his longevity and hard work has not gone unappreciated. Deep-seated appreciation is extended to his committee, sponsors, participants, and all those who take part in this special event – all for the kids. 2 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 The georgia sheriff inside this issue 4 August 2015 President’s Message 5 Get Involved P.O. Box 1000 Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 914–1076 6 GSA Banquet 10 Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Home Dinner 12 Youth of the Year GEORGIA SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION officers STEVE WILSON Walker County, President CHRIS PRINE Lowndes County, 1st Vice President TERRY DEESE Peach County, 2nd Vice President STACY NICHOLSON Gilmer County, Secretary-Treasurer WILEY GRIFFIN Decatur County, Immediate Past President 14 Resident Director’s Corner 19 Upcoming Events 20Tributes 23Fundraisers regional vice presidents GARY GULLEDGE Paulding County, Region 1 EZELL BROWN Newton County, Region 2 CHRIS CLINTON Towns County, Region 3 JIMMY THOMAS Pike County, Region 4 LEWIS WALKER Crawford County, Region 5 CLAY WHITTLE Columbia County, Region 6 REGGIE RACHALS Lee County, Region 7 o n t h e c ov e r 1 On the Cover… Love. Support. Opportunity. Through the support of the Georgia Sheriffs and current Youth Homes executive officers pictured, these four Youth of the Year are proud to stand behind them while enjoying the beautiful palm trees and brisk air of Jekyll Island. RAMSEY BENNETT Pierce County, Region 8 STEVE SIKES Liberty County, Region 9 GENE SCARBROUGH Tift County, Region 10 executive director J. TERRY NORRIS editor KRISTEN WELCH co-editor KIM SLACK general counsel WALKER, HULBERT, GRAY & MOORE www.georgiasheriffs.org Editorial Creed: The Georgia Sheriff is the official publication of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association. Published quarterly, the magazine is designed to keep our supporters and sheriffs informed about the Association and Georgia’s law enforcement community. Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 3 President’s Message It was an honor to be installed as the 51st President of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association by Lt. Governor Casey Cagle during the Sheriffs’ annual banquet held at Jekyll Island on July 29, 2015. As I repeated my oath of office, it reminded me of the duties of every sheriff. I pledge as I travel around the state during the next year, to diligently promote the Office of Sheriff and encourage our deputies to continue providing the blanket of protection to our citizens. Steve Wilson During the annual awards ceremony, I was amazed at the accounts of the heroic and selfless actions of deputies across this state. Men and women put themselves in harms way every day to uphold the laws, and wear their uniform proudly knowing that they may be injured or killed before their shift is over. I watched the Award of Valor presented to a Monroe County Deputy Sheriff who was injured in a firefight and watched his partner die before his eyes, but was able continue the fight until the offender was finally restrained. I watched award presentations of deputies who put their lives on the line for strangers and who conducted themselves in such a professional manner that the public stands up and takes notice. I saw example after example of law enforcement officers who gave of themselves unselfishly. Read about our courageous and professional award winning deputies beginning on page 6. However, what I did not see were media outlets, representatives from our national government and other vocal anti-law enforcement entities watching and listening to the great things that these honored men and women do for Georgia. It is so easy to exploit the actions of a few while remaining silent on the honorable and professional actions of the majority. In addition, as a Sheriff, husband, dad and “papa,” I am deeply troubled by the multiple frequent occurrences of attacks on our citizens by the “lone wolf” or the new term “lone offender.” From Sandy Hook, Connecticut, to North Charleston, South Carolina, to Lafayette, Louisiana, and now my neighbor to the north, Chattanooga, Tennessee. On July 16, 2015, 24-year-old Mohammad Abdulazeez drove through a gate at the Navel and Marine Service Center, and then opened fire killing four marines and one Navy Petty Officer. The crime scene was located eight miles from the Walker County, Georgia / Tennessee state line. Two of the victims were Georgia residents. Abdulazeez was initially labeled a “homegrown violent extremist” by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Now it appears that he was a messed up young man who drank too much booze, smoked marijuana, spent too much money and was also depressed. 2015-2016 GSA Officers Since Sandy Hook in December of 2012, there have been 75 mass shootings in the United States, with 235 associated deaths. Georgia has experienced eight of the mass shootings. Georgia sheriffs must be prepared to address and combat this fatuous mindset that is terrorizing our counties across this great nation. Sheriffs must enlist and engage our citizens to report suspicious activity to law enforcement; never be apprehensive to call 911. If the activity appears to be suspicious, it probably is. Finally, as I begin my term as President of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, my desire is to lead with complete and undivided integrity; with loyalty and with humility to each person that I engage as President. With gratitude, (L-R) Wiley Griffin, Decatur County, Immediate Past President; Stacy Nicholson, Gilmer County, Secretary-Treasurer; Terry Deese, Peach County, 2nd Vice President; Chris Prine, Lowndes County, 1st Vice President and Steve Wilson, Walker County, President. 4 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 Steve Wilson Walker County Get Involved OUR BACK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN IS NOW UNDERWAY! Book-bags, notebooks, erasers and glue…shorts, shirts, and tennis shoes too. Hairspray, deodorant, toothpaste and more, it takes all kinds of things to get us through our school doors. We are kicking off a brand new school year with many students who need someone to care. Get Involved! Help us make this their best year ever. Your gift of $25, $50, $100 or any amount will help make it possible for these programs to continue and grow. Please be assured that you have the gratitude of the sheriffs, the children, and the staff at Youth Homes for every gift you make. To donate, go to www.georgiasheriffsyouth.org or contact us at: P.O. Box 1000 Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 914–1076 Looking for ways to create your legacy? Contact our Development Division for free information to help you: • Explore your options • Share your assets •S upport Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes • Pass on your values and wishes www.georgiasheriffs.org Shayne Goddard Division Director [email protected] P.O. Box 1000 Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 914–1076 Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 5 GEORGIA SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION BANQUET Deputy Sheriff of the Year Award of Professional Contribution GSA/GSYH Executive Director J. Terry Norris, Sheriff St Lawrence, and GSA President Wiley Griffin. Sheriff of the Year After 56 years of law enforcement under his belt, it’s no surprise that this man has earned the honor of Sheriff of the Year. “The name Al St Lawrence in Chatham County and around the state of Georgia is synonymous with tough, fair, and knowledgeable, as well as a symbol of what a law enforcement leader should look like.” From serving on a variety of community boards and collaborating with college partnership programs to incorporating the newly recognized Project New Hope program as well as participating in 25 consecutive years of Christmas parties with the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Home in Hahira, Sheriff Al St Lawrence has gone far above the “call of duty”. For years he has been a steadfast and strong leader to the Office of Sheriff and his community with outstanding contributions to each. Sheriff St Lawrence “has been a force to reckon with in matters of training and equipping his staff to be their very best, while whole heartedly supporting and participating in children’s fundraising and inmate operation events.” Although the 81-year-old law enforcement pillar is active on the board of a million dollar community contribution club, you will still find him volunteering to wrap and deliver Christmas presents to local boys and girls each year. Sheriff Al St Lawrence well deserves this prestigious award: 2015 Sheriff of the Year. 6 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 Beginning his career with the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office in December of 1989, Deputy Bill Hicks has served in a variety of areas from field operations, fraud and forgery unit, internal affairs investigator, to his current service of assisting social workers in the largest school district in the state. Although the title seems short, the assignment is no small task. “While there are many ways Deputy Hicks assists social workers and local school administrators, most notably are interventions with angry parents, unruly students, difficult truancy cases, out-of-district investigations, children who are left home alone and home visits that are potentially unsafe for social workers to make alone. He actively connects students with the 180 Program, provides localized truancy sweeps and often speaks to groups of students and parents on a variety of relevant law enforcement issues”, stated Sheriff Neil Warren. Deputy Hick’s work ethic and dedication to his position has touched many lives of students and parents. His years of training and experience have truly made him a community role model, mentor, and disciplinary. Deputy Hicks is a cancer survivor, a loving father and husband, and a dedicated officer to his community who has a “servant heart that shines bright” earning him the honor: 2015 Deputy Sheriff of Professional Contribution Award. GSA President Wiley Griffin, Deputy Hicks and Sheriff Neil Warren. Deputy Sheriff of the Year Award of Valor GSA President Wiley Griffin, Sheriff John Cary Bittick, and Deputy Wilson. Medal of Valor: Deputy Aaron Deyton On Saturday, September 13, 2014 lives changed: two deputies responded to a home in southern Monroe County to provide assistance to a suicidal man with a gun. A bad situation turned worse when the armed man began firing at the deputies, wounding Deputy Wilson and killing Deputy Michael Norris. After a tragic moment and a fight for his life, being shot three times, crawling for the nearest cover, watching his partner go down, Deputy Jeff Wilson still acted heroically when he shot the gunman in the leg bringing him to surrender, and just in the brink of time before he lost consciousness due to excessive loss of blood. Deputy Wilson later endured extensive physical therapy for his gunshot wounds and made a full recovery. His body has healed but he will forever live with the pain of losing his partner. That tragic day put Deputy Wilson’s abilities to the test. “He not only acted quickly under extreme stress and injury, he brought a rapid conclusion to an exceptionally dangerous situation. Continuing to face confrontation from a suicidal man while knowing the individual was willing to shoot and kill law enforcement took bravery and courage that exceeds what is expected in the line of duty. Additionally, to have the presence of mind to apprehend, disarm, and handcuff a subject while seriously injured is a testament to Deputy Wilson’s dedication and professionalism as a deputy,” stated Sheriff John Cary Bittick. We thank you Deputy Jeff Wilson for your courage and your service; you make all who wear a badge and all those that you protect, proud; you earned the Deputy Sheriff Award of Valor. To serve and protect. To some these are just words, but to others this is an oath. Deputy Aaron Deyton of Towns County Sheriff’s Office became a living example of his oath after his life was put on the line. On October 1, 2014 Deyton was dispatched to backup a city police officer during an early morning traffic stop. Upon arrival, the driver of the suspicious vehicle started a physical altercation with Deyton where he was punched and stabbed in the throat, leaving him severely wounded. The courageous, “no quit” mentality was evident when Deyton still managed to chase and taze the man just prior to collapsing on the ground. Once crumpled on the ground, Deyton, through blurred disoriented vision, saw his wedding band lying on the ground where it had been dislodged during the fight, and crawled on his hands and knees to retrieve his cherished treasure. The fleeing suspect was apprehended there after and Deyton was airlifted to a medical center where he underwent surgery and is still undergoing rehabilitation. This respectable, chivalrous representation of “serve and protect” is a direct reflection of Deputy Deyton’s nobility and he earned the Medal of Valor. GSA President Wiley Griffin, Sheriff Chris Clinton, and Deputy Deyton. www.georgiasheriffs.org Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 7 GEORGIA SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION BANQUET Medal of Valor: Sgt. Greg Chastain Sheriff Joey Terrell and Sgt. Chastain. What would it be like to have bullets zing by your head or hear your partner cry out in extreme pain? Or worse: what would it be like to realize that the person holding the firearm was someone you had worked and trained with for many years? Sgt. Greg Chastain of Habersham County Sheriff’s Office had to endure such an evening on February 22, 2015 when he responded to a domestic dispute call with a known shooter involved. Chastain along with Sheriff Joey Terrell and a deputy approached the home where two deceased victims lay while knowing the shooter, a former deputy who was trained in SWAT team and deputy protocol, was still lurking in the dark. As they began to search the home, suddenly Chastain heard numerous shots fired and a fellow officer cry out. He immediately ran to the rescue only to begin taking fire himself. He never hesitated to protect his partner, standing over and covering him until he was escorted to safety. Chastain showed great ability and a tremendous amount of heroism in a tragic situation. Thank you Sgt. Chastain for your fearless service and dedication. You have earned the Medal of Valor. Medal of Valor: Sgt. Bruce Cleveland and Cpl Connie Morris Stephens County Sheriff’s Office not only has dedicated law enforcement officers, but they also have heroes among them. On May 12, 2015 two deputies proved their level of faithfulness and esteemed service. Cpl. Connie Morris and Sgt. Bruce Cleveland were the first to arrive at a severe three car, head on, entanglement of vehicles. The officers noticed that a fire was starting between two of the mangled cars and a victim was trapped in one of the them. Without a second thought, Morris and Cleveland worked vigorously to bring the rapidly growing fire to a halt, but despite using every fire extinguisher available the fire raged on. Engulfed with thick smoke and enduring intense heat without any regards for their own safety, the brave deputy duo worked together, “using unimaginable human strength to break off the steering wheel of the car with their bare hands, freeing the severely injured victim just moments before it was too late,” stated Sheriff Randy Shirley. Both Morris and Cleveland acted swiftly and valiantly that day as it takes great courage to face a fiery furnace of flames to rescue a stranger. Cpl. Morris and Sgt. Cleveland, you have earned the Medal of Valor. GSA President Wiley Griffin, Cpl. Morris, Sgt. Cleveland and Sheriff Randy Shirley. 8 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 The Honorable Lt. Governor Casey Cagle swore in the 2015-2016 GSA officers. Left to right: Secretary-Treasurer Sheriff Stacy Nicholson, Gilmer County; 2nd Vice President Sheriff Terry Deese, Peach County; 1st Vice President Sheriff Chris Prine, Lowndes County; President Sheriff Steve Wilson, Walker County; and Lt. Governor Cagle. Incoming GSA President Steve Wilson of Walker County thanks outgoing President Wiley Griffin for his dedication and service to the sheriffs and the GSA during the past year. www.georgiasheriffs.org Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 9 GEORGIA SHERIFFS’ YOUTH HOME DINNER Stephen Jessup’s initial call of creating a better community began in 1978 as the McIntosh County’s first Leisure Services Director. Twenty years later he was elected Sheriff, and continued his work in the community, dedicated to bridging the gap between the family oriented, drug free community and a balanced, accessible, safety-first law enforcement. Although this was a full-time job, Sheriff Jessup still maintained a focus on children at large. He founded the first annual Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes Golf Tournament in McIntosh County raising enough money to earn a spot in the Top Ten Club, and has maintained that rank annually. He makes it a priority to donate annual Christmas gifts to children in need, he is hands-on in the C.H.A.M.P.S. program, reads to children in the classrooms, participates in the Trunk-or-Treats, and attends numerous school functions. He has dedicated a primary focus to children during his lifetime and has taken many under his wing, acting as a role model and/or father figure to many. His avid support in his community and to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes earned him the honor of being awarded the Youth Homes’ Sheriff of the Year President’s Award. GSYH President Donnie Craig, Sheriff Stephen Jessup, GSA/GSYH Executive Director J. Terry Norris. Superior Court Judge Stephen Scarlett, Brunswick Judicial Circuit swears in the 2015-2016 Youth Homes Officers (from left to right) Secretary-Treasurer Sheriff Janis Mangum, Jackson County; 2nd Vice President Sheriff John Carter, Wayne County; 1st Vice President Sheriff Lewis Walker, Crawford County; and President Sheriff Stacy Jarrard, Lumpkin County. 10 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 Each year the Top Ten fundraising counties are recognized by Georgia Sheriffs and are honored at the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes Dinner. The counties are chosen based on per capita giving. The 2015 honorees are: Back row: Sheriffs Chris Prine, Lowndes County; Shane Tondee, Schley County; Chris Clinton, Towns County; Scott Chitwood, Whitfield County; YH President Donnie Craig. Front row: Sheriffs Pete Smith, Sumter County; Stephen Jessup, McIntosh County; GSA/GSYH Executive Director J. Terry Norris. Not Pictured: Sheriffs Mack Mason, Union County; J. Tyson Stephens, Emanuel County; and Bill Massee, Baldwin County. Five counties raised over $100,000 for the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association and Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. Left to right: YH President Donnie Craig; Sheriffs Chris Prine, Lowndes County; Neil Warren, Cobb County; Pete Smith, Sumter County, and Scott Chitwood, Whitfield County. Not pictured: Sheriff Roger Garrison, Cherokee County The Chaplains not only donate their time and hearts, they also donate funds each year to the Youth Homes to help with back-to-school supplies in addition to their consistent tithes. YH President Donnie Craig; Chaplains Division Secretary-Treasurer Paul Hogan; Chaplains Division Senior Chaplain Chip Strickland; and GSA/GSYH Executive Director J. Terry Norris. Dr. Carlo Musso, President of CorrectHealth, is recognized for his continued generosity of giving each year. Dr. Musso is commended for reaching and maintaining the status of Sole Platinum Member with the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association and Youth Homes. He is pictured with YH President Donnie Craig (left) and with GSA/GSYH Executive Director J. Terry Norris (right). www.georgiasheriffs.org Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 11 YOUTH OF THE YEAR “It takes a lot of love to take As a symbol of recognition for making great strides in a challenging time, the staff of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes nominate a resident from each of their campuses. These young people have overcome their personal battles and even developed into being role models for others. The staff members note that being selected as “Youth of the Year” is a great honor and marks those that have shown the most improvement in behavior, academics, and in overall life. The Youth of the Year were honored at the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes Dinner and were each given the opportunity to share their individual stories. Arther Rogers, Boys Ranch CS Lewis once said, “The things that separate us are the things that unite us.” I know firsthand of the things that separate us. I first came to the Ranch when I was 12-years -old, however this was not the first time I was placed in foster care. At the time of my initial arrival, I had been in foster care for about 6 years. From the moment I arrived at the Ranch, I enjoyed being there. This place was different than any home I had ever been in, and in the very best ways. I was placed with Ken and Amy Jordan who showed me a different way of doing family. I got to spend more time with my two sisters, and was able to eat at normal times and eat as much as I wanted. This was all fairly new to me. In spite of the rules, my freedoms were numerous and thusly, I felt free. There were other boys my age so I no longer had to be alone. In short, the Ranch was the best home I could have ever hoped for. Here, I found happiness. 12 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 Then the time came to go back to my adoptive parents. I was assured they had changed and things would be different. Upon my return however, I discovered things had not changed and there was no difference. When I was taken back into care a year later I was given a choice as to where I would like to go. My decision was immediate. I chose to go back to the Ranch. When I came back I had a different set of house parents. Ken and Michelle Wheeler welcomed me back into the Ranch family as if I had never left. I have been asked why I like living at the Boys Ranch. The answer for me is simple. I like that we are a family made of different people and different backgrounds, yet we share common experiences. In other words we are separate individuals and maybe we are separated from our families, but we are united by the staff and house parents that take care of us. Through them we are united into a new family: my Boys Ranch family. At the Ranch I feel taken care of. I feel like I have an opportunity to shape my future and chase my dreams. I have not yet decided which dreams I aim to chase. However, at the Boys Ranch I feel I have the right kind of support and encouragement around me to help me succeed at whatever I may choose. I am grateful for the Boys Ranch and the supportive staff. I am grateful also for the hard work and efforts throughout the year to sustain our Boys Ranch Families. Thank you for all you do and continue to do to unite children like me to families like that which I have found. I look forward to sharing with you my future success as my story continues to unfold. Tyrone Kelsey, Herrington Homestead My name is Tyrone Kelsey, Jr. and I am seventeen-years-old. I truly enjoy playing football, but I take my academic career seriously and set high goals/standards for myself. Many of you saw me last year, and I am happy to be back to report that I am better than ever with the support of Herrington Homestead. Without Herrington Homestead, I don’t know where I would have been two years ago. By staying here and receiving the support all the staff members have given me, I have realized that this is my second chance to get my mind right and become a successful adult. I now strive to do the best that I can in school and surround myself with positive people. I am determined to accomplish every goal that care of other people’s children and treat them like your own.” Tyrone Kelsey, Herrington Homestead I have set for myself. With Herrington Homestead standing in my corner, I know I will not have a problem doing this. I would like to thank Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes for giving me the chance to better myself. I am truly blessed to call Herrington Homestead my home. Even more so, I am truly happy that my siblings are able to call it home as well. I feel that every child here should be just as grateful. We’ve all been through tough times, but we can overcome anything with each other’s support. I would like to thank all of the house parents from all the campuses for devoting their time to help raise children that are not even theirs. It takes a lot of love to take care of other people’s children and treat them like your own. I’m thankful for the support of our donors for believing in all of us. We know that without you, the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes would not exist. I can and will go a long way with the love and support of Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. Thank you all for everything!!!! company most of the time! I’ve learned to communicate with my peers without physical or verbal altercations. I’m pretty sure you’re thinking why I’m a resident anyway. I used to go 90-tonothing at the mouth and I was selfish. I thought rules didn’t apply to me. I’ve had drugs and very bad influences in my life. I couldn’t stand the way I was living. When I heard about Pineland I took the advantage of another home. Ever since, I’ve loved Pineland like it was a summer camp! We participate in so many activities. My favorite time of the year is, of course, Christmas! All holidays are nice but Christmas sticks out to me the most because it’s a time of worship, giving and family. Finally, God’s put a lot of examples in my life of how people come and go. From that I’ve learned to set good examples for the people who want to go home! When I finish high school, I desire to be a Blacksmith. I appreciate everything that everyone has done for me! Thank you! Gino DeLorco, Pineland Sarah Davenport, Cherokee Estate First, I would like to thank Mr. Wayne Pittman for choosing me as resident of the year. I’ve been at Pineland for nearly two years now. I have really enjoyed my stay here, and the staff has admired my Hello my name is Sarah Davenport. Thank you all for being here and thank you for having me. I came into foster care at the age of 11, due to sexual abuse. Between the ages 11 to 16, I was in an www.georgiasheriffs.org www.georgiasheriffsyouth.org abusive foster home. On January 24, 2014, I left that foster home and came into the welcoming arms of Cherokee Estate staff. It was a shock from living at home with one sibling to living in a home with five foster children to living at Cherokee Estate with 9 girls and now living on my own in our transitional living cottage, known as TLC. There are so many things that I have learned from the staff at Cherokee Estate and they have learned many things about me since I have lived there. They have taught me that it is my choice to use my past as a stepping stone towards my future. They have taught me that I can adapt to any obstacle thrown my way. For example, I wear hearing aids. Hearing loss is hereditary in my family for females. My mom and sister also wear hearing aids, but my brother does not. Cherokee Estate has helped me cope with my hearing loss. They transport me to my appointments as well as providing me with a clock that allows me to wake myself up independently. They have taught me rules and directions, the importance of being trustworthy and responsible. Most importantly, they have taught me independence. Every day, I learn new things as I live there. Cherokee Estate has so many advantages and opportunities. They provide tutoring, counseling, help with a car and college, encourage you to find employment and save money and most importantly they provide a family with love and support. These are all opportunities that I would not have found in a foster home. Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 13 RESIDENT DIRECTOR’S CORNER From the Special and Golden Olympics to the Pineland Youth Homes Campus and Camp Pioneer, Wayne Pittman is a wellrounded and versatile kind of guy. After diving into a career in child care in 1979 where he worked at a day treatment center with children who had therapeutic needs, Pittman strayed away from his earlier intended career of being a Special Education Teacher. He did not miss it by much as his college major curriculum included special education and recreation courses with a concentration in therapeutic recreation. His passion for children sparked when he began a summer job at a local pool. That opened the doors for his first job out of college as a Recreation Specialist including the core area of NYPUM (National Youth Projects using MiniBikes). The program was designed to help correct behaviors that brought kids into court situations while enabling them into bi-weekly visits by a Recreation Therapist. After joining the Local Recreation Department as a Therapeutic Specialist, Pittman focused on fitness and sports programs working with mental and physical disabilities. This enabled him to take a role in the Special Olympics and Golden Olympics for over ten years. As this passion grew, it was no surprise that working with the elderly in the senior centers and the diversity of the therapeutic activities that he found at heart he missed working with children who needed special attention in the behavioral area, so back to child care he went. Foster care became his calling. Pittman worked a number of years with foster children while learning a more one on one routine with the children in a home setting. It was evident he had a prevailing soft spot for children in need. From day one, when he put on his first hat of a lifeguard, Pittman had no idea the days to follow would allow him to be a man of many hats. Four years ago, Pittman put on his most recent hat of Resident Director of the Pineland Campus in LaGrange and Administrator for Camp Pioneer. “Watching the kids change— Transitioning from who they were when they first got here to who they are becoming—making a difference in a life is what drives me every day” shared Pittman. “I’m passionate because we may be the last hope for a child. We may prevent them from going to jail or making a decision they can’t take back,” says Pittman. He oversees the year round, boys-only campus and is very dedicated to his role. He explained that Pineland like the other campuses have an “on call rotation” for after hours, weekends and holidays. However, he chooses to drop in even when he is not on call. It is not a scheduled day or time. “I just pop in. You never know when one of these boys is going to have 14 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 a special need. Sometimes, it may just be that I am the person that he needs to talk to. For a new child, the physical presence of someone other than his house parent may provide a sense of security” said Pittman. “The most challenging part of managing the youth home is that you can’t help them all; you find that some teens fall through the cracks even after you have reached out to them because some are simply unreceptive to help. They end up being released from the program and it is hard to let them go. These kids are dear to me so it takes daily effort” stated Pittman. Although his schedule is busy with the youth and the youth homes in addition to supervising summer camps, this well rounded, gentle, big-hearted man who is accustomed to wearing so many hats, is a perfect match for the LaGrange campus. Children, activities, fitness and fun are the ideal ingredients to create this soup of success for Mr. Wayne and we are delighted that he chose to be a part of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. PINELAND There’s just something about summer time that makes you want to find a pool and take a dip. Pineland boys enjoy the indoor pool at LaGrange College while taking swim lessons. Service with a smile. These youngsters pick up trash at the local library as part of the Keep Troup Clean and Beautiful community project. Great job boys! www.georgiasheriffs.org www.georgiasheriffsyouth.org Troup County Sheriff James Woodruff presented a check to the Pineland Campus for the funds raised during this year’s annual car show. Accepting the check is Pineland Resident Director Wayne Pittman. Standing with him and the Sheriff are Chief Deputy Jon Whitney, and car show organizer, Major Charles Nixon. The boys at Bailey Cottage enjoy working in the campus garden, but Chris (shown) takes extra pride in it. He is proud of his growing beans after diligently keeping them watered and plucking those pesky weeds. Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 15 cherokee estate & mountainview When all else fails, DIY! (AKA Do It Yourself) This is how Cherokee Estate girls make the best of a hot day and no pool: they create their very own slip-nslide. Beta Club?! You go girl. After receiving her end of the year awards, Kylee was also inducted into the National Beta Club. Based on that smile, she is one happy girl. Way to go Kylee! Representing Cherokee Estate, Lexy is proud to show off her well deserved awards that she earned at the Northwest Middle School End of the Year Awards ceremony. Cherokee Estate made quite an impression at this year’s awards ceremonies. Many of the children worked hard all year long and earned several different awards. We are very, very proud! Cherokee Estate / MountainView Board of Trustees gathered to plan the Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser that was held on August 8, 2015 at Indian Trace in Chatsworth, Ga. Back row, Left to Right: Bill Weaver, Jane Harrell, Tom Starnes, Rick Bagley, Grant Starnes, Dr. Mickey McNeill, Bernita Cofield, Sheriff Scott Chitwood, Sheriff Gary Langford, Dewayne Hunt, Commissioner Brittany Pittman, and Nikita Jordan. Front row, Left to Right: Dot McCrory, Sparky Roberts, Alan Kendrick, Eddie Brooker, Lorijo Calhoun, Brett James, and John Paul. Their efforts were a success! 16 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 BOYS RANCH Graduation deserves celebration. Several of the Boys Ranch youth were recognized for their scholastic awards and hard earned graduation. Great job to each one of you! He made it!! Justin Hayes of the Boys Ranch took his final walk at Lowndes High School. He is officially a High School Graduate. Justin worked very hard and accomplished this admiral task. Way to go Justin! Stars are among us!! Go BLAZERS! A couple of of the VSU football players made a special visit to the Boys Ranch residents. Several were star-struck while enjoying the opportunity to play a little ball. What a treat! Fun times, great memories. Big or small, the thrill is in pulling one in! It’s a complete day, sitting by the pond with a cane pole and a rod-n-reel, feeling the smooth breeze and sunshine: it’s a better life at the Boys Ranch. What a catch! It was just another exciting day at the Boys Ranch showing off the big one. One nice fish equals one happy young man. www.georgiasheriffs.org Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 17 herrington homestead The canopy tour in the north Georgia mountains brings out the best in our boys. The nice crisp air and exciting activities make this trip one to remember. A view from the tree tops can be quiet exhilarating! These Herrington Homestead boys enjoy some team challenges on their spring vacation in the mountains. These Herrington Homestead youngsters enjoyed time together on the lake at the George Smith State Park. After starting out with a few kayaking lessons, they hit the water to try out their new skills. Sometimes dodging the cypress trees and each other were the highlight of the day. Fishing is a family affair at Herrington Homestead Fishing Derby that was held on May 15th. 18 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 Life jacket? Check. Paddle? Check. Kayak? Check. Big smile? Check. This was one excited young lady who thoroughly enjoyed her experience of kayaking on the lake. Camp Pioneer PINELAND Not many youth can walk out their back door and paddle across a lake. From lessons in water safety to water fights and canoe racing, these kids learn and enjoy the water. Rock climbing; what a great workout! Some of the youth at Camp Pioneer jumped on this obstacle with no hesitation. Much like life, this wall is thrilling yet takes focus and dedication. There are many different ways to make it to the top with several slips along the way, but with stamina and determination, reaching the top was one reward worth working for. This group of happy faces represent one of the many groups enjoying Camp Pioneer this summer. Team work projects, friendly competition, good times and life memories are some of the great joys of this facility. UPCOMING EVENTS AUGUST 22 Hall County Bike Ride 28 Whitfield County Golf Tournament SEPTEMBER 4-6 Pickens County Jeep Fest 19 Paulding County Bike Ride OCTOBER 2 Kevin Millwood Celebrity Golf Tournament www.georgiasheriffs.org 5 17-18 24 26 Houston County Golf Tournament Harris County Bike Ride Worth County Bike Ride Emanuel County Golf Tournament NOVEMBER 7 Emanuel County Bike Ride 14 Pierce County Car Show Please visit the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes web page for information on all the great events happening across our state! www.georgiasheriffsyouth.org Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 19 TRIBUTE PROGRAM The Georgia Sheriffs’ Association represents the Office of Sheriff and sponsors the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes, providing residential care for abused, abandoned and neglected children. The Tribute Program is a wonderful way to support these organizations while remembering loved ones. Contributions may be made to these funds to recognize a friend or loved one who has passed away, acknowledge a birthday or anniversary, send get well wishes, or to honor someone. All contributions made to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association will be used to promote the Constitutional Office of Sheriff, while contributions made to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes will be used for higher education of our graduating seniors or for capital improvements. Contributions Received April 1 - June 30, 2015 GSYH Tributes Odell Brooks E. Blitch, III Our Fallen Heros Thelma H. Cliett Ronald Boothe C. Adkins Larry & Wanda Lewis Mr. Bob L. Akins Melba Akins Ms. Marty Allmond Barry & Ellen Brown Mr. Charles D. Bailey Sheriff Janis Mangum Ms. Florence Palmer Baker Jean R. Luke Mr. William Harry “Bill” Baker Curtis & Bobbie Beverly Mrs. Virginia Barrett Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. Walter Bartee Peggy Haralson Mr. Paul Beebe Jimmy Brown 20 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF Mr. Thomas R. “Buck” Bentley Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office Employees Mr. Jonathan Bernhardt Retired Sheriff Billy Bernhardt Mr. Hoyt Biggers Wayne & Vicky Williamson Parker Zane Bledsoe Hughes & Wright Funeral Home Dale & Patricia Frazier Mr. Hubert Bond Earline Strickland Mr. Smith Bond Edith Bond Ms. Syvlia Booth Curtis & Kay Green Ms. Dera Mae Adams Bostick Sheriff W. E. Bozeman Mr. Donnie Boyd Jerry & Janis Mangum Mrs. Mary Brannen Jim & Holly Proctor & The Girls & Mrs. Ruth Proctor Mr. Jimmy Bridges Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Yvonne Brigman John & Beth Tillman Martha Dasher Mr. Charles Brooks Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. James Roy Brooks Jerry & Janis Mangum John Cody Mrs. Ruth Brooks Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Mr. David Brookshire Joan Williamson • Aug 2015 Mr. Frank Brown Lisa McKinley & Staff - Pitts Auto Parts, LLC/Pitts Insurance Major James Brown - Macon County S.O. Joseph Carney Chief Deputy Lewis Cazenave Mr. Ray Burnette Sheriff H.W. & Mary Ellen Hancock Mr. Samuel D. Burns, III Martha Dasher Mr. John J. Campbell Linda & Larry Jordan Me. Edd Carr Peggy Haralson Mr. Tom Carter Peggy Haralson Mr. Mack Cates Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Dorothy Charron Sheriff Neil Warren Mr. Ferrell Childres A. J. Wright Mrs. Edna Merle Childs The Ernest Adams Family Mr. Greg Cline Fred A. Mayfield & Company Mrs. Peggy Cochran Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Geneva Cofer Gloria Dixon John C. Adkins Family Ms. Flora Perry Conger Rodney Alexander Mr. Randall Conner Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Ms. Sara Copeland Glenda & Tom Digby Ms. Janice Corbett David Corbett Mr. Mike Cox Larry & Wanda Lewis Mr. Will Cox Ed & Sally Feagin Ms. Dorothy Little Craig Sheriff Neil Warren Chief Deputy Milton Beck Mr. Bill Crane Jean R. Luke Mr. Henry T. Crawford Merck Retirees Flint River Plant Mr. Mike Crews Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Maggie Crimes Harold & Vivian Bankston Ms. Betty Teague Daniel Sheriff Terry E. Langley & Staff Mr. William Daniel Nancy Kautzman Mrs. Willie Pearl Daniels Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Mr. Arlen Davis Turner County Stockyards, Inc. Hairral Davis Dr. Kirk Krueger Mr. Ronald Dwyane Davis, Sr. CSIS Department - UNA Ms. Marilyn H. Demott Ray Hendrick Mr. Richie Demott Timmy Jackson Ms. Lorena Derison Gary & Jan Parker Mr. Samuel Dean Donaldson Beth Tillman Sandra Allen Nola Townsend Caryn Chitty Mr. Jimmy W. Dorough Ronney & Gloria Ledford & Family Mr. Marion Dunn, Jr. Dan & Marie Branch Mr. Henry Alfred “Scrap” Dupree Allen & Joan Erkhart Mrs. Early Eady Delton & Grace Hilliard Mr. Donie W. Edwards Patricia A. Edwards Mr. Ray Edwards Sheriff H. W. & Mary Ellen Hancock Mr. Richard Ellison Beth Tillman Shayne Goddard MountainView Board of Trustees Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Ms. Martha Melton Etheridge Hank & Marsha Youngblood Mr. Edmond Fisher, Jr. Kay & Cheri Hayes Mr. Michael Fitzgerald Ed & Sally Feagin Mr. Austin Folsom Nell & Tom Sumner Judge Whitfield Forrester Peggy Haralson Mrs. Mary Franklin Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. Edward Gaines Lois Sears Mr. Pruitt Gibson Jim & Holly Proctor & The Girls Mr. Lanier Gilbert Wesley & Linda Walraven Mr. Harvey Gilmore Peggy Haralson Mr. Edward Blaine Goines Charlotte & Clyde Hurst and Thomas & Missy Hurst Gerri Golden Bill & Connie Harrell Laurens County Sheriff’s Office Ms. Betty Gordon Susie Raburn Mr. Cordarius Green Bo & Anne Barrow - Barrow Automotive, Inc. Carl, Tonya & Caleb Kirksey Susie Raburn Mrs. Amy Shaw Griffis Earl & Vivian Frost Mrs. Penny Shaw Mr. Bernard Hand Betty H. Hall Mr. Bill Hare Brent & Teresa Merriman & Family Ms. Carolyn E. Harper Ottis & Barbara Harper Mr. Bobby Harrell Nell & Tom Sumner Mr. John Noble Harris, Jr. Allen & Joan Erkhart Mr. Marvin Harris Baker & Ellen Alston Mrs. Audrey Hattaway Ernest Hattaway Mr. Jesse Herndon Henry & Annette Slocumb Mrs. Wilma Perdue Hill Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Mrs. Sharon Hilton Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Ms. Audrey Walls Hobbs Sheriff Billy & Mary Ellen Hancock Mr. Mitch Hogge Carole Hogge Mr. Bobby G. Holmes Dale & Patricia Frazier Ms. Mary Earnest Houston Turner County Stockyards, Inc. Mrs. Anne J. Hudson Johnny & Carol Hawkins Mr. Elliott Hudson Wesley & Linda Walraven Mr. Johnny Hullett Linda & Larry Jordan Mr. Gary “Tom” Hulsey Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Viola Hurst Ralph & Shari Dorminey Mr. Walter D. Jarrard James C. Worley, Jr. Mrs. Nell B. Jenkins Johnie & Evans Crockett Ms. Christy Bates Jerdon Chuck & Jeannette Gilbert Mr. Alvin E. Johnson Dawn Hyleman Mr. Jerry Johnson Fred A. Mayfield & Company Mr. Anthony Jones Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Ms. Pam Jones Jean R. Luke Mr. Robert D. “Bob” Jones Margaret Jenkins Ms. Sarah Harleen Jones Jean & Serge Loussarian Ms. Peggy Joyner Sheriff Mike Yeager & Staff Col. Edwin Kelly, USAF Retired Mrs. Edwin Kelly Mr. Ben Ketchum Harold & Vivian Bankston Ms. Jo Ann Kimery Sondra E. Gold & Family Mrs. Irene Maddox Kinney Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. Daniel Kirby Jaan Anne Hardin Ms. Mellissa Ann Kitchens Maureen & Michael McGrew Ms. Kling Fred A. Mayfield & Company www.georgiasheriffs.org Mr. Ralph Ronald Lancaster Hazel M. Giddens Mrs. Louise Lawrence Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Sheriff Jim Proctor Sheriff Mike Kile Mr. Sonny Lawrence Robert & Rosie Clary Mr. Charles Leger Peggy Haralson Mr. Glenn Leverett Sheriff Billy & Mary Ellen Hancock Ms. Annell Livingston Ray & Mary Walker Mr. Howard Locke James Deason & Jeannie Parks Mr. Jamie Lynn Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Patricia Magnatta S. Magnatta Mr. Marc Martin Keith & Sara Myers Mr. James Mathis Joan Mathis Mrs. Cammie Holmes McCook Jimmy Brown, Louann Brown Boland & Family Ms. Laura McDonald Jean R. Luke Mr. Jim McDuffie Turner County Stockyards, Inc. Mr. Cal McGraw, Jr. Dan & Marie Branch Ms. Lauren McLeod Nell & Tom Sumner Ms. Rossie McMillian Martin Motors Ms. Ramona McNair Turner County Stockyards, Inc. Ms. Pamela McNorrill Johnie & Evans Crockett Ms. Mary Frances Merritt Moultrie Woodmen of the World Chapter 104 Ms. Hazel Miller Ralph & Shari Dorminey Ms. Linda Mills Deborah Reynolds Mr. Carlos Millsap Sheriff Neil Warren J. Terry Norris Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Mr. & Mrs. Jackson A. Lively Preacher Gerald Milton Jerry & Janis Mangum Retired Sheriff Jerry Modena Gladys H. Malone & Family J. Terry Norris Police Benevolent Association Don Banks - Bibb County Civil Service Board Sid Moore, M.D. Sheriff & Mrs. Mike Kile Allstate Bonding Company Betty Jean Woodward Ms. Maggie Moore Mrs. Robert M. Torras Mr. Charles Winfield Morel, Jr. Trudy Shelton Mr. Ray Morrell Bo & Anne Barrow - Barrow Automotive, Inc. Mr. Jarrett Morrison Lisa McKinley & Staff -Pitts Auto Parts, LLC/Pitts Insurance Mrs. Donna Marie Mucciolo Frank Mucciolo Ms. Mary Mullis Rita Bandt Mrs. Beth Nix Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Julia Noll Ann & Bill Morse Sheriff Ladson O’Connor Jim & Holly Proctor & The Girls Dooly County Justice Center J. Terry Norris Staff of Georgia Sheriffs’ Assoc. - Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes Sheriff Jim Proctor Nelson & Brenda Gaines Sheriff Mike & Helen Kile Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Uvalda United Methodist Church Mrs. Cecil Page Julia T. Smith J. Gene Palmer Jean R. Luke Ms. Ernestine Parker Eula Jo Sheffield & A. J. Wright Mr. Gene R. Parker Jean R. Luke Parker Ms. Nancy Parrott Max & Georgia Wainer Jeanette P. Clanton & Mike Clanton Richard & Claudia Nijem Susan S. Swader, CPA, PC Janet & Mark Haworth John & Beth Tillman Vallye Blanton Larry & Anne Morts VOA Ambulatory Surgery Center Elizabeth Bechtel Ronald & Jennifer Allen Oscar & Lisa Aguero Owen D. Harris James & Ingrid Carroll Faye Dasher Cooper Martha Dasher & Family Mary W. Campagna Ben & Denise Wetherington Mr. & Mrs. Flynn Barbare Rita Suiter Jane Ferrell Jake & Caryn Chitty Ms. Kristi Patel Terry and Mimi McGahee Damon & Patricia Price Sam D. Dennis & Family Colson Business Systems, Inc. Johnson Distributing Co. Valdosta Medical Clinic Oscar & Lisa Aguero & Family Rusty, Kim, Ben & PeytonTrancygier John A. Lastinger Tremont Church of God Christopher Trucks David M. Wolfson, Attorney At Law Becky Taylor Frank & Diane Corker Sarah Surratt Heather Colson Hardy, DMD Teresa Merriman Charles & Mary Jo Price Gerald H. Henderson, CPA Buck & Nancy Peggy Scantronix Medical Imaging Services, Inc. Neurology, Neurosurgery & Spine Clinic Bolan P. Woodward South Georgia Periodontics, PC Henderson & Godbee, LLP Physicians & Staff of Southern OB/GYN Associates, PC Citizens Community Bank Parham Radiology, PC - Paul Rubis Ms. Krishma Patel VOA Ambulatory Surgery Center, Inc. Owen D. Harris G.E. Trey & Gretchen Powell Gina Kelley & Sandi Foshee Dr. Joe & Debroa Morgan Dr. J. Brad & Vicki D. Bynum Steve & Belinda Allen - Regional Therapy Services, Inc. Radiology Associates of Valdosta, LLC Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Vann Allen Dr. and Mrs. Charles Hobby Anita Kicklighter Sandra P. Taylor Carmen, Mark & Georgia Booth Dr. and Mrs. William R. Grow, Sr. Clinton & Jeana Beeland Chuck & Susan Steel Frankie Patton Clarence Smith Mr. Larry Payne Peggy Haralson Mr. Frank L. Pearman Linda & Larry Jordan Mrs. Beverly Pearson Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. Bill Pearson Susan McEachern Mr. Charles Pearson Sheriff Neil Warren Chief Deputy Milton Beck Sheriff Van Peavy Ronnie, Janice, Matt & Marci Brannen Linda B. Davis Ms. Mary Peeples Peggy Haralson Ms. Darlene Pendley Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Mechelle Polhill Sheriff Janis Mangum & Staff Jackson Co. S.O. Mr. Jimmy Pope Lofton & Murlene Haymons Miss Patti Powell Wendell & Lyndal Lynn Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 21 Mr. Bobby E. Prather Johnny & Carol Hawkins Victoria Rose Preskitt Rosa C. & Paul E. Preskitt Ms. Shelby Presley Harold Gowder Family Mr. Dean Pruitt Wesley & Linda Walraven Mr. Howard Pryor Tom & Peggy Clark Mr. Floyd A. Puckett Norman & Joan Puckett Mr. George “Don” Pulliam Global Equipment Company Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Lahey Ron & Brenda Petrey Mr. J. D. Ragan Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. Marvin Ragan Sheriff Billy & Mary Ellen Hancock Mr. Robert Reece Dan & Vanita Anderson Mr. Glenn Reed, Jr. Jeff & Linda Strickland Ms. Mamie Rentz Ralph & Shari Dorminey Mr. Cliff Revill June Cuthbertson Mr. Jack Rhodes Penny Houston Mr. Leroy Rhodes Sheriff Mike Yeager & Staff Mrs. Mary Anne Richey Lisa McKinley & Staff - Pitts Auto Parts, LLC/Pitts Insurance Mr. Arnold Robinson Leila R. Guinn Mr. Edward Robinson Leila R. Guinn Mr. James Robinson Leila R. Guinn Mr. Jerry Russell Ret. Chief Harold Thomas Ms. Virginia Russell Ret. Chief Harold Thomas Ms. Rebecca Jane Sailors John Cody Mr. Marvin Sanders Jacquelyn Smith Ms. Jerry Saunders Shayne Goddard Mr. Don Seagraves Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. James Slayton “Jay” Shaw Hugh & Tina Chancy Donald F. Back Larry & Judy Wilkinson Fred DeLoach, Jr. Family Dr. Jack Shirley Sheriff Janis & Jerry Mangum Mr. C. J. Smiley Betty L. Smiley Mr. Billy Smith Darrell R. Watson Mr. Brandon Cohen Smith Sheriff H. W. & Mary Ellen Hancock 22 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF Mr. Joe Smith Turner County Stockyards, Inc. Mr. Larry Smith Jerry & Janis Mangum Ms. Ruth Walden Smith Jimmy & Sandy Griffis Mr. & Mrs. John Powers Mr. W. H. Smithwick Doris Smithwick Ms. Lisa Monica Solis Jerry & Janis Mangum Carl & Betty Spaid Dee Houser Mr. James E. Stalvey, Sr. John & Nita Reed Mrs. Ann Stancil Jackson County Civil Division Jewel Stevens Jacquelyn Smith Izona Stewart Bill & Connie Harrell Mr. O. L. Stokes Ray & Mary Walker Mr. Charlie C. Story Sheriff Terry E. Langley & Staff Mr. June T. Strawder Martha Dasher & Family Ms. Doris Stuckey Jim & Holly Proctor & The Girls Mr. James Warren Sturdivant Phillip Ayers Mr. Marvin Sudduth Wesley & Linda Walraven Mr. Mark P. Tomlinson William G. Sewell Mr. Fred L. Tucker John Hughes Ms. Janna Tucker Nell & Tom Sumner Mr. Russell Tullis Jerry & Janis Mangum Mr. James Turner Peggy Haralson Rene Vandendries Penny & Dick Lonsdale Mrs. Elsie Lou Vickers Carol Ann & Buddy Horne and Judy Carlton Ms. Brenda Wainwright Jim & Holly Proctor & The Girls Mr. J. B. Walker Bill & Connie Harrell Mr. Jimmy Watson Peggy Haralson Mr. William Robert Watson, Sr. Bill & Opal Herndon Ms. Sharon Weathers Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office Employees Ms. Joan “Granny” Webb Mike & Khris Shanks Mr. William Lee Wells Hughes & Wright Funeral Home, Inc. Larry & Wanda Lewis Mr. Russell Wetherington Jennifer & Joey Sands • Aug 2015 Mr. Jim White Timmy Jackson Mr. Lee Wiley Eula Jo Sheffield & A. J. Wright Mr. Al Williams Mr. & Mrs. Richard Dozier Ms. Myrtle E. Williams Turner County Stockyards, Inc. Mr. Ray Gene Williams Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Hortman Genell Fletcher Wilson Johnny Witherspoon & Family Jason Witherspoon Mr. James Edwin “Ed” Windom Sheriff Terry E. Langley & Staff Mr. Cecil Woodard Bill & Connie Harrell Mrs. Ward Lee Worsham Timmy Jackson Ms. Sarah Young Sheriff Neil Warren Chief Deputy Milton Beck birthdays GSP Trooper - Robert P. Balkcom Barbara Christmas Golden Mrs. Glenda L. Digby James T. Digby Eliza Holland Frances Noland Sheriff Alvie Kight - Toombs Co. S.O. Piccola Wooten Ms. Diana Siegel Brendan Siegel honors Kenard Apaka Thaina Lee Brown-Brake Mr. Wayne Bennett S. Magnatta Sheriff Preston Bohannon - Jeff Davis Co. J. Barry Owens Mr. Jonathan Harrison Retired Sheriff Billy Bernhardt Janice & Tommy Lee Edwin Blanchard Capt. Doug Loyd - Union Co. S.O. Pamela Brix Mr. Jason Moye Dorothy Melton Sheriff Donnie Pope - Jasper Co. S.O. Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Bailey Sheriff Jim Proctor - Camden Co. S.O. Vaxter Hammond Brenda & Jerry Prophett Elsie Shelton Mr. Josh Ridley Donna W. Lee Ms. Debbie Smith Betty D. Pope Mr. T. P. Strickland, Jr. Ellen, Keith, Chase & Beth Parmer Bernice Strickland & John Strickland Mr. Dan Torbert Schley & Karen Gatewood Capt. Eric Walker & Traffic Team Bibb Co. S.O. Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) Chapter 0808 Sheriff Doyle T. Wooten Dewey & Clara Hayes Worthy Family Dentistry Sarah & Gerry Riecke gsa tributes Rev. Ray Burnette Arthur M. & Gail M. Posey Mr. Sam Burns Steve & Lisa Kebler Mr. Larry J. Gilpin, Sr. Bobby & Wanda Choate Mr. James T. “Jim” Haskins Retired Sheriff Ronnie Rogers Retired Sheriff Jerry M. Modena, Sr. Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office Kevin Tanner - Tanner Recycling, Inc. Ms. Nancy Parrott Rose Marie Sinnott Ms. Ann Sweatt Jim & Holly Proctor & The Girls gsa honors Ms. Cynthia Baxter Juanita Gulley Georgia Sheriffs’ Association Freddie & Cynthia Thomas Ms. Phyllis Rose Lindsey Sheriff Chris Prine & Staff FUNDRAISERS It truly takes a community to raise a child; and it takes communities to help raise the children in the Youth Homes. Without the sheriffs and the fundraiser planners, participants and all the worker bees in-between, the children would not have the chance to experience a better life. Saying thank you simply isn’t enough to all those who take part across the state: from volunteering time, donating goods, cooking, sponsoring, taking photos, setting up equipment, registering, to the clean up, each role plays a part in the success of our children. The overall winners in the end are the children who reside at the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes! Let’s start ‘em early. A few players gather around to enjoy a little “T time” while watching one of the smallest participants perfect his swing just before the start of the Colquitt County Golf Tournament at Sunset Golf Course in Moultrie on June 5. Practice makes perfect. These guys were warming up, preparing for the 20th Annual Laurens County golf tournament sponsored by the Sheriff’s Office. The Green Acres Golf & Recreation Club in Dexter hosted this charity event on June 21. A great group of sponsors and participants took part in the Statewide Golf Tournament held at Eagle’s Brooke Country Club in Locust Grove on June 1. Proceeds support the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. Are you ready to run, climb, jump, and even crawl your way through some MUD? The first annual Jail Break Mud Challenge of Chatham County was a successful 4.2 miles of rough terrain and obstacle course designed to test ones limits…and that it did! Men and women wrestled their personal stamina and determination in the early morning mud run on June 13, to raise funds and awareness for the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. It was a huge success! www.georgiasheriffs.org Aug 2015 • THE GEORGIA SHERIFF | 23 GEORGIA SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION, INC. GEORGIA SHERIFFS’ YOUTH HOMES, INC. Administrative Office Post Office Box 1000 Stockbridge, GA 30281 (770) 914–1076 executive director j. terry norris SAFETY CORNER “Couple in Georgia found shot to death after responding to Craigslist offer for car” “Nanny disappeared after responding to Craigslist Job Ad” “Woman loses $1000 in Scam” “Online Yard Sale Site Scam for Payment Fraud” 24 | THE GEORGIA SHERIFF • Aug 2015 One headline after another plagues the country with fraudulent activity. Some scams result in tampered bank accounts while others have resulted in death. • Be skeptical: always use caution and take heed to the saying, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Many tragic circumstances have affected families from all over and it is haunting to think that some of these horrific events may have been prevented. It is essential for anyone using online bill pay, online sales, answering ads online, or any type of financial transaction to be vigilant in protecting yourself from thieves and scammers. Here are some tips to keep in mind: • Be cautious whenever conducting business transactions through online “yard sales” and auction-style websites. Offer to pay with a cashier’s check and notify law enforcement of the impending transaction, meeting locations, and those involved. • Never disclose any personal identity information to anyone online. • Make sure you are dealing with a legitimate person and/or business. • Always meet in a public, highly-trafficked area such as your local Sheriff’s Office or Police Department parking lot. If you are concerned about the possibility of a scam or suspicious activity, contact your local Sheriff’s Office. It’s never too late to err on the side of caution.