News from MadisonJournalTODAY

Dr. John W. Barton has been selected as the grand marshal for the 2011 Christmas in Comer Parade as recognition for his work in historical preservation for Madison County. Barton, who was a significant source for items and displays for the Comer Travel Museum, was born and raised in a western suburb of Cleveland, Ohio. After receiving his ... [Full Story »] 

Two people were arrested recently following an apparent drug overdose death on Mason Mill Drive. Crystal Gayle Davidson, 29, of 97 Cane Creek Road, Athens, was charged with possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of tools for the commission of a crime. Brent Thomas Smith, 26, of 708 ... [Full Story »] 

The Madison County Industrial Development and Building Authority agreed Nov. 21 to apply for a $1.5 million Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) loan/grant package to enable a water system connection on Hwy. 29 North with Franklin County’s water system. IDA executive director Marvin White said the package, if approved, will include ... [Full Story »] 

No more meetings in the health department reception area — that’s good news for Madison County nurse manager Beth Heath, who leads health education classes for the county Women, Infant and Children (WIC) program. Heath appeared before commissioners Nov. 7, asking the group to consider allowing the WIC service to use one of the three ... [Full Story »] 

When there’s an emergency, Madison County citizens know to call 9-1-1. But pretty soon, 9-1-1 can call, text, or e-mail you when there’s a weather crisis, major accident or other emergency. Madison County commissioners unanimously approved a contract with First Call Nov. 7 to implement a web-based citizen notification system. The total cost ... [Full Story »] 

Danielsville city council’s hour-long closed session to discuss the fate of their new police chief produced no action, but a lot of confusion, at their regular business meeting Nov. 14. In fact, it was a matter of some debate by the council as to whether they would go into closed session in the first place. An “executive session” was ... [Full Story »]