Time capsule

As reported in The Columbia New 24 years ago on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 1978.

Eagles Aerie 3688 Award Honors

Columbia County School Patrol Lady, Deputy Sheriff and Fireman of the Year were announced by the Martinez Aerie 3688 of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles at their annual banquet Friday night.

Mrs. Hilda Taylor, who is a crossing guard in the City of Grovetown, was cited by Columbia County Commission Chairman Lynn Norris for her outstanding performance. Norris also recognized the Outstanding Deputy of the Year, Tony Cliatt. Burl Keen of the Martinez Volunteer Fire Department recognized the outstanding Volunteer Fireman, Captain Jim Champion.

Plaques were presented to each of the personnel recognized by the Aerie President Don Reynolds and by Ladies' Auxiliary President Carolyn Reynolds.

Chairman Disapproves of Tactics

"I wasn't invited to go," Chairman Lynn Norris reported about the trip to Atlanta by some of his fellow Commissioners.

"As far as these Commissioners going to Atlanta and threatening our Representative and Senator about this legislation, I am sure that the people of the county don't approve of these high-handed tactics. Mr. McGill is to be admired for the answer he gave," Norris further commented.

Norris said that he did not consider this visit and official Board action. He said that the matter had not been mentioned to the Board as a whole.

The legislation to be discussed was the proposed state court for Columbia County and the merger of the boards of Election and Registrars.

Commission supports bill

In a national post-Watergate trend to clean up government, the recall measure is currently receiving heavy consideration. This measure would allow voters to remove an elected official by petition and ballot.

Recall is an issue frequently discussed by politicians and citizens' groups in Columbia County. Recently the Commission Chairman, Lynn Norris wrote a letter to the editor of The Columbia News, voicing his support of recall.

In an interview, Norris reiterated his support.

"If the voters of Columbia County are not satisfied with me, they can get someone else," Norris said. He added that his would be "good for the county." Norris said that his support of the recall measure is not aimed at any one particular person, but all elected officials.