Newsmakers

Patrick G. Blanchard has been selected to serve as the 2009 chairman of the Columbia County Finance Drive for the YMCA of Georgia. The drive is currently under way to support the state YMCA program in middle and high schools in Georgia through Hi-Y, Tri-Hi-Y and Co-ed "Y" Clubs.

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Dr. Celia Dunn and Dr. Rhoda Sword of Evans, recently received recognition on a DVD produced by the Georgia Dental Association as part of the organization's 150th anniversary celebration. The DVD focused on a patient care service project called the "150 Faces Campaign," which showcased the charitable care dentists have historically provided to patients in need.

Harlem Councilman John Thigpen was elected to the board of directors of the Georgia Municipal Association during its annual meeting in Savannah on June 23. Thigpen will serve as president of District 7, which includes Columbia, Wilkes, Lincoln, Richmond, Burke, Jenkins, Jefferson, Washington, Glascock, Hancock, Warren and McDuffie counties.

Lindsay S. Thetford, daughter of Lindsay Philip and Wendy Thetford of Martinez, has been promoted to marketing community relations manager at The Augusta Chronicle. She was previously the marketing project manager. She is a resident of Augusta and is a 2008 graduate of Augusta State University, a member of the 2009/2010 Provisional Class of Junior League of Augusta and on the board of directors of the Young Professionals of Augusta.