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THE MADISON COUNTY (GAf JOURNAL. THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 12, 2009 — PAGE 3A Madison County may lean toward charter school system in next decade By Ben Munro ben@mainstreetnews.com Given the option of an IE2 school system or a charter school setup, Madison County may move toward a charter system within the next four years. By law, school leaders must designate by 2013 which funding model it prefers. “It does appear, for school systems our size, that a charter systemis the way to go between the two,” Madison County Schools Superintendent Mitch McGhee said. The charter format places an emphasis on the local schools having “a lot of empower ment,” McGhee said. The IE2 system is based on achievement marks. Schools face penalties if they don’t meet those standards. The IE2 format caters to larger school districts, like Gwinnett or Forsyth County, McGhee said. “That’s more of a big sys tem issue,” he said. There’s currently a $ 100-per- student rate in state funding associated with becoming a charter school system. But that funding may become lim ited as more schools go that route. School officials will make a presentation to the Madison County Board of Education after the Christmas holidays regarding both options. Central officials have already seen 4-5 presentations regard ing charter systems vs. the IE2 format. The process to make the switch takes about a year to a year and a half. “We’re going to need to start, February or March, heading down that road,” McGhee said. Fourth annual Madison County Artist Market set for Saturday By Margie Richards margie@mainstreetnews.com Over 30 local artists will sell their handmade works at the historic courthouse on the square in Danielsville this Saturday, Nov. 14, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the fourth annual Madison County Artist Market. This pre-holiday market gives local residents a chance to pur chase handmade items and gifts without having to travel outside the county, said Laura Bowen co-coordinator of the artist market. ‘We are so fortunate to have a wealth of talented artists living right here in Madison County,” said Bowen. “In fact, several of the coun ty’s artists have been recognized both regionally and nationally.” Bowen points out that just this past year, Pat and Janice Shields were featured in Southern Living Magazine for their original, yet traditional Southern pottery. Stephanie Astalos-Jones was the focus of a Southern Living Magazine article as well. Astalos-Jones is an artist and actress who makes pysanky (Ukrainian eggs) and pysanky jewelry. The art of pysanky is an ancient tradition full of symbolism and folklore, Bowen noted. Folk artist Peter Loose has had his work exhibited in museums throughout the southeast. His work was also displayed across the big screen in a recent Warner Brothers movie. Producers leased Loose's artwork for scenes in the movie, Bowen said. “So many of the artists participating in the market are very suc cessful and have been selling and exhibiting their works around the southeast and even nationally,” Bowen said. “Having them all come together for this one special day will truly benefit our residents and help to support our local economy.” Pottery, jewelry, paintings, birdhouses, folk art, garden art, origi nal block prints, candles, fiber crafts, porcelain painted items, wood working, photography, and more will be available Saturday. “Handmade gifts are a special way to honor the holiday season and there is literally something for everyone on your list,” Bowen said. For a preview of the Madison County Artist Market, visit http:// madisoncountyartistmarket.blogspot.com/ Stephanie Astalos-Jones, an artist and actress, will have her pysanky (Ukrainian eggs) and pysanky jewelry at the market Saturday. Barbara Read, Comer, has her blood drawn Monday from Scott Veale, Red Cross blood collection techni cian. Zach Mitcham/staff ‘The gift of life’ Madison Countians donate blood to Red Cross Monday By Zach Mitcham zach@mainstreetnews.com B arbara Read of Comer lay on one of the dona tion beds in the Red Cross bus outside the county library Monday, offering her blood for a stranger. “I just want to help others in need,” she said. “I’m glad I'm healthy enough to do it. I hope that some day, if I need it, it will be available for me.” The Red Cross Blood Donation bus was parked outside of the county library for five hours Monday, with technicians busy inside the big vehicle taking donations from willing Madison Countians. Sara Carter, who oversees the blood drive for the library, said 47 people showed up to donate, with “33 good pints collected.” Scott Veale, Red Cross collection technician, said types O and B negative are most in need. He said the most critical times are usually in the summer and on the holidays when schools are on vacation. “But we’re always in need,” added Veale, noting that the goal for Monday was 39 usable donations, which would require about 50 donors. The next scheduled blood drive at the library is May 10. Carter noted that the library holds blood drives on the second Monday in May and second Monday in November. For more information on donating blood to the Red Cross, contact 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543). Madison) ournalT OD AY. com BOC to hold budget meeting Nov. 18 The Madison County Board of Commissioners will meet at 4 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 18, to consider the 2010 county budget. KENNY’S SANITATION Now offering weekly TRASH PICKUP in the following areas: Hull • Colbert • Comer Call or email for pricing: KEN OGLE - 706-614-5447 kennyssanitation@yahoo.com Nov 30th - 7:30PM Classic Center The Classic Center Presents 3 Decades of Hits & your Christmas Favorites! 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