In what may be an indication of continuing problems between Bartow Schools board members, Wanda Cagle Gray pointed to a possible conflict of interest during this week's work session. According to The Daily Tribune News, Gray expressed concern over an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Review for the site of a new Emerson Elementary School that was approved by school board chairman Davis Nelson in his capacity as Coosa River Soil and Water Conservation District supervisor for Bartow County. Both Davis' school board seat and his supervisory role are elected positions. He also is head master at …

As the 2012 election nears, talk about who will be Bartow's next commissioner rears its head, as current Commissioner Clarence Brown has vowed to retire after 20 years in office. Before he was re-elected to the helm of executive and legislative powers in the county, Brown said he would not run for office again, but changed his mind. Some speculate he would change is mind again before next year, especially if suitable candidates for commissioner don't step to the plate. With explosive growth throughout the last 10 years—from about 76,000 in 2000 to more than 100,000 last year—should Bartow …

Although forecasters say this month could offer warmer-than-normal temperatures, the end of the season likely will bring cooler-than-normal temps. According to the Weather Channel, we may be dealing with warm temperatures through and beyond the Fall Equinox, which happens Sept. 23 and marks the official first day of fall. From there on out, temperatures normally drop as the days get shorter. As we look forward to cooler weather, college football begins this weekend, elections season is underway with municipal qualifying wrapping up today and the festival season is in full swing. But what's …

In an emotional board meeting this week, the Bartow County Schools board voted down a recommendation to hire Robert Costley as assistant superintendent. Three board members voted no, apparently wanting a local person, someone already employed with the school system, to have the job. But one of the board members who voted to approve Superintendent John Harper's recommendation was outspoken on the issue. Wanda Cagle Gray accused current board chairman and previous superintendent Davis Nelson of holding out for the position. She said Harper would eventually step down, at which time a current …

Have you ever wondered what goes on in the kitchen of your favorite restaurant? Is the food handled properly? Are the workers washing their hands? Is it an overall clean environment where our food is being prepared? Each Sunday, Cartersville Patch publishes scores from restaurant inspections performed the previous week. One local restaurant that scored a C on its latest inspection will close for renovations. According to the Cartersville Downtown Development Authority, Antonino's Italian Grotto expects to reopen mid-September. In addition to a food temperature violation, Antonino's had …