Demorest presents $2,000 Wreaths Across America check; documentary and watershed sponsorships discussed

At the Dec. 3 work session, Barry Church described Wreaths Across America and the local ceremony scheduled for Dec. 14, 2024, noting the event’s goals to "Remember, Honor and Teach" the sacrifices of fallen veterans. Mayor Jerry Harkness presented a $2,000 sponsorship check on behalf of the City of Demorest for the local event.

Sammy Smith requested that the city consider a $5,000 "presenting sponsor" contribution toward a documentary about Johnny Mize and suggested a possible screening at the Demorest Conference Center in January. The request was presented as a sponsorship ask; the transcript does not record council approval or a commitment amount from the city.

Council also discussed the Soque River Watershed Association and agreed that the organization provides positive community benefits and that sponsoring it is appropriate; the transcript records agreement in principle but does not include a dollar amount or formal approval.

The meeting minutes record these items as presented and discussed; where the transcript does not show a formal council action or vote, this article reports the requests and the council’s informal agreement as described in the minutes.