"Food is a way to reach out to people in love, especially in the south."

For Maureen Wilcox, a casserole can be worth a thousand words. Wilcox is the volunteer coordinator at Heart of Georgia Hospice in Warner Robins. She oversees its Casserole Ministry, which she says is making a difference for families with a sick loved one or those dealing with a loss.

"By providing food to a family, especially a family that's going through a hard time, it provides them an additional element of support. It makes them feel like somebody is there for them," said Wilcox.

Gene Saunders works as chaplin for Heart of Georgia Hospice. He says some of the families they serve depend on their casserole ministry.

HOUSTON COUNTY, GA – The Houston County Board of Education 2012 graduation ceremonies will be held May 25 and 26, 2012.  All six ceremonies will be held at the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry in the Miller-Murphy-Howard building.  Approximately 1,900 students will graduate. 

Guests are asked to help ensure that the ceremonies are dignified and enjoyable for all concerned.  Seniors, their families and friends should show respect for all graduates both before and after receiving diplomas.  The time for jubilant celebration is after the ceremony when students can enjoy the company of their families and friends.   

Warner Robins city officials are discussing whether the city needs to move from a weak-mayor to strong-mayor form of government.

A presentation by council member Daron Lee sparked some sharp words.

Council member Mike Davis argued against a change: "I'm traditional. WR survived 70 years the way it is."

Mayor Chuck Shaheen responded, "No it hasn't."

Lee's presentation, covering term limits and the city's form of government, was for discussion only, he said.

He said, under Georgia law, a "strong mayor" has ability to veto legislation passed by council and can appoint department heads.

In a "weak mayor" system, like Warner Robins', the council approves appointments and the mayor has few executive powers. The council and mayor share policy making roles.

City attorney Jim Elliott says changing Warner Robins' system would require approval by the state General Assembly and possibly a referendum.