03.04.10 Towns Sentinel

Sentinel TOWNS

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WWW.GEORGIASENTINEL.COM | THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 2010 | 50 CENTS

LEISURE

AGRICULTURE

LOCAL DANCER ACCEPTED to Hiawassee TO VALDOSTA STATE Farmers an asset National Agriculture Week spotlights contributions farming makes to society

Towns County Fire Department Assisted in stopping the blaze at Ridges Home Contributed Photos

(Top Left) Amy Vardeman a local dance student who was recently accepted to Valdosta State University will be pursuing a Bachelor of Fine arts degree.

(Above) Dancers posing from the Fuzion dance company. The Fuzion Dance Company Spring Concert will be Saturday March 6; 2:00pm and 7:00pm, in Clegg Auditorium at Young Harris College.

Amy Vardeman has been accepted to the Bachelor of Fine Arts Dance Program at Valdosta State University. Amy attended the audition for dance majors and also competed for a dance scholarship in Valdosta the last weekend in January. The audition consisted of a 2 hour class with several different dance faculty members and an information session for parents and

students. Dancers also had to perform a solo for scholarship consideration.

Scholarships will be announced the end of March.

Amy has been a dance student since 1994. She is currently a senior member of the Fuzion Dance Company of Brasstown Dance Academy, where she also teaches intermediate/advanced tap and choreographs for junior company. Her

first group competition piece won a first place, gold award at Hollywood Connection in February. You can see Amy perform and her award winning choreography at the Fuzion Dance Company Spring Concert on Saturday, March 6 at 2pm and 7pm in the Glenn Auditorium at Young Harris College.

Amy has studied locally under

Amy Wilson, Madge Smith, Hannah Jones, Jason Kalish, Jenny Dalton, Jamie Townsend, and Huldie Townsend. She has studied under many artists at workshops, intensives, conventions, SERBA, and in classrooms at NYC, including, Rhonda Miller, Josh Bergasse, Frank Hatchett, Michael Vernon, Todd Shanks, Mike Minery, Bill See DANCE Page 8A

Georgia farmers not only grow our food and clothes but they also make a significant contribution to the state’s economy.

To celebrate the industry, Gov. Sonny Perdue has designated March 14-20 as Georgia Agriculture Week and has designated March 16 as Georgia Ag Awareness Day. Georgia’s weeklong celebration coincides with National Agriculture Week. National Agriculture Day is March 20.

The most recent statistics show that in 2008, Georgia agriculture had a total economic impact of $65 billion on the state economy and created more than 351,000 jobs, according to the University of Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development (CAED). Food and fiber production and related businesses represent the largest or second largest segment of all goods and services produced in two-thirds of Georgia’s counties.

One in seven Georgians works in agriculture, forestry or agriculture-related fields.

“Without farmers, Georgia can’t grow! Agriculture not only feeds and clothes the citizens of Georgia, but it also provides jobs, which is very important in our current economic situation,” Dennis Miles, Towns County Farm Bureau president, said.

“Nationally, agriculture is one of the few U.S. industries with a positive trade balance, meaning we export more food and agricultural products than we import. This gives us national security because it means we don’t have to depend on other countries to feed us.”

Gov. Perdue and his Agricultural Advisory Committee will host a celebration March 16 at the Georgia Freight Depot in Atlanta to spotlight Georgia agriculture. Gov. Perdue will recognize the five district winners of his Agricultural Environmental Stewardship Award and announce the state winner. This award honors farmers who have adopted farming practices that protect the soil, water and air on their farms. The district winners are Early D. Barrs of Bleckley County, Stanley Corbett of Echols County, Jamie Jordan of Floyd County, Wayne McKinnon of Coffee County and Keith Nichols of Stephens County. Gov. See FARMING Page 8A

COMMUNITY

POLITICS

POLITICS

Nathan Deal issues Where oh where is Spring? An out of touch statement of resignation

Hiawassee Garden Club waiting for signs of spring

Washington

Deal resigned from Congress in order to pursue campaign for Governer fully Congressman Nathan Deal resigned Georgia’s 9th district Congressional seat today in order to “devote (his) full energies to the campaign for governor.”

The departure obstructs the congressional investigation into the auto salvage business that Deal has owned in Hall County.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has reported on Deal’s no-bid contract with the state of Georgia that has been worth $1.5 million in the past several years alone. It has also been alleged that Deal, once in danger of losing this contract, had fellow Hall County resident Lt. Governor Casey Cagle pressure government officials into continuing the no-bid agreement.

Even members of his staff are alleged to have been involved in these actions. Due to this investigation, Deal has been named one of the ‘Fifteen Most Corrupt Members of Congress’ by the nonpartisan group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW).

Jane Kidd, chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia, stated, “Deal’s resignation will impede the fact-finding into his business. Nathan Deal has said See DEAL Page 8A

TOWNS

Sentinel PO BOX 172 Hiawassee, GA 30546

"While Washington continues the struggle with health care reform, Georgia is leading the way in reducing financial burden at no cost to the state."

Every time I open a newspaper or turn on Contributing Writer the news, I see another display of Washington leaders turning their back on the American people. Whether it is raising taxes or proposing costly health care mandates on taxpayers, the federal government seems to be out of touch with the very people they represent.

The Georgia Senate has chosen a different path. State leadership is stepping up to the plate proposing common sense economic legislation. We are not raising taxes, we are balancing our budget and we are doing everything in our power to create an environment for job growth. Lawmakers are pursuing the passage of the Jobs, Opportunity, and Business Success Act (JOBS Act 2010). This measure recognizes Georgia’s small business owners as the backbone to economic recovery and growth by utilizing freemarket solutions to empower the private sector and drive Georgia’s economic recovery.

Among its provisions, the bill includes an “Angel Investor” income tax credit of up to 50 percent of an investment made in small or start up Georgia businesses that

By: Sen. Jim Butterworth

From Left: Marlene Arndt, Cheryl Gehring, Julie Maquire, and Alice Cunningham.

Hiawassee Garden Club met on a blustery yards. The extensive list indicated toxic and day ending February, happily awaiting some poisonous plantings to humans and animals, sign of spring. Luncheon provided the feeling which everyone should be aware of and same of spring and St. Patrick’s Day prepared by information is available at the Extension office, Marlene Arndt, Cheryl Gehring, Julie Maguire if you have a question. The Poison Control # is and Alice Cunningham.

800-282-5846. He cautioned not to ingest anyA very creative arrangement adorned the thing growing if you do not know if it is toxic. table at the hands of Cheryl Gehring, highlightMr. Brewer suggested we keep a list of ing beautiful orchids, African violets and daf- plantings to identify in case ingested and to fodils ensconced in a Bonsai pot with rocks and keep all pesticides in their original container moss. with labels.

President, Peggy West ran the meeting and We have an exciting spring season of introduced two guests as prospective members. activities ahead beginning with A PLANT Our speaker was Robert Brewer, Towns County AFFAIR, Saturday, April 17th on the square.

Extension Coordinator and honorary member Our next meeting is March 25th at 34 of HGC . Mr. Brewer gave a very informative River Street. We welcome visitors and protalk about poisonous plants and shrubs in our spective new members at all times.

See BUDGET Page 8A

We e k l y We at h e r Fo re c a s t Wednesday

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Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

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Tuesday

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TOWNS SENTINEL March 4, 2010

CA LE N D A R & C O MMU N IT Y Alzheimer's Support Alzheimer’s Support Group for caregivers and family members meet the first Tuesday of each month at 1:30 in the McConnell Baptist Church Family Life Center.

Society meets the second Monday of each month at the Hiawassee Senior Center (beside the Courthouse) at 5:00 pm. For info 706-896-1060, TCHS, PO Box 1182, Hiawassee, GA 30546 www. townshistory.org

Enotah Garden Club

Intermediate Bridge

Enotah Garden Club of Young Harris meets the 3rd Thursday of each month, at 1:45 pm. The meeting will be held at the Young Harris City Hall.

GWRRA MEETS Chapter J of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) meets the fourth Saturday of each month (except December) at Daniel's Steakhouse, Hiawassee, GA. We eat at 11 AM followed by the meeting at 12:00. All motorcyclists are welcome and we look forward to seeing participants from other chapters. For further information, contact Chapter Director, June Gottlieb, 706-896-7403

Mountain High Hikers Mountain High Hikers schedule two hikes each Tuesday, occasional specialty hikes, and regular trail maintaining trips- all in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and Georgia. Check the web site: MountainHighHikers.org for schedule and meeting locations or call 828-389-8240 for information.

Chattahoochee-Nantahala Trout Unlimited Chapter 692 Meets the second Thursday of every month at the Cadence Bank,336 Blue Ridge Street in Blairsville, Ga. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. with fly tying instructions beginning at 5 p.m. for both beginning and advanced tiers. For further information call 828-3893016.

Hiwassee River Valley Kennel Club Meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. the first Monday of each month at Brother's Restaurant on Hwy 64 in Murphy, NC. We invite all those interested in pure bred dogs and canine activities to attend. Call President Kit Miracle @ 706 492 5253 or Peggy Moorman @ 828 835 1082 for details.

Towns Co. Historical Society Towns

County

Historical

Location change: Bridge playing is held at the Towns County Recreation Department, on Monday and Fridays at 12:45 p.m. Contact Eden at 706-896-6921 with questions or more information.

Lions Club Meeting The Towns County Lions Club meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at the Anderson Music Hall at 6:30 p.m.

Single Parent Support Group Support Group to encourage uplift and change the lives of Moms, Dads and Grandparents who are raising children on there own.

Introductory meetings will start every Second Tuesday of the month @ the Mountain Regional Young Harris Library at 6:30 pm. If you have any questions or if you need more information please Contact us at 706-379-9974

Mtn. Community Seniors Meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at the Towns County Seniors Center. We invite and welcome all mountain seniors from Towns and Union Counties. Music, informative speakers, picnics, field trips.

The local chapter of the AARP was discontinued in Dec. of 2009.

The same fun-loving group still meets but is now called the Mountain Community Seniors.

Bereavement Support Group - Meeting Changes Welcome to a community bereavement support group. A place to share your thoughts and feelings and grow together with others who have experienced the loss of a loved one. First Thursday of every month at United Community Bank, Small Community Room, Blairsville from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. We will only meet once per month. Facilitator: Suzanne Repp, LCSW. The group is presented by Regency Hospice and is free of charge. Please call 1-800-5778791 or 706-896-1251 for more

Leaning Left By: Jim Fitzgerald Columnist

Democrats do a very poor job of letting the nation know their accomplishments. On the other hand, the Republicans do a superb job creating catchy, even if misleading, headlines that leads one to believe the Democrats do little but over-reach. The supposed liberally biased media freely repeat the Republican mantras. Reporters seem to repeat what they are told without raising substantive questions about the motive behind the sound bites or reporting serious policy differences. All of the talking heads just make things worse by exaggerating events to raise their ratings.

Because of the forces I have mentioned above, you would not know that the Democrats have been very constructive over the last year. Their latest accomplishment has been a jobs bill based almost entirely on tax cuts for business, especially small business. As anyone knows, Republicans are big tax cut proponents but that did not stop the majority of them from voting against this bill. Their major criticism of the Economic Recovery Act last summer was that it did not contain tax cuts for small business but when such cuts were offered in the jobs bill, they decided to vote against them.

Republican may not like it but the people are looking to the government to save them from this economic crisis – small government talk to the contrary.

Fortunately, Scott Brown gave some backbone to the more moderate Republicans and five of them voted to

prevent a filibuster that would have prevented a debate of the bill. When the filibuster failed, 13 Republicans jumped ship and voted for the jobs bill but 27 Republicans voted against, including both of Georgia’s Senators.

How can you hammer away at the theme of job creation and then vote against it? The lame, very lame, excuse is that the jobs bill will create more debt for our children. Am I the only one who, since the time of Reagan and supply side economics, heard Republican preach the gospel of tax cuts leading to revenue and tax growth? Because Democrats do not believe such malarkey, the jobs bill identified sources of revenue to pay for the tax cuts, a process called payas-you-go that Bill Clinton used so effectively, and Republicans abandoned as soon as they gained control of the government.

The Democrats have paid a heavy political price for rescuing our economy from Republican excesses but it is a feather in their cap that the steep decline has been halted. Yes, the recovery is likely to be slow and unemployment might remain in the 9% range for a while but I shudder to think what could have been. Frankly, I do not want to know what would have happened if Republican advice had been followed and the banks, brokerage houses, and some businesses been allowed to collapse.

Feckless Republican spending left the Democrats nothing to work with so piling on emergency debt was inevitable. People started yelling about the national debt too late, and suspiciously not until Democrats inherited a mess. The debt piled on by

The Army and Navy Garrison #66 meets the first Wednesday of each month. Dinner is at 6 p.m.

Veterans meeting and Women's Auxiliary begin at 7 p.m. 2641 Hwy 66, Young Harris, Ga ( at the Ga/ NC State Line) Bill Curns, Commander

tion with the Towns County Recreation Department will be offering karate classes in the beginning of February. Sensei Scott Seyler will be teaching a Shudokan karate class. Sensei Scott holds a second degree black belt in Shudokan (Nidan). Shudokan is a traditional Japanese karate good for the mind, body and soul.

Shudokan karate is perfect for exercise and self-defense. Sensei Scott has been teaching karate for the past decade. He has produced many AAU champions, and Jr. Olympians. He is Dedicated to his students, and the spread of traditional martial arts. Though Seyler Martial Arts isn't geared toward sport karate we do believe augmenting traditional training with tournament competition. Classes are scheduled for adults and teenagers thirteen and up. If interested you can contact Scott Seyler at 706-896-3786 or towns County Recreation Department at 706896-2600. Sensei Scott looks forward to seeing you there!!!

Towns County Republican Party

Youth explosion doesn't require fire

We meet the first Tuesday of every month at Daniel's Steakhouse at 6:30pm. Guest speakers regularly. Please make plans to attend.

Fellowship of Jesus Christ Apostolic Church at 591 sunnyside rd, Hiawassee, Ga will hold Youth Explosion 2010 at the church on January 30, at 6:00 p.m. Special youth speaker and youth band Any Questions call (706) 896-6435.

information.

Winter Storytime Sept.-March 2010 for Towns & Union Counties @ Mtn.Regional Library, Young Harris 379-3732, Wednesdays 11:00AM. Age open.

Regency Hospice Regency Hospice announces new Men's Morning Coffee Group: New location: Victoria's Bake Shop 2386 Young Harris Hwy. Blairsville, Ga 30512 Dates: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of each month 10 a.m. to Noon

Army & Navy Garrison #66

Enchanted Squares The Enchanted Valley Square dance the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month at the Towns County Elementary Cafeteria from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Ray Mauney is our caller.

Animals at the bank Mountain Shelter Humane Society will meet January 28th at the Cadence Bank at 6 p.m.

Prayer meetings

Moonshine mixer

Everyone is welcome and invited to attend! Prayer meeting every Tuesday morning 10 a.m. until service ends at Eagle Wing Deliverance Church and Out Reach Ministries!

Towns County Tourism Association and the Georgia Mountain Fair sponsored the 1st GA Mountain Moonshine Cruize-in car show in August 2009. The show brought approximately 5000 visitors to our area and was a tremendous success. The car show will be back in August 12,13,14, 2010 for three days and the promoter Rakes Parrish will be speaking on Thursday, February 11 at 5:30 PM in the Anderson Music Hall at the fairground. Please plan to attend this important community meeting, as your ideas are very important. If you have any questions, please contact Jane Holland at janehollland@brmemc.net

1591 Fire Tower Rd S.E. Fairmont, GA 30139 Free lunch after service with desert and tea Its time America turns back to much prayer like never before.

Matthew: 26:41 Thessalonians: 5:17

and

Our 24-hour prayer line is always open: 706-337-3241 Anytime you would like for me to come to your home or church to ministries Call:706-337-3241 Anytime! Let's all pray for our nation, Soldiers and Leaders.

Martial arts is swift Seyler Martial Arts in conjunc-

George was wasteful spending but the debt piled on to save the economy – and jobs – was necessary, even if regretful. Obama was forceful in staunching the rapid destruction of our economy and should be given credit for turning things around. He took emergency measures, nasty but necessary emergency measures. Had he not taken such forceful action, I suspect unemployment would have more than doubled from the current 9%, retirement accounts would have declined more than the 50% hit they took, and the human toll and suffering would have resulted in another generation with a great depression psyche.

Republicans can yell all they want but the new debt would not be there if it were not for their fiscal excesses and gross mismanagement of government over eight years. So much for a Contract with America.

Democrats may not be blameless but Republicans were in charge.

The Economic Recovery Act was another milestone for the Democrats. A full one-third of that bill was middle class tax cuts. Rather than dole out a one-time check as George did, Obama cut the payroll tax so that workers received a little more in their paychecks over a year. Maybe that explains why slightly more than 12% of the population believes that Obama gave them a tax cut. Another onethird was to strengthen the social safety net such as unemployment benefits and COBRA health insurance benefits – both aimed at the middle class. Many states, including Georgia, were able to balance their budgets with money from that act.

The final one-third was for infrastructure projects, projects that are direct job creators. Every Republican voted against this bill so even though they

Why go out to eat?

There will be a free food distribution Tuesday, January 26th, 2010. The distribution will be held at The Towns County Food Pantry

attempt to take credit for the money flowing into their communities, the credit goes solely to Democrats.

Moreover, Democrats have faithfully extended unemployment benefits for over a year and are intent on extending them again – in spite of overwhelming Republican opposition all along the way. How will we ever pay the national debt if we allow our middle class to collapse? However, the bigger question is why do Republicans think people are expendable but business is sacred?

There are many more unheralded accomplishments over the last year but space and time does not allow me to list them in detail at this time.

However, we have a new hate crimes law, new emission standards, new environmental standards, and are very close to health care reform at the very moment health insurers are raising premiums to unaffordable levels.

A lot can happen between now and November but remind your friends of what the Democrats have accomplished in spite of fierce opposition from the Republicans.

"I am not an advocate for frequent changes in laws and constitutions, but laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths discovered and manners and opinions change, with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times. We might as well require a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy as civilized society to remain ever under the regimen of their barbarous ancestors." -Thomas Jefferson

from 2pm-6pm. All that are in need of food assistance are encouraged to attend. If you are unable to pick up your food please contact the pantry at 706-896-4783, prior to distribution day so arrangements can be made to deliver your food.

All clients and inquiries are confidential.

Camp meeting, no marshmallows From January 31st-February 5th at 6 p.m. Sunday Night-7pm Weeknights.

Speakers Rev. Jonathan Ziegler II & Rev. Tommy Bates. Held at North Mt. Zion Church of God, 423 Scataway Rd., Hiawassee, Georgia. For more information call 706-896-3809 or www.northmtzioncog.org

Be brave and berave Welcome to a community bereavement support group! Here you will find a place to share your thoughts and feelings and grow together with others who have experienced the loss of a loved one - This group is presented by Regency Hospice. It is free of charge. For more information, please call 1-800-577-8791 or 706896-1251 and ask for Suzanne Repp, LCSW/Bereavement Counselor, or leave a message on her voicemail. Your phone call will be returned. We meet two times a month in Blairsville, GA. On the 1st Thursday at 4 PM at United Community Bank in Blairsville, GA in the Community Room and the 3rd Thursday at 3:30 PM at Bank of Blairsville in the Community Room to the right of the main entrance.

Learn about theft!

The Institute for Continuing Learning at Young Harris College is sponsoring a series of three twohour seminars on Saturdays at 10 am beginning January 23 in the Wilson Lecture Hall on the campus

of the college. The public is invited to attend – the seminars are free of charge and membership in ICL is not required. Rod Springer from United Community Bank will discuss theft, fraud, scams, elder abuse, and banking security on the 23rd. Then on the 30th Robert Hicks, owner of Computer Connection in Hayesville, will talk about Internet security, scams, phishing, and virus protection, and Tom Rothkopf and Ryan Anderson from Blue Ridge Mountain EMC will discuss Internet security, setting up e-mail accounts, changing e-mail addresses, and other services offered by BRMEMC. Finally, on February 6, Jamie Evans from Bank of Hiawassee will discuss all phases of banking security and Kay Lake will wrap up with a discussion on Internet security, including iPhone, Facebook, Twitter, and other “socially friendly” sites.

Contact Bob Langenbacher at 706379-2660 for additional information.

Democrat meeting The Towns County Democratic Party meets at 6 p.m. every second Thursday of the month at Crossroads Restaurant. Please call Kim Bailey at 706-994-2727 or 706-896-6747 for further information.

GWRRA Meeting Chapter J of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association ( GWRRA) meets on the fourth Saturday of each month ( excluding December) at Daniel's Steakhouse, Hiawassee, Ga. Fellowship and good food at 11 a.m. with the meeting commencing at Noon. We welcome riders of all brands of motorcycles and welcome participants of the other GWRRA chapters, For further information please contact Chapter Director: Peg Jones 678-464-7340.

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February 25, 2010 TOWNS SENTINEL

Sentinel

FRANK BRADLEY, Publisher / Editor

OPINION

Passing a responsible balanced budget is number one priority Passing a responsible, balanced state budget that meets the needs of all Georgians is the House’s greatest responsibility and number one priority. Crafting a state budget is not a simple, overnight task. Setting spending for the state for the year requires extensive work and months of review of every state agency’s budget. Both the House and Senate are currently taking two weeks to work together in a joint effort, to review every instance of state spending. Our goal is to work together, along with Governor Perdue, to create a budget that helps improve our economy, grows businesses and puts Georgians back to work.

This week, Representatives and Senators gathered in Capitol meeting rooms to hear how state agencies and departments could cut spending even further for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2011 budget.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Georgia ranks 48th in state spending per person, which means Georgia state government is one of the leanest in the country and your tax dollars are going further than ever. In response to several requests from constituents that don’t know how the state prioritizes its spending, here is a snapshot of our current state budget.

The Georgia General Assembly has discretion over $16 billion in the General budget.

This excludes $2 billion in (the bulk of) motor fuel taxes, all lottery funds and the Brain and Spinal Injury Trust Fund, which are dedicated by state constitution to specific appropriation purposes. The budget is allocated as follows: Percent Amount Purpose 44% $7 billion K-12

Education (1.6 million students; 160,000 teachers) 14% $2.2 billion Community Health (Medicaid, PeachCare, state health benefit plan, county public health departments) 12% $1.9 billion Board of Regents (300,000 students; 35 colleges and universities) 8% $1.2 billion Debt Sinking Fund (Bond payments) 6% $1 billion Corrections (54,000 inmates; 37 prisons) 5% $800 million Behavioral Health (7 state-run mental health hospitals, Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities) 3% $500 million Human Services (Child Welfare, TANF, Aging, Adoption, Foster Care Services) 2% $320 million Technical Colleges (60,000 students; 65 colleges and branches) 6% $1.1 billion Everything Else Everything Else totals just over $1 billion in the budget. It covers 40 agencies and all branches of government, such as Public Safety; Juvenile Justice; Judicial System; Governor’s Office, Senate and House; Teachers Retirement; Driver Services; Pardon and Paroles; and Revenue Department.

I will continue to monitor the budget process and appreciate all the input I have received from constituents and wanted you to have a first hand look at the budget. Please feel free to call me with any questions or comments that you might have regarding our state. You can reach me at my Capitol office at 404-6560177.

Submit your opinion at

Georgiasentinel.com

Another Response to Jim Fitzgerald The Sentinel published a column by Mr. Fitzgerald on Feb. 11th asking, 'How did we get to this point'? He is asking why people are screaming about budget deficits now when they weren't yelling during Bush's term? Bush's spending made all of us cringe but the primary cause of it was to fund a seemingly endless war. We can debate whether we should have gone into the Iraq/Afghanistan conflict or not but we were brutally attacked here on American soil so we had to respond! Personally I wish we had followed the example of Israel and given them a bloody nose without putting troops on the ground.

Once a war is started however are you going to tell our troops to cut back on bullets and bombs to save money? The Obama spending, on the other hand has been bigger by a factor of 100 and much of it will be ineffective and subject to massive domestic fraud.

One other point raised in this column was the irresponsibility of ear marks by our Georgia Senators in the Federal Budget. Earmarks are a cancer in our budget process no matter who is proposing them and both parties are guilty. It traces back to basic human greed in which we are all pushing up to the feeding trough to 'get our share'!

The only way to stop it is for Congress to pass legislation making it illegal but they never will do it because it gets them reelected! Who then is the guilty party?

Another issue is the assertion that 'Obama is neither Hitler or a socialist'. Sir, I respectfully disagree with you--------he is a socialist and has the potential to be both!! I quote Dr. Charles Krauthammer, 'Obama has a ruthless quest for power, he did not come to Washington to make something out of himself, but rather to change everything, including dismantling capitalism. He has surrounded himself with mostly the far left bent on nothing short of revolution'. Remember the constant Nazi mantra in the 1930's was 'a vote for the Nazis is a vote for change'. Rather than listen to what he says you have to watch what he does, I'm sure you don't like the comparison to the Trojan Horse but clearly he says one thing and does another after he has the power! It should be plain as the nose on your face that he is willing to bribe reluctant Senators in his quest for power.

What we are witnessing is not a petty in-house squabble between

The Towns Sentinel is in the 11th year of publication.

DEBBIE WALKER, Subscriptions/ Circulation

LETTERS WELCOME The Towns Sentinel welcomes letters to the editor. Letter should be typed and no longer than 500 words. Letters must be signed and include a telephone number for verification. Letters that cannot be confirmed with the writer cannot be printed.

Mail to: TownSentinel@gmail.com

The Towns Sentinel (USPS 015364) is published weekly each Thursday. Subscriptions are $25 a year in Towns County; $45 out of area. Single copy price $.50. Periodical postage paid at Hiawassee, Ga. Call 706-896-6397 to subscribe.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Towns Sentinel P.O. Box 172, Hiawassee, GA 30546

Ask Lulabelle The Adoption Option

Dear Lula Belle, My husband and I have wanted a family for a long time.

We have considered adoption but we aren’t sure if this is the right choice for us. If we do an international adoption, we are worried the baby might have problems, especially if they have spent their early months or years in an orphanage. If we do a domestic adoption, we are worried we can only do a private adoption and the birth parents may want a lot of contact. If we explore this option, I am afraid it’s like throwing in the towel and giving up. – Want to be a mom Dear Want to be a mom, Wow! You have asked the right person about adoption. Did you know I was adopted when I was a baby? I am so grateful that my mother was unable to carry a baby and I feel she was just waiting for me. What was a sad time in both my biological parents’ lives and in my adoptive parents’ lives, turned out to be a joyous and miraculous way to become a

family. My birth mother was 16 when she was pregnant with me and she did not have the means or resources to raise me. Her own mother had just passed away.

Then, 200 miles away were my parents who wanted a baby but were unable to have one on their own. I admire my birth mother’s courage to lovingly trust me into the placement of adoption. I admire my own parents who lovingly adopted me and made me their very own. My love for all of them is immeasurable. Please do not believe that adoption is your last hope. No need to make it your plan B. Just realize you have one plan, one agenda, one goal and that is to become a mother. It does not matter if that dream comes to pass by carrying a baby in your own womb or through a loving adoption. There are so many options that must be carefully explored. There are several ways to make your dreams come true and you and your husband must investigate each one of them together. The best way will

be discovered. I am sure there will be tough decisions along the way, but all good things in life are worth fighting for. As for the worry about an adopted child having problems, just know that even a child you give birth to will come with the same no guarantee policy. Every child comes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. As a mother, your love for your child will give you the power to face every challenge. That is what being a parent is all about.

Dear Lula Belle, My husband and I enjoy going out to dinner on Friday nights. Sometimes we meet other family members but mostly, we meet with friends. Some of our friends have small children and they all behave so well. We, on the other hand, have our hands full with a very active two year old boy. He makes our dinner so not fun. He makes a mess, throws temper-tantrums and cries to get out of his high chair. Usually, I am the one who ends up taking him out of the restaurant and we just play in the car until everyone is finished. Do you have any advice on how to get a young, hyper child to behave in a restaurant? –Frazzled on Friday Nights Dear Frazzled, First, you must allow your son to exert some of his energy before you leave for the restau-

EDITOR’S INBOX

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CORRECTIONS If you find a mistake of fact in the Towns Sentinel that is serious enough to warrant a correction or clarification, call 706-896-6397, fax 706-896-7036 or e-mail townsentinel@ gmail.com ADVERTISEMENTS In case of errors, the Towns Sentinel is responsible only for the cost of the actual advertisement. Customers are encouraged to check their advertisements the first week of run. In case of errors, the Towns Sentinel will not credit advertisements for more than one week.

rant. Play a game of chase with him outside. When you come back inside, give him a tote bag and let him help you fill it with some quiet activities for the restaurant like books, dolls, snapping blocks, silly putty, crayons and paper. Make sure he is hungry so he will want to eat at the restaurant. Tell him three rules to follow. 1. Don’t throw your food.

2. Sit still in the high chair. 3. Use a quiet voice. If he breaks one of the rules, say, “Uh- oh, you broke the rule. To help you remember, you need a time out.” Time out can be in the car, but it cannot be a fun time. Make it boring. After two minutes, say, “Time to go back inside.” Then, try again.

Eventually, he will get it. I love the power of incentives. When he is doing a nice job following the rules, praise him and give him a reward like a sticker. Now, of course, there are some children who seriously cannot sit still and the environment of a restaurant is just completely overwhelming. If this turns out to be the case, try talking your friends into pot luck suppers at your house where the children can play freely while the grown-ups can enjoy eating in peace.

Need Advice? Ask Lula Belle by sending your questions to: asklulabelle@windstream.net or mail them to: P.O. Box 311, Cleveland, GA 30528.

In Response to Jim Fitzgerald's Columns

I find it interesting that Jim Fitzgerald can write a column about Sara Palin’s address in Nashville after admitting that, in his own words, “I watched portions of her speech...” He claims to be trained in “critical thinking” and that entails taking an argument apart, looking at its components and making up one’s mind. And this he can do objectively by watching portions of her speech and hence become a self proclaimed expert on Sara Palin. I played portions of a college football game once, I can not believe I was not awarded the Heisman Trophy.

In a previous column he decided to take on the Tea Party movement, and clearly it showed that he not only seemed to have never attended a Tea Party meeting, but is clueless about what it stands for.

What ever happened to responsible writing? Checking one’s facts and learning the issues before “putting pen to paper”? Oh, right, we no longer use pens and paper that must mean that we can write irresponsibly in this electronic world we now live in.

He claims that the Tea Party movement supports the Republican Party, yet at all the meetings I have attended the clamor is to replace ALL of congress regardless of party affiliation. The movement wants fresh new representatives who are going to look out for the people who put them there, not the party they are affiliated to. He criticizes the Bush administration for the deficit it created, however, says nothing about the trillions the present liberals are willing to indebt not only our generation but future ones to come.

In reading his columns he would have us believe that Chambliss and Isakson were solely responsible for the economic mess we find ourselves in. Naturally the liberal majority in congress for the past three years had absolutely nothing to do with it. Their two votes must have influenced both chambers. Wow, I wonder if these two gentlemen realize what power and influence they wield? I happen to agree that they should all be voted out, but that may be difficult to do when it comes to Chambliss and Isakson when Mr. Fitzgerald insinuates their great power.

I can not help but roll my eyes, too, when I read such inept writ-

ing as that put forth by Mr. Fitzgerald. Ah, yes, let us not forget his statement “… (people) should provide specific examples and cease speaking in broad, general terms”. It would be nice if he would adhere to that practice himself, for in the past three weeks I have not read one single intelligent argument by him. Just general innuendos against the conservatives.

I hope that if he must write columns in the future, that he should educate himself a little better on the subjects he plans to address. I can not help but also question the editors of the papers he writes for, is not double checking the facts important any more? Just because he is a “columnist” does that relieve the publishers from any responsibility for true facts?

You are right about one thing, Mr. Fitzgerald, a conversation between you and Mrs. Palin would not have much substance, for you, sir, would have nothing intelligent to contribute with such a narrow intellect. I am sure that Mrs. Palin would gladly show you her high school diploma and toss in her college one, too, if only you could prove having graduated elementary school. As you can see, Mr. Fitzgerald, putting people down and making sarcastic remarks comes easy. Why don't you try being positive in the future, if not about Mrs. Palin or the Tea Party movement why don’t you try global warming.

I am sure that your “critical thinking” training could punch a few holes in that fiasco. Or take off your pink lenses and take a closer look at the liberal’s activities, too.

Oh, yes, please do not worry about us independents (for that is what the Tea Party movement is comprised of) holding our breath, because come November we shall be voting for the candidates we believe will represent us, “The People”, and not the political party they use as a means for their campaign. If you believe that the Tea Party movement has little to suggest it is actually serious, then you must be one of those five or six people I have heard watches MSNBC. I do hope you won’t be too unhappy when we middle of the road independents vote your liberal friends off The Hill.

-Richard Botting

Republican and Democrat but is a struggle between traditional conservative vs liberal progressive for the life blood of this country!!

Abraham Lincoln said, 'America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we have destroyed ourselves'.

Nikita Kruschev said, 'we don't have to conquer America, given enough time they will vote for socialism themselves'.

-Gordon Held MD

Washington's Fiscal Irresponsibility

Burglary in Pine Crest Subdivision

On January 8, 2010 during the snow-ice storm, Pine Crest Subdivision was visited by two ( 2 ) burglars at 4:30 a.m. Two residents saw the twosome and called 911. The Towns County Sheriff's Team responded ASAP. The two suspects were caught at 6 a.m.. All stolen items were recovered . Their interest was items from automobiles. One of the Sheriff's team fell during the bad weather and hurt his knee. We hope he is back on duty with no side effects. We the residents, wan to thank the Towns County Sheriff's Team for a job well done. It is comforting to know that we have such a fine organization to protect and secure our neighborhood. Things have really changed since Sheriff Clinton came to Towns County. I might also mention that Pine Crest is a "neighborhood watch" subdivision. This was instrumental in nabbing the suspects.

-Carl S. Schultz President of Pine Crest Association

As a manager at Windstream Communications, I was dismayed to learn that Vice President Biden had traveled down to Georgia recently to announce the North Georgia Network Cooperative broadband project. This 260-mile, federally subsidized Internet network was designed to compete with existing Internet service providers in North Georgia like Windstream. Make no mistake, this is a “public option” for the telecom industry.

The ostensible purpose of this federal grant – which is part of the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – is to encourage Internet usage among rural Americans by installing high-speed Internet lines in regions that are unserved or “underserved” by existing broadband. Sounds like a good idea doesn’t it? And it would be if these dollars were actually going to regions that lack high-speed Internet service. That is not the case for the majority of the North Georgia region. To the contrary, 90% of NGNC’s proposed service area already has high-speed Internet access through multiple existing providers that invested their own capital, not your tax dollars, to build them.

Biden’s suggestion that local businesses have been on the “wrong side of the digital divide” is thus not only incorrect, but insulting. Existing service providers like Windstream have invested millions of dollars to build advanced networks here in North Georgia. In Dawsonville, specifically, Windstream makes broadband available to 99% of its voice customers.

Letter Continued under FISCAL Page 8A

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TOWNS SENTINEL February 25, 2010

C O MMU N IT Y News from Towns County Food Pantry Remember Jesus feeding 5,000 people with just five loaves and two fish and then taking up 12 baskets of leftovers? This miracle is recorded in John 6: 1-13. The children of Woods Grove Baptist Church understand that God uses them to meet the needs of others and how God can use their small donation to the Towns County Food Pantry to feed many. The children decorated paper lunch bags with the memory verse for the day,

Phillipians 4:19, and filled their bags with non-perishable items, which were donated to the Food Pantry.

If you're looking for friendship and fellowship, prayerfully consider Woods Grove Baptist Church located on Hwy 17N--the little white church on the lake.

Sunday school begins at 10am with classes for all ages and services at 11am.

Please consider donating to or volunteering at the Towns

TCES Star Students

County Food Pantry located on Jack Dayton Drive in Hiawassee near Fun World. Volunteers unload the truck and pack boxes on Mondays beginning at 10:30am and food distribution is on Tuesdays from 2pm-6pm. For further information, call the Food Pantry at 706/896-4783.

God turns our small donations into rich blessings for others.

Youth Basketball Instruction

The Towns County Recreation Department is association with Coach Frank Johnson will soon be offering basketball instruction at the Towns County Recreation Department Gym. Coach Johnson is currently coaching in Towns County Middle School Program.

He also coached at the Towns County Recreation department , as well as coach of a girls travel team for three years.

Coach Johnson will be offering beginning, intermediate and

advanced levels of instruction, Included will be working on ball handling, proper shooting techniques, position specific skills and overall defensive skills. The program will be for both boys and girls ages 8 thru high school.

Instructions will be offered to both small groups ( example a team) and individuals. Cost for small groups is $10 per hour and individuals is $15 per hour.

Our first class is on Tuesday, March 2nd from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. and thereafter classes will be

held each Tuesday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. We are excited and pleased to have Coach Johnson work with our youth. His willingness to help improve and enhance their basketball skills will certainly benefit them on the future.

You may register your visit to this class . For any information please contact Coach Johnson at 706-970-9571 or the Towns County Recreation Department at 706-896-2600.

Do you like to read and discuss with others a special book selection? Then you need to join the TCFOL Book Bunch. The group meets the third Wednesday of each month ( except August and December) at noon at the Mountain Regional Library in Young Harris.

The Book Bunch selects a

book each month and then the book is discussed with a discussion leader at the meetings. The book selection for March 17th The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein with discussion leader Maureen Gustafson. April 21st book selection is Campfire Boys

by Phillip Lee Williams with discussion leader Gigi Smith.

There is no cost and no obligation, Just read the book and join the fun!

Pictured: Mountain Regional Library Director, Donna Howell and Towns County FOL President Marilyn Pierce share a display of Book Bunch.

FOTL Book Bunch to Meet

News from the Library

Despite some discrepancy that libraries are becoming less needed, local libraries (Mountain Regional in Young Harris and Towns County Library in Hiawassee) are proving this is just not the case. Both libraries have increased circulation (which includes books, DVD, VHS, Books on Cassette and CD, music CD’s, magazines, newspapers) and increased computer usage (both in-house and wireless).

With the current economy, people who can no longer afford to buy books, newspapers, magazines, magazine subscriptions, and etc. are borrowing them from

the libraries more and more.

DVD and VHS circulation is climbing rapidly because there is no charge to borrow them from the libraries for up to 2 weeks unless they become overdue.

To possibly help people save even more money, the library in Hiawassee is now developing a collection of shaped cake pans.

These pans can be checked out for a period of 3 to 5 days using your current PINES library card.

Pans currently available are as follows: Elmo, I “heart symbol” you, Snowman, Large Christmas tree, Small Christmas tree, Heart, Comical car, Rag doll, Barney

full body, Barney head, Teddy bear holding a block, Lightening McQueen, Springform with 6 different molds, Holly Hobbie, Jack-O-Lantern, Teenage Mutant Ninja turtle, and a Graduate.

If you have any shaped pans you no longer need and would like to donate them to the library, please call 706-896-6169.

Remember….. you never know what you may find in the library, so visit often! Mountain Regional in Young Harris Hours: M,W,F – 9 to 5 ; T, Th – 9 to 7 and Sat 10 to 2. Towns County Library in Hiawassee Hours: M, T, W, F – 9 to 5 and Th – 10 to 6.

Celebrating Fifty-Five Years Rev. and Mrs. Jimmy Rogers of Young Harris, Ga. celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary February 26th, with a surprise party by their family.

Jim and Helen were married in 1955 and have since added 6 children, 12 grandchildren and 4 greatgrandchildren to the family. Pictured are Rev. Jimmy Rogers, wife Helen Adams Rogers and son Ricky Rogers of Hayesville. NC.

Contributed Photos

(Top Left) 4th grade Star Students: Back Row: L-R: Lexie Walton, Braden McFalls, Caden Pyrlik, Trey Chastain Front Row: L-R: Megan Wallace, Angelina Arrowood, Evan Phillips (Top Right) 3rd Grade Star Students: Back Row: L-R: Laura Burch, Bailey Sutton, Walker Winn, Blaine Rogers, Dalton Thomas Front Row: L-R: Janean Barnes, Haley Dale, Jarin Kitchens, Justin Mounger, Seth Fullerton (Bottom Left) 5th Grade Star Students: Back Row: L-R: Kyndall Hardigree, Hailie Massey, Kobe Denton, Dawson Hunter, Michael Sams Front Row: L-R: Victoria Owenby and Ashton Spain

Towns County Fire Report 02/22/2010 21:22 R-2 Hwy 76 W Medical 02/24/2010 17:38 E-1,2 T-1,2 Clarence Nichols Rd Chimney Fire 17:51 E-1, T-1 Martin Rd Overheated Fan Motor 02/25/2010 10:39 E-1 Subway Microwave Fire 21:05 R-1 Lakeview Dr Medical 02/26/2010 13:59 R-2 Ruby Ridge Medical 19:03 E-1 Hospital Landing Zone 02/27/2010 20:56 R-1 Ga. Mtn. Fair Medical 02/28/2010 00:17 R-1 Bell Street Medical 14:27 E-1,6 T-1 Mining Gap Trl. Smoke Scare 15:31 E-1,6 T-1 Brasstown Manor Fire Alarm

What's happening with 4-H

Donna Young 4-H Program Assistant completed (CPA) County Project Achievement with over 75 5th and 6th grade students competing.

Although all did not place 1st, 2nd, or 3rd, all that competed are winners. These are the other 4-H’ers who competed: Ashton Spain, McKenzie Henderson, Ally Settles, Sebrina Blainz, Abi David, Eli Sanford, William Lovelady, Morgan Ditmore, Sierra Oaks, Candy Anderson, Tori Bradshaw, Faith Kimsey, Kenzie Jenkins, Andrew Watson, Erica Kelly.

Students, parents and teachers worked together to make posters and prepare speeches.

In the AIR SCIENCE project, Marshal Ledford placed First.

In the ARCHAEOLOGY project, Samantha Quijada placed First, Alexis Pettengill place Second and Cierrah Donnely placed Third.

In the ARTS project Payton Cagle place First.

In the BETWEEN MEAL SNACKS project, Teria Beasley place First and Sarah Fuhs place Second.

In the CAT CARE project, Angel Thomas place First, Matthew Barrett also placed First.

In the COMPANION ANIMAL SCIENCE project, Andrea Spano place First.

In the CONSERVATION & RECYCLING project, Anna Dayton place First.

In the DAIRY & MILK SCIENCE project, Adam Penland place First.

In the DOG CARE & TRAINING project, Alyssa Chastain placed First, Jessica Evans also place First, Jordyn Gurley place Second, Ciara Martin also placed Second, and Summer Nations placed Third.

In the ENTOMOLOGY project, Dawson Hunter placed First and Owen Bouchard placed Second.

In GENERAL RECREATION project, Jordan Shook placed First.

In the HEALTH project, Madison Stroud placed First.

In the HISTORY project, Major Moss placed First, Breanna Shook also placed First and Will DeVries placed Second.

In the HORSE project, Jordan Gravely placed First, Madison Landress also placed First. Blake Miller placed Second, and Kayla Harris and Amanda Garrett placed Third.

In the HOUSING, EQUIPMENT & ENVIRONMENT project, Brooke Smith placed First.

In the INTERNATIONAL project, Katherine Bryant placed First and Michelle Miller placed Second.

In the MARINE & COASTAL ECOLOGY project, Dale Forrester placed First.

In the OCEAN ECOLOGY project, Colten Shook placed First and Kiera Stacks also place First.

Paige Scott placed Second. Barbie Wright placed Third.

In the OUTDOOR SURVIVAL SKILLS project, Jocelyn Byers placed First.

In the PERFORMING ARTS – GENERAL project, Makenzie Carroll placed First, Hannah Green placed Second.

In the PERMORMING ARTS – INSTRUMENTAL project, Andrew Rogers placed First, Chaiz Davenport also place First, Kristen Ledford place Second, Cassie Cooper placed Second, Andrew Watson placed Third.

In the PERFORMING ARTS – VOCAL project, Trent Whidden placed First, Palmer Dernehl placed First, Jessie Tittle place Second, Grace Catherine Wentz placed Second, Kaelyn Smith placed Third and Amaria Barrett placed Third.

In the PHOTOGRAPHY project, Mikayla King placed First and Taylor Underwood placed First, Cadence Nichols placed Second and Megan Corbin placed Second.

In the POULTRY & EGG SCIENCE project, Alex Dayton placed First.

In the SAFETY project, Courtney Giles placed First, LeAnn Dean placed First, Gavin

Langelier placed Second., Bailey Chastain placed Second.

In the SPORTS project, Brody Graper placed First, Jared Shook placed First, and Kristen Henson placed Second.

In the TARGET SPORTS project, Noah Sanford placed First.

In the TIME & MONEY MANAGEMENT project, Alyson Nelson placed First.

In the VETERINARY SCIENCE project Nichole Smith placed First.

In the WILDLIFE project, Jacqueline Crisp placed First, Whitney Moss placed First, Jonathan Watson placed Second, Carter Helm placed Second, Jade Ledford placed Third, Jade Cruz placed Third.

In the WORKFORCE PREPARATION & CAREER project Justin McCay placed First, Bailey Chastain placed First.

Walker Ross placed Second.

We especially want to thank our judges that took the time to come and judge CPA. They were Bill Wendel, with teen leader Bobby Young.

Marlene Hays and teen leader Kayla Mullen.

Rhonda Williams with teen leaders Gabby Gilley and Jasmine Forrester.

Scott Mays and teen leader Elizabeth Chastain.

Justin Tyson and teen leader Isaac Williams.

Carol Rosenqvist and teen leader Christy Dills.

Robert Brewer and teen leader Vanessa Williams.

Savannah Pettingill and teen leader Taylor Moats.

Marianne Pettingill and teen leaders Jordan Moats,and Nicolle Garrett.

On March 27, 2010 Towns and many other counties in Georgia will travel to Union County to compete with other 4-H’ers in (DPA) District Project Achievement.

-Good Luck Towns County.

Page 5A

TOWNS SENTINEL March 4, 2010

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Extension Tips

Efficient fires start with seasoned wood By: Robert N. Brewer, Jr. Contributing Writer

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706-896-2002

1374 US Hwy, 76E - Hiawassee GA www.americaninhomeblinds.com

1034<RXU &RPSOHWH :LQGRZ 7UHDWPHQW 6WRUH Young Harris Hwy (Hwy 76E) Blairsville, GA 30512 (706) 745-1020 www.americanhomeblinds.com

“Ballet”, “Tap”, “Jazz” and MORE! Ages 3 to Adult, Beginner to Expert

)UHH (VWLPDWHV Young Harris Hwy., Blairsville

Brasstown Dance Academy Now Accepting New Students 706-379-2651

On US 76 on the hill across from the EMC in Young Harris

Since 1949—

W.N.C. Marble & Granite 294 Old State Road Marble, N.C. Buy Monuments—Direct 1-800-621-1279

Britt & Capri

BENNY’S Sanitation

Women’s Boutique

1RUWK 0DLQ 6WUHHW +LDZDVVHH *$

Residential and Commercial Garbage Service 706-896-2573

706-896-6222

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Jacky Jones

BRASSTOWN MANOR

Tugaloo Home Health Agency +Z\ 8QLW +LDZDVVHH *$

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KB HEALTH Technology, Inc. Georgia Licensed Medicaid Agency also providing: Private Pay and Insurance Services Personal Care and Respite Celebrating 21 Years

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Law Office

Friends Moving Company 5HVLGHQWLDO DQG &RPPHUFLDO Local and Long Distance 706-896-7720

of Gayle Graziano

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Read breaking news online at Georgiasentinel. com

Men - Women - Children Come in and browse: Jewlery, Socks, Tees, Handbags, & Belts

Register Now!

Look good and feel even better!

706-­896-­3300 2I¿FH 706-­896-­1050 -­ Fax

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Strut’s Shoe Store

Dance Classes

Aloha Wellness

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Sunday School . . . . 9:30 AM Worship Service . . . 10:45 AM Wed. Bible Study . . 6:00 PM

Senior Pastor Jim Blair Director of Music and Worship Hope Horkavy

Praise God Together With Us! P. O. Box 609 Hiawassee, GA 30546

1139 US Highway 76, West “ On the Hill “ www.hiawasseeumc.org

%OXH 5LGJH 6W %ODLUVYLOOH Subject to our liberal credit policy and limitations, if any.

Mossy Bottoms Cafe 1620 Hwy 76 W Hiawassee, GA 706-896-0553 Christ mas

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Year Round Christmas and Fine Collectables

www.alwayschristmas.com Mon.-­Sat. 10am-­5pm

Dust Bunnies

+RXUO\ 5DWHV 2IÀ FH &OHDQLQJ 0RYH ,Q 0RYH 2XWV 678-697-3276 TURPIN’S WRECKER SERVICE Local & Long Distance Towing Light & Heavy Duty Towing 706-896-4138 828-389-0832 (NC) Available 24/7

Page 6A TOWNS SENTINEL

March 4, 2010

L O CA L Brian Jones Named NGTC Goal Winner

always extremely proud of all of RXU VWXGHQWV Âľ FRPPHQWHG 1*7& President, Steve Dougherty. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have many outstanding students who are excelling in their studies, which is quite an accomplishment when you consider that a lot of them are working full time and raising a family while they are in school.â&#x20AC;?

GOAL, a statewide program RI WKH 7HFKQLFDO &ROOHJH 6\VWHP of Georgia, honors excellence in academics and leadership among the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical college stuContributed Photo dents. Local GOAL winners are selected at each of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 33 Brian Jones, Habersham Rotary President Ken Schubring, and Steve Doughtechnical colleges as well as the erty. four Board of Regents colleges Brian Jones, a Practical ity of technical education, the with technical education diviNursing student at North Georgia economic impact technical edu- sions.

7HFKQLFDO &ROOHJH IURP &RUQHOLD cation has, and the impact techniGOAL, a statewide program has been named as the collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cal education has had on his life. RI WKH 7HFKQLFDO &ROOHJH 6\VWHP winner of the Georgia His career has taken him from of Georgia, honors excellence in Occupational Award of (07 WR QXUVLQJ DQG XSRQ FRP- academics and leadership among SOHWLQJ KLV /31 DW 1*7& KH the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical college stuLeadership (GOAL).

7KH DQQRXQFHPHQW ZDV plans to bridge to the Piedmont dents. Local GOAL winners are made at the collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GOAL rec- College RN program. Jones lives selected at each of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 28 ognition meeting at the Rotary with his wife April and their chil- technical colleges as well as the Club of Habersham County on dren in Demorest. four Board of Regents colleges â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professionalism and with technical education divi7KXUVGD\ )HEUXDU\ Jones was chosen by a panel work ethics are amazing,â&#x20AC;? said sions. of local leaders over three other 0DU\ :XQFK 1*7&¡V 1XUVLQJ Brian will travel to QRPLQHHV IRU WKH DZDUG 7KH Instructor who nominated Jones Gainesville March 17, to particirunners-up were Culinary Arts for the honor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He has a heart pate at the North region level student Mariah Holbrooks of and passion for nursing.â&#x20AC;? against representatives from sisJones, who has now made it WHU 7HFKQLFDO &ROOHJHV /DQLHU Cornelia, Practical Nursing student Lori Lesher of Cleveland, through two competitions that Athens, Chattahoochee, Atlanta, and Commercial Photography started with 21 students repre- Northwest, Gwinnett, and student Kimberly Combs of senting 13 programs who were Dekalb. From there, three will nominated as candidates to repre- advance to the State competition.

Marietta.

Each of the four candidates sent the college at the State level 7KH *HRUJLD *2$/ ZLQQHU SDUspoke to the packed Rotary meet- in May. Each student had to have ticipates in a variety of speaking LQJ DW 7KH 6WHDN +RXVH LQ at least a 3.0 GPA, but half had engagements including graduaBaldwin, Georgia. In his speech, achieved 3.5 or better. tions and appearances at the â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can see why I am Georgia General Assembly.

Jones highlighted the accessibil-

NGTC Alumni Award Nominations Sought Alumni Day at North Georgia 7HFKQLFDO &ROOHJH LV VFKHGXOHG for Sunday, June 13, 2010.

Included in the activities is an awards ceremony during which outstanding alumni and former employees, nominated by their peers, are recognized.

Nominations are currently being sought for those to be considered for the 2010 Career Achievement and Hall of Fame Awards.

7KH &DUHHU $FKLHYHPHQW Award is given to graduates of 1*7& ZRUNLQJ LQ WKHLU ILHOG RI VWXG\ 7KH ZLQQHUV PXVW KDYH

distinguished themselves in their chosen career (i.e., named the company's Employee of the Year, promoted into middle or upper management position, established a successful business and/ or recognized by his/her profesVLRQDO SHHUV HWF 7KH QRPLQHHV must be respected by fellow employees and be recognized as outstanding citizens of their communities.

7KH +DOO RI )DPH $ZDUG LV bestowed upon a deserving alumQXV RI 1*7& $OXPQL FDQGLdates must have graduated from

1RUWK *HRUJLD 7HFK DW OHDVW years prior to nomination and distinguished himself/herself in his/her professional life.

Candidates who are employees at 1*7& ZLOO QRW EH FRQVLGHUHG until after leaving employment from the college.

Nominations are due by April 1, 2010. For more informaWLRQ RQ $OXPQL 'D\ DW 1*7& RU to obtain a nomination form, please contact 706-754-7714, email cbrown@northgatech.edu or visit the website atwww.northgatech.edu.

The Green Column #005 Radon awareness can be a life saver in our water. It has been found at varying levels in every state. You can Andrews Valley Initiative see the average levels at www.epa. rmaccrea@mountainhomeshow.com gov/radon. Average levels are mediGuest Writer: Lisa Turner um to high in this area of the mounDid you know that radon causes tains. more deaths every year (cancer) than :KDW OHYHOV RI UDGRQ DUH RND\" GUXQN GULYLQJ" >IURP (3$ V $ Generally speaking, levels less than 4 Citizen's Guide to Radon] pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air) are 7KH 8QLWHG 6WDWHV 6XUJHRQ considered safe, although lower is General re-emphasized just last EHWWHU 7KH JRRG QHZV <RX FDQ month that radon is the second lead- 7(67 IRU UDGRQ DQG SXW V\VWHPV LQ ing cause of lung cancer behind the home to lower radon levels. smoking in the U.S. If you smoke 7KHVH V\VWHPV FDQ EH UHODWLYHO\ LQH[AND the radon levels in your home pensive. are high, you will have a very high How should I get my home risk for lung cancer. What can you WHVWHG" 7KLV LV HDV\ <RX FDQ VWDUW GR" 3OHQW\ $QG LW V HDV\ with a do it yourself test kit from a )LUVW ZKDW LV UDGRQ" 5DGRQ LV D home improvement store. If the is colorless, odorless, and tasteless results are high, you can call a progas that comes from the natural fessional, certified radon tester who radioactive breakdown of uranium in can advise you on what to do if your soil, rock, and water, and ends up in OHYHOV DUH KLJK 7KLV XVXDOO\ FRVWV the air we breathe. Although radon is $125-$200. You can contact the NC found in all types of buildings, we get state radon office for a list of profesmost of our exposure when we're at sionals who have registered with home. Radon can exist in the air, and them, or you can call a local home

By: Richard C. MacCrea

inspector who routinely performs radon testing as part of the home sale.

7KH ODVW SLHFH RI JRRG QHZV LV LI you do need to reduce the levels of radon in your home, it is not expensive to do. A vent and fan system is usually the first line of defense, and will lower the radon to acceptable levels over 85% of the time.

7KHUH LV D ORW PRUH WKDW \RX FDQ learn about radon by going to the Environmental Protection Agency's web site (www.epa.gov) and by going to www.radon.com. Get a copy of the free A Citizen's Guide to Radon from the EPA site.

About the guest author: Lisa 7XUQHU LV D ORFDO H[SHUW LQ WKH ILHOG RI home inspections and radon testing.

Lisa can be reached at 800-738-8781 if you have any questions about this article.

Read this column and many others online at georgiasentinel.com

Tributes Alice Kathleen Barnett

Ă&#x20AC;IW\ Ă&#x20AC;YH \HDUV 'RQDOG %DUQHWW RI Young Harris,a host of neighbors and friends also survive.

A memorial service will be held at a later date and will be announced. ,Q OLHX RI Ă RZHUV LI \RX ZLVK WKH family requests that memorials may be made to the Salvation Army in Mrs.Barnettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memory.

Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville in charge of the arrangements.You may sign the family guest book and send condolences on line at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com

Mrs.Alice Katheleen Barnett age 78 of Pine Crest Rd.Young Harris passed away on Friday Feb.26,2010 in the Kindred Hospital in Atlanta following and extended illness.Mrs. Barnett was born on Feb.12,1932 in Greenville,MS.,the daughter of the late Leroy Shaw and the late Lois Ellen Godbey Shaw.She had worked for over twenty two years with the Law Firm of Wood and Cobb.Alice was a member of the Clay County Extension Group.She enjoyed making crafts.She also made quilts to be donated for fund raisers for the Ron-

ald McDonald House.Mrs.Barnett was of the Protestant faith.

Surviving Mrs.Barnett are her loving husband and best friend of

Albert Derochie Jr., age 70, of Hiawassee, GA passed away Saturday, February 13, 2010 at his residence.

Albert was born on Saturday, July 15, 1939 in Hiawassee, GA, to the late Ralph and Evelyn Chastain Hooper.

He was a member of Enotah Baptist Church and attended Pilgrim Baptist Church. Survivors include: son & daughter-in-law, William & Stacey Derochie of Hiawassee, GA, son & daughter-in-law, Forrest & Mary Derochie of Hiawassee, GA, daughWHU DQG Ă&#x20AC;DQFHH 7DPP\ .LPVH\ DQG Kenneth Kitchens of Hiawassee, GA, special friend, Leann Chastain of Hiawassee, GA, grandsons, Steven Derochie, Jeremy Underwood,

the Cochran Funeral Home Chapel ZLWK 3DVWRU 'DQQ\ +ROOLĂ&#x20AC;HOG DQG 5HY +DUROG /HGIRUG RIĂ&#x20AC;FLDWLQJ Music will be provided by Danny Wilson. Pallbearers will be Eddie Gant, Jerry Rogers, Ellis Parker, Jammy Anderson, George McMullan Dean Brown and Gene Rogers.

Honorary pallbearer will be Stanley Berry. Burial will follow in Enotah %DSWLVW &KXUFK &HPHWHU\ 7KH IDPLDerick Harrison, Kevin Hardman ly will receive friends at the Cochran and Nathan Lovell, granddaughters, Funeral Home Wednesday, February $VKHO\ 7KUDVKHU :KLWQH\ +LJJLQV 17, 2010 from 6:00 until 9:00 PM. Lauren Kimsey and Natalie Lovell Cochran Funeral Home Hiawassee, and three great grandchildren. Fu- GA in charge of arrangements.

QHUDO VHUYLFHV ZLOO EH KHOG 7KXUVGD\ February 18, 2010 at 2:00 PM from

Lou Ellen Hamilton, age 85 of HiDZDVVHH *$ SDVVHG DZD\ RQ 7KXUVday, February 25, 2010 following a period of declining health. She was born to the late Otis and Dolly (Rogers) Hamilton on January 03, 1925 in Hiawassee, GA. She was a member of the Eastern Star for many years.

She is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, L.G. and Frances Hamilton, of Hiawassee, GA; a grandson, Ken Hamilton, of Hiawassee, GA and a number of nieces and nephews

at 2:00 PM from Lower Hightower Baptist Church with Rev. Danny %XUFK RIĂ&#x20AC;FLDWLQJ 0XVLF ZDV SURvided by Lower Hightower Church Choir. Pallbearers were: Stanley McKinney, Allen McKinney, Rex Johnson, Larry Johnson, Gerald Hall and Ben Ferguson. Interment was in Lower Hightower Baptist Church cemetery. Banister Funeral Home of Hiawassee in charge of arrangements.

Albert Derochie Jr.

Lou Ellen Hamilton

also survive. Funeral services were held on Sunday, February 28, 2010

Retail gas prices continue to rise Across the nation, consumers watched the price of retail gasoline increase upwards of 10 FHQWV LQ VRPH PDUNHWV 7KH VSLNH in retail prices is a response to crude oil increasing after reports showed the U.S. economy grew more than expected in the last quarter of 2009â&#x20AC;&#x201D;at a 5.9 percent annual rate, up from the 5.7 percent forecast. In addition, the Commerce Department said the gross domestic product gained the most in six years, which led Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernake to say the U.S. economy is in the "nascent" or beginning of a recovery.

7KH DERYH UHSRUWV OHG LQYHVtors to believe demand is on an upward trend, causing crude oil prices to be influenced more by basic fundamentals than by the strength of the U.S. dollar, which

has been the primary driver of prices in 2010.

However, the dollar weakened towards the end of last week against the euro and helped crude prices accelerate.

7KLV ZHHN LV LPSRUWDQW WR watch and will give us a good idea where crude prices and ultimately retail prices will head in the near future," said Jessica Brady, AAA public relations specialist. "Prices will likely continue their upward trend, but the state of Chile's oil refineries, that have shut down because of power outages, could lead to higher than expected prices."

Crude oil closed at $79.66 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, the highest price in six weeks.

7KH QDWLRQDO DYHUDJH SULFH RI unleaded regular gasoline is

$2.70 per gallon up six cents from last week. Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s average price of $2.76 per gallon reflects an eight-cent increase from last week. Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s average price of DQG 7HQQHVVHH V DYHUDJH price of $2.60 both show a ninecent increase from last week, respectively.

AAAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daily Fuel Gauge Report (fuelgaugereport.com) is updated each day and is the most comprehensive; reflecting actual prices from credit card transactions within the past 24 hours at two-thirds (100,000 stations) of the gasoline stations in the U.S. Its accuracy is unparalleled.

How much are you paying for gasoline taxes in Florida/ *HRUJLD 7HQQHVVHH" 8VH WKLV link: http://www.aaasouth.com/ acs_news/gas_taxes.asp to find out.

King and Queen Crowned at Brasstown Manor We are proud to announce that King Nord Nordheilm and Queen Naomi Nordheilm have been crowned at Brasstown Manor. We had a great time and the residents had some splendid food. Our residents enjoy this time of year because they get to vote for the King, Queen, Prince, and Princess.

CLASSIFIEDS

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Place your ad in our classifieds and reach thousands of North Georgia readers. Cost is only $5 for the first 10 words for one week in Union, Towns and Fannin Counties.

Call (828) 389-8338

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Deadline for classifieds is Monday at 3 p.m.

All classifieds received after this time will be printed the following Thursday.

100 - Autos Chevy Malibu, 2005 10 K Miles, asking $10,000.00 Call 828-389-0859

&NQMPZNFOU RV Campground Host Needed for Hiawassee. Must be able to do light chores Call Robbie 706-897-1041

300 - For Sale Seasoned firewood for sale: $55 a load, delivered. 706-7817590

400 - Animals Happy Jack Mitex For ear mites in rabbits, dogs, or cats, ask for Happy Jack Mitex. Contains no IGRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s., Hiawassee Feed & Farm Supply ( 896-1319) www. happyjackinc.com

500 - Services Eagle Restoration, LLC., Staining and Pressure Cleaning.

706-632-6266 eaglerestorationllc.com Cooking with Kara â&#x20AC;? Remake your Lifeâ&#x20AC;? Shed weight, Look and Feel Great in 30 Days! A 4 week Healthy Cooking Series.

Call today 828-389-7044 or visit: www.Cooking with Kara.com A and R Landscape Residential and Commercial Lawn Care.

Plant, tur f and grassing, lot

Georgia Gold Buyers Trusted Since 1976

Now Open to the Public In our NEW LOCATION in Hiawassee Get all the CASH for YOUR GOLD & SILVER

Be Smart Sell your GOLD & Silver where the Gold Buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sell Eliminate the Middle-Man and GET ALL THE MONEY! Now Paying the Highest Prices Ever!

We Buy Jewelry In Any Condition Coins Silver - Gold - US or Foreign Watches Wristwatches - Pocket Watches Open Daily Georgia Gold Buyers 375 N Main St. Hiawassee, GA 1-877-465-3919 Next t0 Georgia Mountain Restaurant

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Drive a Little... and Get a Whole Lot Moreâ&#x20AC;?

clean-up, mulching and retaining walls. 706-994-2457 Tile installer your tile or mine, 26 years experience have references and liability insurance.

Ask for Don at 828-389-9394 D&L Painting & drywall INC. 1BJOUJOH 4UBJOJOH *OUFSJPS t &YUFSJPS t 3FTJEFOUJBM t $PNNFSDJBM %3:8"-- )BOH t 'JOJTI t 5FYUVSF all types of finishes & textures 2VBMJUZ %SJWFO 'SFF &Ttimates cell: 828-508-5270 office(1): 828-321-2111 office(2): 828-479-4052 Massage Therapy- in the comfort of your home. Licensed and insured. 18 years experience, call Gerri; 1 hour $40; Half hour $25; 706-896-6108.

Housing Crisis hitting home?

Payments straining your wallet?

Call 877-835-8904 to lower your Mortgage payments.

Walker Storage Corner of Old Highway 64 West and West Cherry Road. Convenient to Warne, NC. and Western Clay County.

Variety of sizes. Concrete block Construction 828-389-4926 Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Will baby sit your child or children: Any age. Reasonable rates.References available. Call 706-299-1614

600 - Yard Sales Moving Sale: 4 piece bedroom set, Dining Table, sofa and love seat, Lamps, Some misc. items.

Call 828-389-0859

700 - Miscellaneous

706-455-1129 Have any old Mac/Apple products just sitting around gathering dust? Donate old iPods and computers, even if they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work anymore, to Harrison by contacting hkeely@gmail.com.

Wanted : Old Pinball Machines &MFDUSP NFDIBOJDBM $BMM 828-389-6459

900 - Lost & Found Black and white Australian Shepherd lost on Gum Log near county line. Bob tail dog, no collar, male. Please call 706-8978150 or 706-781-3974.

3FBM &TUBUF

House for Sale By Owner 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, a sunroom, LR, DR, HWF, Many extras, Partially furnished. In beautiful Plantation Villa in Hiawassee, Georgia. Walk to Town, Walk to Lake $175,000.00 Call 706-400-8159

1000 - Rentals Property Rental: Lakefront on Lake Chatuge 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Trailer, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Guest house. Screen porch, Deck and Dock. Unfurnished. $600 a month +

Paying cash for gold! Rings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, etc.In most cases, paying at least %06#-& XIBU BOZ QBXO TIPQ will pay. Gold tested, weighed and you are paid on the spot!

706-896-1380-

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Security deposit. Call 706-896-7668 BEAUTIFUL CREEK FRONT CABIN â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Bedroom, 1 bath cabin on rushing creek just minutes from marina and downtown Hiawassee. Very private, end of lane location. Updated kitchen, hardwoods throughout and large wood burning fireplace in great room. Being offered fully furnished, or will consider offering unfurnished or partially furnished if desired. Must have references and good credit. Small pet ok with pet deposit. Prefer year lease, but will consider 6 month lease with good references. Call Scott at 404-5422152. $675.00/mo. plus 1 month security.

Small lake house on Lake Chatuge with dock. 2BR/1BA, partialy furnished, $600 plus deposit.

Annual lease, no smoking, no pets.

Valerie 404-849-9010. Available January 9th.

Mobile Home for Rent Two bedroom, one bath Mobile Home for rent in Hiawassee, Ga.,$125 per week or $400 per month, plus $200 Deposit. No Pets. Call 706-835-6561 Apartment for Rent in Hiawassee Specious, light, 1 bedroom, large bathroom. All appliances! Private covered deck! monthly $475.00 plus deposits 706-896-4988 or 706781-9917 Ridgeline Apartments &BSMZ 4QSJOH 4QFDJBM 4JU JO ZPVS rockers and watch Spring Arrive from your front porch! 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath to 2 Bedrooms , 1 1/2 Bath from $495.00 per month with seDVSJUZ EFQPTJU .BJOUFOBODF '3&& /0 TUFQT '3&& XBUFS 5SBTI EJTposal! All appliances included! â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to move...

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TOWNS SENTINEL March 4, 2010

C O MMU N IT Y Dance: t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF " Hotaling, Jerry Rose, Loree Rousseau, Dustin Phillips, Tony Vitale, Mandy Moore, Joshua Allen, Nick Drago, Wade Robson, Mia Michaels, Dave Scott, Cris Judd, Laurieann Gibson, Nick Lazzarini, Brian Friedman, Doug Caldwell, Sheila Barker, Jeff Amsden, Chio, Tyce Diorio, Ann Rice, Wes Chapman, Rosco Sales, and Thom Clower.

She has won scholarships to Millenium Dance complex, Debbie

Allen Dance Academy, Steps on Broadway, Professional Dance Teachers Association/Stars of Tomorrow, and Hollywood Connection. She recently was selected to audition for Stiletto Entertainment and the Laker Girls.

She has won many first place regional awards as well as a regional grand champion duet award and national grand champion team awards.

Amy is a senior at Towns County High School where she has been a class officer, lettered in Cross Country, competed in Cross Country State, and served as a basketball manager for all four years of high school. She is the editor of

Fiscal:

Nonetheless, the feds are swooping in and stroking NGNC a check to the tune of $33.5 t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF " million. As with any of the recent federal spending free-for-alls, a primary justification is job creation. But by subsidizing the operations of a new competitor with taxpayer dollars, the government hampers the ability of existing Internet service providers to survive in the regional marketplace. The inevitable result is that, while NGNC creates some new jobs, the existing broadband companies may be forced to cut back their workforce. Biden points out that there will also be an uptick in construction jobs while the fiber optic lines are built out, but this alone does not justify government intervention into a market where there is no demonstrable need for additional competition or service.

Some argue that existing broadband is too expensive and that government needs to step in and provide equal access to make Internet affordable for all. Wrong again. A Windstream customer in 2010 can get 12 Mbps service for

the 2010 annual, a member of academic team, FBLA, FCA, and Beta Club. She is a member of the United Community Bank Junior Board and Georgia Mountain Fair Junior Board. She was selected October Rotary Student of the Month. She was voted by her peers to receive senior superlative Most likely to Succeed and Homecoming Queen. Amy is a member of Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church and has served as a Youth Delegate to the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church for 4 years.

Amy’s parents are Dr. Kirk Vardeman and Dr. Susan Vardeman of Young Harris.

20% less than the cost of 1.5 Mbps service in 2003.

However, if pricing is the government’s primary concern, federal funding should go to subsidize customer subscriptions, not to build infrastructure on top of existing infrastructure.

This project and others like it around the country will waste tens and hundreds of millions of dollars. Given the dire state of our economy, can’t the federal government find better uses for taxpayer money than a duplicative telecom network that stands to cripple Georgia-based companies? Instead, why doesn’t Uncle Sam target the money to existing broadband providers so they can expand their networks into the few remaining areas that lack broadband access? It would likely cost less money and produce better results. Instead, I’m forced to pay taxes to fund my competition’s start-up costs. Forgive me if I don’t share Mr. Biden’s enthusiasm for this latest iteration of fiscal irresponsibility by our leaders in Washington.

-Jim Kortum is a resident of Dalton, Georgia. He serves as Division Vice President of Operations for Windstream Communications, which provides phone, data and other services to much of North Georgia.

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Deal: t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF " that he welcomed ‘an opportunity to state the facts’ on these alleged

Washington: t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF " have 20 or fewer employees.

Twenty-one other states have implemented programs to incentivize “Angels,” and North Carolina’s taxcredit program alone resulted in nearly 700 new jobs, with average salaries of more than $58,000.

The Obama administration is raising taxes on the middle class.

They won’t admit this because the taxes are hidden behind politicians specializing in rhetoric. President Bush enacted tax cuts under the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001. The Obama administration does not seem to understand that fiscal conservatism is what will lead us out of this economic downturn. They plan to let the Bush tax cuts expire at the end of this year. It is a camouflaged tax hike, one that will burden the middle class and hamper growth.

This will hurt the very people on “main street” Obama pledged to help. Tax increases combined with an already suffering economy will

Farming: t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF " Perdue will also announce winners of the Flavor of Georgia Food Contest, which recognizes food products made with Georgia-grown ingredients.

According to the USDA, there are almost 48,000 farms in Georgia that produce annual sales of more than $1,000 with an average farm size of 212 acres. Georgia has 10.1 million acres of farmland.

Georgia ranks first in the nation in the production of broiler chickens, peanuts, pecans, rye and spring onions according to the USDA Agricultural Statistics Service.

Nationwide, Georgia is also a leading producer of cotton, cucumbers, snap beans, cantaloupes, sweet corn, bell peppers, blueberries, peaches, watermelons, cabbage and squash.

The top 10 agricultural commodities grown in Georgia, based on their 2008 farm gate value, are: broilers, eggs, cotton, peanuts, timber, horses, beef, dairy, greenhouse horticulture products and corn. The farm gate value of these commodities, the value of the commodities farmers sell, are collected and ranked by the UGA CAED. “It's easy to take agriculture for granted because the shelves at our local grocery store are always full of a variety of foods,” Miles said.

“There are a lot of misconceptions about agriculture out there these days. This week gives consumers a chance to learn where their food originates and how it is grown.”

For example, it’s a common misconception that factory farms produce most of the food Americans consume. USDA statistics show that individuals, family partnerships

shady business practices.”

“As Georgia citizens, we call on Nathan Deal to release all documents regarding the no-bid contracts for his business. He must lay to rest the allegations that he lobbied Lt. Governor Cagle to pressure government

officials into keeping his ‘sweetheart deal’ alive” “Otherwise, it appears that Deal’s fortunate timing is a cynical ploy to obstruct this investigation.”

only perpetuate the already volatile economic tailspin we’re in today.

while threatening private health care systems with competing government health care systems. In contrast, SB 399 provides protection for patients, doctors, and insurance providers.

The Georgia legislature is working for you, not against you.

Federal proposals will do a great disservice to the American people.

We must use common sense and realize that tax hikes and federal mandates are not what Georgians need.

If you have any comments, concerns or would like your voice heard, please feel free to contact me anytime. If you need contact information you can go to the Georgia General Assembly website or simply send an e-mail to jim@jimbutterworth.net. #### Sen. Jim Butterworth represents the 50th Senate District which includes Towns, Rabun, Habersham, Stephens, Banks, Franklin, and Hart counties along with a portion of White County. He can be reached by phone at 404.463.5257 or by email at jim.butterworth@senate. ga.gov.

While Washington continues the struggle with health care reform, Georgia is leading the way in reducing financial burden at no cost to the state. Lawmakers are working to protect Georgians’ health care freedom of choice and prohibit any future federal or state mandates that may penalize our citizens. Senate Bill 399 (SB 399) prohibits federal health care reform provisions from being implemented in Georgia unless the General Assembly passes legislation that authorizes the state’s compliance with any health care reform provision. Georgia’s health care system was developed to address the unique circumstances in the state and provide solutions that work for Georgia. However, federal government health care proposals seek to infringe on the state and its people by requiring them to enroll in a third-party payer system and levying fines on those who choose to pay directly for their health care.

Employers also face fines under federal proposals if they do not meet federal standards for providing health care benefits for employees, or family corporations own 98 percent of all U.S. farms. Farm families often form partnerships or corporations for legal and business reasons, but they’re still family farms, not factory farms. Family partnerships or family-owned corporations produce 84 percent of American-grown food. Non-family corporations only produce 18 percent of the food grown in the U.S. The average farmer produces enough food and fiber for 155 people in the United States and abroad.

This is a good thing because less land is devoted to farming than it was a generation ago and the number of farmers continues to decline.

Farms that specialize in selling locally grown food directly to consumers are a great asset for communities, but there is still a need for farms that efficiently produce large quantities of food to feed our growing population.

“Studies show that by 2050, the world’s population will rise from six billion to about 11 billion people.

This means world food demand could double in the next forty years,”Miles said. “To accomplish this, farmers will have to continue to rely on scientific advances that improve our yields and the quality of our crops and livestock. We need to make decisions related to food production based on research, not misconceptions. ” The efficiency of farmers benefits consumers economically.

According to the USDA, Americans spend less on food than any other developed nation in the world, which allows us to spend more of our paycheck on housing, medical care, clothes and leisure activities.

While the average American spends less than 10 percent of his disposable personal income on food each year, French consumers spend 14 percent; Chinese consumers spend 35 percent, and Indonesian consum-

ers spend 46 percent.

“Farmers do a lot to ensure that the food that reaches our consumers is safe. I eat the food and so does my family, so I want it to be healthy just as much as any other consumer,” said Miles. “I’m a farmer, but my farm is a business.

As a businessman it’s my job to produce the highest quality food possible for the people who will eat the food I grow. This means raising healthy animals to produce a healthy food product.”

Because farmers recognize that superior animal welfare practices lead to the production of high-quality, safe meat, milk and eggs, they constantly seek ways to improve the well-being and comfort of their animals. One way of doing this is to provide adequate food, water and medical care to protect the health of their animals. Farmers also provide shelter appropriate to their farming operation to protect their animals from disease, injury and predators. National and state quality assurance programs provide farmers with guidelines for the production of safe, wholesome animals, including recommendations on necessary animal handling and facilities.

“The standard of care we provide our animals and production practices we follow is based on the recommendations of animal scientists at leading agricultural colleges who have conducted research to determine the best way to raise healthy, productive animals,” said Miles.

The Towns County Farm Bureau was established in 1959. It currently has about 1000 members and is affiliated with the Georgia Farm Bureau Federation headquartered in Macon, Ga. Founded in 1937, Georgia Farm Bureau is the state’s largest general farm organization.

Free Tax Help

The AARP TAXAIDE sites in Blairsville and Hiawassee are open and in full operation preparing your tax return and EFILING your return for FREE. This service is open to all ages and is designed for middle and low income tax payers.

With a combined experience of 84 years in tax preparation and an individual average of 6 years each, the TAXAIDES are prepared to complete your return in almost any individual tax situation. We do have some limits imposed by AARP, such as no Preachers and no Farmers. But generally we can prepare most individual returns we are asked to prepare.

The locations and times of preparation are: BLAIRSVILLE – TUE and THURS 9 AM – 2 PM FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH BLDG H And HIAWASSEE – MONDAY 9 AM – 2 PM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NEXT TO THE GA MOUNT FAIR GRND Please bring last year’s tax return and all your normal tax information and include the real estate tax paid in 2009 and information on any new car or home you purchased.