StarNews April 2023

StarNews StarNews

GA Registered Voter Information System now in use: “GARViS”

Custom built specifically for Georgia

Will house 12M voter records

from press release

Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced the launch of the Georgia Registered Voter Information System: GARViS. Partners in the project were MTX, Salesforce, and Transform. The goal was to make improvements to Georgia’s voter registration process using this “one-of-a-kind technology purpose-built for Georgia”.

See GARViS page 15

Legislature addresses abuse in auto insurance industry with HB 221

Proposed increases in rates by insurance companies now to be reviewed Georgia State Insurance Commissioner first

story by Sue Horn

Villa Rica is first applicant in state to receive grant to create potable water from waste water

City Manager TomBarber: “using us as the guinea pig” “to see how it plays out”

Finance Director Jennifer Hallman awarded certificate for “spirit of full disclosure”

story by Januce Daniel

The Mayor and City Council of Villa Rica met for their Regular Monthly Meeting at 6:00 p.m. March 14, 2023, with all council members and mayor present.

Approval was given for Mayor Gil McDougal to execute an agreement with the Douglas County Water Authority, to purchase 150,000 gallons of water per day under a

See CITY OF VILLA RICA page 9

Lacking one council member, Whitesburg City navigating with one - so farabsence of quorum

No quorum at March work session: letter of law’not violated, O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1(a)

story by Sue

Horn

In the state of Georgia, is it an absolute requirement for a minimum number of council members - quorum - be present for a meeting to be held? According to Georgia Code Ann. § 50–14–1(a): “a meeting is required to be open only when a quorum of a governing body or its agents have gathered”. But, further reading of the statute clearly shows the full definition of “meeting” is listed in three distinct parts:

1. “the gathering of a quorum of the members of the governing body of an agency or of

See CITY OF WHITESBURG page 11

page 27

see pages 20-25

Karen Handel exits chamber job after just 21 months of employment

story

by

Sue Horn

After just 21 months on the job, CEO/president of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce and Carroll Tomorrow Karen Handel exited the position in March.

Hired July 2021 with the mission to

“The Ten Worst Insurance Companies In America”see page 6

The American Association for Justice, formerly known as The Association of Trial Lawyers of America, published a 29 page 2008 report “The 10 Worst Insurance Companies In America How They Raise Premiums, Deny Claims, and Refuse Insurance to Those Who Need It Most”. One of the recommendations in this report was to “require insurers to obtain com-

See INSURANCE RATES page 10

Southwire accepted: EPA’s Green Power Partnership

from press release

Southwire has been accepted into the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Green Power Partnership (GPP). According to its website, the EPA established the GPP to encourage organizations to use green power voluntarily to protect the health of humans

See GREEN POWER PARTNER page 6

Carrollton continues to hold meetings seeking public input on future direction of the city

from press release

Every municipality in Georgia is required by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs to maintain and update their comprehensive plan every five years to ensure that cities achieve minimum planning standards. The first Public Hearing was held Tuesday, March 14th, following by a “Visioning Workshop” on Thursday, March 16th on “Development Quality, Neighborhoods & Housing, Land Use”. The upcoming meetings are:

Thursday, April 13th 6:00 p.m. at WPA Center, Workshop #1: Development Quality, Neighborhoods & Housing, Land Use

Tuesday, April 18th 6:00 p.m. at Lakeshore Park Gym, Workshop #2: Parks & Recreation, Beautification, Tourism & Health

Thursday, April 27th 6:00 p.m. at Fire Station #23,

story and photo by Wayne J. Reynolds

“Locally and nationally we have zoning ordinances that prevent small housing, affordable housing, and multiple family housing,” stated James Pirch, founder of of Creative Interface. “Locally Carrollton, Temple, and Bremen would be examples of having these types of restrictive ordinances. If they would change the ordinances to allow more density, allowing more apartments and townhouses in the city and city limits, we could reduce vehicle traffic, but increase foot traffic.

“For example, we have a wasted

County school board sets budget timeline; reviews current expenses

story by Janice Daniel

On Monday, March 13, 2023, 5:30 p.m.. the Carroll County Board of Education met for a work session/board meeting. Board member Bart Cater was present by phone, and Board members Clayton Kierbow and

See SCHOOL BOARD page 6

total $$ spent Carroll County Board of Education 2022-2023 Budget

% of budget spent

Revenues and transfers in$104.2M64% Expenditures/transfers out $86.6M52% Instruction $51.9M50% Maintenance and Operation $ 9.3M53% School Administration $7.2M61% Student Transportation $6.4M49%

Commission’s hired consultant narrows the field to three for Manager-At-Risk job

story by Janice Daniel Carroll County Board of Commissioners met for their monthly work session Thursday, March 2, 2023, with two commissioners absent.

See COMMISSION page 7

opportunity around the Green Belt in Carrollton. There are a lot of undeveloped areas around Southwire, the hospital, and the (Sunset Hills) golf course that could be

New administration building Manager-at-Risk position 12 RFPs received/ narrowed to three candidates: Balfour Beatty Sheridan Construction RA-LIN

developed with higher density and affordable.housing. If we developed these areas with affordable housing, it would allow

According to Cancer.org breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, with the exception of skin cancers. It is about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers each year. The American Cancer Society’s estimate for breast cancer in the United States for 2023 is 297,790+- new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women and about 43,700 women will die from breast cancer.

In 2003, Carrollton resident Rosie Holley was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was 43 years old. Rosie shared, “I had an aggressive form of breast cancer. And I had a family history of breast cancer including my sister and my mother who died from it. I had chemo and radiation and other therapies throughout 2004. I thought I

story and photo by Wayne J. Reynolds

“Hope for the Journey”: 14 years of helping those with a breast cancer diagnosis to walk the journey

Karen Handel

James Pirch

pring H ome L awn & G arden 2023

Council on Aging invites area senior citizens for cook out lunch and entertainment -see

NOT COMPLICATED from front page

residents to walk to work and school and cut down on traffic.”

James Pirch is the lead architect and founder of Creative Interface LLC, is a licensed architect, NCARB certified, a LEED Green Associate, and he hosts a podcast called NOT COMPLICATED –JUST GREEN.

Pirch is also a member of the Board of Directors of West Georgia Habitat for Humanity. James and his wife Cindy are selling their home In Temple and building a home in Villa Rica. He graduated from Central High School and holds two degrees; Art Education and Interior Design from the University of West Georgia.

been board approved and must be completed before move-in.

The applicant(s) must be legal citizen(s) or permanent residents of the U.S. and must have lived or worked in Carroll or Haralson County for a period of at least 12 months consecutively prior to applying. They must have the ability to qualify for and repay a no to low interest loan.

“We need better projects,” Pirch said. “Please keep in mind the building code is the legal minimum standard for construction. We can design 500-year buildings. We can build affordable housing with a change in thinking.”

“We need better projects,” Pirch said. “Please keep in mind the building code is the legal minimum standard for construction. We can design 500-year buildings. We can build affordable housing with a change in thinking.”

For more information on James Pirch and his firm visit creativeinterface.org or call 470440-4440 ext.4.

His experiences increased his understanding of the process of construction and the impact of the design on cost and buildability. Pirch and his firm focus on high-performance detailing and sustainable design through an economical lens to offer his clients the best building for their dollar. He strives to understand everyone’s tasks and the value that various disciplines, consultants, and trades bring to the table, affording him the leverage to push back on certain design or construction outcomes that may adversely affect the sustainability and quality of the building.

“In Villa Rica, they are looking ahead with the prospectus of meeting future growth with less restrictive ordinances allowing more apartments with the challenge that they may all look the same, which is not a major problem. On the pther hand, Carrollton has student housing and old apartment complexes. So, you only have the option of living in old apartments or student based housing or renting an old house because you can’t build anything small. It is the problem West Georgia Habitat for Humanity has, because they are in the business of building smaller affordable homes. I would think it is also a problem for nonprofits and churches who may own land they can’t develop because of the minimum lot sizes and square footage.”

“We need something like Atlanta has with Invest Atlanta, which offers funding and incentives for projects to help grow the city. They provide down payment assistance and programs to help you buy your first home. They work to provide affordable housing across the city. We need something like that in Carroll County. Atlanta has a different set of rules than we have.

“We need to provide options for people. The city doesn’t have to spend their money. And these chunks of land around the Greenbelt are ready now with power, water, and sewer. There are projects like Invest Atlanta across the country, but, here, it is falling on deaf ears. Look, I am from here, went to school here, have my business here, so I am frustrated that there hasn’t been more movement in this area.

“There are Habitat projects across the state and country making a great deal of progress, doing condos and tiny home villages. These people have pride of ownership, pay taxes, and improve their credit. They are having an impact. We can make more progress. We need more affordable homes.”

Among the criteria West Georgia Habitat for Humanity has for building a home is the applicant’s family must be living under inadequate housing conditions. The applicant(s) must be willing to participate in the Habitat Program as a partner in building the family’s home and those of others. 200-300 hours of “Sweat Equity” are required once an applicant has

Edward Jones

would just take off from work for 2004 and then go back to work. But from 2004 to 2008, I had other surgeries for tumors which were not cancerous, and was in and out of the hospital. It was God’s design.

“Fortunately, I had support during this journey. I had good insurance. My husband at the time was entering the ministry. I had great support from family and friends! I had a strong community around me. But, I saw women around me who did not have that community. I saw women with spiritual needs. Financial needs. Emotional needs. Caretaker needs. You need good insurance, but without it, you won’t get the treatment you need. I walked that journey.”

In 2007, Rosie had a major health scare with a giant cell tumor with the doctor thinking it might be metastasized bone cancer. After further tests, it was diagnosed as benign but she did have to have surgery. During her recovery, she was also diagnosed with anxiety and depression. But, after her healing, Rosie said the Lord provided her with a vision.

“I wanted the Lord to show me what to do. I just wanted to start a little Bible study group, but the Lord had a bigger plan. I wondered if my mother’s outcome would have been different if she had had the knowledge that I had? Would her journey have been different? Out of my journey and experiences Hope for the Journey, Inc. was born in 2009. I know what these women with breast cancer have been through. That is why I am so passionate about this charity.

“When you hear the word cancer your life stops! You need to tell your family, organize the finances and a plan to work through it. You can’t give up. The Lord brought me through it. I had a lot of people help me through the journey. I love my clients! It is like a sisterhood. When they call me, I suggest we meet where I ask them to tell me their story. They need to have somebody to walk with them, someone who understands. Many times, their family doesn’t - can’t - understand.”

Rosie and her organization provide support groups which started out live, but covid forced the groups to go online - which Rosie says has worked out really well. “Women might not have the ability to attend live meetings, but can online. We will provide speakers as well as share our stories. I do meet with ladies live at times, simply to talk and have fun. Some have been in the group for 5 or 6 years. They stay in the group for a variety of reasons.

“We are not only a support group, but a resource. I walk with them. After the doctor’s office closes, you may need someone to talk to. They can call me anytime - to talk to, to pray with them. Many haved now started their own group!”

Over the years, Rosie has helped hundreds of individuals in West Georgia. Many are patients trying to understand their diagnosis, while others are family members looking for ways to help their loved ones.

The organization provides spiritual support, counseling, financial support, education, peer to peer, as well as events and fellowship. Rosie welcomes the opportunity to present their program to your church or civic group. Rosie also suggests you become your own ‘doctor’, do your own research. “I am not medical, but I do know a lot. I always suggest discussing it with your doctor.” Rosie is a former CNA. “Remember the choice is yours.”

Hope for the Journey is a 501-c (3) non profit organization. Rosie said they need monthly donors and sponsors. They rely on financial support from individuals and corporations to sustain their programs. Rosie adds, “You may not be able to donate

financially, but we all have gifts and talents, maybe simply stuffing gift bags.”

On June 24th at 6:00 p.m. Hope for the Journey will host an “Evening of Hope…Walking the Runway of Life” with a meal and entertainment. The fashion show models will all be breast cancer survivors with local boutiques providing the entertainment. The event will be at the Cosmopolitan Center at 4600 Legend Place in Douglasville.

Rosie concluded, “Our vision is to create a community that supports and uplifts those with breast cancer, because no one should fight alone. Our mission is to give hope. We prove hope because giving up is not an option!”

hopeforthejourneywestga.org

execdirector@hopeforthejourneywestga.org

You may mail donations to Hope for the Journey,Inc. P.O. Box 1343, Carrollton Ga 30112. Call Rosie at 770-214-1491.

SCHOOL BOARD from front page

Kerry Miller were absent. A quorum was met.

The 2023-2024 budget timeline summary was presented targeting the month of May as the tentative adoption of the budget and first public meeting; June as the second public meeting and adoption of the budget; July/August for a tentative adoption of millage rate; and during August/September, three public meetings and adoption of the millage rate.

Financial Reports for month ending February 28, 2023, were given by Darlene Wolfe, Assistant Superintendent of Finance. Year-to-date the numbers were as follows: Revenues and transfers in: $104.2 million, 64% of Budget; Expenditures and transfers out: $86.6 million, 52% of Budget; Over $17.7 million; Encumbrances $4.5 million/ Largest Expenditures: Instruction $51.9 million, 50% of budget spent; Maintenance and Operation $9.3 million, 53% of budget spent; School Administration $7.2 million, 61% of budget spent Student Transportation $6.4 million, 49% of budget spent.

Terry Jones, assistant superintendent of

KAREN HANDEL from front “promote and protect the interests of area businesses”, the official statement of her unexpected departure was that “Karen Handel has decided not to renew her contract with Carroll Tomorrow.” Appointed to fill the position during this next search is Brian Dill, who was previously senior vice president of Global Commerce for Carroll Tomorrow (2011-2015) and is currently senior vice president of External Affairs for Tanner Health System.

Karen Handel had been hired in July 2021 to replace decades long chamber president/CEO Daniel Jackson who retired.

The official statement came from Loy Howard, chair, Carroll Tomorrow Board of Directors, “We thank her for her service to Carroll Tomorrow, Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, and the community. We thank you for your patience and support during this transition period and our goal is to continue to bring you high value, professional programming from both organizations. . . We wish her the best in her next chapter.”

She was selected and hired in 2021 by the leadership of Carroll Tomorrow after what was described as an “extensive executive search process”. The search committee listed several key traits that were important for this employee to have, some of which were identified as “the ability to develop and execute Carroll Tomorrow’s vision for the community”. After her hire, the board’s press release stated that “the board believes Karen has the ability and experience to lead our organization forward, elevating Carroll County, maintaining existing jobs, and creating new opportunities. She will continue to work with local elected leaders to build a business-friendly environment.”

Handel came with an extensive resume, including having been elected and serving as the 26th Georgia Secretary of State (R)(20072010), House of Representatives (R)(20172019), and chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners (2003-2006).

During a September 2021 interview with StarNews, Handel stated that she wanted “to be super focused on two points. One, making sure our chamber’s giving value to our investors; and secondly, helping our community find that unified vision for what we want to be, because the growth is coming” and that “We need to need to focus on high quality jobs versus quantity of jobs. . . . We get multiple calls a week about warehouse distribution, and that gets to my point about getting ahead of the growth so that we can make a proactive

Administrative and Support Services, updated the board on construction and renovation projects ongoing to add six classrooms to the Temple Middle, and Ithica Elemtary. At Central Elementary, three classrooms will be added. And that the county government has begun clearing trees in preparation for adding car rider lanes at Sand Hill Elementary in an effort to improve traffic on Fairfield Road.

As a part of the 2022 Capital Outlay Application, state dollars were requested and received of $32,000 for a new canopy at Temple Middle. Modification funds will be used to replace HVAC units there.

Jones updated the board on the current Request for Proposals for custodial service developed in 2018 and now new RFPs need to be created. He asked the board approve an amendment to the current contract with KBS Services to extend their current contract to May, 31, 2024, for the purpose of developing an RFP for Custodial Services to put out in the coming year. The District seeks to have the RFP out for bid by January, 2024 so as to bring a recommendation by February, 2024, with

determination of what we think really fits in our community. And I don’t think that having back to back to back to back to back warehouse distribution is what we want.”

During her 21 months on the job here in Carroll County, the Burson Center was sold.

Established in 2001, Carroll Tomorrow is a countywide public-private economic development organization. Carroll County Chamber of Commerce has been the economic engine for the community since 1955.

and the environment. Some of the goals of the GPP are to reduce air emissions and pollution, encourage the development of new U.S.-based renewable electricity sources and recognize leadership and impact in green power use.

Southwire is using nearly 173 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power annually, which is enough to meet 34 percent of the organization’s electricity use. By choosing renewable energy, Southwire is helping advance the voluntary market for green power and the development of those sources.

vendor awarded to begin June 1, 2024. Amended contract will include a 7.5% increase for the coming year with KBS Services.

Glen Harding, Assistant Superintendent of Support Services, presented a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Carroll County Schools and the University of West Georgia for Nursing

experiences

Jones shared information on natural gas bids that had been submitted and that the current provider, Gas South, was low bidder at .6942 cents per therm. Their bid includes a 9% increase from last year.

The board then went into executive session and adjourned the work session/meeting.

GREEN POWER PARTNER from front

Finance Director Alecia Searcy presented the update for the month ending January 31, 2023 year-to-date. Revenue was at $54,028,535, 80.59% of budget and slightly down from last year which was 84.79%. Expenditures for the same period were $39,253,491, or 58.55% of budget, whereas last year was 55.56% of budget. She said the fund balance was good and certainly adequate for the large capital projects coming up.

Commissioner Clint Chance noted that interest income was $264,000 over last year, and taxes up 3.6%.

Dsitrict 5 Commissioner Ernie Reynolds noted that eight Departments expenditures were less than budget and asked if the personnel shortage was the reason for this. Searcy replied affirmatively.

Board prepared a consent agenda for the regular meeting, listed as follows:

1.Approve a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Chatahoochie Camp & Paddle Trail group for Carroll County to receive grant $150,000 for bathrooms at McIntosh Reserve. Community Development Director Ben Skipper said that the Trust for Public Land (TPL) requested to work with Carroll County to remove evasive species growing along the Chatahoochie Corridor, and to replace them with plants and flowers native to the river.

of cases. A rough estimate of the county’s portion for these positions is $32,400, which will be itemized in the 2024 Budget.

At the rate of $100 per hour, hired Facilitator Theron Gay, offered a brief history of the Service Delivery Strategy origination of the county and other suggestions during this two day retreat.

District 3 Commissioner Tommy Lee thanked the committee and Goodhead for their work, but said with this being the most money the board of had voted to spend “ever” on this selection process and since this was such an important decision, he felt the companies should come before the board with their presentations and to answer questions just to be as certain as possible to select the right candidate

Director of Animal Services Christy Owens gave an executive summary of the animal services rendered. Owens said the shelter has a 90% nokill rate, and discussed tracking services rendered not only by municipality, but also by zip code, for the purpose of disaggregating data. She also discussed stressor points in various current practices as well as the Trap/Neuter /Release strategy for mitigating the feral and stray population.

Newton Jennings of Marsh McLennan Agency gave a recap of current property and casualty insurance claims in the County. A fire engine claim was discussed, along with a potential solution to prevent future incidences with a proposed Emergency Vehicle Operations Center (EVOC).

Chair Michelee Morgan expressed the need for a capital expenditure for the Animal Shelter for approximately $78,000, and a generator for the Correctional Institute.

For more than 45 years, West Georgia Ambulance has been saving lives across Carroll County and west Georgia.

It’s our honor to be there when you need us most.

2.Authorization to participate in the Class Action Opioid settlements now being made with major drug companies

3.Approval of two emergency repairs made at Fire Station #7 in Mt. Zion due to roof leakage and safety issues caused by water leaks in the firemen’s living quarters. Barrett LLC charged $18,850 for the inside repairs and $8,255 for the roof repairs.

District 2 Commissioner Clint Chance discussed a SPLOST update on current projects and to track usage and needs of each department. He also brought up the need for a multifaceted approach to manage the litter issue, including cameras, ticketing, possible task force, and the need for more correctional officers.

Communications Director Ashley Hulsey reported on committee recommendations for a Manager-at-Risk to be selected for building the new administration building. Hulsey said they received 12 RFPs, and through a process of “questioning and grading”, hired consultant David Goodhead had evaluated fees and general conditions, and narrowed the list to three: Balfour Beatty, Sheridan Construction, and RA-LIN.

District 3 Commissioner Tommy Lee thanked the committee and Goodhead for their work, but said with this being the most money the board of had voted to spend “ever” on this selection process and since this was such an important decision, he felt the companies should come before the board with their presentations and to answer questions just to be as certain as possible to select the right candidate. His comment was well received by fellow commissioners. Lee stated he will make that motion during the regular meeting.

At the board’s Planning Retreat at Callaway Gardens January 31st and February 1st, 2023, the following was discussed:

State legislation is proposed for the addition of an eighth Superior Court Judge position for the Coweta Judicial Circuit. This would include an assistant district attorney, a public defender, a judicial assistant, and a law clerk. Positions are intended to alleviate the backlog

District 2 Commissioner Clint Chance discussed a SPLOST update on current projects and to track usage and needs of each department. He also brought up the need for a multifaceted approach to manage the litter issue, including cameras, ticketing, possible task force, and the need for more correctional officers.

District 4 Commissioner Steve Fuller discussed efforts to oppose currently proposed legislation to increase the size of transfer truck trailer length, and the potential road usage spawning from this increase. He also talked about nuisance violations.

District 5 Commissioner Ernest Reynolds discussed staffing vacancies and employee turn-over and retention, economic forecast production, Community Development Department communicating development projects to the commissioners, and road shoulder build-up.

Chairman Morgan offered a potential solution for road shoulder build-up by paving fewer miles in order to widen the roads for accompanying wider vehicles and to increase drivability and safety for citizens.

District 6 Commissioner Danny Bailey discussed potential strategies to increase employee retention.

Swede Sullivan and Jared Holley of Marsh McLennan Agency presented the current health benefit data, that 81% of employees completed a biometric screening and 17% of insured population has completed preventative care/well visits. (See story February 12th edition StarNews)

Clay Pilgrim and Julie George of Rushton Auditors presented the annual audit summary for FYE 6/30/22. (See story February 12th edition StarNews)

This regualr meeting was adjourned.

The Blue Group

Longtime children’s home Alice’s House, Carrollton, now a foster home to special needs boys

story and photo by Wayne J. Reynolds

All children need security, love, stability and a sense of belonging. On any given day, approximately 11,000 of Georgia’s children find themselves in a situation where they are unable to live with their biological families. And, the need for foster homes is alarming.

“Here in Carroll County there are only twenty foster homes, the lowest in decades,” exclaims Hannah Rodriquez, who with husband, Aaron, are foster parents themselves, and house parents at Alice’s House in Carroll County. “And there are currently 159 children in foster care in Carroll County. So many

of these children locally are shipped hours away or housed in hospitals, DFAC offices, or in hotels. They have nowhere to go! The cute two year old is easier to place, but what about the teenager or a child who is challenged, has disabilities, or behavior disorders? These are the type of children we foster at Alice’s House.”

Opened in 1997, Alice’s House was an institutional group home, but with changes at the state level, they were no longer able to provide that service. Instead has became a foster home for foster children with special needs.

In 1993, a group of Carroll County citizens incorporated as the Community Children’s Home, Inc. This non-profit organization was dedicated to the welfare of children and recognized the need for children to have a safe harbor from abuse and neglect. One of the original founders and now Board of Trustee Emeritus Evalyn Parrish said, “God gets the glory for the success of Alice’s House, and bringing Hannah and Aaron to us and to the children a year and a half ago. They are foster parents themselves and added this additional responsibility and love by being house parents at Alice’s House.”

The board chose to name “Alice’s House” in honor of Mrs. Alice Huffard Richards, a longtime supporter of the needs of children and citizens of the community.

Hannah and Aaron have been licensed foster parents for six years. “A year and a half ago Alice’s House’s needs and our calling collided - and we moved in here,” Aaron explained. “It is a joy for us and a huge blessing. The children we foster are children whose challenges go beyond just being in foster care. We think it is our niche to be able to help these children with significant needs.”

“Because it was originally designed as a

A Message from your Tax Commissioner

Did you know that you can go to the Ga Dept of Revenue website and find helpful information about your vehicle(s)?

Not only can you renew your registration, but you can also cancel and un-cancel the registration on your vehicle if it was sold or traded, not being driven for any reason or if the vehicle was wrecked. After you cancel the registration, you can cancel your insurance. Doing this you will avoid being fined for having no insurance on your vehicle.

You can also do things like pay your insurance fines, change your address, you can get estimates for renewal fees, title tax (TAVT), or your annual ad valorem tax.

Also, check your title status, insurance, registration and much more.

Just go to eservices.drives.ga.gov!

Vickie Bearden Carroll County Tax Commissioner

432 College Street

Carrollton, Georgia 30117

770-830-5843

group home, it is valuable for our children,” Hannah continues. “For example, every door has locks and the home is wheelchair accessible. Each child has his own bedroom and bathroom. You can’t imagine how exciting and important it is for a child, who has gone through what they have, to have their own bedroom!”

‘We are set up to house nine children and as of today we have eight,” Aaron adds. “And this week we have had five requests and three were from out of Carroll County.”

The 3500 square foot basement has ben completely remodeled and soon will house a clothing closet for foster children and a meeting room not only for the Board of Trustees but as well as for support groups. “We will be able to serve so many more people,” Aaron commented. “Soon we will be set up to be able to accept donations for the clothing closet.”

The needs of Alice’s House are many. “Yes, we always need financial donations,” Hannah says. “There are also so many opportunities for civic clubs and church groups. Bedrooms need to be painted, for example. We would like someone to teach gardening skills. Whatever your gift or skill is, it is welcome.

“We really also need mentors for our boys. They need a consistent positive male presence in their lives because they have had only poor male influences. Many children have been ostracized as bad kids - but they are sweet and on the inside are just little kids!”Alice’s House takes boys with needs from age eight to teenagers. “We find that younger than eight doesn’t mesh well with the older boys,” Aaron remarked. All children attend public school. After school they are in therapy and extra curricular activities. “It is important that they find something they are passionate about. It is a huge source of healing.”

Hannah remarked in closing, “We love it. This is our calling, They are our babies!”

If you would like to donate, get more information, or if you have questions, email Hannah and Aaron at carrollcountyfpa@ gmail.com. “It is better than calling because I don’t want to miss your message,” Hannah says. You may mail donations to Alice’s House at PO Box 1596, Carrollton Ga. 30112.

For more information on foster care

https://oca.georgia.gov/protocols-resources/how-be-fosterparent or call Family and Children Services at 770-830-2050

Aaron and Hannah Rodriquez, foster parents, and house parents at Alice’s House,Carrollton

Foster parents Aaron and Hannah Rodriquez are the non-profit’s house parents to nine boys with special challenges

short-term agreement so that Villa Rica can use it to exercise a newly-rebuilt water pump station at the city’s connection point with DDCW&SA, to ensure its functionality in the event that the City needed to purchase large volumes of water from DDCW&SA.

Council approved fee schedule for Walden, Ashworth & Associates for the repair of the Mirror Lake Dam, as required by the Georgia Safe Dams program, not to exceed $5,000.

City Manager Tom Barber said he had spoken with consultants about indirect potable reuse application to get the discharge from the West Plant clean enough to pump into the north end of Cowan Lake. Next step is a oneyear sampling project which consists of taking water samples from various places in the treated water discharge in order to establish a base line. “It is most important in the city’s strategic project to find or develop raw water,” he said.

In response to a question about timing from Councilmember Danny Carter, Barber said that Villa Rica was the first applicant in the state to get the grant to create potable water from waste water, “using us as the guinea pig” to see how it all plays out. He doesn’t know how long the process will take.

Barber also reported that the GEFA reconstruction of the West Plant Influent has been

approved and the bids are set to come to the council in April. He said they are almost finished rehabbing and rebuilding hundreds of manholes, sealing the wet well will be next.

A highlight of the meeting was the announcement that for the second year in a row, the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to Jennifer Hallman, finance director for the City of Villa Rica. The GFOA specified a “spirit of full disclosure” in the Finance Departments submittal for Fiscal Year 2021 (ending September 30th). Hallman named Louise Clark, Assistant Finance Director; Amanda Long, Accountant; and Katie Godfrey, Accounts Payable Clerk, as also being vital to the work outcome, as well as mayor and council, city manager, deputy city manager and department heads and staff who are “patient to answer her questions and provide requested information”.

Meredith Lipson was at the meeting to present the Villa Rica Audit & Compliance Summary for the Fiscal Year Ended 6/30/22 to and reported that their opinion had no findings and no comments. She said a copy of the full audit report posted on city’s social media site.

The Consent Agenda (see work session story this page) was read/approved unanimously.

Ron Johnson, Planning and Zoning

Administrator, presented a rezoning proposal RA-08-22 from Single Family Urban (R2) to Medium-Density Commerical (C2) for applicants Brenda M. Matthews & Themis Asset Recovery LLC, who want to re-parcel their four lots on South Street and construct a new national chain sit-down restaurant. Applicant is also proposing to construct a new road through parcel to connect to Highway 61 and the business fronting onto Commerce Drive. Three of the four parcels are vacant. Application was approved by staff and planning commission. No one spoke in Public Hearing. Application was approved unanimously. There was a request during this work session to approve aconsultant for a Compensation Study by Lena Taylor, Human Rsources director. Council member Danny Carter wanted to know how the four companies who bidded for the position were graded. Taylor presented the committee’s findings to them during regular meeting. The last Compensation Study for Villa Rica was done May 1, 2018 and implemented over the next three budget years. Since then, record inflation and personnel shortages have highlighted the need for an updated study. Paypoint HR came in with the highest score, 480, Bolton at 438, McGrath at 391, and the Archer Company at 461. Council unanimously approved Paypoint HR at a cost not to exceed $35,000, which was budgeted.

Utilities Director John Bai presented a request for a revision to the Water and Sewer Ordinance, pretreatment service charges section, due to requirements of the Georgia EPD. Bain’s request consists of a 35% increase in the surcharge cost factor for industrial discharges over and above the Permit Limits in the revised ordinance. Affected businesses will have 90day notice. Change was approved unanimously. Councilmember Leslie McPherson said, “If EPD requires it, we have to do it.”

Finance Director Hallman presented the Financial Update as of January 31, 2022, showing total cash at $35,706,637 with $7,000,000 committed to the Mirror Lake Connector. Property taxes are at 96% collections. Water and Sewer taps at 28%, both Carroll and Douglas counties show increased sales tax, self-funded insurance cash balance at $1,467,340. Sanitation/Solid Waste same level as this time last year. Water/Sewer at net loss of $813,195.

Barber asked for a final approval of a consulting firm for the Northside Downtown Streetscape Project, Design and Engineering Phase. Four bids considered. Based on evaluations by city manager, city engineer and special projects director, Keck and Wood stood out as the choice. Cost is $1,430,000, from ARC LCI grants and General Fund. Council approved unanimously.

Villa Rica council and mayor prepare consent agenda just prior to evening meeting same day

story by Januce Daniel

Villa Rica mayor and council met for a work session March 14, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. for a discussion about some items, and to prepare a Consent Agenda for their regular meeting to take place at 6:00 p.m. Consent Agenda was:

1.Community Development Assistance Program grant from Atlanta Regional Commission, May of 2022, $75,000 with local cost of $5,800. Georgia Conservancy presented the first step in implementation of the LCI program. Prospector’s Park was identified as the project for this year. Conservancy brought ideas to the table on what could be done with the park. No action is needed by council

2.Keep Carroll Beautiful made request to use V-Plex for a Spring E-Recycling event April 22, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

3.Keep Carroll Beautiful also requested a sponsorship for E-Recycling event of $1,000,

4.Request to allow current holders/council members to purchase surplus Surface Pros to those who wish to do so. They will be disconnected from Villa Rica network and replaced with iPads council approved last month. If any of the Surface Pros are not purchased, IT department will ensure that all data is wiped before offering them on GovDeals.com.

5.Transfer by Quit Claim Deed 4/10 of an acre of land unusable by city and promised to Fuqua as part city’s agreement with them. They will pay fair market value for the land.

6.Approve the Addendum to the CivicPlus Agreement and Statement of Work for the Ordinance supplementation. CivicPlus has purchased Municode, who has performed this work for city since 2014. Annual flat fee is set at $3,489.64. If there is a large overhaul in the ordinance, that would be a separate charge.

7.Approve the revised City Cemetery Ordinance last updated 2009. Purpose of the update is to clarify who is responsible for repairs and maintenance in the City cemeteries, as well as adding standards to the construction of future walls, boarders and monuments, and removing the distinction between the rules for the Garden of Rest and Hillcrest.

8.To approve the Three Rivers Regional Commission as partner in creating a new Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use map for city, as required to be done every five

years. Community meetings will be held. No cost to city is associated with this arrangement. New plan/map to be adopted Oct. 31, 2023.

9.Approval to build a shelter-style pavilion at the V-Plex Playground, where there is currently no shelter. Staff wants to purchase a 20x45 foot steel, gable shelter from RCP Shelters for $21,640. Installation will be bid out.

10. Request to purchase and install AEDs at nine facilities which do not currently have them, individual cost of $2,000 plus $125 for batteries, a total cost not to exceed $18,500. These defibrillators will be placed at West Waste Water Plant, Customer Service, Splash Pad, Villa Rica Police Department, Football Field Concession, Distribution Facility, Water Treatment plant, North Waste Water Plant, and Training Center.

11. Approval to furnish and install a steel automatic gate at the North Plant, with fencing repairs included in the scope of work. The bid will be offered to Gotcha Security, LLC, at a cost of $36,267.68.

12.Request to purchase a Community Development Software Package from GovPilot for $39,364 for the first year and $36,000 each for the next two years.

13. Approval of Supervisory Leadership Training taught by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) for 30 directors, managers and front-line supervisors over a nine-month period (April 2023 - January 2023) at a budgeted amount not to exceed $18,500, split between Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024.

14.Approve agreement for Entertainment Services for the Parks & Recreation Volunteer Banquet with Kalmon Productions, LLC in the amount of $5,800.

15.Approve the modification design of Cleghorn Force main and gravity sewer to be done by Simonton Engineering cost: $26,740.

16.Approve the modification design of Weatherstone Lift Station. This is an older style above-ground pump station which requires frequent internal and contract emergency responses to keep it operational, and also receives noise complaints from nearby residents. The work will be done by Simonton Engineering at a budgeted cost of $32,100.

17.Approval of Ductile Iron Pipe Purchase

for the water system expansion projects to allow materials to be on-hand when needed. Low bidder was Consolidated Pipe & Supply at a base bid of $1,277,830 to be paid by future GEFA and TAD funding.

18.Approval to engage with Carter & Sloope for the Engineering Design of Maple Street Water Main Upgrade from a 2” galvanized iron water main to an 8” water main

upgrade, at a budgeted cost of $40,500.

19.Approval of 2023 Budget Amendments #149-153 Northside Downtown Streetscape to be paid for with the LCI grant, and other capital project grants.

All other business was transferred to the Regular meeting to be held at 6:00 p.m. since they were running out of time. Work session was adjourned.

CITY OF VILLA RICA from front page

missioner’s “to explicitly authorize - or even require - the Commissioner to hold a hearing prior to approval.”

The Georgia Legislature did just that this session with House Bill 221. The Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King gave an announcement on the Georgia State Senate’s final approval to legislation reforming how private auto insurance rates are filed in Georgia. HB221 gives the commissioner the authority to review all car insurance rate filings before going into effect. This closes a loophole that insurance companies had previously exploited to increase rates by as much as 25% in a single filing. Upon Governor Brian Kemp’s signature, this legislation would go into effect on July 1, 2023.

“Heading into this legislative session, we made it a priority to work with the General Assembly to give our office more authority over car insurance rate filings that impact hardworking Georgia families,” said Commissioner King. “This legislation will allow us to review all filings before they go into effect, while at the same time guaranteeing speed to market, which is critical for the industry.”

House Bill 221 keeps the Commissioner’s “prior approval” authorities over mandatory minimum limits filings while giving him 60 days to review all other filings.

The American Association for Justice (AAJ) stated in their report that for these top ten insurance companies, “the name of the game is deny, delay, defend”.

The AAJ compiled a list of the worst insurance companies in the United States by “examining thousands of records about the companies, including court documents, FBI records, and testimony from former insurance employees. Their research identified the companies that work against the clients that need them the most by rejecting claims, denying coverage, and jacking up premiums.

“While this list stems from the opinions of AAJ researchers, experience handling countless insurance claims for injured clients leads our legal team to agree with the list. We also have had dealings with other insurers outside the AAJ list that use questionable tactics to minimize and avoid paying valid claims.”

Also, AAJ stated that “To identify the worst insurance companies for consumers, researchers at the American Association for Justice undertook a comprehensive investigation of thousands of court documents, SEC and FBI records, state insurance department investigations and complaints, news accounts from across the country, and the testimony and depositions of former insurance agents and adjusters.

“Our final list includes companies across a range of different insurance fields, including homeowners and auto insurers, health insurers, life insurers, and disability insurers.”

AAJ’s “Top 10 Worst Insurance Companies” are: 1. Allstate 2. Unum 3. AIG 4. State Farm 5. Conseco 6. WellPoint 7. Farmers 8. UnitedHealth 9. Torchmark 10. Liberty Mutual

From their report:

“Allstate—The Worst Insurance Company in America. One company stood out above all others. Allstate’s concerted efforts to put profits over policyholders has earned ts place as the worst insurance company in America. According to CEO Thomas Wilson, Allstate’s mission is clear: ‘our obligation is to earn a return for our share holders.’

“The insurance industry is in dire need of reform. For too many insurance companies, profits have clearly trumped fair dealing with policyholders. The industry has done all it can to maximize its profits and rid itself of claims.

“Allstate CEO Thomas Wilson outlined the

“The Ten Worst Insurance Companies In America”

“How They Raise Premiums, Deny Claims, and Refuse Insurance to Those Who Need It Most” by The American Association for Justice 2008 report (formerly known as The Association of

“Top 11 Worst Insurance

Companies In America”

strategy when he said the company had ‘begun to think and act more like a consumer products company.’”

AAJ specifically reported the following on State Farm: “As the biggest property casualty insurance company in America, State Farm has become notorious for its deny and delay tactics. In many cases, the company has gone to extreme lengths to avoid paying claims, including forging signatures on earthquake waivers after the deadly Northridge earthquake, and altering engineering reports regarding damage after Hurricane Katrina.

“Hurricane Katrina showed State Farm at its worst. . . company claimed that any house that had what they considered water damage did not constitute a claim in the first place. In fact, Louisiana Department of Insurance reported that it was contacted by 9,000 consumers seeking help resolving disputes with their insurance companies. One such angry policyholder was United States Senator Trent Lott. Lott, who had long counted on insurance companies for support, became an industry critic after his beachfront house was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina and his subsequent claim was denied by State Farm. Lott eventually settled with State Farm, but went on to sponsor legislation requiring insurers to provide “plain English” summaries of what their policies did and did not cover. “They don’t want you to know what you really have covered,” said Lott.

In addition to AAJ’s top ten list, The National Law Review (NLR) published their “Top 11 Worst Insurance Companies” in an article two years ago February 10, 2021.

In naming their top eleven worst insurance compnaies, NLR explained that, “While this list stems from the opinions of AAJ researchers, experience handling countless insurance claims for injured clients leads our legal team to agree with the list. We also have had dealings with other insurers outside the AAJ list that use questionable tactics to minimize and avoid paying valid claims.”

The NLR’s list is as follows with State Farm being noted as the highest earning insurance company in the United States:

Commission approves zoning for boat, camper, RV parking lot; denies haunted house application

story by Janice Daniel Carroll County Board of Commissioners met for a regular meeting 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 7, 2023, with all commissioners present. Consent Agenda prepared during the work session of previous Thursday afternoon (see story page 7) was approved unanimously.

In the matter of choosing a Construction Manager-at-Risk for the new county administration building, board voted unanimously that the board will vet the three applicants selected by the committee. District 3 Commissioner Tommy Lee had expressed concern during the prior Thursday work session that since “this is the most money this county has ever spent” on this type process, they should have the opportunity to speak with the applicants before rendering a decision.

During zoning, Community Development Director Ben Skipper presented application C23-01-01, parcel 111-0075, for a Conditional

any committee” (and)

2. “at a designated time and place” (and)

3. “at which official action is to be taken”.

So, the answer to whether a quorum is required is clear when #3 of the definition is applied as part of the whole: “at which official action is to be taken”. An official action is a vote. Remove that action - voting - and a quorom, by the letter of the law, is not required.

The City of Whitesburg has had one vacancy on their council board since last fall when long time council member for Post 2 William Smolar abruptly resigned during the Tuesday, September 6, 2022 regular meeting. Since then, seven work sessions and seven regular meetings have been scheduled and held. The Whiteburg City council consists of four posts,

Use Permit at 1000 Stripling Chapel Road. He is asking to use three acres of his property to build a parking lot for boats, campers, and RV rental. Applicant Lewis Thomas, owns 21 acres at this location, where he has a body shop with a parking lot. Thomas’ wife spoke stating that their land is bordered on every side by businesses that have been there for up to 30 years. She stated that they have already put up a black-screened chain link fence with barbed wire at the top, as well as a 10 to 12-foot green space barrier. Thomas’ son spoke in favor of the application, saying that his home is across the street from proposed parking lot, and the security lights are aimed downward. Thomas’ neighbor, Mark Muse, said he owns property on the opposite site, and that the amount of traffic already on the road is caused by school traffic and tractor-trailers.

District 4 Commissioner Steve Fuller made a motion to approve the application, with some

with the majority - a quorum - being three.

The March 28th, 2023 mayor and council work session did not have a quorum as Council Member Chris Lewis was absent due to a death in his family. Acknowledging a quorum was not met, it was noted in council minutes that “This is not a voting meeting, so we will all proceed.”

Citizen comments were heard and city business was discussed during that approximately 35 minute work session in preparation for the following April 3rd regular meeting. All four council members present then; quorum was met. Work session discussions/issues were brought forward and votes were taken.

Whitesburg mayor is AmyWilliford; council members are: Post 1 Donna Whitley; Post 3 Lucy Gamble, Post 4 Chris Lewis.

stipulations regarding things that all businesses have to follow, as well as a stipulation that none of the RVs or campers can be occupied, and that no one else besides Thomas can use the land for that purpose. Motion was seconded and approved unanimously.

Application for rezoning was Z-23-01-01, a request to use acreage on Rocky Branch Road as a haunted house attraction called “Containers”. Applicant said the land was not suitable for residential, and his attraction would only be operational for the 28 days up to Halloween each year. The venue is made using storage containers, thus the name “Containers”. Applicant said he didn’t think the owner of the venue would want to change that. Chairman Michelle Morgan said she did not feel comfortable with her children being in shipping containers. Application was denied unanimously.

The UPS Store

During Public Comments, Bubba Coffee of Villa Rica was there to speak for his sister who lives in Fairfield Plantation. Coffee stated that when a house was built behind hers, she began to having a water run-off problem that nobody seems to be able to get corrected. He said that HRC had put some silt screens to try and solve the problem, but it didn’t work. County lifted a hold on the house because of the problem, and now his sister and whoever buys the house will continue to have the problem. Chairman Morgan said someone will contact him.

During the meeting, a member of the audience complained about the sound system and said they can’t understand what’s being said. Chairman Morgan asked everyone to speak directly into their microphones.

There being no further business, meeting was adjourned.

Virtual-first health care plans begin in the market

MARCY HEATH

678-821-3508

marcy@be inoventive.com

In the continuing quest to reduce health care cost and make care more accessible, a new type of health plan has been taking shape: The Virtual-First Health Plan. These evolving plans integrate virtual care delivery models into a comprehensive health plan that encourages enrollees to access virtual care with their doctors before resorting to an in-person visit.

These plans are coming to market as Americans have gotten use to virtual visits with their doctors during the last three years of the COVID-19 pandemic and virtual care becomes more common even in traditional health plans.

While the uptake is small – 6% of employers surveyed in 2022 offered these plans – it’s expected to grow quickly over the next few years. Most of the major health insurers have already announced various tie-ups with virtual care providers and tech vendors to improve their telemedicine offerings.

There are a number of benefits to virtualfirst primary care such as reduced cost, convenience and easier access with better health outcomes. Virtual-first plans may often put a premium on health record integration across the care spectrum to ensure that all care team members have access to them.

A recent survey by Mercer found that, among organizations with 500 or more employees:

• 52% planned to offer virtual behavioral health care in 2023.

• 40% planned to offer a virtual primary care physician network or service in 2023.

Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?

God (Matthew 19:17). We are all dead in our sinful trespasses. For some crazy reason it is tempting for us to look at a dead person (Ephesians 2:1) and think to ourselves “They have so much potential!”

• 21% already offer virtual specialty care, like for dermatology or diabetes.

HOW THEY WORK: Virtual-first health plans include the same coverage as traditional health plans, including fee-for-service, HMO, and PPO, but they focus on directing enrollees to telemedicine options for their doctor’s visits.

The key difference is that they aim to significantly reduce cost by incentivizing enrollees to seek out virtual care first through plan design, incentives and advocacy. Sessions can often be performed virtually, saving both the patient and doctor time, while reducing the cost for each visit.

Virtual-first plans incorporate the same arrangements as traditional health plans, except that most doctor’s visits will be online, or via a smartphone app. When a patient needs to see their doctor, they’ll schedule the visit on their account and they need to opt out of a virtual

visit if they feel they need to see the doctor in person. Additionally, if possible, specialist visits can also be conducted on the app or website.

THE TAKEAWAY: Virtual-first care plans are an evolving product and it’s important to find a plan that can truly save you money while not sacrificing quality of care.

These plans are still in their infancy and are hitting the market in increasing numbers. But because they are new, there is no uniform standard for them. The most important aspects to look for in these plans are strong member engagement and seamless integration to ensure quality of care.

Give us a call today at 770.537.5300 if you have questions about these plans and if carriers in your area are offering them, and whether they are a good fit for you and your organization.

Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? This is a great question, and I have been asked this so many times. This question can lead to many heated side arguments from fellow Christian brothers and sisters. I will do my best the correctly break down the three main points of this question: God, bad things, and good people.

To begin answering this question, we must quickly bring our focus away from the bad things and place it on the holiness of God. God cannot do anything that is bad. Everything that God made was declared as good. Hebrews speaks of Jesus and states that He was tempted just as we are, yet without sin. Sure, God allows tough things to happen to us in order to help grow us. In the end, our Sovereign Creator allows all things to happen to fulfill His perfect plan and all for His glory. We must be cautious when we question this plan.

God is attempting to grow us and invites His adopted children to join Him in His kingdom work. . .

Imagine two drawn circles on either side of a piece of paper. Inbetween the circles is a completely bottomless chasm. Paul says in Romans 6:15-19 that we are slaves of sin - one circle - or slaves of righteousness - the other circle. Slaves of sin are fully capable of doing good things. The problem is that good things do not bring about salvation.

believers are faced with a challenging decision, “Do I pout like a two year old, or do I follow the King of kings?”

Slaves of righteousness are fully capable of doing unrighteous deeds. Salvation is not brought to us through good deeds. Salvation is brought to us only through the righteousness of God. We do not have the ability to hop from one circle to another. We cannot save ourselves from sin, and we cannot un-save ourselves from righteousness. There is none righteous - no, not one.

Since righteousness is not in us, being a slave of righteousness is not based on us. Rather, it is based on the righteousness of Jesus Christ.

RWB Tax

Often times, when we talk or counsel with people who ask this question, we must dig deep in order to understand what they mean by the phrase “bad things.” In American culture, it is tempting for us to adopt a selfish mindset. This selfish mindset can merge into Christian life to the point that we begin thinking that God is there for us at our beckoning call. This can grow to the point that we want to set our own goals, and we graciously invite the almighty sovereign Creator of the universe to assist in us reaching our goals.

The problem occurs when our goals, visions, and dreams differ from that of the Bible and God’s eternal will. This is when “bad” things happen. God is attempting to grow us, and invites His adopted children to join Him in His kingdom work. It is at this point where believers are faced with a challenging decision, “Do I pout like a two year old, or do I follow the King of kings?”

Here is the final section of the question, and oftentimes the most controversial. We have to break down the term “good people.” We must ask the question: “According to God’s Word, what is good?” The only thing that is good is

Here is a great quote from the website Got Questions: “God allows things, good and bad, to happen for a reason. Whether or not we understand His reasons, we must remember that God is good, just, loving, and merciful” (Psalm 135:3).

Often, bad things happen to us that we simply cannot understand. Instead of doubting God’s goodness, our reaction should be to trust Him. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). We walk by faith, not by sight.”

Please feel free to send any questions you may have about the Bible, God, Jesus, salvation, etc. I would love to answer your questions through the next article. Just know that if you have a specific question, then there are probably tons of others who are asking that same question, too. Please email your questions to cbmgeorgia2020@gmail.com.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Recap of Carroll County Board of Education January and February work sessions and meetings

Moment of silence for the passing of long time board member Burton-Calloway; board approves increased pay for themselves; KidsPeace and Villa Rica TAD wrestled with

January work session / meeting highlights The Carroll County Board of Education met on January 9, 2023 for their Work Session and on January 12th for their Regular Monthly Meeting. After the Pledge of Allegiance, there was a moment of silence to remember Dr. Dorothy Burton-Calloway, a former Carroll County Board of Education member who recently passed away.

Council Chair, Bryant Turner was re-elected as Board Chair and Council member Sandra Morris was re-elected as Vice Chair for 2023.

Council member Dr. Bernice Brooks was nominated to serve as the BOE Representative for the College and Career Academy (CCA) which she accepted. Chairman Turner welcomed Mr. Tom Sizemore, the newly elected Board of Education member for the Mt. Zion cluster.

Cammie Tysver, Director of Exceptional Children’s Services share that the department currently serves 2,098 students with disabilities in the Carroll County School District.

The 2023-24 and 2024-25 Instructional calendars were presented and will lay on the table for the February Board meeting.

Darlene Wolfe presented the month of December and Year-to-Date budget and actual receipts and expenditures for all the funds, and also a possible action plan for FA 2021-001, the audit requested letter that the BOE approve a commitment to stronger internal controls, which action was approved by the Board. Wolfe reported total General Fund revenues at $22.1 million, expenditures at $13.4 million, with a balance of $50.8 million with $4.7 million in encumbrances

Dr. Christi Teal stated that the district is anticipating adding six art or music positions, so that those classes would be offered in all elementary schools, and that 20.5 additional certified positions are expected to be added for 2023-24, a number which is subject to change.

Dr. Teal also shared the Resolution to Amend Board Member Compensation, previously voted on in May of 2022, and asked that it be placed on the consent agenda for the regular business meeting scheduled for January 12th, but Council member Bart Cater asked that this Resolution be changed to a business item for discussion and total transparency to the public.

After the Executive Session, both meetings were adjourned.

On January 12, 2023 the BOE met for their Regular Monthly meeting. Chairman Turner opened to discussion to Amend Board Member Compensation. Turner said that the board got information from the state about boards similar in size to the Carroll County BOE, and said that the compensation they received was significantly lower. So they decided on compensation amounts for each member to receive $1,000 per month, Chair $1,200 per month, and Vice Chair $1,100 per month. Formal resolution was drafted by the County Attorney and provided to the General Assembly and can now be adopted as the new compensation amounts the Carroll County BOE members will receive. Resolution approved unanimously.

After an Executive Session, the BOE reconvened. Dr. Christi Teal’s retirement was announced. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

February work session / meeting highlights

The Carroll County Board of Education met in a Work Session/Board Meeting on Monday, February 13, 2023 with all members present except Board member Clayton Kierbow.

Terry Jones, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative and Support Services, updated

the Board on facility and construction projects happening across the district. Classroom additions, HVAC systems, school maintenance projects, and additional bus lanes were included in his report. He also requested that four Field Trips and a number of Fundraising Events be placed on the Consent Agenda.

Darlene Wolfe, Assistant Superintendent of Finance, reviewed the January 2023 financial report, which included: General Fund YTD revenues at $91,921,081, 58% of Budget, and expenditures at $72,900,003, 44% of Budget, with a $47,500,000 fund balance after adjustments, with $4,400,000 encumbrances. Most significant expenditures were Instruction at $43.7 million, Maintenance and Operations $8.3 million, Student Transportation $5.6 million, and School Administration $6.3 million.

Superintendent Scott Cowart pointed out that the spring bus replacements were already approved, but the lead time on delivery was long. Cost of each bus is $120,000 to $130,000 fully equipped with all the technology required.

Turner said that the compensation they received was significantly lower. So they decided on compensation amounts for each member to receive $1,000 per month, Chair $1,200 per month, and Vice Chair $1,100 per month.

Rica’s TAD, the more she is confused, and that was the general agreement among the other members. Board member Bart Cater stated “to me, it’s an open-ended checkbook with no ending” and also that Villa Rica should lower their amount of the bond by the $7,000,000 they have already put in to pay for the road that is already being built. Cater said that anything Villa Rica said about improving county schools “is nothing but a red herring, in my opinion.”

Morris asked, “Do they really need us? The road is happening without us.” It was decided that Superintendent Cowart should work with the Bond Attorney to clarify what the City of Villa Rica wants from the BOE, and find out options to negotiate different pieces of it. He also said he would want some representation from the board there with him rather than being solely responsible for finding answers to their many questions. Several of the board members indicated they would be willing to do that, but Cater said, “I want no part of it.”

Vice Chair Sandra Morris stated that the more she tries to understand Villa Rica’s TAD, the more she is confused, and that was the general agreement among the other members. Board member Bart Cater stated “to me, it’s an open-ended checkbook with no ending”

Wolfe also reviewed planning for the FY24 budget timeline, significant revenue and expenditure budget assumptions, and items for budget consideration. The budget assumptions include the $2,000 state pay raise for certified staff, a proposed increase in the local supplement for certified staff, and a proposed raise for non-certified staff.

Chairman Bryant Turner opened a discussion about the City of Villa Rica’s TAD proposal and the BOE’s potential participation in the project. Vice Chair Sandra Morris stated that the more she tries to understand Villa

There was Public Input from Dominique Conteh, president of the Carroll County NAACP, who said the Villa Rica High School Head Coach has approached them for help in deciding whether his federal or state rights have been violated by the Administration there, and their investigation is ongoing.

Terry Jones presented a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) due to a request to use Bowdon Middle School as the KidsPeace emergency shelter. Morris asked if this was “only if our kids were not there?” This led to a lengthy discussion which emphasized that some board members were opposed to the

KidsPeace students being in the same building as the regular students, although the gym was suggested as a possible alternative. According to Cater, the KidsPeace students “would be in YDC if not for KidsPeace.” He also stressed that KidsPeace is not a part of the Carroll County School System, but the school sSystem is simply a fiduciary through which the state money flows to KidsPeace. He stated “I’m not going to be a part of it, it’s not gonna be on my conscience”, and “why don’t we ask the parents who have kids in that school?”

It was decided that the board would seek input from the Bowdon community who had children at the Bowdon Middle School, as well as looking at some possible revisions for the MOU. An update will be presented to the board at a later date.

Board then went into executive session, and when it was adjourned,board voted to approve the personnel actions as presented by the superintendent. Kerry Miller made a motion to allow the superintendent to make an offer on Carroll County parcel ID C05 0310024 in the amount of $1,620,000 with a 1% earnest payment and to include a 45-day due diligence period. Motion passed unanimously.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Carroll County Board of Education held their regular monthly meeting on February 16, 2023 with all present except Board member Clayton Kierbow. Motion was made to approve consent agenda items as presented in the work session as follows: West Georgia RESA Membership Agreement; FY23 Field Trip Requests; FY23 Fundraising Requests. Approval was unanimous.

Upcoming instructional calendars for 202324 and 2024-25 were approved by board unanimously.

After an executive session was held, a motion was made to approve the personnel action recommendations as presented by the Superintendent. The recommendations were approved by the Board 5-1, with Board Member Cater opposing. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

GARViS

GARViS will host over 12,000,000 voter records, including 7 million active voters, and 833,000 inactive records. Over 100,000,000 voter history records will be stored in the GARViS system. GARViS will replace the system known as ENet.

GARViS is the result of 150,000+ hours of development, testing, and training efforts to produce this statewide voter registration system. The new system will take Georgia’s voter registration system to the current highest standard of security on Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FEDRAMP) servers.

“GARViS is a tremendous step forward in the security and accuracy of Georgia’s voter registration system,” said Secretary Raffensperger.

Gabriel Sterling, Chief Operating Officer, said, “When people ask us, ‘How do we know who voted? How do we know it’s real? How

PUBLICMEETINGS from front page

Workshop #3: Transportation, Infrastructure, Services & Safety

Tuesday, May 23rd 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, Steering Committee Meeting

Thursday, June 15th 6:00 p.m. at Train Depot, Town Hall Meeting: Presentation of Findings

The public may also complete a survey at carrolltonga.com/comprehensiveplanning that will be included with the other responses and input gathered during this process.

While strategic plans are developed for spe-

Gabriel Sterling, Chief Operating Officer, said, “When people ask us, ‘How do we know who voted? How do we know it’s real? How do we know it’s fair?’ Because we have the receipts we keep on this secure system. That’s how we know. . .”

do we know it’s fair?’ Because we have the receipts we keep on this secure system. That’s how we know. Don’t let anybody believe there are dead voters voting or double voting in any significant way, because it’s just not true.”

Georgia was the first state in the country to implement the trifecta of automatic voter registration, at least 17 days of early voting (which has been called the “gold standard”), and noexcuse absentee voting. Georgia continues to set records for voter turnout and election participation.

cific areas of the local government, like parks and recreation, the arts or downtown, the comprehensive plan marries these plans into a single document that will help guide the growth in Carrollton over the next 20 years. The plan guides city leaders, helping ensure their actions follow the direction of the community’s vision.

Community participation is the backbone to a successful comprehensive plan. The planning process creates opportunities to gather input from the community to develop a vision for the future of Carrollton and a guide for achieving this vision. www.carrolltonga.com

Recaps of mayor and council meetings: cities of Bowdon, Mt. Zion, Temple

The following mayor and council meeting information submitted by City of Bowdon City Clerk Susan Pierce. Bowdon.net.

Mayor and Council Meeting and Public Hearing Monday, March 13. Minutes provided by Susan Pierce.

Comments. Jonathan Lancaster spoke concerning his variance request for 311 Tarpley Street. He handed out copies of his plat to mayor and council. City Manager Gary Bullock noted thatthe Zoning Appeals Board had reviewed the request and had recommended approval by council. Mayor asked for a motion on the alcohol application for O’Berry’s Pies & amp; Pints at their new location, 139 City Hall A Motion carried unanimously. Mayor asked for a motion on the variance request from Jonathan Lancaster for 311 Tarpley Street. motion carried unanimously.

Authority recommended appointing Olivia O’Berry to serve on DDA, filling the spot left open by Cindy Moss, term expired December 31, 2022. Motion carried unanimously.

Bullock asked for approval for the new rate for residential sanitary collection service. New rate: $26.50 per cart, per month; a $10.50 increase from the current rate of $16.00 per cart, per month. Cost to the city: $24.00 per cart, per month. Motion by Councilmember Randy Saxon to approve as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

use of the proposed grass cutting service with WRY lawn care, Roopville for a month, then voting on a contract at a later date if satisfied. Motion carried unanimously.

State. Library renovations are underway. The meeting room has been painted and the crepe myrtles have been removed. New landscaping will begin soon.

Journey Fellowship

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2023 Georgia Legislative Session concluded a busy 40 days

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The 2023 Georgia Legislative Session has finally concluded a busy 40 days under the Gold Dome. I am proud of the Senate body for coming together to pass meaningful legislation that will impact Georgians for years to come. There were a multitude of measures brought to the Senate floor, with a few measures of note.

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See you at Rise-N-ShineWednesday, April 19th

sicians to bring their talents to the rural parts of Georgia.

MIKE DUGAN STATE SENATOR(R)

mikedugan@senate.ga.gov

Senate Budget and Evaluation Office.

SUE HORN EVANS EDITOR/ PUBLISHER

The 157th Geor gia General Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives) concluded March 29, 2023 (Day 40). It’s not necessary to agree with all votes cast to be sincerely appreciative to the following elected group for their work toward the difficult task of representing the very diverse “us” that is West Georgia: State Senators Mike Dugan and Matt Brass; State Representatives J Collins, Tyler Paul Smith and David Huddleston. Go to legis.ga.gov/senate to catch up on anything you missed. And any votes you disagreed with, I can assure you these Gentlemen from West Georgia are interested in your thoughts - pro or con - but would be more interested in solutions/ideas you may have about issues.

Or, you can hear what Senator Dugan and Representative Collins have to say in person when they present their “40 Days Under the Gold Dome” at the next Villa Rica Mainstreet’s Rise-N-Shine meeting Wednesday, April 19th, 8:15 to 9:30 a.m. This is a new location for this meeting: The Olive Tree restaurant, 150 Stone Street, Villa Rica. Plenty of seating and parking.

StarNews is one of the sponsors for this informal event. I always look forward to listening and watching Dugan and Collins. They are straight forward, direct, and to-the-point. No fence-riding with these two. StarNews will be there up front with pen and note pad in hand to hear all the behindthe-scenes sanguinary details of how all the slash-and-burn decisions were made this past Legislative Session. Ooorrr, maybe it more of a hebetudinous season in Atlanta this go round? Come find out for yourself. I know you’re busy, but you don’t have to stay until the end. Please show up and show support for hard work in action.

And there was no title given for their talk. I just made up the “40 Days Under the Gold Dome” title. Maybe I should change that to “40 Apolaustic Days in Atlanta”? Or “40 Peccable Days in Atlanta”? Which one will push you off the fence to decide to attend? See you there.

This week, the Georgia General Assembly fulfilled our one constitutional obligation by adopting the Conference Committee report for House Bill 19, passing the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget. This balanced $32.4 billion dollar budget funds 100% of the HOPE scholarship, offers raises to state employees, and further supports the needs of our vital state agencies. After much debate, both chambers worked hard to reconcile over differences as this budget was carefully crafted and I am so grateful for the hard work of the entire Senate Committee on Appropriations and the

The Senate established the creation of a Senate Study Committee on Rural Medical Personnel Recruitment with the passage of Senate Resolution 371, carried by Sen. Bo Hatchett (R –Cornelia). Georgia is in dire need of medical professionals in rural areas, and there must be further steps taken to promote new ways to encourage individuals in this career path to bring their skills to these areas. There is still much progress left to be made in this sector, but I believe this is a step in the right direction to encourage phy-

Under the Gold Dome

Our last few days under the Gold Dome before concluding were busy as we passed numerous bills out of the House chamber. Healthcare, public safety, regulatory reform and education were just a few things that we tackled on Capitol Hill.

Healthcare: We continued our ongoing efforts to support women with high-risk pregnancies through Senate Bill 106. Also known as the “Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Act,” this bill would create a Medicaid program to provide telemedicine clinical services to women with high-risk pregnancies.

We updated current law through the passage of Senate Bill 20, the “Consumer Access to Contracted Healthcare (CATCH) Act.” Includes prohibiting insurers from denying preauthorization of services rendered

J

(R) STATE REPRESENTATIVE District 71 770-295-8143

j.collins@house.ga.gov

by an in-network provider just because the referring provider is outof-network.

Public Safety: Sadly, our state has served as a hub for sex trafficking in recent years. We strengthened laws to fight against this vile form of modern-day slavery through the passage of Senate Bill 42. This bill would revise the penalty for certain businesses that fail to post required

In addition, House Bill 132, carried by Sen. Lee Anderson (RGrovetown), would require the Department of Agriculture to authorize the use of ungraded lumber during construction of any structure not containing habitable space. The space where this lumber type is used must also be primarily used for residential or agricultural purposes. This measure will promote the use of lumber that is often discarded, and aims to reduce waste of these needed materials.

The “Georgia Early Literacy Act” also passed the Senate this week. House Bill 538, carried by Sen. Billy Hickman (R – Statesboro), would require the Department of Early Care and Learning to provide guidelines for evidence-based literacy instruction training. Additionally the act would require the State Board of

See SENATOR DUGAN page 19

COLLINSsignage about the human trafficking hotline. We must all work together in order to “END IT.” We are hopeful that increased penalties will encourage businesses to post signs to assist our law enforcement officers working around the clock on behalf of sex trafficking victims.

Last final week also brought bipartisan support of Senate Bill 218 which would allow state identification cards to be issued to inmates after they have completed a term of incarceration. We are hopeful that this measure will assist those wishing to reenter the workforce with more ease.

To ensure our state government is further protected against foreign cyber-attack threats, we took action through the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 93. This bill will prohibit

Americans should come first in America

At the Dustin Inman Society our “prime directive” is to make Georgia as inhospitable to the organized crime that is called Illegal Immigration as possible. We also take the position that Americans should come first in America.As Georgia’s only full-time pro-enforcement voice on immigration, we strive for accuracy. Having worked with state legislators and written about this topic in Georgia for most of the last two decades, this writer has always promised to correct any inaccuracy. So…

D.A. KING

PRESIDENT

The Dustin Inman Society 404-316-6712

legal authority to act on behalf of a student.” It is the “parent” that makes the application for the state benefit.

We at StarNews are proud to give space here today to Elise Recupido, fourth grader at Central Elementary, who was one of the artists featured at the recent Carroll County School System’s District Art Competition and reception held March 30, 2023 at the Performing Arts Center (off the bypass Carrollton). Elise is the daughter of Josh and Kimberly Recupido, Carrollton. When asked how she felt about being included in the show, budding artist Elise remarked that she was very excited about her “first competition”!

Correction: Part of the conclusion I came to and wrote about here last month regarding the proposed new, “school choice” state grant known as the “Promise Scholarship” in Senate Bill 233 was inaccurate. I wrote that alien students illegally paroled for admission into the United States by the Biden administration would be eligible for the proposed new benefit. That conclusion was wrong. In fact, student eligibility for the benefit requires that the student be a United States citizen or a “permanent resident alien” (green card holder).

That restriction does not include recipients of Biden’s illegal parole scam as I wrote. I deeply regret the, now, obvious error. (I have proven that no matter how many times one checks his work, if the same glaring error is repeated in the analysis process, the conclusion will be flawed.)

The above correction does not apply to what was written about the fact that the troubled and now gutted school choice legislation (SB 233 can be considered next session) contains no language the excludes illegal alien “parents” from participating in the application and administration process of the proposed “Promise Scholarship.” “Parents” are defined as “a biological parent, legal guardian, custodian, or other person with

Most Georgians do not want illegal aliens to be allowed to apply for any benefit not already mandated by the federal government; direct the destination of state funds; be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses; or serve on a committee that determines what expenses are eligible to be considered as a “qualified education expense” under state law. As is, SB 233 will allow parents to do the above. You can see a line-by-line illustration of that fact on ImmigrationPolitics GA.com. Maybe ask your state legislators to take a look, too.

After seeing consideration in the senate’s Higher Education and Youth and Rules committees, SB 233 passed the senate with every Republican senator voting “yes.” It was defeated in the House, but then saw a vote for reconsideration next year.

My own position is that “school choice good” - but including illegal

See D.A. KING page 19

“Not just what happened, but what matters”

SUSAN M. HORN EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Climate change models and predictions: correlation does not prove causation

TRAVIS PITTMAN GEORGIATECH Beta Theta Pi

Long term predictive climate models have not worked in the past or the present and will not work in the future. ---The climate is the most complex thing on the planet other than the human brain. ---Science has shown that we are far from unprecedented territory since the Earth has endured ten times as much carbon dioxide and 25 degrees average warmer temps in the past” - Will Harper, Emeritus Professor of Physics at Princeton and former Director of Office of Energy Research.

So, what are the problems with an accurate

climate model? The residents in SW Florida would certainly like to know better than a two day window which coast will be hit with a hurricane and more than a two hour notice for an accurate landfall. Hurricanes are a special case, but massive systems affecting sea water temperature and atmospheric gas levels like sun energy, earth’s orbital properties, clouds, oceans, El Nino, and industrial inputs are enormously variable. Earth being basically a water planet (70%) has two easily turbulent fluids, water and air, which are affected by convection, heat, and salt as well as those factors mentioned above.

In 1989, the UN predicted a sea level rise that would wipe entire nations off the earth if not reversed by year 2000. In the 1970s, a few predictors had us entering an Ice Age. The elite climate change/global warming promoters are buying ocean front property with an impending climate catastrophe in the next few years. Even with powerful computers the variable proper-

The Federal Reserve is privately owned C. ED WILSON Thoughts

While Shaving cedwilson587@yahoo.com

This is a follow up to the March “SUCKERED! article. Those commonly SUCKERED won’t read or act upon this information as they have likely never been exposed to the economics of banking or any other financial matters. Most, if they have savings, probably don’t know how to balance a bank register to a bank statement (and I am not very good at balancing the register to the bank statement either) and they will believe what they are told. Spend now, pay later, and later always comes. If it depreciates and you cannot pay cash, do without.

Become informed on the Silicon Bank of Santa Clara, CA. It was “taken over by the

FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURNCE CORP

(FDIC) Friday 3/10/2023 and suddenly all deposits over $250.000, the then current FDIC guarantee, will not be paid. Deposits of over 100 companies exceeded the FDIC guarantee. Panic in government! The FDIC creates a new “entity”, the Deposit Insurance National Bank of Santa Clara to provide “receivership certificates” in lieu of cash. That scheme fell apart within hours as you cannot make payroll or pay bills without cash. So, the FDIC agreed to cover ALL deposits.

Unbelievable, if you commit for one, you commit for all. Lawyers will have a field day on the Statue of Limitations of those previously harmed and those alleging harm. Where will the FDIC get the money? President Biden, in my view, an embarrassment to the Democrats, declares that “taxpayers will not pay a dime”. The FDIC has to access fees on healthy banks to pay for the losses of banks that default. Healthy banks have less disposable income to pay depositors. Are depositors taxpayers?

Background: On Friday March 10, 1933, the

Of meanders, oxbows, and circles

SYBIL ROSEN THOMAS

River Rambles syllabil@aol.com

Three years ago this month River Rambles was launched. The title was meant to be a pun. Deliberate rambling along the Chattahoochee River would give me inspiratio,n and then, in the writing, I could ramble a bit, too. (Some might say too much but that’s the nature of words: They can be direct, but they often meander.) “May your rambles be sweet and your reveries spacious,” the poet Emily Dickinson wrote.

Years ago, I lived at Banning Mill outside Whitesburg with a black cat named Meander because she tended to wander. Recently, I learned that rivers can meander, too. Meander in this context means to curve or bend; it’s a technical term, a sparkling instance where science and poetry mesh. Meander derives from the Greek maíandros, i.e. winding, after the Merendes River, noted for its snaking course. Language is born and grows in nature too.

ties of the now used components can give a wide range of results depending on the world view of the modeler.

Today’s fad is that fossil fuels are the largest contributor to global climate change in a bad way, accounting for over 75% of greenhouse emissions and nearly 90% of all carbon dioxide(CO2) emissions. From 1950 to 2020, CO2 rose from .03% to .037 % in the atmosphere with a 2 degree temperature change. Recent satellite pictures show a significant increase in greenery over the planet probably caused by the higher CO2 levels, but science tells us that fossil fuel burning is consuming oxygen and reducing it through deforestation. My lawyer would say correlation does not prove causation.

Green house gases (GHG) you would think would be tied to GDP, but not by global planners. China produces more GHG than the total of the next 14 highest countries excluding the U.S., who produces half of the China number.

FDIC ( Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.) was created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) when he signed the Banking Act of 1933, commonly called the “Glass-Steagall Act”. Caldwell and Company, one of the largest banks in the south collapsed in November 1930 and customers began to panic and withdraw deposits from other banks and put much of their wealth in gold. As banks “ran out of cash” they faced bankruptcy.

England left the “gold standard” in 1931 and the value of the pound sterling has dropped 99%, a loss of about 4.98% annual compound interest. Yep, for every $100.00 English families had owned in 1931 is now worth $1.00 to their heirs.

When you can just print money backed by nothing, you can control the suckers that don’t know that they are being suckered. “I am making lots more than Dad used to, but my income buys less”. Our inflation rate is about 6% now, excluding food and energy. Using the “rule of 72”, the value of your money depreciates by half every 12 years assuming

Yet, the Paris Agreement has the U.S. making the largest cuts in emissions.

There is no doubt that fossil fuels have paved the way for modernization and made America very successful by using a low cost fuel, leading the way in the industrial changes over the last century. Quality of life is at an all time high. Worldwide every year more people die from cold than heat. The international data base shows that over the last 100 years climate deaths have decreased by 98% by us being able to somewhat climate proof our environment against heat, massive flooding, and storms. We saw evidence that sturdy structures built to hurricane codes kept Ian from destroying many buildings (Fort Myers Beach not so good with the 1970 structures).

Now governments are taking a shot at agriculture, even though the industry contributes less than 4% of CO2 emissions worldwide. We saw violent riots in Sri Lanka when chemical

you don’t eat or drive. Probable end result, we all will pay a much higher interest rate on all debt and if we cannot pay, we lose everything and maybe civil unrest follows. The younger you are, the worst you will get hurt.

Are you aware of the Great Government Gold Heist of 1933? By Executive Order 6102, 5/1/1933 FDR required all private citizens and banks to deliver all gold coin, gold bullion and gold certificates to his government for $20.67 per ounce. Two months later the US essentially went off the gold standard when the Congress erased the right of creditors to demand payment in gold. In 1934 the government set the price of gold at $35.00 per ounce effectively stealing 69% from the people they paid $20.67 per ounce. How many of you will turn in your guns, ammo, gold and silver coins if the government tells you to or will some just give their assets to family and friends who may bury the tangible assets in the backyard? There is a lot of old gold coins in circulation now that apparently were not turned in some 90 years

But, why do rivers bend? Curiously, meander also means to ramble aimlessly, which brings us full circle. The Chattahoochee meanders due to a bit of disturbance and a whole lot of time. Meanders are a feature of her old age, just as these Rambles are a feature of mine. Full circle again.

Rivers that flow gently over downsloping ground begin to curve back and forth. The creek in the floodplain also follows a snaking course as it carves its way to the river. Even the water that comes down the driveway after a plentiful rain takes an S-shaped serpentine route. Without a discrete channel, the stream of rainwater gravitates to the low ground, sliding around gravel, dirt, and the ruts left by yesterday’s rain and everyday’s wheels.

More permanent than a gullywasher after a storm, the Chattahoochee has far greater processes at work on her relentless path. Banks erode on one side of her channel, allowing her to cull out what was once floodplain; while on her other side, depositions of silt and sand create new beaches, extending the floodplain on that bank into the river’s receding edge.

And then there are obstructions on the bottom - boulders, rock slabs, tree snags, and the occasional Chevy - that result in differing areas of slow and fast moving water. Add a drop in elevation to a densely rocky floor and you will

get rapids. One translation of the Creek word Chattahoochee is treacherous waters, which may have to do with her stony riverbed, the many fallen trees against her steep banks (a trap for any swimmer), and her God-given propensity for heavy flooding.

When she rises, legions of huge tree trunks hurl down the swollen river in a day. Ten-feetwide logjams stretching from shore to shore carry masses of truck parts, mailboxes, and more plastic and rubber balls than you can dribble. Where does all this trash end up? As the river calms, at least some of the flotsam must make its way down to the muck.

It ain’t easy being a river when all you want to do is to flow in the shortest, most direct path to the sea. And meanders tend to grow more curved over time. If one meanders too far or bends too much, it can create what’s called an oxbow. (“Oxbow! Now there’s a word to lift your hat too!” Dickinson might exclaim)

Introduced into Middle English sometime between 1325 and 1375 AD, the word defined the U-shaped piece of wood placed under and around the neck of oxen with the upper ends fitting into the bar of the yoke. Thus oxbow also came to describe the looping U-shaped bend in a river or the peninsula of land embraced by it. Oxbows are believed to help prevent flooding and keep the waters clean.

A map of the Chattahoochee reveals many oxbows along its meandering 430-mile path. A series of oxbows forms an S-shaped configuration much like the crimped undulations of a snake emerging in April from its winter sleep. When the river decides to take a shorter, straighter path, thus bypassing the old route altogether, these oxbows become separated from the general flow of water and form a distinct lake. An oxbow lake is a new waterbody shaped like a bow and sitting in the river’s former channel.

This aquatic behavior transcends our planet. Astronomers have noted the presence of oxbow lakes on Mars. Having gone now on 37 of these Rambles, I’m convinced that waterand thereby the river - has an elemental intelligence. At the very least, in the sense that, unlike us humans, she is clear about where she wants to go. And if she meanders off course, she corrects herself. This gives me hope, if not for us, than at least for the river.

Mindful of ramble’s aimless wander, I confess I didn’t know where this piece was headed when I started it, or when my meanderings should stop. So, I think I’ll stop here and go down with my dog to the river - to ramble to “the tune without the words,” as Emily Dickinson describes hope, bringing myself (and you too, hopefully) full circle once again.

See ED WILSON page 19

Education to establish a uniform standard for measuring literacy. HB 538 would also require the Department of Education to develop training for K-3 teachers on the sciences of reading, structured literacy and foundational literacy. Lastly, this measure would require that the Department of Education release annual

the use of certain foreign-owned social media platforms on state-owned devices. In December of 2022, Governor Kemp issued an order to ban TIK TOK from state owned devices and this bill simply makes that order official law.

Education: More students will have greater access to our HOPE grant program though the passage of Senate Bill 86. This bill will expand

reports of reading levels for students in grades K-3 and requires intervention plans for students unable to read at the official screening level.

I appreciate the Senate body for promoting the literacy of young children across the state with the passage of this bill and Senate Bill 211, which creates the Georgia Council on

access to the HOPE grant program to high school students participating in our dual enrollment programs.

Georgia House of Representatives also passed numerous other bills, including these:

- Senate Bill 1, to permanently prohibit state and local governments from requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of providing services, accessing a facility, issuing

Literacy. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this measure will have on our education sector upon its implementation.

As the Georgia State Legislature ends this chapter under the Gold Dome, I am returning to the 30th Senate District with pride for each effort given to ensure Georgia stays the best state to live, work, and raise a family. While the

licenses or permits, performing duties

- Senate Bill 66, which would increase the number of superior court judges in the Atlantic Judicial Circuit to five judges; this fifth position would be appointed on January 1, 2024

- Senate Bill 95, which relates to tire disposal restrictions and fees. SB95 would also require tire distributors to collect $1.00 per tire sold instead of retail dealers.

2023 Georgia Legislative Session may be finished, rest assured that I will continue to work hard for all Georgians as we look to next year’s session. If you have any questions, comments or concerns about matters relating to the Georgia Senate, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. I hope to see you around the 30th Senate District soon.

- House Bill 462, Raise the Age Act. As Georgia is just one of 3 states that allows 17year-olds to be tried as adults, this bill would raise that age requirement to 18. As studies have proven that not all 17-year-olds have the same decision-making skills as adults, we are hopeful this act will reduce recidivism among nonviolent offenders. Proposed age change wouldn’t apply to violent felonies.

fertilizer (uses petroleum coke) was banned in favor of natural methods. Poor yields plus 27% unemployment eventually collapsed their economy. The price of synthetic fertilizers in the U.S. rose 60% last year due to many factors including the government policies that control the supply of components. G20 and WEF (World Economic Forum) keep pushing governments to eliminate fossil fuels that are essential to the food supply process. The Netherlands shut down 3000 farms to meet climate goals and there is a bitter dispute between leaders and growers as the government tries to cut its nitrogen emissions in half by 2030.

There is solid scientific evidence that CO2

EDWILSON from page 18

from page 18 ago. How much gold do you think the government really has in Fort Knox? Why do those governments that own the most gold store it in diversified locations? What is the dollar price of gold now?

The banking act of 1933 created the FDIC. President Nixon severed the convertibility of dollars into gold. Now, thanks to one Democrat and one Republican, the US can print all the fiat paper money it wants backed by nothing of tangible value.

Other than ourselves, who should we blame?

Some think that the governing class is the “bogyman”. An astute niece told me that she blames the top one percent holders of wealth, the billionaires - who essentially buy the governing class - are really those to be feared. Her point is well taken.

We have created high wealth individuals beyond comprehension. Billionaires are commonplace. These folks buy the political class. Follow the money. Hunter Biden sells paintings for a half million. Who are the buyers? Nobody knows. Hunter gets money, allegedly shared with the “big guy”, the buyer buys political access and likely takes a tax loss on the overvalued painting. Joe Biden, as VP, tells the

D.A. KING from page 17

aliens in any new state grant is a bad idea.

We are proud that the bill’s sponsors asked us to help with the eligibility language for the covered students and parents. We are grateful that they required that eligible students be U.S. citizens or green card holders. In this state of Georgia - that has more illegal aliens than Arizona - that status should apply to “parents”, too. The Dustin Inman society began aggressively pushing that restriction in January 2022 when we first became aware of the absence of such limitation in the “put the parents in charge…” legislation.

There was no shortage of bad bills related to immigration in the 2023 session. Here are just two of them that are still quite alive and that should be of great interest to Carroll County voters: Americans last in Georgia’s public col-

will increase the temperature of a closed system, but the environment is far from a closed/controllable system. It is doubtful that we know all the factors involved or the actual effect of the ones we do know. The plan to limit/eliminate emissions is politically popular, but if you are going to change the method of energy production by 80%, you had better have an alternative ready to go. The new Inflation Reduction Act is really an environmental fossil fuel reduction act. It incentivizes closing coal plants without an alternate source available along with a lot of other bad ideas.

Today, worldwide, 80% of energy comes from coal, natural gas and oil; 3.4% from solar and wind (sometimes 0%); nuclear fission and hydro make up the rest. Nuclear fusion is in its

leader of a foreign nation to “fire a prosecutor that might embarrass his son or his country gets no US foreign aid.” Within hours, the prosecutor is fired.

Here in Carroll County, Georgia, we created an excess reserve by overtaxing our property owners, but rather than return the excess collected to the taxpayers, our governing body keeps your money, and later purchases a lot of tailored green jackets for some county employees. Does your employer provide you tailored work jackets?

Now for those who want to really get into the weeds as to which bogyman controls your economic well-being google “The Federal Reserve (FED) is PRIVATELY OWNED”. If lucky, you will get a 14 page article with some 26 references that allege that the FED began with some 300 private people and banks that make up an international banking cartel of wealth beyond comprehension and that Congress illegally gave the FED the right to print money, through our Treasury, at no interest to the FED. In other words, the FED creates the money we use from nothing and loans that money back to us through banks they control and charges interest on our currency. Five of the 26 references allege that Congressmen and Presidents say this

leges?: You need to know this: current state law says that a new resident in Georgia must live here for a year before qualifying for the much lower instate tuition rates in our public colleges. SB 264 (and its companion bill in the House, HB 640) would allow foreign nationals who are refugees, “Special Visa Immigrants” and recipients of “Humanitarian Parole” to migrate to Georgia and immediately access instate tuition rates. The legislation does not remove the one year waiting period for Americans. Americans migrating to our state would still be required to be residents for a year before they are allowed to pay instate tuition in our public colleges. The same bill died last year as HB 932.

For academic year 2020-2021, the average tuition and fees for colleges in Georgia was $4,739.00 for in-state and $17,008.00 for out-

infancy. The only viable answer is to build more nuclear fission power plants. Reuters says that window has already closed since it takes almost 10 years to build a nuclear fission plant and a climate catastrophe is around the corner.

The U.S. was well on its way to solve the energy problem with nuclear when the Three Mile Island plant accident (not really) occurred in1979 and 67 construction projects were cancelled. When I think of this incident it reminds me of one of my favorite bumper stickers: MORE PEOPLE DIED IN TED KENNEDY’S BACK SEAT THAN AT THREE MILE ISLAND.

Since 2016, there has only been one plant (Vogtle) built that is scheduled online this summer which will bring our total to 93

is fraud.

So, who actually owns the 12 FED central banks? Ten major privately owned banks total, with six foreign, are named in reference 12 and reference 14, ultimately own the FED. Twentyone individuals and smaller banks, partly foreign controlled, and connected to London Banking Houses have significant control over the New York FED District which influence the other 11 FED Districts. These wealthy private entities ultimately control the FED.

So how did this happen? A group of bankers funded and staffed Woodrow Wilson’s 1913 campaign for the presidency (follow the money) and he committed to signing the Federal Reserve Act. Senator Nelson Aldrich, a maternal grandfather to the Rockefellers, pushed the Act through Congress just before Christmas when many were on vacation. Wilson, an original “progressive” signed the Federal Reserve into law December 23, 1913.

In the 1930s, the FED started buying up the media and now owns or influences much of it and the media influences the electorate. The Fed generally select the national politicians you elect. Suckered?

The FED’s books are not open to the public. Today, if the government runs a deficit, the

of-state. Americans who relocate here would pay the higher amount in their first year of residence. The foreigners in the categories listed above would pay the lower amount. That is a difference of $12,260.90 that sponsors of the bill want Americans to pay in their first year of residence over what the foreigners would be charged.

Our nomination for dumbest bill of 2023: SB 112 (Sen Jason Anavitarte, R, Dallas) “Workforce EXCELeration” creates a new “Adult Education” taxpayer-funded benefit being called the “High School Diplomas for Adult Learners” pilot program that would send high school dropout applicants aged twenty-one and over to the Technical College System of Georgia for classes that result in a high school diploma. So far, so good. As are most bills ordered up by the Georgia Chamber of

operating plants. To go green with the government’s goal, we would need about 300 more plants in the next 25 years, and there is little public interest.

The real goal of global government is to control energy. When you do that, you will automatically control transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture. With those four being manipulated by the government it is a short step to eliminate private property. Just take public transportation to work and live in government housing in your Brave New World. Once again, never let a (perceived) crisis go to waste. The next one brewing is digital currency.

(Adapted from PragerU five minute videos on climate change)

FED prints dollars through the Treasury, buys the debt with the fiat dollars and those dollars are then circulated into the economy. Low interest, no problem, free money. High interest and we cannot tax enough to pay the interest to the privately owned FED. Are you aware of the current inverted yield curve? Short interest earns more than long interest. When rates go up, the value of the existing underlying assets, held by individuals and institutions goes down. Bank balance sheets become overstated and some go bankrupt because they have lost the depositors’ money.

Truly, we are being suckered by the pros. If you are old, reasonably affluent, and well diversified, you will probably be okay. If you are in your middle years and fighting debt, you probably cannot earn enough to pay inflated prices and you will pay most of the income tax bill. If you are just getting started, you will suffer the most, so pay attention to who you vote for. The rich get richer, the middle class pay the bills, and the poorer young have children. The middle class and the poor are the real sucker bait!

If you do not have physical possession of your assets, you really have no control of them.

Comments to: cedwilson587@yahoo.com

Commerce, it is aimed at increasing the number of workers in the state. But the bill as introduced did not exclude illegal aliens. It also actually contained language that pertained to waiving federal laws that get in the way of the goals of the proposed new state program.

States don’t/can’t “waive” federal laws. It is a violation of federal law to knowingly hire illegal aliens. It is a violation of longstanding state law to allow illegal aliens access to Adult Education. But the bill passed the GOP-controlled Senate with only one GOP senator (Sen. Colton Moore) voting “NO.” SB 112 was overhauled and corrected in the House Higher Education committee and is still alive for next year.

Imagine a campaign speech in which the candidate told you he would sponsor and vote for the above bills. Would you vote for him?

TRAVIS PITTMAN

SENATOR DUGAN from page 17

STATE REP COLLINS from page 17

Get started with a spring decluttering by getting your docs in a row

(BPT) - Along with the change in seasons comes the desire to start anew, with a fresh, clean slate. But before you deep clean, you need to declutter. While decluttering can seem daunting, a few smart organizing strategies can help you feel a lot less stressed as you tackle your tasks. Set aside a weekend for each area, so you’ll have plenty of time for breaks. Where should you start? It doesn’t really matter - the key is to get started.

1. Get your docs in a row: While many documents can be stored and accessed digitally, having paper copies of important documents can save you hassle in the future while providing peace of mind. How do you know what’s important? Here are some examples:

* Tax records and receipts (keep seven years)

* Pay stubs and bank statements (keep one year)

* Home purchase, sale or improvement documents (keep at least six years after selling)

* Medical records and bills (keep at least a year after payment in case of disputes)

* Warranties and receipts (keep as long as you own the item)

* Birth and death certificates

* Social Security cards

* ID cards, passports and green cards

* Marriage and business licenses

* Insurance policies (keep even if the insurer provides access to a digital copy)

* Wills, living wills and powers of attorney

* Loan documents

Keep them in a small fireproof safe for an extra layer of protection. When you need to print documents, the Mopria Print Service app makes the printing process easier, as it enhances the print functionality on any Android phone or tablet.

2. Clean the frig: When was the last time you cleaned out your cabinets or refrigerator? Go through your kitchen to find items that are past their expiration date. Devise an organization system for your spices that makes sense for you - do you prefer to alphabetize, or would you rather group spices by categories like savory and sweet, or type of cuisine? What matters is that your system helps you find what you’re looking for. List any spices or herbs that need replacing after your purge.

Need to organize handwritten family recipes you’ve saved over the years? Use your

Home renovation/remodeling decisions

(BPT) - In previous years, home remodeling projects were often done with the goal of increasing resale value. Homeowners today are staying in their properties longer and are making these projects a priority of functionality as well as a reflection of personal style. Before homeowners begin thinking about the changes they’d like to make, they need to think about how a renovation may affect their home insurance policy. Their policy may need to be remodeled too.

“A common oversight when redesigning a home is the impact a new kitchen or bathroom remodel might have on their homeowners insurance,” said Bonnie Lee, Mercury Insurance Vice President of Property Claims. “If a renovation project leaves a gap in your existing coverage and is later damaged or destroyed, your insurance policy might not protect the upgrades you’ve made. You need to contact your insurance agent to discuss any renovations you’re considering.” A permitted home renovation project may qualify you for a homeowners insurance discount.

Two of the most highly used areas of the home are the kitchen and bath, places many people start considering when it comes to renovations. According to BluPeak Credit Union, the average loan for a kitchen remodel is $50,000 while the average loan for a bathroom remodel can cost up to $25,000. Most loans to fund the cost of remodeling the kitchen and bathroom area, including flooring, can total up to $100,000. Home improvement experts are seeing the following as an integration of personal style with form and functionality to these busy areas.

Opening up space - Open concepts throughout the home are still popular when it comes to remodeling the kitchen and bathroom. “I consider the concept of an open kitchen as not only one of functionality, but also as a reflection of the homeowner’s lifestyle,” said interior designer Joy Cho. “When cooking you don’t want to feel isolated, you want to be a part of the interactions happening in your home..”

According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), homeowners are also looking to open up areas in bathrooms by incorporating more lighting in mirrors, vanities and showers, as well as accent lighting for ambiance. Larger showers or bathing areas

phone to scan them using the Mopria Scan app, then print them later from your device. Then you can create your own recipe binder to store neatly on a kitchen shelf.

3. Clear out bathrooms: To make it easier to do a deep cleaning of your bathrooms, first clear out any items cluttering up your shelves, vanity or closets. Safely dispose of expired medicines and toss old makeup and any other products you don’t use. Ratty towels? Cut up to use as rags.

4. Refresh your sanctuary: If sorting through all your clothes seems overwhelming, try this - for three weeks, choose only items from one side of your drawer or closet, in order. If you find yourself always skipping certain items, what does that reveal? Maybe they don’t fit well, or aren’t comfortable. Don’t wear it? Donate it (if it’s still in good

condition) or throw it out. Your closet and drawers will suddenly have a lot more breathing room. Launder all your bedding, including the mattress pad and comforter or duvet.

5. Organize your time: If you find it difficult to keep track of your own appointments and obligations as well as those of your family members, try using a wall calendar for everyone in the household, posted in a prominent place. You could print a calendar from your mobile device, then post it on the fridge or other accessible spot. Supply different colored markers for each family member to use, so your calendar will be color-coded, making it even easier to understand at a glance.

Using these tips, you’ll find that your home is much more organized, and you’ll feel refreshed and confident as you head into the spring and summer seasons.

Lake Carroll Lawn Equipment

with integrated seating are trending with homeowners. These spa-like upgrades can meet future needs as more people consider aging in their home.

Today, more homeowners are thinking about the impact their remodel or renovation can have to both the outer environment and the one within their home. Sourcing them locally may reduce the carbon footprint created by transport.

Lake Carroll Lawn

Brian Sammon Owner

Common spring lawn care mistakes

(BPT) - Homeowners love a lush green lawn, with 36% of American homeowners revealing that their lawns are a top investment in both time and money, according to TruGreen’s new survey. However, it can be easy to make common lawn care mistakes that can jeopardize both the look and health of your lawn. The professionals at TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care provider, are helping make sure you’re not falling into the most common lawn care mistakes among homeowners, including:

Mistake 1: Overwatering your lawn: While it’s tempting to shower your lawn with water (and love), be mindful that doing so is not only wasteful and can increase your water bill, but can also drown out your emerging lawn - especially during rainy months.

Pro Tip: Follow the general rule to water 12 times a week for a total of 1 inch of water.

Mistake 2: Improper fertilization: Fertilizer provides your lawn with critical nutrients. However, if not applied correctly it can damage your lawn.

Every lawn is unique, requiring some research to determine the best fertilizer, technique, frequency and quantity of product.

Pro Tip: Connect with a lawn care professional to plan a proper fertilization regimen for your lawn’s unique needs based on various factors, including your region’s climate and grass type.

Mistake 3: Bagging your lawn clippings: Think of leaves and trimming as vitamins for your lawn, as they are filled with beneficial nutrients for the soil. Rather than reaching for the trash bag to remove these clippings from your lawn, leave them be. They help

your lawn grow stronger and healthier.

Pro Tip: Remove the bag from your mower to disperse the lawn clippings and mow them back into your lawn.

Mistake 4: Mowing your lawn too short: When the mower blades are set too low, they can damage the grass plant. Unfortunately, damaged grass is more prone to weeds,

drought stress and disease.

Pro Tip: For most grass types, maintain a minimum length of 3 inches to encourage grass to flourish.

As a rule of thumb, don’t cut more than 1/3 inch of a grass blade in a single mow.

Mistake 5: Overlooking weed prevention: Timing is everything in lawn care. While it

can be tempting to plant spring seeds to get your lawn back up to your standards, the best time for seeding is actually in the fall.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait to protect your lawn from unsightly weeds. Work with a lawn pro to apply a pre-emergent weed control to stop weeds from germinating throughout your lawn.

Home fire safety is more than having working smoke alarms

(BPT) - You have smoke alarms in your home, you check them regularly and you practice your emergency escape plan with your family - but are you overlooking an essential component of home fire safety as you check your spring to-do list?

Home fires can occur anywhere, but according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries. Having fire extinguishers in the kitchen is an important first line of defense. Knowing where else to place them and how to use them can make the difference between minor damage and a potential tragedy.

Learn your ABCs: Fire extinguishers have specific ratings that indicate what kind of fire(s) they are designed to extinguish. Extinguishers with a Class A rating can put out fires caused by wood, paper, fabric and other common materials, while Class B rated extinguishers are intended for fires fueled by flammable liquids like cooking oils or gasoline. Class C rated extinguishers are meant for fires caused by electrical equipment, such as frayed cords. For trusted reliable protection, it’s recommended to choose a multi-purpose, or ABC rated, extinguisher, such as First Alert Rechargeable Home Fire Extinguisher, which is ideal for

common household fires and can easily be placed in the kitchen and around the home. Equip your home: Whether you are preparing gourmet meals or simple dishes, it is crucial to have a fire extinguishing device in the kitchen. Experts recommend placing fire extinguishers in readily accessible locations in the kitchen and garage, and on every level of the home. An easy spring DIY project is to place extinguishers where each adult member of the household can easily reach them, like under a kitchen sink or mounted to a wall, and ensure members of the household know these locations. Most home fires and fire casualties result from accidents involving cooking, heating, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, and smoking, according to the NFPA.

Know how to use it: Once your home is equipped, it’s important to know how to use a fire extinguisher so you can act quickly should a fire start.

Every First Alert fire extinguisher includes instructions on proper usage - but when you need to act quickly, a simple way to remember is with the acronym PASS:

* Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

* Aim low. Point the nozzle of the

extinguisher at the base of the fire.

* Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

* Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Assess the fire: In the event of a fire, it’s important to assess the situation before grabbing your fire extinguishing device. Fire extinguishers should only be used when a fire is contained. If the fire is small enough for you to manage, use the PASS technique to put the fire out. However, if smoke fills the room or the fire is quickly spreading, exit your home immediately and call 911.

Inspect extinguishers regularly: When doing routine home checks this spring, make a point to also check that your fire extinguishers are in good condition. Be sure they are not blocked by anything that could impact your access, and ensure the devices are not damaged, dented or rusted. Additionally, check your extinguisher’s pressure gauge. If the pointer is in the green zone, your extinguisher is properly pressurized and ready for use. If the pointer is in the red zone, your fire extinguisher should be serviced or replaced. Remember, a fire extinguisher that has been discharged should never be stored without proper recharging by a certified professional.

To learn more about fire safety, visit FirstAlert.com.

Unexpected ways lawns benefit communities

(BPT) - Lawns are seemingly everywhere and while you may take them for granted, they’re actually hard-working members of an ecosystem benefitting urban and suburban spaces in multiple ways.

If lawns were eliminated, climate change challenges would significantly increase, including higher air temperatures, more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and less oxygen.

Lawns are surprisingly good at capturing rain; without them, rainfall would run off instead of infiltrating the ground, increasing flooding. Lawns also capture a wide variety of environmental pollutants, so without them there would be more air pollution.

“It’s interesting how little most people know about the environmental benefits of natural grass lawns and green spaces,” said Britt Wood, CEO, National Association of Landscape Professionals. “People have long known about the benefits of trees - but less about the benefits their lawns deliver.”

Here are facts from The Lawn Institute you might not know about how grass lawns contribute to the well-being of communities.

1. Breathe easier: One 5,000-square-foot grass lawn can produce enough oxygen daily to support 14 to 34 people.

2. Reduce carbon dioxide: Tackling climate change involves finding places to store carbon from the atmosphere. Carbon modeling of a suburban home on a half-acre lot, with landscape beds, shrubs, trees and a grass lawn, indicates the lawn is responsible for 81-90% of the carbon captured. In a recent study of a typical metropolitan area, low- and mediumdensity residential lots accounted for over 50% of carbon captured in urban green spaces.

3. Keep cool: You’ve probably done it -

walking barefoot on an asphalt street in the summer can be painfully hot. How did you find relief? You headed for the nearest lawn. Lawns can be up to 60 degrees cooler than surrounding pavement. Plants, including natural turfgrass, act like air conditioners due to a naturally occurring cooling process known as evapotranspiration.

4. Lessen flooding: Lawns naturally provide excellent water filtration, sediment reduction, runoff control, flood control and pollutant reduction. Natural grass has also been shown to reduce runoff and soil erosion from 6-18 times greater than bare soil.

5. Increase home values: Aesthetics matter. A well-maintained lawn increases home values an estimated 10-15%, and a consumer survey by the NALP found 79% of Americans believe a lawn is an important feature when renting or buying a home.

From battery-powered mowers and irrigation with smart sensors that detect rainfall to soil sensors and more, today’s lawn care practices are evolving to be more sustainable in caring for backyard and neighborhood green spaces, so they’ll provide even greater environmental benefits.

Common myths about lawns

Still on the fence about natural grass? Here are facts that set the record straight about lawns.

Myth: Lawns are a monoculture.

Fact: Not true. The average lawn contains a variety of species of grasses, plants and weeds.

Myth: Lawns don’t support biodiversity.

Fact: The soil underneath lawns teems with life: as many as 52 different arthropod families, 28 genera of nematodes plus a complex network of micro-organisms.

Myth: Lawns use too much water.

Fact: Most suburban homes don’t use

Five places in your home you are forgetting to clean

(BPT) - Before you dive into your to-do list, you need to get your cleaning tools in order. Products like Clorox Disinfecting Wipes can wipe out dirt, grime and allergens while also tackling illness-causing germs and viruses. Once you have your tools in order, you can start tackling these forgotten spots that you may be missing.

Tops of ceiling fans, shower heads and doors: Out of sight, out of mind. Work from the tallest to lowest surfaces. With an extendable duster, wipe down the tops of light fixtures, doors, cabinets and picture frames, ceiling fan blades and even the top of your shower head in the bathroom. Vacuum once you’re done to pick up any of the dust that may have ended up on the floor.

Baseboards: Wiping down your baseboards with Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, which are safe to use on a variety of hard, non-porous surfaces around your home, as part of your regular cleaning routine is an easy way to pick up the dust and dirt that’s gathered, especially for painted white baseboards that can show dirt easily.

Inside your fridge, cabinets and pantry: Most people are guilty of holding onto produce past its prime or forgetting about expired flour lurking in the back of the pantry. While it’s hard to ignore grease splatters on your stove or pasta sauce spills across your counter, cleaning the inside of your fridge, cabinets and pantry may not be a part of your everyday routine, but doing so every three or four months can remove lingering grease, grime and crumbs and cut down on potential odors.

As part of your next refrigerator refresh, start by tossing all expired products or

irrigation (only 37% of new homes in 2020 were built with irrigation systems, according to the Irrigation Association). Many lawns in non-arid areas get much or all needed moisture from rainwater. In addition, turfgrass researchers have been developing new varieties requiring little to no additional water.

Myth: Lawns are a waste of time and resources.

Fact: According to a survey by the NALP, 79% of Americans say having a lawn is important to them. Working and playing in yards reduces stress and encourages physical activity, and doctors agree that fresh air, sunshine and exercise are beneficial for physical and mental health.

Myth: Lawn pesticides are unsafe.

Fact: Pesticides are among the most rigidly regulated commodities in the U.S., undergoing a rigorous approval process by the EPA that often takes over a decade. According to the Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment, 77% of Americans are not opposed to residential pesticide use, because they want to protect their families from invasive species and diseases caused by insects.

The U.S. is a vast country with many different climates. In areas with adequate rainfall, lawns comprise a valuable part of the environment. If towns and cities have fewer green spaces, residents will struggle with rainwater runoff issues and heat island effects, highlighting the need for appropriate green space management nationwide.

produce. You can use disinfecting wipes to pick up any crumbs, wipe away sticky or dried-on spills and kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria while you’re at it. After you’re done, rinse or wipe down any food contact surfaces, like your produce shelves, with warm water and allow to air dry.

Next, remove everything from your pantry and cabinets, working in sections if needed. Toss out any expired items along the way, and once empty, vacuum up any lingering crumbs. Following that, you can wipe surfaces down with a disinfecting wipe to clean, disinfect and deodorize at the same time. Now you’re ready to restock the shelves.

Under appliances: Appliances such as your stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer can harbor hidden dirt, dust and even crumbs.

Once or twice a year, it’s worth moving what you can, like your fridge which is typically on wheels, or using the crevice attachment of a vacuum to clean beneath and around the base of the appliance. Wipe the areas down.

Cleaning tools: That’s right - your cleaning tools need a little TLC too. Your cleaning supplies deserve the same attention as the rest of your home to avoid simply spreading around the dirt and grime.

On top of emptying your vacuum regularly, make sure to remove dust, hair or threads clinging to the beater bar or brush. You can disinfect toilet brushes, mop heads and smaller tools like brushes and sponges in a hot water and bleach solution regularly to help you get a more thorough clean and ensure that your tools are ready for your next big deep clean.

Ways to add value to your home

(BPT) - Upgrades not only make a home more attractive, they also often bring innovative, low-maintenance solutions, making your most familiar surroundings feel beautiful and comfortable. Here are four simple ways to make your home design dreams come true - while adding lasting value to your property.

1. Look for beautiful, durable surfaces: We all know kitchens and bathrooms can make or break the first impression. These spaces are the heart of the home, where we gather, work and play every day. It’s more inspiring to cook when you don’t have to worry about stains and scratches. That’s why fresh, lasting countertops, flooring, backsplashes and even cabinet cladding are renovation must-haves. For a transformation that’s timeless, consider Cosentino’s new Silestone Ethereal line. These marble-inspired colorways can elevate surfaces in any space, but they’re durable enough for everyday use. Manufactured with HybriQ Technology, this sustainable product composition uses 99% recycled water and 100% renewable electric energy.

2. Build your outdoor space to last: When it comes to the outdoors, you want materials that can withstand the elements - like Dekton. This carbon-neutral product has an ultra-durable surface made of raw materials including quartz, glass and porcelain. The low water absorbing surface is resistant to UV rays, scratches, stains and thermal shock, so it’s ideal for flooring, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and more. Three new color designs are now available at Home Depot, making it easy to customize your space, whether you prefer Dekton Laos, a smooth matte finish perfect for industrial-inspired rooms; Dekton

Rem, which combines marble-inspired neutrals with gold; or Dekton Soke, a colorway with rich, textured grays that work well in any space.

3. Use lighting to make your space shine: Home lighting is a powerful, oftenoverlooked design element, which can help show off your other decorative finishes, like surfacing or furniture. Luckily, today’s options give homeowners myriad choices to make any room stand out, from fixtures to lightbulbs. Well-placed recessed lighting is always a functional option, but many contemporary designers recommend creating focal points with bold, sculptural pendant

lights. You can also try playing with materials that include natural textures, glass or mixed metals, especially in settings like a sunroom or reading nook. Whether you’re going for a traditional look or a mid-century modern feel, thoughtful lighting that accompanies your style is well worth the time and effort.

4. Find photo-worthy finishes: Don’t forget the finishing touch! While it may seem like a small upgrade, details like faucet or door knob finishes have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your home. Simply put, finishes elevate functional elements to stunning accents. Don’t hide handles and faucets - instead, use matte black, brushed

DIY project ideas to bring new life to your home

(BPT) - Check out these four simple DIY home renovation projects that can quickly spruce up your home’s interior.

1. Update fixtures: Small but purposeful changes can make a big impact on your home’s decor. An easy and cost-effective DIY project you can do to refresh your spaces is to replace the knobs, handles and pulls on your cabinets, drawers and doors.

This design change can be as simple as picking fixtures with different metals or finishes, such as switching out silver kitchen cabinet hardware for brass or gold hues or opting for more colorful and interesting knobs and handles. If your rooms have standard white switch plate covers, consider replacing them with decorative ones.

2. Paint cabinets: Paint can do a lot to change the look of your home. Instead of taking on a large project like repainting every room or the exterior of your home, you can paint smaller furnishings like kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

Moore’s Discount Furniture

metal or even gold to complement or contrast those design features. And don’t be afraid to mix and match styles based on each room’s cabinetry, countertops or wall color. It’s the perfect way to add personal touches.

No matter where you start, you can bring your home to the next level. There are plenty of creative ways to enhance your home and create lasting value. By choosing high-quality, durable features, you’re not just building a more beautiful home - you’re creating a more effortless and enjoyable lifestyle, now and for the future.

For more design inspiration that elevates your space, visit Cosentino.com

Repainting cabinets is an approachable DIY home update that can generally be done in a weekend. If you want to brighten up your kitchen, choose a soft green, bright blue or rich yellow to paint your cabinets. For your bathroom cabinets, find deep reds or dark grays and blues for a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.

3. Put up wallpaper: Wallpaper is a fun alternative to repainting a room. Whether you wallpaper a whole room or just one wall as an accent, you can refresh the look of your bedroom, living room, office or kitchen. There are many wallpaper options to choose from, but if you want something unique that truly expresses your personal style, consider ordering custom wallpaper.

Whether you choose an image or illustration that is special to you or a bespoke pattern, you can quickly change the look and feel of your room. To create your custom wallpaper, make sure you find a business that uses reliable large format printers, like the

new Colorado M Series printers from Canon, which use a unique and robust UVgel ink set which even includes white ink for a very unique and wide wallpaper offering.

The Colorado M Series printers can help users create wallpapers with rich color consistency in custom sizes and lengths in matte or gloss finish so you can revamp your home’s interior with high-quality wallcoverings.

4. Install shelving: Many houses don’t have enough space for all your possessions. You can add more space and visual interest to your home by installing shelving. Installing shelves may seem a bit intimidating, but it’s easier than you may think.

You can install a simple, rustic wood plank on metal or wood brackets and arrange books, trinkets or other small objects on them. If you need a more robust storage system, look for fixed bracket or adjustable shelving to organize heavier objects like kitchen appliances, electronics and lamps.

(BPT) - No matter where you live or how green your thumb, you can enjoy the beauty and bounty of gardening at home. Now is the ideal time to plan a spring garden that will be the envy of the neighborhood. The experts at Ball Horticultural Company share their recommended plants, top topics and tips to set up every type of gardener for succes.

Plants for your pocketbook

Creating a stunning garden doesn’t have to break the bank. To get even more bang for the buck, select hardy plants known to thrive through adversity or fast-spreading flowers that fill in quickly.

New Hula‚Ñ¢ Spreading Begonia is a great example of a budget-friendly plant that quickly fills in garden beds with a blanket of high-impact color, covering the soil and discouraging weeds in minimal time. They’re bursting with eye-catching blooms, very forgiving for novice gardeners, and are also great for outdoor hanging baskets and mixed containers.

If heat, humidity or drought are a concern for you, opting for resilient flowering plants can help ensure greenery and blooms no matter the weather condition. Angelonia AngelDance‚Ñ¢, for example, thrives even in harsh conditions like high heat, producing tall flower spikes that are perfect for that cottage garden vibe.

From deep burgundies to bright, energetic pinks, you can use florals reminiscent of a south beach escape to turn your outdoor space into a personal oasis.

To add instant color to sunny spots, try allseason blooming Easy Wave¬Æ Burgundy Velour Petunias either solo or in mixed planters, baskets, gardens and window boxes. Brighten up shadier spots with the Glimmer‚Ñ¢ Burgundy Double Impatiens, which produce beautiful, rose-like blooms that are easy to maintain, as the plant’s old blooms do not need to be removed as they fade.

If you live in climates that require lowmaintenance plants that can withstand chillier temps, try Oscar® Cherry Velvet Dianthus, which has frost tolerance and a soft floral fragrance. Another hardy option in a vibrant shade is the Sombrero Poco™ Hot Pink Echinacea, a compact version of winterhardy prairie coneflower, with bright, nonfading blooms. As an added bonus, the plant is known to be deer resistant and attract song birds and butterflies.

Impress with vegetables

Mocha Swirl Snack Pepper from Burpee Plants. This sweet snacking pepper produces 4-inch fruits that ripen green and white at 50 days and then to rich chocolate-red stripes at 70 days.

If you’re limited on space, you can still enjoy the benefits of growing your own fresh vegetables by exploring indoor, tabletop options. Kitchen Minis Quick Snack Cucumber are a restricted-vine crispy-anddelicious cuke that can be kept inside on a sunny windowsill or counter for a fresh harvest over a few weeks.

Living color indoors

Have you recently downsized, or do you live in an apartment, condo or townhome? No matter where you live, you can still enjoy the beauty and benefits of plant parenthood by exploring indoor-flowering varieties that

brighten spaces and enhance interior design.

Yellow is reminiscent of sunshine and conveys positive emotions, which is why the ColorBloom‚Ñ¢ Gerbera is such a happy addition to indoor spaces. Perfectly happy to grow in small indoor pots, you’ll enjoy longlasting blooms when you place them in sunny locations throughout the home.

If you prefer leafy varieties in your home, try color- and texture-rich foliage plants, such as Jurassic Dino‚Ñ¢ Rex Begonia. With bold patterns, including a beautiful rose-pink leaf color with green edges, white dots and a black leaf center, the plant sets the mood and accents any room.

From indoor tabletops to outdoor landscapes, porches and beyond, garden experts agree: There are plenty of plant options to help you create a stunning space this year.

Superior Structures

Additionally, because the stems are flexible, they bring awesome movement to your garden and you don’t have to worry about breakage.

When you grow your own vegetables, you reap even more health benefits, including the positive emotional boost of being outdoors, plus you save money on groceries. This year, try unique homegrown choices that add fresh flavor to your meals and impress guests at your next gathering.

Tropical colors delight

Tropical hues are trending, which is evident by the rich, pink shade of Viva Magenta selected as Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year.

To upgrade your vegetable platter, check out Sun Dipper Tomatoes. Their unique, elongated shape makes them easy to hold and ideal for dipping into your favorite spreads and party dips.

Another visually mesmerizing variety is the

(BPT) - There’s nothing like the warmer temperatures, blooming flowers and longer, brighter days to inspire you to take a fresh look at your home, and the ideal place to get started is in one of your most-used spaces: the bathroom.

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your bathroom, so why not go beyond a thorough cleaning to make the room feel brand new? Fresh, seasonal colors give the room an upgraded look, and products like a new toilet seat let you continue that spring-fresh feeling all season.

Here are simple ideas to help you get started on revamping your bathroom this spring.

1. Invite more color: Start with swapping out some of the simple elements in your bathroom, taking the opportunity to brighten the space with fresh new colorful towels, bathmats and even a new shower curtain. Choose light, appealing colors and/or patterns based on natural elements that will bring more of a springtime feeling into your home.

2. Decorate thoughtfully: Consider adding some easy decorative accents, like glass jars filled with cotton swabs, small soaps or garden flowers.

A little goes a long way, so choose just a few of these accents to help give the room a sense of spa-like elegance, without making it seem overly busy or cluttered.

3. Think attractive storage solutions: Include smart and visually appealing storage options such as a few pretty baskets on shelves for holding extra guest towels, for example.

Baskets are also really useful for keeping

that extra clutter off of your countertops, and you can easily organize them by categories like toiletries, washcloths and makeup.

4. Upgrade your seat: Spring cleaning for your bathroom isn’t complete without a new toilet seat. The Mayfair by Bemis Affinity is an attractive plastic seat that installs easily and is designed for a precise fit, so it never moves after you install it.

The seat also features quiet closing to avoid unpleasant slamming. Best yet, the hinges are designed to let you easily remove the seat for thorough cleaning - and when you’re finished cleaning, you simply place the seat back on the toilet and close the hinge caps. The durable plastic seat wipes clean effortlessly for that final touch on a fresh, spring bathroom feel.

Visit ToiletSeats.com for more options to help you find the perfect seat from Bemis Manufacturing Company.

5. Refresh your windows: After giving your bathroom windows a thorough cleaning inside and out, consider updating how they look overall with new window treatments.

One terrific on-trend idea is to install roller blinds or Roman shades in lighter colors. If you opt for blinds or shades made from thinenough fabric, they will still provide muchneeded privacy while also letting in some natural light - helping the whole room feel lighter and brighter.

Five simple ideas to help you refresh and revamp your bathroom this spring •We Sell Metal Roofing • FREE Estimate 770-832-9939 3982 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy Carrollton “26 YearsandSteelBuilding” Garages•Barns•Carports•Horseman Structures•RV Covers Danny’s Pressure Wash Inc.com House Deck Sealing Deck DrivewaysCleaning Pool Area Painting Lawn Care Building Dumpster Area Parking RestaurantsDecks Gum Removal Drive Thrus Shopping Center Concrete Professional Power Washing and Surface Cleaning RESIDENTIAL SERVICES COMMERCIAL SERVICES Any House up to 2000sq ft CLEANED for ONLY $149.99 With Coupon Only. Some restrictions may apply.Offer Ends May 13, 2023 www.dannyspressurewashinc.com Open 7 days a week! Call 770.947.3499 Licensed & Insured The Pressure is on

Ready to get started on refreshing your bathroom? These are all ideas you can easily DIY - no plumber or designer required! - that will make a big difference for the look and feel of your bathroom, right away. Then you can relax and enjoy your room all season long.

Carroll County Department of Public Health restaurant health inspections scores

Following restaurants each received a score of 100 during a March inspection:

To view complete inspection details: dph.georgia.gov/environmental-health

3/14/2023: La Fiesta 201 Bardley Street Carrollton

3/16/2023: Jefferson’s 750 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica

Violations: Observed raw beef patties stored over RTE jalapenos and mushrooms at reach in cooler, observed raw shelled eggs stored over RTE ranch dressing. Observed heavy rust present at ice machine.

3/15/2023: Dairy Queen 811 Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica

3/17/2023: Maple Street Diner 1201 Maple Street Carrollton

Violations: Observed old inspection report on display. Observed thawing fish in standing water. Observed 3 ice baths in main kitchen with TCS foods stored above 41F. Observed employee grab cheese with bare hands and prpared biscuit without gloves on.

3/03/2023: Leopoldo’s Pizza 102 Adamson Sq Carrollton 58 previous 80

Violations: No certified food safety manager on staff. Box of raw chicken stored in walk in packed tightly between box of tomatoes and jars of olives. Must store raw chicken in manner were cross contamination can not occur. Observed tubs of ranch, drinks, etc. stored on floor in walk in cooler as well as drinks stored on basement floor. Mold present on shied at ice machine.

Investment ideas for business owners

FRED O’NEAL

By definition, business owners put a lot of their financial resources into their enterprises. But as an owner, you may need to invest in more than inventories and payroll to help achieve the future you’ve envisioned. Here are a few investments you may want to consider:

Retirement account – Depending on the

nature of your business and how many employees you have, you can choose from a variety of tax-advantaged retirement plans, such as an owner-only 401(k), an SEP-IRA and a SIMPLE IRA.

By contributing regularly to one of these accounts, you can avoid being entirely dependent on the sale of your business to pay for your retirement years.To fund your 401(k) or other retirement plan, you’ll have many investment options — stocks, bonds, mutual funds and so on. And if you “max out” on your retirement plan, you may even be able to build a separate investment portfolio.

In any case, keep in mind that you’re

MARCH 1-31, 2023 Carroll County marriage licenses

already putting a lot of money into your business, so, to achieve a level of diversification, you may want to concentrate your investment choices in areas outside your industry.

However, while diversification can help reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio, it can’t guarantee profits or protect against losses in a declining market.

Property – Your physical space is a key part of your business’ success. So, you may want to invest some time in comparing the pros and cons of renting versus owning. Of course, owning your building may require a big financial commitment, and it may not be feasible, but it could free you from worrying

about untimely rent increases.

Disaster protection – If a fire or a weatherrelated disaster should strike your business, would you be prepared? It’s important for you to create a disaster recovery plan, which can include business interruption insurance to pay for your operating costs if you’re forced to shut down for a while.

Emergency savings – While a disaster protection plan with appropriate insurance can help keep your business afloat, it’s unlikely to cover other types of emergency needs, such as a major medical bill or an expensive repair to your home. For these unexpected costs, you may want to build an emergency fund covering at least a few months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account.

Without such an emergency fund, you may be forced to dip into your 401(k), IRA or other long-term investment vehicle.

You’ll also want to invest the time and energy into creating a business succession plan. Will you keep the business in your family? Sell it to outsiders or a key employee? If you do sell, will you do it all at once or over time? Clearly, the answers to these types of questions will make a big difference in your ultimate financial security.

Finally, invest in help – Enlist the services of a financial advisor and business-planning professional, so you’ll be able to make the decisions that work best for your business and you.

Your business may well be a lifelong endeavor, so make sure you’re investing whatever it takes to earn a lifetime of benefits.

Fred O’Neal, financial advisor, 410 College Street, Carrollton, GA 770-832-2141. Article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Carroll County pistol permits

Number of Weapons Carry Permits applied for: MARCH 1-31, 2023: 289

Carroll County births

MARCH 1-31, 2023:

Tanner Medical Center, Carrollton: Girls: 44 Boys: 68

Tanner Medical Center, Villa Rica:�

Girls: 25 Boys: 27

Carroll County cattle receipts

Carroll County Sales Barn

225 Sales Barn Road, Carrollton

April 4, 2023: 663

March 27, 2023: NO REPORT POSTED

March 20, 2023: 741

March 13 2023: 377

March 6, 2023: 848

Carroll County jail population

Total population as of APRIL 10, 2023: 422

Males: 354 Females: 68 (The Jack T. Bell Detention Center, 1000 Newnan Road,Carrollton)

Carroll County prison population

Total population as of APRIL 10, 2023: 240

Capacity: 246 Males: 100%

The Carroll County Correctional Institute is a separate entity from the Carroll County Jail (which houses males and females on a temporary basis)