August 2024 by Star News

Georgia’s First Lady visits Carrollton Kiwanis Club

Georgia’s First Lady Marty Kemp was guest speaker, Carrollton Kiwanis Club, Wed., July 31, at Carroll EMC main office. An informal “Fireside Chat” was held between Kemp (left) and Kiwanian Sandra Morris (right). An informed and engaged speaker, Kemp spoke on many topics including mental health issues, human trafficking/GRACE Commission, farming, MATCH, and the pandemic. Photo by Sue Horn

County property taxes increase $340M from higher property assessments allowing county school board to reduce millage rate from 17.00 to 16.259 mils

from press release

Carroll County Board of Education has tentatively approved a full millage rate rollback for county property owners after seeing another large increase in assessed values this year. Property assessments are conducted by the Carroll County Board of Commissioners.

County tax digest increased almost $340 million, allowing the BOE to reduce the school tax millage rate from 17 mills to 16.259 mills. This marks the third consecutive annual millage rate cut from the school board.

The new millage rate represents about a $100 savings in one year for the average Carroll County homeowner.

BOE Chairman Bryant Turner said, “The board really wanted to make sure that we can give this tax relief to citizens while maintaining premier learning opportunities for our students and the

support to our staff. This requires good stewardship of the resources we have, and we are so thankful we can do this for the people of Carroll County.”

by Wayne J. Reynolds

The Villa Rica city government has been beset with controversy and conflict since the November 2023 mayoral election of Leslie McPherson who defeated one-term Gil McDougal in a landslide runoff victory on December 5th. Seven days later on December 12th, Mayor McDougal presented - and all five council members voted for - a resolution to investigate McPherson for malfeasance. This accusation later proved to be malicious, false, and costly to McPherson.

“Jeff is the perfect person for the job. He is a fixer and he loves the city. .”

- Villa Rica Mayor Leslie McPherson

The city manager, Tom Barber, stated publicly he would not work with the incoming mayor who would be sworn in early January 2024. Barber immediately hired McDougal in as a deputy city manager. Many citizens voiced their shared opinion as that this was a slap in the face of the election process. After a several months long and costly struggle between Barber and varying members of the council who wanted McDougal gone, McDougal was removed from the position. But the open animosity, repeated uproar at council meetings, and heated public debate between citizens and some council members continued as it became apparent that Barber was not going to fulfill the obligations of his public job. It was revealed that Barber had not been sharing city

by Janice Daniel

Reese’s six month contract became effective June 17, 2024 with a monthly salary of $15,000 plus benefits. See

Commission discusses Agriculture Land Easement program: limit non-ag uses

County continues to collect more revenue than needed to meet expenses with current revenues over expenditures are now at $7,224,824 ($7.22M)

by Janice Daniel

Carroll County Board of Commissioners met for their monthly work session Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. All were present with the exception of District 1 Commissioner Montrell McClendon.

Dee Perry, executive director of the Georgia Agricultural Land Trust, was there to discuss the Agricultural Land Easement program of agricultural conservation. Its purpose is to help private and tribal land owners, land trusts, and other entities

In a Special Called Meeting of the Mayor & Council of the City of Villa Rica held June 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., with all Council Members present, Mayor Leslie McPherson presented an employment agreement between the City of Villa Rica and Jeff Reese, a past city mayor. Reese accepted the position of Interim City Manager after the firing of acting City Manager Tom Barber during the June 11, 2024 council meeting with a vote of 3-2. Barber has been at the center of controversy since he decided to align himself with former mayor Gil McDougal during last year’s mayoral run-off which elected former council member Leslie McPherson as the city’s new mayor. With citizens demanding that Barber be removed, the issue went all the way to the Georgia Legislature and governor to give Mayor McPherson authority to fire Barber. But then some legalities were brought forward about Barber’s contract of employment with the City of Villa Rica since he was hired before the new legislation was approved, and the City would have to buy out Barber’s remaining months to the end of his contract.

During the June 11th, 2024 regular meeting, Mayor McPherson told council that she had a someone willing and able to take the position of

See BARBER FINALLY FIRED page 5

city projects information with council and yor, making decisions without appropriate council input. Finally, on July 1st, Barber was removed from the city manager post by a 3 to 2 vote of the city. Council then voted 5-0 (unanimously) to hire Jeff Reese an interim city manager for six months (July through December) while the city searched for a permanent replacement. Reese is both a past deputy city manager and mayor for Villa Rica, the City of Gold.

city projects information council yor, making decisions without appropriate council input. Finally, on July 1st, Barber was removed from the city manager post by a 3 to 2 vote of the city. then voted (unanimously) hire Jeff Reese an interim city manager for six months (July through December) the for a permanent replacement. Reese is both a past mayor for Villa Rica, the City of In a recent interview

Reese said, “The majority of city employees have welcomed me with open arms. I tell each to remember I was an employee for 17 years and an elected official for only three and a half years. I am not a micro-manager, but I am involved.

commented, “Jeff the perfect person for and he loves the city. We needed somebody where it is more than job. perfect for the job. He is not only a former mayor but also a former deputy city recreation manager as well. He is someone we can count on to consider alternative solutions to city issues. He will ask the question, of doing that? He will also take the time to talk to people, both our employees and residents.”

In a recent interview with StarNews, Mayor Leslie McPherson commented, “Jeff is the perfect person for the job. He is a fixer and he loves the city. We needed somebody where it is more than just a job. He is perfect for the job. He is not only a former mayor but also a former deputy city manager and parks and recreation manager as well. He is someone we can count on to consider alternative solutions to city issues. He will ask the question, is there is a better way of doing this or that? He will also take the time to talk to people, both our employees and residents.”

welcomed me with open arms. I tell each to remember I was an employee for 17 years and an elected official for only three and a half years. I am not a micro-manager, but I am involved. I am familiar with what is going on and don’t need months and months to get up to speed. And I feel it is a plus that I have worked with many of the elected officials over the years. Employees know I have their back. They know if an issue arises, I have the relationships with elected officials to get the answers they need. Communication is the key. I also answer social media questions when I can. I think it is important to do that.”

open arms. tell each remember I was an employee for 17 years and elected official for I am not a micro-manager, but I am involved. I am with and months and months to get up to speed. And I feel a I many of elected officials over the years. Employees know I have their back. They know if an issue arises, I have the relationships with elected officials to the the key. I also answer social media questions when I can. I think it is important to do that.”

Longtime past Villa Rica City mayor and current District 71 State Legislator J Collins remarked, “I was overwhelmed with joy when I heard our friend Jeff Reese had been hired by the mayor and council to serve as city manager. Jeff brings with him a very unique skill set. He has a tremendous amount of institutional knowledge of the city along with a proven track record of working with others to accomplish goals to move Villa Rica forward. Being the chief administrator of a growing metropolitan suburb is no easy task. With Jeff’s personality, his love for the city and his desire to help put the city back on the right track, I feel Villa Rica’s best days are still in front of her!”

Longtime past Villa Rica City mayor and current District remarked, was overwhelmed heard our friend Jeff Reese had been hired by the mayor and council to serve as city manager. Jeff brings with skill has a of the city along with a proven track record of working with others to accomplish goals to move Villa Rica forward. the administrator of a growing is With Jeff’s personality, his love for the city and his desire to help put the city back on the right track, I feel Villa Rica’s best days are still in front of her!”

Reese shared some of his background, “I became parks and rec manager in 2001, and in 2008 until 2014 was the deputy city manager. In 2016, I was elected mayor to fill the unexpired term of Jay Collins who had been elected to the Georgia State Legislature. This spring I was approached by citizens and then elected officials about serving as a temporary city manager to help stabilize the city.

Reese shared some of his background, “I became parks and rec manager in 2001, and in 2008 until 2014 was the deputy city manager. In 2016, was to the unexpired term of Jay Collins who had been elected to the Georgia State Legislature. This spring I was approached by citizens about serving city manager help stabilize the city.

“I am glad to be back! I started work the last week of June. I have told everybody that I am not here to talk about the past but to stabilize the government and look to the future - to move the city forward in the right direction and help the city council in hiring the next city manager.”

Reese pointed to a wall of what he called his “battle board.” He said he is working on 204 (two hundred and four) current projects. He added that most of these projects are a continuation of projects begun by Barber. “I meet with staff every day and work on these projects through the weekends and into the night. My charge is to complete as many of these projects as I can in the six months I am scheduled to be here.”

“I am to be work week of June. I have told everybody that I am not about but to government and look to the future - to move the city in the right direction and help city council in hiring the next city manager.” to wall he his “battle board.” He said he is working on 204 (two hundred and four) He that most of these projects are a continuation of begun by with every day and work on these projects through the weekends and into the night. My charge is to complete as many of these projects as I can in the six am to be here.”

Some of the challenges facing Reese, council, and mayor can be found in lively and sometimes heated discussions on social media. On a Villa Rica Facebook group page (page name: Villa Rica Sh ! t Show), Villa Rica resident Doug Lang posted the following as part of a long post: “The land deal negotiated between the City of Villa Rica and Fuqua Development and approved by

Some of the challenges facing Reese, council, mayor be found in and sometimes discussions media. a Villa Rica Facebook group page (page name: Villa Rica Sh ! t Show), Villa Rica resident Doug Lang following long post: land between City Rica and Fuqua Development and approved by

See CITY CHALLENGES page 5

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The city has over 200 employees.

When he was asked why he agreed to return to work for the city, Reese explained that his wife asked him the question: If he walked away, could he look himself in the mirror as to whether he could have done better for the city? He stated emphatically, “I knew with my skill set and knowledge of the city, that I could make a difference and make Villa Rica better. I love the city of Villa Rica!”

When he was asked why he agreed to return to work for the city, Reese explained that his wife asked question: If he away, could he look himself in the mirror as to whether he could have done better for the city? He stated emphatically, “I knew with my skill set and of that could make difference Rica better. I city of Villa Rica!”

Despite all the changes that the city has experienced in the last six to eight months, Reese said he feels the morale of employees is good. Reese said, “The majority of city employees have

Despite all the changes that the city has experienced in six eight said he the morale Reese said, “The majority of city employees have

Shepherd’s Corner

Edward Jones

SEPTEMBER 26 5:30PM - 8:30PM

Interim City Manager, but none of the Council had yet met this person. After much confusion and many questions going unanswered, Council Member McCoy agreed to second the motion made by Council Member Warmoth, to terminate Barber effective 7/1/24, with the condition that every member of the Council meet with the Mayor’s intended Interim choice and be in agreement with it. This motion was approved by the Council 3-2, with Council Members Momtahan and Carter opposed.

The Contract of Employment with Jeff Reese as Interim City Manager is for a period of four to six

months, effective June 17th, 2024, with a monthly salary of $15,000 plus benefits, with either side having the ability to terminate the employment at any time for any reason, but can be extended by agreement of the parties. This contract was approved by the Council unanimously.

Reese only spoke briefly at this meeting, saying that he sees the goal of his job to be helping to unify the City, but also to keep the many on-going projects moving, and to keep the citizens involved and informed. He did speak more at length during the July Mayor & Council meetings, keeping everything on a positive note and giving a full City Manager’s report.

but unfortunately, they certainly inherited the responsibility to resolve it. Of course, they also require the city council that approved it back with the past administration to realize the nightmare that was created and do their part to resolve this ASAP!”

Reese remarked, “The whole situation with this proposed road through this community is due to a lack of communication. The city should have done a better job of communicating in whatever form it should have taken. I have been working on this problem every day I’ve been back – and that includes meeting with citizens. Council has tasked me with looking for an alternative route and we are making good progress toward a solution to make that community whole again.”

Reese also stated that elected officials can only do as good a job for their residents as the information this city manager office provides them. “They need to know!”

Another big challenge in Villa Rica is growth. “It is hard to unwind the clock. We are playing catch-up. With growth everything is stressedroads, water, schools - everything. Villa Rica is also challenged in that it lies in both Carroll and Douglas counties. Because of that, we are dealing with two county commissions and two boards of education. Anything we do affects them as

CITY CHALLENGES from page 4 See MOVING FORWARD page 23 by the city council, is dramatically impacting our once quiet, peaceful community. The stress and strain being placed on the residents of one of our oldest and most historic communities is finally taking its toll. We are now at each other’s throats and all heck is breaking loose. And truth to be told, the only one to blame is the city itself. . . So, why now all the fuss? Well, the previous city officials neglected to mention that a new road was going to be built and run right through a quiet historic neighborhood. Actually, it’s more of a superhighway, measuring 42 feet wide. And why is this ‘Villa Rica Parkway’ being built? To create direct access from the Fuqua development directly to The Mill located downtown. All this to shave approximately 1/2 mile off the existing road(s) that currently connect the Fuqua development to downtown. . . Oh, by the way, did I happen to mention that the City of Villa Rica contractually committed to Fuqua Development to build this superhighway on land the city did not, and does not control, possess or own? Yes, a good old fashioned land grab and countless folks may lose their homes. . . Okay, where do we go from here? To be clear, our recently elected mayor, Leslie Smith McPherson and our newly appointed interim city manager, Jeff Reese most definitely did not create this problem,

projects information with council and for making decisions without appropriate council input. Finally, on July 1st, Barber was removed from the city manager post by a 3 to 2 vote of the city. Council then voted 5-0 (unanimously) to hire Jeff Reese an interim city manager for six months (July through December) while the city searched for a permanent replacement. Reese is both a past deputy city manager and mayor for Villa Rica, the City of Gold.

The city has over 200 employees.

Despite all the changes that the city has experienced in the last six to eight months, Reese said he feels the morale of employees is good. Reese said, “The majority of city employees have

Edward Jones

The Contract of Employment with Jeff Reese as Interim City Manager is for a period of four to six BARBER FINALLY FIRED from

CITY CHALLENGES from page 4

Reese also stated that elected officials can only do as good a job for their residents as the information this city manager office provides them. “They need to know!”

See MOVING FORWARD page 23 by the city council, is dramatically impacting our once quiet, peaceful community. The stress and strain being placed on the residents of one of our oldest and most historic communities is finally taking its toll. We are now at each other’s throats and all heck is breaking loose. And truth to be told, the only one to blame is the city itself. . . So, why now all the fuss? Well, the previous city officials neglected to mention that a new road was going to be built and run right through a quiet historic neighborhood. Actually, it’s more of a superhighway, measuring 42 feet wide. And why is this ‘Villa Rica Parkway’ being built? To create direct access from the Fuqua development directly to The Mill located downtown. All this to shave approximately 1/2 mile off the existing road(s) that currently connect the Fuqua development to downtown. . . Oh, by the way, did I happen to mention that the City of Villa Rica contractually committed to Fuqua Development to build this superhighway on land the city did not, and does not control, possess or own? Yes, a good old fashioned land grab and countless folks may lose their homes. . . Okay, where do we go from here? To be clear, our recently elected mayor, Leslie Smith McPherson and our newly appointed interim city manager, Jeff Reese most definitely did not create this problem,

Journey Fellowship

Carrollton City Schools welcomed Governor Brian Kemp at school year kickoff event

Carrollton City Schools held its 2024-2025 system kickoff event Wed., July 31, featuring a special guest speaker for faculty and staff: Governor Brian Kemp. “It is my honor and privilege to introduce our speaker for today, a distinguished guest who has been a strong advocate for education, economic growth, and the well-being of our communities in Georgia,” said Carrollton City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Albertus.

Governor Kemp covered a variety of topics, emphasizing his administration’s support for educators across the state and future plans for the state’s education system. “Educators have had more to do than ever before,” Kemp said. “We’re just so thankful for what you all do, and that’s really why I’m here today — to thank you and all educators across the state.”

Governor Kemp spoke about his personal connection to Carrollton through his relationship with former Carrollton High School football coach and legend Ben Scott. “I believe education is the great equalizer, and I know that is true for my wife, Marty, too, as we were impacted by our teachers and coaches, particularly Coach Billy Henderson,” he said. “Coach Ben Scott was actually on Coach Henderson’s staff when I was a senior in high school and I got to know him. I know he had a big impact on this community. It’s people like Coach Henderson and Coach Scott who helped shape the people we are today.”

Kemp highlighted his commitment to supporting teachers, mentioning that he has raised teacher pay four times since being in office. Kemp also emphasized that school safety is a top priority for his administration, with dedicated funds allocated in the budget to ensure schools have the resources needed to continue improving safety measures for educators and students alike. “These are just a few things we have done to help support you,” Kemp said, “Because we need you to help keep our state strong and build the workforce of tomorrow.”

The city school system’s first day of school is Monday, Aug. 12.

Carroll County government has hired a new Board of Elections supervisor

Michael Ock was hired as Carroll County Elections Supervisor in July. Ock now fills the job that was held by Interim Supervisor Keith West who stepped in when longtime Elections Supervisor Greg Rigby retired last December.

Ock is a Bowdon High School graduate who earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Operations Management from the University of Georgia. After college, he worked in real estate management, sales, and was a business owner. He is on the board of the Bowdon Downtown Development Authority and member of the Bowdon Kiwanis Club.

Ock was first hired by the county as a contractor of Special Projects providing oversight of Dominion Voting Equipment in January 2024. Amber Wilson named Vice President of Finance for WGTC

West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) President Dr. Julie Post announce the promotion of Amber Wilson to Vice President of Finance.

Amber has been Interim Vice President since April 2024. After earning her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of West Georgia in 2001, Wilson started her 22-year tenure at WGTC in 2002 as a cashier in Financial Services. With dedication

and expertise, she progressed through roles such as Accounts Receivable Supervisor, Accounting Manager, and Executive Director of Financial Services. Wilson will continue to oversee Financial Services, leading the college towards success by leveraging her wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to excellence.

UWG interim president Dr. Ashwani Monga to start work Aug. 19; classes begin Aug. 14; President Kelly’s last day at end of month University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue named USG’s Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Ashwani Monga, as interim president of the University of West Georgia (UWG), effective Aug. 19. Classes start Aug.14.

UWG President Brendan B. Kelly announced in June he had accepted the role of president of the Arkansas State University System, which encompasses seven institutions in the state. Kelly will begin prior to Kelly’s departure at the end of August.

UWG will have a national search to find its next president. Details of the search will be forthcoming. At its conclusion, Monga will return to his executive vice chancellor role at USG. Southwire to close several California facilities; reduction in sales/support jobs

Southwire will close its facilities in Santa Fe Springs, Rancho Cucamonga, and Livermore, Calif. Operations will cease at the Livermore and Santa Fe Springs facilities on Oct. 1, 2024, and at the Rancho Cucamonga facility on Nov. 1, 2024. In addition to these facility closures, Southwire has responded to the shifting market conditions and made the decision to reduce the number of sales and support roles that support the EP&ES business.

Since 2005, Southwire’s Rancho Cucamonga Customer Service Center (CSC) has been the company’s primary location for supporting Infrastructure products and Electrical Products and Engineered Solutions (EP&ES) on the west coast. In 2020, Southwire acquired Construction Electrical Products (CEP) and the Livermore facility, contributing to its EP&ES growth.

The company’s Santa Fe Springs facility has primarily supported EP&ES for the west coast since 2019. Operations from each of the impacted facilities will be relocated to other Southwire locations.

Impacted team members will have the opportunity to apply for open positions, and those individuals who do not transfer to another Southwire position and who remain satisfactorily employed through their termination date will be

offered separation pay.

“The decision to close these facilities, as well as to adjust our staffing in EP&ES, was not made lightly, and it is not a reflection of our team members,” said Peter Lugo, senior vice president of EP&ES. “We would like to thank these team members for their years of service, and we will ensure that those impacted by this decision are treated with dignity and respect throughout the transition.”

Ryan Whitley

Lake Carroll Lawn

Michael Ock

Monga

such as state and local governments to protect croplands and grasslands on working farms and ranches by limiting non-ag uses of the land through conserva-tion easements.

Perry said that in order for an application to be considered for this program, one of the goals is to try to keep parcels contiguous, and there are no restrictions on farm structures; however, residential homes must be one per 50 acres with a two-acre building envelope, and they must follow the zoning requirements of the area.

County has existing funds and there has been a lot of interest in this program. New applications will be vetted and ranked and given to the board of commissioners to decide which ones to fund. Carroll County government will fund 25%; the landowner will fund 25% through a deduction on his/her income taxes; and the Federal Government will fund the remaining 50%.

budget. Revenues over expenditures showed to be $7,224,824 ($7.22M).

Searcy also presented the financial audit engagement letter with Rushton & Associates for the Year Ended 6/30/24 with the fees same as the previous year. District 5 Commissioner Ernie Reynolds commented that the county has used Rushton for the past 7 or 8 years, and that it is good business practice to change to a different firm after a few years with the same one. The board agreed to put the engagement with Rushton on the Consent Agenda as Consent Item #1 for a vote at the next regular meeting.

... showing yearto-date revenues of $75,094,792 or 102.55% of budget, and expenditures for the same period of $67,869,968 or 92.68% of budget.

Avery Jackson, county attorney; Ann Lee, Human Resources director; and Chief Brad Robinson of the sheriff’s office made a presentation regarding changes to the County’s Employee Leave Policy in order to give opportunities for employees to obtain more leave time and share options on how to use it.

Perry said the application ranking system will match the Federal Government ranking system word-for-word, and that the easements are specific to the legal name/ names on the deed for the property.

Revenues over expenditures showed to be $7.22M

District 2 Commissioner Clint Chance asked if the housing building envelopes are a section within the easement, or if it will need to be parceled out? Perry said there is no need to parcel it out, but if the landowner is going to do that, it has to be done prior to the easement because once the easement is set it cannot be changed.

Finance Director Alecia Searcy reported on the financial recap for the 11 months of the 20232024 Budget ending May 31, 2024, showing yearto-date revenues of $75,094,792 ($75.09M) or 102.55% of budget, and expenditures for the same period of $67,869,968 ($67.86M) or 92.68% of

Jackson said an HR study has been done on ten Georgia counties comparative in size and demographics to Carroll, and they also looked at the State of Georgia and national averages on Paid Time Off (PTO) policy. He said they are recommending a PTO policy to the Board for Carroll County employees, which combines vacations, holidays, sick leave, and all other types of employee time off into one category of Paid Time Off.

In response to a question by District 4 Commissioner Steve Fuller, Jackson said they have received a positive feedback from employees on this plan, and they have tried to make sure no one was losing anything.

Since this policy would eliminate Donated Leave, a current policy in the county where employees who have available leave time are able to

See DONATED LEAVE page 23

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by Janice Daniel

Carroll County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting Tuesday, July 9, 2024, 6:00 p.m. with all present.

Public Comments were given as follows: Citizen Nan Stevens had some things to say about the definition of a “ballot” and suggested all commissioners read Georgia’s State Constitution for instructing election officials on how to proceed in the upcoming election.

Citizen Tim Chams, representing Friends of McIntosh Reserve, thanked the board for purchasing the additional land along the Chattahoochee River corridor, and said the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Grant has presented a great opportunity for park preservation for generations to come.

Community Development Director Ben Skipper presented a request from applicant B&H Residential Group, LLC, for a rezoning request from residential to commercial to build an office building at 2653 W. Hwy. 166. Low traffic flow is expected, would have regular business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and the exterior would resemble a house at the entrance of Greenwood Estates. B&H requested a gravel parking lot in the back of the building for working trucks with trailers attached to be surrounded with opaque fencing, 20-foot landscape buffer, and low lighting. B&H said there would be no machinery or assemblies, and no storage of large materials. In response to questions from some of the Commissioners, Skipper advised that once a property is zoned commercial, it can be sold to any other commercial entity, and therein lies the problem with some of the commercial properties in this area. He said this would be setting a precedent of putting commercial spot-zoning in a residential subdivision. They can’t use the O/I zoning in this case due to the cargo trailers being classified as outside storage. Skipper also said that in the 13 years since he has been in Commu-

nity Development, no land within a platted subdivision has been changed to commercial zoning. District 4 Commissioner Steve Fuller made a motion to deny the application, seconded by District 5 Commissioner Ernie Reynolds. Denial was passed with a vote of 5-2 with Chairman Michelle Morgan and District 1 Commissioner Montrell McClendon opposed to the denial.

A rezoning request from Commercial to Agricultural was made by owner/applicants Richard Shackelford/Cindy Allen, who wish to build a single-family home on Hwy. 27 S. Parcel #0920140, approximately 15 acres. Owner Richard Shackelford stated in application that this property has been zoned commercial for many years and has been marketed with no interest. Citizen Allison Stover said that the rock ridge on this property is an extension of Stone Mountain, and should remain there.

Commissioner Fuller asked if the applicants are aware that there is a grave on this property, which therefore makes it a cemetery. Skipper (confirmed by City Attorney Stacie Blackmon) said that, according to general law, public access to a cemetery cannot be denied, and he will let the applicants know this. Fuller said that, even though there is only one grave, there are family members and other interested parties who do visit there.

With this understanding, the application was approved by the board unanimously.

Consent Agenda, consisting of only one item, audit letter, was approved unanimously.

Under New Business, the County Leave Policy, which was discussed at length in the Work Session of June 30th, 2024, was revisited for clarification of the Donated Leave Time policy. This policy was updated to state that no employee can receive more than 480 hours of combined donated leave time. Also, any employee with personal PTO in any rolling-month 12-month period, which is not workers comp or short-term disability, must main-

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tain a balance of 80 hours PTO after donating to another employee. New policy will be effective 1/1/25 except for: 1) the donated leave change, 2) comp time being abolished will not accrue after 7/1/24, 3) Flex-time may be allowed within any single pay period at supervisor’s discretion, and 4) FMLA paperwork will only be required if the absence is extended more than two weeks, including FML and employees receiving workers comp benefits. New policy approved unanimously. Board also unanimously approved application for the ACEP-ALE Program that was presented at the work session by Dee Perry.

Lastly, the Letter of Objection to the proposed rock quarry in Paulding County was also discussed and approved. Because the Paulding and Carroll County lines join very close to the proposed site of the rock quarry, the Board agreed that Carroll County needs to notify Paulding of this objection due to the impact the quarry and generation of dust and sediment it would cause for

miles, affecting Carroll County citizens. Skipper said that although the site plan does not show any activity to take place on Carroll’s side of the county line, that all Carroll County people need to get involved and fight against the rock quarry. Chair Michelle Morgan said that State Senator Tim Bearden and the other representatives to the Georgia Legislation are opposed to the quarry. Commissioner Fuller said it would be very close to the Villa Rica Middle School. Skipper added that the total area proposed is 201 acres with a 53.6-acre pit, and the only access point is on a GDOT-regulated road, Highway 101. There would be 109 dump-trucks traveling there in every 8-hour shift. The application for the rock quarry is set to go before the Paulding County Planning & Zoning Commission right away, and before the Paulding County Board of Commissioners in August. Chairman Morgan then announced there would be no executive session and the meeting was adjourned.

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www.starnewsgaonline.com

New web portal for voters to cancel their voter registration online instead relying on USPS for mailed in postcards

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger has announced a web portal to allow voters to cancel their voter registration online. While leveraging the same technical process and security protocols as Georgia’s OnLine Voter Registration tool, OLVR, this new secure site, allows voters who are moving or opting out of voter registration to notify their county registrar that they want their registration cancelled.

“This is a tool for any voter who wants to secure their voter registration by cancelling their old one when they move out of state,” said Raffensperger. “It will also help keep Georgia’s voter registration database up-to-date without having to rely on postcards being sent and returned by an increasingly inefficient postal system.”

Voters who wish to cancel their registration will simply access the site, enter their secret personal identifying information (such as Drivers License/ State ID # or Full/Partial SSN), and indicate that they wish to be removed from the list of registered voters. County voter registration officials will receive a notification through GARViS and remove the voter from the rolls.

Raffensperger added that he would be providing the secure link to closing attorneys and realtors in Georgia so that cancelling an out-of-date voter registration will be a part of the moving process. “Sound of Medicine” fundraiser for Rapha Clinic of West Georgia to be held Thursday, Sept. 26th at UWG

The Rapha Clinic of West Georgia, a local nonprofit, faith-based charity is proud to announce its 10th Annual “Sound of Medicine” concert and fundraiser will return on September 26, 2024 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton. This fun-filled

evening features physicians, healthcare providers (and their family members) who perform quality medicine during the day and perform incredible music after hours. Created by Medical Director Dr. Amy Eubanks, the annual “Sound of Medicine” concert is an opportunity to enjoy inspiring performances while raising much-needed funds that allow Rapha Clinic to continue its mission of providing health and dental care to uninsured citizens of West Georgia.

Eubanks said, “The financial support we receive ensures that the Rapha Clinic can continue providing necessary medical and dental care for our neighbors who do not have health insurance.”

The event will include a catered meal, a silent auction, and much more. Performances are by a variety of local acts.

Guests can arrive at any point in the evening and enjoy this unique event. Featured performers include but are not limited to: Carroll County Wind Ensemble featuring Dr. Jonathan Goodin; Bishop Sam Sauls, Rapha board member; McPherson Street featuring Dr. Amy Eubanks; Dakota Dodge Band featuring Dr. Howard Seeman.

To donate or sponsor the event please visit, https://secure.givelively.org/donate/rapha-clinicof-west-georgia/10th-annual-sound-of-medicine.

To purchase individual and student tickets: https://secure.givelively.org/event/raphaclinic-of-west-georgia/10th-annual-sound-ofmedicine/10th-annual-sound-of-medicine-2024.

Event sponsorships are also available: $150 to $5,000. To make a donation or for more information: 770-562-4501 or www.raphaclinic. org.

In addition, the organization offers a year-long sponsorship program celebrating sponsors during all annual fundraising events.

The Rapha Clinic of West Georgia is a faithbased, non-profit, charitable ministry serving uninsured adults in West Georgia (Carroll, Douglas, Haralson, Heard, and Paulding counties) since 2010.

The Blue Group

Rotary Club of Carrollton is seeking YOU for the annual West GA’s Talent Competition

by Wayne J. Reynolds

Think you have a special performing arts talent that you would like to share? Make sure you sign up for the 3rd Annual Rotary’s West GA’s Talent Competition which is scheduled for Saturday, October 26 at 7 p.m.

“This annual fundraiser supports the Rotary Club of Carrollton’s ongoing mission of service above self,” explained Rotary Club president Ed Ward. “This year, we plan to utilize funds to support those impacted with Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders by donating funds to the Fulford & Friends Endowed Chair of Neurology.

“I am passionate about this cause as my own father passed from Parkinson’s July 18, 2016. The Fulford family lost Ray Fulford to Parkinson’s February 14, 2021. And almost 90% of us are impacted in some way from neurological diseases and trauma.”

“This wonderful annual event is the brainchild of our past president Scott Robison who lost both of his parents during covid and he wanted to honor them,” added show producer and emcee Patrick Yuran. “This year our goal is raise $46,000 to benefit our local charities, including the Fulford & Friends Endowed Chair. For the five years starting with the first show that Scott originated, we hope to raise $250,000 to benefit our community!”

Ward said the goal is for this fundraiser to become an ongoing signature event of Rotary of Carrollton, which is 85 members strong.

This fun fundraiser is based on the national TV show America’s Got Talent.

“Unlike many other undraisers, this is a family friendly event that the whole family can enjoy. We believe this event has an impact way beyond fundraising,” Yuran exclaimed. “It shows our youth and the next generation of Rotarians what a lifetime of service means, community involvement, stewardship, and outlet for talent are just some of the benefits.”

For those interested in participating, here is how you can showcase your talent. First, register and send a 2 minute video of your talent to westgatalent.com.

The video must be unedited, there are no age or talent

restrictions. There is no fee. Deadline to register and submit video is noon, Friday, September 20th.

Once the judging panels have reviewed all videos, finalists will be notified and invited to perform their talent on the live show October 26th.

If you are selected, there is a registration fee of $25 which is tax deductible with money is donated to charity. The live show will be similar in format to America’s Got Talent with judges providing feedback and the audience in person and on the live feed, contestants, and alumni will be selecting winners.

Four winners will be selected. The “Judges Pick” winner has the Grand Prize is $1000. “Contestant’s Pick” is the runner-up winning $500. “Audience Pick” will take home $250. “Alumni Pick” also receives $250.

“And you can enter from all over the world and vote from all over the world,” Ward added. “Previous contestant the Atlanta Drum Academy went on to perform on America’s Got Talent and received the Golden Buzzer!”

Rotary needs your help for it to be successful. Through many businesses and individuals’ generosity Rotary’s goal is to raise that $46,000. You can choose the level of sponsorship donation you feel comfortable with. Information packets are available at westgatalent.com or you can emailEd Ward at Edward@ acrisure.com or Patrick Yuran at patrickyuran@oakmountain.

For additional information, please visit https://www. carrolltonrotary.com

The Rotary of Carrollton’s West GAs Talent Competition will be held October 26th at 7 p.m. in the University of West Georgia Ballroom. The event this year is sponsored by The Real Theatre and the University of West Georgia.

But, Ward and Yuran remind everyone that your talent and donation is needed, too!

County school board: teacher salaries largest expenditure at $145.5M followed by distant second at $26.9M for Facilities & Construction

by Janice Daniel

Carroll County Board of Education met Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. fora regular monthly meeting.

Delene Wolfe gave the final presentation of the FY25 Budget. She said the county school system will have 16,500 students and 2,500 adults, which represents a third year of abnormal growth. She said there were raises for teachers and other employees, investments for safety and security, including cyber security, and ongoing investment in technology devices for students, as well as new buses. The new Operations Center costs were reduced by $2,000,000 based on timing for expenditures. The new numbers presented to the board for final adoption were:

General Fund $197.3 million Revenues

General Fund $198.2 million Expenditures

Government Funds $250.6 million Revenues

Government Funds $266.1 million Expenditures

Teacher salaries are by far the largest expenditure at $145.5 million with Facilities & Construction a distant second at $26.9 million. Maintenance & Operation is at $16.8 million, and school

administration at $15.3 million, Student Transportation at $12.6 million and School Nutrition at $12.2 million.

The ESSER revenue from the Federal government due to covid will be fully absorbed by the end of the FY2025 school year.

This Budget for FY2025 was adopted by the board 7-0. Vice Chair Sandra Morris remarked that Carroll County is fortunate to have SPLOST revenues. She said many school systems are struggling because they don’t have income from SPLOST, and she urged the other board members and all citizens watching to support and publicise that.

Consent Agenda was adopted 7-0.

After executive session, board voted to approve the personnel actions recommended by Superintendent Scott Cowart.

Board Member Bernice Brooks said that the board desires to purchase Parcel #B070110041 in Villa Rica at a cost of $223,000 plus closing, which was approved unanimously.

Dr. Brooks was also at the Villa Rica July meeting to inform them of this decision.

The meeting was then adjourned.

Ed Ward

Patrick Yuran

Third generation farmers on a 150 acre farm in Bowdon own and operate a meat processing plant that provides direct sale to the public

by Wayne J. Reynolds

“Back in 2015, my granddaddy Marlin Whitman along with my father Mark, Uncle Gerald, and the family decided to switch over from being a dairy farm to raising black Angus cattle after dairy prices plummeted. In 2016, we became a USDA federally inspected meat processing plant,” said Nick Whitman of Farmer’s Pride Processing LLC. “When my granddaddy retired and my father and uncle didn’t want to continue with the business, my wife Laura and I took it over.”

With that life changing business decision, Nick and Laura Whitman became third generation farmers in Carroll County. The average age of a farmer today at late 50s to 60s, so Laura and Nick are the exception to that rule.

Nick shared that he and Laura wanted to help local farmers and encouraging feelings of pride in their industry, which is how they came up with the name “Farmer’s Pride” for the processing business. They wanted to show area farmers the finished product of their hard work that it took into raising cattle, pigs, lambs, and goats. The pride that is experienced by producing and providing high quality meat that was raised right on their farm.

Laura and Nick raise black Angus cattle on a 150 acre farm in Carroll County. They typically have 50 to 60 head at any given time. “We are located between Bowdon and the Alabama line,” Laura adds. “So, we are a little out of the way, but if you wish to have a cow processed for your own use, you can come and actually pick out the cow for slaughter to get exactly what you want. When you purchase from a grocery store, you are also paying for water weight and additives. Here you are paying for just pure beef that can be processed to your needs – and with no hormones added. We had one customer who bought two pounds of beef at the grocery store and one pound from us, and discovered that, after cooking, there was more from our one pound than their two pounds.”

inspected or custom processing. All meat is vacuum sealed to provide lasting freshness.

What does USDA inspected mean? The Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) requires that all meat sold

commercially be inspected and passed to ensure that it is safe, wholesome, and properly labeled. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is responsible for providing this inspection. The FMIA requires inspection for any product intended for human consumption, wholly or in part, from the carcass or parts of any cattle, sheep, swine, and goat. These animals, defined as “livestock” in the regulations, must be slaughtered and processed under Federal inspection, and the meat food products must be inspected and passed for human consumption.

“Right now, we are booked through the first of the year,” Nick commented. “We have regular customers which we are so appreciative of! But we do allow for special orders. Regular customers drop off their pigs, lambs, and goats Sunday mornings with slaughtering on Monday. The meat is then hung for drying for two to three days, depending, and are processed the same week. Beef is hung for two weeks before processing.”

The process of dry-aging allows natural enzymatic and biochemical processes to occur, leading to improved tenderness and the development of a unique flavor that can only be described as dry-aged beef/pork. The process involves slowly drawing moisture out of the beef allowing enzymes to break down muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Beef is dry-aged 2 weeks but pork for only 2 to 3 days.

All if their beef is raised locally on their farm in Bowdon. The Whitmans specialize in raising certified Black Angus beef. . . pork comes from another local

Farmer’s Pride specializes in the processing of cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. Their main goal is to provide high quality products to their customers. They provide the choice of federally USDA

Not only do they process for their customers, Farmer’s Pride also processes beef and pork for sale to the public. All of their beef is raised locally on their farm in Bowdon. The Whitmans specialize in raising certified Black Angus beef to provide you will the best tasting beef for you and your family. They offer the ability to buy whole cows or half of a cow as well.

Their pork comes from another local farmer who takes pride in providing the “best tasting pork you’ve ever eaten”. This farmer is located in Waco, 15 minutes northwest of the Farmer’s Pride plant.

“We suggest you call before you come and see what we have for available,” Laura suggests. “Typically, we try to keep beef and pork in stock but we do sell out from time to time. But, if you can order at least two weeks ahead of time, we will get one processed.”

This family operated business takes great employees, four of them since they started for over a year. “We could not ask for better have booked through the first of the year, even added another freezer. We have flexibility.”

“If you choose to have a cow slaughtered, guide you through the process to benefit your this particular cut, you might get less in another experience simple to understand,” Nick added,

All of the animals are humanely killed. USDA inspected, as Laura explained, “The are those the customer states are not for resale A USDA inspector visits the Farmer’s Pride through Friday (sometime between 6:30 a.m. They have customers from everywhere When one pig farmer moved to Florida, he for processing with his pigs in tow. Nick and worldwide.

Farmers Pride is open Monday through morning 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.; 2181 High Point 770-328-1379, on their Facebook page, or gmail.com

Laura and Nick Whitman of Farmer’s Pride third generation Carroll County farmers

USDA inspects the Farmer’s Pride plant daily. All animals

Highlighting the Enduring Impact of Our Farming Communities

great pride in what they do. They have six started the processing operation and the two better employees,” Nick adds. “Although we we can always schedule more. We have flexibility.”

slaughtered, you can rely on our experience to your needs. For example, if you want another area. We try to make the buying added,

Approximately 97% of the animals are “The only animals that are not inspected resale and are for their personal use only.”

Pride plant each and every day Monday a.m. to 3:30 p.m.).

who bring their animals for processing. he traveled back to Farmer’s Pride and Laura have customers who ship through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday Point Road, Bowdon. You can contact them at or by emailing at farmersprideprocessing@

UGA’s

45-year-old volunteer program has 74 members in the local association: Carroll County Master Gardeners

by Wayne J. Reynolds

Perhaps you have heard of the Carroll County Master Gardeners Association (CCMGA) through the famous Mother’s Day plant sale or their sponsorship of the Buffalo Creek Fall Festival? Would it be something of interest to you? This year, 2024, marks the 45th birthday of the Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program which is a part of the University of Georgia Extension. Current membership of the Carroll County association is 74 citizens, with members of people of all ages and walks of life. CCMGA president Neville Brewer and vice president/educator director Elaine DeMarce recently shared some interesting aspects of being a member.

DeMarce said with a laugh, “Well, you get to play in the dirt!”

Brewer said, “Master Gardeners serve the community so they can use their garden and lawn more efficiently and effectively.”

“You take a class and, in effect, get in a college level 101 class on plant biology, pathology, diseases, pests - so you really get a valuable education you can use every day, “ DeMarce explained. “And you, in turn, pass their information on to the public. We also suggest you get a soil test now in the fall so you know what soil amendments it may need for this spring for your lawn, plants, and trees to prosper. You don’t know what your problems are until you know what your dirt says and needs. You can drop off a soil test at the Extension office at the Carroll County Agricultural Education Center, 900 Newnan Road, Carrollton. Tests are then shipped to the UGA labs in Athens.”

Brewer said, “The Masters’ Gardeners is a part of the University of Georgia Extension and is all over the United States. This year, 2024, marks the 45th birthday of the Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program, and we celebrated in June. Master Gardeners concentrate on the residential side while the agricultural agent concentrates on the commercial/ farming side.”

The purpose of the Master Gardeners program is to train volunteers to complement, enhance, and support the educational efforts of the local UGA Extension office. As such, the Carroll County Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program is a selective process. In order to be considered for the volunteer training program, you must first fill out all forms and applications, submit a check for training fees (refundable if not selected) and complete an interview. If selected to be a Master Gardener Extension Volunteer trainee, you will be required to complete a background check, attend all training classes and programs, and volunteer 50 hours within twelve months after graduation.

The next training program accepting applications will be in the winter of 2025. Applications will begin being accepted this fall (2024). “It is a three month course. We serve residents in Carroll County. The course is thorough,” Brewer commented.

“We also offer speakers and special programs on topics such as house plants, and in October on bonsai and in February on Veggies 101.”

The purpose of the Master Gardeners program is to train volunteers to complement, enhance, and support the educational efforts of the local UGA Extension office.

“Another aspect of Master Gardeners is fundraising so we can offer scholarships. At the Mother’s Day Plant Sale - which we host every year - we usually have 200 to 300 hundred people lining up waiting for the doors to open and with over 3000 in total attending.” The sale presents plants ffrom the Master Gardeners, as well as local nurseries and greenhouses.

“Master Gardeners offers five to six scholarships to local students for college who are studying horticulture. They are local kids but they could be going to college anywhere. We also provide grants to local schools and organizations for their needs as well.”

The Carroll County Master Gardeners are involved in three day “Camp Dirty Knees” for children. Class spots filled up in one day this year! 45 children were engaged in several different activities. The Master Gardeners are involved with the Junior Masters Gardeners which meets once a week at Ithaca Elementary School and once a month at the agricultural education center. They host “Art in the Garden” where the local schools will provide exhibits which are free to the public and the vendors.

The Carroll County Master Gardeners are currently beginning a fundraising campaign to have their own greenhouse which would be located in the Demonstration Gardens which also has many historical buildings. It is located on the agricultural education center near the 911 Center. The Master Gardeners work on the gardens every Tuesday.

The Carroll County Master Gardeners will be holding the Fourth Annual Buffalo Creek Fall Festival on Saturday, September 7th 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. This is a free community event

The Carroll County Master Gardeners will be holding the Fourth Annual Buffalo Creek Fall Festival on Saturday, September 7th 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. This year’s event will be under the cover of the building, both inside and in the barn area. This is a free community event.

“There will be from 100 to 120 vendors,” DeMarce says. “Although there will be plants, it is an arts and crafts event leading up to the holiday season. There will also be some non-profit organizations as well.”

“Our current membership, which includes Friends of Master Gardeners, is 74,” DeMarce adds. “Our group is a wide spectrum of people of all ages and backgrounds Just to give you an idea of how hard this group works, we logged in a total of 5898 volunteer hours, which averages close to 80 hours per volunteer.

For more information please contact the Extension office 770-836-8546 or ccmg@uga.edu or www.carrollcountymastergardeners.com, 900 Newnan Road in Carrollton just off the bypass. Office hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Here at Carroll County Farm Bureau, we advocate for our local and state farmers and their right to participate in the CUVA and GATE card programs. In addition, we go into our local classrooms and libraries to teach children where their food and fiber comes from.

If you would like to help us with our mission, please consider becoming a member at just $35 a year! That is only 67¢ a day - you can call to sign up in no time

As a member, you can enjoy many perks and discounts all while helping our farmers feed us. Please come visit us to get your Passport booklet as well where you can visit numerous Certified Farm Markets. Our passport booklet has maps and listings of Certified Markets you can visit to get your book stamped to win prizes! This is a great way to introduce your kiddos to farms and give them something to do during the summer! For more information, give Jennifer Dixson a call at our local office at 770-832-9089

Carroll County Home Grown Highlight SponsoredBy:

2024 Carroll County 4-H Livestock Camp.... The Future of Carroll County Agriculture

animals are humanely slaughtered.

Neville Brewer

Elaine DeMarce

“The Biden Administration has used executive orders, regulatory actions, and administrative decisions to steer large volumes of taxpayer-funded resources to radical ideological causes and to impose greater federal control over the nation and the economy. Although Congress has enabled some of these actions by broadly delegating authority to the executive branch, the Biden Administration has circumvented or outright violated federal laws to pursue its agenda.”

David Ditch Heritage Foundation

Funding Leftism, Making Power Grabs

In Memory of Bill Chappell by his GT betas

Violations: Observed in front reach-in cooler raw shelled eggs stored next to

Observed in reach-incooler shredded cheese stored next to pooled eggs and raw hamburgers. Observed ranch

stored on top of raw chicken boxes. Observed drink machine in dining room with heavy black build-up present inside drink nozzles and ice dispenser.

7/09/2024:The Bridge Carrollton Academy 259 Tom Reeve Drive Carrollton 100

7/31/2024: Millstone Townhomes 233 Hays Mill Road Carrollton 100 Satisfactory

7/09/2024: Bellamy 333 Foster Street Carrollton 99 Satisfactory

7/30/2024: Oak Mountain Championship Golf 409 Birkdale BLVD Carrollton 95 Satisfactory

7/26/2024: Westwoods 1321 Lovvorn Road Carrollton 94 Satisfactory

7/02/2024: The Reserve at Carrollton 912 Lovvorn Road Carrollton 80 Unsatisfactory

Violations: Observed fencing missing bar allowing gap greater than 4 inches. pH measured at 8.0. Observed chlorine tablets in skimmer baskets due to manual pool treatment. Observed no daily logs for pool maintenance; pool chemicals should be tested at least twice a day.

7/10/2024: Hickory Falls Apartments 801 NE Hickory Level Road Villa Rica 79 Unsatisfactory

Violations: Free chlorine measured at 0 ppm. Observed sand filter leaking at the bottom. Observed inadequate flow rate measured at 13.3 hrs/flow meter must be reading approximately 111 gpm.Shower not working at time of inspection.

7/09/2024: Bay Springs Academy 501 Bay View Drive Villa Rica 77 Unsatisfactory

Violations: Free chlorine measured at 0 ppm. 911 sign missing for emergency phone. Shower broken. Pool daily records must be logged twice daily. Expired test kit.

7/01/2024: River Pointe Apartments 915 Lovvorn Road Carrollton 76 Unsatisfactory

Violations: Observed pH measuring at 8.0. Repair rail by main entrance. Observed trash present in deck area. Keep daily logs up to date. Check pool chemicals twice daily and record in log sheet for future records.

7/15/2024: Hotel Casa 180 Centennial Road Carrollton 75 Unsatisfactory

Violations: Free chlorine rate higher than 10 ppm. Calculated turnover rate at 8.6 hours. No daily logs to date for testing pool chemicals.

Carrollton council adopts resolution to bring all city facilities into compliance with American with Disabilities Act; also approves rezoning for a new Chick-fil-A restaurant on Hwy. 27 north

by Janice Daniel

Mayor & City Council of Carrollton held their regular monthly meeting Monday, July 8, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. All members were present.

Mayor Betty Cason opened the meeting by leading the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Invocation was offered by Rev. Edward Landrum of Moore’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Carrollton.

There was a rezoning request for 1302 Highway 27 North, tax parcel C02 0460003, 1.888 acres, between the GMC dealership and the Church of Christ, by applicant Foresite Group LLC to rezone from C02 (General Commercial) to Non-Residential PD (Planned Development) in order to develop a Chick-fil-A restaurant.

The Planning Commission recommended approval along with two waivers:

1. The developer shall be granted relief from Section 4.02.02(B)(3) of the UDO to allow multiple parking aisles in front of the commercial building, and

2. The developer shall be granted relief from Section 4.02.02(B)(1) of the UDO to reduce the required 10-foot landscaping strip along the front property line down to 4 feet.

This request was approved by council unanimously.

The second rezoning request was from applicant Joel Contreras at 295 Wilson Drive, tax parcel C04 -0190040, .47 acres, from R-20 to R-10 in order to subdivide the lot and construct another single-family residence. Due to a split vote ,this request was sent to the council with no recommendation from the Planning Commission. The applicant stated he wants to build a second home for his wife’s sister.

Speaking in opposition to this request was citizen Jan Robinson, who said she lives right up the street from this property, and she thinks the applicant should plan and build within existing building rules just like everyone else in that zoning area. She said the residents want R-20 to remain the zone.

Citizen John Fletcher said this would set a terrible precedent and diminish property values in that area. He said, “Zoning changes can influence the future development and land use patterns in the city.”

Citizen Tom Wilson said that making changes in lot-size square footage may change property values, and is a threat to the quality of life in Ward 2.

Citizen Charity Dyer said the neighbors in that area don’t want houses that are close to each other, they want to keep it a family community rather than “tiny homes and riff raff”.

A Mr. Harris, who did not give his address, was in favor of the rezoning, because the applicant was “helping his family out.”

Ward 2 Council Member Brett Ledbetter said he has looked at the house on that particular lot and it is a very nice house. He said he agrees that there are a “lot of negatives” to changing zoning there, and the council agreed. The request was denied 5-0.

Mayor Cason then presented Resolution 102024 for adoption as the first ADA Transition Plan so that improvements can be made to bring all city facilities into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Internal inspection teams worked between January and April of 2024 to identify what the city will need to do to bring each identified facility into compliance. The city will prioritize these improvements alongside routine building maintenance based on budget and number of complaints.

The goal for completing all exterior improvement will be six (6) months from the date of adoption of this ADA Transition Plan. The total cost for all the improvements is estimated at $34,250. The resolution was approved by the council unanimousely.

Community Development Director Erica Studdard askedc ouncil to consider appointing someone to the Historic Preservation Commission to replace Kristi Garrett who has served two consecutive terms. Council voted to appoint Ed Fouts to fill this position with a term ending 5/1/27.

Meeting was then adjourned.

TTiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Shirley F. Alexander, age 71, born November 27, 1947, died Sunday, July 14, 2019

Cecil Taft Armstrong, Jr., age 64, born September 28, 1959, died July 28, 2024

Shirley F. Alexander, age 71, born November 27, 1947, died Sunday, July 14, 2019

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, born September 28, 1956, died Tuesday, July 9, 2019

William “Bill” Thomas Blankenship, age 83, born September 8, 1940, died June 12, 2024

Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Thursday, July 4, 2019

Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, born September 28, 1956, died Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Charles Christopher Bright, age 48, born May 21, 1976, died June 30, 2024

Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, born September 28, 1956, died Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, age 76, born June 05, 1943, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, July 22, 2019

John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, born August 18, 1965, died July 22, 2019

Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Charlie Goff, age 92, born May 24, 1932, died July 16, 2024

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

“Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 86, born August 3, 1932, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Anne Cubil Campbell, age 55, born December 8, 1968, died July 6, 2024

Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, age 76, born June 05, 1943, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Thursday, July 4, 2019

Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr.,

Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Larry Lee Hamrick, age 79, born October 16, 1944, died June 11, 2024

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Thursday, July 4, 2019

Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Thursday, July 4, 2019

Charlotte Ann Harris, age 79, born February 6, 1945, died June 21, 2024

Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born October 18, 1941, died Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, born August 18, 1965, died July 22, 2019

Dorothy Janis Camp, age 82, born December 21, 1941, died July 1, 2024

Eva Creech, age 62, born February 27, 1962, died July 12, 2024

Anna Marsella Fazio, age 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, age 89, born September 14, 1929, died Saturday, July 20, 2019

decor. Our facilities accommodate all types of funerals and memorials large and small, public or private. 548 Newnan Street Carrollton, GA 30117 Phone: (770) 832-7056 www.almonfuneralhome.com

Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Harold Edward “Eddie” Nixon, Jr., age 58, born February 19, 1966, died June 15, 2024

David Ronald Simpson, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 09, 2019

“Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 86, born August 3, 1932, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

“Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 86, born August 3, 1932, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Thomas Garland Herron, age 92, born July 22, 1931, died July 13, 2024

Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, July 22, 2019

Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age 70, born December 31, 1948, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, July 22, 2019

Margaret Wates Cutts, age 92, born April 20, 1932, died June 9, 2024

Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, age 89, born September 14, 1929, died Saturday, July 20, 2019

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Earl Wayne Carden, age 80, born October 29, 1938, died Friday, June 28, 2019

Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, died Monday, July 8, 2019

David Ronald Simpson, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 09, 2019

Marcia Lee O’Callaghan, age 78, born April 11, 1946, died June 23, 2024

Betty Ann Gillyard Pope, age 75, born June 29, 1949, died June 29, 2024

Zellie Fred Sprewell, age 94, born February 28, 1925, died Saturday, July 27, 2019

Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born October 18, 1941, died Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, July 22, 2019

Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born October 18, 1941, died Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Adelbert “Jim” Leonard McInteer, Jr., age 90, born June 20, 1934, died July 3, 2024

Anna Marsella Fazio, age 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Earl Wayne Carden, age 80, born October 29, 1938, died Friday, June 28, 2019

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

Carolina Stephanie Figueroa-Mora, age 29, born March 27, 1995, died July 25, 2024

Earl Wayne Carden, age 80, born October 29, 1938, died Friday, June 28, 2019

Margie Ruth Gerald, age 76, born September 20, 1947,

Richard Ray Merritt, age 68, born March 19, 1956, died June 25, 2024

David Ronald Simpson, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 09, 2019

Zellie Fred Sprewell, age 94, born February 28, 1925, died Saturday, July 27, 2019

Socorro Reyes Ramirez, age 89, born March 19, 1935, died July 25, 2024

Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, born September 18, 1978, died Sunday, July 21, 2019

Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age 70, born December 31, 1948, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Anna Marsella Fazio, age 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age 70, born December 31, 1948, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Johnny Phillip Morris, Sr., age 76, born April 2, 1948, died July 2, 2024

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, born August 06, 1939, died July 24, 2019

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Zellie Fred Sprewell, age 94, born February 28, 1925, died Saturday, July 27, 2019

Judy Faye Rutledge Rice, age 79, born September 13, 1944, died July 19, 2024

Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, born September 18, 1978, died Sunday, July 21, 2019

Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, age 58, died July 22, 2019

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, born September 18, 1978, died Sunday, July 21, 2019

Jeremy Ivan Rogers, age 23, born July 15, 2001, died July 28, 2024

Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, age 58, died July 22, 2019

Wallace Allen Worthan, age 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

Deborah Annette Meadows Mulder, age 64, born January 1, 1960, died June 22, 2024

Kevin Arthur Muldoon, age 69, born June 15, 1955,

Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, born August 06, 1939, died July 24, 2019

Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, age 58, died July 22, 2019

Jerry Kenneth Stephens, age 83, born April 11, 1941, died July 22, 2024

Wallace Allen Worthan, age 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019

Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, July 7, 2019

Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, born August 06, 1939, died July 24, 2019

Wallace Allen Worthan, age 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019

Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, July 7, 2019

Henlee Grace Everett Whitlow, age 3, born October 19, 2020, died July 14, 2024

Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, July 7, 2019

“The ability to cut the millage rate this much is a reflection of the work our board has done over the last several years to make smart investments in our facilities and our people,” said county schools Superintendent Scott Cowart. “We take good stewardship of our resources very seriously and look for ways to do more with what we have, and I think you see that reflected in our tax levy per learner.”

The board is expected to vote at its August 22 meeting to officially set the millage rate. Approving the full rollback rate has major impacts to the system budget that the board must weigh, Cowart said.

“Local taxpayers need to know that the state reduces its funding to Carroll County Schools when the property tax digest increases, so we will be seeing a decrease in state funding over the next two years,” Cowart said. “The state also reduces our funding because the board voted to lower the millage rate. Unfortunately, that’s how the system works.”

Compared with similar sized systems statewide, Carroll County is the 4th fastest growing district but has the 4th lowest tax digest per learner. This means the board must carefully balance property tax cuts and the reduced state funding that follows.

“Our system is a huge economic driver for our county,” Cowart said. “Not only are we educating students who will fill local jobs in a few short years, the great majority of our 2,000 employees live in our community, supporting local businesses and paying local taxes. We understand that and are careful to invest taxpayer resources back into our community.”

The BOE approved a FY2025 general fund budget of nearly $200 million on June 20 that includes a pay increase for both certified teachers and classified staff, replacement buses for the county fleet, technology improvements and about $1.5 million to complete phase one of the new operations center on the former site of the West MIL

Georgia Fairgrounds. Cowart said the operations center is an important step in centralizing transportation, maintenance, school nutrition and alternative programs in a single location with needed highway access.

Construction on the project is ongoing with crews focusing on the connection to the traffic light at the intersection of Bankhead Highway and Old Airport Road. Buses, large trucks and

other vehicles will be able to directly access the operations center via the traffic light.

Existing buildings at the old fairgrounds are being remodeled into shop and office buildings for the transportation department. New modular buildings are being constructed to house school nutrition and alternative programs.

Cowart said he anticipates operations transitioning to the new site throughout the fall

emester. “We are very appreciative to the board for their investment in students and our system infrastructure while providing relief to county taxpayers,” Cowart said. “We are thankful to live in a great community with many partners who understand the importance of working together.”

The Carroll County School System office is located at 164 Independence Drive, Carrollton, GA. 770-832-3568.

Danny’s Pressure Wash

Shown above are the Carroll County Board of Education members. Seated left to right: Vice Chair District 2 Sandra Morris; District 4 Lawana Knight; and District 1 Dr. Bernice Brooks. Standing left to right: Chairman District 7 Bryant Turner, District 3

Kerry Miller; District 5 Thomas Sizemore; and District 6 Bart Cater.

See CITY CHALLENGES page 5

Shepherd’s Corner

Edward Jones

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COMMENTARY

Staying true to what you believe to be true

Power grabs

“The Biden Administration has used executive orders, regulatory actions, and administrative decisions to steer large volumes of taxpayer-funded resources to radical ideological causes and to impose greater federal control over the nation and the economy. Although Congress has enabled some of these actions by broadly delegating authority to the executive branch’ the Biden Administration has also circumvented or outright violated federal laws in pursuit of its agenda.”

- David Ditch, Heritage Foundation, Funding Leftism, Making Power Grabs

TRAVIS PITTMAN

GEORGIA TECH Beta Theta Pi

Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The rapid accumulation of power by the federal system in general and particularly by the executive branch, has had many bad outcomes, most profoundly in the “winner-take-all” attitude of the presidential election.

policy were implemented on day one, not waiting for specific legislation. Even the New York Times columnist Ezra Klein coined the term “everythingbagel liberalism to describe this approach. This action has led to a large increase in costs to almost every area of government by adding a plethora of requirements and special interests from their activist groups. The left is playing their “Cultural Marxist” card by promoting the oppressor verses oppressed in a lot of these actions.

It’s been a steadfast, unwavering rule here for almost thirty years at the StarNews news desk (since 2010) and before that at The Carroll Star News news desk (19952009) that, as a true local and community-focused newspaper, our pages would never cede our precious space for coverage of national news. We are local. We cover local. If you want national, buy a national newspaper.

The purpose of the founding of our nation was to employ safety, liberty, and the right to private property for its citizens according to Constitution 101 at Hillsdale College. The federal system was designed to be limited to a handful of national policymaking responsibilities. There was a slow power takeover of the federal system that skyrocketed during during Jackson and Lincoln administration and again took off in the 20th century under

These problems have escalated again under President Joe Biden. This administration has taken an aggressive “whole of government” approach with novel and questionable leftist policy initiatives by the entire federal system all at once.

The Left’s ideological positions like climate change, race and identity issues, open-door immigration, and labor

Every president takes many actions by executive order, some valid in giving guidance and some obviously wrong which have to run through the lengthy court system to be stopped. Student loan forgiveness is a good example of the leftist game. Even though this policy was judged illegal by the Supreme Court, President Biden now uses the Higher Education Act of 1965 run by the Department of Education to get the money.

EDITOR/ PUBLISHER

I learned this valuable nugget of wise newspaper business practices in the spring of 1995 from my former boss T. Pat Cavanaugh, a longtime successful and now retired newspaper publisher. He made an unusual decision in response to the almost 24/7 news coverage of the O.J. Simpson trial that was dominating news media that spring: no more coverage of the trial in his local newspaper. Stop running Associated Press stories on the trial. No more. Pat had come to my office and asked me to design a box for the front page of that local newspaper. I did per Pat’s specs and the “NO More OJ” box ran on the front page every day for weeks and weeks. And there was no more coverage of O.J. in that newspaper. Unexpectedly, ironically, Pat got national coverage for his local decision. He was interviewed and spotlighted on national television! Many newspapers around the country ran stories on him. The Tampa Bay Times (April 19, 1995) story included a quote from Pat, “We choose to refrain from running the inane absurdities of the O.J. Simpson soap opera until the fat lady sings,” I was proud to be working for him.

But, in the past few weeks, the news of our country and the world has been deeply disturbing and to a degree that is new, and frightening, to me. So, today I deviate from my steadfast rule to strongly vent on national and world events:

Our president: Learning that our president is so mentally and physically feeble that he cannot adequately even participate in an interview or conversation, is frightening. Who is/has been making our national decisions, and for how long? Who has been filling in for President Joe Biden? His words are slurred. His body movements stilted. Is it true he has been this way for about two years? Is anyone looking out for him? So sad. Who has been running the country?? What is the truth?

Our past president: It was horrifying to watch on national television the assassination attempt on presidential candidate/past president Donald Trump. I felt so sad for the teenage gunman. What was he thinking? What happened to him during his short life to cause him to want to commit murder? Was it depression or mental illness issues? But, then a video was shown on national television that renders those thoughts moot. The teeanger was on the roof and fired his rifle, but a smart phone video clip shows the teenager get shot and fall down on the roof before Trump grabs his ear. Who shot Donald Trump?? What’s the truth here?

The summer Olympics in Paris. Christians worldwide were mocked and ridiculed by actors during the opening ceremomy. You know- nope. Never mind. I’m not going to give them any more space. Such lost, lost souls. They seem to be unaware of or perhaps in denial of the Truth, the Way of Jesus. Christians are taught to forgive. Christians are led to pray for those who come against them. We seem to be an easy group to target. Perhaps growing up, those lost souls did not have the opportunity to be a part of a local church and learn the simple Christian ideal of loving your neighbor? You know that the “church” is the congregation of people, not the constructed building. And, as such, the church works daily on the commitment to invite and encourage their neighbors to come visit, stay awhile, and fellowship to learn about the wonderful truths of the Gospels.

Old Pathway Baptist Church Homecoming Jubilee 2024: With that said, I invite you and yours to set aside some quality time during the week of Aug. 25 through Aug. 30 to come fellowship, listen to some old-fashioned sermons, and eat a good meal at the Old Pathway Baptist Church Homecoming Jubilee 2024: Sunday, August 25 at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 26 through Friday, Aug. 30 each night at 7 p.m. with supper before at 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Aug. 27 through Friday, Aug. 30 each morning at 10 a.m. with lunch afterwards. 508 Old Airport Road, Carrollton. 678-925-5314. It can get pretty ramped up at Homecoming! I hope I will see you then and there. (I will be bringing several of my famous apple cherry pies!) (See page 23 for more information.)

Language is weird. Within different conversations or contexts, we likely use a word to mean something slightly different than the dictionary meaning, and we don’t always think about how that might interfere with our ability to communicate. Arguing can be a good thing, a way to help us understand other points of view, but it doesn’t work that way if both sides don’t share the same definitions of the words we use.

So I’m diving into writing this column with words that I hope you’ll receive in the open-hearted spirit in which I’m offering them. I’m hoping that we can find a more expansive sense of a specific word that I think has been the victim of a lot of splatters of paint in colors it didn’t choose for itself.

So, who’s an “environmentalist”?

I’ve heard this word used to praise someone for recycling or to exclude someone who recycles but doesn’t also buy only organic foods. I’ve heard it used to condemn someone as a “tree hugger,” or to admire that same person for their love of the outdoors. People

A river in crisis

I think we can all agree it’s been hot. True, it is August and this is Georgia.

River Rambles SUE HORN EVANS

The upcoming election will likely be

You might be an “environmentalist” if . . .

See POWER GRABS page 23

CAROL BOYD

who hunt might be environmentalists taking the place of natural predators no longer in our area, or they might be murderers of defenseless animals. Or perhaps an environmentalist is specifically a scientist whose work doesn’t matter to me. Some people seem to believe that environmentalists are those holier than thou folks who say “no” to everything fun or convenient. And the list goes on…

The word “environmentalist” was first used in the Journal of Political Economy in 1903. It’s defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as “a person who is concerned with or advocates for the protection of the envi-

ronment.” That leaves a lot of room to color in, doesn’t it? First, we have to think about what “environment” means, the most basic definition being “the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates.” (Check out Wikipedia for some very cool photos and graphics that tell you a lot more about today’s common usages.)

Some languages don’t even have a word for the environment because their cultures assume that people are not, in fact, separate from their surroundings.

I remember when Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” was published in 1962, which many credit with kicking off the modern environmental movement. I remember the oily pollution on the Cuyahoga River being on fire for at least the 13th time in 1969. I remember when President Richard Nixon, for whom my parents voted, established the Environmental Protection Agency in 1970, with the first Earth Day being celebrated in April of that year. So I’ve

See YOU MIGHT BE... page 22

We’re fortunate to have had rain when so much of the country is parched. As I write this, the Chattachoochee River is high and red-brown muddy, while the creek in the floodplain is swollen, turbid, and slow. The combination of heat and water is growing the grass much too quickly, and there are other signs that these prolonged high temperatures are altering nature’s familiar course.

Most disturbing is the absence of turtles on the rocks in the river along the shore opposite the cabin. When the water is low, the slabs gleam whitely against the brown current. On summer days the slabrock was always mottled with lounging turtles absorbing the sunlight, largely platter-sized river cooters whose humped greenish shells pile on one another like hard bubbles of foam.

Many days this summer there have been no turtles. I can only surmise

that it’s just too darn hot. Even for reptiles who need the sun to warm their cold blood, the reflective stone may generate more heat than their basking bodies can bear. A turtle’s internal temperature rests naturally in the low 70’s Fahrenheit, but that number will fall or rise depending on the temperature of their environment.

And the river itself may not be offering much relief this year. Collecting water samples for the Chattachoochee Riverkeeper, the water I’ve brought up recently is unusually warm, unrefreshingly warm, like bathwater in a sauna. Maybe this

summer the turtles are congregating at the bottom of the riverbed where hopefully the water still maintains its normally cool seasonal temps?

That led me to the question, do aquatic turtles drink water? Well, turns out they do. Just like us, too little water in their bodies will cause turtles to dehydrate. Clean drinking water is essential to their health as it is to ours. They drink the water they live in, much as we breathe air. According to herptologists - the people who study reptiles and amphibians - it’s hard to know if turtles are actually drinking or just opening their mouths and letting the water flow in. A nuanced distinction to be sure.

Unfortunately for the unsuspecting turtles (and many of us I fear), pollution from recent operational failures at the R.M. Clayton Water Reclamation Center in Clayton County has created spikes in harmful bacteria levels along the 60-mile

See RIVER RAMBLES page 23

SYBIL ROSEN THOMAS

The impact of Experiential Learning in Independent Schools

PATRICK YURAN

HEADMASTER

Oak Mountain Academy

Experiential learning, a pedagogical approach where students learn by engaging directly in hands-on, real-world experiences, has become increasingly prevalent in independent schools over recent years. This method shifts the focus from traditional classroom-based instruction to active, student-centered learning, where students gain knowledge and skills through experience and reflection. The evolution of experiential learning has been driven by advancements in educational technology, a greater understanding of learning processes, and a growing recognition of the need to prepare students for a complex, rapidly changing world.

Historically, experiential learning can be traced back to educational philosophers like John Dewey, who emphasized learning through experience as a fundamental aspect of education. However, it is in recent years that this approach has seen significant evolution, particularly within independent schools, known for our flexibility in curriculum design and innovative teaching methods.

One of the most significant changes in experiential learning has been the integration

Transformation

ELVIN X. KEITH

Millennials Christian Ministry (MCM)

The New Oxford American Dictionary defines the word Transformation as “a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance”.

I cannot think of a better word to describe what happened to our guest for this column’s interview: Minister Terrell Jones of World Changers Church International of College Park, GA.

You’re about to read about a man who was walking down a path of drug abuse, hopelessness, despair, and, at times, homelessness, who God picked up by His loving Grace turned him around on a 180-degree angle so he could begin walking down a path of victory, dignity, humble selfrespect, and the knowing of a Heavenly Father Who loves him unconditionally - which gave him the confidence to walk with his head held high, leaving the past in his rear-view mirror.

You will witness how God brought to pass the scripture in Romans 12:2 (NLT) in Minister Terrell Jones’ life, which states: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

The following are the highlights of an interview I recently had with Minister Jones concerning his life story. Trust me, you will be blessed by reading this interview.

Question: Minister Terrell, could you give me a little of your life story that you shared with everyone in the church, please?

Minister Jones: Sure, I come from a family of five children. I have a brother and three sisters. We lived in the projects (affordable government housing) in Pittsburgh, PA. My mother was a

of technology. Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies allow students to experience simulations of historical events, scientific processes, or even complex mathematical concepts. This immersion facilitates a deeper understanding that is often difficult to achieve through traditional methods. Online platforms and digital tools also enable collaborative projects that connect students across geographical boundaries, enhancing global awareness and cultural understanding.

Project-based learning has also become one of the cornerstones of experiential learning. This approach involves students working on projects over extended periods, often culminating in presentations or tangible products. These projects are typically interdisciplinary, encouraging students to draw connections between different subjects. PBL fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management skills, as students are often required to research, plan, and execute their projects independently or in groups.

Another significant development is the incorporation of service learning and community engagement into the curriculum. These programs encourage students to apply their knowledge and skills to address real-world issues, promoting civic responsibility and empathy. For example, students might work on environmental conservation projects, tutor peers or younger students, or engage in local government initiatives. Such experiences not only enhance learning but also help students develop a sense of purpose and social responsibility.

Independent schools have increasingly em-

street legend. She was a booster and hustler. She was involved with people from the mob. Backing up a little—when my sister and I were born, we had so many traces of heroin and cocaine in our system that, according to my aunt, the doctor who delivered us stated that we were lucky to be alive.

When I was a child, I remember the story of some people who came to our house looking to get drug money from my mom that she owed. They asked my mom, “Where is the money for the drugs?” She said she didn’t have any money.

One of the guys in the group said, “OK, we got to take something. We’re going to take Terrell, and when you give us the money you owe, we will give him back.” My aunt told us that our mom screamed at them, saying, “You can’t take my baby! You’ll get the money!” The men kidnapped me at that moment. They told her not to call the police. She called my family in St. Louis, Missouri.

All my family in St. Louis rushed to Pittsburgh. My family from St. Louis told my mom they would have to tell the police. The family and police conducted a citywide search for me. My aunt told me that the people she was with searching for me went to a restaurant later one evening after looking for me. My aunt saw me walking out of a nearby store with two men. She shouted out, ‘There goes Terrell! ‘ The police were able to get me back.

The [criminal] crew found out about my being returned to my mom. A few days later, this crew arranged for a taxicab to pick up my mom. The cab driver was one of them. The cab driver took my mom to a remote location where other group members were. My mom was taken out of the car and shot four times at point-blank range in the head.

After the death of my mother, my aunt took me and my siblings to St. Louis, Missouri, to live with her. Around this time, I was 10, maybe 12 years old. I was hanging out in the streets. One day, I robbed somebody. My aunt found out about it and turned me in to the police. I later began smoking marijuana and drinking alcohol at an early age. I was 12 years old when I ran away from my

braced outdoor and adventure education as a means of experiential learning. Activities such as hiking, camping, and team-building exercises in natural settings help students develop resilience, leadership skills, and a greater appreciation for the environment. This form of learning also promotes physical well-being and provides a break from the traditional classroom setting.

The shift towards experiential learning in independent schools has had numerous positive impacts on students, enhancing both their academic and personal development. This methodology makes education more engaging and relevant by connecting classroom content to real-world situations. This relevance often increases students’ intrinsic motivation, as they see the practical applications of their studies. For example, a science student conducting experiments in a real lab or a history student reenacting historical events can see the immediate impact of their learning.

Experiential learning cultivates essential life skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. These skills are crucial for success in higher education and the workforce. By engaging in projects that require decision-making and problem-solving, students learn to think critically and creatively. Collaborative projects and service learning also teach students how to work effectively in teams, communicate clearly, and negotiate differences.

Research has shown that experiential learning can lead to better retention and understanding of information. When students are actively involved in their learning process, they are more likely to retain information and understand complex

aunt’s house after she disciplined me for my bad behavior. I joined a street gang because I didn’t want to go back home.

I joined the 19th Street Crip Gang. I was looking for love. I saw people shot and stabbed while I was in the gang. We would go to this particular club, and we got into a fight with a rival gang. The police arrested me for my involvement in the criminal activity. I was sent to a boys’ home when I was 14 years old.

I left the boys’ home sometime a couple of years later. Cocaine was a regular obsession for me. I needed to come down from the high I was feeling. Someone suggested I try heroin to come down. I tried it and became instantly hooked. I was doing a gram a day. At this time, I was doing PCP, crack, and meth, among other drugs. I was sometimes robbing people to get money to maintain my habit. I was homeless after being kicked out of my girlfriend’s house. I’ve slept in the backs of cars, residential garages, garbage dumps, etc.

Question: You said that you didn’t know your father, right?

Minister Terrell: I saw his name on my birth certificate. I know his name.

I got a job as a butcher around this time. I regularly came to work high on heroin. One day, I cut my finger off while I was doing my job; I was high on heroin then. I didn’t even feel it being cut off. I went to the hospital for my finger situation. By this time, I went to see a lawyer. The lawyer got me a payout check for my injury on the job. I moved back to my child’s mother’s house. The first thing I did with my money was to buy an ounce of heroin. Little did I know that the guy I bought the heroin from was setting me up.

I went back home. My son and his cousin were with me. I left them in the car while I went inside (they were young children at this time). When I came to the door, two masked men had my son and his cousin at gunpoint, and another masked man had me at gunpoint.

The man who had me at gunpoint said, “Give it up, give it up.” I saw he had a revolver, and he pulled the trigger. When he pulled the trigger, it jammed. So, he tried pulling the trigger two more

concepts. This deep learning is facilitated by the opportunity to apply knowledge in practical contexts, which reinforces the material.

Experiential learning often challenges students to step outside their comfort zones, whether through public speaking, tackling complex projects, or engaging with unfamiliar environments and people. These experiences can significantly boost self-confidence and personal growth. Students learn to navigate uncertainty, overcome challenges, and take ownership of their learning, all of which are critical skills for personal and academic success.

Experiential learning environments often promote social and emotional learning, which is critical for students’ overall well-being. Activities that involve collaboration, leadership, and service help students develop empathy, emotional regulation, and a sense of community. These skills are increasingly recognized as vital for success in life, helping students manage stress, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions.

The evolution of experiential learning in independent schools has brought about profound changes in how education is delivered and received. By focusing on hands-on, real-world experiences, this approach enhances student engagement, fosters critical skills, and supports personal and social development.

As the educational landscape continues to evolve, experiential learning stands out as a powerful method for preparing students for the complexities of the modern world, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to succeed both academically and personally.

times, and it still wouldn’t go off. When he was having trouble with the gun, he began looking over the gun to see what the problem was. That brief stall allowed me to close the door in front of the guy with the gun. I ran around the house to where the kids were to check on them. I saw the three guys running away.

A few weeks later, a friend of mine and I tried some heroin laced with fentanyl. This was back in the early 2000s. One moment, I was doing drugs with my friend; the next moment, I woke up and saw my friend beating on my chest. My friend said I blacked out, and he began pounding on my chest to revive me. This episode and a few others got my attention as to why I needed Christ in my life.

I moved to my sister’s house in Atlanta. I began the painful process of letting my body withdraw from the drugs. It took four months, and that was the most painful experience I had ever gone through. Several months later, I began doing drugs again. I became financially broke and homeless again. I moved back to St. Louis to stay with my sister, who had moved there. My sister’s boyfriend asked me if I had ever watched Creflo Dollar? I said, ‘Naw.’ You got to realize I was broke. I had warrants for my arrest in several cities. I was depressed. God allowed me to come to the end of myself to get my attention.

I was watching Pastor Dollar teach about Grace on television, and I said, “Wow!”

I watched that pastor for two weeks. I simply fell on my knees in my sister’s basement and said, ‘Lord, my life is a disaster. Help me, save me. Right now, I receive your Son as my Lord—help me, save me.’

I tell you, I know a Transformation happened. I was so happy! I felt something that I had never felt before. God told me to leave St. Louis and go back to Atlanta for the purpose of joining WCCI. Concluding remarks: Minister Jones joined World Changers Church International.He is earning a six figure income. He’s in great shape through regular exercise. God truly Transformed his life.

He - God - can do the same for you.

RED O’NEAL FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Are you afraid of outliving your money?

In the first place, if you have this type of fear, you’re far from alone. Consider this: 58% of retirement savers from all age groups, including current retirees, say that outliving their assets is their greatest retirement fear, according to a study by Cerulli Associates, a financial services research organization.

Do you worry about running out of money during your retirement years? If so, how can you help prevent this from happening?

This type of fear can certainly affect your quality of life when you retire. Still, there’s no need to panic – because you can take steps to help prevent the running-out-of-money scenario.

Carroll County MARRIAGE LICENSES JULY 1-31, 2024

Here are a few to consider: Know how much you’ll need during retirement. You need to get a clear picture, or at least as good an estimate as possible, of how much money you’ll need to support your retirement lifestyle. Once you do retire, some costs, such as transportation or other work-related expenses, might go down, while others – medical expenses, in particular – will likely go up. The fear of running out of money, like many fears, is caused largely by what you don’t know, so having a good

sense of how much you’ll need in retirement can help reduce your anxieties.

Build financial resources before retirement. You’re probably at your peak earning capacity in the years close to your retirement, so consider contributing as much as you can afford to your IRA and 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Maximize your Social Security payments. You can start collecting Social Security as early as 62, but your monthly benefits will be larger if you can afford to wait until your full retirement age, between 66 and 67. (Payments will “max out” at age 70.)

Re-enter the workforce. Going back to work in some capacity is one way to possibly help build retirement resources and delay taking Social Security. If you have a particular area of expertise, and you enjoyed the work you did, you might be able to go back to it on a part-time basis or do some consulting. You could boost your cash flow, and potentially extend your contributions to an IRA and to an employer’s retirement plan.

Cut costs during retirement. Possibly the biggest cost-cutting measure is downsizing – are you willing and able to move to a less expensive area or scale down your current living space? Of course, this is an emotional decision, as well as a financial one, and downsizing isn’t for everyone, but it might be something to at least consider. As for the lesser ways of reducing expenses, take advantage of senior discounts, which are offered in many areas, including entertainment, public transportation, restaurants and retail establishments. And look for other opportunities, such as cutting out streaming services you don’t use.

Look for more income from your investments. As you get closer to retirement, and even when you do retire, you might want to adjust your investment portfolio to provide you with more income-producing opportunities. However, even as a retiree, you’ll want some growth potential in your investments to help keep you ahead of inflation.

Ultimately, the more you can bolster your financial security before and during retirement, the less fear you may have of outliving your money.

Fred O’Neal is a financial advisor. 410 College Street,C arrollton, Ga 770-832-2141. Article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisors.

Carroll County

PISTOL PERMIT APPLICATIONS

Number of Weapons Carry Permits applied for during the month of JULY 2024: 166

Total population as of AUGUST 1, 2024: Carroll County PRISON POPULATION

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

Carroll County

JAIL POPULATION

Jack T. Bell Detention Center 1000 Newnan Road, Carrollton

Total population as of AUGUST 1, 2024: Males: 398 Females: 99

Carroll County BIRTHS

JULY 2024

Tanner Medical Center CARROLLTON: FEMALES: 65 MALES: 54

Tanner Medical Center VILLA RICA: FEMALES: 37 MALES: 32

Carroll County

CATTLE RECEIPTS

July 15, 2024: 654

July 22, 2024: 500

July 29, 2024: 539

Villa Rica council struggles with unruly audience at one of Tom Barber’s last public meetings

by Janice Daniel

After more than an hour of riled-up citizens accusing the Villa Rica City Council Members of varying degrees of everything ranging from “uncaring” to downright illegal practices, the time came for council to respond to the Public Comments at the June 11, 2024 regular meeting. This was one of the last public meetings with City Manager Tom Barber, who was later fired.

Council Member Anna McCoy said that she had a prepared statement, the first sentence being, “I’m big enough to admit when I’m wrong.” She had made a promise in the May meeting to visit every home in her neighborhood and then branch out to other neighborhoods, trying to find out what people thought about various issues, but admitted she only got to a few homes in her own neighborhood and was “disappointed in myself”, but she did say that in regard to the homes she did visit, “no one had an opinion, but one question led to another” and each visit took longer than expected. She said she’s okay with having no sidewalks along Cleghorn and Anderson, but “the road is more complicated.” She said that things were done and approved in previous administrations and council has a realistic choice of facing a lot of Breach of Contract law suits due to those already signed agreements between the city and various other entities.

McCoy also said she went to a meeting at the funeral home in Cleghorn/Anderson area, and she was “disappointed in Mr. Barber.” “As I’ve said before, Mr. Barber should not be allowed to talk to the public.” McCoy said council members should take the time to try to understand their constituents, have boots-on-the-ground, “make sure we have the right information, and if we don’t, get it and follow-up with those who have questions.” She said she was willing to vote against the sidewalks if that’s what the residents of Cleghorn/ Anderson want, but “there is so much confusion. Tell us specifically what infrastructure do you want? It’s different things for different people.”

She also talked about the protests going on in the city in regard to the residents of Cleghorn/Anderson, and welcomed them to come to her house. Comments were being shouted from the audience as they were throughout most of McCoy’s statement. She did engage with some of them - different people, none of them at the microphone. The meeting was chaotic and out-of-control.

Mayor Leslie McPherson told the other council members they could not speak because they had given their time to McCoy, so none spoke at this time. Several did later in the meeting.

Consent Agenda from the work session was unanimously approved,.

Mayor McPherson said the road to connect the two parts of the city had been envisioned for 20 years. “Villa Rica people are good people,” she asserted. “This problem was not caused by the citizens. There are people of all races all over the city.” The Mayor also spoke for herself during her time on the city council, “I was honest and transparent. I resigned from the council and ran for mayor because I thought I could win and because only two people were running the city.

YOU MIGHT BE... from page 19 wrestled with these concepts for quite a whileand still do, in fact.

Most people who know me would consider me some degree of “environmentalist,” but I keep finding out more about the bigger picture and how I fit into it. I still discover that people make different decisions than I do for their own valid reasons. I would hope that most of us can appreciate the beauty of a sunset, the songs of the birds, the gift that is wildflowers growing for free, and so much more around us in our shared environment—a good place to start! I think we are lucky in Carroll County in many ways. We don’t have to worry about sea level rise overtaking our houses. We don’t have a heavily polluting industry fouling our air. Our city and county water utilities take the safety of our drinking water seriously.

There is chaos being caused by them still. It’s going to stop.” She promised, “They will come over our dead bodies to get eminent domain.” This statement was received by loud applause from the audience as she went on, “there are things that are costlier than money.”

White responded that Barber is being influenced by “his little bitty friend” and is therefore just a smokescreen between the former mayor (Gil McDougal) and council.

Two of the main problems not fully expressed in Public Comments was the basketball court in Cleghorn/Anderson, and the stakes that have been placed in people’s yard that come extremely close to their home itself. When these stakes were placed was the time when the residents there became extremely concerned about strangers coming on their land with no explanation and driving stakes into the ground in various places the residents had certainly not expected to take up so much of their property.

To address these issues, Mayor McPherson said, “We [the city] do not own the property where the basketball court is” and secondly, “I don’t know what the stakes mean - and I’m the mayor!” She made reference to “propaganda” in a sheaf of papers which she and council had received that they contended held a multitude of lies and incorrect information, but was unsigned. With passion rising, the mayor said, “We have been kept in the dark as a council to give transparency. None of us on the council have heard of this.”

It was not made clear if this document had been mailed to people or how people got it, or if it was only given to the mayor and council. Nothing was read from it at this meeting.

Council Member Shirley Marchman spoke up at this time. “When somebody [from my ward] asked me to do something, I always passed it on,” she said, such as the concept for a pavilion and play area for the children in Ward 1. “I’ve tried to do things for ‘our people’, but I do not look for personal glory for it.” She made the announcement: “I do not plan to run for council anymore. I’m eighty years old, and I think it’s time for some new blood. If you want to recall me, that’s your prerogative.” She continued, “I have asked at City Hall, and they said all the residents have said all they want is the new water line, the road paved, and to receive compensation for having to widen the road.” Later on in the meeting, the widening of five feet on each side was explained to mean the right-of-way.

Marchman continued, “Please don’t think I’m not trying to help ya’ll - us. I’ve done what I could. Now you need to be planning to find somebody and start getting them ready to serve. I ain’t done nothing crooked and I have been honest.”

All during Council Member Marchman’s comments there were shouts from the audience that could not be understood.

Mayor McPherson asked Marchman what she meant about the “concept of a pavilion and play area.” Marchman responded that she asked about it when the splash pads were added to the play area at the “other end of town” and was told there’s a little piece of land over there on Anderson “to do something for my people.” It is

We have local farmers’ markets and agriculture programs in our schools. While we do have our problems as well, it’s good to be aware of them so that we can work towards solutions. And it’s important to realize that we don’t live in a vacuum. Decisions we make can affect others beyond our county lines. How can we learn to be the best neighbors possible?

My hope is that you will wrestle with me over the upcoming months here in this commentary space in StarNews to add some depth to our collective understanding of the words we use in talking about the environment, to see if you might decide you’d like to include some positive environmental choices in your own lives, and how maybe, in fact, you are already a bit of an environmentalist.

(With thanks and apologies to Jeff Foxworthy)

assumed this little piece of land is owned by the city. Council Member Stephanioe Warmoth said she would love to know who prepared “this document,” speaking of the propaganda the mayor had referred to. “Everyone’s receiving something different,” she continued, “the residents, the council. The connector needs a different route because the golf cart path and sidewalks seem to be the point.”

Speaking directly to City Manager Tom Barber, Warmoth said, “You’ve seen the drone photos of the alternate route. This road will not work. The median in the middle will drastically change this entire community.”

All this time, comments were being shouted from the audience, but Warmoth went on,” The easements report given to the council says the easements have been discussed with the residents, but this is not true.”

At this point Barber spoke up and said the right-of-way is five feet on each side of the road, nothing to do with the easements. The water line is only on one side of the road, so each property will have different amounts of land for the rightof-way because the houses are different distances from the road.

At this point ,the mayor had almost no control of the meeting, between the council members trying to speak and the shouts from the audience.

There was then a conversation involving Council Member Matthew Momtahan and Barber. Momtahan said he had taken measurements at one area and it was 50 feet on each side of the road, 100 feet in total, and that was only one of many examples. Momtahan said he thinks the questions to be put to Barber or Mr. Teal need to be about whether or not the easements are temporary or permanent, “because even if you’re only replacing the water line, some temporary ease-

ment would be needed” for work equipment to be parked on residents’ property while work is not going on, or backing onto peoples’ property and the usual things that happen when a water line is being installed under or beside a road.”

At this point compensation for easements was mentioned and the meeting was totally out of control, more like a town meeting according to MayorMcPherson, “This is highly unusual for a council meeting.”

Momtahan asked if a Notice to Proceed on the water line date has been received, to which Barber replied, “no”. In the midst of the chaos, Momtahan asked if citizen Pamela White would come back to the microphone, to which McCoy said was okay because it was akin to an applicant presenting a case to council for zoning or variances.

Momtahan told White that he, as an attorney, is pro-property rights, but council has to depend on city staff to answer their questions. White responded that Barber is being influenced by “his little bitty friend” and is therefore just a smokescreen between the former mayor (Gil McDougal) and the council. Momtahan said he has no personal information to make him believe that Barber and McDougal are working together.

White had done her research: she brought up letters of support given to the former grant writer, and asked if council was aware that most of these people were paid by the city to write the letters? She seemed to have proof. The mayor tried to explain this process in grant writing and how using certain words like “disadvantaged” were only to help the city get grants that they were competing with other cities to get. White insisted she has copies of 14 letters of support that the City of Villa Rica gave contributions to. White said she had never wanted to give up land for sidewalks because of the principal of “how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time”. She feels once the residents of Cleghorn/Anderson start giving up their land, city will continue requiring more and more.

stretch of the Chattachoochee from Atlanta to Franklin, which includes Carroll County. Chattahoochee Riverkeeper advises boaters on the river to use caution, specifically to avoid submerging your body underwater (an option turtles don’t have), and also to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after contact with river water.

POWER GRABS from page 19 more about getting out the faithful to the polls than changing minds. In the 2020 election our federal dollars were paying college kids to “get out the vote” through Federal Work Study programs. Civic Nation(NGO), founded by the Obamas and Joe Biden in 2015, and led by former Obama staffers, reported a partnership with1700 colleges and universities and a budget of 16 million in 2020. We have seen in the past how this culture votes. The student getout-the-vote campaign is now run with federal funds, spearheaded by the Department of education.

In addition, Riverkeeper suggests foregoing river recreation for 72 hours after a rainfall when the Chattachoochee is turbid and flooded, as it is today. So what happened? Heavier-than-usual rainfall in January and February overwhelmed operations at the Clayton facility, causing the secondary clarifier to stop functioning, a disturbing example of how changes in predictable weather

by mail. Every federal agency was required to submit a plan to Susan Rice for these actions. Even though this lawsuit started in early 2021, it will not be heard in time to effect this election.

patterns can directly affect our well-being. The clarifier failure, it should be noted, was compounded by other operational and maintenance debacles. For the unintiated (which includes me), a clarifier is a chemical designed to improve water clarity by allowing particles, debris, and impurities in the water to coagulate and settle. This makes it possible for filtration systems to capture and remove all detritus, resulting in clearer, more “visually appealing” water (the quotes are Goo-

gle’s and amusing to me). I guess nobody likes waterborne grit in their teeth. Amusement aside, it breaks my heart to write this Ramble. It may break yours to read it. For those of you who love the river and love to play upon her back, be careful. Be safe. Be wise. I pray your love translates into a passionate and ceaseless resolve to take care of the Chattachoochee, to keep her waters clean and healthy – for her sake, for ourselves, and for the turtles.

In the 6-8 swing states the 18-29 vote in 2020 was over 70% for democrats: the number 20 years ago was basically 50-50.

The Supreme Court announced in June that it will not consider Keefer v. Biden until September 30th, which contests the Biden-ordered policy (Executive Order 14019) for all federal agencies, including the prison system, to help increase voter registration and participation, and promote voting

DONATED LEAVE from page 7

donate some of it to employees who are out due to illness in themselves or their families, and have run out of their own leave time, some of the commissioners didn’t seem sure it was a good thing to eliminate this policy completely. Lee said people with serious illnesses still need it, and that many people will donate.

When asked about the paperwork burden on HR, Lee responded that she has no problem with that and would rather re-write the policy perhaps with some stricter guidelines, such as a cap on how much can be donated, and requiring all employees to keep a minimum of PTO available to themselves should they need it.

It was agreed that the language would be cleaned up to keep Donated Leave in some form that it could blend into Short-Term and LongTerm Disability Programs already in place, and the policy presented again at the next regular meeting for a vote by the Board.

MOVING FORWARD from page 5

well. We must have an open dialogue with these government teams.”

“We didn’t get where we are overnight and we are not going to get out of it overnight. There is going to be a road to recovery and it will take longer than the six months that I am here for. It is important for the new city manager to communicate with the city council.”

McPherson added that with Reese, she does not worry about the day-to-day government operations, so she can spend more time and thought on topics like commercial growth which is needed to add jobs with all the residential growth, for example meeting with Carroll Tomorrow and with the county governments.

In conclusion Reese reminds all residents to attend their city council meetings and if you can’t be there in person, watch the monthly meetings and work sessions on youtube. “However you want your city to look like, it starts with you being at the council meetings listening and also asking questions. Be informed, be a part of the city. The city council wants you involved.”

For more information call 770-459-7000 or visit villarica.org and where you can find live streams of council meetings.

Yes, the Left is organized and has a database that is extensive. Since 2006, Catalist (George Soros founded) was established for the purpose of “providing our data only to Democrats and progressives.” Not only does it contain registered voters, but they have used credit reports, high school and college data, loans, and commercial info like utility bills to achieve a database of 256 million people. Not counting the under 18 group, Catalist is only missing 14 million people of our country. As the population increases in age, they will eventually have almost everyone that is voting age.

For an extensive list of our government making power grabs by funding leftism through this administration’s bureaucratic radicalism, read the entire article by David Ditch.

Just in: The Justice Department gave Clemson University $1 million to track online “mis-,dis-, and mal-”information (MDM) by internet users. With the presidential election approaching there is no telling what the current administration will do to control opposing information in the media. This is just another way to promote their agenda through the “Whole Government “ approach. Do not think Homeland will be left out of the power grab.

Another example is Biden’s initiative to add LGBTQ+ groups to protection rights under Title IX. A judge has just put this action on hold and commented on its abuse of power. A good Cliff Notes summary of the “Whole of Government” approach is in the Federal Registry.

August 2024

Commission discusses Agriculture Land Easement program: limit non-ag uses

Shepherd’s Corner

Shepherd’s Corner

Edward Jones

Edward Jones

Journey Fellowship

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Rotary Club of Carrollton is seeking YOU for the annual West GA’s Talent Competition

Highlighting the Enduring Impact of Our Farming Communities

45-year-old volunteer program has 74 members in the local association: Carroll County Master Gardeners

Carroll County Home Grown Highlight SponsoredBy:

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Shepherd’s Corner

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Kid-friendly. Parent-approved. URGENT CARE

COMMENTARY

Power grabs

TRAVIS PITTMAN

A river in crisis

CAROL BOYD

The impact of Experiential Learning in Independent Schools

PATRICK YURAN

HEADMASTER

Transformation

ELVIN X. KEITH

Are you afraid of outliving your money?

Villa Rica council struggles with unruly audience at one of Tom Barber’s last public meetings

J

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