StarNews February Issue

StarNews

NEWS REPORTING / NEWS RECAP / NEWS ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 14, 2021 • VOLUME 27 NUMBER 2

CARROLL COUNTY, GEORGIA’s ONLY LOCALLY OWNED LOCALLY OPERATED NEWSPAPER

Miracle, the dog abandoned in a Villa Rica dumpster on Christmas Day, meets the dog who helped save her life see page 13

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Commission accepts $100K West VA newspaper first to Heard County newspaper sue Google and Facebook forced to make changes after from former Democrat Attorney: “70% of all local advertising is being gobbled up by Google and Facebook”

“The freedom of the

by Sue Horn Last July, as CoVID press is not at stake; the restrictions continued to press itself is at stake.” choke down small busi- Page 5 nesses nationwide, CEOs HD Media Company, of the mega companies LLC vs. Google, LLC and Facebook , Inc. Google, Facebook, Apple, and Amazon faced law- joined in an anti-trust lawmakers during anti-trust suit against Google stating hearings on Capitol Hill. it had “used its power to Specifically, Google and manipulate the market, Facebook were targeted for destroy competition, and their dominance in digital harm the consumer”. Then, on January 29, 2021, the advertising.

By December, ten West Virginia newspaper states’ attorney generals See LOSS of ADS page 12

loss of major local advertiser campaigner/organizer and The News and Banner / Times-Journal to combine; goes Facebook founder to pay to subscription only after loss of Piggly Wiggly insert “It is with heavy heart for Carroll County elections

by Sue Horn As the first newspaper in the United States brings suit against Google and Facebook for monopolistic practices in advertising (see story left), the Heard County newspapers are being forced to merge as one subscription based newspaper after the loss of a major local advertiser.

Trish Jiles is owner and publisher of the two Heard County See LOSS $$ page 8

that we are forced to stop mailing out free newspapers to each of our much-appreciated readers...there are several counties in the state of Georgia that did not have its own newspaper and we sure do not want to add to that number.”

- Trish Jiles, publisher/ owner, The News and Banner/ Times-Journal

CoVID cleaning closes in-person classes for this 4th grader, allowing for the opportunity of a true “field” trip

Cash comes through former New Organizing Institute director Tianna Johnson, Chicago, who trained digital organizers and campaigners for the Democratic Party Commissioner Clint Chance: Deny grant to “uphold the integrity and impartiality” of county’s elections

by Brandon Kerr Elections and election propriety were major talking points at the Carroll County Board of Commissioners meeting Tuesday night.

Present were: Chairman Morgan; and commissioners District 1 Montrell McClendon, District 2 Clint Chance,

See ELECTION FREE CASH page 10

Georgia 2021 Agricultural Forecast

Now is the time for rural communities to market their local agritourism CoVID will continue to keep travelers away from urban attractions

2020 pandemic hit farmers hard: 91% report losses in at least one commodity

With Central Elementary’s 4th grade hall closed for in-person classes due to a CoVID cleaning the week of Jan. 2529, students went to Distance Learning.

After completing her work for the day, ten year old Emila Recupido went on a true “field” trip to a cattle farm in Lowell, learning about the importance of supplemental feeding (hay) during the harsh winter months.

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light…and shine,” according to Dr. John Salazar, Associate Professor of Agriculture and Applied economics at the University of Georgia’s College of Agriculture and Applied Economics.

See AG FORECAST page 4

Carrollton City Council discuss homeless while outside wind chill hit the low 20s

Council elects newest member Jacqueline Bridges as mayor pro tem

by Brandon Kerr The Carrollton City Council and Mayor convened on Monday, February 1st for a regular meeting. The issue of the city’s current homeless population was raised before the council as temperatures outside during meeting time

dipped into the 30s, while strong northwesterly winds carried wind chills in the low 20s.

In attendance were Mayor Betty B. Cason, Ward 1 Councilmember, Jacqulene Bridges, Wa r d 2 See CARROLLTON COUNCIL page 3

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by Brandon Kerr Like so many other industries, Georgia agriculture and tourism took some heavy hits on 2020. However, in 2021, rural and agritourism may have the opportunity to “step into the spot-

See Pastor's Column pg-24

Page 2 February 14, 2021

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www.starnewsgaonline.com CARROLLTON COUNCIL from front page

Councilmember, Brett Ledbetter, Ward 3 Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem, Jim Waters, and Ward 4 Councilmember, Bob Uglum. All councilmembers were wearing masks. Mayor Cason donned a mask intermittently over the course of the meeting.

It was during the citizen comments portion of the meeting that Temple resident and UWG graduate Ariel Nix urged council to, as the leadership, “talk directly with members of the community who are impacted by…homelessness…to find solutions that don’t involve criminalization to get to the roots of this problem.”

She also expressed her relief that the “unaffordable” 3.5 acre mixed use, apartment complex slated for the area between Johnson Avenue and North Cliff Street did not seem to be going forward. The project, which was to be known as “The District @ Carrollton Square”, had been submitted before the City Planning Commission last month and approved with conditions. However, City Manager, Tim Grizzard stated at the January work session that the city had received several phone calls and emails in opposition to the project. The Council was scheduled to vote on the project at Monday’s meeting, but the developer had since withdrawn his request for the proposal.

During Mayor and Council announcements, bearing on Nix’s comments, Councilmember Bridges stated that “As a city council member, I just want to thank everybody for reaching out to the community to do the things we can do.” She stressed “I’m not saying we can do everything. I’m not saying we can handle every situation. But, we, as the City Council members, are doing everything that is in our power to help the constituents of our city.”

Councilmember, Bob Uglum appended Bridges comments by offering thanks to “our local group community foundation that has worked really hard to do a survey on extended stay hotels and apply it to the homeless here in our town. …We are working with a problem that didn’t happen overnight, but we are trying to make some effort to change things for the better.”

Councilmember Ledbetter also brought attention to what he cited as city employees “doing really difficult work in our community, that go the extra mile,” including members of the police force who take food to citizens in need. “They do extra things that nobody ever hears about.”

Moving on to other business, Council members addressed the paving of Newnan Road, a lengthy project that has been a point of contention for citizens who use the road.

Both Mayor Cason and Grizzard explained that is it not recommended to pave in cold weather months, saying that the window closes from around Christmas to April and that the project would have to be rebid before paving. Grizzard promised, however, that “as soon as it warms up enough, we’re going to pave Newnan Road”. He also indicated that numerous utility improvements were required beneath the road before it was re-paved. Mayor Cason remarked that it would be impractical to pave the road, then have to “cut it [back] up” for those improvements.

“I’ve never done a paving project or a road project where anybody liked it,” added Grizzard. “They always hated it. They always complained, and when it’s done, they love it. …We’re always proud of it when we’re done. We try to do things right and we try to manage your money wisely.”

In other matters, University of West rtainly happy to pass the baton to someone Georgia President, Dr. Brendan Kelly spoke else,” and nominated Ward 1 before the Council. He talked about the Councilmember, Jacqulene Bridges. “[The University’s series of strategic planning ses- nomination] is very well-deserved. She’s come along as quickly sions, the details of A vote was taken and the as anyone possibly which, he said, “we’ll be could to figure out able to share…in the motion passed unanimously what in the world it is next couple of weeks.” to appoint Councilmember we do up here…and I (More on those plans Jacqulene Bridges as think she will do a can be found in the story new Mayor Pro Tem of great job.”. A vote was about Dr. Kelly’s visit Carrollton City Council. taken and the motion with Carrollton Kiwanis passed unanimously to Club. See page 7.)

Item 8.2 on the agenda was the appoint- appoint Jacqulene Bridges as new Mayor ment of a new Mayor Pro Tem to the Pro Tem of Carrollton City Council.

Other business discussed: Council. The term of Ward 3 Two bid awards were brought before the Councilmember, Jim Watters, who has been a member of the council since 2012 and council on behalf of the University of West Mayor Pro Tem since 2019, expired in Georgia. City Manager Grizzard preempted December 2020. Watters made the motion to the proposals to clarify that the projects are appoint a new Pro Tem, saying he was “ce- contracted by the city for the University for a

StarNews

February 14, 2021 Page 3

small administrative fee, but that it is the University who actually pays for the projects. “It has to do with the way they encumber their money past the end of the fiscal year. This is not a cost that the city incurs.

It’s something that the University pays, for both of these projects.” The proposals were as follows: • GreenBelt - ADA accessible path from Aycock Drive to the University of West Georgia College of Business. City staff asked that the bid be awarded to Lewallen Construction in the amount of $391,621.90.

The motion was passed unanimously, 4-0.

• Strozier Parking Lot improvements.

City staff asked that the bid be awarded to Helix Group, Inc. in the amount of $352,244.95. The motion was passed unanimously, 4-0.

With all business concluded, the meeting was adjourned.

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AG FORECAST from front page

“Now is the time for rural communities to really embrace agritourism. Travelers are shying away from these major, urban markets. They’re looking for activities and experiences that are more conducive to social distancing. Now is the time to really showcase what you have, and…provide stellar services and stellar experiences… . Make sure the product or service that you’re offering provides great value to the travelling public.

Dr. Salazar spoke via Zoom at the

www.starnewsgaonline.com 2021Georgia Ag Forecast put on by UGA’s College of Agriculture and Applied Economics, Friday morning, January 29th.

The Forecast is a yearly seminar that presents data and research for Georgia’s farmers and other members of the Agricultural community. This year, the Forecast was broadcast as a Zoom Webinar as opposed to its normal live (in-person) meeting, and focused largely on agritourism and COVID-19’s impact on agriculture in the state.

Salazar, who also coordinates the Hospitality and Food Industry Management program at the College, introduced data relating to US Travel Sentiment during the pandemic. A survey conducted by CAED and other partners last year showed that, on the whole, COVID had impacted tourism in Georgia, resulting in a net decrease in hotel occupancy.

However, when broken down, the numbers showed a 28.2% decrease in urban markets, with only a 16.7% decrease in rural areas.

There are 159 counties in Georgia. 72 counties are aligned with the major urban centers, such as Atlanta. That leaves 87 (or 55% of) counties that are considered rural, including Carroll County.

Figures from the same poll showed that 6 out of 10 Georgia travelers seek a rural or smalltown experience while traveling.

Salazar defines agritourism as the “nexus between the rural landscape and that farm experience,

and it’s a very distinct experience that the with these numbers, it could be said that a large proportion of the employment base in state of Georgia can offer to its visitors.”

Agritourism is composed of such varied rural communities are “tourism related posiproducts and services as farmers’ markets, tions” in rural tourism and agritourism.

Another tourism retail items such as There are 159 counties in related injection into homemade jams and local economies comes jellies, corn mazes, hay Georgia. 72 counties are in the form of taxes. rides, and agritourism aligned with the major urban Among these are trails that explore accommodation taxes, farms, barns, and pick- centers, such as Atlanta. That your-own-fruit leaves 87 (or 55% of) counties hospitality taxes, and emission taxes, among orchards. that are considered rural, others. From 2015 to In 2019, visitors including Carroll County.

2019, there was a spent almost $3 billion 20.9% increase in tourdollars in Georgia’s Figures from the same poll rural counties. In 2018, showed that 6 out of 10 Georgia ism related taxes collected in rural Georgia UGA’s Farm Gate Value (a calculation travelers seek a rural or small- counties, rising from that shows the market town experience while traveling. $260.5 million to 314.9 million. Salazar value of agricultural products and services, minus selling costs) points out that if tourism was no longer preshowed a 6.9% increase in agritourism in sent in these counties, the average household those 87 rural counties, from $65.7 million tax burden would increase by $435. In the case of hotel/motel hospitality taxes, often a in 2015 to $70.3 million.

In addition to the direct dollars brought in percentage of these taxes are put directly by agritourism businesses, are the beneficial back into tourism promotion, so, in effect, it ripple effects they have on rural economies. is the visitors who are paying for promotion, Salazar stated that “accommodation and not the residents.

So, agritourism may well prove a springfood services…is normally the largest board to economic recovery in Georgia’s employment sector tied to tourism.”

In Georgia’s 87 rural counties, almost 8% near future, but there is still evidence to of all jobs were related to accommodation show the toll “the age of Corona” has and food services. He went on to explain that already had on the state’s agriculture. Dr. the “U.S. department of agriculture defines Sharon Kane, a Senior Public Service the ‘food only’ sector as jobs related to grain Associate at CAED offered statistics on the farming, vegetable farming, tree nut, poultry economic impact of COVID-19 on the production, and traditional agriculture jobs” industry.

Dr. Kane first pointed out that the process as well as food services.

“When we look at those 87 counties, we of gathering and deciphering economic data realize that actually 51% of the food only is typically long and runs somewhat behind sector jobs… are food services related.” So, See AGRITOURISM page 5

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www.starnewsgaonline.com AGRITOURISM from page 4

real time, so the data she presented was current as of 2019.

Kane noted that the 2019 Farm Gate value of Georgia agriculture was $13 billion dollars. However, translating Farm Gate Value into the more common term of economic contribution, which she defined as a “measure of the input sectors that feed into the Farm Gate Value and a little bit of…first line processing,” Kane stated that figure encompassed $70.1 billion dollars of the Georgia economy and was responsible for more than 359,000 jobs in the state.

Carroll County agriculture’s economic contribution as measured by CAED is over $572 million, as of 2019, with 3,800 jobs produced. Of that number, 68.8% represents poultry and eggs, while 20% encompasses livestock and aquaculture.

Kane discussed not only the economic ramifications of COVID, but the myriad of other ways the pandemic has affected farmers. To help measure that impact, UGA conducted a survey of farmers, both last May and again in December of 2020, to ask them about the significance of COVID-19 on their day-to-day operations.

In May of 2020, or the Spring survey, numbers indicated that 82% of farmers reported a loss of revenue due to COVID, anticipating an average annual loss of $49,000.

Most farmers cited financial burden as their primary concern with the pandemic, as opposed to physical or emotional illness. At that time, according to the survey, only about 30% of farmers were participating in relief programs, with most not feeling the programs were capable of providing sufficient help. Some of the most significant losses were reported in the livestock sector.

The December 2020, or year-end survey, however, recorded some noticeable changes in these numbers. By December, 91% of farmers responded that “at least one commodity” was impacted by the pandemic. Livestock remained the most heavily impacted. The survey showed that farmers were still anxious about finances, but that health and emotional concerns had shot up significantly among those surveyed. Compared to the farmers who categorized themselves in the “very concerned” with health category, at 29.4% in May, in December, 53.1% placed themselves in the same category.

Related to health, the survey also asked farmers about the emotional impact of COVID. This also showed a marked difference from the May to December surveys. In May, only 35.7% of farmers noted that they were “very concerned” with emotional distress. In December, that number had increased to 45.9%.

USDA temporarily suspends debt collections, foreclosures and other activities on farm loans due to coronavirus from press release Due to the national public health emergency caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the temporary suspension of past-due debt collections and foreclosures for distressed borrowers under the Farm Storage Facility Loan and the Direct Farm Loan programs administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

USDA will temporarily suspend non-judicial foreclosures, debt offsets or wage garnishments, and referring foreclosures to the Department of Justice; and USDA will work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to stop judicial foreclosures and evictions on accounts that were previously referred to the Department of Justice.

Additionally, USDA has extended deadlines for producers to respond to loan servicing actions, including loan deferral consideration for financially distressed and delinquent borrowers. In addition, for the Guaranteed Loan program, flexibilities have been made available to lenders to assist in servicing their customers.

See SUSPENDS COLLECTIONS page 15

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February 14, 2021 Page 5

Carroll County agriculture’s economic contribution as measured by CAED is over $572 million, as of 2019, with 3,800 jobs produced. Of that number, 68.8% represents poultry and eggs, while 20% encompasses livestock and aquaculture.

Regarding relief programs, participating farmers stated that they had, or expected to have, only about 20% of their losses recovered.

As to how farmers planned to deal with the effects of the Coronavirus, the survey offered them a choice of “responsive measures”, including social distancing, personal protective equipment, partial shutdowns or closures, and complete closures. Farmers chose social distancing as their first line of defense, at 42.9% by year end. Personal Protective Equipment (including items such as masks, gloves, and hand-sanitizer) came in second at 36.4% in December, 12.1% of farmers noted that some of their services had to be shut down or suspended, compared to a relatively smaller percentage of 5.7, who reported complete closures of their operations.

Dr. Kane said it was important to note when looking at the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, “that those impacts are felt across a wide range of commodities.

Almost no-one said that it didn’t affect them.” Farmers are still being affected by factors such as low prices, lack of markets, and international trade concerns. They have been prompted to respond with actions such as changes to sales and distribution channels and increased proportions devoted to processing and on-farm sales. Farmers are participating in relief programs, but only with an estimated 20% recovery rate.

“All of that leads to financial concerns,” insisted Kane, “which are pretty solid throughout this pandemic, but we’re seeing health and emotional impacts increasing as the pandemic goes on, so we’re hoping that 2021 is looking better for this.”

The forecast presentation then split up into four “breakout” groups: - livestock and poultry - foresty and land taxation - green industry and vegetables fruits and tree nuts - cotton, peanuts, grains. and oilseeds The full report can be viewed at: agforecast.caes.uga.edu.

The forecast also includes the annual Ag Snapshots which uses a multitude of charts and graphs to highlight key points.

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QUICK AG FACTS ABOUT CARROLL COUNTY, GEORGIA • Carroll County had the most farms in the state of Georgia at 867 (2017 latest figures available)

• 705 farm workers (2017 latest figures available) • Commercial POULTRY and CATTLE are the two biggest commodities in Carroll County • 2019 farm gate value was $149.3 million • Farmers Pride Processing in Bowdon is the county’s local USDA meat processor www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2017/Full_Report/ Volume_1,_Chapter_2_County_Level/Georgia

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Door-to-door survery completed on homeless issues in Carroll County

Community Foundation of West Georgia visits those living in five area extended stay hotels to discover what the barriers are to more permanent housing from press release Home. For many families in our community having a place to call home or even describing a place where they “stay” is not easy.

The Community Foundation of West Georgia recently completed a door-to-door survey of those living in five local extended stay hotels in an effort to discover barriers to obtaining more permanent housing and develop community-based strategies.

“To secure housing is often a daily challenge that undermines the stability and quality of life for so many in our community.

Often the daily and weekly challenge of secure housing results is a precarious reality.

This frightening existence for parents means not knowing where they and their children will sleep, eat or be safe,” said Kim Jones, president of the Community Foundation.

“Our community is grappling with this growing issue, and because our community cares for its neighbors, many are searching for ways to provide immediate help as well as to develop long-term solutions,” she said.

“Many believe if we can stabilize those who are precariously housed, we can provide more stability for our community.”

The recent survey asked about housing stability barriers, tenant barriers like rental, credit and criminal history, financial barriers and personal barriers such as physical and mental health, education, abuse.

Some of the barriers to obtaining more permanent housing that were identified were poor credit scores, difficulty in finding affordable housing near their work and the high cost of extended stay that prevents residents from saving.

“Many of the residents at the extended stay hotels said that they never expected to be homeless. Most experienced an event

that quickly sent them into a downward Employers could join to provide shuttles scale. Zoning changes could be considered financial freefall, such as a lost job, divorce, from a limited number of stops, such as for single and double family housing in extended stay hotels existing homes with basements or garage major car repair, doc“Other misconceptions are that and apartment com- apartments. Existing housing stock owned tor visit.” Jones said. plexes, to and from by seniors who are unable to maintain or “The perception is the residents have a criminal work. A “Wheels to care for their home could be matched with that these residents history or they are living off Work” program co-residents. In addition to below-market are chronically homegovernment benefits or they are could provide cars rent, the co-residents would help maintain less, but 57 percent unemployed. Of those surveyed, with low interest the home and yard. said they had not To learn more about how to be part of the been homeless before the majority had not been convicted loans to people who and 75 percent had of a misdemeanor or felony, nor are need a car to get to solution to the homeless situation in our community, visit the Community work. never been evicted as they on probation or parole.

Affordable hous- Foundation’s website at cfwg.net to receive an adult. ing could be offered updates on how to get involved.

“Other misconcep(See page 21 for a related article by tions are that the residents have a criminal through several strategies, such as a percenthistory or they are living off government age of multi-family housing units set aside to Community Foundation of West Georgia benefits or they are unemployed. Of those be rented below market rent or on a sliding president Kim Jones.) surveyed, the majority had not been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, nor are they on probation or parole. The majority said they were not receiving temporary assistance for needy families nor social security or disability benefits. Most are working fulltime jobs, but even with a steady job, it is a struggle to pay the weekly rates at the local extended stay hotels” she said.

Now that the survey is completed, the Community Foundation is sharing these findings with the local community and identifying what can be done to move people from precarious to permanent housing. The Foundation has identified several possible starting points.

A financial literacy program could work Since with individuals to repair and build their 1975 West Georgia Furniture & Mattress Retailer credit scores. A good credit score is a major step on providing permanent housing and • 770.562.4444 reducing living costs. www.mooresdiscountfurniture.com • Mon-Sat 9-6 • Sun Closed Transportation continues to be a major barrier for those desiring to work. A routebased transit system instead of an ondemand model could address this need.

“Digital Literacy” goal: increase adoption of technology in Georgia’s rural counties As the lead state advisor, Georgia 4-H develfrom press release

by Austin Clark for College of Agricultural oped a guidebook and lesson plans for instructors facilitating the workshops. & Environmental Sciences (CAES) News As a part of a three-year program, 4-H Additionally, Georgia 4-H worked with Tech Changemakers challenged 4-H youth National 4-H Council to host informational leaders to conduct trainings to educate their webinars and updates and coaching calls communities about digital literacy with the with participating states.

Catoosa, Gordon and Whitfield counties goal of increasing the adoption of technolparticipated in the project expansion. Under ogy in rural counties in Georgia.

In 2018, Murray County 4-H received a the direction of 4-H leaders and adult volunteers, 26 4-H youth have grant from the National 4the 4-H Tech collectively logged nearly H Council, sponsored by Changemakers project 1,500 hours of outreach the Microsoft reaching Corporation, to create a expanded to include an programming, youth-led program to additional 80 counties from more than 1,100 participants through 12 classes identify and solve a problem in their community. thirteen states. The second and 16 exhibits. These This group of 20 youth phase of this grant kicked counties partnered with decided to tackle digital off with three multi-day local schools, libraries, literacy among the older trainings for more than nonprofits and family collaboratives, helping parents population in Murray 300 youth and adults access online school inforCounty. Once a month, 4mation, assisting commuH’ers would visit the local senior center and instruct courses on online nity members with online communications shopping, internet safety and video-calling and aiding people in smart device usage.

One of the strengths of Georgia 4-H is that applications to the residents.

In 2019, the 4-H Tech Changemakers pro- county staff work collaboratively across ject expanded to include an additional 80 county lines, allowing youth to make crosscounties from thirteen states. The second county connections. Youth who participated phase of this grant kicked off with three in 4-H Tech Changemakers in Georgia multi-day trainings for more than 300 youth worked together to share information at and adults, with the goal of working together community sessions, present at teen leader to teach digital literacy in their communities.

See DIGITAL LITERACY page 17

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StarNews February 14, 2021

Page 7

UWG President Dr. Brendan Kelly shares the “three pillared strategic planning” the university is undergoing There will be a comprehensive plan to set a “new course for the university” Well nobody’s on campus on December

by Brandon Ker Dr. Brendan Kelly, current president of 17th, so, still, we have yet to see a lot of stuthe University of West Georgia, spoke at an dents or employees. And then we show up in-person meeting of the Carrollton Kiwanis for work in March, where, again, everybody Club Friday, January 22, 2021. He shared has abandoned us. So, for us, Carrollton, his belief that “The University of West Georgia is the least friendly place in Georgia has a great history, and we have to America.” he joked before the crowd.

However, for beginning his career during make certain it has a great future”. what could be perceived as Kelly was appointed the Dr. Kelly continued one of the most trying times 8th president of UWG by the Board of Regents in late that “When you are in the University’s history, Kelly did not choose to take 2019. Before that, he was the in the midst of a chancellor of the University crisis, and we don’t the path most traveled.

“When I arrived here, we of South Carolina Upstate in Spartanburg, S.C.. He also really know what the did something that most future holds. . . would not,” Kelly explained held the position of interim candidly. “We got a few president of the University of planning for the South Carolina in Columbia, future is not the first weeks into my tenure, and I announced to our leadership South Carolina before coming to West Georgia. Kelly thing on everybody’s that we were going to launch mind. In my view, strategic planning.” hails from Flint, Michigan.

Dr. Kelly continued that He and his wife, Dr. Tressa it should be.”

“When you are in the midst of Kelly have been married for 25 years and have three children, ages 21, a crisis, and we don’t really know what the future holds, we don’t know whether we’ll 17, and 14.

Kelly began his tenure as UWG President be in session in the fall, and we’re not absoon the cusp of the worldwide COVID-19 lutely certain how we’re going to solve for pandemic, and, therefore, faced many COVID-19 as a world, let alone as a univerunique administrative challenges. In front of sity, planning for the future is not the first the Kiwanis members and guests, he thing on everybody’s mind. In my view, it recounted early “secret trips” he and his should be.”

Dr. Kelly’s eye towards the future family took to West Georgia before his offiremained evident as he unveiled before cial duties began.

“On Friday after Thanksgiving…in Kiwanis his “three-pillared” strategic planCarrollton, Georgia, NOTHING is going on. ning process for UWG, into which, he main…And then we come on December 17th. tains over 300 hours were dedicated over the

course of 290 discovery sessions.

What arose from those sessions, Kelly revealed, was a comprehensive plan that would set a new course for the University, “So that we make certain that when we’re sitting here…in 2030, we’re talking about the incredible successes of the University of West Georgia over the last ten years, instead of the challenges it might be facing.”

The first pillar of the planning process, Kelly disclosed, University of West Georgia’s current president Dr. is “Relevance-making certain that we Brendan Kelly spoke on the “new comprehensive plan” for are keeping up with the educational institution at a recent meeting of the a changing econ- Carrollton Kiwanis Club. Photo by Sue Horn omy.” By way of “Bear in mind, we have to be anticipating illustration, Kelly pointed out that, in 1960, Computer Science was scarcely deemed a the future to make sure we’re relevant. science, let alone a college major, but that, …The world changes quickly, and universinow, the former chalk and slate of the ties have to be able to change with it.

Richards College of Business building have Students expect that and we have to expect it been replaced by Bloomberg machines and of ourselves. advanced data analytics systems.

See NEW COURSE UWG page 17

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Page 8 February 14, 2021 LOSS $$ from front page

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newspapers, The News and Banner and the Times-Journal. The News and Banner has been the Heard County legal organ for 145 years. The Times-Journal has been publishing for 26 years, with Jiles as owner and publisher for 25 of those years. Jiles acquired The News and Banner in 2018 and has been dual publishing since.

In the January 27, 2021, edition of The News and Banner, the front page top story “Big Changes Coming to Your Local Heard County Newspapers” laid out in detail how Jiles was forced to merge the two papers and to stop the free circulation in order to continue publishing.

Jiles stated, “It is with heavy heart that we are forced to stop mailing out free newspapers to each of our much-appreciated readers. With printing and postage costs steadily going up, and the loss of our largest supporter, there is no way for us to continue to do business the same way.”

Jiles continued, “This decision was not made lightly. We have spent many sleepless nights trying to figure out how to keep a newspaper in Heard County.” Remarking on the dismal fact that there are several counties in the state of Georgia that do not have a local newspaper, Jiles said, “We sure do not want to add to that number.”

The News and Banner began publishing in 1876, eleven years after the Civil War ended. Pleasant Theodore McCutchen, born 1866, became owner and publisher sometime on the late 1880s. In 1924, at the age of 69, he became a father to Berrien Thomas McCutchen. When Pleasant T. died in 1947 at age 81, 23 year old son Berrien T. became owner and publisher. When Berrien T., who was affectionately known as Mr. Mac, died in February 2011 at the age of 86, the news-

www.starnewsgaonline.com paper changed hands several times over the next seven years. Berrien T.’s son Tommy inherited the newspaper and hired someone to help handle the daily operations, but sold after about five years to David Posey, who after less than one year of publishing, worked out an agreement with Jiles for her to acquire it in February 2018.

As owner and publisher of the other Heard County newspaper, the Times-Journal (since 1995) Jiles was quite familiar with her competor in Franklin, Georgia. Like small towns everywhere, and especially in the South, being business competitors does not necessarily equate to not being friends. In fact, when the digital age commenced in the newspaper industry and the “wax and paste” physical pages days phased out to desktop publishing and PDFs, 80+ year old Mr. Mac was at a loss as to how to proceed. He did not have the computer equipment, publishing programs, or the knowledge to tackle the conversion. So, he approached his longtime friend Trish Jiles for help. With no agreement in writing, Jiles and her staff converted The News and Banner to a digital format, and did so each week for two years, allowing the county’s legal organ to continue to be published. So, after the 145-year-old legal organ had had only three publishers in about 136 years (father, son, grandson), Jiles became the fifth.

Newspapers across the nation suffered when the Great Recession hit in 2008-2009, causing cuts in staff and circulation as advertisers reevaluted their spending. During this same time, advertising traffic was being manipulated, and still is, by the growing monopolies Google and Facebook (see front page story). Then, in 2020, CoVID-19 shut down commerce as emergency orders took effect in Georgia in March of 2020, causing

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Trish Jiles owner/publisher The News and Banner

sheltering-in-place for months. Now, one year later, businesses still cannot open, or operate at capacity, churches are under restriction, and large gatherings are prohibited (concerts, events, etc,). In fact, the Public Health State of Emergency for Georgia stands at presstime. These are some examples of the closings and restrictions constricting the free market which is vital for the survival of the newspaper industry.

For Jiles, the final hit was the loss of the Piggly Wiggly advertising, a mainstay for her for the past 26 years. Grocery stores also have suffered during CoVID, with many customers opting for those stores that offer home delivery, or ordering through Amazon.

She said the Piggly Wiggly owners needed to cut costs and opted for that cut to be in the form of newspaper advertising. This loss of their very local advertiser - Piggly Wiggly is located at 241 East Court Square, Franklin, and The News and Banner is at 210 West Court Square, Franklin - was the game changer.

Jiles said, “We will be forever grateful for their loyalty and support. The grocery store ad, along with many other faithful supportive

advertisers, have allowed us to mail a newspaper to every home and post office box in Heard County and the Roopville area of Carroll County every Tuesday free of charge.”

Jiles said, “The newspaper business has slowly been declining for the past several years and the past year has absolutely sped up the process.” But she said, that she believed newspapers would remain something the public would want and support due to the community news; that people still want to see what the local schools, churches, and communites are doing around them.

Jiles continued, “I also made a promise to Mr. Mac that if there was any way possible I would help keep his News and Banner going. If a local paper is important to you, we need and must have your help, and hopefully your prayers!”

At presstime, Jiles reported that after only one week after the announcement of the merger, she has been “humbled at the support the new combined newspaper was receiving in hundreds of new subscribers”.

If you would like to support your locally owned newspapers, see page 16.

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StarNews Febraury 14, 2021 Page 9

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Page 10 February 14, 2021

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ELECTION FREE CASH from front page Civic Life (CTCL) for the purposes of pro- organization called Center for Tech and tionable group for his organization. Fuller District 3 Tommy Lee, District 4 Steve viding funding assistance to the Elections Fuller, District 5 Ernest “Ernie” Reynolds, Department for additional expenses associated with the 2020 election cycle as well as and District 6 George Chambers The meeting was opened with Central the runoff elections. This would be the secHigh School student, Ragan Burchfield, ond grant from the CTCL considered by the Board. The first grant of leading the assembly in During public comments, $66,776 was accepted in the Pledge, the October.

Bryan Hager, Invocation, and the There was some dissent National Anthem, as Communications Chair for well as performing a the local Democratic Party, among the board members over the propriety of song while her father, along with League of accepting a grant from an Ron, accompanied her Women Voters President, outside and private on guitar. organization to be used During public comMartha Ann Saunders, ments, Bryan Hager, presented before the board for the purposes of local election administration.

Communications Chair a letter of commendation to The Center for Tech for the local Democratic and Civic Life (CTCL), the Carroll County Party, along with League on its website, defines of Women Voters Elections staff, office, and President, Martha Ann volunteers for their work in itself as “a nationally recognized non-profit…

Saunders, presented the historic 2020 elections working to foster a more before the board a letter informed and engaged of commendation to the Carroll County democracy, and helping to modernize U.S. Elections staff, office, and volunteers for their work in the historic 2020 elections and elections.” Some of their key funders menJanuary runoffs. The letter was presented on tioned on the site are Facebook and Google, behalf of the Democratic Party of Carroll among others.

The name listed on the Carroll County County, the Carroll County Republican grant paperwork is “Tiana M. Johnson” (also Party, The League of Women Voters, and the NAACP. It would, Hager said, be delivered known as Tiana Epps Johnson) who was the to the Elections Board at their next meeting. New Organizing Institute’s (NOI) Election “These people are some of the hardest Administration Director from 2012 to 2015. workers we’ve ever met,” marked Hager NOI was described as a “left-progressive “and the level of professionalism and grace group” that trained “digital organizers and that they showed under this incredibly diffi- campaigners for the Democratic Party and liberal political causes”. Facebook founder cult year was absolutely astounding.”

Elections were again brought to the fore- Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan front later in the session in Item 9.1, a con- donated $300 million to election boards sideration to accept a grant in the amount of across the country, including Carroll $103,956.96 from the Center for Tech and County’s $103,956.96, through Johnson’s

Civic Life, Chicago. As the Novermber said his father accepted the cash with the General Election approached last fall, news logic that he would take it so someone else stories nationwide began to surface as to the who may not have good intentions on spending it would not get it. This solution avoided origin of this cash for local elections.

Commissioner Clint Chance made a any need to consider the possible ethical motion to deny accepting the grant, sec- dilemma of accepting “tainted money”.

The debate among the commissioners onded by Commissioner Reynolds. Chance explained that “Since we accepted the first went on for several more moments before grant…there were a lot of things that hap- two votes were taken. The first, to deny the pened from a polarization point through the grant, failed 3-4, with Commissioners news media from a nationwide perspective Chance, Lee, and Reynolds voting to deny. in the November election. By trying to deny A motion was then made by Commissioner this grant, what I’m wanting to do is help McClendon to accept the funds, seconded by uphold the integrity and impartiality of the Fuller. The second vote to accept the grant department.” Chairman Morgan pointed out was taken and passed, 4-3, with Chairman that there were many counties, both largely Morgan, and Commissioners McClendon, Fuller, and Chambers Democratic and Commissioner Clint Chance voting to accept.

Republican, that had made a motion to deny Several zomings accepted CTCL funds all over the state. accepting the grant, seconded were heard. Jonathan Commissioner

by Commissioner Reynolds. Yates for Diamond Communications made Chance went on to a request for a address his concern that “Since we accepted the first grant…there were a lot of Conditional Use Permit Facebook was one the primary contributors to things that happened. . . By for a cell phone tower the non-profit. “This trying to deny this grant, what to be located at 1103 N. Highway 1 13, goes back to the appearI’m wanting to do is help Carrollton. Yates spoke ance. There have been uphold the integrity and of the need for a tower countless individuals throughout the country,” impartiality of the department.” in the area because of the notoriously poor Chance went on “that have either been censored or removed reception along Highway 113. “This has from… Facebook,” to which Morgan que- been particularly important this last year,” ried, “I guess we should shut down our noted Yates. “With quarantines, a lot of folks had to work from home, had to educate their Carroll County Facebook page?”

Commissioner Fuller joined the debate children from home, so it’s more than ever stating this decision had kept him “up late at that we need this facility.”

Speaking in opposition to the proposed night”. He relayed a story about his father who, decades ago, and was faced with decid- 250 ft. cell tower was Dr. Austin Lewis, who ing whether to accept money from a quesSee ZONINGS page 15

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Attorney general warns: don’t fall for scams requiring you to pay for CoVID-19 vaccine from press release Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr warned Georgians that scammers have been trying to exploit the vaccine rollout by calling, texting or emailing consumers asking for payment for the promise of getting the vaccine, scheduling an appointment or getting on the waiting list. “Sadly, during this time of heightened emotions, scammers are once again trying to make a buck by capitalizing on people’s health concerns,” says Attorney General Carr. “It is critically important that Georgians remember that the Covid-19 vaccine is free for everyone, and there is no registration fee.”

- You cannot pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine. That’s a scam.

Who can get the COVID-19 vaccine at this time?

At this time, the COVID vaccine is being offered only to those in Phase 1 A which includes:

• Healthcare workers in clinical settings (e.g., nurses, physicians, EMS, laboratory technicians, environmental services) • Staff and residents of long-term care facilities • All law enforcement and fire personnel (including volunteer departments) • Adults aged 65 and older (and their caregivers as applicable)

- You cannot pay to get early access to the vaccine. That’s a scam.

- You cannot buy a COVID-19 vaccination through the mail, online, or in stores.

- No one from a legitimate vaccine distribution site or insurance company will call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number. That’s a scam.

- The Department of Health will not call to verify your Social Security number or Medicare, Medicaid or insurance ID over the phone.

- Medicare will not call beneficiaries to offer COVID-19 related products, services, or benefit review.

Georgians who are eligible for the Covid19 vaccine can find information about scheduling an appointment for the free vaccine by visiting the Georgia Department of Public Health’s website at dph.ga.gov. The vaccine is currently in Phase 1A+ of the rollout, meaning it is available for healthcare workers, residents and staff of long-term care facilities, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, and adults aged 65+ and their caregivers. Public health departments are scheduling vaccines by appointment only, as are most other providers.

Because of the limited supply and high demand for vaccines, sites are booking up quickly. Georgians are urged to be patient and try back at a later time if no appointments are currently available or if a website is down.

www.starnewsgaonline.com

StarNews

February 14, 2021 Page 11

Edward Jones

Tanner nears 8,000 doses of CoVID-19 vaccine administered: system awaiting more doses from state from press release Since late December when the organization received its first vials of CoVID-19 vaccine, Tanner Health System has administered 7,790 doses at vaccine clinics in Carrollton, Villa Rica and Bremen. The health system continues to follow Georgia Department of Public Health guidelines to make vaccination available as it receives doses of the vaccine.

Carroll County, GA CoVID-19 stats

120,119 total county population

• As of July 2, 2020: 741 total positive tests * 40 total deaths attributed to CoVID-19 • As of October 6, 2020: 2882 total positive tests * 70 total deaths attributed to CoVID-19 • As of February 6, 2021: 6611 total positive tests * 115 total deaths attributed to CoVID-19

Statewide stats

10,403,847 state population 167,577 total positive tests * 13,324 deaths attributed to CoVID-19 * Note: One person may have been tested more than one time.

Total number of positive tests do not necessarily correlate to total number of persons tested.

Source: Georgia Department of Public Health

Currently, Georgia is still in Phase 1A of vaccine distribution. Tanner is making vaccines available to healthcare workers and those age 65 and older.

The Georgia Department of Public Health and the Governor’s Office decide when vaccine can be made more widely available.

However, the health system is awaiting more vaccine to be allocated from the state before it can continue to make public vaccinations available.

Tanner is receiving both the vaccines that have received emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), from biotech firms Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech. Both vaccines require two doses to achieve 95% effectiveness.

The health system received its last dose of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine - about 1,170 doses - on Jan. 19. Its last shipment of Moderna vaccine, with 100 doses, arrived Feb. 1.

As shipments of vaccine arrive, Tanner schedules vaccination clinics and sends out invitations for individuals who meet the age requirements to schedule their vaccinations.

As of Feb. 4, Tanner had administered 1,768 first-round doses and 1,516 secondround doses to its healthcare staff. The health system had administered 3,843 first-round doses and 663 second-round doses to area seniors age 65 and older, in accordance to state guidelines. As patients receive their first dose of vaccine, they are provided with an appointment for their second dose.

The health system has also established an online form for patients and caregivers to provide their information to be signed up for vital COVID-19 information, including upcoming vaccination clinics. The site is at tanner.org/shotsignup. tanner.org/vaccine

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Page 12 February 14, 2021 LOSS of ADs from front page

company HD Media (a family owned media company) filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google and Facebook for monopolistic practices. The Charleston Gazette-Mail, a morning daily newspaper that boasts a circulation of 40,000+, is the first newspaper to file suit against the two tech giants. HD Media alleges that: 1.) Google unlawfully exercised monopoly power of the digital advertising market; both search advertising and display advertising 2.) Google and Facebook unlawfully conspired to engage in anti-competitive conduct Indeed, in October, the U.S. House Judiciary committee / subcommittee on antitrust released their 470 page report on Apple, Amazon, Facebook, and Google, concluding the four are monopolies: “Stacking the Tech: Has Google Harmed Competition in Online Advertising?”

In a podcast by Editor & Publisher Magazine on February 3rd, HD Media’s vice president of news and executive editor Lee Wolverton stated this “problem needed to be addressed”, giving credit to HD Media president Doug Skaff, Jr. for initiating the legal pursuit. HD Media hired attorney Paul T. Farrell, Jr. of Farrell Law, Huntington, West Virginia, as co-council.

Farrell, whose name is known for a series of lawsuits filed against drug company distributors (West Virginia has been referred to as the “epicenter” of the opiod epidemic) stated in the E&P podcast that “70% of all local advertising is being gobbled up by Google and Facebook”. Farrell said, “They not only own the market place share, they own the market place. . . this is why antitrust laws are in place.”

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, of

www.starnewsgaonline.com the multi-state antitrust lawsuit against Google, stated, “Google effectively eliminated its competition and crowned itself the head of online advertising. If the free market were a baseball game, Google positioned itself as the pitcher, the batter, and the umpire.”

On page 18 of the HD Media complaint, it states: “Digital ads account for over 83% of Google’s revenues in 2019”.

On page 10: “Since 2006, the news industry has been in economic freefall, primarily due to a massive decrease in advertising revenue caused by Defendant’s anticompetitive and unlawful conduct.”

It continues: “Since 2006, newspaper advertising revenue, which is critical for funding high quality journalism, fell by over 50%. Despite significant growth in online traffic among the nation’s leading newspapers, print and digital newsrooms across the country are laying off reporters or folding altogether.”

This is supported by The Pew Research Center report that newspaper staffs “shrunk by 51% between 2008 and 2019”.

The complaint alleges, “As a result, communities throughout the United States are increasingly going without sources for local news.”

Page 11: “...the United States lost nearly 1,800 newspapers since 2004, either through closure or merger. . . the majority of counties in America no longer have more than one publisher of local news, and 200 are without any paper.”

Hitting close to home, here in West Georgia neighboring Heard County’s two locally owned newspapers are being forced to combine and are in the process of converting to paid subscription only, this as a result of the loss of a major local, and longtime,

Lee Wolverton HD Media, vice president of News /executive editor advertiser. (See front page story.)

The HD Media complaint states: “Local journalism is essential for healthy communities, competitive marketplaces, and a thriving democracy. Unfortunately, the local news industry is being decimated in the digital age. This is due to both the rapid proliferation of online news content as well as unfair market practices by some of the world’s largest technology companies that reuse local news’ content, data, customers, and advertisers.”

Page 5: “The freedom of the press is not at stake; the press itself is at stake.”

Newspapers, like other U.S. businesses, have taken hard hits over the past decade, including the Great Recession of 2008-2009, and the CoVID pandemic of 2020 and, now, as the coronavirus restrictions continue into 2021.

But, newspapers have singularly had to take on the damage and monetary losses created - and controlled - by the growing tech giants Google and Facebook, who entered into a “secret agreement codenamed Jedi Blue” to “further their worldwide dominance of the digital advertising market”.

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Page 15: “Google steers buys and sell orders to its own exchange and website. . .

Google abuses its access to insider information.”

Page 26: Google and Facebook “reached an illegal agreement” and “cut a deal to manipulate” digital advertising auctions.

Page 27: “As part of the deal, Facebook would spend at least $500 million per year in Google-run [ad] auctions, and Google agreed that Facebook would win a fixed percentage of those auctions” and that “Facebook believed the deal was ‘relatively cheap’ as compared with direct competition.”

Page 34: “Google extracts, mines, and captures unique user data and information of online readers of newpapers’ content, which it then used to offer targeted and directed ads to the newspaper’s online readers and customers, thereby directly competing with newspapers for digital advertising.”

Page 1: “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newpapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” - Thomas Jefferson, January 16, 1787

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StarNews February 14, 2021

Page 13

Miracle the dog meets up with fellow canine who helped save her life on Christmas Day 17 pound Miracle received transfusions of 85 pound Tiger’s healthy blood plasma in a Christmas night rush to save her life after being starved and sealed up in a plastic bag Left: Miracle suffered great neglect before being wrapped on a blanket, sealed in a plastic garbage bag, and tossed into a dumpster near Wilson Mill Townhomes, Villa Rica. She was found by a man who was taking out trash around 4:00 p.m. on Christmas Day. He heard a whimpering noise in the dumpster and dialed 911. Villa Rica Police Officer James O’Neal arrived and said he heard “an eerie sound. Initially, I thought it was a human sound.”

He reached into the dumpster and began removing trash bags carefully, until he picked up the one that held Miracle. He and fellow officer McKenzie O’Bannon took turns warming her by rubbing her with the blanket, and then drove her to Atlanta West Veterinary Hospital, Dorsey Dr., Villa Rica.

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Lower left: Villa Rica Police Officer Jason O’Neal is shown with Miracle, while Shianne Navarre-Runyon securely holds Tiger as the two canines meet up late January for the first time since the “Christmas Day miracle” was performed resulting in the dog’s survival. Villa Rica Veterinarian Doc Win Burnett, along with his wife Tina, and several animal hospital employees joined together in an attempt to save Miracle’s life.

Tina told StarNews that when she and her husband arrived shortly after the dog was brought in, the dog was “pitiful, barely conscious, stretching her legs out like a seizure”. They used “blow dryers to warm her up” as Doc Win began a series of life saving treatments (antibiotics/ fluids) including choosing a canine blood donor for some vital plasma. Villa Rica resident Val Runyon and her granddaughter Shianne (who helps deliver StarNews newspapers) were boarding their dog Tiger at Doc Win’s vet hospital on Christmas Day. Doc Win chose healthy Tiger. Tina said Miracle got “a lot of medicine and a lot of prayers!”

Officer O’Neal stayed, watching the entire hours-long rescue operation, saying, he was “immediately attached to this dog.” The Doc called O’Neal early the next morning to report she was “still hanging on.” That evening, Miracle’s progress was, well, so miraculous that O’Neal took her home that night. She was greeted by two kids and a 13 year old lovable German Shepherd named Roxi. O’Neal told StarNews that Miracle (the name was suggested by Tina) now weighs 25 pounds. O’Neal said Miracle is doing great and is “Wide open and happy!”

Sgt. Brian Finley, Villa Rica Police Department, is handling this open and active animal cruelty case. Please call 770-459-5140 if you have any information to help.

Photos by Val Runyon / Story by Sue Horn

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Shown above are Miracle and Tiger as they meet up for the first time since their paths crossed on that frigid Christmas night. Tina Burnett, an experienced vet tech, is shown holding the dog who arrived at her husband’s veterinary hospital weighing 17 pounds (a 6 to 8 month old dog should have weighed around 30 pounds).

Burnett said that the dog’s body was “ice cold” to the touch and a temperature “wouldn’t register” on a thermometer. Tina said, “Miracle was not fully conscious. She was dying before our eyes.”

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Page 14 February 14, 2021

StarNews

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Carrollton City School System gives presentation on technical education career pathways

by Sue Horn The Georgia Department of Education’s website states that “in the fall of 2017, the Georgia Department of Education launched a strategic planning process to develop a fiveyear plan to guide the future of Career Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs in Georgia” with the mission to “educate Georgia’s future workforce by providing experiences for Georgia students that will prepare them for workplace success.”

Today, the program has about 600,000 Georgia middle school and high school students enrolled in CTAE courses offered by their local school district. In the Carrollton City Schools System, nearly 90% of the 5,428 students are enrolled in one or more of these CTAE career pathway classes.

Presenting at the recent Rotary Club of Carrollton’s noon meeting of Tuesday, February 2, 2021, Carrollton City Schools assistant principal Ian Lyle, along with three CTAE students, spoke on the diversity and successes of the 8 career clusters/ 14 career pathways the school system offers.

Boasting a 92% graduation rate, the student population is diverse with 40% white, 33% black, 20% Hispanic, 6% multiracial, and 2% Asian Pacific. The career pathways are also diverse: business, graphic arts, hospitality and tourism, administration, building construction, US Air Force JROTC, culinary arts, sports medicine, teaching, and more. (Although the program is named

Career Technical and Agricultural Education, Carrollton City Schools do not currently have agricultural pathways).

Participating in CTAE allows students to be dual enrolled. For the current school year, 135 Carrollton High School students were also enrolled at the University of West Georgia. Students may participate in Southwire’s Engineering Academy and 12 for Life program, and are may dual enroll at

Shown above at the Rotary Club of Carrollton’s recent in-person noon meeting February 2, 2021 (left to right) are: Carrollton High School principal David Brooks; assistant principal Ian Lyle; CTAE students Maria Domingo, Kayla McGuinn, and Jacob Hubbard; and Rotary Club president Ben Butler.

Standing (back) is Carrollton City Schools superintendent Dr. Mark Albertus.

Photo by Sue Horn

See CTAE page 15

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Carrollton (noon) Rotary Club donates iPads for Carrollton City Schools’ special needs pre-k students Carrollton Elementary School (CES) recently received a generous donation from the Rotary Club of Carrollton of iPads to provide more technology for special needs children in the school’s prekindergarten program.

Shown above left to right are CES Principal Kylie Carroll, Rotary Club of Carrollton Past President Sandra Morris, Director of Student Services Mary Raburn, and Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Anna Clifton. Morris secured the iPads by successfully applying for and receiving grant funding through Rotary organizations.

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www.starnewsgaonline.com CTAE from page 14

education in the state. Today’s CTAE pathways are to prepare students to enter “the workforce, a university, a technical college, military service, and/or a registered apprenticeship”.

The pathway list continues with IT Programs, advanced STEM Certifications, Youscience, Air Force JROTC, carpentry, computer science. The Carrollton High School is a brand new building that is equipped with labs to fit the programs offered: culinary, sciences, computers.

Over the decades, high school students have gone from choosing between two paths - academic or vocational - to school systems today focusing on “teaching employability skills throughout grades K-12”. The state’s website states: “It is imperative that we expand CTAE opportunities and teach

ZONINGS from page 10

for a Conditional Use Permit for a secondary detached dwelling.

• Conditional Use: 667 E. Highway 5.

Consideration of Owner: Jacob Warren/Applicant: Jean Staneck’s request for a Conditional Use Permit for a secondary detached dwelling.

• Rezoning: Highway 27 South.

Consideration of Owner/Applicant: David M. Wilson’s request to rezone 3.25 acres from HDDR (High Density Detached Residential) to Agricultural for the purpose of combining properties with currently zoned Agricultural property.

• Rezoning: Kirby Bryan Road.

Consideration of Owner/Applicant: Brian Eckman and David Sondergeld’s Request to rezone 61.4 acres from R2 Residential to Agricultural for the purpose of combining properties with currently zoned Agricultural property.

• Rezoning: 358 Gray Road.

Consideration of Owner/Applicant: Hugh and Rika Cuff’s Request to rezone 5.00 acres with a home from Agricultural to Residential for the purpose of obtaining a mortgage on the property.

West Georgia Technical College.

Hired in 2017, Ian Lyle, in addition to being the assistant principal, is the CTAE director for the school system. The state’s website makes the point that “Georgia’s Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education will change perceptions of its career-focused programs”. Both Lyle and Dr. Mark Albertus, school system superintendent, spoke on that point to the gathered club members. Today’s career pathways are not the “vocational track” of public education from decades past; not the “shop class” for woodworking projects.

Indeed, the state education’s website has concerns that: “Currently, many parents, counselors, administrators, business partners, and others have a dated view of technical lives at 999 N. Highway 113 (which may be known to some as the late Stanley Parkman’s house). The tower will be in proximity to Lewis’ property, and according to sight projections done by Diamond, one of the few residences where the tower will be visible.

Dr. Lewis noted, “It’s with somewhat a degree of regret that I have to oppose this, because [Diamond has] been so amazing to work with, but I do have to state my opposition…based upon…my family’s concern about potential devaluation of my property.”

Yates spoke in rebuttal that almost the reverse was true: That the larger risk for devaluation was living on a property where no cellular service was available. A vote was taken and Mr. Yate’s request for permit was approved unanimously, 7-0.

The following zoning requests were also approved by the council.

All requests were approved, unanimously, 7-0: • Conditional Use: 2650 Oak Grove Church Road.

Consideration of Owner/Applicant: Jonathan Keel’s Request

SUSPENDS COLLECTIONS from page 5 by commercial lenders, such as banks, the

This expands previous actions undertaken by the Department to lessen financial hardship. According to USDA data, more than 12,000 borrowers - approximately 10% of all borrowers - are eligible for the relief announced today. Overall, FSA lends to more than 129,000 farmers, ranchers and producers.

“USDA and the Biden Administration are committed to bringing relief and support to farmers, ranchers and producers of all backgrounds and financial status, including by ensuring producers have access to temporary debt relief,” said Robert Bonnie, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary. “Not only is USDA suspending the pipeline of adverse actions that can lead to foreclosure and debt collection, we are also working with the Departments of Justice and Treasury to suspend any actions already referred to the applicable Agency. Additionally, we are evaluating ways to improve and address farm related debt with the intent to keep farmers on their farms earning living expenses, providing for emergency needs, and maintaining cash flow.”

The temporary suspension is in place until further notice and is expected to continue while the national COVID-19 disaster declaration is in place.

USDA’s Farm Service Agency provides several different loans for producers, which fall under two main categories: Guaranteed loans are made and serviced

Farm Credit System, credit unions and other non-traditional lenders. FSA guarantees the lender’s loan against loss, up to 95%.

Direct loans are made and serviced by FSA using funds from the federal government. The most common loan types are Farm Ownership, Farm Operating, and Farm Storage Facility Loans, with Microloans for each: Farm Ownership: Helps producers purchase or enlarge a farm or ranch, construct a new or improve an existing farm or ranch building, pay closing costs, and pay for soil and water conservation and protection.

Farm Operating: Helps producers purchase livestock and equipment and pay for minor real estate repairs and annual operating expenses.

Farm Storage Facility Loans are made directly to producers for the construction of cold or dry storage and includes handling equipment and mobile storage such as refrigerated trucks.

Microloans: Direct Farm Ownership, Operating Loans, and Farm Storage Facility Loans have a shortened application process and reduced paperwork designed to meet the needs of smaller, non-traditional, and nichetype operations.

FSA encourages producers to contact their county office to discuss these programs and temporary changes to farm loan deadlines and the loan servicing options available. farmers.gov/coronavirus

employability skills throughout grades K-12.

Starting the development of these skills in middle school or high school is not early enough. Rather, they should be integrated into classes as early as possible. We believe in a comprehensive K-12 system that sets students up for long-term career success.

Starting career education as early as possible helps set students up for longterm success.”

The top ten career pathways for the 600,000 public school students in Georgia based on the number enrolled in each are: 1. Business management and administration 2. Information technology 3. Finance 4. Health Science 5. Human services /family and consumer sciences 6. Agriculture, food and natural resources

StarNews

February 14, 2021 Page 15

7. Hospitality and tourism 8. Arts, audiovideo /technology and communications 9. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics 10. Marketing There are 404 industry-certified programs offered in CTAE statewide. In Georgia public schools, 61.75% of all middle school students and 67.88% of all high school students were enrolled in at least one CTAE class during the 2017-2018 school year.

The Rotary Club of Carrollton meets inperson twice a month on Tuesdays at noon at the Sunset Hills Country Club, Carrollton.

This year’s Rotary Club president is Ben Butler.

If you are interested in information about the club, contact club member Lynn Kress at lkress@gmail.com

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StarNews

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www.starnewsgaonline.com NEW COURSE UWG from page 7

Kelly also identified competitiveness as one of the pillars, or tenets, of the planning process. “We are the largest producer,” Kelly cited “of NFL players of any Division 2 football program in the United States. We should have a champion series,” issued Kelly after a long pause “to match that fact.”

Kelly emphasized that competiveness should extend not only to sports, but to the University’s own place in the higher education marketplace.

“People have a lot of choices. Nobody is obligated to go to the University of West Georgia or any other institution in the United

DIGITAL LITERACY from page 6

conferences and co-present “Tech Bytes” segments when face-to-face programming was suspended due to COVID-19. Youth connected with both other youth and adults from other counties, giving them an extended network of support. By having them present together at multiple events, those cross-county relationships naturally developed into strong friendships and working partnerships.

“I am incredibly impressed with Catoosa, Gordon and Whitfield counties as they implemented the 4-H Tech Changemaker projects in northwest Georgia,” says Kasey Bozeman, Extension 4-H specialist for sci-

STATE REP COLLINS from page 23

Coronavirus Response” Act, HB 80 captures $372.9 million in savings for the AFY 2021 budget from a temporary 6.2% boost in the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) rate. In HB 80, we also appropriated $1.8 million in start-up costs for the Patients First Act and the state’s 1115 Medicaid waiver, which will be effective July 1, 2021. Further, our version of the AFY 2021 budget provides $15.4 million to support the increased utilization of the AIDS Drug Assistance Program during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Human Services: Georgia’s human services agencies also receive important appropriations in the House’s amended budget.

HB 80 utilizes $1.7 million in FMAP savings for a new 10-bed behavioral health crisis center to specifically serve Georgians with a mental health diagnosis and/or an intellectual or developmental disability.

HB 80 supports foster care in our state by partially restoring $176,500 for the Georgia Multi-Agency Alliance for Children (MAAC) to provide educational services to more than 80 foster children, in addition to the more than 1,700 children already served through this program.

Criminal Justice and Public Safety: In our AFY 2021 budget, we allocated more than $427,000 to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) for recruitment and retention of medical examiners. Georgia’s medical examiners conduct nearly 40% more autopsies than the recommended amount due to staff shortages caused by low wages, and this funding would make these positions more competitive. HB 80 also includes an additional $223,600 for the GBI to expand the state’s gang database with critical gang-related information provided by local law enforcement.

Economic Development & Transportation: The House reaffirmed its commitment to rural broadband expansion by allocating $20 million for the OneGeorgia Authority to launch its new broadband infrastructure grant program, which would greatly assist rural areas in leveraging

Carrollton is, in many ways defined by the university, and we want to make certain that that’s special. There’s a sense of place that comes along with that facility. We want to make certain that every inch of the University of West Georgia gives you a sense of place.”.

After speaking, Dr. Kelly entertained questions from the audience. When asked by one audience member if he cared to share any “teasers” about what the 300 plus hours of strategic planning would entail for the university in upcoming weeks, Kelly halfquipped “I just did,” nodding to his preceding 45 minute speech. Kelly did go on, however, to expound on the overall state of ence programs. “These youth-adult partner- higher education in the United States. ship teams allocated time to better underDr. Kelly said, “The economy for higher stand the digital needs in their communities education [has changed]. If we don’t change, before beginning programming. As youth if we don’t evolve, in this marketplace, we developed their technical knowledge and will die. What a University does, and how it teaching skills, they also became more aware of needs, as well as assets, that could help them address the digital divide.”

Georgia 4-H empowers youth to become true leaders by developing necessary life from press release skills, positive relationships and community submitted by Sam Gentry UWG manager of awareness. As the largest youth leadership media relations organization in the state, 4-H reaches more The University of West Georgia has forthan 190,000 people annually through UGA mally opened a space designed to put the Extension offices and 4-H facilities. wind at students’ backs and respond to any For more information, visit georgia4h.org question or need they may have. A socially distanced group gathered Thursday outside I encourage you to reach out to the Momentum Center for a ribbon-cutting me with any questions or concerns ceremony for the service-minded space, where UWG students will be provided with you have regarding the state’s resources that will allow them to “stay in budgeting process or any other motion” and be successful during their legislation that interests you. higher education career. resources to address broadband needs that Ziada Mengistu, a senior and admissions are specific to each rural community. This ambassador at West Georgia, welcomed the funding would also provide for a grant crowd of university and community leaders administrator to oversee and maintain this and spoke of her appreciation for the new broadband program. Furthermore, the AFY center. “As a student here at West Georgia, 2021 budget recognizes the following I am excited to have a place like this on camCARES Act funding that specifically sup- pus where any question or problem I have ports transportation efforts in our state: $25.7 can be solved,” she said. “Bringing all of the million in CARES Act payments to the services and resources across campus that Atlanta-region Transit Link Authority and can help students into one building shows $410.8 million in CARES Act funding for how committed the university is to positionthe Georgia Department of Transportation’s ing us for success now and into the future.”

Airport Aid program.

Designed to align various processes, the Georgia Department of Labor: The Momentum Center provides a streamlined House’s AFY 2021 budget recognizes more experience where students will find a wealth than $60 million in federal funding for the of information and a team of people ready to Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) to help. From enrollment services to advisers, address workforce issues resulting from the from financial aid to billing and payment pandemic. This includes funding for the specialists, from accessibility services to department’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) career services, the center has solutions to Program, the Short-Term Compensation any needs and answers to any questions a Program and the Dislocated Worker student may have.

Program. Many Georgians have experienced UWG’s president, Dr. Brendan B. Kelly, unemployment since the start of the pan- said he is elated with the new center and demic, and the GDOL staff have certainly excited about the positive impact it will have been overwhelmed by the continual high in the lives of students. “Nothing should be number of UI benefit claims submitted each challenging about going to college except for week. what students do in the classroom,” Kelly These are just a few of the highlights of said. “Today, we get to take another importhe House’s amended budget. The AFY 2021 tant step toward that philosophy to life. Here, budget will now go through the legislative we will meet students where they are and process in the Senate, where it will undergo follow their every question, concern and further review. need to their conclusion so that they can Next, the House Appropriations thrive in the holistic student experience we Committee and its subcommittees will begin provide at the University of West Georgia.” to focus on the Fiscal Year 2022 budget.

Dr. Jon A. Preston, the university’s proAs my colleagues and I continue to work vost and senior vice president for academic on the state budget bills, I encourage you to affairs, said the center is a prime example of reach out to me with any questions or con- how everything UWG’s faculty and staff cerns you have regarding the state’s budget- does is focused on student success and serving process or any other legislation that ing students in the best way possible. “At interests you.

UWG, we embrace the University System of Keep68great@gmail.com Georgia’s Momentum Year initiatives and 770-295-8143 continually look to see how students are States. We have to make certain that we go out and we compete, not so much against our competitors, but for the interests and expectations of those we’re in service to, and that is students and prospective students.”

The final pillar that Dr. Kelly illuminated for the gathered Carrollton Kiwanis Club members was that of the university’s relationship with the community.

Kelly said, “We have to make certain that we take advantage of curating a University of West Georgia that makes Carrollton more special. Our campus in Newnan that has more than a thousand students enrolled has to be enveloped in what the place is.

StarNews

February 14, 2021 Page 17

Dr. Kelly said, “The economy for higher education [has changed].

If we don’t change, if we don’t evolve, in this marketplace, we will die. What a University does, and how it does its work is the new revelation. And the University of West Georgia is running toward that type of new model, one that I believe will make us great in the 21st century. . .” does its work is the new revelation. And the University of West Georgia is running toward that type of new model, one that I believe will make us great in the 21st century, just the way we have been great for so many decades before under different sets of expectations. “

University cuts ribbon on new “student-centric” Momentum Center

doing in the classroom,” Preston said. “The Momentum Center allows us to have a single place that faculty and staff can refer students to so they can get the help they need. It will let us better provide a high-impact, concierge level of service and better meet student needs.”

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees were invited to take physically distanced tours of the facility to learn more about the services offered. A key tenet of the center is that if a student’s need is not addressed by the offices or programs physically housed in the space, the student will be escorted – not simply directed – to the appropriate office on campus.

The center’s philosophy is grounded in the concept of “transferring the burden” of a student’s concern to the university, Kelly said.

Student Government Association President Khareem Leslie spoke on the value this philosophy holds for students, as well as how that value could tie directly to retaining UWG students through graduation.

“My peers and I are extremely happy to have this building on our campus,” Leslie said. “Often, the concerns that will be addressed by the center – if they aren’t resolved in a timely manner – can be the difference between retaining a student for the next semester and their not being able to continue their education.”

Closing his remarks, Kelly also spoke on how the Momentum Center fits into the university’s strategic plan for the future.

“We have embarked on the strategic planning for our future here at the University of West Georgia, and the Momentum Center is a significant step toward our institutional Becoming,” he said. “As we strive to remain relevant and competitive for students in the past, present and future, we must curate spaces like this to ensure their needs are accommodated and that they have the tools they need to be successful.”

For more on UWG’s Momentum Center, visit their website at https://www.westga.edu/student-services/momentum-center/index.php UWG serves more than 13,400 students from across Georgia, 35 other states and 68 countries. Perennially ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university, West Georgia offers 92 fields of study, including business, nursing, education, STEM, social sciences and the arts. It generates a regional economic impact of more than $632 million.

Page 18 February 14, 2021

StarNews

CLINT CHANCE from page 21

removing the rising popular app Parler - a social media competitor to Facebook drawing millions from its Google Play Store; harvesting of ballots through drop box locations; switching of votes through Dominion machines; mass mailing of absentee ballot applications without voter requests; and the list goes on.

I would respectfully submit that my individual role as District Commissioner and that of the full Commission Board should not be to intervene as Judge and Jury on the preceding list of allegations in the Country as to whether they hold merit or not.

However, I would also submit it would not be my role as an individual Commissioner to bury my head in the sand and pretend these allegations don’t exist throughout our Nation.

After further investigation of CTCL, I found that Facebook owners Zuckerberg and Chan, along with Google, were among several major funders of this non-profit organization pouring hundreds of millions into the foundation.

The fact that these two big tech giants are primary funders for the fore-mentioned insti-

LEE HAMILTON from page 23

we need leaders who are pragmatic about what they can achieve and are skilled and experienced in the arts of compromise and consensus building. And we need citizens who expect their elected representatives— and the media they consume—to level with them, tell them uncomfortable truths, explain the facts, repudiate conspiracy theories, and put forward workable policies for a complex,

www.starnewsgaonline.com tution promoting free, fair and safe access to duty of elections with the highest of integrity elections while at the same time being in our community.

The 2020 election year cycle was extraoraccused in the unwarranted silencing of millions from free speech on their respective dinary and required untold hours of service platforms is enough to warrant a caution flag from those in our department. My vote for denial of the on the track at My vote for denial of the proposed grant proposed grant minimum.

Throughout shouldn’t be viewed negatively upon the shouldn’t be viewed negamany parts of the department but rather a sign of respect tively upon the country, states are to uphold the integrity of the unbiased department but revisiting election rather a sign of reforms including service they provide to our community respect to here in Georgia.

Acceptance of this money is not a uphold the Such actions of integrity of the review by State Republican or Democrat issue servOfficials are to this is not a Conservative or Liberal issue unbiased ice they prohelp ensure loop - this is a matter of upholding vide to our holes that could community. jeopardize elecnon-influential procedures I have been tion integrity, are and will continue to be an avid supporter of closed.

Likewise, these efforts are designed to election operations. I am in favor of further restore confidence by the majority of utilization of CARES act monies enacted by Americans in our Nation’s journey to trust the Federal Government as needed to conelection outcomes. I would submit that our tinue making our staff and citizens safe local County Elections Department includ- while optimizing election operations.

While I pass no professional negative coning administration, staff and poll workers do a phenomenal job in carrying out the civic clusions onto CTCL, its contributors, or its actual benefits that may be genuine, it ever-changing country. We face tough prob- becomes nearly impossible to protect against lems. And while Americans do not expect appearances of impropriety. Even when miracles, they do expect their leaders to work there is no doubt administration would utiltogether to solve them. That is how we move ize resources properly, when outside sources forward. We have a long way to go to move of non-government monies are allowed to past it, but we have a chance to revitalize our penetrate the funding mechanisms for the democracy by showing that it can work to department the shield to protect against improve the lives of all Americans, regard- negative perception fails. less of their beliefs. We have done it in the If the spelled out intentions of a right wing past. We can do it again. political activist group were to be labeled as,

“promoting safe elections” would we accept their money? The same question goes for left wing political activist groups. Acceptance of this money is not a Republican or Democrat issue - this is not a Conservative or Liberal issue - this is a matter of upholding noninfluential procedures.

While my motion to deny ultimately was unsuccessful and a later motion to accept the out of state grant money passed by a 4-3 vote on the Commission Board, I would like to thank Commissioner Ernie Reynolds and Vice-Chairman Tommy Lee for speaking out in favor of denial expressing similar concerns at the core of my fore-mentioned expressions.

While I was disappointed by the final outcome, I do respect and accept the decision that was rendered by the majority. As a working and properly functioning Commission, we must always strive to respect the decisions of our colleagues even when individually we may conclude an honest or irrational error in judgment has been made.

One of the greatest responsibilities and entrusted powers we possess as elected officials is to uphold the integrity and public trust in Government Operations. This is most especially critical when considering departments that by nature must be guarded against any appearance of impropriety. Such agencies include our Courts, Law Enforcement and Elections. Impartiality is at the very core of their fundamentally perceived success.

I will continue to do my best in carefully vetting such items brought for our future consideration most especially after a heightened sense of alert over the past few months.

ERNIE REYNOLDS from page 21

that time, in some other locations, DDS was paying above-market rates to lease space ranging up to $24.49 per square foot.

At Carroll County’s $10 per year - total, the state is definitely getting a bargain! So, your county tax dollars are going to provide a basically free facility to the state - to carry out a state mission of testing and licensing drivers. That sounds like an “unfunded mandate.” I feel the county should get at least enough to cover repair costs to the building and parking lot. However, reasons for keeping the contract just as it is include: 1. “We’ve always done it this way;”

2. “Other counties do this too;” 3. “With this facility in Carrollton/ Carroll County, people come and spend money for a meal, etc., so the county benefits;” and 4. “We can’t charge any more because the state could move their operation to another county.”

To those reasons, I simply say: 1. Because it’s “always been done that way” is not a valid reason to continue.

2. Because some “other counties do it too” is not, altogether, a valid reason to follow the precedent. It seems like a reminder to the saying “two wrongs (or 200 wrongs)

don’t make a right.”

3. Well, people use other government resources in Carrollton/Carroll County too but the county doesn’t fund the building or repairs to those facilities - such as the U.S. Post Office, the Veterans Hospital, Interstate 20, State Highways, etc.)

4. It’s entirely unlikely the state would make a very costly move of an entire operation that is centrally located among other regional DDS facilities and a well-suited facility, just because they were asked to pay a nominal fee to cover repairs.

So, maybe one day, the county can get more than $10 per year for a 6,410 square

foot facility plus a parking lot. Yes, we certainly want to keep the DDS site here, for the convenience of us all. But is the bar set at $10/year? Besides, the Director of the State Properties Commission, who oversees buildings and leases for state facilities, is our own former Carroll County Commission Chariman - who certainly would not want to inconvenience his own county. So there is likely room to negotiate this contract in the future, just to ensure the county is not in an entirely “unfunded mandate” situation.

We are not really compelled to always do things the way they’ve always been done.

We can improve.

KIM B. JONES from page 21 ing more permanent housing that were identified were poor credit scores, difficulty in finding affordable housing near their work, and the high cost of extended stay that prevents residents from saving.

Many of the residents at the extended stay hotels said that they never expected to be homeless. Most experienced an event that quickly sent them into a downward financial freefall, such as a lost job, divorce, major car repair, or doctor visit. The perception is that these residents are chronically homeless, but 57% said they had not been homeless before and 75% had never been evicted as an adult.

When asked how long they had stayed at an extended stay hotel, 62% said one year or less.

The residents are local Carroll County/Carrollton families. Prior to moving to the extended stay, 70% lived in Carroll County. Of those surveyed, 92% had lived in Carroll County for longer than five years.

There are misconceptions that the residents have a criminal history or they are living off government benefits or they are unemployed. Of those surveyed, the majority had not been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, nor are they on probation or parole. The majority said they were not receiving temporary assistance for needy

families nor social security or disability benefits.

Most are working full-time jobs, but even with a steady job, it is a struggle to pay the weekly rates at the local extended stay hotels. The average rent for an extended stay is $1,100 to $1,200 a month, or up to $300 a week. That is over 50% of the residents’ incomes. This is more than enough to rent a modest apartment in Carrollton, where the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $834, according to apartments.com. There are a number of factors that prevent the residents from moving to more permanent housing, such as an apartment, including a poor credit score.

Because concerned citizens have noticed school buses picking up and dropping off students at these motels there is a perception that many children live there. In fact, 59% of the residents have one or two children, but only 41% of the children were under 18 years of age. A partial explanation may be that there are more men than women living in the extended stay hotels. Some residents said they have children, but they were staying with friends or relatives because they did not feel their children would be safe at the hotel.

Just as we had hoped, the survey provided ideas on how we can assist some of these

residents. We have identified several possible starting points and we are sharing these findings with the local community and identifying what can be done to move people from precarious to permanent housing. It’s going to take a community effort with many coming together to make this happen.

We found that some residents do not know what their credit rating is, how it affects them or what they can do about it. A financial literacy program could work with individuals to repair and build their credit scores. A good credit score is a major step on providing permanent housing and reducing living costs. It can help when renting an apartment, getting better insurance rates or obtaining a lower interest rate on a home mortgage.

We heard again and again that transportation is a major barrier for those desiring to work. We met several individuals who walk to work, some as far as five miles each way along busy highways and we know that there are solutions that can help. A routebased transit system instead of an ondemand model could address this need.

Employers could join to provide shuttles from a limited number of stops, such as extended stay hotels and apartment complexes, to and from work. A “Wheels to Work” program could provide cars with low

interest loans to people who need a car to get to work.

We also heard that affordable housing is a challenge, and we believe that housing could be offered through several strategies. A percentage of multi-family housing units could be set aside to be rented below market rent or on a sliding scale. Zoning changes could be considered for single and double family housing in existing homes with basements or garage apartments. Existing housing stock owned by seniors who are unable to maintain or care for their home could be matched with co-residents. In addition to below-market rent, the coresidents could help maintain the home and yard.

We are meeting with local nonprofit leaders, presenting the survey findings to local government, business and faith community leaders and providing information about our findings on the Foundation’s website at cfwg.net. We’ll also be sharing information on social media.

To learn more about how to be part of the solution to the homeless situation here, we ask you to visit the Community Foundation’s website to receive updates on how to get involved. It’s going to take a community to address the issues the survey revealed.

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26-acre perpetual care memorial park Those we love don’t go away Those we love don’t go away Our 26-acre perpetual memorial Our 26-acre perpetual carecare memorial parkpark Those don’t away wasOur J. Collins rpetual care memorial park Those wewe lovelove don’t gogo away developed to serve this area now and for was developed to serve this area now and for was developed to serve this area now and for o serve this area now and for Our funeral home offers a day, They walk beside us every generations to come.West Georgia They walk beside us every day, They walk beside us every generations toHOM come.West Georgia They beside us every day,day, Memorial generations to come.West Georgia s to come.West Georgia UNERAL warm,walk comfortable, familyPark is divided into beautiful Memorial Park is divided into beautiful Memorial Park is divided into beautiful k is divided into beautiful Unseen, unheard, always & CREMATION Unseen, unheard, but always including ourSERVICE traditional up-right oriented environment with Unseen, unheard,but but always gardens Unseen, unheard, but always gardens including our traditional up-right gardens including traditional up-right ing our traditional up-right Funeral Directors &our Undertakers headstone section in the Garden of Memories traditional architecture and headstone section in Garden the Garden of Memories near, still LOVED, STILL MISSED near, still LOVED, STILL MISSED section in the of Memories n in the Garden of Memories near, LOVED, STILL MISSED headstone as well as our flat bronze memorial section near, stillstill LOVED, STILL MISSED tasteful interior decor.

Our as well as flour flat bronze memorial section as well as our at bronze memorial section flat bronze memorial section and our Mausoleum in the Garden and VERY DEAR! and our Mausoleum in the Garden and VERY DEAR! and our Mausoleum in the Garden facilities accommodate all types ausoleum in the Garden and VERY DEAR! and VERY DEAR! of Cross and our Family Estates Garden. of Cross our Family Estates Garden. of Cross and and our Family Estates Garden. our Family Estates Garden. of1011 funerals and memorials large Topaz Lane Villa Rica Ga 1011Rica Topaz Lane Villa RicaChapel Ga GEORGIA MEMORIAL 1011 Topaz Lane Rica 1011 Topaz Lane Villa Rica GaGa WEST and small, public orVilla private.

WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL Villa WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL Chapel ORGIA MEMORIAL Villa Douglas Chapel Douglas Chapel Villa ChapelDouglas Villa RicaRica Chapel Rica Chapel Douglas Chapel place for memories”

ton-Villa Rica Highway 21 Carrollton, Georgia

.836.1336

georgiamemorial.com

770.459.3676 770.459.3676 www.jhoytthomas.com

548 Newnan Street Carrollton, GA 30117 770-459-3694 770-942-2311 Phone: (770) 832-7056

F

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PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

770.459.3676 www.jones-wynn.com

Carrollton-Villa Rica Highway 4194 Carrollton-Villa Rica 4194 Carrollton-Villa Rica Highway 2064194 South Carroll RoadCarrollton, Villa Rica, Ga 30180Highway P.O. Box 1321 Georgia 770-942-2311 1321 Carrollton, Georgia 770-459-3694 770-942-2311 P.O.P.O. BoxBox 1321 Carrollton, Georgia 770-942-2311 770-459-3694 770-459-3694

770.459.6090 www.jones-wynn.com www.jhoytthomas.com www.jhoytthomas.com www.almonfuneralhome.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com 770.836.1336 770.836.1336 770.836.1336 www.westgeorgiamemorial.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com

OOBITUARIES BITUARIES BITUARIES - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMES -

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 14, 2020 Page 19 Page 16 August 11, 2019 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

J. Collins J.J.Collins Collins

“A beautiful place for memories”

Our 26-acre perpetual care memorial park was developed to serve this area now and for generations to come.West Georgia & CREMATION SERVICE Memorial Park is divided into beautiful & CREMATION SERVICE & CREMATION SERVICE Funeral Directors & Undertakers gardens including our traditional up-right Funeral Directors & Undertakers Funeral Directors & Undertakers headstone section in the Garden of Memories as well as our flat bronze memorial section and our Mausoleum in the Garden of Cross and our Family Estates Garden.

UNERALHOM HOM EE FFUNERAL UNERAL HOM

WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL 206 South Carroll Road Villa Rica, Ga 30180 4194 Carrollton-Villa Rica 206 Carroll Rica, Ga 30180 206 SouthSouth Carroll RoadRoad VillaVilla Rica, GaHighway 30180

PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES PERSONALIZED FUNERAL &&CREMATION SERVICES LOCALLY OWNED OPERATED LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

770.459.6090 770.459.6090 770.459.6090 770.836.1336 www.jones-wynn.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com www.jhoytthomas.com www.jones-wynn.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com P.O. Box 1321 Carrollton, Georgia

Villa Rica Chapel Dougl

770-459-3694 770-9

www.jones-wynn

for complete obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com for complete obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonlin complete obituary listings daily www.starnewsgaonline.com complete obituary listings daily go go to:to: www.starnewsgaonline.com uary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com forfor

Dawne “Tiff” Cook, n October 12, 1973, July 12, 2019 B. Dean, age 92, mber 02, 1926, died July 3, 2019 hon Dickerson, age tember 7, 1950, died 19, 2019 an Dodderer, age 84, 1935, died Monday, 9 arsella Fazio, age Jan 1, 1934, died y 8, 2019 ell Griffin Jennings, d Tuesday, July 2,

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Shirley F. Alexander, ageage 71,71, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Jones, Jr., Jerry Scott Shedd, ageage 53,53, Master Danny Joe J Eleanor age 97, born May 28, Shirley F. Alexander, age 71,Jr.,Pariani, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Shirley F. Alexander, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff”Cook, Cook,ageMaster Cynthia Gail Conner, 69, bornDanny May 22,Joe Shirley F.Barnes, Alexander, 71, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Master Danny Jones, Jerry Scott Shedd, Master Danny JoeJoe Jones, Jr., Jerry Scott Shedd, age1923, 53, Master Danny Joe Jr., Daniel M. ageJones, 62,age born August 22, Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, born November 27, 1947, died age 45, born October 12, 1973, age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday, July 8, 2019 born November 27, 1947, died age 45,Monday, born October 12, 1973, age 2 months, born May born November 27, 1947, died born October 1973, died Thursday, January 14,July 2021 born November 27, 1947, died ageage 45,45, born October 12,12, 1973, age 2 months, born May 16, 2019,died died July 8, 2019 age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, Monday, 8, 2019 age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday, July 8, 2019 1951, died Tuesday, January 12, 2021 1958, died Wednesday, January 13, 2021 Sunday, July 14,14, 2019 died Friday, July 12,12, 2019 died Thursday, July 4, 2019 David Ronald Simpson, ageage died Thursday, July 4, 2 Sunday, July 14, 2019 Friday, July 12, 2019 Sunday, July 2019 died Friday, July 2019age Sunday, July 14, died Friday, July 12, 2019 died Thursday, July 4, 2019 David Ronald Simpson, died Thursday, July 4, 2019 William died “Bill” Charles Shaffer, age 67, born David Ronald Simpson, age died Thursday, July2019 4, 2019 David Ronald Simpson, James “Jimmy” Edward Dukes, age 70, born Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, Gary Lee Barnes, age 74, died Wednesday, “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July Dwight Bishop, Jr., age age 62, James B.21,Dean, age 92, DwightBishop, Bishop, James B.Dean, Dean, Dwight Jr.,Jr.,ageage 62,62, James B. ageage 92,92, “Marjorie” “Marjorie” NellLovvorn, Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July “Marjorie” Nell Lov Nell 70, born July 1948, died July “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July June 26, 1953, died Friday January 22, 2021 born September 28,28, 1956, died born September 02,02, 1926, died June 11, 1950, died Monday January 25, 202128, 86, born August 3, 3, 1932, died 09, 2019 born September 1956, died born September 02, 1926, died January 27, 2021 86, born August 3, 1 born September 1956, died born September 1926, died born September 28, 1956, died born September 02, 1926, died 86, born August 1932, died 09, 2019 86, born August 3, 1932, Alan diedFranklin 09, 2019 86, born August 3, 1932, died 09, 2019 Tuesday, July 9, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Thomas, age 54, bornage on 94, Wednesday, July 10, 20 Wednesday, July 10,10, 2019 Zellie Fred Sprewell, Tuesday, July 9, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Teresa Ann Haney, age 64, born August 17, Tuesday, July 9, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Janice Lynn Bowlick Duncan, age79, born Tuesday, July 9, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Wednesday, July 2019 Zellie Fred Sprewell, age 94, July 10, 2019 Zellie Fred Sprewell, age 94, Wednesday, July 10, “Don” 2019 Bonner, Zellie Fred Sprewell, age 94, Donald Brasseal Barry Bushon Dickerson, ageageWednesday, Dixon McGill, 76,76, February 28, 1925, died February 8,born 1966, died Thursday, January 14, Donald Brasseal “Don”age Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, 1956, died Monday, JanuaryAndra 18, 2021 Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Andra Dixon McGill, age born February 28, 1925, died Andra Dixon McGill Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born February 28, 1925, died June 29, 1941, died Monday, January 18, 2021 Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born February 28, 1925, died ageage 76,76, born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died born October 18, 1941, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 age 76, born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died born October 18, 19 2021 “Margie” Ruth Vickers born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died age 76, born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died born October 18, 1941, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 born 18, 1941, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 born October 18,10, 1941, died Saturday, Rayford age 76,October died Monday, July19, 27,2019 2019 L. Hightower,Wednesday, Thomas Franklin Bland, Sr. (Frank), 87, bornJuly Wednesday, July 2019 Friday, July 17, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, ageage 40,40, Wednesday, July 17, 20 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Waldrep, age 96, born September Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, Wednesday, July 17, Daniel Lance Walker, January 25, age 2021 John Brown, Jr.,Jr., ageage 53,53,24, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age40, 84,84, Eugene October 31,D.1933, died2019 Sunday, January 2021 Mullis, Jr.,Jr., age born September 18,18, 1978, died John D.Parker Brown, Jr., age 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, John D. Brown, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age John D. Brown, Jr., Jr., ageage 53, bornBobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, Eugene Parker Mullis, age born September 1978, died Eugene Parker Mulli Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age born September 18, 1978, died Eugene Parker Mullis, September 18, 1978, died 2,1924, died Monday February 1, 2021 born August 18, 1965, died July born July 9, 1935, died Monday, Jeremy Hullender, age 40, born October 22, 70, born December 31, 1948, died Sunday, July 21, 2019 Danny Carnes, age 77, died Wednesday, born August 18, 1965, died July born July 9, 1935, died Monday, 70, born December 31, born August 18, 1965, died July born July 9, 1935, died Monday, born August 18, 1965, died July born July 9, 1935, died Monday, 70, born December 31, 1948, died Sunday, July 21, 2019 70, born December 31, 1948, died July75,21, 2019 70, December 31, 1948, died Sunday, 21, 2019 Billy JoeSunday, Walker, age born June 1, 1945, 22,born 2019 July 22,July 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 1980, died Friday morning, January 22, 2021 Monday, July 8, 2019 January 20, 2021 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, Monday, July 8, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, Monday, July 8, 2019Phillips Bryce, Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, Marie Elizabeth Anna Marsella Fazio, ageage Randy LeeLee Nichols, age 66,66,ageage 58,58, died July 22,22, 2019 died Monday, January 4, 2021 Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, age Randy Lee Nichols Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, Shirley Ruth Smith Leatherwood, Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, age Randy Nichols, age died July 2019 Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, Mark “Keith” Collins, age 58, born November age 58, died July 22, 2019 Randy LeeSeptember Nichols, age 66, age diedon July 22,1,2019 age 89,89, born 14,14, 1929, 85,58, born Jan 1934, died born June 24,September 1953, died Friday, Wallace Allen Worthan, age age 89, born 14, 1929, 85, born on Jan 1,Worthan, 1934, died born June 24, 1953, di Roscoe Williams, age 85, born July 25, 1935, age born September 1929, 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died age 89, born September 14, 1929, 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died born June 24, 1953, died Friday, Wallace Allen age born June 24, 1953, died Friday, Wallace Allen Worthan, age age 91, born on February 11, 1929, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, WallaceJuly Allen Worthan, age 16, 1962, died January 29, 2019 2021 died Saturday, July 20, Monday, 8, 2019 July 26, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15,15, 2019 died Saturday, July 20, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 July 26, 2019 died Saturday, July 2019 56, Monday, July 8, 2019 died Saturday, July 20,20, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 July 26, 2019 56, died Monday, July 2019 died Friday, January 8, 2021 July 26, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 July 26, 2019 Monday, July 15,Jennings, 2019 15, 2021 diedGriffin Friday, January Mitt Seymour Conerly, Jr.,age age 80, 76, borndied Earl Wayne Carden, Harris Nell Ara Bell D. D. Sanders, age 79, Judith Chapman, ageage 55,55, Ara Bell D. Sanders Earl Wayne Carden, age 80,79, Carol Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, Earl Wayne Carden, Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, Earl Wayne Carden, ageage 80,80, Carol Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, Ara Bell Sanders, age Carol Judith Chapman, Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, Judith Chapman, age 55,2, ageborn Roney “Rodney” Wynn, age 54, died born October 29, died age 83, died Tuesday, July Patricia T. Morris, 93, born November 6, 1938, August 06,06, 1939, died July June 24, 1964, died Sunday, November 17, 1944, died Friday, January 22, born October died age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, born August 06, 1939, born October 29,1938, 1938, died age died Tuesday, July born October 29, 1938, died age 83,83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2,born born August 1939, died Julyborn born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, August 06, 29, 1939, died July born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, born August 06, 1939, died July born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, Thursday, February 4, 2021 Friday, June 28, 2019 2019 24, 2019 July 7, 2019 1927, died Monday, January 11, 2021 Friday, June 28, 2019 2019 24, 2019 2021 Friday, June 2019 2019 Friday, June 28,28, 2019 2019 2019 July 7, 2019 24,24, 2019 July 7, 2019 24, 2019 July 7, 2019 Phyllis Lynn Banister Murray, age 60, born Aaron Q. Cook, age 90, born January 28, 1930, October 31, 1960, died Tuesday, February 2, 2021 died Thursday, January 07, 2021

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Page 20 February 14, 2021

StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

e r ’ e W worth a shot TO CRUSH COVID

You know what’s important. Protect them. Protect yourself.

Vaccination is our best chance to beat COVID-19. It’s how we’re able to be around our loved ones again, safely.

Learn more at tanner.org/vaccine.

COMMENTARY

Page 21 February 14 2021

Carroll County’s homeless population

StarNews / StarNews Online www.starnewsgaonline.com

“Not just what happened, but what matters”

SUSAN M. HORN

EDITOR/PUBLISHER ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: WAYNE REYNOLDS REPORTERS:

GRAPHICS DESIGNER: SHERRY REYNOLDS

DANIEL JACKSON

BRANDON KERR

Our goal is to produce a quality newspaper, locally oriented and designed with the readers’ interest in mind. Letters to the editor are welcomed and should include a signature, address/email addrees, phone number. Liability for an error will not exceed the cost of the space occupied by the error. We welcome reader input, ideas and criticisms. Your right to read this newspaper is protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Published monthly. Periodical postage paid permit #16154 Carrollton GA. Delivery mail/carrier $20 per year. $30 out of county. Send address changes: P.O. Box 680, Carrollton, GA 30112.

P.O. Box 680 Carrollton, GA 30112

suehorn.starnews@gmail.com cell: 770-301-1275

© 2021 Palindrome Enterprises

dba StarNews / StarNews Online

Local newspapers will cease to exist, part two: 70% of local advertising dollars goes to Facebook and Google, drug dealers of yellow journalism We teach our children - and beat into the minds of our teenagers - a simple truth: drugs bad. Yet, we - the responsible adults in charge - fill our minds every day with the ‘crack’ known as yellow journalism that ceaselessly spews from cable news, Facebook, and the we-have-onlyEDITOR/ PUBLISHER one-political-view-newspapers.

We succumb willingly to the emotional rushes of sensational news as harmoniously as heroin enters an addict’s vein. We don’t resist, in fact, what is the first to-do of the day? Turn on the news: computer, laptop, phone, TV. With religious commitment, we attach our minds - and keep it attached all day (let me check Facebook, oh, no, I can’t believe this horrible “news” on my feed) - connecting our veins directly and waiting anxiously for the hit, the rush, of “What is Outrageous Today?” Outrageous, incredible, worrisome, end of the world, zombie apocalypse. We are addicted to news that isn’t news but opinion; news that isn’t news because it covered one side of an issue; news that isn’t news because it isn’t important (think celebrities who argue); news that isn’t news because it contains information, that, well, is not true.

What are we doing to ourselves? How does an addict who is using feel?

Anxious. Afraid. Not truly living a life, just waiting for the next fix, the next rush. Stop watching/listening/reading fake news. Stop feeding the drug dealers of yellow journalism with your time. They are stealing your precious awake time, leaving the rest of your days and nights contaminated. Call yourself and2020 contributing positively to the quality of life in your Page 21responsible January 12, circle of humans? Then act like it. Stop crippling your time with the drug.

Cable television, Facebook, and Google. Fake news, unimportant “news”, nonsensical videos, yellow journalism - all pay big (as in billions-big) to / these mega companies. Google’s annual revenue is reported at $160.84 www.starnewsgaonline.com billion, with $134.81 billion coming from advertising alone. Facebook’s revenue is also“Not in thejust billions. both are facing whatThey happened, but whatanti-trust matters”lawsuits after a U.S House Judiciary Committee/ Subcommittee issued a 470 page report SUSAN concluding the two mega tech giantsM. areHORN indeed monopolies.

Now, making money EDITOR/PUBLISHER through good business practices is good. Making ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: GRAPHICS money through illegal practices is bad. Read our frontDESIGNER: page story on the West WAYNE REYNOLDS HERRY REYNOLDS Virginia newspaper company HD MediaSthat filed an anti-trust lawsuit against Google and Facebook.REPORTERS: HD Media’s 42 page “Complaint and Jury Demand” makes the Pclear that Google and Facebook entered into a RISSIcase SULLIVAN KIM REINE “secret named Jedilocally Blue” to “further their Our goalagreement is to produce code a quality newspaper, oriented and designed with worldwide the readers’ interest in mind. to advertising the editor aremarket”. welcomedThis and decimated should include a signature,as dominance of theLetters digital newspapers address/email addrees, phone number. Liability for an error will not exceed the cost of the Google and Facebook able to stack theideas deck local advertising, space occupied by the error.were We welcome reader input, andon criticisms.

Your right to obtaining 70% of isit.protected Newspapers have sufferedofgreatly (see front page story read this newspaper by the First Amendment the United States Constitution.

Published monthly.newspapers).

Periodical postage paid permit #16154 too.

Carrollton on Heard County’s StarNews has suffered, It has GA. been Delivery mail/carrier $20 with per year. of We county. changes: P.O. tough to keep on going less $30 andout less. needSend ouraddress local advertisers and Box 680, Carrollton, GA 30112. local subscribers to be able to report on P.O. our local news.

Box 680 Carrollton, GA 30112 suehorn.starnews@gmail.com Does the law only pursue and convict the© drug dealer? Enteprises Nope. Users are 2020 Palindrome StarNews / StarNews cell:penalized, 770-301-1275 found and too. The penalty dba that is coming to Online Google and Facebook users will be in the form of a annual or monthly fee (think cable 2020 solidhasyear foraboth TV bill).should So, beforebe yourabudget to include annual charge of $100 or so to have a Facebook page, how about becoming “addicted” to local news?

Carroll County’s businesses and governments Local news isn’t their sensational exaggerations on world events, but it is the Citizens will pay higher taxes to support their government; truth about your world here.

Please see page 16 on how to subscribe to consumers will increase their spending and support local economy StarNews. $20 for a full year (not a month). And, thank you for reading this This new year should be a solid locally owned and locally operated community newspaper. year economically for our Carroll County government/municipal entities and businesses, both large and small.

UE The county’s governments and cities will continue to benefit from the HORN across-the-board property assessment increases of recent years to fuel their EDITOR/ PUBLISHER salaries and projects; while businesses, will benefit from increased consumer spending (see Page 9). The Georgia Economic Outlook report also states that Georgia’s economy slowed

SUE

HORN

Home has a new significance during the CoVID-19 pandemic, but for many families in our community having a place to call home or even describing a place where they “stay” is not easy.

Theirs is a precarious reality as they frequently face the daily and weekly challenge of securing housing. Housing is a daily challenge that undermines the stability and quality of life for so many in our community. This frightening existence for parents means not knowing where they and their children will sleep, eat or be safe.

The toll on a person’s mental, physical and spiritual being is both short and long-term. Ongoing insecurity results in increased costs for physical and mental health issues, disrupted educations and inability to sustain employment. The detrimental effects of

S

JONES

PRESIDENT Community Foundation of West Georgia

cfwg.net this ongoing trauma can be felt in all sectors of our community and is very costly.

Many in our community are grappling with this growing issue.

Because our community cares for its neighbors, many are searching for ways to provide immediate help as well as to develop longterm solutions. Many believe if we can partner with those who are precariously housed, we can provide more stability for our

See KIM B. JONES page 18

Impartiality in elections: a vote to deny the appearance of impropriety in our local elections At the February 2nd Carroll County Board of Commissioners meeting, I made a motion to deny a grant offering approximately $104,000 from the non-profit Chicago based Center for Tech and Civic Life (CTCL). The agency has offered hundreds of millions directly to county election departments throughout the nation for the purpose of promoting safe and fair access to elections during this time of a worldwide pandemic. Allow me to give some history in relation to CTCL and Carroll County.

During these unprecedented times encumbering COVID-19, there have been many challenges in navigating government operations. In September of 2020, the Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to accept a grant for approximately $66,000 from CTCL. This was also concurrent

COMMENTARY

StarNews StarNews Online

KIM B.

community.

To gain a better understanding of the challenges of those precariously housed, The Community Foundation of West Georgia coordinated a door-to-door 88question survey of those living in five of the seven local hotels identified as extended stay, including the Carroll Inn, the Crown Inn, the Efficiency Lodge, the Rodeway and the Royal Inn. Our goal has been to discover barriers to obtaining more permanent housing and develop community-based strategies. The survey asked about housing stability barriers, tenant barriers like rental, credit and criminal history, financial barriers and personal barriers such as physical and mental health, education, abuse.

Some of the barriers to obtain-

CLINT

CHANCE District 3 Carroll County Commissioner

P.O. Box 323 Villa RIca, GA 30180 404-313-4990 cchance@ carrollcountyga.com during an extended period of weeks prior that included accepting terms of substantial Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) act monies from the United States Federal Government in multiple time frame payments, numerous conversations with staff and legal counsel about what might and

might not be allowed as reimbursable, etc. thus prompting confusion among some commissioners.

The CARES act monies were also designed to assist in part, with Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and other safety protocols that would help make all forms of local government operations safer, including elections.

As Americans across the nation witnessed in the weeks leading up to and including the post November election, multitudes of reports with nefarious allegations arose throughout the country.

Such examples of allegations included, but were not limited to, social media censoring of free speech; suppression of news worthy stories such as Hunter Biden’s skeptical business relations with China; search engine tech Google See CLINT CHANCE page 18

Hope - my thoughts and well wishes fordriver the New Year!

Logical points regarding contracts and licenses youratDistrict 5 County ItAs seems, times, that logical Commissioner, I usually write points and fundamental best manthis monthly StarNews article agement practices are thrown out about issues and related to your the window disregarded. county of government, I love Instead using thesewhich premises in informing you about! decision-making, andBut, wetoday, use given that(“we’ve it is the always beginning precedent doneofita newway”), year politics, and a new decade, that and possible maybe you won’t relay peer pressure upon mind whichiftoI base to you some decisions. thoughts I’ve and validate To been me, having aboutmake life in sense, generalbut - parthat doesn’t I ticularly about HOPE! check myself, as I realize my HOPE what gives all entire careerishas focused on us maksome fuel - that can based propel on us ing recommendations toward accomplishments in the best practices, auditing standards, future. It is that feeling inside that management consulting criteria, dwells not onindicators, the past ofbenchyesterperformance day, but on thedeliverables, future of tomormarks, contract and rowlike.

- on reaching toward better the So, when sucha valid tomorrow,are thatshoved we canaside focusand on measures today. decisions are based, instead, on In this holiday of whimsical ideas orseason, myopicmany views, received and/or given the Ius amhave somewhat baffled. well wishes for a To “Happy New CONTRACTS. me, conYear.”should That iscontain nice. It valid is great tracts andto wish others well and to help them accomplish just that - and to look forward to happiness and a brighter future in each of our lives.

Of course, a wish for a “Happy New Year” doesn’t mean that our struggles or fears or hardships will suddenly vanish - and we’ll suddenly be placed in a utopia of

ERNIE

REYNOLDS District 5 Carroll County Commissioner

ereynolds@carrollcounty ga.com 770-851-6215 even stronger HOPE this measureable deliverables foryear the that will propel you within to accomplish contractor to meet certain and overcome and rise above, in defined timeframes.

These delivspite ofshould us all be having erables basedhardships on valid and issues of indicators many sortsand to data deal performance with. be routinely and periodishould Some of you may recall an earcally collected throughout the lier article I wrote about expericontract period to monitor conencingperformance. things during my camtractor paign visits penalties with many of you.

Stipulated and/or canMy visits of with just struck me cellation theyou contract should so realistically, myperformDistrict take place whenthat such and our life here in rural Carroll County together, was just a microcosm of the nation and world and humanity in general.

Many of you expressed to me how you or your family were experiencing health problems, significant burdens, financial struggles, or maybe had even just placed a loved one in the hospital

child…

It reminded me that of that ance monitoring discloses the verse in Ecclesiastes: “Toare everystipulated deliverables not thing delivered there is abyseason… a time being the contractor. forThat’s everyContract purpose under heaven: Management a time to I’m mourn, and that’s a timenot to 101 - but finding dance; awhat time to away stones, always is cast advocated and and a timeintolocal gather stones…” supported government We all face life’s ups downs decision-making.

Asand much asthroughout possible, I’m this tryingDistrict to push and for throughout change - andhumanity. better contracts.

During the ups and downs of DRIVER LICENSES. Did you life, Ithat want encourage youthe to know thetocounty provides alwaysDepartment have HOPE.of I’ll very state Driver briefly relay to youwith two examples Services (DDS) a 6,410 of persons who never up square foot building and gave parking HOPE lot, etc.- even for a through cost ofvery onlygruel$10 ing and direper experiences, (ten) dollars year?! Plus,they the forged isthrough - and are county responsible forthey the cost constant to meetc.) of perof repairsreminders (like roofing, to sistent HOPE: the building.

My son was always In1)2012, the average rate both per athleticfoot and the academic.

He loved square state paid local basketball and tennis, andspace was governments to lease office veryover good$13 at both.

He also loved was per square foot.

At to learn and excel academically See ERNIE REYNOLDS page 18 and loved being challenged and competing and winning at classes and regional academic events during college. He chose to attend Wake Forest University, where he excelled and was always on the Dean’s List, in the top 5% of his class, and was on the Board of Investigators and Advisors and selected as one of only 8 in the

Page 22 February 14, 2021

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The path forward need to rediscover our skills at negotiation and compromise. We must rekindle our LEE understanding that many people contribute to HAMILTON

PROFESSOR Indiana University Center on Representative Government With the handoff of power from one president to another, we enter this new phase of our national life in deep distress. We are divided and polarized, struggling to communicate reasonably with one another, and seemingly unable to find common ground on basic issues. Yet the path forward is neither new nor, really, difficult. We all know what needs to happen. We just need to do it.

To heal as a nation, we need to return to our traditional ways of doing business. We

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our progress as a nation and that no one has an exclusive on wisdom. And perhaps more than anything, we need to reassure ourselves that we have the confidence and ability to solve our problems. We have done it in the past. We can do it again.

I count myself among those who believe that President Trump’s misconduct should not be ignored—that healthy democracies hold public officials accountable for their actions and do not just sweep them under the rug in the name of moving on.

Representative democracies cannot function if political leaders try to overturn the results of a free and fair election when they do not like the result.

At the same time, though, we badly need to focus on the tasks of governing. And by

“we,” I mean all of us. Most of us will not have much impact on the future of social security or finding ways to provide affordable health care to every American, but we do bear responsibility for making our own little corner of the country work. We can look around our neighborhood, our community, our region, or our state, and do our best to make our system live up to its promise.

For starters, this means that we resolve our differences without resorting to violence or trying to overthrow the system. Our representative democracy has its faults, but over the long sweep of our history it has served us well, evolving as public understanding evolves. In our system, we work to reform it, not to jettison it altogether.

Binding up our wounds will take recognizing that we can work together to resolve our differences. We will be helped on this score by electing principled, practical, and prag-

A tabernacle choir down by The Chattahoochee River

SYBIL

THOMAS

River Rambles syllabil@aol.com A shallow ravine in The Chattahoochee’s riverbank west of the cabin is overshadowed by a leaning Osage Orange still dangling last summer’s oddball fruit. Bank beavers once made an underground lodge in that portion of the shoreline, till a flood sank the lodge’s roof and carried the whole riverside away. Last night, for the first time this year, the ravine was a tabernacle for a chorus of mating spring peepers.

Frogs get a bad rap in our culture.

They’re the odious creature the girl’s got to kiss to get the prince. They personify ugly.

They give you warts. Some people do like to eat them, especially the legs. My cat, the raccoons, the foxes, they are not particular; they inhale a frog intact. Frog gigging, an arguably cruel sport requiring a board, a nail, and a frog, was a boyhood rite when I was a kid. Despite, or perhaps because of, their various reputations, frogs have a lot to tell us about the world we share.

That first tentative song of the spring peeper stuns and delights me. It arrives early this year; a mild winter, the frogs are eager to come awake. A lone voice cheeps at the river’s edge - a slow quavering chirp, then another, and another - until in unison they form a choir of celestial bells: high small ringing voices carrying across vernal pools in the floodplain. Truly tiny, peepers are tree frogs three-quarters of an inch long, clinging to reeds and grasses in the shifting sandy soils along the Chattahoochee.

Frogs are amphibians (like toads, salamanders, newts, and caecilians), meaning they have two lives; one in water,

matic leaders. I have had the privilege in my time in politics of watching hundreds (if not thousands) of elected officials and their staff commit to making the US a better country.

This is our historic norm, and I want to see it function again: with a return to the business of governing. We want our representatives to disagree on policy grounds—not because of where they went to school or where they live or what they look like—and then negotiate, legislate, and find a way forward. You don’t always get results if you’re involved in public life, but you should strive to reach them.

And if you fail the first time, it should be the norm that you move on and come back another day to try again or to correct what went wrong.

The truth is, we cannot solve our problems without talking to each other—and talking and talking and talking. That is why See LEE HAMILTON page 18

one on land. Born in ponds, pools, and puddles from eggs laid in shimmering clusters, they spend their childhood as tadpoles, curiously wriggling aquatic larva like living apostrophes, before sprouting legs for a hopping mobility as an adult frog on the ground.

The spring peeper’s innate ability to wake up after a cold winter is a mystery; instinct we call it, for lack of a better word. The dictionary offers inborn, tendency, impulse.

Instinct can be a gift, a natural intuitive power; I think of it as being in sync.

The mating song of a spring peeper is an invitation to the opening of a season. Cold days and nights may yet come but the frogs already know the Earth is again tilting into the Sun. They sense the lengthening days, the warming ground temperature. Peepers don’t escape the winter cold by burying themselves in the unfrozen mud of riverbeds and forest floors as other frogs do, to surrender to a deep deep sleep. Instead, peepers hide in the reeds and grasses

growing along water, their bodies freezing solid through the frigid nights. A substance akin to antifreeze runs through their veins so that, as the earth heats, peepers - literally thaw out and begin to sing.

The resilience of this world is merciful if we would only let it be. Frog populations are declining worldwide, 3.79% a year (www.usgs.gov), vulnerable to habitat destruction, disease, demise of water and ground quality, changes in water temperature, pesticides. Their loss mirrors all of Nature’s struggle. This moment may be our last to protect these delicate sensitive creatures from manmade conditions determinedly destroying them. In 1962 Rachel Carson’s groundbreaking environmental work Silent Spring bemoaned a potential loss of spring birdsong as songbird species succumbed to the pesticides in the insects they ate. For myself I could not imagine the coming season along the Chattahoochee if the peepers were not here to sing the spring awake.

in my Marine Corps JROTC program, I had a vision to one day become Battalion Commander. Through hard work I accomplished that goal I set out for myself. I first followed and served, then I was promoted to those various leadership positions. I made it my mission, no matter the billet I may fill, I will serve with excellence.

As a squad leader, I ensured my squad was squared away during drill exercises and inspection. As a Platoon Commander, it was my goal to produce results and develop leaders within my platoon. As a Company Commander, I grew participation and enthusiasm exponentially.

As many may know, if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail. I once again decided not to step aside and watch as decisions where being made for my cadets and I, but lead as Battalion Commander. I became the Battalion Commander and swiftly sought to restructure our program for the future. The unit had been tested throughout the course of the year.

Most recently, we had to discover how to lead during the COVID-19 crisis. At this time, I had to understand leadership does not

go unflawed and untested, it is how we respond to adversity is what matters. It is my responsibility as a leader to set the standard of excellence and commit to the mission and success of the team.

As I embark on the next chapter of my life, the lessons I have learned while serving in those leadership positions will have great influence as I begin my collegiate career. I aspire to run for various Student Government offices and be a voice for my peers. Leaders such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Maynard Jackson, and Nelson Mandela have paved the way for generations of leaders to come. It is pertinent young people have someone to look up to who looks like them.

I believe everyone needs a mentor and inspiration or they will be lost. As I continue developing as a leader, I will pour into those aspiring leaders who have the potential to be great.

As I begin the next phase of my academic career as a Business Administration major at Morehouse College, I will utilize the legacy of those who went before me to lead in every aspect of my life and serve to ensure a prodigious future inclusive to all people.

The anatomy of a leader

BRANDON

WILSON

Millennials Christian Ministry (MCM) brandonw @c5georgia.org Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “A man who calls himself a leader but no one is following him is just taking a walk.”

Leadership is the unwavering ability to influence and impact individuals. Good leaders are constantly learning and seeking knowledge. I once read a book titled, “Great Leaders Grow”, in which it outlines the characteristics individuals must gain to be a great leader. As a leader, you must Gain Knowledge, Reach Others, Open Your World, and Walk Towards Wisdom. I work to employ these traits to better lead the various organizations and teams I serve.

I have had the privilege of serving in various leadership roles in organizations in and out of school. My senior year of high school, I was selected by my peers to serve as SGA

President. I ran for office because I wanted to make sure all students at Lithia Springs High School have a voice in the trajectory of our school’s future. The opinions and ideas of students are too often ignored by administration, and it is up to strong leaders to ensure students are heard by the top officials in our school district. I did not want to sit on the sidelines as decisions were made for me and my peers, and I knew the best way to represent the best interest of the students at Lithia Springs High School was to serve as SGA President. I was elected to this office to change the image of our school because I knew the importance of taking ownership of our past yet moving forward to a new standard of excellence.

My unwavering commitment to service and excellence is a direct consequence of the leadership qualities instilled in me at an early age. Though I may encounter adversity, I will continue the legacy of those who came before me, reflecting the core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.

In step with the mission of the Marine Corps, I was able to not only rewrite the narrative of my school environment but also the JROTC program. As a young Lieutenant

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The first weeks of the Georgia Legislative Session

J

COLLINS STATE Representative (R) DISTRICT 68

770-259-8143 Keep68great @gmail.com

On Monday, January 11, 2021, the first session of the 156th Georgia General Assembly officially began. While every session brings with it new faces, new chairmen and new legislative priorities, we had a few additional changes that made House proceedings look a little different this year.

Specifically, Georgia, and the world as a whole, is continuing to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.

In order to mitigate potential risks associated with the virus around our legislative session, General Assembly members and staff are being tested at the Capitol twice a week and a robust contact tracing program has been implemented when positive cases arise. Additionally, our committee rooms have been socially distanced and members are required to wear masks while in the House Chamber or during committee hearings. Even with these new precautions in place, the House will not be deterred in carrying out the people’s work.

Governor Brian Kemp delivered his annual State of the State Address. His message was one of resilience and strength, even in the face of adversity. While the COVID19 pandemic has impacted economic activity across the state, we are on track to bounce back and rebound stronger than ever.

Specifically, no new budget cuts will be necessary and Gov. Kemp has called for more than $647 million in the Amended Fiscal Year 2021 budget for K-12 education, which will fully fund enrollment growth.

In memoriam

BILL

BOURIS digi@mindspring.com Today, when I got out of the shower, I dried off and slipped into my oversized terry cloth bathrobe. Immediately I realized what I’d just done, coined a phrase in describing that, and imagined my friend Paul Baker cracking up with laughter: “I dried only where my robe don’t go.” I know he would have loved that line. I believe that he would have composed a song containing that line, and would have played it on his guitar. Do not let me mislead you. First and foremost, Paul was a quiet individual, thoughtful. Very kind.

We lost Paul just before Christmas.

Though he’d been in a nursing home and could not have guests because of Covid, I always felt his presence and company throughout that time. If I forget, I still do.

For the past few years we would see each other for coffee each Tuesday, where we gathered with a few other friends. Those

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February 14, 2021 Page 23

Gov. Kemp also elaborated on his plans for increased broadband internet access, an enhanced freight transportation network and expanding access to medical care.

These proposals, and more, will be analyzed in detail during joint meetings of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees as they hear from the heads of Georgia’s departments and state agencies to determine their current budgetary needs, as well as what their projected finances will be in the next fiscal year. These hearings will provide us with the data we need in order to craft our AFY21 and FY22 budgets before we adjourn Sine Die. The third week of the 2021 legislative session under the Gold Dome began on Tuesday, January 26. It was especially busy as we spent four days in session and several House committees held their first meetings, both virtually and in-person, to begin considering legislation.

During our third week of session, the House Appropriations Committee and its subcommittees passed the Amended Fiscal Year 2021 (AFY 2021) budget and sent a finalized supplemental budget to the House Rules Committee. On Thursday, January 28, the AFY 2021 budget was passed.

In June 2020, the original Fiscal Year 2021 budget was set using a revenue estimate of $25.9 billion and reduced funding for all state agencies in preparation for a state revenue decline due to the pandemic. Our state’s economic outlook has improved greatly since then as businesses have safely reopened and much needed federal relief has been distributed.

The House’s version of the AFY 2021 budget is based on Governor Brian Kemp’s comprehensive budget proposal for the remainder of the fiscal year, and his revenue estimate for the AFY 2021 budget is $26.56 billion, which is an increase of $654.3 million, or 2.4%, compared to the original

budget. HB 80 restores critical funding and reflects the House’s priorities, such as restoring 60 percent of previous reductions to K-12 education funding formulas and boosting grant funding to support our public health agency as it addresses the pandemic. This budget also recognizes $2.7 billion in federal funds that are meant to help our agencies, colleges and local school systems respond to COVID-19.

K-12 Education: The largest expenditure in the state budget each year goes toward K12 education, and as such, HB 80 designates a total of $9.6 billion, or 43.4%, of the state’s general funds to our K-12 education systems.

Last year, the Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula funding was reduced by $950 million to account for a 10% decline in state revenue, and, at the time, it was impossible for the General Assembly to pass a constitutional, balanced budget without making reductions. However, since state revenues have increased, we were able to restore 60% of this reduction to the QBE formula in HB 80. The House also appropriated $41 million for a midterm adjustment to the QBE formula, holding schools harmless for the 35,264, or 2%, decline in student enrollment due to the pandemic. Also, as a result of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the House’s version of the amended budget reflects $144.6 million in federal funds for the Department of Early Care and Learning for the Child Care and Development Block Grants.

Higher Education: The House’s supplemental budget also includes important funding for higher education in our state. In the House’s AFY 2021 budget, the University System of Georgia (USG) receives $70.1 million that was not included in the FY 2021 budget; this accounts for the USG’s 1.8% enrollment growth and a half percent increase in square footage for its campuses throughout

the state. Just as we restored funding for K12 education, we also restored $8.1 million, or 60%, to the USG B-Unit programs, such as the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Medical College of Georgia Hospital/Clinic, among others. HB 80 also adds $3.5 million in new funding for enrollment growth at the Technical College System of Georgia.

Health: As the state continues to grapple with COVID-19, the House also prioritized funding to support our public health agency, which has been pivotal in our state’s handling of COVID-19, as well as other healthfocused initiatives. To improve the state’s current response plan, HB 80 includes $18 million for the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) to replace and modernize its outdated epidemiologic surveillance system; with these funds, the DPH would also be able to implement further infrastructure improvements that would help keep track of COVID-19 cases.

Likewise, HB 80 provides $285,997 for the DPH to hire three essential leaders to help navigate the agency’s COVID-19 response: a chief medical officer, a deputy commissioner of public health, and a chief data officer. We also recognized more than $1 billion from federal relief packages to support the DPH, including funding for epidemiology and laboratory capacity, COVID19 vaccine preparedness and public health crisis response.

The House approved $19.3 million to increase the Medicaid growth allowance for skilled nursing centers by 5%, totaling a rate increase of 3.5%. Skilled nursing centers have been some of the hardest hit by the pandemic, and this allowance would assist these centers that have experienced large revenue losses and increased staffing costs associated with COVID-19.

As a result of the federal “Families First

afternoon meetings could evolve into heated, very heated, discussions, but Paul was never one of the afternoon’s hotheads. He was cool, patient, probably wise.

There was a particular moment when Paul became more than a friend. I could not have guessed it at the time, but the effect of a simple favor helped change my professional life. At the same time it fed a curiosity that changed a part of my thinking life. And now, so many years later, I am saying that Paul has had a subtle and profound effect on my life. I wouldn’t be surprised if there are others who are beginning to realize something similar. For, as we watched his private memorial service at Carrollton Methodist Church, via Zoom (and its interruptions), there was ample display of appreciation for his love and influence on all, but especially the younger generations of his family: There was an outstanding painted portrait, a beautiful song to his memory, and a eulogy.

It’s a long story, but back in the 1990s, I decided to change from being a programmer for scientists to one who catered to the business community. The obvious future success of the microcomputer was the the reason for that. My new friend Paul Baker, who had been teaching at the School of Business, helped me to select a course. It was called something like “Computer Usage in Accounting”. That turned out to be the

overview that I lacked, and shoe-horned me into “business-think”. Thank you, Paul.

But, what has been of greater importance to me began in the stacks at the Ingram Sullivan Library of West Georgia College (not yet University of West Georgia). One night, after one of the many dinners that we all had together, I told Paul of my curiosity about the history of American corporations.

I was more ignorant then than I am now. I asked my friend if he could give me some kind of reading list. A few weeks later he presented me with an armful of books.

Soon after that, I returned those volumes to the library, and for the next few weeks, spent time in the stacks, reading, but mostly browsing. Here’s a rare and beautiful section of American history that I managed to put together. Most of it comes from a set of thin volumes that was published by a Scottish group who specialized in the history of Accountancy. After 25 years, I hope my memory does it justice.

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point was set up by President Jefferson, in 1802.

Since Congress was funding this “Engineering School”, the first such in the nation, it required that the Academy account for the money it spent.

Presumably, since these military engineers who would later in their careers build forts, at government’s expense, they, too, would have to make an accounting of

such expenditures. So, in 1819 the Academy’s Supervisor, a man named Thayer, started the requirement that Accounting be part of the course of studies.

And, by this little detail, accidentally set off by Congress’ need to track its monies, American history took an interesting turn. In later decades, it would be instrumental for modern American society hitting its own unique stride.

After the Civil War and its effects, there was a great internal transformation. It was fueled by westward expansion and by that new creator of proliferate vast fortunes, the Amercan corporation. Suddenly, there was a national need for accountants and managers, and this need was largely met by West Point graduates! In the beginning, they were unemployed military, with a useful sideline. All they had to do was trade in the sabre for a pen: Only ink need be shed.

Here was a labor pool who had been uniformly trained, giving rise to “American Accountancy”, so that West Pointers were interchangeable, no matter what the business. That proved to be quite competitive against America’s European competitors; one method, one language. … It is not always What a person gives or does for you. It can be Where. Paul Baker got me into a section of the library that I hadn’t thought desirable or possible. Thank you, Paul.

See STATE REP COLLINS page 17

Page 24 February 14, 2021

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Student engagement during a global pandemic

PATRICK

YURAN

Headmaster OAK MOUNTAIN ACADEMY

I recently asked a student what she finds most engaging about school. She mentioned that she likes walking in first thing in the morning and being greeted by name by several staff members at the front doors. She also mentioned she likes it when her teachers follow up with her when she is absent from school because it lets her know they care about her.

I asked another student the same question and he mentioned he finds it “pretty cool” when he gets video messages from some of his teachers. He also enjoys having an opportunity to work on group class projects with some of his friends that are participating in online learning. He definitely misses having them in-person.Communicating with students in a variety of ways and letting

them know they are valued is important.

Engaging, motivating, and inspiring our students during this global pandemic is a challenge, but definitely a necessity.

Some students are receiving instruction in-person while others are online, which can create a challenge for student engagement.

However, regardless of the vehicle for instruction, students are more likely to engage in the learning process if they feel welcomed and valued within their environment. Students must believe their teachers are truly invested in their learning and care about their progress. How the student is greeted at the start of each class period is more vital than ever before.

Currently, we are experiencing some real physical barriers with the required distancing and protective face coverings for the in-person students and the limitations via screen with the online students. Therefore, consciously calling each student by name and welcoming them to class at the start of each period is a simple way to personalize the students experience. Also, reaching out to the student when they are not present is a way to let them know they are missed when absent.

At the end of the day, we want students to

know we care about them and that we look forward to “seeing” them in class, either inperson or online. Connecting with our students on a personal level in an environment where they feel valued is key to successful engagement.

As educators, most of us believe we are strong communicators by the nature of our chosen profession. However, during these unique times, over-communication with our students is necessary. Given the fact that we work with students who possess a variety of learning styles, our communication should also reflect a variety of styles to reach each diverse learner.

Speaking with the class as a whole, sending follow-up group and individual emails, creating video messages, setting up conversations on group discussion boards, soliciting feedback through surveys, and designing online breakout work sessions for combined online and in-person students are all ways to engage students on a variety of levels. These tools are great ways for the teacher to communicate, but also receive insights into where individual students are in their thought processes and learning.

Communicating in general is also a form

of engagement, so every communication touchpoint is supporting the overall goal of improving student engagement.

The landscape of this current academic year looks much different for students than previous academic years due largely to the global pandemic. With the infusion of both synchronous/asynchronous and in-person/ online learning options in many of our schools, students are experiencing a disconnect in their school-based relationships.

Physical distancing, mask wearing, and the additional health/safety precaution present within our schools this year are causing a shift within our school cultures leading to disconnection.

Keeping school communities engaged during this global pandemic is difficult, especially for our students. Yet student engagement is a large contributor to the overall success of our educational models.

Therefore, we must shift a portion of our focus to student engagement despite the challenge.

Letting students know they are valued and cared about through diligent communication is just one small part of our efforts to engage, motivate, and inspire our students.

God graciously called me to the Gospel Ministry in October 1998 as I attended Kansas Baptist Church. I began to preach God’s Word immediately. He allowed be to begin to serve as Youth Pastor at Kansas Baptist Church with the opportunity to begin serving full time in March of 2000 as Associate Pastor of Evangelism and Education and then served the congregation as pastor.

In total, God allowed me to serve Kansas Baptist Church for 16 years in many functions. I am so grateful that the congregation poured into my life helping Missy and I grow as believers. I was licensed and ordained into the Gospel Ministry at Kansas Baptist Church.

After three years of service at Atco Baptist Church in Cartersville as Associate Pastor of Evangelism and Education, God led my family to Corinth Baptist Church in Bremen. God did a remarkable work of

growth during the eight years of service at Corinth. Such loving people that we love very much.

The Lord began to prepare us for a work in Carrollton with Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church which we began in April of 2017 and went to July of 2019. The church had been without a pastor for a few years and we felt that God was leading us to bring a message of love, unity, forgiveness to the body. God did such a wonderful work with many spiritual decisions, decreasing the debt over $425,000.00 dollars, providing a much needed preschool and children facility that had state of the art security and teaching areas. I am so thankful for the friendships we developed and the things we learned while serving there.

God moved in the hearts of a group of people to begin a new work called Journey Fellowship Baptist Church. This is a very exciting work that has a desire to be a Great

Commission Driven Church.

We are celebrating our one year church anniversary this month and very thankful for all of God’s blessings. God has placed us in the East Haralson area (409 Centerpoint Road, Bremen, GA 30110) very close to the Carroll County line which we feel needs to be reached. The church building is located 20 minutes from Carrollton, Villa Rica, Mt. Zion, Tallapoosa and only four minutes from Bremen and Temple.

In Haralson County and Carroll County, 86% do not attend church on any Sunday which means this area needs you! The State of Georgia needs you! The USA needs you!

The world needs you! Will you join the journey in telling the entire world that Jesus Saves? I would love for you to be our guest at one of our Sunday morning services at 9 or 11am.

Learn more about Journey Fellowship at www.journeyfbc.com

nonviolent felonies to qualify for a record restriction (sometimes referred to as an “expungement). More than 4 million Georgia residents had a criminal record in 2016, according to the Georgia Center for Opportunity (GCO). Georgia is joining 41 other states that have eased record-sealing restrictions.

“It is vital that we continue to reform Georgia’s criminal justice system so that reformation and reintegration is the goal, and not just punishment,” said Corey Burres, GCO’s vice president of communications.

“With SB 288, we are making real efforts to help past offenders access opportunities that may not be available to them due to their criminal record.”

O.C.G.A. 35-3-37 is a lengthy statute.

Below you will find the most important aspects to the new law. Subsection (j) (1) provides: When an individual had a felony charge dismissed or nolle prossed or was found not guilty of such charge but was convicted of a misdemeanor offense that was not a lesser included offense of the felony charge, such

individual may petition the court in which he or she was accused or convicted, as applicable, or, if such charge was dismissed, the superior court in the county where the arrest occurred to restrict access to criminal history record information for the felony charge within four years of the arrest. Such court shall maintain jurisdiction over the case for this limited purpose and duration. Such petition shall be served on the arresting law enforcement agency and the prosecuting attorney. If a hearing is requested, such hearing shall be held within 90 days of the filing of the petition. The court shall hear evidence and shall grant an order restricting such criminal history record information if the court determines that the misdemeanor conviction was not a lesser included offense of the felony charge and that the harm otherwise resulting to the individual clearly outweighs the public interest in the criminal history record information being publicly available.

When a record is restricted/sealed, the offense is not visible to employers or the general public. Attorneys and criminal jus-

tice agencies must obtain a court order before viewing a person’s criminal history.

There are several excluded misdemeanor offenses, including family violence simple assault, family violence stalking, public indecency, sexual battery, and DUI. Individuals convicted of these and other misdemeanors will not be eligible for restriction and record-sealing.

Additionally, those who have been pardoned for nonviolent felony offenses can apply for a record restriction under the law.

The procedure is similar to the misdemeanor provisions above. This new law also grants liability protection for employers who hire former felons.

Think about the impact this new law will have on individuals and our economy. For years, I have been contacted by people with criminal histories seeking to restrict or seal their records. Most of the time, I had to turn them away because the law did not provide them relief. Today, the relief is there. If you fall into a category that makes a past criminal offense eligible for restriction, there is no reason to not take action.

The journey to Journey Fellowship Baptist Church

JOHN

LEMMINGS

PASTOR Journey Friendship Baptist Church www.journeyfbc.com God loves us so much that He orders our lives in a way that offers redemption, salvation, peace, and joy to all who accept His Son, Jesus Christ as their Savior. I am so glad that I was introduced to Jesus Christ and placed my trust in Him in January 1990. The journey with Jesus has been so exciting, full of mountain top experiences and valley lows. I am grateful for each season of life and the faithfulness of the Lord Jesus walking with me.

A true second chance

JASON

SWINDLE SWINDLE LAW GROUP, P.C. In July 2020, I wrote a column about Senate Bill 288 (SB 288). At the time, the governor had not signed it and I was concerned. However, the governor ended up signing the bill that can help many Georgians remove the stigma of having a criminal conviction, obtain better employment, pay taxes, take care of their families, reduce the welfare rolls in Georgia, and simply move on with their lives.

SB 288 adds language to O.C.G.A 35-337. The new law, which took effect just a couple of weeks ago, increases the number of criminal records that can be sealed. The law now allows certain misdemeanors and

COMMENTARY

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Burial or cremation?

ELLEN & SCOTT

McBRAYER JONES-WYNN FUNERAL HOME Funeral consideration focuses on choosing between burial and cremation. Usually, people are clear on this point. In fact, your loved one may have told you, or someone else, exactly how they wish to be cared for. But, it can be a difficult decision for some families, especially when the wishes of the deceased were never clearly stated.

If that’s the case, please know we’re able (or your chosen funeral home) is also able to help you come to the decision that gives you the most peace of mind for your loved one, and for your own family and friends.

Once you decide, the finer details come into focus.

If you’ve chosen burial, then the selection of the casket, vault, and desired cemetery follows. If cremation is your choice, then you’ll need to make the next decision of whether to have a traditional visitation and service with a cremation following or having the cremation with a service following or at a later date.

Other decisions will be if the cremated remains will be placed in a mausoleum, a niche, buried in cemetery grounds, scattered, or kept in an urn as a keepsake, and or the many other options that can be explored and/or talked about. If cremation has been selected with a memorial service, usually you’ll create a memorial service with or without the cremation urn present. You can choose to have a visitation, and then a memorial service in a church or chapel. Or

February 14, 2021 Page 25

Carroll County Department of Public Health you could decide to have a more relaxed service, even in your family home.

Onsite Crematory?

People don’t often understand why an onsite crematory is so important for your peace of mind. You can feel relieved that your loved one is in the care of a funeral home with an onsite crematory from beginning to end, and will ensure that the cremation process is handled with the highest standards, dignity, and professionalism.

This provides peace of mind and, if it’s an important part of your decision-making process, then whether they have their own onsite crematory becomes a very important question to ask your chosen funeral home provider.

If they do not have their own crematory, then it’s important to ask which crematory they use for their cremation services, how your loved one is taken to that crematory, and how your loved ones’ cremated remains are returned to the funeral home.

Funeral Homes handle families with the utmost care, dignity, and professional standards. Any service providers, offer the same services but might have different ways of providing these services.

There is peace of mind by knowing what questions to ask, and having an understanding of the entire process so that you can feel confident and at peace regarding your choices and final decisions while planning.

As always, we remain “A Family Serving Families®....Since 1950” , Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes & Crematory; www.jones-wynn.com www.facebook.com 306 Westview Drive, Villa Rica, GA 30180; 770-459-3694 2189 Midway Road, Douglasville, GA 30136; 770-942-2311 Meadowbrook Memory Gardens, 1100 NE Hickory Level Road, Villa Rica, Ga 30180; 770-459-6494

Carrollton Board of Education recognized

by Georgia School Boards Association as Exemplary Board for 5th consecutive time The school board has earned this status all years it has been available from press release The Carrollton Board of Education, for the fifth consecutive time, has been recognized by the Georgia School Boards Association as an Exemplary Board. The presentation was made at the GSBA/Georgia School Superintendents Association annual conference held recently (virtually).

The board has been at the forefront of earning this prestigious designation since the GSBA began the process several years ago and was one of the first 36 school districts in the state to earn Exemplary status in 2015.

According to the GSBA, the recognition program is designed to showcase best practices in school governance and leadership. GSBA recognizes good school board governance to foster educational community cultures in order to advance student learning and achievement.

The board had previously earned Quality Board and Distinguished Board statuses in the inaugural years of each of those designations being available.

In 2015, exemplary status became the culminating honor bestowed upon a school board that has reached the established pinnacle in the continuous improvement

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process. The honor is intended to be awarded annually but was suspended for one year in 2017. The Carrollton Board of Education has achieved it all years it has been available.

To qualify, each year a board must complete required governance standards to be considered for the Exemplary Board designation.

One of these includes earning continuing education credits via classes and training.

Carrollton BOE members have exceeded this training requirement while achieving high marks in the other areas.

“I commend the board on this consistent achievement,” said Dr. Mark Albertus, superintendent. “It takes a lot of dedication and effort to fulfill the stringent requirements. Our community should take pride in knowing a high-quality school board is leading public education in our city.”

Members of the Carrollton Board of Education are: Katie Williams, Dr. Jason Mount, Melanie McLendon, Greg Schulenburg, David Godwin and Gil O’Neal.

Carrollton City Schools System Superintendent is Dr. Mark Albertus.

restaurant health inspections scores

To view complete restaurant inspection details, go to: dph.georgia.gov/environmental-health 1/27/2021: Carroll County Training Center Carrollton 100 1/22/2021: The Chat & Choo 130 Montgomery St Villa Rica 100 1/14/2021: Conchas Cravings 316 W Wilson St Villa Rica 100 1/27/2021: Jump Time 100 Hwy 61 Connector Villa Rica 100 1/07/2021: Starbucks Ingles 2865 Music Mill Dr Bremen 100 1/26/2021: Quality Inn 128 Hwy 61 Connector Villa Rica 100 1/20/2021: Blue Nomad Grill 306 College St Carrollton 100 100 1/14/2021: Chick-fil-A 85 Commerce Dr Villa RIca 1/14/2021: Jersey Mike’s 1623 Alabama St Bremen 100 1/14/2021: Carrollton Nutrition 1010 Northwinds Blvd Carrollton 100 1/14/2021: Villa Rica Nutrition 201 Main Street Villa Rica 100 1/28/2021: It’s SImply Divine 2016 Bay Club Dr Villa Rica 100 1/14/2021: Jungle Juice Smoothies 118 Hwy 62 Connector Villa Rica 99 99 1/26/2021: Econo Lodge 124 Hwy 61 Connector VIlla Rica 1/08/2021: Domino’s 821 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 99 1/08/2021: PJ’s 745 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 98 98 1/20/2021: Subway 625 Carrollton St Temple 1/20/2021: Jurassic Subs 20 Davis Blvd Bremen 98 1/22/2021: Cinema Tavern 200 W Montgomery St Villa Rica 97 1/12/2021: Suzie’s Wings & Deli 451 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 97 1/12/2021: Starbucks Ingles 488 Carrollton St Temple 96 1/22/2021: Holiday Inn Express 1545 Hwy 27 S Carrollton 96 96 1/20/2021: Pizza Hut 941 Alabama St Bremen 1/05/2021: Wendy’s 1995 Alabama Ave Bremen 96 96 1/20/2021: Kentucky Fried Chicken 155 N Hwy 27 Bremen 1/27/2021: Casa Sol 955 W Bnkhead Hwy Villa Rica 96 1/28/2021: Pizza Hut 664 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 95 1/27/2021: Evan’s BBQ 342 W 78 Hwy Villa Rica 95 95 1/12/2021: Captain D’s 1641 Alabama St Bremen 1/28/2021: T-Breaux Cajun 947 N Park St Carrollton 95 1/22/2021: Rooster’s Southern 369 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 95 1/07/2021: Taco Bell 565 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 95 1/04/2021: Rodeway Inn 160 Centennial Rd Carrollton 95 1/11/2021: Pilot Travel Center 95 Liberty Rd Villa Rica 95 1/23/2021: Zaxby’s 200 Cooley Dr Villa Rica 94 1/21/2021: Tropical Smoothie 1435 S Hwy 27 Carrollton 94 1/29/2021: Captain D’s 1641 Alabama Ave S Bremen 94 1/13/2021: O’Charley’s 921 Moore’s Ferry Rd Villa Rica 93 1/22/2021: Dairy Queen 811 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 93 1/05/2021: Waffle House 1980 Alabama Ave Bremen 92 1/15/2021: Sunset Hills Country Club 1 Club Dr Carrollton 92 1/04/2021: Days Inn 195 Commerce Dr Villa Rica 91 1/06/2021: Gulf Seafood Market 339 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 90 1/05/2021: Zaxby’s 135 Hwy 27 Bypass Bremen 90 1/14/2021: Domino’s 151 N Hwy 27 Bremen 90 1/15/2021: Southern Lady 112 Shirley St Bowdon 90 1/28/2021: Watering Hole 123 Tri-County Plaza Villa Rica 90 1/11/2021: Arby’s 31 Price Creek Rd Bremen 89 88 1/04/2021: Los Cowboys 113 Main St Villa Rica 1/05/2021: Popeye’s Chicken 95 Hwy 27 Bypass Bremen 86 1/11/2021: Subway Walmart 600 Hwy 61 Villa Rica 86 1/26/2021: Dockside Marina 10234 Lakeview Pkwy Villa Rica 83 1/26/2021: Fairfield Clubhouse 7500 Monticell Dr Villa Rica 80 1/26/2021: El Mezcal Mexican 108 City Hall Ave Bowdon 79

previous 100 previous 100 previous 100 previous 99 previous 99 previous 97 previous 96 previous N/A previous 100 previous N/A previous N/A previous N/A previous 100 previous 98 previous 96 previous 99 previous 98 previous 98 previous 96 previous 87 previous 100 previous 98 previous 96 previous 94 previous 92 previous 90 previous 100 previous 99 previous 98 previous 93 previous 93 previous 93 previous 92 previous 91 previous 98 previous 95 previous N/A previous 96 previous 95 previous 99 previous 92 previous 93 previous 98 previous 93 previous 91 previous 90 previous 89 previous 94 previous 95 previous 98 previous 87 previous 87 previous 89 previous 96

Violations: Observed mold build-up at ice machine and at drink nozzles.

Observed walk-in holding food at: beef 52F, horchata 48F, milk 49F, queso 52F. All food that was stored in cooler longer than 4 hours or is not currently at 41F shoudl be discarded.

Page 26 February 14, 2021

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Estate planning for blended families

FREd

O’NEAL FINANCIAL ADVISOR If you’re in a blended family, you’re already aware of the emotional and financial issues involved in your daily life. But what about the future? When it’s time to do your estate planning – and it’s never too soon for that – you’ll need to be aware of the entanglements and complexities that can get in the way of your vision for leaving the legacy you desire.

You can take comfort in knowing that you’re far from alone. More than half of married or cohabiting couples with at least one living parent, or parent-in-law, and at least one adult child, have a “step-kin”

relationship, according to a study from researchers at the University of Massachusetts and other schools. That’s a lot of estate-planning issues.

Nonetheless, the task does not have to be overwhelming – as long as you put sufficient time and thought into it. Here are some ideas that may help: Seek fairness – but be flexible. Even in a nonblended family, it’s not always easy to be as equitable as you’d like in your estate plans – too often, someone feels they have been treated unfairly.

In a blended family, these problems can be exacerbated: Will biological children feel cheated? Will stepchildren? Keep this in mind: Fair is not always equal – and equal is not always fair.

When deciding how to divide your assets, you’ll need to make some judgment calls after carefully evaluating the needs of all

Carroll County marriage licenses

your family members. There’s no guarantee that everyone will be satisfied, but you’ll have done your best.

Communicate your wishes clearly. When it comes to estate planning, the best surprise is no surprise – and that’s especially true in a blended family. Even if you’re the one creating your estate plans, try to involve other family members – and make your wishes and goals clear.

You don’t have to be specific down to the last dollar, but you should provide a pretty good overall outline.

Consider establishing a revocable living trust. Everyone’s situation is different, but many blended families find that, when making estate plans, a simple will is not enough.

Consequently, you may want to establish a revocable living trust, which gives you much more control than a will when it comes to

January 1-31, 2021

marriages chart

carrying out your wishes. Plus, because you have transferred your assets to the trust, you are no longer technically the owner of these assets, so there’s no reason for a court to get involved, which means your estate can likely avoid the time-consuming, expensive and very public process of probate.

Choose the right trustee. If you do set up a living trust, you’ll also need to name a trustee – someone who manages the assets in the trust. Married couples often serve as cotrustees, but this can result in tensions and disagreements.

As an alternative, you can hire a professional trustee – someone with the time, experience and neutrality to make appropriate decisions and who can bring new ideas to the process.

Above all else, make sure you have the right estate-planning team in place. You’ll certainly need to work with an attorney, and you may also want to bring in your tax advisor and financial professional.

Estate planning can be complex – especially with a blended family – and you’ll want to make the right moves, right from the start.

Fred O’Neal is a financial advisor, Edward Jones, 410 College Street, Carrollton, GA 770-832-2141

Carroll County prison population

Total population as of February 4, 2021: 194 Capacity: 246 Males: 100%

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

Carroll County jail population (The Jack T. Bell Detention Center, 1000 Newnan Road, Carrollton) Total population as of February 8, 2021: 398 Males: 356 Females: 42

Carroll County pistol carry permits Number of Firearm Carry Permits applied for: January 1-31, 2021: 327

Carroll County cattle receipts Carroll County Sale Barn 225 Sale Barn Road, Carrollton February 1, 2021: 491 January 25, 2021: 598 January 18, 2021: 770 January 11, 2021: 621

Carroll County births January 1-31, 2021: Tanner Medical Center, Carrollton: Girls: 49 Boys: 49 Tanner Medical Center, Villa Rica:� Girls: 28 Boys: 24

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NEWS RECAP -

from stories on StarNews Online website at www.starnewsgaonline.com State Insurance Fire Commissioner announced two arrests in arson that destroyed 121-year-old Smith Chapel Church in Bowdon

Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King announced that Frederick Devin Smith, 33, and Monica Marie Burnett, 18, both of Carroll County, have been arrested in connection with a January 4th fire that destroyed an historic church near Bowdon.

Smith “This needless fire completely destroyed the 121-year-old Smith Chapel Church featured on the National Historical Register,” said Commissioner King. “Our investigators assisted the Carroll County Fire DepartBurnett ment and Carroll County Sheriff’s Department with this case.”

Smith was arrested by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and charged with Arson in the 2nd Degree and Possession of Methamphetamine, while Burnett was arrested and charged with Arson in the 2nd Degree.

Update on fatal chemical release at Prime Pak Foods in Gainesville

The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) was sent to the scene of a fatal chemical release at Prime Pak Foods (Foundation Food Group) in Gainesville on January 28th. Initial reports stated a release of liquid nitrogen led to six fatalities, nine others were transported to the hospital, with three in critical condition and six in fair condition.

On February 7th, CSB provided the public with more information. The event occurred on Line 4, where chicken is processed, to include seasoning, cooking, freezing, and then packaging. Prior to the recent installation of the Messer cryogenic freezing system, a different type of freezing equipment was used, which was ammonia-based.

Unplanned maintenance was being conducted on Line 4. The plant had been experiencing unresolved operational issues on the chicken conveyor that appear to have resulted in the accidental release of liquid nitrogen in the flash freezing bath.

CSB will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.

GA Secretary of State joins other states to bust $1.8 B ponzi scheme

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, through the Securities Division, has worked with several other states and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to stop a $1.8 billion Ponzi Scheme that duped over 900 Georgians who invested over $78 million dollars total. In a coordinated action, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York have taken the perpetrators into custody related charges.

“I am proud of the work that the dedicated staff in my office has done to help bring these criminals to justice,” said Secretary Raffensperger. “I am proud to work every day to protect the people of Georgia from the

scam artists and outright frauds that seek to take advantage of them. We will work with partners in other states and on the federal level to help the innocent Georgians victimized in this Ponzi Scheme.”

Along with South Carolina, Alabama, New York, Illinois, Missouri, and New Jersey, the Secretary of State’s Securities Division submitted a filing to take action against New York-based GPB Capital, its three principals, and associated entities.

Between 2013 and 2018, GPB Capital’s principals lured investors with a promise of monthly payments totaling an 8% annual rate. GPB Capital claimed that the payments were fully funded by cash flow from the portfolio companies. However, they soon began to use the capital provided by other investors to make the promised payments.

Additionally, these individuals allegedly used investor funds to fund a lavish lifestyle for themselves, including private jet travel and the purchase of a Ferrari. One of the named individuals paid his spouse a full salary from the company in addition to paying his spouse’s now defunct law firm significant consulting fees.

Overall, approximately 17,000 individuals across the United States were affected by the scam. The Securities Division helped track down and identify the more than 900 individuals in Georgia who invested more than $78 million in GPB Capital.

In addition to working with state and federal partners to secure restitution for the Georgia victims, the Secretary of State’s office has submitted an administrative filling that will ban the two individuals who operated in Georgia – David Gentile of Florida, and Jeffry Schneider of Texas – from ever working in the industry in Georgia again.

Additionally, the Secretary of State’s office has issued a $520,000 penalty against GPB Capital and its associated entities.

The three principals have been taken into custody and will face criminal charges.

sible for the critical role its deceptive marketing strategies played in the opioid crisis, and we intend for this settlement to be used for rehabilitation, recovery and assistance for those most impacted across our state,” says Attorney General Carr.

McKinsey contributed to the opioid crisis by promoting marketing schemes and consulting services to opioid manufacturers, including OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma, for over a decade. The complaint, filed with the settlement, details how McKinsey advised Purdue on how to maximize profits from its opioid products, including targeting high-volume opioid prescribers, using specific messaging to get physicians to prescribe more OxyContin to more patients, and circumventing pharmacy restrictions in order to deliver high-dose prescriptions.

When states began to sue Purdue’s directors for their implementation of McKinsey’s marketing schemes, McKinsey partners began emailing about deleting documents and emails related to their work for Purdue.

The opioid epidemic has led to considerable harm to individuals and communities in Georgia over the last 20 years. During this time, over 9,500 Georgians have died from an opioid overdose.

On an economic level, these deaths—and the impacts on Georgians who have struggled with opioid addiction—have created considerable costs to Georgia in the form of health care, child welfare, criminal justice, and many other programs needed to lessen the epidemic. It has also resulted in lost economic opportunity and productivity. On the social level, opioid addiction, abuse, and overdose deaths have torn families apart, damaged relationships, and eroded the social fabric of communities.

February 14, 2021 Page 27

Tax identity theft /tax related scams

The IRS will never call a consumer about unpaid taxes or penalties; the agency typically contacts consumers by letter via the U.S. Mail. They won’t leave a message threatening to sue you, arrest you or deport you if you don’t pay right away. The IRS won’t demand a specific form of payment, such as an iTunes gift card, Green Dot Money Pak or wire transfer.

If you get a call purporting to be from the IRS, never send money. Instead, hang up and either a) report the scam to the FTC and to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at tigta.gov or by calling 1800-366-4484; or b) If you know you owe taxes or you think you might owe taxes, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The IRS employees at that line can help you with a payment issue.

The best way to avoid tax identity theft is to file your taxes as early as possible before a scammer has the chance to use your Social Security number to file a fraudulent return.

This year the IRS will start accepting returns on February 12, about two weeks later than usual. The deadline for filing your taxes is still April 15.

As added security, tax filers can get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS before they file their returns. The IRS will provide your IP PIN online. A new IP PIN is generated for each filing season.

If you get an email that claims to be from the IRS, do not reply or click on any links.

Instead, forward it to phishing@irs.gov If you are the victim of tax identity theft, contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. You should also file a complaint with the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint or by calling 1-877-FTCHELP.

J Best

$573M settlement reached with McKinsey & Company in its role in opiod epidemic with Purdue Pharma

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr has joined a coalition of attorneys general from 47 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories in a $573 million settlement with one of the world’s largest consulting firms, McKinsey & Company, resolving investigations into the company’s role in working for opioid companies, helping those companies promote their drugs, and profiting from the opioid epidemic.

The settlement, after payment of costs, will be used to abate problems caused by opioids in the participating states. Georgia will receive $16,790,458.14 from the multistate settlement. This is the first multi-state opioid settlement to result in substantial payment to the states to address the epidemic.

In addition to providing funds to address the crisis, the agreement calls for McKinsey to prepare tens of thousands of its internal documents detailing its work for Purdue Pharma and other opioid companies for public disclosure online. In addition, McKinsey agreed to adopt a strict document retention plan, continue its investigation into allegations that two of its partners tried to destroy documents in response to investigations of Purdue Pharma, implement a strict ethics code that all partners must agree to each year, and stop advising companies on potentially dangerous Schedule II and III narcotics.

“This settlement holds McKinsey respon-

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Page 28 February 14, 2021

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