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VOTE Tues. Feb. 13th for State Senator District 30 see page 4 for DISTRICT 30’s new boundary MAP lines see page 5 for PRECINCT LIST: Carroll, Douglas, Haralson, Paulding counties go to “My Voter Page” to check your precinct location: www.mvp.sos.ga.goc
StarNews monthly traditional print / StarNews Online daily local news
FEBRUARY 11, 2024 • VOLUME 30 NUMBER 2
www.starnewsgaonline.com
Carrollton Nursing and Rehab continues Special Election for State Senate District 30: February 13th to spew raw sewage out onto open ground One Democrat and three Republicans vie for State Nov. 7th, State EPD informed StarNews: “no observed sewage spill”
Videos taken November 28th show steady flow continuing out onto open ground
story by Sue Horn Despite being informed by the Georgia EPD that the longtime raw sewage spill out of the Carrollton Nursing and Rehabiliation facility had ceased, StarNews discovered through videos taken November 28th that the spill is continuing and ongoing. Raw sewage was videoed flowing freely out of old pipes, onto the open round behind the facility. See latest videos at www.starnewsgaonline.com. The October 15, 2023 edition of StarNews, a front page story relating the 20+ year ongoing sewage spill from Carrollton Nursing and Rehabilitation (located at 2327 Highway 27, Carrollton) into Buck Creek - identified as a “Water of the State” - which flows into the Little Tallapoosa River - also a
STILL SPEWING page 8
Sheriff Terry Langley invites the community to join him at his February 29th “Leap Day” re-election fundraiser at county Ag Center
Senate seat vacated by Republican Mike Dugan 4 COUNTY RACE: Carroll, Douglas, Haralson, and Paulding - see PRECINCT LIST on page 5
Lone Democrat Ashley Kecskes Godwin faces Republicans Renae Bell, Tim Bearden, and Bob Smith
story by Sue Horn A Special Election for State Senate District 30 will be held Tuesday, February 13, 2024, in Carroll, Douglas, Haralson and Paulding counties. A run-off, if needed, will be held Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
County Commissioner for District 5 Ernie Reynolds will not seek re-election nor will he run for chairman seat
See SPECIAL ELECTION page 10 story by Sue Horn
Qualifying for these Carroll County elected offices is March 4th through the 8th
OFFICE / BASE SALARY / QUALIFYING FEE Chairman County Commission $106,381.99 / $3,191.46 District Commissioners 1,3, & 5 $9,689.71 / $290.69 Sheriff $96,381.99 / $2,891.46 Tax Commissioner $86,381.94 / $2,591.46 Clerk of Court $86,381.94 / $2,591.46 Probate Judge $86,381.94 / $2,591.46 Chief Magistrate $88,109.64 / $2,643.29 State Court Judge $120,411.27 / $3,612.34 Solicitor $114,725.70 / $3,441.77 Coroner $15,000.00 / $450.00 County School Board 1,3,4 & 6 Per Diem $50 County Surveyor Fee: $10.00
StarNews was informed January 30th, that District 5 County Commissioner Ernie Reynolds will not be seeking reelection. The well-respected and popular district commissioner also said he will not be seeking the office of chairman. He cited health reasons for his decision to not pursue another four years as District 5 Commissioner. He will comReynolds plete his term that ends Dec. 31st. Qualifying for his seat, County Board of Commissioners District 5, is March 4-8. Qualifying fee is $290.96. Reynolds shared wth StarNews that this past December he had experienced a “health scare” and a hospital visit that he described as “sobering”. Despite a positive outcome See REYNOLDS page 27
New county elections Kentucky-based Paxton Media, owner of local Times-Georgian supervisor and election/registration newspaper, cuts publications from five per week to three manager are hired Cites need to reduce expenses locally to “remain fiscally healthy”
Shown above right is Carroll County Sheriff Terry Langley with Don Levans, past Commander of American Legion Post 143 and Past President of the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park Association. Levans, who lives in the Center Point Community, served in the United States Air Force, 1950-1954. The 92-year old veteran remarked, “How wonderful it is to have a sheriff who is totally dedicated to the welfare of the citizens of this county.” See story page 11.
from press release Keith West has been hired as Carroll County Local newspaper reports the 3 printed editions will now have more Elections Supervisor and Will Hobson has been puzzles: “We will double up on our popular puzzle feature page” hired as Carroll County Election and Registration story by Sue Horn Paxton Media Group, fifth largest newspaper company Manager. These two replace Greg Rigby and Carolyn Driver, respectively, who both retired at in the U.S. and owner of 120+ newspapers in 14 states, announced in its weekend edition, January 20-21, 2024 of the end of last year. West and Hobson were hired by Carroll Times-Georgian, that it will cut its print publications from See NEW HIRES page 5 See CUTTING COSTS page 30
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www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 5 NEW HIRES from front page County Commission Chair Michelle Morgan, and are at-will employees (not civil servant positions, and can be fired at the will of the commission chair). Most recently, West was assisting the county finance director Keith West in reporting for the Judicial ARPA grant. He also owns a local business and has a bachelor’s degree of Business Administration from Milligan College. West said in a press statement, “I have a lot to learn, but I bring a lot to the table, and I am excited to work with the Board of Elections, Board of Commissioners, poll workers, and
staff. My goal is to continue to maintain the integrity of elections in Carroll County.” Hobson majored in English at Presbyterian College and worked as an Assistant Poll Manager for Carroll County since 2020. He Will Hobson is also a staff member at the local Woodland Christian Camp in Temple, is a traveling judge for the Carrollton High School Debate Team, and is co-chair of the Presbyterian College Conduct and Ethics Board. Chairman Michelle Morgan stated, “It was important to me when seeking individuals to fill these vital roles that we appoint Carroll County residents.”
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PRECINCT LIST for the STATE SENATE DISTRICT 30 Feb. 13, 2024 Special Election
CARROLL COUNTY PRECINCTS Bethany Bonner Rec Center Mt. Holly/Bowdon Jct Carroll EMC Center Point Neva Lomason Library Fairfield Mars Hill/Hulett Lakeshore Rec Center Mt. Zion MidwayChurch/Sandhill Tabernacle TempleCity Temple County Villa Rica City Villa Rica North Villa Rica South West Carrollton DOUGLAS COUNTY PRECINCTS Bright Star United Methodist Dog River Library Dorsett Shoals Elementary Ephesus Baptist Church Golden United Methodist Mirror Lake Elementary Prays Mill Baptiust Stewart Middle School St. Julian’s Episcopal Chirch Winston Elementary HARALSON COUNTY PRECINCTS Bremen- Multi Purpose Bldg Buchanan- Haralason County Rec Bldg Buncombe- Antioch Baptist Corinth- Corinth Baptist Fellowship Hall Twentieth-Coppermine Fire Station Felton- Fire Station Little Creek- Fire Station Mt. View- Fire Station Seventh- Fire Station Berea-Steadman- Mt. Zion Church Road Fire Station Tallapoosa- Tallapoosa Senior Center Waco- City Hall Community Center PAULDING COUNTY PRECINCTS NOTE/SPLIT PRECINCTS: Not all voters in the three Paulding County Precincts listed below will be eligible to vote in the State Senate 30 District Special Election. Only those voters residing in Senate District 30 due to precincts being SPLIT PRECINCTS: Dianne Wright Innovation Center South Paulding Middle School Carl Scoggins Middle School
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Page 6 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
Ashley Kecskes
GODWIN STATE SENATE DISTRICT 30
VoteAshleyGodwin.com VoteAshleyGodwin@gmail.com
, s r e t o V r a De
Facebook.com/VoteAshleyGodwin
I’m not going to bombard you with B U ZZ W O R D S
and inflammatory campaign messaging in an effort to win your vote.
Simply, if you believe Georgians need better access to healthcare; that our public schools, students, and teachers are worth investing in ; and that we have an obligation to help our neighbors in need...
I kindly ask you for your vote on February 13th.
SPECIAL ELECTION: FEBRUARY 13
Tim Bearden Tim StateBearden Senate State Senate Republican Republican
TH FEBRUARY 13 ! NOW! EARLY VOTING HAPPENING S N EARLY VOTING HAPPENING NOW!
www.starnewsgaonline.com
tar ews February 11, 2024 Page 7
Meet Tim Bearden
SPECIAL ELECTION SPECIAL ELECTION Meet Tim Bearden Republican SPECIAL ELECTION THTH RepublicanTim Bearden has been FEBRUARY 13 ! SPECIAL ELECTION a FEBRUARY resident of West Georgia 13 TH ! since FEBRUARY 13 TH ! moving to Haralson in 1975, graduating from Tim Bearden has beenCounty aFEBRUARY resident of Westand Georgia 13 ! since EARLY VOTING HAPPENING NOW! Ga State District 30 State Senate EARLY VOTING HAPPENING NOW! Republican State Senate movingHigh to Haralson inSPECIAL 1975, and graduating from ELECTION EARLY VOTING HAPPENING NOW! Bremen School.County He started his career in law enforcement State Senate EARLY VOTING HAPPENING NOW!
Tim Bearden Tim Bearden Tim Bearden Tim Bearden
State Senate TH of Bremen HighVilla School. startedDepartment his career inrising law enforcement with the RicaHePolice to the rank
Meet Tim Bearden FEBRUARY 13 ! Tim Bearden Meet Tim Bearden Meet Tim Bearden with the Villa Rica Police Department risingfor to the the rank of Sergeant with the motorcycle division Douglasville Meet Tim Bearden
Republican EARLY VOTING HAPPENING NOW! Sergeant withhas the motorcycle division for Georgia the Douglasville SPECIAL ELECTION State Senate Tim Bearden has been a resident of West Georgia since Tim Bearden been a resident of West since Police Department. Tim now lives in Carrollton with his wife of Tim Bearden has been a resident of West Georgia since Tim Bearden has been a resident of West Georgia since
Police Department. Tim now lives in Carrollton with his FEBRUARY ! wife of 28 years, Triska. They have two adult13 children.� � Tim Bearden Meet Tim Bearden 28 years, Triska. They have two adult children.� �
TH from moving to Haralson County 1975, and graduating moving toto Haralson County in 1975, and graduating from moving to Haralson County inin 1975, and graduating from moving Haralson County in 1975, and graduating from Bremen High School. He started his career in law enforcement Bremen High School. started ininlaw enforcement Bremen High School. HeHe started hishis career in law enforcement Bremen High School. He started hiscareer career law enforcement with the Villa Rica Police Department rising to the rank with the Villa Rica Police Department rising to the rank of of with the Villa Rica Police Department rising totothe rank ofof with the Villa Rica Police Department rising the rank Sergeant withthe themotorcycle motorcycle division for the Douglasville Tim Bearden has been a resident of West Georgia since Sergeant with division for the Douglasville In 2004 Tim was elected as State Representative for House Sergeant with the motorcycle division for the Douglasville Sergeant with the motorcycle division for the Douglasville Police Department. Tim now lives in Carrollton with his wife of Inmoving 2004 Timtowas elected as State Representative forhis House Police Department. Tim now lives in Carrollton his wife of from Haralson County in 1975, with and graduating Meet Tim Bearden Police Department. Tim now lives in Carrollton with wife District 68 encompassing parts ofchildren.� Carroll 28 years, Triska. They have two adult children.� � Douglas Police Department. Tim now lives in Carrollton with his wifeofof 28 years, Triska. They have two adult � law Bremen High School. He started his career inand enforcement
State Senate
EARLY VOTING HAPPENING NOW!
District 68 Triska. encompassing parts ofadult Carroll and Douglas 28 years, They have two children.� �
28 the years, Triska. They have two adult � rank with Villa Rica Police Department rising to the Counties. During Tim’s service in State thechildren.� State House, he of Tim Bearden has been a resident of West Georgia since Counties. During Tim’s service in the House, he In 2004 2004 Tim was elected as State Representative for House In Tim was elected as State Representative for House Sergeant with the motorcycle for thefrom Douglasville moving to Haralson County in 1975, division and graduating championed our conservative values by voting totaxes, cut taxes, District 68 encompassing parts of Carroll and Douglas District 68 encompassing parts of Carroll and Douglas In 2004 Tim was elected as State Representative for House championed our conservative values by voting to cut Bremen High School. He Tim started hislives career law enforcement Police Department. now inin Carrollton with his wife of In 2004 Tim was elected as State Representative for House Counties. During Tim’s inin the State House, he he Counties. During Tim’sservice service the State House, District 68 encompassing parts of Carroll and Douglas protect life, and strengthen Georgia’s immigration with the28 Villa Rica Police Department rising to the rank of laws. Tim years, Triska. They have two adult children.� protect life, and strengthen Georgia’s immigration laws. District 68 encompassing parts of Carroll and Douglas championed our conservative values by voting to cut taxes,Tim�
championed our conservative values by to cut taxes, Sergeant with the motorcycle division forvoting the Douglasville Counties. During Tim’s service in the State House, heTim Counties. During Tim’s service in the State House, he eventually became the Chairman of Public Safety and protect life, immigration laws. Tim eventually became theGeorgia’s Chairman of Public Safety and protect life,and andstrengthen strengthen Georgia’s immigration laws. Police Department. Tim now lives in Carrollton with his wife of In 2004 Tim was elected as State Representative for House championed our conservative values by voting totoand cut taxes, eventually became the Chairman ofadult Public Safety eventually became the Chairman of Public Safety and championed our conservative values by voting cut taxes, 28 years, Triska. They have two children.� � Homeland Security, proudly advocating for his partners Homeland Security, proudly advocating for his partners in law in law District 68strengthen encompassing parts ofhis Carroll and Homeland Security, proudly for his partners in law protect life, and Georgia’s immigration laws. Tim Homeland Security, proudlyadvocating advocating for partners inDouglas law protect life, and strengthen Georgia’s immigration laws. Tim enforcement.� Counties. During Tim’s service in the State House, he enforcement.� enforcement.� eventually became the ofofPublic Safety and enforcement.� In 2004 Tim was elected as Chairman State Representative for House Tim Bearden eventually became the Chairman Public Safety and Tim Bearden Tim Bearden Tim Bearden championed our conservative values by partners voting toincut taxes, Homeland Security, proudly advocating for his law District 68 encompassing parts of Carroll and Douglas Homeland Security, proudly advocating for his partners in law ProvenConservative Conservative protect life, and Tim’s strengthen Proven Counties. During serviceGeorgia’s in the Stateimmigration House, he laws. Tim enforcement.� Proven Conservative Ready to Deliver Results for enforcement.� Proven Conservative eventually became the Chairman of Public Safety and Tim Bearden Ready to Deliver Results for championed our conservative values by voting to cut taxes, Tim Bearden West Georgia Families Ready to Deliver Resultsfor for West Families Homeland Security, proudly advocating for laws. his partners in law protect life, and strengthen Georgia’s immigration Tim Ready toGeorgia Deliver Results Proven Conservative • STAND WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT Chairman of Public Safety and enforcement.� Proven Conservative West Supporting Georgia Families • eventually STANDbecame WITHthe LAW ENFORCEMENT Proudly Tim West Georgia Families Tim Bearden Ready to Deliver Results for Proudly Tim Homeland Security, proudly advocating for his partners in law Ready to Supporting Deliver Results for • MORE JOBS. LOWER TAXES Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams •MORE STAND WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT West Georgia Families enforcement.� • JOBS. LOWER West Georgia Families Proven Conservative Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams • STAND WITH LAW TAXES ENFORCEMENT Tim Bearden State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) Proudly Supporting Tim Ready to Deliver Results for State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) • DEFEND OUR CONSERVATIVE VALUES • • STAND WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT Proudly Supporting Tim State Rep. Jay Collins (District 71) STAND WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT • DEFEND OUR CONSERVATIVE VALUES Proven Conservative State Rep. Jay Collins (District 71) Proudly Supporting Tim West Georgia Families • MORE JOBS. LOWER TAXES Douglas County Chairman &Williams Proudly Supporting Tim Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Ready to Deliver Results&for •• STOP ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION Douglas County Chairman •STOP MORE JOBS. LOWER TAXES Former Sheriff ofSheriff Douglas Co. Phil Miller MORE JOBS. LOWER TAXES Haralson County Stacy Williams • STAND WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT West Georgia Families • ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams • MORE JOBS. LOWER TAXES State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) Former Sheriff ofSupporting Douglas Co. Phil Miller Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams Proudly Tim •• DEFEND GEORGIA FROM BIDEN VALUES •STAND DEFEND OUR CONSERVATIVE State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT StateState Rep. Rep. TylerJay Paul Smith(District (District 18) Collins 71) • MORE JOBS. LOWER TAXES • DEFEND GEORGIA FROM BIDEN • DEFEND OUR CONSERVATIVE VALUES Proudly Supporting Tim Haralson County Sheriff(District Stacy Williams DEFEND OUR CONSERVATIVE VALUES State Rep. Jay Collins 71) •• DEFEND OUR CONSERVATIVE VALUES State Rep. Jay Collins (District 71) State Rep. Jay Collins (District 71) Douglas County Chairman & For more JOBS. information go to Beardenforgeorgia.com • MORE LOWER TAXES State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams Douglas County Chairman &
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Former Sheriff of Douglas Co. Phil Miller
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STOP ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION more information go to Beardenforgeorgia.com •For DEFEND OUR CONSERVATIVE VALUES • ••STOP ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION Tim Bearden for Georgia STOP ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION • •DEFEND OURfor CONSERVATIVE VALUES STOP ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION Tim Bearden Georgia
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Page 8 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com STILL SPEWING from front page “Water of the State”. Five videos documenting the sewage spill were posted online at www.starnewsgaonline.com last October. On November 7, 2023, Brian Boutelle, Georgia Environmental Protection Division’s (EPD) Storm Water and Drinking Water employee, Georgia EPD, informed StarNews, “There was not an observed sewage spill during either of my visits in October.” This is an untrue statement. StarNews obtained videos taken November 28th that shows a steady flow of raw sewage water flowing freely out onto the property’s open ground. According to Boutelle, the nursing home had
provided EPD with a “Corrective Plan of Action” addressing this large environmental spill. The owner of the facility had been given 15 days (that began from the date of receipt of the violation letter which was mailed August 2, 2023) to submit an action plan outlining corrective measures to prevent - and in this case to also halt - unpermitted discharges of wastewater from the system. Boutelle said, “We have an active enforcement case at this facility to bring the site into compliance with the Rules.” Boutelle also said that GA EPD will provide oversight to this plan of action. When questioned for details as to how this case was progressing, Boutelle responded:
“Since it is an active case, our investigation results are not currently public record.” For this active case of the blatent ongoing environmental spill at Carrollton Nursing and Rehabilitation, the November 28, 2023
StarNews videos are now the public record that this spill is continuing and that whatever the “plan” to outline “corrective measures” was, it has not been implemented; or is not progressing; or, is, at the least, insufficient.
Photo left: Shown in a photo taken November 28, 2023, is the approximate 1/4 acre lake of raw sewage created from the longtime sewage flow spilling from the Carrollton Nursing and Rehabilitation facility. The State EPD informed StarNews that the sewage spill had ceased November 7th. This is not true. Photos above: In these two photos, also taken November 28, 2023, raw sewage water is shown flowing from pipes connected to an old, non-functioning system.
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Page 10 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com SPECIAL ELECTION from front page This Special Election is the fill the unexpired term of Mike Dugan who resigned to run for Congress immediately after the newly drawn District 30 map was published. (See map page 4.) Qualifying was held at the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office in Atlanta, January 8th, 9th, and 10th. Qualifying fee was $400.00. Advance in-person absentee voting began January 22, 2024. Candidates who qualified for the District 30 State Senate are one Democrat and three Republicans. One of the following candidates will fill the unexpired term of Dugan, Dec. 31, 2026: DEMOCRAT: Ashley Kecskes Godwin Occupation: Georgia Film Industry REPUBLICANS: Timothy J. Bearden Occupation: Government Affairs Renae Bell Occupation: Real Estate Broker Robert “Bob” Smith Occupation: Consultant Newly hired Carroll County Elections Supervisor Keith West said, “We are looking at 60,064 active voters in the 18 precincts for this race. Our total active voters for the county is 83,027. As to the percentage of voters who take advantage of the opportunity, we have based our numbers on previous ‘similar’ elections. For the Special Election for State Senate for District 30, we estimate approximately 20% of the 60,064 voters will participate.” West’s 20% of 60,064 represents 12,012 voters. This race includes a total of 43 precincts in four counties (see precinct list page 5.) 18 precincts in Carroll County 10 precincts in Douglas County 12 precincts in Haralson County 3 precincts in Paulding County Voters can go to www.mvp.sos.ga.gov to see if they are eligible to vote in this race, and where their precinct is located. Boundary lines for District 30 have changed. For this Special Election, all candidates are on one ballot (non-partisan). If none of the four receive 50% plus one vote, there will be a runoff Tuesday, March 12th between the two candidates who received the most votes. Democrat Candidate Ashley Kecskes Godwin The lone Democrat in the District 30 Stae Senate race, Ashley Kecskes Godwin grew up in Carroll County, attended Mt Zion High graduating in 2006 as Class Valedictorian. She earned a BA in Political Science from the University of Florida, and an MBA from the University of North Florida. Godwin and her husband Keegan have a Godwin two year old daughter, and live in Carrollton. Candidate Godwin said, “In seeking office, my goal is to bridge divides and work towards solutions that address the universal needs of our community - affordable housing, goodpaying jobs, quality education for our children, access to quality and affordable healthcare, and safety within our communities. Whether you vote red or blue, at the end of the day, these are the things most people care about. “Every election cycle, I receive flyers and postcards in the mail that are littered with divisive language, buzzwords, and imagery that are simply not suited for introducing candidates for public office. I believe that our elected officials should demonstrate behaviors
that we would want our children to emulate honesty, transparency, decency, and respect towards our neighbors.” Concerning education, Candidate Godwin said, “Georgia students deserve to have the most up-to-date curriculum, access to technology, arts programs, healthy meals, electives, and internship programs that will prepare them for work in the 21st century.” On healthcare, Godwin said, “Currently, state lawmakers are debating how many hoops to make citizens jump through to receive treatment, and whether multi-billion-dollar insurance companies ought to be the gatekeepers to healthcare. When elected, I will vote to expand Medicaid and ensure the citizens of Georgia obtain the simpler, cheaper options they deserve... When it comes to women’s healthcare, your reproductive system doesn’t care about your politics. Republican women, democratic women, even women who don’t vote, will at one point or another need to see an OB/GYN, and Georgia is currently facing an OB/GYN shortage.” Godwin’s view on the issue of affordable housing, “Last year, the sheer volume of lowincome local families in need of safe, sanitary homes forced Carrollton’s Housing Authority to suspend applications altogether. . .Georgia, like other areas in the nation, is facing a housing problem, and we need to work together to find solutions and provide incentives for local governments to create affordable housing. No family should ever have to struggle to put a roof over their head.” And concerning law enforcement and community safety, she strongly said, “I support first responders. Unlike what my opponents seem to think, however, supporting police officers isn’t about throwaway catch phrases, sowing division, or hanging blue striped flags outside your house. It’s about providing our community servants with the best training available, whistleblower protections when they report corruption, and hiring more crisis intervention specialists so that the police aren’t left bearing the brunt of the mental health crisis. Likewise, public safety means no one should be afraid to call the police. Every member of our community deserves to feel safe, and we need to join together to ensure this happens.”
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Godwin is the sole Democrat in this race Georgia Public Training Center. He then EAs Bremen HighVilla School. Meet T and addressed that by saying, “I am commit- served as Deputy Chief of Staff for with the RicaHePoT former Meet Meet Meet T ted to being an advocate for this district and to with the Villa Rica Meet Ti Georgia House Speaker Sergeant with thePolic mo Republican listening to everyone, regardless of political Tim Bearden has been David RalstonTim on Bearden the Sergeant withhas the motor Tim Bearden has been Tim Bearden has been aa been Police Department. Tim Tim Bearden has been a ar affiliation! Let’s focus on what unites us and Rural Development moving to Haralson Cou moving to Haralson Co moving to Haralson Coun Police Department. Tim no moving toyears, Haralson Cou moving to Haralson Count 28 Triska. build a stronger, more prosperous community Council, traveling all Bremen High School. He sts Mee Bremen High School. He sta Bremen High School. He Bremen High School. He st Bremen High School. He star 28 years, Triska. Th for everyone.” over Georgia as part of a with the Villa Rica Police with the Villa Rica Police with the Villa Rica Police with the Villa Rica Polic ED with the Villa Rica Police Godwin added, “But, beyond that - I am a Sergeant with the motorc bi-partisan committee towith Sergeant with the motorc Tim Bearden has be Sergeant the motorcy Sergeant with the moto In 2004 Tim was elect Sergeant with the motorc Police Department. Tim now mom. A wife. A daughter. An American. A Inmoving 2004 Timtowas elected Police Department. Tim now increase jobs in rural Haralson Police Department. Tim no Meet Tn Police Department. Tim Police Department. Tim no District 68 encompa 28 years, Triska. They 28 years, Triska. They Georgian. Your neighbor.” Bremen High School. Georgia. 28 years, Triska. The District 68 encompass 28years, years,Triska. Triska.The ThH 28 the Villa Rica P Godwin said, “Please vote this Tuesday, Counties. During Ta As candidate Tim forwith State Bearden has been a Counties. During Tim In 2004 2004 Timwas was elected In Tim elected as Sergeant with the mo moving to Haralson Coun February 13th. Let your voice be heard! Senator District 30, In 2004 Tim was elected a championed our cons District 68School. encompassin District 68 encompassing In 2004 Tim was elected InPolice 2004 Tim was elected championed our conserv Bremen High He Tim staa Department. Predictions are that the turnout will be low for Bearden stated that “We District 68 encompassi Counties. During Tim’s s Counties. During Tim’s District 68and encompass District 68 encompassi protect life, and streng with the28 Villa Rica Police years, Triska. protect strength the District 30 race, which means that your need to do achampioned better joblife, Bearden our conservati championed our conserva Counties. During Tim’s Sergeant with the motorcy Counties. During Tim Counties. During Tim’s eventually became protect life, strengthen vote will be even more important.” became th protect life,and and strengthen highlighting our trade schoolsPolice like eventually West championed our conserva Department. Tim now championed our conserv In 2004 Tim was elec championed our conserva eventually became the C eventually became the Republican Candidate Tim Bearden Georgia Technical College. There are so 28 many years, Triska. They Homeland Security, pro Homeland Security, proud protect life, and strengthe District 68strengthe encomp protect life, and strength Homeland Security, proudly protect life, and Homeland Security, proudly “We need a proven conservative to represent great paying jobs for those who don’t wish to eventually became the en Counties. During T enfor eventually became th eventually became the enfo In 2004 Tim was elected as Tim Bearden District 30 which includes parts of Carroll, attend aBearden four year college.” Tim Bearden Tim Tim Bearden Homeland Security, proudl championed our cons Homeland Security, proud Homeland Security, proudl District 68 encompassin Haralson, Paulding, and Douglas Counties,” Proven On what he would focus on as State protect Senator, life, and stren Conservative enf Proven Conservative Counties. During Tim’s en enf Proven Conservative Tim Bearden said candidate Tim Bearden. “I think it Ready isReady to Deliver for “First of all, IResults want tofor make surechampioned our eventually first our conservat Proven Conservative Tim Bearden became Tim Bearden to Deliver Results West Georgia Families vitally important that we elect someone who Ready to Deliver Results for and protect responders - law enforcement firefighters West Families Homeland Security, pr life, and strengthen Ready toGeorgia Deliver Results for Proven Conservative Proven Conservative Proven Conservative • eventually STAND WITH LAW can hit the ground running, who understands are protected. We need enhanced penalties for became C West Georgia Families • STAND WITHthe LA Ready to Deliver Results for Proudly Supporting Tim West Georgia Families Tim Bearden ReadytotoDeliver DeliverResults Results for Ready for Proudly Supporting Homeland proudly the legislative process, and can get things done thoseGeorgia who assault ourTim first responders. TheySecurity, West Families • MORE JOBS. LO Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams West Georgia Families STAND WITH L West Georgia Families enfo • ••MORE JOBS. LO before Crossover Day which is February Proven Conservative need ourSheriff support - that we got their back. Haralson County Stacy Williams STAND WITH Tim Bearden State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) Proudly Supporting Tim • STAND WITH LA • STAND WITH L Ready to Deliver Results for State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) •• DEFEND OUR CO 29th.” STAND WITH LA Eighteen and half(District years of71) my life have been in Proudly Supporting Tim State Rep. Jay Collins Proudly Supporting Tim • •DEFEND OUR C Proven Conservative Proudly Supporting Tim Rep. Jay Collins (District 71) Proudly Supporting Tim West Georgia Families MORE JOBS. L Douglas County Chairman & Bearden was State Representative State for law to enforcement. Haralson County Sheriff Stacy&for Williams •• STOP Ready Deliver Results ILLEGAL IM MORE JOBS. LO Douglas County Chairman MORE JOBS. Former Sheriff ofSheriff Douglas Co. Phil Miller JOBS. L Haralson County Stacy Williams • ••STOP MORE JOBS. LO Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams •MORE STAND WITH District 68 from 2005 until 2011 (representing Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams “We need to Families strengthen our southern West Georgia ILLEGAL Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) • borders Former Sheriff of Douglas Co. Phil Miller Proudly Supporting Tim State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) parts of Carroll and Douglas counties),State when State Rep. 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Tyler Paul Smith (District 18) Douglas County Chairman County Sheriff Stacy Williams County Chairman && Deal to become the Executive Director ofHaralson theDouglas STOP ILLEGAL STOP ILLEGAL more information •For DEFEND OU ••STOP STOP ILLEGAL Douglas County Chairman &Miller Former Sheriff of Douglas Co. Phil State Rep. Jay Collins (District 71) See DISTRICT 30••page 12 ILLEGAL Former Sheriff of Douglas Co. Phil Miller Tim Bearden for Ge State Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (District 18)
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Sheriff Terry Langley invites the community to join him at his February 29th “Leap Day” re-election fundraiser at county Ag Center
story by Wayne J. Reynolds [the late Burl Langley, past Police Chief of the “My wife Cynthia retired, and when I asked City of Bowdon] always said, and I have conher if I should retire, too, she suggested I keep tinued with, the motto, “Be good to the people working,” Sheriff Terry Langley, age 62, said and they will be good to you. Even when we with a laugh. “So, I am running again for ree- arrest someone, we try to treat them as humans. lection. Seriously, though, I Everyone makes mistakes. I Sheriff Langley was first like people and in this job I get still love my job. I am honored to run. I’m proud of a chance to meet a lot of peoelected in 2001 and is what we have done and currently serving his sixth ple. My job is to help people.” proud of what we will do in Langley oversees 190 term. Of the six times he employees including jail, the future.” Sheriff Langley was first has run, only three times court house, detective divielected in 2001 and is cur- has he faced opposition. . . sion, patrol division, courtrently serving his sixth term. house division, jail division, In his first election, he Of the six times he has run, and drug task force. “It has only three times has he faced received 81% of the vote really grown. When I first opposition. and in Bowdon where he started as a deputy there were In contested elections, he grew up, he received 525 26 people!” received more than 70% of “People don’t expect me to out of 535 voters. the vote. be perfect, but they expect you In his first election, he to be honest, I am always received 81% of the vote and in Bowdon where available. I like the small town atmosphere and he grew up, he received 525 out of 535 voters. that people will approach me when they see “The joke is - who were the ten who didn’t me!” vote for me?” Sheriff Langley began his law enforcement On Thursday, February 29th, Langley will career as a radio operator with the Bowdon kick off his reelection campaign with a play on Police Department in 1980. In July 1981 at the 2024 being a leap year. The “I leap into reelec- age of 19, he became a Deputy Sheriff with the tion” fundraiser kick off event at the Ag Center Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, under Sheriff on Newnan Road will be held 5:30 p.m. to Hugh Lee Lambert. He was promoted through 8:00 p.m. with a $5 donation. There will be the ranks to Sergeant of the Uniformed Patrol food and live entertainment. The sheriff invites Division. He was later appointed to Sergeant in the community to come out and enjoy the eve- the Criminal Investigations Division under ning, “It is a chance to have some fellowship Sheriff Jack T. Bell. and do a little mingling with everyone!” In 1995, he was appointed as the Deputy “People talk about my power, but the only Warden for the Carroll County Prison, which power I have is from the people. And really I provided the opportunity to hone his supervithink it’s not power, it is duty. I am honored to sion and management skills. In 1996, he was serve and I understand the responsibilities that appointed as Interim Sheriff to fill the vacancy come with the office. Although I get my budget of Sheriff Jack T. Bell who had resigned to run from the county commission, I answer directly for Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. to the people. You can reach Sheriff Langley at 770-830“And, I have been very fortunate. My Dad 5915 or by email: tlangley@carrollsheriff.com
Carrollton council and mayor consider numerous and varied zoning requests story by Janice Daniel The Mayor and Council of the City of Carrollton met on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 6:00 p.m., for a regular (monthly) meeting. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Miss West Georgia Teen Abigail Paraham, Miss Carroll County Jesimina Walker, and Miss Carroll County Teen Corynn Nurse, followed by the singing of the National Anthem by Miss West Georgia Lexi Atkins. Invocation was offered by Council Member Jacqulene Bridges. The Oath of Office was administered by Probate Judge Edie Haney to newly elected Ward 3 Council Member Stacie Gibbs, and to re-elected Ward 4 Council Member Bob Uglum, as well as to re-elected Mayor Betty Cason. Ward 3 Council Member Stacie Gibbs, was elected as the 2024 Mayor Pro Tem. Mayor Cason and the Council gave special recognition to the Carrollton Parks & Recreation 8 and under All Stars Football State Champs for 2023, as well as their coaches. Requests were approved for the following: 1. Annexation and Rezoning request for 101 Brock Street to be annexed from Carroll County R-3 to the City of Carrollton R-20 (Single Family Residential) in order for the applicant and property owner to gain access to the city’s sanitary sewer system. There is no development proposed with this request. 2. Rezoning request by Maple View Out Parcels, LLC, applicant Josh Chapman, to
rezone a 4.22-acre portion of Parcel C07 0560115 from ER-3 (Estate Residential) to C-2 (General Commercial) in order to develop a storage facility to serve the Birches on Maple development on Tyus Carrollton Road. The parent parcel was originally annexed into the city in 2005 as part of the Maple Street Commons Master. Planning Committee recommended approval with the condition that the property being rezoned meets conditions consistent with those approved for the Maple Street Commons. 3. Rezoning request of a portion of 315 Dixie Street from R-20 (Single Family Residential) to O-I (Office and Institutional) by applicant Cissy Persichetti for the purpose of sub-dividing the tract to leave the existing home fronting Dixie Street as R-20, and then rezone the remaining .35-acre tract fronting Tanner Street to O-I. There is no development proposed with this rezoning request. 4. Special Use Permit Request for 442 Beulah Church Road by applicant Maverick Construction & Cultivate Communities, to allow for Light Industry in this C-2 (General Commercial) zoning district for the purpose of developing a 110,000-square-foot “flex” commercial office park that will allow for a range of commercial uses, including light manufacturing or warehousing. The proposed park will include 15 buildings, each divided into 1,000 to See CARROLLTON ZONING page 17
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Page 12 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com DISTRICT 30 from page 10 the Fentanyl crisis, coming across the southern border. If elected, I will draft the toughest law in the nation for those individuals or groups who traffic in these types of drugs including harsh mandatory minimums. And we want to continue to give the schools the resources necessary for students to safely learn and teachers to safely teach. We need to protect Georgia families here in District 30.” “We have a 16 billion dollar government surplus. When the government has more money than it needs to run the government, the money needs to go back to our citizens. It is their money! I support the Governor’s and Legislature’s plan to continue to lower income tax. I would also support lower taxes on small businesses and corporate tax. We need for our businesses to grow and expand. I think we should look at reducing regulations and that begins by listening to our small businesses and citizens. What do we need to do to give our famers the support they need to be successful. Agriculture is big business in our state.” Candidate Bearden continued, “My whole campaign is, if elected, to make this district successful moving forward. Part of it is making sure our streets and communities are safe for our families. We live in a very good district, they support law enforcement and first responders. They need to know we got their back.” Bearden mentioned he is honored and humbled by the outpouring of support from citizens as well as government officials such as State Representative Jay Collins of Villa Rica, State Representative Tyler Paul Smith of Bremen, Haralson County Sheriff Stacy Williams, and former Douglas County Sheriff and current Douglas County Commission Chairman Phil Miller. He is also supported by organizations such as GA2A and the Georgia Hunting and
Fishing Federation. “We need to listen to our citizens. I support the 2nd Amendment and restoring our freedoms and rights. I am Pro Life. I am a proven conservative. I will stand firm and not back down! District 30 citizens realize we are without representation in this legislative session and they need to elect someone who can hit the ground running before Crossover Day.” Crossover Dayis the final day for bills to pass out of the House or Senate in order to move forward in this 2024 session. Bills that do not cross over are unlikely to become law this year. Tim and wife Triska will soon be celebrating their 29th anniversary. They have two adult children. Bearden previously served with the Vila Rica Police department and Douglas County Sheriff’s Department, He currently serves in the private sector in government affairs. For more information: beardenforgeorgia.com. Republican Candidate Robert “Bob” Smith Republican candidate Robert “Bob” Smith did not respond to repeated requests from StarNews for information or for an opportunity to interview him for this race, other than one press release from his campaign that was emailed to publisher/editor Sue Horn. That press release follows below: Conservative Businessman Robert ‘Bob’ Smith announced Tuesday his candidacy for Senate District 30. The Special Election is scheduled to be held February 13, 2024. “Millions of Georgians are fed up with elected officials talking about change, but not actually doing something about it,” said Smith. We want real, tangible action to eliminate the income tax, pass term limits for politicians, and expanded school choice for parents and families. As a businessman who has successfully managed more than 2,000 employees, I
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have a proven record of taking action and making change - not just talking about it,” said Smith. Smith served as CEO of Lee Brass for seven years, and served nine years as CEO of G&C Foundry. “We want additional action to secure our elections, stop illegal voting, and ensure our votes are properly and transparently counted,” said Smith. Bob Smith received his bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University. He is married to his wife, Lynne, and they have four adult sons and seven grandchildren. Republican Candidate Renae Bell Republican candidate Renae Bell did not respond to repeated requests from StarNews for information or for an opportunity to interview for this race other than one press release from her campaign was that emailed to publisher/editor Sue Horn. That press release follows below: Renae Bell Pledges to Support Congressional Term Limits U.S. Term Limits (USTL), the leader in the national, non-partisan movement to limit terms for elected officials, is gathering support from state lawmakers across the nation. Its mission is to get 34 states to apply for an amendment proposal convention specific to term limits on Congress. Georgia state senate candidate, (District 30), has committed support for term limits on Congress by signing the term limits convention pledge. Previously, candidate Bob Smith also signed the pledge. USTL President, Philip Blumel, commented on Bell’s and Smith’s pledges saying, “Renae’s and Bob’s strong support of term limits shows that there are individuals who are willing to listen to the majority of voters who want term limits. America needs a Congress that will be served by citizen legislators, not career politicians.”
The U.S. Term Limits pledge is provided to candidates and members of state legislatures. It reads, “I pledge that, as a member of the state legislature, I will cosponsor, vote for, and defend the resolution applying for an Article V convention for the sole purpose of enacting term limits on Congress.” In the 1995 case, Thornton v. U.S. Term Limits, the Supreme Court of the United States opined that only a Constitutional Amendment could limit the terms of U.S. Senators and House Representatives. According to Nick Tomboulides, Executive Director of USTL, the best chance of imposing term limits on Congress is through an Article V Proposal Convention of state legislatures. “The Constitution allows for amendments to be proposed by either 2/3 of Congress or 2/3 of the states. While we’d like for Congress to take the high road and propose term limits on itself, our goal is to trigger the latter, a national convention specifically for a term limits amendment,” claims Tomboulides. “That is why it is important to get buy-in from state legislators,” he added. Once proposed, the amendment must be ratified by 38 states. Tomboulides noted, “More than 87% of Americans have rejected the career politician model and want to replace it with citizen leadership. The way to achieve that goal is through a congressional term limits amendment. Renae and Bob know this and are willing to work to make sure we reach our goal.” According to the latest nationwide poll on term limits conducted by Pew Research, term limits enjoy wide bipartisan support. Pew’s analysis states, “An overwhelming majority of adults (87%) favor limiting the number of terms that members of Congress are allowed to serve. This includes a majority 56% who strongly favor this proposal, just 12% are opposed.”
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www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 13
County commission Chairman Michelle Morgan reports to chamber members on state of the county story by Wayne J. Reynolds On January 11, 2024, the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce held its annual membership breakfast event with an overflow crowd to hear the “State of Carroll County” address by Carroll County Commission Chairman Michelle Morgan. Chamber Senior Vice President of Operations Rhyne Owenby announced it was the largest crowd in memory to attend a chamber Morgan breakfast. The chairman began her remarks by introducing the other county commissioners members: Montrell McClendon, District 1; Clint Chance, District 2; Tommy Lee, District 3; Steve Fuller, District 4; Ernest Reynolds, District 5; and Danny Bailey, District 6. Morgan said, “The beauty and aesthetics of Carroll County is what makes Carroll County why you want to live here. . . so let’s visualize what Carroll County looks like.” “Carroll County operates the landfill and transfer station on 193.5 acres. It takes in approximately 400 tons of trash daily, 6 days a week, the equivalent of 2000 bags of trash a day. “Temple residents are enjoying upgrades at their convenient center. We have installed two new compactors. Each compactor holds the equivalent of forty of the old style containers. Because of this, we are able to eliminate those containers and install more recycling. Our recycling is up seven percent, keeping our county green and increasing our revenue
streams. Warden Otis Wilson and Sheriff Langley are doing a great job of keeping trash off our 1200 miles of roads.” Morgan stated that Carroll County operates 15 fire stations that responded to 11,826 calls, as well as citizens needing help in 2023. They answered 6745 medical calls, 700 car accidents, and 497 fires. The recreation department has 109 acres. They offer baseball, gymnastics, football, volleyball, cheerleading, track, soccer, and basketball with 4,573 children participating. The chairman said she is thankful to have Felissa Rowland in the director’s position and that she has answered 911 calls for more than eleven years. Morgan said she is thankful for men and women at the E-911 center who answered 213,900 calls, with 90% of those answered in less than half a second. Accidental calls were the number one call, with medical and domestic calls second and third. The chairman also touched on the Fentanyl Awareness Campaign which has started, and thanked the law firm of Tisinger Vance for helping secure funds. Morgan recognized many local media outlets, including StarNews, for their participation in the media blitz. She thanked the City of Carrollton Council for their participation as well. “This campaign will help educate our local citizens on the danger of fentanyl,” she said. This past July, the county relocated administrative offices from the College Street building to 997 Newnan Road, formerly the West Georgia Technical College campus (old Carroll Tech when it was constructed decades ago).. Now, the demolition will start on the 1948built College Street School building for the new office facility. The newest member at the 997 location is
Keith West, the new Elections Supervisor, as county keep our businesses and us safe and well as Will Thompson as the Election and help to maintain the quality of life we all enjoy. Registration manager. Thank you for allowing me to share my Morgan continued stating that financially the passion for Carroll County!” county has positioned itself Carroll County is first in the state Morgan originally to pay for the upcoming came to Carrollton to in individual farms at 867 February 13th Special attend the University of covering 85,000 acres. Election for State Senate West Georgia, where District 30, and unexpected she earned both a Carroll County also has the (not budgeted) election. largest cattleman association in Bachelor and Master of The county government Business has taken advantage of the state. Poultry is the county’s Administration. While grants for acquisition of number one agricultural venture. at UWG, she fell in park land, has moved forlove with Carroll One poultry farm alone can ward on capital projects like County and chose to feed 22,000 people. . . for the 5th floor courthouse make it her home, she build out as well IT and audio visual enhance- said. Shortly after graduation, she opened A ments, and the sheriff department’s security Likely Story bookshop. She had been the upgrades. Judge John Simpson procured sev- Director of People and Community for Morgan eral grants to help with these upgrades. Oil for twenty-plus years. She was first elected The commission’s financial decisions have in 2014 to serve as District 4 Commissioner afforded the county to plan for a public training and in August 2019 Chairman, the first female facility, including an Emergency Operations in Carroll County to hold that position. Her Center, by mid summer. term expires this year, December 31, 2024. The chairman also went back to her original Carroll County is governed by a Board of opening comment about the beauty of Carroll Commissioners, the primary policy-making County stating that Carroll County is first in body of the county. The board consists of a the state in individual farms at 867 covering full-time chairman and six part-time 85,000 acres. Carroll County also has the commissioners representing the different largest cattleman association in the state. districts of the county. While the full Poultry is the county’s number one agricultural commission retains ultimate executive venture. One poultry farm alone can feed responsibility, day-to-day executive duties are 22,000 people, she said. Carroll County performed by the chairman. The chairman is operates five public parks totaling over 2300 elected countywide every four years. District acres. commissioners are elected to staggered terms “I love living and serving here in Carroll of four years each (three of the six being County,” she said. elected by district every two years). After recognizing the leadership and For more information visit department heads, Morgan went on to say, carrollcountyga.com or by calling 770-830“These people and the 600 employees of the 5800.
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Page 14 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
Roy’s Tires in Carrollton celebrates fifty years of business: remembering Roy Riggs, appreciating customers
story by Wayne J. Reyolds In 1974, Roy Riggs According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, opened Roy’s Tire Center approximately 20% of small and worked Reggie shared, businesses fail within their there until first year. The failure rate “We try to be as honest his increases to 30% by the end retirement as we can be and also of the second year, 50% by give good service.We are due to his the fifth year, and 70% by health. At Christian and believe in the age of the tenth year. Now, treating people right. . . imagine 50 years. This year, 85, Roy 2024, Roy’s Tire Center, passed 234 Maple Street, Carrollton (on the corner at away June 29, 2016. But, South Park Street) celebrates 50 years in the legacy continues as his business! daughter, Reggie Jackson and his son, Chris Riggs continue to operate the business. And, in fact, Roy’s Tires is now a third generation business as his two grandsons are also part of it: Reggie’s son, Daniel, joined the business 12 years ago and Chris’ son, Cade, Shown above are the second and third business generations of Roy’s Tires, Maple Street, Carrollton. joined five years ago. Left: Chris Riggs and his son Cade. Right: Reggie Jackson and her son Daniel. Photo by Wayne Reynolds Reggie says, “Dad was big part of our success.” always in the tire business, moving around Christian and believe in treating people right. “Like every business we have had our good every three years for the tire company. In 1974, We won’t rip people off. And we are good at times and bad times, but the Lord has blessed we were living in Rome when Dad decided to what we do!” open Roy’s. I graduated early from high school Chris adds, “Dad taught us to treat everyone us,” Reggie explained. In their previous location on Rome Street, so every day I rode with him to work here. like family.” Carrollton, they were having trouble with “He made me work with him,” she said with “We are fortunate in that we have an having enough parking so when the Maple a chuckle. experienced, knowledgeable, and capable Chris added, “I joined the business at 13 staff,” Chris observed. “Roger Collins has been Street location opened up in 2013, they took the opportunity and moved the business. It is years old in 1979. And, like Reggie, Dad told with us for 18 years, Chris Hutchinson for 30 the former location of Kelly Springfield as me I was joining the business.” years, Gary Walker for 20 years as well as well as a Chrysler/Plymouth dealership. Reggie shared, “We try to be as honest as we Gabe Adams. Of course, Cade has been with The late Roy Riggs, who founded Roy’s can be and also give good service.We are us 5 years and Daniel for 12 years. They are a See ROY’S TIRES page 17 Tires in 1974.
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From right, Carroll County Farm Bureau (CCFB) immediate past president Lawrence Shadix accepts a GFB Rewarding Excellence in Ag Program Harvester Award on behalf of CCFB President Doug Smith along with CCFB Office Manager Jennifer Dixson from Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall. Photo courtesy of GFB
Carroll County Farm Bureau earns “Rewarding Excellence in Ag Program Harvester Award” Congratulations to Carroll County teacher Sam Camp, second from right, Georgia Farm Bureau’s :2023 Georgia Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year”. GFB President Tom McCall, right, and from left, Georgia EMC Public Relations Representative Andy Paul present the award to Camp along with Lily Baucom, executive director of the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA). Photo courtesy of Georgia Farm Bureau
Georgia Farm Bureau chose Carroll County’s teacher Samantha “Sam” Camp its “2023 Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year”
from press release Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) presented Carroll County teacher Samantha “Sam” Camp its 2023 Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year Award during the organization’s 86th annual convention on Jekyll Island in December. Camp teaches Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) to kindergarteners through fifth grade at Mount Zion Elementary School in Carrollton. She was recognized for incorporating agriculture topics into her class curriculum. Camp also works with local FFA students to hold Ag Days and In-House Field Trip Days to which she invites Carroll County Farm Bureau (CCFB) and other ag organizations and businesses to participate. Camp wants to ensure that her students understand the importance of farming and
growing crops to survive. “Students love getting outside, getting their hands dirty, and loving animals,” Camp said. “I just felt with our population growing exponentially that students needed to be exposed to farming careers at an early age. This way, students will learn the importance of farming and growing crops in order to survive.” CCFB and Mount Zion Elementary Principal Melissa Dearman nominated Camp for the award. CCFB volunteers have teamed up with Camp to lead hands-on activities for her STEM students that reiterate the things they learn about in class. Camp and CCFB have worked together to install raised garden beds and a chicken coop at the school so the students can do ag-related projects on a regular basis. As the award winner, Camp received a $500 prize courtesy of Georgia EMC and an expense- paid trip, sponsored by the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture, to the 2024 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference set for late June in Salt Lake City, Utah. Camp earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood/Elementary from the University of West Georgia. She has been teaching for seven years and has taught at Mount Zion for the last three years. Georgia Farm Bureau coordinates its annual AITC Teacher of the Year, which is sponsored by Georgia EMC and the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture. Founded in 1937, the Georgia Farm Bureau Federation is the state’s largest general farm organization with 158-chapter offices that cover all of Georgia’s 159 counties. As a membership-driven, nongovernmental organization, GFB serves as voice of Georgia farmers and rural Georgia by advocating for them on legislative issues and promoting Georgia commodities. Its volunteer members actively participate in activities that promote agriculture awareness.
from press release Carroll County Farm Bureau (CCFB) was recognized for its outstanding member programs and agricultural advocacy activities at the 86th Annual Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Convention held Dec. 3-5, 2023, on Jekyll Island. Doug Smith is the CCFB president. Jennifer Dixson is the CCFB office manager. CCFB received GFB Rewarding Excellence in Ag Program (REAP) Harvester Award in the organization’s large membership division. GFB’s REAP award honors county Farm Bureaus for the organization/membership, advocacy, leadership development, education & outreach activities they did between Sept. 1, 2022, and Aug. 31, 2023. The REAP
Awards are divided into three tiers – Harvester (1st), Planter (2nd) and Cultivator (3rd) with five tier winners in each of GFB’s three membership categories – small, medium and large. “Georgia Farm Bureau has thrived since 1937 because of our dedicated volunteer leaders and county staff who work to promote agriculture in their local communities by visiting schools to teach students how farmers grow our food and meeting with their elected officials,” said GFB President Tom McCall. CCFB received $1,500 and a plaque. President Doug Smith received an embroidered Farm Bureau jacket, and CCFB Office Manager Jennifer Dixson received a $750 gift card.
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Page 16 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
Carroll County Department of Public Health
To view complete inspection details:dph.georgia.gov/environmental-health
public swimming pool health inspections scores
85 UNSATISFACTORY restaurant health inspections scores
1/31/2024: SPORTSPLEX 106 Somerset Place Carrollton
Following restaurants received a score of 100 during an JANUARY inspection: 294 Overlook Cliff Carrollton 100 4598 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy Carrollton 100 970 Hays Mill Road Carrollton 100 615 Old Antioch Road Carrollton 100 182 Hwy 78 West Temple 100 2016 Club Bay DriveVilla Rica 100 737 West Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 100 1027 Maple Street Unit A Carrollton 100 1210 Maple Street Carrollton 100 1/08/2024: Olive Garden 1370 South Park Street Carrollton 99 previous 100 1/29/2024: Subway 705 Dixie Street Tanner Hospital Carrollton 98 previous 100 1/29/2024: Mojave Hot Wings 1069 Main Street Whitesburg 98 previous 97 1/30/2024: Chick-fil-A 85 Commerce Drive Villa Rica 98 previous 96 1/08/2024: Jack’s 729 East College Street Bowdon 98 previous 89 1/08/2024: IHOP 1615 Hwy 27 South Carrollton 97 previous 97 1/17/2024: Ashven Estate 100 McPherson Road Villa Rica 96 previous 100 1/24/2024: New York Street Eats 1101 Alabama St Carrollton 96 previous 100 1/26/2024: D&N Backyard BBQ 225 Gardner Road Temple 96 previous 100 1/11/2024: Carroll Co.Sheriff’s Dept. 1000 Newnan RD Carrolton 96 previous 92 1/24/2024: Moe’s Southwest Grill 700 Hwy 61 Ste C Villa Rica 96 previous 92 1/26/2024: Sonic Drive-In 100 Park Ridge Drive Villa Rica 96 previous 90 1/03/2024: Shane’s Rib Shack 1141 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 96 previous 90 1/16/2024: Hibachi Express 530 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 95 previous 100 1/08/2024: Southwire 1 Southwire Drive Carrollton 95 previous 100 1/24/2024: The Chat & Choo 130 W Montgomery St Villa Rica 95 previous 100 1/23/2024: Iron Hot Grill 165 Edge Road Ste 108 Villa Rica 95 previous 100 1/17/2024: Papa John’s 596 Hwy 61 Villa Rica 95 previous 99 1/30/2024: Brown Dog Eatery 202 Bradley Street Carrollton 95 previous 98 1/26/2024: McDonald’s 593 Carrollton Street Temple 95 previous 83 1/26/2024: Bojangle’s 102 West Perennial Drive Villa Rica 95 previous 77 1/19/2024: Dairy Queen 811 West Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 95 previous NA 1/11/2024: Mustard Seed Cafe 2115 Maple Street Carrollton 94 previous 95 1/26/2024: Burger King 584 Hwy 61 Villa Rica 94 previous 94 1/29/2024: Wendy’s 139 East College Street Bowdon 94 previous 92 1/31/2024: Olive Tree 150 Stone Street Villa Rica 94 previous 80 1/04/2024: Ashbrook Village Senior Living 75 Herrell Rd Villa Rica 93 previous NA 1/26/2024: Wendy’s 1995 Alabama Avenue Bremen 93 previous 84 1/19/2024: Subway 95 Liberty Road Villa Rica 92 previous 100 Mrs. T’s Signature BBQ New York Style Hotdogs Shot Spot Renegade Chef Southern Dogs and Catering It’s SImply Divine Taqueria Tapatios Solo Caribbean Food Hacienda Granda
1/05/2024: Dairy Queen 1515 Alabama Avenue Bremen 92 previous 96 1/26/2024: Rooster’s Southern 369 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 92 previous 90 1/29/2024: La Fiesta 201 Bradley Street Carrollton 92 previous 82 1/09/2024: Dairy Queen 300 South Park Street Carrollton 91 previous 86 1/03/2024: Heaven in Your Home 106 Adamson Sq Carrollton 90 previous 100 1/11/2024: Bangkok Street Food 202 Bradley Street Carrollton 90 previous 100 1/10/2024: Wright Way BBQ 1003 Alabama Avenue Carrollton 90 previous 98 1/29/2024: McDonald’s 1176 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 90 previous 96 1/31/2024: Los Cowboys 1113 Main Street Villa Rica 90 previous 95 1/23/2024: Banning Mills 205 Horseshoe Dam Rd Whitesburg 90 previous 95 1/24/2024: Thai Basil Cuisine 921 Moore’s Ferry Rd Villa Rica 90 previous 95 1/11/2024: Applebee’s 1105 South Park Street Carrollton 90 previous 94 1/17/2024: Gypsy Rabbit 9 West Johnson Street Temple 90 previous 93 1/11/2024: KFC Taco Bell 126 Hwy 61 Villa Rica 90 previous 91 1/16/2024: Subway 231 Carrollton Street Temple 90 previous 90 1/04/2024: Bowdon Senior Center 101 Barr Avenue Bowdon 90 previous 83 01/10/2024: Chick-fil-A 89 Hwy 27 Bypass Bremen 89 previous 100 01/26/2024: Leopold’s Pizza 102 Adamson Square Carrollton 89 previous 92 01/26/2024: Subway (Walmart) 1725 Hwy 27 S Carrollto 89 previous 90 01/05/2024: Feathers Wings 883 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 89 previous 70 01/2042024: La Finca Mexican 727 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 88 previous 90 01/24/2024: Little Donkey 1561 South Park Street Carrollton 87 previous 91 01/03/2024: Giovanni’s 1124 North Park Street Carrollton 87 previous 88 01/05/2024: Brookdale 530 Northside Drive Carrollton 86 previous 96 01/22/2024: Sutton’s American Grill 477 Rome Street Carrollton 86 previous 90 01/16/2024: Stewart House Retirement 102 South Street Carrollton 86 previous 87 01/03/2024: Highland Deli 402 Adamson Square Carrollton 85 previous 98 01/24/2024: Shucker’s Oyster 481 Rome Street Carrollton 85 previous 95 01/29/2024: City Tavern 109 Newnan Street Carrollton 85 previous 87 01/09/2024: Good Neighbor Meals 812 S Park Street Carrollton 84 previous 100 01/22/2024: Oak Mt. Championship Golf 409 Birkdale Carrollton 84 previous 100 01/17/2024: Hibachi 600 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy Villa Rica 84 previous 90 01/04/2024: Bojangles 750 Hwy 61 Villa Rica 83 previous 97 01/16/2024: Wendy’s 186 Hwy 61 Villa Rica 83 previous 95 01/30/2024: El Monterrey Mexican 815 S Park Street Carrollton 80 previous 86 01/11/2024: Suzie’s Wings & Deli 451 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 80 previous 83 79 previous 88 01/08/2024: Blazer’s 23 B Tyus Carrollton Road Carrollton Violations: Observed no Certified Food Safety Protection Manager. No handwashing soap in bathroom. No sanitizer on site. No test strips to test proper sanitizer strength. Observed chemical spray bottle with no label. Observed chemicals beside single use food items. 01/16/2024: Cinema Tavern 200 W Montgomery St Villa Rica 78 previous 89 Violations: Observed raw chicken and hamburger above cooked chicken in reach in cooler. Observed raw hamburger beside raw steak and shelled eggs beside raw chicken. 01/31/2024: La Salsa Mexican 2004 Maple Street Carrollton 78 previous 84 Violations: Observed raw chicken beside ready to eat foods.
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www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 17 CARROLLTON ZONING from page 11 include 15 buildings, each divided into 1,000 to 10,000 square-foot suites, depending on the needs of the tenant. Renderings and a concept plan were included with the request, which the Planning Committee approved with one condition - that the strip along the Eastern portion of the property, a creek-bed, be annexed from Carroll County into the City of Carrollton. City Manager David Brooks advised council that two appointments needed to be filled on the Planning Commission. Rich Weaver was reappointed to a second term and Curry Glanton was appointed to her first term, both terms to expire on 12/31/26. Brooks said that Glanton is a Professional Civil Engineer and Project Manager for Ra-lin & Associates. Brooks said the city had reinstituted the Redevelopment Authority last year in anticipation of the TAD and other redevelopment projects, and that a TAD Advisory Committee is a Georgia State Requirement. Three members of the TAD Advisory Committee were reappointed: Fred O’Neal, Mark Foster, and Gilbert ‘Bubba’ Barker, all with terms expiring on 12/31/26. It should be further noted that the Mayor and Council of the City of Carrollton met in a Special Called Meeting on Monday, December 4th, 2023 at 7:05 p.m., to adopt Resolution 132023, to exercise acquisition of property by Eminent Domain for City Parcel C02 0160018, pursuant to the Declaration of Taking Method, O.C.G.A. 32-3-1 Et.Seq. (as applicable) of real
Three members of the TAD Advisory Committee were reappointed: Fred O’Neal, Mark Foster, and Gilbert ‘Bubba’ Barker, all with terms expiring on 12/31/26. property for the purpose of improving the city’s recreational water park public road or other transportation purposes; to authorize the City Attorney to institute formal condemnation proceedings; to provide for the payment of just and adequate compensation to the owner(s); and for other purposes. Based on a report made to thecity by a certified land appraiser, the value of $25,000.00 was determined to be just and adequate compensation to be paid for the acquisition of the property, and such sum was authorized to be paid into the court for disposition to the person(s) entitled thereto.
ROY’S TIRES from page 14 Roy’s has five bays open for service. They offer Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, Kenda, and Yokohama brands They offer a variety of services such as brakes, oil change, alignment, suspension, driveline repair, struts, and front end work. “We don’t do engine work or air conditioning,” Chris explains. Reggie and Chris shared a couple of tips designed to save you money. Check your vehicle alignment to ensure you’re getting the best life and performance out of your tires. You can throw a car out of alignment when you hit a pothole or curb. If you notice irregular tread wear or experience your vehicle pulling to the left or right when you’re trying to stay straight in a lane, you might need a wheel alignment to fix the camber, toe, and caster angles. In addition, tire rotation maximizes tire life by swapping the position of each tire on your vehicle. This is done because your vehicle doesn’t distribute an equal amount of stress on each tire. By switching front and rear tires, you keep tread wear even. Rotation patterns vary depending on your vehicle and tires. Rotating tires regularly means you won’t have to worry about finding replacements at different intervals or contending with a performance decrease because your tires don’t match in tread wear. “We sincerely appreciate customers and think our work speaks for us, Reggie states. “We have customers who have been coming here for fifty years.” Customer and former Carrollton mayor Wayne Garner said, “A great place and even better folks. I have been using Roy’s for forty years!” Customer Alec Gammon adds, “Love this place, I have been going to them for over 30 years. Thank you Chris and Reggie!” Roy’s Tire Center is open Monday through Friday until 5:00 p.m., 770-834-6674. For more information visit roystirecenter.com or email them at roystires@roytires.net. See their website for more car care tips.
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StarNews / StarNews Online
COMMENTARY
This year: revisiting initiatives from the 2023 session
My colleagues and I kicked off the decade, making it the largest tax cut 2024 Legislative Session on Monday, in state history. “Not just what happened, but what matters” January 8th. It was a great week as we Governor Kemp has made it clear spent time gearing up for the next SUSAN M. HORN that public safety within our state is a forty days under the Gold Dome. This EDITOR/PUBLISHER top priority. He is proposing aggresyear, we will not only be discussing sive funding to ensure that our law ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: GRAPHICS DESIGNER: (R) STATE new legislation, but we will also WAYNE REYNOLDS SHERRY REYNOLDS REPRESENTATIVE enforcement community has the revisit initiatives from the 2023 sesfinancial support and resources District 71 REPORTERS: JANICE DANIEL WAYNE REYNOLDS sion that did not receive final passage. 770-295-8143 needed. Last year, our budget Our goal is to produce a quality newspaper, locally oriented and designed with the readers’ Thursday, January 11th gave us the included a $6,000 increase for our j.collins@house.ga.gov interest in mind. Letters to the editor are welcomed and should include a signature, opportunity to hear Governor Brian state law enforcement officers. This address/email addrees, phone number. Liability for an error will not exceed the cost of the Kemp outline his top agenda items for tax suspensions and homestead tax year, Governor Kemp has made clear 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. the upcoming year, as we began our exemptions. The governor also noted that he will push for an additional work on our Fiscal Year budget. As an our success in keeping Georgia’s cov- $3,000 pay raise for State Patrol offiPublished monthly. Periodical postage paid permit #16154 Carrollton GA. Delivery mail/carrier $35 per two year subscription. $45 out of county. Send important reminder, the only piece of eted Triple-A bond rating, while cers, as well as Georgia’s correctional address changes: P.O. Box 680, Carrollton, GA 30112. legislation that we are required to pass simultaneously creating more than officers and other state law enforceP.O. Box 680 Carrollton, GA 30112 suehorn.starnews@gmail.com in any given session is a balanced 171,000 new jobs. © 2024 Palindrome Enterprises ment agencies. cell: 770-301-1275 Governor Kemp made clear that tax budget. dba StarNews / StarNews Online The governor also covered the Governor Kemp noted the progress reform, education, healthcare, and importance of increased school safety. Expecting a poor (low) turnout for a vital race we have made over the last few years public safety are top agenda items for Over the last five years, the state has for West Georgia: State Senate District 30 where economic development, job the upcoming year. Specifically, he allotted more than $185 million growth, education, healthcare, and made note of his plans to speed up a towards securing our schools. To Runoff, if needed, will be Tuesday, March 12th - the same day as public safety are concerned. He also proposed tax cut which would build on this investment, Governor Presidential Preference Primary A Special Election will be held highlighted that over the last year, decrease our state income tax to Kemp is proposing a permanent Tuesday, February 13, 2024, in Carroll, Georgia citizens have benefited from 5.39% starting this year. The proposal appropriation in the state budget for Douglas, Haralson and Paulding nearly $5 billion of direct relief to tax- would save approximately $3 billion school security, which includes $104 counties. Run-off, if needed, will be held payers in the form of tax refunds, gas for Georgia taxpayers over the next See STATE REP COLLINS page 22 Tuesday, March 12, 2024. According to Carroll County’s new “’Academic freedom’, that handy jects should be evaluated to discover Elections Supervisor Keith West (on the EDITOR/ the truth as much as possible through job mid-December 2023) states there are slogan that is constantly wielded to PUBLISHER real academic freedom, not just lip 60,064 active voters in the 18 Carroll bludgeon into impotence numberless service. County precincts for the February 13th (this Tuesday) Special Election to citizens who waste away with frustraelect a State Senator for District 30. When asked what percentage is tion as they view in their children and So, how did Yale and other Ivy predicted to participate, West said, “As to the percentage of voters that take in their children’s children the results League schools, initially instituted as advantage of the opportunity. We have based our numbers on previous of a laissez-faire education.” colleges for the clergy, become propo‘similar’ elections. For the Special Election we estimate approximately - William F. Buckley, Jr. laments in nents of an atheistic and GEORGIA TECH 20%.” This would be around 12,000; a poor turnout for a very important “God and Man at Yale” governmental-controlled society? The Beta Theta Pi race. I believe the turnout will certainly be low, and not only for voter William F. Buckley, Jr., caused answer may be in the Enlightenment tpittman4787@comcast.net apathy, but other reasons. quite a stir in 1951 when he authored Period (1685-1815), where the parThe redrawing of the district lines has caused obvious, and expected, his problem with his Yale education In his book, Buckley took each ticipants considered it the Age of confusion, and the shortness of this race - 40 days from announcement on only two months after he graduated. school - and many Yale professors - Reason. This way, they self-proJanuary 4th to election February 13th - hasn’t allowed much time to sort out He almost immediately themselves as the In his book, Buckley took each school - and claimed the confusions - plural. Many, many residences, mine included, were drawn became the Conservative guardians of reason that out of District 30, and are no longer eligible to participate, through we darling, and began a career many Yale professors - to task for suppressing would improve humanity would have certainly been front and center to mark our ballot choice. How American individualism and religion, and that included founding the through rational change. many of the ousted voters will show up to participate in this familiar race magazine “National These academic ideas promoting collectivism and atheism. Dugan’s been on the ballot for us since 2013 - but be turned away? Review” and hosting “Figrew and eventually got into To see if you can cast a vote for your next State Senator, go to the to task for suppressing American ring Line”, the longest-running public politics with the Progressive moveSecretary of State’s My Voter Page: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov Another confusion - costly - has affected at least two of the four affairs show with a single host in individualism and religion, and pro- ment under President Woodrow candidates. Over the past three weeks, I have received in my mailbox at American television history, where he moting collectivism and atheism. He Wilson. Even though Theodore home, three large, full color, heavy stock (costly to print/costly to mail) became known for his distinctive promoted the idea that the above Roosevelt was a Republican, by 1909, should be discussed and that all subSee TRAVIS PITTMAN page 22 campaign flyers from two candidates in the District 30 race - and I presume accent and wide vocabulary. many others in my area received them also. These candidates most likely also paid for a mailing list for the addresses and names of voters in the Should illegal aliens and temporary increase skilled talent within newly drawn district. Wrong/freshly outdated information, wasted Georgia’s high-demand industries.” campaign dollars. These flyers contained valuable information about the foreign workers should be “upskilled” And then there’s this: “Undoccandidates. For those who will be voting in this special election, how many at taxpayer’s expense? What else should have received these flyers and did not, thus not gaining information would you call a taxpayer-funded umented immigrants can participate about these two candidates to help in their decision? state program that covers the costs to in the Registered Apprenticeship Another confusion came to my attention unexpectedly when I went to “upskill” employees for employers Program” says Kimberly Burgess, My Voter Page and downloaded my voter card with its new information. I who can depend on the Technical PRESIDENT Apprenticeship Coordinator at saw on the new map that I was now in District 28 with Matt Brass as my College System of Georgia (TCSG) The Dustin Inman TCSG’s Coastal Pines Technical State Senator, but I wanted to see if my polling precinct had changed. To for training - and can then pay the Society College in a response to our inquiry. my surprise, my card shows that I - a registered voter in Carroll County, employer $50,000 upon completion 404-316-6712 And H1B workers are participating Georgia, since July 30, 1988 - am listed in State Senate District 06! My of his employee’s instruction? What entry-level employees into high- in the RAP/HDCI program according polling place remains as Roopville Road Baptist Church in Carroll County, would you call this initiative if there skilled talent,” explains the TCSG to Danny Mitchell, HDCI program which is clearly not in District 6. The District 6 State Senator Democrat were no process in place to exclude website. The RAP is part of and manager in TCSG’s Office of Jason Esteves’ webpage lists his district boundaries as “from Grove Park to either illegal alien employees or ille- funded by the High Demand Career Workforce Development. For the East Cobb, from Buckhead to Vinings”. How did this error happen? uninitiated: “the H-1B visa is a nonInitiative (HDCI) program. If I had not noticed and showed up at a future election for District 28, I gal employers from benefitting? Governor Kemp and the GOPThe HDCI is best explained by immigrant work visa that allows U.S. would have been told I was not eligible. If this happens, or has happened to you in Early Voting, ask for a Provisional Ballot, and it can be sorted out ruled state legislature call it the Gov. Brain Kemp in a November employers to hire foreign workers Registered Apprenticeship Program. 2022, Kemp office media release: with specialized skills to work in the later. How many other voters have this error on their voting card? It’s yet another “workforce develop- “During the 2022 legislative session, United States for a specific period of There are 43 precincts in the newly drawn District 30 (see page 5). Keith West counted the total Active Voters for Carroll County at 83,027. ment” scheme. Related reading: Governor Kemp and lawmakers part- time” (boundless.com). This writer will rely on more He predicts 40% of those will participate in the Presidential Preference “Despite state laws, illegal aliens run nered to pass SB 379, representing a Election: 33,210 - far more than is predicted for the State Senate seat. Why? businesses in Georgia and they hire historic investment in apprenticeships sophisticated minds to enlighten us on Do you ever talk to the president? Does the president ever ask for your illegal aliens employees.” in Georgia through the HDCI how taxpayer dollars used to train foropinion? A local State Senate race is far more important. The winner “A Registered Apprenticeship Program. The HDCI Program awards eigners here temporarily somehow YOUR new State Senator - will be someone who is lives here in West Program (RAP) is a robust and com- up to $50,000 in funding to Georgia represents “a historic investment” in Georgia. Two candidates live in Carroll County, one is in Haralson County, prehensive training model that helps businesses to upskill workers through Georgia’s future workforce: and the other is in Paulding County. Please, get out and vote - I cannot. employers transform and develop registered apprenticeships and See D.A. KING page 23
www.starnewsgaonline.com
J
COLLINS
SUE
HORN EVANS
Academic Freedom: get the government out of education
TRAVIS
PITTMAN
Illegal immigration: Georgia’s “Registered Apprenticeship Program”
D.A. KING
COMMENTARY
Page 20 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
Election Day is Feb. 13th: I thank you in advance for participating in our democracy
ASHLEY
KECSKES GODWIN CANDIDATE State Senate District 30 DEMOCRAT My name is Ashley Kecskes Godwin, and I’m the Democrat running for State Senate District 30 in the Special Election on February 13th. Beyond that - I am a mom. A wife. A daughter. An American. A Georgian. Your neighbor. In seeking office, my goal is to bridge divides and work towards solutions that address the universal needs of our community affordable housing, good-paying jobs, quality education for our children, access to quality and affordable healthcare, and safety within our communities. Whether you vote red or blue, at the end of the day, these are the things most people care about.
I grew up in Carroll County, Georgia, and I am proud to call the west Georgia area my home. I attended school at Mount Zion High School, where I was in the marching band and played basketball. In 2006, I earned the distinction of being named Valedictorian of my graduating class. I have a BA in Political Science from the University of Florida, and an MBA from the University of North Florida. While completing my MBA, I worked for a small business in a management role, and I was an instrumental member of the team that contributed to the company’s growth and acquisition by a major player in the industry. I moved back to Georgia in 2018, with my husband, Keegan. We currently live in Carrollton, GA with our two-year-old daughter. I strive to be a role model for her everyday, and I believe that our elected officials should demonstrate behaviors that we would want our children to emulate - honesty, transparency, decency, and respect towards our neighbors. Yet, every election cycle, I receive flyers and postcards in the mail that are littered with divisive language, buzzwords, and imagery that are
simply not suited for introducing candidates for public office. As voters and participants in democracy, we should demand better from those running for public office. And likewise, candidates should respect voters by discussing the issues: EDUCATION: We must ensure that we are fully funding our public schools. Georgia students deserve to have the most up-to-date curriculum, access to technology, arts programs, healthy meals, electives, and internship programs that will prepare them for work in the 21st century. As a parent, I want our children to have the best quality education possible-this means guaranteeing teachers receive regular raises for the purposes of recruiting and retention. Teachers are important, vital members of our community. They shape our childrens’ lives in meaningful ways, and their mark on society can be felt for generations. Do you remember your favorite teacher? An investment in our teachers is an investment in our students, and in turn, an investment in our community’s future.
Our school systems, teachers, and students are worth investing in. HEALTHCARE: When it comes to healthcare, Georgia is one of the lowest in the nation. Nearly every other state has Medicaid expansion, but our politicians turned it down. It’s mind boggling that Georgia tax dollars don’t help Georgian patients. We pay federal taxes why is our state denying us federal benefits? Currently, state lawmakers are debating how many hoops to make citizens jump through to receive treatment, and whether multi-billiondollar insurance companies ought to be the gatekeepers to healthcare. When elected, I will vote to expand Medicaid and ensure the citizens of Georgia obtain the simpler, cheaper options they deserve. When it comes to women’s healthcare, your reproductive system doesn’t care about your politics. Republican women, democratic women, even women who don’t vote, will at one point or another need to see an OB/GYN, and Georgia is currently facing an OB/GYN shortage. If we continue to pass legislation that See ASHLEY KECSKES GODWIN page 22
to lower taxes and create more jobs in our communities, and I will always stand with our law enforcement officers and first responders. I will push for enhanced penalties for those that assault our law enforcement and first responders. I will also give our schools the tools to harden themselves ensuring they are safe for every child and teacher. Fentanyl is bringing heartbreak to families and destroying the fabric of our communities. I will immediately bring legislation making Georgia the toughest state in the nation for individuals and criminal organizations that traffic Fentanyl into Georgia. There must be tough mandatory minimums to fight this epidemic sweeping our state and country. I stand with President Trump demanding we fully secure the southern border and build the wall to help stop this poison. As a State Representative, I did not hesitate to vote to strengthen Georgia’s laws to combat illegal immigration. In the State Senate, I will vote to further crack down on illegal immigration. With Georgia continuing to have large sur-
pluses, I will work along with the legislature and Governor in reducing the State Income Tax so citizens can keep more of their hardearned dollars. Too many of our small businesses are suffering with higher cost to do business from labor cost to increase cost in goods. We are seeing businesses close or reduce hours. I believe we should also look at reducing taxes and regulations so businesses, and farms, can be better prepared to grow/expand and increase good employment opportunities. I will work closely with the business community to get their input on how we can help create more jobs and a ready workforce The citizens in State District 30 want, and deserve, a state senator who will go to Atlanta to not only fight for their values, but also deliver. I have the proven conservative record of getting things done. As the author of the largest 2 nd Amendment reform bill in Georgia’s history at the time, (HB89), I worked to restore many freedoms that were lost over decades of eating away at the 2nd
Amendment. I will always stand to protect the 2 nd Amendment. I am also grateful to be supported by the pro-life community in the past and will continue to be 100% pro-life in the future. Finally, the single largest issue facing our communities is Joe Biden in the White House (just look at your price at the pump, grocery store, restaurants and the interest rates on homes). It’s no secret that the Biden administration, agenda and their liberal allies in Washington are out of control. I know that Georgia has become ground zero to stopping their agenda and getting them out of the White House. Biden/Harris lose Georgia and they lose the Whitehouse. I have been a proud supporter of President Trump ever since he came down the escalator in 2015 and supported President Trump in 2016, 2020 and fully back his presidential campaign in 2024. Your first chance to vote against Joe Biden in 2024 is on February 13 th in the State Senate District 30 Special Election and to elect Tim Bearden State Senator!
“Rapture,” she replied. Can’t you come to me in a dream Lay down beside me Sleep like a moonbeam in my arms? I wasn’t being picky. Missing Glyn went so sharp and deep I was willing to accept whatever might momentarily assuage the pain. It didn’t have to be Glyn himself, in the flesh, though that would be my first choice. It could be a symbol or talisman, a sly hello from the afterlife, anything - I didn’t care. Can’t you send me a sign - something Concrete: Bobcat on the riverbank Your name on my caller ID? That February morning, annoyed at Glyn for being dead and MIA, I went out onto the porch facing the river. At dawn the air was already warming. Spring in West Georgia begins February 1st no matter what cold lies ahead. I sensed movement in the tall sere grasses below me, the dried fronds on the riverbank waving and parting for a low-riding four-legged being. Maybe a dog, which seemed timely as I intended to go to the Carroll County Shelter that afternoon to bring home a dog for protection and company. Only this creature was moving more like a cat, with a stealthy rolling gait. At that moment! - the animal’s head poked out
of the grass - and it was indeed a cat. A bobcat! And a scruffy one at that. The grey head turned upward. We stared at each other, the keen eyes glittering in the rough triangular face. Then the bobcat slid noiselessly down along the riverbank out of sight, emerging briefly further down on the deer path to the floodplain before vanishing into the woods. That’s all it took. I was sated now, and peaceful. I’d received the sign I sought. If I never saw that bobcat again, his appearance felt satisfyingly right. Glyn did love his cats, and he too was a bit scruffy there at the end. Though not as gratifying as a full frontal visitation, I’d take what the universe had offered. Flesh Would be preferable But I won’t be greedy In a clean death they say Few traces remain Glyn did have a clean death. He left with few regrets in a long generous life. And if that meant less of him lingered to comfort the living, I would be okay with that, especially when the occasional glimpses felt like his kind of prank. One afternoon the landline rang; when I answered, no one was there. Caller ID identified the caller as Glyn (in whose name the
phone line remained), meaning that basically he had just called himself. I don’t know how long I stared at his name, soothed by the familiar shape of the letters, and the absolute certainty that this was no coincidence. I did end up getting a dog. Friends advised I find a big one with a ferocious bark, but when I arrived at the shelter, some puppies had been put out in a pen and from across the parking lot my eyes met a pair of pleading soft-brown eyes in a black-and-white mask and it didn’t matter that this dog was probably a dachsund - I was smitten. The dog grew to be bigger than anyone predicted, with a strong muscular body over disproportionately diminutive legs. Glyn always described himself as a big man with short legs. Now, I’d come home from the pound with a big dog with short legs. It was almost a pun. More jokes from the netherworld. I fed Shine - named after Glyn’s teenage shoeshine-boy nickname - pork neckbones on the back porch. If the treat went uneaten, the ant-ridden bone was thrown into the backyard, retrieved by the foxes and coyotes who frequent the floodplain. I didn’t think much about the bobcat any more, assuming our encounter See RIVER RAMBLES page 23
State Senate District 30: I ask for your vote on Tuesday, February 13th
TIM
BEARDEN CANDIDATE State Senate District 30 REPUBLICAN The outpouring of support since launching this campaign for State Senate has been overwhelming. My goal for this campaign is simple. It is to make sure District 30, our communities and our families, are set up for a prosperous future. That only happens if we protect the conservative values we hold dear and advance a Georgia First agenda at the State Capitol. I have the proven experience to get things done for West Georgia and would be honored for the opportunity to do it once again in the State Senate. My plan is to immediately get to work on a conservative agenda for District 30. I will fight
Bobcat on the Riverbank: A Love Story
SYBIL
ROSEN THOMAS
River Rambles syllabil17@aol.com At 7 a.m on February 17, 2014 - a morning 10 years ago - I woke up furious. My husband Glyn had died two weeks before, and, so far, I’d not heard a word from him. Nothing. No peep from the beyond. Not a sign, a signal; no supernatural act to belie the impossible finality of his death. Can’t you rise up before me Like morning fog burning off A river of grief? Where was he? Why hadn’t he shown up? Many people have memorable moments with loved ones after they die. An elderly friend once confided that shortly after her husband passed, he appeared beside her in bed one morning. She couldn’t tell if he was a dream or not and she didn’t care. “What did you feel?” I asked.
COMMENTARY
www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 21
The impact of artificial intelligence within our independent schools
PATRICK
YURAN
Headmaster OAK MOUNTAIN ACADEMY
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly becoming a transformative force across various disciplines and industries – independent education is no exception. Independent schools, known for our emphasis on innovation and personalized learning experiences, are increasingly integrating AI in an effort to enhance instructional methodologies, increase student engagement, and redefine college readiness. One of the significant contributions of AI in independent schools is its ability to facilitate personalized learning experiences. Specific AI
platforms have the ability to analyze students’ enhancing instructional methodologies in a strengths and weaknesses, providing valuable transformative way. information to teachers on individual student AI plays a vital role in student engagement needs. This ensures that each student pro- both inside and outside of the classroom by gresses at their own pace, identifying potential By embracing ArtificiaI fostering a deeper underschool offerings and standing of concepts and Intelligence, independent schools matching these offerhave the opportunity to addressing potential gaps ings with student interin knowledge, content, ests. For example, AI revolutionize instructional and skill. algorithms can assist in methodologies, provide The information personalized learning experiences, identifying students’ derived from these platinterests and talents. and redefine college readiness These tools help our forms provide valuable by preparing students for a data quickly allowing independent schools teachers the ability to tailor specific curricular future where technology is redesign instruction on and co-curricular prothe foundation for all. the spot, as needed. This gram offerings in a way data-driven approach empowers educators to that will match up with our individual student refine their teaching methods, ensuring that preferences. each student receives the attention and guidIndependent schools are largely known as ance necessary for academic success. college preparatory and college readiness Therefore, these AI instructional tools are academies. Leveraging AI in a way to enhance
our current educational practices but also preparing students for a college and a future where AI will play a significant role is necessary. Integrating AI education into our curriculum helps students develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of technology. The impact of artificial intelligence within our independent schools is profound and multifaceted. By embracing AI, independent schools have the opportunity to revolutionize instructional methodologies, provide personalized learning experiences, and redefine college readiness by preparing students for a future where technology is the foundation for all. The future of independent school education is undoubtedly intertwined with the advancements in artificial intelligence, and by embracing its potential, our schools have the ability to create a more dynamic learning environment for students.
second pill, misoprostol, to expel the dead child from the mother. According to CDC release data, 51% of abortions performed in 2020 were using the two-pill system of mifepristone and misoprostol. The timeline for mifepristone used as an abortion method has been on a fast pace of development. In 2011, mifepristone was only available through a physican’s prescription, and after an in-person visit and signed agreement form by both patient and physician. In 2021, the in-person visit was replaced by Telehealth visits, on-line web-based meetings between doctor and patient. Certain pharmacies and clinics were approved and made available for use of dispensing mifepristone: the patient agreement form was no longer necessary. Starting January 3, 2023, any pharmacy that’s been certified by the manufacturer with training rules and documentation, approved by the state they are located in, can now distribute the abortion pill. Both CVS and Walgreen began the certification process to be able to sell Mifeprex, which
is the product name for mifepristone, the first of the two pills that are taken in the abortion process. Walgreen’s has stated: “Providing patients access to FDA-approved medications is what Walgreen’s does. That our job as a pharmacy.” The entire process can take several weeks and must be overseen by licensed personnel. While the drug is promoted as “safe, effective and more natural,” there is a growing body of evidence that it’s not. Death tops the list of dangers. Also, failure is a well-known complication when using Mifeprex/ Misoprostol as an abortion procedure. As of March 2020, the FDA reported 4,480 “adverse events” among women who used the drugs. They included: 24 deaths, 1,183 hospitalizations, 339 blood transfusions, and 256 infections (including 48 listed as “severe”). Sepsis was the cause in the death of at least eight of the reported deaths in North America. Most of those cases involved a type of bacteria that is almost always fatal. Patients undergoing a medical abortion can
have an undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy, since many of the symptoms caused by both are similar. The FDA has reported two cases of women who died from an ectopic pregnancy following an attempted medical abortion. There is a procedure, an Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) procedure that has been remarkably successful in bringing the pre-born child to full term after women have started the abortion pill procedure. High percents of progesterone must be take by the woman, no more than 24 hours after taking the Mifeprex pill. So, $500 - the price of a 55” TV, or one month’s car payment, or an Xbox play station equates to the cost of taking the life of a preborn human being through a medical abortion procedure! Come quickly Lord Jesus, how much longer will God show his mercy on America for the shedding of innocent blood! Proverbs 6:16,17: “These six things doeth the Lord hate: Yea seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood.”
like the time he ran the neighborhood’s Numbers game for a mafioso and baffled the police who had been investigating Jerry. He’d had an older, dominating and cruel brother who considered the young Jerry a burden, and one day in a wild fit of temper and rage, that brother actually threw Jerry out of a second story window. It left him crippled. When I knew him he was not four feet tall, stunted, and looked as if his body were broken and the lower half had shifted to the side, and left that way. He used two canes, as third and fourth legs. To look at him was to weep. When Jerry told me about his brother, he lifted one of his canes, pointing it up, to the actual second story that he’d been thrown from. It was above us, and he proudly mentioned that he now owned the entire five-story building, the one whose ground level store front we were sitting in! That store front was now the place where all the ice-cream carts were kept. In winter, he would remove the carts and replace them with baby-carriages. Those carriages would have been converted to roast-chestnut operations. The chestnut peddlers were not the same people as the ice-cream peddlers, except for one guy. They called him Sarge. According to Jerry, Sarge was the champion peddler, the king, the best there was. He’d been a sergeant in the U.S. Marines, during WWII and Korea,
now retired, and now sort of crazy. At least on summer-Fridays. Jerry had decided to send me to the Bus Terminal, where Sarge would be knocking down more than a hundred bucks in ice-cream sales, one ice-cream-on-a-stick at a time! Back then, the minimum wage was barely $1 per hour, and here was Sarge, making at least $25/hr! Talk about Hustle! And I, in less than two weeks, had earned Jerry’s confidence, to the point that he wanted me to learn from that master called Sarge. Needless to say, I was now rid of the ice-cream-and-chocolate-syrup habit that had been giving me comfort. The Bus Terminal, which served as the capital of commuter-ism, and is still the busiest bus terminal in America. There, Fridays, during summer, were extraordinary. Many hundreds of busses departed and headed for New Jersey and beyond, via the Lincoln Tunnel (which connected mid-town NYC with New Jersey, under the great Hudson River). Problem was, and what luck for an ice-cream peddler like Sarge, hardly a dozen of those commuter busses had any air-conditioning, and the passengers, 30 to 50 per bus, were desperate for a frozen refreshment. Those commuters had been waiting to board those busses in the Waiting Room, which See BILL BOURIS page 23
Medical overtakes surgical as number one method of abortion in America
DUANE
HACK
West Georgia Right to Life PRESIDENT “The Heartbeat of Georgia” Duanehack46@gmail.com 470-370-2452
Abortion via the mail…. now the most requested method of abortion. For less than $500, the life of a pre-born child in the womb can be murdered. It used to be called RU-486, it’s now called mifepristone, sold under the name “Mifepristone Tablets” or “Mifiprex”, and is fast becoming the way to end the life of the preborn baby in the womb. Developed overseas in the 1980s and introduced in the early 2000s in the USA, mifepristone is an anti-progestin that, among other things, blocks nourishment (progesterone) from reaching the child, thereby starving the child within the mother’s womb leading to its death. The procedure also involves taking a
Jerry, my Peddler boss: Part 1
BILL
BOURIS digi@mindspring.com For me, the year between ages 21 and 22 was a year of transformation. I had not seen it that way, until very recently. To start with, I had run out of money for my senior year’s tuition, as well as not being able to meet my living expenses. I had been working full-time, night shift, at the New York Herald Tribune, as a copy-boy, and that turned out to be the wrong path, totally. My class work had suffered and I couldn’t cover my expenses. So, I dipped into my senior year’s funds and got into more trouble and then became depressed, quit my job, and developed an ice-cream and chocolate syrup habit. Each morning, I’d buy a pint of ice-cream and a little can of Hershey’s chocolate syrup, dig into the ice-cream (Mmm!) so that I could pour an ounce of syrup in there (MMm!!), and then ate my way to a bigger hole and repeat (MMM!!!).
I’ll mention two friends who were key to this story: There was Manny Dworman, my best friend, a cab-driver, with whom I shared the apartment, who a few years later would open what would become the now-famous Comedy Cellar in Greenwich Village. And there was Andre Goulston, a classmate, who a few years later, became a Broadway producer. One day, just after I’d finished my ice-cream breakfast, and Manny and I were discussing my terrible situation, there was a ring at the door. It was Andre. He was dropping in for a visit, before he was to head downtown to his new summer job, which turned out to be a push cart ice cream peddler. Immediately, I was alert to the possibilities. Oh, what a nice idea for a summer job. Yes, Andre’s new boss was looking for peddlers. So, we took the subway down to midtown Manhattan to interview with this boss. I remember only his first name, regrettably. It was Jerry. It turns out that although I knew him for only the few weeks that I worked for him, Jerry was as influential as any life-long friend or relative. I feel that I benefited from his example and insight. Jerry was Greek, by birth, and we conversed in English and in Greek. He liked that. I realized that he would switch to Greek whenever he wanted to make a point, or to describe something illegal that he’d done,
Page 22 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
Why not use your God-given gift/talent to bless others?
kkeith@mcmempowered.org Sometimes we can draw inspiration to continue reaching for our goals in life by observing the resiliency in others. People who had to ignore the noise sometimes of a culture that did not want them to succeed at times(thankfully
not everyone thought this way). We’re about to observe 3 people whose God given Talent(Gift) made extraordinary room for them. Proverbs (NKJV) 18:16 says, “A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men”. Now this verse can refer to giving a physical gift; but for purposes of this column, I’m referring to a person’s God-given talent. In observance of Black History Month, I believe these three people will more than give a simple illustration of a few Black individuals who went a little above average to achieve some goals, but who shattered what we think could be achieved by people of color. Marie C. Bolden, Willie (Willy) Simms, and novelist Alexandre Dumas have made a mark in history
ASHLEY KECSKES GODWIN from page 20 interferes with a doctor’s ability to treat patients, and if we continue on the trend to criminalize doctors for doing their job (as other states are doing), this shortage will get worse. And let me be clear-this affects all women. Georgia has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the nation. That’s not very pro-life, is it? AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Last year, the sheer volume of low-income local families in need of safe, sanitary homes forced Carrollton’s Housing Authority to suspend applications altogether. What does that say about the state of the area? Perhaps you’ve heard the adage, “the measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” Georgia, like other areas in the nation, is facing a housing problem, and we need to work together to find solutions and provide incentives for local governments to create affordable housing. No family should ever have to struggle to put a roof over their head. LAW ENFORCEMENT and COMMUNITY SAFETY: I support first responders. Unlike what my opponents seem to think, however, supporting police officers isn’t about throwaway catch phrases, sowing division, or hang-
ing blue striped flags outside your house. It’s about providing our community servants with the best training available, whistleblower protections when they report corruption, and hiring more crisis intervention specialists so that the police aren’t left bearing the brunt of the mental health crisis. Likewise, public safety means no one should be afraid to call the police. Every member of our community deserves to feel safe, and we need to join together to ensure this happens. This election cycle, when you receive your flyers in the mail, ask yourself, “Did this candidate address the issues or try to scare me with buzzwords?” Do you want to invest in education? Do you want to make sure that yourself and your neighbors have quality and affordable access to healthcare? Do you care about the less fortunate in your community? Do you want to elect someone who cares about solutions? When elected, I am committed to being an advocate for this district and to listening to everyone, regardless of political affiliation. Let’s focus on what unites us and build a stronger, more prosperous community for everyone. Election day is February 13th. I thank you in advance for participating in our democracy.
KELVIN KEITH
Millennials Christian Ministry (MCM)
TRAVIS PITTMAN from page 19 dispassionate, nonpartisan, and professional and he had become increasingly progressive. that therefore they can do a better job, of almost Government control has grown to the behemoth anything than somebody outside the system can it is today. A weighty, bloated government do. They proceed by rules that, over time, have increasingly regulates academics, speech, edu- become ever more hopelessly complex. Only cation, and other freedoms. From 2000 to 2019, students they can read these rules and, for the most part, they It is not hard to believe that increased by 7.6% and read them as they please.” a Yale alumnus was on teachers by 8.7%. District Can academic freedom either the Democratic or gain a foothold in the educaRepublican presidential administrators increased ticket from 1972 to 2004. tenfold or 87.6%. This ratio tional system, and how would that happen? Harvard has a similar clearly shows a fundamental Academic freedom and record. Education is a clear exam- change in how children are free speech are not synonyms, but both are part of a educated and what is ple. From 2000 to 2019, stuclear path to reform. We candents increased by 7.6% and important to progressives. not continue allowing one teachers by 8.7%. District administrators increased tenfold or 87.6%. This side of the argument to declare that they have ratio clearly shows a fundamental change in the truth and the other is “misinformation.” This summer, SCOTUS will make a decision how children are educated and what is important to progressives. I still remember the phrase that could significantly impact a government that Obama used: “We are going to change agency’s ability to make laws. From health care America fundamentally.” Biden used it recently to finance to environmental pollutants, federal when promoting his many economic agencies have been given deference in many interpretations of the statutes they administer. improvements. Interest in the three Rs of education has been Then, it effectively becomes a law in itself. This subjugated by educational bureaucracy, which decision hinges on the court’s understanding of is more likely than a parent to consider a child the Chevron doctrine (see 1984 case of an asset in a social engineering project to rear- Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense range government and society. In almost every Council), now forty years later. As far as “Academic Freedom” goes, get the university today, these ideas are the ongoing birthplace of social engineering by the adminis- federal government out of education or, even trative state, an element of America’s ruling better, abolish the Department of Education and turn the authority back to the states. Then, I class. In a recent lecture by Larry P. Arnn(President would only have to complain about the state’s of Hillsdale College), he said it best: “The fic- educational system, and we could start unwindtion is that these bureaucrats are highly trained, ing the complex administrative state.
COMMENTARY
that I believe will never be erased. Let’s begin with Marie C. Bolden. An article written by Livia Albeck-Ripka titled, “Searching for Medal from 1908 Spelling Bee” in the June 2, 2023 issue of The New York Times National brings to life this impressive story about this amazing young lady. This courageous young black 14 year old eighth grade student from Cleveland, Ohio, won the nation’s first spelling bee before thousands of people at the Hippodrome Theater in Cleveland on June 29, 1908. She was the only black participant in this competition. This competition came 17 years before the first Scripps National Spelling Bee in 1925. This spelling bee match was held during the National Education Association’s annual convention in Cleveland. She was the individual champion and Marie helped subsequently lead her Cleveland classmates to the team championship. The event drew eighth grade students from 34 cities across the country with 510 children competing in all, with four teams making it to the finals: Cleveland, Erie, New Orleans, and Pittsburgh. Marie’s participation in the competition didn’t come without controversy. Children on teams from Pittsburgh and Erie, Pa. initially refused to compete against Ms. Bolden; but, they had a change of heart and shook her hand after she won. According to Cleveland.com, when the New Orleans team learned Cleveland’s team included Bolden, it threatened to not compete. Cleveland School Superintendent William Elson wouldn’t comply with New Orleans’ request to remove Bolden. New Orleans changed their mind and competed anyway. On the day Ms. Bolden won the competition, the convention was “swept with a storm of applause” according to an article published in the Oskaloosa Herald, in Iowa. Booker T. Washington was in the audience, and, according to researchers from the language learning platform Babbel, Dr. Washington stepped onstage after the event and stated, “You will admit that we spell out of the same spelling book that you do. And I think you will also admit that we spell a little better.” On July 8, 2021 Zaila Avant-garde became
the first African-American to win the Scripps Spelling Bee. Ms. Bolden eventually married later in life and moved to Canada. She never spoke of the victory, and the memory of it was lost as well athe medal she won. Now some of her descendants are searching for it. The Kentucky Derby distance was trimmed from one and one-half miles to one and onequarter miles in 1896. Willie Simms of Augusta, Ga. was the first winner of the race at this distance. He also won the Kentucky Derby in 1898. Simms won the Belmont Stakes in 1893 and 1894. When he won the Preakness Stakes in 1898, he became the only AfricanAmerican to win all the Triple Crown classics. Source: Book- “ Black Firsts 500 years of Trailblazing Achievements and GroundBreaking Events”. author Jessie Carney Smith, Ph.D. Alexandre Dumas was a African-French novelist and playwright. His works have been translated into many languages and he remains one of the most widely read French authors. Some of Dumas most famous works include: The Three Musketeers, Twenty Years After, The Man in the Iron Mask, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Fencing Master, The Black Tulip, and The Count of Moret. Much of his work his based on what his mother told him about the brave acts of his father who was one of Napoleons’ Generals. Novelist Dumas was born on July 24, 1802 and lived to December 5, 1870. His father was General Thomas Alexander Dumas. Napoleon on more than one occasion spoke of General Alex Dumas heroic acts during battles. Dumas had to face racist remarks in his time as well. One of his peers Novelist Balzac referred to him as “that negro”. After the success of The Three Musketeers and The Count of Monte Cristo, critics launched an endless, damaging public attack on Dumas, mocking his African heritage. These are just a few examples of people who were blessed by God with a talent or gift. They pressed forward to use their gift even though not everyone wanted them to be successful. You have been blessed with a talent or gift as well. You will see more fulfillment in your life when you use that gift to bless others.
STATE REP COLLINS from page 19 million, specifically for safety improvements for each school to use at their discretion based on individual needs. Other areas of public safety highlighted by Governor Kemp include the continued efforts of ending the vile practice of Human Trafficking, as well as his hopes that the General Assembly pass the peace officer loan repayment program under consideration. Healthcare continues to be a top concern as the governor recapped strides in recent years to lower costs, expand access, and incentivize more health care providers in the state. Notably, 87% of Georgia counties now have three or more health care insurance carriers, whereas prior to 2019, no Georgia county had more than two. Gov. Kemp also touted the achievements of the Mental Health Parity Act, which has successfully given more Georgians access to much needed mental health services. To build on the recent success of newly implemented programs, Gover Kemp is proposing a total increase of $205 million for DBHDD and other entities that address mental health in our state. If passed, these proposals will see Georgia spend $1.6 billion on mental health care – the largest in state history. To round out his address the Governor also discussed his plans to increase retention and recruitment efforts within state government by proposing a pay increase for all state employees and teachers. To that end, our state workers
and teachers would see a four percent pay increase under the proposal. In addition to supporting Georgia’s current employees, the governor intends to allocate $500 million to shore up the state retiree fund. The governor closed his remarks by noting that Georgia is strong, growing, and full of opportunity. Governor Kemp announced that the 2025 fiscal year budget proposal is set for an estimated $36 billion. The governor listed his funding recommendations, and as expected, education and healthcare remain at the forefront of budget funding. Public safety, transportation and general government round out the top spends respectively. Included in Governor Kemps proposal is a plan to provide state employees with a cost-of-living increase. Below is a highlight of Governor Kemp’s 2025 FY budget proposals, now under consideration before the House Appropriation Committee: Education $1.4 billion in additional funding to meet growth needs, bolster teacher pay, maintain quality health and retirement benefits and improve safety. $1 billion investment in the state’s retirement, risk, and health portfolios. $500 million in the Employees’ Retirement System. $244 million to K-12 schools for teacher’s health insurance. See UNDER the GOLD DOME page 27
www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 23 was a vast many-acres room that also had no air-conditioning! Jerry and Sarge had figured out how to exploit that hot situation, and I was the first one to be allowed to share in it. Briefly, the system had to do with (1), how to be allowed on a bus, (2), where that could happen, and (3), getting off the bus (definitely before the bus entered the Tunnel, after which you ended up on the interstate in New Jersey), and (4), figuring the shortest path to a next-bus. Time and speed were essential, but so was the exchange of money. You needed to figure the bus, its passengers, or you’d end up with melted ice cream. One such mishap and the day could be a failure! There were other peddlers who had messed up and they could ruin it for you, since the driver would not forget such a mess, nor how it had been caused. I never got to know Sarge. He obeyed Jerry and allowed me into his “operation”. But watching him approach a bus and its driver (out of sight from the dispatcher, incidentally) his body language reminded me of something like “I’m ordering you to open this door! (Rap,
rap!) I’ll give you a sandwich when you do! (waving a sandwich)” For me, and I often used my voice, it was more like “Come On! Your passengers are suffering! YOUR BOSS IS TOO CHEAP TO GET AIR-CONDITIONING. Please let them have relief!” If the door opened, I would first and foremost offer the driver one of whatever I was selling, very ostentatiously, with a “Here’s something for YOU!” Once he bit into it, I could sell everything I had with me, two dozen, four dozen. Sometimes I’d give what was left in the box to the remaining passengers. By that time, everybody was happy and always overlooked the freebies. Looking back on it all, I do not think that in all those Fridays-at-theTerminal that I ever got on the same bus! I’m sure that Sarge and I (and a couple of others), in making a good impression, had paved the way for each other. All thanks to Jerry. My classmate, Andre, was let go during my first week with Jerry. Jerry observed that Andre did not like the smell of money. “Some people are like that,” he said. Part 2, next month’s edition of StarNews, Sunday, March 17th.
think of otters drowning at all, especially little ones, I left the body there to meet its natural fate. The next day, the small corpse was carefully molded over with leaves. I recalled that bobcats do that when coming across a “snack” they want to save for later. They cover it neatly, using the leaves like Saran Wrap. Could Glyn’s bobcat have traveled this route since our chance meeting? Might he have found the neckbones tossed toward the river? Had I been feeding him all along? The wild cat’s presence here was more than I knew. The cat had been here all this time, as had Glyn - so long as I’m open to the clues. Can’t you leave me here then with Something more than words to give
only words to fill the void of her lover’s absence. Written in the first anguish of Glyn’s going, all I could feel then was how utterly gone he was. I’m luckier than the writer of that poem. Ten years have passed. Time - and the river - have been kind. They’ve left a small resonant trail to help me find my way through the grief. An invisible web weaves through our lives, threading and holding together everything we call reality, which by its very nature must contain the supernatural, the unreal, and the ordinary. Happy Valentine’s Day, Glyn. Some might say all this rambling is due to an overwrought imagination under duress. I don’t care. I figure if something can heal you, let it.
D.A. KING from page 19 In 2022, when no exclusion for black market labor or illegal alien employers could be found in the then-pending SB 379, I emailed my concerns to lead sponsor Sen. Brian Strickland and various key legislators including Rep. Chuck Martin, House sponsor. Martin is chair of the House Higher Education Committee where the measure was heard after it breezed through the Senate. Strickland did not reply. After the measure passed out of his committee, Martin sent me an email: “taking a look at all aspects prior to Rules.” As prep for this column, and now nearly two years later, I asked Strickland and Martin again to cite language in SB 379 or a verification system in the RAP that would address excluding illegal aliens as participants. In his reply, Martin suggested that illegal aliens would somehow be disqualified because state apprentices must have registered with the U.S. Dept. of Labor Office of Apprenticeship. But the U.S. DOL Apprenticeship Program registration/agreement application does not even require a Social Security Number. He also cited a January 2023 USDOL bulletin (SB 379 passed in March 2022) that clarifies the apprenticeship program is open to nonU.S. citizens and that RAP sponsors should ensure that “all individuals who are eligible to work in the U.S. are afforded an opportunity to participate and complete a RAP.” Martin said he relied on statements from Sen. Strickland. In his response, Strickland was less inventive. “Illegal immigration was not specifically addressed in this bill but if any legislator believes that illegal aliens are taking the funds set forth in this program, then I am sure we will
see a bill to address this” he wrote. I also sent a request for comment to Gov. Kemp’s office: “…is there a provision in state law created by 2022’s SB 379 that prevents illegal alien employers and employees similar to the subjects of this press release by the U.S. Attorney in Georgia’s Southern District from accessing the tax-payer-funded apprenticeship program on any level?” After a “D.A., call us back…” voicemail from Kemp’s thenExecutive Counsel, David Dove, I eventually received an answer from Garrison Douglas, Gov Kemp’s Press Secretary - in a Twitter/X message. It was a link to a code section (OCGA 50-36-1) that “should answer” my question. It doesn’t. I have been working with the law Georgia’s governor cited law since it was written in 2006. As part of in that year’s SB 529, it went through the Senate Public Safety committee Kemp chaired as a state senator. I can recite much of the text. Responses to my open records requests from TCSG clearly show that it is not being used to verify the lawful presence of anybody involved in the HDCI/RAP program. The Kemp response is well worth a look. I am confident that my own investigation of 2022’s SB 379 and the resulting taxpayerfunded “workforce development” scheme has gone far beyond any done by Kemp or the twohundred eight state legislators who voted to create this “illegals are welcome in Georgia” gem. Georgia’s HCDI/Registered Apprenticeship Program requires immediate reform. If you agree, please do not remain silent. Gov Kemp’s Capitol office phone line is 404-656-1776. We assume you know how to contact your state legislators.
BILL BOURIS from page 21
"Academic freedom", that handy slogan that is constantly wielded to bludgeon into impotence numberless citizens who waste away with frustration as they view in their children and in their children's children the results of a laissez-faire education. William F. Buckley, Jr RIVER RAMBLES from page 20 Your absence a shape I can manage? In the poem, the poet is frustrated by the lack was a once-in-a-lifetime event. Until one morning after a hurricane Shine and I came of physical - or metaphysical - contact with the laments in God and Man at Yale across a tiny drowned baby otter. Shocked to deceased. Refusing to let go, she is left with
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Shirley F.Shirley Alexander, age 71, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Joe Jones, Jr., Jerry Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53,14, Weldon Douglass Rogers, ageScott 70, born March 1953, BeverlyF. Bridges Belk, age 76, born September 4, Tiffanee Jimmy Eugene Folsom, Sr., Cook, ageMaster 59, bornDanny August 9, F. Alexander, age 71, Dawne Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Shirley Alexander, age 71, Cook, Master Danny Joe Jones, Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., JerryScott Shedd, age 53, Shedd, age 53, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff”27, Cook, Master Danny Joe“Tiff” Jones, Jr., ageJerry Scott Shedd, age 53, Jr., born November 1947, died age 45, born October 12, 1973, 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday, July 8, 2019 born November 27, 1947, died age 45, born October 12, 1973, died January 29, 2024 born November 27, 1947, died age 45, born October 12, 1973, 1947, died January 5, 2024 1964, died January 2, 2024 age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday, July 8, 2019 age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday, July 8, 2019 age 45, born October 12, 1973, age 2died months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday,July July4,8, 2019 Sunday, July 14, 2019 Friday, July 2019 died Thursday, 2019 DavidDavid Ronald Simpson, age Sunday, July 14, 2019 Friday, JulyFinch, 12, 2019 Sunday, July 14,12, 2019 died Friday, July 12,12, 2019 died Thursday, 4, 2019 David Ronald Simpson, Thursday, 4,July 2019 Ronald Simpson, age Kenneth Richardson Hammonds, Sr., age 77, born age Thomas “Tom” Lowell Baxter, age 78, born August 2, died Fredric age 83,died born April 15, 1940,July diedSimpson, died Friday, July 2019 died Thursday, July 4,Elston 2019 David Ronald age Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July January 9, 1947, died January 26, 2024 James B. Dean, age 92, 1945, died January 15, 2024 January 25, 2024 “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born August July 21, 1948, died July born September 28, 1956, born September 1926,02, died born 1932, 09,died 2019 born September 28,died 1956, died born September 1926,86, died bornSeptember September 28, 1926, 1956, died born September 02,02,1926, died 86,August born 3, August 3,died 1932, 09, 2019 86, born 3, 1932, died 09, 2019 born 02, died 86, born August 3, 1932, died Evelyn Mobley Sewell, age 90, born August 10, 1933, 09, 2019 Barbara May Brown, age 90, born May 20, 1933, died Nancy Crawford Hurston, age 84, born October 31, Tuesday, July 9, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Zellie Fred age 94, Tuesday, July 9, 2019Wednesday,Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Wednesday, Tuesday, July 9, 2019 July 3, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Zellie FredSprewell, Sprewell, age 94, July 10, 2019age 94, Zellie Sprewell, Fred age 94, Wednesday, July 3,Brasseal 2019 “Don” Bonner, Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Zellie Fred Sprewell, Donald Barry Bushon Dickerson, age died January 22, 2024 Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born February 28, 1925, died January 29, 2024 1939, died January 15, 2024 Donald Brasseal “Don”Barry Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, Bushon Dickerson, age born February 28, 1925, died Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born February 28, 1925, died Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Andra Dixon age February 28, 1925, died age 76, born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died born 18, 29, 1941, Saturday, July age 27,77, 2019 Nancy Louise Sullivan, born June 27, 1946, died Lucius Conner, age05, 95, born May 3, 1928, died Feb 4,September JoMcGill, RitaSeptember Huber, agedied 87, born born Sep 25,October 1936, diedOctober Jan age 76, born June 05, 1943, died 68, born 7,76, 1950, died born 18, died 1941, died age 76, born June 1943, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 68, born 7, 1950, born October 18,2019 1941, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 68, born September 7,July 1950, died born October 18, 1941, died Saturday, July 27, Wednesday, 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, January 18, 2024 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 2024 2024 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, age age 40, 40, Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 John D. John Brown, Jr., age 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age born September 18, 1978, died D. Brown, Jr., age 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age born September 18, 1978, died John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age born September 18, 1978, died William “Billy” Paul Thompson, age 76, born Jan 21, Joyce Devine Carlile, age 69, born February 12, 1954, Marilyn Eleanor James, age 95, born Dec 9, 1928, died Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born August 18, 1965, died Julydied born July 9, 1935, died Monday, Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., died ageMonday, born September 18, 1978, died 70, born December 31, 1948, died Sunday, July 21, 2019 born August 1965, July July 9, 1935, born December 31, 1948, died Sunday, July 21,2019 2019 born August 18, 1965, died18, July born July 9,born 1935, died Monday, 70, born70, December 31, 1948, died Sunday, July 21, 1948, died JanDeborah 29, 2024 died January 14, 2024 Feb 3, 2024 born July 9, 1935, died Monday, 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 70, born December 31, 1948, died Sunday, July 21, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 “Debbie” Ann West, 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 Monday, July 8,Jan 2019 Deborah “Debbie” West, July 22,David 2019 Marie Couch, Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Fazio, age Brenda Lee 66, Voyles, ageJuly 64, born September Ann 19, 1959, Edward ageElizabeth 78, born March 25, 1945, Linda JoMarsella Lane, age 75, born Mar 24, 1948, died 27, Nichols, Monday, July Marsella 8, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann Randy Lee Nichols, age 66,West, age 58, died 22, 2019 Marie Bryce, Anna Fazio, age Randy Lee age age 58, died July 22, 2019 Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce,Phillips Anna Marsella Fazio, age Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, age 58, died July 22, 2019 AnnaJanuary Marsella Fazio, age age 89, born 14, 1929,14, 85, born on Nichols, Jan 1, 1934, Randy Lee age1,died 66, born June 24,June 1953, died Friday, 58, died July 24, 22, 2019 Wallace Allen Worthan, age died January 8, 2024 Wallace 16, 2024 2024 ageSeptember 89, born September 1929, born Jan 1934,age died born 1953, Friday, Allen Worthan, Worthan, age agedied 89, born September 14, 1929, 85, born on85, Jan 1, on 1934, died born June 24, 1953, died died Friday, Wallace Allen age died Saturday, July 20, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died July 26, 2019 born June 24, 1953, died Friday, 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 Wallace Allen Worthan, age died20, Saturday, July 2019diedJulyMonday, July 2019age 43, born July 26, 2019 David WayneJuly Echols, age2019 55, born June20, 2, 1968, Nolan Brady8,Page, March 25, 1980, died 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 died Saturday, Monday, 8, 2019 July 26, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 Wayne age July 80, age Nell Griffin Jennings, Monday, JulyEarl 8, 2019 BellMonday, D. Sanders, age Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, age 55, 26,Harris 2019 56,Ara died July 15, 79, 2019 Earl Carden, Wayne Carden, 80, Harris Griffin Jennings, Ara D. Sanders, age Carol JudithChapman, Chapman, Earl Carden, age 80, Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, JanuaryWayne 19, 2024 January 30,Nell 2024 Ara Bell D.Bell Sanders, age 79, 79, Carol Judith age 55, born October 29, 1938, died age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, born August 06, 1939, died July born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, born 1938, Octoberdied 29, age 1938, 83, dieddied ageTuesday, 83, died Tuesday, July 2,August born August 06, 1939, died July born June 24,1964, 1964,died died Sunday, Sunday, born Elizabeth October 29, July 2, born 06, 1939, died July born June 24, Ann Eisenmann, age 82, born Oct 19, 1941, Mattie Lou Rodriguez, age 82, born April 1, 1941, died Friday,Tuesday, June 28, June 2019 2019 age 83, died July 24, 2019 July 7, 2019 06, 1939, died July born June Friday, 28,2, 2019born 24, 24, 20191964, died Sunday, 7, 2019 Friday, June 28, 2019 2019 August2019 24, 2019 JulyJuly 7, 2019 January 16, 2024 2019died Jan 30, 2024 24, 2019 July 7, 2019
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COMMENTARY
www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 25
I am hopeful to be able to serve a seventh term as Sheriff of Carroll County
TERRY
LANGLEY SHERIFF Carroll County As I am hopeful I will be able to serve a seventh term as Sheriff of Carroll County, I can’t help but think of how this journey began all those years ago on April 23, 1996. I was fortunate enough to be appointed
interim Sheriff and sworn in by then Probate Judge Wilma Jo Wilson on the day after Sheriff Jack T. Bell resigned to run for County Commission Chairman. I remember the excitement and obligation I felt in that moment. At only 35 years old, it was a big leap of faith that lead me to the decision to take the appointment. I promised to do the best job that I could possibly do and to always be available to the people of Carroll County. After serving as interim Sheriff in 1996 until a new Sheriff could be elected and sworn in that next January, I decided in 2000 to run for the Office of Sheriff in hopes that I would be
fortunate enough to serve a full four year term. proud of each and everyone of them for Because of all the hard work of those who answering the call to serve. I truly believe that supported me, I was humholding the title of As I am hopeful I will be able to Sheriff is not for the bled as I took the Oath of Office to serve as Sheriff serve a seventh term as Sheriff of public to view me as a of Carroll County in Carroll County, I can’t help but think politician but as a pub2001. I am still humbled of how this journey began all those lic servant and I am fortoday. I want to take this ever grateful to serve years ago on April 23, 1996. opportunity to thank the this great Community, citizens of Carroll County for their support of after all Carroll County is the best place to not only myself, but for those who selflessly work, live, and raise a family. I humbly ask for put on a uniform and serve the citizens every- your continued support and your vote to elect day. I am blessed to have the best employees me once again to serve the great citizens of who love this county as much as I do and I am Carroll County for another term.
ing and I thank you greatly! Quite importantly, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the other Carroll County District Commissioners to get the right things done for Carroll County. I’ve formed friendships with many of them. It has also been a pleasure to interact, handle problems, and develop comradery with both directors and staff throughout county government, including the Tax Commissioner and her staff; the Sheriff and his deputies; the Chief Codes Enforcement Officer and her staff; the Community Development Director and his staff; the Public Works Department to resolve road problems; the Animal Services Director and her staff to improve operations; the Chief Tax Assessor and both employed and contract staff, just to name a few. Working together, this is just a sample of what I’ve accomplished or led efforts to accomplish in my time as your District 5 County Commissioner: - Opened and staffed the new Jones Mill Fire Station. - Opened and staffed the Tyus-Carrollton Road Fire Station. - Worked tirelessly to promote rural Carroll County land conservation and eco-tourism - Partnered with the Trust for Public Lands (TPL), the Friends of McIntosh Reserve (FOMR), State Representative Lynne Smith, and State Senators Matt Brass and Mike Dugan to purchase and preserve nearly 900 additional acres with over a mile more of Chattahoochee River frontage adjoining your McIntosh Reserve Park. This was accomplished at a cost to the county of only 39 cents on the dollar - or a savings of over 60%! Setting this up as a future iconic site, to someday possibly include a foot/bike bridge across the Chattahoochee River, connecting McIntosh Reserve Park to the state Chattahoochee Bend State Park in Coweta County. This should serve as a catalyst for Whitesburg-area Ecotourism for decades to come! - Consistently supported and encouraged the Glock Company’s purchase of about 4,000 acres above Whitesburg - further enhancing land conservation, and ensuring rural agricultural areas are not devastated by unnecessary congestion of roads and schools. - Upheld and strongly advocated that government should stay out of taxpayers’ lives as much as possible and spoke against proposed ordinances that were unnecessary - preventing, for example, a plethora of proposed ordinances to regulate home-based businesses. - Conversely, took action to put ordinances in place that would protect taxpayers, even though such ordinance development had been neglected by prior commission boards (against, for example, construction of rock quarries in quiet, agriculturally-zoned areas). - Advocated for a proper balance between allowing managed growth and property owners’ ability to sell their property vs. ensuring preservation of our rich agricultural farmland and agricultural producers. - Pushed and provided funding for prompt expansion of Broadband Service to rural areas
throughout District 5 - working together with the leadership of Carroll EMC. - Expanded and improved Cellular Service throughout District 5, approving cell towers throughout the area. - Proponent of Farm-to-Table concept in Agricultural areas - voting to allow permitting of such rural, small neighborhood businesses. - Worked with our Public Works Department to get road and bridge work accomplished in District 5, including: - Got new roads constructed (such as Shiloh Church Road and Hamp-Chappell Road) in District 5, where constituents’ requested paving former dirt roads - 2 county road bridges were replaced in District 5 - with 100% state funding, meaning the nearly $2 million cost was paid by the state without any county funds - 22 miles of roads were repaved/resurfaced throughout District 5 - 58 miles of District 5 roads restriped - Kept a lid on the county budget - never raising but consistently reducing our county property tax millage rates. - Worked with County Tax Assessors Board to enhance customer service - Spoke out to push for implementing an RFP and periodic bidding process, regarding county’s $800,000 liability insurance contract. - Pushed to develop a system to ensure the county gets sufficient rental income (from entities outside of Carroll County government who rent our county facilities and buildings) to offset taxpayers’ expense of repairing and maintaining these county buildings. This would stop the practice of renting such buildings for only pennies per year - while spending tens of thousands to maintain them, effectively giving Carroll County taxpayers’ money away. - Supported the concept that non-agriculture related venues should not continue to crowd out our County Ag facility’s ability to conduct/teach ag-related practices and courses - Proponent of developing a system that would systematically reward all top performers throughout Carroll County Government. - Appointed several outstanding citizens of Carroll County and my District 5 area to serve in areas of county government, including: - Donna Armstrong Lackey to the Carroll County Economic Development Board - Paul DeMent to the Planning & Zoning Commission - Catherine Huckeba to the County Elections Board - Dwayne Hicks to the Regional Economic Development Board - Hugh Bass to the County Economic Development Board - Patricia Whatley to the Carroll County Appeals Board - Jim Swinson to the Tax Assessors Board - Sam Duke to the County Agricultural Committee - Outside my official role, worked with private citizens to present the Carrollton City Mayor, City Manager, and City Council Members of the county-wide need for residents
One more year as District 5 Commissioner, or five more years?
ERNIE
REYNOLDS DISTRICT 5 Carroll County COMMISSIONER
ereynolds@carrollcountyga.com 770-851-6215 Forty years! That’s a major portion of a lifetime. In that length of time, an infant can be born, go through childhood, elementary and high school, college, marriage, employment, have children, parent those children through school and then (sometimes) that infant even becomes a grandparent within those 40 years! That’s how long I have been a “public servant” - 40 years! A total of about 34 years as a watchdog in Georgia’s state government; responding to governors’ and legislators’ requests for accurate and timely answers on how to improve their government programs or whether programs were effective or needed at all. These “programs” were large - usually hundreds of millions of dollars or even a billion dollars in size and encompassing statewide operations. The governors, legislative leaders and agency commissioners to whom I made recommendations confidently acted upon my recommendations and promptly made sweeping changes to government operations. After those 34 years in state government, I have served as your District 5 Carroll County Commissioner for another roughly 6 years (upon completing my current term of May 2019 - December 2024). When you initially elected me (2019), I thought I’d serve that partial term and probably an additional full term, which I now have. Has that been long enough, or should I serve yet another 4-year term? If I do run for re-election and serve another term, that means roughly another 5 years from now. Completing my current term means roughly one more year from now. So: one more year or five? Well, that’s the question I posed to many of my District 5 constituents. I asked constituents throughout my district, from Tyus/Roopville area to the Hulett/Sand Hill area and everywhere in between, including Whitesburg, Cross Plains, Bethany. The answer was a unanimous applause and ongoing support including such comments as: “I/we support you! Please run and serve another term! We need you there, you need to serve another term…!” “Who’s going to be the watchdog? Who’s going to be the change agent and make things better…?” Consistently, I heard them say, “We appreciate what you are doing, thanks for supporting and watching out for us, we see and understand what’s going on…” with many encouraging me to even set my sights and run for commission chair. Such unanimous support from constituents throughout my district, and also from a great number of Carroll County residents outside my district, is very encourag-
to have expanded pickleball facilities. Now, the city is going forward with plans to plans to build many new pickleball courts at the Lakeshore area! - Worked with the Carrollton Optimist Club each year to publicly recognize outstanding feats accomplished through law nforcement staff, including Sheriff’s Department, Whitesburg City Police, Carrollton City Police I’ve always enjoyed accomplishing for the Georgia and Carroll County taxpayers and property owners! In my role as a government change-agent, I’ve never been a bench-warmer or placidly satisfied with mediocrity or the same-o same-o, in government operations. I like to get things done and make improvements and help others achieve more, especially when seeing how processes and systems could be much better. That’s what I did for 34 years. Consequently, there is a natural tendency to always keep that up - it becomes part of your “career dna!” When does one stop? Experiencing an ongoing oppressive, distressing, traumatizing, manipulative and autocratic environment plus a related health scare - gave me my answer: My management style was cultivated over decades by experts, where democratic decision- making was not only taught and upheld, but demanded. I am used to a culture that nurtured Participatory Management concepts, where all ideas, contrary or critical or aligned are openly and consistently welcomed and supported and encouraged. Such a management style is, in my opinion, totally opposite of a dogmatic and dictatorial, manipulative, and vindictive environment. I believe such autocratic practices only lead to stifling innovation and improvement and sabotaging creativity through, instead, nurturing and valuing “Yes men/women” above participation and a freeflow of both critical and aligned ideas. Eventually, a paranoia-like environment sets in and exudes itself amongst the troops, which I tend to view as unhealthy. During this recent holiday and New Year season, I faced a health scare. It was the first one I’ve ever personally faced and the first one that resulted in me being in a hospital operating room and waiting to hear what the results were from the physicians. That was sobering and it did something to my perspective. It did something I appreciate: it taught me a new/ additional perspective. It taught me that, in spite of playing basketball and getting perfect stresstest results, life goes by and one can be faced with its finality and commensurate decisionmaking very quickly! No - life is not certain. Physicians highly suspected cancer. More invasive procedures were ordered and preparing for the impending appointment with physicians to get those results was very heavy and sobering. The actual results, however, turned out to be such a tremendous relief. Physicians gladly reported that it was not cancer but, instead, ongoing inflammation. The thoughtprovoking accompaniment relayed by physicians’ information about this is that such See COMMISSIONER page 27
Page 26 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
How can business owners plan for an exit?
FRED
O’NEAL FINANCIAL ADVISOR
If you’re a business owner, you always have a lot to do and a lot to think about. But have you put much thought into how you’ll eventually leave it all behind? Even if you’re a few years away from that day, it’s a good idea to create an exit strategy. If you’re like most other owners, most of your net worth may well be tied up in your business, so how you exit that business can have a big impact on your finances and your retirement. As you begin the exit strategy process, you’ll need to examine some basic questions,
such as how much you want for your business and how much it’s worth. But you’ll especially need to plan for the mechanics of your exit — that is, just how you’re going to sell or transfer ownership of it. Essentially, you have three main options: 1. Internal sale or transfer – You could sell or transfer your business to someone affiliated with the company, such as a family member, business partner or even a group of employees. The advantages of this method are that you’ll have greater control over the timing of your exit, and you’ll be able to provide greater continuity for your employees, clients and suppliers. One potential disadvantage is that your net sales proceeds may be less than what you’d get from selling the business to an unrelated third party. 2. External sale or transfer – The biggest
benefit of selling or transferring your business to an unrelated third party is that you can potentially maximize your net sales proceeds. But you’ll need to consider some tradeoffs, too. For one thing, a sale to an outside person or business usually requires a long and possibly expensive due diligence process. Also, you’ll have less control over the timing of your exit than you would if you sold the business to an internal source. 3. Liquidation – If you liquidated your business by selling all your assets and shutting down operations, you could end up with far fewer net proceeds than if you sold the business to an internal or external source. However, you could raise cash pretty quickly. But if you chose to liquidate or dissolve your business, it could potentially be disruptive for your employees, clients and suppliers. Because everyone’s situation is different,
Carroll County marriage licenses JANUARY 1-31, 2024
there’s no clear-cut formula for deciding which of these exit options is right for you. And it isn’t simply a matter of numbers, either, because you’ll need to consider some intangible factors, too. How will your family be affected by your choice? How would you feel if your business was in someone else’s hands, or no longer existed? You’ll need to work out these issues, along with the financial ones, before you decide on your business exit strategy. Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. You may want to consult your financial, legal and tax advisors, and possibly work with a commercial banker and a business evaluation expert. By drawing on several sources of expertise, you can feel more confident that you’ll make a decision that’s appropriate for your needs. One final suggestion: Don’t wait too long before you begin putting together your exit strategy. Time goes fast — and when the time comes for you to say goodbye to your business, you’ll want to be prepared. Fred O’Neal, financial advisor, 410 College Street, Carrollton, GA 770-832-2141. Article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Carroll County pistol permits
Number of Weapons Carry Permits applied for: JAN. 1-31, 2024: 182
Concerning Weapons Carry Permits: On April 12, 2022, Governor Brian Kemp signed into law the Georgia Constitutional Carry Senate Bill 319 and the License Reciprocity Measure House Bill 218 which now allows a lawful weapons carrier to carry a concealed weapon without a gun permit requirement. A background check is still required in order to purchase weapon - and the applicant must pass the background check - but a permit to carry is now longer required. Georgia is one of 24 states that now has Constitutional Carry which follows the intent of the Second Amendment of the Constitution allowing the right to bear arms.
Carroll County births
JANUARY 1-31, 2024: Tanner Medical Center, Carrollton: Females: 52 Males: 46 Tanner Medical Center, Villa Rica:� Females: 26 Males: 30
Carroll County cattle receipts
Carroll County Sales Barn 225 Sales Barn Road, Carrollton Jan. 8, 2023: 778 Jan. 15, 2023: 367 Jan. 22, 2023: 342 Jan. 29, 2023: 340
Carroll County jail population
(The Jack T. Bell Detention Center, 1000 Newnan Road, Carrollton)
Total population as of FEBRUARY 1, 2024: 447 Males: 372 Females: 75
Carroll County prison population
Total population as of FEBRUARY 1, 2024: 246 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)
www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 27
j best
COMMISSIONER from page 25
physician-found inflammation. Consequently, after completing my current term, I will be passing the torch instead of continuing to carry it. To be clear, I will not be seeking re-election for District 5 and, no, I will not be seeking to run for the commissioner chairman post. After getting such tremendous and unanimous encouragement from my constituents to run, there is definitely a part of me that feels, by inflammation is linked to ongoing stress. not running, I am letting you down. However, I have to take solace in what we Consequently, identifying and alleviating primary source(s) of stress became a priority and have already done and accomplished together concluded that persistently autocratic, dictato- for our District 5 and for our county. It has been rial, manipulative and vindictive environments a fabulous togetherness, which I treasure! Please holler at me anytime. I got in this do nothing to reduce or alleviate - but, instead, induce and exacerbate stress and the related local government role to help my constituents navigate government and resolve their probREYNOLDS from front page lems - I enjoyed every minute of doing that and that the health issue was caused by inflamma- it was always and will always be a joy to visit tion and not cancer as had been indicated - in with you and to help you! the weeks that followed, Reynolds said his perspective on life changed. Also, his physicians had relayed to him strongly that “inflammation is linked to ongoing stress”. Reynolds made the decision to reduce his stress by not seeking another term as county commissioner. Reynolds also stated that he will not run for the commission chairman seat. He health today is excellent, and is capable and determined to fulfill his obligation as commissioner through December 31st. Reynolds shared with StarNews, “I’m as active as ever, and it’s great there’s no cancer. It’s also a sobering wake-up call when physicians pointedly link ongoing stress to inflammation. I’m simply reacting to address this.” UNDER the GOLD DOME from page 22 $630 million: 4% cost-of-living adjustment to K-12 teachers; $2,500 salary increase. $11 million for K-12 literacy initiatives $10 million to begin reducing the pre-K classroom size from 22 to 20 students. Healthcare $1 million to expand access to mental health services for Georgia’s military service members, veterans and their families. $205 million for Dept. of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and other entities that address mental health in our state. $9 million for a new behavioral health crisis center. $4 million for the Safe Harbor for Sexually Exploited Children Fund Commission for rehabilitation of victims of sex trafficking. $1 million to expand the maternal health pilot program in rural communities. Public Safety $42 billion to provide a $3,000 salary increase for select POST certified law enforcement officers. $104 million to establish a new, annual school security grant program. Transportation $3 million for equipment and vehicles to implement the Georgia Electric Vehicle Charging Program $205 million to update state support for school transportation needs. What’s Next? Although budget week has technically come to an end, our work is far from over. House Appropriation subcommittees will further study budget proposals, eventually passing portions of the suggested budget out of their respective committees. Following this process, those individually passed budgets will then go before the full House Appropriations Committee. Soon after, the budget will receive a full vote on the House floor. When passed by the House, it then moves over to the Senate, where the process begins all over again. The Senate will either agree with House proposals or make their own changes. Once both chambers agree on the budget, it goes to the Governor’s desk for his approval and signature. We will keep you updated on anything specific to our region.
Consequently, after completing my current term, I will be passing the torch instead of continuing to carry it. To be clear, I will not be seeking re-election for District 5 and, no, I will not be seeking to run for the commissioner chairman post.
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Page 28 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
Villa Rica City Council Member Anna McCoy sharply calls out newly elected Mayor Leslie McPherson that she needed to be aware of “council members’ time”
story by Janice Daniel Ward 5 representative to the Planning & The Mayor and Council of the City of Villa Zoning Commission. Rica met for their monthly work session on #3 Abandonment of Walnut Drive by the Tuesday, January 9th, 2023, at 1:30 p.m., with City and transfer of such abandoned right-ofall council members present. Prior to calling way to the Villa Rica Housing Authority. the meeting to order, #4 Presented by IT Mayor McPherson said that if Director, Jim Chambers, newly-elected Mayor Leslie McPherson, said she seemed to be a little slow a request to renew the that she would appreciate City’s subscription and in the meeting (her first as everyone’s patience as she licensing for Armis mayor), it was due to some moves into the role of Vulnerability chairing the meeting rather issues with her iPad, and that Management Solution than being a council memat a Budgeted cost of she might have a little bit of a ber as she was before. $45,538. learning curve to get going. First order of business #5 James Stovall was appointments to the Council Member Anna McCoy was appointed as a Joint City/School Board rebuked McPherson’s remark board member to the Committee. This commitVilla Rica Library stating that she understood a tee had two members from Advisory Board from learning curve, but that the the city, two members January 9, 2024 through from the school board, and mayor needed to be aware of December 31, 2027. one member from the #6 Hal Burch prethe council members’ time. county. When it was sented a request to Mayor McPherson replied, formed in August of 2023, spend a Budgeted the city manager and the amount of $69,862.20 “Absolutely. I’m very aware deputy city manager were to complete the replaceof everybody’s time.” named as the two reprement phase of the cart sentatives from the city. path damage project The term for all members of this Joint caused by trees along the path beside Connors Committee was through 12/31/23. Road. Council Member McCoy asked if the Mayor McPherson commented that since the funding will come from the Douglas SPLOST city doesn’t currently have a deputy city man- and Finance Director Jennifer Hallman, conager and hasn’t for a few months, it didn’t seem firmed that it would. logical to appoint the deputy city manager to #7 Request to spend a budgeted amount of this committee. She also said that it would $16,500 to repair deteriorating sidewalks, to seem to be more balanced if a citizen or some- showcase the Mural trail on North Avenue, and one else be appointed because the city manager to install decorative bollards to prohibit parking and the deputy city manager tend to be of the in front of the Mural. same mind-set. The current City Manager Tom #8 Request to spend a budgeted amount of Barber opined that the idea of the committee $22,400 to complete the final phase of the was to appoint a position, not a person, and the replacement of the sidewalk damage caused by two representatives from the city will only maple trees along the sidewalks in Reid serve as staff for the committee, and keep Plantation, to make those sidewalks comply notes. He also said that the joint committee with the American Disabilities Act and provide would only meet if the city wanted to annex the residents a safe path of travel. property, approve a multi-family development #9 Request to spend a budgeted amount of or a residential development south of I-20 on $16,866.63 to repair damage to Stone Street the Highway 61 Corridor. caused by a water main break. The City Streets In response to a question from Council Crew will remove the existing asphalt and preMemebr Anna McCoy, Barber said that this is pare the base for paving to be done by RP the only committee that would be dealing with Paving Solutions LLC. TAD issues, but it was brought forward by the #10 Request to spend a budgeted amount school board so that they can know ahead of of $45,175 to repair, pave and stripe the newly time what Villa Rica is planning to do in that acquired public parking lot from World area so they can have the most lead-time for Changers Church. This will provide additional school capacity issues. Villa Rica City Attorney parking for the Downtown area of the City as said the members of the committee are posi- well as for events and activities that will be tions and not people, and that the decisions held in this newly acquired facility. about the committee were made at the staff #11 Jason Waddell presented a request to level before the joint committee was formed. spend a budgeted amount of $49,900 to replace Council Member Danny Carter, remarked that an existing 2005 model Takeuchi mini-excavaa deputy city manager would be hired at some tor with a New Holland E37C mini-excavator point, so council agreed that this appointment to be purchased from Agrimerica of Carrollton. of city manager and deputy city manager to the #12 Utilities Director, John Bain, requested Joint City/County/School Board Committee a budgeted $90,000 to engage Tim Grizzard & should be Consent Agenda Item #1. Associates for the renovation of the Lake Mayor McPherson aid that if she seemed to Paradise dam to meet Georgia Environmental be a little slow in the meeting (her first as Protection Division requirements and protect mayor), it was due to some issues with her the structural integrity of the dam. iPad, and that she might have a little bit of a #13 Finance Director Jennifer Hallman, learning curve to get going. requested approval of 2024 Budget Council Member Anna McCoy rebuked Amendments #169-237 to record the additional McPherson’s remark stating that she under- FY24 End-of-Year Incentive Pay to employees stood a learning curve, but that the mayor from the Self-Funded Insurance Fund, as well needed to be aware of the council members’ as a draw from the 2024 Contingency Fund to time. Mayor McPherson replied, “Absolutely. cover election expenses which came in at a I’m very aware of everybody’s time.” higher cost than was anticipated. This is the The remainder of the Consent Agenda was first time funds has been taken from the prepared as follows: $100,000 Contingency Fund for FY24. #2 Reappointment of Ashley Head as the #14 Request to execute a Development
Agreement between the City and Old Stone $31,000. Residential, LLC for developing a residential #19 Request to approve a proposal from subdivision within the City and for the con- Falcon Design & Engineering to take another struction of a road to be known as Fortune step toward the implementation of the Parkway, with the City agreeing to reimburse, Recreation Master Plan at an amount not to out of the TAD money, exceed $21,400, to Citizen Doug Lang. . . asked for Old Stone Road replace the tennis clarification of Tom Barber’s Residential, LLC up to courts at Gold Dust $4 million for its contri- resignation letter which Lang took Park with outdoor butions to the construcpickleball courts, and to be campaigning for a political tion of Fortune Parkway. to construct new tennis This new road will con- candidate, and also an explanation courts on the unused nect Old Stone Road to of Barber’s invitation for those with baseball field at Anderson Road. questions to call him at his office, Powell Park. In answer #15 Request to to a question by approve t h e which Lang said was using city time Council Member and property for personal reasons. Carter, Barber said Development Agreement between the staff is looking at Sport City of Villa Rica and LGI Homes-Georgia Flooring for the newly acquired World LLC for the upgrade of the Ashley Place sani- Changers gym for basketball practice during tary sewer lift station, at a cost of $764,000. the season and pickleball courts the rest of the #16 Request to approve a Development year. Recreation Director Tracie Ivey, agrees Agreement between the City of Villa Rica and with these plans. Mirror Lake Developers, LLC, for the upgrade One person spoke in Public Comments: of the Brandywine sanitary sewer lift station, at Citizen Doug Lang, 262 S. Carroll Road, Villa a cost of $154,000. Rica, asked for clarification of Tom Barber’s #17 Request to retain the services of resignation letter which Lang took to be Sandra Morris as a grant writer to continue campaigning for a political candidate, and also grants initiated by Chris Montesinos, at a cost an explanation of Barber’s invitation for those of $6,000 per month for a one-year-contract. with questions to call him at his office, which #18 Request to execute an agreement with Lang said was using city time and property for BM&K to modify their road plans for personal reasons. Cleghorn Street for an amount not to exceed The meeting was then adjourned.
Carrollton city council approve budget amendments totaling $10,778,750 story by Janice Daniel On Thursday, January 18, 2024, the Mayor and Council of Carrollton met for their monthly work session. Several items were discussed, including two upcomingrezoning requests, leak insurance, and a water bill round-up/Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation. Also there were two voting items to take care of. The 2024 Food Truck Court Annual Review, which staff has had no issues with and recommended to be approved were: - 120 North Park Street - Moore’s Chapel United Methodist Church - 401 Bankhead Highway - Pelican SnoBall - 1654 Maple Street - Jill Duncan State Farm - 302 South Street - Cheers - 1101 Alabama Street - Citgo Gas Station - 1655 Highway 27 South - Lowe’s - 110 North Park Street - Southern Home and Ranch - 1111 Bankhead Hwy - Lake Carroll Mall Council approved these unanimously.
The second voting item were Mayor Budget Amendments as follows: - establish TAD Fund for FY 24 - $400,000 - record funds received from GEFA Loan for Water Settlement Pond - $10,276,555 - record for trainees and retirees from July through December, 2023, and payout of accrued vacation not included in initial budget projections - $74,000 - record for FY23 promotion increases approved after budget preparation funded through current revenues, and City Clerk promotional increase funded through transfer from Finance Department - $28,195 These budget amendments totalled $10,778,750 ($10.77M). All amendments were approved by the council unanimously. There was a presentation by Impact West Georgia about the Homeless Shelter, as well as the City Manager Report. Mayor and Council went into Executive Session, and the work session was adjourned.
Journey Fellowship (in paper twice)
www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 29
Two lots on Carrollton-Villa Rica Highway get attention of commission and City of Villa Rica Commission approves 52 acre lot for a practice driving course for emergency vehicle drivers City of Villa Rica gets blowback from citizens on proposed aluminum anodizing plant story by Janice Daniel County Parcel 170 0235, owned by Carroll On Thursday, January 11th, 2024, at 10:00 County School District and where Ithica a.m., the Carroll County Board of Elementary School is located. Commissioners held a Special Called Meeting During the January meeting of the Villa Rica where they went into Executive Session for the Mayor and Council, Mayor McPherson purpose of discussing real estate. advised that the zoning request made by Blake The commission preDexter, had been tabled The commission presented a from the January meetsented a resolution authorizing the county to pur- resolution authorizing the county ing at the request of the chase 52.08 acres located to purchase 52.08 acres located applicant, but she at 2011 Carrollton-Villa at 2011 Carrollton-Villa Highway allowed citizens who Highway (Highway 61), the meeting (Highway 61). . for a purchase attended tax parcels V08 0010002 specifically to speak in and V08 0010004, Villa price of up to $2,005,080 ($2M). the Public Hearing on Rica Tax District 03, from The stated purpose is to use the this rezoning request, to Morris/Shackelford go ahead and speak. property for an Emergency Investments LLC, for a It was clear that the Vehicle Operators Course. . . purchase price of up to proposal was hotly $2,005,080 ($2M). The stated purpose is to use opposed by 16 citizens who spoke in Public the property for an Emergency Vehicle Comments at the City of Villa Rica monthly Operators Course (EVOC) and “other govern- meeting on January 9th. mental purposes to benefit of the citizens of Among them was Ann Bone of Whitworth Carroll County.” Road, whose family had originally donated the Commissioner Clint Chance of District 2, land for the Ithica School. Bone also advised which includes the City of Villa Rica, recused the Villa Rica Mayor and Council that the First himself from voting on the resolution “due to a United Methodist Church of Villa Rica and the possible conflict of interest.” The resolution Georgia State Patrol Post #4 are located there, was passed 6-0, with all other Commissioners in addition to many farms and homes. in favor. Lisa Hewett of Hendricks Road said only six These two lots, one on Highway 61 and the letters were sent out to notify adjacent landother just behind it, are both located within the owners of the proposed rezoning, and even the City Limits of Villa Rica with zonings of school was not aware it was being considered. Commercial-Medium, and Agricultural, Hewett said the only way other members of the respectively. Just across Highway 61 from community had learned of the proposal was a these two lots is a lot, V08 0010001, also Villa “little bitty” sign on the side of Highway 61 Rica Tax District 03, also zoned Commercial- where a person would have to park their car Medium, and located within the Suburban and walk up to it to be able to read what it said. Village Character Area of Villa Rica’s Future Rich Myberg of Legend Drive said the Land Use Plan, whose owner, Blake Dexter, Planning & Zoning Committee of Villa Rica has applied to the City of Villa Rica for rezon- has already denied the application twice, and ing of V08 0010001 to Industrial-Low Density he asked the city council to review the last two in order to build two large buildings, one for an meetings of that committee. aluminum anodizing plant, the other for Other citizens advised of the danger alumioffices, and also a pad for another large build- num anodizing posed to the environment as to ing of as yet unnamed use. air, water and wildlife, and also that the sulfuric The site is directly adjacent to single-family acid used in the process and the aluminum dust homes to the south, and also adjacent to were both highly flammable materials. Some
County school system’s 2000+ employees received “State Retention Supplement”
$1000 for full time employees, $500 for part-time employees story by Janice Daniel The Carroll County Board of Education held their regular monthly meeting on Thursday, January 11, 2024. All board members were present, and they recognized many teacher and student achievements. Consent Agenda from the work session was approved unanimously. Under Business Items, Michael Reyher attended the meeting to represent Struktol Company of America, LLC, which has a Villa Rica location. The company indicated that a foundation they are associated with wishes to donate $550,000 for a playground and walking track at the Villa Rica Elementary School, beginning with $400,000 in 2024 for the playground, and $50,000 per year in 2025, 2026, and 2027 for the walking track, tentatively scheduled for completion in 2027. Board unanimously approved the donation with much appreciation. Governor Brian Kemp’s State Retention Supplement middle-of-the-year bonus of $1,000 for all full-time school employees and $500 for all part-time employees was then scheduled to be included in the January 22, 2024, payroll to a total of over 2,000 employ-
sion wish to rezone the property that their resolution just determined to purchase, they would have to apply to the City of Villa Rica for such were concerned about what the purpose of the rezoning. Morris/Shackelford Investments, third proposed building might be, since the LLC, registered address in Dahlonega, property would have It was clear that the proposal was Georgia, acquired the to be zoned industrial property from for the aluminum ano- hotly opposed by 16 citizens who Community & Southern dizing plant. Would it spoke in Public Comments at the Bank for $400,000 in be a possible expan- City of Villa Rica monthly meeting on 2015 when it was foresion of the anodizing, January 9th. . . property would have closed on. or some other comDCB Investments, to be zoned industrial for the pletely different indusLLC of Atlanta, a comtry? There was expres- aluminum anodizing plant. . . strong pany now dissolved sion of strong concern concern for the children attending according to the records for the children attendof the Georgia Secretary Ithica Elementary School ing Ithica Elementary of State, had acquired the due to these dangers. School due to these property in 2011 at a cost dangers. of $1,980,000 for the purpose of building a In such a strongly opposed rezoning request, residential development there, but was unable it is of interest that, should the county commis- to obtain financing in the economic downturn.
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Page 30 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
NEWS RECAP -
from stories on StarNews Online website at www.starnewsgaonline.com
Georgia Department of Public Health confirms measles in metro Atlanta area Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated resident of the metro Atlanta area. The individual was exposed to measles while traveling out of the country. DPH is working to identify anyone who may have had contact with the individual while they were infectious. Measles is very contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the room. Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus and typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. Then a rash of tiny, red spots breaks out. It starts at the head and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles can be prevented with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children receive their first dose of MMR vaccine between 12-15 months of age and a second dose between 4-6 years old. More than 95% of the people who receive a single dose of MMR will develop immunity to all three viruses. A second dose boosts immunity, typically enhancing protection to 98%. The last reported case of measles in Georgia was in 2020. People with symptoms of measles should contact their health care provider immediately. Do NOT go to the doctor’s office, hospital, or a public health clinic without FIRST calling to let them know about your symptoms. Health care providers who suspect measles in a patient should notify public health immediately. For more information about measles: www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html Carrollton Police Depatment’s Sgt. Rob Hollway awarded “Do Good Heroes” The National Life Group announced Carrollton Police Department sergeant Rob Holloway as a winner of the 2023 “Do Good Heroes” Award. Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, this new award pro-
CUTTING COSTS from front page five per week to three. It had been publishing on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays plus a weekend edition. The local newspaper reported that it now publishes on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays only. In its news story, the Kentucky-based Paxton Media Group stated: “The new print schedule reduces production and distribution expenses, a necessary measure to remain fiscally healthy. . .” Also, it stated, “We will double up on our popular puzzle feature page in each printed edition with two full pages of puzzles.” A confusing statement about “free” in the news story was: “... all content at timesgeorgian.com is free to subscribers”. But, a cost of $373 is found on the newspaper’s website for access to a one-year digital/not print subscription to Times-Georgian. Paxton Media Group, 201 South 4th Street, Paducah, KY 42003, owns newspapers that are the legal organs, including The TimesGeorgian - the the legal organ for Carroll County, Georgia. Legal notices are required by law to be published year round with payment made to the county’s legal organ. Locally, this revenue comes from individuals, businesses, attorneys, etc. - anyone required to publish a legal notice - and paid to Paxton Media Group in Kentucky.
gram honors fire rescue and police personnel and departments who perform community service activities above and beyond their public safety duty. Holloway was nominated by a member of the community Bo Haynes of ValuTeachers. Holloway partnered with the Fraternal Order of Police to raise funds for their fundraising efforts which range from raising money for an officer with cancer to delivering turkey boxes at Thanksgiving. Holloway also has attended and speaks at monthly rallies held by Fellowship Christian Athletes (FCA) to help educate the youth. Holloway has volunteered at Police Camps for children to educate them on what a police officer does. He was also the guest speaker at the Citizen Council Police Academy graduation ceremony. “I’d like to recognize Sgt. Holloway’s dedication to serving their community and going above and beyond their duty to make a positive impact,” said Bo Haynes. “This recognition is a testament to his hard work and commitment to making a difference. I’m honored to nominate Sgt. Holloway for this award and recognize his service to the community.” Sgt. Holloway will receive $500 to donate to a nonprofit of his choice. National Life Group’s Do Good Heroes allows their financial professionals to recognize fire-rescue and police departments and personnel for community service activities above and beyond their public safety duty. Eligible nominees will receive an online profile, recognition on social media, and be entered to win monthly cash prizes that directly support the nonprofits of their choice. www.DoGoodHeroes.net Prisoners can now earn a four year undergraduate degree from UWG The University of West Georgia has moved its prison education program out of the experimental stage to become the only higher education institution in the University System of Georgia – and one of the very few in a maximum-level security prison in the country – to offer a four-year undergraduate degree program to individuals who are incarcerated. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Education, UWG’s current initial group of 16 prisioners at Hays State Prison in Chattooga County are studying to earn a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies.
Beginning this fall, UWG will expand its readiness to operate a commercial motor vehiprison education program to the U.S. cle (CMV) safely. The commercial driver’s test has been redesPenitentiary in Atlanta. The program will also track inmates post-release and provide them igned and streamlined with new national stanwith services to aid in their reintegration, such dards to make obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) more efficient without as housing and employment. “Georgia has the highest rate of people lowering requirements and most importantly under correctional supervision,” said Dr. not compromising safety. Applicants are tested Tiffany Parsons, director of UWG’s prison on real-world scenarios that all focus on safety education programs and lecturer of sociology. critical items. Appointments are required for all road skills “With UWG being on the cutting edge of doing this work, we are making our region, tests and may be made at: www.dds.georgia.gov state and beyond a better place.” Appointments for both test types, traditional According to a study funded by the Department of Justice, inmates who participate and modernized, are available until the modin correctional education programs are 48% ernization transition is complete statewide. less likely to return to prison within three years Customers who have already passed one or than incarcerated individuals who do not. In more parts of the three-part CDL skills test competition with others coming out of cannot shift to the modernized test and receive incarceration, they’re more likely to start work credit for sections of the traditional test that at a higher level and have more social and were completed successfully. Other requirements for a CDL, including mandatory Entry economic mobility to go further. “Upon reentry, when they return to their Level Driver Training (ELDT), have not communities, they will be in a position of changed. The Modernized CDL Skills Test remains in relevance to serve where they can be competitive for jobs,” said Dr. Karen Owen, three parts: The Vehicle Inspection (VI), the dean of University College – where the Basic Control Skills (BCS) Test and Road Test. program is housed – and Honors College. The VI and BCS were updated during the “We’re able to give employers a clear modernization process. The new VI requires fewer items, and the understanding that this person will be a strong applicants are allowed to use a checklist (premployee.” The current group of prisoners finished their ovided in the “CDL Study Guide”) for the first semester with a 100% pass rate, with 60% order of inspection. The inspection focuses on earning a 3.0 GPA or higher and 30% knowledge and safety and contains items a driver would typically experience on the job. achieving a 4.0. The Basic Control Skills (BCS) portion of “As a comprehensive university, we have a mission to support our community and region,” the driving exam is conducted on a smaller Owen concluded. “UWG works to provide a footprint and tests applicants on: Forward Stop; service to a population that can then go back to Straight-Line Backing; Forward Offset their communities and provide a better life for Tracking and Reverse Offset Backing. DDS business partners, Third-Party Testers, themselves and their families. These inmates are seeing a future and having conversations also have the option to offer the modernized about their next steps. There’s a sense of hope test to their students. “Georgia Driving Academy is excited to be participating in the that wasn’t there before.” third-party testing program utilizing the Commercial driver test redesigned Georgia Department of Driver Services recently approved modernized skills testing (DDS) has launched an important enhancement procedures. The new testing has streamlined a to the commercial motor vehicle skills testing lot of the redundant steps previously in the process which updates and modernizes the test- Visual Inspection section under the old 2005 ing procedure. Redesigned by the American program. Additionally, the update to the Basic Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators Control Skills section evaluates testers on more (AAMVA) and approved by the Federal Motor realistic trucking situations,” stated Brad Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the Barber, GDA Campus President. For complete driver education, testing and result is a simpler and more effective skills testDespite having that guaranteed revenue ing process that best assesses an applicant’s issuance requirements: dds.georgia.gov stream in numerous states, Paxton is closing some newspapers, cutting publications in areas, and reducing staff at others. According to Poytner, a non-profit journalism school and research organization, during the past two years, Paxton Media Group purYour subscription brings you chased 55 papers, closed or merged 10, and sold five. Paxton Media has also reduced publications in some of its other newspapers to news and information! three editions per week. Most recently, it was reported by St. Louis Public Radio, that Paxton Media Group purchased The Southern Illinoisan newspaper in StarNews / StarNews Online October 2023. President and chief executive County Mental WGTC announces Jamie Paxton reiterated his company’s belief in Carroll LOFCR: Local Option Face Covering Requirement Health Advocates ask LOCAL No subscription newNEWS, president LOCAL BUSINESSES public to help be the value of local newspapers and “the vital the their “missing link” role they play in the communities they serve. . . needed to to subscribe to StarNews, send $35 for We appreciate being the new steward of this access content important community asset and intend to work TWO YEAR subscription! on hard to maintain the trust that The Southern has A scant 0.039% of Carroll County voters earned over its history,” he said. www.starnewsgaonline.com STARNEWS participated in SPLOST Referendum 85,888 Despite these statements, two months later in P.O. BOX 680 Carrollton, Ga 30112 3,368 December Paxton Media eliminated its entire news staff, and cut its print output to three days County commission approves Name amendment increasing spending by a week. $191,433 to match extra revenue Address Labor Department Paxton Media Group also owns The Georgia issued more in unemployment payments Zip Douglasville Sentinel which is the legal organ in last 12 months than prior 82 years for Douglas County and The Gateway Beacon 1911-2019: Email: $20.024 Billion paid 2020 alone: $20.218 Billion paid which is the legal organ for Haralson County.
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Governor removes mask mandate, eliminates ban on large gatherings, reduces social distancing to 42 inches in some cases, moves mask wearing decision to the local levels
by Janice Daniel The Carroll County Mental Health Advocates will be hosting their 2nd annual community event “Miles for Mental Health - Running Over the Hurdles Together” 5K and 1-mile Fun Run on Saturday, May 15th, 2021, at the Greenbelt at Hobbs Farm, 1147 Rome Street, Carrollton, Georgia. Registration begins at 2:00 pm, Fun Run begins at 3:00 pm, and 5K Run begins at 4:00 pm. Proceeds will benefit the Carroll County Mental Health Advocate programs. Additional information can be obtained at the Carroll County Mental Health Advocates office at 306A Bradley Street, Carrollton, Georgia 30117, phone 770830-2048. The story of the CCMHA is one of true commitment to their mission. In 2008, then Carroll County Probate Court Judge, Betty Cason (now Mayor of Carrollton) brought together a group of concerned citizens for a con-
Dr. Julie Post will begin job April 16th Effective for time frame of April 1st through April 30th from press release eliminated (but “strongly encouraged” by the by Sue Horn Dr. Julie Post, Vice President of Student Affairs On Thursday, April 1, 2021, Governor Brian governor) and replaced with a Local Option Face at Gwinnett Technical College, has been selected Kemp signed three executive orders, of which Covering Requirement (LOFCR) giving a city, at the next president of West Georgia Technical one (temporarily) eliminates the year long CoVid county, or other government entity the authority College (WGTC), as announced by Technical large gatherings ban and any remaining to continue to impose the requirement of wearing College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg sheltering-in-place for the time period April 8th a mask “when not able to maintain Social Dozier. She will begin her duties at West Georgia though April 30th. And although the mask wear- Distancing from non-cohabitating persons”. Tech April 16, 2021. Pat Hannon has been interim ing requirement has been (temporarily) elimiSocial distancing has been reduced from 6 feet president of West Georgia Tech since Dr. Scott nated at the state level, it was moved to a local to 3.5 feet (42 inches) of separation between Rule retired as President December 31, 2020. level decision. Specifically, for the time period seating/parties at restaurants, bars, and movie See WGTC NEW PRESIDENT page 8 April 1-30, 2021, the mask mandate has been See LOCAL OPTION FACE COVERING page 5
by Sue Horn The March 16, 2021 Carroll County SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) passed by an 81% margin with only 3,368 citizens participating. Of those,
Number of Carroll County citizens voted in the Nov. 2020 Election
See 0.039% VOTED page 19
Number of Carroll County citizens who voted in the March 2021 SPLOST Referendum
by Sue Horn At the 3:00 p.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021 Special Called Meeting of the Carroll County Board of Commissioners, an amendment was passed 6-0 (one commissioner was
absent) to increase the budget by $191,433 to match increased revenues. Three categories received the bulk of the cash: $53,000 has been assigned to increased “salaries”; See $191,433 page 11
See FUNDRAISER page 7
CoVID-19 statistics for Georgia and Carroll County one year: March 23, 2020- April 5, 2021
from press release The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) recently surpassed a major milestone in the organization paying claimants more in the past 12 months than in all of the combined years that GDOL has been in existence. Georgians have received $20.218 billion in unemployment insurance (UI) See $20.218 BILLION page 27 DON’T MISS AN ISSUE!
GEORGIA
Life going forward, and out of the pandemic As pandemic restrictions have eased (3.5 feet now for some social distancing/mask use encouraged but not mandated), civic clubs are returning to more normal functioning, including the Carrollton Kiwanis Club who recently hosted Carroll County’s fire chief Tim Padgett. See story page 6. Photo by Sue Horn
CARROLL COUNTY
As of APRIL 5, 2021: As of APRIL 5, 2021: 856,340 total confirmed cases 7,271 total confirmed cases 16,749 total deaths 129 total deaths Estimated state population: 10.6M Estimated county population: 122,000
Death total represents Death total represents 0.00158% of population 0.001% of population Source: Georgia Department of Public Health dph.georgia.gov/covid-19
Image by drobotdean on Freepik
www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews February 11, 2024 Page 31
Many citizens speak out at Villa Rica council against proposed aluminum anodizing plant story by Janice Daniel Mayor & Council to say ‘we don’t risk our The Mayor and Council of the City of Villa children for any amount of money.’” Rica met for a regular (monthly) meeting on Laura Harris said she is a lifelong resident of Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. This Villa Rica and lives within one mile of the was held after and on the same day as the work property where the rezoning is proposed, and session. (See story page 28.) there is great concern from homeowners from a Council first held a meeting of the Public family standpoint. They have a legacy of propFacilities Authority, whose board of directors is erty, harmony and safety, and don’t want to Mayor and Council. They elected mayor as deal with the environmental concerns. Harris is board chairman; mayor pro a teacher at Ithica Referencing the citizen tem as vice chair, and city Elementary School, and clerk as secretary. They also who wanted City Manager said it is a safe haven for approved the 2023 minutes. children in so many ways, Tom Barber to honor his The Public Facilities and the industry would word and resign from his Authority meeting was then bring too many people and position if McPherson were traffic. adjourned. Mayor Leslie McPherson, “Please help us protect elected, Council Member Council Member Matthew what we have in our area,” Anna McCoy then Momtahan, and Council she concluded. questioned Mayor Member Shirley Marchman Joshua Evans has lived in were all sworn into office by McPherson, “In the spirit of Villa Rica his entire lifenative Villa Rican and transparency, is the person time, and said he would hate Georgia Magistrate Court to see the town torn apart, who just spoke related to Judge Aubrey Duffey. and homes, farms and Mayor McPherson waterways destroyed. He you?” to which the Mayor advised that RA-05-23, a challenged the people and responded “No.” rezoning request by Blake council to look up the enviDexter, who wants to build ronmental havoc caused by an aluminum anodizing plant near the the steel and chemical industries. “It will polSoutheast Corner of Highway 61 and lute the air, kill fish and wildlife habitat, Whitworth Road, has been tabled for this meet- destroy creeks and water,” he said. He also ing at the request of the applicant. However, said that EPA declared that the poisoning the Mayor said those who had come to the caused by smeltering of aluminum and steel meeting to speak to this rezoning could go has even caused rivers to catch on fire. “Villa ahead and speak, A majority of the Public Rica says our rivers and streams will be kept Comments were about this rezoning request for human consumption and wildlife. If you’re (See related story page 29). going to buy water for the rest of your life, we Citizen comments included the following: have no need for the water treatment plant,” he Amy Brown said she wanted council to be concluded. aware that the company represented in RA-05Nannette Lee said “We have seen what 23 has already made a public announcement you’re going through, so do take this serithat they are coming to Carroll County, and say ously.” Lee also commented on the integrity they have spoken to the Carroll County and dedication of the new mayor, and said Villa Commissioners and the City of Carrollton. Rica is to be congratulated for electing someJody Willis said he is against the tabled one who lives by the motto of “we the people, rezoning item for safety reasons. for the people, by the people.” She presented Ann Bone said she was speaking against the Mayor McPherson with a nametag, business tabled rezoning request on behalf of the farm- cards and a gift, followed by scattered applause ing community there. from the audience. Diane Duncan owns the property adjacent to Rich Myberg said that the Planning and the Ithica Elementary School, and is opposed to Zoning Committee of Villa Rica has denied the the tabled rezoning request because of the extra tabled request twice already. The company traffic and noise in an already busy area, con- plans to build two large buildings for their cern for air and water quality, and reduced industry which uses a “lot of sulfuric acid” in property values. its process, and also plans to build a large slab Luce Morales said she and her husband for the use of another industry not even named moved to Villa Rica in 2005 to raise their fam- as of yet. “We need a big industrial park, but ily away from the urban areas of the Northeast, not there,” was his opinion. He also told counand her children attend the Ithica Elementary cil that even if the aluminum comes in rolls, it School. She said she knows the proposed facil- will still produce dust which is very flammable. ity will create health risks, they will have per- He urged them to review the last two meetings mitting issues they won’t be able to uphold, of the Planning & Zoning Committee. and they won’t be able to get the work force Doug Lang mentioned the “unknown use” of they need because of the school zone. “Putting the plans for future industrial growth proposed industry next to residential is a mistake,” she by the applicant, who inferred it would be for said. an expansion of the same type business, but Lisa Hewett said the people affected by the “we don’t know that for sure.” tabled rezoning request want to know the next Max Wallace said “the city can get income time it will come before the council. She said from somewhere else.” the school had no idea about it, and that a “little Lawrence Cohrs said he was at the work sesbitty sign” on the side of Highway 61 driving sion earlier in the day, and he asked that the by at 60 miles per hour does not properly notify City Manager Tom Barber give a better explathe people of the rezoning request. She also nation of Consent Agenda Item #1, and take it thinks the property on Old Airport Road and off the Consent Agenda. Then he said he would Highway 61, already zoned Industrial, should like to ask the people who had commented be considered. prior to him, “if not this, then what?” The curCecilia Brown was also against the tabled rent zoning is commercial, which will have industrial rezoning. She said she lives 5 min- other types of noise, and the lights of vehicle utes from the area, that she is an administrator traffic, and that big change is coming in the at the Ithica Elementary School, and she advo- Highway 61 Corridor. Cohrs also asked council cates for children. She stated, “It’s a New Year, to better explain how leadership in all governand you have a unique opportunity to trust the ment levels plans to address these changes.
Natalie Harris said she was a student of Ithica Elementary and was there “all the time” because her mom works there. She thinks this industrial rezoning will put the life of kids in danger. “If we want the city to progress, we should be looking at children. They are the future and need to be protected.” Charlotte Evans said she thinks the speed limit change to 15 mph is a wonderful idea, and the speed bumps already in place have made a difference, but she thinks Clearview Street, along with South Street and Meadowlark Drive should all be declared a School Zone since the back parking lot of the school now adjoins all three streets. “School speeders are outrageous,” she said. Emir Cosby said he thinks the voice of the city’s youth is not heard enough, and that areas for industries to locate are needed, “but right
now it is unplanned and messy”. Elizabeth Ryan spoke to the issue of election of a new mayor, and said that people should honor their word, specifically that City Manager Tom Barber said he would be leaving his position if Leslie McPherson was elected, and Ryan wants more information to enlighten people on that. Referencing the citizen who wanted the City Manager Tom Barber to honor his word and resign, Council Member Anna McCoy then questioned Mayor McPherson, “In the spirit of transparency, is the person who just spoke related to you?” to which the Mayor responded “No.” The mayor then called for a pause in the meeting to let those who wanted to leave get out of the crowded room and make a place for those who were standing to be able to sit.
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Page 32 February 11, 2024 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com
Vote
May 21, 2024
VOTEKIERSTONPHILLIPS.COM
Running for this position is about continuing her service to Carroll County through the Magistrate Court. Kierston began working in the Court in high school and was appointed as an Assistant Magistrate in 2016. From labeling case files as an intern to adjudicating cases, Magistrate Court has been a large part of her life. On the bench, she has earned a reputation for fairness, efficiency, following the law, and striving to do the right thing. She has built strong relationships with local law enforcement –always being available to do what is necessary to assist them. She will continue that proven record as Chief Magistrate. As Chief Magistrate, she will bring our Carroll County values and an unrelenting commitment to public safety to the bench. She will uphold the law to maintain law and order in ourcommunity. While at the same time, she will continue her proven commitment to fairness by treating others the way she would want to be treated, especially small, first-time offenders.