StarNews May 2021

StarNews

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

StarNews monthly traditional print publication / StarNews Online daily local news

NEWS REPORTING / NEWS RECAP / NEWS ANALYSIS

MAY 16, 2021 • VOLUME 27 NUMBER 5

Search continues for chamber president/CEO Job will also include heading up Carroll Tomorrow

from press release Carroll Tomorrow and the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce have initiated the search process for a new president/CEO. Those closely associated with the two groups are staying quiet about the search, deferring to The Chason Group which is conducting the ongoing interviewing process.

Daniel Jackson, who has been affiliated with the economic development organizaSee SEARCH page 11

DATE

CARROLL COUNTY CASH RESERVES CASH RESERVE

% OF BUDGET

JULY 2019 $14,190,397 JULY 2020 $19,554,940 OCT 2019 $13,909,966

37% of budget

www.starnewsgaonline.com

County commission chairman advertising job for “Executive Director” with duties that mirror county commission chairman’s job Chairman Morgan states the job is “Susan Mabry’s [the Carroll County Clerk] position. . .

OCT 2020 $18,451,668

35% of budget not county manager, operations manager. . . not an extra person”

JAN 2020

But ACCG clearly defines county clerk and county manager as two separate positions with a 47% of budget county manager job having a high level of authority to make decisions on the county’s behalf

by Sue Horn County Clerk versus County Manager The Carroll County website is currently A County Clerk is a technical and perfunctory position with 62% of budget advertising a job posting for “Executive clearly defined duties carrying no authority to hire or fire, Director” with duties that mirror the job of nor supervise employees the chairman of the commission board. Two A County Manager or Administrator is responsible for the 59% of budget times in the past, Carroll County voters have day-to-day operations of the county, including supervising employees and preparing an annual county budget See CLERK vs. COUNTY MANAGER page 5

$26,445,695

JAN 2021 $35,101,545 FEB 2020 $25,991,818 FEB 2021 $34,489,172 MAR 2020 $25,177,697 MAR 2021 $32,983,837

Free shot and no appointment needed, just show up with I.D and sleeve rolled up: it doesn’t get any easier than this to get vaccinated against CoVID-19

$224,677.79 in medical/salary costs push commissioners to approve $1.5M jail improvement

Mezzanine open pod design allows for falls/jumps to floors below

by Janice Daniel nine is an intermediate floor, or At the April 28th work session of floors, in a building open to the the Carroll County Board of floors below.)

Commissioners, Captain Shane Captain Taylor reported that, from Taylor and David Goodhead of the 2017 to present, the county has paid Carroll County Sheriff’s Depart- out $224,677.79 for medical ment brought an unusual, but seri- expenses incurred by five inmates ous request to the board regarding and one officer, when they were the county jail, a 20+ year-old, six- either pushed or fell from a mezzastory modular pod structure with an nine to a floor below. Per Captain open center mezzanine. (A mezzaSee FELON FALLS page 8

Shown above are two of the nurses’ tables at the CoVID-19 vaccine event sponsored by Tanner Health System and held at Tabernacle Baptist Church located on the bypass in Carrollton. It was part of a two day event on April 27th and April 28th. The vaccine was free, and no appointment was necessary. Walk-ins were welcomed with a smile, a touchless temperature check, and some medical forms to fill out.

Over the two days, 734 first-doses and 44 second doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine were adminstered. As of May 4th, Tanner has adminstered a total of 21,029 doses of CoVID-19 vaccines.

After receiving a vaccine, participants were asked to wait 15 minutes before exiting, hence the huge digital clock shown on the church’s gym stage. Photo by Sue Horn DON’T MISS AN ISSUE! READ DIGITAL MONTHLY PRINT EDITIONS on

www.starnewsgaonline.com LIKE US at facebook.com/

StarNewsGaOnline PINTEREST Sherryreynolds.StarNews

Carrollton council offers prayerful thankfulness for Officer Rob Holloway’s continuing recovery after the April 12th ambush of law enforcement

by Janice Daniel Carrollton City Council held their regular monthly meeting Monday, May 3,2021 at 6:00 p.m. in council chambers (municpal courtroom) Public Safety Annex, 115 West Center Street, Carrollton. Present was Mayor Betty Cason, City

PerhapsYou NeedaDoctorWitha

contact us at: suehorn.starnews@gmail.com

waynereynolds.starnews@ gmail.com

PerhapsyouNeed

DrRalphTempletonDC!!!

Health and Wellness

DIFFERENT APPROACH Bremen

FOLLOW US on TWITTER

@starnewswga

Manager Tim Grizzard, Ward 1 Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem Jacqueline Bridges, and councilmembers Brett Ledbetter for Ward 2, Jim Watters for Ward 3, and Bob Uglum for Ward 4. The meeting was called to order by Mayor See CARROLLTON page 11

Bremen Family Health and Wellness Center 507 Alabama Avenue, Bremen (770-537-5555) Axiom Chiropractic 941 S Carroll Rd Suite C Villa Rica 770-459-8782

Vist drtempleton.com

Are you looking for the best chiropractor with 35 years of recognized clinical excellence?

Specializing in natural drug-free health solutions and acute and chronic pain relief.

“Whatever your health concern, call and see if our unique team approach can help return you to health,” Dr Templeton exclaims. “You may be surprised at the health concerns we can treat, so give us a call. I don’t treat symptoms, I find solutions!

Page 2 May 16, 2021

StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

2 0 21 S u m m e r C a m p s P a r k s a n d R e c r e at i o n June camps June 1–3

• Carrollton Ninja Warrior Camp

June 1–4

June 14–18

• Therapeutics Special Forces Camp

June 21–25

• Tennis Camp Preschool Gymnastics Camp

• Carrollton Gymnastics Team Camp • Boomer Adventure Camp

June 7–11

June 28–30

June 7–10

• Therapeutics Soccer Camp

• Camp Island Breeze

June 14–17

J u ly c a m p s J u ly 1 2 – 1 5

J u ly 1 9 – 2 2

J u ly 1 9 – 2 1

J u ly 2 6 – 2 9

• Preschool Gymnastics Camp • Therapeutics Cheer Camp

• School Age Gymnastics Camp • Junior Ninja Warrior

August camps August 14

• Recreation Cheer Camp

August 20–22 • Camp Shine

• School Age Gymnastics Camp

Center for the Arts Visual Arts Camps June 1–4

J u ly 6 – 9

June 7–11

J u ly 1 2 – 1 6

• Show Me Charcoals and Pastels • Imagination Factory (Session I) • Clay Camp (Session I) • Retro Pop Art Camp • Clay Camp (Session II)

June 14–18

• Creative Explorations: An Adult Art Camp • Imagination Factory (Session II)

June 21–25

• Weaving Camp • Clay Sculpture Camp

• Kiln Fused Glass Camp • Monster Puppet Camp – Online • Crazy Clay Camp I (Session I) • • • •

Think Big: Drawing Art In the Park – Legends West Art Explorers (Session I) Crazy Clay Camp I (Session II)

J u ly 1 9 – 2 3

• Art In the Park – Knox Park • Art Explorers (Session II)

Culinary Camps June 1–4

• Young Chef’s Basic Pastry Camp

J u n e 2 8 – J u ly 2

• Jewelry Making Camp

Dance Camps June 7–11

J u n e 2 8 – J u ly 2

June 21–25

J u ly 1 9 – 2 3

• Little Creatures Dance Camp • Monstrous Dance Camp

• Mini Dance Intensive • Musical Theatre Camp

• Chef Junior Pastry Camp

Music Camps June 14–18

J u n e 2 8 – J u ly 2

June 21–25

J u ly 2 6 – 3 0

• Triple Threat! Drumming, Dancing and Theatre Games • We Are Monsters! Youth Choir Camp

J u ly 2 6 – 3 0

• Acrylic Pouring Camp • Mad Science Art Camp

J u ly 6 – 9

• Carroll Symphony Orchestra Music Camp • Introduction to Music through Guitar Camp

T h e at r e C a m p s June 7–19

• The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe Theatre Camp (Session I or Session II)

J u n e 2 8 – J u ly 1 0

• Rumpelstiltskin Is My Name (Camp will not meet on July 5)

J u ly 1 9 – J u ly 2 3

• The Blabbermouth, the Puff Monster & the Wolf Theatre Camp • FX Effects Zombie Apocalypse Camp

F o r d e ta i l s a n d r e g i s t r at i o n , v i s i t c a r r o l lt o n g a . c o m / s u m m e r 2 0 2 1

www.starnewsgaonline.com

StarNews May 16, 2021 Page 3

Page 4 May 16, 2021

StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

WEST GEORGIA AMBULANCE, INC.

Honoring the HEROES who served to hold our flag high and courageously gave their lives...and those who BRAVELY fight today

THANK YOU!

“Dedicated Healthcare When You Need It Most”

1952 NORTH HIGHWAY 27 • CARROLLTON, GA.

770-832-9689

DIAL 911 FOR AN EMERGENCY

www.starnewsgaonline.com COUNTY CLERK vs. COUNTY MANAGER from front page

voted against having a County Manager form of government. This is a governing body resembling the current boards of education in Carroll County. The school board has a governing board of members who are elected by Carroll County voters, but it is the elected members who have the power to hire or fire a superintendent to perform the actual daily administration.

A County Manager system also closely resembles some of Carroll County cities who have an elected mayor and elected council members, but it is the mayor and council who then hire or fire a city manager who actually runs the city. The voting public has no say in the city manager selection. Both superintendents and city managers have the highest paying salaries (over board members/mayors/ council members), and they write and control the budgets. County voters said “no” twice to a system in which the person “in charge” was not under their control through the process of election.

When questioned about the “Executive Director” position by StarNews, Commission Chairman Michelle Morgan stated: “This is Susan Mabry’s position. She is retiring and I guess the word ‘new’ was used loosely to mean the person taking her place not a new position. I am not getting an extra person in this office ie no county manager, operations manager – and not disguising as Executive Director.”

Susan Mabry is the longtime Carroll County Clerk. In fact, she was selected as “County Clerk of the Year” by the Association of Georgia County Commissioners in 2009. Her experience and gained expertise having worked in the commission office for decades,

County Clerk versus County Manager Having a “Dual Job” of County Clerk / Executive Director would allow the chairman to fire the county clerk which is against ACCG commission policy A County Clerk is hired and fired with by a vote of the commission board. From the 2019 Fifth Edition Handbook for Georgia County Commissioners: “The clerk is appointed to and removed from office by the governing authority [i.e.commission board]” A County Manager or Administrator/Executive Director is hired and fired at the sole will of the commission board chair

working for six chairman and at least two interim chairman, makes her easily the most knowledgeable person in the department. The department has one Chief Deputy County Clerk to the Board of Commissioners, Kristy McAdams.

StarNews questioned Chairman Morgan as to how much was earmarked in the FY20212020 budget for the salary for the County Clerk position? Morgan’s response: “There is nothing earmarked for the salary for the county clerk position. The clerk duties will be fulfilled by the new executive director or another staff member in the commission office upon appointment by the Chairman with confirmation by the district commissioners per the Enabling Legislation.”

StarNews questioned Chairman Morgan as to how much was earmarked in the FY20212020 budget for the salary for the Executive Director position? Morgan’s response: “Up to $95,000 depending on experience and qualifications.”

But, the blurring of these two positions would give the chairman an extra power that goes against the Association County Commissioners Georgia policy, as stated in the

2019 Fifth Edition Handbook for Georgia County Commissioners published in cooperation with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) Carl Vinson Institute of Government: “The clerk is appointed to and removed from office by the governing authority [i.e.commission board]”.

The extra power of the chairman would be the abilityto hire/fire the County Clerk of Carroll County if the jobs of Executive Director and County Clerk are in combination.

A County Clerk in the State of Georgia is the official custodian of “county contracts, leases, resolutions and ordinances”. A county clerk is a technical and perfunctory position with clearly defined duties carrying no authority to hire or fire, nor supervise employees. A County Manager or Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the county, including supervising employees and preparing an annual county budget.

The advertised job duties of the “Executive Director” as posted on carrollcountyga.com are: “Description Code: 1301-0421-127: The purpose of this job is to provide standard and advanced administrative support for the County Commission Chairman in conducting day-to-day affairs of the County. Duties include, but are not limited to: assisting in the planning, directing, and managing the day-today activities of the Carroll County government; representing the Chairman at official meetings, and performing other responsibilities as required by the Chairman. This position requires an extensive working knowledge of all County departments and operations.

Emphasis is placed upon dealing with political and sensitive matters utilizing tact, diplomacy and discretion.

“This position shall be at-will. By signing the job description, the employee agrees and

StarNews

understands that this position is not covered by Civil Service. . . Other duties: • Assist the Chairman in supervising administrative personnel; establishes priorities, plans, schedules and work assignments.

• Provide support to the Chairman by performing a variety of administrative, public information, and special project tasks.

• Collect and compile information for Commissioners, individually and collectively for decision making or problem resolution purposes.

• Represent the Chairman at various functions such as committee and citizen forums, and as needed during temporary absence.

• At the Chairman’s discretion, attend the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) and Clerk Association education classes and functions.

• Assure the professional, effective and efficient operation of county services by assisting the Chairman in assuring that the Commission members remain properly informed about the affairs of government.

• Maintain a professional working relationship with the general public, elected officials at all levels of government (county, municipal, state and federal), department heads, county employees and the media.

• Serve as a liaison to department heads, employees, and elected officials • In coordination with the Communications Director, respond to inquiries from the public • Respond to complaints and requests tactfully and courteously from citizens, employees and department heads • Be able to attend all official County Commission meetings, retreats, and special events as directed by the Chairman.

• Be able to work nights, weekends and holidays

State Senator Dugan GEORGIA SENATE MAJORITY LEADER

CONSERVATIVE . PROVEN . LEADER.

State Senator Mike Dugan Senate District 30 Republican

CAPITOL OFFICE 121-J State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: (404) 463-2478

May16, 2021 Page 5

May 31, 2021 PAID FOR BY DUGAN FOR STATE SENATE

Page 6 May 16, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

“Better Birth Days” campaign by Tanner has focus to build awareness of at-risk pregnancies to save lives from press release Georgia has the second highest rate of deaths of mothers from pregnancy-related complications, with 48.4 deaths per 100,000 live births.

In Georgia, black mothers are six times more likely to die during childbirth or the 12 postpartum months that follow versus caucasian mothers. In response to these statistics, Tanner is partnering with the Carroll County Health Department, the Pregnancy Resource Center, first responders, and the faith-based black and Latina communities (among other organizations) to reach more at-risk moms to build awareness of these risks and the importance of immediate medical intervention to save lives.

The new public awareness campaign, “Better Birth Days,” will provide education on the potential life-threatening health risks and complications for moms during pregnancy, delivery and postpartum.

Information for Better Birth Days will be available in both English and Spanish, provided to community partners like the Carroll County Health Department, the Pregnancy Resource Centers in Carrollton and Haralson counties, and Baby Braves in Heard County. Materials will also be available at Tanner locations to facilitate outreach.

The Carroll County Health Department will provide Better Birth Days materials in information bundles for women with newly confirmed pregnancies as they identify their healthcare providers for their prenatal, delivery and postpartum care and sign-up for maternity and children’s benefits.

“Pregnancy, birth and postpartum complications, like pre-eclampsia, blood clots and strokes, can occur in any woman, including those under a doctor’s care, and we know black

and Latina moms face a higher risk. The death of one mom is one too many,” said Megan Grilliot, MD, a board-certified obstetrics and gynecology specialist with Tanner Healthcare for Women. “A woman who is aware of her risks and understands the importance of prompt medical attention is better prepared and likely to have a better outcome.”

National, state and local statistics indicate a growing maternal health concern, according to Dr. Grilliot: Pregnancy-related deaths per 100,000 live births almost doubled between 1987 and 2017 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Symptoms to watch for: - headache that won’t go away or gets worse over time - fever of 100.4 degrees or higher - trouble breathing - chest pain or a rapid heart rate - swelling, redness or pain in a leg or arm - changes in vision - dizziness or fainting “Reaching pregnant moms early in their pregnancy is critical to helping them understand how to care for themselves throughout their pregnancy and beyond,” said Karmen Stamps, executive director of the Pregnancy Resource Center. “We will leverage Better Birth Days materials in our interactions with expecting and new moms to make them aware of potential risks and what they need to do, so they can enjoy many happy birthdays with their babies.”

Watch the Better Birth Days video: https://youtu.be/5UZSkhf_ld0 Learn more about Better Birth Days now: tanner.org/better-birth-days Learn more about Tanner Women’s Care. https://www.tanner.org/womens-care

Almon Funeral Home

Integrity Finance

548 Newnan Street Carrollton, Georgia 30117 770-832-7056 www.almonfuneralhome.com

www.starnewsgaonline.com

StarNews

May16, 2021 Page 7

CARROLL COUNTY HISTORIC ANNUAL BUDGETS

Below is a comparative and historical recap of the annual budget for the Carroll County Board of Commissioners, which is commonly referred to as the “county budget”.

Carroll County’s board has 6 elected district commissioner and one elected chairman.

Carroll County operates on a fiscal year that begins July 1st and ends June 30th.

The chairman of the board of commissioners is responsible for presenting a balanced budget to the board for a majority approval vote which must be approved by June 30th for adoption by July 1st. The chairman is not required to involve any district commissioner, department head, or employee in the budgeting process, though historically most do through a series of budget meetings, both held publicly as a quorum and/or in private, as long as a quorum is not present. A quorum is the minimum number of elected board members required to hold a legal meeting. If less than the minumum number is present, a legal meeting cannot be held, votes cannot be taken. In a private meeting of commissioners totaling less than a quroum, discussion can remain private/secret.

For the Carroll County Board of Commissioners, a minimum of four members meets the quroum requirement. This means that three commissioners may meet, or two commissioners and the chairman, and discuss county business out of the public eye.

Chairman JACK BELL ROBERT BARR BILL CHAPPELL MARTY SMITH

Budget Increase in millions Total Years in office $9.01M 5 $18.75M 6 $4.29M 5 7 $2.68M after 100% of property reassessments

MICHELLE MORGAN

$8.84M

raising property taxes across the board

2

ANNUAL BUDGET INCREASE+ COMMISSION (DECREASE) CHAIRMAN 1994-95 $16,970,736 ------Horrie Duncan 1995-96 $18,609,583 $1,638,847+ Jack Bell 1996-97 $19,354,189 $744,606+ Jack Bell $9.01M 1997-98 $21,126,462 $1,772,273+ Jack Bell INCREASE 1998-99 $22,488,100 $1,361,638+ Jack Bell in 5 years 1999-00 $23,616,850 $1,128,750+ Jack Bell 2000-01 $25,987,450 $2,370,600+ Jack Bell 2001-02 $30,959,556 $4,972,106+ Robert Barr 2002-03 $31,840,491 $880,935+ Robert Barr $18.75M 2003-04 $34,251,300 $3,219,744+ Robert Barr INCREASE 2004-05 $36,197,250 $1,945,950+ Robert Barr in 6 years 2005-06 $39,190,000 $2,992,750+ Robert Barr 2006-07 $43,938,487 $4,748,487+ Robert Barr JUNE 2007 ROBERT BARR RESIGNED JULY 2007 COUNTY BORROWED $5.4M TO MEET EXPENSES OCTOBER 2007 BILL CHAPPELL ELECTED in SPECIAL ELECTION 2007-08 $43,967,603 $29,116+ Bill Chappell $4.29M 2008-09 $47,808,423 $3,840,820+ Bill Chappell INCREASE in 5 years 2009-10 $47,364,089 ($444,334) Bill Chappell YEAR

UCB

HONORING ALL HONORING ALL WHO WHO HAVE HAVE SERVED SERVED WHO HAVE SERVED We would would like like to to thank thank the the men men and and women women who who have have We We would likecontinue to thankto the men and women who have served—and serve—with bravery, sacrifice served—and continue to serve—with bravery, sacrifice served—and toour serve—with bravery, sacrifice and couragecontinue to protect country and our freedom. and courage to protect our country and our freedom. and courage to protect our country and our freedom.

In observence of Memorial Day, In observence of Memorial Day, 29. weIn will be closed of onMemorial Monday, May observence Day, we will be closed on Monday, May 29. we will be closed on Monday, May 29.

CARROLLTON

119 MapleCARROLLTON Street | 770-830-9608 CARROLLTON 119 Maple Street | 770-830-9608 119 Maple Street | 770-830-9608 DOUGLASVILLE 6670 Church Street | 770-942-5681 DOUGLASVILLE

DOUGLASVILLE 6670 Church Street | 770-942-5681 6670 ChurchVILLA StreetRICA | 770-942-5681

485 West Bankhead Highway | 770-459-3100

VILLA RICA VILLA RICA 485 West Bankhead Highway | 770-459-3100 485 West Bankhead Highway | 770-459-3100

Member FDIC. © 2017 United Community Bank | ucbi.com

Member FDIC. © 2017 United Community Bank | ucbi.com Member FDIC. © 2017 United Community Bank | ucbi.com

Smith Brothers

2010-11 $47,259,248 ($104,841) Bill Chappell 2011-12 $48,237,472 $978,224+ Bill Chappell $2.68M 2012-13 $49,147,835 $910,363+ Marty Smith INCREASE 2013-14 $50,051,817 $903,982+ Marty Smith in 3 years 2014-15 $50,920,454 $868,637+ Marty Smith prior to reassessments 100% of PERSONAL/COMMERCIAL PROPERTY REASSESSED $2.02M 2015-16 $49,766,750 ($1,153,704) Marty Smith TOTAL INCREASE 2016-17 $50,367,431 $600,681+ Marty Smith 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20

in 7 years after

$49,281,700 $50,263,500 $53,333,000

($1,085,731) $981,800+ $3,069,500+

Marty Smith property reassessments increased total Marty Smith amount of taxes paid Michelle Morgan $3.0M elected Aug. 2019 INCREASE

Jan. 2020 $55,569,500

$2,236,500+

Michelle Morgan

Proposed 2020-2021 Budget $59,108,566

$3,539,066+

Michelle Morgan $8.8M TOTAL INCREASE

increased budget with amendment

$2.2M INCREASE

if proposed budget is adopted (June 30, 2021)

Chairman Morgan’s proposed 2021-2021 budget is Chairman Marty Smith’s last budget was 2018 at Increase in budget during the two calendar years Chairman Morgan has been in office (Aug. 2019- June 2021

$59,108,566 - $50,263,500

+$8,845,066

10 City Hall Avenue, Carrollton, Georgia 30117 (770) 832-6341 www.smithbrotherssupply.com

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00am - 5:00pm • Sat. CLOSED

W

Page 8 May 16, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

FELON FALLS from front page Taylor, the safety and security liability at the jail could become quite high to the county if other falls should occur.

They asked the county to consider installation of a Kane Wall Panel System for 3 levels of the jail. This wall panel system is built to prevent people falling or being pushed from the mezzanine between the floors of the jail.

At the work session, District 2 Commissioner Clint Chance and District 5 Commissioner Reynolds requested more cost numbers that would give them “benchmark” numbers to compare with the one bid the county received for this project, this in preparation for a vote at the following Tuesday regular commission meeting. This bid came from Southern Standard Construction, 1605 Maple Street, Carrollton.

At the Tuesday, May 4th meeting, the board was asked to consider accepting that lone bid for a new Kane Wall Panel System on three levels of the existing Carroll County Jail, located at 1000 Newnan Road, Carrollton.

Renovation would be funded by taking $1,000,000 from Fund 220 and $449,596 from sales tax that exceeds budget. Board was asked to authorize the chairman to execute the construction contract and take all other action necessary for such project.

This was discussed briefly, but the board expressed confidence that the RFP for the wall system was sound and legal; acknowledged that this specialty installation was required; and that the wall was needed quickly to ensure safety at the jail.

Goodhead advised that there are few companies that will do this large scale of work in an active jail because of the multiple security issues, and that this ia “specialty trade”.

Commissioner Chance also opined that this was a “specialty installation”. Commissioner

Committees

Tommy Lee said this vote was a “no-brainer”.

Captain Taylor noted that the medical expenses weren’t the only costs related to the falls, that for one of the incidents, the county paid for two deputies to stand guard at the hospital while inmate was recovering. Taylor also relayed to the board that there are “one to two inmate fights a week” at the jail and that they “have eleven inmates awaiting trial” with a murder charge.

The Board voted to approve the Construction Contract 7-0.

Southern Standard Construction lists its company managers as Greg Camp and Chuck Harper; and lists the number of “permanent

employees” at two (2). Also listed is Daniel Yeh as Project Manager and Brett Ledbetter, Carrollton, as Superintendent.

The company lists other similar projects as the Trojan Center and Floyd County Jail. Of important note is that neither of these Southern Standard Construction projects listed any Change Orders. (Change Orders are sometimes misused in a bid project to add costs later to an already won project; using a lower figure initially to win the bid, then later adding on a Change Order to complete the project.”)

The Carroll County jail was voted by the board of commissioners to be named the Jack T. Bell Detention Center during a regular

meeting held twenty-one years ago on Tuesday, June 13, 2000. The 5-0 vote was approved with Vice Chairman Trent North presiding. Voting for the name were North, and district commissioners Rulon Johnson, Robert Kenimer, Jerry Z. Levans, and Herman Ayers.

Chairman Jack T. Bell had recently undergone major heart surgery and did not attend the meeting.

The six story jail that opened in 2001 cost $19 million and was funded by revenue bonds issued by the City of Carrollton (Redevelopment Authority). Repayment of the bonds came from sales tax revenues of a Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST).

by Janice Daniel On Tuesday, May 4, 2021, the Carroll County Board of Commissioners held their regularly scheduled monthly meeting at the Historic Court House, 323 Newnan Street, 3rd Floor, Commission Chambers, Supreme Court Room, Carrollton, Georgia. All district commissioners and chair were present. The invocation was given by Carrollton High Sschool Debate Team member, Alec Siek, and 7-year old Scout Rob Lyle and his father, Drew Lyle, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Notice was given to the advertising of the proposed FY 2021-2022 Carroll County Budget, Public Hearing (due to increase) and Adoption Dates, in the legal organ TimesGeorgian. The proposed budget is $3.5M more than the current budget, with total proposed revenues to be collected and spent at $59,108,566 ($59M).

In the financial session, a resolution was considered authorizing approximately $40,000,000 of General Obligation Sales Tax Bonds, Series

2021: a Bond Purchase Agreement; naming of a Bond Register and Paying Agent; Establishing of a Construction Fund and naming of a Construction Fund Custodian; Adoption of the form of Bond; Preparation of a Tax Digest and Levy of a tax sufficient to pay the principal and interest on said Bonds; a Continuing Disclosure Certificate and an Official Statement; and for other purposes.

Gabe Agan, Director of Raymond James & Associates was pleased with the all-inclusive interest rate of 0.78%. The amount to be deposited to the Construction Fund is $45,685,000.

Agan stated that the county has plenty of cushion to repay the debt. Resolution approved 7-0.

The board voted to approve the construction contract 7-0 with Southern Construction Company to build the Kane Wall Panel Syatem for the Carroll County jail (see story beginning front page).

Special presentation to Carrollton High School Debate Team for winning the 2021 GFCA State Championship, their 12th win.

Proclamation honored Denise Blanford for 40 years of service with the Villa Rica West Georgia Regional Library System.

A rezoning request for 21 Lovell Road, Temple (District 3) was presented by William Morris of Sebern Construction, proposing to build his own home and 3 other homes on this 6.64-acre tract which he owns. Speaking in favor of the project, he emphasized the shortage of available housing and the fact that a new generation of people aged 19+ are looking for homes as well. Three Carroll County citizens spoke against the proposal, citing safety issues in the area of Hwy 113 where 2 new driveways would further congest the traffic. Ryan Morris of 393 Lovell Road suggested a compromise of dividing the property into two approximately 3acre lots, and building 2 houses with both driveways on Lovell Road rather than Hwy 113. William Morris of Sebern agreed to this plan, and County Planner Janet Hyde assured the board she will make sure the amended See ZONING page 24

Commission board meets: proposed county budget - to be increased by $3.5M offered for public review; $40M bond purchase agreement; rezonings aplenty

Appropriations - Member Governmental Affairs - Member Juvenile Justice - Secretary Public Safety and Homeland Security - Chairman Regulated Industries - Member Special Committee on Access to the Civil Justice System - Member

Capitol Address 408-C Coverdell Legislative Office Bldg.

Atlanta, GA 30334 404.657.1803 Office District Address 206 South Carroll Rd. Villa Rica, GA 30180

MEMORIAL DAY May 31, 2021

State Rep J Collins

THANK YOU

I will continue to be fiscally conservative and pro-business.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

J Collins R - Villa Rica District 68

State Representative District 68 J. Collins (R)

770-295-8143

Page 9 May 16, 2021

StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

Council on Aging Presents the Annual

www.starnewsgaonline.com

Spring Fling Fellowship Thursday, May 20, 2021 Doors Open at 9:00 am Event begins 10:00 am Carroll County Recreation Gym 1201 Newnan Rd. Carrollton Ga. OPEN TO ALL SENIOR CITIZENS OF THE WEST GEORGIA AREA

American Legion Color Presentation & Pledge

Lots of Educational Vendors!

Door Prizes• Music•Candy •Fellowship•Dancing

Performance by: George Britt & Band

Carrollton Kiwanis will provide a Hamburger Lunch!

Special Thanks to Our Many Gracious Sponsors

For more information contact DANIELLE JENKINS 770-832-1644 or SANDRA MORRIS 678-378-0985

StarNews

A

Page 10 May 16, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

County government has hefty cash reserve, $8M more than last year for a $32.9M total

by Janice Daniel The Carroll County Board of Commissioners met for a work session on Thursday April 28, 2021at 4:00 p.m. in commission chambers, historic courthouse, downtown Carrollton. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Michelle Morgan. Also present were District 2 Commissioner Clint Chance, District 4 Commissioner Steve Fuller, and District 5 Commissioner Ernest Reynolds.

None wore masks. These four represented a legal quorum, so the work session commenced.

Absent were District 1 Commissioner Montrell McLendon, District 3 Commissioner Tommy Lee, and District 6 Commissioner George Chambers.

Financial information for the month ending 3/31/2021 was presented by Finance Director Alecia Searcy who reported that the county had experienced another good month with year-todate revenues of $53,038,111, expenditures of $37,609,214, and a general fund cash balance of $32,969,555. This cash reserve is an $8,000,000 gain compared to the same time last year. (See related chart on cash reserves front page.)

Searcy also reported that, during the last month, Carroll County received bond ratings of AA from both S&P and Moody Corp, with the highest rating from either entity being AAA. She stated that the AA rating, though reflecting no change, did reinforce the county’s stable financial position. She said the only way to receive a higher rating would require tax base expansion, and strength of income and wealth levels within the county.

Searcy noted as well that, in the ratings, Carroll County was being compared to counties across the country rather than just

other counties in the State of Georgia.

Chairman Morgan also called for a “Consent Agenda” to be prepared since the board has such a long agenda for the May 4th meeting.

The board members approved several items for the consent agenda, including the following: 1. Agreed on a proposal to choose West Georgia Resources’ bid of $245,200 to do needed repairs to the roof and HVAC at the Magistrate Court building.

2. Agreed on a proposal to (through Source-Well) purchase an asphalt spreader from Yancey (Caterpillar) at a cost of $398,780, to replace present asphalt spreader which is constantly breaking down.

3. Agreed on a proposal to choose Buck’s Electric to do electrical work at the AG Center at a cost of $36,800.

4. Agreed to accept Tim Padgett’s recommendation to appoint Matt Clotfelter to fill the expired term of Lt. Jeff Richards at WARRS, the Western Area Regional Radio System Authority.

5. Agreed to accept an ordinance that defines what a “Broadband-Ready Community” is, in order that local providers can activate broadband initiatives.

6. Agreed to accept a new article to the Carroll County Code of Ordinances entitled Short Term Rentals, to provide an effective date and for other purposes.

Per county attorney Avery Jackson, there are complaints from citizens of disturbance of the peace, partying noise factor, etc., due to short term rentals (less than 29 days).

Owners of such rentals will be required to purchase a business license ($200), as well as adhere to other regulations such as number of occupants based on number of bedrooms,

number of cars and where they can be parked, and Fire Marshall inspections to ensure up-tocode. There will be no grandfathering in of current short term rental owners, and all fines and fees will be collected from individuals in

accordance with the current city ordinances.

The Consent Agenda was approved the following week during the Tuesday, May 4th regular commission meeting. (See related story on May 4th meeting page 8.)

ZONING from page 8 request would meet all the requirements for regulations on sub-dividing property. With those stipulations, request was approved 7-0.

Other rezoning requests presented by Janet Hyde: - 2288 Banning Road, Whitesburg (District 5), conditional use permit for secondary dwelling, approved 7-0 - 555 Tumlin Lake Road, Temple (District 3), conditional use permit to build a Special Events Facility, approved 7-0

- 3277 E. Highway 5, Carrollton (District 5), conditional use permit for a Verizon cell tower for needed coverage in that area, approved 7-0 - 2229 S. Van Wert Road, Villa Rica (District 3), conditional use permit for secondary dwelling, approved 7-0 - 161 Old Camp Road, Carrollton (District 4) to rezone from Agricultural to Residential to build a single-family residence, approved 7-02439 S. Highway 27 Carrollton (District 4) to rezone from Commercial to Residential for single-family dwelling, approved 7-0.

J Best Hair Voted Best Salon!

We Appreciate ALL Of Our Military

Poppi

770.456.8358

227 South Carroll Road Villa Rica

Tues & Wed: 9am-6pm•Thurs: 9am-8pm Fri. 9am-5pm•Sat: 9am-3pm

WORM CASTINGS 1.5 Cubic ft

Wallace Farm and Pet Fertilizer Supply

BAG

$2499

Harman Turf

Bermuda Grass

Commercial and Residential

Pick-Up or Delivery

6990 Five Notch Rd • Franklin, Georgia

770-854-6400 www.harmanturf.net

Monday to Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Carpenter Bee Traps

VEGETABLES SEEDS & VEGETABLES

50.2% GLYPHOSATE

•10-10-10 •13-13-13

ORGANIC

GARDENING PRODUCTS

Beautiful Hanging Baskets

50lb BAG

2.5 Gallon

$69.99 PELLET

•LIME 40LB

$4.49

Amazing Results

•POTTING SOIL

Ventura Stadium Chairs

•SPORTS•CAMPING•BEACH

$54.99

$24.99 CONTAINS TWO UNITS PER BOX

ERADICATE YOUR MOSQUITO POPULATION FOR UP TO 90 DAYS

Wallace Farm and Pet Supply HOURS: M-F 8-6 SAT. 8-2

4343 Hwy. 27 N. Bowdon Junction, Ga 30109

770-834-5291 www.wallacefarm.net

www.starnewsgaonline.com CARROLLTON from front page Cason, who also led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Invocation was offered by Jim Watters. There were no public comments.

The Mayor and each council expressed prayerful thankfulness for the continuing recovery of Carrollton Police Officer Rob Holloway, who was critically injured during the April 12th incident whereby a gunman engaged in a car chase and fired at law enforcement with an AK-47 rifle.

Of the three officers injured during the hours-long chase, Officer Holloway received the most serious injury.

Mayor Cason thanked the community for the outpouring of love and offers of help, and also stated that the Atlanta Police Department had been extremely helpful during Officer Holloway’s hospital stay, and that they had shut down the interstate to join with Carrollton Police officers in escorting Officer Holloway from the hospital to the Shepherd Spine Center, where he is reported to be in good spirits. All are praying for his quick and complete recovery.

Council gave a Certificate of Recognition in memory of James ‘Ray’ Fulford who died February 14, 2021. Among his many SEARCH CONTINUES from front page tion and chamber since 2001, retired as president and chief executive officer.

The board has engaged The Chason Group to lead the executive search process. The firm, which is Georgia based, specializes in executive searches for economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, foundations and other non-profits. The total process is expected to take 100 to 120 days. Daniel retired March 31st.

“Our goal has always been to initiate a strategic process to identify qualified candidates for the position,” according to Loy Howard, chair of Carroll Tomorrow and president and chief executive officer of Tanner Health System in Carrollton. “We now have a weighting scale in place that allows us to understand the key character traits and skill sets needed to build upon the foundation established over the past twenty years.”

Established in 2001, Carroll Tomorrow is a unique countywide public-private economic development organization that serves as the staff for Carroll County’s four industrial development authorities. The organization works closely with state economic developers and site selection consultants to support expansion of existing business and recruit new companies to the area. The economic development initiative is a “one stop shop” for businesses seeking growth opportunities. The Carroll Chamber is an organization with 600+ members, an active board of directors, and staff. The chamber executes the annual plan through a committee structure with six standing committees and other ad hoc committees as needed.

A separate search committee made up of people in our community from various sectors of the business community, funding partners, and stakeholder groups.

When asked if the search committee was looking for a president who would take the county in a new, or different direction insofar as growth, StarNews was referred to The Chason Group again for any response.

The president of Carroll Tomorrow is responsible for providing leadership, long-term visioning, strategic planning and implementation for the economic development organization and chamber of commerce.

The president/CEO works with boards from both groups to execute plans designed to maintain and grow existing businesses, nurture entrepreneurship, and attract new investments for Carroll County.

accomplishments and contributions was the founding of RA-LIN Construction Company, who built the UWG University Stadium, Carrollton High School, numerous buildings for the Tanner Health System, First United Methodist Church of Carrollton, Central High School gymnasium, and the Sunset Hills Country Club, among many others. Fulford also donated the land for the Carrollton Center for the Arts, as well as giving financial support to UWG’s Football Stadium and the establishment of the neurology department at Tanner. Fulford and his wife of 54 years, Linda, attended the First Baptist Church of Carrollton for over 50 years, where he was Deacon and an Adult Sunday School teacher.

Council also gave a Certificate of Recognition to the Carrollton High School Debate Team which, under the leadership of Coach Richard Bracknell, won Varsity State Champions of the 2021 Georgia Forensic Coaches Association. The CHS debate team has won eleven state championships, the second highest number of state championships earned by any competitive team in the school’s history.

The Mayor also issued a Proclamation for May, 2021 as Mental Health Awareness Month.

Mayor Cason, who was Probate Judge at the time, was instrumental in the formation and success of the Carroll County Mental Health Advocates, and made a special note of thanks to their Crisis Response Team, a mobile unit that has, just since the first of April, responded to over fifty 911 calls being identified as mental health crisis calls. Mayor Cason emphasized the issue of mental health awareness with a statistic regarding five suicide/attempted suicide cases in a period of one week in Carroll County.

Council voted 6-0 to approve a Site Plan Amendment submitted by Daniel Huffman to allow Cedar Walk Townhouses to remove the 55+ age zoning condition for the development at 1170 Cedar Street.

Under rezoning requests, Dino McDowell, proposing to develop a 13-lot residential

subdivision on his property on Plowshare Road in Ward 1, requested a rezoning of 4.8 acres from R-20 to R-8. City Manager Grizzard stated that with his current zoning, McDowell could build eight homes, but each would require a driveway onto Plowshare Road.

McDowell wishes to build one small cul-de-sac street off of Plowshare Road which he believed would be safer than eight. McDowell also stated the homes will have foam-insulation, granite countertops, siding and sod yards. He stated he would take out as few trees as possible and also plant some trees for beautification of the subdivision. Although his request had been denied by the Planning Committee, the Council, after adding the above stated conditions, voted 6-0 to approve the rezoning request.

Additional rezoning requests approved by the Council were: • 1010 Brumbelow Road from M-1 to C-2, no new construction, remodeling of existing buildings and with stated conditions, for a convenience store • Food Truck Court at 302 South Street, beside Cheers, approval subject to yearly evaluation by mayor and city council

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

House Deck Sealing Deck Cleaning Driveways Pool Area Painting

StarNews

May16, 2021 Page 11

• request for a Food Truck Court at 1101 Alabama Street Citgo was continued for consideration at the next work session, due to possible lack of parking space at that location In other business, council considered ratification of the contract with Carroll County, an Intergovernmental Agreement for Municipal Ad Valorem Tax Collection, to continue through 12/31/2024. Approved 6-0.

In Board appointment, the Board of Development Appeals recommended to reappoint Emily Cole through 4/1/2024.

Approved 6-0.

Council, mayor, and city manager commended Marketing and Communications Director April Saunders and her team for the Saturday, May 1st “Mayfest” celebration, and for what a great success it was.

Councilmember Bridges wanted her constituents to know she is aware of the growing problems with people speeding in her area, and that they should take note of speeders and report to the Carrollton Police Department, while an answer to the problem is being sought.

Council and mayor went into Executive Session, for which the public is excluded, and afterward meeting was adjourned.

COMMERCIAL SERVICES Building Dumpster Area Parking Decks Restaurants Gum Removal Drive Thrus Shopping Center Concrete

Danny’s Pressure Wash

Danny’s Pressure Wash Inc.com Open 7 days a week!

Call 770.947.3499

www.dannyspressurewashinc.com

Southland Insurance Agency

red

nsu &I

sed Any House

n Lice

up

to 2000sq ft CLEANED for ONLY $125.95

With Coupon Only. Some restrictions may apply.

Offer Ends June 12th, 2021

Page 12 May 16, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

KidsPeace Georgia, Bowdon, builds new wing: can now accommodate 60 boys and 20 girls

Pandemic has exacerbated the levels of anxiety of these already at-risk children Executive Director Lou Shagawat, “It’s a really, really difficult industry.”

by Sue Horn From the closings of public schools, great financial losses of small businesses, shutdowns of public facilities, to actual deaths from CoVID-19, the pandemic’s negative effect has also been detrimental to the health and well being of certain members of our population.

Specifically, for those youngsters and teenagers who were already in at-risk environments, their suffering, in many cases, has been exacerbated by the forced sheltering-in-place, by living in already neglectful and/or abusive homes. And, in sad irony, while the needs of these children have became greater, the pool of skilled employees to help them - such as counselors, clinicians, therapists - has become smaller with more and more lesser quality persons applying.

This aspect of the year long pandemic was presented to the Carrollton Kiwanis Club by KidsPeace Georgia Executive Director Lou Shagawat. Shagawat has been at the residential facility in Bowdon, Georgia, since its opening in 2005.

KidsPeace calls itself “The National Center for Kids Overcoming Crisis”, and has worked at that mission since its 1882 humble beginning as a home for orphaned children in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Those original twenty-two children were the start to the logic of caring not just for the physical needs of these youth, but their emotional needs as well, with a goal of guiding them to become mature, caring, and productive adults.

It was with 300 in-crisis children on a waiting list that Georgia Governor Roy Barnes approached KidsPeace in 2002 about bringing their children’s mental health services here.

TO LEARN MORE, CALL JENNIFER at 770-437-7212 KidsPeace has programs and services in 50+ offices nationwide, including, in Georgia, foster care services in Columbus and Fayetteville, and two offices in Griffin and Gwinnett. There are several other residential facilities (like Bowdon) elsewhere in the United States, including Maine, Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania.

Shagawat made a clear point in his presentation, that KidsPeace is not a faith-based program, but KidsPeace Georgia definitely is. The Bowdon facility offers spiritual opportunities, Bible study, and worship events. These are available to any of the teens who wish to participate. The KidsPeace vision is: “To be the premier provider of services to help kids facing crisis by offering exemplary porgrams, operational excellence, and leadership that will insure caregivers everywhere.” Their mission statement is: “To give hope, help, and healing to children facing crisis.”

Shagawat, who has 30+ years experience in the behavorial health field, addressed the club, opening with the statement that this was his first speaking event since the pandemic shutdowns began last spring. And a lot has happened during this time, the soft-spoken director shared.

“The acuity of the children is increasing,” he said, “Five years ago, children with this level and these needs would have been in a psychiatric facility.” But they are now being cared for Lou Shagawat, executive director of KidsPeace Georgia located in Bowdon, and treated at Bowdon.

See KIDSPEACE GEORGIA page 16 joined KidsPeace in 1999, and has been at the Bowdon facility since 2015.

State Rep Tyler Paul Smith “May God Bless The Men And Women Of Our Armed Forces!”

Call me with any concerns or how I can help

678.378.8177 Tylerpaulsmith13@gmail.com

www.starnewsgaonline.com

NEWS RECAP -

from stories on StarNews Online website at www.starnewsgaonline.com Supreme Court rules for Georgia in Florida water wars lawsuit

On April 1, 2021, the Supreme Court ruled in Georgia’s favor in a lawsuit filed by Florida over access to water in the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers.

Florida filed the suit in 2013, claiming that Georgia overuses water from the two rivers, which feed into the Apalachicola River in Florida, ultimately winding up in Apalachicola Bay, where a large portion of Florida’s oyster production occurs. Florida first directed blame on Metro Atlanta, which draws water from Lake Lanier, which is fed by the Chattahoochee, and later at farm use of water from the Flint River in Southwest Georgia. Florida asked the court to place severe water use restrictions on Georgia that would have caused economic harm to Southwest Georgia farms and their communities.

Florida said Georgia’s use resulted in lower water flows, causing increased salinity and resulting in economic damage to the oyster industry.

“Georgia Farm Bureau is pleased with the Supreme Court’s ruling in Georgia’s favor in the lawsuit over access to water from the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers. Farmers in Southwest Georgia could have been devastated by the severe restrictions Florida proposed,” Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall said.

Georgia maintained that the problems with the oysters were the result of overfishing rather than from Georgia’s water use. The case was initially tried by Special Master Ralph Lancaster who recommended that the court deny Florida’s petition, in part because the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which controls the water flow in all

three rivers, was not a party to the case.

The Supreme Court sent the case back to the special master. A second special master, Paul Kelly, was appointed to oversee the trial, and he, too, recommended that Florida’s request be denied. Kelly said Florida had failed to prove its case. Georgia Farm Bureau has supported Georgia’s position in the case.

“The Supreme Court’s unanimous decision is a resounding victory for Georgia and a vindication of years-long effort by multiple governors and attorneys general here in the Peach State to protect our citizens’ water rights,” Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said. “Our state will continue to wisely manage water resources and prioritize conservation, while also protecting Georgia’s economy and access to water.”

overall attendance record for the fair, which was a 5% increase over the previous record of 536,840 attendees in 2016. The 2019 Georgia National Fair also set a single-day attendance record on Oct. 12, 2019, with 96,910 visitors.

March 26th storm damage: 4,000 claims totaling more than $75 million

StarNews

May 16, 2021 Page 13

team is available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every Monday through Friday to help answer any questions regarding insurance policies or to resolve disputes between impacted policyholders and their insurance companies.”

In addition, policyholders can report any suspected fraud to Commissioner King’s Criminal Investigations Division, which is made up of certified and sworn state law enforcement officers who thoroughly investigate a wide variety of crimes and fraudulent insurance schemes.

“Unfortunately, natural disasters like these recent storms always attract bad actors willing to take advantage of the most vulnerable,” continued Commissioner King. “As a former 30+ year law enforcement professional, I have seen far too many examples of these types of crimes. I am fully committed to using all of our available resources to go after these criminals and protect Georgia families.”

Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King announced that, based on data provided

by Georgia insurers, the March 26, 2021 storms in Coweta County and across the Southside have resulted in over 4,000 individual home and auto claims and more than $75 million in total losses.

That number does not include commercial losses and is expected to grow.

“As we continue to gain a better idea of total losses resulting from these destructive storms, it Georgia National Fair/Sunbelt Ag Expo is now more important than ever to let those affected Georgians know of the resources plan to hold 2021 shows in October The Sunbelt Ag Expo and Georgia National available to them from our office,” said Fair are making plans to hold their annual shows Commissioner King. “Our Consumer Services this year. Both shows were canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 Georgia National Fair is scheduled for Oct. 7-17 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry.

Sunbelt Ag Expo officials confirmed April 14 that plans are underway to hold the 2021 Sunbelt Expo Oct. 19-21 at Spence Field in Moultrie.

“As people continue to get their COVID vaccines and as long as people use common sense in abiding by CDC protocols, we’re ready to move forward in October with a great inperson show. Our exhibitors and attendees are ready for an in-person show,” Sunbelt Expo Executive Director Chip Blalock said. “Sunbelt Expo will abide by whatever COVID protocols Since are in place in October to protect our exhibitors 1975 and visitors. We’re excited to be planning for a show!”

Attendance at the 30th Annual Georgia National Fair in 2019 totaled 565,533 over the event’s 11-day run. The 2019 event set a new www.mooresdiscountfurniture.com • Mon-Sat 9-6 • Sun Closed

Stopbyfor GreatSavings!

Moore’s Discount Furniture Moore’s Discount Furniture

980 Carrollton Hwy • Temple, Ga • 770.562.4444

Jones-Wynn “Memorial Day”

Page 14Page May 16 16, 2021 S N2019 ews 11,tar 2019 Star News www.starnewsgaonline.com S tar News ews www.starnewsgaonline.com N ews www.starnewsgaonline.com tar N www.starnewsgaonline.com Page August 16 August 11, Swww.starnewsgaonline.com tar News www.starnewsgaonline.com

OOBITUARIES BITUARIES OOBITUARIES BITUARIES BITUARIES

- WEST GEORGIA FUNERAL HOMES - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMES - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMES - -- AREA -- WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMES - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMES

T

homas mas

OME ME OME

J.J.HoytHoytTThomashomas FUNERAL FUNERALHOME HOME

“Abeautiful beautiful place formemories” memories” “A beautiful place for memories” “A place for Our26-acre 26-acre perpetual carememorial memorial park Our 26-acre perpetual care memorial park park Our perpetual care wasdeveloped developed servearea thisnow areaand nowfor andfor for was developed to serve this was totoserve this area now and generations to come.West Georgia generations to come.West Georgia generations to come.West Georgia Memorial Park divided intobeautiful beautiful Memorial Park is divided into beautiful Memorial Park isisdivided into gardens including ourtraditional traditional up-right gardens including our traditional up-right gardens including our up-right headstone section theGarden Garden ofMemories Memories headstone section in theinin Garden of Memories headstone section the of asas well as our bronze memorial section as well ouras flat bronze memorial section as well our flflatatbronze memorial section and our Mausoleum in the Garden and our in theinGarden andMausoleum our Mausoleum the Garden ofCross Cross and ourFamily Family Estates Garden. of Cross and our Family Estates Garden. of and our Estates Garden.

goaway away way go day, yevery day,day, very utalways always ways ut LMISSED MISSED LSSED R!R!

Those wewe lovelove don’t gogo away Those don’t away They walk beside us us every day,day, They walk beside every Unseen, always Unseen,unheard, unheard,butbut always near, stillstill LOVED, STILL MISSED near, LOVED, STILL MISSED andand VERY DEAR! VERY DEAR!

76 76 as.com

770.459.3676 770.459.3676 www.jhoytthomas.com

“A beautiful place for for memories” “A beautiful place memories”

Our Our 26-acre perpetual carecare memorial parkpark 26-acre perpetual memorial was was developed to serve this this areaarea nownow and and for for developed to serve generations to come.West Georgia generations to come.West Georgia Memorial ParkPark is divided into into beautiful Memorial is divided beautiful gardens including our traditional up-right gardens including our traditional up-right headstone section in the of Memories headstone section in Garden the Garden of Memories as well as our at bronze memorial section as well as flour flat bronze memorial section and and our Mausoleum in the our Mausoleum in Garden the Garden of Cross and and our Family Estates Garden. of Cross our Family Estates Garden.

J.Collins J.J. Collins

J.J.Collins Collins

UNERALHOM HOM UNERAL HOM UNERALHOM HOM EE EE FFUNERAL FFUNERAL

Our funeral home offers a warm, comfortable, familyCREMATION SERVICE & CREMATION SERVICE & CREMATION SERVICE && CREMATION SERVICE &oriented CREMATION SERVICE environment with Funeral Directors Undertakers Funeral Directors & Undertakers Funeral Directors & Undertakers Funeral Directors &&Undertakers Funeral Directors Undertakers traditional &architecture and tasteful interior decor. Our facilities accommodate all types of funerals and memorials large PERSONALIZED FUNERAL &CREMATION CREMATION SERVICES PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES Ga WEST PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & SERVICES 1011 Topaz Lane Villa Rica Ga PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL aca a Ga and small, public orSERVICES private.

WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL 1011 Topaz Lane Villa Rica GaVillaVilla GEORGIA MEMORIAL LOCALLY OWNED OPERATED WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED Douglas Chapel VillaVilla LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED LOCALLY OWNED &&OPERATED Villa Rica Chapel Douglas Chapel LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED RicaRica Chapel Douglas Chapel Douglas Chapel Rica Chapel Rica Chapel Douglas Chapel Chapel Newnan 206South South Carroll Road Villa Rica, Ga30180 30180 4194 Carrollton-Villa Rica Highway 206 206 SouthSouth Carroll RoadRoad Villa548 Rica,Rica, Ga 30180 4194 Carrollton-Villa Rica Highway South Carroll Road VillaVilla Rica, GaGa 30180 41944194 Carrollton-Villa RicaRica Highway Carroll Road Rica, Carrollton-Villa Highway Carroll Villa Ga GA 30180Street 4194 Carrollton-Villa Rica Highway 206206 P.O. Box 1321 Carrollton, Georgia Carrollton, 30117 770-942-2311 P.O. Box 1321 Carrollton, Georgia 770-459-3694 770-942-2311 P.O. P.O. Box Box 1321 Carrollton, Georgia 1321 Carrollton, Georgia 770-459-3694 770-942-2311 770-942-2311 P.O. Box 1321 Carrollton, Georgia 770-459-3694 770-942-2311 770-459-3694 770-459-3694 Phone: (770) 832-7056 770.836.1336 770.836.1336 770.836.1336 770.836.1336 www.jones-wynn.com 770.836.1336 www.jones-wynn.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com www.jones-wynn.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com www.jones-wynn.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com www.jones-wynn.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com www.almonfuneralhome.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com www.westgeorgiamemorial.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com forcomplete complete obituary listings daily gofor to: www.starnewsgaonline.com complete obituary listings daily go go to:to: www.starnewsgaonline.com for complete obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com for obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com for complete obituary listings daily www.starnewsgaonline.com

om as.com

770.459.6090770.459.6090 770.459.6090 770.459.6090

www.jhoytthomas.com

age 71, Tiffanee Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr.,February Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, Shirley F. “Tiff” Alexander, ageage 71,71, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., e, age 71, 71, Dawne Jerry Scott Shedd, 53,53, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., Danny Joe Jones, Jr., Shirley F. Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Jerry Scott Shedd, age Louise Shackleford, age 95, born age November 23, Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, L.A. Dukes, Jr.,age 83,born 6, 1938, died Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr.,53, Edna Redding Allen, ageAlexander, 89,Cook, bornCook, November 20,Master Jerry Scott Shedd, age 947, died age 45, born October 12, 1973, age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday, July 8, 2019 born November 27, 1947, died age 45, born October 12,16, 1973, age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, dieddied age age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Monday, July 8, 2019 947, 45, born October 12, 1973, age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, age 2 months, born May 2019, born November 27, 1947, died age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Monday, July 8, 2019 died Monday, July 8, 2019 age 2 months, born May 16,1925, 2019, Monday, July 8, 2019 dieddied Saturday, May 8, 2021 Tuesday,July April4, 27,2019 2021 1931, died Tuesday, May 4, 2019 2021 died Friday, July 12, died Thursday, David Ronald Simpson, age Sunday, July 14,2019 2019 died Friday, July 12, 2019 died Thursday, July 4, Simpson, 2019 dieddied Friday, July 12, 2019 David Ronald Simpson, age Friday, July 12, died Thursday, July 4,12, 2019 died Thursday, July 4, 2019 2019 Sunday, July 14, 2019 died Friday, July David Ronald age David Ronald Simpson, age died Thursday, July 4, 2019 David Ronald Simpson, John James (Jim) N. Shadinger, Jr., age 78,age born on Jackson Fleming, age 87, died Monday, April 21, Charles Eddie Anderson, ageage 80,92, born April 28, “Marjorie” age 62, James James B. Dean, age 92, Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 1948, died July Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62,62, James B.Lois Dean, ageage 92, Nell Lovvorn, age e age 62, 62, B. Dean, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July James B. Dean, 92, “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age Dwight Bishop, Jr., age James B. Dean, 92,70,“Marjorie” born July 21, 1948, died July 70, born July 21, 1948, died July “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 956, died born September 02, 1926, died July 10,09, 1942, died Wednesday, April 28, 2021 12, 20213,02, 86, born August 3, 1932, died 09, 2019 1941, died Sunday, May02, 2, 2021 born September 28, 1956, died born September 1926, died 86,86, born August 3, 3, 1932, died dieddied bornborn September 02, 1926, died 2019 956, September 1926, died 86, born August 1932, died 86, born August 3, 1932, died born September 28, 1956, died born September 02, 1926, died 09, 2019 09, 2019 born August 1932, died 09, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Zellie Fred Sprewell, age 94, Tuesday, July 9, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Retired Chief Magistrate Judge Richard Gregory Geraldine 86, born July 21, Wednesday, July 10,Sprewell, 2019 Wednesday, July 3,Bowlus, 2019 Zellie Fred Sprewell, ageage 94, Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Gail Anne Jolly age2019 79, born March 18, Wednesday, Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Tuesday, July 9, July 3,North 2019Glaccum, age Zellie Fred Sprewell, 94, Zellie Fred age 94, Wednesday, July 10, 2019 age Zellie Fred Sprewell, 94, n” Bonner, Barry Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born February 28,age 1925, died Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, Barry Bushon age Andra Dixon McGill, 76,76, nner, Bushon Dickerson, age born 28, 1925, died n” Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, Smith, age 87,February born May 19, 1933, died Tuesday, May 4, Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, age born February 28, 1925, died born February 28, 1925, died 1934, diedDickerson, Tuesday, April 27, 2021 1942, died Monday April 26, 2021 Andra Dixon McGill, age born February 28, 1925, died 1943, died 68,born born September 7,1950, 1950, died born October 18, 1941, died Saturday, July 27, 2019died Saturday, July 27, 2019 age 76,76, born June 05, 1943, died 68,October born September 7, 1950, died born October 18, 1941, dieddied 68, born September 7, 1950, died 943, 68, September 7, died born 18, 1941, died born October 18, 1941, died age born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 Saturday, July 27, 2019 born October 18, 1941, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 2021 Shirley Jean 2019 Lee Heard, age 76, born April 25,Lance 1944, Walker, BonnieJuly S. Burriss, age 78, born April 30, 1942, died 019 Friday, 19, 2019 2019 Wednesday, July 17, Daniel age 40, Wednesday, July 10,10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 17,Walker, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, ageage 40,40, 19 Friday, July 19, July 17, 2019 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Wednesday, July 2019 Wednesday, Friday, July 19, 2019 Daniel Lance 40, Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, Wednesday, July 17, 2019 age Daniel Lance Walker, Walter Smith, Jr., age 91, born December 23, 1929, died Saturday, April 20, 2021 Sunday, April 25, 2021 ,e age 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., ageage 53, 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, ageage 84, born September 18,18, 1978, died Bobbie Jean Dodderer, Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr.,Jr., age Eugene Parker Mullis, age John D. Brown, Jr., 84, age 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84,born September 18, 1978, died born September 18, 1978, died Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., born September 1978, died died July born July 9, 1935, died Monday, died Friday, May July 7, 2021 70, born December 31, 1948, died E. Hudgins, agedied 70, Sunday, bornSunday, June December 13, 1950, died Sunday, July 21, 2019 Esther Joan Capes, age 86, born April 23, 1935, died born 18, 1965, died July born July 9, Steven 1935, died Monday, 70, born 31, 1948, died JulyJuly bornborn July 9, 1935, died Monday, 21,21, 2019 died July 9,August 1935, died Monday, 70, born December 31, 1948, died 70, born December 31, 1948, born August 18, 1965, died July born July 9, 1935, died Monday, 21, 2019 July 21, 2019 70, bornJuly December 31, 1948, diedSunday, Sunday, July 2019 July 22, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, 22,2019 2019 July 22, 2019 Ezma Lee Akers Thomas, age Ann 88, Ann born August Sunday, May 2, 2021 Monday, July 8, 2019 Wednesday, April 28, 2021 JulyJuly 22, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” West, 22, Monday, July 8, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann Deborah “Debbie” AnnWest, West,Deborah Monday, July 8, 2019 “Debbie” West, 30, ips Bryce, Bryce, Anna Anna Marsella Fazio, age Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, age 58, died July 22, 2019 Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, age Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, Bryce, Marsella Fazio, age age 58, died July 22, 2019 ps Anna Marsella Fazio, age 1932, diedage Tuesday, May July 4, 2021 Randy LeeLee Nichols, age 66, Randy Nichols, age 66, Marie Jr., Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, age age 58, died July 22, 2019 Susan Ann Moss Merritt, age 35, born December 15, age 58, died July 22, 2019 Alton age born June 23, 1947, Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, 58, died 22, 2019 r1929, 14,1929, 1929, 85,Bruce born onCarr, Jan 1, 73, 1934, died born June 24, 1953, died Friday, Wallace Allen Worthan, age ageage 89, born September 14, 1929, 85, born on Jan 1,died 1934, died born June 24,24, 1953, died Friday, 85, 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Wallace Allen Worthan, 14, born on Jan 1, 1934, died born June 24, 1953, Friday, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, 89, born September 14, 1929, 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Wallace Allen Worthan, age Wallace Allen Worthan, age born June 1953, died Friday, Wallace Allen Worthan, age Grace Todd, age 83, born April 4, 1938,age died Sunday, 1985, died Wednesday, April 21, 2021 died Monday, May 3, 2021 2019 Monday, Monday, July 8, 2019 2019 July 26, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 died Saturday, July 20, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 July 26, 2019 July 8, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 2019 Monday, July 8, JulyJuly 26,Monday, 2019 26, 2019 died Saturday, July 20, 2019 July 8, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 July 26, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 Aprilage 25, 2021 Frances Virginia Chaney Payne, ageCarol 78, born May 7,Chapman, age 80, Harris Harris Griffin Jennings, Sherwin D.Nell Crews, age Jennings, 86, born March 14, Ara Bell D. Griffin Sanders, age 79, Judith 55, Earl Wayne Carden, ageage 80,1935, Harris Jennings, Ara BellJudith D. Sanders, ageage 79, e, age 80, 80, Nell Griffin Carol Judith Chapman, ageage 55,55, Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, AraAra Bell D.Nell Sanders, age 79,79, Bell D. Sanders, age Earl Wayne Carden, 80, Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, Carol Chapman, age Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, Ara Bell D. Sanders, 79,55, Carol Judith Chapman, 938, died age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, born August 06, 1939, died July Irving Lamar Alford Wilborn, ageSunday, 83, born June 14, born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, 1942, died Monday, April 26, 2021 died April 22, 2021 born October 29, 1938, died age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, born August 06, 1939, died July dieddied age age 83,Thursday, died Tuesday, July 2, born June 24, 1964, died 38, 83, died Tuesday, July 2, born August 06, 1939, died July bornage August 06, Tuesday, 1939, died born October 29, 1938, died 83, died JulyJuly 2,born June 24,24, 1964, died Sunday, born June 1964, died Sunday, born August 06, 1939, died July born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, 2019 24, 2019 July 7, 2019 1937, died Wednesday, Friday, 28,28, 2019 2019 Fred Julian Payton, age 79, July born February 13, 1942, Elizabeth AnnJune Davidson, age2019 73, born January 21,2019 24, 2019 2019 July 7, 2019 2019 24,24, 2019 Friday, June 2019 7,2019 2019 July 7, 2019 24, July 7, 2019April 28, 2021 Rhonda Musick Wright, age 55, born January 3, died Friday, April 23, 2021 1948, died Thursday, April 22, 2021 1966, died Saturday, May 1, 2021

Remembering & Honoring Our Heroes Adouble double dose fun?…..YES! A double dosedose of fun?…..YES! And All Who Serve AThis double dose of fun?…..YES! Asummer dose ofoffun?…..YES! A double of fun?…..YES! Disney cruisers will enjoy not one, This summer Disney cruisers will enjoy not one, This summer Disney cruisers will enjoy not one,

Thisbutsummer Disney cruisers Cay! will enjoy one, two stops at Castaway Whatnot makes but two stops at Castaway Cay! What makes but two stops at Castaway Cay! What makes Castaway Cay so special? There are uniquely Cay soCay special?

Thereadults, are uniquely Castaway so for special?

There are uniquely professionalCastaway designed areas kids, and families! ***Magical Vacation Planner is afamilies! professional sional professional ***Magical Vacation Planner is a professional designed areas for kids, adults, and families! designed areas for kids, adults, and he ultimate Explore the island by bike, choose a new water concierge service that provides the ultimate mate he ultimate concierge service that provides the ultimate Explore the island by bike, choose a new water Explore the island by bike, choose a new water or guests adventure, customer soak up service the sunexperience on a white sandy for sandy guests rts guests adventure, soak up the sun on a white sandy adventure, soak up the sun on a white customer service experience for guests island beach, and so much more!

Everything tinations, various Disney destinations, islandisland beach, andtraveling so more!

Everything beach, and soto much more!

Everything ns, inations, traveling to day various Disney destinations, you need for amuch perfect at the beach is ve resorts. you need cruise vacations, and all-inclusive for a perfect day at the beach is you need for a perfect day at the beach isresorts. erts. resorts. cruise vacations, and all-inclusive included, even an all you can eat buffetresorts. lunch! included, even even an allan youall buffet lunch!lunch! included, you can eat buffet Contact mecan foreat your FREE, Contact me for your FREE, Contact me for your FREE, no obligation quote no obligation quotequote no obligation

This summer Disney cruisers will enjoy not one, but two stopsstops at Castaway Cay!Cay! WhatWhat makes but two at Castaway makes Castaway Cay Cay so special?

There are are uniquely Castaway so special?

There uniquely designed areasareas for kids, adults, and and families! designed for kids, adults, families!

Explore the island by bike, choose a new waterwater Explore the island by bike, choose a new adventure, soaksoak up the on aonwhite sandy adventure, up sun the sun a white sandy island beach, and so much more!

Everything island beach, and so much more! Everything you you needneed for aforperfect day day at the is is a perfect at beach the beach included, even an all you can eat buffet lunch! included, even an all you can eat buffet lunch!

Contact me for FREE, Contact meyour for your FREE, no obligation quote no obligation quote

Discount For Veterans & Military Year Around!

ING FEATUR

TS

PRODUC

AUTO REPAIR AUTO MAINTENANCE GREAT DISCOUNTS FREE ESTIMATES

Becky Gentry Becky Becky Gentry Becky Gentry BeckyGentry Gentry Travel Agent Travel Agent Travel Agent Travel Agent Travel Agent BRAKE SERVICES • TUNE-UPS • TIRE ROTATIONS • BELTS, HOSES, FUEL FILTER REPLACEMENTS 404-291-1187 404-291-1187 404-291-1187 404-291-1187

404-291-1187

HARRY T’S CAR WASH & LUBE 730 Bankhead Hwy • Carrollton, Ga

magicalvacationplanner.com b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com gicalvacationplanner.com magicalvacationplanner.com b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com

770-836-1515

Serving Carroll County & Surrounding Area For Over 25 Years!

www.starnewsgaonline.com

NEWS RECAP -

from stories on StarNews Online website at www.starnewsgaonline.com Newspaper Association Managers creates nationwide website for Public Notices/Legals

To assist the public with easily accessing legal notices nationwide, Newspaper Association Managers (NAM) has created USALegalNotice. com. The website provides direct access to 47 public notice websites from across the country, which are operated by state newspaper associations. Notices include foreclosures, public hearings, financial reports, ordinances and resolutions, among other government proceedings.

Beth Bennett is the executive director of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. Her staff currently oversees the production of the website.

“Public notices are a very important part of a newspaper’s identity. We are chronicling the history of our communities,” she said. “The industry works very hard to maintain the right to publish all these notices in our states…all of us are always fighting off legislation each year that’s introduced to take away these notices from newspapers.”

More recently, governments have argued that publishing public notices in newspapers was a cost they wanted to remove from their budgets.

They also argue that since they have their own websites, they can host this kind of content themselves, so there is no reason to pay to place the notices in newspapers. There is also talk among governments about finding a platform that can be used on a statewide basis; however, the state newspaper associations are already doing it for them at no additional cost.

As a result, this has been an important topic for NAM members. Following discussions regarding how to promote this public service, the organization decided to create a platform that would connect all the public notice websites into one central location. Visitors select a state to go directly to the public notice website. When USALegalNotice.com officially launched in January, Bennett’s staff asked each state association to provide a link to the website on their landing pages and notify members of the service.

The purpose of the website is twofold, Bennett said. First, it’s important to be able to tell government that they are receiving “two for the price of one” (a print and digital placement).

And second, individuals are not going to peruse government websites, so placing notices there would be a static placement; however, publishing in a newspaper would actually push the information out. This is an important message for the media industry to continually promote, she explained.

“The work that the individual states do with their public notice sites is really great and it’s important work. There’s a lot of time and effort that’s put into making sure that these sites are out there, and that the public knows that they’re there for them to use,” Bennett said. “The USA Legal Notice site just brings all of those sites together in one place (and) makes it really simple for the user to navigate from state to state.”

Wave of new newspapers sue Google and Facebook for profiting directly off local news sources from press release Fitzsimmons Law & E&P Staff Publishers of 125 newspapers in 11 states filed or announced lawsuits against Google and Facebook on Monday claiming the tech giants have unlawfully monopolized the digital advertising market and engaged in an illegal secretive deal, nicknamed “Jedi Blue,” to thwart competition.

Fourteen complaints were filed or announced by publishers from Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Mississippi, New Jersey, Indiana, Missouri, Maryland and

Delaware. The claims follow a pioneering January 2021 antitrust suit against Google and Facebook filed by HD Media, a West Virginiabased newspaper company that publishes the Pulitzer Prize winning Charleston Gazette-Mail and (Huntington) Herald-Dispatch.

Among those filing Monday is AIM Media, led by CEO Jeremy Halbreich, a veteran newspaper executive who previously served as board chairman and CEO of Sun-Times Media, publisher of the Chicago Sun-Times along with seven other daily newspapers and 40 weekly newspapers in the Chicago region; founder and chairman of American Consolidated Media, publisher of 110 daily and weekly newspapers in 10 states; and ex-president and general manager of the Dallas Morning News. AIM Media Texas, AIM Media Midwest and AIM Media Indiana are among the plaintiffs in Monday’s filings who collectively publish approximately 50 newspapers in four states.

“As found by recent investigations conducted by both federal and state agencies, Google and Facebook have monopolized the digital advertising market and restricted the monetization of local news by local news organizations,” Halbreich said. “This has had a dramatic impact on the revenues and resources available for local news organizations. These monopolistic practices must come to an end. It is no longer appropriate for these two platforms to profit directly from local news while publishers increasingly struggle.”

In October 2020, the U.S. House Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law issued a 470-page report detailing Google’s and Facebook’s conduct in the digital advertising market and the profound effects it has had upon America’s free and diverse press, particularly the newspaper industry. The Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and numerous state attorneys general also have filed antitrust claims against Google or Facebook or both.

Newspapers have been acutely impacted: Advertising revenue plunged from $49 billion in 2006 to $16.5 billion in 2017, threatening the existence of local news, according to the complaints.

“The freedom of the press is not at stake,” the complaints state, “the press itself is at stake.”

Nearly 30,000 newspaper jobs disappeared— a 60% industrywide decline—from 1990 to 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Almost 20% of all newspapers have closed in the past 15 years, and “countless others have become shells—or ‘ghosts’—of themselves,” according to a recent report by the University of North Carolina.

“Newspapers are essential to the functioning of our democracy and there is no replacement for a well-informed citizenry,” said Paul Farrell Jr., an attorney for the newspaper publishers.

“This is a fight worth fighting.”

Other publishers filing suit on Monday: Brown County Publishing Company, Inc. and Multi Media Channels, LLC; Clarksburg Publishing Company, d.b.a. WV News; Coastal Point LLC; Eagle Printing Company; Ecent Corporation; Emmerich Newspapers, Inc.; Flag Publications, Inc.; Gale Force Media, LLC; and Journal Inc. In addition, WKTimes LLC, and Pinnacle Communications, publisher of Northeast News, have announced their intention to file similar suits in the near future.

The newspaper publishers are represented by a national coalition of attorneys: Paul Farrell Jr. and Mike Fuller of Farrell & Fuller, LLC; Paul Geller, Stuart Davidson, David Mitchell and Steve Jodlowski of Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP; Clayton Fitzsimmons, Bob Fitzsimmons and Mark Colantonio of Fitzsimmons Law Firm PLLC; and John Herman and Serina Vash of Herman Jones LLP. Those seeking more information, can contact: Fitzsimmons Law Firm PLLC, Kendra Cottis, (304) 277-1700 kendra@fitzsimmonsfirm.com

StarNews

May16, 2021 Page 15

Journey Fellowship Baptist Where: 409 Center Point Rd, Bremen GA 30110 770-537-2300 journeyfbc.com

Time: 6:30-8:30 Classes for Babies - Adults

To those who courageously gave their lives and those who bravely fight today...

YOU!Store TheTHANK UPS

Special Thank you to: SGT Trey Herndon WO3 Samuel Curry LT Col Michael Washington (retired) for your service to our great country

Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 6:30 pm •Saturday 9:30 am - 3:00 pm •Sunday 10am-3pm

In McIntosh Plaza near Publix 1109 SOUTH PARK ST • STE 504 CARROLLTON, GA 30117

store4882@theupsstore.com

(678) 796-1002 Fax (678) 796-9119

www.theupsstorelocal.com/4882

Turner Pharmacy

Page 16 May 16, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

KIDSPEACE GEORGIA from page 12 When Shagawat refers to the “acuity” of one of their residents, he is describing the child’s level of severity of mental or emotional trauma.

Correctly identifying that level determines the correct staffing/nursing assignments, along with appropriate therapy/counseling.

Then Shagawat described the current conditions of finding and hiring quality caregivers to work at the 80 bed facility, boys and girls ages 12 to 17.

“Today’s generation have a real lack in values, judgment, and work ethic,” he relayed. “It is harder now to find quality employees. The children’s needs are rising while the staff’s abilities are lowering.”

In fact, KidsPeace Georgia is actively seeking licensed mental health clinicians who have a master’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. The facility opened a new wing that will house 20 girls, that is, as soon as they can find and hire quality staff. (The original facility has 60 beds for boys, and with the new wing, brings the total to 80.) Interested and qualified persons are asked to, simply, call Jennifer at 770-437-7212.

Shagawat said, “These children have been exposed to neglect, physical abuse, sexual

Acuity | 1. Acuteness; the level of severity of an illness. This is one of the parameters considered in patient classification systems that are designed to serve as guidelines for allocation of nursing staff, to justify staffing decisions, and to aid in long-range projection of staffing and budget.

abuse, domestic violence, and even sex trafficking, resulting in high levels of anxiety and anger issues. Some of their families are also struggling due to the pandemic.”

The average length of stay is around eight to 14 months. As to rate of success, Shagawat said, “Unfortunately, everything is put on the kid. It is up to the child to be successful [not have to return]. The families do not have to participate in any of the programs.” And in the case of one young boy, Shagawat said he completed his programs and therapy successfully, but the only choice was to return to the home where sexual abuse was ongoing.

Currently, KidsPeace in Bowdon is caring for 45 teens ages 12 to 17. 35 open beds are available and the names on the waiting list will fill these beds immediately. That is, just as soon as enough mature, qualified, responsible, and caring adults are found and hired. Call Jennifer: 770-437-7212.

COMMISSIONER CHANCE from page 19 Office, the Sheriff, Clerk of Court and the list a wise decision to outpace the inflation of con- goes on. It was the recommendation to the struction which in turn saves the tax payers BOC from the sub-committee that, should money in the end while delivering the facilities SPLOST be approved by voters, that the build out of the top floor should be given serious for use at a much faster speed.

In 2013, voters of Carroll County passed in a consideration to help centralize the vast numreferendum they would like for a new County ber of institutions and departments that comprise the total makeup of Administration Facility to It was the recommendation court services and their supbe provided for an ever to the BOC from the sub- porting personnel offices. growing community. The committee that, should For these reasons, the BOC Board of Commissioners (BOC) at that time had SPLOST be approved by will look closely at a possimade several good faith voters, that the build out of ble fifth floor build-out during this SPLOST cycle. steps towards accomplishthe top floor should be given Villa Rica’s Fire Station ing that goal, but several situational factors at that serious consideration to help Number 9 is an historic time halted the process, centralize the vast number of landmark in the City of most notably the multi- institutions and departments Gold, serving both city and unincorporated residents of story leaking inside the new that comprise the total the community. First built in courthouse that eventually was tied up through legal makeup of court services and 1981, the facility has long processes until its ultimate their supporting personnel been outdated and is underremedies that are nearing offices. For these reasons, sized to adequately serve completion as we speak. the BOC will look closely at a the firefighters who are The current BOC, which possible fifth floor build-out housed here including equipment storage needs. includes some members from the original time during this SPLOST cycle. I’m extremely grateful to frame when the item was first approved by vot- the chairman and the entire BOC for allowing ers in 2013, has agreed this is an item the board this much needed project to be placed as a priority for this cycle of approved SPLOST funds. will now take seriously to move forward.

Handling thousands of calls per year, Station While the new County Administration Facility could be any number of things that are 9 is the busiest of all stations in the county and not decided upon, such as a new build on cur- has one of the most unique service structures in rent or future land purchase, the use of an that it serves city residents, county residents existing building or a purchase and remodel of and responds to numerous calls due to its proxan existing commercial structure, the Board imity on Interstate 20. Fire Chief Padgett has will work together as a team to make the best also been a vocal supporter of this much decision when the time is right that serves both needed facility enhancement and has been the financial integrity of Carroll County and instrumental in working with the full board and delivery of practical services to the community. administration to bring about the plans to move Chairman Michelle Morgan tasked a sub- forward for service to our community. I cannot committee that was comprised of myself and thank the command staff and all the firefighters Commissioners McClendon and Fuller to who lay their life on the line each day enough evaluate facility needs of offices such as the for all their team work in serving to keep our current public defender, court services and per- communities safe.

The voters of Carroll County appreciate and sonnel offices both inside the courthouse and other locations that also included taking a recognize the work they do and were obviously closer look at the top fifth floor that is currently supportive as I presented two separate Town Hall meetings to educate District 2 on the past unfinished.

After a several month evaluation process, accomplishments and the future plans to wisely the committee reported to the full Board of spend tax payer funds. With estimates between Commissioners our findings that included 30% and 40% of SPLOST funds being generdetailed discussions with various institutions ated from residents outside of Carroll County, such as the chief Judge of the Superior Court, this is an extremely practical manner in which the District Attorneys office, Public Defenders to realize capital improvements.

Drainage Work-Sod Irrigation Repair & Install

Barnett Barnett Irrigation Services, Inc.

Irrigation

We get busy so you don’t have to!

Owner: Paul Barnett 404-787-3960 • 770-489-0347 BarnettIrrigations@gmail.com

www.barnettirrigationservices.com

J Best Hair Voted Best Salon!

Poppi

We Appreciate ALL Of Our Military

770.456.8358

227 South Carroll Road Villa Rica

Tues & Wed: 9am-6pm•Thurs: 9am-8pm Fri. 9am-5pm•Sat: 9am-3pm

Lifetime Chiropractic

Need BODY WORK? Lifetime Chiropractic can straighten you out!

120 Prospector Drive Villa Rica

770-459-5070

www.lifetimechiropracticpc.com

Hours: Mon - Wed & Thursday 10am-12am & 4pm - 6pm

www.starnewsgaonline.com

us from the perils that will challenge our families, world, and our humanity.

We are facing an enemy that is desirous for unity to be abandoned; and the new philosophy is this sense of isolationism to reign supreme in the hearts and minds of every person. The greatest victory for our enemy is for us to fail in the area of unity. He knows that unity is a weapon of mass destruction that renders him utterly powerless.

Unity is in the DNA of any successful

corporation, athletic team, and family. What is in our DNA if we are experiencing consistent failure? Are we distancing ourselves from our vital team members? Every part of our creative being needs every member functioning correctly if our physical body is to perform in a healthy manner.

Therefore, we cannot allow disunity to attach itself, because it can produce an unhealthiness that will inevitably cause sickness and failure.

We are a united people who win when we all work together and develop relationships where we realize that everyone is important.

ERNIE REYNOLDS from page 22 urgency, so as to not make me feel alarmed, she only pleaded for me to “Come, Ernie, come” - hoping I would really drop everything and rush to the hospital. How I wish I would have! I will always regret not getting there in time - and so regret imagining what she went through - alone - as her life ebbed out its final breath.

So - on Mother’s Day - she is gone. I cannot talk to her, she cannot tell me her hopes or fears, I cannot help her with life or a leaky faucet or a loose latch on the cabinet door - or

SENATOR DUGAN from page 19 increase our rates of adoption and show appreciation to the families and individuals who have already championed the success of children.

However, we did not want our commitment to children to stop at tax incentives, so we continued our efforts by providing foster care and adoption higher education benefits.

We are including a waiver of tuition and fees for qualifying foster and adopted students, providing these students plus homeless students with in-state tuition at institutions of the University System of Georgia (USG) and the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), and provide eligible students with post-secondary tuition waivers and eligibility for waivers of tuition, fees, and testing costs to obtain a GED from TCSG. Community Protection We’ve pushed several efforts to improve the safety and security of our communities. In these measures include recourse and protections for people who have suffered from human trafficking. Now, victims can change portions of their identity for personal protection and sue perpetrators in civil courts, so

additional damages can be pursued. We have changed portions of our Citizen’s Arrest laws.

We still allow security officers, private investigators, and off-duty officers to detain someone they believe has committed a crime and also allow law enforcement officers to make arrests outside their jurisdictions.

These changes will eliminate the abuse of citizens’ arrest statutes with the hopes of eliminating another atrocities, like the instance of Ahmaud Arbery in South Georgia, from ever happening in this state again.

Freight and Logistics Expansion I have long been a proponent and believer in the expansion of freight and logistics. Our capacity to create and move goods effectively is a primary driver of economic expansion in Georgia. We hope to aide in our development by creating the Georgia Commission on ECommerce and Freight Infrastructure, expand eligible expenditures for the Georgia Freight Railroad Program, encouraging Public Private Partnerships (PPP) for transportation projects, and dedicate funds for freight and logistics projects.

Georgia will now create a comprehensive, strategic business plan to develop state-wide

freight and logistics infrastructure in order for this state to remain economically competitive in the freight and logistics industry. This will require the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to enhance mobility and safety, promote economic development, and increase the quality of life and general welfare of the public when making funding decisions. GDOT will also revise the procedure for interviewing and ranking respondents to requests for proposals to participate in public private partnerships.

These highlights are just a scratch of the efforts made in this legislative cycle. I hope to continue improving the lives of Georgians. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, reach out to my office at (404) 6567872 or email me at mike.dugan@senate.ga.gov.

Mike Dugan currently serves as the State Senator for Senate District 30, including Carroll, Paulding and Douglas counties. He is the Majority Leader of the State Senate and is a member of the Administrative Affairs, Appropriations, Assignments, Ethics, Government Oversight, Redistricting, Rules, and Transportation committees.

HARRY T. PITTS from page 20

in Local News

P.O BOX 1440•Bremen, GA 30110 T: 770-537-0840•F: 770-406-2324 www.1440thetrain.com

help her with some mix-up with her power bill or some problem with her car. I cannot bring her a present or buy her lunch or just hug her and let her know I love her. She cannot see her grandchildren - or the woman and man they have grown into, as they are now 30 & 33 years old. She cannot see her first greatgrandchild, born just a few months ago. Only memories of her remain.

So - for all you guys and gals out there - you may be busy with your life, you may find it interruptive that your mom or dad asks for your help with some problem or situation they need you for, you may always have other things to do and not find much time to spend (or, better yet, “invest”) with your mom or dad.

I get that. I was there. But please, I implore you, please be there as much as you can. Please welcome the interruption within reason, please help them anytime you can, please reach out and let them know you love them.

There will come a time when you cannot.

You will not want to hear the call replaying in your mind, when they called for you to “Come, [your name], come!” and you failed to come and be there for them. May the love of family be held dear to your heart. Be there for each other. Hold each other up. Invest in each other.

Help each other run the race of life.

I hope this Mother’s Day was dear and special. For those of you whose mom or dad is here, I hope you held each other tight and told of your love for each other. For those of you whose mom or dad is gone, I know the loss you feel - firsthand - and I hope your memories of them are dear and special. Know that, one day, we’ll be there too. And I hope your family is close - both now and then. It’s a worthwhile investment.

(As always, I enjoy being your 5th District County Commissioner. Please feel free to call me anytime at 770-851-6215.)

NEW ROOF?

WGMI 1330 Jerry Segal WGMI IS West Georgia & East Alabama's station for the best in Southern Gospel music 24/7!!

No other station in the West GA / East AL area plays as much Southern Gospel music as WGMI 1440 The Train!

From the classic groups of the past such as the Cathedrals, the Hinsons, to the chart toppers of today such as the Kingdom Heirs, The Talleys, Brian Free and Assurance, Jason Crabb and all the rest!

We also air your favorite shows such as Gaither Homecoming Radio, Southern Gospel Breezes and more!

Tune in today and tell your family, friends, coworkers and fellow church members to listen to the all new WGMI 1440 The Train!

May 16, 2021 Page 17

Time for a

AM

Listen to WGMI 1440 THE TRAIN easily on your phone or other mobile device!

Simply download the TuneIn Radio app and select 1440 The Train!

Available for Android, iPhone, as well as the iPod Touch & iPad, and other tablets!

Look in the Google Play store or iTunes now!

StarNews

DKS

We take pride in providing reasonable pricing while offering the finest quality in materials, workmanship and most of all ethical treatment of all our clients David Smith Owner

We specialize in c® shingles with Scotchgard®

FREE Estimates!

24-Hour Emergency Service Over 35 Years of Experience!

WE HANDLE ALL TYPES OF ROOFING, INCLUDING: •Residential & Commercial •Gutter Replacement •Gutter Guard Installation •Chimney Caps & Repairs •Fascia & Soffit Repairs & Leak Repairs •Storm & Hall Damage

404-735-8440

www.dksroofing.com

Page 18 May 16, 2021

StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

COMMENTARY

Page 19 May 16, 2021

StarNews / StarNews Online www.starnewsgaonline.com

“Not just what happened, but what matters”

SUSAN M. HORN

EDITOR/PUBLISHER ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: WAYNE REYNOLDS REPORTER:

GRAPHICS DESIGNER: SHERRY REYNOLDS

BRANDON KERR JANICE DANIEL

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

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

P.O. Box 680 Carrollton, GA 30112

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

© 2021 Palindrome Enterprises

dba StarNews / StarNews Online

Yes, we are moving out of the pandemic: hats - and masks - off to our governor, Tanner Health System, and every healthcare worker in our nation

Enough of us have taken a CoVID-19 vaccine, that, although not yet considered to be herd immunity level, mask wearing is slowly going the way of pantyhose yesterday’s fashion. And I’ve noticed that if social distancing is not observed in a public conversation, it’s seemingly quite daringly intimate. StarNews has reported EDITOR/ PUBLISHER our CoVID statistics regularly and below are the May 10th numbers for Carroll County and the State of Georgia: Carroll County total positive cases reported: 7430 Deaths: 131 Georgia total positive cases reported: 886,723 Deaths: 17,702 For Carroll County, between March 30th and May 10th (41 days), we had two (2) deaths reported from CoVID-19. Carroll County’s day for most cases was December 10th: 147 testing positive. We have had only 55 new cases in the last two weeks. Our state’s peak day for positive cases was January 8, 2021: 10,218. Two weeks to the day after Christmas Day. No coincidence at all for this illness that has a 14 day incubation period.

Governor Brian Kemp’s most recent emergency orders continue his no mask mandate, but does recommend the use. There are those with certain health conditions that makes them vulnerable to becoming more seriously ill from CoVID than other healthier people. So, be mindful and courteous of who you are around concerning mask use. Kemp was one of the first governors in the nation to push us in the right direction towards reopening our economy last summer. And he has stayed on top of this, all while taking care of the usual daily business of running a state.

Tanner Health System longtime CEO Loy Howard (hired in 1996) has shown time and again that we the public can trust we will be informed and up to date on health issues and state of the art healthcare options. To date, Tanner Health System has provided and administered 21,000+ doses of a CoVID-19 vaccine. And an unknown number of citizens have been vaccinated as private physicians, local pharmacies, and even grocery stores have been offering a CoVID vaccine for months now.

A grateful and humble thank you is offered to every healthcare worker who provided care, help, and hope during the unfolding and wicked spread of this great unknown called coronavirus. Cases are dwindling, as are deaths.

If you haven’t taken a vaccine yet, please consider it. I have had my first shot, with my second one scheduled this week. This vaccine (like the flu shot I have gotten every year for the past ten years or so) will not prevent me from getting CoVID-19 (just as the flu shot doesn’t prevent you from getting the flu) but it will prevent me from dying from it by reducing the severity of the symptoms (just like the flu shot lessens the serious risks).

The end is not in sight out there somewhere, by golly, the end is here and has begun! Hats - and masks - off to our governor, Tanner Health System, and our healthcare workers!

County Clerk / Executive Director dilemma: Our story front page lays out a serious problem concerning a county job posting. My space is running short here, so I will cut to the point: that job cannot be a dual job of both county clerk duties and executive director duties because the county clerk is hired and fired by a vote of the board of commissioners AND chairman, and an executive director is hired and fired at the will of the chairman ALONE. They must be two separate jobs so as to follow ACCG guidelines.

Another point: our current county clerk - who is out on medical leave and will be retiring - DOES have both of those job duties (almost 20 years). This is NOT a reason to continue with this flawed setup. NOW is the time to separate the duties. The county has an overflowing Cash Reserve. Separate the jobs and hire TWO people. And, definitely CUT THE PAY of the Executive Director. $90,000 is TOO much to pay for someone doing mirror duties of the chair who is ALREADY getting paid $110,000+ to carry out those duties.

SUE

HORN

The 2021 Georgia Legislative Session in review The 2021 convening of the Georgia General Assembly came to a close Wednesday, March 31. This was my third session as the Majority Leader, and in many ways, the most unique session I have been a part of.

Accommodating a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic and weighing the needs of the state proved to be challenging, but my colleagues and I came together to create legislation that positively impacts the lives of all Georgians.

Here are some notable pieces of legislation we took action on this session: Election Integrity Act of 2021 I’ll be writing a longer piece soon on this topic, but election reform was at the forefront of our efforts this year.

A few changes we made include: the addition of early in-person voting days (including mandated weekend days), we are now requiring ID for voter registration and ballot submission for mail-in ballots, we are adding penalties for line warming and voter

SPLOST

In March, Carroll County voters overwhelmingly approved the continuation of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax which has been a source of funding capital projects since 1987. SPLOST is applicable within both municipalities and the unincorporated areas of the county and will run consecutively for six years.

The county, through its professional staff and conversations with various institutions, felt that projecting a zero percent growth pattern was appropriate for conservative planning considering the uncertain economic patterns that the nation continues to work through during this time of COVID. Those numbers are estimated at approximately $119 million countywide including municipality portions, whereas the unincorporated Carroll County Board of Commissioners would receive approximately $73 million.

Those categories presented on the

MIKE

DUGAN STATE SENATOR(R)

Senate Majority Leader

mikedugan@senate.ga.gov 404-463-2478

solicitation while waiting in line to vote, ballots must now be posted on secure voting paper, and our state will now be required to enroll in a national voter registration system. These are some of the more notable changes we made, but I will explain more in a future posting.

Income Tax Reduction Tax Relief Act of 2021 We have continued to be good stewards of our state revenues. In addition to adding over $150 million

CLINT

CHANCE District 3 Carroll County Commissioner

P.O. Box 323, Villa RIca, GA 30180 404-313-4990 cchance@carrollcountyga.com

referendum included but are not limited to; roads, street, bridges, sidewalks, transportation, public works facilities & equipment, public safety and fire department facilities and equipment, administrative facilities and equipment, recreation, parks facilities and equipment, judicial facilities and equipment, community impact and economic development, agricultural projects, farmland and watershed protection.

There are three major capital pro-

to our reserve fund, we are increasing the standard deduction for Georgia tax filings. In the case of a single taxpayer or a head of household, we are increasing the deduction from $4,600 to $5,400. In the case of a married taxpayer filing a separate return, we are increasing the deduction from $3,000 to $3,550. In the case of a married couple filing a joint return, we are increasing the deduction from $6,000 to $7,100.

This new deduction amount will generate an estimated $140 million savings for Georgians each year.

Adoption Reform Adoption is something I care deeply about. The General Assembly joins me and has placed an incredible amount of value on giving children the opportunity to succeed, regardless of circumstance. We are increasing the adoption tax credit amount from $2,000 to $6,000. Our hope is to See SENATOR DUGAN page 17 jects that I would like to focus on that are facility related that have been discussed as priorities during this planning process of creating the referendum. The Villa Rica Fire Station (not an additional facility to the fleet but a replacement of the current station #9), a county administration building and the build out of the current vacant top floor at the (new) courthouse are three projects that I’m hopeful will move forward as priorities over time.

The Board voted to ask voters within the referendum to approve $40 million in bonds in which a portion of that is inclusive of other municipalities within Carroll County also. Bond market rates are extremely low at this point while construction costs continue to escalate at a very quick pace.

The thought process is to build some of these projects which are already needed through the issuance of bonds so that the county is hopefully making a wise decision to outpace the inflaSee COMMISSIONER CHANCE page 15

What you need to know about the Restaurnt Revitalization Fund The restaurant industry has been among the hardest-hit sectors during the economic downturn stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the Georgia Restaurant Association, the industry has suffered more than $250 billion in losses and the closing of more than 110,000 restaurants – 4,000 of which are in Georgia.

To help bring jobs back and revive the industry, the American Rescue Plan established the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant program at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

The RRF will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemicrelated revenue loss up to $10 million per business and no more than $5 million per physical location. The minimum award amount is $1,000. SBA will specifically set aside $5 billion for food businesses earning not more than $500,000 per year; $4 billion to midsized venues taking in $501,000 to

TERRI

DENISON DIRECTOR Georgia District Office of the Small Business Administration

$1.5 million annually; and $500 million to establishments making under $50,000. Here are the top things to know about the Restaurant Revitalization Fund: What type of entities are eligible?: Restaurants, food trucks, food stands, food carts, caterers, bars, lounges, taverns, inns, bakeries, brewpubs, breweries, microbreweries, wineries and distillers are eligible.

Bakeries, inns, brewpubs, distilleries, and wineries must have onsite sales to the public that comprise at least 33 percent of gross receipts.

Franchisees that meet all program requirements are also eligible and

must be listed on the SBA Franchise Directory.

What can the funds be used for?: Eligible entities who receive the RRF grant may use the funds for specific expenses such as payroll costs, mortgage payments, rent payments, utilities, maintenance, supplies, food and beverage expenses, operating expenses, and construction of outdoor seating.

Funds must be spent on expenses incurred between February 15, 2020 and March 11, 2023.

How do eligible entities apply?: Once the application opens, eligible entities may apply directly via the application portal at: www.restaurants.sba.gov Additionally, entities may apply through SBA-recognized point of sale restaurant partners including Clover®, NCR Corporation, Square, and Toast. Applications can also be submitted via telephone at (844) 2798898.

Page 20 May 16, 2021

StarNews

COMMENTARY

www.starnewsgaonline.com

The Yin and Yang of our growing nation

DAN

PAK

vunc61@gmail.com

In the 1970s and 1980s, many Southeast Asian countries were involved with the Rural Electrification Projects. I visited them to develop the market for electric conductors. One day, I was invited to dinner by the local businessmen. After a while, a man asked me, “How can you live in a country like America? You get discriminated, harassed, and even killed!” I didn’t miss a beat and shot back, “Friend! You have been reading too many papers and watching too many videos!” As it turned out, he had never been to the United States.

The private news media are a profit seeking business enterprise. When the news reporting focuses more on the tragic side, the printed or

audio-visual media grabs the attention of the consumers. The more sensational reporting sells more papers or the airwaves. The negative Yin works better than the positive Yang in the mass media business. It is, therefore, no surprise that the “compassionate and caring” part of the American people’s goodwill takes the back seat. The end result is the distorted picture of the country.

All of the above is not to deny the existence of discrimination, harassment, and even death of the minority in this country. They are real and they are here now. Less than a week later from March 16 when a lone gunman shot and killed 8 people in the Atlanta area, another mass murder took place at Boulder, Colorado on March 22 that killed 10 people. I can almost see and hear the sneering man of so long ago, when I was traveling in the Asian country, saying, “What did I tell you?”

When we Asians talk about a country’s history, we usually think in terms of the millennium. The United States is a young, still growing country with less than two and a half-century history. Moreover, it is a country of multi-

national, multi-cultural democracy. What we are seeing is presumably the growing pain of a young country. Our elected officials are grappling with the difficult task of how to prevent further violence in the country. Meantime, there is a ground swelling, voluntary goodwill of average people from all over the United States. Following is the snippet of a heartwarming true story of support for the victim’s family.

Hyun Jung Grant was one of the victims of the Atlanta spa shootings Tuesday, leaving behind her two children. “She was a single mother who dedicated her whole life to providing for my brother and I,” her son Randy Park wrote on a GoFundMe page after the shooting.

“It is only my brother and I in the United States. The rest of my family is in South Korea and are unable to come.” Now, the GoFundMe page dedicated to helping her two sons has raised more than $2.5 million as of Saturday evening. “I don’t know how any word I write here will ever convey how grateful and blessed I am to receive this much support,” Park wrote in an update on the page Friday.

A page for Delaina Yaun has collected nearly $110,000, and one for survivors of Paul Michels has raised more than $61,000. A page for Yong Yue’s family drew more than $115,000. A page for the husband of Soon Chung Park has raised just over $15,000. And a page to benefit Jami Webb, daughter of Xiaojie Tan, has brought in more than $21,000.

The donations will help pay for travel for family members who would otherwise be unable to attend funerals.

Here is another story testifying to the outpouring goodwill of the people in this country at another time: Following the 2017 attack on the Las Vegas Strip that killed 58 people and at least two others who died later, a nonprofit corporation was formed to pay $275,000 to the families. The nonprofit stemmed from a GoFundMe account that received more than 90,000 donations.

The positive Yang is overpowering the negative Yin in the spirit of the American people in the midst of the tragedy.

We must use the force of counterweight to attain a balanced view of the United States.

One arctic dawn a fog pierced the frigid air above the water in sharply pointed shafts, as if composed of white frozen flames. And just a few nights ago, the river was so bright in the darkness I thought at first the moon must be shining on her. Except that it was too late in the lunar cycle for the moon to be up at that moment. Finally, I realized the light on the water was a thin gauzy layer of fog, too ethereal to be perceived as having substance.

There’s been a lot of mention of brain fog lately, specifically COVID brain fog, that peculiar combo of disorientation, sluggishness, and restless legs that confronting one’s mortality in isolation for a year can bring about. With Georgia’s COVID case rates rising again, this time from virus variants, and the state’s vaccination levels low, it’s hard to imagine this brain fog going away anytime soon. But, it does beg the question: What is fog? To answer that inquiry, I read so many definitions, they left my mind, quite literally, in a fog.

Among other things, fog is described as a

type of low-lying cloud resembling stratus clouds, which are grey, weighty, and horizontally layered. The appearance of fog is strongly affected by the nearness of water, tiered topography, and wind. So far, so good. We have an abundance of all three here on the river.

Simply put, fog happens when warm air meets cold air. We know that water becomes steam, or vapor - water in its gaseous form when it heats up; that’s what makes your kettle sing. At certain times of year - late autumn, early spring, with their days and nights of wild temperature swings - the ephemeral dance between warm and cold air becomes especially vivid over water. As warm air cools, invisible water vapor condenses and turns back into visible liquid water. (That is why rain also often happens when warm and cold fronts meet) Water vapor molecules combine to create tiny fluid droplets that hang in the air; fog materializes as the droplets gather around dust which, as any householder can tell you, is eve-

rywhere, even over water apparently where no duster can get to it. The presence of fog also requires the mixing action of wind.

Without wind there is no fog, only water vapor condensing on grass and petals as dew.

In hilly areas, like these Chattahoochee foothills, cooling air pools during the night, becoming the ethereal forest fog described above as pale grey and pervasive. Fog thickens in bottomlands and floodplains as heavy waterladen air responds to gravity and flows downward.

All this is hopefully helpful in clearing away any confusion about fog. Yet, despite this foginduced rhapsody I need to also mention that fog can be dangerous. Fog obscures the path ahead. It prevents us from seeing what needs to be seen, like the road at night if you are driving, or the shore from a boat lost at sea.

Brain fog is perilous too, if it blinds us to circumstances and gives us permission to ignore a danger that continues to be right in front of us.

We do understand that humanity is not perfect but flawed at times. Unity within a home can help defeat the pressures that America’s youth face; if they have a loving environment, it can speak to their purpose and mirror examples that are wholesome and healthy. When everyone in a household works together to ensure that each other succeeds, they can obliterate selfish behavior that seeks to destroy relationships.

Families working together can produce healthy youth; and healthy youth create a world that can produce change and exemplify what true unity looks like in an age where others esteem themselves higher than the team.

Imagine with me a world that is united where there is no divisiveness and humanity realizes that we all need each other to survive.

Just like athletic teams need each of its member to support the other, a child needs his or her parents and siblings to create a unified front against those things that would seek to dismantle what family represents. Family represents, love, peace, safety, encouragement, empowerment, wholeness, and success.

When there is a common objective, every member realizes that the success of each fam-

ily member must be first and foremost. When confusion, distraction, and fighting are in a household, this is a recipe for failure. Families thrive when love, trust and oneness are at the center. When families win, we all win.

Accepting failure is unacceptable and pushing back against unity can be fatal. Let us agree that unity is the main ingredient that every child needs in their household.

A dysfunctional environment will create a dysfunctional mindset. What person does not want to be loved and valued? A household where everyone is loved is a household where healthy people live. Healthy homes produce healthy children, and healthy children when they grow up produce healthier families because they have a template to build upon as they mature into adulthood. Every family faces pressure, stress, and change; but if love abides and the household is operating in oneness, then there is no circumstance that the family unit cannot overcome together. Let’s not leave one member of our families abandoned and unhealthy.

We must not compromise to goals that cause our families to take a backseat to personal agenda. Complacency within the household is

Fog

SYBIL

ROSEN THOMAS

River Rambles syllabil@aol.com Poet T. S. Eliot famously wrote: “April is the cruelest month.” I would add, “And the foggiest.” You can’t live beside the Chattahoochee - or any body of water for that matter - and not get to know fog. Like the water from which it issues, fog takes many shapes and forms.

There’s the subtle enveloping kind that saturates the air, turns it a soft dove grey, fills the woods silently with a presence both pervading and elusive. There’s the morning fog that rises from the surface of the river in gentle puffs or swirling spirals like smoke off burning water.

Unity

HARRY L. PITTS, Jr.

PASTOR Millennials Christian Ministry (MCM) hpitts@mcmempowered.org

The importance of unity can never be underestimated. Every organization, country, team, and leader believes that unity is vital to their success.

The first three letters of unity are interesting because they are the letters U-N-I. So, if we examine these letters U-N-I, it appears that these words infer that unity requires the support of others to be successful. One such entity that every child needs is a team called family.

Family in the life of every child is a stabilizing force that is paramount to the success of a child. If the eco-system in a home is not healthy, then this makes for instability in the lives of youth. Unity within a home is a stabilizing force that produces healthy children.

dangerous, and therefore we should challenge those things that will seek to undermine the future of our families and youth. If we see a member struggling in an area, we should not embarrass them; we should encourage them to be better.

When U-N-I recognize the importance of each other, we can move mountains together because two are better than one. The last year and a half have provided so many lessons for every person on this planet. The world realizes that unity is key if we are to overcome a pandemic that is challenging economies globally and taking innocent lives. While distance is important to safety and well-being, we all have realized that the nucleus of survival is unity and working together to face an enemy that doesn’t care about our social economic status, gender, or race.

We are the collective family of humanity that needs one another. Every person has a uniqueness about them, but what is common to every person is the sense of belonging and family. Life as we know it is challenging our family’s structure. We cannot forsake our children, parents, grandparents, loved ones or our neighbors. Unity will shield every single one of See HARRY T. PITTS page 17

www.starnewsgaonline.com

StarNews May 16, 2021 Page 21

Page 22 May 16, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

The First Hundred Days - no, The Worst Hundred Days

RICH

MYBERG RLMyberg@msn.com In an effort to keep this short, I will not be able to cover all of the terrible decisions made by the Biden Administration in its first hundred days. Day one, Biden cancelled the Keystone XL pipeline costing 49,000 jobs and our energy independence. Giving power to Russia and China as energy suppliers.

He opened our southern border to an

invasion that will exceed two million people in a short time, giving the drug cartels and human traffickers the opportunity to make billions of dollars while destroying the lives of many women and children.

Biden kept the mandates created by CoVID19 in place too long for our citizens while allowing thousands to cross our borders unchecked for the virus. While continually telling everyone to get vaccinated, members of the administration continue to wear masks even outdoors. That does not instill confidence that the vaccine works.

Education is being destroyed by the Biden supported teacher’s unions as many schools have yet to reopen. Critical Race Theory is now being taught in many of those schools that have reopened.

Like many, I am concerned about the 2nd Amendment to our Constitution. History shows that while Nazi Germany, Mao’s China, and Stalin’s Russia took arms from their citizens, they also burned books and destroyed history.

We are now witnessing the modern-day book burning here in the USA. It is now called The Cancel Culture, and the Woke crowd is destroying our history both written and in the destruction of monuments.

One of the great achievements of the Trump Presidency is the Abraham Accords - actual peace in a region that has not known peace in modern history. Biden now wants to reengage with Iran and go back to the worst agreement in history. It would allow Iran to get relief from the sanctions that have kept the world’s leader in support of terrorism from supplying money

to terrorist organizations. It will also allow them to continue their quest for nuclear weapons.

The continued extra unemployment payments have kept many from getting back in the workforce. Driving through West Georgia look at all of the help wanted signs.

In order to pay for his Green and Socialist agenda, Biden will lie about who will pay for it with higher taxes. As usual, the middle class will bear the burden of these tax increases, if not directly through lower wages, then through fewer jobs and businesses going back overseas as they did during the eight years of Obama/Biden.

A president who ran on unifying the country has done nothing but increase the divides that exist.

activity. Still, I believe if Mr. Yahm came by today, he would have the impression that nobody was in charge. In other words, it has evolved into a smooth operation of a bookstore, while keeping its original identity.

The volunteers are truly a cross-section of our local society. Most are retired, though there are teen-agers. There are teachers, librarians, booksellers, professional musicians, parolees, government workers, publicly elected officials, airlines workers, housewives, widowers you name it. They come from Carroll County, also Douglas, Paulding, and Coweta.

Originally the volunteers came from the immediate Whitesburg neighborhood, for they understood and supported the project to build a library for our area. It seems that the main recruitment of volunteers happens when a customer really likes the experience of shopping there, likes the staff they have encountered, and wants to learn more, and do more. Most customers have noticed the sign and the converted classroom trailer on Main Street, and, sooner or later, they’ll have the time to come visit.

Much of the necessary building repairs and maintenance are carried out by the City of Whitesburg, as well as capable volunteers.

There’s lots more to describe about this operation that has “nobody in charge”. I want to mention one more detail: The volunteers who have been there for a long time do get together socially, bringing coffee and snacks.

---------------------------

I think it was late in the evening of March 25th or 26th of this year. My wife and I had both fallen asleep watching TV. I woke up because there was excited chatter on the TV. In the next few minutes, I became aware that all major channels were broadcasting tornado warnings and were tracking severe storms that were crossing into Georgia. There were dense clusters of lightning strikes.

Next, a tornado watch was issued for particular locations, starting with towns just over the line, in Alabama. Then, the first wave of several storm systems came into Georgia, and it was announced that the northern edge might be heading for Carrollton. That meant Whitesburg could be included.

In a few minutes, they announced the next set of storms. Now, I was switching between the major channels. That next set of storms was now in Georgia, and Roopville was placed on the map and blinking. I was thinking, if Roopville, then Whitesburg is next. Definitely.

My plan was to let Margery continue sleeping until I needed to get her into the most protected and padded place, the closet. Yes, that seemed like a plan!

Well, we were very lucky. Very, very lucky.

The storms, several bands of them, mostly went through, south of Whitesburg. They went through Coweta, just across the river. A little later, through our big view-window that faces toward Newnan, I could see the storms lighting up the clouds from what seemed like the thousands of lightning strikes.

It was remarkable that the TV weathermen were all pointing at their graphic displays, at the animated cartoon zig-zag lightning flashes that were all over the close-up map for Newnan.

As I mentioned, there were thousands of such animated lightnings, which were representing the actual and on-going live lightning strikes. My view from our window seemed to be precisely in-sync with those projections on the weather-map.

In other words, the weather radar was feeding live information into the TV weathermap software at the TV station. It all resulted in my “seeing” the same thing on both my TV and outside my window! (How do you like THAT?) After about an hour, we were able to go to bed.

--------------------------That night, a sometime-volunteer of Harvey’s House of Books and friend of a few of the regular volunteers, resident of the Newnan area, took cover under mattresses.

When he emerged, everything was gone, destroyed. Every Thing. Total destruction.

Gone. The family survived. All seven of them.

Help came quickly. Neighbors turned up and have pitched in, in so many ways. I am told that even the insurance people have responded like good neighbors. Then, bookstore volunteers’ donations, from $5 to $500 came pouring over to our friend over in Coweta.

It happened like nobody was in charge. How do you like THAT !!?

thought - I’m too late. The nurses then asked me if I wanted to go to her room and see her and just be with her. I did.

I walked in her room. There she was - there but gone - not really there. I held her hand and cried - and wished I could talk to her again, and she could respond, and we could just talk and she could tell me all she wanted to tell me - when she told me on the phone, “Come, Ernie, come!” But it was too late - forever!!

I live with that being really the only, or indeed primary, regret I have in life. I totally regret getting there too late. I wonder and grieve about how she must have felt when she was breathing her last - dying without me being there. What was going through her dear mind and heart - and how frantic or anxious was she, with the minutes going by and me not being there for her. Why could I have not been just a few minutes earlier?

Mom had lived a life that was very clean and moral. She was an upstanding woman and dedicated to those whom she loved. But her road was not easy. My dad had died when I was just three and she forged on with life with-

out a husband, taking care of me and our life as best she could. I was an only child. So, my children, then about 7 and 10 years old, were her only grandchildren. She loved us and we loved her - we were the light of her life.

A few days before, just before Christmas, she had fallen and her body had hit a rock, causing a big bruise. A few days later, she had complained of it being hard to get her breath after any exertion. She had always been strong and this was not like her. It got worse and we took her to the hospital. They kept her there a few days, running tests, etc. and finally found a blood clot as the culprit. This clot showed up when they ran the dye in her veins, just hours before she had called me to come. As the doctor explained to me later, they suspected that this extra pressure of the dye in her veins caused the clot to move to her pulmonary veins or arteries (in her heart/lungs) - and this is what caused her to die.

Evidently, she had quietly, inside herself, felt the imminent nature of this and called me to come. Likely, not wanting to express the dire See ERNIE REYNOLDS page 17

The Bookstore and The Tornado

BILL

BOURIS digi@mindspring.com A few years ago Stu Yahm, a writer who has often contributed to this newspaper, wrote an article about his trip to Whitesburg to visit the newly opened Harvey’s House of Books. After he entered the store he realized something: No one was in charge. When he got home, he sat down and wrote about a bookstore where nobody was in charge.

Over the years, there have been many many changes, and Harvey’s continues at its mission, to accept book-donations whose sales will help pay the expenses of the Whitesburg Public Library. It is an operation that requires the help of several dozen volunteers.

The primary activities, which include the gleaning and cleaning of donated materials, the sorting, shelving and selling of the store’s contents, the transport of those materials that are more suitable for use in such places in the county as the hospital, shelters, prisons, schools, and retirement homes, and finally, the back-breaking chore of doing dumpster-runs with the remainders that couldn’t be salvaged.

In concept, it should look like a beehive of

A thought about Moms - mine and yours

ERNIE

REYNOLDS District 5 Carroll County Commissioner

ereynolds@carrollcountyga.com 770-851-6215 As Mother’s Day has just been celebrated, I’d like to share some really personal thoughts and reflections with you. I’ll tell you a little about my mother - and convey some wishes I have about you and your mother.

I hope you enjoyed a good and close Mother’s Day with your mom. I cannot do that with my mom - and haven’t been able to for about 23 years. My mom passed away in 1998.

So, for the past 23 years, I have only been able to recall the memories, and wish she was here to reflect on what she was while she was here.

I wish I would have made it to the hospital

COMMENTARY

room where she died - before she died. She called me from her hospital bed about an hour before she died. I remember her last words to me, they often flood my memory, especially on her birthday and on Mother’s Day. She called me just as I was about to put our two children to bed that night. She called and told me, pleadingly, “Come, Ernie, come!” She wanted me to come to her hospital room. Remember, we didn’t have cell phones in 1998 (maybe some did, but we did not).

After her call, I finished my nighttime duties with my children - putting them to bed and tucking them in, not wanting to rush them or cause them any disturbance, so I didn’t hurry our nighttime rituals or tell them I had to go.

Instead, I did everything as usual with them and then - hurried on to the hospital. In speaking with her, I got the message that she wanted me to come, but I never understood it was so urgent, or so close, or so imminent.

I got to the hospital, took the elevator to her hospital floor, and two nurses met me at the elevator. They explained to me that she had died - just minutes before. Oh - no, no, no, I

COMMENTARY

www.starnewsgaonline.com

StarNews May 16, 2021

Page 23

Summing up Democracy

LEE

and that its vitality depends on each of us, not just to participate, but to make the effort to understand and talk to people we don’t agree with, and to do our best to discern the facts on which all genuine progress relies.

PROFESSOR Here they are, with a couple I’ve added on Indiana University my own that speak to the same issues: Center on Representative “Do not expect to accomplish anything withGovernment out an effort.” Teddy Roosevelt said this in an It’s so easy, in the course of our day-to-day 1883 speech called, “The Duties of American lives, to get caught up in the political preoccu- Citizenship.” pations of the moment. What’s the Senate “The first duty of an American citizen, then, going to do about the filibuster? How should is that he shall work in politics.” This is infrastructure money be spent? Is the country Roosevelt again, in the same speech, making going to come out of “People are responsible for the the point (in the language this year as badly of the time) that being an government they get.” Harry divided as it started?

American citizen means Truman summed up our core These and many other being willing to engage questions matter a lot - responsibility: we have to choose in the work of but sometimes, it’s helpdemocracy. our political leaders wisely. . . ful to step back and take “Progress on this joursafeguarding a freely chosen, stock of what we’ve ney often comes in small learned over the course democratically elected government increments.” This is that creates the conditions for of our history.

Meacham himself, with a I’ve been thinking each of us to succeed by dint reminder that progress about this because I’ve of our efforts is what engaging comes slow and hard. been reading Jon “Nowhere is the rule of in politics is all about.

Meacham’s 2018 book, public opinion so com“The Soul of America: plete as in America, or so direct.” This was The Battle for Our Better Angels”.

Englishman James Bryce, writing in The In it, Meacham notes that we’ve been badly American Commonwealth, which appeared in divided and knocked back on our heels in the 1888. past, but have always managed to work our “People are responsible for the government way through those difficulties. He cites a vari- they get.” Harry Truman summed up our core ety of writers and speakers, and a number of responsibility: we have to choose our political them have stuck with me - because they’re leaders wisely. both reassuring and a challenge. They remind “It is not only important but mentally invigous that sustaining our democracy is hard work rating to discuss political matters with people

HAMILTON

whose opinions differ radically from one’s own.” Eleanor Roosevelt wrote this in a book published when she was seventy-six, “You Learn by Living: Eleven Keys for a More Fulfilling Life.”

“The enemy of America is not our many Muslim friends. It is not our many Arab friends. Our enemy is a radical network of terrorists and every government that supports them.” I include this remark by George W. Bush - in a speech he gave to a joint session of Congress following the 9/11 attacks - because it’s a cogent reminder that keeping our eye on the target matters in public policy.

“The people have often made mistakes, but given time and the facts, they will make the corrections.” This was Truman again. I like his confidence.

Storm Products

“America of the 21st century is, for all its shortcomings, freer and more accepting than it has ever been.” Meacham makes it clear that our nation, despite its many stumbles, has moved toward progress, in no small part because the American people, as Truman suggests above, have set it on that course.

“It is in order that each one of you may have through this free government which we have enjoyed, an open field and a fair chance for your industry, enterprise and intelligence…

The nation is worth fighting for, to secure such an inestimable jewel.” Abraham Lincoln said this in 1864. His words remind us that safeguarding a freely chosen, democratically elected government that creates the conditions for each of us to succeed by dint of our efforts is what engaging in politics is all about.

Roy's Tire Center

Roy’s Tires

•Ball Joints •Car Repair •Tie Rod •Wheel Bearing •Front-End Repair •Brakes •Shocks •CV Joints •Oil Changes •Struts •Computer Balancing

770-834-6674

234 Maple Street • Carrollton HOURS: Mon.-Thur.-8:00-5:30 • Fri. 8:00-5:00• Closed Sat

Page 24 April 11, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

Shining stars on The Mountain

PATRICK

YURAN

Headmaster OAK MOUNTAIN ACADEMY

Oak Mountain Academy is truly blessed with many bright shining stars on The Mountain these days. Our student body shines the brightest of all.

Academically, our current graduating class has already earned over $2 million in college scholarship offers and 100% of them have been accepted to a variety of top-notch universities including the University of Georgia, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Auburn University... just to name a few.

Athletically, the Boys Soccer Team, the Boys Cross Country Team, and both the Girls and Boys Tennis Teams brought home the region championship titles this year. The Girls Volleyball and the Boys Basketball Teams both brought home additional State Championships to add to the list of over 30 State and Regional Championship titles.

Nestled among these many bright shining stars on The Mountain are two graduating seniors – Samuel Erben and Scott Powers – who graduated at the top of their class in 2021.

Samuel Erben is OMA’s Class of 2021 Valedictorian and has been a student at Oak Mountain Academy for seven years.

Throughout his tenure at the Academy, Samuel has proven himself to be a student of integrity while serving in many leadership roles inside and outside of the academic classroom. Oak Mountain Academy is a school that prides itself on providing a college-preparatory education rooted in innovative academic excellence where students become leaders committed to living lives of service and integrity. Samuel is a product of an Oak Mountain Academy education and represents our personalized, faithbased education well.

Samuel is an incredibly strong student who succeeds academically because of his natural gifts and super strong work ethic. He has been on the Headmaster’s List, our school’s highest academic honor, throughout his entire high school career and has challenged himself by taking over twelve Advanced Placement courses throughout high school, which are the most difficult classes our school offers. He has also secured many academic honors over the past couple of years including the following: National Honor Society Membership, AP European History Department Award, Astronomy Department Award, AP Physics Department Award, Math Department Award, Biology Department Award, World History Department Award, Chemistry Department Award, U.S. Air Force Achievement Award, UGA Certificate of Merit, Medal of Honor, and Commended Student in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program.

In addition to his academic success, Samuel has excelled in student leadership. Throughout high school, Samuel has excelled on the soccer field, on the stage through his amazing one act play characterizations, on the Academic Team by bringing home several state and region titles, and on the Chess Club. He has also secured many award recognitions over the past couple of years including the following: Spring Literary Region Impromptu Speaking 2nd Place Award, Spring Literary Region Piano 2nd Place Award, One Act Play Honorable Mention in Region, One

Act Play Award, and Student Government Association Secretary. Samuel also has a passion for community service and has logged in over sixty hours of service over the past four years. Samuel graduated Summa Cum Laude from Oak Mountain Academy and will be attending The Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall.

Scott Powers is OMA’s Class of 2021 Salutatorian and has been a student at Oak Mountain Academy for seven years.

Throughout his tenure at the Academy, Scott has also proven himself to be a student of great integrity while serving in many leadership roles inside and outside of the academic classroom.

Scott is also a strong student who succeeds academically because of his natural gifts and strong work ethic. He has been on the Headmaster’s List throughout his entire high school career and has challenged himself by taking over twelve Advanced Placement

courses throughout high school. He has also secured many academic honors over the past couple of years including the following: National Honor Society Membership, AP Biology Department Award, Junior Chamber Youth Leadership Award, 3rd Place Honors at the State Level Science Fair, Medal of Honor Recipient, Chemistry Department Award, AP Government Award, and Biology Department Award. Scott is a dedicated student who values his academic opportunities and appreciates what a solid academic foundation can provide for his future.

In addition to his academic success, Scott has also excelled in student leadership while serving as the Student Government Association Vice President and on the Academic Team bringing home several region and state championship titles.

Throughout high school, Scott has excelled on the soccer field and in the Chess Club. A

Southwire 7.6 x 9.0

unique fact about Scott is that he has a Ham Radio License. He also has some wonderful stories to share about his travels to Italy and the Czech Republic. Scott also has a passion for community service and has logged in over seventy hours of service over the past four years. Scott graduated Summa Cum Laude from Oak Mountain Academy and also will be attending The Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall.

Throughout our time together at Oak Mountain Academy, I have grown to respect both Samuel and Scott as exceptional students, gifted leaders, and all around top-notch human beings. They are truly young men with exceptional character, many talents, and an overabundance of God-given gifts. I speak for all of us at Oak Mountain Academy when I say how incredibly proud we are of both young men and truly blessed to have been a part of their educational journey!

www.starnewsgaonline.com

Financial assistance is available for funerals: FEMA and CoVID-19

ELLEN & SCOTT

If there is anything I can do to assist you of receipts or contracts showing the expenses with the application process – such as ordering you incurred – please call me at 770-459-3694 copies of a death certificate or providing copies or 770-942-2311 or visit jones-wynn.com

StarNews

May16, 2021 Page 25

Scott & Ellen Wynn McBrayer Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes & Crematory Meadowbrook Memory Gardens

McBRAYER JONES-WYNN FUNERAL HOME You and your family may be eligible for a special program from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that offers funeral assistance to families that have experienced the death of a loved one due to COVID-19.

Financial assistance of up to $9,000 for certain expenses that families have incurred as they laid a loved one to rest (e.g., funeral and memorial services and burial and cremation). It covers eligible expenses for the services you’ve already paid for when your loved one died.

And, as our community becomes safer, your family may choose to plan a memorial service in your loved one’s honor that includes all of your family and friends – something that many families are finding to be a meaningful experience. Those expenses may also be covered.

The FEMA website has complete information about eligibility requirements, documentation you will be required to provide as part of your application (e.g., a copy of your loved one’s death certificate and proof of funeral expenses incurred), and how to start the application process.

Visit https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/ec onomic/funeral-assistance.

Coming out of the pandemic: Easter Sunrise Service returns

Jones-Wynn Funeral Home and Crematory and Meadowbrook Memory Gardens hosted their 33rd Annual Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 4, 2021. For the last 33 years, Jones-Wynn Funeral Home and Crematory and Meadowbrook Memory Gardens have played their part in sharing this tradition with their neighbors. Last year, even as the world struggled in the throes of a pandemic, their 32nd Annual Service was held digitally, with Pastor Austin Williams of Villa Rica First Baptist Church delivering an inspiring message via video from the Garden of the Cross at Meadowbrook Memory Gardens. This year, the Easter Sunrise Service returned in-person at The Mill Amphitheatre in downtown Villa Rica. The speaker this year was once again Pastor Austin Williams while the Thomas Dorsey Birthplace Choir lifted the spirits of all present with beautiful songs of joy and praise. Shown above are The Thomas Dorsey Birthplace Choir, Jones-Wynn Funeral Home family, and Speaker Austin Williams.

Carroll EMC

OMA

Page 26 May 16, 2021

StarNews

www.starnewsgaonline.com

What to expect from a financial review

CHANTRICE

SWINT

FINANCIAL ADVISOR The COVID-19 pandemic may have unsettled many aspects of your life – including your financial situation. Even if your employment and earnings were not directly affected, you might have concerns about whether you’ve been making the right investment moves in such a stressful environment. The pandemic is, hopefully, just a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, but different events can rattle financial markets. And changes in your own life also can affect your plans. To prepare yourself for whatever tomorrow may hold, you may want to get some professional help – but what, really, can

you expect from a financial advisor?

A financial advisor will look holistically at your life – your family composition, your career, your hopes and dreams, your instincts about saving and spending money, your risk tolerance and other factors. So, during your initial meeting, and at subsequent reviews afterward, here are some of the key areas you’ll discuss: Feelings about your financial situation – Numbers are important to financial advisors, but what’s most meaningful to them is understanding what’s important to their clients.

Are you confident about your overall financial outlook? Are you worried about your cash flow? Are you distressed over volatility in the financial markets? Do you have concerns about your career? By getting at the answers to these and similar questions, a financial advisor can gain a clear sense of who you are and what matters to you. You can then follow an

Carroll County marriage licenses April 1-30, 2021

marriages

established process to build your personalized strategies and take the specific actions needed to achieve your goals.

Progress toward your goals – It takes patience and discipline to achieve long-term goals, such as helping send your kids to college or enjoying the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned for yourself. As you save and invest for these goals over the years, you’ll want to ….measure your progress regularly. If you seem to be falling behind, your financial advisor can suggest moves such as increasing your investments or adjusting your investment mix.

Changes in your family situation – Marriage or remarriage, the arrival of new children, the departure of children for college, caregiving responsibilities for older parents – any and all of these events can make a big difference in your goals and, as a result, your investment plans. During your reviews, your financial

advisor will consider these changes when making suggestions or recommendations.

(Changes in your family’s status may affect your estate plans, so you’ll also need to work with your legal advisor or other estate-planning professional.)

Changes in your retirement plans – As you near retirement, you might decide that your original plans for this time of your life no longer suit you. For example, you might have once thought that, when you retired, you would stay close to home, volunteering and pursuing your hobbies. But now you’ve been thinking how much you would enjoy traveling, or perhaps even living abroad for a while. To accommodate your change in plans, a financial professional may recommend certain moves, such as working a couple of years longer or adjusting the amount you eventually withdraw from your 401(k), IRA and other retirement accounts.

As you work toward your goals, you may find it challenging to navigate the financial markets and respond to the changes in your life – but you don’t have to go it alone. And knowing what to expect from a financial advisor can help smooth your journey.

Chantrice Swint is a financial advisor, Edward Jones, 801 Old Newnan Road, Suite C, Carrollton GA 30116 770-834-0570

Carroll County pistol carry permits Number of Firearm Carry Permits applied for: April 1-30, 2021: 597

Carroll County prison population

Total population as of May 6, 2021: 168 Capacity: 246 Males: 100%

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

Carroll County jail population (The Jack T. Bell Detention Center, 1000 Newnan Road, Carrollton)

Total population as of May 6, 2021: 470 Males: 411 Females: 59

Carroll County births April 1-30, 2021:

Tanner Medical Center, Carrollton: Girls: 33 Boys: 48 Tanner Medical Center, Villa Rica:� Girls: 19 Boys: 24

Carroll County cattle receipts Carroll County Sale Barn 225 Sale Barn Road, Carrollton May 3, 2021: 806 April 26, 2021: 411 April 19, 2021: 788 April 12, 2021: 740 April 5, 2021: 531

www.starnewsgaonline.com

StarNews

May 16, 2021 Page 27

Carroll County Department of Public Health To view complete inspection details: dph.georgia.gov/environmental-health

tourist accomodation inspections scores

Graduation is no time to learn you haven’t saved enough for college.

04/22/2021: Holiday Inn Express 1545 Hwy 27 South Carrollton 97 previous 94 04/28/2021: Budget Inn 405 Columbia Dr Carrollton 92 previous 81

For a free, personalized college cost report, contact your Edward Jones financial advisor today.

restaurant health inspections scores

Edward Jones

04/05/2021: UWG Market Fresh Deli 1603 Maple St Carrollton 100 previous 100 04/05/2021: UWG AFC Sushi 1601 Maple St Carrollton 100 previous 95 04/05/2021: Waffle House 1122 Maple St Carrollton 100 previous 89 04/20/2021: Burger King 906 S Park St Carrollton 04/21/2021: Wright Way BBQ 1003 Alabama St Bremen 04/19/2021: Gallery Row Coffee 309 Adamson Sq Carrollton 04/26/2021: Jerry’s Country Kitchen 328 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 04/30/2021: Jerry’s Burgers 820 Dallas Hwy Villa Rica 04/05/2021: UWG Food Court/Wolves Den 1601 Maple St Carrollton 04/26/2021: Bella Coffee House 1141 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 04/30/2021: Villa Rica Middle School 614 Tumlin Lake Dr Villa Rica 04/07/2021: Chicken Salad Chick 1765 S Hwy 27 Carrollton 04/30/2021: Kristi’s Southern Eats 422 Newnan St Carrollton 04/21/2021: Mill Town Music Hall 1031 Alabama St Bremen 04/09/2021: Rosie’s Cafe 819 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 04/29/2021: McDonald’s 1116 N Park St Carrollton 04/07/2021: Subway 114 Highway 61 Villa Rica 04/05/2021: Subway 231 Carrollton St Temple 04/15/2021: Captain D’s 913 S Park St Carrollton 04/07/2021: Uncorked on Main 129 Main St Villa Rica 04/26/2021: Irish Bred Pub 210 Adamson Sq Carrollton 04/21/2021: Cracker Barrel 106 Price Rd Bremen 04/19/2021: Corner Cafe 304 ADamson Sq Carrollton 04/20/2021: La Fiesta 201 Bradley St Carrollton

99 98 98 96 96 96 96 96 95 95 95 95 92 92 92 91 91 90 90 90 89 85

previous 97 previous 98 previous 94 previous 99 previous 96 previous 96 previous 96 previous N/A previous 99 previous 99 previous 97 previous 96 previous 98 previous 97 previous 85 previous 85

Derick T Newton, AAMS®

previous 85

Financial Advisor

previous 96 previous 92 previous 87

EDS-1927G-A

04/15/2021: Courthouse Cafe 312 Newnan St Carrollton

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

937b Maple Street Carrollton, GA 30117 770-832-9515

previous 96

previous 94 Violations: Heavy mold buildup on shield at ice machine. Prep top cooler holding TCS food temperature at 47F-49F with internal thermometer reading 55F. Shelving rusted. Plant growing in exhaust fan in kitchen.

04/07/2021: Little Caesars Pizza 911 S Park St Carrollton 75 previous 92 Violations: Observed overexpired food manager certification. Food debris left on clean dishes. Warmer pass though found not heating to proper temperature due to equipment having heavy dust and accumulating dust and food debris. Racks throughout kitchen rusted and accumulating dust and food debris. Back door showing light through bottom right area when closed properly.

PROTECT

Fred O’Neal, AAMS® Financial Advisor 410 College Street Carrollton, GA. 770-832-2141

Derick T. Newton, AAMS® Financial Advisor 937B Maple Street Carrollton, GA. 770-832-9515

Joey L. Key, CHFC®, CLU® Financial Advisor 105 Somerset Pl,Suite A Carrollton, GA. 678-890-1067

Your Greatest Investment...

your HOME!

Straight Line Roofing

We offer: Free Inspections 24 Hour Emergency Tarp Service Licensed and Insured Shingle Roof Install Storm Damage Repair Historic Restoration

Leaks? Missing or Broken Shingles?

470-586-2724 1613 W Hwy 78 Villa Rica, GA 30180 www.myslrr.com

Charles Shiver Financial Advisor 102 Trojan Dr Suite B Carrollton, GA. 770-834-4311

Chantrice Swint Financial Advisor 801 Old Newnan Rd. Ste. C Carrollton, GA. 30116 770-834-0570

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Page 28 May 16, 2021

StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

THE

BIRCHES AT VILLA RICA

A TANNER SENIOR LIVING COMMUNIT Y

Senior Living & Memory Care

Now Leasing!

Stay HERE. The Birches at Villa Rica, from Tanner Health System, is the only senior living option in metro Atlanta to offer a fully integrated approach to wellness.

Choose from a one-bedroom, studio or companion apartment.

Enjoy chef-prepared meals, an engaging slate of activities, a safe and secure community and around-the-clock access to all the resources of a regional health system — all from our region’s trusted leader in patient care and satisfaction.

COMING

MID SUMMER

2021

201 Permian Way, Villa Rica Convenient to I-20, Highway 78 and Highway 61.

See our floor plans and learn more at BirchesVR.com.

678-840-1800