May 2024

StarNews StarNews

Georgia’a 17th Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper: state’s $83B agri industry is more than just “cows, plows, and sows”

Established in 1874 and celebrating their 150th anniversary this year, the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) stands as the United States’ first State Department of Agriculture. GDA administers a variety of programs which all have the primary goal of maintaining the state’s viable farm industry and protecting the consuming public.

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper shared, “Our focus is on meeting the needs of Georgia’s citizens. At the time back in 1874, the creation of a government agency to oversee the state’s agriculture industry was a highly contentious

See GEORGIAAGCOMMISSIONER page 18

How do you find affordable housing? by moving further out, advises housing market expert

Current zoning is stuck in place from 20 to 30 years ago

story by Wayne J. Reynolds

“Three years ago you were able to buy a home under $350,000 in 10 of the 15 top high school districts in the 29 county metro Atlanta market. Today - zero,” began John Hunt of MarketNsight, featured guest speaker at the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce’s Membership luncheon held Thursday, April 18, 2024.

“How do you find affordable housing? Move further out,” Hunt said. “Covid taught us we can live, work, and play anywhere by working remotely. And

County Safety Action Plan Public Meeting

Thursday, May 16th

5:00-7:00 pm Carroll County Recreation Gym Meeting Room 1201 Newnan RD, Carrollton - see story page 4

Special Series see pages 16, 17, 18 & 19

Carrollton’s Planning & Zoning recommending denying rezoning: Council approved anyway 4-1 Same acreage was previously denied for event venue citing roads could not handle traffic

Entirety of acreage was zoned Agricultural with sections subject to flooding

Concerning flooding, applicant said: “if soils weren’t good for septic” he could tie into city’s sewer

story by Janice Daniel

Mayor and Council of the City of Carrollton met Monday, April 8, 2024, 6:00 p.m. for a regular (monthly) meeting. All council members and mayor were present.

There was an annexation and rezoning request request by applicant Jeff Camp for 109.25 acres at 14 Hays Mill Road, 104 Martin Cemetery Road and Martin Cemetery Road from Carroll County to Estate Residential minimum lot size one acre for the two tracts on the south side of Martin Cemetery Road, where 23 lots are proposed and Estate Residential minimum lot size 3 acres for the tract on the north side of Martin Cemetery Road, where 7 lots are proposed. Property is located near the intersection of Martin Cemetery Road and Hays Mill Road just south of the Carrollton Bypass. Tracts are mostly wooded with a mixture of pines and hard-

See MOVEFURTHEROUT page 11 County commission approves purchase of seventh ambulance for West GA Ambulance: expected to reduce number of calls per ambulance per day

At its regular meeting on April 9, 2024, the Carroll County Board of Commissioners approved adding a seventh 24-hour 911 ambulance to the county’s EMS contract with West

Georgia Ambulance. Carroll County EMS Committee first recommended to the commission in January 2024 that an ambulance be

See 7th AMBULANCE page 8

County Coroner: 67 drug-related deaths involving fentanyl since 2020

But, there could possibly be more as the State Crime Lab is 4-6 months behind on completing drug test results

story by Wayne J. Reynolds

There were 58,220 total casualties in the Vietnam War. In the United States in the year 2022 alone, 74,654 people died from the illegal drug fentanyl, with deaths increasing each year this decade. For Carroll County, there were some surprising facts about the ages of those who died from drug-related overdoses that included fentanyl. In addition to the danger to the user who may be overdosing, fentanyl poses a risk of contamination to others including First Responders, investigators, and others physically nearby the victim.

In Carroll County, Carroll County Coroner Keith Hancock reports that in 2020, fentanyl began showing up in a significant way with fentanyl appearing in 14 of 35 drug-related deaths. In 2021, 44 deaths were drug-related of which fentanyl was involved in 21 of them (48%). In 2022, there were 48 deaths with 32 involving fentanyl (67%). And in 2023, 27 of 43 drug-related deaths had fentanyl involved (63%). To these sobering facts, Hancock added that not all Carroll County cause of death cases had been completed, as the State

“46% of the southern portion is in the flood zone and all those lots are unacceptable for septic field lines. This portion of the property will require major restrictions on any wetland or stream encroachment. This really is a county issue” - citizen John Paulk

wood trees, and the area surrounding Buffalo Creek is in the flood plain.

The entire area is currently zoned Agricultural in Carroll County’s jurisdiction.

General Election Primary Tuesday, May 21st Sample Ballots at: carrollcountyga.com

Knowles HicksPaul

District 5 candidates share their views on top priorities and millage rate reduction

Commission candidates Ben Hicks, Keith Knowles, and Sean Paul responded to StarNews inquiry story by Sue Horn

There are seven candidates on the May 21st Primary Election Republican Ballot in the race for the Carroll County Commission District 5 seat. StarNews sent two questions to all seven candidates offering each an opportunity to express what,

Commissioner Tyler Harper

story by Wayne J. Reynolds

Altogether Vibrant

JUNE 15 / 8PM / THE AMP

/ 7PM

AT THE AMP MAY 23 / 7PM JUNE 21 / 6-9PM

17 / 7PM JUNE 1 / 9AM JUNE 1 / 9:30AM

Crime Lab is running 4 to 6 months behind. The coroner is awaiting more results.

Hancock said, “Few drug-related deaths are straight fentanyl. Most of these deaths are in combination with other drugs, like heroin and even xylazine, which is showing up more frequently. Xylazine is a tranquilizer used on livestock and has been readily available in the past in retail and dotcom sites. It is used because it enhances the effect and increases the street value. In addition, sadly, Narcan does not work on xylazine.”

Naloxone, or Narcan, is a medication that reverses an opoid overdose by blocking the effects of the opiates on the brain and by restoring breathing.

But, Narcan is ineffective against xylazine. Hancock, in his eight year as the Carroll County Coroner, shared some surprising facts concerning the ages of those who died from fentanyl/drug overdose. Last year, the average age of fentanyl-related deaths was 43 years old. One person was age 67; four were age range of 56 to 65; five were in the age range of 46 to 55; eight were in the 26 to 35 age range; and there was only one deceased person who was in the 18 to 25 year old age range.

The coroner said that he and law enforcement use special protective gloves when handling fentanyl suspected cases. “I have a great relationship with the detectives on these cases and we are very cautious.”

DEA.gov reports that fentanyl can be present in a variety of forms (e.g., powder, tablets, capsules, solutions, and rocks). Inhalation of airborne powder is the most likely form to lead to harmful effects, but that is less likely to occur than skin contact.

Incidental skin contact may occur during daily activities but is not expected to lead to

harmful effects if the contaminated skin is promptly washed off with water. Slow breathing or no breathing, drowsiness or unresponsiveness, and constricted or pinpoint pupils are the specific signs consistent with fentanyl intoxication. Naloxone (narcan) is an effective medication that rapidly reverses the effects of fentanyl.

If exposure occurs to prevent further contamination: do not touch your eyes, mouth, nose, or any skin after touching any potentially contaminated surface. Wash skin thoroughly with cool water, and soap if available.

Do not use hand sanitizers as they may enhance absorption.

Wash your hands thoroughly after the incident and before eating, drinking, smoking, or using the restroom.

City of Carrollton Mayor Betty Cason has been involved in the current and ongoing countywide Fentanyl Awareness Campaign.

Mayor Cason said, “The fentanyl summit in March and the awareness campaign has been so successful in educating our community of the dangers of the drug and how fast it can end a person’s life. Having families speak about how their families have been impacted and trying to cope with what comes next after losing a loved one. These families are your neighbors, people you go to church with or people you work with, not a statistic from somewhere in a big city.

“It also educates the community in the possibility of saving a person’s life by using narcan. The information gained from the summit and the awareness campaign Is some of the most important information you can have, maybe to save someone’s life - it may be your love one.”

For more information, go to: www.georgiaoverdoseprevention.org facebook.com/GeorgiaOverdosePrevention

•46

•US

•Only

•Preserve

•Put

•Protect

From

Carroll County Safety Action Plan public meeting to be held Thursday, May 16th

from press release

Carroll County secured a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant to develop a Safety Action Plan following the announcement of the program by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT). The Safety Action Plan will combine public input, data analysis, and effective safety practices into a program to identify safety solutions and detailed implementation strategies pertaining to safer streets for all users including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and individuals utilizing multiple modes of transportation, with a specific emphasis on traditionally underserved communities.

The public is encouraged to attend this public meeting to review current conditions related

to transportation safety and to offer input related to safety concerns.

The Carroll County Safety Action Plan public meeting will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024, 5:00-7:00 p.m., Carroll County Recreation Gym Meeting Room, 1201 Newnan Road, Carrollton. Enter the Carroll County Recreation Park from Highway 16 (Newnan Rd). The recreation gym is on the right just past the gymnastics gym. Enter the building and the meeting room is to the left.

To learn more about the plan development process, provide comments via interactive mapping, and to take an online transportation safety survey, visit: www.carrollcountyga.com/871/7376/SafeStreets-for-All-Safety-Action-Plan.

story by Wayne J. Reynolds

On April 10, 2024, Nichole Fannin, executive director of the Tanner Medical Foundation spoke at the Villa Rica Leadership Luncheon.

“My greatest fear about speaking today was that nobody would show up except for my team - so thank you for being here! I also had my doubts about speaking after seeing my name on the brochure with Monica Kaufman [who is speaking at the August luncheon]. I took a picture of it and sent it to my Mom and she now thinks I am slightly famous!”

Fannin’s hope for the takeaway from her speech was that members of the audience would leave a little inspired and with some camaraderie. Fannin explained that all leaders are not the same, all are different and come from different backgrounds. She grew up in a family of blue collar textile mill workers. Her proud parents worked hard with the value of sharing. Her parents were GED educated, so Fannin graduating from high school and enrolling in college was a proud moment. In registering for college classes, she mistakenly enrolled in a debate class. But, that led her to her debate coach and mentor Allan Hayes.

“He challenged me to get outside my comfort zone, to be curious about the world and how it worked, and that I could pursue a different path, different life. He was the first person to call me into leadership. His leadership and encouragement led me to accept a debate scholarship. My first debate was against Harvard. I was horrified and thought about quitting school. He pulled me aside and told

me to calm down and said, ‘You have more in common than you think. People are people. Where they come from, what titles they hold, how much money they have, or who they know…at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter. People all want the same thing. They want to be appreciated, they want to do their best, and they want to be recognized.’” And, Fannin and team won that debate against Harvard.

She said, “I learned that imposter syndrome is very popular among leaders. At one point or another, we feel like we’re not supposed to be here. I am not qualified! I read this is a quality of a high achiever. I have worked for the chamber, Southwire, and UWG. Through these career experiences, I have worked for a variety of leaders. I worked for a leader who believed more in me than I believed in myself. I hope each of you have experienced that feeling. I also worked for leaders who had all the answers. And leaders who listened to my ideas and then presented them as their own. I hope you have not experienced those type leaders.”

“But those experiences led me on a curve in my path to a career in philanthropy. And I say philanthropy, not fundraising. Philanthropy emphasizes the donor, focusing on impact and outcome, not money. Fundraising is simply a tool to suppose the underlying value. I think donors want to connect with organizations to create impact, to do good, and fill their personal legacy. There is no greater career to create a bridge between the best in someone and invest in the future of what is best in others!”

“After about eight years, I came to the realization that leadership is not a destination, but a daily aspiration. To just lead where you are, lead today.”

About a year and a half ago, she was given the opportunity to join and lead the Tanner

Medical Foundation. “It was an easy decision. Who would turn down the opportunity to part of an organization built by the community to address the community’s needs, and whose sole purpose to serving, improving, and empowering that community?”

“I have never been more proud, felt more taken care of, supported, or have a better outlook about healthcare in this community. The Foundation was founded in 1988 with the sole purpose of inspiring philanthropy for accessible and quality healthcare for all. Tanner is a nonprofit community hospital and healthcare system who treats everybody regardless of their ability to pay. Not only treat them, but the best care possible. Here in Villa Rica we are excited about the expansion with a 4 story 69,000 plus square feet with 56 beds, 6 delivery rooms, 2 c-section delivery rooms, nursery,

and additional office space. More jobs and being capable of treating more patients. Philanthropy touches all areas of Tanner.I’m excited, there is more to come. We can accomplish more together!”

Fannin’s responsibilities at Tanner Medical Foundation, includes strategic leadership to develop, direct and execute the mission-driven work of the Foundation and its Board of Trustees. She works on behalf of Tanner Health System to secure philanthropic investment for the advancement of exceptional health care within the communities Tanner serves.

You can reach Nichole Fannin at the Tanner Foundation, 770-812-4438. The Villa Rica Leadership Luncheon Series is held bimonthly Villa Rica Civic Center & Sports Complex (VPlex) 1605 GA-61. Villa Rica. 678-840-1141. downtownvillarica.com

Remodeling

Lee Powers

Fannin

Local businessman Jutt Howard has proudly been a resident of Carroll County since his early childhood. Growing up in Sandhill, his father served as the minister of Bethany Christian Church and his mother worked as a teacher for the Carroll County school system. Jutt currently serves as Vice President of Business Operations at NG Turf, with his 20 plus years of experience in agriculture providing a wealth of knowledge.

In the State House, Jutt will stand up for conservative values and make sure the needs of our community are heard.

story by Wayne J. Reynolds

Dr. Val Almonord is a candidate for Democratic nominee U.S. Representative 3rd Congressional District. His name will be on Carroll County ballots for the May 21st Primary Election. StarNews sat down with Dr. Almonord to learn about his platform and views.

Dr. Almonord said, “It was 1969, and I was playing soccer in the streets of New York when we heard a woman talking at the corner in front of a grocery store. I didn’t understand much English then, so a friend told me the woman was talking about President Nixon, calling him a crook. I started running in the opposite direction. My friend caught up with me asked why I was running? I told him I didn’t want to go to jail.

“I came from Haiti which was then a dictatorship, and you didn’t criticize the president or the government. You would disappear - you wouldn’t be seen again. My friend explained that was not true in the United States. That lady turned out to be Congresswoman Shirley Chisolm. Over time, I talked to her many times. She told me I could be anything I wanted except president or vice president of the United States - remember, this was 1969. And she said ‘the government is us!’ At that time, it was what made me an American!”

Dr. Val Almonord became a father, grandfather, physician, healthcare student, veteran, and union leader, and now a candidate for U.S. Representative 3rd Congressional District. He comes from humble beings and his family was not wealthy. He worked to get where he is today. He went to high school while working on a factory line, college and medical school on college work-study, Pell Grant, and student loan. After 35 years of federal service,

added. Commission voted to approve: “Emergency Medical Services Agreement with West Georgia Ambulance Inc. to add one additional ambulance, to provide that amount of annual Base Amount of Subsidy will increase by $250,000 and county will contribute one-time payment in the amount of $132,000 toward the cost of the additional ambulance when the additional ambulance is put in service”.

The annual Base Amount of the Subsidy from the county government budget funds to West Georgia Ambulance for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 is $1,611,350 ($1.61M) as noted in the Feb. General Fund #10036500 Ambulance Care / #10036500 521450 Program Expense.

With the increase of $250,000 to the Base Amount, subsidy total is now $1,861,350 ($1.86M) (not including one-time payment of $132,000). County government (commission) has subsidized West Georgia Ambulance for decades (the subsidy in 2001 was $480,000).

West Georgia Ambulance and Tanner Health officials made a detailed presentation to the commission board at its March meeting, sharing historical call volume trends, a 911 call volume county comparison, Carroll County’s EMS call demand by area, Tanner’s investment since acquiring the 911 ambulance service and a proposed budget for the funding request.

West Georgia Ambulance had a 911 call volume of 18,669 calls in 2023. The 2023 volume of Coweta EMS, which has nine ambulances to serve a 2023 population of 149,004, compared to Carroll County’s 2023 population of 121,734. Per the presentation, a seventh ambulance will reduce the average number of calls per day for each unit from 8.6 to around 7.6.

Under the approved revised contract, West Georgia Ambulance will now provide seven ambulances to respond to 911 calls 24 hours a

he retired from Fort Benning.

“The government is the tree and we the people are the wood. You need the wood to make it stand! I went into the military because I love this country. The country has done so much for me,” he said.

Dr Almonord retired from Ft. Benning in 2018. The “love of his life” Nicole died in 2019. He has four children, five grandchildren, and two grandchildren and they all support his candidacy, he said, “one hundred percent”.

Almonord advocates for term limits, “Congress is not about being a professional congressman. You come to serve the people.; you go to do what you promised. But, after time, you begin to serve yourself.”

After he retired, he looked at the country and healthcare in particular. In addition to being a medical doctor, he also has a degree in healthcare management. “I know how the healthcare system works, both for the patient and the provider point of view. I know I can make it work better for all of us. Healthcare is now big business. I think Medicaid should not only be expanded, but improved. These patents should receive the same treatment as those who have Blue Cross for example, not less, like they are in some instances. They should have the same access to quality healthcare. I will fight to enhance the Affordable Care Act by lowering the deductible and with the expansion of Medicaid so that every man, woman, and child can access affordable quality healthcare. “

“I have two daughters and two granddaughters,” he continued, “and they should have the

day, 365 days a year. These ambulances currently operate out of six regional EMS stations: Bowdon, Clem, north Carrollton, south Carrollton, Temple and Villa Rica. The new ambulance will temporarily be stationed in the Villa Rica station, with a final permanent location of the Sandhill area once a new station is constructed.

right to start their family when they want to. The very conservative Supreme Court just took away our women’s civil rights. But women’s reproductive health will be on the ballot in November. To restore our mothers, wives, and daughters’ civil rights, we must vote overwhelmingly for Democrats. In Congress, I will sponsor legislation to codify Roe v. Wade; in other words, to make it the law of the land.”

Almonord said he will also fight to protect Medicare and Social Security, “Some in Congress want to privatize them, but these programs were designed not to be about making money but protecting you.”

Addressing conservatives in the district, Dr. Almondord, “I am a fighter. I have fought for everything I have. And I will fight for the needs of all our residents.”

Concerning inflation in the grocery stores and gas pumps, he believes he can lower prices by supporting legislation to stop giving a tax break to the corporations like Tyson Chicken and Big Pharma who have record profits, “Tax those excessive profits.” He said he would also reduce the oil companies’ excessive profits from price gouging and lower the federal tax on every gallon of gasoline.

He congratulated President Biden on reduc-

ing the price of insulin but why not all drugs? he asked.

Almondord also says we need to look at the minimum wage. We should not have to make decisions on where to spend our money on necessities, “Should I get my physical this year? Can I afford it? We are all human, we have decisions we have to make. Improve the quality of life for everyone no matter their political beliefs. Make healthcare accessible to everyone!”

“Climate change is not a hoax,” he added, “it is real. It is time to address the changing climate affecting our lives and will change the lives of our kids and grandkids. Now is our chance to make West Georgia the number one manufacturer of good-paying technological jobs to fight climate change. We need to elect a congressional leader to support climate change legislation.”

In conclusion candidate Almonord said, “Most importantly, I will be a voice for the people, not big corporations and lobbyists. It’s about time to select a leader from the people who will work for all people - to be a servant leader. We are all Georgians; let’s work together for a better Georgia.”

almonordforcongress.com

7th AMBULANCE from front page

Almonord

Tanner Urgent Care for Kids

Tanner Health announces a new walk-in clinic tailored to children: Tanner Urgent Care for Kids. The clinic is under construction in the Tanner Health Pavilion in Carrollton, located by the Tanner Healthcare for Children. The space was previously occupied by Tanner Medical Group’s administrative offices, which relocated to Hays Mill Road, Carrollton. Tanner Urgent Care for Kids is expected to open in August

“Children and teens need and deserve specialized care,” said Steven Eubanks, MD, a board-certified pediatrician, Tanner Healthcare for Children and the new clinic’s medical director. “ Here, we’re building a one-stop shop for walk-in pediatric care with a medical team that specializes in young people.”

Lake Carroll Park expanded

A dedication ceremony for the newly expanded Lake Carroll Park was held Tuesday, April 23, 20243. Mayor Betty Cason, Councilmembers Jacqulene Bridges, Stacie Gibbs, Bob Uglum, Brett Ledbetter, City Manager David Brooks, city staff and many community members were present.

Plaques in the park will tell the stories of the development of Lake Carroll in the late 1940s and the new park, begun in 2021. A new flagpole for the park was donated by Councilmember Brett Ledbetter – who spearheaded the park’s design and development –and the Ledbetter family in memory of his parents and brother.

Lake Carroll Park area was formerly a part of Lakeshore Park and consisted of a few picnic tables and benches near the public boat ramp and docks. The new park boasts new boat

ramps, boardwalks, pavilions and picnic areas. The second phase of this park was completed in early 2024.

WGTC and Southwire partner for Computer Science Innovators Challenge

West Georgia Technical College’s (WGTC) Computer Information Systems (CIST) program recently joined forces with Southwire’s IT Department to host the inaugural “Computer Science Innovators Challenge.” Held at WGTC’s Carroll campus, event aimed to foster creativity and innovation among participants, regardless of their skill level.

Attendees were tasked with developing original projects within a limited timeframe, offering solutions to unfamiliar concepts.

“Students demonstrated skills, performing and problem-solving on the spot to impress potential employers like Southwire,” said CIST Program Chair Tara Shackleford. “This exposure could lead to internships and future career prospects.” Three teams presented projects at the event and each team walked away with Visa gift cards ranging from $50 - $150.

First Place: “Know Your Power” designed by Glenn Freeman, Kristy Bishop, and Christian Putman. The team created a power consumption calculator in natural language that is designed to understand the power draw of appliances.

Second Place: “Streamline, Simplify, Scale (Waybridge SAP/ER)” designed by John Paschal and Taylor Lowery. This program was designed to automate the scaling process to help with transportation and direct trucks and trailers. It is used to bridge the analog process of measuring items. The team presented security aspects of scanning the driver and the load to make sure that there were no issues. This project will be presented to the Southwire IT team to determine if they can implement it.

Third Place: “The Future of City Exploration” designed by Robert Galan and Kevin Keeler. This program was designed as a traveling tool that uses AI to guide users and give historical data and fun facts when traveling.

tara.shackleford@westgatech.edu CarrollCounty / UGA Extension Volunteer of the Year awards

UGA Extension Carroll County staff held their 6th annual Volunteer Appreciation dinner and presented awards to four deserving volunteers. UGA Extension volunteers help staff meet the mission of Extension by providing unbiased, research-based information and programming to the Carroll County community in Agriculture, 4-H, and Family and Consumer Sciences.

This year’s awards were presented to: Master Gardener of the Year - Linda Handyside; Friend of 4-H - Jeff Posey; Friend

of FACS - Claire Crawford; and Friend of Extension – Carroll EMC.

In 2023, volunteers helped in the following ways:

4-H Program – 27 coaches volunteering over 1,000 hours and 50 teachers encouraged 1,855 4-H’ers.

Master Gardeners – 71 volunteered 5,898 hours, 17,326 in-person contacts, 121,916 phone, email, newspaper contacts educating home gardeners.

Heritage Days – over 40 volunteers dedicated two days to teaching 900 students about our cultural heritage.

Ag Career Expo - 29 ag-related organizations, agencies, businesses, and colleges inspiring over 325 students to find a career in agriculture.

Family and Consumer Sciences Program –Over 30 hours by volunteers for food preservations and the healthy bear library classes. carroll.extension@uga.edu

J Best Hair

Golden City Villa Rica Lions Club offers free vision screenings for Carroll County Youth

The Golden City Villa Rica Lions Club recently purchased a PlusOptix vision screening machine that will help members of their club provide free vision screenings to children in Carroll County through the Carroll County School System, Day Care facilities, and local libraries in the West Georgia community.

The state of Georgia requires mass vision screenings for children in public schools in grades 1, 3, 5, and 7th grades to identify eye problems in children that may affect their learning. According to PreventBlindness.org, 1 in 20 preschoolers and 1 in 4 school-aged children has a vision problem, and it is not always easy to detect. Sometimes children have trouble seeing and don’t even realize they are seeing the world differently than others. Healthy vision is important for learning and success in school.

For most children, 80% of learning happens visually. Vision problems can make it hard for children to read and learn, and unfortunately, many fall behind in school or show behavioral problems.

“It is the goal of our Golden City Villa Rica Lions Club to help screen as many children who live in Carroll County to help detect problems as early as possible so that children may have the best chance at success in life,” said Stacey Orr, Golden City Lions Club Project chair. “This project is an entire community effort because funds raised from our Elvis Tribute Fundraiser Concert held at The Mill in Villa Rica last fall along with a generous grant from Greystone Power Foundation that allowed us to purchase the machine. We have already conducted our first

screening at Endless Bounds Early Learning Center where we served 19 children ages three to five years old, finding five who needed to be seen for further evaluation by an eye care professional.

“The machine is much more accurate and efficient than using an eye chart alone to screen children.”

The Golden City Villa Rica Lions Club is working with Carroll County Schools, the Villa Rica Public Library, and other area Day Care centers to plan more free screenings to serve area children. They are also working with eye care professionals to be sure children are able to find the necessary eye care when further evaluation is needed.

The Golden City Villa Rica Lions Club is a local civic organization of service-minded men and women who are passionate about improving their community.

In addition to offering free vision screenings, members provide assistance for those affected by childhood cancer, Shop-with-a-Cop, Toys for Tots, recycling of old eyeglasses that are used in humanitarian trips overseas, Carroll County Schools Partners Advancing Student Success program (PASS), and scholarships for local high school students.

The club meets the fourth Monday of each month at The Olive Tree in Villa Rica at noon. Guests are always welcome to attend and learn more about getting involved in making a difference in the community, building leadership skills, and being a friend to those in need.

To learn more about the Golden City Villa Rica Lions Club, the club may be reached by email to lionsclubgoldencity@gmail.com

Left to right: Lion Sheryl Sanford, Shanie Minis Vision Teacher, Carroll County Schools, Lion Gina Brandenburg, Lion Stacey Orr, PlusOptix Rep Tammy Johnson, Jessica Ealey owner of Endless Bounds Early Learning Center, and Lion Rebecca O’Connor.

corporations and jobs will follow. But, current zoning is stuck in place from 20 to 30 years ago. I don’t look like I did 20 years ago, and neither does the housing market.”

Hunt explained that building and zoning was reflected in construction of single family homes. The two biggest consumer groups are first time buyers who are the Millennials and retiree buyers who are the Boomers. But, zoning is based on the smallest consumer group which is the school-driven move-up buyers who are Gen X. Current zoning leaves out the two largest demographic groups.

“The biggest consumer groups have a lot in common. As a boomer - and like the millennials - I have no kids at home. We both like to party.

“When I speak with zoning commissions and city councils, I state that they should focus on these two groups. Because, one, it is the right thing to do. And, two, these are the groups who have all the money! They have no kids! No, it doesn’t increase traffic. I want to move downtown, get drunk, and go home,” John said tongue-incheek. “These groups are not going to tax your services or flood your schools. You should be very intentional about catering to their housing needs.”

market wants it, but most cities are predisposed against density.”

Speakig directly to housing affordability, Hunt said, “We are witnessing an allout war being waged on housing affordability in our country. It is being waged not only by rising material costs, rising rates, inflation and labor costs. It is also being waged by restrictive and exclusionary zoning. This is the defining Issue of our time.”

Hunt strongly said, “Why is restrictive zoning still happening? Why are we only seeing single family homes and apartments? Why is that all we are seeing?

The two biggest consumer groups are first time buyers who are the Millennials and retiree buyers who are the Boomers. But, zoning is based on the smallest consumer group which is the school-driven move-up buyers who are Gen X. Current zoning leaves out the two largest demographic groups.

“Zoning dates back to the 1920s to keep segregated neighborhoods white. In Atlanta, zoning was zoned R1 White and R2 Colored. When the Supreme Court said you can’t do that, they changed it to R1 Single Family and R2 Apartmentand continues to this day.”

Hunt then challenged the audience to look it up. The main barrier to affordable housing is restrictive and exclusionary zoning, he said.

Hunt pointed out there is a great shortage in housing, but no shortage in office space, retail space, or warehouse space.

apartments equivalent to a large house. These are being integrated throughout most walkable pre-1940s neighborhoods, often now being integrated into blocks with primarily single-family homes. These provide diverse housing choices and generate enough density to support transit and locally-serving commercial amenities.

“This is density that doesn’t look like density,” he said.

Hunt concluded by saying, “Pundits are saying that rising interest rates will help increase inventory as housing demand cools. The exact opposite is going to happen. Inventory is going to get worse. The reason?

The two biggest consumer groups in the country are converging in the middle in terms of square footage. Unfortunately, the middle is missing. Hunt said, “We need more 1750, 1500, 1250, and 950 square foot housing. The

Hunt said he believes the U.S. is starting to make some progress in zoning reform, not on the east coast or west coast, but in the nation’s heartland is where “radical” change is happening. Multi-unit housing types such as duplexes, fourplexes, bungalow courts, and mansion

Ryan Whitley

“Zoning dates back to the 1920s to keep segregated neighborhoods white. In Atlanta, zoning was zoned R1 White and R2 Colored. When the Supreme Court said you can’t do that, they changed it to R1 Single Family and R2 Apartmentand continues to this day.”

“The second biggest demographic group, the Boomers, are sitting on their homes when they should be selling them to take advantage of skyrocketing prices. Why aren’t they moving? Because there’s nowhere for them to go.

“Now, even if they could find a place to go, they are not going to be trading in their 3% mortgage for a 5% mortgage. Or a 6.88% mortgage. Or an 8%.”

Hunt believes there is not enough housing inventory and it is a long term challenge - that it may take 10 years to catch up.

John Hunt, graduate of Samford University with a BA in Finance/Economics, is MarketNsight’s Chief Analyst and Principal. marketNsight.com

John Hunt

story

by

Janice Daniel

Carroll County Board of Education met for work session Mon., April 15, 2024, 5:30 p.m.

Terry Jones gave a facilities and construction update: slabs are poured and steel erected for the Operations Center extensions; binder has been laid on the road; awaiting GDOT to finalize their portion of the entrance. Classroom and cafeteria additions and remodels are underway at several schools and the underground retention pond at Villa Rica High has been completed. He will bring photos next month of the completed stadium renovation at Temple High. Jones told the board that thegovernor has approved a recurring State Fund on an annual basis for ongoing and new safety projects. The

goals for use of this money is a Crisis Alert System, software for tracking and monitoring all facilities, $50,000 to replace old and wornout equipment, and a one-time expenditure of $60,000 for cabling for a Centegix Safety System, a crisis alert system where employees and teachers will wear a badge with buttons to press in the event of any type of crisis situations, including lockdowns, recording issues and sending a report of what needs to be addressed. Jones said the safety assessments for the interiors of schools have been addressed and now attention has been turned to covering the exteriors.

Board Member Bart Cater brought up the issue of having School Resource Officers

(SROs) at each school, and Chairman Bryant Turner said, after hearing about the dire hiring problems at the local and county levels, he had a meeting with Carroll County Sheriff Terry Langley about the problem. He asked if the school district could possibly partner with law enforcement agencies to perhaps add to the salary of SROs to make the job more attractive to people looking for jobs. He also suggested it might help to make the SRO positions part of the school calendaring so they get the same days off as students and teachers, including the summer. He said that Sheriff Langley was receptive to these ideas and his goal was to have an SRO at each school.

2/24/24 were at $11.5 Million, Expenditures were at $14.4 Million and General Fund was at $46.4 Million with $4.5 Million in encumbrances. Budget update for FY24/25 included a 31% increase in health insurance.

Audit Report for FY6/30/23 showed a clean opinion with no adjustments or findings.

story by Janice Daniel

Carroll County Board of Education met on Thursday, April 18th, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. for a regular (monthly) meeting. The Consent Agenda from the work session was approved unanimously. (See story this page.)

Superintendent Scott Cowart reported that 100% of Carroll County district schools are now STEM certified, making it one of three districts in the state of Georgia that have their own process to support schools in STEM education. STEM, an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, requires extra training for teachers, with the focus being hands-on, problem-based learning, elementary through high school. Students who receive a STEM education are primed to become the next generation of innovators due

to the emphasis on communication, creativity, critical thinking and collaboration. Students develop problem-solving skills for success in any career field.

Charity Aaron, Director of Partnerships & Communication, gave a report on the creation of a foundation for Carroll County Schools to raise funds for student scholarships and teacher grants. Aaron has worked with other school systems, accountants, and attorneys to draft the Articles of Incorporation, which have been sent to the Secretary of State for approval. She said the process is on the way to obtaining 501(c)(3) status.

After executive session, the board voted unanimously to approve the Superintendent’s personnel actions, and the regular meeting was adjourned.

In response to a question by Board Member Sandra Morris about what SROs actually do, Jones said the most important thing is building rapport with students to build trust. Students tend to know more about what’s going on with other students than adults do, and the SROs need specialized skills to build relationships with kids.

Superintendent Scott Cowart said if the district started adding to the pay grade of SROs, it would have to be on a gradual basis of Chairman Turner’s initial suggestion of $6,000 per year. Terry Jones asked that the Fieldtrip Requests and Fundraising Requests be put on the Consent Agenda.

Glen Harding advised the board that the Georgia Department of Health is ending their programs “Coaching Boys into Men” and “Coaching Girls into Women”, and replacing it with a new program “Athletes as Leaders” with an annual Memorandum of Understanding of $5,000 for each school. Coaches have to facilitate this program with the students.

In the Financial Report, revenues as of

Human Resources Director Jarod Griffis said principals have been good at filling needed positions, and also working with each other to share candidates with other schools. He advised the board that there are still 29 positions to fill, with the biggest deficit being in Special Education positions. So far, 77 new teachers have been hired, which is far fewer than last year. Board Member Cater asked Superintendent Cowart for an update on the District’s policy for posting jobs and how the District aligns with best practices in hiring, which Cowart will present next month.

Three schools need some roofing projects done, and A&B Roofing came in with the lowest bid at $360,000 for all three, which the State will fund 82% and 18% will come out of SPLOST. This bid was approved unanimously. Cowart also presented Bid Package #3 for the Operations Center, $3,940,141 for utility site work, a warehouse building for Maintenance, etc. The total amount to wrap up the entire project at the Operations Center, including Packages 1, 2, and 3 came to $16,359,178 for which the District has been putting money aside for the last three years to help cover the cost. Board unanimously approved the bid for Package 3 of $3,940,141. After executive session, board approved the personnel actions presented by Superintendent Cowart.

Meeting was adjourned.

Pentagon Properties

story by Janice Daniel

Carroll County Board of Commissioners held a regular (monthly) meeting Tuesday, April 9, 2024. 6:00 p.m. All commissioners present.

In Public Comments, citizen Jimmy Capps, said hate crimes are still happening to people with Trump signs or banners in their yards. He said someone is throwing nail bombs in the entrance of driveways, and someone took a memory card out of one of his security cameras.

Consent Agenda was approved unanimously.

Electronic Security Solutions was awarded the bid for the upgrade of the entire Carroll County Courthouse at a cost of $749,500. This item was approved contingent on the maintenance contract being worked out.

Commissioner District 2 Clint Chance asked citizens to watch the last work session to see information about how the new AG center

Citizen John Paulk said the developer

the

acres to State Department of Health & Resources, and southern 80 acres have not been presented.

City of Carrollton sewer lift station is located on the tract on north side of Martin Cemetery with an access easement that bisects this tract, and the tract where this lift station is located will have to be annexed into the city if this application is approved. Applicants said that the lots fronting Martin Cemetery Road may utilize a shared access drive on the access drive for the city’s sewer lift station. He also stated that most, if not all, of the lots would be served by septic tanks, with city servicing the water.

City of Carrollton Planning Commission recommended denial.

Applicant stated that he will adhere to the Environmental Health Control guides for the septic tank approval process, but he is “confident” he can get 7 lots on the north side of the property.

Citizen James Christian owns 10.6 acres of the land included in the application, and he stated that he is in favor or the proposal.

In opposition, citizen Patrick Malloy said he owns 65 acres adjacent to the land in question, and he wants to know why the applicant wants to change from county to city? Malloy was also concerned about the roads which do not support the density of the homes.

Citizen Laura Jacobs, who also owns property in the area, said she is strongly opposed to the annexation because after one year, the applicant could go before council and request a higher density of homes than they are currently proposing.

Citizen Julia Curran said she had applied to rezone her property located near here to be used as an event venue and it was denied because the road could not handle the traffic. She also thinks the eco-system would be ruined and the area should remain agricultural.

Citizen John Paulk said the developer has only presented the north 32 acres to the State Department of Health & Resources, and the southern 80 acres have not been presented. He stated that 46% of the southern portion is in the flood zone and all those lots are unacceptable for septic field lines. This portion of the property will require “major restrictions on any wetland or stream encroachment. This really is a county issue,” he stated.

District 4 County Commissioner Steve Fuller said he has talked to Jake Holloway of the Health Department, who advised that there are only small spots of good dirt on the north side,

rules were set in order to get back to the roots of AG program education. The AG center will continue to be available to community organizations that have used it for annual events for the last five years. District 4 Commissioner Fuller said there are only two organizations that used it once in the last five years that will be eliminated. New rules state that reservations at the AG Center for birthday parties, baby showers, and other personal events will no longer be allowed at the AG center, but Carroll County has other event centers available for these type uses.

Chairman Michelle Morgan announced that no Executive Session was necessary and the meeting was adjourned.

Superior Structures

Edward Jones

WOODED ACRES GONE from front

Villa Rica one of the “last cities in Metro Atlanta area” to set up storm water managment system

story by Janice Daniel

Mayor and Council of the City of Villa Rica met for a monthly work session Tuesday, April 9th, 2024, 1:30 p.m.

Council Member Anna McCoy was absent.

A Consent Agenda for the regular meeting was prepared as follows:

1. replacement of 10-ton HVAC unit, Gold Dust Recreation. Budgeted cost: $27,118.

2./3./4. appointments of Nora Halliday, Joel Crawford, and Susan Thompson Crane to the Main Street Advisory Board.

vehicles, and the property purchase from World Changers Church.

12.approval of the excess cyber liability insurance renewal. Budgeted cost: $16,000 plus taxes and fees, a 12-15% increase over last year.

Mayor and Council of the City of Villa Rica met for a monthly work session Tuesday, April 9th, 2024, 1:30 p.m..

Council Member Anna McCoy was absent.

5./6. appointments of Brandon Swafford and Dr. Andre Westfield to the Downtown Development Authority Board.

7.approval of 2024 License Agreements with Los Cowboys Mexican Restaurant to provide beer, wine and alcohol at the 5 Villa Rica Main Street events at the MILL amphitheater.

8.approval of Pyro Shows East Coast to provide July 3rd Fireworks Display. Budgeted cost of $35,000.

9.approval of RCS Productions, Inc. to provide production services and entertainment for the July 3rd concert at Villa Rica Civic Center & Sports Complex. Budgeted cost of $24,470.

10.approval to engage with Grizzard & Associates for the Cleghorn force main relocation. Budgeted cost of $1,254,789.

11. approval of the property and liability insurance renewal with GIRMA (Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency). Budgeted cost of $374,197, which is a 15% increase over last year due to unfavorable claim trends and inflation, addition of eight (8)

13.approval of lighting agreement with Georgia Power for installation of 34 streetlights along the eastern half of the Villa Rica Parkway at a cost of $129,300 from the Eastside TAD.

14.approval to install two additional stop signs with street signs and hardware at the intersection of Balsam Wood Trail and Summer Cypress Drive in Ashley Place subdivision. Cost of $400.

15.approval to complete the paving and street repairs in Carroll Vista subdivision by adding changeorder and cost to existing paving contract with E.R.Snell Contractors. Budgeted cost of $794,298.

16.approval to perform emergency repairs to the culvert failure at the small stream on Old Tanyard Road with city supplying materials and Tim Grizzard & Associates supplying the labor. Total cost not to exceed $137,500.

A video was shown at the meeting with the purpose of explaining the Storm Water Management proposal. Consulting Engineer and past City of Villa Rica Engineer Bobby Elliott gave further information on storm water management systems he has introduced in other cities. He said that Villa Rica is one of the last cities in the Metro Atlanta area to set up a storm water management system.

Cost of $135,500 is for a study to determine what the city’s “impervious surface layer” is in

order to predict a table of projected fees for Residential, Multiresidential, Commercial and Industrial entities. This is the first step in determining the amount of fees to be collected and deposited into the Storm Water Enterprise Fund. This money will only be used for issues relating to storm water management, and the consultant recommended for this study is Integrated Science & Engineering, LLC. Further discussion will take place at the regular monthly meeting.

calming situation, along with other roads near the school, some ordinance changes; Community Development items; and the FY 23 Financial and compliance audit summary to be presented by Mauldin & Jenkins CPA firm.

In Public Comments, citizen Greg Roberts said he will speak at every mayor and council meeting about the letter [City Manager] Tom Barber sent out taking sides in a political race, and his opinion is that Barber should send a letter of apology to the citizens of Villa Rica.

Other subjects for further discussion at the regular meeting: Clearview Street traffic

In Public Comments, citizen Greg Roberts said he will speak at every mayor and council meeting about the letter [City Manater] Tom Barber sent out taking sides in a political race, and his opinion is that Barber should send a letter of apology to the citizens of Villa Rica.

Work session was adjourned.

Pentagon Properties

Merrell & Associates, Inc., originated in 1952. That’s when R. Ellis Merrell installed his first heating and cooling system in Carrollton. With that job, he established not only a heating and air conditioning company, but also a tradition of excellence that we maintain to this very day.

In 1979, Merrell & Associates was formed and established as a leading HVAC Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer (CFAD). We’ve been a FAD for over 45 years, placing us in the nation’s top five percent of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and heating contractors. Today, our family-owned and operated heating and air conditioning company is the most respected and client-focused indoor comfort service provider in West Georgia. What’s more, the family that owns Merrell were all born and raised in the Western Georgia area. Tony and Bliss Rogers

A StarNews Special Series Honoring the Legacy and

A knowledgeable County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent is vital to the ongoing and future success of our farming communities

story by Wayne J. Reynolds

Carroll County has a diverse population of just at 120,000 residents, of which many do not have any idea what the mission, function, or responsibilities are of the UGA Extension Carroll County office, while so many other residents use its services on a regular basis, and year round. Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent and Carroll County Extension Coordinator Paula Burke explains, “University of Georgia is a land grant university that does research on a variety of topics, and the results of that research is shared through the extension offices in every county in Georgia. The research is shared with us in three areas that we cover: agriculture and natural resources; to children through the 4-H program; and family and consumer services.”

Duties in those three areas are divided as follows: Burke is responsible for Agriculture and Natural Resources. Family and Consumer Sciences agent is Victoria Presnal.

4-H is handled by Rebekaeh Claar assisted by Natalie Moncus, 4-H Program Assistant and Krystal Zenefski, 4-H AmeriCorps member.

In total, the Carroll County Extension Office has a staff of eight, when fully staffed.

The Carroll County Extension Office is a partnership of the University of

Carroll County CATTLE SALES

Carroll County Sales Barn

225 Sales Barn Road, Carrollton

April 1, 2024: 668

March 25, 2024: 667

March 18, 2024: 586

March 11, 2024: 402

March 4, 2024: 855

Feb. 26, 2024: 821

Feb. 19, 2024: 1353

Feb. 12, 2024: 687

TOTAL CATTLESOLD at Carroll County Sales Barn 2023:

26,000+-

TOTAL CATTLESOLD at Carroll County Sales Barn 2022:

27,000+-

TOTAL CATTLESOLD at Carroll County Sales Barn 2021:

30,000+-

Highlighting

Georgia and Carroll County Board of Commissioners. UGA Extension is on the forefront of food safety, technology, research, and education keeping Georgia’s economy strong with a goal of making life better for Georgians. UGA Extension Carroll County links the resources of the University of Georgia, Fort Valley State University, and Carroll County to provide educational programs, information, and assistance to citizens. UGA Extension Carroll County helps the citizens of Carroll County by addressing a variety of initiatives. The UGA Extension office works with the Carroll County Board of Commissioners to expand programs and upgrades of the facilities has been helpful to continue to serve the citizens and farmers of Carroll County.

The extension office concept was formed about 118+ years ago. In fact, Carroll County was the first county in the State of Georgia to have an extension agent. In 1907, Samuel M. Cown (see sepia-toned photo these pages) was hired by Seaman A. Knapp, director of Cooperative Demonstration Work in Washington, D.C., to be a county agent in Carroll County. Cown was the second county agent hired in the United States.

Extension Agent Burke said, “The programs are designed for the needs of each county. For example, the needs of Fulton County would be different from Carroll, and Carroll’s would be different than counties in south Georgia. Using agriculture as an example, Fulton County agents do a lot more urban topics, like home

Georgia cattle inventory reflects national

numbers: lowest national cattle inventory since 1951

Nationwide slightly lower at 87.2 million head, with Georgia in third straight year of also a slight decline

from press release UGA

Georgia’s overall cattle and calf herd declined by about 20,000 head from 2023 to 2024, according to the 2024 Cattle Inventory Report from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), part of a nationwide trend that resulted in the lowest national cattle inventory since 1951, according to published reports.

Nationwide, all cattle and calves were counted at 87.2 million head in 2024, down from 88.8 million head in 2023, Georgia’s 2024 herd was reported at 1.01 million, down from 1.03 million in 2023, marking the third straight year of diminishing cattle herds in the state.

Cows that have calved numbered 550,000 in 2024, down from 570,000 in 2023. Most of this decline occurred in the beef herd, where the number of cows that calved was 459,000 in 2024, down from 478,000 in 2023 and 487,000 in 2022.

Beef replacement heifers numbered 85,000 in 2024, down from 90,000 in 2023.

Dairy replacement heifers were counted at 25,000 in 2024, up from 20,000 in 2023.

Though the overall herd shrank, the number of steers and bulls weighing 500 pounds or more in Georgia increased

slightly, from a combined 67,000 head in 2023 to 70,000 head in 2024.

Meanwhile, fewer cattle are being sold and fewer are being slaughtered. In the Beef Tips ‘n Advice newsletter, UGA Assistant Professor of Agricultural & Applied Economics Will Secor noted that 5% fewer cattle were slaughtered in January and February 2024 than for the same two months in 2023, though lower slaughter numbers are partially offset by a 1% increase in average dressed weights.

“This is important because beef prices have started the year higher compared to year-ago levels (again),” Secor wrote. “Higher beef production per carcass may soften the price increases that consumers may face this year. These tight beef supplies will test the resilience of U.S. beef consumers in the year-ahead.”

Feeder cattle prices in Georgia are hovering around very high price levels, Secore said, noting as an example that 500-600 pound steers are in the lower $290/cwt range. He wrote that prices may follow a more seasonal pattern in 2024 with prices setting highs in the spring, stabilizing through the summer, and dipping slightly in the fall. Prices should remain elevated throughout 2024 compared to last year.

Meetings Third Thursday Each Month @ 7:00 p.m.

Carroll County Ag Center 900 Newnan Road Carrollton, GA

Carroll County Cattlemen’s Association

Join Us for a Steak Dinner & Informational Programs

Next Meeting: June 20 @ 7:00 p.m.

"Feedlot Management & Economics: What Makes Some Cattle Worth More Than Others?"

Guest Speaker: Dr. Francis Fluharty

Meeting Sponsor

Call 770-836-8546 to RSVP by June 18

gardening, landscape topics. We do some of that such as with the Master Gardeners program, but I do the traditional farming areas as a way of life. Carroll County has the most farms in Georgia - 806.” Burke went on to share a variety of farming information. In Carroll County, the average farm is 114 acres, covering 92,092 acres and 28.8% of land. Beef, cattle and poultry beef are the largest commodities; beef ranking 6th as a commodity in the state on 367 farms with $729,973,522. Poultry ranked first as a commodity in the state on 72 farms with $6,672,840, 36.39% of the total agriculture in the state. Goats ranked 8th while 11,043 acres, while grapes ranked 19th, and Horse boarding, training, and breeding ranked Agriculture and nature based tourism in Carroll $2,762,960.

“Our goal is education. I’m in the process who will work with me. We work to find out what the farmers are asking for and answering their questions. I work closely with the cattleman, as I am secretary of the association. We plan monthly programs and schedule speakers here. For example, the extension office is in partnership with the Carroll County Cattlemen’s Association to host ‘Beef Fest’ on October 19th - a fun day! Everything beef! This helps promote the strong cattle industry that we have here. We also host the Journeyman Farmer Certification Program. Our fruits and vegetable industry is growing as well. In the future, we will also be doing a similar program on sheep and goat farming.”

Another unique service that the extension office offers is soil testing ($9 per bag) which benefits local citizens as well as farmers. It is shipped to UGA for testing. They test soil, water, feed, grain, hay, even manure. soil tests per year. The test will tell the customer depending on what they want to grow there

“We have saved farmers thousands of dollars. farmer does not have to add lime to the soil

Our fully-stocked Parts Department meets all the needs of Farm and Construction Equipment

Our Service Department has fully-trained staff to work on all equipment - from hand held power tools to combines - and everything in between!

Paula Burke

Information and Education to Create Connections”

Highlighting the Enduring Impact of Our Farming Communities

What is UGA Extension?

W e translate science of everyday living for farmers, families, and communities to foster a healthy and prosperous Georgia. F or more than a century, we’ve provided research and education through a network of committed specialists, agents, and volunteers to help Georgians learn, grow and do more.

while Sheep ranked 7th. Hay covered and vegetables had a value of $594.161. ranked 19th and honey bees ranked 14th. Carroll County ranked 19th with process of hiring a full-time Ag Educator,

information on just how much fertilizer is needed. We have a phrase, ‘Unless you test, it’s just a guess!’ We also test ponds and hay. I am available to visit your farm to help assist with a soil or hay test. And being on the farm allows me to be available to help in other ways. I average visiting at least one a farm a week. I want to be there to help you. And the information we share with you or with a speaker is based on research - fact-based information - not opinion. We bring the famers the information and they ultimately make their own decision.”

The 4-H program continues to grow. Burke remarked, “We are maxed out.”

4-H holds over 80 club meetings each month with students 4th through 6th grade in schools in both Carrollton City and Carroll County School Systems. Rebekaeh Claar, Natalie Monks and Krystal Zenefski work outside the classroom offering a variety of activities such as the upcoming second second Livestock Camp this summer.

4-H is an educational program teaching leadership, citizenship, public speaking and practical life skills. The goal is to make learning fun. It is the youth phase of UGA Extension. 4-H has evolved to teach computers, recycling, photography, nutrition, violence prevention, and teamwork. They also will work with the teachers and principal on classroom education and topics but depends on the teacher and the STEM program. With 4-H, they also teach life skills such as public speaking which may or not be agriculture topics. Master Gardener members help with gardening topics as well. Burke emphasized that 4-H has something for everyone, not just those interested in agriculture.

The extension office sends over 600 customer - from pasture to garden, there - what they need to add to the soil. dollars. For example, finding out the soil or as much lime. Soil tests share

The Family and Consumer Science program area reaches more than 800 people in Carroll County, providing information about healthy eating, chronic disease prevention and food safety. Along with the Walk-aWeigh program, they offer a variety of programs such as Walk Georgia, Rite Bite Diabetes Cooking School and Cancer Prevention Cooking School. Health and disease prevention education is an important topic and the Family and Consumer Science program area has been able to share this information to get people healthy and active. They do food preservation like canning and different processes which this community has asked for. They also offer Homesteading classes on topics such as bread making, backyard poultry, herbs, and soap making. They offered a Parenting Expo which will be an annual event. They also do Yoga in the Park. Extension Agent Burke added,

“We have something for everyone. We always try to do it better. We have offered Heritage Days for over 30 years. We offer Top Hand Stockman & Stewardship for kids on how to handle cattle better. Our classes and topics come from feedback from the community. This is a great county and there is a lot going on.

In addition to our daytime responsibilities at times we can work four nights a

If

Please

week. Moving forward, staffing needs will determine a lot of what we can add.”

“The Ag-Ed center allows us to host most events here except for horse shows. Other extension offices come to see our facility and how we operate. Coming events include May 18th Parade of Breeds, May 30th Herbs, June 8th Master Gardeners Open House, July 10th Homesteading Backyard Poultry Class, Livestock Camp July 23rd, and on July 23rd our 3rd Annual Extension Expo which will include 4-H Arts and Craft Showcase.”

All agents are required to have a Masters’ degree. Paula Burke is in her 31st year as an extension agent with the last 13 years here at the Carroll County office. She holds a degree in Animal Science and her masters is in Leadership & Administration. Office: 900 Newnan Road, Carrollton inside the Ag-Ed building. Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m, closed for lunch from noon to 1:00 p.m. For more information, 770-836-8546 or visit extension.uga.edu/carroll Carroll County’s 2022 Total Farm Gate Value (in red) is

at 770-832-9089.

Carroll County had the first Extension Agent in the state’s history and the second one in the nation in 1907 with the hiring ofSamuel Cown. Photo UGA

industry that is constantly adapting and innovating to overcome challenges facing the industry and prepare for tomorrow. “

“With a Farm Gate value nearing $220 million and almost 10,000 Carroll County residents employed in the agriculture sector, agriculture is vital to Carroll County’s success and equally as vital to the overall success of agriculture in the state.

FARM LIFE STRESS from page 18

directly from farmers. Abigail Borron, associate professor in the UGA Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, led a breakout session focused on how communities impact farmer stress. She touched on community resources as assets or deficits and how perception, whether that of a farmer or service organization, can impact how the groups work together.

Dunn and Diane Bales, associate professor and human development specialist in FACS, led a Question, Persuade and Refer (QPR) Suicide Prevention Training. The training, from the QPR Institute, stressed the importance of educating “gatekeepers” including Extension agents, healthcare workers and others to look for signs and ask difficult questions.

“The more clues and signs you see, the greater the risk,” Bales said. “Take all signs very seriously.”

After reviewing myths and facts about suicide, learning methods for asking if someone is considering suicide, tools for persuading someone to get help and how to refer them to the appropriate resource, attendees received certification as a “QPR Gatekeeper”.

In closing comments, Dominic LaRiccia, representing the Georgia Department of

“Carroll County is a major player in multiple industries, including livestock and aquaculture, poultry and egg production, turf grass, and hay, and is the number ten county in the state for agritourism.”

Georgia is perennially the number one state in the nation in the production of peanuts, broilers (chickens), pecans, blueberries, and spring onions. Georgia is also at, or near the top, when it comes to cotton, watermelon, peaches, eggs,

Agriculture, told the audience that Georgia is failing citizens of the state by not putting agriculture - which provides $84 billion in economic impact accounting for 17% of the state’s economy - everywhere we go.

“For us to not be talking about how important agriculture is, and the men and women who work in it, I can’t even wrap my mind around that,” LaRiccia said.

Yet his final words were those of hope.

“Five years ago, you didn’t hear about suicide rates in agriculture,” LaRiccia said, praising the resources now available for Georgia’s farming and rural communities. “I’ve been blown away by the Farm Stress Summit.”

The annual Farm Stress Summit is hosted through a partnership between UGA Extension, the Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance, the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center, UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, UGA College of Public Health, UGA School of Social Work, UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences, Georgia Farm Bureau, Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and Georgia Department of Agriculture.

To learn more about UGA Extension efforts to help farmers and rural families thrive, visit Rural Georgia: Growing Stronger.

Wallace Farm and Pet Supply

cucumbers, sweet corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, cantaloupes, rye and cabbage.

One program that the Commissioner mentioned was the GATE Program. The General Assembly created the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption (GATE) which qualified agricultural producers a sales tax exemption on several products for use on the farm. This program greatly benefits Georgia farmers and helps ease the burden of increased costs on nearly every input, from feed to seed to fertilizer, that we’ve seen in recent years. Any producers that generate more than $5,000 in agricultural goods are eligible for a GATE card. Commissioner Harper highly encourages any farmers who don’t have one to apply.

Harper took office in 2023 and believes the department has made significant improvements to better serve farmers, producers, and consumers. The GDA has more than 500 employees, but pay and benefits can sometimes

be better elsewhere. For any state agency, recruiting and retaining high-quality employees and job candidates - especially for inspectorlevel positions - is a significant challenge as the private sector and federal agencies often offer more competitive salaries and benefits. The Department of Agriculture is not immune to this challenge, but they have made significant progress by removing degree requirements for certain positions and securing additional appropriations to boost salaries for many positions.

Harper worked closely with legislative leaders to secure an additional $56 million for the GDA on top of existing appropriations. Included in that is $37.5 million for Atlanta State Farmers Market, $3 million to boost inspector-level salaries on top of governor’s cost of living adjustments, and $2 million to replace vehicles and ensure their staff will not have to use personal vehicles for government.

Lake Carroll

State Senator

COMMENTARY

StarNews / StarNews Online www.starnewsgaonline.com

“Not just what happened, but what matters”

SUSAN M. HORN EDITOR/PUBLISHER

ADVERTISINGDIRECTOR: WAYNE REYNOLDS GRAPHICS DESIGNER: SHERRY REYNOLDS

REPORTERS: JANICE DANIEL WAYNE REYNOLDS

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 $35 per two year subscription. $45 out of county. Send address changes: P.O. Box 680, Carrollton, GA 30112.

P.O. Box 680 Carrollton, GA 30112 © 2024 Palindrome Enterprises dba StarNews / StarNews Online suehorn.starnews@gmail.com cell: 770-301-1275

Headlines that should make you angry or fearful

Headlines that should make you, as a free American citizen, angry or fearful:

“Artificial Intelligence is stealthily altering how news is made and how the public finds information.” -

EDITOR & PUBLISHER, posted Wednesday, May 1, 2024

“New NPR CEO responds to editor’s claims it ‘lost America’s trust’”- by Tara Suter - 04/12/24 7:13 PM ET

“Newsguard downgrades credibility scores for New York Times”, Bron Maher | PressGazette, posted Monday, April 15, 2024 8:50 am

“Google removes links to California news sites, citing proposed state law requiring payment to publishers” - by Eva Rothenberg, CNN, updated 10:21 AM EDT, Sun April 14, 2024

Let’s start with Artificial Intelligence (AI) writing our news. Publishers snatched up AI so fast. It is a direct and easy way to cut a major cost: reporter salaries. But, these publishers have either no thought about their newspaper future or they are so cash-strapped they do not care. AI driven copy is a lower quality of writing, easily identifiable by its lackluster content. AI computer stories are filled with generalities, trite phrases, and contain base commonalities that are then “localized” by inserting names of, well, local cities or people, but the story itself is lacking in what it cannot do: ‘eyes and ears reporting’. These publishers are slipping unremarkable, inferior “reporting” into their publications believing that their subscriberpurchasing readers won’t notice the bait and switch.

Gretchen A. Peck, E&P Magazine: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) is proving both a blessing and a bane for news publishers. On the one hand, generative AI technologies promise productivity gains. . . However, it also has the potential to create a minefield of misinformation for the public and for journalists to navigate. There’s also . . . copyright infringement that news publishers like The New York Times - which filed intellectual property suits against Microsoft and OpenAI - have begun to legally challenge.”

The two headlines above concerning low credibility levels of NPR (National Public Radio) and NYT (New York Times) is not new news. Discerning readers/listeners have noted the slow, agonizing fall or stopped listening/reading.

Concerning NPR, reporter Tara Suter: “Senior editor Uri Berliner, who has worked for NPR for more than 20 years, published an op-ed in The Free Press earlier this week, arguing that those who listen or read National Public Radio’s outlets coverage are only getting ‘the distilled worldview of a very small segment of the U.S. population’. He also claimed the news organization, which has been critiqued as having a leftward bend, has ‘lack of viewpoint diversity,’ as well as ‘an unspoken consensus about the stories we should pursue and how they should be framed’.”

Concerning NYT, reporter Bron Maher, PressGazette: “87.5 out of 100 points. The New York Times’ review was updated at the start of February to remove its passing grade on the ‘handles the difference between news and opinion responsibly’ criterion, which is worth 12.5 out of the 100 points.”

Which bring us to Google’s decades-long theft of news stories. Remember, Google was launched in 1998. Reporter Eva Rothenberg: “Google is removing links to California news websites in reaction to proposed state legislation requiring big tech companies to pay news outlets for their content...The California Journalism Preservation Act. . . require digital platforms like Google and Meta to pay a “journalism usage fee” to eligible news outlets when they use their content alongside digital ads. ‘These dominant digital ad companies are enriching their own platforms with local news content without adequately compensating originators.’” Google’s twenty years of global thieving has caused irreparable and widespread financial damage to the news industry, more so to print newspapers as we have higher costs. And any newspaper, print or online, publishing AI content will add loss of credibility to that damage.

2024 Legislative Update

Greetings from under the Gold Dome! Thursday, March 28, ended our 2024 legislative session. As you will see, the final four days of our legislative session were quite hectic. We also passed the final 2025 Fiscal Year Budget, which will be covered in detail in future updates. After a productive legislative session, our work is far from complete.

We now begin our off-session work which includes study committees, constituent meetings, and targeted meetings to move our region of the state forward.

Thank you for the honor of allowing me to serve as your voice under the Gold Dome. If you need anything, please feel free to reach out to me directly. May God bless you and may he continue to bless the great state of Georgia.

Healthcare: It is no secret that there is a growing fentanyl crisis in our state. To combat this issue, we passed Senate Bill 465, also known as

J COLLINS

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

j.collins@house.ga.gov

“Austin’s Law.” This bill creates the crime of Aggravated Involuntary Manslaughter when someone intentionally manufactures or sells a controlled substance that contains fentanyl, and fentanyl is determined as the sole cause or a contributing factor in a victim’s death. Further, under the legislation, the government would not need to prove that the defendant knew fentanyl was present in the drug in order to prosecute. Bill measures stipulate the following:

- Felony offenders will be subject to imprisonment between 10 and 30 years

Nihilism is the religion of the left

“Nihilism is the religion of the left. Anarchy is now at the core of the new Democratic Party. - The old politics of the right versus the left, and Republican opposed to Democrat have now given way to a new existential struggle.” Americans Must Make a Choice: Civilization or Destruction. Victor Davis Hanson, The Epoch Times, Jan 2024 Radical Nihilism is usually associated with Friedrich Nietzsche (a German philosopher (1844-1900), who has been called “The father of Nihilism.” Nietzsche argued that the effects of this philosophy would eventually destroy all moral, religious, and metaphysical convictions and cause the greatest crisis in human history.

That sounds like a very apocalyptic conclusion, even for the usually level-headed Hanson. Some of the events that brought him to this conclusion are as follows. The presiden-

My name is Marc Lattanzio. I’m running for the Georgia House of Representatives District 71, to represent a community that I have lived in for over thirty years and have been in service of.

My life has been dedicated to public service, with over 30 years in law enforcement in both Douglas and Carroll Counties. My career has allowed me to see first-hand the impact of the decisions made by elected officials at all levels. As a result, I became determined to do my part to make things better for the citizens in our community.

I have served on my local community HOA Board and helped make positive changes there, such as lowering dues (first and only time in history), and making improvements to infrastructure, such as roads and amenities. I also have became involved in the local chapter of the Carroll County GOP, where I currently serve as a State Delegate repre-

- Considered a felony crime for unlawfully possessing, purchasing, delivering or selling a pill press or tableting machine if there is reasonable cause to believe that the item will be used to manufacture a controlled or counterfeit substance

- Updates law so that those who sell drugs and counterfeit drugs containing fentanyl are held accountable for overdoses.

Our ongoing mental health efforts also saw victory through the passage Senate Bill 480. This legislation would provide student loan repayment assistance to mental health and substance use providers who offer services to underserved youth or practice in geographic areas of the state that lack adequate services. We are hopeful that this measure would incentivize professionals to work in areas of critical need, which would ensure access to these services for Georgians in need in all corners of

tial candidate Joe Biden in September 2019 urged future illegal aliens to “surge” the border. In March, the number was 189,000. The current trend would give him the notoriety of 10 million non-assimilated entrants since his inauguration.

Crime is sweeping the nation, with prosecutors not seeking bail and rarely prosecuting theft or random assaults. Criminals are caught and released the same day.

The left has attacked the backbone of America’s future with a series of

senting Carroll County in the 3rd Congressional District.

Back in 2014, I ran for a seat on the county commission because I had a few concerns in our community, and I felt they were being overlooked. While I did not win that election, I didn’t let that stop me from making sure these needs were addressed. I continued to work hard, advocating, and writing about those concerns in this very publication. My advocacy led to positive changes for our community.

The specific issues I advocated for were motivated by what I saw serving

energy-related bans and future requirements that have crippled our leadership in energy production. The cutback in pipelines, new energy leases, fracking, and nuclear power, along with bans on fossil fuels and unrealistic expectations for the transportation industry, outlines the demise of our economy.

With COVID-19 as an excuse, $4 trillion was printed and distributed, bringing about the worst inflation in 40 years. Currently, prices on everyday items are 30-40% higher, and mortgage rates have tripled. Last month, it was reported that the government had spent $1 trillion in 100 days.

Abroad, who would imagine we would discard billions of dollars of state-of-the-art weapons and hardware to terrorists, not to mention a strategic airbase? The abandonment of our allies on the ground in Afghanistan

our community as a law enforcement officer. I saw that there was a need for two additional fire stations to improve overall fire safety coverage while saving Georgians money by reducing insurance premiums. There was also a need, based on call volumes and response times, for additional ambulances to serve our community.

We needed increased pay for county public safety personnel because attrition rates were too high: we were losing qualified and experienced employees to surrounding agencies.

We needed an emergency cut through on interstate 20 between Villa Rica and Temple to reduce response times when every minute counts. I invested in these issues – writing about them, making phone calls, and going to meetings – because I knew these changes would benefit the citizens of Carroll County.

I’m humbled that all these changes

May 21st General Election Republican Ballot will have straw poll question on “Personhood”

DUANE HACK

West Georgia Right to Life PRESIDENT

“The Heartbeat of Georgia” Duanehack46@gmail.com 470-370-2452

In 1973, Justice Harry Blackmon wrote this opinion supporting his decision to vote in favor of the “Roe vs Wade”, legalizing abortion on demand: “If the suggestion of Personhood of the pre-born is established; the abortions rights case (Roe v Wade) of course collapses. For the right of the fetus to life is guaranteed specifically by the 14th Amendment of the constitution…”The 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution reads: “Nor shall any state deprive any person of Life, Liberty or

Prosperity, without due process of the law.”

The establishment of the fetus in the womb as a “Person” is paramount to the Pro-Life movement! So, this begs the question…. Should a Personhood Amendment be added to the Georgia Constitution to protect every born and preborn person? The Carroll County May 21, 2024, General Election Republican Ballot will contain a straw poll ballot question asking if a Personhood Amendment should be added to the State of Georgia Constitution. The Straw Poll ballot question on the Carroll County Republican ballot will read as follows: County Republican Party Question: “Since abortion still remains legal in Georgia and the Georgia Department of Public Health reported that the number of abortions has increased annually since 2019, should the Constitution of Georgia be amended, adding a Personhood Amendment to our Georgia Constitution, so that the Right to Life is vested in each innocent

human being, (inside and outside the womb) from his or her earliest biological beginning to natural death, without regard to their age, race, sex, health, function or condition of dependency? 0 Yes 0 No

The Constitutional Amendment, if voted on and approved, would read as follows:”This state (Georgia) shall recognize the paramount right to life of all innocent human beings as persons at any stage of development from fertilization to natural death.”

Poll results will be presented to our legislators during the 2025 Georgia General Assembly. A Personhood Amendment would guide laws to provide protection, equal justice, and equal rights for all innocent human life at any stage of development.

In 2021, 34,988 innocent children in Georgia lost their God-ordained right to life by abortion, an increase of 3,740 over the previous year. In 2022, 35,401 preborn children lost their lives,

Disappointed: Aletter of encouragement to our youth

SHAKITA

L. SMITH

I recently took my son to his first middle school basketball game. He was in love with every bounce, every lay-up, every buzzer! His school’s basketball team did very well for the entire basketball season, and were 16 and 1 as they advanced to the finals.

On the night of the final game, my son, my daughter and I scurried from my son’s school to the game dressed in school spirit attire and bubbling in excitement! Will we win? Would we pull this off? My son’s team started the final game off very strong, and then mistakes started happening. Unfortunately, our beloved team lost the game. My son began to tear up, having

River Rambles syllabil17@aol.com

My dog has died. That sweet funny ol’ boy. He Who Cheerfully accompanied me on all of these River Rambles - along the water, in the floodplain or snoozing at my feet under the desk while I wrote. Shine has been as much a part of these words as the river herself and water and mystery. Now, he, too, is a mystery. He was ten years old.

I’ve written about Shine so many times and, yet, now that he’s gone, it feels like not near enough. Rebbe Shine Thomas died peacefully in the home of his beloved friend Inga Carnes Fuller. The little-used surname Rebbe (Yiddish for Rabbi) is a fond nod to the round black patch on the top of his head that looked just like a yarmulke, the small skullcap Jewish people wear praying, singing, or studying the Torah, The Five Books of Moses.

faith they could turn things around all of the way to the end of the game. I told him it was okay to be disappointed.

I could see the disappointment not only in my son’s face but on the face of the players and others who had come to support the team. I looked at my son and explained to him the team would still receive a trophy, and they could prepare for next year’s basketball season by looking over the mistakes they made this season and making the necessary improvements. In other words, the team could learn from their disappointment.

Youth, truth of the matter is, everyone will experience disappointment at some point in their lives. Failed relationships, failed attempts, and misplaced trust are just a few of the opportunities for disappointment.

However, I would like to take a moment to tell you some of the things you should do to soar past disappointments: One of the first things you should do when faced with disappointment is be honest with yourself and accept what has happened and why. My son’s basket-

Shine

Shine was no water dog, though he never met a puddle he didn’t like to lap. Despite those oversized Bassett paws seemingly perfect for paddling, he showed zero interest in the river. Which was a mercy. I have no memory of him at the water’s edge as if he rightly perceived the Chattahoochee’s formidable current would be too much for his oddly-constructed frame.

Standing 19 inches tall from his yarmulke down to his front paws, and 36 inches across from the tip of his black nose to the brushy end of his white tail, Shine had a long powerful hound body and a barrel chest wherein lurked a deceptive bigdog bark. All this on legs that eventually grew to resemble beagle more than dachshund, and topped by a too-large border-collie head with short floppy ears - truly a mutt of snap-on parts. I thought he was gorgeous.

ball team had to accept the fact that they had made some errors, even if not intentional, which eventually cost them not to win the game. Sometimes errors are not realized until you are looking back over the situation. Either way, accept the disappointment, why it happened and make the necessary adjustments so that you may achieve your goal.

Youth, yes, there is truth in the old saying, “You never know until you try.” However, one way to prevent disappointments are to set realistic expectations. Please do not set a goal too far-fetched nor expect something that is honestly out of reach. We must pray and ask God to direct our paths and give us wisdom and discernment so that we can know that we are not only being realistic but also within the will of God. Ask God to send you people who can help direct and guide you, and give you knowledge and wisdom on any situation you face. Stay encouraged at all times! When disappointed, it is also important to take time and comfort yourself so you do not have any negative outbursts or reactions. A few

an increase of 413 over the previous year. Today, 13 abortion facilities remain open in Georgia, and mail order abortifacients (Medical abortion pills mifepristone and misoprostol) continue to be widely available. More than 30,000 babies are murdered by abortion in Georgia every year, making abortion a leading cause of death among children. Thousands of innocent lives have ended unjustly without legal protection enjoyed by every born person. As it stands currently, Georgia law does not protect innocent lives.

A Personhood Amendment could make the difference between preserving innocent life, or thousands of deaths among preborn children!

For more information, or to schedule a “Life through Scriptures” meeting at your local congregation or community event, please contact: Duane Hack, Chapter President, West Georgia Right to Life, Carrollton, GA 30117 470-3702452.

ways you can comfort yourself are through deep breathing exercises, long walks, and journaling. Also, you can visit a trusted loved one or friend and speak with them about your situation for guidance. Proverbs 15:22 states, “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”

Often, what we may refer to as a disappointment are really blessings that protect us from harm, help us to make a better decision, or even sharpen our skills and talents. Proverbs 3:5 states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” As we left the game, we could still hear the cheerleaders chanting and stomping their feet until the final buzzer sounded. I let go of the hope that we would win the finals and instead reflected on how close we came to winning and the fun we all had along the way. I began to smile as I said to myself, “We will win it next year!”

fully hidden, he’d pull it out and eat it right there on the spot. Did he figure that since obviously no one could see the treat now, he could eat it whenever he pleased?

Some mornings the dental stick hung out of his mouth like an unlit cigar as he went from room to room, from bed to sofa and back to bed looking, so it seemed, for the exact right place for his treat ritual - and clearly unable to choose.

My dog has died. That sweet funny ol’ boy. He Who Cheerfully accompanied me on all of these River Rambles - along the water, in the floodplain or snoozing at my feet under the desk while I wrote. Shine has been as much a part of these words as the river herself and water and mystery. Now, he, too, is a mystery. He was ten years old.

I told myself I’d officially start calling him Rebbe when he became an old dog. True, his gait slowed and his mask-muzzle grizzled, yet somehow his aging never quite registered, to my mind anyway. So, as long as he could still bounce when he ran, he was not old.

He could make me laugh. Many dogs hide their treats to come back to enjoy later. Every morning Shine received a log-like dental stick guaranteed to keep your dog’s teeth from grossing out your friends. He’d hide the stick immediately, usually under a pillow on my bed, fervently, surreptitiously, pushing it with his nose until it disappeared from sight. Then, once

Those were the only times I ever heard Shine cry. Sob actually. I imagine the decision-making was just too tough for him. Embarrassment of riches. I can relate. I’ll always be grateful to him for not being a water dog. Many of his canine friends were German Shepherds (mainly because Shine could outplay, outrun and outmaneuver them) and every damn one jumped in the Chattahoochee River at least once. Bounding gleefully into the water, they quickly realized the river was too much even for their vigorous Teutonic bodies and they’d begin paddling furiously toward shore. Steep, densely vegetated riversides aren’t easy for anyone of any domesticated species to climb. I have pulled river grasses out

by hand so a Shepherd could claw her way up the bank, hauling a body made heavier by the water she was holding in her thick coat.

Shine ignored the inlet stream, too. He never cavorted in the creek as many of those same Shepherds would do. He had select shallow spots where he’d drink copiously, and others where he’d cross the creek gingerly, as if on tiptoe, to explore when called upon the upland side of the stream. Shine had a situation I referred to as BADD, Beagle Attention Deficit Disorder (with sincere apologies to those humans with the challenging condition). He could be deeply focused straight ahead, tail up, nose-down, led by some delectable smell or trail on the ground - when all at once his head would bob up like an apple in a water barrel, his nose would swivel left or right registering some new irresistible stimuli wafting in, and off he’d go in bounding pursuit.

Shine lived in the moment. Or rather, the scent of the moment. He was an exemplar of democratic values and the best of monotheistic faith: He loved his neighbor. All of them. From the Amazon drivers, to the red-haired Christian girl who brings us eggs, to our local armadillo, he showered his affection on all God’s creatures equally.

I did worry about the armadillo, afraid she’d thwack him with her armored tail. Sometimes when Shine chased her, she’d then turn and chase him - and back and forth it’d go between them. I wondered, what the heck is going on “Dog Paddling”, an ode to

Millennials Christian Ministry (MCM)

COMMENTARY

Papa and the West Calumb

BILL BOURIS

digi@mindspring.com

My mother and father were born in the Ottoman Empire, on the same island, in two towns that were a “cigarette’s walk” apart; about five minutes. He was 12 years older, and would not met Mama until The Great Depression, in New York City, in 1932. She was a young widow with two daughters. He was a restaurant owner and knockabout. They needed each other and, because of their common origins and many overlapping friends and relatives (most of whom were now living in New York), there was enough commitment by all the parties involved, and trust, to last a lifetime.

I don’t think it was a marriage made in Heaven. Rather, it was made at a table in Brooklyn. It survived and succeeded.

I said my father was a knockabout. I mean that in the sense of a traveler who is open to adventures. He left home at the age of 14 to

PITTMAN from page 21

was tragic. Allowing a huge Chinese spy balloon to traverse our airspace gathering information or a hundred plus rocket attacks on American soldiers without a major responseis there any U.S. deterrence left?

Popular culture does its share of defacing and destroying our historical statues, cheering the results of the October 7th massacre, and pushing gender-affirming care to its limits.

Hanson concludes his article by comparing leftist Nihilism to the 16th-century European destruction of religious art and Mao Zedong’s cultural revolution of the 1960s.

It would be easy to blame all the above on a single concept like Nihilism, which purports that life is meaningless, that there is no right or wrong, and that we are free to develop our own individual truth. Introducing chaos into the American system serves what purpose?

For me, today’s conflict is the ongoing path to a worldwide system of power for the elites. No matter how you proportion the people of the world under whatever system of govern-

from page 22

here? So, I Googled it. Apparently there’s no anecdotal instances of tragic dog-armadillo encounters.Is it possible they were playing? Play was Shine’s reason for being. There’s so much more to say about him. About dogness in general. What is this familial kinship between humans and certain animals? It feels ancient, deeply rooted in our cells, in the atavistic longing for the wild as family. The elegaic tone of this Ramble can’t adequately convey how shocked I am by Shine’s sudden disappearance, how grieved I feel before the reality of impermanence and his loss. My heart is cracked open and my hands are empty. Where did he go? I’ll be chasing his shadow for a long long time.

Never a swimmer, Shine embodies the river now. For ten years he was loyal, physically and minutely comforting, as constant as the Chattahoochee has been for over two decades. Yet, at the same time he, like her, was ever in the current, the endless flow of life and death, always headed for our common destination. Now, he’s dogpaddling down the river out to the Great Sea.

Someday I will join him there.

live with relatives in Constantinople, the capital of the Ottoman Empire, a hundred miles away. It had been made the capital of the Roman Empire 1600 years before when that empire had become Christian. Emperor Constantine was the defender of the faith. That new capital city was named after him. In my father’s time, it was the political capital for the Ottoman Turks, defenders of their faith. Papa went there about 1906.

For a short, while he studied at Robert College (an American Christian high school) and learned some English, but he preferred the company and adventures of other teenagers from his island, who also had sailed away from home. One of the stories he told me, of that time, was about the homeless Turkish men who slept under the famous Galata Bridge. They used big hounds to keep warm at nights, and (get this!) there was the expression for a very cold night: “a three-dog night”. Papa would laugh when he described the application of a dog to the body by the tramp. Our neighborhood-restaurant bordered the Bowery in Manhattan, and each winter Papa would remember that time of his life. Bowery bums didn’t have dogs, let alone blanket-sized hounds. From my earliest days in that neighborhood there was the drab maroon-colored truck, called “the Bellevue wagon”, that carried away the body of one who hadn’t survived the

ment, the structure of power is basically the same.

America is experimenting with a form of socialistic democracy within a republic constitution; it will not work.

The left is pursuing a path to a global system of power that saves us from having to be responsible for ourselves. The global system would be the ultimate DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) and ESG (Environmental, Social,

came to fruition, and I was happy to effectively advocate for my community.

That experience gave me more determination than ever. While working full-time, I put myself through college and I will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in political science this May. I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to participate in the Georgia Legislative Intern Program (GLIP).

As a Legislative Intern/Aide, I worked for the House Appropriations and House Rules Committees. I watched our state government work from the front row. I learned a great deal and I made a tremendous number of friends

our state. Under COVID-19 protocol, families were heartbroken in not being allowed to visit or care for their loved ones in long-term care facilities. To ensure this does not happen again in Georgia, we gave final passage to House Bill 663, the “No Patient Left Alone Act.”

This bill requires the presence of designated essential caregivers with patients in long-term care facilities during treatment. Under this bill, both minors and adult patients would have the right to have an essential caregiver to be physically present at all times while that patient remains in the hospital or facility. These caregiver rights cannot be terminated, suspended, or waived by the hospital or long-term care facility, the Department of Public Health or any governmental entity, regardless of emergency declarations by the governor.

House Bill 451 received final passage in support our state’s first responders. Bill requires a public entity to provide supplemental, illnessspecific insurance to certain first responders diagnosed with occupational post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Coverage would be

cold.

When he was 16, Papa served as deck-hand on a sailing ship that did a run from Constantinople, and across the Black Sea to Odessa in Tsarist Russia. I could tell from the excitement in his telling, from just that much, that he had discovered a new and exciting world!

For the next 20 years, he was a merchant seaman. Each time, as he signed on with the next ship, he kept on drifting West, first into the Mediterranean, until he was shipping out of Cardiff, in Britain. And when World War I began, his port changed to Baltimore, or Norfolk, or New York. Once he was based in the U.S., and the war had ended, he was doing runs down to South America and across the Pacific.

One spring day, about March 26, in 1920, a U.S. Census taker, otherwise known as an “enumerator”, boarded the S.S. West Calumb, which was docked in the Port of New York, probably the East River on the Brooklyn side.

The U.S. Census of 1920 had some new features (as does each national census). For instance, there would no longer be any question having to do with Civil War service. But it did have several new questions about citizenship (natural-born, naturalized, or alien), as well as wanting to know the interviewee’s “mother tongue”.

Environmental) platform that would solve the world’s problems. The theory is that if everyone - excluding the elite - had the same outcome, we would all be equal and submit to the elites’ governance.That they are acting in our best interest.

If the above is true, a country must have only one single-minded party in control at all times. Current events show us what this looks like. If one likes political corruption, a crumbling mili-

and connections that will aid me further if elected to represent you as your State Representative.

I am very grateful to my professors at the University of West Georgia, and all the legislators that I worked with in both committees, for the opportunity.

As a Constitutional Conservative, I want to ensure that the 2nd Amendment is protected from any form of infringement to U.S. citizens. I want to protect life because I believe life begins at conception. I want to stand up for our Liberties while protecting our American values. I will firmly stand with our public safety professionals, giving them the tools necessary

available once per an individual’s lifetime, and it would include a $3,000 cash benefit and an income replacement disability benefit provided 90 days after diagnosis, if needed.

Public Safety: Public safety efforts continue through the passage of Senate Bill 493, which would introduce several provisions related to the protection of minors and certain regulations concerning individuals on Georgia’s sex offender registry. Stipulations of the bill are:

- Makes it a crime for a person to use an unmanned aircraft, such as a drone, to intentionally photograph an individual, particularly a minor, without parental consent

- Offenders will be subject to a minimum fine of $1,500, and subsequent violations would lead to felony charges and imprisonment between one and 30 years, accompanied by fines ranging from $5,000 to $100,000

- Prohibits a person who is on sex offender registry from knowingly owning or operating a drone used to photograph or observe any person in any way that violates that person’s reasonable expectation of privacy

- Allows certain individuals on Georgia’s sex

The S.S. West Calumb was of American registry and its crew of 44 included my father and two of his childhood friends, from the same island! The ship’s captain, and his first and second mates, were American-born, from Ohio, West Virginia, and New York. The rest of the crew came from a good dozen nations, and a dozen states of the U.S. The ship would make it to the Caribbean, then to South America, and across the South Pacific. (A few years later the S.S. West Calumb would sink at her pier, back in Brooklyn, N.Y.)

As Papa’s adventures took him into the South Pacific, I now believe he had entered a vast scene that had recently been left behind by the previous generation of seamen that the author Jack London had also experienced and written about. In our apartment, there were a few books that were Papa’s. He was not a reader; there never was any time for that. And, Jack London’s writings were the only fiction. It has taken me so many decades to realize there might be a connection between Papa’s stories and those of Jack London! To Papa’s mind, I’m sure it was a similarity of place and sensibility.

Further, I now see that once Papa was in America, the S.S. West Calumb may have been the ship on which he and his childhood buddies had the most memorable adventures - at least of the ones that were told to me.

Some more next time.

tary, soaring inflation, unequal judicial proceedings, re-writing of history, gender-affirming care, inflationary monetary system, and crime, you now have a good picture. It is hard to miss the anarchy that Hanson speaks of in his assessment of the Democratic Party. They are “fundamentally changing America” and “not letting any crisis go to waste.” By now, everyone should know who made these promises.

to do their jobs. I intend to make our communities safer for all Georgians by continuing to support Governor Kemp’s initiative in securing the southern border.

I have served you on our community’s streets. Now I want to serve you in the State House. I humbly ask that on May 21st you vote for me to represent District 71 in the Georgia House of Representatives. It would be my honor and privilege to serve you at the Capital. I will work hard, be accessible to you, and do my best to be your advocate under the Gold Dome.

Marc Lattanzio, 404-757-1753 mlattan02@gmail.com

offender registry to petition the superior court to be removed from the registry after reaching the age of 80 years old and completing all prison, parole, supervised release and probation for the offense

Our House body also passed Senate Bill 324 which would create a victim-centered address confidentiality program within the Office of the Secretary of State. Program would allow certified participants to utilize an address confidentiality card instead of disclosing their personal address to governmental entities in order to prevent their confidential address from being published. Confidential records will ensure that victims and survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, human trafficking or sexual assault will remain protected from their perpetrators. Legislation also prohibits courts from issuing or approving mutual protective orders in certain instances and would provide for the issuance of dating violence protective orders. We are hopeful this legislation will help victims rest easier in knowing that their information is no longer made public.

RIVER RAMBLES

TRAVIS

MARC LATTANZIO from page 21

STATE REP COLLINS from page 21

We also passed House Bill 404, also known as the “Safe at Home Act.” This legislation seeks to safeguard the rights of both renters and landlords in Georgia. This bill ensures that rental properties meet certain standards for human habitation. Specifically, the bill prohibits landlords from shutting off a rental home’s air conditioning utilities prior to an eviction.

The bill would also limit security deposits to no more than two months’ rent and requires landlords to provide a three-business day notice before initiating eviction proceedings for unpaid rent or charges.

Further, any eviction notice will be required to be visibly posted on the renter’s door in a sealed envelope.

House Bill 993, which will safeguard Georgia’s minors from online grooming also saw final passage. This legislation imposes criminal consequences on those who use electronic means to groom minors, persuading, inducing, enticing, or coercing them into committing sexual offenses or acts of human trafficking. Offenders will face felony imprisonment ranging from one to five years. Further, these penalties apply regardless of whether the crimes occur as long as it involves a minor residing in Georgia.

We also passed Senate Bill 395, which would make opioid antagonists, like Narcan, exempt from classification as a dangerous drug when used for overdose prevention. This bill will allow for visitors and school employees to possess and administer an opioid antagonist if the person believes someone is suffering from a drug overdose on school property or at a school-sponsored activity. As passed the bill outlines the following:

- Public schools are required to make efforts to maintain a supply of opioid antagonists and notify emergency medical services and the student’s guardian after administering an opioid

antagonist

- Allows opioid antagonists to be sold and supplied in vending machines

- Additionally, harm reduction organizations and people who dispense, supply, and administer opioid antagonists would be immune from liability when acting in good faith

- Requires government buildings, courthouses, and schools with automated external defibrillators to provide opioid antagonists to assist in the event of an opioid overdose.

Those living with disabilities will receive assistance in gaining employment through Senate Bill 384. This bill would make it so that our state government becomes a model employer for hiring individuals with disabilities by encouraging state agencies to consider best practices relating to the recruitment, hiring, advancement and retention of a broad range of qualified individuals with disabilities at all levels and for all occupations.

Parental leave for state employees and teachers will be expanded through House Bill 1010. House Bill 1010 increases number of hours of annual paid parental leave for state employees from 120 to 240 hours, or six weeks, doubling the amount of paid leave that these workers currently receive. This extended leave could be used following the birth of a child or when a child is placed in a home following foster care placement or adoption.

This bill increases the statewide homestead exemption for all ad valorem taxation for state, county and school purposes from $2,000 to $4,000. Individuals would be eligible for the exemption if they reside in the home as their primary residence.

Our continued tax reform efforts continued through the passage of House Bill 1021. This measure will allow each taxpayer to deduct $4,000 from their Georgia taxable income for each dependent. The current allowable deduction per dependent is $3,000.

Carroll County Department of Public Health

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

restaurant health inspections scores

4/25/2024: Travelin’ Tom’s 4598 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy Carrollton100 previous 100

4/11/2024: Peques Taqueria 133 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 100 previous NA

4/09/2024: Bell Street Burritos 660 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 100 previous NA

4/02/2024: Five Guys 1435 S Hwy 27 Carrollton 99 previous 99

4/30/2024: International Foods 1601 Maple St Carrollton 99 previous 97

4/29/2024: Hardee’s 1375 S Park Street Carrollton 99 previous 97

4/16/2024: Straight Shot Pool 834 Adamson Street Carrollton 98 previous 100

4/03/2024: Arby’s 1322 S ParkStreet Carrollton 98 previous 94

4/30/2024: O’Berry’s Pies and Pints 139 City Hal Ave Carrollton 97 previous 95

4/11/2024: Arby’s 122 Highway 61 Villa Rica 97 previous 95

4/02/2024: Bowdon’s Country Kitchen 710 College St Bowdon 97 previous NA

4/04/2024: Wendy’s 803 S Park Street Carrollton 96 previous 98

4/18/2024: Tim’s West GA Flea Market 3947 N Hwy 27 Carrollton 95 previous 100

4/29/2024: Olive Garden 1379 S Park Street Carrollton 95 previous 99

4/29/2024: Laurel Glen 150 Cottage Lane Carrollton 95 previous 99

4/01/2024: Corner Cafe 34 Adamson Square Carrollton 95 previous 90

4/08/2024: AGW Ice Cream 201 Newnan Road Carrollton 94 previous 100

4/23/2024: Chick-fil-A 1316 S Park Street Carrollton 93 previous 93

4/03/2024: Jack’s 91 Hwy 27 Bypass Bremen 93 previous 90

4/29/2024: Cook Out 904 S Park Street Carrollton 93 previous 90

4/02/2024: Westside Bar & Grill 815 Alabama Street Carrollton 92 previous 99

4/29/2024: McDonald’s 2001 Alabama Street Bremen 92 previous 98

4/29/2024: Arby’s 31 Price Creek Road Bremen 92 previous 95

4/03/2024: Smallwood’s Cafe 4720 E Hwy 166 Carrollton 91 previous 100

4/29/2024: Waffle House 1114 N ParkStreet Carrollton 91 previous 94

4/10/2024: Zaxby’s 135 Hwy 27 Bypass Bremen 91 previous 93

4/10/2024: Holiday Inn Express 1545 Hwy 27 S Carrollton 91 previous 91

4/26/2024: AmVets 99 816 Old Bremen Road Carrollton 91 previous 90

4/05/2024: Fam Kitchen and Bakery 434 Newnan Rd Carrollton 90 previous 100

4/17/2024: Spinnerz Skate 117 N Hwy 113 Carrollton 90 previous 100

4/24/2024: Lazy Donkey 334 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 90 previous 93

4/23/2024: Ruby Tuedays 1685 Hwy 7 S Carrollton 90 previous 88

4/10/2024: Sazon Latino 1745 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 90 previous 85

4/26/2024: The Crafty Rabbit 502 Bradley Street Carrollton 90 previous NA

4/17/2024: Chick-fil-A mobile 89 Hwy 27 Bypass Bremen 88 previous 100

4/03/2024: Zaxby’s 557 Carrollton Street Temple 88 previous 100

4/03/2024: Captain D’s 203 Cooley Drive Villa Rica 88 previous 98

4/03/2024: PJ’s 745 Bankhead Highway Carrollton 88 previous 87

4/18/2024: Young’s BBQ 3763 Old Villa Rica Hwy Carrollton 87 previous 99

4/03/2024: Waffle House 543 Hwy 113 N Temple 87 previous 95

4/24/2024: Rocky’s Bar 7 Grill 120 Columbia Drive Carrollton 87 previous 92

4/10/2024: Captain D’s 1641 Alabama Street Bremen 87 previous 90

4/18/2024: New Chin 525 Bankhead Highway Carrollton 87 previous 82

4/01/2024: Tacos El Torito 107 W College Street Bowdon 86 previous 96

4/01/2024: Steak n Shake 1460 Hwy 27 S Carrollton 86 previous 95

4/11/2024: A lo Catracho 207 Brumbelow Road Carrollton 86 previous 77

4/18/2024: Cinema tavern 200 W Montgomery St Villa Rica 84 previous 78

4/15/2024: Crafty Crab 800 Bankhead Highway Carrollton 83 previous 82

4/22/2024: Dockside Marina 10234 Lakeview Pkwy Villa Rica 81 previous 76

4/03/2024: Cracker Barrel 106 Price Creek Road Villa Rica 81 previous 85

4/15/2024: Samba Loca 104 Adamson Square Carrollton 79 previous 91

Violations: Observed in reach-in cooler raw chicken above raw steak, raw steak above ready to eat foods; in walk-in cooler raw chicken beside raw steak, raw shelled eggs and raw bacon beside ready to eat foods. Observed thawing deli ham without running water in three component sink, thawing raw chicken without running water and thawing steak on countertop.

4/22/2024: Carrollton Nursing Rehab 2327 Hwy 27 N Carrollton 77 previous 83

Violations: Observed raw ground beef beside box of celery, observed several foods in walk-in cooler with a proper label or prep/discard date. Observed multiple chemical spray bottles around the kitchen area, on food prep top surfaces, hanging on clean dish racks. Observed several expired itewm including buttermilk, milk cartons, dices tomatoes.

4/23/2024: El Tio Mexican 118 Hwy 61 Connector Villa Rica 76 previous 80

Violations: Observed employees touch tortillas with bare hands. Observed raw shelled eggs above/beside ready to eat foods, raw chicken beside salsa, raw steak beside peppers, raw shrimp beside raw chicken. Observed dish machine a 0 ppm.

4/10/2024: Irish Bred Pub 210 Adamson Square Carrollton 75 previous 76

Violations: Observed no certified food safety manager cerificate. Observed no soap or paper towels at bars. Handwash sink being used as dump/cleaning sinks. Observed walkin cooler raw bacon beside raw chicken, raw ground beef beside ready to eat foods. Observed chemicals stored on dry storage shelves beside food items, and on food prep surfaces. Observed raw wood in basement in multiple closey/storage areas.

if elected, their top priorities would be, and, would he, as a district commissioner, initiate and push for a millage rate reduction? Three candidates responded: Ben Hicks, Keith Knowles, and Sean Paul. With seven candidates, a run-off is expected. as it is unlikely that one would receive 50% plus one vote for the majority.

Candidate Keith Knowles

Question 1. Please list your top three priorities as a District Commissioner for Carroll County, and why these are important to you?

Keith Knowles: “Cut wasteful spending. A District Commissioner’s job is to balance the budget. Things that are bought and paid for should only be the necessities the county needs to provide quality services to the taxpayers. It should not be for the promotion of a specific agenda, a personal gain, or from special interest groups. If I approve funds, I will oversee and follow through for what taxpayer dollars are being used for and ensure they are spent appropriately. I want to get rid of the ‘spend it or lose it’ culture in Carroll County government.

“Land Preservation. Government does not have the sole right to tell a free American what they can and cannot do with their property. Even though the government gets away with doing so, as a commissioner I will promote different incentives that will entice citizens to preserve their lands of their own free will. I will not be in favor of development that does not make sense and or is not an EQUAL opportunity for the citizens. Fifty acres with a hundred houses is not in my playbook. I do not believe in the cities within Carroll County annexing more property. I will promote business and industry incentives that keep business from expanding out into rural areas. Glock plant is a good example of a good deal with controlled growth. No development should be considered until county can provide adequate services to accommodate the growth.

“County Services. I will use my 21 years of military experience and 22 years of volunteer

firefighting experience and work with department heads to create and fund incentives or programs that will allow them to improve their services to the taxpayer.”

Question 2. Would you, as a District Commissioner, initiate and then push for a Millage Rate Reduction? Why or why not?

Keith Knowles: ”As property values have risen the income to the county has risen as well. When the county has a full year’s worth of surplus, it is time to lower the milage rate. As a debt-free kind of person, you can never save enough. However, when you are in control over taxpayer money, enough is enough. I will never be in favor of spending more than is NEEDED to provide quality services to Carroll County taxpayers. I will evaluate and ensure that the assessments made on property are fair, equal and do not provide more money necessary for the county to operate.

Candidate Ben Hicks

Question 1. Please list your top three priorities as a District Commissioner for Carroll County, and why these are important to you?

Ben Hicks: “As District 5 Commisioner, the three things I believe are most important and for which I will advocate for are smart, directed spending; transparency in government operations; and controlled directed growth.

“Carroll County has one of the greatest infrastructures in the state. With our diverse industries and companies, Carroll County’s revenue stream is constant and stable. This allows for us to have high quality public services that make us stand out among other counties. As commissioner, I will work to maintain this by advocating for directed spending on these public services. Rather than spending various amounts of tax dollars on multiple projects, I believe it is smarter to allocate based upon necessity.

“Transparency in government is very important on all levels. Carroll County government has done a good job of informing its citizens about projects and events. However, there is

always room for improvement. I have been brought up to believe that truth without context is no truth at all. Many citizens do not fully understand projects or votes. As commissioner, I will make sure that all citizens are fully and correctly informed about our county by being transparent and telling the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I will inform to the best of my ability without half facts or truths. If new information were found, I will inform further. I will be readily available through social media or phone.

“Controlled growth is a very important standard that I believe in. Being only sixty miles from Atlanta, we continue to see and feel the effects of urban sprawl. While I understand the value of welcoming new citizens, I do not ever want to see this county become fully urban. As commissioner, I will continue to advocate for welcoming industry while also maintaining our rural heritage and roots.”

Question 2. Would you, as a District Commissioner, initiate and then push for a Millage Rate Reduction? Why or why not?

Ben Hicks: “Carroll County, in recent years, has continually rolled back its milage rate. As county commissioner, I will work with my fellow commissioners to continue to do so, as long as there is proper room for it in the budget. When we roll back our milage rate, it causes a decrease in revenue, which is cause for a stricter, directed budget. Yes, I would advocate when necessary and sufficient for millage rate reduction.”

Candidate Sean Paul

Question 1. Please list your top three priorities as a District Commissioner for Carroll County, and why these are important to you?

Sean Paul: “First, I want to always honor God in everything I do and that starts with the safety of all women and children as my top priority. The death of Laken Riley in Athens, Clarke County should have never happened. It was the fault of Joe Biden and his administration in the White House that led to this horrible incident. Next, our state government is also respon-

sible for not closing all the loopholes to prevent liberal county and city officials from using work-a-rounds to allow criminal illegal immigrants to get out of jail rather than being turned over to ICE agents. Local city and county commissioners are also to blame. My duty as a county commissioner is to be the eyes and ears for the public and reach out to our district attorneys, sheriffs, and commissioners to prevent illegal immigrants from taking advantage of our laws and local resources.

“Second, I want to continue and increase the county commission’s commitment to encouraging growth in agricultural fields. I envision Carroll County becoming a leader in the state for agriculture and agritourism. It is important to encourage the next generation that a decent living can be made in these fields, which can also be rewarding for generations to come. Growth in agriculture protects the 5th District and maintains our rural living. I, like most Dth district residents, love our small communities. It is why we choose to live here. Increasing agriculture and agritourism are profitable industries that will preserve our farmlands.

“Thirdly, in looking to the future and seeing how the American dream is becoming harder for many to achieve, I believe the commissioners should do everything possible to help the residents during these times of high inflation. Bidenomics has caused household costs to increase nearly 20% in the last four years. Housing costs have surged to unreasonable levels. Residents have tightened their budget, now it’s commissioners’ job to tighten county budget.”

Question 2. Would you, as a District Commissioner, initiate and then push for a Millage Rate Reduction? Why or why not?

Sean Paul: “Yes. Carroll County families are struggling to put food on the table. They have had to adjust their spending and the county needs to do the same. Property values are still increasing so the county will benefit from that even with a millage rate decrease.”

Carroll County marriage licenses

Carroll County pistol permits

Number of Weapons Carry Permits applied for: APRIL1-30, 2024: 130

Carroll County cattle receipts

Carroll County Sales Barn

April 8, 2024: 653

April 15, 2024: 482

April 22, 2024: 434

April 29, 2024: 424

Carroll County jail population

(The Jack T. Bell Detention Center, 1000 Newnan Road,Carrollton)

MAY 3, 2024: 467

Males: 387 Females: 80

Carroll County prison population

MAY 3, 2024: 247

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)

AGRICULTURE

$83B from page 19

Commissioner Harper said he was proud to join Governor Brian Kemp earlier in April in Valdosta as he signed a series of agricultural measures into law, including several of the GDA’s top priorities.

Among the legislation was Senate Bill 420 which prohibits adversarial foreign nations from purchasing Georgia farmland. Senate Bill 494 creates much-needed guardrails for consumable hemp products sold in Georgia, including requiring products to be tested by a stateapproved lab and accurately labeled. It prohibits sale to Georgians younger than 21 years old. Senate Bill 340 adds Diesel Exhaust Fluid to GATE Program. House Bill 827 increases the penalty for livestock theft.

Harper said, “It is my highest honor to serve the people of our state as agriculture commissioner, and I believe our record of success so far speaks for itself. We’ve created and secured over $2 million in funding for the Georgia Farmland Conservation Fund to help our farmers protect their most valuable assettheir land - for generations to come. We reinstated the department’s status as a law enforcement agency to combat crime in the agricultural sector. We have secured tens of millions of dollars in additional appropriations so the department can carry out its mission more effectively.

“President Eisenhower once said, ‘Farming looks mighty easy when your plow is a pencil, and you’re 1,000 miles away from a cornfield’. Far too many policymakers in Washington, D.C., have never stepped foot in a corn, cotton, or peanut field, and that shows in the bad policy we see coming fromWashington. The threat to American agriculture is real. It is vital that we empower and support the farmers and farm families who grow the food, fiber, and shelter we all rely on. Agriculture plays a vital role in our national security infrastructure.

“A nation that cannot feed itself cannot defend itself. Thanks to the work of our farmers, America is blessed with the safest, most affordable, and most abundant food supply in the world. If we allow other countries to control our food supply, we become less safe as a state and less safe as a nation.”

Tyler Harper is a 7th generation farmer, small business owner, former State Senator, and 17th Georgia Agriculture Commissioner. He lives in Ocilla and is a lifelong resident of south Georgia. He graduated UGA Bachelor’s Agricultural Engineering; Associate’s Degree Agriculture Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. tyler.harper@agr.georgia.gov or call 404-656-3602. agr.georgia.gov

How is your retirement income taxed?

ADVISOR

Once you’re retired, you will likely need to draw on several types of income for your living expenses.

You’ll need to know where these funds are coming from and how much you can count on, but you should also be aware of how this money is taxed because this knowledge can help you plan and budget for your retirement years.

Here’s the basic tax information on some key sources of retirement income:

Social Security – Many people don’t realize they may have to pay taxes on their Social Security benefits. Whether your benefits will be taxed depends on how much other taxable income you receive from various sources, such as self-employment, stock dividends and interest payments.

You’ll want to check with your tax advisor to determine whether your income reaches the threshold where your Social Security benefits will be taxed. The lower your total taxable income, the lower the taxes will be on your benefits.

The Social Security Administration will not automatically take out taxes from your monthly checks. To have taxes withheld, you will need to fill out Form W-4V (Voluntary Withholding Request). Your tax advisor can help you determine the percentage of your benefits you should withhold.

Retirement accounts – During your working years, you may have contributed to two basic retirement accounts: an IRA and a 401(k) or similar plan (such as a 457(b) plan for state and local government employees or a 403(b) plan for educators and employees of some nonprofits).

If you invested in a “traditional” IRA or 401(k) or similar plan, your contributions may have been partially or completely deductible and your earnings grew on a tax-deferred basis. But when you start taking withdrawals from your traditional IRA or 401(k), the money is considered taxable at your normal income tax rate.

However, if you chose the “Roth” option (when available), your contributions were not deductible, but your earnings and withdrawals are tax-free, provided you meet certain conditions.

Annuities – Many investors use annuities to supplement their retirement income. An annuity is essentially a contract between you and an insurance company in which the insurer pays you an income stream for a given number of years, or for life, in exchange for the premiums you paid. You typically purchase a “qualified” annuity with pre-tax dollars, possibly within a traditional IRA or 401(k), so your premiums may be deductible, and your earnings can grow tax deferred.

Once you start taking payouts, the entire amount — your contributions and earnings — are taxable at your individual tax rate. On the other hand, you purchase “non-qualified” annuities with after-tax dollars, so your premiums aren’t deductible, but just like qualified annuities, your earnings grow on a tax-deferred basis.

When you take payments, you won’t pay taxes on the principal amounts you invested but the earnings will be taxed as ordinary income.

We’ve looked at some general rules governing different sources of income, but you should consult your tax professional about your specific situation. Ultimately, factors such as your goals, lifestyle and time horizon should drive the decisions you make for your retirement income. Nonetheless, you may want to look for ways to control the taxes that result from your various income pools.

And the more you know about how your income is taxed, the fewer unpleasant surprises you may experience.

Derick Newton is financial advisor, 937B Maple Street, Carrollton, GA 770-832-9515 Article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Lifetime Chiropractic

and also that the bridge on Martin Cemetery Road is in the flood plain, and in 2009 it was completely under water for two or three days.

In rebuttal, applicant Jeff Camp stated that flood plains are not any good for agricultural purposes, and if enough of the soils aren’t good for septic tanks, he could tie some of the homes to the city sewer system. Staff conditions placed upon applicant’s request had to do with covenants and restrictions, as well as architectural standards and a required 200-foot buffer required along all lot lines adjacent to the city’s lift station. Developer will be required to record a notice in all the real estate records of all lots within 1,000 feet of the lift station with acknowledgement that the station, from time to time, will produce offensive odors.

There was discussion between the applicant and council, particularly about soil testing, but ultimately council approved both the annexation and rezoning request as well as rezoning of 0.52 acres of county property, tax parcel 090 0184, into the City of Carrollton to prevent the creation of an island and continue use of the City lift station. Vote was 4-1. Council Member Bob Uglum voted against.

Another rezoning request was for property at 1321 Lovvorn Road by applicant Rail Gauge Partners, who proposed to take the 160 units of Westwood Student Apartments, and rezone from Residential Planned Development to Revised Residential Planned Development, so as to convert it to traditional apartment housing, increasing number of units to approximately 270 units by decreasing number of bedrooms. Planning Commission approved application. Council Member Brett Ledbetter made a motion to deny. Motion passed 5-0.

A rezoning request for property at 215 and 219 Lovvorn Road was made by applicant Orlando Rivera to rezone from C-2 General Commercial to M-1 Light Industry with a

waiver to allow retail sales and service. Request was approved by Planning Commission with the conditions that Maple Street Overlay sign regulations shall apply to any new signage on the property, and any proposed retail sales and service use must obtain approval of mayor and council prior to issuance of a business license. Rezoning request was approved 5-0.

A rezoning request for 101 Alice Lane by applicants Bob Uglum (who removed himself from the meeting) and Mike Horton, for rezoning from Single-Family Residential min. lot size 20,000 sq. ft. to Single-Family Residential min. lot size 15,000 sq. ft., in order to subdivide lot. Approved by Planning Commission. Rezoning request approved 4-0. Uglum then returned to the meeting.

Rezoning Request #4 was for 103 Carroll Circle and 105 Burns Road by applicant Brian Preston, from Office/Institutional to Residential Planned Development to construct eight singlefamily residential detached cottages. Request approved by Planning Commission with conditions: 1) sidewalk shall be installed along all road frontages; 2) no fences between homes; 3) landscape requirements for R-10 district will apply; 4) developer shall establish enforceable covenants and restrictions and a property owners association with right to enforce covenants and restrictions prior to issuance of building permits; and 5) vinyl siding shall be prohibited except on cornices and soffits.

Speaking in opposition was owner of R Ponce Tire Shop. He said this area is close behind his tire shop, and residents nearby already make complaints about noise from his shop. Mayor Cason said the rezoning applicant would put a 60-foot buffer at back of the cottage property. Council approved unanimously.

Resolution 03-2024 UDO Amendment to define and regulate vape shops separately from other commercial businesses was approved by the council unanimously.

PICof church

OLD PATHWAYSLOGO

Old Pathway Baptist

Proverbs 31:28 KJV:

message/graphic here to change each month

“Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”

message/graphic here to change each month

Please join us Sunday, May 12th for Mother’s Day (bring this ad on Mother’s Day and exchange it for a free gift!)

We are:

We are:

“Old Fashioned, On Purpose”

“Old Fashioned, On Purpose”

We invite YOU to join us!

We invite YOU to join us!

Sundays 11:00 am and 5:00 pm

Sundays 11:00 am and 5:00 pm

Old Pathways Baptist Church

Old Pathways Baptist Church

Old Pathway Baptist Church

508 Old Airport Road, Carrollton, Georgia

Office: 678-664-1616

508 Old Airport Road, Carrollton, Georgia Office: 678-664-1616

Cell: 678-925-5314

Cell: 678-925-5314

www.oldpathwaybc.org

www.oldpathwaybc.org

Smile Studio

Dr. Leroy Venn -Board Certified orthodontist, in practice for 18 years. In 2008, Dr. Venn opened the doors of his own practice-- Smile Studio Orthodontics in Fairburn. He has since opened 3 satellite offices in Hiram, Lovejoy, and now Carrollton. Dr. Venn prides himself in

Pastor Joe Darby

Pastor Joe Darby

Jeremiah 6:16 “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.” KJB

Jeremiah 6:16 “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.” KJB

Patients who sign up & Start Treatment the month of May Get 50% OFF their Records Fee for Braces & 1/2

Running for this position is about continuing her service to Carroll County through the Magistrate Court. Kierston began working in the Court in high school and was appointed as an Assistant Magistrate in 2016. From labeling case files as an intern to adjudicating cases, Magistrate Court has been a large part of her life. On the bench, she has earned a reputation for fairness, efficiency, following the law, and striving to do the right thing. She has built strong relationships with local law enforcement –always being available to do what is necessary to assist them. She will continue that proven record as Chief Magistrate.

As Chief Magistrate, she will bring our Carroll County values and an unrelenting commitment to public safety to the bench. She will uphold the law to maintain law and order in ourcommunity. While at the same time, she will continue her proven commitment to fairness by treating others the way she would want to be treated, especially small, first-time offenders.