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FEBRUARY 13, 2022 • VOLUME 28 NUMBER 2

“You will be amazed at the talent in the cast - over thirty members of our communities”

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Georgia’s new voter registration system: improved security and faster processing Nothing different for voters as changes will be made on administrative side of system only

Shown above left seated at the piano is the “9 to 5: The Musical” musical director Ed Thrower. Rehearsing are the three leads Terri Drucker, who plays “Violet”, Abby Dawkins as “Judy”, and Ginna Blair as “Doralee”. Director Patrick Yuran said, “For those who have seen the movie, there are many additions to the play you will not want to miss!” Performance dates are March 4th, 5th, and 6th, and March 11th, 12th, and 13th at the Carrollton Center for the Arts, downtown Carrollton.

“9 to 5: The Musical” draws strong on local talent, ready to “amaze, motivate, and inspire” by Wayne J. Reynolds Life changing! Motivational! Inspiring! Enjoyable! These the exciting adjectives Director Patrick Yuran used to describe the upcoming production of “9 to 5: The Musical” opening 7:30 p.m. March 4th for a two week run at the Carrollton Center for the Arts, downtown Carrollton. Yuran, who is Oak Mountain Academy’s head of school,

said, “You will find the play adds texture and layering to the characters.” Rehearsals are ongoing now. Most are familiar with the plot of the 1980 Hollywood movie “9 to 5” along with the famous title song written and performed by musical artist Dolly Parton. The play will be performed by the Carroll County Community See “9 to 5: THE MUSICAL” page 4

Fellowship of Christian Athletes reaches 2500+ students in Carroll, Douglas, Heard, and Haralson counties “The bridge between the church and the school campus” by Wayne J. Reynolds ence of coaches and athletes. Our mission “I love sports and I love Jesus,” said statement is similar: to lead every coach and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) multi athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus area director Jay Webb. Webb was speaker at Christ and His Church.” the January 11, 2022 meeting of the Rotary Fellowship of Christian Athletes has a presClub of Carrollton. “Our vision is to see the ence on 51 local school campuses in Carroll. world transformed through Jesus by the influ- See FELLOWSHIP CHRISTIAN page 13 MISS AN ThisDON’T issue is ISSUE! also READ DIGITAL MONTHLY posted on over PRINT EDITIONS on 100 Facebook www.starnewsgaonline.com community pages, LIKE Pinterest, US at Twitter, facebook.com/ LinkedIn, StarNewsGaOnline & PINTEREST starnewsgaonline.com Sherryreynolds.StarNews Call 770-722-7227 suehorn.starnews FOLLOW US on TWITTER @starnewswga @gmail.com contact us at: waynereynolds.starnews suehorn.starnews@gmail.com waynereynolds.starnews@ @gmail.comgmail.com

from press release Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is partnering with Salesforce, a cloud-based software company, to build a new voter registration system on high security servers with faster processing power and the most current technology for security. MTX Group Inc. (MTX) is the implementation partner for the new voter registration system. The voter registration system changes are entirely on the administrative side. Georgia voters will not see any difference in their voting experience. This new voter registration system is ranked by the Heritage Foundation as “the number one election system in the country for election security”. Carroll County, along with the rest of the state, had changed to paperless electronic voting See FASTER/SECURE page 20

Qualifying fees set for Carroll County’s seats for commission and school board

by Janice Daniel and Sue Horn The Carroll County Board of Commissioners set qualifying fees for two Carroll County seats open for the 2022 Elections: Carroll County Board of Commissioner seats for districts 2, 4, and 6, and Carroll County School Board seats for districts 2, 5, and 7. The qualification fee (cost) for a candidate for a commission seat was set at $260.96. The cost for a candidate for a school board seat is $50.00. The commission seats are partisan; the school board seats are not. These fees were set at the January 22, 2022 Special Called Meeting held at 4:00 p.m. chaired by Vice-Chair Montrelle McClendon. See QUALIFYING FEES page 6

Solar power growth in David Huddleston: the state and Carroll candidate for House District 72 County slow, steady Newly formed district: 64% of it is Solar farms, solar panels and net-metering

by Wayne J. Reynolds According to Energy.gov, the amount of sunlight that strikes the earth’s surface in an hour and a half is enough to handle the entire world’s energy consumption for a full year. This figure gives you an idea of the vast capability of solar power. The question is how are we doing in Georgia and Carroll County? In an interview with StarNews, Jennette Gayer, co-chair of Georgia Solar Energy Association (GSEA), stated, “As a comparison, the state of Nevada’s solar energy capacity is at 15%, which in that area makes sense. Closer to home, North Carolina is at 6%, while Georgia’s is at just 2.27%. So, there is See SOLAR POWER page 7

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“I have always believed in being a servant, to serve the community,” said David Huddleston, announced candidate for the Georgia House of Representatives newly formed 72th district, the seat that the retiring State Huddleston Rep. Randy Nix See HUDDLESTON page 11

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“9 to 5: The Musical” from front page Theatre in collaboration with the Carrollton Center for the Arts. All the music and lyrics are written by Dolly Parton, with the book by Patricia Resnick. The play revolves around office manager Violet Newstead played by Terri Drucker, frazzled divorcee Judy Bernly played by Abigail Dawkins, and sexy secretary Doralee Rhodes played by Ginna Blair. As Patrick describes him “the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot of a boss” Mr. Hart, is played by Trey Gresham. Terri adds, “I didn’t meet Patrick Yuran until auditions, and I know many of you know him from Oak Mountain Academy [Yuran is OMA Head of School]. But it has been a long time since I have had a chance to work under a director who knows how to push, challenge, support, and collaborate - and I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity. He knows his stuff! A huge ‘thank you’ for all the work you have already done and all you are about to do. I am honored to be in your show.” “For those who have seen the movie, there are many additions to the play you will not want to miss,” Patrick continued. “Of course, it starts with the music of Dolly Parton that was not in the original movie. All the women are relatable and vulnerable, and the characters have been expanded. Violet will have a daughter and a love interest. With Duralee’s part Dolly in the movie - you will meet her husband and, in the play, she is not intimate with the boss. With Judy who is now single, you will meet her husband, Dick, and watch her find herself. You will find the play adds texture and layering to the characters.” Patrick’s directing style is in four stages. First is teaching the play and roles for the members. Second is their homework—learning their lines and role in the play. Third is cleaning, which is fine tuning the performances and polishing up the special moments. The final stage Patrick calls “communion”: getting the actors not thinking about who they are playing, but feeling it, being authentic, and re-creating the role so the audience believes in who they are. “That is when you have done your job as a director!” Patrick exclaimed. Patrick is assisted in the play by musical director Ed Thrower and choreography director Olivia White. “These two directors are outstanding. I have worked with a lot of talented people over the years, but these two raised my level of creativity and have transformed my experience,” Patrick commented. Ed is a local musician and musical director who has directed and performed in over 60 musical productions. Olivia has performed as Funky Monkey of The Wiz choreographed by Eric Nielson, in Jaque Wheeler’s, Oklahoma!. She also performed in Once A Year Day from Pajama Game and My Strongest Suit from Aida choreographed by Olin Davidson. Olivia has danced in several ballets including Dracula and The Nutcracker, choreographed by Paulo Manso Sousa of Southern Arc Dance Center. Patrick began his professional career in the performing arts over 25 years ago and has more than 50 production credits to his name. He has worked in all aspects of professional theatre. He went to graduate school earning Master’s degrees in drama education and stage and film. He landed a position at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. He also had the opportunity to work with Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Sondheim, and August Wilson on original projects. “But it all began here in Carroll County where I grew up in, performing in local community theatre.” Patrick has been head of

school at Oak Mountain Academy since 2018. Vishal Vaidya is an Indian American singer and actor living in New York City, whom readers may know from his recent role as Larry the Cameraman on Broadway’s Groundhog Day. Patrick, while working at the performing arts school in Washington, D.C, worked with Vishal and many other actors who are making a living in the performing arts. Vaidya said via email to StarNews, “I transferred to Blake High School as a sophomore. I had heard about the intimidating director, Mr. Yuran. I try to call him Patrick as an adult but really, he’s still Mr. Yuran to me. Over my three years at Blake, I learned that his rigor was actually a belief in the excellence of every student. As a teacher, he introduced me to the different schools of acting and tools that I still use today. As a director, he helped me get out of my own way and encouraged me to trust my instincts. I can trace my fundamental under-

standing of theatre and the required work ethic fully walk out of the theatre more aware of our to Mr. Yuran, and I’m grateful for the time I community’s cultural transgressions and had with him at Blake.” regressions over the past few years. As they Patrick said, “You will be amazed by the tal- make their way through the lobby a smile will ent of the cast which is over thirty members, adorn their faces as solution-oriented thoughts the relevance in today’s and creative ideas Patrick said, “You will be world, and many will form in their hearts find it life changing as amazed by the talent of the cast and minds. And on the well as healing. which is over thirty members . . . car ride home exciting Although the themes go conversations will Although the themes go back to back to 1979, they are as 1979, they are as relevant today occur leading to posirelevant today as they tive growth in our were then. The play and as they were then. The play and community!” its vital message of equality and its vital message of “9 to 5: The equality and rights are Musical” opens March rights are cleverly wrapped in a cleverly wrapped in a 4th for two weeks. hilarious and witty script. hilarious and witty Tickets are $15 adults, script. The play reflects who are and who we and $10 for 12 years old or younger. want to be.” www.carrolltonarts.com 770-838-1083. The Patrick said in conclusion, “My hope in this Carrollton Center for Performing Arts, 251 production is that audience members will joy- Alabama Street in downtown Carrollton.

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KidsPeace to celebrate 140 years nationally; Bowdon campus helping children since 2004 care and treatment facility in Bowdon to help meet the overwhelming need for such services in Georgia. We work with children who have been through unimaginable experiences that you and I can’t fathom,” said Louis Shagawat, executive direcby Wayne J. Reynolds tor of KidsPeace National Centers of Georgia. “Here is what KidsPeace, founded in 1882, is celebrating its 140th anniverKidsPeace really is: a boy is in the car with his mother who is sary this year. In Carroll County, the local KidsPeace facility in threatening to drive off a cliff and wanting her son to join her. the City of Bowdon will be celebrating its 18th year, having The boy jumps out and runs for help, but by the time he returns, opened its doors to children in need of a safe haven in 2004. it is too late: A young girl, under her father’s care is molested “In 2004, KidsPeace constructed and opened a residential by him who then trafficked her out and put repulsive tattoos all over her body. “Yes, we work with children who can’t function in a traditional school or community setting and you can see why,” he said. KidsPeace is licensed by the Georgia Department of Education, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Department of Human Services, and accredited by the Joint Commission. “We receive funding from each state department for our kids but it simply isn’t enough to meet the multitude of needs they have. And as a residential care and treatment facility these children are with us 24/7,” Shagawat continued. “So to meet their needs and provide a quality of care they deserve, we turn to our Board of Associates and the community for support. They have risen to every challenge, ensuring our kid’s needs are Wanda Darrah, Louis Shagawat, and Tom Upchurch

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met but this is becoming increasingly difficult.” The 25 acre Bowdon campus includes four student living units with the newest wing added three years ago. It also includes a gym, an outdoor pool, and a ropes course. “KidsPeace Georgia serves boys and girls ages 12 to 17 years old. Depending on their needs, a student stays with us from eight to sixteen months.,” said Shagawat. 12 year old boy, resident of Bowdon KidsPeace for the past eight weeks: “I was fighting in the other places. . . breaking windows and breaking stuff. I spit on people. I was upset and sad. I didn’t know where I was going next. . . Now, I’m happy. I get to have fun here. I’m happy I have a place to stay. They help me with my schoolwork. They just care about me. . . . KidsPeace is the best place I’ve ever been.” A typical day at the Bowdon facility includes morning chores with school beginning at 8:30 a.m. lasting until 3:00 p.m. with both direct instruction and online classes. Classwork is based on where each child is at academically when they arrive. Each classroom has a maximum of 10 students with a teacher and a paraprofessional to maintain a 1 to 5 ratio as is student living facility. After school is some quiet time, then group, individual, and family therapy begins. It is a highly structured day. Shadawat said, “Since the pandemic and the onset of a workforce shortage, like everybody else, we are greatly under staffed. As a result, salaries have skyrocketed. It’s challenging to obtain qualified help. We are an 80-bed facility, but at the moment we are serving only 36 kids because that is all we have staff for. The need for our services remains overwhelming. We could easily serve 80 kids tomorrow if we had enough staff. It is very difficult to be in a position to have to say no so often, knowing we have the space and expertise to help so many more.” 15 year old boy who has been at KidsPeace in Bowdon for the past 11 months: What was your behavior like when you first came to KidsPeace?: “Not good. I didn’t respect the staff. It was bad. I didn’t trust adults because so many have lied to me. I felt sad and depressed all the time. Now that I’ve gotten to know them, I See KIDSPEACE page 9

Candidate David Huddleston

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QUALIFYING FEES from front page At the work session meeting held January 27, 2022 at 4:00 p.m., the board heard from County Attorney, Avery Jackson and Human Resource Director, Anne Lee, a Health Insurance Coverage Plan for Early Retirees. Jackson outlined the early retiree coverage requirements, as well as the cost of the plan to the County. If the provision is implemented at the July 1st renewal date, it would not require advance notice to the employees; however, it would be disclosed in advance so the eligible employees can plan, ask questions, and make decisions before the open enrollment period. District 2 Commissioner Clint Chance commented that there should be a stipulation that the retiree cannot go to work full-time for another employer and still keep his/her retiree insurance with Carroll County. District 5 Commissioner Ernie Reynolds wanted to know how many employees were anticipated to participate in this program. Anne Lee, county human resources, responded that based on actual contact with all eligible employees, the number would probably be five or six, but could be as many as ten. There was also an Audit Presentation to the Board by Rushton & Company representatives, who reported that the county had a clean opinion with no modifications required. With the county’s Fund Balance (cash reserve) on December 31, 2021 (and the date of this meeting held January 27, 2022, less than one month later) at $49,904,000 ($49.9M) and whose current annual budget is $59,109,066 ($59.1M). Commissioner Chance asked if the county has too much cash? The unsurprising response from the Rushton & Company representative was “no”. She said that the GFDA recommends enough cash on hand for two months of operation, but she said most counties prefer to have enough for four to six months.

The annual budget of $59,109,066 divided by for December of 2021, halfway through the 12 months reveals that it costs the county county’s fiscal year. revenues were at $4,925,755 to operate $45,913,000, With the county’s Fund Balance (cash 77.68% of budget; for one month. So, the $49,904,000 in expenditures were reserve) on December 31, 2021 at fund balance divided at $28,136,000, $49,904,000 ($49.9M) and whose by 12 months reprecurrent annual budget is $59,109,066 47.6% of budget sents 10 months, at The Fund about twice the ($59.1M). Commissioner Chance asked B a l a n c e of if the county has too much cash? The $49,904,000. Cash amount of reserve recommended. was unsurprising response from the Rushton b a l a n c e Rushton & $48,436,000. & Company representative was “no”. Company’s audit also Searcy said the jail state there was an on-going finding of lack of barrier project will begin next month. internal controls, or separation of duties. Two items were put on a consent agenda to Alecia Searcy presented the Financial Recap be voted as a single item in the regular meeting

which took place Tues, Feb 1, 2022 6:00 p.m. All were present except District 6 Commissioner George Chambers. No one spoke during Public Comments. Two rezoning requests were approved, one to split a five-acre tract at 130 East Lake Buckhorn Road into two 2 1/2 acre tracts, and the other for a change from R3 residential to Commercial for a landscaping and tree service located at the corner of Stripling Chapel Road and Central High Road in Carrollton. A Zoning Ordinance Amendment was presented to the Board for consideration to amend the Carroll County Zoning Ordinance to define and regulate Horizontal Apartments and similar See ZONING page 20

Villa Rica Council and mayor address cemetery dispute During erection of brick wall border, neighboring headstone moved and splashed with mortar by contractor

by Sue Horn At the Public Comments section of the City of Villa Rica Mayor and Council meeting of Tuesday, January 11, 2022, seven of the eight speakers addressed their comments regarding a dispute concerning the Hillcrest Cemetery, specifically the erection of a new border wall enclosing four gravesites, two of which are occupied. Buried in those two sites are Prissi Sullivan, late longtime StarNews reporter, and her husband David Sullivan. During the erection of that brick wall around the Sullivan site by a private contractor who was hired by the Sullivan’s son, it was seen by adjoining gravesite owner Jody Mount that her son’s headstone had been disturbed, moved, and splattered with mortar. That headstone sat within its gravesite border roughly six inches from the edge, thus six inches from the new brick wall. Complaints were received at city hall from the Mount family, and the city issued a stop work order on the Sullivan family

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gravesite. The City of Villa Rica owns two cemeteries: Hillcrest Cemetery and Garden of Rest Cemetery. Hillcrest Cemetery is located on West Bankhead Highway and Hillcrest Drive and was established in 1887 when the city took ownership. Council and mayor heard public comments from family members from each of the two families involved and one attorney, with three minutes alloted to each speaker. Some speakers finished within the three minutes, some did not. Issues disagreed upon included: - height of the new wall: too high or not - drainage pipes in the new wall: draining properly or not - location of the Mount grave: too close to edge of plot or not - dimensions of the plots versus wall dimensions: is a match required - permit/permission to erect wall: require-

ment or not Attorney Mac Pilgrim spoke on behalf of the Sullivan family. His statement was that this was a “civil matter” and any actions should be directed toward the contractor(s). This matter was then discussed during executive session later as the last item of the January 11th meeting by council, mayor, and city attorney with a proposal drafted. During executive session, which is a government “secret session”, the public is forbidden to attend and participants are forbidden to reveal what was discussed. In this case, the participants included the mayor, council members, and city attorney: Executive Session/Discussion of Issues Related to Hillcrest Cemetery 1. Pursuant to the attorney-client privilege and as provided by Georgia Code section 50-14-2(1), a meeting otherwise required to be open was closed to the public in order to consult and meet with See CEMETERY DISPUTE page 20

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www.starnewsgaonline.com SOLAR POWER from front page opportunity here for sure.” Nationwide, there are about 3 million individual solar installations, ranging from small home rooftop systems to large utility-scale systems. “Renewable energy, like solar energy processes, making them the cleanest, most viable solution to prevent environmental degradation. It is becoming more affordable by the year,” Gayer said. “The cost of solar installation has fallen more than 70% in the past 10 years. And you can get federal solar tax credits in 2022 at 26%, which is down a little from 2019 when it was 30%. The state does not offer any rebates or tax credits.” “Average savings typically run in the 30%50% for those who have a battery to store unused energy. If you don’t, you need to make sure your power company offers ‘net-metering’ which allows you to store the unused power as needed,” said Gayer. And in Carroll County, Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative (EMC) does offer ‘net-metering’. Jay Gill, senior vice president of Carroll EMC explained, “Carroll EMC began net-metering around 2009. This is where a residence has one meter for electricity used, and another measuring electricity produced by solar panels going out. The two offset total electricity for the residence. “For the first six years, we had single digit net-metering members, but started increasing around 2018/2019. As of 2022, we have more than 100 members participating in netmetering.” Carroll EMC, along with other EMCs, has solar farms, and on the farm’s acreage are interconnected solar panels that work together to capture sunlight and turn it into electricity. The power generated is distributed by local EMC through the power grid, along with other sources of energy. Member EMCs’ current solar portfolio is capable of producing 972 megawatts of capacity. By 2024, Green Power EMC Members’ solar capacity is expected to grow to more than 1,500 megawatts.

In reference to the 100 members currently participating in net-metering, Gill said, “Compared to the 53,000+ meters we serve, it may not seem like a lot, but the number is growing due to improved technology and financial programs.These members generate roughly 0.998MW of solar electricity.” Gill spoke on the advantage of being part of a utility-scale solar program, not just local solar energy capturing. “Along with this residential growth in the last four to five years, the cooperative understands the opportunity to capitalize on utilityscale solar programs. The size of return and technology is greater than what can happen at the residential level,” he said. “Carroll EMC currently participates in 36.3MW of renewable energy. 35.08MW of that comes from solar farms we’ve participated in across Georgia. Our renewable portfolio is estimated to generate enough energy to power 5970 homes for an entire year.” Jerome Johnston, COO, Carroll EMC added, “Solar power has been on the rise for the last decade. We’re finally to a point where the cost to produce solar energy is economical for large-

scale projects and makes financial sense as part of a utility’s fuel mix.” As of 2020, there was a total of roughly 208 million single family homes in the United States. According to Solar Energy Industries Association, there are about 114 gigawatts

StarNews

February 13, 2022 Page 7

(GW) of solar installed in the U.S., but that’s only enough to power 21.8 million homes, about 10%. For more information about solar energy locally, visit Carroll EMC at www.carrollemc.com

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Shirley F. Alexander, Alexander, age 71, Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Jr., Cook,Jerry Master F. Shedd, Alexander, age 71, Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Dannyage Joe53, Jones, Jr., Jr., Master Danny Joe Jones, Scott Scott Shedd, Dr. JohnShirley Bergstrom, age born March 30, Jerry Scott age 53, Shirley F. age 71, Dawne “Tiff” Cook, Shirley F. 84, Alexander, age 71,Tiffanee Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook,Tiffanee Master Danny Joe Jones, Master Danny Joe12, Jones, Jr., Jerry Shedd, age 53, born November 27, 1947, died age 45, born October 1973, born November 27, 1947, died age 45, born October 12, 1973, age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, Amanda Ann Riggins, age 37, born June 18, 1984, age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Monday, July 8, 2019 Judy Ann Smith Lambert, age 75, born November died Monday, July 8, 2019 borndied November 27, 1947, age 45, born October 12,16, 1973, 1937, Januaryborn 17, 2022 November 27, 1947, age 45, born Octoberdied 12, 1973, months, born May 16, 2019, age 2 months, born2019 May 2019, age died 2Monday, July 8, 2019 Sunday, July14, 14, 2019 diedThursday, Friday, July 12, Sunday, July 14, 2019 died July Friday, July 12, 2019 diedRonald Thursday, July4, 4, 2019 died July12, 4,July 2019 David Simpson, age David Ronald Simpson, age died Tuesday, January 11, 2022 Sunday, 2019 died Friday, July 2019 27, 1946, died February 1, 2022 Sunday, July 14, 2019 died Friday, July 12, 2019 died Thursday, July 2019 died Thursday, 4, 2019 David Ronald Simpson, age Henry L. Boling, age 67, born December 19, Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 70, bornDwight JulyDwight 21, 1948, died July Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, Bishop, Jr., age 62, James B. Dean, age 92, “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age Francisca C. Schadl, age 87, born March 22, 1934, “Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July Judith Ann “Judy” Myers, age 83, born July 26, 1954, died January 18, 2022 born September 28, 1956, died born September 02, 1926, died born September 28, 1956, died born September 02, 1926, died 86, born August 3, 1932, died 86, born August 3,02, 1932, dieddied 09, 2019 09, 2019 born September 28, 1956, borndied September 28, 1956, died born September 1926, born 02, 86, born August 3, 1932, died 86, born August 3, 1932, died 09, 2019 died January 17, 2022 1938,September died January 11,1926, 2022 died Tuesday, July 9, 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Jonathan Daniel Caldwell, ageage 76, born Tuesday, July 9,July 2019 Wednesday, 3,July 2019 Wednesday, Julyage 10, 94, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Zellie Fred Fred Sprewell, Zellie Fred Sprewell, 94, Tuesday, July 9,July 2019 Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Tuesday, 9, 2019 Wednesday, 3, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Zellie Sprewell, age 94, Margie Siggers, age 62, born October 17, 1959, died 76, Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Lee Andrew Noack, age 64, born January 13, 1958, Andra Dixon McGill, age Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, Barry Bushon Dickerson, age Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, August 13, 1945, died January 4, 2022 born February 28, 1925, died born February 28, 1925,“Don” died Donald Brasseal “Don”Dickerson, Bonner, ageBarryAndra Bushon Dickerson, age Donald Brasseal Bonner, Barry Bushon Andra Dixon McGill, age Dixon McGill, age 76, born February 28, 1925, died 76, age 76, born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died born October 18, 1941, died age 76, born June 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, died January 10, 2022 born October 18, 1941, died Saturday, July 27, 2019 died Tuesday, 2022 Saturday, July76, 27, 2019 Kenny Caldwell ageborn 72, born age21, 76, born June 05, January 1943, died 68, born September 7, 1950, age JuneDecember 05, 1943, died 68, born September 7, 25, 1950, died October 18, 1941, died born October 18, 1941,died died born Saturday, July 27, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, Daniel Lance age 40, Patricia “Pat” Godsey Simmons, age 86, 2019 born Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Friday, July 19, 2019 Billy Joe19, Payne, AprilWednesday, 20, 1949, Wednesday, 2019 Friday, July 2019age 72, born Wednesday, July 17, 1949, died January 18,Walker, 2022July 10, July 17, 2019 Daniel Lance Walker, ageJune 40, age John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, BobbieParker Jean Dodderer, age 84, Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., John John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age53, 84, Eugene Mullis,26, Jr.,1935, age born September 18, 1978, died died born September 18, 1978, died John D. Brown, Jr., age Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, D. Brown, Jr., age 53, Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, died January 8, 2022 Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age born September 18, 1978, January 6, 2022 Jimmy Fambro, age18, 63,1965, born February 6, born born August 18, 1965, died July 70, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, 70,July born December 31, 1948, died born August died July July 9, 1935, died Monday, born December 31,died 1948, died died Sunday, 21, 2019 Sunday, July 2019 bornJuly August 18, 1965, died July born July 9, 1935, Monday, born21, August 18, 1965, died bornChristy July 9,Lynn 1935, died Monday, 70, born December 31, 1948, died 70, born December 31, 1948, Sunday, July 21, 2019 Rebecca “Becky” Kay Taylor, 57, born Pierce, age 51,Monday, born 22, January 13, 1958, died 21, 2022 Ann West, 22, July 2019 July 2019 Monday, Julyage 8, 2019 22, January 2019 22, 2019 July 8,July 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, Deborah 22, 2019 July 22, 2019 22,“Debbie” 2019 July 22, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 Monday, 8, 2019 Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, November 23, 1964, died January 27, 2022 Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, age Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, 1971, died February 1, 2022 Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, age Andrew “David” Griffith, Jr, age 69, born Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, age 58, died July 22, 2019 age 58,Marie died July 22, 2019 Marie Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, AnnaRandy Marsella Fazio, age age Marie Elizabeth Phillipsage Bryce, Anna Marsella Fazio, age Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, Lee Nichols, 66, age 58, died July 22, 2019 89, born September 14, 1929, 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died born June 24, 1953, died Friday, age 89, born September 14, 1929, 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Ellen Walker Todd, age 99, born on July age 5, 1922, died born June 24, died1934, Friday, Allen Worthan, Bruce Curtis Puryear, age 57, born February 10, MayWallace 22, 1952,age died January 31, 2022 age Allen Worthan, age1929, 89, born 14, 85, born on 1953, Jan 1, died Wallace 89, born September 14, 85, September born on Jan 1,1929, 1934, died born June 24, 1953, died Friday, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, Wallace Allen Worthan, age died Saturday, July 20, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 July 26, 2019 died Saturday, July 20, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 July 26, 2019 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 Wednesday, January 13, 2022 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019 1964, died January 25, 2022 died Saturday, July 20, 2019 Monday, July 8, 2019 Edna Jane died Jones, age 86, died 16,Earl Wayne Saturday, JulyJanuary 20, 2019 Monday,Carden, July 8, 2019 26, Monday, 2019 July 15, 2019 July 26, 2019Griffin Jennings, July 56, Ara died age 80, Harris Nell Bell D. Sanders, age 79, Earl Wayne Carden, age 55, 80, Harris NellCarden, Griffin Jennings, Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, Carol Judith Chapman, age31, 55, Judith age Earl Wayne age Richardson, 80, Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, EarlChapman, Wayne Carden, age 80, Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, Janice Duncan Walker age 81,D. born July 1940, Ara Bell Sanders, age 79, Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, July June Deloris Gable age 68, born 2022Carol born October 29, 1938, died age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, born August 06, 1939, died born October 29, 1938, died age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, born August 06, 1939, died July born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, born June born 24, 1964, died29, Sunday, borndied October 29, 1938, died age 83, died Tuesday, July 2,28, 2022 October 1938, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, born August 06, 1939, died July born August 06, 1939, died July born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, died January August 13, 1953, died January 18, 2022 Jo Ann Wanda Hutchinson Johnson, age 69, Friday, June 28, 2019 2019 24, 2019 Friday, June 28, 2019 2019 24, 2019 July 7, 2019 July 7, 2019 June 28, 2019 2019 Friday, June 28, 2019 Friday, 2019 24, 2019 24, 2019 July 7, 2019 born September 29, 1952, died January 7, 2022

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APRIL 11, 2021 • VOLUME 27 NUMBER 4

Carroll County Mental Health Advocates ask the public to help be their “missing link”

by Janice Daniel The Carroll County Mental Health Advocates will be hosting their 2nd annual community event “Miles for Mental Health - Running Over the Hurdles Together” 5K and 1-mile Fun Run on Saturday, May 15th, 2021, at the Greenbelt at Hobbs Farm, 1147 Rome Street, Carrollton, Georgia. Registration begins at 2:00 pm, Fun Run begins at 3:00 pm, and 5K Run begins at 4:00 pm. Proceeds will benefit the Carroll County Mental Health Advocate programs. Additional information can be obtained at the Carroll County Mental Health Advocates office at 306A Bradley Street, Carrollton, Georgia 30117, phone 770830-2048. The story of the CCMHA is one of true commitment to their mission. In 2008, then Carroll County Probate Court Judge, Betty Cason (now Mayor of Carrollton) brought together a group of concerned citizens for a con-

WGTC announces new president

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Dr. Julie Post will begin job April 16th from press release Dr. Julie Post, Vice President of Student Affairs at Gwinnett Technical College, has been selected at the next president of West Georgia Technical College (WGTC), as announced by Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg Dozier. She will begin her duties at West Georgia Tech April 16, 2021. Pat Hannon has been interim president of West Georgia Tech since Dr. Scott Rule retired as President December 31, 2020. See WGTC NEW PRESIDENT page 8

Governor removes mask mandate, eliminates ban on large gatherings, reduces social distancing to 42 inches in some cases, moves mask wearing decision to the local levels Effective for time frame of April 1st through April 30th

by Sue Horn On Thursday, April 1, 2021, Governor Brian Kemp signed three executive orders, of which one (temporarily) eliminates the year long CoVid large gatherings ban and any remaining sheltering-in-place for the time period April 8th though April 30th. And although the mask wearing requirement has been (temporarily) eliminated at the state level, it was moved to a local level decision. Specifically, for the time period April 1-30, 2021, the mask mandate has been

eliminated (but “strongly encouraged” by the governor) and replaced with a Local Option Face Covering Requirement (LOFCR) giving a city, county, or other government entity the authority to continue to impose the requirement of wearing a mask “when not able to maintain Social Distancing from non-cohabitating persons”. Social distancing has been reduced from 6 feet to 3.5 feet (42 inches) of separation between seating/parties at restaurants, bars, and movie See LOCAL OPTION FACE COVERING page 5

This summer Disney cruisers will enjoy not one, This summer Disney cruisers will enjoywillnotenjoy one,notThis Disney cruisers will one, This summer Disney cruisers one, butsummer two stops at Castaway Cay!enjoy Whatnot makes but two stops at Castaway Cay! What makes two stops at Castaway Cay! What makes but two stops at Castaway Cay! What makesbut Castaway Cay so special? There are uniquely CastawayVacation Cay so special? There areThere uniquely Castaway so special? There are Castaway Cay so special? are uniquely ***Magical Planner is a professional designedCay areas for kids, adults, anduniquely families! ***Magical Vacation Planner is a professional designed areas for kids, adults, and families! ***Magical Vacation Planner is a professional ***Magical Vacation Planner is a professional designed areas for kids, adults, and families! designed areas for kids, adults, and families! concierge service that provides the ultimate Explore the island by bike, choose a new water conciergeconcierge service that provides the ultimate Explore the island byprovides bike, by choose achoose newvoters water concierge that the ultimate service that provides the ultimate Explore the island by bike, choose awhite new sandy water Explore theexperience island bike, a new water Aservice scant 0.039% of Carroll County customer service for guests adventure, soak up the sun on a customercustomer service experience for guestsfor guests / StarNews Online adventure, soakexperience up the sun on asun white participated in soak SPLOST Referendum customer service for guests adventure, soakand up so themuch sun on a white sandyStarNews service experience adventure, updestinations, the on sandy a white sandy island beach, more! Everything traveling to various Disney by Sue Horn 85,888 island beach, and so much more! Everything travelingtraveling to varioustoDisney destinations, The March 16, 2021 Carroll island and so WGTC much traveling toisland various Disney beach, and destinations, so muchresorts. more! Everything various Disney destinations, Carroll Countyfor Mental you beach, need a perfect daymore! atannounces theEverything beach is LOFCR: Local Option Face Covering Requirement cruise vacations, and all-inclusive County Purpose needSPLOST forSalesneed a(Special perfect day at the beach isbeach isHealth www.starnewsgaonline.com Advocates ask cruise vacations, and all-inclusive resorts. resorts. Local Option Tax) passed by perfect resorts. you need for a perfect day at the beachlunch! is 3,368 you for a day at the cruiseyou vacations, and all-inclusive new president www.starnewsgaonline.com cruise vacations, and all-inclusive the public toeven help be included, an all you can eat buffet an 81% margin with only 3,368 included, even an allOf you can eat buffet lunch! their “missing link” citizens participating.even those, included, even an all you can eat buffet lunch! included, an all you can eat buffet lunch! Contacttome for your FREE, 0.039% VOTED to SEND A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION to StarNews, send $20 for Contact me for your FREE, Contact mesubscribe for your FREE, Contact meapproves for your FREE, no obligation quote Countynocommission quote send to: amendmentobligation FULL ONE no obligation quote YEAR subscription! no obligation quote by increasing spending FUNDRAISER $191,433 to match extra revenue ($10 for senior citizens) to: Georgia Labor Department STARNEWS See

NEWS REPORTING / NEWS RECAP / NEWS ANALYSIS

Number of Carroll County citizens voted in the Nov. 2020 Election

See

page 19

Number of Carroll County citizens who voted in the March 2021 SPLOST Referendum

Becky Gentry Becky Gentry Travel Agent

by Sue Horn At the 3:00 p.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021 Special Called Meeting of the Carroll County Board of Commissioners, an amendment was passed 6-0 (one commissioner was

issued more in unemployment payments in last 12 months than prior 82 years

absent) to increase the budget by $191,433 to match increased revenues. Three categories received the bulk of the cash: $53,000 has been assigned to increased “salaries”; See $191,433 page 11

P.O. BOX 680 Carrollton, Ga 30112 Travel Agent

404-291-1187 404-291-1187

1911-2019: $20.024 Billion paid 2020 alone: $20.218 Billion paid

CoVID-19 statistics for Georgia and Carroll County one year: March 23, 2020- April 5, 2021

See $20.218 BILLION page 27

GEORGIA

Life going forward, and out of the pandemic

As pandemic restrictions have eased (3.5 feet now for some social distancing/mask use encouraged but not mandated), civic clubs are returning to more normal functioning, including the Carrollton Kiwanis Club who recently hosted Carroll County’s fire chief Tim Padgett. See story page 6. Photo by Sue Horn

$10 Senior Citizen

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CARROLL COUNTY

As of APRIL 5, 2021: As of APRIL 5, 2021: 856,340 total confirmed cases 7,271 total confirmed cases 16,749 total deaths 129 total deaths Estimated state population: 10.6M Estimated county population: 122,000

Death total represents Death total represents 0.00158% of population 0.001% of population Source: Georgia Department of Public Health dph.georgia.gov/covid-19

8.00” x 3.25”

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eliminated (but “strongly encouraged” by the by Sue Horn On Thursday, April 1, 2021, Governor Brian governor) and replaced with a Local Option Face Kemp signed three executive orders, of which Covering Requirement (LOFCR) giving a city, one (temporarily) eliminates the year long CoVid county, or other government entity the authority large gatherings ban and any remaining to continue to impose the requirement of wearing sheltering-in-place for the time period April 8th a mask “when not able to maintain Social though April 30th. And although the mask wear- Distancing from non-cohabitating persons”. Social distancing has been reduced from 6 feet ing requirement has been (temporarily) eliminated at the state level, it was moved to a local to 3.5 feet (42 inches) of separation between level decision. Specifically, for the time period seating/parties at restaurants, bars, and movie April 1-30, 2021, the mask mandate has been See LOCAL OPTION FACE COVERING page 5

Becky Gentry Gentry Becky Travel Agent STARNEWS

A scant 0.039% of Carroll County voters Travel Agent participated in SPLOST Referendum P.O. BOX 680 Carrollton, Ga 30112

404-291-1187 404-291-1187 Name

b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com Address

from press release The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) recently surpassed a major milestone in the organization paying claimants more in the past 12 months than in all of the combined years that GDOL has been in existence. Georgians have received $20.218 billion in unemployment insurance (UI) DON’T MISS AN ISSUE! READ DIGITAL MONTHLY

monthly traditional print publication

APRIL 11, 2021 • VOLUME 27 NUMBER 4

page 7

Name Address Zip $20

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

See FUNDRAISER page 7

Georgia Labor Department issued more in unemployment payments in last 12 months than prior 82 years

See 0.039% VOTED page 19

$20

$10 Senior Citizen

Life going forward, and out of the pandemic As pandemic restrictions have eased (3.5 feet now for some social distancing/mask use encouraged but not mandated), civic clubs are returning to more normal functioning, including the Carrollton Kiwanis Club who recently hosted Carroll County’s fire chief Tim Padgett. See story page 6. Photo by Sue Horn

85,888

Number of Carroll County citizens voted in the Nov. 2020 Election

3,368

Number of Carroll County citizens who voted in the March 2021 SPLOST Referendum

County commission approves amendment increasing spending by $191,433 to match extra revenue by Sue Horn At the 3:00 p.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021 Special Called Meeting of the Carroll County Board of Commissioners, an amendment was passed 6-0 (one commissioner was

Zip

1911-2019: $20.024 Billion paid 2020 alone: $20.218 Billion paid

by Sue Horn The March 16, 2021 Carroll County SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) passed by an 81% margin with only 3,368 citizens participating. Of those,

absent) to increase the budget by $191,433 to match increased revenues. Three categories received the bulk of the cash: $53,000 has been assigned to increased “salaries”; See $191,433 page 11

CoVID-19 statistics for Georgia and Carroll County one year: March 23, 2020- April 5, 2021 GEORGIA

As of APRIL 5, 2021: 856,340 total confirmed cases 16,749 total deaths Estimated state population: 10.6M

CARROLL COUNTY

As of APRIL 5, 2021: 7,271 total confirmed cases 129 total deaths Estimated county population: 122,000

Death total represents Death total represents 0.00158% of population 0.001% of population Source: Georgia Department of Public Health dph.georgia.gov/covid-19

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Jerry S Jerry died Mond died Mond David David 70, born J 70, born J 09, 2019 09, 2019 Zellie F Zellie F born Feb born Feb Saturday, Saturday, Daniel Daniel born Sep born Sept Sunday, J Sunday, Ju Debora Debora age 58, di age 58, die Wallac Wallace 56, died M 56, died M Carol J Carol Ju born June born June July 7, 20 July 7, 201

www.starnewsgaonline.com KIDSPEACE from page 5 trust them. They help me with my behavior and I feel better. I like the special events. We got to spend time with each other. At Thanksgiving the food was great, especially the mac and cheese. It was the best Thanksgiving I’ve ever had. At our Christmas party, the Mother Mary presentation inspired me.” The organization is also celebrating the 30th anniversary of the organization’s adoption of the name “KidsPeace”- literally, to “give kids peace”. 14 year old girl who has been at KidsPeacein Bowdon for the past 8 months: What was your behavior like when you first came to KidsPeace? “I was aggressive. I had huge anger problems. I was horrible, I didn’t care about consequences. I didn’t listen, I was sad. I felt like everyone was out to get me. Now, I’ve learned everyone is trying to help me. There are people you can actually trust.” Do you feel safe? “Most of the time. This place got me to understand that I’m not the only one. . . The activities are great. They teach you stuff. The ropes course. It showed me how to overcome challenges, overcome fear. Help—they’re only here to help you.” Shagawat said that, “KidsPeace would not be in Bowdon except for the incredible work of Tom Upchurch, longstanding member of the KidsPeace Georgia Board of Associates and the late Mike Steed.” Tom Upchurch said, “It started in 2002. Mike Steed came to me and said he thought we needed a residential care facility in Bowdon and, as head of the Bowdon Hospital Authority, they had property. We started the process with then Governor Roy Barnes with the idea of bringing KidsPeace to Bowdon. To make a long story short, we ended up with a lease option to buy for the current property, which KidsPeace now owns with the result

being a 25 acre campus. “Early on Mike and I met with local pastors including Dr. Darrell Hessel from First United Methodist Church, who were instrumental in helping make KidsPeace become a reality along with the tremendous support of the local community, foundations, businesses and countless individuals. There are too many to list without leaving some out. Darrell became involved with KidsPeace serving as the chaplain until he retired in 2017. We have also enjoyed the support of local elected officials like Mark Butler, Mike Dugan, Tyler Paul Smith, and Randy Nix, among many others as well. Mike Steed said to me that in his long career and life, KidsPeace is the greatest thing he had ever been a part of.” “Tom is right,” said Wanda Darrah, chair of the KidsPeace Georgia Board of Associates. “The unwavering support of this community and its churches allows us to provide the quality of services we do, and more important, a level of care for these children and the commitment of staff, some who have been here since the facility opened in 2004. Churches such as Roopville Road Baptist Church, Midway Church, Ephesus Baptist Church In Villa Rica and First United Methodist Churches in Bowdon and Carrollton, among others, have been giving us tremendous support in a variety of ways.” Darrah shared that “when a child leaves KidsPeace, he/she leaves with a suitcase, a Bible, and a custom pillow case with scripture on it made and donated by the ladies from Ephesus. One child observed, ‘They don’t know me, but they care about me!’ We believe it is vital to contribute to their spiritual needs as well as their mental, physical, emotional, and educational needs. I can’t tell you how many children over the years have doubted God and I tell them God forgives you!”

This past December 16th KidsPeace in Bowdon held their Christmas Gala with 177+ in attendance for the dinner, music, an inspirational speaker, and fellowship. The wellattended event was a significant sign of a pandemic weary community as it also drew the attendance of State Senator Mike Dugan, State Representative Tyler Paul Smith, and Bowdon Mayor Jim Chaffin. Shagawat said, “These children - in many cases - have never had a tablecloth dinner and we wanted them to experience this type of event dinner.” Darrah added, “This event was months in the planning as we wanted to make sure we varied the activities to keep the children engaged.” Dinner was a catered meal served by volunteers from several area churches. The evening included music from award-winning gospel singer Babbie Mason along with guest speaker and author of the book “Waiting on the Rain” Frederick Bailey whose inspiring message was directed toward the students. The highlight of the evening was the children themselves in their first appearance of the “KidsPeace Student Choir”. They received a loud, standing ovation from the crowd. 12 year old boy who has been at KidsPeace in Bowdon for the past four months: What was your behavior like when you first came to KidsPeace?” “I felt like I really messed up a lot. I was always angry I’m getting better with my anger a lot. I can see other people’s perspective. I feel like I’m a better person.” What has been you best experience here? “The ropes course event. The volunteers were like family members. They treated me good. I felt like I could trust them and open up to them. Meeting new people. I can learn new things.” Shagawat mentioned the tremendous coop-

StarNews

February 13, 2022 Page 9

eration and support of Carroll County School System Superintendent Scott Cowart and his staff, “Although we are a private school, we work under their umbrella and they provide us with anything we need as if we were simply another school in the system.” Shagwat came to KidsPeace in 2004 to train staff following its opening. One day a child was acting out and Lou offered to speak with him. “He cussed me out ending with ‘Sir’. I had never been cussed out with such manners,” Lou explained with a smile. “That little guy stole my heart and I decided to stay.” In April 2016 Shagawat was named Executive Director. Children come from all over the state, not just West Georgia. Mental health issues - oft times pandemic related - are on the rise. If you would like to help KidsPeace financially or in other ways please contact them at 770-437-7210 or visit their website https://www.kidspeace.org/georgia You may call Wanda Darrah at 770-8438473 or wbdarrah@peoplepc.com. She can help you navigate the website and answer any questions. KidsPeace is located at 101 KidsPeace Drive, Bowdon. from its website: Since 1882, KidsPeace has been building on its expertise to give hope, help and healing to children, adults and those who love them. Through its comprehensive range of residential treatment programs; accredited educational services; unique psychiatric hospital and foster care and community-based programs, KidsPeace is dedicated to helping people connect, transform and overcome their challenges to ensure a stable future, transition to adulthood and gain independence. Since its doors opened, more than 200,000 children have participated in one of the multitude of programs KidsPeace offers nationally.

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County government uses SPLOST to purchase 10 sheriff’s vehicles for $498,000; to receive grants totaling $40,634 for drug court; approved $105,561 on 911 upgrades

by Janice Daniel reduction in homeowner insurance premiums The Carroll County Board of in those areas. Commissioners had their regular monthly County Finance Director Alecia Searcy premeeting on Tuesday, January 4th, 2022, at 6:00 sented the Financial Update for November p.m. with a work session to the board. Chairman Morgan stated that, for 2021 held prior at 4:00 p.m. All She said the upward future discussions, the board commissioners were present. trend in revenue is should consider no more During the work session, continuing, espethe board was made aware applications for new construction cially since property that Carroll County did not taxes are due for Special Event Facilities qualify for the State’s Safer December 1st and Grant, which is highly sought-after by many many have already been paid, causing a significounties. This grant could have funded cant increase in November revenue. employees for two already built fire stations The current YTD county revenue was that are currently unmanned. Fire Chief Chuck $33,597,000, compared to $31,197,000 same Barnwell and Finance Director Alecia Searcy time last year. Expenses are at 40% of budget, presented a funding option for fire stations #17 $23,757,311. Searcy offered her opinion that & #18. Searcy reported that one-half of the county department heads are being frugal and salaries required to man these two buildings only spending where there is a real need. were built into the 2022 budget, $425,000, and Finanical Director Searcy also observed that, now $415,000 additional revenue is available, “Our fund balance is continuing to grow yearfor a total of $845,000. To cover salaries for over-year, and cash is continuing to grow yearboth stations for one year was estimated to be over-year at about the same rate.” $849,000 - a $4,000 shortage. Searcy stated She informed the board that the county had this shortage could be taken and used from to file a single audit with the IRS because of sales tax revenues. the CARES money, and will likely have to conChief Barnwell said a 10-week training tinue with the audits because of the ARPA period would be required before personnel funds. could work at the fire stations. He said training During this work session, several items were for Stations #17 & #18 could begin in late discussed and put on a consent agenda for a April, and by late June the two stations could single vote in the regular meeting, and these be operational. items were as follows: Commissioner Ernie Reynolds stated that he • consideration of Judge Tom Parmer’s was glad to hear this news since much of his request to accept two grant awards from the district could be serviced by these two stations. Council of Accountability Court Judges for the Commissioner Clint Chance stated that Juvenile, or Drug Court. The grants, one for although the buildings were built when there $20,680 for the Family Treatment Court was no money to man them, the fact that the Program would pay for the part-time case mancounty showed full intent to man them caused a ager to be full-time through the end of this

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budget year; pay for additional contract coun- training for three staff and two Board of seling services; and pay for additional drug Elections & Registration members for a total of testing supplies. The other grant $6,086. Carolyn Driver, Finanical Director Director of Elections & for $19,954 for the Juvenile Wellness Court Program would Searcy also observed Registration, explained that pay for the part-time case man- that, “Our fund balance two training sessions happened ager to be full-time through the is continuing to grow to fall in the same fiscal year. end of the budget year. 6. Appointment to the Three year-over-year, and Judge Parmer said this is the Rivers Regional Commission most fiscally responsible way to cash is continuing to Board of Directors - Kevin deal with substance abuse and grow year-over-year at Hemphill. doesn’t cost the county taxpay- about the same rate.” 7. Appointment to the ers anything. He also said this Western Area Regional Radio program is showing such great success that System Authority (WARRS) for a term that they are able to keep more children in their expires January 31, 2022 - Tim Padgett. own homes, the parents are drug-tested often The regular meeting opened with an invocaand randomly, and it is an 18-month program tion by Commissioner Montrell McClendon rather than the usual 6 months that often results and Pledge of Allegiance led by Commissioner in failure and puts parents in jail and children Ernie Reynolds. The consent agenda items and right back in the DFACS system. minutes from last meeting were approved • consideration of the sheriff’s office request unanimously. There were no public comments. to purchase ten (10) new vehicles, fully County Planner, Janet Hyde, presented a equipped, for a total cost of $498,000 to be Request for Conditional Use for a Special paid out of SPLOST. Captain Ken Reeves Event Facility on ten (10) acres, zoned agriculstated it was unknown when vehicles would be tural, located at 185 Codner Road, Whitesburg, delivered. by owners Carol and Richard Sexton. This is • consideration to approve the purchase of to be a new-build barn-type facility that will Emergency Call Works hardware and software hold 150 people and will be restricted to wedupgrade from Motorola for $96,177.07 and an dings only, open Fridays, Saturdays and optional extended warranty in the amount of Sundays, only one wedding per week. Ben $9,383.38. E911 Director Clay Patterson said Skippers reported that the county is okay with this is the emergency phone system, and the the current water and septic system, and states current warranty is expired. that any possible environmental health con• consideration to approve the purchase of cerns will be corrected at the inspection stage. the recording system upgrade from Quality There was no one to speak against the plan. Recording Solutions, LLC dba Eventide for Commissioner Clint Chance asked if this $61,645 to replace a system at capacity. Conditional Use Permit will be restricted to the • consideration to approve expenditures from current owner, which led to a discussion about contingency line item over to travel and state See EVENT FACILITIES page 13

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www.starnewsgaonline.com HUDDLESTON from front page holds as District 69. “I have been involved in the community, beginning more than 30 years ago coaching rec ball and in Cub Scouts. And for many years I have been involved in a variety of organizations throughout the area.” Huddleston is running as a Republican. Qualifying will be held in March with the Primary in May. The 72nd district was formed after the realignment from the 2020 Census results. It covers, mostly, the district that the retiring Nix has been representing. Most of District 72 - 64% of it - is located in Carroll County; 17% is the county of Heard; and 19% of it is located in the northwest portion of Troup County. “Randy did a great job. I valued the moments I have shared with Randy and the legislative team. Moving forward, if I am elected, I will work closely with other local legislators such as Lynn Smith, Jay Collins, and Tyler Paul Smith to represent our area effectively,” Huddleston stated. When asked about his platform and, if elected, his legislative agenda, David responded, “ I certainly, on a general level, have strongly held views: advocating for small business, pro law-enforcement, education, and agricultural preservation. But, I am going to spend the next weeks and months meeting with leaders, getting their views and needs. “On a county level, I need to know what they need in all three counties. I will represent Troup, Heard, and Carroll counties. I need to meet with the superintendents of the schools in my district and the police forces. As I meet people and officials I need to find out what I need to do. I need to meet new people to get different points of view from my own…broadening my horizons. “I will have to work hard and do my homework. I need to be the voice, eyes, and ears of my community. Through my work at Carroll EMC and the organizations I have been involved in, I have been representing the people in the community for the past 40 years. During these 40 years I believe I have been preparing for this job,” he said. Huddleston is freshly retired from Carroll EMC after 36 years, and is a 5th generation

Rep. Tyler Paul Smith named vice chairman of House Judiciary Non-Civil Committee

from press release State Representative Tyler Paul Smith (RBremen) was recently appointed by Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) to serve as the vice chairman of the House Judiciary NonCivil Committee for the remainder of the 2021-2022 legislative term. “I am truly humbled and honored to have been selected as the vice chairman of the House Judiciary Non-Civil Committee,” said Rep. Smith. “This is perhaps the most important committee in the House as it affects our liberty in every bill we consider. I look forward to helping ensure that our laws continue to protect our life, liberty and pursuit of happiness.” The House Judiciary Non-Civil Committee has jurisdiction over Georgia’s criminal code and procedure, drug enforcement, sentencing, parole, pardons and immigration. Any legislation that carries a possibility for criminal penalties can be referred to this committee. Smith represents the citizens of District 18, which includes portions of Carroll and Haralson counties. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2020. He also serves on the Insurance and Small Business Development committees.

full time farmer in Roopville. As owner and operator of cattle, chicken-houses, hayfields, and beehive operations, he has first hand understands the ins-and-outs of running a successful business and preserving natural resources. “It is important to strike the right balance between growth and preserving our agricultural and rural heritage,” he said. “We need to educate our young people to lead and become involved. In agriculture, the average farmer is 58 years old, so we need to be developing farmers for today and tomorrow.” During the later parts of his career at Carroll EMC, he was involved in the groundwork for the current expanding of broadband into the rural areas in West Georgia and East Alabama.. “All who live in rural areas understand the frustration of not having a strong broadband including myself. I am proud to say that the installation is starting here in our district. But no, my area is not the first, but we hope soon,” Huddleston said. Huddleston has been actively involved with ten area FFA and 4-H programs and assists Carroll EMC with its annual FFA Day where the co-op hosts 300+ students from the region. He is also affiliated with and holds leadership positions with the Carroll County Planning & Zoning Board, Georgia Cattlemen’s Association, Carroll and Heard County Cattlemen’s Associations, Carroll County Young Farmers, Carroll County Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Counsel, Carroll and Troup County GOPs, and Heard and Carroll High School Ag Advisory Boards. “I spend two or three nights a week involved in various ways with these groups. I am single, so I have the time to perform these functions. I probably couldn’t if I was married,” David explains with a slight grin. “I raised my son, Andrew, who is now 27. When possible I will get him involved, also.” David became involved with the Young Cattlemen’s Conference through the Cattlemen’s Association, teaching young people how to lead. “This experience ended up with me in Washington, D.C. meeting national leaders. I thought, here a man raised in Roopville, Georgia, could be involved with

these types of leaders and young people! It inspired me to get more involved on a state level and allowed me to establish relationships and contacts. It wasn’t until my agribusiness role at Carroll EMC and attending UGA’s Advancing Georgia’s Leaders in Agriculture that I realized what an impact I could make serving in the General Assembly.

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February 13, 2022 Page 11

“My work over the past 40 years has allowed me to get to know people and their concerns throughout the district. People know me and that I will work hard for them. I love meeting people. As my son observed, “You love this! And I do. I have the passion for this job.” Huddleston may be reached: 404-535-1110.

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Anna McCoy becomes newest Villa Rica council member representing Ward 4; council approves use of TextMyGov - 24 hour messaging system between government and citizens by Janice Daniel On January 11, 2022, the City Council of Villa Rica met in their work session at 10:00 a.m, a Special Called Meeting at 6:00 p.m., followed immediately by their regularly monthly meeting. At the work session, Ernestine Mullins was recognized for her 33 years of service with the Senior Center. Mullins has retired. Several items were then discussed to be put on a consent agenda for a single vote at the regular meeting. Before the start of the regular meeting, Council held a Special Called Meeting of the Villa Rica Public Facilities Authority, and appointed Mayor McDougal as Chairman, Mayor Pro Tem Momtahan as Vice-Chairman, and City Clerk Alisa Doyal as Secretary for 2022, at which time that meeting was adjourned, and the regular meeting began. The Invocation was offered by Pastor Richard D. Dobbs of the Overcomers Christian Center, founded by Pastor Dobbs and his wife Casandra in 1996. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Villa Rica Patrol Officer Stephen Ellinas, who served in the 391st Engineering Battalion as a Contract Medic. Deborah Snipes Littleton was recognized for five yearsempllyment in Customer Service. Re-elected Councilmembers Carter and McPherson took their Oath of Office given by City Attorney Mecklin. New Councilmember Anna McCoy was given her oath earlier in the day by Mayor McDougal so she could participate in the above mentioned work session and special called

One of the first signs of a tired run down human being is back pain. I believe it is safe to say that most people in a health crisis were in a better position to solve their health problem in the weeks, months, or years prior to their crisis onset. The fundamental premise of health is understanding that a diseased person is slow to heal or not able to heal on their own. This holds true whether referring to the garden variety condition of osteo-arthritis or if it is a chronic infection or malignant condition. So, it is much wiser to avoid the oncoming health problems in an intelligent way. Listen to professionals that are highly trained and well practiced in the science, art of practice and philosophy of what your holistic aim is when it concerns your health. I have 35 years experience in this area of health and still going strong and I am very experienced and prepared to assist you in the effort to be as functional as you can

meeting. The consent agenda, which was approved by Council unanimously, consisted of the following items: 1. Resolution of support for changes to the State Highway System, and acceptance of two roadways 2. North Plant rental of Aerator Equipment 3. Northeast Downtown waterline replacement 4. Approval of TextMyGov Partnership Proposal, a system developed to open lines of communication with local government agencies and citizens. The system works 24 hours a day, using the regular messaging app on a smart phone to allow citizens to ask questions and get immediate responses, find links to information, address problems, report any issues, and upload photos. With this system, the City can provide details on garbage pickup, utility payments, city news and events, office hours, and a multitude of other subject. 5. FY2021 Budget Amendments #193-215. 6. FY2022 Budget Amendments #22-139. 7. Approval of demolition and removal of the old gas station known as Butterballs along with the adjacent duplex, after a determination by Villa Rica Chief Building Official that it wasn’t structurally sound. City Manager will hire a demolition company to do the job for a fee not to exceed $40,000. This will move the City a step closer to one day seeing a re-energized western edge of town. Councilmember Carter commented that the City has complete control of what will go there, and that the See VILLA RICA COUNCIL page 14

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www.starnewsgaonline.com FELLOWSHIP CHRISTIAN from front pages known for breaking the MLB Heard, Haralson, and Douglas counties. They color barrier by are in every high school in these counties as signing Jackie well as 18 junior high schools and 18 elemen- Robinson to the tary schools. Typically, the Fellowship meets Brooklyn with local students and coaches weekly, but in Dodgers in 1945. some junior high and elementary schools, they Other first supmeet monthly. They reach over 2500 students, porters include athletes, and coaches every week, with the professional athmeetings early in the morning before school. l e t e s Otto There are eleven FCA staff members who han- Graham, Carl dle the 191 meetings, called “huddles” across Erskine, and the four West Georgia counties. Donn Moomaw. FCA held its first advisory “We are full time missionaries to these local board meeting in September 1954 and was students and coaches,” said Webb. officially incorporated as a not-for-profit Addressing the broad issue of separation of organization later in the year. church and state, including no school prayer. After two years in Oklahoma, Coach Jay explained, “Jesus has not McClanen moved FCA’s head“For the unchurched, quarters to Kansas City, been taken out of the schools. Jesus is still in the schools. we believe we become Missouri. That year (1956), When we meet with the ath- a minister of presence”, FCA also conducted its first letes and the coaches - the hudsaid Webb. “When they national camp‚ then referred to dles - anyone who does not as a national conference‚ which need someone, we wish to participate may leave, drew 256 athletes and coaches of course. And if the coach to Estes Park, Colorado. The hope our example doesn’t make the offer, then and leadership leads ministry continued its expanwe don’t talk about our faith. sion by adding additional camp them to talk to us. . . locations, establishing a We then talk about integrity, along with service, and how to Students are the hands national magazine and begintreat others. We become charning school campus groups and feet of Jesus.” acter coaches working on charwithin ten years of the first acter development.” camp. FCA was founded in 1954 by Eastern Webb emphasized, “We are the bridge Oklahoma A&M basketball coach Don between the church and the campus.” McClanen, who later resigned to become its The Fellowship of Christian Athletes lists full-time director. After watching sports stars four core values for its ministry: Integrity, use fame to endorse and sell general merchan- Serving, Teamwork and Excellence. dise, McClanen wrote to 19 prominent sports “For the unchurched, we believe we become figures asking for their help in establishing an a minister of presence”, said Webb. “When organization that would use the same principle they need someone, we hope our example and to share the Christian faith. leadership leads them to talk to us. Students are Among the first supporters was Baseball the hands and feet of Jesus who we hope will Hall of Famer Branch Rickey, who is most transform the whole campus, not just the EVENT FACILITIES from page 10 how many of these type facilities have been approved. Chairman Michelle Morgan expressed concern that this one requests a new construction, and that most in the past were approved for farmers who already had a barn and wanted the event venue for extra income. Chairman Morgan stated that, for future discussions, the board should consider no more applications for new construction for Special Event Facilities because of problems that have arose in the past. However, the board did approve unanimously this Special Use Request with the conditions that it be limited to weddings, apply only to current owners, and that traffic and parking would not impede regular travel on the road.

The only other business under zoning was a request to rezone from agricultural to residential parcel #167-0224, Land Lot 254 at 1035 Harlan Lane Road, Villa Rica, by owners Toby and Krista Shadix who own 12.08 acres there, and want to sell 2.39 acres to a brotherin-law. The driveway is a natural boundary in the acreage, so that is the reason they are asking for 2.39 acres rather than 4.0 to be rezoned. The Planning Commission approved the request, and Commissioner Chance, who said this property is in District 2, said the plan would not go against the Future Land Use Plan. Board approved the request unanimously. In the last order of business Commissioner Montrelle McClendon was elected as the 2022 Vice Chairman of the Carroll County Board of Commissioners. Meeting adjourned.

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athletes. “Here, in our area, over 80% of students do not attend church, so we have an opportunity to bring Jesus to them. Our heart is to get them into church. The coach’s job is to coach these students up physically. We believe our job is to coach them up spiritually and emotionally. We are, in effect for these schools, the school chaplain.” Jay explained they reach these athletes through four different avenues: campus, coaches, camps, and community, to, as he says, “Get our Jesus on!” “Everything we do on campus goes through the coach, but we also believe with all that coaches go through, we are the minister to them as well. FCA provides a variety of summer camps, five on The University of West Georgia campus alone, including two football camps as well as girls and boys basketball, volleyball, and softball. Last year over 1800

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attended and 400 made a decision for Christ,” said Webb. “In the community, they host a variety of events including Worship on the Lawn where over 200 students meet outside in an open area, the first time on one student’s front lawn. They also host coaching clinics for recreation and travel ball coaches, among a variety of events and clinics.” Jay Webb, age 38, grew up in Carrollton, and lives in Bremen with his wife and their two children. He has been with FCA for seven years. FCA is funded by churches, individuals, and fundraising. Coming up March 14th is their annual Golf Tournament fundraiser which this year is now - due to strong interest and growth - going to be held at Mirror Lake Country Club, hosting 65 teams for a 36 hole event. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.westmetrofca.org, call 404-5458755, or email jay at jwebb@fca.org

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www.starnewsgaonline.com VILLA RICA COUNCIL from page 12 investments made there will be available by the February meeting. Citizen Comments were almost entirely regarding the Hillcrest Cemetery. (See story page 6.) Councilmember Matthew Momtahan was elected Mayor Pro Tem, and mayor announced the 2022 Council Standing Committees. The Transportation and Traffic Committee will take the place of the Library Committee. Appointments made are as follows: Recreation: Chair Shirley Marchman, Leslie McPherson, Danny Carter Housing: Chair Anna McCoy, Shirley Marchman, Leslie McPherson Transportation and Traffic: Chair Matthew Momtahan, Danny Carter, Leslie McPherson Public Safety: Chair Matthew Momtahan, Shirley Marchman, Anna McCoy Finance: Chair Danny Carter, Matthew

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Rotary Club of Carrollton’s first “West GA Talent Competition” “The Rotary Club of Carrollton is proud to host our 1st Annual West Ga. Talent Competition,” announced Rotary Club president Scott Robinson, shown above right. “The competition is open to all age groups and all forms of the performing arts—singing, dancing, comedy, whatever your talent is. And it is open to everyone whether you live here in the area or not.” This Rotary fundraiser continue the club’s efforts to support their on-going mission in “service above self”. “We want to utilize the funds from this fundraiser to reconnect those living in communities who have been disconnected due to the pandemic throughout music and art titled @notforgotten,” said West GA Talent Competition producer Patrick Yuran, shown above left. “Scott’s own story is an example of why are doing this and many of you can relate. Scott’s parents died just seven weeks apart in the fall of 2020 in a senior care facility alone. Scott and his family were not allowed in due to the pandemic. We want to offer ways of bringing art to them as well as music to their lives in a variety of methods from teaching art and engaging highschoolers to participate, to Karaoke machines for each facility in the area.” Here is how the show will work (in a concept similar to television’s America’s Got Talent). Applicants upload an approximate 2 minute video with the registration fee of $15 to westgatalent.com. Audition video must be uploaded by noon, Friday, March 25. Judges including Babby Mason, Tim Chapman, and Yuran. Finalists (12 to 15) will be notified and invited to perform at the live show on Saturday, April 30th. Third place: $250; 2nd place $500 with two tickets to Townsend Center; and 1st place $1000 and tickets to the Carrollton Center for the Arts 22-23 season. “Rotary is offering several levels of sponsorship for this event with the goal to raise $25,000,” Scott continues. “Donations are tax deductible including simply making a donation without sponsorship. We support a number of local charities and organizations in addition to @notforgotten including scholarships, Council on Aging, the library, the emergency shelter, and mental health.” Rotary’s West GA Talent will be held at The Mabry Center at Carrollton High School at 510 Stadium Drive in Carrollton Saturday April 30th at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 for the live show or $5 to log on to vote. For more information go to westgatalent.com or for questions contact Scott at scottrobinson@goprintplus.com or Patrick at patrickyuran@oakmountain.us. Photo and information by Wayne J. Reynolds

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Momtahan, Anna McCoy. The Mayor also reappointed Phil Blair to the Housing Authority Board for a term of 5/1/21 through 4/30/26, and appointed Scott McBrayer to the Cemetery Commission for a term of 1/1/22 through 12/31/23. Under Community Development, Council voted to approve an amendment to change the city’s Preliminary Plat Review and Approval Procedures from requiring approval from the Planning Commission in favor of requiring administrative approval by the Director of Community Development. Several variance requests were heard and addressed by the Council as well. The Financial Update was given by Jennifer Hallman, showing the City is slowly improving in most areas. The meeting was adjourned after an Executive Session that addressed the Hillcrest Cemetery situation.

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February 13, 2022 Page 15

Edward Jones

Georgia Right to Life president visits Carroll County Shown above left is the Georgia Right to Life (GRTL) president Ricardo Davis, with West Georgia Right to Life (WGRTL) chapter president Duane Hack. Davis was guest speaker at the Tuesday noon, January 25, 2022 “Lunch for Life” held at American Pie restaurant, Carrollton, with 42 people in attendance. Davis shared that there are 26 chapters of GRTL, and that, “My day job is helping to implement computer systems in hospitals.” He has been a member/volunteer with GRTL for the past 30 years. Hack is also a volunteer with WGRTL. The organizations operate on donations. Davis opened his presentation with the statement that GRTL is concerned with life “from the womb to the grave”. He was involved early on in 1984 with the “Unborn Child Amendment”. Today, the group advocates the use of the terms “preborn” and “personhood” instead of unborn/ not a person. Davis said, “Personhood is Biblically defined as ‘the right to have rights’. God spoke to my heart about not just what abortion is, but what abortion is doing. I was just heartbroken. It is killing my people. My people are being de-populated.” Davis was referring to the statistics that, in Georgia, although the black population is at 33% of the total population (10.7M), 60% of the total abortions performed in 2020 (31,248 abortions) were on black females. “I’m fighting for my grandchildren to actually be here. We have to raise our voices; we have to serve,” he said. “What we [GRTL] do is we want to hold on to what our forefathers laid out for us as a nation, and build on that foundation by engaging everyone on our community.” He added that “rejecting the Creator leads to rejection of life.” Davis challenged those in attendance to get involved, and that “everyone of us has a God-given sphere of influence.” He encouraged all to contact politicians and ask not what they stand for, but “What have they actually done? Look to see if your candidate shows us signs of commitment in their day-to-day life. I want someone with passion!” If you would like to help support WGRTL and their mission to “Faithfully serve Carroll, Douglas, Heard, and Haralson counties for those who have no voice: the preborn and the aged”: Duanehack46@gmail.com 470-370-2452. If you would like to contact Ricardo Davis: ricardodavis@grtl.org or 678-528-9661 Photo and information by Sue Horn

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“Not just what happened, but what matters”

SUSAN M. HORN

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How much do we need in our county reserves? How much extra tax should we pay?

Let’s get right down to it. With the county’s Fund Balance (cash reserve) at $49,904,000 ($49.9M / as of Dec. 31, 2021) and whose current annual budget is $59,109,066 ($59.1M), does Carroll County government have too much cash in the bank? Or more on point: EDITOR/ have citizens been taxed more than PUBLISHER necessary to maintain our government? How much reserve do we need? The current annual commission budget of $59,109,066 divided by 12 months reveals that it costs the county $4,925,755 to operate for one month. So, the $49,904,000 in fund balance divided by 12 months represents 10 months of fully operational cash. 10 months? That’s almost a full year of cash in reserve. Let’s be fair. The Fund Balance is not static. It fluctuates. During the course of a year, the balance may go higher or lower, depending on the speed with which property taxes and other revenues are paid. But, let’s look at actuals for an almost two year period: Feb. 2020 until Dec. 2021 (one month short of the two year period.): The Fund Balance on October 31, 2021 was $32,372,269 ($32.3M). On August 31, 2021 it was $29,450,963 ($29.4M). One year ago, last February 28, 2021 is was $34,489,172 ($34.4M). And the February before that on February 28, 2020 - pre-pandemic, I will note - was $25,991,818 ($25.5M). $25.5M Feb 2020 $34.4M Feb 2021 $29.4M Aug. 2021 $32.3M Oct. 2021 $49.9M Dec. 2021 This shows a steady upward climb. Let’s be more fair. Now, December would be strong as the majority of property taxes will have been paid. So, let’s remove December’s $49.9M from the total. The remaining months show an average of $30 million extra dollars in cash reserve year round. How much do we need? For a $59M budget that spends $4.9 per month to operate, $30M represents 6 months of reserve. How much is enough? How much is too much? On Page 440 of the handbook for Georgia’s county commissioners, it state: “Many counties across the United States maintain fund balances equal to the equivalent of one to three months of operations. . . Only in extreme cases (i.e., in which cash-flow problems require larger fund balances) do county fund balances exceed three months of operations. Again, there is no “right answer” as to how much a county’s fund balance should be.” Also from the handbook: “Fund balance can refer to “reserves” or “rainy day” funds, but accountants define fund balance as the difference between the assets and the liabilities on the balance sheet or the difference between revenues and expenditures since the fund (e.g., the general fund) was created. Accounting rules allow counties to reserve portions of fund balance.” So, three months is the guideline? We have six months. And that’s postCovid pandemic. What emergency are we saving for? A worldwide pandemic didn’t put a dent into our reserves. Here’s a thought: The budget can be increased on any given month through a budget amendment which, if approved by the board, would move cash from the Fund Balance and into the budget, thereby later showing an increased need for the following year’s budget creation. And with enough extra of the extra funds, this cycle can repeat itself each fiscal year: spend ahead, move cash over, write a larger budget for the following year. So, citizens, expect to write a larger property tax check, year after year.

SUE

HORN EVANS

2022 Legislative Session: a 40 day term to improve our lives The 2022 Legislative Session officially convened and the General Assembly kicked off our annual 40Day term to pass legislation that improves the lives and livelihoods of all in our state. While the first weeks of a session can occasionally be occupied by ceremonial motions, I am pleased to say the groundwork appears to already be laid for a productive and fruitful term. As Senate Majority Leader, I am also working with our caucus on a number of proposals which seek to cement Georgia’s reputation as the best state in the country to live, work and raise a family. As the seat of Georgia’s state government, our state Capitol building simultaneously serves as a meeting place for the General Assembly, as well as a museum where visitors can learn more about Georgia’s history. All across the Capitol’s grounds, you can find statues, monuments and portraits recognizing Georgians and others who helped to shape the his-

MIKE

DUGAN STATE SENATOR(R) Senate Majority Leader mikedugan@senate.ga.gov tory of our state. You can find the likenesses of President Jimmy Carter, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and nearly every individual who formally served as Georgia’s governor. Sen. Jason Anavitarte (R – Dallas), has introduced a measure to add another important statue of a Georgia native to the Capitol grounds for future generations of Georgians to learn about. Senate Bill 326 would call for a statue of United States Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to be placed on the grounds near the state Capitol. Justice Thomas has served with distinction on our nation’s high-

est court and broke barriers and overcame adversity to have that privilege. Establishing a statue in his honor is more than fitting and I look forward to supporting Sen. Anavitarte in this effort. Governor Brian Kemp delivered his fourth annual State of the State Address in which he outlined his policy and budget priorities for the 2022 session. The Governor’s speech highlighted the fact that while Georgia was not spared from the economic impact of COVID-19, we have bounced back better and stronger than anticipated. This is clear when assessing a number of metrics, including Georgia’s historically low unemployment rate of 2.8%. Over the last few years, the Senate has worked on measures to enhance healthcare throughout our state and particularly improve health outcomes related to infant and maternal mortality. I’ve worked closely with the Governor to curb Georgia’s infant and See SENATOR DUGAN page 21

Healthy cash balance versus a looming urbanization proAs always, I try to uphold government transparency, accountability, and responsiveness. Consequently, as your District 5 County Commissioner, I value the opportunity to write theses articles, utilizing this column to inform my constituents who elected me to represent their interests and keep them aware of primary Carroll County Government topics. You pay tax dollars to the county, so I thought you’d like to know about your county’s most recent audited cash balance. You also need to be informed about a proposed project where the county could sink a lot of dollars from taxpayers throughout the county, but not benefit county-wide constituents. In fact, knowing the constituents in my district, they would likely get just what they don’t want! First, about the county’s healthy cash balance:

ERNIE

REYNOLDS DISTRICT 5 Carroll County COMMISSIONER

ereynolds@carrollcountyga.com 770-851-6215 - We received the county’s most recently completed Annual Financial Report from the auditing firm at our January 27th meeting. This report is for the county’s fiscal year (FY) ended June 30th, 2021. Your county’s General Fund cash balance is healthy and has grown steadily from prior years. - This audited Financial Report shows that the county’s “unassigned fund balance” has grown more than

$9.5 million over the past year increasing from a balance of $16.8 million at the end of FY 2020 to over $26.3 million at the end of FY 2021 (June 30th, 2021). Our auditing firm indicated that the (June 30, 2021) audited $26.3 million reserve balance equates to over 5 months of county operating expenses - This audited Financial Report also shows that the county’s General Fund revenue primarily came from Property Taxes, which accounted for nearly $30 million of revenue, or 44% of the county’s total annual revenue. Local Option Sales Taxes accounted for 20% of revenue, totaling about $13.7 million. So, it is good to know that our budgets and expenditures have resulted in the county’s ongoing financial health and solid financial See ERNIE REYNOLDS page 21

Illegal immigration under Gold Dome: pending legislation explained

“The Border Is Open - Except to sixteen year-old American kid killed Unvaccinated Truckers” - “Taxpayers by an illegal alien. We need some Paying to Fly Criminal Migrants Into assistance. The easiest way to help is the Interior” - “California Proposes to simply pay attention and make a Taxpayer-Funded Health Care for All few phone calls to the legislators sent Illegal Aliens”- and “UN Handing to the state Capitol from your Cash Cards to Migrants in Southern community. PRESIDENT Mexico” are just a few of the recent I’ll happily supply the facts with The Dustin headlines on stories about the border the hope that readers will at least let Inman Society invasion taking place under President their own state lawmakers and 404-316-6712 Joe Biden. Governor Brian Kemp knows they Many media outlets in Georgia 2615 George Busbee Parkway are watching - candidates, too. Suite 11 - Box 333 don’t let most of these stories out Let me make it a little clearer: Kennesaw, GA 30144-1981 because illegal immigration is not Republicans control the state governsupposed to be “an issue.” If it is, the than Arizona and we host more ille- ment. Some GOP state legislators context is usually focused on the gals than green card holders. would rather have a root canal in a national scene. The averchair covered in shards of age Georgian has little Politicians know that most people don’t fully broken glass than have to exposure to the reality of understand how their government works or answer any constituent questhe organized crime that is what really goes on at the Capitol in Atlanta. tions on the real cost of black illegal immigration and And many of them depend on that ignorance. market labor in dollars and illegal employment that misery - and the rule of law. I goes on right here in the Peach State. This writer has been fighting for cannot stress it enough: Politicians We aim to change that as much as immigration enforcement in Georgia know that most people don’t fully possible. Please keep in mind that since 2003. In 2005, we set up understand how their government according to the federal government donation-driven IRS non-profit, the works or what really goes on at the Georgia is home to more illegal aliens Dustin Inman Society, named after a See D.A. KING page 20

D.A. KING

Page 18 February 13, 2022

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Fire rescue is on the way

CLINT

CHANCE District 3 Carroll County Commissioner

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

In 2021, Carroll County voters passed the continuation of SPLOST clearing the way for a long anticipated replacement station for the County’s heaviest call volume facility, the North-End Villa Rica Fire Rescue #9. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane. At its current site originally built in 1981 and located on Industrial Boulevard in the City of Villa Rica, the Carroll County Fire Rescue property is surrounded by swamp-like wetlands and the lot is not suitable for a much needed expansion. After the Georgia State Patrol Post relocated to its new home on Highway 61 in 2017, the former site just down the road from the current Fire Rescue Station #9 had been

abandoned because of the structures state of disrepair. The aging GSP facility was determined not to be economically feasible for renovation. I was proud to have helped in facilitating a final farewell before the structures dismantling. The overwhelming crowd of supporters, current and former law enforcement and adjoining jurisdiction officials who attended that day not only commemorated the former facility’s legacy but showed support to the men and women who have served our community for decades. For many of us, we remember testing and receiving our driver’s license from GSP Post #4 which was recognized as the busiest operational station, working more vehicle crashes than any other Patrol Post in the State of Georgia. The original GSP Facility that was built in 1965 was demolished in October of 2020 leaving the iconic lot vacated on Highway 78 ready for a new chapter of public service to the Villa Rica Community. How befitting that the once busiest GSP Station property in the State of Georgia will now become the replacement home to the busiest Fire Rescue Station in all of Carroll County. After several months of administrative and financial preparations inclusive of a due-dili-

gence phase which are typical after the passing of a new funding referendum by voters, the process now presses forward. In recent time, the chairman authorized the formation of a selection committee to interview potential Architectural Firms and bring forth a recommendation to the board of commissioners which is expected at the March meeting. After the selection of a highly qualified architect, a committee comprised of fire administration, firefighters, public works and myself as the district commissioner will work closely with the firm to create a design that is functional and aesthetically pleasing for both fire operations and shared community spaces that are still to be finalized. After a satisfactory set of schematics are completed, the project will then be bid out for construction. I welcome Chief Chuck Barnwell on as the new head of administration for Carroll County Fire Rescue and look forward to working with he and his team of professionals to ensure we build a replacement facility that is best suited to serve the citizens of District 2 in a dynamic, ever growing community. This is a very exciting time for us all. Carroll County as a whole has always held first responders in the highest regards and places an

Criminal gang activity in the state of Georgia

JASON

SWINDLE SWINDLE LAW GROUP, P.C. Over the years, criminal street gangs have spread out from Atlanta to west Georgia and the rest of the state. As a result, lawmakers have strengthened and broadened the law. Although very unwise, it is not illegal to belong to a gang. However, it is illegal to engage in criminal street gang activity. But, a person does not have to directly commit a crime or even be a “member” of the criminal street gang to be convicted. “Criminal street gang activity” covers a broad number of actions that can lead to trouble. A person can be convicted if he engages in the commission, attempted commission, conspiracy to commit,

or solicitation, coercion, or intimidation of another person to commit a serious crime. “Criminal street gang” means any organization, association, or group of three or more persons associated in fact, whether formal or informal, which engages in criminal gang activity. The existence of such organization, association, or group of individuals associated in fact may be established by evidence of a common name or common identifying signs, symbols, tattoos, graffiti, or attire or other distinguishing characteristics, including, but not limited to, common activities, customs, or behaviors. O.C.G.A. §16-15-4 sets out the offenses that are related to criminal gang activity. Because the law is so lengthy, I have listed the five most common acts that trigger a prosecution below. It is unlawful for: 1. A person employed or associated with a criminal street gang to conduct or participate in criminal gang activity through the commission of a crime. 2. Any person to commit an offense with

the intent to obtain or earn membership or maintain or increase his or her status or position in a criminal street gang. 3. Any person who occupies a position of organizer, a supervisory position, or any other position of management or leadership with regard to a criminal street gang to engage in, directly or directly, or conspire to engage in criminal gang activity. 4. Any person to cause, encourage, solicit, recruit, or coerce another to become a member or associate of a criminal street gang, to participate in a criminal street gang, or to conduct or participate in criminal gang activity. 5. Any person to communicate, directly or indirectly, with another any threat of injury or damage to the person or property of the other person or of any associate or relative of the other person with the intent to punish or retaliate against such person for providing statements or testimony against criminal street gangs or any criminal street gang member or associate. The penalties for participating in criminal

immeasurable value on the men and women who provide lifesaving services in our time of need. While a new facility is something we will all be proud to see as a visual asset, the real focus remains in providing this updated facility for our firefighters who deserve efficiency in providing the best services possible. A special thank you to the citizens of Carroll County who voted to continue SPLOST for valuable projects such as the fore-mentioned, to the chairman and board of commissioners for supporting this project in District 2, former firefighters and previous administrations who worked hard to build upon a foundation for generations yet to come and a special thank you to our county staff at all levels who work to make our local government thrive in service to our constituency. Lastly, I extend a special thank you to the citizens of District 2 who have entrusted me in using my discernment, reason and passion to serve you through my decisions within your local government. Be on the lookout for official press releases and informational updates through official channels from the Carroll County Communications Department unveiling detailed specifics on this exciting project as it forges ahead with, “Fire Rescue on its way…!”

street gang activity are staggering. The sentence for a conviction of the above is a felony conviction with consequences of a prison sentence for at least five years but no more than twenty years or pay a fine between $10,000.00 and $15,000.00, or both. The war on gangs is very much worthwhile. My wife, my boys, and I live in this community. We are grateful for the service that law enforcement provides in helping keep us safe and secure from violent gang members. But, there is a problem with the law. Sometimes, innocent men and women are arrested. This is because the law is so broad and loosely defines exactly who is a true gang member and who simply affiliates with gang members. The law just makes it too easy for prosecutors to charge people who hang around bad crowds, but do not commit crimes. The gang laws are likely to stay the same or get tougher. From a political angle, I don’t expect a member of the Senate or House taking on the cause of weakening or fixing the overly broad aspect of the law anytime soon.

Learning how to press the ‘mute’ button: do not allow the opinions of others to become your reality

HARRY L. PITTS, Jr.

PASTOR Millennials Christian Ministry (MCM) hpitts@mcmempowered.org You must learn how to press the mute button when the words you hear attempt to control your choices and decisions with the sole agenda of shipwrecking your destiny. If you can control a man’s thinking, you do not have to worry about his action. When you determine what a man thinks, you do not have to concern yourself about what he will do. The danger of listening to failed words is that they don’t have the ability to make your life better. Listening to failed words can only make your life difficult and prevent you from following your destiny. Failed words are

manipulative and at times these words will appear not to be aggressive in the beginning. Failure has an agenda, and it is to utilize toxic filled words to infect your thinking with doubt and fear to shipwreck your life. Solomon who is considered one of the wisest men to ever lived stated in the Good News Translation Proverbs 11:9 (GNTA) You can be ruined by the talk of godless people. Proverbs 12:18 ESV “There is one whose rash words are like a sword thrusts thru, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Do not allow the opinions of others to become your reality. Allow me to interject this thought for your intelligent mind regarding my definition of what failed words are. I would define failed words as words that totally go against what God and your family have stated regarding the dynamic plans of greatness for your life. Jeremiah 29:11 confirms what you have been told all your life and what the person on the inside of you already knows, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future.” If failed words can influence you to believe what is being stated, then you will start to listen to these words continually; and before you know it you will look around as if you have been inebriated and wonder how you ended up at 1234 ‘Failed Avenue’. Whatever you listen to and believe will ultimately dominate and control the direction of your life. So, it is easy for a person who may be trying to pressure you into doing those things that are not pleasing to God by using failed words to control your life. These individuals will attempt to use historical data that clearly shows that they have snared many using manipulation which is definitely kin to fail words. “When you determine what a man thinks, you do not have to concern yourself about what he will do” (Frederick Douglass). Not one person can afford to spend valuable time listening to words that will drain him of their purpose. A person’s main currency is called time. When you invest your time in the wrong set of words, please understand that the return is

more destructive than constructive. Please, I beg of you to listen to me closely. Time is what I consider the currency of life. Currency is what we all use to purchase goods and services. Many of you have heard of the expression, “we spend time”. Please be aware that you spend time when you listen to failed words. There is nothing on this planet where the currency of time is not utilized to make purchases. The danger is that we spend our time listening to something or someone who simply cannot add to our lives at all. When you examine your life in close proximity, you must realize that who and what you are is the sum total of the time that you spent in your life. Failed words always seeks to rob you of your time which is a precious commodity. Failed words will seek to sabotage your life plans by wasting your time. Failed words are like a parasite that will literally drain your life’s purpose and leave you standing alone in bankruptcy court…broke and broken. See HARRY L. PITTS, JR. page 20

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Turtle Island out on the Chattahoochee

SYBIL

ROSEN THOMAS River Rambles syllabil@aol.com A pregnant woman falls out of the sky. In her fist, she holds the seeds of a sacred tree from a place called Skyland. Below her is nothing but water. She cannot fly and she cannot swim... So begins the Iroquois creation story, where the sea animals - winged or aquatic - create land for the plummeting woman by bringing up mud from the ocean bottom and smearing it on Turtle’s broad back. Stepping onto his shell, the woman’s hand opens, releasing new life onto Turtle Island, the name her descendants will give to the Earth. Did indigenous people somehow intuit that the land - broken into ragged pieces geologists would one day call tectonic plates - is an earthen mass floating on a molten mantle of liquid lava, much like turtles resting on the surface of gently rocking water? Despite turtles’ fabled lack of speed, they swiftly found their way into early human cosmology. The appearance of looking very old

(even when very young), coupled with an earned reputation for longevity, fed the collective imagination. In ancient India, the turtle not only held up the world, his shell also supported four elephants on whose backs the world rested (nice work if you can get it). Chinese Taoist mythology cast the turtle as the known universe - the shell being Heaven and the flat underside, Earth - with the turtle bearing the secrets of both. Ancient Egyptians wore turtle amulets to ward off evil, to defend life and health. In our age, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have invaded modern myth. Turtles infiltrate the history of language too: The word terrapin derives from the indigenous Algonquin terrapene, and cooter - as in the River Cooters sunning on the snags along the Chattahoochee - is a Southern-fried adaptation of the African word kuta, brought here by enslaved people. All to say, turtles have been everywhere for a long time. And while no one can pinpoint when they emerged in their present form, they are apparently older than the lizards, snakes, and crocodiles that occupy other Reptilian niches. They bear a unique, bony, cartilaginous upper shell, or carapace, which develops out of their ribs and acts as a shield. The bottom shell, the plastron, is double-hinged to draw upward, so a turtle when threatened can bundle up its soft parts inside the box-like shell. Sleek paddled

forelimbs, designed for swimming, have webbed feet like wide spatulas, and curved claws to assist crawling on land. The long mobile neck ends in a flat head, strong birdlike beak and toothless jaws. Tissue at the back of the mouth helps pull oxygen from water so they can remain submerged for as long as 40 minutes. And turtle eyes, composed of more rods and cones than ours, have keen night vision that encompasses a light spectrum invisible to us. (Who knew turtles were having so much fun?) Here, by the Hooch, I encounter three species: River Cooters, Map Turtles, and Box. Though a few may venture out on a warmish sunny day, most turtles are hibernating just now. Wedging under fallen snags at the river’s edge, their heart rates lower, casting them into dormancy for several cold months. They’ll emerge about the time Spring Peepers begin their seasonal serenade. River Cooters are big freshwater turtles with oval shells like dinner platters trimmed in yellow, bright Y-shaped red lines on their heads. They love lounging along a log in sunshine. Many mornings I’ve watched them board a snag slowly, one by one - the first to arrive nudged up the log by the next johnny-comelately, and the next, and the next. They line up, shells touching, sometimes as many as twenty on a narrow fallen trunk, all facing the same

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February 13, 2022 Page 19

direction as if by tribal agreement. Also, aquatic Map Turtles have intricate swirls of blue on their shells and skin like contour lines on a topo map. I’ve only met them on land: Large pregnant females, always wary, never hiding, looking for a place to lay eggs. One stayed motionless for several hours by the house, allowing me to admire her satiny greenbrown shell and artful navy-blue whorls. Then she was gone. I imagined her trundling down to sandy river-shores to dig a hole, leaving the eggs there to fend for themselves. Since it can take three months for her eggs to hatch, I can’t help worry about the hatchlings’ survival - yet here she is, a survivor herself. And lastly, the Box Turtle, that familiar child-sized favorite. My dad would stop for them on the road when we were kids. Back home, we’d offer them heads of lettuce, charmed by their neon hieroglyphic markings and the ability to “box” themselves up. Drawn to creatures that carry their home on their backs, the fascination has lasted a lifetime. On a clear wet February morning, walking down to the river with the chiming of peepers in the air, I come upon a line of newly-awakened River Cooters, smooth shells glinting, every head turned to the sun. And in that moment I can easily believe the secrets of Heaven and Earth belong to the turtle.

“Personhood” has fast become the battle cry of the pro-life movement

DUANE

HACK

West Georgia Right to Life PRESIDENT Duanehack46@gmail.com 470-370-2452

Greetings West Georgia-East Alabama ProLifers! We appreciate your taking a few moments from your busy schedules to read the informational articles found in the StarNews. And West Georgia Right to Life is both honored and humbled to be part of your monthly read in the Star! So, getting back to the question I closed on in our last OP-ED? Who was the UGA star

running back who was given a chance for life, despite suggestions and recommendations from the medical doctor overseeing the pregnancy to abort? It was at six months that the doctor told his grandmother and mother that her baby boy weighed one poundand abortion should strongly be considered. It was a praying and God-fearing grandmother and mother who made the decision to give life to their baby boy, with both understanding he may only live a few weeks after birth. “The doctor is not God, so he doesn’t have the last say. If he takes one breathe, he’s going to take it” said his grandmother. Zamir White, a 5-Star recruit and No. 1 ranked running back on UGA’s 2021 National Champion football team, survived this near death experience, struggled with health issues for several weeks and years afterwards, but today has become an inspiration and poster-

The un-learning of walking

BILL

BOURIS digi@mindspring.com There was a time when I would take a step, fall, get up and steady myself, and then finish taking that step. I don’t remember that time, but I feel that I’m beginning to be able to reconstruct the experience. And, who knows? I might just be able to actually recall learning to walk. Recent circumstances have put me into this frame of mind. I’ve begun to worry about falling, and then not being able to get up. Or worse. It turns out, all my friends of my generation, and even many Boomers, have been worrying too. I have not heard of any pill or potion or even a notion to get rid of that threat, and so I do the best I can, worrying about the thing. We hear that certain medications, taken regularly, can make us feel dizzy, unsteady, or

unfocused. And, that may be the cause of our falling down. I know about those feelings. But consider this: when you were younger, you could get very drunk, to the point of passing out, and, under those conditions, you staggered and bellowed, but, falling down and injuring yourself was rarely remarked. My point is that falling is caused by more than the medicine or the alcohol. I think it has to do with the losses we associate with aging, especially the loss of rapid response, what is generally called a short reaction-time. If you are a quick draw, then you have a short reaction-time. If you stumble and do not “catch” yourself in time, you fall. That “catching yourself” is an example of an adequately short reaction-time. As we age, the wisdom is to “slow down”. In other words, the advice to slow down is a strategy to get your aging body to match the change in your aging reaction-time. More humorously: the longer it takes you to act on that advice, the sooner you will have a fall! Walking is often described as “a continuous falling forward”. This description really fits well for the toddler years, ages 1-3, when we are learning to walk. After that, our community

child for those children that face health challenges, yet still have the opportunity to succeed despite facing what seem to be insurmountable odds! And today, despite still having a cleft lip and doctor’s suggesting he should have additional surgery to repair it, Zamir’s comment was, “I’m fine the way I am, I know I’m perfect in God’s eyes, and that’s all that matters to me!” What a story, what a God we serve! This leads me into another life discussion concerning so many other pre-born babies found in their mother’s womb all across the world, waiting for their opportunity to be given life as a person. In today’s Pro-Life circles, this is called personhood. Personhood has fast become the battle cry of the pro-life movement over the last decade. What is “Personhood?” “Each individual human life has an “unalienable” right to life, from its earliest biological

has a lot to say about our walking. There are considerations for safety and civility that will modify our walking skills. Once we leave toddlerhood, and walking, we are entering society. Learning to walk has become a metaphor that is used in many areas of life. A “Fall” is often the premise of a hero’s tragedy or a description of an individual’s failure. Even in business, there is the concept of falling forward (as in walking). Here’s what the internet yielded: “What does falling forward mean in business? The concept of falling forward is not a new one - it’s simply a way to describe leaning into our failures or challenges and using them as a learning tool to continue growing.” I would say that sounds like toddlerhood (again, and again,...,and again)! Who ever thought those early years are so important in our lives! It seems that any major growth, physical, intellectual, spiritual, you name it, has its roots in that particular period, ages 1-3. Instruction manuals and all sorts of teaching materials: “STEP 1, STEP 2,...” Even the sophisticated proofs of theorems in High School Geometry are presented as if we must toddle to a conclu-

beginning to natural death.” This right would be guaranteed as is penned through the writings found in the 14th Amendment of our Constitution under the “just due clause” and also stated in our Declaration of Independence: Article 14: “No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty or property, without due process of the law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” See DUANE HACK page 22

sion. There is something about life’s recycling of toddlerhood that makes me think of the following: George Santayana once wrote, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Let’s say Santayana’s aphorism is not only true for societies, but true for an individual’s life. Then that would mean that whatever difficulties we encountered when learning first to walk, we probably encounter similar difficulties later, during each of our “falling forward” growth cycles! Walking is Falling: Falling forward makes walking effortless and the body’s energy rises. The act of falling and catching is self fulfilling; momentum takes over and the muscle. What is the meaning of falling forward? If someone or something falls, they move quickly downwards onto or towards the ground, by accident or because of a natural force. “Falling forward” in life enables you to dream big and make mistakes, but learn from those mistakes and definitely avoid falling back. Nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. What does falling forward mean in business? It’s simply a way to describe leaning into our failures or challenges and using them as a learning tool to continue growing.

Page 20 February 13, 2022

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COMMENTARY

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Ham Sok-Hon: “Do you have such a friend?”

Even if the whole world forsakes you for good, You are confident that “He/She would never leave me,” Do you have such a friend?

When you are about to bid a farewell to this world for good, You would be content and smile as you quietly whisper, “All is not lost because he/she is still here.” Do you have such a friend? When the capsized boat is about to sink to the bottom, When the whole world piles up mindless praise on you, He/she would push the only remaining life jacket to you and You wouldn’t dare get carried away. says, Because he/she shakes head warning you against the danger. AUTHOR “Take this and don’t worry about me.” Do you have such a friend? and nonagenerian Do you have such a friend? * Ham Sok-Hon (1901-1989), sometime spelled as Hahm “The Wood Bracelet” Seok-heon, was a Korean Quaker, twice nominated for the vunc61@gmail.com At the ground where innocent victims are about to be Nobel Peace Prize by American Friends. His commitment to Do You Have Such a Friend? by Ham Sok-Hon * executed, non-violence earned him the name, “the Ghandhi of Korea.” As you are about to set out for 10,000 mile journey, He/she would plead to the executioner, He often said that “I am a man who had been ‘kicked’ by God, You want to entrust your family in his/her care. Do you have “Spare him/her life in the name of justice!” just as a boy kicks a ball in the direction he wants it to go. I such a friend? Do you have such a friend? have been driven and led by Him.”

DAN

C. PAK

FASTER/SECURE from front page machines in 2002. As one of his first acts as Secretary of State, (having been elected in 2018 and assuming office January 2019) Raffensperger returned Georgia to an auditable, paper-ballot election system. In August 2020, before the passage of Georgia’s new election law, Raffensperger introduced voter ID to absentee ballots voting by creating an online absentee ballot request portal that verified voter identities by using driver’s license numbers. The new system, called the Georgia Registered Voter Information System (GRVIS), will sit on Salesforce servers using cloud technology services authorized by the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP). FedRAMP was introduced in 2011 and ensures standards of security for the

CEMETERY DISPUTE from page 6 legal counsel pertaining to pending or potention litigation, settlement, claims, administrative proceedings, or other judicial actions brought or to be brought by or against the agency or any officer or employee or in which the agency or any officer or employee may be directly involved and the matter discussed. When executive session concluded and the regular meeting resumed, city attorney David Mecklin read the “terms of proposal” for council to approve or not, or perhaps table for another meeting. Mecklin cited law stating that the Sullivan wall was considered to be “improper” and

use of cloud services across the federal government. Salesforce has worked with the U.S. Department of Defense. The security used for the cloud for Georgia’s new voter registration system will be at the same level as Salesforce’s government clients. MTX Group is the implementation partner for the new system and is developing the user interface that Georgia’s elections officials will use as part of the new system. MTX’s work sits on top of the Salesforce system. State, county, and local government users will be able to work in the system. County and local elections officials around the state will be trained on it in the coming weeks and months. County and local elections offices will still be able to use the old system while implementing and learning to use the new one. pepperball guns, non-lethal weapons. 2. Approve a request from Brian Kent, County Engineer, to update Chapter 38, Article 3 of the Timber and Pulpwood Harvesting Ordinance, to allow timber harvesters to go online to notify the County electronically on Georgia Forestry website, prior to entering onto a property for the purpose of timber and pulpwood harvesting. Both items were approved unanimously. The Board went into Executive Session and the Regular Meeting was adjourned. “offensive”; the Mount headstone must be cleaned and reset at least 6” from the wall; the city will lift the stop work order; the Sullivan family has 30 days (until Feb 11th) to “retrofit” the wall that is “simply too high”; and if it is not done in 30 days that the city will handle it. It was added that the drainage needs to be repaired in “some way so they don’t drain onto other graves”; that the “footprint of the wall may remain as is but the back wall must be lowered”. A motion was made to approve and a vote taken: three of the four council members approved with Council member Leslie McPherson abstaining.

HARRY L. PITTS, JR from page 18 Oftentimes, people will accept other’s opinion instead of being impolite to something that is seeking to rob you of the precious seconds, minutes and hours of your life. Yes, it is always okay to be impolite to nagging nightmares that seek to destroy your vision. I have provided a list of things that it is okay to be impolite to: it is okay to be impolite to negative words, defeated thinking, doubt, dream killers, leaches of purpose, negative attitude, undercover assassins of imagination, jealousy, and internal fears just to name a few. When your words sound differently than what is opposing you, those set of words realize that it’s time to pack their luggage and move because their residency is over. Being impolite to those things speaks volumes. It speaks loudly that you have regained your personal

power, that these negative words have no more power, and that their hold must be relinquished. Freedom has manifested and now your actions are a reality of change in real time. Change of direction, change of mind, and change of dead relationships are an indicator that you are now on the correct path. Change is not comfortable but necessary to pursue destiny and forsake those things that will attempt to defeat purpose in your life. No more looking back and entertaining failure as a welcome guest. It is time to tell all these unwanted things to leave and to never return. Youth, listen to your heart and follow your God-given passions. It is your responsibility to build a future that will provide hope, peace, love, and a place that will exemplify God’s majestic reign to a world that needs your leadership.

ZONING from page 6 and regulate Horizontal Apartments and similar developments as a permitted use in the Multifamily Residential zoning district. The amendment was approved by the Board unanimously. Items presented under the consent agenda from the work session were as follows: 1. Approve a Law Enforcement Training (LET) grant for $14,945 to purchase equipment and supplies to be used by the Sheriff’s Office, specifically optics for weapons and 2

Letter to Editor

Dear Editor, Well, it didn’t take long after the U.S. Supreme Court decision for the local hospital network to reinstate its shot mandate for its employees. On the one hand, the court decided against the OSHA private business mandate, but on the other hand the court decided that healthcare workers are not capable of, nor do they have the right to make their own healthcare decisions. These same employees were called heroes in 2020. I have just a few questions for our local medical industry: Do you believe that mandating the covid “vaccine” is the proper and right thing to do, and that a U.S. President has the constitutional authority to tell the medical community and healthcare workers that they must inject a prophylactic or risk losing their livelihood? Or are you following through with the mandate only because you feel you have to? If it is only because you are under duress to do so, would you please demonstrate for our community in a tangible way, what you have legally done to push back against having to implement this requirement coming down from Washington? While it can take years or decades to build a good reputation; it can all be lost in a moment. Leslie McPherson Villa Rica, GA 770-668-4942

HB 999 from page 21 determine immigration status of K-12 students, parents, guardians or custodians. A Supreme Court decision (Plyler v Doe) in 1982 says schools must educate and cannot even ask about the immigration status of students or parents. Unless there turns out to be a way to keep illegal aliens out of this train wreck legislation we will watch as Georgia Republicans create a system in which state funds are paid directly to illegal alien students in a program giving disbursement and oversight authority to illegal alien parents. The

StarNews

Dustin Inman Society opposes HB 999. If state officials were looking for ways to make Georgia less attractive as a destination for illegal immigration, this isn’t it. We hope readers will make their voices heard on all of this. D.A. King is p roprietor of ImmigrationPoliticsGA.com and president of the Dustin Inman Society (NewDustinInmanSociety.org). He has worked with state lawmakers under the Gold Dome on legislation since 2005. He is not a member of any political party. @DAKDIS on Twitter

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P.O. BOX 680 Carrollton, Ga 30112 A scant 0.039% of Carroll County voters Name participated in SPLOST Referendum by Sue Horn The March 16, 2021 Carroll County SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) passed by an 81% margin with only 3,368 citizens participating. Of those,

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by Sue Horn At the 3:00 p.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021 Special Called Meeting of the Carroll County Board of Commissioners, an amendment was passed 6-0 (one commissioner was

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Carrollton Kiwanis Club who recently hosted Carroll County’s fire chief Tim Padgett. See story page 6. Photo by Sue Horn

absent) to increase the budget by $191,433 to match increased revenues. Three categories received the bulk of the cash: $53,000 has been assigned to increased “salaries”; See $191,433 page 11

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February 13, 2022 Page 21

ERNIE REYNOLDS from page 17 footing - even healthier than before. My aim is to keep it that way. Next - the Looming Urbanization Project: Consequently, as the county commissioner for District 5, I am concerned about a proposed project that would take money that my District 5 constituents and taxpayers throughout the entire county have paid - and sink it into an urbanization project to be built in Carroll County at the edge of Douglas County. My District 5 constituents need to know about it, because it is exactly what they do not want. It would potentially bring sprawling urbanization to Carroll County - just what they’ve told me they don’t want - while being built by tax dollars they have paid! So - my constituents foot the bill, only to get something they don’t want! This looming project is the Tax Allocation District (TAD) proposed by the City of Villa Rica. The City of Villa Rica proposes to have the Fuqua Development firm out of Atlanta build a large development on the Douglas County side of Villa Rica, featuring 208 apartments, 255 townhomes, retail shops, grocery store, etc. Fuqua Development’s website (fuquadevelopment.com) states that “Fuqua Development is a real estate development firm specializing in urban retail mixed-use supercenters.” These “supercenters” include: Decatur Crossings; Peachtree Corners Town Center; The Battery at SunTrust Park; The Exchange at Gwinnett; etc. A recent article about this TAD Project in the Times-Georgian newspaper (dated January 2223, 2022) [not affiliated with StarNews or D.A. KING from page 17 Capitol in Atlanta. And many of them depend on that ignorance. I want to thank Ms. Sue Horn here at Carroll County’s StarNews for the space in her newspaper. I promise to provide factual commentary and to always name names when needed. Written on January 30th, here is a short review of Republican legislation pending under the Gold Dome that we mentioned here last month and some facts about newer Republican legislation to follow and ask about. A review: HB 120 is aimed at awarding illegal aliens with Obama’s DACA status on a deferral on deportation proceedings instate tuition in Georgia’s university system. As I wrote here last month, DACA has been ruled unlawful. How much money would HB 120 save the illegals with this DACA reward? For academic

StarNews Online] stated that this Villa Rica ices and infrastructure costs that the TAD project would be a “financial boon to Carroll Project demands. So - your tax dollars will be County…” It went on to used to pay for costs There is a starkly different discuss all of the “new necessitated by a project sales tax revenues” that perspective, however, that you outside of your district. this proposed project should be made aware of, which These COSTS are likely would generate, indicating was not presented in the Times- to be far greater than the that, “By Christmas 2024, $2 million in sales tax Georgian article. There are those government entities revenue discussed in the will divide more than $2 substantial concerns regarding Times-Georgian article. this Villa Rica proposed TAD million in sales tax reveFor example: nue, the vast majority of - Who is going to pay project, as it could result in which will benefit Carroll potentially significant COSTS to for increased Fire County’s government and Services necessitated by the county - that could far all the school systems…” the TAD Project’s conThere is a starkly differ- outweigh the $2 million dollars of struction and increased revenue focused on by the ent perspective, however, population? The City of that you should be made Times-Georgian article. As listed Villa Rica does not have aware of, which was not below, you will soon see why its own Fire Services stapresented in the Timesthis TAD project may not be the tions, trucks, or staff. A Georgian article. There Fire Services pumper “financial boon” it has been are substantial concerns truck costs about regarding this Villa Rica made out to be for the county: $600,000. A ladder truck proposed TAD project, as costs over $1 million. it could result in potentially significant COSTS How much will a new Fire Station cost, located to the county - that could far outweigh the $2 nearby this large TAD Project development? million dollars of revenue focused on by the How much will it cost the county to properly Times-Georgian article. As listed below, you “man”/staff such new Fire Services equipment will soon see why this TAD project may not be and station? the “financial boon” it has been made out to be - Who is going to pay for increased Carroll for the county: County Sheriff patrols necessitated by the TAD - Such a TAD project can postpone increased Project’s construction and increased populaproperty taxes from going into county coffers tion? This could include: increased patrol cars, for 10 or 15 or 20 or more years. During this increased staff, increased satellite stations, etc. period of, for example, 20 years, the county - What about increased Road Department does not realize these revenues - but the county services and road construction costs, not just is forced into paying for many necessary serv- within the TAD Project, but adjacent to the pro-

ject, which will be impacted by the increased traffic and population of the TAD Project occupants? - Who is going to pay for increased animal control services necessitated by the project’s construction and increased population? - What about increased Carroll County water infrastructure and what about sewer for all these high-density dwellings in the TAD Project? - Here’s a big one: what about increased Carroll County school infrastructure, buildings, staff, transportation and vehicle costs, etc., necessitated by this TAD Project and its affiliated population? This is all under the jurisdiction of the Carroll County Board of Education, so you would need to get their input on such potential costs. As you can easily begin to see, the $2 million presented by that newspaper article starts to clearly be a mere pittance in the face of a looming potential sinkhole of costs for Carroll County government, caused by this Villa Rica TAD Project. And this does not even touch the potential of urban sprawl that will occur. The TAD Project proponents like to call it the “halo” effect. However, contrary to such angelic terminology, I prefer to call a spade a spade and forthrightly term the impacts of such a project to be blatant “urban sprawl” - just the opposite of what all the District 5 constituents I serve have told me they want. Sadly, their tax dollars will be used to pour into this development, while they suffer the consequences. So - I will stand and vote against this TAD Project, unless my constituents have a big change of heart and direct me otherwise!

year 2020-2021, the average tuition and fees for colleges in Georgia was $4,739 for instate and $17,008 for out-of-state according to experts at collegetuition.com. American citizens and legal immigrants who come to Georgia colleges from other states must pay the higher out of state tuition rate. The Dustin Inman Society opposes HB 120. Republican candidate for Lt. Governor and current President Pro Tem of the state senate, Sen. Butch Miller Miller, has come out in support of the concept of giving DACA recipients the lower in-state tuition. I don’t know of any other candidates for Lt. Governor that have taken a position on this matter. It will help if they are asked about this. HB 228 is a simple, belt and suspenders bill that addresses election integrity and the drivers licenses and ID Cards Georgia issues to for-

SENATOR DUGAN from page 17 maternal mortality rate. In three years time, we expanded coverage from sixty days to one year. This increased access and expansion aids mothers and newborn children and will play a critical role in reducing our infant and maternal mortality rate. In keeping with the theme of improving healthcare outcomes for all Georgians, I am proud to support Senate Bill 330, known as the “Giving the Gift of Life Act”, sponsored by Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell). This bill will ensure that a potential organ donor will not be denied life insurance coverage due to their donation and will allow businesses to claim a tax credit for assisting their employees through the donation process. This bill will be a huge win for organ donors, recipients, and the businesses that employee them. Sen. Albers knows better than most about the organ donation process, as he selflessly served as a kidney donor for his son last year. I am excited to see this measure advance through the legislative process to create a healthier Georgia for all. Finally, I want to mention another important issue, that of our high school athletic associa-

tions. Senate Bill 328, sponsored by Sen. Jeff Mullis (R-Chickamauga), would call for the creation of a nonprofit organization, designated by the state Board of Education, to govern our state’s high school athletics. Athletics play a major role in our students’ academic lives and this legislation, as well as several others that have been introduced, seeks to find a way to level the playing field and create a more equitable environment for our student athletes and the high schools where they play. In the next few weeks, the Senate Majority Caucus intents to outline our legislative agenda for the session. I think all will find our proposals to be timely and much needed in order to bolster state-wide public safety, provide greater assurance of online security, protect our students from potentially harmful instruction, and continue to grow Georgia’s workforce development programs. If there’s anything I can ever do for you, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. Dugan serves as the Senate Majority Leader. He represents the 30th Senate District, which includes portions of Carroll, Douglas, Paulding counties. 404-463-2478 mike.dugan@senate.ga.gov

rlet letter.” House Republicans recently elected Rep Bonnie Rich Majority Caucus Chair. The Dustin Inman Society supports passage of HB 228. More recent pending legislation: HB 932 would change state law so that refugees and Afghans who migrate to Georgia don’t have to tolerate the current one-year residency wait to access instate tuition rates in the taxpayer-funded university system. Americans and legal immigrants who move here are not affected by the legislation. Your American citizen cousin who moves here from Arizona or any other state and attends public-funded college would still be required to pay the out of state tuition rate for their first year. House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones (R) was a cosponsor of this bill until she scratched her name off after we listed sponsors on Twitter. The Dustin Inman Society opposes HB 932. HB 999 deals with K-12 education. It creates a state-funded “Promise Scholarship” of $6000 per year for any student who has been in a public K-12 school for at least six weeks and wants to attend a private school. The student must say they have a parent, guardian or custodian who lives in Georgia. Tax dollars would be paid into an account set up for the student and administered by the parent guardian or custodian. This legislation also creates a parental/guardian oversight committee made up parents that would have official state authority to monitor compliance with the legal details of disbursing the state funds sent to the student’s account. Rep. Wes Cantrell, the same Republican who dreamed up HB 932 above, introduced HB 999. It was rolled out in late January with several Democrats as cosponsors. It is being sold as a “school choice” bill. The mere sound of that term has created widespread knee-jerk support from GOP voters and several legislators. Erick Erickson is promoting passage the bill on WSB radio and his national show. What voters are not supposed to know is that HB 999 contains no system with which to See PROPOSED LEGISLATION page 23

eigners here as immigrants, guest workers, foreign students - and about twenty thousand illegal aliens with DACA protection (see page 17 for photo of sample Georgia ID Card). The credentials I mention are labeled “LIMITED TERM” and almost exactly the same as the ones commonly issued to U.S. citizens. HB 228 corrects the startling fact that there is nothing in state law that says these ID documents are excluded from acceptance as “proper identification” for voting purposes. I am not kidding. Senior Republicans have been told to keep this bill from passing. Last year the most strident Capitol opponent of Rep. Byrd’s legislation was Republican Rep. Bonnie Rich (Suwanee). As a sub-committee Chair in the House Special Committee on Election Integrity she refused to allow a hearing on the bill. Then-chairman of the full committee, Rep. Barry Fleming, was a hero to voter security advocates when he decided to preside over an abbreviated hearing for HB 228 himself. There was no vote. The heated objections to Byrd’s bill from Rich were that it was unnecessary because “non-citizens cannot register to vote” - so there is no need to add wording to state law making foreigner’s drivers license or ID Card ID ineligible as voter ID. We doubt it will change Rep Rich’s mind or attitude, but voters need to know that last year a woman who is not a U.S. citizen was fined for voting illegally in Georgia in 2012 and 2016 according to the liberal AJC last month. HB 120 also requires the warning “BEARER NOT U.S. CITIZEN - NOT VOTER ID” to be added to the front of the LIMITED TERM credentials. Also, as mail-in vote security, the Department of Driver Services would begin a system in which the first two characters of the drivers license/ID Card numbers be “NC” on the cards issued to non-citizens. We would catch up with Alabama on that one. Rep. Rich says adding that wording to the ID credentials given to foreigners in Georgia is unreasonable and would be a modern day “sca-

Page 22 February 13, 2022

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How can gig workers fill the benefits gap?

CHARLES

Are you a “gig” worker? If so, you’ve got a lot of company – by some estimates, more than a third of U.S. workers participate in the gig economy as freelancers, independent contractors or moonlighters. And while gig work offers some attractive features, such as flexibility in setting your hours and no real limits on your income potential, it also comes with challenges. Specifically, you may miss out on the array of benefits available to full-time employees of many organizations. How can you fill this benefits gap? Let’s look at some of the standard employer-offered benefits and ways you can acquire them on your own:

Retirement plan – When you work as an employee, you may have access to an employersponsored retirement plan. These types of plans allow you to save for retirement in a tax-advantaged way. As a gig worker, you may be able to get these same benefits through your own retirement plan. You can always contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA, but you can invest much more in other types of plans, such as a SEP IRA, a SIMPLE IRA and possibly even a “solo” 401(k). A financial professional can recommend the plan that’s suitable for your situation. Life and disability insurance – Many employers offer life insurance as an employee benefit, and while this coverage may not be sufficient, depending on one’s family situation, it’s at least something. But as a gig worker, you’ll need to get your own life insurance, which is essential if you have anyone depending on you for financial support. You may also want to look for disability insurance to replace part of your income should

you ever become temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury. It’s worth noting that some organizations for freelancers and selfemployed individuals offer access to life and disability insurance, so you might want to do some research online to check out these groups. Health insurance – As you know, health insurance is always a pretty big issue for just about everyone, regardless of their work status. Of course, many mid- to-large-size employers offer health insurance to their employees, but as a gig worker, you’ll need to find your own, unless you’re covered by your spouse’s plan. In looking for health insurance, you may want to contact a “navigator,” the position created by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to help individuals find coverage. You can find someone in your area by going to healthcare.gov and following the prompts. Depending on your income, you may be able to receive subsidies through the ACA.

Paid time off and unemployment insurance – Many full-time employees are given paid time off for sick leave and vacation. They may also receive unemployment insurance if they lose their job. Since most gig workers won’t have access to these benefits, it’s important to have an emergency fund available for unexpected (or even expected) income dips. Ideally, you’d want three to six months’ worth of living expenses in your emergency fund, but even a few hundred dollars can help create a lot more security to cover life’s unexpected events. Full-time employees receive something of great value in their benefits packages. As a gig worker, you’ll have to take the initiative to close this benefits gap – but the opportunities are there, so do what you can to find them. It will be worth the effort.

DUANE HACK from page 19 What is an unalienable right? “A right conferred by God, a right that cannot be abridged by government because it does not originate with a lesser authority.” Our founding fathers who drafted and penned the Constitution and Declaration of Independence nailed it some 244 years ago: a person’s right to life, no matter its size, location, environment or dependence (SLED), should NOT have its “right to life” taken away from him or her. Personhood is established in the light of God’s Divine Law, a moral and Biblical perspective, versus that of the natural law of man. This perspective is presented in the book of Genesis and is the basis of personhood’s philosophy and teachings of “Imago Dei”, which means “in the image of God”

Genesis 1:27: “So God created man in his own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female created He them.” The preborn child in the womb is and must be seen through the eyes of science, politics and common sense logic as a living “person”, not just a blob of tissue to be discarded at random for convenience or monetary gain of others. Brain waves at 8 days, heart beat at 4-6 weeks, all necessary body parts needed to survive and sustain live are in place at 12 weeks, all that is needed is time for growth and development of the child in the womb. Justice Harry Blackmun, writing his affirmative opinion after the infamous Roe versus Wade decision in 1973 legalizing abortion on demand stated: “(If the) suggestion of Personhood of the preborn is ever established,

the (abortion rights) case of course collapses, for the fetus’ Right to Life is then guaranteed specifically by the 14th amendment of the United States.” Fellow Pro-lifers, those of us that call ourselves born-again-Bible believing Christians (“to be Christ-like” they were first called Christians at Antioch), these are our marching orders, our “Call to Arms!” The teachings of personhood has and is now the road we must take to protect both the life of the preborn in the womb, as well as those that are most vulnerable in our society and living amongst us; our elderly citizens; people with disabilities and mental illness. It’s a Constitutional requirement and our moral responsibility as human beings: “All Lives Matter!”

John Calvin stated it clearly in his writing on Life: “If it seems more horrible to kill a man in his own home rather than in a field, because his home is his place of refuge and security, it ought to be more of an atrocity to destroy the life of the unborn, whose only refuge and security is found in the womb of its mother! Will you be a torch-bearer for those who have no voice, the preborn and the aged? We can do this by changing public opinion for life, one heart at a time! “If not you or I….then who? If now now….…then when?” Blessings and Selah…Make it a Great Day! WGRTL: Faithfully serving Carroll, Douglas, Heard and Haralson counties for those who have no voice…the preborn and the aged!

SHIVER FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Carroll County marriage licenses

JANUARY 1-31, 2022

Charles Shiver, financial advisor, Edward Jones, 102 Trojan Drive, Suite B Carrollton, GA 770-834-4311

Carroll County pistol permits

Number of Weapons Carry Permits applied for: JAN 1-31, 2022: 207

Carroll County jail population

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

Total population as of FEBRUARY 1, 2022: 409 Males: 359 Females: 50

Carroll County prison population Total population as of JANUARY 5, 2022: 240 Capacity: 246 Males: 100%

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

Carroll County cattle receipts Carroll County Sales Barn 225 Sales Barn Road, Carrollton January 31, 2022: 696 January 24, 2022: 477 January 17, 2022: 228 January 10, 2022: 616

Carroll County births January 1- 31, 2022: Tanner Medical Center, Carrollton: Girls: 49 Boys: 49 Tanner Medical Center, Villa Rica:� Girls: 23 Boys: 24

www.starnewsgaonline.com

StarNews

February 13, 2022 Page 23

Carroll County School System hires communications specialist, joining 24STRONG Team

Ben Chambers was most recently director of Public Relations and Information for West Georgia Technical College from press release administrators and the Carroll County families. Ben’s background in Carroll County School System is pleased to D i r e c t o r of working in education coupled with his strong announce that Ben Chambers will be joining Partnerships and community relationships will continue to the 24STRONG Team as a Communications Communication. advance our communications initiatives and Specialist. Chambers will be serving at the Scott Cowart, will support the district’s vision of being District level and will report to Charity Aaron, Superintendent of premier.” Director of Partnerships and Communication. Carroll County School Chambers is a seasoned communications “We are very excited that Ben is joining our System commented, professional with 20 years of experience in Communications Team. He brings a wealth of “Adding this position local public service. He most recently served as knowledge and experience in marketing, com- to our communicathe Director of Public Relations and munity engagement, and strategic planning,” tions team provides us Information for West Georgia Technical shared Aaron. with the opportunity to College. He is actively involved in a number of Ben Chambers Chambers’ duties will include managing strategically plan for organizations including the Carroll County multi-platform marketing campaigns, district growth in our schools and the communities we Chamber of Commerce and Partners promotions, events, and activities. Additionally, serve. We are passionate about being a leader Advancing Student Success. Chambers holds a he will serve as the liaison between school in innovation and creativity as we engage with bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts from

Shorter College, GEMA certification as a public information officer and FEMA training on incident command and emergency management for higher education. He is a Bowdon native, and he and his wife, Allison, have two daughters. “My family and I are proud of our roots in the community, and I am excited to join the Carroll County Schools team,” Chambers said. “Effective communication is essential in continuing to build premier schools. We are going to work hard to enhance the great work that is already being done while we identify and implement new strategies to better connect with parents, students, and community stakeholders.”

New master’s degree at UWG in “Digital and Social Media Communications” from press release In response to increasing demand for specific advanced skills both from employers and professionals in the communication field, the University of West Georgia announced the launch of a Master of Science in Digital and Social Media Communication. The program is now open for enrollment and will begin its courses in fall 2022. Approved by the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents and pending approval by SACSCOC, this new degree seeks to provide aspiring practitioners and current working professionals with the tools necessary to advance their career or pursue further graduate studies. It is the first graduate level

program to be offered in the recently established School of Communication, Film, and Media (SCFM), which aims to help prepare students to be adaptable in these everevolving industries. “We created this program to serve professionals who want to expand skills, refresh skills or add new skills that are complementary to their existing experience,” said Dr. Brad Yates, professor and dean of SCFM at UWG. “This is a program that will expand social and digital media communication knowledge for students to better understand and adapt to the alwayschanging, emerging media marketplace while adopting the entrepreneurial spirit necessary to

from press release In support of West Georgia Technical College’s (WGTC) newly established Apprentice Lineman Program, Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative (EMC) recently donated a fleet bucket truck to be used for the training of up-and-coming electrical linemen. WGTC’s four-week, non-credit course at its Murphy Campus provides students with the necessary skills for an entry-level position in the electric utility industry. The technical school designed the course based off input from neighboring electric utilities including Carroll and Coweta-Fayette EMCs as well as GreyStone, Diverse and Georgia Power who saw the need for a local lineman training program. Course instructor, Scott Teal, is a recent retiree of Carroll EMC and teaches those enrolled in the program elec-

trical safety, construction, pole climbing and beginning in the next cohort, bucket truck operation. Although pole climbing is a required skill to be able to perform, a bucket truck often allows for a safer and much easier way to work on powerlines. Students will learn the features of the truck and how to safely operate the bucket and its controls as well as how to use outriggers. They will also practice simulated bucket truck rescues. Prior to enrollment, students must earn their CDL license. Recipients of the scholarship receive funding for the cost of tuition, textbooks and other related fees for their chosen lineman school. Online applications are available at carrollemc.com/scholarships. For more information , Linda Sullivan linda.sullivan@westgatech.edu 678-664-0516

Carroll EMC donates bucket truck to WGTC for training electrical linemen students

Carroll County Department of Public Health

stand out in today’s crowded digital/social media environment.” The M.S. in Digital and Social Media Communication degree emphasizes the kinds of advanced critical thinking skills and theoretical foundations that will serve students beyond existing digital platforms or skill sets. It will include courses that cut across content creation, analytics, strategic communication and more. Requiring only 30 credit hours, the degree may be completed fully online. The program does offer elective courses in both online and face-to face formats to provide flexibility for working professionals or recent graduates. Yates and other faculty members solicited input from alumni and regional business leaders on what skills are most needed and what future career paths may be available to graduates of the program. This included UWG alumna Ashley Bush ‘11, director of communications and giving back for Southwire Company. “A master’s program in Digital and Social Media Communication will allow candidates the opportunity to better understand the theory,

strategy and laws around these activities,” Bush said. “It will also provide an avenue for these individuals to strengthen their storytelling skills, better connect with their audiences and, overall, become more effective messengers. It is my hope that some of these master’s degree candidates are, or will one day be, members of the Southwire team.” The M.S. in Digital and Social Media Communication is designed to equip students with specialized knowledge and in-demand skills that will create opportunities for advancement in exciting new careers, such as: Audio/Video Editing, Podcast and YouTube Creator Digital Asset Coordinator/Manager Digital Content Manager Digital Media Specialist Multimedia Journalist/Reporter Senior Manager, Podcast Growth Development Social Media Analyst TikTok Content Creator Enrollment for the inaugural fall 2022 semester is currently open for application.

PROPOSED LEGISLATION from page 21 determine immigration status of K-12 students, parents, guardians or custodians. A Supreme Court decision (Plyler v. Doe) in 1982 says schools must educate and cannot even ask about the immigration status of students or parents. Unless there turns out to be a way to keep illegal aliens out of this train wreck legislation we will watch as Georgia Republicans create a system in which state funds are paid directly to illegal alien students - in a program giving disbursement and oversight authority to illegal

alien parents. That makes the headlines on top seem a bit tame to this American. The Dustin Inman Society opposes HB 999. If state officials were looking for ways to make Georgia less attractive as a destination for illegal immigration, this isn’t it. We hope readers will make their voices heard on all of this. D.A. King is proprietor of Immigration PoliticsGA.com and president of the Dustin Inman Society (NewDustinInmanSociety.org). He has worked with state lawmakers under the Gold Dome on legislation since 2005. He is not a member of any political party.

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

restaurant health inspections scores 01/06/2022: Renegade Chef 615 Old Antioch Rd Carrollton 100 previous 100 tourist accomodation inspections scores

01/21/2022: Greedy Gut Hotdog Shack 1339 Bankhead Hwy Carrollton 100 previous NA 01/31/2022: Highland Deli 402 Adamson Sq Carrollton 99 previous 91 99 previous NA 01/11/2022: Papa John’s Pizza 596 Hwy 61 Villa Rica 01/04/2022: Carroll 168 Donuts 928 S Park St Carrollton 98 previous 96 01/12/2022: Papa John’s Pizza 1214 Maple St Carrollton 98 previous NA 01/18/2022: Kong Long 82 GA 61 Villa Rica 98 previous NA 01/04/2022: Gypsy Rabbit 9 W Johnson St Temple 96 previous 100 95 previous 100 01/04/2022: El Tio Mexican 118 Hwy 61 Connector Villa Rica 01/26/2022: Chick-Fil-A 1316 S Park St Carrollton 95 previous 95 01/23/2022: Ruby Tuesdays 1685 Hwy 27 S Carrollton 93 previous 96 01/27/2022: T-Breaux’s Cajun Park St Carrollton 93 previous 90 01/28/2022: Brown Dog Deli 202 Bradley St Carrollton 92 previous 85 90 previous 91 01/27/2022: Crafty Crab 800 Bankhead HwyCarrollton 01/04/2022: Stix 660 W Bankhead Hwy Villa Rica 86 previous 80

1/14/2022: Little Tallapoosa Park 1930 Hey 113 N Carrollton 100 previous 100

1/07/2022: John Tanner Park Campground 354 Tanner Beach Rd Carrollton 100 previous 91

1/07/2022: John Tanner Park Lodge 354 Tanner Beach Rd Carrollton 99 previous 98 1/20/2022: Days Inn 195 Commerce Dr Villa Rica 90 previous 92 86 previous 83 1/06/2022: Quality Inn 700 S Park St Carrollton

public swimming pool inspections scores

01/31/2022: Sportsplex 108 Somerset Pl Carrollton 100 SATISFACTORY 01/07/2022: Comfort Inn 132 Hwy 61 Connector Villa Rica 100 SATISFACTORY 01/31/2022: Courtyard Marriott 180 Barnes Ave Carrollton 01/26/2022: Lakeshore Park Training Pool 116 Lumpkin Dr Carrollton 01/26/2022: Lakeshore Park Pool 116 Lumpkin Dr Carrollton 01/05/2022: Club Fitness Pool 830 Maple St Carrollton

99 98 98 95

SATISFACTORY SATISFACTORY SATISFACTORY SATISFACTORY

Page 24 February 13, 2022

StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

KICK START YOUR CAREER WGTC can prepare you for a meaningful career doing what you love!

IT’S NOT TOO LATE!

Apply now and start in March! SPRING MINIMESTER! 844.280.0100 | admissions@westgatech.edu

www.westgatech.edu

As set forth in its student catalog, West Georgia Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, sex, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Equity (Title IX) Coordinator, Dean of Students, 770.755.7839, 200 Campus Drive, Newnan, GA 30263. ADA (Section 504) coordinator is V.P. of Administrative Services, 678.664.0533, 401 Adamson Square, Carrollton, GA 30117.