StarNews September 2022 by Star News

Voters may now track their mailed absentee ballot via “BallotTrax” TRACKBALLOT page 13

See EVENT BARN ORDINANCE CHANGE page 7 See $41.8M MORE page 11

City of Villa Rica 2021 millage rate:6.25 2022 millage rate:6.25

Zoning regulation changed to allow future event structures only in commercially zoned areas

NOTICE OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO CARROLL COUNTY SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS

Voters who register at Georgia.BallotTrax.net will receive up-to-date notifications when their ballot is picked up by the USPS, when it is in transit, when it has been delivered to the election office, and when it

StarNews monthly traditional print publication / StarNews Online daily local news

It was during the zoning session portion of the regular meeting that County Attorney Avery Jackson asked the board for consideration of a Resolution and Ordinance of the Board of Commissioners

2022 MILLAGERATES

City of Mt. Zion 2021 millage rate:7.05

Property assessments increased in Carroll County this year (2022) which automatically increased the total dollar amount of property tax allowed to be collected by government entities. This increase in collections would occur without any action by the government entities, i.e. raising the millage rate. The taxing entity would simply have no action.

If the governmental entity wished to keep the total amount collected the sameas budgets were calculated last year as to the amount each governing body stated was necessary to operate in 2022 - and not collect the increased tax amounts), each entity would need to take action to “fully rollback” (decrease) their millage rate to match the increased dollar figure to negate the increase.

Carrollton City SChools 2021 millage rate:18.500 2022 millage rate:18.500

“97% of the children in 2021 who law enforcement brought to us for an interview knew their abuser - 97%! That is out

Carroll County Child Advocacy Center: ten years of championing the needs of abused children

by Wayne J. Reynolds

Millage rate choices varied for Carroll’s governing taxing entities

If the governmental entity wished to keep a portion of the increased taxes - and

by Wayne J. Reynolds of 307

from press release

Notice is hereby given under O.C.G.A. § 36 66 1, et seq., by Carroll County, Georgia, of a public hearing to held at the Commission Chambers located at the Carroll County Historic Courthouse, 323 Newnan Street, 3rd floor, Carrollton, Georgia 30117, on September 19, 2022, at 6:30 P.M., for the purpose of considering proposed amendments to the Subdivision Regulations of Carroll County, Georgia, as amended: (1) to amend Section 86 5 “Definitions” of Chapter 86 Subdivisions, to amend the definition of “Subdivision exemptions;” (2) to allow for estate lot development; (3) to provide for exemptions to the Ordinance; and (4) for other purposes. The text of the proposed amendments are available for public review at the Office of Community Development located at 423 College Street, Room 503, Carrollton, Georgia 30117, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Consideration of final adoption of these zoning text amendments will be heard before the Carroll County Board of Commissioners on November 1, 2022, at 6:00 P M at the Commission Chambers located at the Carroll County Historic Courthouse, 323 Newnan Street, 3rd floor, Carrollton, Georgia 30117.

Commission responds to public outcry on special event facilities StarNewsStarNews SEPTEMBER 11, 2022 • VOLUME 28 NUMBER 9 NEWS REPORTING / NEWS RECAP / NEWS ANALYSIS www.starnewsgaonline.com CARROLL COUNTY, GEORGIA’s ONLY LOCALLY OWNED / LOCALLY OPERATED NEWSPAPER LIKE US facebook.com/at StarNewsGaOnline FOLLOW US on TWITTER @starnewswga DON’T MISS AN ISSUE! READDIGITAL MONTHLY PRINT EDITIONS www.starnewsgaonline.comonPINTEREST Sherryreynolds.StarNews contact us waynereynolds.starnews@suehorn.starnews@gmail.comat:gmail.com

by Janice Daniel

Shown above are the Carroll County Child Advocacy Center employees. Seated front row left and right are Jeliegha Brown and Kaylie Callahan. Standing left to right are Allison Robinson, Amanda Carden, and Brandi Leak.

2022 millage rate:17.500

Carroll County Commission

Carroll

Carroll County School Board 2021 millage rate:17,998

Governing entities that voted for full rollback rate, choosing not to collect any portion of the increased property tax:

State tax increasedrevenues$41.8M

children we interviewed. In 2020, it was 99%,” County Child Advocacy Center Executive Director Amanda Carden passion-

Whitesburg councilmember resigns during meeting after StarNews questions him about his behavior toward a citizen

2022 millage rate:7.05

Governing entities that voted to keep the full tax increase by voting to keep their 2021 millage rate the same for 2022:

See MILLAGE RATES page 13 See CHILDADVOCACY page 10

2021 millage rate:7.639

See

City of Bowdon 2021 millage rate:7.713 2022 millage rate:7.302

City of Carrollton 2021 millage rate:4.49 2022 millage rate:4.49

Ashley Hulsey

City of Temple 2021 millage rate:5.449 2022 millage rate:5.171

special

The State of Georgia’s net tax collections for May 2022 totaled almost $2.70 billion, for an increase of $41.8 million, or 1.6%, compared to May 2021, when net tax collections approached $2.66 billion. Year-to-date, net tax collec-

Longtime councilman William Smolar called out citizen stating she’s “like talking to a rock”

This issue is also posted on over 100 starnewsgaonline.comcommunityFacebookpages,Twitter,LinkedIn,& Call waynereynolds.starnewssuehorn.starnews770-722-7227@gmail.com@gmail.com

Longtime WhitesburgCity Councilmember William Smolar unexpectedly resigned during the Tues., Sept. 6, 2022, regular meeting immediately after StarNews publisher/editor Sue Horn Evans questioned him about his behavior toward a citizen at a prior meeting, asking if he would be apologizing.

COMMISSION HEARING

2022 millage rate:7.58

by Sue Horn Evans

Governing entities that voted to keep a portion of the tax increase by voting to reduce the 2021 millage rate but at a rate higher than a full rollback:

See COUNCILMEMBER RESIGNS page 7

from press release

The Carroll County Board of Commissioners held its regular monthly meeting Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. The highlight of the meeting was the decision going forward that special events facilities (event barns/buildings) be allowed only in commercially zoned areas, while leaving the resolution open for future consideration of “Farm Special Events Facilities”.

Georgia’s Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced that Georgia voters have access to BallotTrax, the online tracking tool that allows voters to monitor the status of their absentee ballots through the United States Postal Service.

City of Whitesburg 2021 millage rate:7.569 2022 millage rate:7.321

Page 2 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com yummmmmmmm 2022 bite beer truck delicious sample awards musicdown town toc brewsadamson square local carrolltonga.com/annualeventsSEPTEMBER295:30PM-8:30PMADAMSONSQUARE Find out what makes Carrollton altogether delicious! Purchase bite-sized culinary creations from local restaurants for $1 - $4 each. No tickets - pay food vendors directly! Forget waiting in line to buy tickets, grab some cash and get right to the good stuff ! UGLY BETTY at the amp CRAFT brew TRUCK $30 - Includes souvenir cup & unlimited brew pours! advance purchase »

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 3

Mt. Zion to receive 1.72% Roopville to receive 0.23% Temple to receive 4.40% Villa Rica to receive 8.51% Whitesburg to receive 0.55%

pools, spas and recreational water parks, as well as those for tourist accommodations as provided by the Georgia Department of Public Health and the Carroll County Health Department.Byapproving this resolution, it also gives the City Court Municipal Judge the power to execute health code enforcement and penalties as brought by thehealth department within the city limits of Carrollton.

Council voted unanimously to approve Resolution 1 1-2022 regarding the Intergovernmental Agreement for the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) distributions.These distribution portions are as follows:

Carroll County to receive59.00% Bowdon to receive 2.09% Bremen to receive 0.06% Carrollton to receive23.44%

This repair would include replacement of approximately 100 feet of storm pipe, backfilling and stabilizing the sinkhole area, along with final repaving of the affected area at a price of $185,000. The item was given unanimous approval by the council.

The Citizens Comments portion of the meeting had no takers.

Page 4 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

Mayor and City Council of Carrollton met for their regular monthly meeting Monday, August 1, 2022. MayorBetty Cason relayed that Councilman Brett Ledbetter was absent from the meeting due to a death in the family (brother).The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the mayor with invocation given by Councilman Jim Watters.

by Janice Daniel

existing culvert and the complete replacement of several associated stormwater structures. Holland recommended the contract be awarded to Compass Environmental Group, LLC, at a cost of $282,000. Council approved unanimously.Onevoting item presented at the July 21, 2022 council work session to authorize City Manager David Brooks to transfer property off of Barker Alley (3,933 square feet) to the West Georgia Regional Library or its designee, provided that any structures or improvements constructed on the property shall be subject to the prior written approval of the city. Item was approved unanimously by council.

Council then took into consideration and voted to approve Resolution 10-2022 adopting the rules and regulations for public swimming

approve the Villa Rica TAD if/when the commissionBarberapproves.alsosaid he is involved in continued conversations in the effort to develop another water provider for the city.

Council also voted to approve the appointment of Lisa Carroll to the Board of the West Georgia Regional Library for a term ending 6/30/25, to replace Tim Grizzard whose term expired.

issued for traffic violations. She also presented some information on the COVID-19 vaccine shots, which the city paid around $30,000 in 2021 to 87 employees as an incentive to take the vaccine. She remarked that information on a closed-group mandatory vaccine study show inflammation of the heart to be an adverse side effect of the Pfizer vaccine, and reiterated her opinion that government should never get

involved in what should be a personal decision.

Councilman Momtahan stated that the Bay Spring Middle School traffic is blocking the entrance to the Summergate subdivision, and asked the public to be considerate in allowing residents of Summergate to enter and exit the street to their community.

Commissioner Clint Chance, who represents District 2 (which includes the Villa Rica area), has been working with Mayor McDougal for months on a possible resolution to the current stalemate on the details of the TAD.

The Consent Agenda prepared at the earlier

Villa Rica and commission board still working at finding agreeable middle ground for TAD Carrollton approves to receive 23.44% of county’s LOST collections See CITY of VILLA RICA page 8A thesourceStarNewsclosetoschoolboardstatedthattheschoolboardwillvotetoapprovetheVillaRicaTADif/whenthecommissionapproves. 1952 North Highway 27 Carrollton, GA 770-832-9689 DIAL 911 FOR AN EMERGENCY savingEMTlivesoneemergencyatatime Dedicated Reliable Professional WEST AMBULANCEGEORGIAINC. Verida is coming to town and is looking for local talent for Call Center positions! How would you like to work for a company that is: •Dynamic and growing in the Non-Emergency Transportation industry •An established company in business for 22 years •A family oriented, fun place to work •A diverse organization where everyone belongs Onsite Entry level positions start at $15 per hour with comprehensive benefits program including, Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, FSA and 401(k) amongst others. If this sounds like a place for you, then text 1404 to apply to (678) 839-7360 or visit our career page on our website - www.myverida.com

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A regular monthly meeting of the Villa Rica Mayor and City Council took place Tuesday, August 9th, 2022, 6:00 p.m. Although two councilmembers were absent, Anna McCoy and Shirley Marchman, quorum was met and meeting commenced. Present were Mayor Gil McDougal and councilmembers Matthew Momtahan, Leslie McPherson, and Danny Carter. Invocation was offered by Pastor Tyler Brown of West Hills Baptist Church. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Officer Anthony Allen of the Villa Rica Police Department, joined the VRPD in 2015.

A TAD’s goal is to help guide/control an area’s growth through various means, mainly where one entity agrees to forgo/forfeit tax monies while specific growth occurs for another entity. The details of the Villa Rica TAD have, so far, not been a desirable choice for the commission or county school board. A StarNews source close to the school board stated that the school board will vote to

Councilmember McPherson commented that problems with big trucks - more than six wheels - continue on Mirror Lake Blvd and Punkintown Road, and that citations are being

Mayor Cason reported that the Cooling Center was in need of volunteers to distribute water, etc., and that there is a flyer on the City’s webpage for information about donating items needed for the center. She also commented on the success of Market Night and stated she is thankful for the upgrading of other parks around town.

City Manager Tom Barber said the mayor is in ongoing communication with the county about the Tax Allocation District (TAD) proposal between the city and the Carroll County Board of Commissioners and Carroll County Board of Education.

A second Bid Award presented by Holland was for a project consisting of repairing/rehabilitating the existing 72” culvert under West Georgia Drive at UWG, including a spraycase lining of the full length of the

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A Bid Award was presented by City Engineer Tommy Holland who recommended that Carl Owen Construction be awarded the contract to repair a failed portion of the existing 60” corrugated metal pipe under the University of West Georgia (UWG) Coliseum parking lot.

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 5 4 : 3 0 P M GATES OPEN REGISTRATION BUSINESS MEETING 5 : 3 0 P M 7 P M THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2022 155 N. HWY 113, CARROLLTON ENTERTAINMENT BY JERRY ROGERS CEMC is a tobacco free campus. There will be no designated smoking area at the Annual Meeting. FREE BUCKET & PRIZES FOR MEMBERS 2011 GMC TERRAIN GRAND PRIZE FOOD FROM THE VARSITY ($1 for hot dog & chips / $1 for fried pie) While supplies last

In order to separate groups, there are tried and true strategies: fostering attitudes of “ingroup” versus “out-group”, promoting fears that decrease the likelihood of rational action, promoting anxieties about one’s current or future finances or social standing. For those seeking personal power, from the extreme left or the extreme right, it pays to undermine our institutions and relationships. If we don’t trust our institutions, we will tend to seek a strong male figure to protect us - and our democratic experiment will fail.

community activities, and expressed the hope that the younger generation will step up to the plate. They also wonder if term limits for elected officials would help to give more people a chance to be in decisionmaking positions.

In this first phase, the three focus groups were:

This group was also in favor of increasing access to healthcare in Georgia, though they were not in agreement about a federally mandated program to accomplish this. The women were uniformly in favor of parental leave and improved childcare assistance.

Two leaders for each focus group presented a set of questions designed to elicit participant’s greatest fears and hopes for themselves and for the country. These specific questions posed may be viewed on Carrollton Democracy Project website.

not get along, nor solves their problems, these individuals/groups stand to benefit. Spreading misinformation - and promoting anger - can directly lead to more advertising dollars.

For the young adults group, guns were high on their list of concerns. This group felt the traumatic effects of practice lock-downs in their schools and news reports about school shootings.Theywere also concerned about global warming and reproductive rights, and most expressed the need for women to have the right to choose.Interestingly, this group was also quite concerned about the divisiveness in the county and expressed the feeling that older generations have failed to deal with our problems.Whenasked

This group was very focused on the economy and struggles to get by. Some of the group are caught in the situation of being caregivers for both youngsters and parents or older relatives, which exacerbates the effects of inflation.

This presentation, “Listening to People, Finding Common Ground” was hosted by the League of Women Voters of Carrollton/ Carroll County. The Carrollton Democracy Project selected three local “focus groups”, each made up of 7 to 8 people, each of differing political affiliations.First,Hager reviewed for the Zoom/ Facebook participants reasons how America’s society came to be so divided. When looking for the causes, it makes sense to “follow the money”, Hager said. Powerful people have long promoted cultural divisions in order to “divide and conquer” the working class. This goes back to colonial days when English plantation owners promoted racial divisions between Scottish and African indentured servants.Who currently makes money from our increasing difficulties to find common ground for solving problems? These individuals and groups would include individual media ‘hotshots’, broadcast and cable networks, politicians, and social media corporations. Hager relayed that if the overall general public does

In order to “listen to the people”, in this first phase Carrollton Democracy Project made a sincere effort to exclude extremely partisan individuals.

submitted by Margery Bouris Bryan Hager, with the Carrollton Democracy Project, spoke via Zoom and Facebook on research that group is conducting here in the Carroll County area. Inspired to action by the increasing difficulties Americans have in talking across geographic, political, economic, racial and cultural divides, the Carrollton Democracy Project has taken on the task of understanding the reasons for the divisiveness and are exploring ways in which voting citizens may find common ground and take a problem-solving approach to our difficulties.

In order to “listen to the people”, in this first phase Carrollton Democracy Project made a sincere effort to exclude extremely partisan individuals.Twoleaders for each focus group presented a set of questions designed to elicit participant’s greatest fears and hopes for themselves and for the country. These specific questions posed may be viewed on the Carrollton Democracy Project website.

1. College educated, professional white women2.Current or recently graduated college students3.Blacks of mixed age and gender

The Blacks in this group study spoke of a general breakdown in society. They are concerned about crime, violence expressed in rap music, and young people not being raised well.

Hager noted that for this group, the question about racism in their lives “popped the balloon”, and most had much to say on this issue,

In understanding our nation’s current difficulties, it may help to remember that this is not the first time in history societal elements have been deliberately divided. While most people want to belong to a group, that is not the same as being against another group. Divisiveness begins when someone promotes attacks on others for their own benefit, such as plantation owners in the American South and fascists in 1930s Europe.

what would cause them to vote, their responses included civic duty and looking for a candidate who could inspire them.

Page 6 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com See CARROLLTON DEMOCRACY page 7

“Listening to People, Finding Common Ground” Carrollton Democracy Project Phase I: discovering the reasons for nation’s great divisiveness Bermuda Grass Commercial and Pick-UpResidentialorDelivery Locally and Family owned Over 16 years of experience Free quotes 6990 Five Notch Rd • Franklin, Georgia 770-854-6400 Monday to Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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With respect to crime, this group expressed the need to deal with the causes of crime, rather than to become involved with punishment. Providing help for Mental Health and Drug Abuse was strongly endorsed.

William Smolar has been Post 2 council member since 2010. With Smolar’s resignation, Whitesburg City Council, comprised of four voting members and a mayor, is left with the minimum required number of voting members for a quorum to legally meet and carry out the business of the city. The mayor does not have voting power except in a tie.

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In answer to questions from the audience, Hager noted that there are plans to share the information obtained with politicians running for office. More issue-oriented focus groups are planned. While so much of what is in the news is negative, Hager said he found hope in the willingness of people to sit down and discuss issues in a structured format.

EVENT BARN ORDINANCE from front of Carroll County amending Section 8.1.2 of the Carroll County Zoning Regulations to delete “Special Events Facility” as a conditional use in agricultural, and amending Section 8.8.2 to add “Special Events Facility” as conditional use in commercial. Jackson also asked the board to add “Farm Special Events Facility” as a conditional use in agricultural, to insert the definition of “Farm Special Events Facility”. Citizens J.W. and Paula Duncan opposed the “Farm Special Events Facility”. They said, with that, all that would be required to obtain this conditional use in agricultural would be a form Schedule F, which they said is “pretty easy to get”, in which case the people in the agricultural areas would be right back where they were when this issue was brought up during the June 7, 2022 meeting.Numerous neighboring residents opposed a Special Event Facility on a farm nearby due to the noise late at night. The board denied the application of Elizabeth Cobb, 1578 Bonner Goldmine Road for the Special Event Facility

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Hager shared examples of citizens coming together to reduce divisiveness with referendums to eliminate gerrymandering and partisan primaries.There are also think tanks working to propose solutions that are supported by majorities of the American people, instead of the groups who control the political parties.

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trucks parked at the business were blocking sight distance, to which the owner responded he would make every effort to keep trucks clear of the right-of-way. Commissioner Ernie Reynolds asked if the county could mark the right-of-way. County Planner Janet Hyde said she would have that done. Consent Agenda from the July 28, 2022 work session:

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The next meeting of the Whitesburg Council and Mayor is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 3rd with a work session the prior Tuesday, Sept. 27th at 6:00 p.m. Council and mayor meet in the recreation building at 50 BoosterField Drive, Whitesburg. These are open public meetings.

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During the city council and mayor meeting of August 1, 2022, a citizen questioned council about grants for the city. Post 2 Councilmember William Smolar responded. Another citizen questioned his response, wanting specifics. This interaction was several minutes, with Smolar stating from his council seat that “talking to her is like talking to a rock.” This interchange is recorded in the minutes taken down by April Fordham, Whitesburg City municipal clerk.

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on her Withproperty.thisopen and vocal opposition to that facility, the board decided to change the current regulations allowing these type venues in agriculturally zoned areas, and limiting them to commercially zoned areas. After some discussion, a motion was made and seconded that the Special Events Facilities be allowed only in commercially zoned areas and to leave the resolution open for future consideration of Farm Special Events Facilities. Commission approved unanimously.Otheritems brought up during the zoning session were all passed unanimously with no opposition to any except for a business at 659 Beulah Church Road, where one resident said

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At the September 6th meeting, Mayor Amy Williford asked if anyone had comments, at which time StarNews publisher/editor/owner Sue Horn Evans took to the podium addressing Smolar asking if he would like to make a statement, comment, or apology concerning his behavoir toward the citizen at the August 1st meeting. Smolar defended his remark and behavior for several minutes, including that he would not be apologizing. He then addressed council and mayor stating, “With that being said, I resign.” StarNews asked him when his resignation would be effective. He said “Now.” He left his council seat and took a chair in the back of the room, staying for the remainder of theAftermeeting.themeeting adjourned, StarNews asked Mayor Amy Williford if Smolar’s resignation was accepted and she said “Yes.” Post 1 Councilmember Donna Whitley stated, “Citizens should not be talked to in any unprofessional manner, and I apologize for that. I appreciate them coming to the meetings and giving us ideas and all, and volunteering, as [this citizen] did.”

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Finance Director Jennifer Hallman, presented the Financial Update for June, 2022:

3.A signage permit was requested for the Annual Frontier’s Rodeo August 26th and 27th.4.Request for approval of the Intergovernmental Agreement for Carroll County LOST monies, with Villa Rica receiving5.Request8.51%. for agreement to terminate the lease for the billboard located on the site of the Butterballs property as of 12/31/22, with the billboard owner having 90 days from then to remove said 6.Requestbillboard.forexchange of easements between the city and Watermist Phase III, where the city gets a sewer easement and Watermist gets a road easement.

The most recent draft of the Intergovernmental SPLOST Agreement with the City of Douglasville was approved for the next six years. The City of Villa Rica is to receive 5.04% of the total, and the monies are to be used for transportation and streets: 44%; infrastructure: 40.63%; and public safety: 15.37%.Council also voted to approve the VRPD Reimbursement Grant Program for officer training in “shoot/don’t shoot” situations. The city will pay $47,021.60 up front, then be reimbursed in full by the grant.

10:00 a.m. work session was approved unanimously. See Villa Rica Work Session story this page.

- Total Cash & CD was $29,197,105; hotel/motel tax was up 40% over same time last year; the Self-Funded Insurance balance was $1,085,032, a savings of $304,122; both Carroll County and Douglas County SPLOST continue to be up.

CITY of VILLA RICA from page 4

23 items placed on Villa Rica’s August consent agenda for one unanimous vote of approval See 23 ITEMS page 13 •Selling grass fed, grass finished beef raised on our farm (Glore Farms). USDA processed. Beef vac-sealed & frozen immediately - packaged for individual sales. •Very large variety of steaks, roasts, ribs, ground & specialty organs. •Eggs, cheese and honey from local farms. •Retail side for gift items and consignment where local artisans sell their goods. 2366 W Hwy 5 (old Keys Antiques 770-258-1387building)•Bowdontyusmercantile.com Hours: Thu: 10am -1pm•Fri: 10am-6pm•Sat: 10am-4pm Quality Beef…. & More at Good Prices!!! Come see our Beautiful Store & Growing Business!!!

- Business expense in most areas was also up, most significantly in sewer, up approximately $500,000 compared to last year, mainly in the following areas: Salaries and Benefits$144,000; M&R Equipment $154,000; Chemicals $168,000. Increased cost of supplies and equipment was cited as the main reason.Barber reported that fall registration in all recreation department sports is still growing, but possibly not yet at the pre-COVID numbers. Current registration in all sports combined is right at 800.

appointment of Julie Dobbs from 7/12/22 through11.Request6/30/25.for Library Advisory Board reappointment of Claudia Best from 7/12/22 through12.Request6/30/25.for Library Advisory Board re-

There was a 7% increase on the medical, and no increase for any of the other insurances, such as dental, vision, life, short- and long-term disability, accident and critical illness. The cost of the 7% increase is $127,076 annually with a $180,000 administration cost. Some changes mentioned by Strickland are that the Northside exclusion was removed, and certain diagnostic tests for wellness are now approved at age 35

of Ellen Wynn McBrayer from 5/31/22 through 5/31/26.9.Request for appointment of Charles Michael Young to the Recreation Advisory Committee Board from 8/9/22 through 6/12/25.10.Request for Library Advisory Board re-

Page 8 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

Police Chief Michael Mansour presented a request to purchase Exterior Ballistic Vest Carriers and Pouches at a total cost of $39,345.90, money to come from public safety 2022 budget. The vests are worn on the outside of uniforms, and will be provided by Armor Express with a two-year warranty. The request was approved unanimously.

(mammograms and colonoscopies).

Council went into executive session (not public). Upon returning to regular session, City Attorney David Mecklin made a motion to approve John Bain as the new Director for Public Utilities, which was approved unanimously.Therebeing no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

2. The new four-tier medical benefit premiums were presented by Human Resources Director Lena Taylor, all of which will be communicated to the city employees.

7.Request for $22,180.93 to hire Airanomix to put insulation in the Gold Dust recreation8.Requestgym.for DDA Board re-appointment

On Tuesday, August 9, 2022, Mayor and City Council of Villa Rica met for their monthly work session 10:00 a.m. in preparation for the regual meeting that evening at 6:00 p.m. (See story page 4. ) Councilmembers McCoy and Marchman absent, but quroum was met and work session commenced.

Council also approved several zoning variances, as well as amendments to three city ordinances: removing vinyl siding as an approved exterior covering for Manufactured Homes, Single Family attached and detached, and PUD Design Standards. Staff Member Ron Johnson said that the price for vinyl siding and Hardi-Plank wood siding was very close and offered his opinion that the Hardi-Plank is sturdier and lasts longer.

by Janice Daniel

Barber also informed mayor and council that the city has received the first termination from an approved residential development due to increased interest rates and lack of adequate financing.Barber said the Walton project has completed Phase I and is ready to start leasing, and there is some development on Phase 2.

A consent agenda of 23 iItems was prepared in anticipation of its unanimous approval at the regular meeting without any discussion at the regular meeting concerning any of these 23 items:1.Wendell Strickland of Strongside Solutions presented the partially self-funded medical insurance program effective 10/1/22.

A ceremonial presentation was made to, for years, has shared thousands of civic photographs taken at all the various sports and events. The presentation was made by State Rep. District 71 Jay Collins as a Resolution by the Georgia House of Representatives recognizing and commending Michael Valentine.

Shown left to right are Tom Jackson; Randy Boyd, Villa Rica Lions Club; Matthew Momtahan; and Joe Williamson.

Her father, the late Charles Wynn, served as president of the Georgia Cemetery Association from 1987-1988. McBrayer was re-appointed to the Georgia Cemetery Board during the annual conference held in June at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort.

The Georgia Cemetery Association began in 1955 and was formally established as a nonprofit corporation in 1957. Jones-Wynn

Funeral Homes and Meadowbrook Memory Gardens have been active in the organization forThedecades.Southern Cemetery Cremation and Funeral Association held its annual meeting in conjunction with the GCA in June at the Hilton Daytona Beach. McBrayer was appointed to the Board of Directors of the SCCFA at the event.McBrayer said, “I am ever mindful of what my father, our founder, would think. This is the 21st anniversary of his (Charles Wynn) sudden and unexpected death. . . His passing was my calling into the funeral service.”

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Ellen Wynn McBrayer reappointed to state cemetery board and newly appointed to Southern Cemetery Cremation and Funeral Association Board of Directors Neck treatment is proving to be 80%-92% SUCCESSFUL in helping patients enjoy life again! Let Us Be Your FIRST CHOICE! Not your LAST RESORT! Who Else Wants to Get Rid of... •Neck •Herniated/BulgedPain dics •Numbness & Tingling inarms and hands •Muscle •Weakness•Shoulder•HeadachesSpasmsPaininarms surrounding area. Our teamtheandchiropractortherestofwelcomingatLifetimeChiropracticP.C.canhelp! 120 Prospector Drive Villa Rica www.lifetimechiropracticpc.com770-459-5070 Hours: Mon - Wed & Thursday 10am-12am & 4pm - 6pm

Ellen Wynn McBrayer,, Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes and Meadowbrook Memory Gardens President and CFO, was reappointed to the Georgia Cemetery Association Board of Directors (GCA).

The Carrollton Lions Club secures grant from Lions Clubs International Foundation for the Carroll County Soup Kitchen

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 9

Lifetime Chiro

A grant for Carroll County Soup Kitchen to help renovate their dining room was presented by Tom Jackson, Carrollton Lions Club and Past District Governor of District 18L and Matthew Momtahan, president, Villa Rica Lions Club to Soup Kitchen representative Joe Williamson at a recent Lions meeting.

from press release

The grant was a partnership grant between Lions Clubs International Foundation and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. Carrollton Lions Club nominated the soup kitchen for this grant. Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) is the foundation arm of Lions International. Major focuses of LCIF are vision and hearing, diabetes, childhood cancer, hunger, and disaster assistance.

Jericho Design Group has been hired to: 1. finish the vacant 5th (top) floor of the courthouse, moving magistrate court into the courthouse.2.makeimprovements to the courthouse to

Insofar as recycling, contract states that, due to market conditions and fluctuations with respect to certain materials, the county may instruct Waste Industries Atlanta to dispose of otherwise recyclable materials into a solid waste disposal facility.

On July 14, 2022, the Carroll County Board of Commissioners put out a request for proposals to make improvements and repairs to court facilities. Three proposals were received, with the commission selecting Jericho Design Group, Cumming, Ga. This choice was made on the recommendation from the selection committee whose members included Chief Judge John Simpson, Superior Court; Judge Edith Haney, Probate Court; Judge Michael Hubbard, Magistrate Court; Clerk of Court Alan Lee; Sheriff Terry Langley.

“Reports are taken 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 1-855-GACHILD / 1-855422-4453! As adults, our job is to report. We must commit to keeping our children safe!”

Carden relayed that only 20% to 25% of cases nationally are reported to the appropriate agencies, “There are no barriers to continued abuse, if it is not reported. Last year, the Center saw more children brought by law enforcement for an interview than the work days [Monday through Friday] in a year. And that is just cases reported to authorities.

Carroll EMC offices closed Sept. 15th for training

County enters into garbage/ solid waste contract: $1,500,000 ($1.5M) per year HARRY T’S CAR WASH & LUBE BRAKE SERVICES • TUNE-UPS • TIRE ROTATIONS • BELTS, HOSES, FUEL FILTER REPLACEMENTS770-836-1515AUTO REPAIR AUTOGREATMAINTENANCEDISCOUNTSFREEESTIMATES Discount For Veterans & Military Year Around! 730 Bankhead Hwy • Carrollton, Ga

be able to solve the weschools,housing,likeotherhelpthatmayjob!suchcatesOurthatsituationday.advo-doagreatWebeabledaytowiththingstherapy,andeven

After the year 2023, a 10% increase will be added to the preceding year’s cost.

Amanda Carden

CHILDADVOCACY from front page

Carden said talking about sexual abuse is a taboo topic - that most do not want to talk about it, “We must have open conversations as adults if we are going to keep our children safe.”The Carroll County Child Advocacy Center interviews children ages 3 to 17, because there is a language component for those younger than three years old.

ately exclaimed. “A lot of myths are that we think it won’t happen in my neighborhood - it happens in their neighborhood. Another myth is it is ‘stranger danger’ - but 97% who knew their abuser tells the real story! And the largest subset is families. The only commonality is that it is children. The CDC came out with a report that said one in 10 children under 18 years old have been abused, and a newer report states one in 4 girls have been abused.”

Page 10 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

To report a power outage, call 770-832-3552 (Option 1) or report it online at carrollemc.com or through the mobile app.

Through the CarrollCounty Board of Commissioners and chairman, the county government has entered into a one year contract for garbage and solid waste collection and disposal from the county’s convenience centers at the annual cost of $1,500,000 ($1.5M). This contract with Waste Industries Atlanta, LLC,2699 Cochran Industrial Blvd., Douglasville, Georgia 3013, has an automatic one-year renewal clause that runs July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.

Waste Indusxtires will provide a report each month containing the data setting for the amount of refuse removed and recycling weight.Carroll County’s Solid Waste manager is Jacqueline Dost.

“So many children come to us and have so much going on beyond the abuse. And even after the interview, law enforcement may not

All Carroll EMC offices will be closed Thursday, September 15th for training purposes. During this time, make payments at the kiosks, through the automated phone payment system (770-832-3552), online at carrollemc.com or via the free Carroll EMC mobile app.

implement covid-19 mitigation strategies and practices3.renovate approximately 5,500 square feet of the current magistrate court bBuilding in order to relocate the public defender’s office to a county-owned building.

Visit cc-cac.org. For more information call 770-832-8733 or email to info@cc-cac.org. Amanda and the staff also will come talk to your civic club, church, or organization.

have a food pantry to help with their hunger needs that day.”

4. make improvements to the jail courtroom used for arraignments and bail hearings to implement COVID-19 mitigation strategies andThesepractices.improvements are being made in accordance with the Space Planning and Programming Study and Information Technology Assessment Report prepared by the National Center for State Courts, which was presented to the Board of Commissioners on May 25, 2022. design firm out of Cummings,GA to make improvements and repairs to courthouse, magistrate, jail

Amanda Carden encourages you to visit Facebook and Instagram accounts and their website to keep up with and be aware of programs they offer, including the Partners in Prevention and Parenting Classes. They will

Amanda asks if your church or organization has protocols set up to protect children? The Center will train your group to set the protocols up. “We must have a collective concern, that is, how we keep children safe. They deserve safety. They are worthy of it.”

Carden concludes, “Please remember, these children belong to all of us. Child safety is all our responsibility. Get involved and you can say, ‘I did Reportssomething’!”aretaken24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 1-855-GACHILD / 1-855422-4453.

Carroll County will pay all landfill fees.

Commission chooses

The mission of the Carroll County Child Advocacy Center is to exist to “champion the needs of sexually, physically, and emotionally abused children in Carroll, Haralson and Heard counties through prevention, intervention and collaboration.”Onthefive member staff - who are all trained family advocates - are Jeliegha Browne, Lead Family Advocate and Forensic Interviewer; Kaylie Callahan Office Advocate; Amanda Carden, Executive Director and Forensic Interviewer; Brandi Leak, LMSW Therapist; and Allison Robinson, Prevention Coordinator and Forensic Interviewer.

To constitute positive action, the acting party must notify the other party within 60 days prior to the expiration of the agreement that it intends to terminate.

In addition, at any time Waste Industries fuel cost increases $0.25 per gallon or more above the fuel cost of $4.00 per gallon, a fuel surcharge will be implemented.

“We just celebrated our 10th Anniversary September 9th,” Director Carden said. “Ten years ago, Jill Hesterly and Emily Cole led the charge in preventing child abuse. Together with Carrollton Police Chief Joel Richards and other law enforcement officers, they decided they needed to start a child advocate center, and Carroll County Child Advocacy Center was born. Previously, we didn’t have a person trained to conduct forensic interviews on the children, so law enforcement had to send the children for an interview to LaGrange and other“Aslocations.acommunity we should, and must, report our suspicions or concerns. We have trained law enforcement investigators in Carroll, Haralson, and Heard counties who are outstanding. Your call is confidential. If it doesn’t look right or feel right, report it. Many may say, ‘What if I am wrong?’ What if you are not?! If you report, you have done your job.

“We have to intervene to change the outcomes of these children. Children don’t naturally get over things. Their body is keeping score. If you know something, you must report. Investigating at a young age is critical. It makes a tremendous difference.”

“That does not mean there is no abuse

also take donations. On their website you can make a one time charitable donation and they also offer a monthly giving program which is an automatic deduction program, so once you sign up, there is no monthly check to write.

This agreement will automatically renew for up two additional terms of one year each, unless positive action is taken by the county to terminate the agreement.

among the three and younger group. It just means because of language, we can’t interview them. We also interview disabled adults if our protocols fit their needs,” Carden said. “There are issues much that are divisive these days, but our children are not politics. Safety of our children is all adults’ responsibility. It is important we share our message across the West Georgian region about the problem and what the Center offers. I think so many people simply don’t know!”

“There are a lot of food deserts. With the

May.Year-over-year

“Action Ministries was our original organization and our focus was hunger. We were acquired by Hope Atlanta in 2020. Their focus was housing. While it appeared to be the perfect match, we realized that hunger was not a top priority. That being said, many organizations within and surrounding the Rome, Georgia, area came together and with their efforts decided to become a separate entity, thus the formation of North West Georgia Hunger Ministries. They purchased Hope Atlanta which was finalized in April of this year and is a 501C charity. I stayed on to coordinate the fight against hunger in Carroll County.”Oneof Shackelford’s future goals is to establish a Client Choice Food Pantry like the ministry has in Rome. It is set up as a grocery store, where the person comes in and shops for exactly what they need and want. “It is

“We are in a hunger crisis. There are good things going on like Open Hands and the Soup Kitchen, and I am sure some churches. But, we don’t know what each other is doing! Our hope is that other organizations realize we are not trying to take over, but have a cooperative effort.”

designed to supplement their food, not be the sole source,” Denise said. “We are also involved in the summer feeding program, working with the schools to get food out to the children in the community. In April 2018, we fed approximately 3,900 children. Then we were given a goal of feeding 5,148 and we almost doubled that by feeding 9,253 children. I then realized that if they were hungry during the summer, they would be hungry during the holidays too. So, pre-COVID, in conjunction with the University of West Georgia and other organizations, we collected canned goods and set up pick up points. We also handed out boxes of food and toys and then included spring break.”

This summer, Shackelford and volunteer members served over 1600 breakfasts and lunches. She worked with Laura Malmquist, who is the Carrollton City Schools nutrition director to accomplish this goal.

comparisons of net tax collections for April and May are made difficult by the deferral of the previous year’s state tax filing deadlines for both quarterly and annual income taxes to May 17 rather than the traditional mid-April filing deadline set for most years. While annual revenue totals are comparable as of May 31, net revenue totals in the current month’s year-over-year comparison are not aligned as a result of the FY 2021 filing deadline shift into May.

“I am now going around to solicit funds so we can have any own Client Choice Grocery Store.The Rome one - which includes other pantries - needs about $300,000 per year to operate. We are looking to do a smaller one which we need $175,000 to $225,000 to raise and maintain each year.”

Baptist Church in Villa Rica each Monday where she receives a van full of bread and sweets which she then distributes. She also has over 20 organizations and churches come and pick up food to distribute to others.

Shackelford receives free food from the Atlanta Food Bank, with a $25 delivery fee. They have partnered with Pilgrims since 2019 on donations, and they recently have received donations from The Blake House through their relationship with Publix among other groups. She meets with Ryan Morris at the First

To contact Denise Schackelford: deniseshackelford@hungerministries.org or call her at 678-472-9545.

Denise also noticed that seniors were having the same issues. She was able to partner with the Senior Supplemental Food Bank with the Atlanta Food Bank in 2019. They started with 30 seniors and now have 150 seniors. They come on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. They receive a 40 pound box of non perishables, meat, milk, cereal, and a block of cheese.

She adds, “Most of our volunteers have been with us since 2019 and share my passion. If you would like to volunteer or your group or church would like to donate please email or call me. And yes we accept money as well!”

Denise also thinks food shortages will continue this fall and winter and suggests stocking up, taking advantage when grocery stores have specials. “Be like a squirrel and store up! And may I say when you know someone is struggling, even if their pride won’t allow them to tell you, reach out and help them!”

About 38 million people around the nation –one in eight Americans – faced food insecurity in 2020, according to Feeding America. Food insecurity isn’t the same as hunger - though the two often go side by side. Food insecurity is defined as the lack of means to access food at a household level. This is usually because of poverty or the relative inaccessibility of grocery stores. Carroll County ranks 12th in the entireDenisecountry.Etienne

DeniseEtienne Shackelford West GA Hunger Coordinator Northwest GA Hunger Ministries

help of others we were able to start a mobile food pantry once a month at North Point Baptist Church in Carrollton. She then started a second mobile food pantry at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Clem, so we then covered the first and third Fridays. Senior boxes on the second Tuesday of each month. We have now a third mobile pantry for the hispanic community at the Assemblies of God on Newnan Road, covering four weeks of the month.

Carroll County, Georgia, ranks 12th in the nation for food insecurity due to poverty levels and inaccessibility to grocery stores: Northwest Georgia Hunger Ministries strives to fill the bellies

tions totaled nearly $30.24 billion, for an increase of $5.84 billion, or 23.9 percent, compared to fiscal year 2021, when net tax revenues totaled almost $24.40 billion as of the end of

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 11

Shackelford, West Georgia Hunger Coordinator for Northwest Georgia Hunger Ministries explained, “Our sole purpose is to fight hunger in Carroll County and as we grow expand further. Isn’t that a shocking number that Carroll County is twelfth in the entire country for food insecurity?

by Wayne J. Reynolds

$41.8M MORE from front page

Cook’s Jewelry

“The millennial generation has done a great job of talking about their feelings and making it okay to talk about issues. They are helping us to overcome the stigma. It used to be that we didn’t talk about that. Everyone is suffering, not just the individual and they all need our support.”

“We don’t serve children; we focus on adults. But if a parent calls about their child, we will refer them to the right people.

Jodie Goodman, director of Carroll County Mental Health Advocates (CCMHA) said this group of dedicated individuals started in 2008 as an idea from then Probate Judge, and now Carrollton City Mayor, Betty Cason who saw case after case of people with mental health issues come before her - and then, like a revolving door, return to her. A stakeholders meeting was held in 2008 which Goodman attended, and, out of that meeting, a group of volunteers became the Carroll County Mental Health

An umbrella group, The Recovery Spot of West Georgia held its grand opening September 1st under the leadership of Miles Neal. They meet at the Stallings Community Center in Carrollton, as does CCMHA. It is a safe space for individuals whose lives have been impacted by addiction as well as those living in recovery.

Carroll for is suffering,

Region: “everyone

Jodie Goodman, Carroll County Mental Health Advocates

CCMHA established a Crisis Response Team. If a police incident involves someone in a mental health crisis, a licensed professional counselor rides along with a law enforcement officer. After law enforcement has cleared the scene, the response team immediately reacts. The officer leaves and moves on to his next assignment. The response team also tries to call off any additional help like the fire department, to save the taxpayers money.

by Wayne J. Reynolds

“One of our goals is to continue to educate law enforcement as well as the public on how to handle these types of issues.” she said. “It is a shift in policing. Their track record has not been good so we will continue to educate officers with the endorsements and support of the Chief Joel Richards and Sheriff Terry Langley.“Weattend national conferences and we will sit next to the largest counties and cities in the country and we have the same models and response teams as these large cities. We are light years ahead of most cities and towns in the Southeast, even the country. I attribute that to our local leadership for listening and being open-minded. We are only one of 10 towns in the entire state who have this program.”

Mayor Cason said in conclusion, “We recently received the designation as ‘The Recovery Community Organization for our Region’. We offer other support programs to help the clients on their journey. None of this would be possible without the great staff we have. Tthey are caring people who work to make life better for our citizens dealing with mental health issues and our community partners.”Ifyou would like more information on Carroll County Mental Health Advocates visit ccmhadvocates.org. They are located in the Stallings Community Building at 118 South White Street in Carrollton. 770-830-2048 or email cmhadvocacy@gmail.com

In 2018 in conjunction with the solicitor’s office and the state court, they established a PreTrial Diversion Program so that individuals with a history of mental illness who have been charged with a misdemeanor crime, can participate in a 12-month treatment program rather than be sentenced. If they complete the program there is a dismissal of charges.

“It has been an extremely successful program. For example, one student at University of West Georgia who completed the program, is now in law school.”

A second unit has been requested approval and they are now awaiting final authorization.

CMHA started a training program for community volunteers to become certified advocates to walk with clients through the treatment process and help them build a solid support system. But, as she explained, it is a lot of work and time for a volunteer organization.

CCMHA has evolved to help advocate for people suffering from mental health issues. This program has grown and still growing. Community partners, grants, fundraisers, and donations have made this program one of the most successful programs to address mental health in our history.

County Mental Health Advocates now has designation of The Recovery Community Organization

Goodman said, “Our goal/mission back then, and is still today, is to be the missing link for individuals and their families impacted by mental illness and addiction in Carroll County. We believe that the missing link is people need people. Most often our client has burned all bridges and lost all resources. We try to provide a level of support by getting them stable and then into outpatient services. Each client still needs a level of support to get them to appointments and such, but in so many instances the family has gotten to the point of saying, ‘I am done!’”

CCMHA

CCMHA also started an Early Diversion Program: if a law enforcement officer responds to an incident where an individual may have a mental health issue, the officer can do a ‘soft handoff’ to the CMHA for community health treatment.CCMHA also has peer support programs such as Connections Support Group which is for individuals living with mental illness and Family Support Group open to family and friends of the individual with mental health. They offer Peer-led Support Activities which includes Mindful Meditation and Coffee and Conversation. They also offer Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group which is open to anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide.

also started an Early whererespondsenforcementProgram:Diversionifalawofficertoanincidentanindividualmayhaveamentalhealthissue,theofficercandoa‘softhandoff’totheCMHAforcommunityhealthtreatment. Sale Westover Square 933 Maple Street Carrollton 770-834-7307 www.cooksjewelry.com Cook’s Jewelry Cook’s Jewelry DIAM ND RING Save up to 20% to 50% All Diamond Rings

Page 12 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

When asked about funding, Goodman commented, “Funding comes through two federal grants, one that comes through Carroll County that funds much of our program and another comes through the City of Carrollton. The city and county fund the Mobile Crisis Response Team. Willowbrook is also a huge contributor with the Mobile Response Team. We also hold an annual fundraiser - our biggest fundraiser, the 4th Annual Masquerade Ball is October 1st. This year we are honoring Chief Joel Richards. In the past we have honored Mayor Betty Cason, Sheriff Terry Langley, and Dr. Fred Richards. Steve Adams from West Georgia Ambulance donated the vehicle for the Mobile Crisis Response Team. The Community Foundation of West Georgia has been amazing to us, and we also rely a lot on private donations. The next step for us is sustainability for our programs. We can’t always rely on grants. We would love to be a line item in the state budget though.”

Goodman said, “The goal is to de-escalate

MayorAdvocates.BettyCason said, “As probate court judge, I realized immediately that the mental health system in Georgia was very broken. I had families coming to me on a regular basis trying to find help for their family members. I would send people for evaluations, andthey received medication and an appointment at the local mental health facility. This is not treatment. A group of community stakeholders came together to address the issues; from this group evolved a smaller group that worked diligently to help with a solution to help the ever-growing issue. The stigma still associated with mental illness does not help when trying to educate people about the problem.”

“We offer a whole different approach here, trying to get on their level when they walk into the office. There is no judgment here. We try to be real and transparent. There is always fresh coffee and something to eat. We are never going to turn anyone away. If we can’t help them, we will find the service they need.

the situation and get them to a stabilization unit without going to the ER if there are no injuries, and within 50 minutes. Clients may go to Pathways in Newnan or Willowbrook at Tanner. We are the only first responders who can directly admit to Willowbrook without going to the ER first. To date, we have responded to 362 emergency calls and 548 follow-up calls with only one arrest and that was for a previous outstanding arrest!”

not just the individual”

In 2018, Goodman and the board got focused and took a leap of faith becoming a non-profit organization with her as its first employee. She said, “It was a humble beginning. I was paid as a 20-hour employee but worked 90 hours a week - because I loved what I was doing.” In 2019, they applied for and received a grant for $1.5 million, and started expanding staff and services until today they now have a paid staff of nine.

13.Request6/30/25. to execute Senior Citizens Reimbursement Grant Contract with Three Rivers from 7/1/22 through 6/30/23.

17.Request to engage with Zile Technology to upgrade six (6) SCADA lift stations at a cost of $57,832.00

The board of commissioner’s lowered millage rate represents a 6.52% increase in property taxes to be collected over last year.

add that extra money to their current budget (while deciding where and how to spend this extra money) - they would take the action of rolling back the millage rate to an amount higher than the full rollback but lower than the current millage rate. With this action, taxes increase even though the governing entity is reducing the millage rate.

The City of Villa Rica’s retaining of the 2021 millage rate for 2022 will result in an 8.26% increase in property taxes.

BallotTrax is available free of charge to any Georgia voter in all 159 counties. Nearly half a million Georgians took advantage of this partnership in 2020 and anyone planning to vote by mail this year should visit BallotTrax to register and monitor their ballot status.

$2,300,000 previously allocated for sewer infrastructure.ConsentAgenda items were approved unanimously by the board in a single vote as prepared in the work session.

All commissioners and chair were present except for Commissioner Steve Fuller who had a death in the family. Invocation was offered by Commissioner Montrell McClendon, and Commissioner Clint Chance led the Pledge of Allegiance.

COMMISSION from page 7

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 13

Three Carroll County governing taxing entities chose to keep the full tax increase: City of Carrollton, City of Villa Rica, and Carrollton City Board of Education. Each entity’s board voted to keep their 2022 millage rate the same as the 2021 millage rate.

Carroll County Board of Education and the Carroll County Board of Commissioners.

Visit My Voter Page, make a plan, and cast your ballot in the upcoming November election.

appointment of Stephanie Baldi from 7/12/22 through

16.Request to approve a Portable ByPass Pump by Xylem Corporation at a cost of $79,938.69 to come from the water/sewer fund. Pump can cover multiple pumping stations.

Each entity voted to reduce the 2022 millage rate lower than the 2021 millage rate but higher than the full rollback amount.

Three Carroll County governing taxing entities voted for the full rollback millage rate: City of Temple, City of Whitesburg, and the City of Mt. Zion. Each board voted to reduce their millage rate, thus keeping the amount of property taxes collected to match their current and adopted budgets.

has been accepted by county elections officials. Voters can choose to receive updates via text, email or phone. Keeping up with ballots stepby-step as they move through the mail system is designed to keep voters informed and increase voter confidence in the elections process.First implemented statewide in 2020,

TwoCarroll County governing taxing entities chose to keep a portion of the increase:

15.Request to proceed with the Flowers Bakery culvert replacement by Grizzard & Associates at a cost of $274,560.

TRACKBALLOT from front page

The county school board’s lowered millage rate represents a 3.71% increase in property taxes to be collected over last year.

20.Request to approve a work order with Brennan Jones Engineering Associates, LLC, at a cost of $148,600, to design, bid and oversee construction of a new Shoreline lift station and accompanying force main, funding source to be the water/sewer fund.

18.Request to engage with Parkson Corporation for drum replacement of the influent drum screen to replace current screen which has reached the end of its useful life. Cost is $54,887.00 to come from the water/sewer fund.

19. Request to adopt a Resolution to participate in the Georgia Fund 1 Investment Pool for a higher yield of interest. This fund is a stable asset value investment pool regulated by the Georgia Office of the State Treasurer, with liquidity at a 24-hour notice. City Attorney David Mecklin reviewed the contract and gave no indication not to adopt the Resolution.

21. Request to make a pre-application for a Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program (GOSP) grant of $3,000,000 with a city match commitment of $3,000,000 in approximately 2024 with an additional two years to get the project done. This is for the Gold Nugget Trail Mirror Lake East Segment as well as others, with plans to refurbish existing trails also. As the application is not due until September, Chris Montesinos, Deputy Director of Community Development, is reaching out to possible partners that might reduce the City’s match.22.Request to adopt a Resolution and approve a utility relocation agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation for the North Bypass, which will include a roundabout on each end. The city’s water and sewer lines would need to be relocated. GDOT has offered to provide 20% of the cost which is estimated to be 23.Request$151,426. to approve budget amendments #299 through 304.

MILLAGE RATES from front page

All other business to be taken up at the regular meeting at 6:00 p.m., August 9, 2022.

23 ITEMS from page 8

4.Consideration of a Resolution authorizing the Intergovernmental Agreement for the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) Distribution, of which Carroll County will receive5.Consideration59.0%. to authorize an ARPA Subrecipient Intergovernmental Agreement with Carroll County Water Authority for the North Carroll Water Project, using ARPA funds in the amount of $6,200,000, including

14.Request from Police Chief Michael Mansour to purchase eight (8) in-car laptop computers at a cost of $12,489.52 to replace currently non-functioning computers, monies to come from the technology fund.

Shirley F. Alexander, age 71, born November 27, 1947, died Sunday, July 14, 2019

Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, born September 18, 1978, died Sunday, July 21, 2019

Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, born August 06, 1939, died July 24, 2019

Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Thursday, July 4, 2019

Madaline “Mattie” Queen Lindsey, age 81, born February 6, 1941, died August 17, 2022

Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born October 18, 1941, died Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, age 89, born September 14, 1929, died Saturday, July 20, 2019

Shirley F. Alexander, age 71, born November 27, 1947, died Sunday, July 14, 2019

Marshall Jeremy Baker, age 42, born November 9, 1979, died August 25, 2022

Anna Marsella Fazio, age 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, age 58, died July 22, 2019

Kevin William Brock, age 51, born April 28, 1971, died August 2, Garrett2022William Carrara, age 63, born June 20, 1959, died August 6, 2022

Shirley F. Alexander, age 71, born November 27, 1947, died Sunday, July 14, 2019

Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, age 76, born June 05, 1943, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Eliane Elie, age 79, born on March 2, 1943, died August 24, 2022Marjorie Vinson Ford, age 94, born on September 20, 1927, died August 24, 2022

Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, born August 06, 1939, died July 24, 2019

Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, born September 28, 1956, died Tuesday, July 9, 2019

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Earl Wayne Carden, age 80, born October 29, 1938, died Friday, June 28, 2019

Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, July 7, 2019

Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, born September 18, 1978, died Sunday, July 21, 2019

Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, born September 28, 1956, died Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Wallace Allen Worthan, age 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019

Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age 70, born December 31, 1948, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, age 76, born June 05, 1943, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, July 22, 2019

“Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 86, born August 3, 1932, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Stephen Charles Handschuh, age 70, born March 29, 1952, died August 22, 2022

Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, age 89, born September 14, 1929, died Saturday, July 20, 2019

David Ronald Simpson, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 09,Zellie2019

ews www.starnewsgaonline.com O - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMESfor complete obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com 206 770.459.6090South www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com PERSONALIZED &J.FuneralFUNERAL www.jones-wynn.com Villa Rica Chapel 770-459-3694 Douglas Chapel 770-942-2311 Our 26-acre perpetual care memorial park was developed to serve this area now and for generations to come.West Georgia Memorial Park is divided into beautiful gardens including our traditional up-right headstone section in the Garden of Memories as well as our ﬂat bronze memorial section and our Mausoleum in the Garden of Cross and our Family Estates Garden. 4194 Car rollton-Villa Rica Highway P.O. Box 1321 Carrollton, Geor gia 770.836.1336 “A beautiful place for memories” WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL www.westgeorgiamemorial.com

“Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 86, born August 3, 1932, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

David Ronald Simpson, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 09,Zellie2019

J. Hoyt Thomas 1011 Topaz Lane Villa Rica Ga Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, still LOVED, STILL MISSED and VERY www.jhoytthomas.comDEAR! 770.459.3676 FUNERAL HOME b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.comThissummerDisneycruiserswillenjoynot one, but two stops at Castaway Cay! What makes Explore the island by bike, choose a new water ***Magical Vacation Planner is a professional concierge service that provides the ultimate customer service experience for guests traveling to various Disney destinations, cruise vacations, and all-inclusive resorts.

Josie Cornelia Starnes, age 97, born April 26, 1925, died August 16, 2022Elizabeth Ashley Sweigart, age 42, born December 10, 1979, died August 22, 2022

Collins & CREMATION SERVICE Funeral Directors & Undertakers F

Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, age 89, born September 14, 1929, died Saturday, July 20, 2019

Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age 70, born December 31, 1948, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Joe Jones, Jr., May 16, 2019, 4, Lovvorn,2019 age 1932, died McGill,2019age 76, 1941, died Mullis,2019Jr., age 31, 1948, died Nichols,2019 age 66, died Friday, Sanders, age 79, 1939, died July

David Ronald Simpson, age 70, born July 21, 1948, died July 09,Zellie2019

Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Thursday, July 4, 2019

John Griffeth Womack, age 73, born March 23, 1949, died August 25, 2022

StarStar 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. APRIL 11, 2021 • VOLUME 27 NUMBER 4 NEWS REPORTING / NEWS RECAP NEWS ANALYSIS www.starnewsgaonline.com CARROLL COUNTY, GEORGIA’s ONLY LOCALLY OWNED / LOCALLY OPERATED NEWSPAPER new president See WGTC NEW PRESIDENT page 8 Effective for time frame of April 1st through April 30th Online daily local news 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) 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 Life going forward, and out of the pandemic 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 LOFCR: Local Option Face Covering Requirement 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 Dr. Julie Post will begin job April 16th See LOCAL OPTIONFACE COVERING page 5 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.Thestory 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 conSee FUNDRAISER page 7 See $20.218 BILLION page 27 1911-2019: $20.024 Billion paid 2020 alone: $20.218 Billion paid Georgia Labor Department issued more unemploymentin payments in last 12 months than prior 82 years Carroll County Mental Health Advocates ask the public to help be their “missing link” 85,888 Number of Carroll County citizens voted in the Nov. 2020 Election 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, A scant 0.039% of Carroll County voters participated in SPLOST Referendum 3,368 Number of Carroll County citizens who voted in the March 2021 SPLOST ReferendumSee 0.039% VOTED page 19 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 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 Source: Georgia Department of Public Health dph.georgia.gov/covid-19 As of APRIL 5, 2021: 856,340 total confirmed cases 16,749 total deaths Estimated state population: 10.6M GEORGIA CARROLL COUNTY As of APRIL 5, 2021: 7,271 total confirmed cases 129 total deaths Estimated county population: 122,000 Death total represents 0.00158% of population Death total represents 0.001% of population www.starnewsgaonline.com to subscribe to StarNews, send $20 for FULL ONE YEAR subscription! ($10 for senior citizens) to: STARNEWS P.O. BOX 680 Carrollton, Ga 30112 AddressNameZip $20 $10 Senior Citizen Your subscription MORE information! SubscribingMeans MORE! 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Anna Marsella Fazio, age 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Monday, July 8, 2019

770-942-2311

Wallace Allen Worthan, age 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019

Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, age 76, born June 05, 1943, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Douglas Chapel

Earl Wayne Carden, age 80, born October 29, 1938, died Friday, June 28, 2019

1011 Topaz Lane Villa Rica Ga Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, still LOVED, STILL www.jhoytthomas.comMISSED 770.459.3676 FUNERAL HOME 404-291-1187 b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com Becky Gentry designed areas for kids, adults, and families! Explore the island by bike, choose a new water adventure, soak up the sun on a white sandy island beach, and so much more! Everything you need for a perfect day at the beach is included, even an all you can eat buffet lunch! Contact me for your FREE, www.starnewsgaonline.com OBITUARIES - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMESfor complete obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com www.jcollinsfuneralhome.comwww.jones-wynn.com Villa Rica Chapel 770-459-3694 Douglas Chapel 770-942-2311 Our 26-acre perpetual care memorial park was developed to serve this area now and for gia Memorial Park is divided into beautiful gardens including our traditional up-right headstone section in the Garden of Memories at bronze memorial section and our Mausoleum in the Garden of Cross and our Family Estates Garden. illa Rica Highway ollton, Geor gia 770.836.1336rmemories”GIAMEMORIAL .westgeorgiamemorial.com

Sara Ashley Kepler, age 33, born February 24, 1989, died August 20, 2022

Anna Marsella Fazio, age 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Mary Elizabeth Kochan, age 67, dued Aug 20th, 2022

Eva Ruth Holder, age 90, born January 23, 1932, died August 19, 2022Johnnye Elizabeth King Hutchins, age 93, born November 14, 1928, died August 19, 2022

Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, July 7, 2019

206 South Carroll Road Villa Rica, Ga 770.459.609030180 www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Master Danny Joe Jones, Jr., age 2 months, born May 16, 2019, died Thursday, July 4, 2019

“Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 86, born August 3, 1932, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Elizabeth Phillips Bryce, age 89, born September 14, 1929, died Saturday, July 20, 2019

Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Sara Margaret Turner Nixon, age 90, born January 11, 1932, died August 19, 2022

Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, born August 06, 1939, died July 24, 2019 Julyborn56,ageSunday,bornSaturday,born09,70,diedJerryMonday,Davidborn2019ZellieFebruaryDanielSeptemberDeborah58,WallacediedCarolJune7,

Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born October 18, 1941, died Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, born September 28, 1956, died Tuesday, July 9, 2019

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Carol Judith Chapman, age 55, born June 24, 1964, died Sunday, July 7, 2019

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

Earl Wayne Carden, age 80, born October 29, 1938, died Friday, June 28, 2019

Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

“Marjorie” Nell Lovvorn, age 86, born August 3, 1932, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, born August 18, 1965, died July 22,Marie2019

Ara Bell D. Sanders, age 79, born August 06, 1939, died July 24, 2019

Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, died Monday, July 8, 2019

OBITUARIES

www.starnewsgaonline.com

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

Larry Wayne Spake, age 75, born February 26, 1947, died August 21, 2022Sandra Anne Sparling, age 81, born December 25, 1940, died August 21, 2022

J. UNERAL HOME

Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, age 58, died July 22, 2019

Page 14 OBITUARIES - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMESfor complete obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com 206 South Carroll Road Villa Rica, Ga 770.459.609030180 www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com PERSONALIZED FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES F www.jones-wynn.com Villa Rica Chapel 770-459-3694

Fred Sprewell, age 94, born February 28, 1925, died Saturday, July 27, 2019

Sandra Kay Davis, age 61, born September 3, 1960, died August 8, Brenda2022Walker Davis, age 75, born December 6, 1946, died August 4, Minnie2022Rebecca Day, age 87, born February 8, 1935, died August 9, Susanna2022Ranck Drewski, age 62, born June 10, 1960, died August 10, 2022

Preston Lee Smith, age 90, born June 1, 1932, died September 2, 2022Clohie Irene Robinson Smith, age 89, born April 17, 1933, died August 12, 2022

Michael H. “Coach” Lankford, age 72, died August 4th, 2022

John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, born August 18, 1965, died July 22,Marie2019

Andra Dixon McGill, age 76, born October 18, 1941, died Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age 70, born December 31, 1948, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Betty Ann Patterson, age 77, born March 27, 1945, died August 8, 2022

Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, July 22, 2019

Eugene Parker Mullis, Jr., age 70, born December 31, 1948, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Anna Marsella Fazio, age 85, born on Jan 1, 1934, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Jud David Rowell, age 52, born on July 16, 1970, died July 30, 2022Louis M. Sadowsky, age 74, born November 15, 1947, died Wednesday, August 17, 2022

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Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

Robert “Doug” Newborn, age 75, born July 2, 1947, died August 16, 2022

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Daniel Lance Walker, age 40, born September 18, 1978, died Sunday, July 21, 2019

Wallace Allen Worthan, age 56, died Monday, July 15, 2019

Harris Nell Griffin Jennings, age 83, died Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Fred Sprewell, age 94, born February 28, 1925, died Saturday, July 27, 2019

Robin Aileen Coggins, age 60, born June 7, 1962, died August 22, 2022

Donald Brasseal “Don” Bonner, age 76, born June 05, 1943, died Wednesday, July 10, 2019

1011 Topaz Lane Villa Rica www.jhoytthomas.comGa 770.459.3676 ***Magicalb.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.comCastawayCaysospecial?Thereareuniquelydesignedareasforkids,adults,andfamilies!Exploretheislandbybike,chooseanewwateradventure,soakupthesunonawhitesandyislandbeach,andsomuchmore!Everythingincluded,evenanallyoucaneatbuffetlunch!VacationPlannerisaprofessionalconciergeservicethatprovidestheultimatecustomerserviceexperienceforgueststravelingtovariousDisneydestinations,cruisevacations,andall-inclusiveresorts.

Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, died Monday, July 8, 2019

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

Deborah “Debbie” Ann West, age 58, died July 22, 2019

James B. Dean, age 92, born September 02, 1926, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Jo Ann Ayers Proctor, age 81, born February 17, 1941, died August 28, 2022

Tiffanee Dawne “Tiff” Cook, age 45, born October 12, 1973, died Friday, July 12, 2019

Fred Sprewell, age 94, born February 28, 1925, died Saturday, July 27, 2019

Bobbie Jean Dodderer, age 84, born July 9, 1935, died Monday, July 22, 2019

Randy Lee Nichols, age 66, born June 24, 1953, died Friday, July 26, 2019

1011 Topaz Lane Villa Rica Ga Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, still LOVED, STILL MISSED and VERY www.jhoytthomas.comDEAR! 770.459.3676 FUNERAL HOME 404-291-1187 b.gentry@magicalvacationplanner.com Becky Gentry designed areas for kids, adults, and families! Explore the island by bike, choose a new water adventure, soak up the sun on a white sandy island beach, and so much more! Everything you need for a perfect day at the beach is included, even an all you can eat buffet lunch! Contact me for your FREE, no obligation quote cruise vacations, and all-inclusive resorts. Travel Agent www.starnewsgaonline.com OBITUARIES - WEST GEORGIA AREA FUNERAL HOMESfor complete obituary listings daily go to: www.starnewsgaonline.com 206 770.459.6090South www.jcollinsfuneralhome.com PERSONALIZEDLOCALLY www.jones-wynn.com 770-459-3694 Our 26-acre perpetual care memorial park was developed to serve this area now and for generations to come.West Georgia Memorial Park is divided into beautiful gardens including our traditional up-right headstone section in the Garden of Memories as well as our ﬂat bronze memorial section and our Mausoleum in the Garden of Cross and our Family Estates Garden. 4194 Car rollton-Villa Rica Highway P.O. Box 1321 Carrollton, Geor gia 770.836.1336 “A beautiful place for memories” WEST GEORGIA MEMORIAL www.westgeorgiamemorial.com

Dwight Bishop, Jr., age 62, born September 28, 1956, died Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Barry Bushon Dickerson, age 68, born September 7, 1950, died Friday, July 19, 2019

Jerry Scott Shedd, age 53, died Monday, July 8, 2019

John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, born August 18, 1965, died July 22,Marie2019

Earl Wayne Carden, age 80, born October 29, 1938, died Friday, June 28, 2019

Julyborn56,ageSunday,bornSaturday,born09,70,diedJerryMonday,Davidborn2019ZellieFebruaryDanielSeptemberDeborah58,WallacediedCarolJune7,2019

John D. Brown, Jr., age 53, born August 18, 1965, died July 22,Marie2019

Shirley F. Alexander, age 71, born November 27, 1947, died Sunday, July 14, 2019

There is a way to avoid this kind of strained outcome. Durable power of attorney (POA) documents can be created that feature the Right of Disposition. Advance Medical Directives will also feature the Right of Disposition in most cases. These documents can only be prepared ahead of time, prior to the loved ones death. When there are difficulties concerning family dynamics and final wishes, these methods and documents are noticeably helpful.

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

As we read about this particualr situation, there’s another thought to consider: Burial is not considered a final form of disposition and, therefore, in many cases, does not carry with it the same liabilities and challenges from an authorization standpoint. Friends of the deceased can step into the picture and provide guidance and authorization to bury the deceased. Opposition to the burial can be voiced and acted upon with a disinterment, resulting in the loved one either being removed from one grave and placed into another grave, or removed from one grave, cremated, and placed into another grave, or simply held out in a type of permanent urn for long term display.

FUNERALJONES-WYNNHOME LLEN & McBRAYERCOTT

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One thing to consider when looking to make the best decision for your family would be to arrange your family affairs ahead of time and have the appropriate paperwork in order.

Who has the right to give permission for cremation? Let us walk you through a possible scenario.Aftera ten year bout with cancer, your sweet mother holds your hand and takes her last breath. You’ve been her caretaker and driven her to every single medical appointment for the last decade. It would have been so appreciated if your two siblings had taken time to reach out and pitch in with doctor visits and groceries and bills and yard work, all things that hung over your head morning and night.

Frustration and aggravation creep up to the surface as you ask, how this is fair? These are moments where legal requirements and case precedent circumstances seem to trump common sense, fairness, and logical thought.

When the topic of cremation authorization comes up, your funeral director explains that different states have different requirements as to who can legally authorize the cremation to take place. Suddenly, it occurs to you that your brother and sister, the same ones who never helped with mom when you needed them the most, are now needed to step in and sign to authorize the cremation the same way you will.

Villa

Who has the right to give permission for cremation?

Scott & Ellen Wynn McBrayer Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes & Crematory Meadowbrookwww.jones-wynn.comMemory or770-459-3694www.MeadowbrookMemoryGardens.comGardensor770-942-2311visit:jones-wynn.com

The Villa Rica City Council and Mayor will hold a work session at 10:00 a.m Tuesday, Sept. 13th, followed by their regular monthly meeting at 6:00 p.m. at the Holt-Bishop Justice Center, 101 Main St. There will also be a second public hearing on the proposed City Budget for FY2023 that same evening.

The agendas for the work session and the regular session will be available soon on the city’s website. The proposed budget is available for public review, both online and at city hall. Rica Second Public Hearing on FY2023 Budget, a work session, and a regular meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 13th

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www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 15

Let’s hope that both siblings will agree to mom’s wishes to be cremated.

Roy’s

tourist accomodation inspections scores

As you wore yourself thin and exhausted your mind and body to care for the same hands that once helped you with your homework and the same tender voice that talked you through your first broken heart with wisdom and love like no other, the realization has now set in that it is time to plan the ceremony to celebrate and honor your mother’s life. You’ve been the only child present for the last ten years, so you decide that you will be the decision maker at the funeral home regarding any arrangements that will be made.

Peace of mind can come in many different forms, shapes, and sizes. Creating safe and effective scenarios before your loved ones pass away is without a doubt one of the best ways to ensure this problem does not occur at the time of death.

Clearly, no one wants to experience this situation, but, surprisingly, more and more families are doing just that in today’s world.

The right of disposition follows the legal chain of kinship in Georgia, meaning that the legal order for cremation authorization is as follows: spouse, children age 18 or older, parents, then siblings. Cremation is considered a final form of disposition, which means it’s irreversible and must be decided upon with full legal consent and authorization.

So the first thing we do is get to know you — and answer your questions.

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Page 16 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com cancer. you. It’s not about It’s about

We make appointments. Arrange transportation. Answer questions about your financial concerns. Open the door to all the resources of a regional health system.

Meanwhile, your clinical team studies your case, evaluates treatments, and presents the best, evidence-based care plan to move you past cancer and on with life.

You’re someone’s parent. Someone’s daughter. Someone who’s scared, uncertain and full of questions.

And we do it in 3 days.

See ED WILSON page 23 See

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Basically, the future look/layout of Carroll County will be affected by these changes. I will not use the descriptive words “better” or “worse”, as those imply an opinion. These ordinance changes will either keep Carroll County’s agricultural and non-agricultural lands near the proportion they are now (about half and half) or change that ratio to higher/more nonagricultural land. Which do you want? Based on the conversations I listened to at the July 21st meeting about these possible changes, the commission board members sincerely want to follow the will of the citizens (political life is certainly a lot easier when you do that). But, board members have differing viewpoints of what that citizen will is exactly. It would be an inaccurate directional move into the future if one viewpoint had higher representation than any other and skewed the final changes. Read the zoning amendments. If you have questions, call or email your commissioner or the county attorney. Don’t be another pusillanimous citizen. Be involved, stand up, speak your thoughts. Be firm in stating your opinion, but always with respect. The text of the proposed amendments are available for public review at Community Development, 423 College Street, Room 503, Carrollton, 8:00-5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

PUBLISHEREDITOR/

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REPORTERS: JANICE DANIEL WAYNE REYNOLDS

Delivery

Serving on a small government board is tough - with less members, each has more duties. You are in the public eye. Pay is minimal. Meetings, calls, and complaints never end. But, elected persons must be able to successfully engage with a public that has a wide range of personalities and idiosyncracies. If that citizen had truly been out of line, the police chiefwho was in attendance - would have intervened. He did not.It was Smolar’s responsibility to be able to professionally end the interchange and without insult, such as “I do not have that information at this time, but I will be happy to get it for you. Will you give me your email after the meeting?” instead of saying “talking to her is like talking to a rock”.

have to do with what you were taught in public schools? Essentially, you were taught to be subservient. EG: Do what you are told. Be a good employee. If and when the tax money follows the student, perhaps we will teach creative thinking, developing creative business skills, and apprentice trades people .

Make a list of the office holders you really trust. The inside of a match folder will probably be adequate. Will we destroy ourselves before our enemies can?

and the grocery checkout and from the landlord what you were not taught in school? Are you paying for some student’s debt forgiveness? Why is debt forgiveness not charged back to

Network sent out an email alert last month boasting that they had successfully fought for “school choice” for all K-12 students in Arizona and would be pushing the same law here. Georgia’s Freedom Caucus contingent includes Senator Greg Dolezal of Forsyth county, Rep. Philip Singleton of Sharpsburg, Rep. Charlice Byrd of Cherokee County, Rep. Emory Dunahoo of Gillsville, Rep. Sheri Gilligan of Cumming, Rep. Timothy Barr of Lawrenceville and Sen. Burt Jones of Jackson - yes, that Burt Jones. Sen. Brandon Beach of Alpharetta also stood with the group when they held their first press conference.Rewarding and encouraging illegal aliens to come to Georgia with offers

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Are you learning at the gas pump

HORN

An important public hearing will be held Monday, Sept. 19th concerning changes to current regulations on subdivided land. Our local government wishes to gain citizen input. If you are interested in the future layout of Carroll County, please attend, listen, learn, and then voice your opinion or put your opinion in written form and send to the commission. This hearing begins at 6:30 p.m., commission room, historic courthouse, 323 Newnan Street, Carrollton.

$20

“Biden releases 250,000 unaccompanied migrant children into U.S.” was a factual story headline in a Washington D.C. newspaper last month. This goes along with the estimate from experts that the Democrats in charge of our borders have allowed nearly five million illegal border crossings since they took over the White House. Even the liberal NPR stated that more Americans than not believe we are watching an “invasion.”Iamareluctant authority on illegal immigration and a proenforcement independent voter. My Republican friends assure me they are as outraged about the ongoing leftist-run illegal immigration catastrophe as I am. I have my doubts that all of them are paying attention to GOP headquarters on this one. Common sense tells us that if someone is pro-enforcement on borders and immigration, they would do everything possible to fight this invasion. That is not what is happening.Hereis one example of many: After failing in the same task last session, a group of Republican state legislators here in Georgia are planning for legislation that would grant taxpayer-financed K-12 private school tuition labeled as “school choice” to illegal alien students whose families “migrate” to our state.

It is quite easy to have “school choice” laws here while excluding the illegals from the benefit. I have that language on our website, Immigration PoliticsGA.com (put “school choice” into the search baryou will get a lot of insight not included on “the news”).

Are you learning at the gas pump and the grocery checkout and from the landlord what you were not taught in school? . . . Do you follow the media and the paid-for political ads, or do you do research and think for yourself?

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Are you smart enough to vote?

Oh, and before the looming election, somebody should ask both candidates for governor if they would sign a bill into law that does not exclude illegal aliens from any “school choice” upgrade.

The House Republicans in Washington who run the “House

The political class used to talk of spending in “millions of dollars”, then billions of dollars, now in trillions of dollars. Do you understand the difference, or are you taught to regurgitate what you areIftold?you could earn a dollar per second, how long would it take to earn a million dollars? How about a billion dollars? How long to earn a trillion dollars? You probably don’t know how to calculate that much, so let’s make it easy: little over 11 days to earn a million at $1.00 per second; a little over 31.5 YEARS to make a billion; a little over 31,688 YEARS -typically 70 lifetimes - to earn a trillion. It took 227 YEARS for the U.S. Government to print the first $6 trillion. They recently printed $6 trillion in a matter of months.

page 23 KINGD.A. InmanThePRESIDENTDustinSociety404-316-6712 C. WILSONED WhileThoughtsShaving cedwilson587@yahoo.com (i.e. don’t be a pusillanimous citizen)

There have always been irresponsible demagogues. Do you follow the media and the paid-for political ads, or do you do research and think for yourself? So, do what you think is right, for if you believe it, for you it is true.

the institutions that suckered these financially inept applicants into borrowing for tuition, rent, pizza and beer? If you paid your own way is anyone going to give you your money back? Are you not being taught to be irresponsible?OurU.S.Government has the biggest debt in the history of the world, and we inept voters elected the selfserving political prostitutes that allowed this mess. What does all this

Whitesburg Councilman William Smolar resignation (see story front page): Longtime Councilman Smolar (12+ years) unexpectedly resigned during the Sept. 6th meeting after I asked him about his remark toward a citizen who had been, well, persistant in trying to get information from him about city grants. In the month since Smolar made that remark - clearly with the desire for her to just stop talking to him - I have spoken at length with that citizen, other councilmembers, and citizens who witnessed the August 1st interchange. He said it. He was annoyed, at the least. She wanted the information. She was persistent, at the least.

“Not

EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Some GA GOP legislators are pushing taxpayer-funded private K12 education for illegals.

Pro tip, after spending the last eighteen years in the state Capitol: It would be a mistake to assume your own legislators are reliably “no” on this one. Readers may want to ask about it now, but it is important to know that Senator Mike Dugan voted D.A. KING

of a private school education is not a conservative ideal. It will not deter illegal immigration into Georgia. It certainly will not produce more votes from real pro-enforcement conservatives. A 1982 Supreme Court decision says American taxpayers must fund a K-12 education in our public schools for students regardless of immigration status. There is no requirement that we expand that benefit to private schools for the illegal “migrants” who are here and those on their way.

Freedom Caucus” have started a state network group and have a chapter in Georgia - the “Georgia Freedom Caucus.” The State Freedom Caucus

What was it Johnny Copeland sang about? “Everybody wants a piece of me, but I just can’t break free”. Councilman Smolar broke free, but I am truly sorry that resignation was his path of choice, instead of perhaps, just claiming a “bad day” and admitting it was unprofessional behavior on his part. Despite his unceremonious end, I thank William Smolar for his years of service to the citizens of Whitesburg.

Important public hearing on September 19th: please attend, listen, learn, and then politely and respectfully voice your opinion Page 17 September 11, 2022

COMMENTARY ideas and criticisms. Your right to read this newspaper is protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.

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just what happened, but what matters”

Specifically, the issue concerns minimum acreage to subdivide (four or less?) and possible shapes of future land plots (flag lots?).Also, currently, codes allow, in certain circumstances, for a county engineer to make exceptions to codes without first gaining permission (from anyone).

Are you smart enough to vote?

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

The right answer is probably not. Were you taught cursive writing? Probably not. Were you taught the meaning of numbers? Again, probably not. Were you taught how to calculate interest rates, earning or paying? The difference between Debit and Credit cards? How to evaluate costs or investments? How to apply for a job? How to make change without a calculator? If your bill is $6.04, give the clerk a ten dollar bill and a dime and watch the confusion.

paid

A vote for well-spoken politician Senator Raphael Warnock is a vote for President Joe Biden, as I understand that he votes with Biden 96% of the of the time. Some think that Biden is one of the most incompetent, selfserving, sexist and racist political figures of our generation. Biden’s vice presidential choice could have be anyone so long as the choice was a Black female. His choice was reportedly involved with Willie Brown, mayor of San Francisco in the early 1990s. So much for morality.

Pushing taxpayer-funded private K-12 education for illegals

The Georgia Freedom Caucus Network is 100% GOP. We hope conservative readers will tell them to back off the promise of taxpayerfunded private school education for “undocumented workers.”

I am a reluctant authority on illegal immigration and a pro-enforcement independent voter. . . Rewarding and encouraging illegal aliens to come to Georgia with offers of a private school education is not a conservative ideal.

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

LOVINSCEDDRICK

The same holds true for our youth today. We need to nurture them, help them to grow, and prepare them for what is to come. Not just toss them to the world and see how it works out. To to stop adding youth into adult conversations and adult situations

Today, our kids are living very differently than most of us did growing up. They are certainly dealing with some challenges that most of us never even dreamed about. With so many things coming at our youth today, it has caused them to lose hope. During the pandemic, many states have shown an increase in youth suicides. At a time when young people should be discovering the world, its possibilities, and who they might become one day, many have chosen to take their own lives. Our society is technologically advanced, and with all the ease, comfort, and information that technology delivers, one might think that it would aid in uplifting our youth. But that does not seem to be the case. Technology is not the answer.

recordings from those days, collected on the CD, “Blaze Foley: The Dawg Years”. All of that eventually led Josh to get in touch with Sybil, in the first place - which led to this dinner.So,it was very significant to Josh when he performed those songs from that particular CD, at the very spot where Margery recorded Blaze doing them in 1977. That’s how the evening drew to its end. Now, I can now tell you what we talked about earlier.

Today, nearly 15% of the world’s population is disabled. This percentage grows, because the population is living longer. The disabled are the largest minority in the world. It is also true that many are counted as “disabled” because of psychological disease. But so many of those will benefit, be more incorporated into their communities, by the innovations that are coming. Try an internet search using “world’s population of disabled”.

Daoism (or Taoism) was said to be introduced into Korea in 624 AD. Dao literally means “way”, but can also be interpreted as road, channel, path, doctrine, or line. In Dao, it is “the One, which is natural, spontaneous, eternal, nameless, and indescribable. It is at once the beginning of all things and the way in which all things pursue their course.” Daoism is believed to have influenced Buddhism in

concerns were how many weeks can I make my new school clothes last, how long I can keep my shoes looking new, would I have a girlfriend this year, and would I make the track team? I was never concerned that I would go to school one day and I might be murdered in my classroom by a deranged mass murderer. Neither was I concerned that I could go to the movies and I might be shot. These are real considerations for today’s youth.

Eventually, we watched Peter Parker turn from a young teen into a man. In the beginning, he wasn’t ready for that responsibility and weight, but he carried it anyway. Later we see how it negatively affected him, but through experience, we saw him get on the right track. As an avid comic book reader growing up, I remember Superman being about “truth, justice, and the American way”. I was disturbed to see, as an adult, that the “American way” has been removed. The comic book hero that I grew up with, it’s not a comic book hero that is in the movies today. We are changing so much and not looking at how it affects our children.

At one point, we were talking about automobiles, and it suddenly dawned on all of us: The importance of the development of automateddriving! Here is an area of modern life where the blind may very well be key innovators. When you think of it, the truth of that statement might be more widespread than we have ever previously realized. Corporations like Google already have made moves in this direction. Specifically, this would be true in areas like Artificial Intelligence. I’m not referring to an IQ-factor, but am thinking of social factors. (And thank you Josh Pearson for opening those insights.) Here’s why: The next decades will usher in a new and unimagined society.

Recently, there came to dinner our close friend and neighbor and fellow StarNews columnist, Sybil Thomas. Sybil brought along Joshua Pearson who brought his companion and seeing-eye dog, York. These new friends come from Northhampton, Mass. The occasion was not just to share her guests - Sybil would have been with us otherwise - it was to share my birthday cake! The chocolate cake recipe from Waco, Texas was a beauty: to die for!

AUTHORvunc61@gmail.com

everything, there is a season, and a time to every purpose under Heaven.

Page 18 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

Say what you want, but a healthy respect for God is what kept me from doing a whole lot of things that I should not have been doing. Unless your kids are in a private or Christian school, their school curriculm is probably devoid of God. Do kids even pledge allegiance anymore? I thank God that my kids are grown, but I am concerned about the grandkids that I have.As

Unlike the three other Eastern religions, Christianity has come to me by way of a Westerner who was from the advanced country, the United States of America. The missionary was the only person in town who drove an automobile! The fundamental article of faith – a sinner is saved by grace through faith – came to me much later.

monks with shiny hairless heads in the grey robes, lightly tapping on the hollowed-out wooden block, were chanting sutra as the smell of burning incense was permeating throughout the temple. It was quite a spectacle. The scene, sound, and smell remain in my mind to this day.Then,

Turns out, it was Sybil’s memoir, “Living in the Woods in a Tree”, that caught the imagination of very young Josh Pearson. That discovery was followed by his also discovering the

If you would please, bear with me for a moment as I digress. I promise it will make

A bit about York. Later, right after dessert, Josh took his guitar from its case, to sing some early songs of Blaze Foley’s, who was known to us, way back then, as Deputy Dawg. These were songs composed in and near Whitesburg in the early 1970s, when Deputy Dawg and Sybil were living in the Tree House. That tree house was started by another dear friend, Jim Eckert, a beloved designer and builder, who

just died in New Orleans a few days ago. I’m sure that all who knew Jim, when he lived in Carroll County, know of his passing. So, while Josh was playing those songs, songs that I’ve never heard performed by anyone but Blaze, we were at our round-table. We had just finished dinner. I was pulled back opposite Josh and could see York lying at his feet, listening, and . . . gently keeping time with his tail!

So, a man and his dog came to our table. Like troubadours, they delighted and entertained us, and then left us with the good feeling that good things are coming. (If we can hold our issues to a simmer!)

The appearance of Confucianism in Korea, my native county, is vaguely recorded as some-

COMMENTARY

As we arrived at the entrance gate of the temple, I noticed a large wooden plaque over the lintel. There was the name of my father, engraved as a major donor of farmland to the temple. In the evening, a large courtyard was decorated with brightly lighted lanterns in commemoration of Buddha’s birthday. Rows of

When I was a youth growing up, my main

My Christian faith sits on top of the multiple religions of East Asia

Millennials Christian Ministry (MCM) BOURISBILL digi@mindspring.com

C.DANPAK

The longer I live in this country, the more I realize that I am the product of a multi-faith tradition. My Christian faith sits on top of the multiple religions of East Asia: Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism. To deny it would be tantamount to either a deliberate deception or deplorable ignorance on my part. This is because they are baked into my psyche.

time in the 4th century. The following statement appears in describing how Confucianism has influenced the Korean people: “One of the most substantial influences in Korea was the introduction of Confucian thought as part of the cultural influence from China. Today, the legacy of Confucianism remains a fundamental part of Korean society, shaping the moral system, the way of life, social relations between old and young, high culture, and is the basis for much of the legal system.”

Perhaps we should reevaluate the responsibility and the expectations that we put on our youth. Perhaps we should let them remain kids while they are kids and prepare them for adulthood as they grow. Personally, I think the kids got a bad deal when we took God out of the schools, and it looks like we may have replaced Him with guns.

adults, we need to lead and stop being led by our children. We need to stop asking what their opinion is and start teaching them so that they can form the right opinions. We need to stop trying to be their friend, and concentrate on being their parents. Let’s give them hope and help them live. They are our future and tomorrow’s leaders.

Was he just quietly acknowledging our awareness of each other? In this case, I really don’t think so. York was specially educated and matched to Joshua, and after several years, he knows Josh from inside to out. So, imagine this special dog and then try to incorporate Josh’s description of himself, as he spent hours and hours slowly learning to play those songs, and learning to sing them in a register that resembles the Dawg’s voice, and then figuring, and eventually playing the fingering that the Dawg had developed. That process takes time, no matter what the circumstances. For York, it must have been something like a revelation, at first experiencing disturbing noises and then the music, and then the song! That’s why I don’t think he was just saying a quiet “Hi” to me.

Josh is 30 years old, young enough to be my great-grandson! That’s what made our conversation so interesting. His familiarity with computer-based technology and related topics really stimulated my curiosity. For instance, when I asked him how many blind programmers there were, he answered, maybe 15,000, and he guessed mostly using C++ and Java languages, and added that number was no where near what was needed. To which I responsed that back when I started making a living at computers in 1957, there were some 15,000 programmers in the entire world!

While I was lost in the flurry of the passage of decades in my life, Josh went on with his side of the subject, starting from the need for more blind programmers, and then moving into other areas of technology that seem to be of benefit for the blind.

and nonagenerian “The Wood Bracelet”

Conversations on music, computer programmers, and automated driving

To me, it seems that we have placed our youth into the position of adults. We bring them into adult conversations that they should have no part of. We poll them about things they never should have been asked about as a youth. Sometimes, the media will even look to them for answers about things adults should be answering. Let children be children. Let them stay young and youthful as long as possible. We need to stop adding them into adult conversations and situations. We have placed a great deal of weight and pressure upon the shoulders of today’s youth. And this has happened at a time when they should be considering the future, and perhaps the wonders of this world.

We need

China, producing Chan (Seon in Korea) Buddhism.Thehistorical record indicates that Buddhism was introduced to Korea in 372 AD. My father was a devout Buddhist. Korean Buddhism consists mostly of Seon Buddhism Lineage. At the age of 11, I visited a Buddhist temple with my older brother as our father led the way. All three of us carried a backpack of rice as we trekked over the unpaved road for about 10 miles. Back in the 1930s, everyone walked; the automobile was non-existent in my hometown except for the Christian missionary from America.

sense. We all have heard Uncle Ben tell Peter Parker [aka Spiderman] that “with great power comes great responsibility”. Peter seemed to have made it to being okay for a while, but if you remember, in one of his movies, he became very lackadaisical, and even got to the point where he didn’t care about being a hero anymore. He had too much put on him and cracked under pressure.

how did I become a Christian? It was not because I felt a sudden revelation. The conversion started with a mundane secular motivation: Christianity appealed to me as the religion that represented modernity.

roadside determinations as to whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Through the performance of these tests or evaluations, the officer subjectively determines how the motorist reacts to and performs the tests.

and asks him to follow it from side-to-side without moving his head. The officer is looking for any shaking motion (nystagmus) in the eyes. The theory behind this test is that nystagmus can be an indication that the driver may have consumed alcohol and/or drugs. A nonintoxicated person is supposed to track the pen’s motion with fluid withHowever,movement.peopleeyeproblemshave

turn around and walk back to the starting point. Any indication of being wobbly, not beginning when instructed, or stumbling can lead to an arrest.

If you think these roadside sobriety tests are easy to perform, try the walk and turn test, and the one leg stand test at home. You may be surprised at the results. A sober person with great athletic skills has trouble “passing” either of these dexterity tests.

This coming November is recognized as “National Adoption Month.” First conceived as a statewide event in Massachusetts in 1976, this year’s campaign is focused on the thousands of teenagers and young adults in foster care who still need a loving, permanent family and a place to call home. President Reagan proclaimed it National Adoption Week in 1984, and President Clinton expanded it to a month-long activity in 1995.

While clearly a cause that pro-life advocates support by praying, being foster parents - and sometimes adopting children - the event ignores a much larger need: encouraging women planning an abortion to opt to carry

lion plus couples in the USA seeking to adopt a child!Adoption vs. abortion, and reasons for proadoption: There are approximately 140,000 adoptions performed annually in the US. Unfortunately, less than 2% of the adoptions performed are under 18. With 3,700 abortions performed daily in the U.S. that equates to 27,000 possible adoptive opportunities annually. Based upon the numbers listed above (1.5 million couples seeking adoptive infants) you can see the shortfall and reasoning for these couple having to wait years for adopt. In many situations, frustration leads to these couples giving up hope for the possibility to raise a family!Inarecent

See JASON SWINDLE page 23

November is “National Adoption Month” HACKDUANE West Georgia Right to Life PRESIDENT “The Heartbeat of Georgia” 470-370-2452Duanehack46@gmail.com

Lately, though, bird migrations are believed to be in flux. As the seasons warm up, the signals birds used to cue movement patterns, etched into place for millenia, are no longer predictable.TheChattahoochee, like many broad rivers, is a flyway, a corridor for a variety of migratory beings - Monarch butterflies come to mind - a visual marker for

these words were a balm. And perhaps there is some truth in them.

Both sober and intoxicated drivers are pulled over by law enforcement every day. There is always an increase in traffic stops during holidays. While most traffic stops are routine, sometimes drivers are accused of driving under the influence. (DUI).

Experts estimate that after the Roe vs. Wade decision tightening or even dissolving of abortion in the U.S., an additional 10,000 more infants may be available via adoptive agencies nationally. A far cry to meet the needs of 1mil-

As we move into September and autumn, I’m reminded that a trailing Canada Goose V

RIVER RAMBLES page 20

DUI: Field sobriety tests are 100% voluntary; and politely refuse the breath test

alternative to abortion?

First, never drink and drive. If you choose to drink, stay home or make sure that you have a designated driver. We want for our community

navigating the way. Yet, I can’t tell you the last time I saw an undulating necklace of honking geese flapping high in the sky. Nowadays, they come in smaller, lower Vsfive or seven birds as opposed to 20 or 30 - and often cross back in the opposite direction later in the day. More Canada Geese are staying put in winter as anyone who lives on a subdivision lake or a golf course can tell you. Some might call it laziness, but the geese are doing what animals do: They are adapting to new weather patterns and changes in habitat in order to live in a rapidly heating world.

It doesn’t matter what side of the political aisle either one of us align with. I think we can all agree that one choosing to get an abortion or keeping the infant to be put up for adoption can have severe emotional consequences.

The three most common tests are:

Then, the officer will instruct the driver to

One has to wonder: Why isn’t there a national campaign to empower young people (noted above) promoting adoption as a viable

COMMENTARY

article, a review of active PRCs (Pregnancy Resource Centers) across the U.S. reported that once the mother has an opportunity to view an ultra-sound at one of their facilities and had even one time considered having an abortion, 80% of those that took the test stated they would now not consider an abortion. Those of us in the Pro-Life Community are so thankful for the work performed by our local PRC in Carrollton - our “boots on the ground for life!”

(1) the walk and turn test

Since the deeply disappointing ruling to allow a mining operation on the banks of the heardenterpriseopponentsRiver,Chattahoocheevehementofthehavebeentosay,“I’dratherhavearockquarrythanasubdivision.”See

(3) horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) test

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 19

3. The one leg stand is another common dexterity test. The driver is asked to stand upright on one leg while the other leg is held off the ground

Organizations such as Loveadoptionlife. com, Safe Haven Baby Boxes, Abiding Love Charities, and, of course, the local Carrollton Pregnancy Resource Center are great resources for those that need guidance, direction and love during these trying times around difficult life decisions.

THOMASROSENYBIL

FSTs are 100 percent voluntary. No one can make a person submit to roadside tests. Regardless of the circumstances, when asked to perform any FST, always politely let the officer know that you decline. Keep in mind that the officer is just fulfilling his or her duty to keep our roads as safe as possible. It is not personal.Sometimes,

Sound advice varies from case to case. But, one thing is constant when a person is the subject of a DUI investigation; do not ever take any Field Sobriety Tests. (FSTs).

Since the deeply disappointing ruling to allow a mining operation on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, vehement opponents of the enterprise have been heard to say, “I’d rather have a rock quarry than a subdivision.” The first time these words were spoken aloud, I was shocked. What? After two years of ardent struggle, were we ready to surrender so quickly and completely? The phrase was soon repeated. Resignation spreads like a variant;

trouble passing this test. Nystagmus naturally occurs in some people’s eyes. Even a driver with a cup of coffee can fail this test because many chemicals, like caffeine, can create nystagmus.

Anothertests.FST, that should not be confused with the Intoxilizer 9000 (the breath testing machine at the police station), is the portable

Unfortunately, due to tighter restrictions, discontinuing of adoptive practices or challenges with covid19 the last three years, international adoptive options have decreased by 87%, with only 2,971 adoptions of international children reported in 2020.

Domestic Infant Adoption: Over the past several years, a new wave of thinking has penetrated into the adoption conversations for infants. Birth mothers voluntarily select a family to become permanent adoptive parents of her child. This process includes interviews, photos, possible agreed upon requests from the birthing mother for visits, communications with the child once adoption is completed.

2. Another common FST is the walk and turn. This test focuses on the dexterity of the driver. He or she will be asked to stand still, and upon the officer’s command start to step forward while placing heel-to-toe and walk a straight line for a certain number of paces.

SWINDLE LAW GROUP, P.C.

FSTs were developed by police agencies to assist law enforcement officers in making

(2) the one leg stand test

River Rambles syllabil@aol.com

Keep in mind that you are not allowed to practice any of these tests. The camera will be recording your first attempt at these dexterity tests. If you think these roadside sobriety tests are easy to perform, try the walk and turn test, and the one leg stand test at home. You may be surprised at the results. A sober person with great athletic skills has trouble “passing” either of these dexterity

Learning to manage disappointment is, I’m told, the hallmark of being an adult. Knowing when to stop fighting and surrender to the inevitable; doing the work of reshaping mental and behavioral patterns in order to get on with it. The thought of explosions on the river once seemed unacceptable, yet there are worse things we tell ourselves now, and so make the necessary psychic adjustments to move through whatever the new reality brings.

SWINDLEASON

1. The HGN test is administered when an officer holds a pen in front of the driver’s face

But through a well-planned out and prayerful adoption process, the mother and adoptive parents can allow that child a chance to have a fruitful and fulfilling life, one which can allow both sets of parents the possibility and opportunity to see that child flourish, versus having its life taken through the process of abortion and not having a chance for life.

their children to term and place them for adoption with a reputable adoptive parenting couple. Why are so few babies available for adoption? It’s estimated there are 1.5 to 2 million couples in the United States that are actively trying to adopt a child. They face the harsh reality that there simply are not enough babies to adopt because over one million babies are aborted every year in the US.

The U.S. Children’s Bureau encourages adoption agencies to create new opportunities for older youth and young people to be engaged in their own case planning as a means for preparing them for permanency.

In biological and ecological terms, this quality - which some might call wisdom - is known as adaptation. Plants and animals excel at it and those that don’t pay the price of extinction. (Take heed, humans!) For instance, as birds evolved, they developed flight strategies for dealing with the weather. Too cold? Too hot? Go someplace else for the season. (Note: In far shorter time, some of us

The best available data indicate that only 4% of women who experience an unplanned pregnancy decide to place their child available for adoption. The latest information available via the CDC states before Roe vs. Wade, 9% of unmarried woman chose adoption versus abortion. By the 1980s, after the Roe decision, the adoptive rate fell to 2% and the late 90s into the 2000s the percent of adoptions versus abortions was less than one percent.

have made a similar adaptation). Millions of years ago, in response to changing seasonal temperatures north and south - not to mention the demands of raising families - flock migration was sewn into avian DNA. Today we see it in the long, classic, V-shaped strands of Canada Geese, winging south in autumn and again back north in spring.

a driver will feel like FSTs are mandatory. This is because officers are trained to urge drivers to engage in FSTs without actually commanding them to do so. The officer has no legal duty to apprise the driver that the tests are voluntary.

RAMBLES from page 19

(UWF) in Pensacola, Fla., 2013-2017.

Dr. Kelly shared that the university is celebrating the first anniversary of their communication, film, and media school. The school is now the home of the Georgia Film Academy. Everything has changed. Kelly commented, “I have never had a student tell me after I graduate I want to move in with my parents and I don’t care how much money I make…and I will pay you tuition. They want a career! We need to be able to connect them with companies and industry. Before, we taught students and then set them free. Now, we need to make sure we are tying students in with companies before they graduate. We need to train them up a bit. We have had 4,000 internships in the past three months.”

“When I talk to hospital administrators, they ask how many nursing graduates we will have, and then they tell me we will hire every one of them. We can’t control where the students go, but we can control how many we can produce. Last year, we grew the nursing program 32%, and by the end of this year 52%. No university in the state is producing more nursing graduates than we are.”

The School of Communications, Film, and Media has embedded three companies on campus. Students meet with professionals. “You won’t find many universities across the country with companies embedded on their campuses.”

Enrollment this year will be just under 13,000, a slight decrease in undergraduate and slight increase in graduate“Westudents.hadto pivot,’’ Dr. Kelly continued. “UWG needed to be a solution to a problem, just like any business must be a solution for somebody or you go out of business. We must find the same balance as any other business of being a solution. A student thinks, ‘I want to be somebody, be successful’ and he turns to the university for that solution. For example, of the teachers of the year last year in the region, 73% were West Georgia graduates.That was a quality solution for the university.”“Wehave a teacher and nursing crisis, not only here but nationally. We are the largest producer of professional educators in the state of Georgia. We produce 30% of the educators in the state of Georgia and 30% more educators than the next 4 top producers combined.”

by Wayne J. Reynolds

They are also offering a Masters degree in Integrative Wellness. It is the only degree in the country where when the student gets done, the student then sits for their national certification. They are also offering Digital Advertising and Media.“We began having declining undergraduate enrollment six years ago. We are 70% female and 30% male student enrollment. Tuition costs are $182 per credit hour not including housing. Most students walk away with 90% of tuition paid for. There are cost offsets. And we are more efficient and leaner.”

Page 20 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

In conclusion Dr. Kelly stated that there must be a payoff for students—giving students value. westgaedu.com

Kelly also discussed another big challenge. UWG has a 650 million dollar impact each year on this community. They have had a 10% decline in enrollment here as there has been across the state and country. “That is a serious problem for this community. We need to build this university to last and adapt to the 21st centuryUWGeconomy.”isadding three new degrees. One will be an embedded Nexus degree. “We are the only university in the country who is offering a Nexus degree in computer programming. We are tied into 20 companies in the Atlanta area.”

Recently, Dr. Brendan Kelly, president of the University of West Georgia (UWG) spoke to the Carrollton Kiwanis Club about the new year and changes at the university, as well as changes in colleges nationally. The Kiwanis club currently meets in the Hubbard Room in the dining hall on the UWG campus. Dr. Kelly began by addressing club members stating, “Today, you had an experience no one has had in two and half years - walking through a room full of students! College is back. We have made a lot of changes at the university over the past two years. But, it is not only us, higher education is changing. We have known for six years that we needed to create more value . . . and long overdue. Covid just accelerated that need.”Dr.Brendan Kelly began serving as president of the University of West Georgia April 1, 2020. He previously served as chancellor of the University of South Carolina Upstate in Spartanburg, S.C., a position he held since 2017. Prior to USC Upstate, Kelly was vice president of university advancement, foundation president and chief executive officer of the historic trust at the University of West Florida

alumni. . . It was proof of concept… to add in these types of elements. We have spent a lot of time creating a plan to revitalize Maple Street. We want to make sure Carrollton identifies with the university so businesses and residents ask students if they attend UWG. We want to be the students first choice for the university and the community. That is why we are going to endeavor with the city to make Maple Street a world-class coordinator from the university to downtown. And we need to continue to build more advanced amenities.”

RIVER

Before, we taught students and then set them free. Now, we need to make sure we are tying students in with companies before they graduate. We need to train them up a bit. We have had 4,000 internships in the past three months.”

Their stilted black legs were held straight out behind them, like stockinged rudders; the collective downbeat of alabaster wings moved in perfect syncopation. Flying as one, their choreographed flight became a mystical encounter, specific and also startlingly vast, an unexpected glimpse of the numinous. Such transcendent sights may become fewer on our portion of the river now. With the coming of the quarry, will migrating flocks alter their routes to avoid the dangers of blasting? How long will it take before too many pay the price? Tell me, would a subdivision be better, or worse, for the birds?

A nine-bird flock of very large, very white creatures, flying upstream in a tight V five feet above the water, snowy wings profoundly vivid against the brown current and dark green banks. (Silly goose that I am, I thought only geese flew in a V-shape. These birds were much bigger, maybe storks or egrets or herons, all of whom learned long ago the aerodynamic benefits of flying in Vs.)

UWG’s president and the 21st Century: finding a balance just like any other business

used to be a sign of fall, like colder nights and crisper apples, which leads me to recall a sight I saw on the river several autumns ago.

Dr. Kelly stated that UWG is hiring the best athletic coaches in the country, that they need coaches who are hungry to win championships. He said that students need a larger atmosphere. For example, “We added a beer garden in the concourse at the football stadium…a great way to have community between students and

8/08/2022: Hampton Inn 102 S CottageHill Rd Carrollton 85 Unsatisfactory

8/10/2022: Holiday Inn Express 1545 Hwy 27 S Carrollton 85 Unsatisfactory

8/17/2022: Bowdon Senior Center 101 Barr Avenue Bowdon

8/18/2022: Bojangles 750 Hwy 61 Villa Rica

8/18/2022: ATL Hibachi 600 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy Villa Rica

Violations: GEmergency phone not operable. Ladder loose. Flow meter stuck and currently not reading accurately.

8/15/2022: Arby’s122 Hwy 61 Villa Rica

Violations: Free chlorine reading at 0 ppm. 8/02/2022: KidsPeace 101 KidsPeace Bowdon 83 Unsatisfactory

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www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 21

Violations: Free chlorine at less than 1 ppm. Hand rails and ladder loose.

8/03/2022: Wildwood Apartments 540 S Carroll Hwy Villa Rica 80 Unsatisfactory

restaurant

8/11/2022: Holiday Inn Express 100 Cooley Way Villa Rica

8/22/2022: BBQ Plus 118 Wesley Mills Road Villa Rica

Violations: Emergency phone is not operating.

Violations: Emergency phone not operational. Mark pipes with directional arrows.

Violations: Free chlorine at less than 1 ppm. Clean skimmer baskets. Shower not working properly.

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

Violations: Pool fencing missing multiple bars and showing spacing great than 4 inches wide. Flow meter currently stuck and not reading properl to date. Check pool chemicals twice a day.

Violations: Strainer sitting in back hand sink. No soap or paper towels at back hand sink. Small reach in cooler for precooked chicken and rice with an ambient temp of 52F and food hold temps of rice 48F and chicken 47F. Tilapia thawing in meat sink in standing water. Instructed to thaw in cooler, under running water, or as part of the cooking process. Bootled waters and Cokes stored on floor in walk in cooler. Observed scoop in rice and chicken with handle touching food. Keep handles up and away from food. Cups in dispenser with lips exposed. Keep sleeves up to prevent contamination with lip contact surface.

8/25/2022: Courtyard by Marriott 180 Barnes Avenue Carrollton 97 Satisfactory 8/04/2022: Oak Mountain Golf 409 Birkdale Blvd Carrollton 95 Satisfactory 8/08/2022: Super 8 195 Commerce Drive Villa Rica 95 Satisfactory 8/30/2022: Mayfair Carrollton 318 Columbia Drive Carrollton 94 Satisfactory 8/03/2022: Arbor Bend 200 Industrial Blvd Villa Rica 85 Unsatisfactory

Violations: Free chlorine currently reading at 0 ppm.

Carroll County Department of Public Health

8/01/2022: McIntosh Park 1046 McIntosh Circle Whitesburg 100 Satisfactory 8/05/2022: Millstone Townhomes 233 Hays Mill Rd Carrollton 100 Satisfactory 8/05/2022: Sunset Hills Country Club 1 Club Drive Carrollton 100 Satisfactory 8/05/2022: Renew Carrollton 598 S Park Street Carrollton 100 Satisfactory 8/08/2022: Quality Inn 1077 Alabama Avenue Bremen 100 Satisfactory 8/08/2022: Comfort Inn 132 Hwy 61 Connector Villa Rica 100 Satisfactory 8/11/2022: Club Fitness 830 Maple Street Carrollton 100 Satisfactory 8/15/2022: Oakwood Mobile Homes 1745 Bankhead HwyCarrollton 100 Satisfactory 8/15/2022: Elizabeth Village Mobile Home Park 1055 Alabama St Carrollton 100 Satisfactory 8/08/2022: Hampton Inn 28 Price Creek Road Bremen 99 Satisfactory 8/02/2022: West Woods 1321 Lovvorn Road Carrollton 98 Satisfactory

8/04/2022: Best Western Plus 104 S Cottage Hill Rd Carrollton 85 Unsatisfactory

Violations: Water is cloudy, cannot see bottom of pool nor main drains. Free chlorine is less than 1 ppm.

8/11/2022: Magnolia Lake 717 Burns Road Carrollton

Violations: No CFSM (Certified Food Service Manager) on staff. Need at least one CFSM on staff within 60 fays. Repreat violation/ Raw thawed ground beef stored over lettuce, condiments, and drinks. Chemical bottle with cleaner and no labeling of name. Rusted shelves in cooler. Ice build up in freezer.

public swimming pool health inspections scores

8/16/2022: Big Bear 401 Maple Street Carrollton

8/10/2022: Ashven Estate Catering 100 McPherson Rd Villa Rica

8/25/2022: Holiday Inn Express 125 Hwy 27 Bypass Bremen 83 Unsatisfactory

8/22/2022: Burger King 584 Hwy 61 Villa Rica

Carroll County Sales Barn 225 Sales Barn Road, Carrollton August 8, 2022: 506

August 29, 2022: 643

You may want to start with your health insurance. If you’re satisfied with your coverage, and it’s essentially the same as it’s been, you may well want to stick with what you have. However, many employers are increasingly offering high-deductible health plans, which, as the name suggests, could

Carroll County prison population

AUGUST 1- 31, 2022

Total population as of SEPTEMBER 1, 2022: 234 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)

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

September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com

Actually, it’s a good idea to pay close attention to all your benefits. Some of the offerings may have changed from last year, and you might have experienced changes in your own life, too, which might lead you to look for something different from your existing benefits package.

Carroll County jail population

taxable as income if not used for a qualified expense.)

Derick Newton is financial advisor, 937B Maple Street, Carrollton, GA 770-832-9515

AUGUST 1-31, 2022:

There’s no magic formula for how much life insurance you need - you’ll need to consider a variety of factors, such as your income, family size, mortgage and so on — but it may be necessary to supplement your employer’s coverage with a private policy.

August 22, 2022: 495

Carroll County pistol

Total population as of SEPTEMBER 1, 2022: 474

CarrollpermitsCounty births

Once again, it’s the season for football games and back-to-school activities. And if you work for a medium-size or large employer, it will soon be open enrollment season - the time of year when you can review your employee benefits and make changes as needed. What areas should you focus on?

Carroll County cattle receipts

Your employee benefits package can be a valuable part of your overall financial strategy. So, as open enrollment season proceeds, take a close look at what you already have, what’s being offered, and what changes you need to make. It will be time well spent.

Your next benefit to consider: Life insurance. Your employer may offer a group life insurance plan, but you’ll want to evaluate whether it’s sufficient for your needs, especially if you’ve experienced changes in your personal situation over the past year, such as getting married or adding a new child.

Tanner Medical Center, Villa Rica:� Girls: 36 Boys: 42

Your HSA contributions are made with pretax dollars, so they can reduce your taxable income for the year. Also, your earnings grow tax-free, and your withdrawals are tax-free, provided the money is used for qualified medical expenses. (Withdrawals taken before age 65 that aren’t used for qualified medical expenses are taxable and subject to a 20% penalty; once you reach 65, the penalty no longer applies, although withdrawals are still

Look closely at open enrollment choices

Tanner Medical Center, Carrollton: Girls: 53 Boys: 62

Males: 416 Females: 58

Number of Weapons Carry Permits applied for: AUGUST 1-31, 2022: 150

marriage licenses

entail more out-of-pocket costs for you. But high-deductible plans may also offer something of benefit: the ability to contribute to a health savings account (HSA).

FINANCIAL NEWTONERICK

Beyond the various insurance policies your employer may offer, you’ll also want to closely look at your 401(k) or similar retirement plan. Typically, you can make changes to your 401(k) throughout the year, but it’s important to make sure your investment selections and contribution amounts are still aligned with your risk tolerance and goals. Also, are you contributing enough to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered? And if you’ve already receiving the match, can you still afford to put in more to your plan if such a move makes sense for you?

Your employer may also offer disability insurance as a benefit. Some employers’ disability policies are fairly limited, covering only short periods of time, so you may want to consider a private policy.

August 15, 2022: 615

Given that our dollars are reduced in value, some gurus are now saying “hoard gold and silver.” Let us explore. For about 3000 years, gold and silver were used as money. The value ratio of gold to silver was 16 to one - which would mean that gold is now overpriced or silver is underpriced. However, today, gold is primarily used for jewelry and silver has become an industrial commodity as the best conductivity of electricity.

We wish all state legislators would remember that Georgia is home to more illegal aliens than Arizona when they consider any legislation under the Gold Dome.

And we wish voters would remind them to do exactly that.

What is local government doing about Georgia’s illegal immigration crisis? We’ll take a look next month. Is the Carroll County Board of Commissioners still in violation of state illegal immigration laws on administering public benefits?

King is proprietor of ImmigrationPolitics GA.com and president of the Marietta-based Dustin Inman Society. He has the announced goal of making Georgia as inhospitable to illegal immigration as possible.

breath testing device, or “alcosensor.” This alcohol screening device can detect the presence of alcohol if it has been properly calibrated. However, like other FSTs, these devices used at the roadway should be politely declined.Sinceover 90% of DUI cases involve the driver performing FSTs, the driver’s attorney must challenge the subjective nature of the evaluations, the accuracy of the principles behind the tests, the accuracy of the administration of the tests, and all circumstances connected with the evaluations.

As I said in the beginning, don’t drink and drive in the first place. Intoxicated drivers cause many vehicle accidents. Some of these accidents result in death or serious injury to others.However, innocent people are accused of drinking and driving every day. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you are being investigated for DUI, remember that you should always politely decline to perform any Field Sobriety Test.

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So, if all gold underground were no longer mined, it would be no great economic loss, but modern civilization cannot exist without silver, and we are not now mining enough to service existing industry. Our government recognized this change 65 years ago and ceased to produce new coinage with any silver content.Pre-1964 coinage now cost about 1.6 times the current spot price of silver as big brokerages short silver to drive down the price while buying physical coinage silver to hoard. Common sense says that the price of silver will increase faster than gold, but both are more valuable than our inflated dollars. Do some research and then make your own choice.Ofcourse, you know that the money put into low interest CDs are a guaranteed loss after inflation, and the money you put into the bank now belongs to the bank to do with what they will. The bank controls (owns) the money and you have an account.

www.starnewsgaonline.com StarNews September 11, 2022 Page 23

D.A. KING from page 17 against SB 601 “school choice” during the 2022 legislative session. That bill did not have workable language to exclude the illegals. Thank you, Senator Dugan!

ED WILSON from page 17

Make your own judgments.

PIONEER Ford

Page 24 September 11, 2022 StarNews www.starnewsgaonline.com