Celebrating Black History Month – Week 1

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of African Americans to the United States. It also honors the sacrifices and challenges African Americans have faced in their first for freedom and citizenship.

2025 Legislative Newsletter – Week 4

The Georgia House of Representatives returned to the State Capitol following a winter storm that impacted much of the southern part of the state.

Joni, Pogo and ‘The Swamp’

Now  we see  that Joni Ernst, republican senator (Iowa) wants to drain the swamp. We wish her great success. However we are  reminded about a comic strip about the Okefenokee Swamp, whose main character was a possum named Pogo who said “We have met the enemy and it is us.”

Local Boy Scout troop looking for new members

My daughter, grandson and I relocated to Hartwell a little over a year ago. We were looking for a small town to live in. I have been a Boy Scout leader for over 65 years and looked forward to being in the Northeast Georgia Area council again.

HB 581 implications bring concerns

Amending our state constitution is a serious matter and should never be taken lightly. Yet, with the passage of HB 581—approved by approximately 63 percent of voters statewide (56 percent in Hart County)—it seems many may not have fully understood its implications.

Bright moments for Loving Life

Sometimes this job brings tough moments that make you question the good in humanity. It seems every disagreement is always more polarizing than the last and opinions aren’t opinions anymore, they’re simply “my way or wrong.”

Don’t forget this key to long-lasting relationships

After 57 years of Valentine’s Day celebrations, I’ve learned that there’s one element that must be in the equation of a long-lasting relationship. Humor isn’t the only factor, but I believe that it’s essential in the mix. For a case in point, let’s go back 30 years.

Local boards are right to opt out of House Bill 581

The Hart County Board of Commissioners (BOC) and Hart County Board of Education are right to exercise their right to opt out of Georgia House Bill 581. The amendment to the state constitution is not going to do what many voters may have thought it was going to do – limit their property taxes.

2025 Legislative Newsletter – Week 3

The Georgia General Assembly was set to return to the Gold Dome on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, to commence “budget week.”  Passing a balanced budget is our one constitutional obligation. Governor Kemp declared a State of Emergency on Monday anticipating winter storms across the state.

Don’t put on airs…and other lessons from book interviews

You can learn something from just about everybody, I believe. Jessica Phillips Henricks, a former Foxfire student, and I confirmed that belief when we interviewed scores of folks for a book titled “Travels with Foxfire: Stories of People, Passions, and Practices from Southern Appalachia.”