People Die Twice is new book set for 2026

(Note: On my 2026 to-do list is to publish a book that memorializes friends. People die a second time when stories and memories about them stop. I don’t want that to happen. Here’s the preface of upcoming People Die Twice.) Friends tease me, but I don’t mind.

2026 Legislative Newsletter – Week 6

By Madison Linton news@thehartwellsun.com We returned to the Georgia State Capitol on Monday, Feb. 9, and the House Rules Committee placed several bills on the Rules Calendar for consideration in the House.

Thinking kind, smart and important

Two weekends ago I made my bi-annual trek across the lower three states to see my friend outside of Jackson, Mississippi.  We spent the weekend celebrating her daughter's first birthday party, playing trains with her three-year-old and catching up on all things life.

Their first Valentine’s Day celebration was 80 years ago

The year 1946 was historic for Marjorie Vines and Dink NeSmith. Some of their memorable milestones were: • Post-World War II romantic reunion • Married on Feb. 3 • Wedding dance: Bing Crosby’s “I Truly Love You” • First Valentine’s Day celebration together • Dec.

The creation/evolution controversy revisited

By Eugene Ashby- Local columnist There seems to be a renewed interest in the creation / evolution controversy that threatens to be more divisive than ever, even though such a controversy is really not necessary once one reviews all of the scientific and scriptural data regarding this subject.

Introducing Black History Month

By Gwen Fisher- Local columnist If I were to introduce Ecclesiastes chapter three, I would first intro Jesus, starting with his Father, God, which their relationship is explained through the doctrine of the trinity which states there is one God who exists as three co-equal and co-external persons:...

Valentine’s Day can be tricky, but here are some ideas

By Phil Hudgins- CNI Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so, guys, what are you going to do for your beloved wife on Feb. 14th? I have asked myself that question every February for 59 years, so obviously I have experience. I have learned things through trial and error.

Take the time to remember love

If you didn't know by all the flowers and heart-shaped boxes of chocolate in the grocery stores, Saturday is Valentine's Day.  I've always had a love-hate relationship with the holiday, pun quite intended.

2026 Legislative Newsletter – Week 5

By Alan Powell- State Rep.  Last week, the Georgia House of Representatives returned to the Gold Dome on legislative day 10 and we are now more than a quarter of the way through session. The days and weeks ahead will get busier as we continue working on key policies and priorities for our state.

Thanking those who were prepared for the worst

While a forecast of snow brings excitement here in the south, the irregularity of the occurrence leaves our area of the country ill-equipped to handle the affects of the often-accompanying ice accumulation.