Some things you learn the hard way

C.J. and J.W. were born 11 years and 150 miles apart, but both grew up learning which end of the mule kicks. C.J. was a prosperous merchant’s son in Troup County. J.W. was a cotton farmer’s son in Wilkes County. And by the time they’d meet, their wallets would be tens of millions of dollars apart.

Find a way to give back this year

The holidays are always a time for giving. Charities and nonprofits annually see increases in donations around Thanksgiving and Christmas. The generosity of people in communities like here in Hartwell always amazes us. This year it will be more important than ever.

Still plenty to be thankful for

The year 2020 is one for the record books, for a myriad of reasons. We have seen the novel coronavirus interrupt and alter just about every aspect of our daily lives. We have lost loved ones and members of our community and watched as others have battled for their lives.

Liquor-by-drink good for eateries

Restaurants in Hart County that are outside of the city limits of Hartwell are now on an equal playing field with city establishments thanks to the vote last week to pass a liquor-by-the-drink referendum, and that is a good thing.

Uncle James would have virus advice

For many people, the Great Depression of the 1930s was like fire’s effect on steel—they melted or were galvanized. The lives of these five children could have melted, but the hard times galvanized them. When their mother died young, they banded together to survive.

Politicians blowing two kinds of smoke

As my fingers click these words on my computer’s screen, I have no idea who will reside in the White House in 2021. Voting booths are still open, and who knows when the final vote count will be final. This I do know.

Be respectful, civil after election

As you read this, there is a decent chance we still don’t know the outcome of the presidential election. A U.S. Senate race in Georgia and a local contest for the District 1 seat on the Board of Commissioners are both heading for a runoff.

Done-right humor can lift funeral spirits

Funerals aren’t supposed to be funny, but appropriate humor can ease sad situations. People die twice. The first death comes when the heart stops, the second death when the stories and memories stop.

Election day is here, go vote

If you haven’t noticed there’s an election going on, you must have been living in a deep, dark hole for the past few months. At every commercial break on television, on just about every page of local newspapers and every time you get the mail, politicians are making their plea for your vote.

Tractor therapy and good farm helpers

Tractor therapy. For stress relief, that’s what I call it. Shifting in the seat and looking back, I can see what I’ve just plowed or mowed. Sitting behind a desk, I can’t always see those accomplishments. I depend on regular tractor therapy.