What Happened in the MONTH of MARCH – 2009
Posted By Kate on April 15, 2010
Monday, March 1, 2010
Oconee’s Jeannette Rankin Celebration. Beginning this month, which is Women’s History Month, and throughout the rest of the year, the first Congresswomen to the U S House will be remembered with various events. She was the Representative from Montana and was elected to the U S House in 1916 and again in 1940. Connection to Oconee County?
Southern Dogwood Shines This Spring
She purchased land in Oconee County and would come to the South for R&R. She had a round house built there which still exists today on Mars Hill Road across the road from the Oconee County Middle School. The Rankin Marker still stands on the side of Mars Hill Road. After she died in 1973, her property was sold for $16,000 which provided seed money for the creation of a foundation which gave assistance to young women who needed a job but were out of work and who were encouraged to go back to college. The Jeannette Rankin Foundation awarded the first Scholarship for $500 in 1978. The Foundation, headquartered in Athens, awards about 80, $2,000 scholarships per year to young low income women, 35 years or older and who need to acquire new skills to join the workforce. Rankin was born on June 11, 1880 and this year is the 130th year of her legacy. Many events will be planned both in Oconee and Clarke Counties to advocate for the Foundation. The first event
will be at the Athens/Clarke Library on March 14 from 3 to 5 pm with a lecture: “Championing Election Reform, “ an issue for which she fought.
Monday, March 1, 2010
U S Congressman Nathan Deal Resigns Congress. Deal (R-GA-9th District) is running for Governor of Georgia in the midterm elections and says he needs to concentrate on his campaign. His resignation will give the U S House one less “no” vote on the Obama health care bill. With Republicans in the minority in Congress, his vote, along with maybe 40 Democrats, is vital for gathering enough votes in the House to defeat the bill. Evidently his sentiments lie with being elected Governor of Georgia and not with defeating another entitlement – a draconian universal health care bill.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Response to Extreme Cuts at UGA. After hearing Chancellor Davis’ announcement that the state will reduce the State’s budget by $300 million for next FY year, UGA officials will have to eliminate 1,418 jobs, laying off entire departments including teachers in each and cancelling research programs to reduce the university’s share of the cuts budget by just $60 million. This would mean that the student body would be decreased by about 1,500 students most of whom have already been accepted and have made financial commitments. Closing all 4-H programs, another victim of the cuts, across the state would do great damage to thousands of 4-Hers, said Extension Agent employees. They’ve already cut the 4-H and extension employees are just getting adjusted to that cut.` Some of the funds from the state actually are used to leverage grants and other matching fund programs which are vital for teaching youth. That would be out – no more. The Botanical Gardens supplies a knowledge environment for students and members of the public – this would be cut off. WUGA radio studios would have to cease local programming and be left to re-broadcast programs from other sources. No more local talent creating good programming of interest to local citizens. “Can the legislators be serious?” many are asking. Such cuts would have a domino affect and harm the state in so many other ways, officials are saying. Many are shocked and, no doubt, the debate is not over yet. Most likely, tuition will increase as much as 60% to make up some of the gap. And to top off this harsh news for Georgia, all states are slashing budgets while the federal government is madly printing money for universal health care increasing the national debt by TRILLIONS. The poor tax payer is going to be hit like never before. Is this the change the public wanted?
Monday, March 1, 2010
From the Coroner’s Office. When a death must be investigated, most county coroners do not perform autopsies within the county but rather send them to Atlanta to the Georgia Crime Lab or one of their branches. As a result, the caseload for the central lab becomes unmanageable in a reasonable time frame. Sometimes families must wait 3 to 6 months before results are determined and the family can have closure for a loved one’s death. The time lag is a burden for the family that must settle all possible estate debts and make funeral arrangements. The State Crime Lab’s 14 medical examiners are so overloaded that many county coroners are turning to private local medical examiners for a reasonable fee especially if the evidence leads to conclusive overdose that can be determined easily. About 20% of the 4000 autopsies done each year by the Crime Lab fall into the drug overdose category. The State Crime Lab has been hit by the budget cutting for the last 20 years with several branches being closed. Oconee County Coroner, Ed Carson said that he has on average about 5 deaths per year and all that are deemed suspicious are sent to the Crime Lab. If it is determined a death was from natural causes, no autopsy is performed. The private examiner may be a choice in the future.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
U S Post Office In Trouble. Today, the Director of the United States Post Office announced that the government agency had a $4 BILLION shortfall last year and so far this year, it is in arrears $8 BILLION. One reason: over 80% of its income goes to the Union members for salaries and benefits. Talk is circulating to place branch offices in grocery stores and cut out Saturday delivery. In Oconee, the Oconee Development Authority owns the building in which the US Post Office resides. Will they move out and locate in several of the grocery stores in the County?
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Obama Presents His ObamaCare Plan Today. In Obama’s speech to Congress today, he outlined his Plan which consists mainly of rules that offer 3 solutions: 1) end of practice of insurance companies withholding insurance for catastrophic issues and halt the continued rising costs of health care; 2) give everyone the kind of insurance that Congressional members have; 3) bring down costs and save 2 TRILLION in 20 years. He said his plan will give coverage to 31 million people rather than the 3 million that Republicans want to ensure incrementally. He promised a vote on his plan within the next few weeks while hinting at using the reconciliation rule (up or down vote with majority rule) to stop any further delay of passage into law. He said several times during the speech that he holds a fundamental difference with the Republicans and the conservative public who feel this is not right for the country, on how to obtain the three above. He said, “ so let them speak at the voting booth in November – that’s what a democracy is all about.” IT SURE IS, Obama.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Veterans Park Up-Date. Several activities have taken place recently. Select Trees Farms, Inc out of Bishop, GA
Oconee Veterans Memorial - 2007
donated about 30 Willow Oak trees to the Veterans Park. Southern Transplanting Inc started removing old trees and replanting new ones today. It was a tedious process with the ground so soggy, but was a good time just before Spring
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Georgia’s Jobless Numbers Increase. Commissioner of Labor Thurmond announced today that more Georgians have lost their jobs since the last data was collected and the rate has climbed to 10.4% from 10.2% last month while the national rate is 9.89%. Appears we are stuck at the bottom of a bleak recession.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Drastic Cuts in Georgia’s Budget. If a $351 million budget cut is passed through the Georgia state legislation later this month, it will have a domino affect throughout the state. Students, faculty, staff, and administrators along the entire state of Georgia’s education system will see a dramatic cut in higher education funds for the next two school years. That is, Members of the state legislature met last week to discuss ways to cut funding in different state departments to generate the $1 billion dollar target revenue over the next two years. State Senator Chip Rogers (R-Majority Leader) held a press conference to discuss the proposed budget cuts that will hit the state. In the press conference he states that the members of the legislature are “now realizing the severity of the problem” before them and know that they are “extremely serious”. Many departments are being hit hard, but the education system, one of thirty in the state, is being hit with the blunt of the budget cuts. The $351 million dollar cut will spread through all universities listed under the University System of Georgia, with the University of Georgia taking a $60 million dollar cut. Students are organizing protests and signing petitions to reject the proposed cuts. In an extreme case, students at the University of Georgia are even calling for a cut to President Adam’s yearly compensation package totaling a massive $600,000. The proposed cuts would come at a time when Georgians are in desperate need of essential services such as transportation, education, and healthcare. Georgia is credited as the 46th lowest in state and local revenues in the nation. Some of the proposed plans include an increase in sales taxes from 4% to 4.5% in fiscal year 2011, which would increase revenues by $600 million. Then the state legislature could reduce the sales tax back to 4% in FY 2013 when the proposed regional transportation sales tax is scheduled to begin. Another proposal is to increase the excise tax on cigarettes by $1/pack to generate $300-$400 million in revenues. Senator Chip Rogers was quoted during the press conference that he’s interested in only one thing, and that is to “cut cut cut”. If the state of Georgia continues to cut, however, there won’t be much healthcare, education, and transportation to support the future of the state. The state legislature will gather throughout the rest of March to discuss the budget, hear the people and their opinions, and are expected to vote on a final budget around the first of April. Until then, protests and petitions are expected to increase in size as students and educators gather to voice their repugnance at the budget cuts.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Senator Bill Cowsert – On Drastic Cuts. Senator Cowsert, Republican from Athens says that the new cuts are the “worst case scenario” and “completely unacceptable,” saying he was not in favor of such cuts and would do “everything in my power to avoid them.” Cowsert is the V Chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee which performs oversight of UGA’s main campus and the other 34 public colleges in the University System. He said the state receives tremendous benefit from the state-wide 4-H program and he said, “I’m a 4-Her and I don’t like to see this happen to our 4-H programs.”
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
UGA Budget Cuts Affect Oconee. Economically speaking, UGA and Oconee have been good for each other. Now that may change dramatically if the state cuts the University budget as much as $60 million with the layoff of teaching professors and with the reduction of student enrollment and the elimination of half the 4-H budget. Whatever happens bad to the University will inevitably be bad for Oconee County. Thousands of UGA employees live in Oconee County; students work in Oconee County; many Clarke residents purchase goods in the county. The number of Oconee residents out of work will increase; the need for help from the charities will increase. Are we all prepared for the change that’s coming?
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Congressman Broun Introduces Ethics Resolution for Congress. House Resolution 1135 is now in the Rules Committee of the U S Congress. It makes the common sense point that if a senior Congressional staffer must undergo ethics training, so should the House Member under whom he works. “The American people expect their representatives to play by the rules and they must first learn them,” said Broun. Democratic Congressman Charlie Rangel is under investigation for tax cheating and Republican Congressman Nathan Deal is under investigation for obtaining a government contract for his business without using the lowest bid process. Ethics training includes a look at gifts and travel bans, campaign related activity, restrictions on outside income and conflicts of interest.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Third (3rd) Snow This Year. On January 7, the National Weather Service said Atlanta officially received 0.6 of an inch of snow but none on the Athens Area, however some was reported in north Georgia mountains. But on January 28 and again on February 2, it snowed all day and about 3 inches accumulated in the Athens Area and just south of Morgan
Light Snow - 2010
County. Then on Monday, March 1, the National Weather Service predicted up to three inches of snow in the north Georgia mountains. The metro Atlanta area got around half an inch before the precipitation ended. And South Georgia got more than a dusting of snow. And again on a rainy Tuesday, March 2, the rain turned to a little snow overnight. Northeast Georgia got a heavy blanket of snow through the night. Some snow mixed with rain fell in middle Georgia. In the Athens Area, it was enough today to cause many schools to close in the area and some to start the day about 10 am when most of the snow had melted. Wednesday turned out to be a sunny day with temps in the 40s. That’s probably all the snow for this year, but more “below freezing” temps are expected during the rest of the month and until Easter. Forecasters warned us that snow would fall about 4 am and that today the temp would warm so that most of it would be melted by the time we went to work. About 2 inches of the slushy stuff fell. Talk of snow in the south, gets everybody preparing, so schools were closed and some businesses opened at mid-morning. Some government offices closed for parts of the day. The Oconee County Board of Commissioners cancelled their monthly Agenda meeting that was scheduled for 7 pm last night. Judge Steve Jones closed his courtroom in Oconee for the day.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Governor Perdue’s Idea for Health Care Plans Received Mildly. Back in January, Perdue included in his budget, a suggestion to allow consumers to purchase out-of-state healthcare. The idea raised questions about protection for Georgia residents in another state. Today, the idea remains in the House Insurance Committee with no action. Perdue argued that it would introduce more competition and cost the consumer less for the same coverage. Legislators argue and so does the president and CEO of the National Association of Health Underwriters, that it sounds like a great idea but when “you look at the details, it’s a very complex situation.” The idea will probably be dropped for this session.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Jeannette Rankin Day. A proclamation was announced today by Commission Chair, Melvin Davis, making March 4, Jeannette Rankin Day. Rankin was the first women elected to the US House of Representatives in 1916 and she lived briefly in Oconee County. Her “round” home was located on Mars Hill Road across the road of the entrance to the Oconee Middle School set back in the woods. She donated that home and the land it sets on to the county to be used for unemployed women who desired work.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Peer Helpers. A group of students at Oconee County High School that call themselves Peer Helpers have taken on a project to discourage “texting while driving.” Many traffic accidents have been studied that indicate that teens do more texting at the wheel than other age groups and as the name indicates, this group is concerned. Teens are 4 time more likely to text than other drivers. They are creating posters warning of the dangers and placing them all around the school. Together with the Oconee County Middle school, these students have engaged in other projects: raised money to purchase helmets for the kids that received bicycles from the Secret Santa project; and encouraged safe driving for students to Bee-a-Buckler for seat belts. One high school student had first hand experience when he was texting while driving and had an accident. He wasn’t badly hurt but he knows he could have been because his focus was not on driving at the time. The school counselors are advising the students in their projects.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Call for Salary Reduction in Higher Education. The move to cut higher education funding at the 35 Colleges that come under the University system included cutting high salaries of educational administrators. This smirks a bit like the action by the Obama’s Administration when salaries of the top CEO’s in the auto, financial and insurance business were slashed. Can this be a good move in the educational community in Georgia? Are universities in all states’ department of education guilty of inflating their salaries? And if Legislators are serious, will the university system cut needed and useful programs rather than salaries? We will know by the end of the session.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Rep Deal Stays in House a Bit Longer. Just three days after announcing his resignation from Congress, Rep. Nathan Deal said he isn’t ready to leave just yet. The Gainesville Republican announced Monday that he would be leaving Congress to concentrate on his run for governor. But on Thursday, Deal said he was delaying his resignation until March 31. “Just two days after I announced my intentions to leave Congress, the majority party stepped up the schedule for the proposed health care bill,” Deal said in a statement. “Having been deeply involved in all health care legislation for the past decade, I knew it was important to stay and vote down this bill.” Deal said, “Yesterday, as I listened to President Obama’s aggressive push for a quick vote on ‘Obama-Care,’ it was clear that I must stay in Congress and continue to fight against the most liberal health care agenda ever proposed.” Deal represents Georgia’s 9th Congressional District, which includes Whitfield and Murray counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1992 as a Democrat. He switched to the Republican Party in 1995. Deal’s decision makes the date of a special election to fill the remainder of his term even more uncertain. Georgia law requires the governor to call a special election within 10 days of Deal’s resignation taking effect. The election must take place at least 30 days after the governor calls for it. No date has been set for the special election, and it isn’t clear whether it would be held concurrent with the July 20 Republican and Democratic primaries or before that. If the special election happens before the primaries, the 15 counties of the 9th District will incur the expense of that election. By Charles Oliver, Dalton Daily Citizen. The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Current Deposits for Oconee State Bank. Some of the Oconee Banks increased their deposits during a year of this recession and some reported a decrease. North Georgia Bank increased by 6% to $150.3 million; First American has a 54% increase to $259.1 million; Oconee State Bank decreased by 9% to $250.5 million; Athens First Bank & Trust – deposits flat; SCB&T, a newcomer to the County had a decrease of 2.3%. What are some of the reasons for decrease, low or flat deposits? Possible reasons: loss of confidence in bank; out of work; change of banks; moved out of vicinity as reported by the Oconee Enterprise weekly.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Democrats Don’t Like ObamaCare. After Obama’s speech on health care on Wednesday, 12 Democrats in the House have announced they will not vote for the House version and Speaker Pelosi needs that number to pass the bill. No Republicans have hinted of voting “yea” on the bill so it may become a stalemate. The Democrats in the Senate say they have the 51 votes needed to pass it, but only by using the “budget reconciliation” rule – which was created to be used only for appropriation legislation. But a few of the Democrats who voted against the bill in the House last month are considering a vote of “yea” this time around. Sources in the Executive Office say a bill will be passed by both houses in 2 weeks even without a single Republican vote. Obama gives them until March 18.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Husband-Wife Team for Governor-Lt Governor. Couple runs for governor and lieutenant governor in Georgia. Candidates On Ticket Are Husband & Wife. Carol Porter, wife of state Rep. DuBose Porter and a political presence in her own right, announced her run for lieutenant governor Thursday. That sets up a husband-and-wife political ticket at the top of Georgia ballots later this year. DuBose Porter, D-Dublin, began his gubernatorial campaign last year. “I know you all know me as DuBose Porter’s wife,” Carol Porter told a throng of reporters Thursday morning at the state Capitol. “I am definitely qualified to do this job. I’ve been here watching it for 27 years.” Carol Porter is running statewide to seek her first elected office. She’s the only Democrat in the race so far, with the formal deadline to qualify coming in April. If no other candidates enter the race, she would face Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, who became the state’s first Republican lieutenant governor in 2006 as the GOP completed its takeover of elected state government. Carol Porter went after the Republican majority Thursday, saying the state might not have so many budget problems today “if we had had people paying attention.” She said Cagle’s agenda is out of sync with Georgians, and she criticized him for presiding over the Senate last year as the homeowner’s tax relief grant, which had given homeowners a property tax cut, was phased out to save the state money. Carol Porter said she would focus on one of her husband’s top issues during the campaign: forcing the state to do a better job of collecting sales tax revenue. She called it “insane” to furlough teachers. The Georgia Department of Revenue said a study of the issue is ongoing. Carol Porter also called for a shift in spending within the lottery-funded HOPE scholarship program. She said college scholarships should remain a priority, but the state also should return to its previous policy of spending some of the money on early education. That could include technology in schools, job training and graduation coaches for younger students, she said. Carol Porter, who manages the family chain of newspapers based in Dublin, said she wants to help enlarge the Democratic Party’s tent in this election. She said she plans to appeal to people who are “fed up with Georgia politics” and that she favors more funding for education. She also acknowledged that her run for statewide office “was not a thought two weeks ago.”
Saturday, March 5, 2010
Obama Offering Deals His Democrats Can’t Refuse. With the vote on ObamaCare getting close, some Democrats have vowed they will not vote for it, so he summoned about a dozen of them to the White House today to give them whatever they desire in exchange for their votes. Some offers may be as outrageous as the Ben Nelson gift of giving his state of NB free federally paid Medicare for the rest of his term or the $300,000 million to Senator Mary Landau in LA for clean-up. Will they take the offers and betray their convictions? Time will tell.
Saturday, March 5, 2010
Nation’s Unemployment Rate Holding – Slightly. Heidi Shierholz, a labor economist with the Economic Policy Institute in Washington, made this prediction about a year ago. “The recession probably ended in July or August 2009, but we haven’t actually turned the corner where things are getting better,” says Shierholz. “It’s getting worse at a slower rate than it was,” Shierholz says, “but it’s still getting worse. We expect the unemployment rate to hit 10.5 to 11 percent by the end of summer or early fall, then it will start to come down and we’ll turn the corner. But it’s going to take a very long time, at least five years, to get back to pre-recession rates of unemployment. That is true when it comes to hiring. Except for adding a few thousand jobs in November, employers have collectively cut payrolls every month for the past two years,” she said. That was last summer. Now the jobless rate is 9.7%, (a decrease from 10.5% as Ms Shierholz predicted) and has been holding for several days now. What will 2010 bring? Unemployed workers may have a better shot at being hired this year now that the economic recovery appears to have begun. But don’t get too excited: Economists say the growth of jobs will be modest and more people will be competing for them. It will take time. Just try to tell those who are still jobless that the recession ended last summer.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Rep Broun Calls Obama a Socialist. Congressman Paul Broun (R-GA 10th District) was interviewed on satellite radio and called Obama a socialist and everybody went wild in the media. What’s the big deal? Obama himself gives plenty of evidence in his public speeches and comments that he believes what he is doing is to make everybody equal in every aspect of life – and that’s Socialistic belief. So.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Military Trials Considered for 9-11 Suspects. After the public uproar and the objection of NY City’s elected officials, U S Attorney General Eric Holder and Obama may be considering having the suspects in the 9-11 terror attack tried in a military tribunal rather than a civilian trial in NY. The enormous costs, logistics and security in the over populated city was given as the reason for conducting the trial elsewhere.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Counties Not “Work Ready” Yet. To be a “Certified Work Ready Community” certain criteria must be met as prescribed by the Georgia Governor’s program called Workforce Development. Clarke County has met only 56% of the criteria; Oconee at 60%, Madison at 91%, Oglethorpe at 97% and Jackson at 97%. Those counties that have already earned the Certification are Barrow, Elbert, Franklin, Greene, Hart and Stephens counties. The criteria of high school graduation rate was easy for Oconee to meet, but getting the private sector employees certified as work-ready is the one criteria that is most difficult to which to comply. This program started 3 years ago and all counties that signed up, except Clarke County, must meet all criteria by June 1, 2010 to be established as Work Ready Communities. Clarke’s deadline is September 2010. The ultimate goal is to attract companies to each county to create jobs for each county.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
New Oconee Bicycle Club. Having bicycled to and from work while he lived in Washington, Richard McSpadden has decided to take it a step further since moving to Oconee County. He found a couple of other bicycle enthusiasts in the county who had a similar past time enjoyment. He knew there was a following of bike enthusiasts in the area and being so, it was a perfect fit to start an Oconee County Cycling Organization, a non-profit dedicated to promoting more people to take up cycling and to learn the safety of the activity. They surveyed the public and received more than 100 replies which excited them to do all the things necessary to get the organization fully chartered. They are now an official non-profit cooperation in the State of Georgia. They are ready to accept memberships (any and everybody can join – its not just an Oconee resident) and will be planning to hold a visible event in March or April to introduce themselves to the public. It will include, of course a long bike ride and a kid’s bike parade. By the way, before Richard retired in 2004, he was the lead pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds. Flying and cycling – rare combination.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Oconee’s Rose Creek Clean-Up Event. From Melissa Steele, Coordinator of Rose Creek Clean-up: “I am honored that you chose to become involved, step up, and make an effort to make a difference. Together we picked up 85 pounds of trash, and a combined 220 pounds of glass, plastic, and cans, ALL to recycle! The most important thing we did together, however, was raise awareness in our community and in our own hearts. Now as we open our eyes any time we
C&B Clean-up Ladies-2010
are outside, we will all notice the trash on the roads, riverbanks, and wherever humans tread, and in many cases we will again step up to make a difference by organizing clean-up efforts, reporting tag numbers when we see someone litter from their car, and as often as possible, inspire these actions in others. I invite you all to be a part of our newly formed Rose Creek Stewardship. I plan to go through the proper channels to formally form our group and “adopt-a-mile” or two, or five. I also strongly encourage you to become involved in other Keeping Oconee Clean & Beautiful Efforts. April is official Litter Clean Up Month, so join the MOB (Make Oconee Beautiful) SQUAD on April 24 at Harris Shoals Park, at am 9:00. Everyone who participated in the Rose Creek Clean-up can feel a special love for our beautiful covered bridge and mill. We are lucky to have such treasures in our county, in such pristine condition, and so much a part of Oconee County history. You will want to stay informed on our efforts to put that area into an official park, My friend Russ Page heads up our “Friends of Elder Mill” committee. Russ will be speaking at a Forum entitled “Elder Bridge Park Forum” on March 25th, 7:00 pm at the Watkinsville Library.” A Thank you from Ms Steele to the 46 people who joined her in this project.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Fundraiser For Cancer Patient. The faculty at North Oconee High School participated in a fund raiser that netted over $1,000 for Cathy Hickman, a custodian at the school who was diagnosed with cancer last summer. She was a long time employee of the school and her peers wanted to show their concern by helping with the cost of treatment. The fundraiser? An on-stage production by the teachers with dubious but hilarious talent. It was a hit. Teachers sang, danced, played musical instruments or gave a dramatic reading of poetry. It was so successful, they are considering a similar event for other fundraisers.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Jeannette Rankin Day at Oconee County Library. Lectures and workshops were scheduled during the month of March to honor Rep Jeannette Rankin who was the first woman to be elected to Congress in 1916 and again in 1940. She was from Montana, but owned a small parcel of property with a round house on it in Oconee County, GA at Butler’s Crossing on Mars Hill Road – a place she would visit in the winters. Many in this community knew her personally and some did not like her. She was quick to tell you what she thought of you. A strict individualist, she was the only person in Congress to vote against both WWI and WWII. She sold her home in Oconee for $16,000 in the ‘60s and the money was used to start the Jeannette Rankin Foundation to give scholarships to women over 45 with no financial means who wanted to earn a college degree to improve their financial status. The first scholarship was $500 and today they are $2000 each. The foundation has accrued enough currently to award over 80 scholarships each year. Community citizens are asked to assist with evaluating the more than 600 applications received each year. The winners are recognized at an annual gala banquet in Athens, Georgia. Events honor her for her work and concern for women in March – Women’s History Month.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Patriot Park Dedication Today. The Daughters of the American Revolution (John Andrew Chapter) dedicated the little memorial park area in front of Jittery Joe’s today at 10:30 am. Members of the DAR began work on the park about 2 years ago when Watkinsville Mayor suggested that the area needed “something” that would be a part of the beautification of downtown Watkinsville. Suddenly it became part of StreetScape – the make-over of Main Street. The group took on the task of cleaning up the area and planting native shrubs and trees (dogwoods, Hollies and Knockout Roses) in the triangle at the intersection of Hwy 15 and U S 441 in front of Jittery Joe’s Coffee Shop. Several weeks ago, a beautiful white marble monument was set in place at the tip of the little garden. Engraved in the marble are these words: “In Honor of Our Revolutionary War Patriots whose sacrifices in the pursuit of freedom delivered the American Independence. 1775-1783.” About 200 guests received invitations and attended the ceremony.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Too Much Rain Harmful. Remembering the prolonged drought and wishing for rain is not a prevalent thought these days. It has rained so much this winter that it has hurt the landscaping industry by slowing down consumer purchases of plants. Rain plus the cold has made row crop farmers take extra expensive precautions to prevent freezing of strawberry and blueberry plants. Washington Farms on Hwy 53 in Oconee County spent about $10,000 on sheet covers to protect the fragile fruit plants, but Washington said that it helped by keeping the temperature about 10 degrees warmer on his plants. He said the rain has shifted the scheduling of his crops somewhat. He opens his fields to the public for “pick your own” and a late opening results in a loss of money. The extended wet weather and cold has put most growers and the landscaping business behind about 2 to 3 weeks. Another side affect of heavy and frequent rains renders the soil so soggy that root rot can set in and kill plants and evergreens. Trees are blown down by even mild winds causing power outages and other fallen tree damages. Yet another drawback is the county is getting a lot of calls requesting repair of drainage problems. One might suggest a solution: build a reservoir in the county to catch all the rain for storage and use it during a drought.
Monday, March 8, 2010
State Shortfall May Be $2 BILLION. After the Governor looked over the latest tax revenue collection for last month – February – he now believes by this time next year, the State budget will be another $1 BILLION short. The amount collected for February was $567 million – almost a 10% decrease from February a year ago according to the GA Dept of Revenue. The news may call for even deeper cuts across the state this year than first proposed.
Monday, March 8, 2010
“Crossover Day”. Georgia’s Junior Senator sent a bill today to committee that says “American families are not spending far above their means; but Congress continues to spend their money at an alarming and unsustainable rate. Congress does not deserve a pay raise.” A Democrat from Arizona, Rep Ann Kilpatrick filed legislation just before her bill was put on the books that stated “Now we are facing some of the most difficult economic times in generations and I am sending a message to Washington politicians that the people have had enough. Why haven’t we cut our salaries?” She has suggested a 5% cut in Congressional salaries. Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA), to do his part, will not accept an increase in his salary for this fiscal year. Could this be the beginning of a good trend?
Monday, March 8, 2010
Extra Science Programs for Oconee Students. The Museum of Aviation (MOA) in Macon at Warner Robins the largest in the Southeast has an array of programs to fascinate K-12 students. The museum promotes a program called STEM: Science-technology-engineering-math and the museum director, Melissa Spalding says over 800,000 students make field-trip visits to the museum yearly and a total of over 10 million tourists have visited since opening. Richard McSpadden, retired Air Force Lt Col and Oconee Bogart resident who flew as the Thunderbirds Lead pilot before retirement in 2004 is making an effort to bring the aviation programs to all schools in Georgia and especially to Oconee Schools. Richard now serves on the Board of Directors of the MOA. And he now works for Hewlett Packard and says in the information technology industry, people who have knowledge of such programs as the STEM program are needed. McSpadden was instrumental in inviting the MOA Director to an Oconee Rotary meeting to introduce the idea of bringing the program to Oconee Schools. He hopes the Rotary members who are also working for the Oconee School System will be able to figure out how to get STEM to Oconee. The MOA director said they would love to bring the STEM program to many schools in this area because she knows how difficult and expensive it is to take students to Warner Robins on a field trip especially during this economic outlook.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Education Board Meeting. Highlights of the meeting:
1. Several students were recognized for excellence in academics and athletics–Dyllan Green – NOHS (State AA Wrestling Champion–125 lb. Division); Hannah Walters – OCMS (National Winner for writing on Seat Belt Safety); Allison Skinner – NOHS (2nd Place – Essay Contest – Istanbul Center).
2. Several School Nutrition employees were recognized for completing the ServSafe food safety course.
3. Board Members were recognized for their service as part of School Board Appreciation Week in Georgia.
4. Two local residents spoke in favor of the Standards-Based Report Card. Also, one person asked questions about the recently approved reduction-in-force (RIF) plan.
5. Two field trip requests from OCHS were approved.
6. A policy revision for middle school interscholastic competition was placed on the table for one month to allow for public comment.
7. New Logo for School System. For some reason, school authorities decided the school needed a new logo and
2OCS System Logo Design - March 2010
threw out the challenge to the high schools. Senior Bo Larkin entered the contest along with over 80 other entries and won. He will leave his mark on the school forever – or until it is decided that a new one is needed to replace his design. Bo’s design received 200 votes or 22% of total votes cast. The purpose of the contest was to develop a logo that is more inclusive of various schools’ colors. Congratulations, Bo! A copy of the winning design. ** Logo Insert Here ** By John A. Jackson, Ed.D. Oconee County Superintendent.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Campaign Against Meth Use. Today, Georgia Attorney General Thurbert Baker launched The Georgia Meth Project at the State Capitol. Meth use has become such a problem that authorities believe that they can curtail the use by educating the very young before they try its effects. TV ads, former addicted teen testimonials, radio spots, newspaper outlets and even large roadside billboards – varied forms of communication will be used throughout Georgia. All will be graphic and show the real results of using the drug. Baker, a Democrat and a candidate for Georgia’s Governor and Sen Johnny Isakson, a Republican running for re-election to his Senate seat stood side by side to announce the project. Meth use and addiction costs Georgia $1.3 BILLION in social services, health care, law enforcement and basic living costs. Only 1/3 of the meth-use related criminals are behind bars; the other 2/3 are on the streets on probation. Meth can destroy entire societies. A total of 12,200 offenders have gone through the court system, data for the present situation. Associated Press.
Monday, March 8, 2010
The Buying Consumer Will Get Us Out Of Recession. Tonight at the Oconee Development Authority Meeting, members tossed around ideas about the development of their property dubbed “Gateway” – about 100 acres off SR 316. The discussion was about the same as always until Rick Waller, President of Waller Insurance made the suggestion that some of the Authority’s funds be used to start putting infrastructure in the ground so that the property can be advertised. Also, member Larry Benson, owner of the lone hotel in Oconee County – SpringHill Suites by Marriott, reminded that consumer confidence is way down and until that improves, nobody is doing anything. “The consumer is the one who will be responsible for a recovery.” Until the consumer starts buying again, nothing will happen. Kate McDaniel added that “Consumer Confidence will improve greatly after the November (2010) Elections.” The appointed sub-committee vowed to bring a definite plan back to the Authority at the next meeting, April 12.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Summary – GA Legislation So Far. The Georgia General Assembly reconvened today after a two-week recess during which legislators worked on the Fiscal Year 2011 budget. February 2010 revenue figures are expected this week and could significantly impact both budget-cutting and revenue-generating proposals as the budget process continues. In addition to the budget, major issues that will be debated over the next 20 working days include transportation funding, water legislation and several tax and education proposals. The following bills are among those being watched by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Education ● SB84 would improve Georgia schools by ensuring effective school board governance. Based on recommendations made by the Commission for School Board Excellence, the bill passed the Senate in 2009 and was approved by the House of Representatives today. The Senate will either need to agree with changes made by the House or reconcile them in a conference committee before it can go to the Governor for his signature. ● HB1195 would secure the future of the Georgia Work Ready program by codifying its purpose and governance structure. Originally created by executive order of the Governor, this program continues to connect employers throughout the state with the certified workforce they need, a key advantage for Georgia in attracting economic investment. ● SB386 is Governor Perdue’s proposal to implement a performance-based pay option for teachers to both encourage and reward excellence in Georgia schools. If passed, the new system would go into effect in 2014, allowing the state Department of Education to fully implement Georgia’s student data system so that performance can be accurately tracked. ● SB352 would institute a grading system for Georgia schools similar to one used in Florida that has resulted in stronger school performance throughout the state. Schools that see improvement under this new system would be eligible for financial bonuses. Transportation ● Both HB1218, which was proposed by Governor Perdue, and SB366, which was introduced by the Democratic leadership, would provide for regional T-SPLOSTs to fund local transportation projects. HB1218 received two House subcommittee hearings last week during which a number of amendments were proposed regarding how the regions would be defined and how projects would be selected. The bill will be heard at least one more time in subcommittee before moving on to the full House Transportation Committee. Water ● HB1094 and SB370 are based on the recommendations of Governor Perdue’s Water Contingency Planning Task Force with regard to the conservation, capture and control of Georgia’s water resources. Both bills have been passed by the respective Natural Resources Committees and are expected to continue to move towards passage. Taxation ● HB1023 and 1024 together form the Jobs, Opportunity and Business Success (JOBS) Act of 2010. The legislation is designed to stimulate the state’s economy and support businesses of all sizes through provisions including an angel investor tax credit, tax credits for hiring the unemployed, a reduction of the capital gains tax and a phase-out of the sales tax deposit for small business. ● HB1008 would continue the current cap on sales tax for energy used during the manufacturing process, allowing Georgia to stay economically competitive with surrounding states. ● HB951, 952 and 953 would preserve the sales tax holidays for school supplies and water and energy-efficient products. Economic Development ● HB995 is designed to help Georgia’s tourism industry by standardizing the start of the school year. As currently drafted, the earliest any school could start would be September 1 or Labor Day, whichever came first on the calendar. ● HR178 would provide clarity in Georgia employment law by ensuring that reasonable agreements between employers and employees are enforceable in court. If passed, voters will be asked this November to vote on a constitutional amendment that will allow judges to make reasonable modifications to enforce the original intent of employment agreements. The resolution was passed by the House Judiciary Committee and is expected to receive a vote by the full House this week. ● HB1016 has passed the House and would ensure that businesses receive the same identify fraud protections as individuals in Georgia. Health Care ● SR277 would create a $10 vehicle tag fee dedicated to funding a trauma care network capable of providing critical medical care in a timely manner for citizens throughout the state – saving as many as 700 lives each year. 20 days left. From the Chamber Mar 15, 2010 Newsletter.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Courthouse Move Options. Tonight at the Land Use and Transportation Committee meeting, the Chairman led the group into a discussion of voting for one of 4 options:
1) All county government stay at one location (current courthouse building)
2) Judicial & Administrative Functions in separate locations with 3 sub-options
a) judicial near current new jail
b) judicial near current courthouse
c) other
3) Do nothing
4) Combine county government & Bd of Edu in one new building.
Nine (9) members voted and 2a won with 20 votes. Each member had 4 votes.
1. 6 votes
2a. 20 votes
3. 0 votes
4. 6 votes
The committee was charged by the County Commissioners with finding a solution to the crowded space in the current courthouse and finding a solution to separate administrative regular courthouse business from court activity. They were not to consider the cost differences in each case at this time. That will come later.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Two (2) Chambers Agree to Partnership. After months of planning, the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce and the Athens Clarke Chamber of Commerce have embarked on a partnership to help each other in this economic environment. Both entities are about helping businesses and creating jobs. Athens has the educational element for preparing students for skilled jobs in the market; Oconee has the opportunity for creating jobs in the housing and construction industry. Both chambers compliment each other for the betterment of the area. Kenneth Mann, Chairman of the Oconee Chamber said that the 2 chambers were already cooperating in many areas and the agreement was just a formal gesture. A sub-committee was created with 6 members from each chamber to work together. The mission statement reads as follows: To provide a consistent and sustainable effort to promote collaboration within the northeast Georgia region and to educate businesses and the development communities with regard to the benefits and opportunities of locating within this region.” Thursday, the 2 chambers will join chambers from 4 other counties (Barrow, Jackson, Madison and Walton) in an After Hours get-to-gather at the Georgia Club off Hwy 316 in Oconee County. Statistics of Oconee Chamber: 3398 members; the business EXPO is April 22 with 37 vendors already committed; the annual golf tournament is April 30.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
2010 Census Worker Training. This week began the nationwide training of more than 1.4 million workers for taking the census in every state, district and neighborhood. A short test was administrated which was about 30 questions mostly concerning how to fill out the census forms. The pay is $11.75 per hour even for the training.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Action In The Georgia Legislature Today. The State House approved a bill (SB 84) today sponsored by Governor Perdue at 137 to 33 vote that includes a code of ethics with violators being removed by the Governor. The bill also makes it illegal for the board to hire their relatives or to do business with any employers of their relatives. The bill was passed at the last session (2009) but it was changed slightly in the House this year and now must go back to the Senate for a final vote. This bill came to light after the Clayton County School System lost its accreditation last year and the Warren County School System lost its accreditation recently in January 2010 both for unacceptable behavior of board members. No academic problems were present. According to the law, the Governor would have to receive a recommendation from the State Board of Education after a public hearing in the violator’s home county before he could remove the board member.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Increased Tax on Tobacco Products. The legislators are contemplating a bill that would levy an addition $1 tax on a pack of cigarettes. The state tax is now about 38 cents. They are scrabbling to find “avenues of revenues” to help make up the loss of funds from other sources. The drop in state revenues for the most recent FY year (July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010) was 12.8% which equates to about $1.35 BILLION. Are we headed for a SPLOST tax being 5 cents on the dollar rather than 1 cent?
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Ordinance to Catch Thieves of Precious Metals. Someone out of county who rents a room in a local hotel, sets up a telephone, puts an ad in the local paper to buy precious metals and jewelry from locals will soon have to get a permit to do business in the county. A permit ordinance requiring inventory of goods purchased would allow law enforcement to get a better idea of what was stolen and may be able to retrieve a person’s stolen items and catch the thief. Rare metal dealers don’t like the idea because it would probably require them to hold all items for at least 30 days to determine if it was stolen. It’s a good move on the part of local government. Reported by the ABH.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Christian Coalition Ralph Reed to Stay in Private Life. In the face of a rumor that Reed would run for political office, he announced today that he will not seek any political office this year. Of those posts available to him: GA Governor, Lt Governor and John Linder’s U S Congressional seat. Reed says that he is happy running his consulting business for now but does not rule out running for office in the future.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
$18 Million Unidentified Sales Tax Revenues. GA Attorney General Thurbert Baker announced that the state is in possession of $18 million in unclaimed sales tax. The state receives all sales tax monies from all 159 Georgia Counties and returns a portion back to the county from which it came. A perfect system except when the county identification number is not entered into the data base along side the total sales tax amount. The total of such mistakes adds up to $18 million and no one knows to whom it really belongs. Several years ago, the amount due to be returned to Oconee County was actually returned to Clarke County. The mistake was discovered only a few months later and had no significant affect on the county budget. However, counties are beginning to cast a dubious eye on whether the state can do the math accurately. At this point with the recent discovery of $18 million by the attorney general, counties must wonder if any (whatever the amount would certainly help with county budgets) of the $18 million belongs to them. Equal portions to all counties = about $113,207.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Jobs Loss Up-Date. Announced today by the Georgia Labor Department, unemployment is rising in Georgia again. In Savannah – now 9.3%; Warner Robins – now 8.1%; Albany – now 11.8%; Macon – 10.9%, all increased at least 1% since this time last year. Athens – 8.4%. Georgia unemployment is now an average of 10.8%; Unemployment in Oconee is at 6%.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Census Letter Received Today. The U S Census Office sent out 120 million letters earlier in the week at a cost of $13 MILLION informing the recipient that the census forms will be arriving soon. Census employees are cheerfully claiming that the forms are much different this time – shorter and less intrusive – 10 questions only which they hope will encourage everyone to respond. However, a small number of randomly chosen households will receive the long form (over 100 questions, some very personal) and be encouraged to fill out and mail. This fewer number of forms will be used to statistically measure and predict the answers that might have been given to those that received the short form. Incidentally, by Federal law, the only questions you are required to answer are: 1) your full name; 2) your age and 3) the number of persons living in your household. They already have your address so that tells them what U S District you live in and by public records at all courthouses, they know whatever is filed there under your name. As a side note: Only 65% of residents in the Northeast Georgia Area responded in the last census in 2000 which is probably somewhat indicative of the nation as a whole. Including the activities that the Census Bureau engages in between the census years, the cost runs as high as 14 BILLION.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Oconee County In Good Financial Health. Conversations with County Officials will have you feeling a certain amount of confidence in the county’s ability to continue services while reducing the budget to match the depressed revenue income of the county and state. About 3 years ago when the signs of a depressed housing market was just beginning to surface, wise county leaders looked at the possibility of drastic cuts from the state and decreased income from the sales tax and based the budget at a conservative level. When the economy continued to get worse, further reductions in the budget were made and now in the 3rd year at the worst economy, further reductions are being made. However, most all county services have continued with no increase in taxes during that time. The County did have a balance fund (savings) of about $6 million in which a small amount was taken to fill in the gaps. Everything is not rosy. The county is in heavy debt (jail, park), but payments are being made on time and the county’s credit rating is an excellent AAA. The next event to look for is the assessment of property in the county on which the county digest and property taxes are calculated. If the digest is less than previous years, the difference must be made up by increased taxes or a drastic cut in services will take place in the near future.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Foreclosures in the County Are Still Climbing. This week, there were 40 foreclosures listed in the Oconee Enterprise Legal Section, about half were families and the rest were mainly developers. Foreclosures are announced and auctioned on the steps of the courthouse on the first Tuesday of each month although some may not make it that far if settlements are agreed to beforehand to avoid foreclosure.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
GA Senate Bill to Cut State’s Number of Judges. The state has 205 superior court judges and Senator Mitch Seabaugh introduced SB 485 which would cut 19 judgeships – down to 186 for the entire state. Data shows that Atlanta had a caseload of 30,951 cases filed in 2008 for Atlanta 19 judges, an average of 1,600 per judge. Data also shows that with the number of cases increasing, the state needs 275 judges – 70 more than the 205 currently on the payroll. Note: Each county and or jurisdiction has assigned to it the number of judges needed to handle its caseload. Atlanta has 19, Oconee/Clarke jurisdiction has 3 and was expecting to get one more in the next 2 years. If 19 were removed by SB 485, Atlanta would be left with 3 judges and Oconee would not get the additional judge it now needs. Cutting 19 judges would save the state about $14 million. The bill, admittedly has a very slim chance of passing.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Belief that Obama is a Muslim. Religious conservatives believe from actions and words of Obama himself that he is fundamentally a Muslim. He claims to be a Christian but when interviewed and asked the question, he stammered and first said that his “Muslim Faith…” before correcting himself to say his “Christian Faith.” He refuses to attend a Christian Church as most presidents do; he attended a church for 20 years that “damned” America and all it stands for; he refuses to make public his birth certificate which would indicate his citizenship and ethnic parents; his father was a Muslim; he bows down to a Muslim Ruler in Saudi Arabia; and he did not observe National Prayer Day with the rest of Washington and the nation. Now why wouldn’t a reasonable person question his religion? The media tried to dispel what they called a myth about Obama’s religious belief, but it didn’t work.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
State Health Commissioner Resigns. Georgia’s top public health official resigned today as the state struggles to find the money to fund her agency. As Commissioner of the Department of Community Health, Dr. Rhonda Medows has overseen one of the state’s largest bureaucracies for the past 4 1/2 years. She is in charge of Medicaid, public health and emergency preparedness, and she has been integral in making decisions ranging from the distribution of swine flu vaccine to the state’s response to any bioterrorism attack. Most recently, Medows has been struggling with a crisis in the state Medicaid system as that agency faces a prospective $608 million deficit. She was also put in the difficult position of defending Gov. Sonny Perdue’s plan for a 1.6 percent tax on hospital revenue. Last year, the state’s health agencies underwent a major restructuring, with three agencies splitting the work that had been done by two. While a new agency was created for mental health (out of that mix), Medows saw her agency more than triple in size as it inherited responsibility for public health and emergency preparedness. Medows said her decision was “hard but a correct personal decision.” By Craig Schneider, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Legislation Give Schools More Flexibility. With school budget cuts making the headlines daily, some lawmakers are ready to give school systems the flexibility to lop five days off their school calendar and up their class sizes. “People are starting to get it — starting,” said Herb Garrett, executive director of the Georgia School Superintendents Association. Legislators are not just looking at this for the short term, either. A bill that cleared a Senate committee this week would allow school systems to move from a 180-day to 175-day year and expand their class sizes for the next three years. “With such deep cuts, they’ve got to find some additional money somewhere and a way to live within their budgets,” said State School Superintendent Kathy Cox who is now in favor of the increased class sizes and the shorter school year. By Nancy Badertscher, Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Civics’ Internship Programs. The Association County Commissioners of Georgia and the Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Education have partnered to create the Georgia County Internship Program. This unique statewide initiative will open doors for students to explore a variety of careers in county government and help a new generation understand the importance of local government in American democracy. Already, during the launch for summer internships, 11 counties around the state have posted more than 30 positions. The internships will attract a wide range of college majors to a spectrum of county offices. Current internship opportunities include: storm water data collection, and a substance abuse project assistant in Gwinnett; CAD project management and policy research in DeKalb; Website intern in Cobb; marketing and media intern in Dawson; law research assistant in Brooks; and Operation Warrant Clean-up intern in Clayton.
Friday, March 12, 2010
High Court Upholds “under God” in Pledge. A federal appeals court in San Francisco upheld the use of the words “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance and “In God We Trust” on U.S. currency, rejecting arguments on Thursday that the phrases violate the separation of church and state. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel rejected two legal challenges by Sacramento atheist Michael Newdow, who claimed the references to God disrespect his religious beliefs. “The Pledge is constitutional,” Judge Carlos Bea wrote for the majority in the 2-1 ruling. “The Pledge of Allegiance serves to unite our vast nation through the proud recitation of some of the ideals upon which our Republic was founded.” In a 2-1 ruling, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel rejected arguments by Newdow that the phrase violates the separation between church and state. But Note that the same court ruled in Newdow’s favor in 2002 after he sued his daughter’s school district for having students recite the pledge at school. Then that lawsuit reached the U.S. Supreme Court in 2004, but the high court ruled that Newdow lacked the legal standing to file the suit because he didn’t have custody of his daughter, on whose behalf he brought the case. In a separate 3-0 ruling Thursday, the appeals court upheld the inscription of the national motto “In God We Trust” on coins and currency, saying that the phrase is ceremonial and patriotic, not religious. Reached on his cell phone, Newdow said he hadn’t been aware that the appeals court had ruled against him Thursday. “Oh man, what a bummer,” he said. From the Associated Press.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Obama Administration’s Nepotism. According to an unnamed source, Oregon State University Athletic Director Bob DeCarolis was considering firing their basketball coach, Craig Robinson, after an 8-11 start (2-5 in the Pac 10 conference). When word of this reached Washington, Undersecretary of Education Martha Kanter was dispatched to Corvallis with $17 million in stimulus money for the university. The source now says that Craig Robinson’s job is safe for this year. For the record, Coach Robinson just happens to be the brother of First Lady Michelle Obama. Oooooohhhhhh.
Friday, March 12, 2010
ObamaCare At Any Cost. Yesterday the White House circulated a memo by pollster Joel Benenson. It was designed to create momentum for Obamacare by convincing wayward House Democrats that support for the President’s plan has been building since the State of the Union. As with everything else that comes out of the White House on health care these days, the memo is nothing but pure fantasy. Last Tuesday, Gallup released its latest poll showing that by a 48%-45% margin Americans would tell their representative in Congress to vote against President Obama’s health plan. Compare that to the last time Gallup asked the question in January, Americans supported the President’s plan 49%-46%. That’s a net six point loss in support for the President’s plan since the State of the Union. That is momentum. Against Obamacare. And Gallup isn’t alone. The Associated Press released a poll this week showing that 68% of Americans believe the President and Congressional Democrats should not pass their health care plan without Republican support.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Pelosi To Pass ObamaCare Without Vote. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is considering support for an illegal plan written by Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY), to pass the Senate “health” care bill without an actual vote in the House, according to Republican House Leader John Boehner (R-OH). On his blog, Boehner exposed the Democrats new “Slaughter Solution” to bypass existing procedural voting rules, stating, “You see, Democratic leaders currently lack the votes needed to pass the Senate health care bill through the House. Under Slaughter’s scheme, Democratic leaders will overcome this problem by simply ‘deeming’ the Senate bill passed in the House – without an actual vote by members of the House.” The National Journal’s CongressDaily confirmed the plan: “Slaughter is preparing a rule that would consider the Senate bill passed once the House approves a corrections bill that would make changes to the Senate version.” In other words, a “slaughter of the language.” Never heard of such underhanded gall.
Friday, March 12, 2010
More Colleges Offering 3-year Degree Programs. What was a year ago an emerging idea about how to reduce college costs and better serve students has begun to take hold at colleges across the United States as more institutions introduce three-year bachelor’s degrees. On Wednesday, Stanley Ikenberry, interim president of the University of Illinois, said that the university had begun studying whether it would make sense to offer three-year bachelor’s degrees and would release a report in six months. In just the past month, Arcadia University, Holy Family University, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and, in partnership, Georgia Perimeter College and Georgia Southwestern State University have all introduced formal three-year programs that will begin this fall. Concerns about ever-rising college costs, which have been only compounded by the prolonged recession, and the Bologna Process’s success in standardizing three-year, competency-based bachelor’s degrees throughout Europe have helped to amplify the drumbeat that has played in the background for decades. Despite the surge in interest in and introduction of these programs, some experts are critical, arguing that students may miss out on key experiences, and wondering whether many students will be able to finish their degrees in three years. More watering down of America’s Education System.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Where Are They Now? Remember Jonathan Murrow? – the kid who played such beautiful piano? How could his little fingers produce amazing melodies? He was the favorite at most high school functions. He was quiet and reserved, never seeming to strike an emotional high for anything that high school students get all worked up about – never identifying with peer pressure. That was back in the early ‘90s. He graduated from Oconee High School in 1993 with excellent marks scoring a perfect 800 on the SAT. He went on to graduate from Harvard earning a degree in History then on to Emory University in Decatur, GA to earn a medical degree and then did his residency at John Hopkins before returning to Emory in 2006. During all this time, he had the time to do significant blood vessel research and to teach while practicing cardiology. In 2008, he moved back to Oconee County and set up practice at Athens Cardiology while continuing his research. He is also helping to design the curriculum for the Medical College of Georgia that will eventually be housed at the old Navy School facilities. He married lovely Laurel Boykin also from Oconee County and they have a 5-year old, Madeline and 2-year old (21 months) twins, Ella and Sophie. What a life! What a distinguished citizen from Oconee County. How proud we are, Jonathan, and lucky to have you among us again.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
OCAF’s Trash Becomes Everybody’s Treasure. The Arts Foundation held its annual Gigantic Yard Sale again this weekend. This year’s proceeds was about 30% more ($19,000) than last year ($13,000).This year was different with a lot of items priced at less than $2. More than 800 people attended the event. Citizens came from surrounding counties and together with home folks, it proves that there are still those out there who love a good bargain and are good about supporting the arts. Items not sold will be out on the table again next year plus many new items.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Teacher Pay Based on Performance Only. Governor Perdue wants to change the formula for Teachers Merit Pay to a method that bases the salary on performance or success only without taking into account degrees earned or years of experience. It’s an effort to hasten the “retirement” of young teachers who are not effective in the classroom and to encourage the older teacher to retire early – all for the underlying reason of helping to fill the House state budget gap. This one will be difficult to accomplish.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
After Census Comes Redistricting. Some Legislators are looking at predictions that point to an increase in Georgia’s population to the extent that another U S Congressional seat will be added to the current 14 and will mean that some districts may be meshed with others in such a way that part of southern Georgia may loose reps to the Georgia General Assembly.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Headline From Washington Times: Pelosi Does Not Have The Votes. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is working hard to give each undecided Congressman an offer they can’t refuse to help pass the massive entitlement bill called ObamaCare behind closed doors. What happened to the transparency that Obama promised in the campaign. He has reversed himself. You can’t trust him, Pelosi or Harry Reed. The vote, they say will come this weekend and they are adamant about “it will pass”.
Monday, March 15, 2010
“Crossover Day”. Georgia Lawmakers are scrambling to get their bills out of committee before March 25, their internal rule to allow only bills that have had a thorough debate before the final vote for passage. That’s only 6 days from now. That also means a whole lot of committee activity especially the House Appropriations Committee whose members must calculate the cost of a bill that has reached them so far. They will have to work in overtime to assess the bills that will tax, apply fees, or cut existing programs all to meet a balance to pass Governor Perdue’s proposed budget. The budget must be balanced as prescribed by Georgia law.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
News Alert: Housing Construction Fell in February. Housing construction fell in February as winter blizzards held down activity in the Northeast and Midwest. The decline highlighted the challenges facing builders as they struggle to emerge from the worst housing slump in decades.
The Commerce Department said that construction of new homes and apartments fell 5.9 percent in February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 575,000 units, slightly higher than the 570,000 that economists were expecting. January activity was revised up to a pace of 622,000 units, the strongest showing in 14 months. Homebuilders are trying to emerge from a severe housing downturn. A rebound in housing is seen as critical to sustaining the overall economic recovery. Washington Post.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Law to Block Murder Scene Photos. Today, Georgia Legislators agreed to send House Bill 1332 sailing through the bodies to become law. It passed 163-0 and was sent immediately to the Senate for a vote. Hustler Magazine tried to get crime scene photos of the murder of Meredith Emerson, a UGA student who went hiking in the North Georgia hills in 2008 and was found murdered and decapitated. The Open Records Act was never intended to allow this type of information to be publicized and used for sensationalism. This bill will curtail exploitation of victims and yet allow information and/or photos to be released that will aid law enforcement to solve the case.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Georgia’s Complete Count Committee. Commissioner Mike Beatty, Georgia’s Department of Community Affairs Director is implementing Governor Perdue’s initiative to make sure all Georgia citizens are counted this year in the 2010 Census. He is advocating for all county leaders to get involved so that an accurate count can be made for several reasons: in 2011 the population count will be used to determine the number congressional seats in the U S House of Representatives; to draw Georgia’s Legislative districts; and to determine the number of federal dollars the state receives for various programs. Approximately $300 BILLION federal dollars are given out each year based on the census and the amount of federal dollars coming to this state is based on population. Georgia has a history of persistent “under counting” – between 60% and 70% due to poor participation. Since the 2000 census, Georgia’s population has grown from 8.2 million to 9.7 million – a 15% increase. All local leaders are being asked to set up an intensive effort to make sure all are counted. A CCC has been set up by the BOC to make plans to assist in the census counting process and implement in them with the committee. They have met once a month for a year and are getting in high gear to assist the 2010 Census workers. Census forms (short form) have been sent out this week and if a completed form is mailed within a few weeks, no visitor will be appearing at your door. If not, a knock may be heard soon.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
School Principal Search. “This week we met with the school councils at Oconee County Primary School and Colham Ferry Elementary School in order to receive input from council members on the qualities they would like to see in the next principal. A meeting with the school council at Malcom Bridge Middle School is scheduled for next week. Information from these meetings, along with survey data, will be used to screen and interview applicants for the vacancies. * Four candidates for the North Oconee High School principal have advanced to the next stage. Second interviews were held this week. Further steps include identifying a finalist, thoroughly checking references and making a recommendation to the Oconee County Board of Education. The target date to recommend all four principals is Monday, April 12th at the monthly BOE Work Session which starts at 5:00 p.m.; however, that date (for recommending and announcing the new principals) is subject to change. * School council advisory committee meeting. The second and final meeting of the School Council Advisory Committee was held Wednesday afternoon. The purpose of the committee is to increase communication between school councils and the superintendent. In addition to an update on the budget, principal searches and other topics of interest, the advisory committee submitted two questions for discussion. One concerned the Oconee County Schools Foundation and the other question was about the principal search process. * We recently received results from the State writing test which was administered to all eighth graders this past January. Results indicate continued high performance from our students. The percent of students scoring in Level III (Exceeds) increased four percentage points over last year and returns to the 2008 level. Over the last three years, eighth graders in the Oconee County Schools have passed the writing test in the mid-nineties range overall; however, we are focusing our energies on preparing students to demonstrate their written communication skills at the highest level recognized on state assessments.” John A. Jackson, Ed.D., Superintendent Oconee County Schools.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Barber Creek Enthusiasts Receives Award. Oconee County Resident Lee Becker was honored recently for his work in the Oconee Community – The Volunteer of the Year Award presented at the Georgia Rivers Network conference held at Jekyll Island for his outspoken opinions on the modification of Barber Creek. Becker is a professor of Journalism at UGA, a novel reporter, a blogger, a community activists and an amateur photographer. And he owns a big black dog that goes with him everywhere.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Osborne and “It Takes A Village.” After former North Oconee High Principal John Osborne handed in his resignation at the Oconee School Board meeting last year, he has felt free to think out of the box and is contemplating several ventures: apply for a teaching position, a principal, a superintendent, or try something entirely new: a new business called “It Takes a Village” in which he serves as a counselor for students to help them plan their careers from 9th through 12th grade, help them with testing, help them make application to many colleges and universities and design a complete career planning schedule for each. He will include consultation for parents also. He says that connecting with kids and helping them to be the best at what they wish to accomplish is his greatest pleasure. If the school job falls through, he will definitely start the “village” idea and probably set up an office at The Summit at Mars Hill.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Rep Bob Smith and 4-H Cuts. Smith was a student who was into 4-H during his student days and he’s not exactly happy that the University has selected cutting half of the State’s 4-H programs and all the Extension Service Departments (158 total in Georgia) to meet a State budget short fall. But UGA’s Tom Jackson said that “we must protect the core functions of higher education” and cut the fluff out. Smith would agree that 4-H is not fluff and that education is the core of the 4-H. There are as many as 100 4-H programs and each use the state money to leverage other funds to support their programs. So the State is not funding 4-H at a 100% level, only about half of their budget said Henry Hibbs, County Agent for Oconee County. Stay Tuned.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Watkinsville – A Bird Sanctuary. The Watkinsville City Council adopted an ordinance tonight to make the city a bird sanctuary. The ordinance reads that the killing, trapping, mollesting or otherwise disturbing the nest or eggs of birds in the city will carry a penalty. The Council discussed having a sign made with a picture of the Georgia bird, Brown Thrasher, and placing it at the 4 points of entry to the city. The city also gave out to the public, 300 trees for planting. The city was designated as a “Tree City USA” in 2006 after the city sponsored the planting of over 500 trees.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Task Force For Trimming State Budget. At the beginning of this Georgia Legislative Session, Lt Governor Casey Cagle appointed a task force of business expertise to study and recommend to the body a list of suggestions for trimming the state budget. Those recommendations are now in and some are rather severe. They are: “reduce the state work force to reflect budget constraints;” consolidate contracts with the state; require teachers to contribute more to their retirement plans in addition to agreeing to a plan of pay-for-performance rather than a merit pay scale; require all state agencies to reduce and consolidate where feasible; and hike tuition rates for all students in the University system. Such plan may hurt a lot of people and many incumbents would probably be clearing out their desks, but the recommendations should be taken seriously.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Georgia Students Meet With Lawmakers Today. Over 500 students from around Georgia gathered at the Capitol Dome to meet with legislators in an effort to find ways to compromise on the drastic cuts coming down the pipe for state’s University and Colleges. Groups that call themselves Young Democrats and Students for Public Higher Education are suggestion that the state impose additional tax on cigarettes and increase income tax on individuals making more than $400,00 a year. They did agree that tuition could be raised because the HOPE Scholarship would pay for any increase, but they did not want a hike in fees because that would come out of their pocket. This is typical of the Democratic mindset – a philosophy that redistributes costs from one group to another.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Amnesty for Illegals Bill Pushed by Obama. President Obama gave a thumbs up Thursday to the outline of a plan to legalize illegal immigrants and create a flow of low-skilled foreign workers for the future, saying the immigration bill being worked on by a Republican and a Democrat is “promising.” In their broad blueprint, Sens. Charles E. Schumer, New York Democrat, and Lindsey Graham, South Carolina Republican, call for illegal immigrants to be put on a path to citizenship, offer green cards to keep high-skilled foreign university graduates and would create a temporary program for low-skilled workers, with some also getting the chance to become citizens. The senators also proposed to turn all Social Security cards into tamper-proof IDs to be checked by employers when they are about to hire a worker. The cards would include biometric information designed to prevent counterfeiting — but the senators said the information would not be stored in a government database. But the outline (blueprint) is just a first step in what’s still a very rocky legislative path. Rep. Lamar Smith of Texas, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, said flatly that it can’t pass. “The bill doesn’t have a prayer, because the American people oppose rewarding lawbreakers, which then encourages illegal immigration,” he said. “Allowing millions of illegal immigrants to stay and take jobs away from citizens is like giving a burglar a key to the house. Illegal immigrants should return home and play by the rules like millions of legal immigrants.”
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Smith’s Solution to 4-H Cut. Today, Rep Bob Smith (R-Watkinsville) introduced a bill to move all 4-H programs and Cooperative Extensive Programs under the State Department of Agriculture. Since 4-H is in the business of teaching all elements of agriculture to one of our most precious resources, our youth, and agriculture is our state’s top economic engine, it is a natural to put the 2 together. The legislation will have to pass the House and Senate by a 2/3 vote and be approved by Georgia voters at election time. If it makes it through “crossover day” it most likely would be approved by all in time for the midterm elections. Smith’s solution would avoid a drastic cut. Note: such action would move all college of agricultural programs from under the Board of Reagents and into a state department (Ag), not just 4-H and the Extension Service, Smith emphasized. Then Rock Eagle in Eatonton would be an arm of the Ag department.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Tax Panel To Revamp Georgia Tax Code. Floating among Legislators is an idea to modernize Georgia’s tax code to something that would be fairer to all citizens. The old tax code is a “relic” so outdated that it actually discourages a rich thriving economy, was stated in the discussion. A bill (2010) is being considered to include the creation of a group of 11 called a “Special Council on Tax Reform” and the another group of 12 called “Joint Committee on Revenue Structure” that could work over the next year and then be considered for approval in the 2011 Legislative Session. “It is time that something be done and when times are bad is a good time to undertake such a project.”
Friday, March 19, 2010
Special Sweetheart Deals = Exchanged Votes. U S House Speaker Pelosi, Senate Leader Harry Reid and Obama are indulging in “deals” to buy votes to get the ObamaCare bill passed. Sen Mary Landrieu (D-LA) got a $300 million for Louisiana for rebuilding Katrina’s destruction, but Mississippi which had about as much destruction – got nothing. Sen Ben Nelson’s (D-Neb) deal was a blatant payoff for his state to get the state part of Medicaid paid by the Feds for life. Rep Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) was given a ride on Air Force One and the public has been kept in the dark about what he was “paid” for his vote because he changed it after the flight from a “no” to a “yes” like the others. There were some 40 Democrats who stuck with their “no” position but they were being coerced to change their votes. Other deals exists that have not been publicized yet. Other states are beginning to raise their voices in opposition to these sweetheart deals. What a mess!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Touch-A-Truck Draws Over 700. The 3rd Saturday in March or thereabouts, the Parks & Recreation Department puts on a large equipment show called “Touch-A-Truck” that draws families with children from Oconee and many surrounding counties. Large vehicles appeal to small children after playing with tiny trucks and cars, so a chance to actually sit in the seat of the real thing is fascinating to the children – and probably to some parents. An array of vehicles – police car, fire truck, ambulance, FedEx delivery truck, 16 wheelers, a well driller, a crane with a lift bucket, a trash truck, antique tractors, a lumber truck, and a helicopter (this year) were available at Heritage Park on U S 441. Parks & Rec Director, Lisa Davol said this, the 5th year, is the best and biggest ever. All Parks and Rec personnel were volunteers and all owners of vehicles were volunteers. It is a great way to advocate for Oconee Parks & Rec programs, for educating children and for just plain fun, said Davol.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Now Dems Take Separate Vote on ObamaCare After Criticism of “Deem” Measure. House Dems drop ‘deem and pass’ in favor of separate vote on Senate health bill. House Democratic leaders say they will take a separate vote on the Senate health care bill, rejecting an earlier, much-criticized strategy that would have permitted them to “deem” the measure passed without an explicit vote.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Only 60 Hours Left to Defeat ObamaCare. ALERT ! A Parliamentary Trick. We now have less than 48 HOURS to STOP Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid from using an unconstitutional trick to pass socialized healthcare in America!!! Here’s how they plan to do it: through something called “reconciliation,” and using a new “rule” they made up called “deemed passed.” The Democrats on the House don’t like the bill that the Senate Democrats passed. But before Congress can pass a “reconciliation” bill making the Senate’s bill acceptable to the House Democrats, the House must first pass the Senate bill and the President must sign it into law. The problem is, House Democrats know how UNPOPULAR the Senate bill is, so they do NOT want an up-or-down vote on it. So, instead of exposing themselves as socialists by having their vote registered, the House will tie the Senate bill and the “reconciliation” bill together in a Rules Committee resolution, which says that if the reconciliation bill passes, then the original Senate bill will be “deemed” to have been passed… with NO VOTE NECESSARY! Did you get that? Congress is STILL planning on shoving ObamaCare down America’s throat THIS SUNDAY — and they’re going to use every parliamentary trick in the book to get it passed, even WITHOUT a supermajority… unless WE make sure that Obama, Reid, and Pelosi FAIL in their trickery!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Watkinsville’s Chuck Williams Appointed. Today, Governor Perdue appointed our own Chuck Williams to the State Forestry Commission. Chuck and wife Beth own a 200-acre (plus) farm of southern pine in the lower part of the county. As a long time member of the Georgia Forestry Commission, he has been involved with growing pine trees for commercial purposes for many years. During that time, he was named to the Forestry Stewardship Steering Committee and was chosen as Forester of the Year in 2005. Forestry Commission Services include forest management assistance for landowners and communities, growing and selling tree seedlings, issuing burn permits and wildfire suppression and prevention. He is also the President and CEO of the North Georgia Bank in Oconee County – a community bank with local stockholders.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Stupak Is Hanging In There. Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich), says he is still a “no” vote on health care. He is Catholic and he is being guided by the Catholic Bishops in his state to stick with his convictions. “There’s no agreement so until there’s an agreement I’m a no vote…negotiations continue…with everybody,” the congressman told Fox News Sunday afternoon. Stupak has been shepherding a group of a dozen pro-life democrats who have vowed to not vote for the health care overhaul bill unless there is strict language prohibiting federal funding of abortion. His attempt to get an amendment was struck by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. There is word that Obama has offered to issue an Executive Order that would re-state the ban on the federal government paying for abortions – a promise to get Stupak’s vote but he has such strong convictions that it may not work with him. If he and his group accept the dubious offer, that would make the number of required votes to pass the bill.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
U S House Passes Its Version of Health Care Bill. The Democratic control House narrowly passed its version of health care late Saturday night by a 220-215 vote. The staff had to include language that would forbid the federal government paying for abortions as demanded by the more conservative Democrats (about 40) which allowed them to vote for it. The bill requires that all persons residing in the U S must carry insurance even the non-citizen of which there are about 20 million. If anybody refused, they would be fined the amount of the insurance. This is an effort to get everybody on a Public Option which most Americans do not want because it would be an universal entitlement that would bankrupt the U S economy. It would not be sustainable. Congressmen on the August leave got an earful from citizens at their Town Hall meetings. Many citizens are joining the Republican Congressmen in saying “no” to the bill and a groundswell of opposition is cropping up all over the nation in the form of TEA Party Patriots. But has Obama and Congress heard them yet?
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Stupak Switched to A “Yes” Vote. The White House said on Sunday President Barack Obama would issue an Executive order reaffirming a ban on using federal funds for abortion in a deal with holdout Democrats that could clear the way for passage of a healthcare overhaul. Stupak has become a traitor to his Catholic constituents - (Reuters) An executive order cannot change the law. Stupak is willing to exchange all those babies for a promise from Obama. It’s laughable. Obama makes a promise that he knows is useless and what is his record for sticking to his word. Stupak has been duped. He has disappointed a lot of followers.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Stupak – Traitor to His Constituents. Washington – Rep. Bart Stupak announced Sunday afternoon he will support the health care overhaul bill that is being voted on by the House after a last-minute deal with the Obama administration. With Stupak’s support, and that of other anti-abortion Democrats who stood with him against the bill, “we’re well past 216″ votes to pass the bill, Stupak said at a news conference. The White House issued a statement as Stupak and anti-abortion Democrats were holding a news conference to announce the deal that said President Barack Obama will issue an executive order after the passage of the bill that will reaffirm it is consistent “with longstanding restrictions on the use of federal funds for abortion.” The order was worked out to assure votes in favor of the bill, which is teetering on the verge of approval. nhurst@detnews.com (202) 662-8738 From The Detroit News: http://www.detnews.com/article/20100321/POLITICS03/3210315/1409/Stupak–White-House-reach-deal-on-abortion#ixzz0iqo2NjKJ
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Infamous Day For America. Mark this day is your memory, March 21, 2010 – the day that America started on a path to socialism – real hardcore socialism immediately. You’ve heard Obama say that he just “needed to get the bill passed so he could use it as a framework” to pass other laws that would be even more freedom destructive. Many legal minds have jumped in to test the constitutionality of ObamaCare, but their work is an illusion because the law is now the law of the land and the Supreme Court is not nor does it have the authority to override the actions of Congress in total – maybe on parts of the law but in the meantime we will be taxed heavily and reduced to paupers. It is a dark sad day for all. By the clock on the wall, it is now 6:30 pm and the House has just passed a procedural rule to accept the Senate bill without amendments on a 220 to 205 vote. All that is left is the vote on the Senate bill itself with the same expected vote count.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Oconee County Youngster Headed for the Big Lights. Ever heard of Emily McCannon? Well probably not, but you might see and hear of her singing career in the near future. She is an Oconee County Teen (16) and loves to sing traditional county songs. A scout’s ear heard her once and that’s all it took. He invited her to Nashville under the Nashville Spotlight recruiting talent scout company and after making several stage appearances, she fell in love with the live audience. She’s also appeared on TV to give her some experience for the big time. After returning home from Nashville, she landed a singing appearance at the Barrow County Relay-for-Life on April 30. Another date is in Carrolton, GA. She is home schooled making good grades but wants to follow her instincts to be a professional singer.
Monday, March 22, 2010
County Budget Meetings Schedule. All department heads were to turn in their budgets to the finance officer and the county manager by the end of today. After all heads have been met with staff over the past 2 weeks, the remainder of April will be used for commissioners to discuss the requests by each department. Public hearings follow with the schedule as follows:
* Monday, April 12 – 5:30 pm
* Tuesday, April 13 – 9:00 am
* Wednesday, April 14 – 5:30 pm
The final proposed budget will be presented at the May 4 BOC public meeting and adopted at the June 1 BOC meeting before the FY begins on July 1, 2010.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Illegal To Go Slow in Fast Traffic Lane. The GA House passed a bill today to fine a motorist $75 per citation if he is caught driving under the speed limit in the fast lanes. You read that right. You may be fearful of driving as fast as others in heavy traffic and so you move over and drive in the slow lane, but you need to drive a little faster than 40 mph to get to work on time. There is no in between. What a waste of time for lawmakers. Do they really think this will alleviate traffic congestion or accidents! And with so much more significant legislation to attend with little time to do it in this session.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Medical Malpractice Suits – No Award Limit. The High Court in Georgia ruled today that the legislation sign into law in 2005 by Governor Perdue to cap these lawsuits at $350,000, denies a citizen a right to a jury trial in which that jury may believe from evidence that the cap is too restrictive. Lawyers gathered to decide on a “game plan” to appeal the ruling which may become a fruitless effort.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Special Election in Georgia Set for April 27. Governor Perdue announced today, a special election would be held on April 27 to replace U S Rep Nathan Deal (R-Gainsville – 9th Congressional District) who announced his resignation in early March. He went back to Washington to cast his last vote “no” on the ObamaCare bill last night. He will step down at the end of March to focus on his candidacy for Governor of Georgia. He said his district is solidly conservative and there’s no way a Democrat could win. Two (2) Republican Legislators (State Sen Lee Hawkins from Gainesville and State Rep Tom Graves from Ranger) are vying for the seat. Both have about ½ million in their cash war chest.
Monday, March 22, 2010
U S Senator Johnny Isakson Admitted to Hospital. Northside Hospital in Atlanta received Isakson for a bacterial infection today. He is not expecting a short stay, perhaps 3 days.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Georgia House Wants You To Give a Penny Tax for the Arts. HB 1049 would enable every Georgia county to hold a referendum on dedicating up to one penny of sales tax for arts and cultural groups and other economic development projects. Each county would be able to decide how to split its penny — or fraction of a penny. Because public funding for the arts remains weak in Atlanta and Georgia, a statewide coalition of cultural, business and civic leaders has lobbied hard for legislation that would support the arts and other initiatives. The Bill would enable every Georgia county to hold a referendum on dedicating up to one penny of sales tax for arts and cultural groups and other economic development projects. Each county would be able to decide how to split its penny — or fraction of a penny. The legislature is also considering a penny sales tax for transportation, fee hikes and a sin tax increase. This is not smart in the middle of economic problem.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Georgia Chamber of Commerce Legislative Update. Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a massive overhaul of the nation’s health care system by a slim 219-212 margin despite bipartisan Congressional and public opposition. HR 3590, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, passed the U.S. Senate in December and now awaits the signature of President Barack Obama. The legislation is expected to provide government-run health coverage to millions of Americans who are currently uninsured - but it will do so through new taxes and fines on businesses, workers and health plans; hefty subsidies for and mandates on the middle class; and higher health care costs, fewer choices and reduced access for the majority of Americans who already have coverage. Reconciliation. A separate “reconciliation” bill that would impose additional payroll and investment taxes, expand subsidies, and give special treatment to union health plans passed the House 220-211. The bill now goes to the Senate, where it requires only 51 votes to pass. GA Delegates Who Voted No. The Chamber thanks the members of Georgia’s Congressional delegation who voted against the bill, in particular Democratic Congressmen John Barrow and Jim Marshall, who were willing to willing to break party ranks to vote on the side of Georgians. Tort Reform Decision. This morning, the Georgia Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision striking down award caps for medical malpractice, a key provision of 2005′s Senate Bill 3. The Georgia Chamber believes that the caps as passed struck an important balance between compensating plaintiffs and preventing outrageous monetary awards that drive up the cost of medical care and malpractice insurance. We will be reviewing this decision closely and determining what next steps, if any, should be taken to address the questions of constitutionality raised by the Court. Crossover Day. Today is the 28th day of the 40-day working session and the General Assembly will meet two additional days - Tuesday and Thursday - this week. Thursday will be ‘crossover day,’ after which no bill that has not already passed one chamber can still be considered for passage this year. Taxes. Legislative leaders introduced legislation last week to create the 2010 Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness for Georgia (HB1405). This group would include government leaders, business representatives and three of the state’s leading economists and be charged with conducting a thorough review of Georgia’s current tax and revenue structure and making recommendations in time for the 2011 legislative session. The Georgia Chamber is a strong proponent for revising the state’s tax code and supports this legislation. Economic Development. HR178 was passed by the full House this morning. This legislation would bring much-needed clarity to Georgia employment law and ensure that employers and employees enjoy certainty with regard to employment agreements by allowing judges to make decisions reflective of the original intent of the contract. The bill now goes to the Senate for debate. Education. HB1195, which will codify the mission and governance of Georgia’s Work Ready program, was passed by the House Industrial Relations Committee last week. The Georgia Chamber is a proud partner in this program, which has already made a positive economic impact on communities throughout our state. Transportation. The House Transportation Committee passed HB1218 last week with a number of significant changes from what Governor Perdue originally proposed. In particular, the bill now shifts control of regional project lists from the state planning director to a “regional roundtable,” places state legislators on regional roundtables, and moves the referendum date to the general, rather than presidential primary. It also allows for an “opt out” for any region that cannot agree on a project list, a provision explicitly opposed by Governor Perdue. Water. The Georgia Water Stewardship Act (HB1094, SB370) received final passage by the House last week and now goes to the Governor for his signature. The legislation is based on recommendations made by the Water Contingency Planning Task Force which met late last year and included Georgia Chamber members from throughout the state. URL: http://www.gachamber.com/article-Mar-22-2010-23460.html
Monday, March 22, 2010
Update on Special Election for Nathan Deal Seat. I am getting reports that Governor Perdue is setting the special election to replace Congressman Nathan Deal on April 27th. Story developing. North Georgia residents will to have to wait until at least the end of next month before they get a new representative in Congress. Gov. Sonny Perdue on Monday set April 27 for the special election to replace U.S. Rep. Nathan Deal, who officially resigned his seat representing Georgia’s 9th congressional district following Sunday’s health care reform legislation vote. Deal announced on March 1 he was quitting Congress after 18 years to concentrate on his campaign for governor. The Gainesville Republican also was facing a U.S. House ethics investigation into the dealings between an auto salvage company he owned and a state-funded inspection program. At least 13 candidates have filed with the Federal Election Commission to replace Deal, although it’s unclear how many of them are planning to run for the special election as well as the general election this fall. by Jim Galloway
Friday, March 19, 2010
Ag Education – An Extracurricular Activity? Absolutely not and the Oconee School System knows the distinction between an established Ag program which offers credit courses in the classroom and an “extra” after school. The 2 are combined and is the reason Ag Education in the Oconee School System has been so successful for Oconee students seeking an Ag career. Chip Bridges from the State Ag Education Program said that the school system will not be hurt very much by losing 2 Ag teachers, Stan Mitchell (North Oconee High) and Sidney Bell (Oconee High), both are going to work at the Regional Ag program, because other teachers could fill in the 2 vacancies and the program would continue. The FFA Alumni members did not readily agree. “FFA is not an after school club.” No solution has been reached.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Oconee Tourism Assistant Hired. Justine Martin started his new job today as assistant to Tourism Director Peggy Holcomb. The hotel tax money came in and was enough to hire for that position. He comes from Clayton County and started his academic career with the goal to study medicine and help people, but he says he can do that in the hospitality industry also. He is a graduate of Young Harris College and Georgia Southern College. He says he wanted this job so he could continue his education at the University. His first assignment is to update the Tourism Web site in which he will promote Oconee County as a destination through social networking using all the social network features such as FaceBook. He says Watkinsville and the county are always presenting special events and he wants to encourage folks nearby to take advantage of the county’s great assets since the economy may keep folks from traveling at a great distance for entertainment. He thinks just getting the word out will increase tourism for this area.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
ObamaCare Signed Into Law Today. At about 11 am, all were gather in the East Wing of the White House to witness the signing. Oh, there were many speeches of accolades for Obama from Biden, from Obama to the leaders of the House and Senate and all compliments all around for pushing the bill through. And of course, many promises from Obama of what the health care law will do for the American people – but he dared not mention the cost to all taxpayers from now on and evermore. We are now stuck with another gigantic entitlement program that we can’t pay for and nobody even knows yet the repercussions it will bring on – negative consequences that short-sighted Congressmen dare not think about. The Attorneys General of 23 states have prepared papers to sue Congress for gross illegality of mandates in the bill. That will probably go nowhere, but Republicans believe that they cannot give up even now. Note: Obama has not signed an Executive re-emphasizing the ban on federal money on abortions as he promised Rep Stupak to get his group’s vote in the House. Reports state that he said he would do it “soon.” Look for another broken promise. No follow up report will ever be made by the media and it to be forgotten. Stupak has been duped and the Democrats are having a good laugh.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
DEAL: Illegal Aliens Covered by ObamaCare. U S Congressman Nathan Deal (R-GA) speaks out in opposition to Speaker Pelosi’s government takeover of healthcare and votes ‘No’ on H.R. 3962. On a highly anticipated day in Congress, Deal once again took to the House floor to speak out in opposition of, and to ultimately vote against Speaker Pelosi’s government takeover of taxpayer healthcare. His floor speech was followed by applause from his colleagues and people observing in the House Gallery. The bill, which was drafted behind closed doors by the Democrat leadership, will lead to more lost jobs, higher taxes, fewer choices and the elimination of the freedoms and liberties which are essential for patients and their providers. Rep. Deal, Ranking Republican on the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, presented numerous amendments during consideration of the measure at the Rules Committee, which would have prevented American taxpayers from being forced to finance benefits for illegal aliens and protect the ability of states to make independent decisions without the heavy hand of the federal government interfering with critical healthcare policy-making. Unfortunately, these amendments were rejected, leaving in place the same flawed bill that Democratic leadership single-handedly crafted over the past several weeks. The congressman’s floor statement is as follows: “I rise in opposition to this bill and I express three major concern.
1) “First of all, I raise a question. The question is, what authority in the United States Constitution gives this Congress the right to mandate that every citizen must purchase a health insurance policy, and upon failing to do so shall be fined and possibly imprisoned? I think the answer to that question is – there is no such constitutional authority.
2) Secondly, make NO mistake about it. Illegal Aliens will receive government funded healthcare under this bill because all they are required to show is a Social Security number and a name. There is no way to prevent the same Social Security number from being used by numerous individuals, and there is no requirement that a picture ID be produced in order to prove that the person is in fact the name which appears on the Social Security card. If you think identity theft is a problem now, just wait until this bill passes!
3) And thirdly, this bill requires states to increase their Medicaid roles to 150% of the federal poverty level. In an ever increasing fashion, states will have to absorb the cost of this burden. I offered an amendment that would have allowed states to opt out from under this mandate, but it has been rejected. In states like mine where we have to balance our budget right now school teachers and law enforcement officers are being asked to take unfunded furlough days. If this bill passes it will get even worse. We should not be passing a bill that takes days and money out of the paychecks of teachers and law enforcement officers to pay for this piece of legislation.”
Despite 176 Republicans and 39 Democrats voting against the bill, House Bill 3962 passed late Saturday night by a vote of 220 to 215.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Update: Oconee Sewer Capacity Not Used. Oconee County has about 1,500 customers who are connected to sewer. At the height of the building boom, developers paid dearly for sewer connection in anticipation of getting a higher price for homes and businesses. There are some 3,600 platted subdivision lots in the county that are in trouble according to the Tax Assessor’s Office. The sewer capacity fee was paid and the lots are just sitting there with no movement. Subdivisions that have vacant lots or partially vacant lots include: Coldwater Creek, Creekside, Old Farm, Triple Creek, Willow Creek, Lane Creek Plantation and Whitlow Creek. As a result of the downturn in development, the purchased sewer capacity is not being used therefore the upgrade to 1 million gallons per day that was planned and permitted by the EPD for the Calls Creek Reclamation Plant in not needed. The County needs only about 600,000 gpd now. However, plans to upgrade are in the works in anticipation of a recovery in the development sector. High fees for connection affords the Utility Department to pay for installation of pipes to new development, pump stations where gravity is not sufficient and upkeep of equipment without dipping into the county’s general fund. The Oconee Utility Department is self-sufficient – it’s bills are paid with fees and monthly water-use income.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Update: Special Election will be May 11 for the Deal Seat. Date moved to accommodate all voters. The special election date to fill the unexpired term of Georgia Republican Rep. Nathan Deal has been moved from April 27 to May 11. If no candidate receives a majority of the vote, a runoff will be held on June 8. Georgia elections division spokesman Matt Carrothers said the move was made to ensure military and overseas voters would be able to cast their ballots in time. The qualifying period for the seat will still be held next week, March 29 through 31. Deal resigned his seat Sunday evening following the health care vote after announcing earlier this month he was leaving to focus on his campaign for governor. So far, Republican state Sen. Lee Hawkins and state Rep. Tom Graves have resigned their legislative seats to run in the race. Read more at: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0310/34958.html#ixzz0kWZvvN3K
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Oconee Teachers Paid Well. There are 1,350 teachers and of that number, 365 are paid $50,000 according to the State Department of Audits. The school system has managed this situation by hiring the best among a large pool who apply each time a position is opened. At present, many teachers have advanced degrees and/or have taught in the system for 15 years or longer both of which justifies additional salary supplement. Superintendent John Jackson is paid the highest salary, $157,673 plus about $10,000 travel and miscellaneous expenses = $167,622. His salary ranks 55th in the state. Board of Education Chairman, David Weeks states that the superintendent’s salary is the only one the Board has control over and he is about due a raise since it’s been 3 years now. Somehow, the system has managed to keep the deep cuts in other educational areas of the state at a minimum in the Oconee school system, perhaps because of the well known reputation of the system for excellent teaching, and the success of their graduates.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Governor Perdue’s response to the ObamaCare Law Official Statement of Governor Sonny Perdue Regarding the Healthcare Legislation passed by the United States Congress. Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today regarding the healthcare legislation passed by the United States Congress: “Unfortunately, the United States House of Representatives last night chose politics over the will of the American people. The enormous upheaval of our healthcare system was pushed through the House against the wishes of the majority of American families and businesses. Here in Georgia , this vote will force an additional billion dollars or more of Medicaid spending per year, requiring either a tax hike or offsetting cuts to public safety, education and other core services of state government. While this colossal unfunded mandate cripples our budget, I am even more concerned about the debilitating impact it will have on Georgia ’s small businesses. The extension of the Medicare tax on all non-wage income means that small business owners will see their top rate increased by 20 percent and investment income taxes increasing 60 percent. What is most unfortunate is that the American people had no voice at the table in Washington during the course of this debate. The only glimpse citizens saw of the process were closed-door meetings that resulted in backroom deals and the buying of votes to ensure passage. I am today renewing my December request to the Attorney General that he join other states in reviewing the constitutionality of this travesty. My office has already begun to review any and all legal options to challenge this legislation. I also urge the Georgia General Assembly to continue moving forward on my proposal to allow Georgians to purchase insurance plans across state lines. Now that Congress is mandating that every American purchase health insurance, we should open the individual market to as much competition as possible. Since this bill has such a significant impact on future state budgets, it is imperative that current candidates for elected office publicly state their plans to either support the Obama-Pelosi legislation or fight for the people of Georgia. It will cost the states money they do not have and therefore will cost taxpayers and businesses dearly. Unfortunately, they have passed a bill based on politics and not the will of the people.”
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Amend the Georgia Constitution Prevent Health Care Mandate. HR 1086 – Amend The Georgia Constitution HR 1086 being heard on the Georgia House floor today. This is a bill to put-up for a vote this November to amend the Georgia Constitution to: “…to provide that no law or rule or regulation shall compel any person, employer, or health care provider to participate in any health care system and to authorize persons and employers to pay directly for lawful health care services without penalties or fines; to provide for the submission of this amendment for ratification or rejection; and for other purposes.” In short, to prevent any Georgia legal entity (i.e., citizen or company) from having to participate in Obama’s “1984″ healthcare program, and from paying a fine or penalty if they decide to pay for healthcare services directly.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Today Is “Crossover Day” for Georgia Legislature. Members of the Legislature have been scrambling to get their favorite bills agreed upon by the House or Senate Members by end of business today. With only 15 days left in a 40 day session, bills must have made progress through the various committees and one of the 2 chambers by COB today in order to be considered an “active” bill – meaning it will have a better chance to become law than a bill that has just been introduced. It’s a matter of time, especially this year since there is no money to pay legislators the extra salary for extra session days. They must get it all done in 40 days.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Bills That Cleared “Crossover Day” in Georgia Legislature. They have not been signed by Gov.
* House Bill 1322 – Photos From Crime Scenes: Nude crime scene photos cannot be made public even under the Open Records Act.
* Senate Bill 346 – Property Taxes: allows an overhaul of the property tax appeals process
* House Bill 1093 – Cheating on Taxes: allows the State IRS to investigate and arrest tax cheaters.
* House Bill 1130 – Class Size: would allow the number to students in a class to increase to reduce number of teachers needed to ease budget shortfalls.
* House Bill 1301 – Water Use: Prevent Water Transfer Across Water Basins.
* House Bill 1005 – Fees: Allows State to Increase State Fees and Create new ones.
* Senate Bill 406 – Vote: Allows citizens to register to vote online.
* Senate Bill 360 – Texting: Would outlaw texting while driving (felony).
* Senate Bill 370 – Watering Restrictions: Absolutely no watering during the hottest part of day.
* House Bill 920 – Ethics Reform: cap lobbyist gift at $100; lower limits on campaign contributions.
* House Bill ? – Transportation Tax: stalled – under discussion; neither Chamber can agree on details.
* House Bill 1098 – Raw Milk Availability: allows raw milk to be sold (no pasteurization).
* House Bill 965 – Bicycling: allows local governments to determine where bikes can be ridden.
* House Bill 1309 – Laboratory Marijuana (Pot): outlaws the use of “spice” or “K2” as it is known.
* Senate Bill 393 – Governor Appointments: allows governor to appoint rather than elect 4 high state level offices thereby negating elections for them.
* Senate Bill 485 – Reduce Number of Judges: dissolve offices for 19 superior court judges.
* House Bill 1389 – Drug Testing: folks receiving unemployment benefits must be drug tested.
House Bill 927 – Bullying: would strengthen current laws against bullying; tabled.
Senate Bill 169 – In Vitro Fertilization Restrictions; stalled in House & Technology Committee.
* Senate Bill 317 – Federal Health Care: allows Georgia to opt out federal public option health care.
* House Resolution – Horse Racing: horse racing in Georgia – put before voters.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Oconee’s Thomas Orchards Open for Spring. Located on U S 441 just south of Watkinsville, the
place is surrounded by peach orchards and is known for its homemade peach ice cream and of course fresh peaches when they are in season. Jerry Thomas reminds that they are a 4th generation peach farm in Oconee. And of course, they get lots of calls for hot boiled peanuts which they keep in stock. But in addition, Jerry and Paula have added a complete green house with a variety of annuals, perennials, and evergreens. The nursery also stocks and sells gifts and gardening care products such as fertilizer and pest eradicators. It is the place to visit when Spring opens its doors. Prices are very reasonable.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Effort to Appeal ObamaCare. Attorneys General in 23 States have filed a suit against Congress for passing a mandatory health care bill. They believe that it is unconstitutional. Georgia’s Attorney General, Thurbert E. Baker was asked by Governor Perdue to join the others and file papers, but he refused. His reason? He believes the effort is useless, that no court will change the law. The court’s duty is to interpret the laws and not to nullify them, he said. The Governor’s response: he accepted the pro bono offer from a group of private attorneys who will join the other state’s attorneys and join the effort.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Court Rules Contributions to PACs Unlimited. A federal appeals court on Friday handed another victory to conservative opponents of campaign-finance restrictions, striking down limits on individual contributions to independent groups who want to use the money for or against candidates in federal elections. But in its unanimous decision, the nine-judge U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia also said that a conservative group called SpeechNow.org must disclose its donors and other details of its finances to the Federal Election Commission, a requirement that the group had sought to overturn. Steve Simpson, a lawyer who argued the case on behalf of SpeechNow.org, called the decision voiding contribution limits “a tremendous victory for free speech” and said it “ensures that all Americans can band together to make their voices heard during elections.” The decision follows from the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in January in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, which found that corporations are akin to individuals when it comes to political speech and are free to spend as much as they like for or against candidates. In a separate decision issued Friday by a three-judge panel, the Republican National Committee lost a bid to raise unlimited contributions from corporations and individuals, setting the stage for further litigation at the Supreme Court. Taken together, the rulings underscore the uncertainty that hangs over the patchwork system of federal spending restrictions put in place in the 1970s and strengthened by the 2002 McCain-Feingold campaign-finance law. The SpeechNow.org decision effectively expands the scope of a new, more free-wheeling campaign-finance system emerging in the wake of January’s Citizens United decision, which swept aside decades of legislative restrictions on the role of corporations in political campaigns by allowing independent groups to raise unlimited funds as long as they do not contribute money directly to candidates. But Friday’s decision also endorsed requirements that such groups continue to disclose where they get their money and how they spend it. Political parties and candidates are still subject to stricter standards, at least for now. The Supreme Court, which ignored its own precedents in issuing the 5 to 4 Citizens United ruling, may be eager to address the limits kept in place by Friday’s rulings. Opponents of restrictions on political spending viewed the decisions much differently. Chip Mellor, president and general counsel of the Institute for Justice, which helped bring the SpeechNow case to court, said the ruling in that case “has moved us one step closer to ending this nation’s failed 35-year experiment with campaign finance ‘reform’ and restoring the First Amendment to its proper place.” The Associated Press
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Mental Health Fundraiser-adDRESS-a-Need. The supplemental wing (Friends of Advantage, Inc, FOA) of the mental health organization called Advantage Behavioral Health Systems (ABHS) in Athens put on a fantastic fundraiser this weekend – 2 days of selling formal dresses for the prom crowd. Planning started about 6 months ago when Tammy Dalton of ABHS announced that she needed to address a need (adDRESS-a-Need) for young high school girls going to a prom this year. She called on the community to donate their slightly used formal wear (dresses, jewelry, purses, and shoes) to FOA, then asked sponsors to help her organize a big sale at the Athens Civic Center. Over 340 dresses were donated, some with an original price tag of $100 to $300 all to be sold for a astonishing price between $40 and $90. Some new dresses were donated by shops in the various 10 counties that ABHS serves. A shop in Elberton gave 90 new pairs of shoes. The word had to be spread. She contacted directly or indirectly all weekly and daily newspapers in the 10-county area; made appointments for radio spots in several radio stations and was videotaped for a segment on the Atlanta TV Station 11-Alive. Many mothers and daughters came from Atlanta to shop. Now and then, a father accompanied his lovely daughter to the event. It was a huge success by any measure. With no overhead, the event cleared over $8,000 for the 2 days which will be used to foster the care and treatment of the mentally challenged in the 10-county area.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Oconee’s Heritage Easter Egg Hunt Draws over 8,000. Food, tractor rides, musical entertainment, big bouncers, pony rides, face painting, hugs from the Easter Bunny, toss bunnies and etc began the egg hunt event on Sunday at noon at Heritage Park on U S 441. The eggs (all plastic) were just strewn on the mark-off areas (according to age) before the “hunt” began stirring up ready-to-go” adrenalin in 5 months to 8 year-olds. When Chairman Melvin Davis gave the signal, little feet scrabbled to pick up the most eggs which were all clearly in sight. The flash and click of cameras from all directions could be seen and heard. The height of the fun over – finding, gathering and counting – parents and children cracked open the plastic, ate the contents and returned empty plastic to a huge tub for storage until next year. It certainly was a different kind of egg hunt from several years ago when children were actually required to “hunt” for them. Parents and their children (total about 8,000) came from many surrounding towns and counties to the event which will occur annually until further notice.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Egg Hunt in Bogart. The city of Bogart held their third (3rd) annual egg hunt today from 2 to 4 pm at the playing fields across from the Bogart Community Center. Sponsors are: the City of Bogart, Bogart Junior Women’s Club and the Bogart Historical Society. A bunny zoo was there for the little ones to pet, face painting and a cake walk, hot dog plates set up by local churches. A “live” Easter Bunny sat for pictures and walked among the children. Organizers are expecting more than 300 children and parents to attend.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Explanation of New Health Care Law. Blake Aued explains the new health care law in the March 28 issue of the ABH. The law is intended to extend health care to 94% of U S residents (includes illegals) and bring costs down. It has 3 main components:
1) Requires insurance companies to offer plans to everyone
2) Stop people from waiting until they get sick to buy insurance
3) Mandates everyone to buy a plan or pay a fine
4) Require states to set up “exchanges” (read state public option) – people can buy inexpensive care
5) Require individuals to pay from 4% to 10% of annual income for coverage
6) Change the way hospitals and doctors are paid
7) Sets up a “best practices” Board to monitor treatment
8) The number of people on Medicare will increase from 35 million to 51 million
9) For people who have their own plan, premiums will increase
10) Insurance companies will no longer be allowed to drop clients who get sick
11) Insurance companies cannot deny coverage to children based on pre-existing conditions
12) Children (young adults) can stay on their parents insurance plan until they reach the age of 26
13) Give Medicare recipients a $250 rebate this year for prescription drugs
14) Does not allow federal money to pay for abortions (except rape, incest or danger to mother)
15) Prevents physicians-owned hospitals from receiving Medicare payments
16) Plan under new law will cost the tax payer $938 BILLION over 10 years
17) Medicare payroll taxes will increase for those making more than $200,000 per year
18) Investment income will be taxed 3.8%
19) “Cadillac” insurance plans will be charged with a 40% tax
20) All insurance companies will be charged a fee
21) Tanning beds will be charged a fee
22) Requires the states to bear the cost of additional Medicaid coverage
Number twenty-one (21) has upset all states that say they don’t have the funds to support an already failing program and therefore, some states have made plans to “repeal the law.” Governor Perdue is pursuing a suit against Congress via private legal groups rather than through the State Attorney General, Thurbert Baker who is a Democrat and who refused Perdue’s request to sue.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
FEMA Grant for Oconee Fire Department. Federal grant money in the amount of $300,000 which enabled them to purchase a breathing apparatus with spare cylinders for $256,000 and 9 thermal imaging cameras. The BOC kicked in SPLOST funds to purchase 16 more new breathing apparatuses which will replace old equipment and allow firemen to enter a burning building to rescue when otherwise it would be too dangerous. Fire Chief Bruce Thaxton said it will be safer for our firemen. Also, the grant saved the county the expense. The thermal imagers saved the county about $12,000 and will be used to detect locate victims amid the smoke and flames. They might be considered a luxury, but makes for a more efficient rescue and ultimately saves lives.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Housing Slump – Lower Appraisal – Hopefully. Home owners see a possible reduction in property taxes since the housing market took a nose dive and they are appealing the last appraisal in droves. Many homeowners are filing a little-known property tax return form in which they estimate their property worth before the county sends out an appraisal. Oconee’s tax appraisal office has received about 300 so far. It’s an indication that home owners are convinced that the widespread, drastic drop in real estate values should be interpreted as a drop in assessment therefore an drop in taxes on the property. The assessment process stays at least a year behind a slump in real estates values. In other words, the decrease in assessment value must wait for a period of 2 years after the start of a depressed housing market to make adequate assessments. The county digest may drop as much as 5% to 7% next year as a result.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
New Sewer Capacity Fee Policy – Cut by Half. At the BOC meeting tonight, Administrative Officer Alan Theriault presented a proposed Resolution to establish a Wastewater Capacity Fee Policy. Mr. Theriault explained the proposed Wastewater Capacity Fee Policy would formalize the assessment and administration of capacity fees and provide for a structure that is fair, equitable and user-friendly. He noted Oconee County has used the JT-1 table developed by the Georgia Department of Human Resources as the basis for guaranteeing sewer capacity.
Highlights of the proposed Policy include:
* aAll capacity fees would be reduced to 50% of the JT-1 Table.
* The Board of Commissioners would be the sole entity empowered to deviate from the administration and application of the Policy.
* The Administration of the Policy would be uniform and consistent across the board to all who request and are granted sewer capacity by the County.
* The cost of opening or expanding a business in Oconee County would be reduced.
* Since sewer capacity stays with the property, it would be the financial responsibility of the landlord/developer for any costs associated with capacity fees.
* Individual water meters would be required as a prerequisite for sewer availability.
Mr. Theriault also recommended the Board provide a refund/adjustment of capacity fees for Scoops and Rachel’s Restaurant in the amounts of $1,575 and $8,805, respectively, as the two identified food service establishments were required to pay 100% of the JT-1 table for capacity fees because they were single locations. – Gina Lindsey
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Oconee BOC May Opt for Government Center to House Courthouse. When the Commission Board met tonight, the Chairman asks if any of the Commissioners had remarks to make and Commissioner Luke spoke on the recent discussions regarding additional courthouse space. He explained the intention of the Board of Commissioners is to put future Boards in a good position by having a site and plan ready. He stated there are no plans for construction for at least ten years. Commissioner Horton noted the Board intends to engage the public throughout the planning process. The Board had received the summary report from the Land Use and Transportation Advisory Committee which stated based on their 6-month findings that the majority of the members favored a separation of the Administrative and Judicial by acquiring land near the jail to build a facility for court proceedings and leave the Administrative function in the old courthouse and bring departments from the Plum Bldg back to the courthouse. Wayne Provost stated that the existing courthouse would house the Administrative for at least 10 years before additional space would be needed. Does the BOC favor a “government center” to house both the Administrative and Judicial functions rather than the separation idea?
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Budget Ax Hits Ag Education. In speaking with Superintendent Dr John Jackson, he is working a plan to replace the 2 high school Ag teachers, Sidney Bell and Stan Mitchell, who have been transferred to an Athens Office. This leaves a big gap in Ag Education in Oconee County. He assures that there are other teachers in the system that could step in and replace the Bell and Mitchell, but no decision has yet been made. The positions have been posted and applications are coming in. Oconee’s Ag Program has been recognized as one of the best in the state through the accomplishments of Oconee students at regional, state and national awards. The next step is to figure out via creative management how to continue that level of excellence in the middle and high schools.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Out-of-County Thieves Hit Oconee County. Oconee County Sheriff Scott Berry has warned of a different type of thief making auto break-ins in the county and ask our help in staying alert and on the lookout. Victims are parked cars at parking lots like the Veterans Park and Herman C Michael Park. Alert citizens help to discover that rental vehicles come into the county and break into cars and steal credit cards, cameras and cell phones. It appears that a large organized ring of such events originated in the Atlanta area but are spreading out to surrounding counties. They selected Oconee County as their easy target but the Sheriff ‘s Office has vowed – with the help of alert citizens – to show the differently.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Crowded Race to Replace Retiring U S Congressman Deal. All 8 filed by the deadline today and they are: 6 Republicans, 1 Democrat and 1 Independent. Republicans who have qualified for the Special Election on May 11 are: Tom Graves, former State Rep; Bert Loftman, neurosurgeon; Lee Hawkins, former State Senator; Bill Stephens, former State Senator; Steve Tarvin, Edxecutive of a textile company; and Chris Cates, heart physician. The lone Independent is Eugene Moon, CEO of a marketing company and the lone Democrat is Mike Freeman, a clergyman.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
The Gentleman on South Main Street. In his younger days, he was a doctor and an amateur artist, then he mixed his practice with more art in a variety of media (block prints, water color, oils and photography) and took up piece quilting, composed poetry and wrote several books. He lives on South Main Street in Watkinsville in a huge home with a dozen or so rooms surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden. The Gentleman on Main Street (a reference given to him by Vinnie Williams, the publisher of the local weekly, The Oconee Enterprise) is Dr Roy Ward. His first book was Pretty Close to Home, a compilation of photographs of Watkinsville and its people in the early 1900s. One of his books (O Little Town Of Watkinsville, How I See Thee Still) was given to anybody that stood in line in the Oconee Bank parking lot for the gift. The latest give-a-way was a book entitled An Extra Eye at Watkinsville City Hall. He wrote and published 6 books total. He gave his quilt collection to the Oconee County Library. Much of his work is on display in museums scattered all over Georgia and yet he retains most of it. The word got out and that’s when he got the call – from Kathy Smith, Associate Curator at Vanderbuilt who wanted his collection for their museum (repository). She wanted to talk to Ward about the possibility. He called and left a message. That was nearly a year ago, She never called back. That’s good for the citizens of Oconee County who might someday build an Oconee Art Museum to hold just such outstanding works of native Oconee County folks. Vinnie Williams herself has a huge collection (over 150 pieces) of art in the office of the Oconee Enterprise that was purchased from OCAF And since Watkinsville has worked and received so much publicity since becoming the Artland of the South, it would be fitting to house all this culture from the past and the present in a museum. Think about it Dr Ward.
The End.
Note: The “What Happened” for the Month is a collection of short descriptions for the events that took place within the most recent month, but may not be inclusive. Information listed is from various sources: personal attendance at events, Washington Post, Associated Press, various Web sites, Fox News TV, George Will and other writers, the Atlanta Constitution, Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, the Oconee Enterprise, the Athens Banner Herald, the Augusta Chronicle, the Bainbridge Searchlight News, NewsMax, USA Today, the Patriot and Talk Radio (1340). For details on any item, go to the long write-up under the heading ARTICLE. However, some items on this page may not have a corresponding longer Article.
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