By Louie Brogdon
The Brunswick News
July 30, 2010
Regardless of state budget cuts, the Brunswick Judicial Circuit Probation office is only getting busier.
Officers are out in force keeping an eye on probationers and helping local police identify them, Chief Probation Officer Jimmy Pitts said."We are out there trying to enforce the court orders.
We are doing what we can with what we've got," Pitts said. "On any one given day, there are about 150 people in jail for probation violations. Business is good -- unfortunately."
To read further please tap on link: http://www.thebrunswicknews.com/open_access/local_news/PROBATION-072910-KK
©2010 The Brunswick News. All rights reserved.
All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) is Atlanta's preeminent resource on developmental disabilities, providing support services to families for more than 55 years. We are often the one place where people with developmental disabilities can go to achieve personal empowerment, family stability and community participation. AADD provides family support; public policy and advocacy; and community engagement.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Commissioners Vote To Raise Tax Rate
By Ashley Fuller
Cherokee Tribune
July 30, 2010
The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners on Thursday night voted to raise its millage rate, but not by as much as recommended.
The board unanimously approved setting the total rate at 8.298 mills, which is up from the current 7.703 mills, but still considered a "revenue neutral rollback" because of the declining tax digest.
The original recommendation from the county staff was to set the rate at 8.313 mills to generate enough revenue to maintain services.
To see full article please tap on link: http://www.cherokeetribune.com/view/full_story/8936964/article-Commissioners-vote-to-raise-tax-rate?instance=home_news_left
Content copyright © 2009 Marietta Daily Journal
Cherokee Tribune
July 30, 2010
The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners on Thursday night voted to raise its millage rate, but not by as much as recommended.
The board unanimously approved setting the total rate at 8.298 mills, which is up from the current 7.703 mills, but still considered a "revenue neutral rollback" because of the declining tax digest.
The original recommendation from the county staff was to set the rate at 8.313 mills to generate enough revenue to maintain services.
To see full article please tap on link: http://www.cherokeetribune.com/view/full_story/8936964/article-Commissioners-vote-to-raise-tax-rate?instance=home_news_left
Content copyright © 2009 Marietta Daily Journal
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Primary Runoff Debate: Sunday, August 1 on FOX 5
By MYFOXATLANTA STAFF
myfoxatlanta.com
July 23, 2010
Georgia gubernatorial hopefuls Nathan Deal and Karen Handel are in a runoff for the Republican nomination, and FOX 5 is giving you a chance to hear from each of them before you head to the polls.
We’ll host a Primary Runoff Debate live on FOX 5 on Sunday, August 1, 2010 from 6:30 to 7 p.m. The debate will be hosted by FOX 5 anchor Russ Spencer.
You can watch the debate live on FOX 5 at 6:30 p.m., and right here on myfoxatlanta.com.
To view the whole news item please tap on link: http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/dpp/news/politics/primary-runoff-debate-august-1-fox5
TM and (c) 2010 Fox Television Stations, Inc., and its related entities. All rights reserved.
myfoxatlanta.com
July 23, 2010
Georgia gubernatorial hopefuls Nathan Deal and Karen Handel are in a runoff for the Republican nomination, and FOX 5 is giving you a chance to hear from each of them before you head to the polls.
We’ll host a Primary Runoff Debate live on FOX 5 on Sunday, August 1, 2010 from 6:30 to 7 p.m. The debate will be hosted by FOX 5 anchor Russ Spencer.
You can watch the debate live on FOX 5 at 6:30 p.m., and right here on myfoxatlanta.com.
To view the whole news item please tap on link: http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/dpp/news/politics/primary-runoff-debate-august-1-fox5
TM and (c) 2010 Fox Television Stations, Inc., and its related entities. All rights reserved.
Dogs Sniff Out Diabetes, Get Help
Posted by Julie Wolfe
WXIA-TV Atlanta
July 28, 2010
MARIETTA, Ga.-- You've heard of therapy dogs, Seeing Eye dogs, and seizure alert dogs. New research shows canines can sniff out cancer. Now, the next level: a properly-trained dog can alert a diabetic to dangerous blood sugar levels *before* a glucose monitor
When the Jordan family plays cards, one of them is always working. It's the one laying on the floor: Alphie the Labrador. "He's never off. Never," Trevor Jordan says.
For the full story please tap on link: http://www.11alive.com/rss/rss_story.aspx?storyid=147913
Copyright ©2010 WXIA-TV Atlanta, Pacific and Southern Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
WXIA-TV Atlanta
July 28, 2010
MARIETTA, Ga.-- You've heard of therapy dogs, Seeing Eye dogs, and seizure alert dogs. New research shows canines can sniff out cancer. Now, the next level: a properly-trained dog can alert a diabetic to dangerous blood sugar levels *before* a glucose monitor
When the Jordan family plays cards, one of them is always working. It's the one laying on the floor: Alphie the Labrador. "He's never off. Never," Trevor Jordan says.
For the full story please tap on link: http://www.11alive.com/rss/rss_story.aspx?storyid=147913
Copyright ©2010 WXIA-TV Atlanta, Pacific and Southern Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
House Improves Internet Access For Disabled
Low-Income Disabled To Get Support For Internet
By Jim Abrams
Associated Press
WSBTV.com
Health
July 29, 2010
WASHINGTON -- The House on Monday celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by approving legislation assuring that the disabled have full access to the Internet and television.
"The ADA mandated physical ramps into buildings," said Rep. Edward Markey, D-Mass., sponsor of the bill. "Today, individuals with disabilities need online ramps to the Internet so they can get to the Web from wherever they happen to be."
The bill, which passed 348-23 and now moves to the Senate, takes such steps as making it easier for the blind to access the Internet from smart phones, providing deaf people with the ability to watch new TV programs online with captions included, and requiring that telecom equipment used to make calls over the Internet be compatible with hearing aids.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.wsbtv.com/health/24400746/detail.html
© 2010, WSBTV.
By Jim Abrams
Associated Press
WSBTV.com
Health
July 29, 2010
WASHINGTON -- The House on Monday celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by approving legislation assuring that the disabled have full access to the Internet and television.
"The ADA mandated physical ramps into buildings," said Rep. Edward Markey, D-Mass., sponsor of the bill. "Today, individuals with disabilities need online ramps to the Internet so they can get to the Web from wherever they happen to be."
The bill, which passed 348-23 and now moves to the Senate, takes such steps as making it easier for the blind to access the Internet from smart phones, providing deaf people with the ability to watch new TV programs online with captions included, and requiring that telecom equipment used to make calls over the Internet be compatible with hearing aids.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.wsbtv.com/health/24400746/detail.html
© 2010, WSBTV.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Caught On Camera: Alpharetta Cop Parked In Handicap Spot
WSBTV
July 22, 2010
ALPHARETTA, Ga. -- The Alpharetta Police Department is investigating one of its own.
A viewer e-mailed Channel 2 Action News reporter Diana Davis photos of an Alpharetta police car parked in the handicapped zone at the QT on Milton Parkway.
Brian Davis told Davis that the officer sat there for at least 20 minutes blocking the handicapped ramp.
Brian Davis said there was no emergency and called the officer’s actions “an outrage and an arrogant abuse of power.”
Brian Davis, who had a handicapped family member, said the officer’s actions represents a lack of respect.
For full details please tap on link: http://www.wsbtv.com/news/24342938/detail.html
© 2010, WSBTV.
July 22, 2010
ALPHARETTA, Ga. -- The Alpharetta Police Department is investigating one of its own.
A viewer e-mailed Channel 2 Action News reporter Diana Davis photos of an Alpharetta police car parked in the handicapped zone at the QT on Milton Parkway.
Brian Davis told Davis that the officer sat there for at least 20 minutes blocking the handicapped ramp.
Brian Davis said there was no emergency and called the officer’s actions “an outrage and an arrogant abuse of power.”
Brian Davis, who had a handicapped family member, said the officer’s actions represents a lack of respect.
For full details please tap on link: http://www.wsbtv.com/news/24342938/detail.html
© 2010, WSBTV.
Big Fundraiser For ADAPT This Saturday, July 31
WHAT: Flea Market & Summer Festival
WHERE: First Norman Grove Baptist Church
613 Glendale Rd., Scottsdale, GA
WHEN: This Saturday, July 31st, 8-4
FOOD: Rib Dinners - $6.00, Chicken Dinners - $5.50,
Fish Dinners - $5.00,
Sandwiches - $4.00, Sandwiches - $3.50,
Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Chili and Chicken Fajita Wraps
Sides: Corn - $1.00 and Potato Salad - $1.00
Cotton Candy - $1.25
Ice Cream Truck will be on the premises
FUN: Moon walk, etc. for Kids
DONATIONS Welcomed.
CONTACTS: Francine English, 404-294-4193,
francine.english59@gmail.com
and Bernard Baker, 404-431-3670
WHERE: First Norman Grove Baptist Church
613 Glendale Rd., Scottsdale, GA
WHEN: This Saturday, July 31st, 8-4
FOOD: Rib Dinners - $6.00, Chicken Dinners - $5.50,
Fish Dinners - $5.00,
Sandwiches - $4.00, Sandwiches - $3.50,
Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Chili and Chicken Fajita Wraps
Sides: Corn - $1.00 and Potato Salad - $1.00
Cotton Candy - $1.25
Ice Cream Truck will be on the premises
FUN: Moon walk, etc. for Kids
DONATIONS Welcomed.
CONTACTS: Francine English, 404-294-4193,
francine.english59@gmail.com
and Bernard Baker, 404-431-3670
Workers Rally For Medicaid Funding Extension
By Tom Corwin
The Augusta Chronicle
July 27, 2010
Health care workers rallied at an Augusta nursing home Tuesday to call on Congress to pass an extension of increased Medicaid funding, which many nursing home patients rely on.
Georgia already had counted on $375 million of that extra Medicaid funding in its budget for this fiscal year, so state agencies such as the Medical College of Georgia are facing a 4 percent withholding of funds and being asked to make contingency plans for cuts twice that big.
A spokesman for Gov. Sonny Perdue said that prospects appear uncertain for the Medicaid extension to pass and that he is trying not to stick the next governor with an unwelcome present come January.
To read full story please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/health/2010-07-27/workers-rally-medicaid-patients?v=1280282341
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010. All Rights Reserved.
The Augusta Chronicle
July 27, 2010
Health care workers rallied at an Augusta nursing home Tuesday to call on Congress to pass an extension of increased Medicaid funding, which many nursing home patients rely on.
Georgia already had counted on $375 million of that extra Medicaid funding in its budget for this fiscal year, so state agencies such as the Medical College of Georgia are facing a 4 percent withholding of funds and being asked to make contingency plans for cuts twice that big.
A spokesman for Gov. Sonny Perdue said that prospects appear uncertain for the Medicaid extension to pass and that he is trying not to stick the next governor with an unwelcome present come January.
To read full story please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/health/2010-07-27/workers-rally-medicaid-patients?v=1280282341
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010. All Rights Reserved.
New Council Could Make Big Changes In Taxes
The group’s final recommendations will go to the General Assembly, which will vote them up or down when they return for the 2011 legislative session in January.
By James Salzer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 28, 2010
A new panel looking at Georgia taxes begins work Wednesday with everything on the table.
And that means everything -- from eliminating loopholes and restoring a 4 percent sales tax on all groceries to adding new levies on services from haircuts to auto repairs and giving businesses incentives to hire.
While political leaders say they want the committee to modernize -- not raise -- taxes, the Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness will be the most heavily lobbied group around. Every business and industry in the state will want to either make sure its current exemptions are kept on the books or try to get new tax breaks.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/new-council-could-make-579990.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
By James Salzer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 28, 2010
A new panel looking at Georgia taxes begins work Wednesday with everything on the table.
And that means everything -- from eliminating loopholes and restoring a 4 percent sales tax on all groceries to adding new levies on services from haircuts to auto repairs and giving businesses incentives to hire.
While political leaders say they want the committee to modernize -- not raise -- taxes, the Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness will be the most heavily lobbied group around. Every business and industry in the state will want to either make sure its current exemptions are kept on the books or try to get new tax breaks.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/new-council-could-make-579990.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Businesses, Green Groups Oppose Interbasin Transfers
By Walter C. Jones
Morris News Service
The Augusta Chronicle
July 25, 2010
ATLANTA --- Downstream chambers of commerce, such as those in Athens, Augusta, Savannah and Brunswick, have some unlikely allies in fighting to prevent metro Atlanta from draining their economic futures. They just haven't found one another.
Often, pro-business groups and environmental organizations engage in a sort of tug of war over the need for more regulations to protect the ecosystem and the desire for fewer regulations to spur job creation. But there's one issue on which they agree: stopping interbasin transfers.
Such transporting of water from one river basin to another can reduce the flow of water downstream, harming both the environment and the economy.
For full article please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/metro/2010-07-25/businesses-green-groups-oppose-interbasin-transfers?v=1280106315
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010.
Morris News Service
The Augusta Chronicle
July 25, 2010
ATLANTA --- Downstream chambers of commerce, such as those in Athens, Augusta, Savannah and Brunswick, have some unlikely allies in fighting to prevent metro Atlanta from draining their economic futures. They just haven't found one another.
Often, pro-business groups and environmental organizations engage in a sort of tug of war over the need for more regulations to protect the ecosystem and the desire for fewer regulations to spur job creation. But there's one issue on which they agree: stopping interbasin transfers.
Such transporting of water from one river basin to another can reduce the flow of water downstream, harming both the environment and the economy.
For full article please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/metro/2010-07-25/businesses-green-groups-oppose-interbasin-transfers?v=1280106315
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010.
Golden Named to Special Committee on Revenue Structure
The special council consists of 11 members, including four leading economists, Gov. Sonny Perdue, the chairs of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Georgia chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business and other citizens appointed by the lieutenant governor and speaker of the House.
The Valdosta Daily Times
Valdosta, GA
July 26, 2010
ATLANTA — State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been appointed by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle to the new Special Joint Committee on Georgia Revenue Structure.The committee was established, along with the Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness for Georgians, through enactment of House Bill 1405, which was passed during the 2010 legislative session.
The 12-member joint committee will be responsible for considering legislation during the 2011 session of the General Assembly that would implement recommendations by the special council, which is charged with conducting a thorough study of the state’s current revenue structure during 2010. Legislation approved by the special committee will go directly to the floor of the House of Representatives for a vote and, if approved by the House, then to the floor of the Senate for a vote.
For the full article please tap on link: http://valdostadailytimes.com/local/x1255111966/Golden-named-to-Special-Committee-on-Revenue-Structure
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc
The Valdosta Daily Times
Valdosta, GA
July 26, 2010
ATLANTA — State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been appointed by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle to the new Special Joint Committee on Georgia Revenue Structure.The committee was established, along with the Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness for Georgians, through enactment of House Bill 1405, which was passed during the 2010 legislative session.
The 12-member joint committee will be responsible for considering legislation during the 2011 session of the General Assembly that would implement recommendations by the special council, which is charged with conducting a thorough study of the state’s current revenue structure during 2010. Legislation approved by the special committee will go directly to the floor of the House of Representatives for a vote and, if approved by the House, then to the floor of the Senate for a vote.
For the full article please tap on link: http://valdostadailytimes.com/local/x1255111966/Golden-named-to-Special-Committee-on-Revenue-Structure
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc
State Transportation Tax Is Hot Topic As Cities Meet
By Jeff Gill
The Gainesville Times
July 26, 2010
BRASELTON — A pair of Oakwood officials criticized the state’s new plan for a penny sales tax for transportation at a Monday night meeting of Hall County’s municipal leaders.
“This is a just a new way to fund the (Georgia Department of Transportation) and put the responsibility on the local elected officials,” said City Councilman Gary Anderson of the Transportation Investment Act of 2010.
“So if it doesn’t work, then it’s all our fault,” Anderson said. “... This is a fiasco. I think we need to tell our legislators this is crazy.”
Mayor Lamar Scroggs, also addressing the issue before the Joint Municipal Association, said the issue already has triggered a broad range of issues and questions among government leaders in Northeast Georgia.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.gainesvilletimes.com/section/6/article/35809/
© Copyright 2010 The Times, Gainesville, GA. All rights reserved.
The Gainesville Times
July 26, 2010
BRASELTON — A pair of Oakwood officials criticized the state’s new plan for a penny sales tax for transportation at a Monday night meeting of Hall County’s municipal leaders.
“This is a just a new way to fund the (Georgia Department of Transportation) and put the responsibility on the local elected officials,” said City Councilman Gary Anderson of the Transportation Investment Act of 2010.
“So if it doesn’t work, then it’s all our fault,” Anderson said. “... This is a fiasco. I think we need to tell our legislators this is crazy.”
Mayor Lamar Scroggs, also addressing the issue before the Joint Municipal Association, said the issue already has triggered a broad range of issues and questions among government leaders in Northeast Georgia.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.gainesvilletimes.com/section/6/article/35809/
© Copyright 2010 The Times, Gainesville, GA. All rights reserved.
Monday, July 26, 2010
A Lot Of Veterans Leaving Politics
By James Salzer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
July 24, 2010
Last week's primaries culled decades of governmental experience from the political landscape. At least temporarily.
More than a dozen veteran state officials, lawmakers and former state leaders were defeated in the Republican and Democratic primaries. At least a few of them will likely be back on the ballot in the future.
But the primaries -- especially the ones for governor -- left a host of politicians with a lot more time on their hands for the next few years. Many of them will leave office at the start of the new year when they finish their terms.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/a-lot-of-veterans-577879.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
July 24, 2010
Last week's primaries culled decades of governmental experience from the political landscape. At least temporarily.
More than a dozen veteran state officials, lawmakers and former state leaders were defeated in the Republican and Democratic primaries. At least a few of them will likely be back on the ballot in the future.
But the primaries -- especially the ones for governor -- left a host of politicians with a lot more time on their hands for the next few years. Many of them will leave office at the start of the new year when they finish their terms.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/a-lot-of-veterans-577879.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Smith Claims Momentum Heading Into Aug. 10 Runoff
by Doug Walker
Rome News-Tribune
July 26, 2010
Preston Smith says he is the legitimate Republican conservative candidate and is confident he will defeat Sam Olens in the Aug. 10 runoff for the GOP nomination for Georgia attorney general.
During a Rome News-Tribune Face-to-Face program, Smith said he likes the momentum of his campaign, which got a late start after the long General Assembly session. He said he was able to raise more money during the last 60 days of the second quarter reporting period and finished first or second in 130 of Georgia’s 159 counties.
The federal health care package, water, redistricting and illegal immigration are all issues Smith expects will be important for the next attorney general.
“What states rights are with respect to the federal government is going to be squarely in the place of the attorney general to deal with,” Smith said.
For the whole article please tap on link: http://www.rn-t.com/view/full_story/8882355/article-Smith-claims-momentum-heading-into-Aug--10-runoff?instance=lead_story_left_column
content copyright © 2009 RN-T.com
Rome News-Tribune
July 26, 2010
Preston Smith says he is the legitimate Republican conservative candidate and is confident he will defeat Sam Olens in the Aug. 10 runoff for the GOP nomination for Georgia attorney general.
During a Rome News-Tribune Face-to-Face program, Smith said he likes the momentum of his campaign, which got a late start after the long General Assembly session. He said he was able to raise more money during the last 60 days of the second quarter reporting period and finished first or second in 130 of Georgia’s 159 counties.
The federal health care package, water, redistricting and illegal immigration are all issues Smith expects will be important for the next attorney general.
“What states rights are with respect to the federal government is going to be squarely in the place of the attorney general to deal with,” Smith said.
For the whole article please tap on link: http://www.rn-t.com/view/full_story/8882355/article-Smith-claims-momentum-heading-into-Aug--10-runoff?instance=lead_story_left_column
content copyright © 2009 RN-T.com
Deal, Handel Argue Issues In Dalton
By Aaron Gould Sheinin
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 26, 2010
DALTON — Hard against the North Georgia mountains, Nathan Deal and Karen Handel took their disagreements to a new level Saturday in the first official debate of the runoff campaign for the GOP nomination as governor.
For Deal, it at times seemed like he had a hometown advantage. He represented this part of the state for nearly 18 years as congressman from the 9th District. Certainly many of the more than 200 packed into a ballroom of the new Holiday Inn & Suites had voted for him before.
For Handel, however, the 30-minute debate was an opportunity to make the case that the familiar isn’t always the best.
For the whole story please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/deal-handel-argue-issues-578331.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 26, 2010
DALTON — Hard against the North Georgia mountains, Nathan Deal and Karen Handel took their disagreements to a new level Saturday in the first official debate of the runoff campaign for the GOP nomination as governor.
For Deal, it at times seemed like he had a hometown advantage. He represented this part of the state for nearly 18 years as congressman from the 9th District. Certainly many of the more than 200 packed into a ballroom of the new Holiday Inn & Suites had voted for him before.
For Handel, however, the 30-minute debate was an opportunity to make the case that the familiar isn’t always the best.
For the whole story please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/deal-handel-argue-issues-578331.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Friday, July 23, 2010
Obama To Visit Atlanta For Fund-Raiser, Speech To Disabled Veterans
By Bob Keefe
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
July 23, 2010
WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama will visit Atlanta on Aug. 2, speaking at a national convention for the Disabled American Veterans group and appearing at a Democratic Party fund-raising luncheon.
It will be the president's first visit to Atlanta since taking office, and his first to Georgia since a February trip to Savannah to talk about his economic stimulus program.
The DAV invites the president to speak each year at its national convention, but Obama is the first to accept an invitation to speak to the group since President Bill Clinton in 1996, DAV spokesman Dave Autry told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/obama-to-visit-atlanta-576475.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
July 23, 2010
WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama will visit Atlanta on Aug. 2, speaking at a national convention for the Disabled American Veterans group and appearing at a Democratic Party fund-raising luncheon.
It will be the president's first visit to Atlanta since taking office, and his first to Georgia since a February trip to Savannah to talk about his economic stimulus program.
The DAV invites the president to speak each year at its national convention, but Obama is the first to accept an invitation to speak to the group since President Bill Clinton in 1996, DAV spokesman Dave Autry told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/obama-to-visit-atlanta-576475.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Perdue Orders New State Spending Cuts
AJC exclusive: Move will cost agencies another 4% as Congress delays stimulus funds
By James Salzer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
July 23, 2010
Gov. Sonny Perdue ordered already slimmed-down Georgia agencies this week to take another 4 percent spending cut starting in August because the state's new budget relies on federal stimulus money that may never come.
Perdue exempted K-12 schools from the latest cut, but not the university system. It will affect agencies that hand out driver's licenses, educate college students and run parks, prisons and health care programs that cover more than a 1 million Georgians. Those agencies employ about 90,000 people.
The move, which will save the state $25.5 million per month, is a preemptive one, the governor's office told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Congress could still come through with the stimulus money before the end of the year. But it's far from certain.
To read the full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/perdue-orders-new-state-576891.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
By James Salzer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
July 23, 2010
Gov. Sonny Perdue ordered already slimmed-down Georgia agencies this week to take another 4 percent spending cut starting in August because the state's new budget relies on federal stimulus money that may never come.
Perdue exempted K-12 schools from the latest cut, but not the university system. It will affect agencies that hand out driver's licenses, educate college students and run parks, prisons and health care programs that cover more than a 1 million Georgians. Those agencies employ about 90,000 people.
The move, which will save the state $25.5 million per month, is a preemptive one, the governor's office told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Congress could still come through with the stimulus money before the end of the year. But it's far from certain.
To read the full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/perdue-orders-new-state-576891.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thursday, July 22, 2010
DeKalb Considers Abolishing CEO Position
By Megan Matteucci
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
DeKalb County News
July 22, 2010
Urged by voter feedback, legislators again will consider changing DeKalb County’s government leadership from its elected CEO to a professional county manager.
More than 16,600 Republican voters -- 80 percent of the voters in Tuesday’s Republican primary -- said the county should alter the format at the top. The DeKalb Republican Party placed the inquiry as part of an eight-question straw poll on the ballot.
On Wednesday, state Rep. Howard Mosby (D-Atlanta), chairman of the DeKalb delegation, said legislators will convene next month to discuss possible changes to the county’s Organizational Act, which is similar to a charter.
To read full story please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/dekalb/dekalb-considers-abolishing-ceo-575759.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
DeKalb County News
July 22, 2010
Urged by voter feedback, legislators again will consider changing DeKalb County’s government leadership from its elected CEO to a professional county manager.
More than 16,600 Republican voters -- 80 percent of the voters in Tuesday’s Republican primary -- said the county should alter the format at the top. The DeKalb Republican Party placed the inquiry as part of an eight-question straw poll on the ballot.
On Wednesday, state Rep. Howard Mosby (D-Atlanta), chairman of the DeKalb delegation, said legislators will convene next month to discuss possible changes to the county’s Organizational Act, which is similar to a charter.
To read full story please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/dekalb/dekalb-considers-abolishing-ceo-575759.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Republicans Hopefuls Will Debate In Dalton
The first debates for the Georgia Republican primary runoffs will be held in Dalton Saturday night.
By Charles Oliver
The Dailey Citizen
Dalton, GA/Local News
July 22, 2010
The first debates for the Georgia Republican primary runoffs will be held in Dalton Saturday night.
The debates will be hosted by the 9th Congressional District Republican Party, and 9th District Chairman Doug Grammer said they will feature gubernatorial candidate Nathan Deal, attorney general candidates Sam Olens and Preston Smith, insurance commissioner candidates Ralph Hudgens and Maria Sheffield, Public Service Commission candidates Tim Echols and John Douglas, and U.S. Rep. Tom Graves and his challenger, former state senator Lee Hawkins.
To read full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1527082211/Republican-hopefuls-will-debate-in-Dalton
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc
By Charles Oliver
The Dailey Citizen
Dalton, GA/Local News
July 22, 2010
The first debates for the Georgia Republican primary runoffs will be held in Dalton Saturday night.
The debates will be hosted by the 9th Congressional District Republican Party, and 9th District Chairman Doug Grammer said they will feature gubernatorial candidate Nathan Deal, attorney general candidates Sam Olens and Preston Smith, insurance commissioner candidates Ralph Hudgens and Maria Sheffield, Public Service Commission candidates Tim Echols and John Douglas, and U.S. Rep. Tom Graves and his challenger, former state senator Lee Hawkins.
To read full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1527082211/Republican-hopefuls-will-debate-in-Dalton
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc
2010 Gubernatorial Primary Results Map
Atlanta Jounral-Constitution
Metro Atlanta / State News
July 22, 2010
Fourteen candidates vied for their respective parties’ gubernatorial nominations in the 2010 Georgia Primary.
Roll over a county to see vote totals for that county. Counties are color-coded by the candidate with the most votes.
Please tap on link here to see the color-coded maps for both Democractic and Republican candidates for governor: http://www.ajc.com/news/20102010-gubernatorial-primary-results-574951.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta / State News
July 22, 2010
Fourteen candidates vied for their respective parties’ gubernatorial nominations in the 2010 Georgia Primary.
Roll over a county to see vote totals for that county. Counties are color-coded by the candidate with the most votes.
Please tap on link here to see the color-coded maps for both Democractic and Republican candidates for governor: http://www.ajc.com/news/20102010-gubernatorial-primary-results-574951.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Smith, Barge Feeling Confident About Chances Statewide
By Daniel Bell
Rome News-Tribune
July 20, 2010
Voters statewide head to the polls today, and there will be two Floyd County residents paying particularly close attention as the results begin flowing in.
Preston Smith, a Rome native, is seeking the Republican nomination for state attorney general, and Kingston area resident John Barge is vying for the GOP nod for state school superintendent.
Smith, who vacated seat in the state senate to pursue the attorney general position, said his campaign has picked up steam during the last couple of months, and he is looking forward to moving on to the next stage of the election. He said he has had no shortage of volunteers, donations or support.
To read whole article please tap on link: http://www.rn-t.com/view/full_story/8814895/article-Smith--Barge-feeling-confident-about-chances-statewide?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
content copyright © 2009 RN-T.com
Rome News-Tribune
July 20, 2010
Voters statewide head to the polls today, and there will be two Floyd County residents paying particularly close attention as the results begin flowing in.
Preston Smith, a Rome native, is seeking the Republican nomination for state attorney general, and Kingston area resident John Barge is vying for the GOP nod for state school superintendent.
Smith, who vacated seat in the state senate to pursue the attorney general position, said his campaign has picked up steam during the last couple of months, and he is looking forward to moving on to the next stage of the election. He said he has had no shortage of volunteers, donations or support.
To read whole article please tap on link: http://www.rn-t.com/view/full_story/8814895/article-Smith--Barge-feeling-confident-about-chances-statewide?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
content copyright © 2009 RN-T.com
Some Close Races Expected Today
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. today for Georgia’s Democratic and Republican primaries as well as several other elections.
By Charles Oliver
The Dalton Dailey Citizen
Local News
July 20, 2010
The tops of both tickets are crowded, with seven candidates for governor on each side.
A poll released over the weekend by Mason-Dixon Polling and Research showed former secretary of state Karen Handel in first place in the Republican race for governor with 29 percent, state Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine in second place with 22 percent and former U.S. representative Nathan Deal in third with 20 percent. But the poll had a 5 percent margin of error, meaning the top three candidates were essentially in a tie.
None are likely to get more than 50 percent of the vote, so just a few votes could determine which two make the August runoff.
To read full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1060805517/Some-close-races-expected-today
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc
By Charles Oliver
The Dalton Dailey Citizen
Local News
July 20, 2010
The tops of both tickets are crowded, with seven candidates for governor on each side.
A poll released over the weekend by Mason-Dixon Polling and Research showed former secretary of state Karen Handel in first place in the Republican race for governor with 29 percent, state Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine in second place with 22 percent and former U.S. representative Nathan Deal in third with 20 percent. But the poll had a 5 percent margin of error, meaning the top three candidates were essentially in a tie.
None are likely to get more than 50 percent of the vote, so just a few votes could determine which two make the August runoff.
To read full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1060805517/Some-close-races-expected-today
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc
The Election, By The Numbers...
By Jeffry Scott and Steve Visser
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 20, 2010
Without counting the money spent by hundreds of candidates running for offices across the state this year -- ranging from county surveyor to U.S. Senate -- the numbers still add up, in some cases, in odd ways.
In some election categories, the number of candidates who are running without opposition in today's primaries is more notable than those competing for their party’s nomination.
There are, for instance, 56 state Senate districts in play this election, but only 19 of those seats are contested in the primaries, where Republicans are running against Republicans and Democrats against Democrats to win the nomination and appear on the ballot in November.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/the-election-by-the-574099.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 20, 2010
Without counting the money spent by hundreds of candidates running for offices across the state this year -- ranging from county surveyor to U.S. Senate -- the numbers still add up, in some cases, in odd ways.
In some election categories, the number of candidates who are running without opposition in today's primaries is more notable than those competing for their party’s nomination.
There are, for instance, 56 state Senate districts in play this election, but only 19 of those seats are contested in the primaries, where Republicans are running against Republicans and Democrats against Democrats to win the nomination and appear on the ballot in November.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/the-election-by-the-574099.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Monday, July 19, 2010
Newly Created Georgia DBHDD Moving Forward
The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities was created last year as part of a reorganization of the former Department of Human Resources. - Jennifer Maddox Parks
By Jennifer Maddox Parks
The Albany Herald
July 18, 2010
ALBANY, Ga. — The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Development Disabilities has had a very active 12 months, and they don’t anticipate things calming down anytime soon.
DBHDD Commissioner Dr. Frank Shelp, while on a road trip to Southwest Georgia, provided an update on how the department is doing and what it has in store for the future.
Perhaps the biggest item of concern is the department’s ongoing dispute with the U.S. Department of Justice regarding the safety of Georgia’s seven state-run hospitals.
The Justice Department Civil Rights Division announced in January that it had filed for immediate relief to protect individuals in the psychiatric hospitals, at which time it contended there was imminent and serious threat of harm to patients. That motion sought appointment of a monitor to set binding targets and timetables for reducing the number of residents at the hospitals and expanding appropriate community-based services.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.albanyherald.com/home/headlines/98682904.html
Southern Community Newspapers Inc. - Copyright © 2002-2010
By Jennifer Maddox Parks
The Albany Herald
July 18, 2010
ALBANY, Ga. — The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Development Disabilities has had a very active 12 months, and they don’t anticipate things calming down anytime soon.
DBHDD Commissioner Dr. Frank Shelp, while on a road trip to Southwest Georgia, provided an update on how the department is doing and what it has in store for the future.
Perhaps the biggest item of concern is the department’s ongoing dispute with the U.S. Department of Justice regarding the safety of Georgia’s seven state-run hospitals.
The Justice Department Civil Rights Division announced in January that it had filed for immediate relief to protect individuals in the psychiatric hospitals, at which time it contended there was imminent and serious threat of harm to patients. That motion sought appointment of a monitor to set binding targets and timetables for reducing the number of residents at the hospitals and expanding appropriate community-based services.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.albanyherald.com/home/headlines/98682904.html
Southern Community Newspapers Inc. - Copyright © 2002-2010
States Adopt Universal Set Of Standards
By Ryan Blackburn
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 19, 2010
When Georgia set out to adopt new curriculum goals for students in 180 school systems, state leaders and educators wanted to make sure they would match what students were getting in classrooms across the nation.
After a year of studying the new goals, Georgia last week joined 19 other states in adopting what's called the Common Core State Standards as part of an initiative to ensure states maintain rigorous and consistent classroom standards for what every student should know in math and English.
To read further please tap on link: http://onlineathens.com/stories/071910/new_677881816.shtml
© 2010 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 19, 2010
When Georgia set out to adopt new curriculum goals for students in 180 school systems, state leaders and educators wanted to make sure they would match what students were getting in classrooms across the nation.
After a year of studying the new goals, Georgia last week joined 19 other states in adopting what's called the Common Core State Standards as part of an initiative to ensure states maintain rigorous and consistent classroom standards for what every student should know in math and English.
To read further please tap on link: http://onlineathens.com/stories/071910/new_677881816.shtml
© 2010 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
Candidates Sound Off In Last Gubernatorial Debates
Handel, Barnes under scrutiny as front-runners.
By Walter C. Jones
Morris News Service
The Augusta Chronicle
July 19, 2010
ATLANTA --- Candidates who have been attacking one another through the final weeks of the primary threw few jabs during their last gubernatorial debates Sunday night.
The Democrats concentrated on education and passenger rail service as their top priorities. The Republicans offered various tax cuts and vowed to trim government spending.
The separate debates were sponsored by the Atlanta Press Club and broadcast statewide by Georgia Public Broadcasting.
The Democratic debate included all seven candidates, Thurbert Baker, Roy Barnes, Bill Bolton, Carl Camon, Randal Mangham, DuBose Porter and David Poythress. Of the Republicans, Jeff Chapman, Nathan Deal, Eric Johnson, Ray McBerry and John Oxendine attended, but front-runner Karen Handel and long-shot Otis Putnam opted not to attend.
To Read further please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/government/elections/georgia-elections/georgia-governor/2010-07-19/candidates-sound-last?v=1279502619
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010. All Rights Reserved
By Walter C. Jones
Morris News Service
The Augusta Chronicle
July 19, 2010
ATLANTA --- Candidates who have been attacking one another through the final weeks of the primary threw few jabs during their last gubernatorial debates Sunday night.
The Democrats concentrated on education and passenger rail service as their top priorities. The Republicans offered various tax cuts and vowed to trim government spending.
The separate debates were sponsored by the Atlanta Press Club and broadcast statewide by Georgia Public Broadcasting.
The Democratic debate included all seven candidates, Thurbert Baker, Roy Barnes, Bill Bolton, Carl Camon, Randal Mangham, DuBose Porter and David Poythress. Of the Republicans, Jeff Chapman, Nathan Deal, Eric Johnson, Ray McBerry and John Oxendine attended, but front-runner Karen Handel and long-shot Otis Putnam opted not to attend.
To Read further please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/government/elections/georgia-elections/georgia-governor/2010-07-19/candidates-sound-last?v=1279502619
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010. All Rights Reserved
Friday, July 16, 2010
Six Candidates Headed To Town For Democratic Picnic On Saturday
By Winston Skinner
The Newnan Times-Herald
Local News
July 16, 2010
At least six Democratic candidates for state or district offices are expected to attend a picnic sponsored by the Coweta County Democratic Party on Saturday.
The picnic will be held from noon until 4 p.m. at Carl Miller Park. Candidates committed to attend the event include Gail Buckner, secretary of state; Darryl Hicks, labor commissioner; Ken Hodges, attorney general; Angelia Moore, secretary of state; Frank Saunders, U.S. Congress, District 3; and Mary Squires, insurance commissioner.
The park is located at 70 Sewell Road, next to the Newnan Utilities offices. There will be free food, as well as fun and games for children. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet candidates and to register to vote.
To read full story please tap on link: http://www.times-herald.com/Local/Six-candidates-headed-to-town-for-Democratic-picnic-on-Saturday-1212669
© 2010 The Newnan Times-Herald Inc., Newnan, Georgia.
The Newnan Times-Herald
Local News
July 16, 2010
At least six Democratic candidates for state or district offices are expected to attend a picnic sponsored by the Coweta County Democratic Party on Saturday.
The picnic will be held from noon until 4 p.m. at Carl Miller Park. Candidates committed to attend the event include Gail Buckner, secretary of state; Darryl Hicks, labor commissioner; Ken Hodges, attorney general; Angelia Moore, secretary of state; Frank Saunders, U.S. Congress, District 3; and Mary Squires, insurance commissioner.
The park is located at 70 Sewell Road, next to the Newnan Utilities offices. There will be free food, as well as fun and games for children. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet candidates and to register to vote.
To read full story please tap on link: http://www.times-herald.com/Local/Six-candidates-headed-to-town-for-Democratic-picnic-on-Saturday-1212669
© 2010 The Newnan Times-Herald Inc., Newnan, Georgia.
To Fund Schools, Voters Willing To Pay
By Blake Aued
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 16, 2010
Georgians may be jittery about their jobs and the economy, but many of them are willing to pay more to fund schools, according to a new poll conducted for the Georgia Newspaper Partnership.
Half of the respondents to a poll of 625 registered voters, conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research Inc., said they would pay higher taxes or fees to restore education spending cuts that have led to teacher furloughs and layoffs the past few years.
Statewide, 39 percent said they opposed paying more for education and 11 percent were undecided. Women were more likely than men to support paying more for schools, and blacks more willing to do so than whites. Democrats were twice as likely as Republicans to support higher taxes or fees for education.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/071610/new_676371285.shtml
© 2010 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 16, 2010
Georgians may be jittery about their jobs and the economy, but many of them are willing to pay more to fund schools, according to a new poll conducted for the Georgia Newspaper Partnership.
Half of the respondents to a poll of 625 registered voters, conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research Inc., said they would pay higher taxes or fees to restore education spending cuts that have led to teacher furloughs and layoffs the past few years.
Statewide, 39 percent said they opposed paying more for education and 11 percent were undecided. Women were more likely than men to support paying more for schools, and blacks more willing to do so than whites. Democrats were twice as likely as Republicans to support higher taxes or fees for education.
To read further please tap on link: http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/071610/new_676371285.shtml
© 2010 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
Transit Agency Gets New Boss
By Dave Williams
Atlanta Business Chronicle
July 15, 2010
Gov. Sonny Perdue’s transportation policy adviser since 2007 has been selected to head the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority.
GRTA’s Board of Directors voted this week to appoint Jannine Miller as the agency’s new executive director after the governor recommended her for the job.
“Over the last three years, Jannine Miller has dedicated herself to improving Georgia’s transportation … for the citizens of this state,” Perdue said in a prepared statement. “Her tireless efforts have earned her the utmost admiration and respect from me personally, her colleagues and key members of the legislature.”
Perdue said Miller played a key role in guiding a long-awaited transportation funding bill through the General Assembly this year.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/stories/2010/07/12/daily44.html?surround=lfn
© 2010 American City Business Journals, Inc. and its licensors. All rights reserved.
Atlanta Business Chronicle
July 15, 2010
Gov. Sonny Perdue’s transportation policy adviser since 2007 has been selected to head the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority.
GRTA’s Board of Directors voted this week to appoint Jannine Miller as the agency’s new executive director after the governor recommended her for the job.
“Over the last three years, Jannine Miller has dedicated herself to improving Georgia’s transportation … for the citizens of this state,” Perdue said in a prepared statement. “Her tireless efforts have earned her the utmost admiration and respect from me personally, her colleagues and key members of the legislature.”
Perdue said Miller played a key role in guiding a long-awaited transportation funding bill through the General Assembly this year.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/stories/2010/07/12/daily44.html?surround=lfn
© 2010 American City Business Journals, Inc. and its licensors. All rights reserved.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Voters Poll: Barnes Ahead, Oxendine And Handel In Runoff
By Aaron Gould Sheinin and James Salzer
Georgia Newspaper Partnership
The Macon Telegraph
July 15, 2010
Roy Barnes is skating toward November, but John Oxendine and Karen Handel appear headed to an August showdown in the race for the Republican nomination for governor, according to a new statewide poll conducted for the Georgia Newspaper Partnership.
The poll, released Wednesday, shows the Georgia electorate to be in a wrathful mood, with concerns over government spending and the economy driving a wider worry over the future of the country. Voters will get their chance to express that mood in Tuesday’s Republican and Democratic primaries.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/15/1196035/poll-barnes-oxendine-and-handel.html#storylink=omni_popular
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
Georgia Newspaper Partnership
The Macon Telegraph
July 15, 2010
Roy Barnes is skating toward November, but John Oxendine and Karen Handel appear headed to an August showdown in the race for the Republican nomination for governor, according to a new statewide poll conducted for the Georgia Newspaper Partnership.
The poll, released Wednesday, shows the Georgia electorate to be in a wrathful mood, with concerns over government spending and the economy driving a wider worry over the future of the country. Voters will get their chance to express that mood in Tuesday’s Republican and Democratic primaries.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/15/1196035/poll-barnes-oxendine-and-handel.html#storylink=omni_popular
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
Atlanta Mayor To Chair National Transportation Committee
By Ariel Hart
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 14, 2010
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed will chair the transportation and communications committee of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, according to a statement from Reed’s office. The conference organizes the mayors of all cities with population over 30,000, to promote urban policy.
The group’s president, Burnsville, Minn. Mayor Elizabeth B. Kautz, made the appointment, the statement said. Transportation committees are typically high-profile assignments in government. Months after becoming mayor Reed made a splash in working across party lines to help pass a regional transportation funding bill, and he told the AJC he hopes to promote mass transit projects like the Beltline and a streetcar.
http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/atlanta-mayor-to-chair-570392.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 14, 2010
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed will chair the transportation and communications committee of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, according to a statement from Reed’s office. The conference organizes the mayors of all cities with population over 30,000, to promote urban policy.
The group’s president, Burnsville, Minn. Mayor Elizabeth B. Kautz, made the appointment, the statement said. Transportation committees are typically high-profile assignments in government. Months after becoming mayor Reed made a splash in working across party lines to help pass a regional transportation funding bill, and he told the AJC he hopes to promote mass transit projects like the Beltline and a streetcar.
http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/atlanta-mayor-to-chair-570392.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
FairTax Becomes GOP Dogma In Race For U.S. House Seat
Associated Press
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 15, 2010
LAWRENCEVILLE - Rarely has tax policy so dominated an election as in the race to succeed U.S. Rep. John Linder, a Georgia Republican who became an icon among fiscal conservatives for co-authoring a best-selling book on replacing the national income tax with a sales tax.
The eight Republicans trying to succeed Linder don't argue over whether the country should adopt a consumption tax - called the "FairTax" by Linder. Instead, they disagree over who knows it best and believes in it most.
With a FairTax, people would be taxed not on what they earn but rather on what they spend. Proponents say the system would effectively end the need for the Internal Revenue Service and the nation's complicated tax code, although economists and other critics question whether it would raise enough money to fund government.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/071510/new_675961815.shtml
© 2010 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 15, 2010
LAWRENCEVILLE - Rarely has tax policy so dominated an election as in the race to succeed U.S. Rep. John Linder, a Georgia Republican who became an icon among fiscal conservatives for co-authoring a best-selling book on replacing the national income tax with a sales tax.
The eight Republicans trying to succeed Linder don't argue over whether the country should adopt a consumption tax - called the "FairTax" by Linder. Instead, they disagree over who knows it best and believes in it most.
With a FairTax, people would be taxed not on what they earn but rather on what they spend. Proponents say the system would effectively end the need for the Internal Revenue Service and the nation's complicated tax code, although economists and other critics question whether it would raise enough money to fund government.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/071510/new_675961815.shtml
© 2010 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Candidates Divided At District 3 Forum
By Sarah Fay Campbell
The Newnan Times-Herald
Local News
July 14, 2010
There was clear tension between Coweta County Commission candidates Bob Blackburn and David Stover Monday night during a candidate forum sponsored by the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce and the Coweta Republican Party.
Blackburn, Stover, and George "Kett" Harper are in a three-way race for the vacant third-district seat on the commission. Incumbent Randolph Collins is not seeking re-election.
Blackburn opened by saying he is against the three-laning, or "junking up" with commercial development, of U.S. 29 North.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.times-herald.com/Local/Candidates-divided-at-District-3-forum-1210302
© 2010 The Newnan Times-Herald Inc., Newnan, Georgia.
The Newnan Times-Herald
Local News
July 14, 2010
There was clear tension between Coweta County Commission candidates Bob Blackburn and David Stover Monday night during a candidate forum sponsored by the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce and the Coweta Republican Party.
Blackburn, Stover, and George "Kett" Harper are in a three-way race for the vacant third-district seat on the commission. Incumbent Randolph Collins is not seeking re-election.
Blackburn opened by saying he is against the three-laning, or "junking up" with commercial development, of U.S. 29 North.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.times-herald.com/Local/Candidates-divided-at-District-3-forum-1210302
© 2010 The Newnan Times-Herald Inc., Newnan, Georgia.
Cagle Speaks About Key Georgia Issues At Forum
By Phillip Ramati
The Macon Telegraph
News-Politics
July 14, 2010
For Georgia to rebound in these tough economic times, government has to make investing in the state as attractive as possible.
That was a cornerstone of Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle’s message to more than 100 community leaders Tuesday at a luncheon held at Mercer University in Macon.
Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle delivers a legislative update Tuesday at Mercer University’s University Center in Macon.
Cagle’s speech also centered on the state’s legislative session earlier this year and the issues that are most important to Georgians.
“It was a very difficult year in the state,” Cagle said. “Revenues are plummeting, and it was difficult weathering the storm, but we did it without raising taxes. We made a lot of difficult choices. ... A lot of nonessential things had to go by the wayside.”
Georgia has a 10.2 percent unemployment rate as the state struggles through the recession.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/14/1194818/cagle-speaks-about-key-georgia.html#ixzz0tf77W59b
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
The Macon Telegraph
News-Politics
July 14, 2010
For Georgia to rebound in these tough economic times, government has to make investing in the state as attractive as possible.
That was a cornerstone of Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle’s message to more than 100 community leaders Tuesday at a luncheon held at Mercer University in Macon.
Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle delivers a legislative update Tuesday at Mercer University’s University Center in Macon.
Cagle’s speech also centered on the state’s legislative session earlier this year and the issues that are most important to Georgians.
“It was a very difficult year in the state,” Cagle said. “Revenues are plummeting, and it was difficult weathering the storm, but we did it without raising taxes. We made a lot of difficult choices. ... A lot of nonessential things had to go by the wayside.”
Georgia has a 10.2 percent unemployment rate as the state struggles through the recession.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/14/1194818/cagle-speaks-about-key-georgia.html#ixzz0tf77W59b
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
Georgia Will Be Base For Homeland Security Force
By Andria Simmons
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Cobb County News
July 13, 2010
Georgia will be a regional base for a fast-responding homeland security force aimed at handling weapons of mass destruction incidents -- one of only 10 nationwide, Gov. Sonny Perdue announced Tuesday.
A majority of these Homeland Response Forces are to be established in 2012. Each will be assigned 570 personnel. Georgia's will be comprised of current Georgia Army National Guard members, plus 100 new full-time positions, and will be based at Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Their territory includes Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky.
The force will be trained to respond within six to 12 hours to regional disasters like chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high yield explosive incidents.
Personnel will be experienced in locating and extracting victims from a contaminated environment, performing mass patient decontamination, and stabilizing patients in need of medical care for evacuation.
http://www.ajc.com/news/cobb/georgia-will-be-base-569891.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Cobb County News
July 13, 2010
Georgia will be a regional base for a fast-responding homeland security force aimed at handling weapons of mass destruction incidents -- one of only 10 nationwide, Gov. Sonny Perdue announced Tuesday.
A majority of these Homeland Response Forces are to be established in 2012. Each will be assigned 570 personnel. Georgia's will be comprised of current Georgia Army National Guard members, plus 100 new full-time positions, and will be based at Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Their territory includes Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky.
The force will be trained to respond within six to 12 hours to regional disasters like chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high yield explosive incidents.
Personnel will be experienced in locating and extracting victims from a contaminated environment, performing mass patient decontamination, and stabilizing patients in need of medical care for evacuation.
http://www.ajc.com/news/cobb/georgia-will-be-base-569891.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Monday, July 12, 2010
Republicans Spar Over Ethics
By Shannon McCaffrey
AP News
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 11, 2010
ATLANTA — With just nine days left until Georgia's primary, the leading Democratic and Republican candidates for governor faced off in back-to-back debates Sunday night.
Republicans sparred over ethics, with state insurance commissioner John Oxendine hitting back against fresh allegations that he was the target of an investigation in the mid 1990s looking into whether he pressured insurance executives seeking rate increases to hire attorneys who were campaign supporters.
To read more please tap on link: http://ap.onlineathens.com/pstories/state/ga/20100711/674838265.shtml
© 2008 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
AP News
The Athens Banner-Herald
July 11, 2010
ATLANTA — With just nine days left until Georgia's primary, the leading Democratic and Republican candidates for governor faced off in back-to-back debates Sunday night.
Republicans sparred over ethics, with state insurance commissioner John Oxendine hitting back against fresh allegations that he was the target of an investigation in the mid 1990s looking into whether he pressured insurance executives seeking rate increases to hire attorneys who were campaign supporters.
To read more please tap on link: http://ap.onlineathens.com/pstories/state/ga/20100711/674838265.shtml
© 2008 OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald
MARTA Chief Talks About Cuts
By Tom Sabulis
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 11, 2010
Fearing bankruptcy, MARTA last month announced it would cut 40 bus routes, close station restrooms, eliminate the shuttle to Braves games and increase wait times between trains.
If it wasn’t for an improving sales tax forecast, it could have been worse.
Sipping coffee outside Lindbergh station recently, MARTA CEO Beverly Scott talked about the cuts and how regional cooperation on transportation — fueled by a sales-tax referendum in 2012 — could help Metro Atlanta.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/marta-chief-talks-about-568374.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 11, 2010
Fearing bankruptcy, MARTA last month announced it would cut 40 bus routes, close station restrooms, eliminate the shuttle to Braves games and increase wait times between trains.
If it wasn’t for an improving sales tax forecast, it could have been worse.
Sipping coffee outside Lindbergh station recently, MARTA CEO Beverly Scott talked about the cuts and how regional cooperation on transportation — fueled by a sales-tax referendum in 2012 — could help Metro Atlanta.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/marta-chief-talks-about-568374.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Turn Out Light As Early Voting Enters Its Last Week
By Kevin Hall
The Moultrie Observer
The Local News
July 10, 2o1o
MOULTRIE — Election day is nine days away, but Georgians have been voting for more than a month and can continue to cast ballots through Friday in early voting.
However, in Colquitt County, not very many people are doing so.Chief Voter Registrar Paula McCullough said Friday afternoon that 209 voters had cast advance ballots since early voting began June 7.
The 45-day early voting period went into effect in 2008, the year of a presidential election. More people took advantage of the early voting period that year.
“Well, of course it wouldn’t be like the presidential election,” McCullough added.Just a few years ago, Georgia voters could cast ballots only on election day itself, unless they got an absentee ballot, which was available only for people who had a reason for needing one, such as a disability or plans to be out of town on election day. Absentee ballots could be acquired 45 days before the election.
To read more please tap on link: http://moultrieobserver.com/local/x54243838/Turnout-light-as-early-voting-enters-its-last-week
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc. ·
The Moultrie Observer
The Local News
July 10, 2o1o
MOULTRIE — Election day is nine days away, but Georgians have been voting for more than a month and can continue to cast ballots through Friday in early voting.
However, in Colquitt County, not very many people are doing so.Chief Voter Registrar Paula McCullough said Friday afternoon that 209 voters had cast advance ballots since early voting began June 7.
The 45-day early voting period went into effect in 2008, the year of a presidential election. More people took advantage of the early voting period that year.
“Well, of course it wouldn’t be like the presidential election,” McCullough added.Just a few years ago, Georgia voters could cast ballots only on election day itself, unless they got an absentee ballot, which was available only for people who had a reason for needing one, such as a disability or plans to be out of town on election day. Absentee ballots could be acquired 45 days before the election.
To read more please tap on link: http://moultrieobserver.com/local/x54243838/Turnout-light-as-early-voting-enters-its-last-week
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc. ·
Friday, July 09, 2010
Rule 160-5-1-.35 "Seclusion And Restraint For All Students" - PASSED
Today is a historic day for Georgia public school students, as the State Board of Education voted unanimously to enact Rule 160-5-1-.35 which prohibits the use of seclusion, prone restraint, mechanical restraint, and chemical restraint. The Rule will limit the use of physical restraint to those situations involving imminent danger. Additionally, the Rule requires schools to notify parents within one school day that their child has been restrained. Before today’s historic vote, schools could restrain or seclude any student, at any time, for any reason.
The Safe Schools Initiative commends the Department of Education and the State Board of Education on this inaugural action to limit these dangerous practices. However, one key safeguard is noticeably missing: there are no provisions for reporting incidents of restraint beyond informing parents. Oversight, data collection and analysis are pivotal in identifying schools that need additional support to appropriately maintain a safe educational environment. After receiving overwhelming public support for data collection, the Board decided to withhold data collection about individual districts until the federal government mandates such practice. There is federal legislation considering the issue that is currently in committee, but the timetable and outcome are unknown. The Board publicly announced its eventual intent to collect outcome data; but the timeline, methodology, and stakeholder access to information are all unknown.
The Safe Schools Initiative is a collaborative effort of five organizations – The Georgia Advocacy Office, the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University, the Institute on Human Development and Disability at the University of Georgia, and Parent to Parent of Georgia – to end the restraint and seclusion of students in Georgia schools.
For more information about the Safe Schools Initiative, please contact Jenny Holland at (404) 885-1234 or jholland@thegao.org.
Jenny Holland
Program Director
The Georgia Advocacy Office
150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Suite 430
Decatur, Georgia 30030
(404) 885-1234
(800) 537-2329
(404) 378-0031 Fax
www.thegao.org
The Safe Schools Initiative commends the Department of Education and the State Board of Education on this inaugural action to limit these dangerous practices. However, one key safeguard is noticeably missing: there are no provisions for reporting incidents of restraint beyond informing parents. Oversight, data collection and analysis are pivotal in identifying schools that need additional support to appropriately maintain a safe educational environment. After receiving overwhelming public support for data collection, the Board decided to withhold data collection about individual districts until the federal government mandates such practice. There is federal legislation considering the issue that is currently in committee, but the timetable and outcome are unknown. The Board publicly announced its eventual intent to collect outcome data; but the timeline, methodology, and stakeholder access to information are all unknown.
The Safe Schools Initiative is a collaborative effort of five organizations – The Georgia Advocacy Office, the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University, the Institute on Human Development and Disability at the University of Georgia, and Parent to Parent of Georgia – to end the restraint and seclusion of students in Georgia schools.
For more information about the Safe Schools Initiative, please contact Jenny Holland at (404) 885-1234 or jholland@thegao.org.
Jenny Holland
Program Director
The Georgia Advocacy Office
150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Suite 430
Decatur, Georgia 30030
(404) 885-1234
(800) 537-2329
(404) 378-0031 Fax
www.thegao.org
Graves Seeks Local Help On Economic Issues
By Charles Oliver
The Dalton Daily Citizen
Local News
July 9, 2010
Saying that Washington doesn’t have all the answers to getting the economy back on track, U.S. Rep. Tom Graves, R-Ranger, said Thursday he is forming a 9th District Business Advisory Council to help him find ways to promote job creation and economic growth.
“We really just want to get ideas flowing and to get suggestions from the private sector and community leaders that we can take back to Washington,” Graves said during an appearance at Dalton City Hall.
Graves said confidence inside the business community has fallen because business leaders are uncertain how their firms and the economy in general will be affected by new taxes and regulations flowing out of the federal government.
For full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x54241254/Graves-seeks-local-help-on-economic-issues
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
The Dalton Daily Citizen
Local News
July 9, 2010
Saying that Washington doesn’t have all the answers to getting the economy back on track, U.S. Rep. Tom Graves, R-Ranger, said Thursday he is forming a 9th District Business Advisory Council to help him find ways to promote job creation and economic growth.
“We really just want to get ideas flowing and to get suggestions from the private sector and community leaders that we can take back to Washington,” Graves said during an appearance at Dalton City Hall.
Graves said confidence inside the business community has fallen because business leaders are uncertain how their firms and the economy in general will be affected by new taxes and regulations flowing out of the federal government.
For full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x54241254/Graves-seeks-local-help-on-economic-issues
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
Reed Opts To Make Interim Police Chief's Job Permanent
By Bill Rankin and Ernie Suggs
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 9, 2010
In part ceremony, part promotion, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed officially removed the “interim” from George Turner’s title by naming him the new Atlanta Police Chief.
But the interim tag was crucial in Reed’s decision. The mayor said that since he appointed Turner to temporarily hold the office in January, the performance and morale of the police department has been markedly improved.
Overall crime is down 14 percent and violent crimes are down 22.7 percent over the last six months, Reed said.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/reed-opts-to-make-567211.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 9, 2010
In part ceremony, part promotion, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed officially removed the “interim” from George Turner’s title by naming him the new Atlanta Police Chief.
But the interim tag was crucial in Reed’s decision. The mayor said that since he appointed Turner to temporarily hold the office in January, the performance and morale of the police department has been markedly improved.
Overall crime is down 14 percent and violent crimes are down 22.7 percent over the last six months, Reed said.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/reed-opts-to-make-567211.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Panel For Regional Mass Transit Takes Shape
By Ariel Hart
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 9, 2010
A panel that may take a critical role in creating regional mass transit out of metro Atlanta’s patchwork of agencies is taking shape.
House Speaker David Ralston has appointed Reps. Ed Lindsey (R-Atlanta), Pat Gardner (D-Atlanta), Donna Sheldon (R-Dacula) and David Knight (R-Griffin), all of the ten-county metro Atlanta area, to serve on a group commissioned by the state Legislature this year to study mass transit governance, and propose legislation by Aug. 1, 2011.
Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle has not yet appointed the four senators who will serve on the panel, the Transit Governance Study Commission, said a Cagle spokeswoman. MARTA’s general manager, the heads of all transit agencies in metro Atlanta and other transportation officials will also serve on the commission, including the chairman of the Regional Transit Committee, a post currently held by Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed.
http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/panel-for-regional-mass-567025.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia Politics
July 9, 2010
A panel that may take a critical role in creating regional mass transit out of metro Atlanta’s patchwork of agencies is taking shape.
House Speaker David Ralston has appointed Reps. Ed Lindsey (R-Atlanta), Pat Gardner (D-Atlanta), Donna Sheldon (R-Dacula) and David Knight (R-Griffin), all of the ten-county metro Atlanta area, to serve on a group commissioned by the state Legislature this year to study mass transit governance, and propose legislation by Aug. 1, 2011.
Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle has not yet appointed the four senators who will serve on the panel, the Transit Governance Study Commission, said a Cagle spokeswoman. MARTA’s general manager, the heads of all transit agencies in metro Atlanta and other transportation officials will also serve on the commission, including the chairman of the Regional Transit Committee, a post currently held by Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed.
http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/panel-for-regional-mass-567025.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thursday, July 08, 2010
POLITICAL NOTEBOOK: Civil Rights Leader To Endorse Hank Johnson
By Camie Young
The Gwinnett Daily News
July 7, 2010
One of the leaders of the Civil Rights Movement is expected to back incumbent U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson today.
A noon press conference has been scheduled, where the Rev. Joseph E. Lowery is expected to endorse Johnson, who is facing re-election for District 4 among a crowded field of both Democrats and Republicans.
Lowery, who was a founding member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, “believes Congressman Johnson’s efforts to pass President Barack Obama’s Recovery Act, health care reform and Wall Street reform epitomize the courage and character needed in Congress,” a statement said.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/localnews/headlines/97992094.html
Southern Community Newspapers Inc. - Copyright © 2002-2010
The Gwinnett Daily News
July 7, 2010
One of the leaders of the Civil Rights Movement is expected to back incumbent U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson today.
A noon press conference has been scheduled, where the Rev. Joseph E. Lowery is expected to endorse Johnson, who is facing re-election for District 4 among a crowded field of both Democrats and Republicans.
Lowery, who was a founding member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, “believes Congressman Johnson’s efforts to pass President Barack Obama’s Recovery Act, health care reform and Wall Street reform epitomize the courage and character needed in Congress,” a statement said.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/localnews/headlines/97992094.html
Southern Community Newspapers Inc. - Copyright © 2002-2010
Isakson To Vote Against Kagan
By Thomas L. Day
The Macon Telegraph
News-Politics
July 8, 2010
Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., announced Wednesday afternoon that he intends to vote against the nomination of Solicitor General Elena Kagan for the U.S. Supreme Court.
“I have personally interviewed Ms. Kagan, and I have carefully followed the Judiciary Committee hearings as well as her testimony,” Isakson said in a news release. “After thorough consideration, I have determined that I will not vote for her confirmation.”
Isakson is the latest Republican to announce his opposition to Kagan. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., announced in an op-ed posted to the USA Today Web site Wednesday that he too would vote against the nomination.
Read more: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/08/1188684/isakson-to-vote-against-kagan.html#ixzz0t6shBXs9
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
The Macon Telegraph
News-Politics
July 8, 2010
Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., announced Wednesday afternoon that he intends to vote against the nomination of Solicitor General Elena Kagan for the U.S. Supreme Court.
“I have personally interviewed Ms. Kagan, and I have carefully followed the Judiciary Committee hearings as well as her testimony,” Isakson said in a news release. “After thorough consideration, I have determined that I will not vote for her confirmation.”
Isakson is the latest Republican to announce his opposition to Kagan. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., announced in an op-ed posted to the USA Today Web site Wednesday that he too would vote against the nomination.
Read more: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/08/1188684/isakson-to-vote-against-kagan.html#ixzz0t6shBXs9
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
House Speaker: Lawmakers Could Completely Revamp Tax System Next Year
By Charles Oliver
The Dalton Citizen
Local News
July 8, 2010
Georgia’s tax code currently has more than 120 exemptions to various taxes, says state House of Representatives Speaker David Ralston, R-Blue Ridge.
“The problem that you run into when you have that is that your tax policy becomes driven more by special interest politics than it does by internal consistency,” Ralston said. Ralston and other House Republican leaders spoke Wednesday at the Dalton Municipal Airport.
They said that tax reform will be one of the major issues the General Assembly deals with next year. Lawmakers created a panel this year to review Georgia’s state tax code. It will have its first meeting on July 28.
To read full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1703952945/House-speaker-Lawmakers-could-completely-revamp-tax-system-next-year
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
The Dalton Citizen
Local News
July 8, 2010
Georgia’s tax code currently has more than 120 exemptions to various taxes, says state House of Representatives Speaker David Ralston, R-Blue Ridge.
“The problem that you run into when you have that is that your tax policy becomes driven more by special interest politics than it does by internal consistency,” Ralston said. Ralston and other House Republican leaders spoke Wednesday at the Dalton Municipal Airport.
They said that tax reform will be one of the major issues the General Assembly deals with next year. Lawmakers created a panel this year to review Georgia’s state tax code. It will have its first meeting on July 28.
To read full article please tap on link: http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1703952945/House-speaker-Lawmakers-could-completely-revamp-tax-system-next-year
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Isakson Applauds Work Of Facility
By Stephanie Toone
Augusta Chronicle
July 6, 2010
U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., visited Fort Gordon's Dwight D. Eisenhower Neuroscience Center Tuesday to witness firsthand the work of medical staff who treat service members suffering from traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Fort Gordon's program is "the gold standard" for other military posts across the nation, he told a group of staff of the Signal Center of Excellence, Fort Gordon Garrison and the neuroscience center. The hospital opened its Traumatic Brain Injury Clinic, the first of its kind in the Army, last year.
"They are dealing with what is a very, very difficult result of this war conflict," Isakson said at the Signal Museum. "Honestly, these disorders were not getting diagnosed as quickly as they should have in the early years of the conflicts. Early diagnosis is the key."
To read full article please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/health/2010-07-06/isakson-applauds-work-facility?v=1278465298
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010. All Rights Reserved.
Augusta Chronicle
July 6, 2010
U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., visited Fort Gordon's Dwight D. Eisenhower Neuroscience Center Tuesday to witness firsthand the work of medical staff who treat service members suffering from traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Fort Gordon's program is "the gold standard" for other military posts across the nation, he told a group of staff of the Signal Center of Excellence, Fort Gordon Garrison and the neuroscience center. The hospital opened its Traumatic Brain Injury Clinic, the first of its kind in the Army, last year.
"They are dealing with what is a very, very difficult result of this war conflict," Isakson said at the Signal Museum. "Honestly, these disorders were not getting diagnosed as quickly as they should have in the early years of the conflicts. Early diagnosis is the key."
To read full article please tap on link: http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/health/2010-07-06/isakson-applauds-work-facility?v=1278465298
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010. All Rights Reserved.
Economy Hits Georgia Child Care Hard; 600 Centers Forced To Shut
By Gracie Bonds Staples
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
July 6, 2010
For nearly a decade, after the economy forced her out of a corporate job, Carol Ann George-Roach took care of other people’s children.
She took pride in shaping young minds and sending them off to kindergarten prepared to learn. But not even child care, George-Roach found, was exempt from Georgia’s fragile economy.
As the recession deepened and parents’ work hours were cut or they lost their jobs, the Decatur mother tried to adapt, cutting her fees and, in a few cases, providing free care.
“This would have been my 10th year,” said George-Roach, 47, who was forced to shut down in May. “I held out for as long as possible but it wasn’t working out for me."
It hasn’t worked for a lot of Georgia child-care providers. Last year, the state lost 600 child-care centers and more than 1,800 family day-care homes such as George-Roach’s, according to a new study by Quality Care for Children, a non-profit that works to improve quality and access to child care.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/economy-hits-georgia-child-564789.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
July 6, 2010
For nearly a decade, after the economy forced her out of a corporate job, Carol Ann George-Roach took care of other people’s children.
She took pride in shaping young minds and sending them off to kindergarten prepared to learn. But not even child care, George-Roach found, was exempt from Georgia’s fragile economy.
As the recession deepened and parents’ work hours were cut or they lost their jobs, the Decatur mother tried to adapt, cutting her fees and, in a few cases, providing free care.
“This would have been my 10th year,” said George-Roach, 47, who was forced to shut down in May. “I held out for as long as possible but it wasn’t working out for me."
It hasn’t worked for a lot of Georgia child-care providers. Last year, the state lost 600 child-care centers and more than 1,800 family day-care homes such as George-Roach’s, according to a new study by Quality Care for Children, a non-profit that works to improve quality and access to child care.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/economy-hits-georgia-child-564789.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Council Approves Pursuit Of Downtown Streetcar System
By Ernie Suggs
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 7, 2010
The Atlanta City Council on Tuesday approved a plan to seek federal funds for the installation of a $72 million streetcar system along the lower half of downtown, at the same time offering a stern budgetary warning -- slow down the spending.
“I am going to vote for it and hold my nose,” Councilman C.T. Martin said. “We really need to find some money and we need to stop spending money until we get some relief on this debt.”
Yolanda Adrean, who chairs the finance executive committee, reiterated her concerns offered during the recent passage of the city's $559 million budget that making commitments such as these were going to prevent Atlanta from taking on viable future projects.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/council-approves-pursuit-of-565546.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta News
July 7, 2010
The Atlanta City Council on Tuesday approved a plan to seek federal funds for the installation of a $72 million streetcar system along the lower half of downtown, at the same time offering a stern budgetary warning -- slow down the spending.
“I am going to vote for it and hold my nose,” Councilman C.T. Martin said. “We really need to find some money and we need to stop spending money until we get some relief on this debt.”
Yolanda Adrean, who chairs the finance executive committee, reiterated her concerns offered during the recent passage of the city's $559 million budget that making commitments such as these were going to prevent Atlanta from taking on viable future projects.
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/council-approves-pursuit-of-565546.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
The Democracts: Race For Governor
The Valdosta Daily Times is one of 13 newspapers, including The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, that recently formed the Georgia Newspaper Partnership to better cover the statewide elections this year. Today, we present profiles of the seven candidates running to become the Democratic nominee for Georgia’s governor. Profiles on the Republican candidates for governor will run in Tuesday’s editions of The Valdosta Daily Times.
Today: The Democracts
By Bill Torpy
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Valdosta Daily Times
July 5, 2010
VALDOSTA — Thurbert Baker
Thurbert Baker is an undefeated veteran of eight campaigns — five as a state representative from DeKalb County and three as state attorney general. He says he is confident about his chances to become the Democratic gubernatorial. But this one is different. It’s a big-time race and he’s an underdog.
“This is going to be intense,” he said. “You have to take tired out of your vocabulary.”
Baker knows he has his work cut out for him. When he announced his bid for governor in April, 2009, the proven vote-getter was briefly the Democratic front-runner. Baker got more votes than any other Democratic candidate in the 2006 election. The fact that he is African-American seemed to bode well for him in the 2010 primary because about half the state’s Democratic voters — maybe more — are black.
To read about all the Democractic candidates for Governor please tap on the link: http://valdostadailytimes.com/bigstory/x383293920/The-race-for-governor
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
Today: The Democracts
By Bill Torpy
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Valdosta Daily Times
July 5, 2010
VALDOSTA — Thurbert Baker
Thurbert Baker is an undefeated veteran of eight campaigns — five as a state representative from DeKalb County and three as state attorney general. He says he is confident about his chances to become the Democratic gubernatorial. But this one is different. It’s a big-time race and he’s an underdog.
“This is going to be intense,” he said. “You have to take tired out of your vocabulary.”
Baker knows he has his work cut out for him. When he announced his bid for governor in April, 2009, the proven vote-getter was briefly the Democratic front-runner. Baker got more votes than any other Democratic candidate in the 2006 election. The fact that he is African-American seemed to bode well for him in the 2010 primary because about half the state’s Democratic voters — maybe more — are black.
To read about all the Democractic candidates for Governor please tap on the link: http://valdostadailytimes.com/bigstory/x383293920/The-race-for-governor
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
The Republicans: The Race For Governor
The Valdosta Daily Times is one of 13 newspapers, including The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, that recently formed the Georgia Newspaper Partnership to better cover the statewide elections this year. Today, we present profiles of the seven candidates running to become the Republican nominee for Georgia’s governor. The Democratic candidates were covered in Monday’s paper.
By Larry Peterson
Savannah Now
The Valdosta Daily Times
July 5, 2010
LAKE PARK — Jeff Chapman
Little has changed for Jeff Chapman since last September when he entered the race for this year’s Republican nomination for governor.
“I don’t know anything about him,” Emory University political science professor Merle Black said then. “... I’m not sure that most other people do, either.”
Chapman, a businessman and state senator from Brunswick, apparently remains popular at home but almost unknown statewide.
To read about all the Republican candidates please tap on link: http://valdostadailytimes.com/bigstory/x657355847/The-race-for-governor
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
By Larry Peterson
Savannah Now
The Valdosta Daily Times
July 5, 2010
LAKE PARK — Jeff Chapman
Little has changed for Jeff Chapman since last September when he entered the race for this year’s Republican nomination for governor.
“I don’t know anything about him,” Emory University political science professor Merle Black said then. “... I’m not sure that most other people do, either.”
Chapman, a businessman and state senator from Brunswick, apparently remains popular at home but almost unknown statewide.
To read about all the Republican candidates please tap on link: http://valdostadailytimes.com/bigstory/x657355847/The-race-for-governor
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
Ethics Leading Issue For Democract Horlacher
By Mark Lastinger
Thomasville Times-Enterprise
Local News
July 5, 2010
THOMASVILLE — Secretary of State candidate Gary Horlacher believes Georgia’s ethics bar has fallen to an unacceptably low level.
“To me, that’s step No. 1 to rebuilding the bridge of trust with the citizens of this state,” the Democrat from Peachtree City said during a Thursday Times-Enterprise visit.
Horlacher said the Georgia General Assembly has done little to stem eroding ethical standards in Atlanta, adding that the Republican-controlled legislature has crippled the Election and Ethics Board through budget cuts and manipulation of its membership.
To read full story please tap on the link: http://timesenterprise.com/news/x657355571/Ethics-leading-issue-for-Democrat-Horlacher
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
Thomasville Times-Enterprise
Local News
July 5, 2010
THOMASVILLE — Secretary of State candidate Gary Horlacher believes Georgia’s ethics bar has fallen to an unacceptably low level.
“To me, that’s step No. 1 to rebuilding the bridge of trust with the citizens of this state,” the Democrat from Peachtree City said during a Thursday Times-Enterprise visit.
Horlacher said the Georgia General Assembly has done little to stem eroding ethical standards in Atlanta, adding that the Republican-controlled legislature has crippled the Election and Ethics Board through budget cuts and manipulation of its membership.
To read full story please tap on the link: http://timesenterprise.com/news/x657355571/Ethics-leading-issue-for-Democrat-Horlacher
© 2010 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.
Friday, July 02, 2010
Candidates Discuss Atlanta’s Water Needs
By Dave Williams
Atlanta Business Chronicle
July 2, 2010
In a gubernatorial campaign dominated by education, transportation and the budget crisis, candidates are also making room for a controversial debate over whether the rest of Georgia should help fill metro Atlanta’s growing need for water.
With the July 20 primaries fast approaching, Republicans and Democrats are staking out positions on “interbasin transfers,” the piping of water from one river basin into another.
Interbasin transfers have long existed inside metro Atlanta, where counties including Cobb and Gwinnett straddle more than one river system.
But outside of the metro region, voters are worried that Atlanta could use interbasin transfers to divert millions of gallons of water from their communities to satisfy the thirst of its growing population.
For full story please tap on link: http://atlanta.bizjournals.com/atlanta/stories/2010/07/05/story2.html?b=1278302400^3591601
© 2010 American City Business Journals, Inc. and its licensors. All rights reserved.
Atlanta Business Chronicle
July 2, 2010
In a gubernatorial campaign dominated by education, transportation and the budget crisis, candidates are also making room for a controversial debate over whether the rest of Georgia should help fill metro Atlanta’s growing need for water.
With the July 20 primaries fast approaching, Republicans and Democrats are staking out positions on “interbasin transfers,” the piping of water from one river basin into another.
Interbasin transfers have long existed inside metro Atlanta, where counties including Cobb and Gwinnett straddle more than one river system.
But outside of the metro region, voters are worried that Atlanta could use interbasin transfers to divert millions of gallons of water from their communities to satisfy the thirst of its growing population.
For full story please tap on link: http://atlanta.bizjournals.com/atlanta/stories/2010/07/05/story2.html?b=1278302400^3591601
© 2010 American City Business Journals, Inc. and its licensors. All rights reserved.
District 95 Candidates Square Off
By Crystal Tatum
Newton Citizen
July 2, 2010
COVINGTON — Candidates for Georgia House of Representatives District 95 squared off at a forum hosted by the Newton County Voters League on Tuesday evening at the historic courthouse.
Democrats Andre Cooper and Pam Dickerson participated, along with Republican Rodney Upton. Incumbent Toney Collins was absent. The district includes portions of Newton, Rockdale and Gwinnett counties.
To read whole article please tap on link: http://www.rockdalecitizen.com/newtonhome/headlines/97638384.html
Southern Community Newspapers Inc. - Copyright © 2002-2010
Newton Citizen
July 2, 2010
COVINGTON — Candidates for Georgia House of Representatives District 95 squared off at a forum hosted by the Newton County Voters League on Tuesday evening at the historic courthouse.
Democrats Andre Cooper and Pam Dickerson participated, along with Republican Rodney Upton. Incumbent Toney Collins was absent. The district includes portions of Newton, Rockdale and Gwinnett counties.
To read whole article please tap on link: http://www.rockdalecitizen.com/newtonhome/headlines/97638384.html
Southern Community Newspapers Inc. - Copyright © 2002-2010
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Palin Comes To Georgia With No Endorsements
By Katie Leslie
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
June 29, 2010
Sarah Palin's appearance at Gwinnett Arena on Tuesday night before a half-capacity crowd was part sermon, part comedy and, as her audience surely hoped, part politics.
The former Alaska governor and GOP vice presidential nominee was brought to Georgia by Zachariah’s Way, a Gwinnett County-based ministry. The event was part of the charity's P.U.R.E. Ministry Project, which focuses on helping churches serve special-needs parishioners. In keeping with that theme, Zachariah's Way presented Palin with a tricycle for her 2-year-old son Trig, who has Down syndrome.
Palin made no endorsements during her 50-minute appearance, but, true to her spirited nature, took on the Obama Administration with both jokes and criticisms.
To read the whole article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/palin-comes-to-georgia-560598.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlanta/State News
June 29, 2010
Sarah Palin's appearance at Gwinnett Arena on Tuesday night before a half-capacity crowd was part sermon, part comedy and, as her audience surely hoped, part politics.
The former Alaska governor and GOP vice presidential nominee was brought to Georgia by Zachariah’s Way, a Gwinnett County-based ministry. The event was part of the charity's P.U.R.E. Ministry Project, which focuses on helping churches serve special-needs parishioners. In keeping with that theme, Zachariah's Way presented Palin with a tricycle for her 2-year-old son Trig, who has Down syndrome.
Palin made no endorsements during her 50-minute appearance, but, true to her spirited nature, took on the Obama Administration with both jokes and criticisms.
To read the whole article please tap on link: http://www.ajc.com/news/palin-comes-to-georgia-560598.html
© 2010 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Governors Ramp Up Lobbying For Federal Medicaid Dollars
By Jake Grovum
Special to Stateline
Stateline.com
July 1, 2010
As Congress continues to squabble over whether to provide additional Medicaid dollars to cash-strapped states, a dozen governors used the July 1 state budget deadline to make their case for the money. Their argument: Without $25 billion in additional aid, states’ fiscal health and the nation’s fragile economic recovery could be in jeopardy.
Six governors came to Washington yesterday to personally press their congressional delegations for the aid; three more attended a press event by video conference, and an additional three sent letters of support. “The federal government cannot have it both ways,” California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said by video link. “It can’t require states to preserve certain safety net programs and then cut the funding for those programs when it is needed most.”
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=495458
(c) 2010. The Pew Charitable Trusts. All rights reserved
Special to Stateline
Stateline.com
July 1, 2010
As Congress continues to squabble over whether to provide additional Medicaid dollars to cash-strapped states, a dozen governors used the July 1 state budget deadline to make their case for the money. Their argument: Without $25 billion in additional aid, states’ fiscal health and the nation’s fragile economic recovery could be in jeopardy.
Six governors came to Washington yesterday to personally press their congressional delegations for the aid; three more attended a press event by video conference, and an additional three sent letters of support. “The federal government cannot have it both ways,” California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said by video link. “It can’t require states to preserve certain safety net programs and then cut the funding for those programs when it is needed most.”
To read full article please tap on link: http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=495458
(c) 2010. The Pew Charitable Trusts. All rights reserved
Chambliss Bill Pushes Natural Gas, Nuclear Power
By HALIMAH ABDULLAH
The Macon Telegraph
News - Local & State
July 1, 2010
WASHINGTON — Republican Sens. Saxby Chambliss of Georgia and Richard Burr of North Carolina have introduced energy legislation focused on expanding the nation’s use of natural gas and nuclear power.
The Republican senators’ measure steers clear of proposals backed by many Democrats for a cap-and-trade provision that would cap carbon emissions and fine companies that go over set limits.
The Republicans’ bill is an alternative to a climate and energy bill by Sens. John Kerry, D-Mass., and Joe Lieberman, a Connecticut independent, that is currently making the rounds on Capitol Hill. Chambliss’ and Burr’s bill provides tax credits and taxpayer-financed support for nuclear plants, electric vehicles, natural gas vehicles and a variety of renewable energy sources.
To read more please tap on link: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/01/1181692/chambliss-bill-pushes-natural.html
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
The Macon Telegraph
News - Local & State
July 1, 2010
WASHINGTON — Republican Sens. Saxby Chambliss of Georgia and Richard Burr of North Carolina have introduced energy legislation focused on expanding the nation’s use of natural gas and nuclear power.
The Republican senators’ measure steers clear of proposals backed by many Democrats for a cap-and-trade provision that would cap carbon emissions and fine companies that go over set limits.
The Republicans’ bill is an alternative to a climate and energy bill by Sens. John Kerry, D-Mass., and Joe Lieberman, a Connecticut independent, that is currently making the rounds on Capitol Hill. Chambliss’ and Burr’s bill provides tax credits and taxpayer-financed support for nuclear plants, electric vehicles, natural gas vehicles and a variety of renewable energy sources.
To read more please tap on link: http://www.macon.com/2010/07/01/1181692/chambliss-bill-pushes-natural.html
Macon.com copyright notice
Material published on Macon.com, including articles, photos, graphics, videos, bulletin board postings and other content, is copyrighted by The Telegraph or by other information providers who have licensed their content for use on Macon.com. The entire contents of Macon.com are also copyrighted as a collective work under the United States copyright laws.
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