Opinion: Traffic Congestion Relief within Reach?

By Candace Boothby, President, Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce, and Terry Lawler, Executive Director, Regional Business Coalition of Metro Atlanta

From Five Points to Five Forks Trickum and from Moreland to Marietta, metro Atlantans face daily challenges when traveling around our community.

And everyone has a personal story to tell: The missed dance recital, the late arrival to the ball game, the missed flight or even the melted ice cream on the car seat coming home from the supermarket.

And sometimes it's an even bigger story.

Like the manufacturer who needed to move to a neighboring county to expand the size of its factory only to find that a large percentage of its existing employees quit because of the increased commute time.

Or the telecom company that realized only too late that its new call center wasn't located near transit services which were primarily used by its employees to get to work.

Every day metro Atlantans, and metro Atlanta businesses, face increasing mobility challenges.

But Atlantans, and Georgians, have always responded to past challenges.

Some folks said we would never get the Olympics. But we did.

Some folks said the Atlanta Airport would never be the world's largest or busiest. But it is.

And a lot of people said Atlanta and Georgia would never vote for a lottery to fund college scholarships, pre-K and educational technology. But we did that too.

Now some folks are saying we don't need additional funds to make improvements to metro Atlanta's transportation systems.

What would happen if we didn't make those improvements?

You don't really want to see that happen.

According to GDOT, commute times in metro Atlanta will increase dramatically, potentially doubling today's commute times. In other words, a rush hour commute from Perimeter Center to I-20 could take over 2 hours in the coming years...on a normal day.

Metro Atlanta transit systems, which provide services to a quarter of a million riders daily, could be operating at half of today's capacity, adding tens of thousands of cars to metro Atlanta's highways every day and potentially devastating Atlanta's tourism and convention business.

Tractor trailer truck traffic, which is growing at least 50% faster than automobile traffic, could double tractor trailer congestion on I-75, I-85, I-20 and I-285 in the future.

Express bus services would have to be discontinued, adding potentially thousands of additional cars on metro Atlanta's highways daily, especially in our outlaying communities.

Metro Atlanta would no longer have just traffic congestion. Metro Atlanta would have "Extreme Traffic Congestion."

But like our past challenges, extreme traffic congestion in metro Atlanta can be overcome.

The Georgia legislature is presently looking at a regional transportation funding mechanism that would allow metro Atlanta residents the option to raise the needed funds to address traffic congestion and other future transportation needs.

Traffic congestion is not a republican problem, nor is it a democrat problem or an independent problem. It is everyone's problem.

Our legislators have the ability to provide the citizens of metro Atlanta with the opportunity to avoid "Extreme Traffic Congestion."

We need to let our legislators know that metro Atlanta voters need that opportunity, and we need it now.

The Regional Business Coalition of Metropolitan Atlanta (RBC) is an organization of over a dozen local Chambers of Commerce throughout the metro Atlanta region. The RBC's primary goal is to represent the interests of RBC Chamber members on public policy issues impacting our transportation, water and air quality and to advocate for solutions that improve metro Atlanta's quality of life and economic vitality.

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Charter Financial Announces Acquisition of Neighborhood Community Bank

/PRNewswire/ -- Charter Financial Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board: CHFN) announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, CharterBank, has entered into an agreement with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to purchase the assets and assume the deposit liabilities of Neighborhood Community Bank. The Georgia Department of Banking and Finance declared Neighborhood Community Bank closed today and appointed the FDIC as receiver. The FDIC then assigned the assets and deposit liabilities of Neighborhood Community Bank to CharterBank under a loss sharing agreement.

"We are delighted to welcome the customers of Neighborhood Community to the CharterBank family of valued customers," says Robert L. Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Charter Financial Corporation. "It is our objective to make this transition as transparent and easy as possible for both Neighborhood Community customers and employees. Because CharterBank elected to assume both insured and non-insured deposits, no customers of Neighborhood Community Bank will lose any of their deposits.

"Under the loss sharing agreement," Johnson continued, "the FDIC will reimburse CharterBank for a percentage of the losses on Neighborhood Community Bank's loans and foreclosed properties. Also, as part of the loss sharing agreement, the acquired assets receive a favorable treatment for regulatory capital purposes so the impact on our regulatory capital ratios will be modest."

As of March 31, 2009, Neighborhood Community Bank reported total assets of $213 million, loans of $154 million, deposits of $190 million and borrowings of $13 million. Under the terms of the agreement, CharterBank has the option to purchase, or to assume the leases on, all four Neighborhood Community Bank locations, all of which extend CharterBank's market in the Interstate 85 corridor.

"This acquisition is very good for the customers of Neighborhood Community Bank and CharterBank," said Johnson. "Neighborhood Community customers will now have enhanced services. For CharterBank, Neighborhood Community Bank fits perfectly into our Interstate 85 corridor by extending the market through Newnan."

The agreement covers only the assets and liabilities of Neighborhood Community Bank. Assets, liabilities and common stock of Neighborhood Community Bank's former parent company, Newnan Coweta Bancshares, Inc., have not been purchased or assumed by CharterBank or Charter Financial Corporation.

Charter Financial Corporation is a savings and loan holding company and the parent of CharterBank, a full-service community bank and a federal savings institution. CharterBank is headquartered in West Point, Georgia, and now operates fourteen branches on the I-85 corridor from Newnan, Georgia, to Auburn, Alabama. The Company also operates three loan production offices in Georgia. CharterBank's deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Additional information, including financial highlights, is available on the company's website, www.charterbank.net. Persons interested in receiving e-mail notifications of news about the company may do so by completing the registration form on the investor relations page of the company's website.

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Troup County's Long Cane Creek Project Nears Completion

Local efforts currently in progress are nearing completion on Long Cane Creek, and nearing completion. In conjunction with Ronny D. Jones Enterprises Inc., the culvert project has recently entered its second phase of progress, during which the portable dam system was moved and reconfigured to render construction possible.

The system, appropriately named Portadam, allows for a versatile range of water diversion purposes.

Due to its innovative design, it was maneuvered to address the specific on-site needs of the Ronny D. Jones Enterprises, Inc. crew, increasing the overall timeliness and efficiency of this municipal project.

Portadam’s technology makes use of a steel frame structure that supports an impermeable fabric liner, which can form a wall capable of holding back up to ten feet of standing or running water.

As a result, working areas that were previously hazardous or hidden under water are dry and easily accessible for work and repair.

Portadam allows water to be temporarily diverted and is environmentally preferred over sandbags or cumbersome cofferdams.

The system literally parts the water in order to allow for access to or construction of structures which would typically be submerged.


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Coweta County Welcomes Nationally Known Economist October 22

The Coweta County Economic Summit is a "must attend" for business owners, business professionals, elected officials, candidates for office, and all citizens interested in the future of Coweta's local economy.

Nationally known economist William H. "Bill" Fruth will conduct Coweta County's first-ever Economic Summit, Wednesday, October 22, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon, at the Centre for Performing and Visual Arts of Coweta County, 1523 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan. Coffee, Danishes, and networking will be available at 8:00 a.m. Admission is free.

Bill Fruth is certainly not considered a typical "run-of-the-mill" economist. Unlike many of his colleagues who spend much of their lives in an academic setting, Fruth has mostly "walked the walk" in both the private and public sectors.

After earning his Bachelor and Master degrees from Bowling Green State University in Ohio, Bill Fruth began his economic journey in 1980, when he was elected to serve as the full-time Mayor of Tiffin, Ohio. It was quite a challenge, as manufacturing companies / jobs were leaving town, the nation was in the grip of a deep recession, and the city's economy and finances had
reached crisis level.

Facing the unthinkable, a relatively young Mayor Fruth had no other choice but to become heavily involved in economic and community development, in order to save his city from financial collapse. His hard work and accomplishments drew accolades from across the State, and Fruth was named one of "Five Outstanding Young Men of Ohio" before finishing his term in
office.

Bill Fruth's rise to notoriety in the economic development field soon led him to Palm Beach County, Florida, where he served as president of the Business Development Board. Once again, Fruth earned statewide recognition, and was named Florida Economic Development Professional of the Year in 1987.

It wasn't long before private industry took notice of Bill Fruth's accomplishments. He embraced the opportunity and served as Vice President of a major industrial land development company from 1988-1995. Fruth's responsibilities included directing the development and marketing of a
500-acre corporate park in West Palm Beach, Florida.

In 1996, Bill Fruth founded POLICOM Corporation, an independent economics research firm, located in Palm City, Florida. For the past twelve years, he has specialized in studying the dynamics of local economies, whether they are growing or declining, and what may be causing this to happen.

Fruth has personally evaluated more than 600 economies across the Nation. He has created more than 150 community studies, and since 1998, has provided presentations and workshops for state associations and communities in 32 states.

Bill Fruth is recognized by the Florida Administrative Court as an expert witness regarding local economies. He is the author of Where the Money Is ... America's Strongest Local Economies, along with numerous economic articles for newspapers and trade magazines.

Bill Fruth's presentation style may come as a surprise to those who have suffered through dry, often uninspiring economics lectures. To the contrary, he provides a fast-paced, entertaining, but mostly thought provoking analysis. Fruth's numbers are based on reality, rather than theory, and his purpose is to generate discussion of what makes an economy strong, and what each community must do to improve its economic condition and quality of life.

As a segment of the Coweta County Economic Summit, Fruth will first present examples of some of the strongest and weakest economies in the Nation. He'll then examine Coweta County's own economic strengths and weaknesses, and further compare them to those of Fayette County, Cobb County, Gainesville, GA, Auburn-Opelika, AL, the Atlanta area, and Georgia.

As Bill Fruth explained, "The purpose of this summit goes beyond presenting Coweta's economic strengths and weaknesses. I'd like to encourage discussion of what your community must do to further improve its economy during these difficult times, while motivating community leaders to work as one toward a common goal of long-term economic prosperity and a better standard of living for all citizens."

The Coweta County Economic Summit is sponsored by AT&T, Atlanta Gas Light, Coweta-Fayette EMC, Georgia Power, and Newnan Utilities. For reservations and further information, contact the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce at 770-253-2270.

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Time is Drawing Closer for Autumn Freeze in Georgia

The National Weather Service has released its updated map of the average first freeze dates for Georgia.


















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Awards Ceremony Photos for The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in Georgia

GFP Note: Congratulations to the nurses recognized at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta! You are truly a wonderful group of angels on earth.

BUSINESS WIRE --Photos from an awards ceremony for The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in Georgia, presented by UnitedHealthcare and The DAISY Foundation, are available to view.

The unique recognition program is part of many hospitals’ recruitment and retention programs, helping to offset the acute shortage of nurses nationwide. Each month, nurses are selected by their nursing administration and peers to receive The DAISY Award. The honorees receive a certificate commending her/him for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” The certificate reads: “In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people.”

Click here for photo of Rick Elliott, President and CEO, United Healthcare of Georgia and Tena Barnes Carraher, The DAISY Foundation, present The DAISY Award to Bobby Patterson, RN, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (Photo: Business Wire).

Click here for photo of Joyce Ramsey Coleman, CNE, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Missy Gilford, RN, DAISY Award winner, Donna Hyland, CEO, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Bobby Patterson, RN, DAISY Award winner, Jennifer Tomasini, RN, DAISY Award winner, Rick Elliott, President and CEO, United Healthcare of Georgia, Tena Barnes Carraher, The DAISY Foundation (Photo: Business Wire)

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Beware Of Phony Voter Registration Schemes

(SPM Wire) While many Americans are showing civic pride and registering to vote, scammers see opportunities to ply their trade.

The experts at the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are warning Americans to be cautious with personal information to avoid phony voter registration drives.

"Voter registration laws vary by state and changes take place regularly, which creates the confusing environment that ID thieves thrive on," said Steve Cox of the BBB.

Such theft can be perpetrated through e-mail, phone and even in person:

Beware of phony e-mails appearing to be from government agencies, telling you to click to register to vote or resolve registrations issues. These links direct recipients to sites that install viruses or ask for personal information such as Social Security or bank numbers.

Remember, state government officials don't telephone you if there is an issue with registration, nor do they need bank account or credit card numbers to confirm your identity.

If registering in-person, always ask for proof of which organization the volunteer is with before providing information. While some states require Social Security numbers to vote, they never require bank account or credit card information.

If you think you've become an ID theft or voter registration fraud victim, contact your BBB (www.bbb.org) and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP or www.ftc.gov/idtheft.

The U.S. Election Assistance Commission Web site (www.eac.gov/voter) offers information on state voter registration guidelines.

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Major Accident I-85 Southbound September 8 at 12:15pm

The Georgia Department of Transportation has closed all lanes on Interstate 85 southbound 2 miles south of Exit 47 (SR 34) in Coweta County, due a major accident involving a total of seven vehicles. Two of the vehicles involved are tractor-trailers. Injuries are reported.

Southbound motorists traveling between Atlanta and Newnan are strongly advised to use alternate routes until further notice. The accident is expected to be cleared by about 2 pm today.

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Atlanta Home Show Chooses Georgia Heartland Humane Society as Sponsored Charity

Special to the Fayette Front Page

Come by to see Jack and Jill and the other GHHS animals before you go to see the Ultimate Airdogs. Stop by the Stage, also near the GHHS booth, to see celebrity guests from HGTV. Visit the Living Green Tour where you can test environmentally friendly products and learn how to conserve energy, live healthier and save money.

After seeing an article on the Georgia Heartland Humane Society, Ashlei Whitfield, a marketing representative for Marketplace Events, suggested that GHHS be their sponsored charity at the upcoming Home Show, held on October 17-19 at the Georgia International Convention Center near Hartsfield Airport.

As their charity partner, GHHS volunteers will be selling tickets, provided by Marketplace Events, for the Gas for a Decade raffle. Net proceeds will be going to GHHS.

GHHS will also receive the proceeds from another fun event, a silent auction for birdhouses painted by famous Georgians and Atlantans.

In addition Marketplace Events has provided GHHS an exhibit booth, evaluated at $5000, to communicate our mission to the public. Our booth is in a prime location near the main stage and the Ultimate Air Dogs presentation. GHHS will be bringing some of their current foster animals, such as Jack and Jill, two kittens who have Manx syndrome, a disorder which causes incontinence. In spite of their diapers and onesies to hold the diapers on, Jack and Jill are otherwise normal kittens who love to play and cuddle.

The Ultimate Airdog competition will be near the GHHS booth. Ultimate Air Dogs is one of the premier dock jumping organizations in the country. The President, Milt Wilcox, who pitched for the Detroit Tigers in the 1984 World Series, hosts professional events that draw in thousands of spectators, while maintain a family-friendly atmosphere. The public can register their dogs for the competition at The Home Show. For more information about Ultimate Air Dogs, go to http://www.ultimateairdogs.net/.

Come support Georgia Heartland Humane Society, an all volunteer, non-profit agency which rescues abandoned, abused and unwanted animals in Coweta and Fayette counties. (www.gaheartland.com) GHHS is looking for volunteers to help cover this 3 day event. If you are interested, please call Annette at 770 253-5083.

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'My Big Redneck' Producers to Look for Future Program Participants at Powers' Crossroads Labor Day Weekend Festival in Newnan, Ga.

PRNewswire/ -- Talent scouts for the "My Big Redneck" television series that airs on Country Music Television will be searching for future show participants for three upcoming programs this weekend at the Powers' Crossroads Country Fair and Art Festival in Newnan, Ga.

Held every year on the 100 acres of historic Powers Plantation in Newnan, Ga., near Franklin, Ga., the Powers' Crossroads Festival will open for its 38th consecutive year at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, and will wrap up at 5 p.m. Labor Day afternoon, Sept. 1.

"The producers, Pink Sneakers Productions of Apopka, Fla., told me they plan to have talent scouts on the Festival grounds on Sunday, Aug. 31, and Monday, Sept. 1," said Carol Chancey, the festival's executive director.

According to Ms. Chancey the producers are looking for participants for three programs, "Redneck Bash," "My Big Redneck Wedding" and "My Big Redneck Christmas."

"It's a little out of the ordinary for us, but we think it's a great opportunity to give Festival attendees 'a little extra Labor Day weekend fun' during their festival visit," Ms. Chancey said.

"Redneck Bash" documents the wild and crazy preparations and celebrations associated with a variety of events from divorce and retirement parties to baby showers and backyard bar-b-cues.

"Redneck Wedding" covers the down-to-earth fun of a redneck nuptial from denim wedding dresses and camouflage tuxedos to shotgun salutes and arriving at the reception in an all terrain vehicle.

"Redneck Christmas" focuses on heart-warming families with wacky traditions and decorations that might include shotgun shell ornaments, monster truck tree toppers or rockin' reindeer games.

Scheduled festival activities include the traditional Rising Star competition on Saturday morning, a contemporary Christian music concert sponsored by radio station J93.3, WVFJ-FM, Atlanta on Sunday afternoon, and an encore performance by the Rising Star competition winners and the Miss Coweta County Pageant, a preliminary event for the Miss West Georgia competition in January 2009, on Monday afternoon.

Visitors to this year's festival will also find perennial favorites in shopping for unique arts and crafts. Each of the more than 175 artisans showcasing their work for sale is selected by judges during the course of the year.

Festival hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and military personnel, $3 for children ages 5-12, and free for children 4 and under. Parking is free and complimentary shuttle service is available from the parking areas.

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Contemporary Christian Music Featured Sunday, Aug. 31 at Powers' Crossroads 3-Day Labor Day Weekend Festival in Newnan, Ga.

PRNewswire/ -- The three-day Powers' Crossroads Country Fair and Art Festival, which opens for its 38th consecutive year on Labor Day Weekend, will feature an afternoon of contemporary Christian music on Sunday, Aug. 31.

Scheduled entertainment beginning at 2 p.m. on the festival's main stage includes One Way Caravan from St. Louis, Mo., featuring Adam Trotter and Kevin Schulte.

West Georgia local favorites Jake Eugene and The Summit of South Fayette, and Chandler, featuring lead vocalist Jeff Chandler, are also scheduled to perform. Contemporary Christian radio station J93.3, WVFJ-FM, Atlanta, is sponsoring the afternoon of music.

The festival, which is held every year on the rolling and wooded 100 acres of historic Powers Plantation in Newnan, Ga., near Franklin, Ga., will open at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30 with the annual Rising Star competition set to kick off at 10 a.m.

The festival will wrap up at 5 p.m. Labor Day afternoon, Sept. 1, after a 2 p.m. Miss Coweta County Pageant, a preliminary event for the Miss West Georgia competition in January 2009.

Visitors to this year's festival will also find perennial favorites in shopping for unique arts and crafts. Each of the more than 175 artisans showcasing their work for sale is selected by judges during the course of the year.

Festival hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and military personnel, $3 for children ages 5-12, and free for children 4 and under. Parking is free and complimentary shuttle service is available from the parking areas.

Visit www.newnan.com/powers for additional information and driving directions.

The Powers' Crossroads Country Fair and Art Festival is organized and produced by five local non-profit organizations as their annual major fundraiser with net proceeds divided among the organizations. They are: Newnan Coweta Chamber of Commerce, Newnan Coweta Arts Association, Coweta 4H, Newnan Coweta Jaycees and The Pilot Club of Newnan.

Presenting sponsors include Buffalo Rock Beverages and Food Services, Newnan, Ga., Toyota of Newnan, and in part by the Georgia Department of Economic Development through the Georgia Tourism Foundation.

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Get Away to Great Past Times During Labor Day Weekend at Powers' Crossroads Festival in Newnan, Ga., Aug. 30 - Sept. 1

PRNewswire/ -- The Powers' Crossroads Country Fair and Art Festival opens for its 38th consecutive year on Labor Day Weekend with new entertainment as it continues to celebrate its proud tradition as host to innovative art exhibitions in this West Georgia community.

"It's a great opportunity for festival visitors to dial back the hands of time and experience a real country fair set in the rolling woodlands of this west Georgia community," said Carol Chancy, the festival's executive director.

Held every year on the 100 acres of historic Powers Plantation in Newnan, Ga., near Franklin, Ga., the Powers' Crossroads Festival will open at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, and will wrap up at 5 p.m. Labor Day afternoon, Sept. 1, after a 2 p.m. Miss Coweta County Pageant, a preliminary event for the Miss West Georgia competition in January 2009.

Festival hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and military personnel, $3 for children ages 5-12, and free for children 4 and under. Parking is free and complimentary shuttle service is available from the parking areas.

Visit www.newnan.com/powers for additional information and driving directions.

With a proud heritage as one of the best events in the Southeast, Powers brings back again this year its local Rising Star talent competition on the Festival's opening day.

Beginning at 10 a.m. 30 contestants will vie for the title of the 2008 Powers' Crossroads Rising Star. Contestants will compete in one of three age categories: 15-18 years old; 19-34; and, 35 plus.

This year's three celebrity judges for the rising star competition are "Mid-Days" radio personality J. D. from Midwest Georgia's music station, Magic 98.1, WMGP-FM in Newnan; Jessica Scott, Miss West Georgia 2008; and Linda Walker, owner of the talent agency Speer Entertainment and Really Big Productions, Inc., an entertainment production company.

They will select a winner from each age group, and from that group of three, the judges -- with some audience participation -- will select the 2008 Powers' Crossroads Rising Star.

Each age group winner will receive cash prizes and will perform an Encore Show Monday, Sept. 1 prior to the Miss Coweta County competition.

Visitors to this year's festival can also find perennial favorites in shopping for unique arts and crafts. Each of the more than 200 artisans showcasing their work for sale is selected by judges during the course of the year.

Judges for this year's art competition are Amanda Dumas-Hernandez, a Newnan native who is currently an instructor at the Savannah College of Art & Design's Atlanta campus, and Claudia McDavid, the Art Partners Program Officer for the High Museum of Art in Atlanta.

This year, visitors may also see a limited viewing of art purchased by the Festival between 1971-2007.

Each year the Festival art judges select several pieces to purchase as exemplary of that particular year's offerings at the Festival. Known as the Purchase Awards, there are currently more than 100 works of art in this collection.

The Powers' Crossroads Country Fair and Art Festival is organized and produced by five local non-profit organizations as their annual major fundraiser with net proceeds divided among the organizations. They are: Newnan Coweta Chamber of Commerce, Newnan Coweta Arts Association, Coweta 4H, Newnan Coweta Jaycees and The Pilot Club of Newnan

Presenting sponsors include Buffalo Rock Beverages and Food Services, Newnan, Ga., West Georgia Technical College, LaGrange, Ga., Toyota of Newnan.

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VSU Nursing Receives $24,000 Grant

Valdosta State University's College of Nursing was recently named the recipient of a $24,000 grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration.

The grant will be used to aid graduate students enrolled in advanced practice nursing coursework. Recipients of this funding will specialize in advanced nursing of adults, advanced maternal/child nursing, and psychiatric/mental health nursing.

The amount is approximately double what was previously received, due to an increase in the number of students enrolled as well as the addition of the adult health practitioner master's program, which was reinstated in early 2008. Programs like this are designed to meet health care workforce needs of rural South Georgia, and VSU nursing graduates fill a void as nursing educators, clinical leaders and health care administrators in various programs, institutions and agencies across rural and underserved South Georgia and North Florida.

“Our ability to meet the challenges of increasing the nursing workforce in the state of Georgia is contingent on this type of funding,” said Dr. Anita Hufft, dean of the College of Nursing. “This funding directly supports nurses pursuing advanced nursing degrees which will allow them to provide leadership in acute settings; to provide direct primary care services to underserved populations in south Georgia, and to assist as clinical faculty for our undergraduate programs.”

The mission of the faculty of the VSU College of Nursing is to improve the healthcare of the region through the preparation of a professional nursing workforce characterized by enthusiasm, skill, knowledge and honor. The College of Nursing is located in S. Walter Martin Hall at 1300 North Patterson Street in Valdosta, Georgia. For more information, call (229) 333-5959 or visit www.valdosta.edu/nursing .

City of Newnan Receives Fiscal Budget Award

GFP Note: This is the 18th consecutive year the city has won the award.

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) is pleased to announce that City of Newnan, Georgia has received the GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its budget. The award represents a significant achievement by the entity. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the entity had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity's budget serves as:

a policy document
a financial plan
an operations guide
a communications device

Budget documents must be rated "proficient" in all four categories to receive the award.

When a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is granted to an entity, a Certificate of Recognition for Budget Presentation is also presented to the individual or department designated as being primarily responsible for its having achieved the award. This has been presented to City Manager’s Office; Finance Department; Meg Blublaugh; Katrina Kline; Clifton Foster; Cleatus Phillips; Gina Snider and Libby Winn.

For budgets including fiscal periods 2006, 1,127 entities received the Award. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North America.

The Government Finance Officers Association is a nonprofit professional association serving 17,500 government finance professionals throughout North America. The GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program is the only national awards program in governmental budgeting.

Record-breaking Ritchie Bros. Auction Taking Place in Atlanta This Week

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer, expects to attract bidders from across North America and around the world when it conducts the largest Atlanta auction in company history this week (on June 26 & 27, 2008).

The Ritchie Bros. auction site in Newnan (Atlanta), Georgia is filled with millions of dollars worth of heavy equipment and trucks - and every item will be sold to the highest bidders at this week's public auction, regardless of price. In total, more than 2,000 items will be sold over two days, including late model articulated dump trucks, wheel loaders, motor graders, motor scrapers, pull scrapers, dump trucks, truck tractors, trailers and crushing equipment. The auction will be strictly unreserved, with no minimum bids and no reserve prices. Every item will be sold on auction day. Registration to bid is free and open to the general public.

Ritchie Bros. has been conducting unreserved public auctions in Atlanta for more than 20 years. Ritchie Bros. sold almost 1,200 truck and equipment items during its largest Atlanta auction to date (held at the same site in November 2007). That auction generated a record US$31 million in gross auction proceeds and attracted bidders from 30 countries, including 46 U.S. states.

Thursday, June 26 & Friday, June 27, 2008
Auction start time: 8:00 a.m.

Ritchie Bros.' Atlanta auction site (4170 Hwy 154, Newnan,
Georgia). Site phone: +1.770.304.3355

A Ritchie Bros. auction is a fast-paced, exciting event. Mobile
equipment moves over a ramp in front of the crowd of bidders in
the auction theater. Interested buyers bid competitively on the
items, either in person at the site or live over the internet.
Most items sell in less than one minute. Ritchie Bros. auctions
are completely unreserved, meaning there are no minimum bids
and no reserve prices, unlike many traditional or online-only
auctions. Every item is sold to the highest bidder on auction
day, regardless of price.

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Sen. Seabaugh Appointed to Senate Local Tax Collection Study Committee

State Senator Mitch Seabaugh (R-Sharpsburg) has recently been appointed by Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle to serve as a member on the Senate Local Sales Tax Collection Study Committee. Sen. Seabaugh will work with a group of eight committee members, consisting of fellow legislators and local officials from across Georgia to examine the tax collection rates of cities and counties.

“As costs are sharply rising throughout the economy, many families and individuals are struggling financially,” Sen. Seabaugh said. “My goal for this study committee is to find ways for local governments to cut costs to taxpayers by allowing them to choose how their taxes are collected.”

Currently under Georgia law, the state revenue commissioner collects local sales and use taxes on behalf of cities and counties, and subsequently charges them one percent of the amount collected, regardless of the total cost of collection. The study committee will look for ways for local governments to individually determine how their taxes will be collected, so that they could be charged a lower rate than the one percent charged by the state.

“Senator Seabaugh will be a valuable asset to the Local Sales Tax Study Committee,” said Lt. Gov. Cagle. “He is dedicated to his constituents and has worked diligently in the Senate. I look forward to learning more about the findings of this study committee.”

Governor Perdue Announces IT3 Transportation Plan

Today Governor Sonny Perdue announced a new statewide transportation partnership called Investing in Tomorrow’s Transportation Today or IT3. IT3 is designed to bring the Department of Transportation, Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, the General Assembly, local partners and the executive branch together to formulate strategies that will improve transportation infrastructure throughout the state.

“As we did in education, we will transform the way we look at transportation from counting how much money we spend to an outcomes-based investment strategy to ensure we create a 21st century transportation network throughout the state,” said Governor Sonny Perdue.

Throughout the summer and fall, the state’s transportation agencies will be working in collaboration with the General Assembly’s transportation committees and stakeholders throughout Georgia to develop a business case for transportation investment. Included will be the definition of strategic goals and policies, benchmarking with other states’ transportation successes and examination of ways to financially support outcomes.

During the press conference, Governor Perdue announced that the state will fund 28 new GRTA buses using a combination of state and federal dollars. The Xpress service has proven a successful way to provide reliable commute alternatives for residents of metropolitan Atlanta who have work destinations in the Downtown and Midtown areas of the city of Atlanta. These additions to the Xpress fleet are based on consumer demand on routes originating in Conyers, Stockbridge, Newnan, Buford, Douglasville, Canton and Snellville. These buses will serve new routes and supply more bus departure times on existing routes.

“I think with standing room only on buses and gas at four dollars a gallon, we need more transportation options, and that’s what I am committed to do by funding additional GRTA buses,” said Governor Perdue. “One bus can take up to 57 cars off the road and we understand with the addition of these new buses increased ridership will ease congestion.”

Governor Perdue also voiced his strong support for a commuter rail pilot project from Atlanta to Griffin, previously known as the Lovejoy line. The extension of the line from Lovejoy to Griffin is anticipated to improve ridership by 40 percent while only requiring a marginal increase in operating costs. GDOT will work in partnership with GRTA in executing the next steps in bringing the line to fruition.

Such steps will include obtaining commitments from local governments to partner with state in supporting operations on the Griffin line. Among the criteria for success will include providing reliable service that saves commuters time and money.

“I am fully prepared to support GDOT’s efforts on commuter rail and making the pilot a reality,” said Governor Perdue. “After looking at the operational costs that I’ve seen it makes sense to go all the way to Griffin using this pilot program.”

Governor Perdue was joined at the press conference by DOT Commissioner Gena Abraham and members of the DOT and GRTA boards.

“After nearly two decades in state government at various levels, I believe that this is the best state transportation board I have had the privilege to work with,” Governor Perdue said. “I am eager to continue working closely with them and the General Assembly in this critical effort.”

Sen. Seabaugh to chair Senate Task Force on Value Government

State Senator Mitch Seabaugh (R-Sharpsburg) has been appointed by Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle to chair the Senate Task Force on Value Government. The task force will look to determine how state government can provide services in a more effective and efficient manner to Georgia citizens. Ultimately, the panel will find ways to give taxpayers the best value possible in state government.

“We will seek to establish performance standards to know what value Georgians are getting for the tax dollars they pay,” said Sen. Seabaugh. “By establishing these standards, we can increase accountability for the tax dollars we spend and know what programs or services to cut and what to better fund.”

The Task Force plans to work in coordination with the Commission for a New Georgia to make recommendations to the legislature for legislative or budgetary changes to improve service delivery or lower the cost of services.

“It’s important to efficiently and wisely spend the public’s hard-earned dollars, and it’s equally crucial to do so in an open and transparent manner,” added Sen. Seabaugh. “This task force will work to ensure both.”

In addition to his leadership position of Majority Whip, Sen. Seabaugh has served on the Senate Appropriations Committee for six years and has been diligent in challenging appropriated tax dollars. He has been successful in cutting programs and department budgets that were unable to prove their value. Senators Bill Heath (R-Bremen), Judson Hill (R-Marietta) and Ed Tarver (D-Augusta) will also serve on the Task Force on Value Government.

Governor Perdue Signs Water Plan into Law

2/6/08 Today Governor Sonny Perdue signed HR 1022, the Statewide Water Management Plan, that will guide Georgia in managing its water resources. The newly enacted plan will utilize the state’s water resources in a sustainable manner; will support the state’s economy, will protect public health and natural systems, and will enhance the quality of life for all citizens. The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Lynn Smith (R-Newnan) in the House of Representatives and state Sen. Ross Tolleson (R-Perry) carried the resolution in the Senate.

“Water management is one of the most critical issues facing Georgia today,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “This plan was created by an inclusive process, allowing all parties to contribute and offer their solutions – from local governments to business owners to the agricultural community and the general public. Georgia now has a comprehensive, statewide plan for managing and conserving this precious resource.”

Georgia’s first comprehensive statewide Water Plan was recommended unanimously by the Water Council in January, and both the House and Senate Natural Resource Committees were quick to address it. The Water Plan was passed by both chambers and sent to the Governor for signature yesterday, the 11th day of the 2008 legislative session.

“We have come together to provide Georgians with a clear process for managing the future of our water resources,” said Rep. Lynn Smith. “By approving the Statewide Water Management plan, we are presenting Georgians with the ability to plan and conserve.”

The plan lays out statewide policies, management practices, and guidance for regional planning. The provisions of this plan are intended to guide river basin and aquifer management plans and regional water planning efforts statewide.

“By passing Georgia’s first Statewide Comprehensive Water Plan, we are now able to prepare for the future water needs of our state,” said state Sen. Ross Tolleson. “This plan balances the growth of our state while protecting the needs of our environment.”

Citing risks to public health and safety, Governor Sonny Perdue announced plans today to modify state restrictions on the filling of swimming pools in drought-stricken north Georgia, but will still require that water conservation goals be met. Under a Level Four Drought Response, the filling of outdoor swimming pools is prohibited. Today Governor Perdue announced the lifting of this restriction, allowing outdoor pools to be filled from April through September 2008.

“Citizens should not see this as a signal the drought is over,” said Governor Perdue. “The drought remains persistent and water conservation is our top priority.”

The decision to change the state’s restrictions is based on water use data collected by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). However, Governor Perdue emphasized that local governments and water utilities still have the authority to impose restrictions more stringent than state requirements.

Local governments and water utilities in the 61-county Level Four Drought Response area will still be required to achieve the Governor’s water use reduction goal of at least 10 percent. Beginning April 1, the water savings will be calculated using last year’s April-September average monthly water use.

It’s estimated there are approximately 6,500 public pools and 92,000 private residential pools in the Level Four area. According to EPD, those pools will require seven million gallons of water per day from April through September.

“We believe the swimming pool exemption will have only a modest impact on water supply, provided citizens can still meet the required water conservation goals,” said Governor Perdue. “We will continue to closely monitor drought conditions and will re-evaluate the exemptions and make adjustments if needed throughout the spring and summer.”

Some potential impacts if outdoor pools were left empty include collecting stagnant water, cracking or collapsing of pools and posing a safety threat of falling into the empty pool.

This morning, Governor Perdue announced new exemptions to the Level Four Drought Response in addition to outdoor pools. The state will now allow limited hand watering of existing landscapes, a more thorough and beneficial watering schedule on newly installed landscapes and the continued call for 10 percent reductions in use when compared to the summer average from 2007.

“Our hope is that every Georgian who takes advantage of these new exemptions will also help conserve and allow local water authorities to continue to meet the 10 percent reductions,” Governor Perdue added.

More information about the drought and water conservation can be found at www.georgiaepd.com and www.conservewatergeorgia.net.

Governor Perdue Announces more Flexibility in Outdoor Watering Restrictions

Today at the Georgia Agribusiness Council’s legislative breakfast Governor Sonny Perdue announced the state will ease outdoor watering limitations through exemptions to the Level Four drought restrictions implemented in September 2007. Taking this action strikes a balance between sound management of our water resources and support of Georgia’s industries that depend on water use. Governor Perdue also announced that his call for 10 percent water use reductions on water permit holders will continue using last year’s April to September average monthly water use as the baseline.

“Georgians have demonstrated their dedication to a culture of conservation,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “It is important to continue to encourage conservation with the 10 percent reduction, which I believe we can achieve while also supporting industries that are so essential to our state.”

Hand watering will be allowed for 25 minutes per day on an odd-even schedule between
midnight and 10 a.m. Odd numbered addresses can water on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Even numbered addresses can water Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Hand watering is defined as one person with one garden hose with a spray nozzle that shuts off when it is released.
New professionally installed landscape can be watered up to three days a week from midnight to 10 a.m. for a period of 10 weeks based on the odd/even schedule. The new schedule will help ensure the survival of new landscape without requiring more water than what is being used under the current 30-day exemption.

Anyone wishing to water new professionally installed landscape must register with the Outdoor Water Use Registration Program. The program will be hosted on the Urban Agricultural Council web site at www.urbanagcouncil.com beginning April 1, when the outdoor watering exemptions take effect. Georgians may also contact their county extension agents for assistance in getting registered.

Local governments and water utilities in the 61-county Level Four Drought Response area will still be required to achieve the Governor’s water use reduction goal of at least 10 percent. Beginning April 1, the water savings will be calculated using last year’s April-September average monthly water use.

“These steps will give consumers confidence to buy and plant new trees and shrubbery,” said Governor Perdue. “It will give retailers confidence to stock these items, and it will give producers confidence to grow them. This action will lend renewed strength to the landscaping industry in Georgia.”

More information about the drought and water conservation can be found at www.georgiaepd.com and www.conservewatergeorgia.net.

Governor Perdue also praised the work of the Georgia Agribusiness Council in helping craft the Statewide Water Management Plan, which received final passage in the State Senate yesterday. Governor Perdue will sign the water plan this afternoon, and also announce the state’s decision on outdoor pools.