RCut funding causes debate among City Officials

Featured News, Featured Stories

Blue Ridge, Ga. – The “look of impropriety” fueled debate over the City of Blue Ridge’s recent involvement in improvements to Highway 515.

Previously the University of North Georgia (UNG) had approached the city looking for help in obtaining funds to create an RCut in the median of Hwy. 515. This RCut would allow motorists to make a left hand turn off the highway and into the entrance of the campus.

Blue Ridge, Georgia, RCut, Fannin County, City Council, Post 1, Harold Herdon, Post 2, Rhonda Haight, Post 3, Mike Panter, Post 4, Robbie Cornelius, Post 5, Nathan Fitts, Mayor, Donna Whitener, Attorney, James Balli, University of North Georgia, John Kieffer, Senator, Steve Gooch, LMIG, grant, funding

Almost completed RCut on Hwy. 515 allowing access to the UNG campus.

GDOT (Georgia Department of Transportation) looked into the project and determined there was a need for the RCut due to potential traffic flow and for safety reasons.

“The developer couldn’t pull a DOT permit,” Mayor Donna Whitener stated as to the City’s initial involvement but clarified that the request for the RCut came from UNG.

Councilmember Nathan Fitts stated that he had no issue with the City being a vehicle for obtaining the permit but took issue with taxpayer dollars being spent on the project.

GDOT initially slated $150,000 towards providing the RCut this funding came through LMIG (Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant) and developer, John Kieffer put in approximately $48,000 towards surveying and engineering fees.

The low bid for the project came in at $220,978.61. UNG agreed to contribute $35,000 to the RCut project but this still left a shortfall of $35,978.61.

UNG approached both the City of Blue Ridge and the Fannin County Commissioners asking for funds to cover the shortfall but neither entity would agree to pay with local tax dollars.

“I’ve not even officially got word of that and I’m a councilmember. No one has ever given me notice,” Councilmember Rhonda Haight explained that none of the council was notified that funds to complete the project had been gathered and wanted an explanation as to where and how the funds came about.

The remaining funds came through another LMIG grant from GDOT in the amount of $35,000 and UNG made up the remainder $978.61.

Fitts conveyed his disappointment that the remaining funds came from taxpayers, even if at a state level: “This is a developer expense. It’s always been a developer expense and it is not right for the city taxpayers and in my opinion the state taxpayers to pay for a developer’s entrance.”

The developer is assumed to substantially increase the monetary value of the remaining parcels for sale by obtaining the RCut according to Fitts. 

“Me and Rhonda talked to Mr. Keiffer and said that on our watch we would not approve it through the city,” Fitts said, explaining that he didn’t feel tax dollars should be spent for the financial gain of a private developer and that projects of this nature should be at the developer’s expense.

Fitts stated that in private conversation the developer had initially said he would be paying for the expenses but that the narrative changed.

“The college did need it, but the conversation that was told to us was that he (Kieffer) needed help from us because he had lost money on that property he had sold to the college,” Fitts said of the ordeal adding that taxpayers should not be on the hook for a developer’s bad business decision.

Blue Ridge, Georgia, RCut, Fannin County, City Council, Post 1, Harold Herdon, Post 2, Rhonda Haight, Post 3, Mike Panter, Post 4, Robbie Cornelius, Post 5, Nathan Fitts, Mayor, Donna Whitener, Attorney, James Balli, University of North Georgia, John Kieffer, Senator, Steve Gooch, LMIG, grant, funding

Signage advertising remaining parcels for sell in the development.

“It is a look again of impropriety that the City keeps getting itself into, that we all the sudden are paying for a personal developer to have an RCut,” Haight added.

Evidence of the boost to property value and appeal can be seen by a recent sign placed that advertises the RCut coming soon as well as the remaining tracts for sale.

“Are we going to have to pay for all the developers from here on out?” Haight questioned if the City would be setting a precedent for future transactions, and added, “As a state taxpayer I’m a little appalled that my money went to pay for this private RCut.”

The second LMIG in the amount of $35,000 came from the state when Whitener spoke with state level representatives about the issue. This was done without council knowledge according to Haight and Fitts.

“Thanks to Steve Gooch and GDOT. I really appreciate their help,” Whitener said, explaining that the state came in and saw a need for the RCut or would not have given the go ahead on the project.

Whitener also pointed out that LMIG funds could be used anywhere in the state.

“I’m glad that those state tax dollars are being allotted for our area,” Whitener stated, “It is going toward improving safety for the people driving down 515, one of our busiest roads.”

 

***Featured Image is sign placed by real estate agent representing the developer advertising remaining property and RCut

GTC confirms 515 alternate path to Boardtown road project

Featured News, Featured Stories, News
515

GILMER COUNTY, Ga. – An official statement from the Georgia Transmission Corporation (GTC) today has given relief to the Boardtown road community, through Highway 515, who have been vocally opposing the major project’s plans to build on the road.

The community and its leaders often stated that they supported the project and agreed with it being a needed upgrade, but wanted the project relocated to a different location. Many specifically stated Highway 515 as an alternative.

Even GTC said they had originally looked at 515 but were turned down.

515 515Today, with the aid of House Speaker David Ralston and Senator Steve Gooch, the GTC said, “Following months of extensive analysis at the request of the local community, Georgia Transmission has determined that Highway 515 is a viable corridor for the Whitepath Electric Reliability Project. Conversations are underway with the Georgia Department of Transportation to develop a proposed route for the project adjacent to Highway 515 that meets engineering and safety constraints.”

GTC gave specific thanks to Ralston and Gooch and the community saying the result was a culmination of efforts and input from “community partners including citizens, civic organizations, and elected officials.”

As plans continue for the official path the 46 kV sub-transmission line will take, a preliminary path has already been laid out in consultation with Speaker Ralston. GTC said that this new path involves purchasing easements to minimize the impact of the line on rights of way owned by both the public and the Georgia Department of Transportation.

In late September of 2020, GTC said they were beginning “an extensive look” into the 515 and another alternative path. Just over seven months later, they are confirming this path as viable.

The opposition started last year after a series of public information meetings showed a pathway leading down Boardtown road after GTC had already ruled out the 515 path and one along a CSX rail line.

GTC said the Highway 515 path was denied due to limitations including a request denial by GDOT. 

Now, with the path approved, House Speaker Ralston said, “This outcome demonstrates that workable solutions can be achieved when parties come together in cooperative spirit for the betterment of the community. Sen. Gooch and I are pleased that our partners at Georgia Transmission and Amicalola EMC have done their due diligence in service to the community and are now able to take the next step in ensuring reliable electricity for households and businesses in Gilmer County.”

Ralston was brought in on the project discussion after Gilmer County’s Board of Commissioners drafted letters to him and Gooch last year. Citizens flooded into the county’s monthly meeting asking for help in discussions to find an alternative path from Boardtown. With the board’s letters and offers to set up additional meetings for citizens, they pledged to aid in what ways they could.

With the confirmation of this alternative path’s viability, Georgia Transmission Vice President of Project Services John Reese said, “Georgia Transmission is proud that we were able to honor our word to the community while fulfilling our mission of helping to keep the lights on for Gilmer County. Although considerable work remains to be done we appreciate the active engagement of Amicalola EMC and its members, and the leadership of Speaker Ralston and Senator Gooch, in identifying a solution to the critical electric reliability need in the area.”

According to GTC’s statement, they will soon begin undertaking the process necessary for “advancing the route along Highway 515.” This process involves finalizing the route, contacting property owners in the area, and more public meetings.

For citizens wishing to continue following this project, Georgia Transmission will offer updates on the project page of their site.

Collins comes to Blue Ridge to set the record straight

Election 2020, Featured, Featured Stories, News, Politics

Blue Ridge, Ga. – Congressman Doug Collins stopped in Blue Ridge on his campaign tour in the race for U.S. Senate. With him were special guests Georgia State Speaker of the House David Ralston and former member of the foreign policy advisory panel to Donald Trump, George Papadopoulos. 

Collins spoke briefly on his record as U.S. Congressman, highlighting his conservative values and his reputation for representing the people of the 9th District. 

Collins has stood up to multiple government agencies and individuals during his career, most notably holding the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) and James Comey accountable.

Collins was also a visible ally to President Donald Trump during the U.S. House of Representatives Impeachment Hearings. 

Now, Collins wants to take this same momentum and move it to the U.S. Senate.

Blue Ridge, Georgia, Congressman, Doug Collins, Speaker of the House, David Ralston, foreign policy advisory panel, Donald Trump, George Papadopoulos, Senator, Kelly Loeffler, New York Stock Exchange, Intercontinental Exchange, Jeffrey Sprecher, election, 2020

Georgia State Speaker of the House David Ralston and Congressman Doug Collins in Blue Ridge.

With the U.S. Senate seat open to a Jungle Primary on the Nov. 3 ballot, Collins wants to set the record straight on what is and isn’t true about himself and his biggest Republican rival, Senator Kelly Loeffler.

According to Collins, Loeffler’s attacks on him are unfounded and in many cases an attempt at deflection about her true nature and intent.

Collins specifically sited Loeffler’s pro-life stance that seems to not have been her view a mere two years ago when she worked with Planned Parenthood to have a booth set up at a basketball game where monies raised would be split with the organization.

“I am the one who is actually concerned about life,” Collins said pointing to decisions his family has made in their personal life that reflect these values.

Loeffler also made claims that Collins was not Pro-Second Amendment and that as a lawyer Collins represented criminals.

Collins assured the crowd, having grown up the son of a trooper neither of these claims could be further from the truth. 

“She doesn’t want you to know that she worked with Michael Bloomberg,” Collins said of Loeffler’s Second Amendment claims and her own personal work on a gun control agenda.

In his career as a lawyer, Collins took indigent clients, none of which were pictured in Loeffler’s ad. Collins stated, “Doug Collins defender of criminals? No, Doug Collins did his constitutional duty taking indigent clients.”

Loeffeler has also released ads containing a picture of Collins with former Georgia House Representative Stacey Abrams.

Abrams made waves as the Democratic nominee for Georgia Governor in 2018, known for her liberal stances.

Blue Ridge, Georgia, Congressman, Doug Collins, Speaker of the House, David Ralston, foreign policy advisory panel, Donald Trump, George Papadopoulos, Senator, Kelly Loeffler, New York Stock Exchange, Intercontinental Exchange, Jeffrey Sprecher, election, 2020

George Papadopoulos gives his endorsement of Collins for Senate.

Collins explained the photo, “This was after we saved the HOPE scholarship. Stacey joined us on a conservative idea and voted for it because she understood that people needed that money.”

According to Collins, Loeffler actually employed Abrams as an attorney for a basketball team and in 2018 Loeffler honored Abrams as a woman of distinction while “Abrams for Governor” signs were in the background of the photo-op.

Lastly, Collins pointed out that Loeffler makes her decisions based on her own self-interest and money. 

“She claims to be tough on China,” Collins said and added, “Take the ten state owned companies that are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, owned by the Chinese Communist Party, and delist them.” 

Jeffrey Sprecher, Leoffler’s husband, is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Intercontinental Exchange, and the chairman of the New York Stock Exchange.

Collins said of his suggestion to delist the Chinese companies, that it will never happen because Loeffler will choose her pocketbook and their pocketbook over policy everyday.

“I may not have $35 million, but I’ve got all I need because I’ve got you and I’ve got the voters of Georgia and they understand who the real conservative is in this race,” Collins said referencing the amount the Loeffler has spent on her Senate campaign, “Georgia can’t be bought.”

Senator David Perdue Addresses Georgia Sheriffs’ Association

Politics, State & National

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACTS:
January 24, 2019 Casey Black, 202-224-1324

Jenni Sweat, 202-224-0614

Senator David Perdue Addresses Georgia Sheriffs’ Association

“I want all law enforcement officers to know I’m proud of them, I appreciate what they do, and I’ve got their backs.” 

ATLANTA, GA – U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA) joins the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association’s Winter Conference in Atlanta, Georgia:

“Georgia is home to some of the most impressive law enforcement officers in the nation,” said Senator Perdue. “Our sheriffs are pillars of the community and work every day to preserve peace, prevent crime, and protect all Georgians. It was great to hear directly from many of our state’s sheriffs. Their input is critical as we work to increase public safety and improve school security. I want all law enforcement officers to know I’m proud of them, I appreciate what they do, and I’ve got their backs.”

“Senator Perdue has a sincere commitment to ensuring the safety of all Georgians,” said Terry Norris, Executive Director of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association. “We greatly appreciate his presence at the Sheriffs’ Winter Training Conference and his long-standing support of the Constitutional Office of Sheriff and the many dedicated women and men who perform the duties of deputy sheriffs and jailers.”

###

Senator Perdue is the only Fortune 500 CEO in Congress and is serving his first term in the United States Senate, where he represents Georgia on the Armed Services, Banking, Budget, and Agriculture Committees.

Justice Denied, Again?

Opinion

The word is out there but for some inexplicable reason, it hasn't caught fire that Hillary & #39s hacked
email server caused the executions of all of America’s human assets (spies) in China. Perhaps
it’s because the Republican candidate for Florida’s governorship used the racist word “monkey”
and the deranged media went nuts again. The PoPO’s (Party of Perpetual Outrage i.e.:
Democrats) go nuts over just about anything if it advances their agenda, but Hillary must be
saved at all costs. Peter Strzok apparently knew about it! Is justice to be denied yet again?

The consequence of Hillary Clintons hacked illegal email server, crimes that still lie on fallow
ground for purposes of criminal justice cannot be denied. It now appears it wasn’t the Russians
as the PoPO’s staged, who hacked Hillary's server, but the ChiComs. Everybody else was
simply invited in to read DNC emails by John Podesta, the DNC Chairman who assumed control
after the feckless Debbie Wasserman Schultz opened the gates of the DNC website to the eyes
of the Jihadist world by hiring a family team of Pakistani IT experts, to run their site.

Accusations of collusion with those pesky Russians could better serve Hillary’s interests if it was
alleged that it was that awful Trump who collided with them, not Hillary. To this very minute,
Hillary’s totally debased and discredited scheme to destroy Donald Trump is still plodding its
way through a legal morass of lies, innuendos, and deceptions, all of which have exposed the
frightening depths of FBI and DoJ corruption, “not a smidgen” of evidence to implicate Trump.

But, back to Hillary. It is now reported that it was in fact, a Chinese firm, operating in Wash. DC,
that actually hacked Hillary’s unlisted, unauthorized and unsecured email server, reading every
word that passed between her and the State Department, her and Obama, and her and the
heads of the several US Intelligence agencies entwined in the web of her corrupt machine.

Consequently, US Spies in China were summarily rounded up and executed. Thank you, Hillary,
and Barak, Brennen, and Clapper for your good works protecting America whilst delivering our
human assets to the executioners of the Chinese state. I don’t know if a body count of deaths
directly attributed to Hillary Clinton can ever be tallied, let alone adjudicated in a court of law but
we don’t forget the things we did see, i.e.: the brutality of the deaths of the Benghazi four, the
poor young sot who was a DNC staffer murdered on his Washington DC door steps allegedly for
passing DNC emails to Wikileaks and now, a dozen or more US spies in China.

Yet, the attacks go on. Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal had the audacity to insist that
Robert Mueller could mount a case against Trump for obstruction of justice after Trump
confirmed that White House counsel Don McGahn would be leaving the administration in the
fall. This came from a politician who claimed Vietnam wartime exploits he never achieved
because he was never there. To be fair, he was a Sgt. in the Marine Corps Reserve. That was it.

Hillary’s crimes are nearly an open book of treasonous activity easily provable in a court of law.
To the reasonable American citizen, one who could be empaneled as a juror say, the cries of
“treason” ring out loud and clear. Why does no one in the halls of justice seem to care? Why do
politicians, in both parties, not care. Why don’t we agree to execute spies? We used to. We
execute criminals, murder babies in the womb but we don’t kill spies. Why? There’s a nest of
them in Obama’s administration that, if properly investigated and tried, would find themselves
quickly standing on the hangman’s scaffold. Maybe we could hire a Chinese executioner who
has no compunction to doing his duty. Just saying!

Remember, freedom is the goal, the Constitution is the way. Now, go get’m! (30Aug18).

Dalton GOP Sen. Payne Faces Primary Challenger From His Right

Opinion

Senator David Perdue Works To Strengthen Farm Lending Program

Uncategorized

“Agriculture is Georgia’s largest economic driver and our farmers are the backbone of the industry”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA) is taking action to preserve important loans used by farmers to start and grow their operations.

“Agriculture is Georgia’s largest economic driver and our farmers are the backbone of the industry,” said Senator Perdue. “Whether our farmers are just starting out or are looking to expand and improve, it’s critical they have the financial flexibility they need to get their farms up and running. I’m proud to work on strengthening this important loan program for our country’s farmers.”

The bipartisan Farm Service Agency Loan Flexibility Act, sponsored by Senator Perdue and Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), would provide the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) with the authority it needs to issue approved loans during times of high demand and irregular funding from Congress. FSA’s operating loans are used by beginning farmers, women and minorities, and other disadvantaged borrowers for expenses such as livestock, equipment, and seed, while ownership loans help farmers develop land.

“For many farmers—and new farmers in particular—access to capital is a top issue, and in years past, the inability of FSA to lend to farmers in need because of loan program caps has been problematic for our industry,” said Gerald Long, President of Georgia Farm Bureau. “Georgia Farm Bureau is pleased that Senator Perdue (R-GA) has chosen to lead on this issue and many other agriculture issues in Congress.”

Warming Up for the Home Stretch

Politics, State & National

By: Sen. Steve Gooch (R – Dahlonega)

Week nine had a slower pace when compared to the legislating marathon of the last few weeks. The Senate passed 11 pieces of legislation this week and held several committee meetings to hear bills, most of which originated in the House. Now that we are passed the Crossover Day mark and through Legislative Day 32, we have hit the home stretch leading up to Sine Die.

Of the 11 pieces of legislation passed this week, the most significant was House Bill 683, which is the supplemental appropriations budget for the 2018 Fiscal Year. The amended version of the House bill was passed by the Senate on Monday and signed into law by Governor Deal on Friday. While we may have completed the budget process for the 2018 Fiscal Year, we wasted no time getting to work on the 2019 Fiscal Year budget. During week nine, the Senate Appropriations Committee held subcommittee hearings where state agencies, organizations and institutions presented their budget requests. In addition to my role as the Senate Majority Whip, I serve as the Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation. It is always beneficial and important to hear how we can improve transportation in the state by allocating necessary funds.

Of the bills passed on the Senate floor this week, I believe House Bill 354 will have the biggest impact on transportation. The bill reconstitutes the Georgia International and Maritime Trade Center Authority (GIMTCA) as a public corporation and an instrumentality of the state. Located in Savannah, where the Port of Savannah continues to grow by the year, GIMTCA aims to bring increased economic growth to the state’s import and export markets.

I am also happy to announce that House Bill 159, the “Adoption Bill,” was signed into law by Governor Deal on Monday. HB 159 is a much needed update to Georgia’s adoption laws and is the first of its kind in nearly 30 years. The bill will allow more children in foster care to be adopted into caring homes, extend the list of family members who can undertake legal guardianship and give parents in difficult situations more options to provide the best opportunities possible for their child.

In addition to this week’s action in the Senate, two of the three bills I sponsored to expand broadband access in rural Georgia saw movement in the House. Senate Bill 232, or the Facilitating Internet Broadband Rural Expansion (FIBRE) Act, and Senate Bill 426, the Broadband Infrastructure Leads to Development (BILD) Act, each received their second reading and have been assigned to committee. SB 232 has been assigned to the House Ways and Means Committee and SB 426 has been assigned to the House Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications Committee. The third piece of this rural broadband package – Senate Bill 402 or the Achieving Connectivity Everywhere (ACE) Act – received its second reading on Crossover Day and has also been assigned to the House Ways and Means Committee for further review. I am confident that each of these bills will continue through the legislative process in the coming weeks and provide a solid starting point for broadband expansion.

Though the pace may have slowed this week, it is going to pick back up first thing Monday morning. There are only eight legislative days remaining and still much work to be done as our time winds down under the Gold Dome. Thank you for the continued opportunity to serve as your Senator, I will be sure to stay in touch as we wrap up the 2018 session. If you ever have any questions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. We are always here to help in any way we can.

NRA endorses David Shafer

Election 2018, Politics

BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – The National Rifle Association (NRA) continues to unveil their endorsements for the upcoming May General Primary, and the latest announcement revealed their pick for the next Georgia Lieutenant Governor, Senator David Shafer.

Fannin County, Georgia, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Republican, Senator, State of Georgia, National Rifle Association, NRA, David Shafer, Chris Cox, 2nd Admendment, Political Victory Fund, Defender of Freedom award, Senate Bill 101, President Pro Tempore

Senator David Shafer of the Georgia State Senate

Shafer currently serves as a State Senator of the Georgia State Senate, a position he has held since first being elected in 2002. Shafer also holds the title of President Pro Tempore. He has had this designation since 2013 when his fellow Senators unanimously elected him to this position.

Shafer received a letter from the Chairman of the NRA’s Political Victory Fund Chris Cox. In this letter Cox noted Shafer’s work in Georgia in regards to protecting Second Amendment rights: “Nearly every Second Amendment bill in the last 16 years has had your name attached to it.”

“David Shafer is a voice for freedom and faithful friend to Georgia’s law abiding gun owners,” Cox said explaining the decision made by the NRA, “This endorsement is a reflection of his unwavering support for the Second Amendment.”

Shafer received the Defender of Freedom award from the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action in 2013.

This award came after Shafer’s key role in passing Senate Bill 101 by an overwhelming majority in the Georgia Senate.

The bill essentially made what the NRA deemed as “several important changes to Georgia firearms laws”. Among these changes were increasing reciprocity for out-of-state concealed carry permit holders and preempting a ban on firearms in public housing giving residents the ability to defend themselves regardless of their economic stature.

Shafer has long held an A+ rating with the NRA Political Victory Fund and the NRA says of Shafer that he is “one of the nation’s strongest champions of the Second Amendment.”

“The framers of the Constitution intended for us to be able to defend ourselves,” Shafer said. “I am proud of my record fighting for the Second Amendment rights of every law abiding Georgian.”

The NRA’s endorsement is sure to pull some weight in the upcoming May General Primary. There are currently more than 100,000 active members of the NRA in the state of Georgia.

The May General Primary is scheduled to take place May 22, 2018. Voter registration deadline for this General Primary is April 23.

 

 

 

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Collins Bill to Honor Fallen Marine Sent to President’s Desk

Press Release, State & National

COLLINS BILL TO HONOR FALLEN CLERMONT MARINE SENT TO PRESIDENT’S DESK

WASHINGTON—The Senate last night voted unanimously to pass H.R. 3821, legislation to rename Georgia’s Clermont Post Office in honor of Zack T. Addington. Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) introduced the bill this September, and it passed the House in November.

“Lance Corporal Zack Addington represents the selfless courage that’s cultivated in northeast Georgia, and I’m excited to see this bill leave Congress and head to the president’s desk for his signature,” said Collins.

Collins also honored Addington when he spoke about the bill on the House floor.

Background:

Known to his neighbors as Zack, Addington joined the United States Marine Corps in 1967. A native of Clermont, he became a rifleman in the 3rd Marine Division of the Fleet Marine Force and deployed to Vietnam that year. Addington was promoted to Lance Corporal and served his country honorably until he was killed in action in May 1968.

That June, Addington received the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon in recognition of his service there.

Senator David Perdue Asks OMB Director About SHEP Funding Specifics

State & National

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Senate Budget Committee hearing yesterday, U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA) asked Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney how the Trump Administration plans to prioritize infrastructure projects that provide the greatest return on investment, like the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project:

Click here or on the image below to watch.

Transcript:

Senator Perdue: “In states like Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, New Jersey, their ports are trying to accommodate the new Panamax ships that would dramatically improve our ability to compete around the world. I believe those investments are caught up in the Army Corps of Engineers budget being cut but are not being moved over to the infrastructure investments in the President’s budget. These port investments actually offer a higher rate of return than some of the infrastructure investments I think we’ve contemplated. Can you address that?”

Director Mulvaney: “At the risk of making a small correction, we absolutely anticipate that the deep-water ports will be part of the infrastructure bill. In fact, the largest part of the infrastructure bill, 50 percent of the $200 billion, $100 billion, is in our mind set aside for programs that can contribute their own portion of the funding. As you know, the Port of Savannah is exactly that. We specifically had the deep-water ports in mind when we fashioned the infrastructure bill.”

Senator Perdue: “Good. That’s comforting.”

Growing Number Of Georgia Workers & Businesses Benefiting From Tax Cuts

Politics, Press Release

Georgia employees seeing bonuses, pay raises, other benefits thanks to tax changes

ATLANTA, GA – U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA) today highlighted additional businesses in Georgia that have announced employee bonuses, wage hikes, or 401(k) match increases as a result of the historic tax cuts signed into law in December.

American Proteins, Inc. (Cumming, GA) – $1,000 bonuses for 700 employees. Read more here.

“President Donald Trump and the Republican Congress have reduced taxes for businesses and individuals and I’m excited about what this means for our company and its employees.” –Tommy Bagwell, American Proteins Chairman and CEO

Carter’s (Atlanta, GA) – Bonuses of approximately 5% of base salary for full-time employees and $100 per year of service for part-time employees; increased 401(k) matches. Read more here.

“The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 is expected to have a significant and positive impact on our Company’s future earnings, cash flow, and ability to invest in its growth strategies. In 2018, we plan to reinvest approximately half of the $40 million benefit from the lower corporate tax rate in brand marketing and improved eCommerce capabilities. Given the significant and unexpected benefit in 2017 of the historic tax reform legislation, we are also announcing today that our Board of Directors has approved $20 million in special compensation awards to all of our Company’s eligible full-time and part-time employees provided through enhanced retirement plan contributions and bonuses.” –Michael Casey, Carter’s Chairman and CEO

CMC of Georgia, Inc. (Toccoa, GA) – Bonuses of up to $1,000. Read more here.

“We think that changes in taxes and tax law all have positives, and we wanted to get in the front by sharing it with our employees.” –Mathew Marty, CMC President

Cox Enterprises (Atlanta, GA) – Bonuses of up to $2,000 for non-executive employees. Read more here.

Georgia Power (Atlanta, GA) – $330 million in direct credits to consumers in 2018 and 2019. Read more here.

“We are committed to offering the highest customer value with rates below the national average, and we’re pleased to be able to continue to pass the benefits of the new tax laws on to our customers.” –Paul Bowers, Georgia Power Chairman, President, and CEO

Southwire (Carrollton, GA) – $1,000 bonuses for full-time employees and $250 bonuses for part-time employees; expanding parental leave policy; establishing a scholarship program for hourly employees seeking to further their education. Read more here.

BB&T Corporation (94 locations in GA) – $1,200 bonuses for 27,000 associates; raising minimum wage from $12 to $15 per hour; donating $100 million to charitable organizations. Read more here.

“Overall, BB&T’s Executive Management team believes the successful passage of tax reform is very encouraging news that should move BB&T, the financial services industry and the U.S. economy in the direction of stronger growth.” –BB&T Press Release

Best Buy (37 stores in GA) – $1,000 bonuses for full-time employees and $500 bonuses for part-time employees; donating $20 million to support teen tech centers and Geek Squad academies across the country. Read more here.

Fifth Third Bancorp (33 locations in GA) – $1,000 bonuses for 13,500 employees; raising minimum wage to $15 per hour. Read more here.

Lowe’s (63 stores and 4 distribution centers in GA) – $1,000 bonuses for 260,000 hourly employees; expanding parental leave and adoption assistance. Read more here.

Regions Bank (124 locations in GA) – Raising minimum wage to $15 per hour; making $40 million in charitable donations; investing $100 million in capital expenditures. Read more here.

Ryder (31 locations in GA) – $23 million in bonuses for 31,000 employees. Read more here.

TJX Companies, Inc. (50 stores in GA) – Bonuses for eligible, non-bonus plan associates; instituting paid parental leave; making contributions to charitable organizations; planning to repatriate more than $1 billion in cash in FY2019. Read more here.

“We are pleased to be utilizing the cash benefit from the 2017 Tax Act to make incremental investments in our Associates, our communities and shareholder distributions. Apart from the tax-related cash benefit, we plan to continue to re-invest in the business, including store growth, supply chain and infrastructure, technology, training our Associates, and upgrades to the shopping experience for customers. We are pleased to be in a position to do all of this while continuing to deliver great value to our customers and shareholders!” –Ernie Herrman, TJX Companies President and CEO

U-Haul (18 locations in GA) – $1,200 bonuses for full-time employees and $500 bonuses for part-time employees. Read more here.

“To comply with the intent of the President’s tax reduction, we are investing an additional $200 million in personnel, tools and facilities. I have the opportunity to travel to locations across the U-Haul system, and I see the swell of confidence in the U.S. economy and in the American consumer. Tax reductions lead to job growth, and jobs offer people increased mobility and the option to seek better opportunities for their families. These are positive indicators for U-Haul, the self-move and self-storage industry, and the economy as a whole.” –Joe Shoen, U-Haul Chairman

Walmart (189 locations in GA) – Bonuses of up to $1,000 based on length of service; raising base wage from $9 to $11 per hour; expanding parental leave benefits. Read more here.

“Tax reform gives us the opportunity to be more competitive globally and to accelerate plans for the U.S.” –Doug McMillon, Walmart CEO

Wells Fargo (259 locations in GA) – Raising minimum wage to $15 per hour; donating $400 million to charitable organizations. Read more here.

View other Georgia-based businesses benefiting from tax cuts here.

Georgia Trend Names Sen. Steve Gooch One of Georgia’s Most Influential People

State & National

Georgia Trend Names Sen. Steve Gooch One of Georgia’s Most Influential People

ATLANTA (January 8, 2018) | Senator Steve Gooch (R – Dahlonega) was recognized as one of Georgia’s most influential people by Georgia Trend magazine. The magazine’s annual list recognizes the 100 Most Influential Georgians.

“It is an honor to be recognized among this distinguished list of leaders in our great state,” said Sen. Gooch. “I look forward to working with my colleagues and local community leaders to keep Georgia moving in the right direction. Over the past several years, we have seen numerous businesses moving to Georgia leading to additional economic growth and job creation. We will work hard during this upcoming session to continue this progress for our state.”

Georgia Trend recognized Sen. Gooch’s work in the Georgia Senate and his consistent efforts to improve education and public schools for children in his district and around the state. They also acknowledged his work on job creation, immigration, tax reform and the right to bear arms. Sen. Gooch has also been a leader for transportation in Georgia.

Georgia Trend releases their 100 Most Influential Georgians list annually. The list includes individuals who make a positive impact on the lives of Georgians and make decisions that affect the wellbeing of the state. Naming the top 100 is a year-round process and the final list includes those who “have exhibited the character necessary to inspire, challenge, lead – and influence us.”

Additional information can be found on the Georgia Trend magazine website link below:

http://www.georgiatrend.com/January-2018/2018-100-Most-Influential-Georgians/

FYN Interviews Rebbeca Yardley on Georgia’s 2018 Sine Die – Last Day of Legislative Session

Politics, State & National

It’s Sine Die day, that means it’s the last day of the 2018 Legislative Session! Interviews First Vice Chairman of Georgia Congress 9th District GOP Rebecca Yardley on the experience and what to expect from the Georgia Capitol today!

 

Fetch Your News and Georgia Congressman Doug Collins Discuss the “Omnibus” Spending Bill

Politics

BKP and Congressman Collins discuss the “Omnibus” Spending Bill signed by Donald Trump, and other issues that might effect the state of Georgia in the future.

God Has Your Number

Religion

Do you think God has your Number?

He knows how many times you breathed yesterday. He holds your breath in His hand. God absolutely knows every move you make. The Lord has the hairs on your head numbered. He most definitely tracts your life. My friend, if the Lord has a call on your Life for the ministry, you couldn’t get away in a race car.

What is the shortest chapter in the Bible?-Psalms 117

What is the longest chapter in the Bible? –Psalms 119

Which chapter is in the center of the Bible? Psalms 118

Fact: There are 594 chapters before Psalms 118

Facts: There are 594 chapters after Psalms 118

Add these numbers up, and you get 1188

(NKJV)What is the center verse in the Bible? Psalms 118:8.


“It is better to trust in The Lord than to put confidence in man.”

 

If this is coincident, it is a good one.

God can be in the center of your life if you will just ask, and let Him.

From time to time, I have been sent to share a ministry call with God’s people. He has their number, I would like to share one such call with you just to show you how detailed God is when it comes to the life of His children, and the work of His kingdom.

Some years ago, my friend, the late George Marshal, and I were going to Dunklin Ministries for a Saturday men’s gathering. Dunklin is a large farm between Stuart and Okeechobee, Fl. It is a rehab center used to rebuild lives and, a very good one, I might add. At one time, we had a man here by the name of Jim Way who could bring men together and make things happen. We would have as many as 700 men there for seminars and to worship the Lord. Sometimes in the middle of the previous night, I was caught up in the presence of the Lord. The Lord and I were standing in front of a long table seated with men my age; late fifties to sixties.  The Lord was inspecting these men military style just like a company commander would do, along with his Platoon Sgt.  I was a Platoon Sgt. at one time in the Marines, and The Lord and I were pulling an inspection on these men. I don’t know why the Lord chose this manner, but we were looking over every man, face-to-face. The Lord would get a good look at each man. When we got to the left end of the table, the Lord turned sharply and pointed to a young man in his middle twenties. He was at the far right corner of the table facing us, Ronnie Rinker had invited him. He was a Southern Baptist boy. The Lord turned and looked at him and said,“I am calling this one into the ministry. And I said, but Lord, he is so young. The Lord said, “I know, but I am going to train him. I am going to teach him. I am going to develop him, but he is the one I am calling.” At that point, every scratch and every cut on that old, wooden table was embedded into my mind, along with each man’s face and location at the table. The next morning I had no recollection of this, what-so-ever. George and I went into the dining hall. While we were in line, George saw an empty table and said let’s throw our Bibles on this table, and that will save us a seat.  We went through the breakfast line at eight o’clock.  After we got our food, George said, Bob let’s sit over here at this table; I know these guys. I said, but our Bibles are over there, but he said they would be ok. I sat down at the right corner of the table, and a young, good-looking man sat down across from me. As we started to eat, I felt like I knew him from somewhere. I asked him if we had ever met and he said, no I asked where he worked and what he did?. I said are you sure; he again said, “I just don’t know you.” I am sitting there starting to eat, not thinking any more about him when all at once I looked at that beat up handmade table and knew every scratch and cut on it. Everything came back to me, I looked at the man and knew that I had been there in the middle of the night. Every man was in his proper place, and the young man across from me was exactly where he was when Jesus called him. I said, “Have you ever thought about the ministry?” He said, “Yes I have.”

“Good!” I said, “Because you’re in it.” Then I shared his calling from the Lord. What a mighty God! Look how he used Ronnie to get God’s man there, and how the Lord used George to get me to the right table with all the scratches on it and all the man I had seen the night before. The Word says He knows every hair on our head; but I know one thing for sure He walks among the tables at Dunklin in the middle of the night and knows every scratch on them! Yes, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is alive and well and will speak and call men today.

The Lord Jesus can interact with us today here on the earth, just as if we were in heaven. Father God has everything down to a science, just like he does your life.    Let’s look at some facts:

  •  He knew everything about the meeting, date, time, location, and who would be there.
  • When he caught me up and showed me the scratches and cuts on the table in the dining hall at Dunkin:  they are rough, handmade tables that were made by the men going through the program. All of them filled with cuts and scratches, and they look just alike, yet I knew the exact table.
  • He knew every man there and where he would sit the next day.
  • Ronnie thought he was inviting that young man to the meeting.  Ronnie was working for Jesus under the power of the Holy Spirit and didn’t know it.
  • George Marshal took me to the right table and never knew he was working under a mandate from God.

Here is the thing that just blows me away, not one of us could have been late!Nothing in the world could have stopped any of us. Not one man could have said, I don’t think I will go today. No one could have sat in the wrong place.

Not one of us had any thought of being led by the Lord. We were in the natural and walking under the power and order of God at the same time. Your next words to somebody could be out of the heart of God. No one knew about this, but those of us at the table.

Got put that meeting together like a beautiful piece of music. You can’t beat Him.

What the Lord Jesus wants to be done, He will do! The Holy Spirit was leading every man to that table, and not one of us knew it. Sometimes being led by the Spirit of God may not be what we think at all. We felt nothing. Your next phone call, a trip to the store, or the post office may be your most anointed moment of the week; ordered by the Lord, don’t miss it. If we belong to the Lord, we are naturally supernatural when He needs for us to be.

 Your loving heavenly Father can unscramble your life and seat you at His table where you really don’t belong.” Grace, Grace WonderfulGrace”. There is no doubt about it; God sees tomorrow before we see today.

Dr. Bob Allen                                                        


God  Loves You. Fix your eye on the Straight Gate.

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