Property taxes and cost of local government: Finding a better balance

For many homeowners in Northeast Georgia, one of the most noticeable increases in the cost of living has arrived in the mailbox in the form of a property tax bill.Georgia has spent considerable time over the past several years looking for ways to provide property tax relief.

Rabun County High named a top school in state, nation

Rabun County Schools often gets accolades for both academics and sports, so it’s no surprise that Rabun County High School (RCHS) was once again named a top school in the state and nation, according to the “2026-2027 Best High School’s Rankings” by U.S. News and World Report.

The beginning of a person’s life

The first six years of a person’s life are so important. So exquisitely important.

I’m in a hurry, but God isn’t

One day a parishioner went into the office of renowned 19th Century English preacher  Joseph Parker and found him pacing back and forth, with hands clasped tightly behind his back. “Dr. Parker,” asked the man, “what’s the problem?”

Is a write-in candidacy right in the future?

I’ve not decided, okay? These kinds of decisions require time and a lot of thought. And I’m not talking about whether to eat my peas with a fork or a spoon or to not eat peas at all.

MENTAL HEALTH MOMENT

Last time we determined that September is “International Suicide Prevention Month.” I also provided some sobering statistics on suicide and resources for those struggling with thoughts to harm themselves.

Hinson’s last phone call was powerful, from his heart

(Editor’s note: Hinson Mosley called last month. I didn’t need caller ID. His voice was distinctive. I say “was.” Hinson died Sept. 1. When I learned of his death, I reflected on our last conversation. Hinson was bedridden and fading. Now I realize my friend was calling and saying, “Goodbye.”

The New York Times Editorial Sept. 12, 2001

Remember the ordinary, if you can. Remember how normal New York City seemed at sunrise yesterday, as beautiful a morning as ever dawns in early September.

The story of a great man

I recently had the pleasure to sit with Jennifer Marcellino. She and I started the same day, Aug. 1, 1990, at Ridgecrest Hospital in Clayton Georgia. She had an advantage. Her father owned the hospital.

Creative ways to address housing affordability

When affordability issues arise, they are often looked at in five areas, as I noted in my last column: housing, childcare, health care, education, and food/nutrition. An important point – I am 89 years old, plus a few months. Never in my life, not even one night, have I been homeless.