Happy 250th birthday, America!

Sometimes we remember.Other times, we need to be reminded.That’s why a rusted MI917 Brodie helmet is perched on the top of the piano by our back door. You can’t come in or out without seeing George Washington Shirah Jr.’s World War I helmet.

‘First’ worth fighting for

People want local. You want local. Your neighbors want local. Individuals you will never meet in six lifetimes want local too.

Thank a veteran for 250 years of freedom

The United States of America is celebrating its 250th birthday this Saturday, July 4, and many patriotic events are planned. The monumental occasion has me reflecting on what it’s like to live in the greatest country in the world.

Oldtimer in newspaper work offers a few generalizations

People are interesting, and every one of them has a story. That’s the first thing I learned as a young newspaper reporter several decades ago. I enjoyed my first interview — with a guy who won a national soap box derby contest — when I was just shy of 16 years old.

Remembering a big brother and his big influence

This is going to be a bit up-close-and personal. For the first time in my life, I am without my big brother. Robert Earl Yarbrough, Jr. passed away and it feels surreal. He has always been there. Had he not, I probably wouldn’t be here today. He was not my big brother by size.

The $132,000 question Georgia homebuyers are paying to answer

In the ongoing debate over why homeownership remains out of reach for so many Georgia families, we have the usual explanations: higher interest rates, institutional investors buying up homes, global supply chain disruptions and the rising cost of labor.

Larry proved giants don’t have to be 10 feet tall

(Note: The following is an excerpt from Larry Walker’s eulogy, given June 14, 2026, at the Perry Methodist Church.)“Friends are the siblings that God never gave us.” – Mencius, Chinese philosopher God didn’t give me a brother, but for Lawrence Cohen Walker Jr. I say, “Thank you, Lord.

Be BearWise when you head to great outdoors

The Peach State is home to three distinct populations of black bears, in the North Georgia mountains, in central Georgia along the Ocmulgee River, in and around the Okefenokee Swamp in Southeast Georgia, and occasionally, anywhere in between.

American flag of my Father

Flag of my FatherFlag Day, Father’s Day, anniversaries of D-Day and the Midway Naval battles. These June hallmarks of freedom bring back memories. Memories of my father. His commemorative flag sits in a triangular display case over my mantle.

Looking back at the Primary results and ahead to the November elections

The primaries are over and it’s time to analyze the results. Before I begin, it is important you know that Donald Trump has not commented on this column or its author. That is because he doesn’t know either exists. For that, let us give thanks.