Governor Kemp visits BJ Reece Apple Orchard on campaign trail
Election, News May 15, 2022
GILMER COUNTY, Ga. – With election day for the primaries less than two weeks away, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp visited Ellijay to speak to supporters about the election and his campaign as the incumbent. Kemp visited BJ Reece Apple Orchard on May 12, 2022.
Kemps stated that his campaign is a fight for the soul of Georgia. His daily mission on the campaign is to “make sure Stacey Abrams is not our governor or our next president.”
Local members of Gilmer’s government were on hand to listen to the governor speak including Sheriff Nicholson, Probate Judge Scott Chastain, Post Commissioner Hubert Parker, BOC Candidate John Marshall, and many others. Many noted that they were anxious to listen to the Governor and hear what he had to say while not offering opinions for or against but John Reece of BJ Reece Orchards firmly stated his support for Kemp saying, “I’m thankful he ain’t closed churches, he’s not closed schools down, and he’s not closed our businesses down.” This, according to Reece, was the difference between paying your bills and not paying them.
Georgia State Senator Steve Gooch, right, introduces Governor Brian Kemp, left, as he speaks at BJ Reece Orchards on May 12, 2022, about his campaign for reelection.
Others also offered support for Kemp and his campaign like Kent Sanford who stated, “I like Governor Kemp because he’s got a proven record. His handling of the pandemic along with Speaker Ralston and other state leadership made a real difference for Georgia. You’ve got to recognize that and give the man credit for what he did.”
Kemp spoke about the state’s progress over recent years through major events like the pandemic and his support of businesses and people’s freedoms to make their own choices in the crisis. He pushed back against chastisements from political opponents like Abrams as Kemp said she criticized Georgia’s response as “too fast and too early.”
Kemp compared Georgia to other states saying where some told citizens it was okay to go gambling in a casino, but not to go to church on Sunday. Church is something Kemp said will never be shut down in Georgia as long as he is Governor.
He also noted how much he didn’t get to weigh in on due to the pandemic, such as elections. Kemp talked about Senate Bill 202 and its efforts to increase security between voter ids, rules against out of state money, ballot drop boxes, and increasing opportunities to vote in early voting.
Kemp spoke with citizens before his stump speech about issues and voting in both the primary and main elections this year.
In addition to the struggles and protections, Kemp spoke about what he called Georgia’s successes in economy and government. Kemp said that Georgia’s economy left extra money in the budget that he said he wants to send your money back to you instead of making up new projects.
He spoke on legislation passed for constitutional carry and Georgia’s record for the lowest unemployment in years. He also noted a temporary suspension of gas tax to help citizens “fight a 40-year high Biden inflation.”
He spoke about his future plans as well, including looking at military retirees tax cut and continue supporting teachers through projects like increasing teacher pay. He wants to continue progress on education protections like recent legislation against classroom indoctrination, a term many use for critical race theory. Kemp stated, “We want them taught the truth, not somebody’s ideology. That’s the way it should be in our state. That’s the way it’s going to be.”
Gilmer Sheriff Stacy Nicholson, right, speaks to Governor Brian Kemp, left, as he visits BJ Reece Apple Orchards on May 12, 2022.
The pandemic was on a lot of minds at the event both before and after as many supporters noted Georgia’s path through the crisis as part of their reasons for supporting Kemp. Penelope Marshall said, “What I appreciated most was the honesty and how much he really thinks about the people of Georgia.”
Stacey Fields said, “I fully support him. I voted for him before, I’ll vote for him again… I have two children, one is in law enforcement and one is a teacher. He’s supported both fields.”
Kemp noted that he is focused on continuing work for Georgia and returning to the office of Governor. He spoke about the democrats and the struggle against democrats like Abrams, but also noted that the here and now is a primary and the first step to re-election. Only one week of early voting remains before the primary election day takes place May 24, 2022.
Georgia sending more state-supported staff to help hospitals
News August 16, 2021
ATLANTA – Governor Brian Kemp announced the state will increase the total number of supported staff in hospitals to 2,800 from the original 1,300.
Across the state, hospitals told the governor’s office that they needed more staff to treat the influx of COVID-19 patients as well as other patients.
Through October 2021, Georgia had committed $500 million for 1,300 state-supported staff in hospitals across the staff. The increase to 2,800 doubles staffing assistance and another $125 million. The existing contract will be extended as well.
170 staff will go to rural hospitals. Another 450 beds at nine regional facilities have been identified to treat patients statewide.
Kemp encouraged the unvaccinated to talk with their medical care professional and those they trust about getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
“This safe, effective vaccine will reduce the likelihood of you get infected with COVID-19, but more importantly it drastically reduces the chances of you ending up in a hospital bed or losing your life,” Kemp stated.
90 percent of hospitalizations in Georgia for COVID-19 are unvaccinated. Georgia’s only 41 percent fully vaccinated with the majority of counties falling into the 30 percentile range for vaccinations.
Department of Public Health (DPH) Director Dr. Kathleen Toomey explained that 90 percent of the new cases are the Delta Variant. It transmits extremely quickly from person to person and more younger individuals are being diagnosed with COVID-19 than before.
Department of Public Health Director Dr. Kathleen Toomey
Toomey believes the going to vaccine clinics won’t convince someone to receive the shot, but encouragement from family, friends, and doctors.
DPH will continue to hold vaccination events throughout the state at places like farmer’s markets and festivals so unvaccinated don’t have to take time out of their day. The goal is to make it easy for people.
Increased COVID-19 testing from DPH is also on the way. The positivity rate in Georgia is around 17 percent and DPH will be partnering with hospitals to try and prevent overwhelming the system.
The new testing site and plan rollout should become known by the end of the week.
Kemp urged the FDA to fully approve the COVID-19 vaccine to help alleviate the fears of the unvaccinated about getting the shot. The emergency use authorization status of the COVID-19 vaccine has prevented many from being vaccinated.
State employees are encouraged to get vaccinated
Friday, September 3, state government offices will be closed, and all state employees are encouraged to get the vaccine before or on September 3. Kemp added those employees who received the vaccine beforehand to take the day off as a thank you.
“I don’t think mandates in general work. I think at this point if anybody out there trusts the government, it’s probably not many people,” Kemp explained. “There’s misinformation out there.”
He added the South is experiencing vaccine hesitancy, and Georgia’s seeing it across the state.
If state employees don’t get the vaccine, they won’t experience any consequences. Kemp hopes they will get vaccinated for themselves, their families, and to help hospitals.
School guidance
Kemp stated he’s supporting superintendents and districts to make good decisions at the local level.
“I don’t think any more guidance or any restrictions…I actually think that would be counter-productive,” Kemp said. “I’m very confident they know how to deal with any issues.”
Giuliani derides Kemp and Raffensperger, praises Vernon Jones
News, Politics July 14, 2021
ELLIJAY, Ga – Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani (R) expressed that the country is at a “major crossroads” and it’s up to like-minded individuals to “preserve” it.
Giuliani’s officially endorsed gubernatorial candidate Vernon Jones(R) in Georgia after experiencing a lack of leadership from incumbent Brian Kemp (R). The embattled former mayor and ex-Trump Attorney attempted to contact Kemp several times following the November 2020 election and claimed the Georgia governor never returned his calls.
He added that the Georgia legislature conducted the “Best job [of] investigating the [election] fraud” last December. A special session concerning election fraud wasn’t called in December, but the Georgia House of Representatives and Senate held separate hearings to hear from individuals who experienced inconsistencies during that election cycle.
A lawsuit is currently in the court system concerning possible election fraud in Fulton County.
Giuliani attended one of those hearings and presented the highly contested security footage from State Farm Arena that featured some Fulton County poll workers pulling ballots from underneath tables.
The Secretary of State’s office conducted multiple recounts following the election and maintain that the Georgia election was honest and fair. They found no evidence of significant fraud.
Two weeks ago, New York suspended Giuliani’s law license in large part to the ex-Trump attorney’s election claims.
Giuliani wasn’t satisfied with either Kemp of Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger (R) claiming they never analyzed the video and going so far as to call Raffensperger “a damn liar.”
He believes Vernon is the “right man for Georgia” with experience running a government office as an executive as well as a legislator. He added that Vernon “went through hell to be Republican” and the former Representative understands Trump’s vision.
Giuliani’s in the midst of his own trials and tribulations. A new book is claiming Giuliani told Trump to “just say we won” on election night. A move that reportedly infuriated Trump advisors. Giuliani’s stated that the claims were false and made by anti-Trumpers.
In April, Giuliani’s Manhattan home and office were raided by federal agents who seized computers and cell phones for an investigation into Trump’s business dealings. The former New York Mayor has stated they didn’t take the Hunter Biden laptop, however.
Vernon Jones feels welcomed by the Republican party
News, Politics, State & National June 7, 2021
ELLIJAY, Ga – Gubernatorial candidate Vernon Jones (R) attended and spoke at the Georgia Republican Convention over the weekend.
Jones, former Democrat turned Republican, continued to make his case against Governor Brian Kemp (R) and that Georgians need a real leader.
He added that people outside of the GOP establishment were quick to welcome him over from the Democrat Party. Jones believes he’s the person to grow the Republican party by bringing in people who hadn’t previously voted for the GOP, such as conservative minorities and young people.
“I’ve been conservative all my life, more conservative than a lot of Republicans I served within the state legislature,” Jones stated. “I’ve been a legislature longer than Brian. I’ve been a chief executive longer than Brian. My experience stacks right there with him.”
Jones said he’s happy for people to vet his qualifications for the role and cited his record on cutting taxes, managing police, water/sewer, and transportation departments, airports, more than 8,000 employees, and budgets. He’s also overseen an election office on the local level
“I’ve been an executive for eight years. Brian’s been an executive for four years,” Jones remarked. “I’ve been battle-tested.”
As for the money to run statewide, Jones didn’t appear concerned about Kemp’s campaign war chest. He’d rather run a grassroots campaign because he has the leadership experience to back it up on the state and federal levels.
“If you couldn’t trust the Governor in 2020, how can you trust him in 2022, more importantly in 2024,” Jones commented before pivoting to his record for stumping Trump in 2020 and his vocal support for an election integrity investigation.
He continued to hit hard at Kemp, flat out staying the incumbent is in trouble with the people in Georgia. Kemp was met with boos and cheers during his speech at the convention. However, Kemp’s also bounced back with some Republicans following SB 202.
Jones doesn’t believe anything Kemp has done since the 2020 election will ultimately save him in 2022.
“We can’t have somebody who wants to talk like DeSantis and then walk like Mitt Romney,” Jones mocked Kemp before adding he can bring the true conservative leadership.
Jones likes to claim he’s the only one who can beat Stacey Abrams (D), who is just to enter the race. Kemp recently challenged that stating he’s the only person who has actually beat the Democrat powerhouse.
Doug Collins officially bows out of 2022 election cycle
News, State & National April 26, 2021
GAINESVILLE, Ga – Former Ninth District Congressman Doug Collins (R) announced his intentions to not run in 2022 for either the governor or U.S. Senate.
Collins joined a law firm and started his own radio program following his loss in the 2020 primary for retiring Senator Johnny Isakson’s (R) seat. Raphael Warnock (D) went on to win the seat in the January run-off, but it will be up again in 2022 once the term officially expires.
In an online statement, Collins said, “this is goodbye for now, but probably not forever. I do plan on staying involved in shaping our conservative message to help Republicans win back the House and the Senate and help more strong conservative candidates get elected here in Georgia. I believe that we, as conservatives, must be able to clearly communicate our values and I will help keep that fight going.”
I’m announcing today that I will not be a candidate for any office in the next election cycle. Read more ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/IruVtnjZl7
— Doug Collins (@RepDougCollins) April 26, 2021
The former Representative served the Ninth District from 2013 to 2021 and became a strong supporter of President Donald Trump (R).
Now that Collin’s out of the race, it opens doors for Georgia Republicans who were possibly waiting in the wings for his decision.
Two Republicans have announced intentions to run against Senator Raphael Warnock: military veterans and businessmen Kelvin King and Latham Saddler. President Donald Trump has encouraged UGA hero Hershel Walker to enter the race.
Many speculate Congressman Buddy Carter (R), and Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr will enter the Senate race.
As for Governor, Brian Kemp’s up for reelection and many expect Stacey Abrams (D) to run again.
After Kemp denied Trump the opportunity to overturn Georgia’s election results, the former President actively pushed Collins to primary the governor. Trump’s vowed to campaign in Georgia and remove the elected officials who didn’t side with him.
So far, former Democrat Vernon Jones (R) has thrown his hat into the gubernatorial primary ring.
Kemp appeared to win some public support back by signing the election integrity act last month, but it’s unclear how many rural GOP voters will fall in line at the ballot box. According to Republican activist Debbie Dooley, 15 local GOPs “passed resolutions to essentially censure” the governor on April 10 and 17.
“Un-American”: Kemp, Ralston, Duncan condemn violence at the Capitol
Featured News, Featured Stories, News January 6, 2021
ATLANTA, Ga – Georgia Republican Leaders Governor Brian Kemp, Speaker of the House David Ralston, and Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan spoke out against the violence in the United States Capitol.
Kemp called the actions of the extremists “un-American” and a “disgrace.” He commented on the peaceful protests that took place in Georgia over the summer, but “we did not allow anarchy and we certainly will not allow that now.”
He condemned those breaking into government buildings and berating police officers. The governor also alluded that a special session in Georgia would have ended in similar violence and denounced Rudy Guiliani for his “trial by combat” comments.
Duncan asked Trump to clearly instruct his supporters to leave DC.
Kemp extended the National Guard executive order as well.
Duncan “strongly and vehemently condemned the rioting and violence at the U.S. Capitol and other places across this country.” He asked President Donald Trump to deliver clear instructions to those in Washington DC and tell them to peacefully leave the Capitol. As for Georgians, Duncan implored them to “put down their differences, their partisanship, and pick up their freedom.”
Speaker Ralston called it a “sad day.”
“The shocking images we have seen from our nation’s Capitol today are indefensible, un-American, and frankly heartbreaking. I stand here with our governor, out lt. governor, and the support of the members of the General Assembly to condemn in the strongest possible terms these acts of lawlessness,” Ralston stated.
He remarked that the loss of an election isn’t a reason to “jeopardize” the safety of other citizens and reminded everyone that “we are one nation under God.”
Kemp added that they are looking into increased safety protocols ahead of the legislative session which begins on Monday.
Ralston spoke for the entire General Assembly to disavow today’s actions.
“We will move forward together working on the things that really matter to the people of our state,” Kemp ended.
Earlier today, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and staff were evacuated from their offices because of threats.
One woman was shot to the chest at the Capitol and the streets in DC continue to be filled with people. At this time, capitol police and other officers are working to clear out the Capitol. Some senators and representatives are hopeful they will return to Congress tonight.
Governor Brian Kemp visits CORE Facility in Ellijay
News September 30, 2020
ELLIJAY, Ga. – Partnerships and people coming together, these are the ideas stressed by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp as he visited the CORE (Collaboration on River’s Edge) Facility this week along with Great Gilmer JDA Executive Director Kent Sanford.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, left, speaking with Greater Gilmer JDA Executive Director Kent Sanford, right, before entering the CORE Facility in Ellijay on September 29, 2020.
Speaking to local officials, citizens, and media about business and thriving past the COVID-19 virus, Kemp began his remarks by commenting on Georgia’s status as the top state in the nation for doing business for the seventh consecutive year. A point that Kemp said isn’t something the state has done, but he said, “We only win that title because of so many people that are working on that every day at the local level.”
He made note of the Chambers, the economic development, university system, the technical college system, k-12 education, and small business owners as just a few of those people coming together to make Georgia such a powerhouse.
Kemp said he has been in the small business/entrepreneur position and he understands that people are looking for answers with concerns about their jobs and their businesses. He lauded these businesses and the connection that the CORE Facility holds in their future. Speaking on success and the outbreak, Kemp said the most successful projects that his office has been a part of have had good local support and community partners. “It makes us much more competitive.”
Rural Georgia was another focus during his remarks, bringing opportunity and innovation can bring better opportunities with people working hard towards providing the tools needed. Kemp pointed out projects like rural broadband as part of the push to provide the opportunities necessary to fuel that innovation.
Kemp called the CORE Facility an asset to the county as it has provided a great service in its collaborations with a small footprint. He said it is “pretty remarkable and very efficient.”
With four new projects yet unannounced, Kemp’s push for an economic pipeline in Georgia is seeing progress. He noted Papa John’s moving their headquarters to the state alongside a 30 percent increase in projects outside the metro area.
This is the evidence, Kemp says, that the efforts of the Georgia Legislature is paying off. He also included all Georgians in the level of growth as the state has set records in July and August amid the pandemic.
Kemp said, “I think it says a lot about who we are as a state and who we are as a people. We are resilient. We knew that we couldn’t continue to shelter in place forever. We had to figure out how to fight the virus and work on saving lives. But we also had to fight the virus and work on saving livelihoods.”
State Senator Steve Gooch, right, also attended the event alongside local officials like Gilmer Sheriff Stacy Nicholson, left, and Chamber President/CEO Paige Hutto, middle, as Governor Brian Kemp visited Ellijay, Georgia, to tour the CORE Facility.
Just as devastating as the virus, Kemp said losing those is why he is looking at suicide rates, child abuse, mental illness, and so much other outlying effects.
Kemp said the state still has a long way to go in the future, but we cannot “take our foot off the gas.” He said the state is going to keep moving forward through the virus and through growing business.
Part of that business is tourism. He pointed that the best way to support that is to keep the virus numbers going down, but he was also glad to hear successes in rural areas of Georgia like the CORE Facility.
Kemp is pushing for continued reopening as he later said that we all need to continue following guidance in order to “methodically reopen the economy.” With lower numbers, he said we need to keep going on with what we are doing. It will take time for some businesses to recover.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, left, speaking with Greater Gilmer JDA Executive Director Kent Sanford, right, before entering the CORE Facility in Ellijay on September 29, 2020.
Keeping those numbers down will include rapid-tests as Kemp said they are looking for places to deliver hundreds of thousands of those tests a week. He noted long-term care facilities, hospitals, and schools. He noted the citizens support and efforts to avoid a spike on Labor Day. Though not “declaring victory” yet, he is optimistic as Georgia moves forward through the virus.
Pleased with what he has been seeing in Gilmer County despite closing larger events like the Apple Festival, Kemp said certain industries are doing better than others, but he said its public confidence that can change and needs to be able to change to support industries like tourism.
BOC applying for CARES Act Grant funding
News August 4, 2020
ELLIJAY, Ga. – A Special Called meeting saw approval for an application for a grant funding by Gilmer’s Board of Commissioners that could mean extra help for local departments’ needs for supplies and equipment outside of their normal budget.
Some information on the CARES Act funding was delivered to the Commissioners during their meeting by Fire Rescue who have already submitted requests to utilize the additional funds if approved.
Commission Chairman Charlie Paris said in the meeting that the approval was to sign a contract for a registration number to allow the county to apply for the grant.
According to a release from the Georgia Municipal Association, the funds are to be used for “necessary expenditures” related to COVID-19.
Additionally, the Governor’s Office stats that once the application and certification process is concluded, a 30 percent advance could be available immediately. Also, a funding breakdown document from the Governor’s Office indicates that 30 percent advance could total $456,775 with a total possible $1,522,585. But, again, funding terms dictate that this must be used for COVID-19 costs or response, which means Gilmer could not use this in normal budget needs.
However, Paris did note that he assumed other departments besides public safety could have certain eligibility after Public Works Director Jim Smith commented on the subject. He noted that much of the road department was working understaffed for close to six weeks. Paris said the county will be applying for reimbursement on other departments and certain payroll issues due to the COVID-19 virus.
The county is looking for a quick turnaround, and brought to special meeting, as it was noted that there is a deadline at the end of August which is also noted in the Governors letter. The county will be moving quickly to make this deadline in order to receive the extra funding.
The Governor’s Letter included in information given to the BOC by Public Safety during their meeting:
Governor’s Letter Page 1
Governor’s Letter Page 2
Kemp issues statewide emergency for severe weather damage
Announcements, Press Release April 13, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Today Governor Kemp declared a statewide state of emergency following severe storm damage across Georgia over the last twenty-four hours.
“We are praying for those who lost loved ones overnight and the families dealing with severe storm damage. In coordination with private-sector partners, multiple state agencies – including the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, Department of Public Safety, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Transportation, and Georgia Forestry Commission – are working hard to restore power, clear debris, and provide necessary assistance to families across the state,” said Governor Kemp. “This morning, I also spoke with FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor, and I greatly appreciate his offer of federal assistance as we work to rebuild and recover from these storms.”
As of early this morning, 177,000 Georgians were without power. Overnight, there were forty tornado warnings issued across the state.
North Georgia Chairmen urge Kemp to close State Parks
Community, News April 6, 2020
Blue Ridge, Ga. – Twelve Commission Chairmen from North Georgia counties have joined together and signed a letter asking Governor Brian Kemp to shut down the State Parks.
“It appears that these nonresidents believe our area is a safe haven because of its rural nature. To the contrary, the influx of people into our communities has had a staggering detrimental effect on our resources,” the letter to Kemp read in part.
Habersham County Commissioner District 5 Tim Stamey
The letter goes on to outline the resources in our area that have been affected by the out-of-towners looking to seclude themselves, including in these resources are food, dry goods and fuel.
It goes on to inform Kemp that our area is not equipped medically: “Our communities simply do not have enough hospital beds or medical personnel to care for the inflated population.”
Though only serving as a commissioner for a little over three months, Habersham County Commissioner District 5 Tim Stamey felt he needed to be proactive in bringing a solution to this problem: “I am a retired special operator and we don’t sit around talking about things, we get it done.”
Stamey who sits on the County Health Board said, “I’m on the County Health Board and talk to Healthcare workers in my county on a daily basis. They are the heros/heroines in all this. This virus does not spread itself on the wind.”
Moccasin Creek State Park, situated just North of Unicoi State park has been “crazy, 4th of July crazy” for the past three weekends according to Stamey, who has witnessed the impact on his county first hand.
Stamey initially contacted Rabun County Chairman Greg James and White County Chairman Travis Turner.
“I started this by just trying to get border counties on board,” Stamey said and added, “Then Chairmen were like well, did you call such and such, I know they feel the same way. It just kept getting bigger and bigger.”
Stamey said that all Commission Chairmen were helpful, on board, and taking the matter seriously: “I talked to most of them several times and for up to an hour each time.”
Stamey, along with the 12 county chairmen and many residents, is hoping that this letter will get the attention of Kemp. The letter in closing states: “On behalf of the many citizens that live in North Georgia who entrust us as County Commissioners to represent their interests, we respectfully ask you to close all of the state parks located in our area immediately.”
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Gov. Kemp and UGA Provide Overview of CARES Act Funding
Business, News April 2, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Today Governor Brian P. Kemp and the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provided an overview of the funding allocated by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This critical funding will help small businesses keep workers employed during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Through the University of Georgia’s 17 Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), in conjunction with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) and Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the state has launched an information website to provide guidance on accessing a variety of U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) programs.
Beginning April 6, these state partners will host a series of web-based information sessions tailored to each region of the state. In addition, SBDC will be available to assist businesses, where necessary.
The CARES Act provides funds for SBA to aid small businesses through its network of private small business lenders. Georgia has more than 70 qualified SBA lenders, and detailed information about the following vital lending programs can also be found HERE.
“Small businesses are the engine of Georgia’s economy and provide economic opportunity for millions of Georgia families,” said Governor Kemp. “As we continue to fight the spread of COVID-19, this critical resource will provide a lifeline to small businesses across our state. I am encouraging all Georgians to support their local businesses in this difficult time. We will get through this together.”
“The Georgia Department of Economic Development is continuing to work with our partners statewide to confront COVID-19 and move forward together,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “We thank Governor Kemp, DCA, and SBDC for working together with us to better and more efficiently serve our state’s small businesses at this time of great need.”
“DCA is proud to work with our state partners to support the small businesses that are such a vital part of the communities we serve,” said DCA Commissioner Christopher Nunn.
“The University of Georgia has a strong track record of helping to develop new small businesses across the state. Assisting these firms to navigate COVID-19 aligns perfectly with our land-grant mission,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead.
Kemp and UGA’s SBDC released a list of SBA lenders.
Small Business Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
A new $349 billion lending program under the existing SBA 7(a) program. The SBA guarantee of PPP loans will be 100 percent through the end of 2020. PPP loan payments will be deferred for a minimum of six and up to twelve months. Loans will be administered through local and regional banks; any federally regulated bank may become an SBA lender for this purpose. The Department of the Treasury will issue regulations for these loans quickly.
| ▪ | Eligibility: Small businesses as defined by SBA size standards, generally up to 500 employees, but up to 1,500 depending on the sector; sole proprietors, the self-employed, and independent contractors. |
| ▪ | The interest rate will not exceed 4 percent; currently fixed at 0.5 percent. |
| ▪ | Regulatory streamlining: SBA’s standard “no credit elsewhere” test is waived, no personal guarantee or collateral required, and no additional fees will be applied to these loans. |
| ▪ | Size of loans: Up to $10 million. Loan amount is based on recent payroll costs, compensation paid to individuals, including those who are self-employed. Compensation in excess of $100,000 per year to any individual is excluded. |
| ▪ | Requirements: The business must certify the loan will be used to retain workers, maintain payroll, make mortgage or lease payments, and pay utilities. |
| ▪ | Loans may be forgiven, up to an amount equaling eligible payroll, mortgage interest, rent and utility cost, incurred during the eight-week period starting from the loan origination. Compensation in excess of $100,000 a year to any individual will not qualify for forgiveness. Additionally, loan forgiveness is reduced by layoffs or pay reductions in excess of 25 percent, and loan forgiveness is not treated as taxable income. |
Emergency Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance
| ▪ | Eligibility: Advances are available to small businesses, sole proprietors, independent contractors, tribal businesses, as well as cooperatives and employee-owned businesses in operation on January 31, 2020. |
| ▪ | For those that apply for the EIDL, an advance of up to $10,000 will be provided to small businesses within several days of applying for the loan. |
| ▪ | The advance does not need to be repaid, even if the grantee is subsequently denied an EDL. |
| ▪ | Funds can be used to provide paid sick leave to employees, maintain payroll, meet increased production costs due to supply chain disruptions, or pay business obligations, including debts, rent, and mortgage payments. |
Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
| ▪ | Eligibility: Businesses with 500 employees or fewer. This includes sole proprietorships, independent contractors, cooperatives, ESPOs, and tribal small businesses with <= 500 employees. |
| ▪ | Up to $2 million can be provided to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met if the disaster did not occur. |
| ▪ | Loans can be made based solely on credit scores. |
| ▪ | The interest rate on EIDLs will be 3.75 percent interest rate for small businesses. |
| ▪ | The first twelve payments will be deferred and not become due until one year after the original disbursement. Interest does not accrue during this time. |
| ▪ | The term of these loans will be up to thirty years. |
7(a) Loan Payment Relief
SBA will pay the principal, interest, and any associated fees owed on 7(a) loans as follows:
| ▪ | Existing borrower not on deferment: six months beginning with the next payment due on the loan; |
| ▪ | Existing borrower on deferment: six months of payments beginning with the next payment due on the loan after the deferment period; and |
| ▪ | New borrower: six months of payments beginning with the first payment due on the loan, but only for new loans made within the first six months starting from the date of enactment. |
Should you need assistance, the UGA Small Business Development Center offices across the state are open and available. Contact information for every office is available HERE.
Earlier today Kemp released details on Medicaid and Peachcare waiver.
REACH signing in Gilmer
Bobcat's Corner, News November 13, 2019
EAST ELLIJAY, Ga. – Five new inductees have joined the Gilmer County REACH (Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen) program this week with the official REACH Signing Ceremony on Tuesday, November 12, 2019.
The ceremony was hosted at Clear Creek Middle School’s media center with special guests Georgia Speaker of the House David Ralston and Brad Bryant from the Georgia Student Finance Commission.
Left to Right, Sarah Enfinger, Eduardo Gonzalez-Santos, Emma Heaslip, Sandra Pantoja, and David Rafael-Garcia are honored as the newest Gilmer REACH Scholars at a ceremony on November 12, 2019.
The inductees, Sarah Enfinger, Eduardo Gonzalez-Santos, Emma Heaslip, Sandra Pantoja, and David Rafael-Garcia, signed their agreements during the ceremony as did their parents to adhere to the requirements of the agreement and move toward their choices for post-secondary education.
Speaker Ralston said during the ceremony that this year’s students are joining a group of more than 2,400 students in Georgia who have been a part of the program over recent years.
Ralston said, “The REACH program exemplifies what can happen when communities come together and the public and private sectors work hand in hand to support our young people. REACH is also an example of the state’s continuing commitment to supporting our students and public education. Whether it has been fully funding public schools through QBE, paying for school security improvements, or raising teacher salaries, our general assembly continues to invest in education all across the state.”
Georgia Speaker of the House, David Ralston speaks to students and families at Gilmer’s REACH signing on November 12, 2019.
The REACH signing is a part of Georgia’s program as a needs-based scholarship that begins in 8th grade. REACH Scholars are paired with a mentor and an academic coach throughout high school. Scholars must maintain good grades (2.5 GPA in core courses), behavior, and attendance throughout middle and high school. Scholars who successfully complete the program and graduate from high school are awarded a $10,000 scholarship that can be used at HOPE-eligible institution in Georgia.
Bryant also took a moment to offer special thanks to the school board members and the mentors to these students for the time and effort they put forth to help the students saying the children are the future, but “it’s the adults that serve the children that are the future.”
Another surprise for the day’s events, the students saw a video message from Georgia Governor Brian Kemp congratulating them on the ceremony and their steps toward the future. Kemp said, “Today’s ceremony is the beginning of a journey. Your REACH scholarship puts you in the fast lane on a road to the future of success. I look forward to watching you accelerate into that future.”
See more photos from this event at FYN’s REACH 2019 Photo Album on Facebook.
Early voting showcases election importance
Election, News November 2, 2018
ELLIJAY, Ga. – The Gilmer County Elections office reported a record-setting first day of early voting.
Maintaining high numbers compared to some elections, this mid-term season is shaping up to be just as important and well attended as the 2016 elections as we are already showcasing quite similarly to that year.
Out of 20,491 registered voters in the county, including those deemed inactive at this time, Gilmer has seen 6,804 people voting early either by the 6,308 who voted in person at the Registrar’s Office, 487 voters who mailed in ballots early, or the 9 electronic ballots that were mailed in.
Compare that to the 2016 election who saw 6,833 early voters in person, 660 mail-in ballots, and 30 electronic ballots. With such similar numbers, the small gap could simply be a swing towards voting on election day. However, the numbers for this year could still rise as Head of Voter Registrar’s for Gilmer, Nelda Spires says these could still come in early next week.
Comparing this year’s 6,804 total early voters to 2016’s 7,523 highlights the rising attention people have been paying to recent events and politics. As Gilmer moves into next Tuesday, election night, citizens are closely watching final tallies for both parties. Stay with FYN as we report election night totals in real time for Gilmer County
Brian Kemp silent on allowing voters to decide on official English
Opinion October 16, 2018
Pro-English voters should ask questions
By: D.A. King
A December 2015 Rosetta Stone poll showed that a bipartisan 76% of Georgians support making English Georgia’s constitutional official language. The idea is English as official, not “English only” as goes the portrayal by dishonest opponents.
Policy differences for candidates in the race for Georgia governor may not extend to allowing Georgia voters to decide if the state constitution should be amended to make English the official language of government.
According to an AJC report last week, Democrat candidate Stacey Abrams promised to oppose constitutional official English in the General Assembly as governor and boasted of fighting against allowing voters to answer a ballot question when she was in the legislature.
We thought it surprising that the AJC did not include a quote or position from Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Kemp on the voter-popular issue, so Wednesday, October 3, this writer sent a policy question and request for a quote to the Kemp campaign.
Brian Kemp – photo, Facebook
“Do you support allowing Georgia voters to decide on a ballot question that would amend the state constitution to make English the official language of Georgia government and which would end current practice of offering the written road rules portion of the DDS drivers license exam in (eleven) foreign languages?
If so, will you use the power of the governor’s office to promote that cause for the 2020 election?”
We have not received a response from candidate Kemp. Curious voters should ask him.
All concerned should be aware that Georgia has a 1996 statute in place that makes English the official language, but also says officials can ignore that directive:
“State agencies, counties, municipal corporations, and political subdivisions of this state are authorized to use or to print official documents and forms in languages other than the official language, at the discretion of their governing authorities.”
The concept of allowing voters to have a voice on the matter is quite popular in the Georgia senate. Introduced by state Senator Josh McKoon, in 2016 SR 675 passed the Georgia senate with every Republican member voting “YEA,” But it was not allowed a vote on the House floor.
McKoon’s Resolution created a ballot question voters would have considered that year which read:
“Shall the Constitution of Georgia be amended so as to provide that English is the official language of the State of Georgia?”
All persons desiring to vote in favor of ratifying the proposed amendment shall vote “Yes.”
All persons desiring to vote against ratifying the proposed amendment shall vote “No.”
If such amendment shall be ratified as provided in said Paragraph of the Constitution, it shall become a part of the Constitution of this state.”
Most conservatives would like to have the chance to answer that question in November, 2020.
Readers who are not closely involved in Gold Dome politics are likely asking why they have not already been permitted to vote on making official English part of the state constitution. It helps to know that the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce are vehemently opposed to that idea.
It may also help to know that in metro-Atlanta’s DeKalb School District alone, administrators are dealing with students from 180 different countries who speak 140 different languages.
Without a constitutional mandate that English is the official language of government, readers can make their own predictions on how long it is before the angry marches in the streets begin with the demand that government in Georgia accommodate every imaginable language with the cry that “diversity is our strength.”
It seems like something a Republican candidate for Georgia governor would comment on. Comprende?
D.A. King of Marietta is president of the Georgia-based Dustin Inman Society.
Tomorrow’s Georgia Republican gubernatorial primary run-off
Opinion July 23, 2018
Reposted with permission from the Dustin Inman Society blog
Lt. Governor Casey Cagle (left) and Secretary of State Brian Kemp (Right)
D.A. KING
While the liberal media ignores the fact, both candidates in the bruising two-month Georgia Republican gubernatorial primary race have avoided immigration issues where the eventual governor can make the biggest difference.
With run-off day looming tomorrow, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp have mostly kept their immigration focus away from topics that may offend the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and narrowed to “sanctuary cities” and on illegal aliens who have already committed additional crimes in the United States – or “criminal illegal aliens.”
The main driver of illegal immigration is illegal employment, which was not mentioned in either campaign.
In addition to black market labor, they are also both dodging obvious and voter-popular immigration issues where a governor can play a central role, including drivers licenses to illegal aliens and official English for government.
No mention of protecting jobs for American workers
When asked in a statewide December 2015 poll, “Who should get the future jobs in Georgia? – Americans, including legal immigrants already here, illegal immigrants already here, newly arrived legal immigrants and guest workers or it doesn’t matter, workers who will work for the lowest wage.” A whopping 90% of Republicans said Americans, including legal immigrants already here should get priority.
Silence on allowing voters to decide on constitutional official English
Nearly 86% of Republicans – and 76% of all voters polled – answered “yes” when asked “would you support an amendment to the Georgia constitution that makes English the official language of government?” in the same poll conducted by Atlanta-based Rosetta Stone Communications
Despite the objections of the business lobby and with a unanimous party-line vote, in 2016, the Republican-controlled Georgia state senate passed a Resolution that would have allowed all Georgia voters to answer a ballot question that year on English as the state’s constitutional official government language.
But the legislation quietly died with Democrat “no” votes when Republican House leadership instructed Republicans to stay away from a sub-committee hearing which killed the bill.
Official English is not a voluntary campaign topic for either of the Republican candidates for Georgia governor. This despite one metro-Atlanta school district boast that 140 foreign languages are spoken by its students.
While it is not widely understood by voters, currently, the state of ten million offers the written road rules portion of the drivers license exam in eleven foreign languages.
Drivers licenses for illegal aliens – not a campaign issue
The same statewide poll that asked about official constitutional official English showed that 80% of Republicans and 63% of all Georgians also want to end the practice of giving any drivers license to any illegal aliens.
Many voters are unaware of the fact that Republican Georgia has issued more than 20,000 drivers licenses and official state photo ID Cards to individuals who the United States Immigration and Citizenship Services classifies as lacking lawful immigration status – but who have been given work permits by both the Obama and Trump administrations.
This group of aliens includes recipients of the Obama DACA deferred action on deportation amnesty, aliens who have been granted deferred action outside of the DACA amnesty and aliens who have already been ordered to be deported by federal officials.
Work permits, officially known as Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) are issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services which is an agency in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
The 2005 REAL ID Act implemented after the horror of 9/11 says that illegal aliens who have been granted deferred action on deportation or who have been ordered deported but then apply for permanent residence use that temporary condition as “evidence of lawful status” for the purpose of obtaining a federally approved drivers license or state ID card.
⦁ In a direct contradiction, USCIS says “Current law does not grant any legal status for the class of individuals who are current recipients of DACA. Recipients of DACA are currently unlawfully present in the U.S. with their removal deferred.”
⦁ Through an official spokesperson, USCIS has provided a breakdown of the classification codes contained on the work permits that illustrate the immigration status of the bearer.
⦁ USCIS also operates the SAVE verification system for official agencies to determine immigration status of applicants for public benefits. Drivers licenses and ID cards are public benefits in Georgia.
⦁ Appointed by current governor, Nathan Deal, Georgia’s Attorney General, Chris Carr, has told an Atlanta NPR affiliate that “We have continuously and clearly taken the position in ongoing legal cases that DACA does not confer legal status.” (July 17, 2017 WABE News).
Georgia is among the states that issues the identical drivers license to legal immigrants with ‘green cards’ and foreigners who entered the US lawfully on temporary visas – including Mercedes Benz executives – as are issued to the aliens the state Attorney General and USCIS says lack legal status. The defacto national ID, these credentials are used as valid ID to enter military bases, federal buildings and board airliners in America’s airports.
Drivers license issued to all non-citizens in Georgia, legal status or illegal status. Photo: DDS
Sponsored by conservative state Senator Josh McKoon, in 2016, legislation passed the Georgia Senate by a two-thirds majority – with every Republican vote except one – that would have clearly marked driving and ID credentials to note the illegal immigration status of the bearer. That measure was allowed to expire without a hearing in the GOP House, controlled by business-oriented Speaker David Ralston. McKoon also sponsored the official English Resolution.
Most Georgians do not realize that under state law the same aliens USCIS says have no lawful status but have been issued a work permit are eligible for state unemployment benefits.
The jobs-for Americans, drivers license/illegal alien/unemployment benefits issue is not a topic in either Republican candidate’s campaign for the Republican nomination for Georgia governor.
Georgians deserve to now where the candidates stand.
The powerful Georgia business lobby has long worked against protecting jobs and wages for legal workers, use of E-Verify, immigration enforcement and official English. Georgia ranks ahead of Arizona in its population of illegal aliens, according to estimates from DHS and the Pew Research Center. One estimate is that the crime of illegal immigration costs Georgia taxpayers $2.4 billion annually.
The current governor, two-term, business-first Republican Nathan Deal, has avoided the illegal immigration issue since his first year in office. But, Deal boasts that Georgia is named number one state in which to do business by Site Selection magazine.
The influx of migrants and the anti-enforcement power of the business lobby will eventually result in a Democrat in the Georgia governor’s office. This year’s far-left, anti-enforcement candidate for the office, Stacey Abrams, has a real chance of winning and has recently received a one million-dollar donation from Georgia Soros.
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Kemp trumps Cagle : I see your Governor and I raise you a President
Election 2018, Politics July 18, 2018
Blue Ridge, Ga. – What has come down to a battle of endorsements over the last two weeks has played out with some big name backers. Secretary of State Brian Kemp landed perhaps the largest endorsement of all as President Donald Trump tweeted out his support of the Georgia gubernatorial hopeful.
Kemp’s campaign announced recently the backing of several Republican opponents from the May Primary. Among those to officially announce their support were Michael Williams, Clay Tippins, and Hunter Hill.
Opponent in the gubernatorial runoff, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, was unable to receive any backing from Republican challengers that were faced earlier this year.
Cagle did however land some big name endorsements recently as he continues his campaign. While holding the title of the only Georgia candidate in the governor’s race to be backed by the National Rifle Association (NRA), Cagle drove this message home as the President Elect of the NRA, retired Lt. Colonel Oliver North, hit the trail with Cagle to show his personal support of the candidate.
Cagle’s big name endorsements didn’t stop there. Earlier this week current Georgia Governor Nathan Deal also personally endorsed Cagle to be his replacement.
Although it seemed that the cards had become stacked in Cagle’s favor, Kemp showed his final hand and delivered a fourth ace by officially getting an endorsement from the President of the United States Donald Trump.
With less than a week left in the runoff, it seems that Cagle will be unable to top Kemp’s latest move.
Follow FetchYourNews for the latest election information and Cagle’s thoughts on Kemp’s latest round of endorsements.
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