Smith: Washington (not DC)

It would be difficult to find a more attractive small town than the seat of Wilkes County which was once the site of Georgia’s capital. Not many know that factoid. In those Revolutionary War days, its name was “Heard’s Fort.

Kemp’s increasing political influence

A few short years ago Brian Kemp was one of our most underrated and understated governors. Not anymore. Today, he is a power to be reckoned with, both in the state and nationally. Who saw it coming? I didn’t. Former Lt. Gov.

Rich: The photo and the Bible

It happened 15 years ago yet the memory sticks to me like cotton candy to a child’s hand. I still puzzle over it. Paducah, Kentucky, was a stop on a Mississippi riverboat cruise for which I had been hired as a storyteller. When the boat docked, I strolled down the picturesque streets.

Yarbrough: Are you ready for some football?

Are you ready for some football? I sure am and it is about time.

Smith: Coast-to-coast arrivals

With the semester system in place at most colleges across the country, most incoming freshmen have now settled in, beginning a journey that should be enhanced by their campus experience.

Rich: The good doctor

It was two years ago, around eleven in the morning on a Thursday. I was in our bedroom where, more often than not, I tucked in to write.

Yarbrough: Danger at work

Do you know what the most dangerous job is in the United States?

Smith: The small town of Blakely

If you don’t have culinary affection for fried quail and peanuts, you might not enjoy spending time in the town of Blakely, population 5,000.

Rich: My wife and funerals

By John Tinker (sitting in for Ronda Rich) For some unknown reason, the other day, I began adding up the number of funerals I’ve attended since moving to the South. I stopped at eight since I quickly realized what a morbid, mental exercise I was undertaking.

Letter to the Editor: Deserving accountability

Dear Editor, Earlier this month, I observed two quite different events, each prompting feelings of patriotism but in significantly contrasting ways. For me, the word ‘patriotism’ expresses love, devotion, and a sense of respect for one’s country.