This may sound strange, but I don't like politics! If we could get politics out of government, the country would be a much better place. Governing and politics are not the same thing and shouldn't be dependent on each other. Unfortunately, this isn't the case. I guess I've been lucky to have won two elections as councilman and two as mayor without "politicking." I had opposition in every one, and I've taken criticism for not handing out cards and putting up signs, but that's me. Let me say, I do like government service, and I've taken my positions very seriously. On the national level, the system we've created where the most important task put forth for an elected official is to be reelected is counter-productive for the country. The "Us" versus "Them," two party system, is one of the biggest problems we face, today. Each party is against anything proposed by the other party just for political jockeying. They're not so much interested in solving problems as they are for making the opposing party look bad. I imagine you're tired of it, too.

On August 9, Cory and I went to Macon to see Craig Tully unanimously elected president of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs. This is a huge honor, and reflects not only on the great work that Craig does, but puts Colquitt in the spotlight on the state level. Craig is a great ambassador for Colquitt and Miller County, and we should all let him know how much we appreciate it.

Last week, we had a tragedy that stunned this community. We're still in prayer for all of those involved in the multiple vehicle accident. I'm sure all of us were connected, in some way, to some of those in the accident. We were all holding our collected breaths as news was coming in. The Smiths are my cousins, and those girls have always been dear to my heart. These things always bring our area together, and I'm sure all of the prayers have and are being heard. I am so very proud and in awe of our emergency services. They are the very best!

You can e-mail me at: candyzar@ surfsouth.com, write me at P.O. Box 276, or fax me at 758-2595. We have council meetings on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. I encourage everyone to attend. If you'd like to address the council, call by the prior Thursday and ask to be put on the agenda. You can also reach me at home at 758-3259 or at City Hall at 758-1004.

Looking forward to hearing from you,
Jerry Chapman
Mayor, City of Colquitt