Thumbs Up! July 27, 2015

The knowledge that Spectra Energy is determined to run the natural gas line, known as Sabal Trail, right through Dougherty County has a lot of area people upset. Numerous residents, especially those living near where the compressor station is planned, are not at all happy with the idea. There have been meetings, local government resistance to the trail, letters written and, most recently a protest. Earlier this month, a group of concerned citizens gathered, many bearing signs, to protest the location of the compressor station. It was attended by about four dozen people. The “silent” protest was well-organized and very civil. Unlike in some parts of the country where protests often lead to a crowd mentality and behavior of ugliness and destruction, Dougherty County protesters acted with the utmost civility. Landowners, for the most part, along the trail want their opinions heard and for what they say to make a difference. Those citizens that are trying desperately to protect their homes, the environment and the future generations, we say keep making yourselves heard.

Speaking of Sabal Trail … a company representative offered Dougherty County Commissioner John Hayes $1,500 to help with the Georgia Civic Awareness Program for Students (GCAPS) and the “Commitment to Learning” event planned for Aug. 8. When former Dougherty County Commissioner Gloria Gaines, a vocal opponent to the gas line, learned of the offer, she was asked with Hayes to turn them down. To make up for the lost funds, Gaines said she would personally donate that same amount. Thank you, Gloria Gaines, for adding action to words.

“Memories and a Mustang” is a fund-raising event for the Alzheimer’s Association here in Albany. The event was held on July 9 at Merry Acres Event Center. Admission was $100, but that included a chance to win a refurbished 2010 Ford Mustang. There were heavy hors d’oeuvres , drinks and lots of dancing. When the time came to draw for the car, it went to Dr. Stephen Allen. When all the bills were paid, more than $30,000 had been raised. A successful venture indeed.

When the Broad Avenue bridge does finally open, and that is going to happen soon, much of the congestion on Oglethorpe will get a respite. Continuing on after crossing the new bridge, a delightful improvement will catch the attention of drivers as they approach the old railroad underpass a bit further down the road. The area has been cleaned up, painted and landscaped. Gone is the rust, the trash, the weeds and the Third-World appearance. If that is not a route you would normally travel, when the bridge opens, ride across it and on down to the overpass. The sightseeing will be worth the time.

The opening day for school is just around the corner. If you want help the year get off to a good start for all students, find some way to help. Spend a dollar on crayons or pencils. Donate a book bag. Uniforms are now available at a variety of dollar stores. Better yet, offer to donate your time. Make plans to read to students. Everyone will benefit.