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by Mary Catherine Gaston Georgia’s Rural Center exists to celebrate all that is unique and wonderful about life in the state’s small towns and crossroads communities and to build a brighter future based on that uniqueness. In this “Hometown Heroes” series, we will highlight a few of the unique and wonderful people we admire for their investments in and commitment to the state’s less-populated places. Before we begin, allow us to explain exactly what we mean by “hero.” In a literary sense, a hero is someone otherwise ordinary who pursues a purpose, remaining committed in spite of setbacks, obstacles and trials. In doing so, he or she inspires and sets a standard for others. This is the sense in which we use the word hero and the understanding with which we’ve approached this series. In other words, our heroes haven’t necessarily saved a life or even saved the day. Instead, through ongoing acts of personal responsibility, these rural Georgians are among those who are building on the best of rural life and opening others’ eyes to the potential present in the places we call home. Through this series, we aim to shine a light on rural Georgians whose work Helps their rural community, making a difference that reaches beyond their own lives, Encourages others to remain in, return to and invest in their own rural communities, Reflects positively on their rural communities and on life throughout rural Georgia, and is Ongoing, revealing a true commitment to and hope for the future of their communities. Finally, each of the heroes we highlight has made and continues to make a choice to call rural Georgia home. This criterion is as noteworthy as it is obvious, since it is, after all, the most fundamental, most significant and—in today’s world—arguably the most admirable of the criteria our heroes hold in common. This qualification makes all the difference. Without further ado, allow us to introduce our first Hometown Hero, Thomasville’s Annie B. Jones. Growing up surrounded by extended family in a quiet Tallahassee neighborhood, Annie B. Jones looked forward to the day when she could leave her hometown behind and soak in all the excitement of big-city life she’d read about in books and seen in movies. Jones was 12 when she first saw “You’ve Got Mail” and admired the lead character’s idyllic life as the owner of a small, independent bookstore in a close-knit Manhattan community. She filed the memory away and went on with life, eventually earning a degree in journalism before marrying and returning to Tallahassee while her husband attended law school. During weekend trips to nearby Thomasville, the couple came to love a little, local bookstore that brought to mind the one Jones remembered from the movie many years before. When a branch of The Bookshelf opened in their Tallahassee neighborhood, Jones jumped at the opportunity to try the trade on for size, leaving a promising path in her chosen profession for a part-time post at the satellite store. And when The Bookshelf’s owners decided leave bookselling behind, they made Jones an offer she could not refuse: Take over management of the flagship shop in downtown Thomasville, and they would credit Jones’ time toward the purchase price of the business. Jones invested several years this way, working-to-own the beloved business. Just 27 when the venture began, Jones made the last monetary payment on The Bookshelf earlier this year, just after she celebrated her 37th birthday. Today, 10 years into owning her own independent bookstore, Jones laughingly quips that she is “channeling Kathleen Kelly,” the fictional bookshop owner she esteemed as a preteen movie-goer. Though her childhood dream of metropolitan life has not come true, what she has found—and helped build—in a small Georgia town is every bit as admirable. So, what makes Annie B. Jones a hometown hero? According to Thomasville City Councilman Scott Chastain, it’s what she’s helped make happen in his hometown. “When Annie took over The Bookshelf, it was one of only a handful of businesses like that downtown,” he recalls. “This was before the coffee shop, before most of the restaurants—before downtown Thomasville was what people think of it as today.”* Jones’ role in it all is a story Chastain knows well. In addition to being a city council member and a Thomasville native, Chastain and his wife Katie are the previous owners of The Bookshelf, the very ones who hired Jones to work in Tallahassee and made the “sweat equity” offer that allowed her to buy the business. A young couple when they chose to return to Thomasville to raise their family 15 years ago, the Chastains saved The Bookshelf from closing when they purchased it soon after settling in. “Katie and I didn’t have the passion for books that Annie has,” Chastain says. “We just didn’t want to see this local business die.” Heroes in their own right, what the Chastains preserved, Jones has built into one of downtown Thomasville’s most beloved attractions. As the former owner points out, Jones has broadened The Bookshelf ‘s customer base from a local to a national reach, and in doing so, she has helped establish downtown Thomasville as a destination. With an estimated 60,000 in-person shoppers each year and thousands more served through online sales, business at The Bookshelf is booming. While book sales skyrocketed during the COVID pandemic, allowing Jones to more than double her workforce, the ventures that keep Jones busiest are not found on shelves. The podcast she started in 2014, From the Front Porch, is downloaded by more than 10,000 listeners every week. Many of those weekly podcast listeners find their way to the brick-and-mortar Bookshelf or to one of the wildly popular events Jones and her team host in Thomasville several times each year, each of them eating, staying, shopping and playing among a long list of other local establishments. It is true that Jones has built The Bookshelf into big business for the local economy, but there is an aspect of her work that she holds more dear: building community. As The Bookshelf’s mission statement—and the “mission tee” available in the online shop—proclaim, Jones and her team “believe in the power of books to shape communities and foster conversations,” inevitably bringing about a future that is brighter both in Thomas County and beyond. For Jones, the commitment to community reaches outside The Bookshelf’s artfully arranged front windows and carefully curated walls. It’s a personal commitment she lives out through leadership in programs like One Book Thomas County and the Destination Thomasville Tourism Authority. When she’s not working, Jones is an active member of Trinity Anglican Church and a Thomasville Entertainment Foundation season ticket holder. She also takes great joy in sharing good reads secondhand through the “Little Free Bookshelf” that occupies a corner of her front yard. All of this is because Jones believes in the power every person possesses—even in sparsely populated places—to effect a more preferable future. “In a divided country, the rural South is uniquely positioned to see everyone’s humanity, value and goodness,” Jones explains. “We Southerners are not a homogenous people. If we could turn down the voices of fear and anger, of those trying to force us into different corners, and see each other as neighbors, as members of the same community, we could actually show the nation the way forward.” For her part, Jones is doing just that, day in and day out, in her little slice of rural Georgia. Though she’s chosen to call a small town home—not at all how she once imagined her grown-up life going—her influence reaches far beyond rural Georgia and reflects beautifully on us all, drawing outsiders in and inspiring long-time locals to see their surroundings with new eyes. It is this sort of commitment, vision and hope we, at Georgia’s Rural Center, exist to celebrate and cultivate. Because Thomasville’s Annie B. Jones is setting such a superb standard, we consider her a true hometown hero. *In case you’re unaware, people far and wide think quite a lot of Thomasville today. Just ask our friends at Southern Living, who recently ranked it one of the Best Small Towns in the South. Or peruse the pages of Garden & Gun, which have featured Thomasville’s people and places three times in the past year alone.

From its bustling downtown to its beautiful tree-lined streets, Madison is worth slowing down for. by Mary Catherine Gaston Located between Atlanta and Augusta in historic Morgan County, Madison, Georgia, was recently named one of the South’s prettiest towns by Southern Living. But there’s more to this quaint county seat than good looks. Read on to find out why the Rural Center recommends it as our first small-town side trip! Where is Madison? In addition to being a destination in its own right, Madison is located “on the way” to Atlanta, Augusta, Macon, Athens, and the north Georgia mountains via Interstate-20 (east-west) and U.S. Highway 129/441 (north-south). From I-20, exits 113 and 114 lead to lovely downtown, which is situated about 60 miles east of Atlanta and 90 miles west of Augusta. From exit 114, downtown is just a quick, 2.5-mile jaunt. U.S. 129/441 runs right through the center of Madison, just 30 miles south of Athens. Who should make Madison a stop? Honestly, everyone should take the time to visit this quintessential Southern town! In particular, history buffs, antebellum architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys supporting rural economies and small businesses should add Madison to their middle-Georgia travel itineraries. What’s best to do, see, and eat in Madison? Depending on how long you have to spend on this small-town side-trip, there is plenty to prioritize, but here are a few popular suggestions. DO: Drive, stroll or bicycle through the Madison historic district, one of the most expansive in the nation. SEE: Tour one (or several) of Madison’s beautifully maintained antebellum homes, likely spared from flames during Sherman’s March to the Sea thanks to Madison native and U.S. Senator Joshua Hill’s pro-Union politics. EAT: Locals and visitors alike rave about Farmview Market, Madison Produce Company as well as Adrian’s Place, but downtown is home to several other spots to grab a quick (or slow) bite to eat. If caffeine is what you crave, get your fill at The Sinclair. And if a sweet treat is all you‘re after, there’s plenty to pick from at Scoops or the Patisserie on Main. Find out more at visitmadisonga.com, check out Main Street Madison on Facebook, or scroll through reviews of Madison hot spots at TripAdvisor. When is the ideal time to visit Madison? With abundant azaleas in peak bloom, spring is probably the prettiest time of year to visit Madison, in our humble opinion. The annual Madison Spring Tour of Homes takes place the second weekend of April, while Madison Fest, a.k.a. “MadFest,” takes place the third weekend of April and features arts, crafts, food, and live music. A host of other events take place throughout the year and are detailed on the Madison Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau web calendar. How much time should I allot for a side-trip to Madison? Due to downtown’s proximity to major travel routes, you can be in and out of Madison for a bite to eat or cup of Joe in under an hour if need be. However, the Rural Center recommends you allocate a little more time to stretch your legs on a stroll around the courthouse square or Madison Town Park at the very least. We can’t make any promises, but we bet after just a bit in this bucolic borough, you will want to plan an extended stay just as soon as you can! Want to recommend a serene small-town side-trip to the Rural Center team? Email mcgaston@ruralga.org with details. Photo credits from top: Madison Homes 021 by Ralph Daniel The Sinclair Madison by Mary Catherine Gaston

In light of it being National Ag Month, we felt it was only fitting that we highlight the top commodities produced in the different parts of Georgia. Georgia holds many top honor titles for commodity production in the state such as broilers and peanuts. But, do you know what commodities are most often produced in each part of the state? Favorable weather in each region allows for longer growing seasons, which aid in helping Georgia produce a large number of commodities. In the northern part of Georgia, one of the top commodities you can find is poultry. In the rather hilly and mountainous areas, poultry production largely consists of broiler production, adding $21 billion to the state’s economy in 2022. As you make your way through north Georgia, you will also find many ornamental horticulture greenhouses filled with floriculture and other landscape horticulture varieties, as well as apple orchards. Ornamental horticulture in north Georgia comprised $1.18 billion of Georgia's economy, while fruit contributed $732.64 million according to figures in 2022. In central Georgia, if you make your way below the fall line, you can find peaches, watermelons, and cotton. These three commodities thrive in the sandy loam soil of central Georgia and add to the $1.15 billion that fruits and row crops contribute to the Georgia economy. With cotton placing at number two overall on the state’s top 10 commodities list, it comes as no shock that it is in the top three of central Georgia’s commodities. Cotton grows so well in Georgia’s soil and is also largely produced in South Georgia. In the southern part of the state, you can also find peanuts, sweet corn, and onions. South Georgia’s sandy soil helps peanuts thrive, making up $667 million of the $69.4 billion that food and fiber production contributes to Georgia’s economy. Our well-known sweet Vidalia onions are just one variety of onions that help add $133 million to the total vegetable contribution for the state’s economy (Ag Snapshot 2022). Agriculture has long been Georgia’s number one industry. The soil, climate, and farmers and ranchers make it possible for Georgia to have such a diversity of agricultural commodities, which add tremendous value to the economy. Source: Ag Snapshot 2022 (extension.uga.edu)

Our series on rural Georgia writers begins in the quiet community of Plains, with a prolific former president’s poetry and prose. By Mary Catherine Gaston Ask anyone well-versed in American literature and they’ll tell you—Georgians have a way with words. In fact, some of the most celebrated writers of the past two centuries made their homes and found their inspiration in the Peach State. Though the former Thirteenth Colony has produced more than 30 Pulitzer Prize recipients across all of the award’s categories, this first installment of our Rural Georgia Reader series highlights the writings of a rural Georgian who is not as well known for his writing as for his seven decades of service and leadership, both here at home and around the world. Perhaps the most recognizable and highly regarded rural Georgian of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries began life on a farm outside the tiny town of Plains in the southwestern corner of the state. James Earl Carter, Jr., better known as former President Jimmy Carter, was the oldest of four children born to Earl, a farmer and merchant, and Lillian, a nurse. While the younger Carter surprised no one in his hometown by attaining an appointment to and graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy and embarking on a promising path as a nuclear engineer and submariner, he shocked even his wife and fellow Plains native, Rosalynn, with his decision to return to rural Georgia just as his career began to pick up steam. It was a decision that struck even him as strange and slightly scary at the time, according to his 2015 memoir, A Full Life: Reflections at 90. Carter’s decision to return to his hometown in rural Georgia in 1953 would prove to be a pivot point not only in his life, but in world history as well. As he tried to fill the shoes of his recently deceased father in the family farming and business enterprises, Carter became increasingly involved in both community and church affairs. Though he had no intention of seeking political position upon his return to rural life, his convictions drove him in that direction. In 1963, he was elected to the state senate, then as Georgia’s governor and finally, in 1976, as the 39th president of the United States, and that was all before a remarkable career in diplomacy that led to a Nobel Peace Prize for the boy from Plains. Like all good stories, Carter’s contains its fair share of victories and defeats, highs and lows. And though this quintessential son of rural Georgia is not best known as a writer, he is certainly one of the state’s most prolific. Among his 30 book-length publications are a handful of must-reads for the lover of Georgia literature. Those in-the-know will recommend the reader new-to-Carter begin with either A Full Life or An Hour Before Daylight: Memoirs of a Rural Boyhood, which topped the New York Times best-seller list and was a Pulitzer finalist when it was released in 2001. For a little deeper dive, Carter’s collection of poetry, Always a Reckoning, offers a different perspective on the thoughts and experiences of the world leader. Though these three rank at the top of the Rural Center’s recommended reading list, ardent Carter admirers would, no doubt, enjoy his devotional books, his Outdoor Journal, one of his many public policy pieces or The Hornet’s Nest, his novel about two families caught up in colonial Georgia’s Revolutionary struggle. As with any author, Carter’s writings are enhanced for the reader by experiencing firsthand the places and people about which he writes. Fortunately for the consumer in this case, due to Carter’s accomplishments and his return to Plains post-presidency, many of his hometown haunts are exquisitely preserved and a delight to visit. From the farm in Archery where Carter spent his boyhood to his family’s former peanut warehouse to the depot where he announced his candidacy for President, much of what he writes about in his memoirs and poetry is open to the public. The headquarters of the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park in Plains is located in the former Plains High School building just across the railroad tracks and an easy stroll from downtown Plains. There are no admission fees at the historic sites, but there is a short drive between those in Plains and Carter’s boyhood home and farm in Archery. While visiting Plains, enjoy a delicious meal downtown at the Buffalo Café and finish the experience with locals’ favorite, peanut butter ice cream from Plain Peanuts a couple of doors down. Peruse antiques at the opposite end of the main street and spend the night in one of the Plains Historic Inn’s seven unique guest suites, each delightfully decorated in honor of a decade of Carter’s life. If you long to experience Plains like a local, plan to take in the annual Plains Peanut Festival in September or enjoy the outstanding Fourth of July fireworks display and street dance. Make your plans for these events well in advance, however, as Plains is a truly tiny town and space of any sort is limited. Nearby Americus offers a vibrant, historic downtown complete with one-of-a-kind local shops, restaurants and the beautifully restored Windsor Hotel, completed in 1892. While Plains is admittedly off the beaten path—part of its charm—it is not difficult to reach and is a pleasant drive from any direction. From Interstate 75, exit at Cordele (exit 101), then follow U.S. Hwy. 280/GA Hwy. 30 through downtown Americus and on to Plains. The route is well marked with directional signage to the area’s various national historic sites. For an even more scenic route, consider traveling U.S. Hwy. 19 from points to the north or south of Plains. Allocate a bit more time for this route, as it passes through a number of rural communities and picturesque downtowns. Stop along the way to contribute to a rural economy by refilling your tank (and your vehicle’s) or making a purchase at a local shop. Watch for rural murals along this route as well—there are several to enjoy. As a man of character, courage and commitment to his rural Georgia roots, President Carter has led an exemplary life of leadership and service. We at the Rural Center believe he would be pleased to know of your interest in his writings and his hometown. Drop us a line or leave a comment on Facebook or Instagram to let us know which of his publications is your personal favorite and why. And in the spirit of this exceptional rural Georgian, let his works and words inspire you to do something great for your community, state or nation! Photo credits, from top: Downtown Plains, Mary Catherine Gaston Carter Boyhood Farm, Ralph Daniels Carter books, Mary Catherine Gaston Downtown Plains, Ralph Daniels

by Mary Catherine Gaston Located in coastal McIntosh County, wee Darien boasts an abundance of small-town charm and ample opportunities to fill a weekend or week-long itinerary. Unless you are fortunate enough to have lived along Georgia’s Atlantic coast, chances are you have never heard of tiny Darien, in McIntosh County, much less considered making it a vacation destination. We at Georgia’s Rural Center are here to tell you it’s high time you do just that! With about 1,500 year-round residents, Darien is one of the smallest incorporated places in the state. But what this minuscule municipality lacks in population it more than makes up for in personality. Strategically located at the mouth of the Altamaha River, Darien has been the site of human habitation for thousands of years. In 1721, the English crown financed the construction of a small garrison near present-day Darien with the purpose of buffering the colony of South Carolina against potential attacks from the Spanish, French and Native American inhabitants to the south and west. Though Fort King George was manned by British troops for just six short years, General James Oglethorpe succeeded in recruiting a small group of Scottish Highlanders to settle in the surrounding area in 1736. It is from this hardy stock that McIntosh County derived both its name and its distinction as the second-oldest planned city in the thirteenth colony. From pre-colonial days to the present, Darien’s and McIntosh County’s history is well represented in film, literature and in the exhibits of the Old Jail Art Center and Museum, the Fort King George Historic Park and Sapelo Island Visitors Center. All three are must-sees for anyone interested in colonial, state or national history, and a long weekend presents plenty of time to work in a visit to each. The work of local artists abounds at the Old Jail Art Center, and the Sapelo Island Visitor Center is the place to pick up a copy of McIntosh County native and prolific Georgia historian Buddy Sullivan’s myriad works. It’s also where your journey to take in the unique history and beauty of Sapelo Island begins. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the Sapelo ferry stop is Ashantilly Center. Also known as “Old Tabby,” the former plantation was originally owned and operated by Thomas Spalding, one-time owner of Sapelo Island, early statesman and “father of the Georgia sugar industry.” While Ashantilly is open to visitors only during special events or by appointment, locals and historians alike name it among one of the most interesting and significant sites along the Georgia coast. If the earliest years of agricultural enterprise on Georgia’s coast are intriguing to you, another necessary stop just south of Darien is the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation visitor center and museum. Originally one of the several sprawling rice plantations near Darien, the site is now operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources as a state historic site. Visitors to the site can view a short film about the history of Hofwyl-Broadfield, enjoy a guided tour of the original plantation home and grounds and take a few steps back in time on the natural trail that encircles the property. We haven’t mentioned yet but must—downtown Darien is as walkable and bicycle-friendly as a place can possibly be. In fact, the 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway, the country’s longest biking and walking route, passes through downtown Darien, making the area a favorite among bicyclists. Park your bike downtown and enjoy some small-town shopping at one of several unique, locally owned shops. The Local Exchange offers a wide variety of Georgia Grown and Georgia-made products including fresh produce, while Tabby Trading Company is a great spot to pick up the work of a local artist, a handmade souvenir or a cute outfit. If site-seeing leaves you hungry, downtown Darien is the next destination on the hungry traveller’s agenda. No matter what your craving or budget might be, there is a menu and a price-point sure to please. Soups, sandwiches, quiche and coffees are the specialty of the Shanty Café, while Blue Bay Mexican Grill serves up Tex-Mex favorites with a waterside view. The Canopy is the place for breakfast and more, while Keys North Market and Grill boasts an expansive outdoor seating area right on the river. And the “thirsty” explorer is sure to find something satisfying to whet the whistle at Waterfront Wine and Gourmet. Ask any local or veteran Darien visitor where to eat when you’re in town—or anywhere remotely close—and their immediate reply is almost certain to be Skipper’s Fish Camp or B&J’s Steaks and Seafood. While Skipper’s is located dockside in walkable downtown Darien, B&J’s is just a short walk or ride up U.S. Hwy. 17 from the water. The star of the show at either location is the “sweet Georgia shrimp” that arrives daily on Darien’s docks in season. Speaking of shrimp, the tiny crustaceans are big business in Darien and McIntosh County. In fact, the annual blessing of the shrimping fleet is the biggest event of the year and takes place every April. A uniquely coastal experience, Darien’s Blessing of the Fleet Festival draws thousands of locals and visitors, so make plans early if you plan to take it in. Options for overnights in Darien include a handful of small, locally owned and operated inns and B&B’s near downtown and the river, as well as national chain hotels near Interstate 95. In fact, Interstate travelers can reach Darien via two exits–42 and 49–with each route offering a unique experience and entrée to the historic downtown. The southern route via exit 42 is the more rural, scenic route, leading to U.S. Hwy. 17 just north of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, then north across the marshes and river into downtown Darien. If a visit to the Darien-McIntosh Chamber’s visitor center, service stations or fast food are on your itinerary, however, Exit 49 is the better option. Regardless how you get there, we must mention two more of the myriad opportunities to indulge in rural Georgia at its finest while you’re in Darien. Before you leave the historic area near downtown, stop in at the Sugar Marsh Cottage for a sweet treat (or several!) to take home. Situated on the north side of the scenic, circular green space known as Vernon Square, Sugar Marsh Cottage offers a bounty of coastal-inspired, handmade artisan chocolates and confections, including an edible “Altie,” McIntosh County’s mysterious river monster and unofficial mascot. No visit to Darien is complete without snapping a selfie with Altie and enjoying a cup of Joe at the lovely, new Chamber of Commerce visitors center off exit 49. Brimming with natural beauty, friendly locals, and small-town charm, Darien is definitely a dot to mark on yourmap of rural Georgia. And while virtually the whole world knows about the nearby Golden Isles, McIntosh County offers more than its fair share of opportunities with far less congestion than its neighboring vacation hot spots. While we could go on about all there is to see and do in this tiny treasure of a town, we will stop now and simply say—Darien and McIntosh County are rural Georgia gems worth discovering for yourself! Check out DiscoverDarien.com to begin planning your rural retreat on the Georgia coast today. We’d love to hear about YOUR favorite places to visit in rural Georgia! Email mcgaston@ruralga.org and share where you love to visit and why. Photo credits from top: Darien River by Ralph Daniel Fort King George, Darien, Georgia, USA by Evangelio Gonzalez Darien River by Ralph Daniel Darien Waterfront Inn View by Joann Viera Vernon Square by Ralph Daniel

Last month the 2023 legislative session kicked off with plans to benefit Georgians in the new year and welcoming new faces to the Capitol to serve the people of Georgia. Jan. 9, 2023, brought forth new hope for progress on issues Georgians deal with every day. Under the Golden Dome, legislative issues impacting rural Georgia cover a range of challenges impacting the entire state. One such topic that will receive attention this session is rural workforce housing. Gov. Kemp is recommending “to reallocate $35.7 million within OneGeorgia to establish the Rural Workforce Housing Fund,” according to the Governor’s Letter in the Governor’s Budget Report. The Rural Workforce Housing Fund aims to allow local governments to develop affordable housing for teachers and other workers, in hopes of increasing affordable housing opportunities and quality work for them as well. With its wide-ranging importance, healthcare is back in the spotlight for this year’s session. Legislators will examine ways to expand the use of telehealth services in the state’s rural and poorer communities. This would include much-needed mental health services, as well as general preventive/wellness health services. With the House passing the Amended FY 2023 Budget, there will be $25,000 in funds for a rural hospital study and $56,000 for nursing program recruitment efforts in Southwest Georgia (Georgia Farm Bureau, Legislative Email 2023, week 3). Education is another topic that will figure prominently for policy makers. Education legislation impacts rural Georgia significantly, as many of the poorer counties struggle with meeting basic requirements from testing to hiring teachers. Additional funding to schools is to be discussed and voted on to attempt to alleviate some of these issues. Additionally, at the beginning of the session, Gov. Brian Kemp was reinstated as the state’s leader and Georgia welcomed a new commissioner of agriculture, Tyler Harper. Kemp and Harper are no strangers to rural Georgia. Kemp continues to promote the efforts needed to keep rural Georgia positioned to sustain more population and support the state’s largest industry - agriculture. Harper grew up in rural Georgia and understands both the assets and trials that come with living in these communities. The Rural Center looks forward to working with both of these leaders as well as members of the House and Senate to build healthy, vibrant rural Georgia communities with managed support and collaborative partnerships. Rural Georgia is being recognized in many ways at the Capitol this year. Below are some dates that highlight commodities and organizations connected to and impacting rural Georgia. February 6-7: Forestry Day at the Capitol February 8: 4-H Day at the Capitol February 14: Georgia Farm Bureau Day at the Capitol February 21: Georgia FFA Day at the Capitol March 1: PB&J Day March 6: Georgia Cattleman's Steak Biscuit Day March 15: Georgia’s Rural Center Co-Sponsored Rural Caucus Lunch

As our fifth anniversary approaches, the team behind Georgia’s Rural Center are celebrating the progress we’ve made since our work officially began July 1, 2018. We consider it a privilege and blessing to have spent these past five years serving the state’s small towns and crossroads communities through research, collaboration, communication and innovation. Throughout the remainder of 2023, our blog and social media will feature a few of the places and people who make rural Georgia both unique and extraordinary. In addition to our regular content, these “Real Georgia” stories will debut around the 1st of each month, and we hope you will watch for and share them to help us spread the message that’s at the heart of all we do—that in spite of myriad challenges, both power and potential abound in rural Georgia. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can look forward to: Rural Georgia reader: Expand your appreciation of the Peach State—past and present—by adding great works by rural Georgia writers to your personal reading list. For each author or work we highlight, we will also recommend must-see spots and the rural routes to get there. Small-town side trips: Beat the boredom of interstate travel with these brief detours down rural routes throughout the state. Add our suggestions (and a few extra minutes) to your itinerary next time you hit the road! Rural retreats: Have a little more time to spend off the beaten path? We will share a few of our favorite destinations for a long weekend of rural rest and relaxation. Hometown heroes: Meet a few of rural Georgia’s most determined difference-makers and learn their best advice for reinvigorating the rural places we all love. In addition, watch throughout the year as we feature products every rural Georgian should be proud of and updates on projects the Rural Center team are completing in communities throughout the state. If you share our belief that there’s something special about the state’s less-populated places—the “Real Georgia”—join us here on the blog, Facebook and Instagram for a journey through rural Georgia that is sure to inspire. Is there a rural place, person or project you’d like us to highlight on our blog and social media? If so, email mcgaston@ruralga.org to let us know.

Georgia is no stranger to the spotlight when it comes to forestry; the state consistently earns the top honors for forestry production in the country. When looking into Georgia’s forestry production, timber is number five among Georgia’s top commodities; timber production encompasses just over 80 percent of the forestry production in the state. Many timber products are essential to Georgia’s economy, including saw timber lumber, pulpwood for paper products, and veneer logs. Some innovative uses coming to the forefront of the timber industry include stronger and cheaper polymers used in 3D printing, as well as fabric materials constructed of wood fibers. Innovations like these will cause an increase in demand for timber, which leads to more trees needing to be planted to meet the demand. This past November, Georgians had the opportunity to vote on Georgia Referendum A, the Timber Equipment Exempt from Property Tax Measure. Georgia Referendum A was approved, which means timber equipment is exempt from ad valorem property taxes as of January 1, 2023. Timber equipment will no longer be taxed based on the value of the item, however, timber is still being taxed under the measure. It is no shock that the forestry industry has been strained due to the increase in operating costs and supply chain shortages. This kind of economic pressure will be decreased to an extent because those harvesting and creating these products will be able to take the money they saved from the tax exemption and invest it back into their operation. The timber industry is vital to rural Georgia. While we use the product to build the future every day, it also supports economic development through careers and work opportunities. There are many different types of jobs that make up the Georgia forestry industry. Currently, forestry provides about 54,000 jobs across the state. Foresters, forest and conservation technicians, forest rangers, and forest and wildlife firefighters are just a handful of some of the unique job opportunities forestry brings to the table. Georgia’s 24 million acres make a large impact on the environment. Not only does the forest industry have a positive impact on the air we breathe, but it also helps improve Georgia’s water sources and weather. According to the Georgia Forestry Commission, trees help to trap lung-damaging particles like ash, smoke, and dust. They also help to take carbon dioxide out of the air and increase oxygen. On average, trees store about 13 pounds of carbon annually. Forestry is not only an important part of Georgia’s economy, but it helps improve Georgians' quality of life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12/7/2022 CONTACT: Janet Cochran 404-276-9142 janet.cochran@abac.edu U.S. HIGHWAY 27 DESIGNATED FIRST GEORGIA GROWN TRAIL IN NORTH GEORGIA ELLIJAY, Ga. – Visitors traveling U.S. Highway 27 in northwest Georgia will see new signs indicating the route’s designation as Georgia Grown Trail 27. The trail, which was approved by legislation in 2021, stretches from the Tennessee line in Walker County through Catoosa, Chattooga, Floyd, Polk, Haralson, and Carroll Counties, from the cities of Rossville to Roopville. There are four other Georgia Grown Trails in the state, but Trail 27 is the first in the north Georgia region. “At Georgia’s Rural Center, we worked with each county, the Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Representative Steve Tarvin, and Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority to facilitate the designation process and erect signs,” said Janet Cochran, project manager for Georgia’s Rural Center. “Trail 27 brings together two of Georgia’s largest industries, tourism and agriculture, to support economic growth and sustainability in this rural part of the state.” Georgia Grown is the marketing brand of the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and like other Georgia Grown Trails, Trail 27 seeks to bring attention to the area’s local products by driving business to farms, farm markets, dining establishments serving Georgia-grown foods, shops selling Georgia-grown and -made products, wineries, meaderies and other area attractions and events. “Our efforts at the Georgia Department of Agriculture are to help new agribusinesses grow and existing agribusinesses thrive,” says Cheryl Smith, agritourism manager at Georgia Department of Agriculture. “One way to achieve this is by fostering the development of Georgia Grown Trails. The existing Georgia Grown Trails are economic engines for rural Georgia, and an excellent way to showcase the agritourism operations scattered throughout the state. The new Georgia Grown Trail 27 in north Georgia will give visitors an opportunity to travel the backroads of the region while experiencing all the wonderful agritourism sites along the way.” The destination marketing organizations in each county are moving forward to build trail membership and a plan for promoting the route to visitors. Information about how to join the trail is available at www.gagrowntrails.com. ### About: The Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation, aka Georgia’s Rural Center, serves as a central information and research hub for rural best practices, including community planning, industry-specific assistance, and other cooperative efforts with community partners. The center was established by House Bill 951 in 2018, and is housed at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton with a satellite office in Ellijay, GA Georgia Grown is a division of the Georgia Department of Agriculture, helping new agribusinesses grow and established agribusinesses thrive by bringing producers, processors, suppliers, distributors, retailers, agritourism and consumers together in one powerful, statewide community. The Georgia Grown brand is desired by business and consumers who want to buy and promote Georgia’s locally grown products. Those in the photo are (L to R): Janet Cochran, Georgia’s Rural Center Eric McDonald, Haralson County Chamber of Commerce Jonathon Dorsey, Carrollton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Lisa Smith, Rome Office of Tourism Cheryl Smith, Georgia Department of Agriculture (not pictured: Amy Jackson, Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce; Jenn Martin, Walker County Chamber of Commerce; Cindy McGraw, Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce; Marianne Wood, Polk County Chamber of Commerce; Ramona Ruark, Downtown Cedartown) Photo of the new sign on Trail 27. Graphic art for the signs on Trail 27.

With the passing of Speaker David Ralston yesterday, Georgia lost a leader who cared deeply for all Georgians, but his passion for and commitment to bring greater prosperity to rural Georgia was remarkable. His commitment to rural Georgians led to the creation of the House Rural Development Council, among whose many achievements was the passage of HB951, which created Georgia’s Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation in 2018. His passion for and commitment to rural Georgia, along with that of many other leaders at the State Capitol, has made a difference. Mr. Speaker, we honor you, pay tribute to your service, and will miss you. Rest in peace. “Georgia is a growing and prosperous state, and we are thankful for that, but that prosperity isn’t being felt in every community across Georgia. Some of our rural areas are still struggling, and we must do everything we can to help private businesses grow jobs in every corner of our state.” David Ralston.

The 2022 Georgia's Rural Center Photo Contest has officially come to a close. With 176 photos entered into five categories, photographers across the state shed light on rural Georgia in a new and exciting way. The contest opened on April 2, 2022, encouraging participants to enter their photos into five categories, including: Water Tanks Agriculture and Natural Resources Communities, Organizations, Leadership in rural Georgia Downtown in rural Georgia People of rural Georgia Voting of the People’s Choice allowed entrants to share the links to the photos on Facebook and other social media platforms and encourage others to vote. Over 3,000 total votes were cast among this year's entries. The judges used the following criteria to judge the entries: Artistic merit/creativity Composition/photographic quality Overall impact Now that the 2022 Georgia's Rural Center Photo Contest has come to an end, we are excited to officially announce the winners. Thank you to all who submitted photos, engaged in people's choice voting, and spread the views of rural Georgia. We are extremely excited about all the great pictures we received showcasing rural Georgia. Be on the lookout for your photo as the next "photo of the week," or other places throughout the website. Winners will be contacted in the next couple of weeks.

"Southern Snow" Photo By: Erin Grace Redden Submit your favorite rural Georgia shots with us on Facebook, and yours just might end up featured here as our photo of the week!