Bill Text: GA SR843 | 2011-2012 | Regular Session | Introduced

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Bill Title: Bert Ward Memorial Bridge; Catoosa County; dedicate

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 1-0)

Status: (Passed) 2012-04-25 - Act 628 [SR843 Detail]

Download: Georgia-2011-SR843-Introduced.html

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12 SR 843/AP

Senate Resolution 843

By: Senator Mullis of the 53rd

ADOPTED

A RESOLUTION

Dedicating certain portions of the state highway system; repealing certain resolutions; repealing conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

PART I

WHEREAS, Mr. Bert Ward was born on May 30, 1922, in Catoosa County, Georgia, was educated in the Catoosa County public school system, and graduated from Ringgold High School; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Ward served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Navy, valiantly and courageously protecting his fellow Americans during World War II on the USS Gillis and the USS Williamson in the Pacific; and

WHEREAS, he sustained injuries during his service when his ship was torpedoed by Japanese submarines in the North Pacific; and

WHEREAS, upon returning home after the war, Mr. Ward continued his public service as Catoosa County Tax Commissioner, diligently and conscientiously devoting innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state for 19 years; and

WHEREAS, he was elected to represent Catoosa County as a State Representative in the Georgia General Assembly in 1967 and 1968; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Ward served as a judge in Catoosa County for several years before he was elected to serve on the Board of Commissioners of Catoosa County; and

WHEREAS, as a member of the Board of Commissioners, Mr. Ward was instrumental in establishing procedures, policies, and rules and regulations of the board and helped in the establishment of the county's 911emergency response system and the naming of the Catoosa Parkway; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Ward's significant organizational and leadership talents, his remarkable patience and diplomacy, his keen sense of vision, and his sensitivity to the needs of the citizens of this state earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and associates; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments and service of this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.

PART II

WHEREAS, the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., stands as one of the most prominent Georgians of the 20th Century; and

WHEREAS, Rev. King attended public school in Georgia, graduating from high school at the age of 15, and received his bachelor's degree in 1948 from Morehouse College; and

WHEREAS, after three years of theological study at Crozer Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania, where he was elected president of the senior class, he was awarded a divinity degree in 1951, and, with a fellowship won at Crozer, he enrolled in graduate studies at Boston University, completing his residence for the doctorate in 1953 and receiving his doctoral degree in 1955; and

WHEREAS, in 1957, he was elected president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and, in the 11 years between 1957 and 1968, he traveled over 6 million miles and spoke over 2,500 times in support of civil rights and wrote five books as well as numerous articles; and

WHEREAS, he led a massive protest in Birmingham, Alabama, that caught the attention of the entire world, providing what he called a coalition of conscience and inspiring his "Letter from a Birmingham Jail," a manifesto of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States; and

WHEREAS, he also planned and participated in numerous protests and demonstrations for the cause of civil rights including the peaceful march on Washington, D.C., of 250,000 people to whom he delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" address at the Lincoln Memorial; and
WHEREAS, he was awarded five honorary degrees; was named Man of the Year by Time magazine in 1963; and, at the age of 35, was the youngest man to have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize; and

WHEREAS, through his tireless work on behalf of civil rights for all people, he became not only the symbolic leader of African Americans in the United States but also a world figure in the fight for justice for all; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper to dedicate the entire length of Snapfinger Road in DeKalb County from its intersection with Wesley Chapel Road to the Henry County line as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway as an appropriate tribute to this outstanding Georgian.

PART III

WHEREAS, Roy Parrish was born in Walker County, Georgia, on November 29, 1933, one of four children born to Roy E. Parrish, Sr., and the former Annie May Autry; the Parrish family and the Autry family were pioneers to Walker County and have made this county their homes since the eighteenth century; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Parrish was educated in the City of Chickamauga School System and graduated from Gordon Lee High School in 1953; he started to work for the Chickamauga Telephone Company while still in high school, and he remained in their employ for 19 years, the last several as general manager; and

WHEREAS, he also served two years on active duty with the United States Army in Korea; and

WHEREAS, he was elected Sole Commissioner of Walker County in the Democratic Primary of 1972 and took office January 1, 1973; he went on to serve six, four-year terms; and

WHEREAS, some of his major accomplishments include building the first sanitary landfill in 1973 and operating it for 23 years; building and paving the county roads; passing the first Local Option Sales Tax Referendum in 1977 that rolled back county property tax and for the first time offered property tax relief to the local community; building the civic center, pavilion, and the 911 Center; building a tunnel from the courthouse to the jail for security; and building and operating an animal shelter, 16 fire stations, and 126 bridges; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Parrish worked with Georgia Department of Transportation and the United States Department of the Interior as well as the National Park Service and Congressman Buddy Darden to get a better corridor through or around the Chickamauga Battlefield and was largely responsible for getting the western route through Walker County established as the relocated Highway 27 around the Chickamauga National Park; and

WHEREAS, he has been married to the former Cora Ann Kell, also a native of Walker County, for more than 50 years, and they have two children, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; they live in the City of Chickamauga where they are active members of the Elizabeth Lee United Methodist Church; and

WHEREAS, he retired, undefeated, from public office in 1996 and now enjoys the freedom of retirement; he and Cora Ann spend time traveling, enjoying their family, gardening, and working in their church where Roy has recruited many of his friends; and

WHEREAS, it is only fitting and proper that a lasting tribute to this life of public service be established.

PART IV

WHEREAS, Dr. Johnny M. Hunt has demonstrated his commitment to teaching the Gospel, witnessing Christ through word and deed, and addressing the physical, psychological, intellectual, and spiritual needs of others; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Hunt was born on July 17, 1952, in Lumberton, North Carolina, and is a graduate of Gardner-Webb College and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary; and

WHEREAS, he has served as pastor of Longleaf Baptist Church in Wilmington, North Carolina; Falls Baptist Church in Wake Forest, North Carolina; and Lavonia Baptist Church in Mooresboro, North Carolina; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Hunt was called by the Lord in 1986 to lead the congregation of First Baptist Church of Woodstock as the church's senior pastor; and

WHEREAS, his vision and direction have helped First Baptist Church of Woodstock grow in size and influence, uplifting the community like the light of Bethlehem and serving as a spiritual leader and place for fellowship; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Hunt has served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention and president of the Pastors' Conference of the Southern Baptist Convention; and

WHEREAS, whether the task is preparing a sermon, visiting the sick, counseling the troubled, baptizing a new believer, or acting as a theologian, educator, administrator, or humanitarian, Dr. Hunt serves as a shining example of God's righteous path; and

WHEREAS, the unmatched spiritual assistance offered by Dr. Hunt is a source of strength and direction for persons in all walks of life and from all economic strata; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this enduring example of God's message of peace and love be recognized.

PART V

WHEREAS, our nation's security continues to rely on patriotic men and women who put their personal lives on hold in order to place themselves in harm's way to protect the freedoms that all United States citizens cherish; and

WHEREAS, Korean War veterans have demonstrated a deep personal commitment to protecting democracy and a willingness to sacrifice their own personal safety and comfort to ensure the well-being of their fellow man; and

WHEREAS, they served as guardians of this nation's freedom and liberty and diligently and conscientiously underwent intensive and rigorous training in order to serve their country with honor and distinction during a time of war; and

WHEREAS, it is important that Korean War veterans are thanked for their selfless service to this nation and honored for their unyielding commitment to protecting the people and ideals of the United States; and

WHEREAS, Korean War veterans embody the spirit of service, willing to find meaning in something greater than themselves, and it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments and sacrifices of these remarkable and distinguished Americans be honored appropriately.

PART VI

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Lance Corporal William Taylor Richards; and

WHEREAS, Lance Corporal Richards served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Marines Corps; and

WHEREAS, he was born on January 31, 1990, in Trenton, Georgia, and graduated from Dade County High School, where he was known as a talented musician; and

WHEREAS, Lance Corporal Richards was stationed in the Helmand province of Afghanistan when he was killed while serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom; and

WHEREAS, Lance Corporal Richards was awarded a Rifle Expert Medal, an Afghanistan Campaign Medal, a National Defense Service Medal, a Global War Service Medal, a War on Terrorism Medal, and a Purple Heart; and

WHEREAS, he leaves behind many who will cherish his memory, including his wife Emily and his beautiful daughter Kayden Leigh; and

WHEREAS, it is only fitting and proper that a lasting memorial to Lance Corporal Richards' life of service to his country be established.

PART VII

WHEREAS, Mr. William G. Long has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role he has played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Long diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced dramatically by his superlative service to the City of Woodstock as a city council member, a member of the Planning Commission, a city judge, and mayor over the course of 40 years; and

WHEREAS, first elected to serve the public in 1966 as a member of the Woodstock City Council, Mr. Long is one of Woodstock's most distinguished citizens and dedicated servants; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Long's significant organizational and leadership talents, his remarkable patience and diplomacy, his keen sense of vision, and his sensitivity to the needs of the citizens of this state earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and associates; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the extraordinary accomplishments of this distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.

PART VIII

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Mr. Preston B. Lewis, Jr.; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Waynesboro High School, Mr. Lewis served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Army, valiantly and courageously protecting America during the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, he trained at the United States Navy Submarine School, received a Bronze Star, and attained the rank of captain; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Lewis graduated from the University of Georgia with a bachelor's degree in business administration and a law degree before he joined his father's legal practice, Lewis & Lewis, where he practiced law for 30 years; and

WHEREAS, he served as juvenile court judge for more than 30 years and served the people of Georgia as a member of the Georgia House of Representatives for six terms and the Georgia Senate for one term; and

WHEREAS, a community leader, Mr. Lewis was a Rotarian and served as president of the Waynesboro Shrine Club and as a member of the Waynesboro Masonic Lodge, the American Legion, and First United Methodist Church; and

WHEREAS, he left behind many who will cherish his memory, including his wife of 58 years, Katherine Honey Hill; four children, Preston Brooks Lewis III, Clifford Ellis Lewis, Julian Carlton Lewis, and Katherine Virginia Lewis Jones; and 11 grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, it is only fitting and proper that a lasting memorial to Mr. Lewis' life of service to this state be established.

PART IX

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Deputy James D. Paugh on October 23, 2011; and

WHEREAS, Deputy Paugh was highly regarded by the citizens of his community and state and by local government officials as a person of unquestioned integrity and dedication to the sound principles of law enforcement; and

WHEREAS, known by friends and family as "J.D.," Deputy Paugh was a dedicated deputy with the Richmond County Sheriff's Office for 17 years; and

WHEREAS, Deputy Paugh's life was tragically cut short after stopping behind a vehicle on Interstate Route 520 in Augusta-Richmond County when the occupant of the vehicle opened fire upon him; and

WHEREAS, he exhibited extraordinary devotion to duty, outstanding loyalty, fine leadership, and meticulous attention to detail in all his duties, and his efficient and effective commitment to excellence was continually recognized by his peers; and

WHEREAS, a native of Augusta, Georgia, Deputy Paugh was the beloved son of Wayne and Anita Paugh and father of Brandon; and

WHEREAS, Deputy Paugh was a dedicated public servant who will long be remembered for his courage and selflessness, and he will be missed by all who had the great fortune of knowing him.

PART X

WHEREAS, Mr. John S. Gibson played a vital role in leadership and demonstrated deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Gibson was born in Folkston, Georgia, one of 11 beloved children of William Owen and Julia Ann Gibson; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Georgia State Normal College and Business Institute, Mr. Gibson was admitted to the bar in 1922 and had a reputation as an aggressive trial lawyer who was well known for his colorful and humorous arguments; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Gibson served as solicitor-general for the City of Douglas and the Waycross Circuit Court before serving as a United States Congressman for the Eighth District of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, he represented the people of Georgia for three terms and is credited with playing a decisive role in the passage of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, better known as the G.I. Bill; and

WHEREAS, he was a person of magnanimous strengths with an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness, and kindness; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Gibson served with honor and distinction for the State of Georgia and this nation, and his vision and unyielding commitment set the standard for public service; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.

PART XI

WHEREAS, written and composed by Ricky Fitzpatrick, "Highway 98" describes the joy of traveling down one of Georgia's great highways; and

WHEREAS, the lyrics tell of local landmarks from Commerce to Danielsville to the farms and barns of Midway and beyond; and

WHEREAS, a long, straight, and picturesque road, Highway 98 is surrounded by pastures and wide open spaces; and

WHEREAS, the feeling of freedom and nostalgia for a simpler time that one gets when driving down Highway 98 is depicted perfectly in the lyrics of Fitzpatrick's "Highway 98"; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that "Highway 98" be recognized for its promotion of Georgia and its tribute to one of this state's great roads.

PART XII

WHEREAS, Mrs. Ruth B. Crawford has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that she has played in leadership and her deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Crawford earned a bachelor's degree from Paine College and a master's degree from Indiana University and dedicated 38 years to uplifting the lives of students through her work in the field of education; and

WHEREAS, upon her retirement from the Richmond County School System in 1977, Mrs. Crawford founded the Shiloh Comprehensive Community Center, where she served for 30 years as founding executive administrator; and

WHEREAS, her contributions to education and her community have been recognized with numerous honors and accolades, including the Jefferson Award for Outstanding Service from WJBF-TV, Humanitarian of the Year Award from University Hospital, Good Samaritan Award from the St. Joseph Foundation, Anna Eleanor Roosevelt Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and a Women of Distinction Award from the Girl Scouts of America; and

WHEREAS, a resident of Augusta, Georgia, Mrs. Crawford is a long-time supporter of Paine College, serves as a charter member of the Presidents Club, has been selected as one of the Distinguished Alumni, and assisted in designing the school flag; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Crawford has lived on State Route 4 in Richmond County for over 45 years, where she has attended Williams Memorial CME Church and dedicated her time to improving the lives of others in the community; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the extraordinary accomplishments of this distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.

PART XIII

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Deputy James D. Paugh on October 23, 2011; and

WHEREAS, Deputy Paugh was highly regarded by the citizens of his community and state and by local government officials as a person of unquestioned integrity and dedication to the sound principles of law enforcement; and
WHEREAS, known by friends and family as "J.D.," Deputy Paugh was a dedicated member of the Richmond County Sheriff's Office for 17 years; and

WHEREAS, Deputy Paugh's life was cut tragically short while protecting the public near the interchange of U.S. Route 78/State Route 10 with Interstate Route 520 in Augusta-Richmond County; and

WHEREAS, he exhibited extraordinary devotion to duty, outstanding loyalty, fine leadership, and meticulous attention to detail in all his duties, and his efficient and effective commitment to excellence was continually recognized by his peers; and

WHEREAS, Deputy Paugh was a dedicated public servant who will long be remembered for his courage and selflessness, and he will be missed by all who had the great fortune of knowing him.

PART XIV

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Mr. John B. Box on February 12, 2012; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Box was a well known and beloved resident of Greene County, Georgia, where he owned The Richland Bar for nearly 30 years; and

WHEREAS, a talented artist, Mr. Box sung professionally for over three decades and served as the headlining artist for such stars as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Perry Como, and Al Martino; and

WHEREAS, known as the Golden Voice of Greensboro, Mr. Box performed the National Anthem at numerous local sporting events and public gatherings; and

WHEREAS, a man of deep and abiding faith, Mr. Box was a long-time member of First United Methodist Church, where he contributed to the chorus; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the extraordinary accomplishments of this distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.

PART XV

WHEREAS, Harold Shedd is highly regarded by the citizens of Haralson County and the State of Georgia as a giant and a visionary in the music industry; and

WHEREAS, he was born on November 8, 1931, and began work in Bremen as a member of a local band; and

WHEREAS, he worked in radio for 14 years as a disk jockey, engineer, sales manager, and, finally, station owner and, in 1972, he sold radio station WWCC and moved to Nashville, Tennessee where, by 1979, he was co-owner of the Music Mill recording studio, which during its heyday was known as one of the top ten recording studios in Nashville; and

WHEREAS, he was instrumental in discovering the group Alabama and signing them to RCA and producing 21 consecutive number one hits for the band, a record that stands to this day; and

WHEREAS, he also produced albums for Roger Miller, Mel Tillis, Louise Mandrell, Dobie Gray, K. T. Oslin, Glen Campbell, and Willie Nelson; and

WHEREAS, his collaboration with Reba McIntire led to her first gold record; and

WHEREAS, in 1988, he joined Mercury Polygram Records Nashville where, over the next six years, he oversaw the signing of Kentucky Headhunters, Shania Twain, Billy Ray Cyrus, Toby Keith, and Kathy Mattea; and

WHEREAS, in 1989, he was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame; and

WHEREAS, he is still the all-time, number one country independent record producer; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper to dedicate United States Highway 27 in Haralson County from the Polk County line to the Carroll County line as the Harold Shedd Highway as an appropriate tribute to this outstanding Georgian.

PART XVI

WHEREAS, on December 17, 2005, the State of Georgia lost one of its finest and most outstanding citizens with the passing of Mr. Charles N. "Judy" Poag; and

WHEREAS, Charles Poag graduated from Murray County High School in 1951, and he treasured the Cleveland Indian's baseball jacket he earned while pitching for the Cleveland farm club; and

WHEREAS, after obtaining a degree from Lincoln Memorial College in 1955, he returned to Murray County High School where he made headlines in the early years of his teaching and coaching career by being the first coach to take the girls team to the state playoffs; and

WHEREAS, Charles Poag's prominent political career began in 1960 when he was the youngest sheriff ever elected in Georgia, serving 16 years in office; and

WHEREAS, he also worked as a police officer for the Chatsworth Police Department for five years and as a state investigator for the State of Georgia in addition to being a member of the Georgia House of Representatives for ten years, prodigiously serving the State of Georgia and its citizens with an unwavering commitment to honor and integrity; and

WHEREAS, he dedicated his life to helping others, especially the senior citizens of Murray County, for whom he was the driving force that led to the building of the senior citizens center in Chatsworth appropriately named the "Charles Judy Poag Senior Citizen Center"; and

WHEREAS, he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and his passing left an unfillable void in the hearts and lives of his family, friends, and associates.

PART XVII

WHEREAS, Lieutenant Kelso C. Horne served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty as a second lieutenant in the 82nd Airborne Division during World War II; and

WHEREAS, Lieutenant Horne was a resident of Dublin, Georgia, and graced the cover of LIFE magazine on August 14, 1944, as a representation of the one of thousands of men who were fighting to win the battle for France; and

WHEREAS, at 2:06 A.M. on June 6, 1944, Lieutenant Horne leapt from his transport plane and parachuted into Normandy; and

WHEREAS, after weeks of fighting to gain ground against the enemy, Lieutenant Horne was at the head of an infantry column that was advancing on a German-held town when he was stopped by a staff car and asked to be photographed; and

WHEREAS, Lieutenant Horne was injured by shellfire in July 1944, and as he healed from his injuries in England he saw his photo on the cover of LIFE magazine; and

WHEREAS, after he returned home from the war, Lieutenant Horne continued to serve his country with the United States Postal Service; and

WHEREAS, it is only fitting and proper that a lasting tribute to Lieutenant Horne's memory and life of service to his country be established.

PART XVIII

WHEREAS, Hugh Carroll Butler was born on September 1, 1934, in Ramhurst, Georgia, and passed away on December 22, 2010; and

WHEREAS, he lived in Port Wentworth, Georgia, for 48 years after moving to the area with his wife while serving in the United States Air Force; and

WHEREAS, he was a member of the city council of Port Wentworth for 20 years; and

WHEREAS, he served for many years as the chairman of the Good Samaritan Committee of Port Wentworth, which was formed to help travelers in need of assistance and to deliver baskets of food to needy families during the Christmas season; and

WHEREAS, Carroll was a member of the Lions Club for over 25 years and served as its president on several occasions; and

WHEREAS, he was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Port Wentworth for 45 years, serving as a deacon and Sunday school director; and

WHEREAS, he and his wife of nearly 55 years, Carolyn Scott Butler, were blessed with two children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, it is only fitting and proper that the life well lived of Hugh Carroll Butler, with his devotion to his family, his church, his community, and his country, be memorialized with a lasting monument.

PART XIX

WHEREAS, Mr. Jim Wetherington has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role he has played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wetherington diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced dramatically by his superlative service to the Columbus Police Department, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, and the Department of Corrections; and

WHEREAS, he earned a bachelor's degree from Columbus State University and a master's degree from Georgia State University; and

WHEREAS, he served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Army; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wetherington served as president of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, an organization which recognized him as Police Chief of the Year in 1994; and

WHEREAS, his significant organizational and leadership talents, his remarkable patience and diplomacy, his keen sense of vision, and his sensitivity to the needs of the citizens of this state earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and associates; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the extraordinary accomplishments of this distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.

PART XX

WHEREAS, Mrs. Glenda and Dr. John Covington have been residents of Paulding County, Georgia, since 1958; and

WHEREAS, in addition to a establishing a thriving and caring medical practice in Paulding County, Dr. Covington opened a local branch of Citizens Bank and a savings and loan bank; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Covington served as Paulding County's medical examiner for several years, is a founding member of the county chapter of the Jaycees, and built the medical arts clinic/hospital in the 1960's; and

WHEREAS, he has been recognized with numerous honors and accolades, including Jaycees 1970's Citizen of the Year and the 2010 Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year; and

WHEREAS, Dr. and Mrs. Covington's six remarkable children inspired them to ensure all children of Paulding County had access to a safe place to play, and they were instrumental in the building of the recreation center in Dallas; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the extraordinary accomplishments of these distinguished Georgians be appropriately recognized.

PART XXI

WHEREAS, the freedoms that we as Americans enjoy are guarded by the men and women who proudly serve in our country's armed forces; and

WHEREAS, Sergeant Major James E. Jones, a citizen of the town of Alapaha in Berrien County, went missing in action and was presumably killed on October 6, 1966, while on an intelligence gathering mission in Laos with the United States Army's Fifth Special Forces; and

WHEREAS, Sergeant Major Jones was serving his second tour of duty in Southeast Asia at the time he was declared missing in action; and

WHEREAS, it is only fitting and proper that this American hero be honored by dedicating a bridge in his honor.

PART XXII

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia contains countless historical sites and geographical regions which are rich in educational and recreational features; and

WHEREAS, the Metro Atlanta Region contains many features which reach back to Georgia's diverse and fascinating heritage, including the cultural and historical development along this historic trail; and

WHEREAS, the Pulitzer Prize winning author of Gone With the Wind, Margaret Mitchell, whose novel continues to sell in record numbers after 75 years in print, attracts visitors internationally and domestically to the area, providing an economic impact to the State of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Gone With the Wind continues to promote diversity through Margaret Mitchell's support of Morehouse College for more than 60 years, as well as her work in helping to integrate the Atlanta Police Department and establishing both Caucasian and African-American clinics at Grady Hospital in Atlanta; and

WHEREAS, the designated sites, while being individually significant, would provide a stronger and more lasting impact on tourism as a legislated partnership in the form of a Gone With the Wind Trail; and

WHEREAS, it is important in preserving representations of this past and heritage, and in promoting future economic growth, that this site and region be identified, marketed, promoted, and managed; and

WHEREAS, the designation of the Georgia Gone With the Wind Trail serves to enhance visibility and recognition for our state both nationally and internationally.

PART XXIII

WHEREAS, Mr. John Flournoy has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that he has played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Columbus High School and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Mr. Flournoy is the founder and CEO of Flournoy Development Company, Flournoy Construction Company, and Flournoy Properties; and

WHEREAS, his companies have been involved in residential, industrial, and commercial construction in the Southeast for 44 years and never failed to complete a contract; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Flournoy served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Marine Corps as a fighter pilot during the Vietnam War and has been decorated with 15 air medals and the Navy Distinguished Flying Cross; and

WHEREAS, he has earned the highest civilian award for support of the infantry, the Order of St. Maurice from the Infantry Commandant, and the Nobel Patron of Armor from the Armor Commandant for his support of all Armor soldiers; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Flournoy has diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced dramatically by his superlative service for 44 years with the Boys and Girls Club; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding contributions of this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized.

PART XXIV

WHEREAS, Mr. Thomas R. "Tommie" Irvin was a seventh generation Georgian who attended high school in Habersham County, where he was a talented athlete and member of the football, basketball, and baseball teams; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Irvin served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States military during World War II, achieved the rank of sergeant in Company K 245th infantry Regiment 63rd Division, and was decorated with a bronze star, good conduct medal, World War II victory medal, and occupation medal; and

WHEREAS, upon his return from the war, Mr. Irvin found his passion in car racing and raced on the famed Daytona Beach road course and Soldiers Field in Chicago before becoming the 16th member of NASCAR in the late 1940s; and

WHEREAS, an inductee in the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, he won his biggest race in 1955 at Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta and opened the Banks County Speedway, which became the starting place for many young drivers who later became famous; and

WHEREAS, a passionate coon hunter, Mr. Irvin won the World Championship for coon hunting in 1973, and he raised many Redbone Coonhounds that became show and hunting champions; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Irvin was a dedicated public servant, devoting his time and energy to the Georgia Department of Agriculture for 34 years before his retirement from his position as head of the Equine Division; and

WHEREAS, he was united in love and marriage to his wife, Sara Alice, and he was blessed with four children, Yvonne, Bruce, Bobby, and Danny; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, it is only fitting and proper that the life and memory of Mr. Irvin be appropriately recognized.

PART XXV

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AND ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA that:

(1) The bridge on Catoosa Parkway over Tiger Creek in Catoosa County is dedicated as the Bert Ward Memorial Bridge;

(2) The entire length of Snapfinger Road in DeKalb County from its intersection with Wesley Chapel Road to the Henry County line is dedicated as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway;

(3) This body desires to honor Roy Parrish by renaming the portion of US 27/SR 1 from the city limits of Fort Oglethorpe south to Shields Crossing as the Roy Parrish Parkway;

(4) The portion of State Route 92 in Cherokee County from Neese Road to Trickum Road is dedicated as the Johnny Hunt Highway;

(5) This body hereby joins in honoring veterans of the Korean War and dedicates Interstate 59 in Dade County from the Alabama state line to the interchange with I-24 as the Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway;

(6) This body hereby joins in honoring the life and memory of Marine Lance Corporal William Taylor Richards and dedicates the portion of Highway 11 in Dade County from the Alabama state line to the Tennessee state line as the Lance Corporal William Taylor Richards Memorial Highway;

(7) The interchange at Interstate 575 and Ridgewalk Parkway in the City of Woodstock is dedicated as the William G. Long Interchange at Ridgewalk Parkway;

(8) This body hereby joins in honoring the life and memory of Mr. Preston B. Lewis, Jr., and dedicates the portion of U.S. Highway 25N from Waynesboro to Walnut Branch as the Preston B. Lewis, Jr., Memorial Highway;

(9) The portion of Interstate Route 520 in Richmond County from Exit 2 (Wrightsboro Road) to Exit 3 (Gordon Highway) is dedicated as the Deputy James D. Paugh Memorial Highway;

(10) That US 441 in Coffee County from the Douglas city limits to the Atkinson County line is dedicated as the John S. Gibson Memorial Highway;

(11) That this body hereby joins in recognizing Ricky Fitzpatrick's "Highway 98" and dedicates State Route 98 from Commerce to Ila as the "Highway 98" by Ricky Fitzpatrick Highway;

(12) That the portion of State Route 4 in Richmond County from Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to Laney Walker Boulevard is dedicated as the Ruth B. Crawford Highway;

(13) That the interchange of U.S. Route 78/State Route 10 with Interstate Route 520 in Augusta-Richmond County is dedicated as the Deputy James D. Paugh Memorial Interchange;

(14) That the bridge on SR 12/US 278 over Richland Creek in Greene County is dedicated as the John B. Box Memorial Bridge;

(15) That United States Highway 27 in Haralson County from the Polk County line to the Carroll County line is dedicated as the Harold Shedd Highway;

(16) That the portion of SR 2/US 411 in Murray County between the Eton city line and Cohutta Springs Road is dedicated as the Charles N. "Judy" Poag Memorial Highway;

(17) That this body hereby joins in honoring the life and memory of Lieutenant Kelso C. Horne and dedicates the portion of U.S. Route 441/State Route 117 in Laurens County from State Route 19 to U.S. Route 80 as the Kelso Horne Memorial Highway;

(18) That the bridge on SR 25 over the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks in the city limits of Port Wentworth in Chatham County is dedicated as the Hugh Carroll Butler Memorial Bridge;

(19) That the interchange at Interstate 85 and J.R. Allen Parkway in Muscogee County is dedicated as the Jim Wetherington Interchange;

(20) That Highway 92N in Paulding County from its intersection with U.S. 278 to GA 120 is dedicated as the Mrs. Glenda and Dr. John Covington Highway;

(21) That the bridge over the Alapaha River on U.S. Highway 82 East in Berrien County be dedicated as the Sergeant Major James E. Jones Memorial Bridge;

(22) That the appropriate public roads and highways identified within Marietta, Atlanta, and Jonesboro by the Georgia Gone With the Wind Trail Committee with input from the appropriate county and municipal governing authorities be designated as the Georgia Gone With the Wind Trail;

(23) That the interchange of Interstate 185/State Route 411 with State Route 520/State Route 1 in Muscogee County is dedicated as the John Flournoy Interchange;

(24) That this body hereby joins in honoring the life and memory of Mr. Thomas R. "Tommie" Irvin and dedicates the intersection of Highway 441 and Apple Pie Ridge Road in Banks County as the Tommie Irvin Memorial Intersection;

(25) That Part XVI and the sixteenth undesignated paragraph of Part XIX of Senate Resolution 1075 (Ga. L. 2010, p. 362) are hereby repealed;

(26) That Part V and the fifth undesignated paragraph of Part XXVIII of House Resolution 507 (Ga. L. 2011, p. 900) are hereby repealed;

(27) The Department of Transportation is authorized and directed to erect and maintain appropriate signs dedicating the road facilities named in this resolution; and

(28) The Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit appropriate copies of this resolution to the Department of Transportation, the family of Mr. Bert Ward, the family of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., the family of Roy Parrish, Jr., the family of Dr. Johnny M. Hunt, and the family of Marine Lance Corporal William Tyler Richards, the Honorable William G. Long, the family of Mr. Preston B. Lewis, Jr., the family of Mr. John S. Gibson, Ricky Fitzpartick, Mrs. Ruth B. Crawford, the family of Deputy James D. Paugh, the family of Mr. John B. Box, Harold Shedd, the family of Mr. Charles N. "Judy" Poag, the family of Lieutenant Kelso C. Horne, the family of Mr. Hugh Carroll Butler, Mr. Jim Wetherington, Mrs. Glenda and Dr. John Covington, the family of Sergeant Major James E. Jones, Mr. John Flournoy, and the family of Mr. Thomas R. "Tommie" Irwin.