Press Releases


For Immediate Release
June 7, 2023

CONTACT: Carol Chancey, 678-492-3161
info@morelandadventure.com

New Sporting Event Honors Amateur Athlete Lewis Grizzard

MORELAND, GA. Enthusiasts of sports, journalists, and local celebrities team up in the new LEWIS GRIZZARD GAMES 2023 to honor the talented amateur athlete and sports editor from Coweta County who became best known for his pointed opinions, humor, and writing. To engage many age groups with the author, the Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance, Inc. (MCAA) ,which operates the museum dedicated to Lewis, inaugurates this new event. The Lewis Grizzard Games 2023 offers fans and average amateur athletes this series of sporting games and competitions, just like Lewis would have played. As a boy, Lewis relished any game played with a ball. In his youth at high school, he lettered in baseball and basketball. Organized sports or just pick-up games with his buddies, Lewis never lost his passion for sports. As an adult he was an avid golfer and tennis player. As a journalist, Lewis became the youngest executive sports editor at the Atlanta newspapers at the age of twenty three.
In partnership with the Coweta County Parks and Recreation Department and the Coweta County Sports Hall of Fame, MCAA offers this just for summer fun series, the Lewis Grizzard Games 2023 which includes three events: June 22, KICK-OFF at Sprayberry’s BBQ; June 23 YOUTH GAMES and June 24 CELEBRITY AND ADULT GAMES, all games will be played at Temple Avenue Recreation Complex in Newnan. Games ,competitions, and spectating are free.
On Thursday, June 22 beginning at four o’clock the Games will Kick Off with a celebration at Sprayberry’s Barbeque in Newnan. The celebration will give visitors a chance to hear from some of Lewis’ friends about his childhood and love of all ball games, enjoy music, and enter drawings for prizes. For those who enjoy nostalgia, they can compete in a “BEST DRESSED 1950s-60s” costume contest. Three winners will receive a variety of prizes from local businesses. Diners can purchase delectables from Lewis’ favorite BBQ restaurant, Sprayberry’s BBQ which according to Lewis is ‘simply the best barbeque joint on earth.’
On Friday, June 23 the Youth Games will begin at the Temple Avenue Recreation Complex of the Coweta County Parks and Recreation Department. From 9am-1pm young ball players, 10-15 years of age, will compete in softball and basketball games and competitions. No skill level required. These games are just for fun. The games are free. All players must register to play. Players under 15 must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Those who register and play will be entered in drawings for prizes. The GRAND PRIZE is a $250 Gift Card from Academy Sports. Registration info can be found on morelandadventure.com/events.
Saturday, June 24 the Celebrity Finale and the Adult Games will cap off the series of competitions. Sports journalists, writers, and local celebrities will play a finale exhibition softball game. Adults who want to play ball will compete in softball and basketball competitions during the day. All activities are free. All must register to play. Registration info can be found on morelandadventue.com/events. All those who register and play will be entered in drawings for prizes. The GRAND PRIZE for the Adult Games is a $250 VISA Gift Card for summer fun. Visitors and players will find food for purchase and plenty of fun and music at both the Youth and Adult Games. Celebrating area athletes, the Coweta County Sports Hall of Fame will have a display on site honoring some of the exceptional athletes from the county. The Lewis Grizzard GAMES 2023 is sponsored by the Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance
which is the non-profit organization operating the museum devoted to the native author, the MORELAND HOMETOWN HERITAGE MUSEUM: A Tribute to Lewis Grizzard. The museum will open at 1-3pm on Game Days, June22 -24, for visitors to see new personal items and sporting equipment on display from the author-athlete’s personal belongings. Visitors are welcome weekly 10am-3pm Thursday-Saturday and by appointment.
For more details: morelandadventure.com or 678-492-3161 or info@morelandadventure.com.
About Lewis Grizzard
Born October 20, 1946, Lewis M. Grizzard, Jr. moved to Moreland at the young age of seven with his mother after his parents divorced; he was born at Ft. Benning, Georgia. Lewis attended Moreland Elementary School where his mother taught. From a young age, Lewis aspired to become a sports journalist. He was an avid athlete and admirer of every sport. Like his Army vet father, Lewis excelled in basketball and baseball, lettering in both at Newnan High School. Lewis attended the University of Georgia on an academic scholarship and began his journalism career as a sportswriter; he earned the desk of sports editor at the Atlanta Journal at the age of 23 , the paper’s youngest sports editor. Grizzard always maintained his love of athletics as a player, commentator, and even sponsor. He continued playing sports as an adult, mastering tennis and his beloved golf. Later in life Grizzard organized and sponsored tournaments. Most remarkably, Grizzard continued playing sports throughout his life with a serious congenital heart condition which resulted in many surgeries; he died after heart surgery at the age of 47 , March 20, 1994.
Best known for his humor and distinctive narratives based on his outspoken and unique point of view, Grizzard wrote a regular newspaper column syndicated in 400 newspapers and published 21 books-18 of which were New York Times Bestsellers. Lewis entertained audiences with his stand-up comedy and his sitcom performance in “Designing Women” as well as writing and performing original music.

LEWIS GRIZZARD GAMES

June 22-24

KICK-OFF

Thursday, June 22 4:30pm

Sprayberry’s BBQ

229 Jackson St. Newnan, GA 30263

Music, prize give aways and contests. Dine at Lewis favorite BBQ restaurant!

Ceremonies honoring Lewis Grizzard kick off a weekend of fun.

YOUTH GAMES

Friday, June 23 9am-1pm

Temple Avenue Complex

Coweta County Parks & Recreation Dept.

39 Hospital Rd. Newnan, GA 30263

Young athletes compete in Softball and Basketball Games and Contests.

FINALE

Lewis Grizzard Invitational Softball Game

Saturday, June 24 9am-1pm

Temple Avenue Complex

Coweta County Parks & Recreation Dept.

39 Hospital Rd. Newnan, GA 30263

Sports journalists and area celebrities face off in this exhibition game.

Open competition for adults to play softball and basketball games and contests.


For Immediate Release

June 7, 2023

CONTACT: E. Lane Gresham, Director of Communications and Media
egresham3@gsu.edu

Prevent Child Abuse Georgia responds to Uber lowering age for riders

When considering the recent ask for recommendations by Fox Business News, Atlanta Bureau regarding Uber’s new feature allowing minors between the ages of 13-17 to ride unaccompanied by an adult, our reaction was to recommend a cautionary approach.

Most caregivers struggle to meet the transportation needs of children at some point, like when a child misses the school bus. But I am skeptical about this app’s balance in providing transportation to children while ensuring their safety.

Reading further on the safety features Uber has established, the company has tried to elevate the safety of minors while in the company of the driver as they are en route to their destination.

The app requires parental permission to set up the teen account, share route status with a caregiver, offers the availability of audio recording during the trip, and will only take youth to locations in the same city.

Uber also requires all drivers to complete a background check, which at the surface level is an appropriate protocol, but how far back and how deep do they search on the driver’s known address history? Even then, many things of concern would not be reflected in a criminal background check. Following best practices in child protection, we recommend Uber screen drivers by requiring references and asking the reference, “Is there anything that would concern you knowing the applicant would have direct access to children?”

There are also potential concerns about the events surrounding the Uber trip.

  • Youth can request rides without parental consent for each trip. Parental permission is blanketed across the use of the app once the parent has approved the app for the youth during the account registration.
  • Youth may have other youth passengers in the car with them. Those youth are also required to have parental permission to take an Uber without an adult, but the consent is assumed not enforced.
  • Child predators seek one-on-one access to children. Uber drivers who seek additional contact information or try to connect with the youth beyond the trip should be cause for alarm and immediately reported to Uber.

Even when transportation plans are in place, things happen! Ideally, a trusted parent, friend, or neighbor can step in, but sometimes the need arises to call on alternative transportation, such as Uber. We advise parents to proceed cautiously and have established safety boundaries and practices with youth. These can include:

  • Using the audio recording option or having a trusted adult stay on the phone with the youth while they are in the Uber
  • An understanding of when requesting Uber trips is allowable and if prior parental permission is needed
  • Having rules about who can be in the car with them
  • A boundary that the youth should never give out personal information or contact information to the Uber driver

Ultimately, it is the responsibility of adults to protect our children. This starts with educating all adults on how to be vigilant and recognize, prevent, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse and any other form of child abuse or neglect.

Having consistent age-appropriate conversations with our children about healthy touch and safety concepts empowers them to guard against potential abuse no matter who the person is or the level of authority over the child.

Training to prevent child sexual abuse and exploitation is available to every parent, grandparent, and community member; any youth-serving company, including Uber, should require it. This guides companies in improving policies and procedures, clarifying accountability measures for staff on how to report violations, and transparency regarding violations of policies and how these will be thoroughly investigated.

We all have a role to play in protecting our children. Please learn more and share your knowledge and resources within your circle of influence. Become a prevention ambassador for Georgia’s children by attending prevention training; learn more here.

Jennifer Stein serves as the Executive Director for Prevent Child Abuse Georgia. She can be reached at jstein@gsu.edu. PCA Georgia is housed at Georgia State University and is a vital unit of the Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development in the School of Public Health.


For Immediate Release
May 29, 2023

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Line
404-506-7676

Vogtle Unit 3 Reaches 100 Percent Energy Output for the First Time 

Final series of testing remains before the first newly constructed nuclear unit in the U.S. in over 30 years enters service

For more on this story, click here to see a video from Georgia Power.

ATLANTA – May 29, 2023 – Georgia Power announced today Vogtle Unit 3 has safely reached 100 percent power, marking a major milestone towards commercial operation and service for customers. This milestone marks the maximum energy the unit is licensed to produce in the reactor core and is the first time the unit has reached its expected output of approximately 1,100 electric MW, which can power an estimated 500,000 homes and businesses.

“Unit 3 is currently undergoing testing through the full range of plant operations, including safely running at various power levels and operating through real-life conditions just as it will over the next 60 to 80 years after the unit enters commercial operation,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “As we enter the final stages of startup testing, reaching 100 percent power for the first time is an exciting milestone. It tells us we’re close to finishing the unit safely and bringing it online to power Georgia homes and businesses with reliable, emissions-free energy for decades to come.”

In alignment with the testing performed throughout power ascension, testing at the 100 percent power level is focused on the operation of the reactor, plant control systems for the reactor and support systems, and integrated plant operations. Plant performance is monitored at various conditions and data is gathered and evaluated by site engineers. With the unit reaching full power for the first time, other tests must be performed at this power level before the unit is available for reliable dispatch in accordance with its combined operating license.

Once all startup testing is successfully completed and the unit is available for reliable dispatch, Vogtle Unit 3 will enter commercial operation. Unit 3 is projected to be placed in service during June 2023.

Other Recent Milestones Across Vogtle 3 & 4:

  • Receipt of Nuclear Fuel (Unit 4) – Vogtle Unit 4 began receiving nuclear fuel this month. A total of 157 fuel assemblies necessary for the safe and reliable startup of Unit 4 are currently arriving by truck in shipping cannisters designed to transport non-irradiated uranium fuel assemblies. Once delivered, assemblies are removed from the cannisters, one-by-one, and lifted into the fuel handling area, where they are inspected and safely stored in a fuel vault prior to fuel load, which is projected to occur later this year.
  • Completion of Hot Functional Testing (Unit 4) – Hot functional testing for Unit 4 was completed on May 1, 2022.  Read more.
  • Synchronization to the Grid (Unit 3) – In April, Vogtle Unit 3 generated electricity for the first time, and successfully synchronized and connected to the electric grid. Read more.
  • Initial Criticality (Unit 3) – In March, for the first time, operators safely started the nuclear reaction inside the reactor, resulting in atoms being split and nuclear heat being produced, which is used to produce steam. Read more.

The new Vogtle units are an essential part of Georgia Power’s commitment to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy to its 2.7 million customers. Once operating, the two new units will be clean energy sources that produce zero emissions. Southern Nuclear will operate the new units on behalf of the co-owners: Georgia Power, Oglethorpe Power, MEAG Power and Dalton Utilities.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this release is forward-looking information based on current expectations and plans that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information includes, among other things, statements concerning future operations of and the projected in-service date for Plant Vogtle Units 3 and the projected fuel load timing for Unit 4. Georgia Power cautions that there are certain factors that can cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information that has been provided. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is not a guarantee of future performance and is subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Georgia Power; accordingly, there can be no assurance that such suggested results will be realized. The following factors, in addition to those discussed in Georgia Power’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and subsequent securities filings, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations as suggested by such forward-looking information: the potential effects of the continued COVID-19 pandemic; the ability to control costs and avoid cost and schedule overruns during the development, construction, and operation of facilities or other projects, including Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, which includes components based on new technology that only within the last few years began initial operation in the global nuclear industry at this scale, due to current and/or future challenges which include, but are not limited to, changes in labor costs, availability and productivity, challenges with the management of contractors or vendors, subcontractor performance, adverse weather conditions, shortages, delays, increased costs, or inconsistent quality of equipment, materials, and labor, contractor or supplier delay, the impacts of inflation, delays due to judicial or regulatory action, nonperformance under construction, operating, or other agreements, operational readiness, including specialized operator training and required site safety programs, engineering or design problems or any remediation related thereto, design and other licensing-based compliance matters, including, for Plant Vogtle Unit 4, inspections and the timely submittal by Southern Nuclear of the Inspections, Tests, Analyses, and Acceptance Criteria documentation and the related investigations, reviews and approvals by the NRC necessary to support NRC authorization to load fuel, challenges with start-up activities, including major equipment failure, or system integration, and/or operational performance, continued challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic or future pandemic health events, continued public and policymaker support for projects, environmental and geological conditions, delays or increased costs to interconnect facilities to transmission grids, and increased financing costs as a result of changes in market interest rates or as a result of project delays; the ability to overcome or mitigate the current challenges at Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 that could further impact the cost and schedule for the project; legal proceedings and regulatory approvals and actions related to construction projects, such as Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, including Public Service Commission approvals and NRC actions; under certain specified circumstances, a decision by holders of more than 10% of the ownership interests of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 not to proceed with construction; the notices of tender by Oglethorpe Power Corporation and the City of Dalton of a portion of their ownership interests in Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 to Georgia Power, including related litigation; the ability to construct facilities in accordance with the requirements of permits and licenses (including satisfaction of NRC requirements), to satisfy any environmental performance standards and the requirements of tax credits and other incentives, and to integrate facilities into the Southern Company system upon completion of construction; the inherent risks involved in operating and constructing nuclear generating facilities; the ability of counterparties of Georgia Power to make payments as and when due and to perform as required; the direct or indirect effect on Georgia Power’s business resulting from cyber intrusion or physical attack and the threat of cyber and physical attacks; catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, explosions, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and other storms, droughts, pandemic health events, political unrest, wars or other similar occurrences; and the direct or indirect effects on Georgia Power’s business resulting from incidents affecting the U.S. electric grid or operation of generating or storage resources. Georgia Power expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward–looking information.


For Immediate Release
May 9, 2023

CONTACT: Andy Harrison
404-710-1196
Georgia Dept. of Agriculture
19 Martin Luther King Drive
Room 324
Atlanta, Ga. 30334

Georgia Agriculture Commodity Commission Seeking Nominations

The following Georgia Agriculture Commodity Commissions are seeking nominations of producers to serve on the following  commodity commissions-

Apple

Blueberry

Corn

Cotton

Equine

Milk

Peaches

Pecan

Soybean

Tobacco

Vegetable

Wine & Grape

Citrus

A producer can nominate themself, be nominated by someone else, or by an affiliated organization of that commodity. Appointments for the commissions are made by the Commodity Commission Ex Officio Committee in July and a term for a commission appointment is three years. A commission member can be reappointed for additional terms. A commission member’s responsibility is to represent the producers of that commodity by attending periodic meetings and making decisions on behalf of the producers.

Georgia Agriculture Commodity Commissions were created by the Georgia General Assembly starting in the sixties at the request of the producers of the commodity. These commissions help producers by representing and supporting the commodity. Funds or assessment collected through farmer approved market order may be used for research, education, and promotion of the commodity. Most of the commissions allocate a vast portion of the funds to research projects.

Nomination forms can be found at – agr.georgia.gov/cpf, under the nomination form tab or by emailing  andy.harrison@agr.georgia.gov. Nominations will be accepted through Friday May26th by email or mail at

Andy Harrison

Georgia Dept of Agriculture

19 Martin Luther King Dr

Room 324

Atlanta, GA 30334

For more information contact Andy Harrison at 404 710 1196.


 
For Immediate Release
May 1, 2023

CONTACT: Media Relations
404-506-7676, 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Hot Functional Testing Completed for Vogtle Unit 4

Completion of hot functional testing marks major step towards commercial operations

ATLANTA – May 1, 2023 – Georgia Power today announced the completion of hot functional testing for Unit 4 at the Vogtle nuclear expansion project near Waynesboro, Ga. The completion of hot functional testing marks a significant step towards operations and providing customers with a reliable, carbon-free energy source for the next 60 to 80 years. Unit 4 is projected to enter service in late fourth quarter 2023 or the first quarter 2024.

“The energy and enthusiasm at the Vogtle site, and across our entire company, is high with Unit 3 in the final stages of startup testing and Unit 4 making progress towards safely loading fuel,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “The team at Unit 4 has been able to take lessons learned from Unit 3 and apply them. That has allowed us to safely complete hot functional testing on Unit 4 in significantly less time than we did for Unit 3. It’s incredible that these new units will provide our state with zero-emissions energy for the next 60 to 80 years, and that’s thanks to the dedication of the teams at the site to getting these units built, and built right.”

During hot functional testing, plant systems achieved normal operating pressure and temperature, without nuclear fuel in the reactor, to demonstrate the systems will operate on an integrated basis as designed. Now, the site team focuses on completing the remaining work necessary to submit documentation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) that all inspection, tests and analyses have been performed and all acceptance criteria, collectively known as ITAACS, have been met on Vogtle Unit 4 as required by Southern Nuclear’s Combined Operating License. Each ITAAC closure notice must be verified by the NRC before fuel can be loaded into the reactor.

The new Vogtle units are an essential part of Georgia Power’s commitment to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy to its 2.7 million customers. Once operating, the two new units, which will be clean energy sources that produce zero emissions, are expected to power more than 500,000 homes and businesses. Southern Nuclear will operate the new units on behalf of the co-owners: Georgia Power, Oglethorpe Power, MEAG Power and Dalton Utilities.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this release is forward-looking information based on current expectations and plans that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information includes, among other things, statements concerning future operations of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 and the projected in-service date for Plant Vogtle Unit 4. Georgia Power cautions that there are certain factors that can cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information that has been provided. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is not a guarantee of future performance and is subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Georgia Power; accordingly, there can be no assurance that such suggested results will be realized. The following factors, in addition to those discussed in Georgia Power’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, and subsequent securities filings, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations as suggested by such forward-looking information: the ability to control costs and avoid cost and schedule overruns during the development, construction, and operation of facilities or other projects, including Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, which includes components based on new technology that only within the last few years began initial operation in the global nuclear industry at this scale, due to current and/or future challenges which include, but are not limited to, changes in labor costs, availability and productivity, challenges with the management of contractors or vendors, subcontractor performance, adverse weather conditions, shortages, delays, increased costs, or inconsistent quality of equipment, materials, and labor, contractor or supplier delay, the impacts of inflation, delays due to judicial or regulatory action, nonperformance under construction, operating, or other agreements, operational readiness, including specialized operator training and required site safety programs, engineering or design problems or any remediation related thereto, design and other licensing-based compliance matters, including, for Plant Vogtle Unit 4, inspections and the timely submittal by Southern Nuclear of the Inspections, Tests, Analyses, and Acceptance Criteria documentation and the related investigations, reviews and approvals by the NRC necessary to support NRC authorization to load fuel, challenges with start-up activities, including major equipment failure, or system integration, and/or operational performance, continued challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic or future pandemic health events, continued public and policymaker support for projects, environmental and geological conditions, delays or increased costs to interconnect facilities to transmission grids, and increased financing costs as a result of changes in market interest rates or as a result of project delays; the ability to overcome or mitigate the current challenges at Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 that could further impact the cost and schedule for the project; legal proceedings and regulatory approvals and actions related to construction projects, such as Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, including Public Service Commission approvals and NRC actions; under certain specified circumstances, a decision by holders of more than 10% of the ownership interests of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 not to proceed with construction; the notices of tender by Oglethorpe Power Corporation and the City of Dalton of a portion of their ownership interests in Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 to Georgia Power, including related litigation; the ability to construct facilities in accordance with the requirements of permits and licenses (including satisfaction of NRC requirements), to satisfy any environmental performance standards and the requirements of tax credits and other incentives, and to integrate facilities into the Southern Company system upon completion of construction; the inherent risks involved in operating and constructing nuclear generating facilities; the ability of counterparties of Georgia Power to make payments as and when due and to perform as required; the potential effects of the continued COVID-19 pandemic; the direct or indirect effect on Georgia Power’s business resulting from cyber intrusion or physical attack and the threat of cyber and physical attacks; catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, explosions, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and other storms, droughts, pandemic health events, political unrest, wars or other similar occurrences; and the direct or indirect effects on Georgia Power’s business resulting from incidents affecting the U.S. electric grid or operation of generating or storage resources. Georgia Power expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward–looking information.


For Immediate Release

May 1, 2023

CONTACT: Taylor Sills
478-696-3781, taylor@georgiacotton.org

Georgia Cotton Commission Mid-Year Meeting July 26, 2023

The Georgia Cotton Commission is pleased to announce the guest speakers at the Commission’s 2023 Mid-Year Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Nesmith-Lane Conference Center in Statesboro. The inaugural Mid-Year Meeting is held in conjunction with a UGA Cotton Pre-Harvest Workshop conducted by members of the UGA Research & Extension Cotton Team as well as the Georgia pre-harvest safety meeting of the Southeastern Cotton Ginners Association.  The UGA Cotton Pre-Harvest Workshop will feature sessions where attendees will receive a 2023 crop update and defoliation considerations, pre-harvest economic update and marketing considerations and late season pest management considerations.

The program speakers are Dr. Bart Fischer, Co-Director of the Agricultural and Food Policy Center at Texas A&M University and Mr. Hank Reichle, President and CEO of Staplcotn.

  • Bart Fischer currently serves as the Co-Director of the Agricultural & Food Policy Center at Texas A&M University and as Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics.  Dr. Fischer’s research focuses on solving real-world policy problems for agricultural producers and on anticipating potential policy changes for Congress to consider. Before joining the university in September 2019, he held roles with the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, most recently as the Deputy Staff Director & Chief Economist under the leadership of Congressman Mike Conaway.  Dr. Fischer holds degrees from Oklahoma State University, Cambridge University, and Texas A&M University.  Dr. Fischer is the 5th generation to be raised on his family’s wheat, cotton, and cattle operation in Southwest Oklahoma, where he continues to be actively involved.
  • Hank Reichle, Jr. is President and CEO of Staplcotn, headquartered in Greenwood, Mississippi.  Founded in 1921, Staplcotn is the oldest cotton marketing cooperative in the U.S., and it markets approximately 2.5 – 3 million bales of U.S. cotton annually on behalf of its more than 5,000 members. Hank, a Mississippi native, received his degree at the University of Mississippi. Reichle has been with Staplcotn since2004 and was promoted to the position of President and CEO of Staplcotn in 2018, after working in public accounting and for The Seam. Reichle serves on the boards of the National Cotton Council, AMCOT, The Seam, the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, and the Memphis Branch of the St. Louis Federal Reserve; and is also a former president of Cotton Council International. He is involved in several community and civic organizations and is active in his local church.

During the lunch program, Tillman White with the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol will provide an overview of the Protocol’s program and how producers can benefit from the Climate Smart Cotton Program as well as the presentation of the Georgia Quality Cotton Awards for the 2022 crop. Following lunch and to conclude the meeting, there will be a 2023 harvest preparation and panel discussion on the prevention of plastic contamination in cotton.

There is no charge to attend. Pre-registration is requested to help with meal plans.  Register online at https://academics.georgiasouthern.edu/ce/conferences/georgia-cotton-commissions-mid-year-meeting/  or call the Commission’s Office at (478) 988-4235

Thank you to our sponsors:
Stoneville/BASF – Deltapine/Bayer Crop Science – John Deere – Tama USA
Farm Credit Associations of Georgia – Phytogen/Corteva Agriscience

Ag America Lending – Agri Supply – Allenberg Cotton Company/ProCot
Americot, Inc.-NexGen – AMVAC – Choice Cotton Company – CNI – Custom Ag Formulators Durden Banking Company/Metter Bank – Farmers Business Network  – FMC
Helena Agri-Enterprises – Kelley Manufacturing Company – Magnolia Loom
McLean Marechal Insurance/Ag Insurance Advisors  – Nutrien Ag Solutions
Rabo AgriFinance – Rainbow Plant Food/Timac Agro USA – Smith Farm Supply
Southeast AgNet – Staplcotn – Syngenta – Tidewater/CASE-IH
Triangle Chemical Company – Triangle Insurance – UPL OpenAg –  Vantage Southeast
Yara NA


For Immediate Release

April 26, 2023

CONTACT: Walter Jones
770-260-6990, walter.jones@georgiaemc.com

Gov. Kemp Signs Bill Punishing Attacks on Utilities, Public Services

LAKE LANIER ISLANDS, Ga. – Gov. Brian Kemp signed legislation Wednesday protecting Georgians from criminal attacks that interrupt transmission lines for electricity, water, telephone and internet.

“This legislation will ensure Georgians are safeguarded against wrongdoers who – for whatever reasons – seek to interfere with the critical services of modern life, from water and sewage to electricity and broadband,” said Dennis Chastain, president of Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (EMC), the trade association for Georgia’s 41 electric cooperatives. “Protecting these services is vital to keeping Georgia both a good place to live and a good place to do business.”

Georgia’s electric cooperatives led the effort to pass House Bill 227, the Criminal Damage to Critical Infrastructure Act, sponsored by Rep. Rob Leverett, R-Elberton. The Senate sponsor was Sen. Bill Cowsert, R-Athens. Besides utilities, it also protects public transportation, hospitals, ambulances, prisons and fire services.

It was prompted by the December attacks on two substations in Moore County, N.C. that left in the dark 40,000 customers of Randolph EMC and Duke Energy. Federal officials reported there had been a 77 percent increase in direct physical attacks on the electric grid in 2022 from the previous year. In 2022, there were 163 attacks across more than three-dozen states, impacting about 90,000 customers.

This legislation provides penalties of up to 20 years in prison for those who deliberately damage critical infrastructure with the intention of disrupting service.

Other power companies and utilities groups – as well as the Georgia Chamber of Commerce – followed Georgia EMC’s lead in supporting the legislation which overwhelmingly passed the House and Senate during the session that ended four weeks ago.

Georgia Chamber of Commerce President Chris Clark celebrated Wednesday’s bill signing as important to the state’s prosperity.

“These vital resources are fundamental to the continued success of Georgia’s business community and the overall well-being of our citizens statewide,” he said. “The Georgia Chamber applauds Governor Kemp, Rep. Rob Leverett, and members of the General Assembly for prioritizing public safety and ensuring the security of our state’s diverse critical infrastructure network through HB 227.”

The measure takes effect July 1. Kemp signed it in a ceremony during the Sheriffs’ Association Conference at Lake Lanier Islands as part of a package of “law and order” bills.

Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 EMCs, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned EMCs provide electricity and related services to 4.4 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.


For Immediate Release

April 2, 2023

CONTACT: Georgia Power News Media Line
404-506-7676

Vogtle 3 and 4 Nuclear Units Take Significant Steps Toward Operations

Unit 3 successfully generates electricity, connects to grid for the first time; Unit 4 Hot Functional Testing began last month

Click here to see a short video about Plant Vogtle’s new progress.

ATLANTA – April 1, 2023 – Georgia Power announced today it has achieved another important milestone for the new nuclear units under construction at its Vogtle 3 & 4 nuclear expansion project near Waynesboro, Ga. The generator at Vogtle Unit 3 has generated electricity for the first time, and the unit has successfully synchronized and connected to the electric grid. Meanwhile, at Vogtle Unit 4, nuclear operators began hot functional testing last month. Both achievements represent significant steps toward operations.

“What an incredibly inspiring time to join Georgia Power as we celebrate this milestone that marks the first day of generating clean, reliable power at this new nuclear unit, which will serve our customers over the next 60 to 80 years,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “I consider myself very fortunate to have worked onsite at Vogtle 1 & 2 early in my career as an engineer, learning so much that I have carried with me over the years while also gaining an appreciation of the value of nuclear energy as a critical, long-term investment for our state. As we approach commercial operation for Unit 3, I know that every professional who has been involved in this project or worked at Plant Vogtle is proud of the role they have played in helping build a clean energy future for Georgia.”

Connecting to the electric grid is part of ongoing startup testing for Vogtle Unit 3, and operators will continue to raise reactor power for electricity generation while performing tests at various power levels.  This Unit 3 milestone follows initial criticality, reached on March 6, when operators safely started the nuclear reaction inside the reactor, generating nuclear heat to produce steam. Once all startup testing is successfully completed and the unit is available for reliable dispatch, the unit will enter commercial operation.

At Unit 4, hot functional testing, which began last month, marks the last series of major tests underway for the new nuclear unit ahead of initial fuel load. The testing is being conducted to verify the successful operation of reactor components and systems together and confirm the reactor is ready for fuel load. As part of the testing, the site team will begin running Unit 4 plant systems, without nuclear fuel in the reactor, and advance through the testing process towards reaching normal operating pressure and temperature. Nuclear operators will use the heat generated by the unit’s four reactor coolant pumps to raise the temperature and pressure of plant systems to normal operating levels. Once normal operating temperature and pressure levels are achieved and sustained, the unit’s main turbine will be raised to normal operating speed using steam from the plant. During these series of tests, nuclear operators will be able to exercise and validate procedures as required ahead of fuel load.

The in-service date for Unit 3 is projected during May or June 2023. Vogtle Unit 4 is projected to enter service in late fourth quarter 2023 or first quarter 2024.

The new Vogtle units are an essential part of Georgia Power’s commitment to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy to its 2.7 million customers. Once operating, the two new units, which will be clean energy sources that produce zero emissions, are expected to power more than 500,000 homes and businesses. Southern Nuclear will operate the new units on behalf of the co-owners: Georgia Power, Oglethorpe Power, MEAG Power and Dalton Utilities.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this release is forward-looking information based on current expectations and plans that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information includes, among other things, statements concerning future operations of and the projected in-service dates for Plant Vogtle Units 3 & 4. Georgia Power cautions that there are certain factors that can cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information that has been provided. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is not a guarantee of future performance and is subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Georgia Power; accordingly, there can be no assurance that such suggested results will be realized. The following factors, in addition to those discussed in Georgia Power’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and subsequent securities filings, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations as suggested by such forward-looking information: the potential effects of the continued COVID-19 pandemic; the ability to control costs and avoid cost and schedule overruns during the development, construction, and operation of facilities or other projects, including Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, which includes components based on new technology that only within the last few years began initial operation in the global nuclear industry at this scale, due to current and/or future challenges which include, but are not limited to, changes in labor costs, availability and productivity, challenges with the management of contractors or vendors, subcontractor performance, adverse weather conditions, shortages, delays, increased costs, or inconsistent quality of equipment, materials, and labor, contractor or supplier delay, the impacts of inflation, delays due to judicial or regulatory action, nonperformance under construction, operating, or other agreements, operational readiness, including specialized operator training and required site safety programs, engineering or design problems or any remediation related thereto, design and other licensing-based compliance matters, including, for Plant Vogtle Unit 4, inspections and the timely submittal by Southern Nuclear of the Inspections, Tests, Analyses, and Acceptance Criteria documentation and the related investigations, reviews and approvals by the NRC necessary to support NRC authorization to load fuel, challenges with start-up activities, including major equipment failure, or system integration, and/or operational performance, continued challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic or future pandemic health events, continued public and policymaker support for projects, environmental and geological conditions, delays or increased costs to interconnect facilities to transmission grids, and increased financing costs as a result of changes in market interest rates or as a result of project delays; the ability to overcome or mitigate the current challenges at Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 that could further impact the cost and schedule for the project; legal proceedings and regulatory approvals and actions related to construction projects, such as Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4, including Public Service Commission approvals and NRC actions; under certain specified circumstances, a decision by holders of more than 10% of the ownership interests of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 not to proceed with construction; the notices of tender by Oglethorpe Power Corporation and the City of Dalton of a portion of their ownership interests in Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 to Georgia Power, including related litigation; the ability to construct facilities in accordance with the requirements of permits and licenses (including satisfaction of NRC requirements), to satisfy any environmental performance standards and the requirements of tax credits and other incentives, and to integrate facilities into the Southern Company system upon completion of construction; the inherent risks involved in operating and constructing nuclear generating facilities; the ability of counterparties of Georgia Power to make payments as and when due and to perform as required; the direct or indirect effect on Georgia Power’s business resulting from cyber intrusion or physical attack and the threat of cyber and physical attacks; catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, explosions, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and other storms, droughts, pandemic health events, political unrest, wars or other similar occurrences; and the direct or indirect effects on Georgia Power’s business resulting from incidents affecting the U.S. electric grid or operation of generating or storage resources. Georgia Power expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward–looking information.


For Immediate Release

April 2, 2023

CONTACT: Hsien-Yu (Billy) Chung
Consular Officer
Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Atlanta
Email: hychung01@mofa.gov.tw

OpEd: Why China Shouldn’t Overreact on Taiwan President’s Transit to the US

President Tsai has every right to transit in the US to visit Central America. This is not the first time for President Tsai has had layovers in the US. In fact, this is her seventh time. As John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications in the National Security Council, stated, this is not an uncommon practice. “Every single Taiwan president in recent memory has done this.”

Transit in the US is also needed because there are no direct flights to Central America from Taiwan. In the words of State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel, transits are taken out of “safety and comfort and convenience and dignity”. He also pointed out that high-level officials have typically met with members of Congress during transits.

China has been attempting to whittle away Taiwan’s diplomatic allies to isolate Taiwan. Countries like Honduras switching their recognitions to China just days ago has led a greater Chinese impact in the U.S. backyard. This shows why President Tsai’s trip to Guatemala and Belize is even more consequential. Her trip not only assures continued relations between our countries. It also holds the intention of strengthening democracy and fostering mutual prosperity and development.

China, on the other hand, has been growing tie with the country that started the invasion of Ukraine, and it has never renounced the right to use force over Taiwan and has repeatedly asserted unlawful Maritimes claims in most of the South China Sea.

Regardless of Beijing’s rhetoric, the US, Taiwan and all the like-minded countries should never bow down to groundless threats. We must stand together for democracy and freedom.


For Immediate Release
March 30, 2023

CONTACT: Taylor Sills
Georgia Cotton Commission
Executive Director
taylor@georgiacotton.org
478-696-3781

Georgia Cotton Commission Approves 2024 Research

Perry, GA – The Georgia Cotton Commission Board of Directors approved $740,609 in research for the 2024 crop year during the March board meeting.

The money will fund 19 projects that will be conducted by University of Georgia researchers and extension specialists. Projects range from funding for the UGA cotton team to research on resistant weeds, evaluating the economics of conservation production, irrigation management and many more. The goal of this producer-funded research is to help cotton producers by conducting research that can either raise yields, promote efficiency or open new markets.

All projects are vetted by both the commission board of directors and State Support Committee, made up of cotton producers from across the state, and the commission’s research review committee, which is made up of researchers, crop consultants and local UGA Extension Agriculture/Natural Resource agents.

GCC Chairman Bart Davis, a cotton farmer from Colquitt County said, “Our board is committed to providing the cotton farmer valuable research that will make a positive impact on the farm. It is important for us to be good stewards of producers’ money and make strategic investments by funding research that benefits our growers and their operations.”

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry. The commission began its work in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the commission to invest in programs of research, promotion and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about the Georgia Cotton Commission, call (478) 988-4235 or go to the www.georgiacottoncommission.org website.

 

 

Press Releases from GPA are sent to GPA Active Members via email. They are also posted on this GPA webpage.

 

The cost for a press release is $100. Payment must be received in advance.
GPA accepts credit cards (Visa, Master Card, Discover — NO AMEX), checks or money orders.

 

To purchase with credit card, you must first complete an
authorization form, found here.
Please call 770-454-6776 to inform GPA that you will be returning the
authorization form by FAX.

 

GPA’S PRESS RELEASE SERVICE IS FREE FOR GPA ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

 

The release may contain text, photos, and logos. The text in the release must be typed and sent in a digital form in its completed form.

 

All press releases must contain at least one media contact person:
Name | Title | Phone Number | Email

 

All press releases contain the following disclaimer:
The content and accuracy of all information contained in these press releases are the responsibility of the originating company. All information contained in these press releases may be independently checked prior to any use or publication. Press Releases on this site are not necessarily the views of Georgia Press Association or its affiliates.

 

For additional information, contact the GPA Office at
770-454-6776 or sireland@gapress.org.