Standing with Israel

Earlier this year, Dayle and I were blessed to join Governor Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp on an official economic development mission to Israel.  While there we were stunned by the many historic sites we had the opportunity to visit.  We were also struck by the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Israelis welcoming us into their homeland.

This month, however, Hamas terrorists launched a barbaric assault against the nation of Israel and the Jewish people with the single, expressed goal of eradicating both from the face of the earth.  This heinous act has begun a conflict that could easily spiral into full scale war – and Hamas terrorists are solely to blame.

I was proud to join with every member of the House Republican Caucus in signing a letter condemning Hamas for its many acts of terrorism and expressing our unequivocal support for Israel.  I was honored that our chamber’s sole Jewish member also signed our letter even though she is from a different political party.  Defense of innocent lives and standing in solidarity with one of America’s strongest allies should be full and complete.  If Israel falls, the ramifications could be dire for freedom-loving people everywhere.

We continue to pray for the many Israelis, Americans and others who have been killed, injured or taken hostage by the terrorists.  We pray that God’s will be done and that Israel’s enemies are once again defeated.

Turning the Page:  Spotlighting Literacy

We continue to focus on the importance of literacy – recognizing that reading at an early age is fundamental to success later in school and in career.  My wife, Dayle, addressed the Georgia Council on Literacy at Kennesaw State University last week.  A retired educator, mother, and grandmother, Dayle cares deeply for Georgia’s children and their future.  She continues to work tirelessly to advocate for students, parents and teachers as we work together to improve literacy among Georgia’s early childhood students.

Closer to home, I had the pleasure of joining former professional football player and UGA Bulldog Malcolm Mitchell at a reading rally in Effingham County last Tuesday.  Malcom has dedicated much of his time and energy toward sharing the joy of reading with children – authoring three children’s books to date.

Also on Tuesday, I was glad to join students at Guyton Elementary to read to them.  Reading to students is a joy and one that hopefully helps to inspire them on a lifelong love of books.  Thanks to the teachers and administrators for inviting me into the classroom!

Speaking with Georgia’s Business Leaders

Last Thursday, I enjoyed sitting down with the Executive Committee of the Metro Atlanta Chamber.  Representing some of Georgia’s largest employers like Southern Company, Delta, Coca-Cola, UPS and Home Depot, this group of executives shared their thoughts on critical public policy issues like public safety, education, and workforce development.

I shared with them the good work that our House of Representatives has ongoing to keep our streets safe, educate Georgia’s students and keep our tax structure geared for job growth and creation.  As the nation’s #1 state for business for 10 years now, Georgia has a proud record of success with the public and private sector working shoulder to shoulder to spur economic development and job creation.  We will continue to make sure that Georgians in every corner of our state have access to good paying jobs regardless of their zip code.

I always appreciate hearing from business owners and managers – of small or large businesses – to hear their concerns and to continue working together to keep our state the envy of the nation.