Hey Henry Archives

A list of all Hey Henrys

 from the Online Edition.

12.10.08

 Hey Henry, to all you freeloaders complaining about Moye’s Policy on their parking lot. How would you like it if everybody that came along parked in your front yard or your driveway? Park where you are supposed to park.

Hey Henry, a big thank you to the County litter pick up crew who so promptly picked up on 12/4 the mattress and furniture someone dumped on Iris Lake Rd in McDonough sometime on the afternoon of December 3. It is such a shame there are inconsiderate people in Henry County that would dump their trash on someone's private property. Shame on you!

Hey Henry, if you live in the City of McDonough you all should go to bbb.org and check out the companies bidding on the city trash pick up - CLM, Waste Management and All South Robertson. E-mail or call the Mayor and your Council Member and let them know that 72 complaints is not a company we want to rely on!

Hey Henry, thanks for getting the Courthouse clock fixed.

Hey Henry, if you didn’t come to Hampton for their Christmas parade and tree lighting, you missed a great night. Hampton is looking terrific!

Hey Henry, if you want a fun game to play, stop by the County administration building and count the number of people leaving before 5 p.m. Here is a tip: the closer they park to the building, the earlier they leave. Have fun!

Hey Henry. Does anybody know what's going on in Locust Grove in front of Moye's? Do you think something might be in the works to correct the left turn bottleneck? We can only hope.

Hey Henry. I agree that something needs to be done for the intersection of Highway 81 E. and Lake Dow Road. I think nothing more should be added to Heritage Park until the intersection is made safe.

Hey Henry, I thought that was so nice of the two ladies to be out there with their signs walking up and down in the cold as they supported Moye's. I totally agree with them, those spaces are for Tony's customers!

Hey Henry, congratulations to Chad Sanders and the mighty mite titans for winning first place in the Turkey Bowl this past weekend. Thanks to all the coaches who came together and helped make this all star team rock.

Hey Henry, when is the Fairview community going to have a parade or something special for Christmas?

Hey Henry, I wish the police would patrol the Atlanta Motor Speedway camping area better. There is underage drinking going on as well as kids driving their cars around there while drunk.

Hey Henry, to the person wanting to start a support group for those who have lost jobs. Who wants to sit around and listen to each other talk about not having a job, and wouldn't your time be better spent looking for a job?

Hey Henry, why do SUV owners think they own the highways? When they finally get in front of someone doing the speed limit, then they slow down to 35 mph. Hello.. people, please do the speed limit on these roads. I know gas is expensive, but I'd like to get to my destination on time.
 

12.03.08

 Hey Henry, once again a holiday season arrives, bringing with it many visitors who are not accustomed to the patterns of traffic, one-way streets, etc. Let's all be extra vigilant while driving.

Hey Henry, why is it the Henry County Recycling Center is such a mess? The bins for each recyclable are always spilling over. Does anyone ever empty them? Henry Cty. could take a lesson from Clayton Clean and Beautiful Recycling Center. I like to recycle, but the County doesn't make it easy to do so.

Hey Henry, hats off to the Henry County Warhawks football team and coaches for a great season. And thanks to those fans who braved below-freezing, cold temperatures for the last playoff game with Fitzgerald. Hopefully, it warmed the hearts of the guys on the field who played so well this year. Good job by the team, the band, the parents, and all of the supporters.

Hey Henry, that was some article in the AJC regarding Alexander Park. A 20 year plan? Wow! I thought by now the ludicrous pursuit of this park and voting for matching grants for trails and trees for a park we cannot fund or sustain. How is it that this continues to go on? By the way - the City of McDonough is paying for the land that it does not even own. It is your money - get angry and get involved.

Hey Henry, it's way past time for the County and State DOT to fix the intersection at Hwy 81 E. and Lake Dow Road. I find it hard to believe the county completed all the various projects at Heritage Park which attract thousands of people (and cars) and didn't fix this deadly intersection.

Hey Henry, why do people think they have a “right” to park on someone else’s private property? Moye’s bought the property and the parking lot and it is their right to allow their customers the first choice to park, not anyone who wants to just go shopping or to court. It isn’t just happening at Moye’s, but other businesses in downtown McDonough where signs are posted that it is for customers only of the business. Grow up folks and just have common sense and some responsibility.

Hey Henry, thanks to all those that showed up to voice opinions regarding the request for a 352 unit apartment complex next to the movie theatre.

Hey Henry, it's time for all the beautiful sightseeing of the Christmas lights and decorations from Hwy 20 at Country Lake Subdivision to Oak Valley Rd to Hwy 81. Best of all, it's the sweetest thing in the world to see your child's face and listening to all the ooohs and aahs from all the lights. Merry Christmas everybody.

Hey Henry, congratulations to the Blazer Red Raiders from Locust Grove. They are the 2008 HCYFL Superbowl Champions. Thanks to the coaches and players for an exciting season with back to back Superbowl wins.

Hey Henry, if you haven't visited Moye's off the square in McDonough you have certainly missed a treat. They have a wonderful new gift shop and the ladies are very helpful and do a great job. Free gift wrapping is provided for Moye's purchases and the prices are very reasonable. Way to go Moye's!

Hey Henry, I would like to thank the gentleman who gave my mother the sign “Kindness Shows - Pass it On” at the church near Warren Holder Park on November 29. I did not get his name, but you made my mother very happy. That was definitely showing kindness.
 

11.26.08

Hey Henry, Thank you to the person with the comment about having good law enforcement in our county. As a law enforcement officer myself, I really appreciated that comment and its good to know that someone out there realizes that we are people too and only doing our jobs, just like many of you do yours! We take a lot of crap, so it's nice to be appreciated sometimes.

Hey Henry, Thank you again to Judge Chafin and Mayor Copeland for supporting our Veterans! You both are setting a fine example for Henry County! Keep up the wonderful work.

Hey Henry, I would like to thank Wayne, owner of Optical Works on the square, for helping me find what I was looking for, I needed an item engraved, I called everyone I knew but no one knew of anyone that did this kind of engraving. So I, called Wayne, I asked him if he knew anyone that did this type of engraving, Wayne said, “Yes I do.” I said, “Who?” Wayne said. “I do.” Did he ever make me so very happy [Yes]. Visit Wayne on the Square he can fix anything. God Bless You Wayne.

Hey Henry, I would like to say Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband, Eddie Hellinger. He will be 40 years old on November 27th, Thanksgiving Day.

Hey Henry, Congratulations to the MYA Blazer Bulldog Cheerleaders for winning 1st place at the Henry County competition and 2nd place at the GA Peach State competition and winners of the Spirit Award.

Hey Henry, Congratulations to the Tiny Mite Gators for winning the Superbowl. Coach Eric and Brian-ya'll were the best!! Thank you both for all you did for the boys!

Hey Henry, I just wanted to know who is responsible for the cleanup at the Citgo station that is closed at Jonesboro Rd. and I75. Ya'll need to take a huge dumpster down there to pick up all the trash the truckers are piling in front and around the building. Here's a comment because I can't get the county to do anything.

Hey Henry, You really don't know how much your local law enforcement and emergency personnel mean to you until you have to rely on their expertise. My husband and I would like to give all of them a heartfelt "thank you" for their help in a recent accident that happened at our home. Hopefully we will never have to rely on them again but it's very comforting to know that we have them there when and if we need them! Thanks again!

Hey Henry, It infuriates me that while driving north on I-75 through Henry County, I've seen 2 billboard signs advertising "adult" businesses that are located in another county. Henry County is supposed to be a clean and family oriented county, but it makes our county look like we are promoting filth in our county. Am I the only one this upsets?

Hey Henry, Bravo and thanks to the staff at the Elections Office on Veterans Drive. I was in and out in less than 20 minutes for the General Election and 10 minutes for the run-off election. They were all friendly and efficient!

Hey Henry, This will be my first Christmas living in downtown McDonough, and I just wanted to say how much I LOVE the Christmas decorations around the square. They are very festive and tasteful, and my little boy is amazed at Rudolph taking flight!
 

11.19.08

  Hey Henry, congratulations to the HCHS Studio 54 Players for winning their region one act competition. Break a leg at state, guys!

  Hey Henry, I'd like to congratulate the yearbook staff at Union Grove High School for winning a First Place award with a Mark of Distinction in Photography from the National Scholastic Press Association for the '08 yearbook. The NSPA is the toughest judging association in the US.  The '07 yearbook was chosen one of the top 5 yearbooks in the US, too--tops in our county, and one of the best in our region and state!

  Hey Henry, For those of you complaining about the booting happening in the Moye's Pharmacy parking lot, get over it! If you can't follow the rules, then you pay the consequences. And making threats or throwing fits won't ease up on that $100 fee to free your tires. No one around here is offering you a bail out.

  Hey Henry, I wanted to give a shout out to all 4 of my kids in the 2nd, 5th, 6th and 8th grades for making the A honor roll and AB honor roll. Keep up the good work!!

  Hey Henry, I hate to use Hey Henry for a personal gripe but I don't know what else to try. Someone in the Indian Creek subdivision off Miller's Mill Road allows their dog to bark ALL hours of the day and night. Once one dog starts another joins the 'symphony.'  Television or radio does not drown out the barking;  any pause in dialog or music is filled with the noise.  My neighbor has just recently passed away but I always wondered how he was able to get any rest with the endless barking at night.  People, please think of your neighbors AND your dogs and bring them inside, especially at night.

Hey Henry, Great job by the Henry County Warhawks in defeating Laney in the first round of the state playoffs.  Let's fill Warhawk stadium this Friday night to cheer them on to the next round against Fitzgerald. GO WARHAWKS!!!

  Hey Henry, I Serve God, Family, Country.  I Respect authority, embrace responsibilities, accept accountability, and contribute back to the community. I am an American veteran and I'm proud my ancestors were Confederate. I will never vote for any Democrat nor the Republican party again.

   Hey Henry, There are a lot of good law enforcement personnel in our county. We must hold those that beat our citizens accountable.  IF we don't, how can we tell the good ones from the bad?

Hey Henry, Congratulations to the Locust Grove Texas Tech Red Raiders (Blazer) on their Super Bowl win.  They are undefeated for 2008 and have won 17 games straight, including the 2007 Super Bowl.  Great coaching job by Robbie, Cary, Daniel, Brian J., Brian L. and Steve.  And to the players--way to go Red Raiders!

Hey Henry, All taxes redistribute wealth, and unfortunately, no amount of guns or pithy sayings will ever change that.  Patriots pay taxes, whatever they are, with pride.

  Hey Henry, if the police are flying around McDonough and cruising through stop signs, and school bus drivers are flying down the road like the world is on fire, then how do we expect our bad drivers to know any better about their bad driving?

11.12.08

  Hey Henry, our family would like to thank "Larry" for being a wonderful human being on election day. As an election poll worker, he assisted my grandmother who walked with a cane. Once her information was verified and she received her card to vote, Larry walked her to the booth, and moved the screen to a comfortable eye-level for her and changed the text for her to read easier. On such a day when change was definitely in the air, I wouldn't want Larry to change a thing. He showed us that there are wonderful people out there who genuinely care. Grannie and our family thank and appreciate you Larry.

  Hey Henry, what's going on with the booting of cars parking in the new Moye's in McDonough. Beware! Don't park there if you are not going to Moye's or the book store.  It will cost you $100.00 to get the boot off.

  Hey Henry, what's even worse about the ticket prices to get into the football game is that not every football related program gets a share of the money. For crying out loud, there are almost 200 members of the marching band and thirty to fifty cheerleaders, which are the prime reasons people even come to football games at Ola.

  Hey Henry, On October 30, my daughter and I were in a wreck on Hampton/Locust Grove Road and a lady stopped and gave my daughter a blanket. I just wanted to thank her for her kindness. Call the Henry County Times at 770-957-6314 and they will give you my information if you would like the blanket returned.

  Hey Henry, thanks to Hey Henry and the City of Locust Grove for fixing the traffic light at the intersection of Tanger Blvd. and Griffin-Locust Grove Road. Good Job!

  Hey Henry, why do we have so many dump trucks from Gay, Georgia doing work on our roads? Don't we have these businesses in Henry county? In these economic times, shouldn't we keep the money here?

  Hey Henry, congratulations to the LG Bronco Longhorns and the MYA Bronco Bulldogs for a great season. Now on to the Superbowl. These are two outstanding and deserving teams with honorable coaches. It’s something you don't see much these days.

  Hey Henry, once again from Garland, Texas, I just had to tell you how much I look forward to this paper. I love the pros and cons from your readers and even though, I don't live there anymore, I can feel what they are going through. I miss all the good times I had there. Just remember, I still love McDonough and miss all our friends there.

  Hey Henry, too many robberies and store break-ins.  Perhaps our patrol officers have to concentrate on ticket revenue instead of keeping us safe? Just a thought.

  Hey Henry, to the person  who suggested somebody starting a support group for folks who've lost their jobs, why don't you start it? Put your action where your mouth is.

  Hey Henry, Henry County and Clayton County do have one thing in common...both have historic courthouses with town clocks that do not work!

  Hey Henry, Pastors: It's time you tell your congregation that Jesus was a worker and believer seven days a week. Too many people are living just to go to church on Sunday and Wednesday and never take the message out to the street where you can reach the people. Where have all the bold Christians gone?

11.05.08

  Hey Henry, the merchants around the Square had their first Holiday Open House on Sunday, November 2. The McDonough Welcome Center and the public restrooms on the Square were all closed and locked for this great occasion. What is up with that?

  Hey Henry, this is a thanks to all the police, firefighters, paramedics, and everyone else who helped our boss and three workers Friday at the Senior Center. Our prayers were answered, and we all know that we have our angels watching over us each and every day. We're glad to see that y’all are safe. Love, your Meals-On-Wheels gang.

  Hey Henry, congratulations to the Henry County Warhawks for winning the 2008 region 4AA title.  Thanks to Coach Rozier and the other coaches, and to the players for doing a great job.  Now let's stay fired up for the playoffs and take it all the way.

  Hey Henry, thank you Mayor Copeland for the Job Fair and all the wonderful work you are doing for our Veterans. You certainly are the "People's Mayor!"

  Hey Henry, congratulations to the Luella High School theater troupe for winning second place, best ensemble and costumes at the Region 2AAAAA competition. Way to go, Lions!!

  Hey Henry, the reason why Heritage Park Museum is not open on the weekends is because no volunteers have been willing to work on Saturday or Sunday.

  Hey Henry, for all the people who are parking in the Moye's Pharmacy and Bell, Book & Candle Shop parking lot, please be sure that you read the parking signs in that lot. They have been hanging there for quite awhile now. The white parking lines are for the Moye's customers only and the yellow parking lines are for the bookshop only.

 Hey Henry, I took my children by the Welcome Center on the Trick or Treat on the Square day, only to see a big sign that said “We don’t have any candy!” What kind of a welcoming center does this city have?

  Hey Henry, how many auto accidents and injuries must occur at Highway 81 and Lake Dow Road to get a stop light there? Shouldn't a light have been installed before the event center was built? There is more traffic than ever there now.

  Hey Henry, in reference to the Courthouse clock not working. It has been undergoing re-vamping. These repairs could not be done while the renovation was in progress. Hopefully, by the time you read this, it will be back in full form. (Ed. note - Oops....so, how’s that ‘time’ table holding up?)

  Hey Henry, to the person complaining about the cost to get into a high school football game. It isn't going to change as long as everyone thinks sports is more important than academics. The money taken at the gate goes to the athletic departments because they claim they need that much and more to run their programs.  In my opinion, academic subjects should get a share to help pay for classroom supplies.

  Hey Henry, redistribute the wealth? I'll keep my freedom, my guns, and my money, you can keep the change.

10.29.08

 Hey Henry, don’t forget to vote on Tuesday, November 4!!!

Hey Henry, well done, Luella High Theatre Department! Your one-act play "Blues" made a lot of people consider the plight of the homeless. Taking food donations for local food banks instead of charging admission to the play was a nice thing to do. This school's theatre department not only presents excellent theatre, but serves to show the community that good teachers and students exist in Henry County.

Hey Henry, a big thank you to Linda who found my cell phone in the parking lot at the McDonough Wal-Mart. Linda did not stop until she found someone on my phone to let me know she had found it and turned it in to customer service at Wal-Mart. She also made sure that Wal-Mart had it secured for me to pick up. It is so refreshing that there are still people in this world who go the extra mile to help out others! This is what needs to be on the front page of the news! The good deeds. Thanks again Linda!

Hey Henry, the light at Highway 81 and Willow Lane (in McDonough) only lasts long enough for three or four cars to make a left turn onto Willow. Why, when there are always so many cars that it takes several lights to make a turn, is it not reprogrammed to accept more?

Hey Henry, about the high prices for football games; could be why HCHS attendance is down. I know I sure do not have $21.00 to go to a game and then on top of that the concession stand prices. This could be something to look into. Do you want more money or do you want support?

Hey Henry, how about starting a support group for residents who have recently lost their jobs due to this economic mess? I would join!

Hey Henry, to all of the litterbugs who throw out your fast food trash, beer bottles and unmentionables along the road--you wouldn't throw your trash out in your front yard--don't throw it in mine!

Hey Henry, why is it that some people think it is okay to spread hatred with this election by accusations and calling people names? It’s sad when certain people go so low as to judge others for believing the way they believe - that is why there is an America!

Hey Henry, not too long ago I sold my stocks and cashed out my 401K and got a large safe deposit box at my bank and filled it with lots of gold and silver bullion. Boy, I'm glad I did that!

Hey Henry, Fix the dang courthouse clock already!

Hey Henry, when are the roads in southern Henry going to get paved? Laney Drive gets a lot of traffic off of Old Jackson and South Bethany. South Bethany is apparently getting paved and only half of Laney has been paved by developers. Why the county did not finish the job is a mystery. Too much money is spent on new buildings for county government and not enough on roads.

Hey Henry, did you answer that question regarding those single men over 50? 40-50 is even better! (Ed. note: would somebody please answer this lady’s question? Henry does not run a free dating service.)

Hey Henry, peddlers on Jonesboro Road continue to collect money for "Restoration Ministries" in downtown Atlanta. He told me today that he was collecting for the poor. Why is downtown Atlanta able to do this in Henry County? Jonesboro Road is already a place where many accidents take place and we do not need folks working every corner.
 

10.22.08

 Hey Henry, we enjoyed the Sons of Confederate Veterans at the 150th Anniversary of Bethany Baptist Church. They fired a cannon salute to honor all U.S. war veterans and the U.S. flag folding ceremony brought tears to my daddy's eyes. What an awesome way to honor our history and our church's heritage.

Hey Henry, it's sad that we're all excited that gas prices are getting down to what we used to complain about them getting up to!

Hey Henry, someone needs to tell the City of Stockbridge that their new city hall has two different color bricks on the side of it! Of course they may have done it on purpose to further bother the florist.

Hey Henry, why do we have to have so many car accidents at 81 and Lake Dow Road before a traffic light is installed? It’s very dangerous for people entering Heritage Park where all our community events take place. I have seen numerous wrecks there.

Hey Henry, to whoever decides the cost to get into high school football games: is $7.00 per person really necessary to charge to watch a high school football game? It's ridiculous. Grandparents love to come and watch their grandkids play ball or play in the band and are on fixed income. Besides don't you think families are struggling enough financially these days? Please get your committee together or whatever it takes and make some changes so we can enjoy going to the games and still afford to feed our families.

Hey Henry, to the man who made such a big fuss at the Commissioner’s meeting about the fire truck blocking the driveway at the school....shame on you! I bet if it were your child needing help, the last thing on your mind would be the traffic backing up. And I would be willing to bet that there were many people in that traffic jam praying that whoever's child it was they were there for was not fatally injured or seriously sick.

Hey Henry, when will we get some of these dirt roads paved around the county? The road we live on, Jones Road, is on the SPLOST list and should have been paved long ago. We’re still waiting. There are school buses flying up and down the road and folks cut through from Hwy 81 to Mt Carmel. Why not pave the dirt roads first instead of repaving all of these other roads? My friend from Alabama couldn’t believe all the dirt roads we have.

Mrs. Travis, the assistant principal at Locust Grove Elementary, is the best assistant principal ever. My lil’ ones love her! Thanks Mrs Travis!

Hey Henry, can someone help me out? I have been searching for a job for months without any luck. I am a smart, friendly and hardworking 24-year-old woman with one year of college so far. I type 65 wpm and am great with phones and computers as well as face-to-face customer service. Can anyone help me out by offering me a job? (Ed. note - I would highly recommend coming to the Job Fair in McDonough on Friday, October 24. Details can be found at www.mcdonoughga.org or call 770-957-3915.)

Hey Henry, it is was so exciting to be driving around last weekend and see so much happening in our County. Henry County might be one of the fastest growing, but you still can feel the small town anywhere you go.
 

10.15.08

Hey Henry, thank you, Mr. Graziani! I was so glad to see a rebuttal to Kevin Oliveria's article. I am so tired of hearing "if you’re not for Obama, you’re a racist.”

Hey Henry, Henry County can move forward not backwards if we take the past and learn from it. It is okay to remember the past but we must also integrate the future. Remember, some people thought that automobiles were a bit too much!

Hey Henry, to the idiot who keyed my truck at Ingles. We're just waiting on the police to review the videotape of the parking lot.

Hey Henry, did you know the HCPD routinely checks in on vacant houses to make sure they are okay? They even leave a dated note to let the property owner know they were there. This is an effective crime prevention service for the citizens and we thank you.

Hey Henry, the County spent approximately $80,000 on the big red barn in Heritage Park that we paid for. How come it is only opened during the week so we can't enjoy it. Also, we paid for nice bathrooms that aren't open during the weekend and instead we have to use the porta potties. What is that all about? We helped pay for it and can't use it if we work during the week.

Hey Henry, where is the support for the Henry County Warhawks football team. I went to last Friday's game (10/3) and there was hardly anyone there. This football team is 4-1! They made the playoffs last year and most likely will again this year. Coach Rozier and his staff need the support of the school and the community. Let’s give it to them!

Hey Henry, when is the Mackie Creek Band going to play the Heritage Arena? I know they could fill it up!

Hey Henry, whatever happened to the traffic light at Race-track and Hwy 81 that we were promised by the SPLOST tax about four or five years ago? Kroger is coming in and it definitely needs to be in place. Where did the tax money for that go?

Hey Henry, you'd think with all the funds that were spent making the courthouse renovations, including the clock tower, that someone would have corrected the time to operate properly on all sides. It's a shame to have such a beautiful antique work on top of our beautiful courthouse with the wrong time displayed.

Hey Henry, I would like to ask what is wrong with a commuter rail for senior adults who would like (or need) to go to Atlanta occasionally, but cannot drive on the expressway. It would be even better if the railroads still had passenger trips to the Georgia mountains to see the leaves or to the coast to visit the beach and eat great seafood.

Hey Henry, anyone who has not yet gone to the Bell Book and Candle shop, they are now hosting candlelight cemetery tours. The tours are being held at McDonough Cemetery and Mr. Dan Brooks brings life to the history of our founders in McDonough.

Hey Henry, maybe folks in Henry County could identify more of the "As it Was" pictures if the county would just stop all those nail, tanning salons & apartments from being built.
 

10.08.08

  Hey Henry, had a great time at the Oldies concert on October 4 at the Jason T. Harper Event Center. The local band, McDonough Rhthym Secton did a great job as the opening act.

  Hey Henry, the period dress tours at Heritage Park Museum are just wonderful. I am a teacher and feel this is a great way to educate our children about their heritage. The tour is both a visual and interactive experience. We recently had our kids there and they loved it.

  Hey Henry, thanks to the food bank (Helping in His Name) for supplying my family with an emergency box. You will never know how much we appreciated it and how much we really needed it. Thanks again!

  Hey Henry, I say put the commuter rail right down the middle of I-75. The state already owns the land. If you think we do not need mass transit, quit going to the redneck riviera and go to a city or country with mass transit and see how easy life can be. Its simple, and it could save you tons in fuel, insurance, and peace of mind. Seriously, why are we behind all the other well developed countries on this?

  Hey Henry, just a note to people that attend yard sales. If I wanted to give my stuff to you for nothing, then I would have just listed it on Freecycle and not do all of the work and planning that it takes to have a yard sale. I ended up giving my stuff to the people in Texas who need it.

  Hey Henry, I don't know what is going on at Stockbridge High School, but the auto registrations from Dekalb and Clayton counties far outnumbered any I saw from Henry. Someone needs to be checking some proofs of residency up there.

  Hey Henry, there was a lady who came to my yard sale and bought baby clothes that were on the pool table. There were some sentimental pieces that she accidentally got and I am just sick over it.  Please contact if you see this! (If this was you, please email editor@henrycountytimes.com and we’ll put you together.)

  Hey Henry, we want to send many thanks to the paramedics of the Locust Grove Fire Department for doing a wonderful job delivering our baby girl while enroute to HMC. All of them were wonderful to me and my daughter and took great care of us. I would also like to thank the doctors and many nurses of HMC NICU who took wonderful care of our baby girl. Their compassion and sympathy was much appreciated.

  Hey Henry, some religious people assume too much about people who don't join in group prayers. Some religions consider public prayers like that to be prideful. 

  Hey Henry, just because you pull halfway into the intersection, do not assume that I'll surrender my right-of-way. Remember what assume means.

  Hey Henry, thanks to all of our commissioners for allowing all of the apartments and townhomes being built here in what used to be a pleasant place to live and raise a family. This only brings on more trouble for the County. Keep up the good work!

  Hey Henry, to the person who commented on the opposition to the rail system in Henry County as maintaining the "backwards" south side.  I love Henry County and want to see it preserved and protected from what I saw while growing up in Morrow and Forest Park when Marta came in. If being backwards means learning from the past, then call me backwards.

10.0108

Hey Henry, I also noticed the parking meter guy's car at expired meter # 21 for 50 minutes while he was marking tires and giving tickets to others for the same thing. Seems for fairness he should get a ticket.

  Hey Henry, I've noticed that everytime I see someone driving weird around here, it's because they are on their cell phone!  Especially on Hwy 81. What's the deal? Someone else wrote to you about "sightseers" on that same road.  Get off the phone and drive, people!

  Hey Henry, this is in reference to the article written by Kevin Oliveira. I felt the article was a vengeful, one-sided piece full of partial facts and truths. Christians, Jewish Americans, American Indians and many other nationalities have endured oppression and hatred with no mention of their hardships. Is that not bias? The article was discriminating and provoked more racism to be handed down to future generations. We should all be working and voting together for the common good of America, not looking at revenge of past persecutions.

  Hey Henry, to the person who thinks God is tired of us screwing up His earth by cutting down trees to build houses:  unless you are living in a tree house, do you think God said it was okay to cut down trees and mess up His earth to build your house just because it is you?

  Hey Henry, where do all of the nice single men over the age of 50 hang out? Please tell me, I need to know!  (Ed. note - ahem, some of us work here at the Times’ offices.)

  Hey Henry, the proposed Lovejoy rail line is Henry/Clayton County’s "Bridge to Nowhere.”  Fellow citizens, just say no to this dream by politicians and developers. It would be a taxpayer’s nightmare. Wasn't this voted down by taxpayers some time ago?

  Hey Henry, to all those who are complaining about neighbors animals leaving droppings in their yards, I completely agree.  I live in an older neighborhood and we have neighbors who let their dogs use our yard as their potty all the time. The real kicker is when they stand and watch them do it. I would love to deposit it rightfully back into their yard so their children have the opportunity to step in it.

  Hey Henry, I was appalled by the article "Politics is no longer a game" by Kevin Oliveira where he publicly voiced his views, criticizing Christians, Whites and the South. I feel it was irresponsible of the Henry Times to not have a counter guest columnist to make a rebuff. Wouldn't that practice more balanced journalism, instead of hiding behind an opinion disclaimer. (Ed. note: We always welcome a rebuttal opinion column for anything we run. Why don’t you send one?)

  Hey Henry, I drove by Petsmart last weekend and saw people selling puppies out of their cars- four groups in all. Isn't it sad that people are still breeding dogs while there are so many homeless ones inside the store? Everyone wants a cute puppy, but no one wants it when it grows up.

  Hey Henry, in regards of the happy couple on the pink and white scooters. Maybe with this gas situation we all need to ride a scooter around town, whatever color they are.

  Hey Henry, let the commuter rail run through Henry County. The people that are trying to deter the rail are only trying to maintain the "backwards" Southside. 

09.24.08

 Hey Henry, America does not have a financial problem: it has a stupidity problem.

Hey Henry, who are the couple that rides the pink and white scooters all over Henry County? We love to see them save on gas and they look so happy riding the streets of McDonough.

Hey Henry, this is to the driver of an SUV (I believe it is a Tahoe), but the license plate number is *****. The sticker you have at eye level on the back of your car is extremely offensive. I may be "number one" in your book, but I don't want my children to see such trash! Grow up!

Hey Henry, why does the meter reader need a car? This car is always parked in front of an expired meter. Shouldn't this space be free for the paying public?

Hey Henry, thank you to the ambulance service. I fainted at home and thought it was a heart attack, so, you great guys came and took me to Henry Medical. I want to thank all you EMTs for your kind ways as we drove to hospital. I started feeling better and one young man knew I was very nervous, so he told me to smile and that made me feel so much better. Laughter is the best medicine and the EMT knew that. It’s a great feeling knowing you guys are there. God bless you all.

Hey Henry, amen to the Hey Henry recently about respect for the U.S. Flag! Nothing chaps me worse than people who call themselves U. S. citizens, yet disrespect the flag, show no respect for the National Anthem, or the showing of the colors at sporting events.

Hey Henry, there is a rumor linking a certain McDonough City Councilman, a State Representative, a former contract employee, and a new car dealership on Industrial Boulevard. Is the GBI interested?

Hey Henry, on 9/11 our office stood up and said a prayer for all the families who lost a loved one that sad day, except for one who would not participate. Whatever reason that may have been, this is our United States of America and if you feel like you couldn't stand or bow your head, then what are you doing in our country.

Hey Henry, what’s with all these empty subdivisions? Do you think maybe God has a hand in that? Hmm, maybe He's tired of us screwing up His earth, with all the clear cutting and what not. Maybe this real estate market took a direct hit by God so that we would leave the trees alone and everything else He created and loved.

Hey Henry, I am not sure what the person is complaining about on the whole flag issue. We have several in our neighborhood, (military, police and firefighters) that display the flag at all times. I myself fly my flag to show support for our troops who are serving in the states and over seas. As long it is visible at night by a light then it is fine.

Hey Henry, just curious if anyone else bought gas at the BP Station on Highway 81 near Old Jackson Road and had trouble with it? I bought gas for a lawn mower and it wouldn't even run. We had to drain the tank and put premium in it to get it to run until the "bad gas" was used.

Hey Henry, I just had the best dining experience at the O'Charley's on Jonesboro Road, thanks to a server named Char. (Like Cher, but with an "a") She's there most days, and was the highlight in an otherwise banal suburban day.
 

09.17.08

 Hey Henry, to those of you who wake up bright and early to go "sightseeing" on Hwy 81...don’t do it...some of us actually have a life and need to get to work. The speed limit is 55 mph.

Hey Henry, to the person that explained the American Flag protocol......God bless you and God bless America!

Hey Henry, in view of the fact that no city official would speak to you about James Lee's sudden resignation probably indicates that they were getting ready to fire him. It's about time the City Council started to deal with the incompetence for which we taxpayers foot the bill. Who's next on the chopping block?

Hey Henry, to the person(s) who busted out my window and stole my purse and briefcase last Tuesday at the soccer game at Salem Baptist Church, thank you for setting my things back out. Everything was returned to me in good condition. I'm sure my $3 didn't get you very far, so please accept this as my invitation to join me Sunday at Salem. I would have rather given you the $210 it cost to fix my window, if you needed the money.

Hey Henry, why is it that people who drive like maniacs feel the need to tell you how to drive? After I was almost hit by a woman who ran a stop sign on Davis Parkway in Stockbridge, she followed me to Big Lots and confronted me in the store to tell me how I should be driving. Funny, I thought I was the one following the rules of the road!

Hey Henry, to the Henry County Police Department and Fire Department. You all are great and you make this a great county to live in. We need to have an appreciation day for our police and fire departments a least once a year. Keep up the great work!

Hey Henry, don't forget we have Southern Belle Farm right in our backyard! There's tons to do there this fall; a corn maze, pumpkin patch, pig races, hayrides and tons of activities for kids. They are over off Turner Church Rd. and Carter Drive. Take your kids and give them an experience of a lifetime on a real farm.

Hey Henry, it's not that we don't understand what "give gap...get gap" means. It's just that we're all still so befuddled about why McDonough did such an asinine thing in the first place.

Hey Henry, I could write a 900 page novel on how bad the drivers are in Henry County.

Hey Henry, is it the kids or the parents that are complaining about having no lockers? If it's the kids, accept it and hope that this will be the hardest obstacle you will have to overcome in your life. If it's the parents, your kids are stronger than you think. Stop babying them!

Hey Henry, why is it that back when, not so long ago, when gas was a couple dollars a gallon that the prices never went up when a hurricane came through. My, my, gas companies have made the largest profits ever and they still try to screw us, thinking we're too stupid to remember the not so long ago. This just ticks me off!

Hey Henry, attention Whispering Willow residents - please pick up after your animal. Keep the sidewalks and roads free of animal droppings. Some of us would like to keep our neighborhood looking nice. I pay taxes just like you and I like to take care of what I am paying for. Let's stop being trashy and keep the subdivision looking nice.
 

09.10.08

  Hey Henry, isn't praying for patience a little, well, impatient?

  Hey Henry, I wanted to let you know that the Ola High School Marching Band is the best band I have ever seen. The props, the band, the color guard, the drum major, everything was amazing. Did I say amazing? Congratulations to the Ola High School Marching Band and everyone involved. Your hard work is paying off and has "melted face."

  Hey Henry, I ran out of gas on Jonesboro Road near the Kroger and called my son to help me out. While we were waiting on him; not one but three Henry County cops pulled behind me and asked if I needed help. Thanks!

  Hey Henry, people need to have respect for the U.S. flag! Too many times I've been riding down the road and there is an improperly flown American flag in someone's yard. Please go online and look up how to properly display the American flag, and when the National Anthem plays, be quiet, face the flag, and remove your hat please. If your flag is torn or tattered go to the VA, Boy or Girl scouts, or the Fire/Police department and ask them to properly retire your flag and go buy a new one. Have respect, Henry County!

  Hey Henry, to the woman in the Moe’s parking lot on the evening of September 5 that called my 10 and 18 year old daughters the N word:  I'd be happy to come to your trailer park and teach you all some new vocabulary words. Bless your heart.

  Hey Henry, I think McDonough needs a law like Kennesaw has, concerning guns and homeowners. I'd like to see these gangs in Locust Grove and Hampton get a taste of what a real community can do to protect itself.

  Hey Henry, it has been rumored that Lake Dow North and Lake Dow subdivisions are being rezoned from Ola High School to Henry County High School. This is unacceptable. The Locust Grove area students will go to their neighborhood school and we can have our neighborhood school back.  Please leave us alone!

  Hey Henry, kudos to the Henry County Water Authority for planning for the growth we've experienced.  Good work, Mr. Farmer.

  Hey Henry, if another “wanna be gangsta” comes up to my car again while I’m getting gas with my children in the car and pulls out a box of watches and asks if I "want to take advantage of the discount" or waits for me to get out of my car so he can "talk" to me or comes to me while I’m pumping gas to ask for a donation for their upcoming cd or says, "what up with them digits" to me -- I swear I’m going to lose my mind! Pull your pants back up and quit making us women of McDonough feel uncomfortable.

   Hey Henry, some of the so called commissioners need to know where their jurisdiction ends as did the "gentleman" at Moseley Park on September 6. Why wasn't he so concerned about the filthy porta-potties being used by food handlers who did not have hot running water to wash their hands?

  Hey Henry, I have my cable service with Charter Communications.  Every night at exactly 9:00 p.m., the TV goes completely off for about two minutes, then comes back on. I did ask a repairperson about this about six months ago, but received no answer.  Does anyone else have this happen?

  Hey Henry, the irony is that conservatives have blocked transportation funding for years, and now they want to complain about gas prices! 

09.03.08

  Hey Henry, I was at the Union Grove vs. Ola High School football game on Friday, and I have just got to say that the half time show was phenomenal! Both schools did a great job, but Ola really blew it out of the water! The props looked amazing, and they sounded great! I just wanted to congratulate both schools on a wonderful performance Friday night.

  Hey Henry, what's with all these people so upset over school lockers? Hello? There are major things going on in the world. The locker situation is what it is.  Get over it.

  Hey Henry, I thought I saw a pirate the other night. Arrrrgh!

  Hey Henry, I saw a person in the Ola school district taking down illegal tags. Way to go, Ola. Hope you run them back where they came from.

  Hey Henry, can I just say how nice it was that someone stopped so that I could back my car out of my parking spot on the McDonough Square. Why, it reminded of a time about nine years ago when that happened all the time. (Sent from Lady Sunshine.)

  Hey Henry, another robbery at gunpoint in Locust Grove? Where are the police? They'll pull you over during the day for passing at Peeksville, but what about our safety? How many robberies is it going to take? Are you waiting for someone to get killed? I don't feel safe anymore!

  Hey Henry, current zoning for group homes in our county is lumped in with personal care homes requiring a minimum of three acres and to be on a major road. The new zoning code (Unified Land Development Code) being worked on proposes a minimum of 2 acres and not in a subdivision. Still unnecessarily restrictive, don't you think?

  Hey Henry, I hope the school system has a plan to insure that any student coming from Clayton County has actually moved to Henry. If not we will have even more trailers housing the children of Henry County taxpayers.

  Hey Henry, I’m watching (and plan to report) those of you who pass school buses at/near the corner of Hwy 138 East and Hemphill Road. Please stop when you see the bus stop and do not wait for them to put out the stop sign. This doesn’t happen until the bus actually opens the door for the children to board. Waiting until then to stop may be too late.

  Hey Henry I just want to say to the crooked *** that robbed my husband of his truck; I hope he sleeps well at night. And just remember that karma always comes back around and will bite you in yours!

  Hey Henry, three cheers to the City of McDonough for hiring a receptionist for the rear entry with a professional, helpful, and courteous attitude that always greets you with a smile. It is nice to not see someone doing their nails and talking on their cell phone (ignoring you) like in many other places. Finally, the City Hall portrays professionalism along with classy southern charm.

  Hey Henry, to the person(s) that thinks ELCA should purchase school buses to improve congestion and shorten their own commute time. ELCA is privately funded (tuitions) by the parents of the students that attend ELCA. They use these finances to provide a Christ-centered education and pay the salaries of the incredible staff rather than spending money on school buses.  Next time you are frustrated with the traffic in front of ELCA, take a deep breath and say a prayer for more patience.

08.27.08

  Hey Henry, isn't the clock on top of the courthouse on the McDonough Square still under warranty?  It hasn't been that long since the remodeling took place.

  Hey Henry, the Old Save-Rite at Speer Road and Walt Stephens is being demolished. Is something new going there?

  Hey Henry, thanks to the ladies driving the ice cream truck around on Coan Rd., Iris Lake, etc., and giving all the kids sweet memories with their afternoon treats.

  Hey Henry, oh ye of little faith . . . someday you will realize what a good president we had in George W. Bush.  Stop listening to the media, do your own research, and form your own opinion.

  Hey Henry, how come my daughter has to pay $2 for a school locker for the year, but it cost $5 for a P.E. locker for two semesters?

    Hey Henry, did you know that it cost about $7 to get into one high school football game in Henry County. For those of us who attend many games, someone needs to come up with a Henry County High School season pass so that we can get into all the games in Henry County on one pass.

  Hey Henry, I saw a sign in the back window of a car in McDonough that reads: 50 mph = 34 mpg. Now that is some math I can get on board with!

  Hey Henry, back to the locker situation. I can assure you who thinks the reason my seventh grader doesn’t have a locker is because I haven’t “done my part” and turned in required paper work. Are you kidding? You have no idea. Call Ola Middle School and they will tell you that there are seventh graders who do not have lockers again this year.  Get off your high horse! Sixth graders are not the only ones who did not get lockers. And again, I do pay taxes just like you.

  Hey Henry, what's up with the clock on the courthouse? I thought it was fixed along time ago. Will it ever work again?

  Hey Henry, if you are too lazy to cook and too lazy to go get your food, then you need to tip (15% at least) the pizza driver. They make less than minimum wage and count on tips for income and to cover the additional gas expense.

  Hey Henry, anybody else think ELCA should spend some of that money and purchase buses? That school is the only reason Highway 42 and Eagles Landing is backed up every morning. Don't believe me? Watch how you sail through those roads when that school is out of session, even when other schools are open.

  Hey Henry, here I am in Garland, Texas telling you how much I enjoy reading  “Hey Henry.”  I love to hear all the “pros and cons'' of what is going on out there in the county. Even though we have been away 45 years, it seems like just yesterday we left for the big state of Texas. I just had to say  “Hey Henry” and let you know how much reading it means to me (Mary Ann Barnette).

  Hey Henry, to all the people I see each morning at the 4-way stop at Flat Rock and Old Conyers in Stockbridge. Wait your turn and use your blinkers because I'm not a mind reader.

  Hey Henry, to the County employee driving the Ford pickup with the dented front bumper and tag ending in 9040; please don't follow so close in the future! I hear we may have a financial shortfall and don't want you to incur expenses fixing up beautiful antique autos. (I was driving the speed limit.)

08.20.08

  Hey Henry, can you say "Rock Quarry Road" five times real fast?

  Hey Henry, I went down to the tag office in Locust Grove and got my license renewed recently. I am a veteran and they gave me a thank you note signed by all eight people there at the post. In 50 years I have never had anybody thank me for serving the country. But these people did and I want you to know I was touched by it and am deeply appreciative. I thought it was a great gesture. Please pass this along.

  Hey, Henry, why did the county recreation department offer lessons and classes in every corner of the county this summer except Hampton? We have parks and tennis courts, and we pay taxes. Our residents are interested in sports other than baseball and softball. Why are no other services offered here?

  Hey Henry, we have a son who is moderately retarded. Why aren't there group homes for the developmentally disabled in our county?

  Hey Henry, some teachers in this county think making a factual comment regarding statistics and race is equivalent to making a racist comment. Just because the facts are depressing does not mean they are racist.

  Hey Henry, a BIG heartfelt thank you to Henry County Police Department!  I had to call 911 to ask for help to come to my home late at night as I kept hearing suspicious noises behind my house.  The dispatcher and the police officers were courteous, professional and very helpful. I truly appreciate them being there for me.   We need to remember to thank our public safety servants!

  Hey Henry, to the people complaining about lockers. I know at my son’s school they will not assign lockers until all of the paperwork that parents are suppose to sign is turned back in to the teachers. Sign the paperwork, make sure they turn it, and then maybe your child will get the locker.  That is if they are seventh and eighth graders. Sixth grade students do not get lockers.

  Hey Henry, can you please tell the pet owners in the Whispering Willow Subdivision that if they are going to walk their pets to please make sure they have a clean up bag with them. Some of us are getting tired of having to clean up after other people’s animals.

  Hey Henry, to the City of Locust Grove about the traffic light on Tanger Blvd. I saw a Henry County employee working on that light and he told me that Locust Grove does not have an employee that can adjust the light. He told me he doesn't understand why they don't get their own guy to do this job. Just something to think about.

  Hey Henry, to people who drop their kids off in the mornings at school; there are two lanes. Don't get in the far lane, which is the drop off lane, then turn in front of me and park. One of these days I will not be paying attention and hit you and then whose fault would it be? Stay in your own lane.

  Hey Henry, so somebody thinks that George W. has kept terrorists out? He keeps them out of this country about like my dog keeps elephants out of my yard. (Ed. note - You have elephants in your yard? You should send one in for Pet of the Week.)

  Hey Henry, to all the people I see each morning at the 4-way stop at Flat Rock and Old Conyers in Stockbridge. Wait your turn and use your blinkers because I'm not a mind reader.

08.13.08

Hey Henry, responding to the Luella Middle School students not getting a locker... It’s the same at Ola Middle. My son was in sixth grade last year and they said all sixth graders were in trailers and no locker. Well, this year he’s in seventh grade and once again all but one of his classes are in trailers and no locker again. I pay taxes just like the parents of the kids who have the majority of their classes inside and they also don’t have to carry that backpack all day.

Hey Henry, why do people have such a hard time figuring out the "give gap, take gap" on the Square in McDonough? Seems some people think they have the right to just come barreling through ignoring the signs.

Hey Henry... a bit confused! The kids at Eagles Landing Middle School must tuck in their shirts but once they enter Eagles Landing High School, they can let the shirts hang out. Let's make all students conform to the same dress code.

Hey Henry, what’s up with the bags on all the cars at Dr. Foster's office?

Hey Henry, thank you to the volunteers at the Henry County Humane Society for running such a neat little animal shelter. This is a gem that Henry County should be proud of!

Hey Henry, just like to thank all the camp counselors for the HC Parks and Recreation Summer Camp. It was a wonderful summer at Heritage Park for the kids and a great alternative for families other than daycare. We will see you at fall break!

Hey Henry, thank you to Gage, the 'good samaritan' that stopped to fix my flat tire on Hwy 81E on Wednesday. It's great to know there are still kind people in the world today. Thanks again!

Hey Henry, what about all the great folks in Locust Grove that came out on August 7 to greet the Ft. Benning soldiers that were visiting Noah's Ark. It was so moving to see all the people lined up and down 42 and LG Griffin road as the soldiers passed through. But the best part of all was when they got to Locust Grove Elementary to see all those children out in the parking lot waving and smiling.

Hey Henry, is your dog outside, in this heat, or in the rain? Is he baking in the garage? Then stop fooling yourself into believing you're a good dog owner, because you’re not. Did you think it would be cute to get a puppy one day -- and then put him out when you realized you might have to spend a little time teaching him, or a little money keeping him healthy? Please everyone: Stop the abuse and treat your dog the way God wants you to.

Hey Henry, driving through beautiful, downtown McDonough behind a shiny new red pickup truck, I witnessed a very disappointing sight. The driver rolled down his window and threw out bags, cups of fast food containers. How low class! How disrespectful of your town! How would you like someone to do that to your front yard?

Hey Henry, Luella Middle School is insanely overcrowded, which is why there is no room or money for lockers. Don't hate the school; hate those who are responsible for the slow school construction around here, like the Board of Education.

Hey Henry, a big thanks to the folks behind the Momentum Christian Church ice cream truck. The free ice cream treats were a special touch to National Night Out!
 

08.06.08

 Hey Henry, what a fun evening we had at the “Are You Smarter than a College Student” Program. It was good to see our community leaders in a fun way instead of their normal business-like way. Hope there’s another one in the plans!

Hey Henry, looks like my email has once again been given out without permission. I signed up to read about the County and instead, I now get unwanted spam from candidates, TV programs, and now "The Henry County Citizen." Where will it end?

Hey Henry, just a reminder to those of you who use Iris Lake Road in McDonough as a cut through. The speed limit is 35 mph!

Hey Henry, if you missed the Sixth annual Mr. and Miss Special Henry County Pageant this year, you missed a real treat! Thirty-seven special needs adults and teens competed in two different pageants and it was an awesome experience. Thanks to the Henry County Times for their continued support and covering the contestants and pageant each year! We love your newspaper!

Hey Henry, no kids at home but some McGarity Road residents can't wait for school to start so they can enjoy the scenery again without the rows and rows of big yellow buses.

Hey Henry, does Andy know how to spell subpoena yet?

Hey Henry, the people living at the corner of Lawrenceville Street are watering from their own well, so mind your own business. (Ed. - hurt dogs bark loud - perhaps a well-placed sign would help inform.)

Hey Henry, I remember voting for George Bush and this is still the greatest country on earth. One question for you Bush-bashers: How many attacks on US soil have occured since 9/11? You wouldn't give him credit for that, would you?

Hey Henry, why is it that school teachers and administrators whine all year that parents won't attend meetings or get involved, then schedule open house for 1:00 on a weekday? Actions speak louder than words. If you really want parents involved, schedule events so they don't cause a hardship for working parents.

Hey Henry, when is the free clothes giveaway? Does anyone know?

Hey Henry, you said that the story on Abel Montejo is in the July 9 Times. How can someone obtain a copy or view the info online? (Ed. note - go to www.henrycountytimes.com and click on the Obit archives link at the bottom left.)

Hey Henry, spay and neuter your pets. Too many die every day!

Hey Henry, to the family of Abel Montejo: I am so sorry for your lost. He was a fine and compassionate man.

Hey Henry, on the first day of school, I took my child and was totally disgusted at the clothes that Henry County High School kids are wearing. What about a dress code, or are they too afraid of the kids to say anything.... What a shame this new school will be trashed within a few years.

Hey Henry, I would like to vent on the Luella Middle School and any other school out there that does not have lockers for our kids. They have to haul around a backpack full of textbooks and heavy binders on their backs from class to class. This concerns me as a parent and annoys me that our children have to carry these heavy bags all over the school!
 

07.30.08

 Hey Henry, thanks 'Miss Debbie' at the McDonough Public Library for giving our kids another fun summer of reading activities. We liked seeing you eat that bug, too!

Hey Henry, just wanted to say congratulations to the six and under McDonough Elite Bulldogs for winning second Place in the USSSA World Series played here in Lovejoy. They also won first place in State and second place in Sub-State. We are so proud of you... Dalton, Wesley, Jackson, Baylen, Legend, Colby, Kade, Ryan, Gavin, Chance, Ty, Cade, and Joey. Also thanks to Coach Chad, Chip, Chris, Joe and team mom Sandy! Go Dawgs!

Hey Henry, to the person who returned my daughter’s purse Monday morning to the Kroger on Jonesboro Rd. God will surely bless you for your honesty. There aren't many honest people around anymore.

Hey Henry, there is a charming home on Griffin Street that has a large statue of an elephant in its side garden. Is there a story there?

Hey Henry, who lives in that big corner house on Lawrenceville Street who seems to water their yard and plants whenever they want to. I’ve seen their sprinklers going morning, afternoon and evening. Aren’t there any restrictions for them?

Hey Henry, what happened to Abel Montejo? (Ed. note - He passed away and is in the July 9 edition of The Times.)

Hey Henry, I love looking at the cast statues of two boys playing baseball at the entrance of Alexander Park on Hwy. 42. However, the boy that is batting has no bat! Can't something be done to replace that bat?

Hey Henry, I am concerned about the sagging goalposts on the high school football field on the corner of Lemon St. and John Frank Ward. Can any money be found to repair or replace before one crashes down on someone?

Hey Henry, please hurry up and get the recreational center built so that Henry County kids have a local place to swim. Henry County is boastful about its "hometown" atmosphere, so let's at least provide a community pool.

Hey Henry! Have a reference question that needs to be answered? E-mail mdreference@mail.henry.public.lib.ga.us. Note: All spam will be ignored.

Hey Henry, is there a Church for the followers of the X-Files? It just seems more believable that "we" human animals are an alien experiment here on this Planet, than the popular man-made story that’s been brainwashing us for the last 20 centuries. See y’all at the X-Files Movie!

Hey Henry, why can't the traffic light at the intersection of Tanger Blvd. and Locust Grove Griffin Road be synchronized to benefit traffic going both ways? I have had to sit there for 2-3 minutes going east toward Hwy. 42 (or even in the opposite direction) while traffic on Tanger Blvd. would go by without ever having to stop. Let's be fair, please!

Hey Henry, remember when you voted for George Bush because you thought he was going to make the country the greatest place in the world? So, how’s that going for you?

Hey Henry, when will a red light be installed on Hwy 81 East and Bethany Road. I thought that had been approved in the last SPLOST. It is greatly needed there!!

07.23.08

 Hey Henry, we would like to wish Hunter Smith a happy third birthday. Mama and Daddy love you!

Hey Henry, For sale! Cheap! Gasoline and diesel fuel. Bring your own containers and a pumping system (must be UL approved) - just south of Locust Grove.

Hey Henry, again, county commissioners, I ask you to check your emails and then respond to your constituents. A six month email is way overdue for a response.

Hey Henry, to the school system - what about giving school children real food for lunch? What they are eating now is bad for their health and much more expensive then real food! They are diabetic, have high cholesterol and many health problems are going to affect them as they age. All they get is frozen prepared food. I feel bad for them. I have worked in corporate cafeterias and we feed those adults real food and it is healthy and tasty. Please care about our childrens health. Thank you.

Hey Henry, I really miss the old McDonough, the people were friendly and life was sweeter. Now it is so crazy and the light up billboard on the square makes it look like Tackyville. I think we need to keep our pride and values and I feel like we have lost our home.

Hey Henry, instead of all the negative Hey Henrys, I'd just like to say that I think Julie and Beau Kelley's residence in downtown McDonough is the most charming home around! I am always inspired and it is nice to see a young couple that takes such pride in their neighborhood.

Hey Henry, to the family of Abel Montejo, all of us who had our dogs trained by him will miss him greatly!

Hey Henry, the political candidates who won the election need to be fined $25 a day for each and every campaign sign of theirs that remains in public view. Take those hideous things down already.

Hey Henry, why aren't the Henry County restaurant scores posted online any longer? I inquired to County Health Services, and was told that our county commissioners asked them to take off this information. Why wouldn't they want this information readily available?

Hey Henry, has anyone noticed the amazing group of teens who graduated from Henry County schools this year? Deidre Cochran, Becca Waltrip, Jennifer Berger, Leah Allmer, Bekah Carr, Anushka Boyd, Sarah Lucas, Emily Guill, Stephen Sylvester, Ricky Plemmons, Steven Dingle, Kacee Payne. I could go on and on. They are all college bound and have a very bright future.

Hey Henry, in these economic times, don't forget to make sure your deposits are FDIC insured. The FDIC has a website that is very user friendly!

Hey Henry, where in the world is Timothy Kimbell II? (Ed. note - actually he has been in Thailand and promises to send a column about the gardens and sights there.)

Hey Henry, I am sleeping very well at night knowing that the McDonough city manager is hard at work putting together a large reduction package in city expenses so that the city council can amend the 2008 budget and not have to pass a 85% tax increase.
 

07.16.08

 Hey Henry, thank you, Redz Restaurant, for bringing such delightful comedy to the Square in McDonough! Who would have thought that people like to laugh around here! Dinner was exquisite and the atmosphere was truly exceptional!

Hey Henry, don't worry about the future of the earth. The earth has been here for millenia before us and will go on long after us, in whatever incarnation. "We have met the enemy, and he is us."

Hey Henry, for all you moms and dads out there who have your kids at an in-home daycare, and you are told that you can not claim it on your taxes, beware, because you can. And you are told that you have to pay for their food. Don't, you already pay for childcare, all that is included. All you need to do is call the State, and they will give you her Tax ID Number. Don't be fooled.

Hey Henry, does anyone know where you can go to get good fried shrimp now that Up the Creek has closed? I'm talking about those big, plump, butterflied shrimp you can’t find anywhere? I've tried other places but have yet to taste any good ones.

Hey Henry, to the lady responding about the gentleman carrying the loaded gun. These days and times I do feel better knowing that the people that I work for have firearms on them due to the robberies in Henry County. And shame on you to any mother who would walk her child into the city square area and not hold their hand to prevent them from running into a passing car.

Hey Henry, this is to whomever found $10.00 and a knife at the B.P. gas station on Highway 20/81.You took the knife inside, which you did a good deed but then you stole the cash. Why not take that money inside along with the knife. At least be honest all the way, not half the way.

Hey Henry, to the person who complained about the "grain elevator" in Stockbridge... would you rather keep the assortment of abandoned buildings and strip malls along 138 instead of letting the city bring itself into the 20th Century? For Heaven's Sake!

Hey Henry, Big Brother is always watching. (Ed. note - so is Hey Henry.)

Hey Henry, life is just not the same without the Garden Guy. Where is he?

Hey Henry, wow, Deidre Cochran...you really rocked in Les Miserables. Brenau is lucky to be getting you, girl.

Hey Henry, attention van/carpoolers and bus riders - I hate that it took gas going up to $4/gallon, but I sure am happy to see all the park 'n ride lots full! Thank you for helping to relieve the congestion problem. I hope the rest of you commuters try a commute alternative too!

Hey Henry, I don’t know what court that person who commented about the language and dress code has been in, but I don’t think it was a Henry County courtroom. In all the courts I have been a juror or observer in a court, the judge and all officials were more than courteous and never used inappropriate language. I’ve also never seen any people coming dressed like you described.

07.09.08

 Hey Henry, what do we have to do to get a weather alert alarm around the Hwy. 81 / Hwy. 3 (unincorporated) Hampton area. Just about every storm hits us. Help!

Hey Henry, I was in court with friend of mine a few weeks ago and was totally appalled at the language that our officers use in a public court room during the long breaks that are taken. I also noticed that Henry county doesn't have much of a dress code for court and what is really bad that parents and their kids would even think of entering into a courtroom with their pants to their ankles and looking like they just came off the streets. What a disgrace that our judges don't expect decency in their courts let alone their own employees have potty mouths.

Hey Henry, I should have called you so you could send a reporter to Salem Baptist's Country Fair last Friday. Great way to celebrate a wonderful week of Bible School. Neat 'cows' with their strange udders, plus free lemonade, popcorn and watermelon and lots of fun games.

Hey Henry, I sure hope the good residents of Henry County realize what an amazingly talented and professional quality theater company we have in our very own Henry Players. I went to see Les Miserables and it was a very moving and entertaining high quality piece of art. Congratulations to Directors Bob Dodson and Steve Green and their entire production crew. Their collective efforts gave us beautiful singing, acting and music against the backdrop of a stunning set. Go see any play by the Henry Players and you will not be disappointed.

Hey Henry, if the City of McDonough is in such a budget crisis, isn’t it time to consider contracting with the county for police protection. It would have to save money without losing any service. The city of Stockbridge has been doing it for years and it seems to work for them. Especially with the new county police headquarters just two blocks from city hall, doesn’t this make sense?

Hey Henry, I was very disappointed to see that two of the historic houses on Jonesboro Street were demolished (against the Historic Preservation Council's ruling) to make way for a large commercial building. Guess McDonough is on its way toward being the next Stockbridge. Do you ever hear anyone saying how much they enjoy visiting Stockbridge?

Hey Henry, Wachovia may have lied, but that website is just plain ugly! Let's use a simple color and font palette and make the thing a little easier on the eyes please!

Hey Henry, why are they building a grain elevator, beside the flower shop, at the intersection of East Atlanta and North Henry Blvd?

Hey Henry, to the person who got the tag number of the lady who sat the fast food bag in the road and you didn't know who to contact - try the Henry County Police number (not the 911 though). There is a fine for that. I wish I could get the tag number of the ones who throw theirs in our yard. We live on Airline Road. Why can't people wait until they get home!
 

07.02.08

 Hey Henry, I hope everyone read “My Father' Hands.” It was really a great thing to remember about your father. We still get your paper on the computer and I read it all. It sure makes me homesick. Thanks for all the news even though it isn't always good. We all like to complain once in a while. So, good-bye for now and I miss McDonough.

Hey Henry, if you are building a high-end, nice home, don’t use chicken wire for your fence. Money sure doesn't buy class!

Hey Henry, let's try to lower the car wrecks. If you see a car coming, you wait, and then you pull out. Don't pull out, right in front of me so I have to slam on my brakes. Especially if there's no one behind me. Think safe, not stupid. My life, and my families life are very important to me.

Hey Henry, when someone wants to report some wrongdoing at a City Council meeting in "Hey Henry,” it would help if they told us which City Council they were talking about. There is more than one city in Henry County!

Hey Henry, the Henry Players production of "Les Miserables" was probably the best musical I've seen in the last 10 years of HP productions. Amazing, all the performers were students! Such talent -- I hope we see more of them in years to come.

Hey Henry, I want to make my personal webpage, can you help me? (Ed. - I want to have a million dollars...can you help me?)

Hey Henry, I agree with the people who are tired of the trash in the square, but unfortunately it is all over. A while back my husband and I were going down Airline Road and watched a young woman open her door at the four-way stop and place her fast food bag and large drink on the road and drive off. We got her tag number, but then got busy with life and didn't really know who to call to report things like this. I couldn't believe she did it and then expected someone else to clean it up for her.

Hey Henry, has anyone in the Kelleytown area noticed that they keep patching Ford Drive near Pleasant Grove school and the dirt road was a lot smoother before they started patching? Seems like a lot of wasted taxpayer money to me.

Hey Henry, on 3/5/08 there was a post made about a student at an “elite High School.” I would like to get in touch with you. (Editor’s note: if you both want to send your email addresses to editor@henrycountytimes.com, we’ll put you in contact.)

Hey Henry, if you don't like your stimulus check, make more money next time. It's based on the taxes you paid in the first place, not some magical pro-senior conspiracy. Try actually reading the document the IRS goes to great expense to send in advance of the check next time.

Hey Henry, congratulations to the 11-12 Ola Allstars for finishing runner-up in district. Coach Steve and all the coaches were wonderful with the kids. Congratulations on a job well done.

Hey Henry, if the policeman lives within the community he serves, then by all means let him drive the cruiser home. However, if he's driving out to Butts county or something, that seems like a pretty ridiculous expense for us to shoulder. Also, the shamefully low pay these officers receive shouldn't justify some perk involving misuse of county property. Let's just raise their wages to respectable levels and trim the fat from elsewhere in the county.
 

06.25.08

 Hey Henry, Bravo! Bravo! The Henry Players have done it again. "Les Miserables" was the best show ever done by the Henry Players. The young people were absolutely fantastic!

Hey Henry, a big thank you to the Henry County Board of Education Facilities and Maintenance Department for quickly acting to remove a dead 50' Southern Pine tree at Flippen Elementary that abutted our property. Within two days of calling, they sent a crew out and removed the entire tree without leaving a branch or disturbing our property. Many, many thanks!

Hey Henry, I went to WachoviaLied.com and it is about a Henry resident. You should check it out, too!

Hey Henry, The complaints about cops driving their cruisers home after work makes me wonder if citizens realize what we ask of these folks. For $35 to $40,000 annually we want them to stand between us and the terror we see every day on TV, require them to make split second decisions where wrong ones leave them dead or in jail, and seek second jobs to support their families. I have no problem with patrolmen driving their cruisers home with good reason. If it attracts good quality cops it would be tax money well spent.

Hey Henry, will someone please tell the Henry County Tax Assessors office that homes are not selling in Henry County and "land value" and "building value" have been increased annually every year since we moved here in 1998!

Hey Henry, I don't believe I could vote for a politician who thinks three young beauties in short shorts and high heels is the way to campaign.

Hey Henry, thanks government for my stimulus check. I can now afford three tanks of gas. How does a single guy who works and paid his taxes only get back $145, when senior couples get back $1,200? What’s the math?

Hey Henry, I’m a senior citizen who has to live in low-income housing and am being constantly harassed by drug dealers. I can’t afford to live anywhere else, but am afraid to live where I do. Can someone address this issue someday for all of us who can’t afford to live better?

Hey Henry, when will our Mayor, city council and the D.O.T. realize the importance of a traffic light at the intersection of Conyers Rd., McGarity Rd., Fairview Dr. and Lawrenceville St.? Accidents occur there on a regular basis. School buses galore use this intersection. Is it going to take a fatality to open their eyes?

Hey Henry, to the person complaining of police officers driving their vehicles home. Police officers are never off duty. I would think that the residents of Henry County would welcome a police officer living in their community and having a police presence. I hope that you do not need police assistance, but, if you do, would you rather an off duty police officer respond to you because he is on his way to or from work/home and has the necessary equipment in his patrol car to assist you at that very moment, or would you rather wait a longer response time, because the officer had to drive to the police station, park his personal car, get into the police car and then respond to your call.
 

06.18.08

 Hey Henry, you are correct that you do not have to be a mortician to be a coroner; but at least morticians have a working knowledge of death related studies. i.e. anatomy, microbiology, diseases etc. What exactly does a middle school Geography teacher know about death, dying and caring for families? Maybe he spent the night at a Holiday Inn express.

Hey Henry, a big thank you to Food Depot for carrying apple juice made from American apples instead of concentrate from China!

Hey Henry, to all you folks going south on Griffin Street coming into the square. You know how you always block the intersection because you can't wait for the next light? Well, not only do you stop traffic at that intersection, you also stop everyone driving west on Macon Street coming into the square trying to turn left on John Frank Ward Blvd. You are not the most important person trying to get through the square. Try waiting for the next light like the rest of us.

Hey Henry, it is our own responsibility to care for and protect ourselves. Making complaints about someone carrying a weapon is not appropriate. It is our right and heritage to be able to say enough is enough. So, don't ask the government of Henry County to protect you. Protect yourself!

Hey Henry, gee, I hope none of the candidates for commissioner are taking down other candidate's signs, or telling their supporters to do so. That would be in such poor taste, don't you think?

Hey Henry, all the new football coaches at Union Grove High School are truly making a difference in a lot of boy’s lives. Thank you is just not enough for these men!

Hey Henry, does anyone else think quality growth is an oxymoron in Henry County?

Hey Henry, as a person who went through the HC School System in McDonough and a child of a parent that taught in the school system, I give greatest kudos to the retired teachers this year. I distinctly remember three of them that taught me so much; Mrs. Reese, Mrs. Werner, and Ms. Childs. I don’t think they will ever know what an impact they made on my life. Students may not appreciate them now, but I promise 15-20 years later, they will mean so much to them.

Hey Henry, shame on you for such a poor turnout at the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall. As a biker who rode in both parades, I'm extremely disappointed that there were less than fifty motorcycles on both days. Where were you Vietnam Vets M/C, Patriot Guard Riders, Rolling Thunder and Abate? I guess Vietnam still is "the forgotten war."

Hey Henry, I want to share with you the most recent egregious behavior by a council member we witnessed during a recent city council meeting. A citizen made a public statement that apparently the member disagreed with. During a 5 minute break, the council member pointed at the citizen, summoned them to the front and started to scream - "Cheap Shot, Cheap Shot" and proceeded to argue, ridicule and demand a response. This behavior was not only rude, unbecoming and least of all unprofessional but it was especially alarming coming from an elected official. It is one thing to have a bad moment - but this seems to be the norm from this council member.

06.11.08

Hey Henry, a big thank you to everyone involved with the Master Gardeners’ Tour of Gardens. Everyone was welcoming, polite, and able to provide any and all information about each location. Class act all the way!

Hey Henry, I sure am proud that our town is bringing the Vietnam Traveling Wall to town. Way to go McDonough! A positive event in the midst of all the woes that fill the news every day.

Hey Henry, we all have those few pennies laying around that we think aren't really worth much. Lately when I receive my change back from a purchase, I ask the cashier to keep the penny and read the inscription. (In God We Trust). Not only am I putting a little back in the economy, I am also reminding myself as well as others of whom we belong too. If everyone would give back just a penny a day, we just might help the economy AND remind us of where our trust should really be.

Hey Henry, what's a city the size of 16,000 doing with a $10 million budget? McDonough needs to trim down and cut back (that includes personnel expenses that some City Council members even refuse to consider.) Rising expenses have forced the taxpayers who foot the bills to cut back across the board. City officials should do the same (without raising taxes) or be replaced!

Hey Henry, congratulations to HCHS Valedictorian Jennifer Berger! You go girl!

Why is the principal at Woodland Middle School intending to remove the arts from his school next year, but keep Latin?

Hey Henry, how many more car break-ins, car thefts, home invasions, burglaries are we going to have before something is done? The Crumbley Road and Kelleytown area have had hundreds in the last few months, not to mention Lakehaven, where cars are being broken into in people’s garages. I guess when enough criminals get their heads blown off by residents, something may be done. How about the idea of a mandatory gun license, like in Kennesaw? Sounds like a great idea to me. That's what will happen if I catch someone breaking in my house or car. Maybe the county politicians should make this a priority and stop focusing so much on this nonsense of building and land business.

Hey Henry, why do some people think a dirt road is a trash can?

Hey Henry, while traveling through Pleasant Grove Road to Stonecrest Mall the other day, it was interesting to note how many congratulations to Union Grove graduates that were posted in yards located on the Rockdale side of the Henry-Rockdale County line.

Hey Henry, do you know there is a rumor spreading that you have to be a mortician to be able to be a Coronor in Henry County. This is not true.

Hey Henry, please spay and neuter your pets! It is kitten season and already over 300 cats and kittens have been euthanized in Henry County for the month of May. This could be prevented easily by spaying and neutering. There are many low cost options just check online or call your shelter. Did you also know that if you take care of a stray that it is legally yours after three days? That means that stray is your responsibilty so take care of it.

Hey Henry, if the guy from the pawn shop wants to carry a loaded firearm while walking down the sidewalk, it's his Constitutional right. In fact, anyone can carry a loaded firearm in plain site while walking down the side walk all day, everyday.

06.04.08

Hey Henry, happy birthday to my wife! You little cutie-pie, you're no bigger than the hammer on a twenty-two, but you sure are pretty! Remember Gina Lolabrigida, that gorgeous Italian film star from the 50's and 60's? You favor her a lot, if the light's kinda dim and I squint real hard.

Hey Henry, Thank you Brenda Nail DeLauder for your uplifting and spiritual column. I enjoy looking for it each week. Just like you, I enjoy getting to sit down and take a quick break if we are lucky enough to get rain also. Your columns always make me realize how grateful I am for so many things.

Hey Henry, so, does the guy at the Pawn Shop have to actually kill someone before we figure out that he should not be holstering a loaded firearm walking down our sidewalks? A mother screams, “Watch out!” in an attempt to save her child from the speeding car as he errantly crosses the street. Just as the car misses the child, the bullet coming from the gun in the hands of someone who has already shot an innocent man hits the child and brings to an end an innocent life. Is this what it is going to take?

Hey Henry, why didn't Henry County Police make a case against the farmer with the lake full of stolen water? Somebody is asleep at the wheel.

Hey Henry, there are some people that blame George Bush for the horrific conditions our country is in. And there are some people that are delusional.

Hey Henry, if we do not get professional and fair health inspectors soon, Henry County will be an empty county for restaurants.

Hey Henry, dress codes are created to present a professional image of a company, business, or city. How hard is that to understand?

Hey Henry, thank you Henry County Police Department. I was robbed a few days ago and you guys were wonderful to me and my family. I appreciate all you do to keep us safe!

Hey Henry, does anyone else living in historic McDonough see "colt 45 man" having his beer as he walks around town and leaving his empty cans in your trash cans? It is illegal to have open containers of beer out in public, correct? Please report this man to the police if you see him.

Hey Henry, if you are going to order pizza and you don't pay for gas to go get it, give the driver at least a buck. Cheap skates!

Hey Henry, to the off duty fireman that I had an altercation with in the Kroger parking lot off Jonesboro Rd that occurred on Thursday night 5/29... I’m sorry! I was speeding and I thank you for addressing the issue. I apologize to you and your kids.

Hey Henry, oh poor, poor city of McDonough staff. Instead of letting anyone go so money can be saved, why not do like so many of us airline employees have done. Take a humongous pay cut, but do it voluntarily. We didn't ask to lose our incomes, homes, cars, and living the life style we were accustomed to; but we're managing. It's amazing how you start talking about all these money hogs and how fast they start pointing fingers and acting like pit bulls, because they don't want to let go of their high incomes.

Hey Henry, finally, a restaurant in McDonough where the food is consistently good, the wait staff is consistently friendly and informed, and the price is right - Waffle House.
 

05.28.08

 Hey Henry, we the McDonough city staff are willing to sacrifice for a balanced budget! We will gladly sacrifice the City Manager and all the people that he may have hired and/or promoted - including the building official, the plan review coordinator, one of the code enforcement officers, and the media relations specialist. And, oh without a doubt we will on bended knees let go of the Contract Community Development Director so that he can concentrate his complete days on his erosion control business and his quality growth council. Then and only then will the City be cleansed of those who would seek to kill the life of this community!

 Hey Henry, happy Memorial Day to all our veterans! And a special thanks to Mayor Copeland for recognizing them!

 Hey Henry, to the one who isn't at the top of the pay scale and has a family. I am not supporting your family. I am a single mother driving 37 miles one way to a better paying hospital than HMC, and I bring home a whopping $35,000 a year, I am raising two teenage children that I don't get child support on any regular basis for but I sure don't expect my employer to give me car to get to work quicker just so taxpayers can save money. Have your wife or husband get a job, this is a two paycheck world - get used to it.

 Hey Henry, I want to congratulate the Elite '99, eight and under girls travel softball team, which is based out of McDonough. The girls took first place in our last tournament which was played in Douglasville. The girls did an awesome job and worked hard. Congrats and good luck on the rest of your season! GO ELITE!

 Hey Henry, maybe I'm not up to the times, but when you are off duty, you are off the clock. Why would you need to drive a county vehicle home? Including police officers! If you are off duty, do like every other taxpayer who has a family to support and drive your own vehicle home. Why should we have to provide your transportation to and from work? The county doesn't provide my transportation because I'm a county worker. I can't ride the bus to school to cut down on my transportation expense. Put our tax dollars to use where they are suppose to be used.

 Hey Henry, I'd like to commend the choral director at Woodland High School for doing a wonderful job this year. He has gone out of his way to make the choral program outstanding. The kids have a great respect for him. He is one in a million.

 Hey Henry, lets talk fairness. A local high school needs to learn the meaning of the word. The high school had their annual cheerleading tryouts a few weeks ago. They allowed one girl to tryout after she had missed the first day of the clinic when it clearly states in the rules that you must be present for every clinic in order to try out. Then one of the judges for the tryouts was friends with some of the girls through an All Star Team. Some of the girls that did not make the team were seniors that have been cheering since Middle School and others girls that had cheered for Varsity Competition for the past 2 years that clearly should have made the team. Our schools should be making more opportunities for our children and stop being so political!

 Hey Henry, I was so disappointed to hear about the behavior Mickie Jackson has witnessed on the square. I sure do hope that when she saw the girl from the restaurant on the square empty her cigarette ashtray in the parking lot she went over and let her boss know about it. There is absolutely no excuse for trashing out our public places. I’m sure she wouldn’t dump it in her own driveway. I’m sick of people littering our streets and roads. Report them!

05.21.08

 Hey Henry, when someone talks or says hello to you, then the polite thing to do is to say hello back, even if you are talking on a cell phone. Grow up!

Hey Henry, to all the young men and women from McDonough First United Methodist Church that are graduating from the different high schools in the Henry County area. Congratulations and best wishes on your future. We have the best of the best, so go forth, reach out, and be all you can be.

Hey Henry, if you look greedy and act greedy, then you are probably greedy!

Hey Henry, when are the schools in Henry County going to start getting tougher on students going to school out-of-district. I know of several students that are going to my son’s school right now that are out-of-district. We can stop the overcrowding if the school system would start cracking down on all of these parents that know they are doing wrong.

Hey Henry! Being a woman myself, I want to tell all these women out there that your car is not meant to be used as a powder room. You should do your makeup at home. If you say you don't have time then wake your lazy self up earlier so you can get it done. I can get myself ready and my kids ready and still be on time. You are going to kill someone one day because you need to get that mascara on just right. Cars are for transportation, not for your beautification.

Hey Henry, there is a farmer in McDonough that thinks he can do anything he wants. On a Sunday night in March he filled his lake from a fire hydrant!

Hey Henry, Salem Baptist Church would like to congratulate its high school and college graduates on a job well done. Best of luck in the future!

Hey Henry, thank you Kevin Oliveira for your article "A new generation." I could not agree more! Having moved here from Europe a few years back (and please let me point out, I'm happy to be here), I'm sad to see the change in attitude towards this country in Europe. Ten years back a lot of people would do anything to be able to come here to work and live. Today a lot of the same people rage when they hear the name the United States. It saddens me because this country is full of hard working, good, everyday people.

Hey Henry, what happened to the garden guy?

Hey Henry, congratulations to the Henry County Celtics! The 13 and under team took second place in a crowded field of 34 teams at the YBOA Georgia State Tournament this weekend. Kudos to Coach Wortham, Coach Derek and all the players. You guys were simply awesome and made us all very proud!

Hey Henry, many thanks to the Police Officers and Medics who
helped me when I fell leaving the Geraninum Festival on Saturday. I did go to the Emergency Room at Henry Medical as you asked and I am fine. You responded so quickly and were so very nice. Thanks again.

Thanks so much to the expeditious and courteous Henry County policeman that stopped and changed my tire for me on Friday, May 16. Please drivers - move over one lane when someone is having car trouble and a police car is there trying to assist. There are way too many people that get hit by cars on the interstate.

 

05.14.08

 Hey Henry, the McDonough City staff has learned a valuable lesson from the current city council: rules don't matter, who you know is more important; laziness is to be rewarded; the City will approve anything; conflicts of interest are not recognized - they are encouraged; the city manager will never be fired; and sit on your butt because no matter how hard you work in the public interest nothing is gonna change!

Hey Henry, I would like to congratulate all those that are a part of the current Eagle's Landing High School yearbook and newspaper staff for their 14 awards presented at the GSPA, which allows the ELHS Journalism program to exceed all others in the region. All of the hard work and dedication that has gone into the yearbook as well as the newspaper has paid off. Congratulations!

Hey Henry, with all the governments raising taxes, gas prices rising higher and higher, and politicians giving themselves pay raises because they "think" they’re worth it, well maybe we should all just quit work. We’ll stop paying on our houses and any other loans we have, go on welfare and food stamps, and stop worrying about everything. Then we can just let the government pay for everything. Sounds like a plan to me (don't worry be happy).

Hey Henry, Now is the time to replace all those energy-wasting incandescent bulbs in your home with efficient flourescent bulbs. They don't produce heat and it's going to be a hot summer!

Hey Henry, congratulations to the 2008 inaugural graduating class of Ola High School, especially my granddaughter, Sarah, and her friend Jaren. May God bless your future with every success. Love, Nan.

Hey Henry, to Mayor Copeland and McDonough City Council, thank you for thinking of our veterans!

Hey Henry, I heard that the Belgian Waffleman is going to be at the Geranium Festival. Don't miss him. I hope he has chocolate dipped waffles on a stick!!!

Hey Henry, thank you to Mitzi at Pizaz for the fun Veteran's Day doggie event. Our dog loves wearing her new Pizaz collar.

Hey Henry, does anyone know why we have to drive through the parking lots of three different businesses to get to the Waffle House parking lot next to Precision Tune-up at Jonesboro Road and McDonough Parkway? When you enter from McDonough Parkway, the Waffle House driveway has been blocked by permanent curbs. Who did that?

Hey Henry, many thanks to an anonymous, very thoughtful gentleman who picked up the tab at a Stockbridge restaurant for our birthday luncheon! We all enjoyed the food, and we had a great time topped off by this nice surprise! God bless you, sir. With gratitude, six little ole' ladies ranging from ages 67 - 94.

Hey Henry, please tell the people that matter that they need to check out the Whispering Willow Subdivision. The homes are single resident homes and you have some homes with at least five families living in them.

Hey Henry, Maybe the person(s) who suggested "reducing or eliminating take home vehicles" for McDonough employees should remember their suggestion the next time they need a police officer to respond quickly to their house. Folks don’t realize that having a take home vehicle benefits the community by quicker responses. Keep in mind most of us are not at the top of the pay scale and we have families to take care of, too.
 

05.07.08

 Hey Henry, Art in the park was pretty cool this weekend. The band was really good and it was a beautiful day. Good food too - especially CJ's Hotdogs had a great New Orleans Dog. I want to thank the McDonough Art Council for having an enjoyable event.

Hey Henry, maybe the McDonough city council should consider reducing or eliminating take home vehicles to address their budget shortfalls. Taxpayers should not pay for city employees to drive to and from work and cavort around town on the weekends. No matter what the cost of gas, this is just pure waste!

Hey Henry, yes, teachers should remove badges when they drink. Let's give them the benefit of doubt after a long hard day with our children, they simply forgot. Just think about all the things your kids tell teachers that you do or say, and boy, do kids talk! I don't think seeing a teacher out in public actually smiling and laughing is as bad as the stories they tell about their parents! In fact, many parents would get a failing grade in their own modeling skills. Let's make sure the teaching of morals and values actually begins at home before we judge our exhausted and underpaid teachers.

Hey Henry, the taste of Henry was fun. I really enjoyed the music near the end of the night. It looked like everyone had a good time. The kids had a lot of places to play, also. I do wish the trash cans were emptied more often but other than that it was nice.

Hey Henry, if the city of Atlanta is laying off employees to try and get the budget into balance, why is McDonough not considering the same thing instead of this unreasonable property tax increase. I could live with a 10 or 15 percent increase, but never 64%. There will be more and more foreclosures and empty neighborhoods if this tax increase happens.

Hey Henry, to the Civil War "Expert" stating, "Confederate soldiers are not American Veterans, they were Confederate Veterans" - CSA = Confederate States of AMERICA.

Hey Henry, way to go Luella High School Fine Arts Department. Congratulations on a job well done! "All Shook Up" was wonderful!!

Hey Henry, For the fire/police department and commissioners/managers, I am curious of what the raise slash cost of living adjustment will be. We always hear how we are now a metro department. If that is true, we need to be paid as such. Gas, homes, and groceries have gone up tremendously and I'm tired of having to work a second job just to make ends meet!

Hey Henry, I would like to give a shout out to my mama. Happy Mother’s Day! Love, Tammy.

Hey Henry, thanks to all the pencil pushers at the fire department for wanting to take yet another thing away (kelly days) from the hard workers. They keep taking and taking but don't give. Even if they say "good job", which is seldom, that does not put food on our plate. (Ed. question...would you like to enlighten us on what a “kelly day” is?)

Hey Henry, to Sheriff Chafin - why don't you do what all the Superior Court Clerks have done forever in this county, retire and appoint Keith McBrayer your replacement and he will automatically become an incumbent and be assured of winning the election.
 

04.30.08

Hey Henry, does anyone else think there needs to be a left turn signal going into the post office in McDonough? It is sometimes difficult to turn there with all of the traffic coming into town on Highway 155.

Hey Henry, if you have five dollars and Chuck Norris has five dollars, Chuck Norris has more money than you.

Hey Henry, Isn't it common sense not to cut Title I teachers in the elementary schools when the test scores are already low. Wake up Michael Surma ! Teachers make the difference, not literacy and math coaches. Talk to your teachers.

Hey Henry, do you think the developers will stop building in a few years when Henry resembles Clayton county? Will anyone want to move here?

Hey Henry, is there a statue to recognize Patrick Henry as the one for whom our county is named?

Hey Henry, the McDonough Square is just beautiful with the flowers and green grass, the walkways and the confederate memorial statue. Let's just keep it that way. That's ALL it needs to speak of the beauty of the South.

Hey Henry, Koffee Klutch has been doing a great job with the booksigning program. Thanks for being so interested in our community!

Hey Henry, why do we park in a driveway and drive on a parkway?

Hey Henry, where did the vent go? Where are we going to get all our gossip?

Hey Henry, why can’t someone get the traffic lights around the square to synchronize better. They all seem to be pretty random when changing and traffic is backing up all the way to Chattanooga.

Hey Henry, the flower boxes around the square were purchased with money donated by the merchants. I constantly see litter in them and along the sidewalks. Why doesn't the City purchase more trash cans to go along the streets bordering the Square. That might help to stop some of the trash that has to picked up. Or here's a unique concept - just stop littering.

Hey Henry, many thanks to Main Street and all the others who helped put together the Car Show in McDonough. We came and had a great time looking at the cars and enjoying the music. Hope this is a yearly thing!

Hey Henry, to the one talking about the Kilpatricks Charge. They are not American Veterans, They are Confederates. The Confederate soldiers are not American Veterans. I think you need to learn some of your history.

Hey Henry, there is no 'ctrl' button on Chuck Norris's computer. Chuck Norris is always in control.

Hey Henry, the Confederate Memorial Day observance on the square was very well done. I just moved to the south and was impressed by the reverence of the program and the observance of the memories of the men who fought.

Hey Henry, looking forward to your tax rebate? How will you spend it? Feed your family, or fill up your car?
 

04.23.08

 Hey Henry, wow! I can't believe all the restaurants that are participating in Taste of Henry this year! I look forward to this event every year, and it looks like this will be the best yet! Way to go Henry County restaurants!

Hey Henry, to those who pass judgment on teachers drinking in public and having fun, don’t be jealous. Your precious children probably drove them to drink. It is not your children’s teachers’ responsibility to teach moral values, that is their parents duty. If a teacher tried to impress their moral values on your child you would probably be first in line to complain and want them fired, so get off it!

Hey, Henry, just how little do we think of our public library system? So little that we pay our library staff less than every other county in the area! In fact, the managers don't even earn as much as the brawny folks who stock the grocery shelves. I guess Henry County just doesn't think it's important for school children and community residents to have access to reliable information and help finding it. If you disagree, please make the effort to pick up the phone or e-mail your County Commissioner and the County Manager today!

Hey Henry, I just finished reading the "to the point" opinion and views of Jimmy Cochran, Editor. He, like those who vent, is exercising his right to freedom of speech. It is one of the principles that this wonderful county is built upon. Everyone should be able to speak up and stand for what they believe in and march to their own beat.

Hey Henry, to all Henry County residents, please remember that 911 means just that, emergency. If you tie up the police officers with ridiculous calls like you can't figure out how to turn off the light in your car, then maybe you shouldn't be driving a motor vehicle. Get a mechanic. The next time someone complains about the response time of law enforcement to a true emergency, just remember that police officers are being tied up with ridiculous calls like above.

Hey Henry, it appears instead of only learning Spanish we will now be required to learn Chinese! Instead of incentives to help Georgia folks to start businesses to help heal the economy, our illustrious Governor is bringing in the Chinese. Any other thoughts on this subject?

Hey Henry, only a heart of stone could be unmoved by the strength, valor and determination displayed in Kilpatrick’s Charge on August 20, 1864 at Nash Farm. What a sad, empty, narcissistic, ungrateful, unthinking lot Mr. Stanley must think of all American Veterans. We are listening to the junk that is being spoken by Mr. Stanley and yes, we who love our history also vote.

Hey Henry, is “primate” the act of removing your spouse from in front of the TV?

Hey Henry, don't you hate it when you go to all the trouble of suing a tenant that owes you $3,200 for back rent and trusting that he can pay the rent because he has worked for a local company for 25 years, and then he files a Chapter 13 on you and you can't get but 1% or $32? I hate when that happens. And then come to find out...he's done this to everyone. What a scum-bum!

Hey Henry, not to single out a particular commissioner, but please read your emails - and respond to them.
 

04.16.08

 Hey Henry, why build a rodeo when a pool or two can be built for the citizens. Pools can be used for athletic purposes as well. Swim teams can made from the high schools. Not to mention swim teams can be developed in the summer. Importantly, swimming lessons for the young children can be given. This would be a more valuable asset than a bull ring. Anyone agree?

Hey Henry, why do people move here and try to take over? It ain't broke! Don't mess with it. Leave the square alone.

Hey Henry, kudos to McDonough Tourism. We like the energy and activity. Keep those buses coming.

Hey Henry, all parents need to be aware. Some delinquents are causing damage to county property in Hidden Valley Park. So, parents, don’t let your children be the ones they catch.

Hey Henry, what are the Wachovia Lied signs all about?

Hey Henry, to the person who thanked the bus driver who saved the dog that was being tortured. Why didn't you and your neighborhood do something about it, instead of waiting for weeks for it to be saved?

Hey Henry, a million thanks to Martha at the McDonough library. She was a tremendous help to me on the computer. Martha is definitely an asset to the library and the people that come in.

Hey Henry, to the person who wrote, "McDonough is not a "confederate city." You are right, education is very important and you proved your lack thereof with a mindless statement. All the cities past and present were and are "confederate cities." The word confederate is an anglo-saxon word which means "united people." The original thirteen colonies were known as the "confederate Colonies" changed to confederate states, then to the United States.

Hey Henry, to Kibbee Road - have heart and give room for our vehicles to comfortably meet and pass each other on your street! Won't you please set your mailboxes back just a little bit for safety’s sake! Especially, the brick ones and those extremely close to your very beautifu, but narrow street.

Hey Henry, the teachers that go out to eat on 81 East on Fridays, should really take their teachers badges off before getting intoxicated. You aren't setting a good example for our kids, that now know teachers, who teach them not to drink, actually drink themselves.

Hey Henry, saying the oath of allegiance to this land of liberty, has been a moment of pride for me. So was the day that Henry County preserved the Nash Farm Battlefield where my ancestor honorably served in the 7th PA Cavalry. My family honors (ALL) American veterans.

Hey Henry, to the family in the first part of Wynbrook Subdivision with the dog that barks all night, please show some respect and keep the dog indoors.

Hey Henry, to the person or group of persons who vandalized the city cemetery, flipping and breaking of headstones, stealing all the confederate and american flags, and degrading everything that is America, we will be watching.

04.09.08

 Hey Henry, open your eyes. Somebody keeps trashing the square. Keep the signs, information box, wreath and magnolias from around the monument. It looks down right tacky!

Hey Henry, thanks to the Henry County policeman who stopped and pushed a stalled car out of harm's way at the Race Track Road/Hwy 42 intersection. Our law officers really do believe in those words 'to protect and to serve'!

Hey Henry, I noticed that the HCWSA have given their customers limited outdoor watering privileges as approved by the EPD. Great! My question is City of Stockbridge, when are you going to follow suit? Why are we that live inside city limits not given those same privileges? After all, it does say State of Georgia; not “just customers of the HCWSA.” They are doing the odd/even number like before. Why can't we? I would like to see your answer posted in "Hey Henry" next week!!

Hey Henry, contrary to what some people may believe, McDonough is not a "confederate city." It hasn't been one since 1865. People who are living in the 19th century ought to focus on the issues we face today - poverty, global warming, education, transportation, etc.

Hey Henry, I keep hearing about gangs forming in Henry County. Am I the only one who doesn't understand what kids living in Henry County have to be so angry about? Seriously, you need a reality check if you think any part of living in a suburban town like McDonough justifies you acting like some ignorant thug. You ain't street. You're just another punk wannabe living in a suburb!

Hey Henry, please don't talk about me.

Hey Henry, we just would like for our bus driver to know how much we appreciate her. Ms. Jane is a really superb bus driver. She is always on time, we can always depend on her, we know our kids are safe, and love her, but most of all she loves our kids. Undoubtedly, the best in Henry.

Hey Henry, this if for the residents who are always complaining about real estate signs on the road. The people that put these signs out are able to put food on the table for their family. Can a decent person not make a living in peace?

Hey Henry, concerning the kids in Virginia Meadows, for nearly four years we put up with this "band of brothers' harassing us. We put up with the "ding dong ditching", having BBs shot at our house, eggs busted on our roof, etc. On several occasions, we caught them. When we finally had enough and contacted the HCPD, we were labeled by the parents of one of the kids as being intolerant of a "kid friendly" neighborhood of kids "just having fun" to actually being called "the problem" and "bad neighbors" in a previous Hey Henry. Contact HCPD, they will know who to speak with as they have a very detailed description of the pranks of this group. Thank goodness we have been able to get out. I feel sorry for all of you left to deal with this group of kids whose parents are oblivious of their behavior.

Hey Henry, can E.T. phone home!

Hey Henry, it appears instead of only learning Spanish we will now be required to learn Chinese! Instead of incentives to help Georgia folks to start businesses to help heal the economy, our illustrious Governor is bringing in the Chinese. Any other thoughts on this subject?

04.02.08

 Hey Henry, that was not an Easter Egg Hunt at Nash Farm as seen on page ten of the March 26, 2008 edition. That was an Easter Egg Pick-Up. A HUNT is where you have to LOOK or SEARCH for the eggs.

Hey Henry, who is the brave person, that placed the bird house in the tall tree on the square of McDonough? (Ed. note - that is actually an owl house.)

Hey Henry, recently in my neighborhood, someone released a very large dog. The dog roamed the neighborhood of Kaleb Ct. for several weeks. Some of the boys in the neighborhood abused the dog, he was a target used for training other dogs to fight, he was tazored, beaten and left starving. I would like to thank a Henry County School Bus Driver who rescued the dog. She gave him a good home in a large fenced yard. It's wonderful to know that someone in this cruel world has a heart. Nothing or no one deserves this kind if abuse. Thank you so much from the residents of Kaleb Court.

Hey Henry, I don't know if the comment directed at "those people" was a racist comment or a negative comment against women, but I can tell you this. I have seen plenty of good ole’ white boys and men in their good ole’ pick-up trucks on their cell phones chatting away as well as any woman. Not only that, I’ve seen plenty of good ole ‘white boys and men in their pick-up trucks cruise right on through a stop sign like it was meant for someone else.

Het Henry, the flower boxes around the square are just that, flower boxes, not trash cans. Someone should talk to the city about putting out some trash cans around the square to help with this littering problem. Lets keep McDonough beautiful!!

Hey Henry, that was a great Town Hall meeting about the Historic District and my concerns were answered so I am now in favor. However, I was ashamed of our city council (except for Mrs. Riffey) who were noticeably absent. Thank you Mayor Copeland and Gina Riffey for caring about our city enough to show up and support the citizens.

Hey Henry, to the person who responded to my Hey Henry about New Birth Missionary South and told me I needed to "get the plank out of my eye," this is what I have to say. I agree with you 100%. I think people who work for the Lord should have nice things. But to me, nice doesn't have to be $1,000 pair of shoes or a million dollar home. That isn't nice, it is extravagant.

Hey Henry, Tim Coley promised speed bumps at Warren Holder Park, because people were acting as if this was a freeway and going top speed. With the speed bumps down now maybe when a ball rolls out into the parking lot, the children will not get run over. Thanks again, Tim!

Hey Henry, to the kids in Virginia Meadows and other subdivisions off of Kelleytown Road doing the "Ding Dong Ditching" between 9:00 p.m. and midnight. We adults do not find this cute or funny and if you're not careful, you're going to find yourselves at the wrong end of a meeting with Henry County PD one of these nights during your little escapades. Stop It Now!

Hey Henry, please don't forget Cindi McCarthy this April. This month will be hard for her after losing her husband and two twin boys one year ago from the plane that went down over Pine Mountain. I can't imagine what it's like for her. Please pray for her and her family too. We love you Cindi!

03.26.08

 Hey Henry, this is to the person who thinks the Pet of the Week should be used for the Humane Society. I just wanted to let you know that everyone at Henry County Humane Society thanks you! We have many adoptable pets which you can see on our website at www.henryhumane.com. (Editor note - we have used the Humane Society for POTW in the past and will continue to do so when possible.)

Hey Henry, maybe they should take the Estates off the end of Lake Dow so that people who are moving into the area won’t think that it is an overpriced trailer park with a fake lake that you can't even water ski on.

Hey Henry, the music played during the Easter egg hunt at Nash farms this year was very inappropriate for children's ears!

Hey Henry, this is Judge Studdard at State Court. Thanks to the nice person who wrote in about their good experience on jury duty. We try hard to make jury service a positive experience, while also doing justice to folks in court. (Speaking of justice, how come nobody told me they were serving cookies?)

Hey Henry, just a reminder to all those people out there who refuse to turn their headlights on during fog and rain; when you are driving a dark or gray car you blend right into the scenery. Turn your lights on so we can see you. And to all those people who don’t stop at the stop sign at North Mt. Carmel and Mt. Carmel Rd., please stop! With those kids in your car on the way to school, don’t you understand the importance of stopping at the stop sign? Rolling stops don’t count!

Hey Henry, and now the church wants to use Mt. Carmel Elementary School's ball fields for play. More traffic, more often. Let them build ball fields on some of their green space, or are they saving it for building phase II.

Hey Henry, thank you Tim Coley for getting done what you said you would do! You really will save a child’s life... (Editor question - what was done? Perhaps our readers would like to know.)

Hey Henry, my family and I went to the Saturday grand opening of the Nash Farm. It was a great place and the county is lucky to have it. I only wish the weather had been better so more people could have enjoyed being outside in all the lovely green space. Thanks HCPRD for a good job!

Hey Henry, what does a crook see with? Burglarize!

Hey Henry, to all the bicycle riders on Mt. Carmel Road and Mill Road - please wear reflective clothes and ride in the daylight hours. Yesterday morning at 7:30 in the morning (during rush hour traffic) and dark, you were out there and I didn’t see you till it was almost too late. I am so afraid one of you will get it hit and am surprised it hasn’t happened yet.

Hey Henry, did you know that school violence increases at almost the same rate as overcrowding does? Did you know that kids have to eat lunch at 10:30 a.m. in some schools in Henry County? They are being crowded and herded like animals! Half of their class time is spent taking bathroom breaks! You can't keep adding trailers while the lunch rooms and bathrooms stay the same!

Hey Henry, is it the cell phone or the female gene that disables the driving skills of “those” people.

03.19.08

 Hey Henry, A bus driver and teachers from several high schools in Henry County are my heroes. I don't know their names, but they got a group of students from Ola High School and others, who were attending the Hawks game at Phillips Arena on Friday night during the tornado, home safely! They have my gratitude because my grandson was among the students. Thanks to you all.

Hey Henry, I recently served on jury duty at the State Court. It was a wonderful experience…really. The court staff were very pleasant and they served hot coffee and raisin oatmeal cookies every morning. Thanks State Court Staff.

Hey Henry, what ever happened to kids raising money by holding car washes and selling doughnuts? I cannot believe the number of kids panhandling for "donations" to support their world series trip. Teach your kids the lesson of honest work to get what they want and to stop looking for free handouts.

Hey Henry, they want a 64% increase in McDonough city property taxes to cover a fantasy budget. Homeowners within the city limits, please tell the council to wake up!

Hey Henry, a patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government. Thank you Rich & Beth for being patriots in regards to your letter.

Hey Henry, has anyone notice the increase of violence in our county schools. The assaults amoung students in Henry County Middle School is out of control and no one seems to care.

Hey Henry, to the person inquiring about Airline Road, I moved to McDonough in '71 and remember quite vividly as small aircraft did indeed fly out of that area. If I'm not mistaken, even Zack and Zip Hinton flew small planes from there.

Hey Henry, thank you to Jimmy and the Henry County Times for the eye-opening information in the March 5 edition. Please continue to keep us informed. (Ed. note - we appreciate the thanks, but we can’t do it all...call your city council representative and give them your thoughts.)

Hey Henry, did the out-of-town race fans spend enough money in our county this past weekend to improve our roads? (besides the ones on the way to the race track?) This traffic is unbearable.

Hey Henry, to add on to the resident comment - not only are the real estate signs that litter our roads trashy, the stakes that are left behind are also tacky. Can we jerk these up and use them for our own purposes?

Hey Henry, how come the city of Atlanta is in a budget crisis and is cutting all departments (except police and fire) by 25%. They aren’t even talking about a tax increase, just cutting down on unnecessary personnel and expenses. Get the idea, city council?

Hey Henry, I think the "Pet of the Week" is as cute as can be, but could you please feature the animals at The Humane Society? I am sure there are many in need of homes.

Hey Henry, regarding the three hour traffic jam on Mt. Carmel Road. The county Planning and Zoning did not think of those of us who pay taxes, live on that road and have to put up with the traffic. It was all political and there was nothing that was going to stop the church from being built there, knowing that Mt. Carmel Road could not handle that amount of traffic. They just did not care about the tax paying citizens who have lived on there for 27 years.

03.12.08

 Hey Henry, thank you Henry County Times!!! For standing up and telling the public what they should know regarding the running of their city.

Hey Henry, in the February 20 ‘Hey Henry,’ someone made a comment about driving a car with two hands. I was almost hit once in McDonough and once in Stockbridge because of the same reason. I thought the whole front of my car had been torn off. The person had one of those things in her ear and was still using both hands to do various things. One of them wasn’t to turn on a turn signal. Why can’t there be a law about pulling off to the side of the road when you are talking on the phone?

Hey Henry, due to the construction going on at the library that is taking up part of the parking lot, the patrons now seem to think it is ok to park in the staff parking lot on the side of the building. Please be courteous to the staff and let them have their spaces back. There are enough spaces out front to accommodate you.

Hey Henry, know what I'm really tired of? All those signs advertising subdivisions. I live right off of Hwy. 81 and Jackson Road. There's an area through there that would be beautiful if it weren't for all those trashy signs. A beautiful pasture with a whole herd of horses . . . beautiful horses. But, all along the road are those endless signs. Isn't there some sort of "littering" law about those things? (Ed. note - Right on!)

Hey Henry, I was reading about the signs for the little boy’s daddy and I think it is sad that the code enforcement officers won't do anything about issues that break ordinances that directly affect a person's safety in their own home. but, can break a child's heart that is trying to show his love for his daddy. To the little boy, I think your daddy knows how much you love him just with the thought of taking the time to make those signs.

Hey Henry, is McDonough really increasing taxes to pay for a butterfly park?

Hey Henry, I recently attended a high school baseball game at Luella High School. I was ashamed of the language used. No, not by the players, by the coach! The boys lost the game, he was angry and cursed them after the game. Calling them every foul name in the book. Is this a fine example for our youth? No, I do not think so. Get your act together, coach! If all you want is to win, maybe you should make better choices as to whom you put on the field.

Hey Henry, Airline Road was named such because it was one of a few roads that runs straight north-south. In the "old" days, pilots used it to guide their travels from the air it was a north-south line (submitted from a 7th generation Henry Countian). Thank God for grandfathers who listened to their grandfathers and passed the history on to us.

Hey Henry, what do you call a short, ugly inmate? Control!

Hey Henry, congratulations to the Henry County High School Wrestlers! State champions Anthony Fretwell and Evan Warrington; runner up - Tyler Austin and state placers - Jordan Turpin, Kavon Saddler, and Benson Gyang. Excellent job, Coaches Hutsell and Fretwell!

Hey Henry, you should know about those wonderful, kind strangers who went to my 17-year-old granddaughter's aid after her wreck on 155 just south of 138 on Wednesday, March 5, around 5:00 p.m. Our whole family would like for this to be a thank you note to all of them. They are all great Americans; especially the lady who called my daughter to let her know of the accident.

03.05.08

 Hey Henry, this is a good ole’ town that has been around for many years. It is a great place to live. I love spending my time in Henry County. We used to not have all these fun activities, but we are getting there.

Hey Henry, I heard that a student at the "most elite" HS in the county received two DUI's in one week, only to have his slate wiped clean because of a $10,000 donation to some charity that his father made. Please tell me that stuff like this doesn't really happen.

Hey Henry, please share with everyone you know, including businesses who give out goody bags, that uninflated balloons are a choking hazard and should never be given to any child. Per the Consumer Product Safety Commission: more children have suffocated on uninflated balloons and pieces of broken balloons than on any other type of toy.

Hey Henry, to the person that comes from where the word "Estates" for a neighborhood means it’s a trailer park instead of a nice neighborhood; those of us in Lake Dow Estates can guarantee you that we haven’t had any trailers for the 20+ years we've been in McDonough.

Hey Henry, thank you District 3 Commissioner for getting the drainage problem fixed in the Lake Dow area. We appreciate your attention and you following up on this situation. We hope to see you run for re-election.

Hey Henry, what is the deal with the Veterans Wall of Honor? How long are they going to draw this project out? Several large donations and services have been made but yet the job is nowhere near finished. It is funny, other projects that were started way after this one are already finished. Seems as if this project is not as important as Nash Farm. I purchased a brick for my Father-in-law when this project first started thinking it was an awesome gift for a Vietnam Vet who received a Purple Heart. Well, he never got to see his brick. He died. Thanks a lot Henry County.

Hey Henry, is a clumsy opthamologist an eyedropper?

Hey Henry, New Birth Missionary South? I see nowhere in the Bible that a pastor is not allowed to have nice things. You and I have a lot of very nice things and nobody says a word. It is not a pastors responsibility to fund all the missionaries or buy all the Bibles, it is yours and mine! He guides and shepherds us to do it. The pastors I know are Godly men and devote much more of their energies to Christ than you and I. Remove the plank from your eye before examining the splinter in someone elses.

Hey Henry, what would you rather have when you've been burglarized, a policeman or a butterfly?

Hey Henry, just want to say how much I love going to the Publix store on Hwy 81. The parking lot will be packed and I can get in there and out in no time! It's very well managed, everybody is very friendly, and I always leave feeling good. Kroger on Jonesboro road is just the opposite. Everytime I go in there, I come out mad. There are never enough registers open and it takes forever. So thank you Publix for being the greatest grocery store!

Hey Henry! What parent in their right mind is allowing their child to stand in the middle of Jonesboro Rd, or run in between cars during a red light in the Square just to sell some fundraising donuts? My child will not be the first to be hit and killed by an errant car in a freak accident. Whose will? I'd like to think there are better and safer ways to raise a buck for the kids programs in the county.

02.27.08

 Hey Henry, my husband's birthday was today, and my little boy was so excited. He wanted to make "Happy Birthday Daddy" signs and have them posted in various spots on my husband's way home from work. Thanks to code enforcement my little boy's heart was broken because they took the signs down. They couldn't even stay up for two hours until my husband got off work.

Hey Henry, congratulations to the 99 Girls Thunder taking second place in the Presidents Day Soccer Tournament. They did a great job! Way to go Coach Fabian!

Hey Henry, what ever happened to people being considerate of their neighbors? One of my neighbors left their German Shepherd in a pen for five days so it could bark all day and all night. In fact, so many dogs bark at all hours in this neighborhood I feel as if I live in a kennel. I'm wondering why I thought I'd get any peace when I moved to Locust Grove. I have two dogs and I somehow manage to take care of them without it annoying everyone around me. There are ordinances against noise/barking in this county. You would think my neighbor would know that since he works for LG PD.

Hey Henry, what does an English barber do for a living? Eclipse.

Hey Henry, can anyone tell us why Airline Road is named such? There doesn't seem to be an airline anywhere in sight?

Hey Henry, attention to the Henry County Planning Committee. Thanks for the three and a half hour traffic jam on Sundays on Mt. Carmel Rd. Now, those of us that would like to attend our churches as we have for years can't get out of our driveways. Maybe a two mile turn lane would have been a good idea. Did anyone stop to think how thousands of members would get into the church on a two lane road?

Hey Henry, is anyone coming to the McDonough Public Hearing Thursday, Feb. 28? I hear Lee is trying to raise property taxes on us. Come voice your “NO” to the city council and mayor.

Hey Henry, so is Larry Stanley the official Charles Mobley spokesperson, investigator and hell raiser?

Hey Henry, we live in McDonough on 81. It’s a growing town but what isn't growing these days? We worry about the loose dogs that we see. I walk my little dogs on a leash - just in case a big dog or a fox or any animal might try to get at them. We love our dogs, but wonder why people say they love their dogs and let them run free on a highway. We have seen many dead dogs on 81. If you love your dog walk him on a leash and watch him carefully. They can't take care of themselves and its not like the 1940s any more.

Hey Henry, when you decide to bring a big group out to dinner at 7:00 p.m. on a Saturday night, don’t get an attitude with me when I tell you it is a thirty to forty minute wait. You should have planned ahead.

Hey Henry, New Birth South, pay attention to your neighbors and learn how to drive. Mt. Carmel is a road, not a parking lot. You people need to get it together. It is just sad!

Hey Henry, congratulation to the girl's basketball team from Henry County High, who qualified for the State Tournament for the first time in 20 years. What was sad was there was not one administrator present, nor were any teachers present at the game other than the coaches and the athletic director. You say you support the students, but in this case your actions spoke louder than your words.

02.20.08

 Hey Henry, congratulations to Coach Collins, the new Union Grove High School football coach, it is nice to finally have a football coach that cares about our boys!

Hey Henry, Obama jokes about being a cousin of Dick Cheney's. This is no joking matter, America cannot afford a relative of Cheney's. There must be something in the blood line.

Hey Henry, are the drivers of today not aware that automobiles are equipped with turn signals? Oh excuse me, I forgot that it's impossible to keep one hand on the steering wheel, one on your cell phone and have one to turn the signal on when turning or changing lanes.

Hey Henry, we need to give Smead Manufacturing some recognition. It has been in Henry County for 30 years and has provided a lot of us with jobs, (good jobs) close to home. Thanks Smead, from one who thanks you for just being in Henry County. I don't like driving into Atlanta!

Hey Henry, please slow down at the intersection of Highway 138 and Hemphill Road. The speed limit through there is 45 not 70. Also the so called "speed bumps" that were put on Hemphill, what are those supposed to do? They need to be on Highway 138.

Hey Henry, I was driving down McGarity Road heading into town when on my right I noticed a sign for a new subdivision going in. The name on the sign was Arnold’s Estates. Where I come from anything with Estates at the end of the title is a trailer park. Lets hope that this is not the case with this subdivision.

Hey Henry, what is it called when you bring suit against a government official? Sudafed!

Hey Henry, several years ago I found a baby photo album at the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Griffin. Since then I have tried several ways to find the people it belongs to. It is full of a baby and family pictures. The parents are listed as Anne and Carl Norman. Pictures are of Baby Elizabeth (born in 1977), parents and grandparents. If you know any of these people please email
editor@henrycountytimes.com or call the Henry County Times office and they will forward the information to me.

Hey Henry, here's an idea. Henry County Parks and Recreation should fix the condemned bridge that sits at the Spring Street Ballpark behind the Post 55 building before some kid gets hurt badly enough for someone to file a lawsuit against the county. Unless you think that chain is going to keep all the children off of it. And, oh yeah, spend a few bucks and remove the stump that remains dead and jagged right next to the playground.

Hey Henry, please tell me someone is going to run for commissioner in District 3. My commissioner has been seen and not heard for some time now. I want a real commissioner who represents my needs, District 3 taxpayer needs and not someone who lives for himself and feeding his big ego.

Hey Henry, welcome to New Birth Missionary South! Just wanted to let you know that if your pastor sold that phat watch and ring he was wearing the other day when I saw him, he could probably buy about 5,000 more bibles or send 200 more missionaries into the mission field to win people for Christ. If they were gifts from the congregation or anyone else, in the name of the Lord he could have rejected the gift of bling and donated the money to others rather than his appearance. Jesus was a plain man from what I understand...what is wrong with a man of the Lord being the same?

02.13.08

 Hey Henry, I set up at the Peachtree Peddlers Flea Market hoping to make a little, and I mean little, extra cash on the side. Please! I have an item for a $1.00 and the cheapskates want it for a quarter. I have an item for $5.00 and they offer me a dollar. Come on, stop insulting me. You have a wad in your pocket and I'm not stupid. If you can't afford the stuff, go back home and don't waste my time or intelligence. It costs you money for gas as well as me, and we all know how expensive gas is.

Hey Henry, congratulations to Pam Paulk, the owner of the McDonough Curves For Women. She is going to be featured on the Tyra Banks Show in New York City this March. She will be presenting a Locust Grove lady she is training that will be competing in a national contest. You go, girls!

Hey Henry, please pave Simpson Mill Road as was promised so long ago.

Hey Henry, the problem at Walker and 155 is not the teenagers. I realize they are inexperienced, but that's not the problem. The speed limit is 55. It would be nice if everyone would just follow the rules of driving and remember who has the right of way.

Hey Henry, to those writers who seem to be so concerned about the houses being built in a subdivision on Racetrack Road, perhaps this is a private development where the developer and builder can do whatever they see fit with their own funds pursuant to county zoning guidelines. Why would you worry about how close together the homes are built unless you live there yourself and if that is the case, why did you buy there in the first place?

Hey Henry, what do you to relax your wife? Rubberneck.

Hey Henry, since the first day they opened the drivers license building in Locust Grove, the lights that power their signs and streetlights have been running 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I asked the people about it inside and they said that it has always been done that way and they don't have a switch to turn them off. In our time of conservation I think something needs to be done about this.

Hey Henry. I would like to say a special thanks and recognition to our EMT's! I was in pain but not severe pain, and I apologized to John Heirs for calling them out because they had been busy with calls all over town from the bad storm. He comforted me in the ride, assured me I was more than welcome to call them anytime and monitored my spells. He held my hand when I was scared, and talked to me. Come to find out, I had had a heart attack per Emory Cardiology team. He encouraged me, tried to keep me calm, and I truly appreciate all he does, and all of our EMT's. I want to thank him from the bottom of my heart. Thank you, John!

Hey Henry, I just found out Mike's Garage is now closed. Congratulations on retiring Mike, but we are sure going to miss you. This loyal customer thanks you for your help and honesty over the years! Go fishing!

Hey Henry, to the person complaining about Ellistown Road being a dirt road, it was dirt when you moved there. Why did you move there if you didn't like the road. You should have thought about your car getting worn out before you moved. I wish there were more dirt roads in Henry county like there used to be.

Hey Henry, the Eagle's Landing Middle School eighth grade basketball team won the championship game Friday night! Way to go eighth graders and Coach Booth!

02.06.08

 Hey Henry, congratulations to McDonough students Amanda Huggins, Nathaniel Maddox and Kimberly Shoemaker for all making the Dean’s List at Samford University.

Hey Henry, to the person telling everyone about all the backroads..shut up. Now the secret is out. Geez.

Hey Henry, to the unhappy neighbor in Virginia Meadows, it is so nice to see your house for sale. Everyone else in the neighborhood is not the bad neighbor - you are!

Hey Henry, what do penguins see with? Polarize!

Hey Henry, be a hero and go bald on St. Baldrick’s Day to help support childhood cancer research.

Hey Henry, in answer to the person who questioned why they were more houses being built in the subdivision on Racetrack Road and why they are so close together. It's called builder's greed.

Hey Henry, so who is behind it all in wanting to play dirty politics instead of running a clean campaign? They only wish to throw mud and talk trash. Most tax payers are sick of the dirty campaign tactics, so stop wasting our time by forcing us to hear your garbage and dirty laundry on all of your opponents. You live in a glass house, too. Talk about real issues and leave the mud slinging at home.

Hey Henry, the Letter to the Editor in the January 30 issue is wrong! There is no personal attack on Commissioner Mathis. The issues at hand concern only official decision-making, huge sums of taxpayer dollars and documented historical facts. The $8 million came from the general fund, not Impact Fees. Today’s tax assessment is $3.5 million. Of nine Confederate campsites, five are in Clayton County and two are south of the property. A 1919 soil survey map shows no dwelling at the site of the “1855 Nash farmhouse.” The “deserted plantation” was on Dorsey property in Clayton County.

Hey Henry, I'll be at the exit ramp at Jonesboro Road, holding a sign that reads "Plumber looking for work." Do you think I'll be asked to leave?

Hey Henry, What parking lot in Henry county can a legal citizen stand in to find work?

Hey Henry, what a great time we had at the booksigning by Mrs. Moss last weekend. It’s nice to live in a county where such creative people live and are supported!

Hey Henry, to the person who hit my car in the parking lot hard enough to knock the bumper off, then drove off, why don't you come back and finish the job!

Hey Henry, attention to SPLOST, where are all my pennies? I live off Ellistown Road and my child goes to New Hope Elem. The only way to get there is to navigate around all of the washed out holes. And they are huge holes. How 'bout yall get a crew down here and pave this raod along with the rest of Leguin Mill. There are lots of tax paying people that live down these roads that are getting their cars trashed, not to mention their houses!

01.30.08

 Hey Henry, thanks so very much to Brenda Nail DeLauder for her article on January 23. We have all been guilty of making a mess of things. God bless her for her good works.

Hey Henry, I like Mike! And so does Chuck Norris!

Hey Henry, in case some of you don't know and to those of you who obviously don't care - The speed limit is 35 mph on Iris Lake Road in McDonough. As a resident of this road, it really disturbs me at the volume of traffic and the attitude of the drivers who travel this road. Let's slow down and obey the posted speed limit.

Hey Henry, why are more homes being built on Race Track Road in a subdivision full of vacant homes? And why are they built so close together so if one burns, they all burn?

Hey Henry, has anyone heard an explanation of why oil prices dropped over ten dollars a barrel after President Bush visited the Middle East?

Hey Henry, we just got another penny sales tax passed to help the police and fire departments. When will be the next project to come along and require more taxpayer money? When are the taxpayers going to stand up and tell these politicians and county commissioners that enough is enough and we are paying enough taxes as it is? Why do they keep coming up with more programs that require more tax dollars?

Hey Henry, those who have recently moved here complain about the traffic and those of us that have lived here forever know how to get around it by going back roads.

Hey Henry, to the person talking about Walker Road and Highway 155; those are most likely young and inexperienced drivers turning there because there are two schools off that road. Just slow down and be aware because there have been deaths already. We have tried to get something done about the speed limit, but it is a state road and the county can't change the speed limit. Hopefully, they will see the problem before more people are hurt or killed.

Hey Henry, to the person who complained about the McDonough library. Where have you been? The building is only four years old. Can’t you find something worthwhile to gripe about?

Hey Henry, congratulations to Kelsey Spinks of Eagle’s Landing High School for being selected as one of the High School Scholar Athletes Of The Year presented by Georgia Power. She also won third place in the First Amendment Rights essay sponsored by the Georgia Scholastic Press Assn. and the Cox Institute for Newpaper Management Studies.

Hey Henry, what do you call someone who leaves Arby’s to go work at McDonalds? An arbitrator.

01.23.08

Hey Henry, I caught the tail end of a news report. It was wonderful and I wish I had seen the whole report. It was about how a developer was choosing to go green. which meant the he was going to leave the trees up and no longer clear cut. This is fabulous news... It is so important to leave the very things up that sustain our lives, cleaning the air, giving us the very oxygen that we breathe everyday of our lives and cooling the earth, which as we can see and feel is already having a tremendous impact on the temperatures. Because of all the clear cutting and uncontrolled development all over the world. I am so proud of this company. Kudos to you.

Hey Henry, okay. everyone says "Hey Henry,” so here I go. As a resident of Lake Dow North, I am very puzzled. You sit here and fine us over the strangest things "grass is too tall" or "We have the wrong type car in our driveway" (yeah, that is true). What about the people that burn in their back yards. We live on the lake and our next door neighbor burns on the property. He even burns when burning is not allowed (state law). Hey one of his fires was out of control and came onto our property. What do you do? Nothing! Lake Dow North get your stuff together and start putting our money to some good use. Not the flowers at the entrance that will die in a week.

Hey Henry, to whoever stole the brand new, bright yellow cones from (a local school's) parking lot Friday night; shame on you! They are trying to keep children safe in the parking lot during morning drop-off and afternoon dismissal times. When the cones aren't there, people just drive right through. Please take the cones back, they are clearly marked as the school’s property, not yours!

Hey Henry, it seems like certain teachers in the Henry County schools have a selective way of enforcing the dress code. While some students are written up after one warning, others are repeatedly told each day to “tuck in their shirt, go get a belt, pull up your saggy pants” without any write ups. Being selective, biased and discriminating is not the way to enforce a dress code. Either enforce it for all students or throw out this dress code. By now all the students and parents should know the new dress code. First time offense from this day forward should be a write up for all students.

Hey Henry, to everyone complaining about sitting at Peeksville for the railroad crossing. Passing there is illegal, and if you have lived in Locust Grove, or you come through there everyday, you should be used to the train. If you don't want to sit there, plan on leaving a few minutes early, or go a different route. Why is it that we complain about the little stuff in our life that makes us so mad? Why can't we all be a little bit more appreciative. Trains, railroad crossings, pollcemen, redlights, stop signs, etc, they are all part of life. Don't rush your life away, be patient.

Hey Henry, I am with the person who talked about the traffic in McDonough. I am with you. I have grown up in McDonough and the people you hear complaining the most about it are the people who are moving here.

Hey Henry, last Friday, two medium sized white dogs came into our yard on Old Jackson and brutally killed our 6 year old Ragdoll cat. Both of these dogs had collars and tags on so they weren't strays. Letting them run loose was not only illegal, it was immoral. Come on Henry, do what is right and keep your animals on your property and maybe save your neighbors a lot of heartache.

01.16.08

 Hey Henry, it's weird when the person next to you starts talking, you look up to answer them and they've got that little thing stuck in their ear.

Hey Henry, I worked for a company which closed its call center doors a few days after Thanksgiving, saying that the call center was not supporting itself financially. This same company's Headquarters is about to move into a multi-million dollar facility. If the call center wasn't doing its job, how is this possible? Anyone?

Hey Henry, please keep in mind Mr. Gafford, as he passed on earlier this month. He has taught many of us along with many of your children. He put in 25-plus years as an English and Literature teacher at Henry County High School and was highly respected. Henry County has lost a great man. He loved his career and his students. There will never be a teacher quite like him. RIP Mr. Gafford.

Hey Henry, I was reading your section in today’s paper and I can not get over all the complaining about the traffic. You know, I have been here my entire life and when I was growing up this was such a wonderful place to live and still is. This is why all you people have decided to move here. It is all you people that have caused this traffic problem that you love to complain about. It would thrill me to no end if you all would just move because you don’t like the traffic. I would then have the nice town I grew up in back.

Hey Henry, Walker Road should be one way, meaning cars should not be able to turn on to Walker from 155. The speed limit is too fast on 155 for all idiots who decide to slam on their breaks with no blinker to turn onto Walker Dr. Better idea, why not put a light up, but then that would cost too much money for the county.

Hey Henry, God bless our troops and veterans. If it were not for these brave heroes many of you could not run your nasty big mouths the way you do and try to ruin peoples lives with your constant and malicious gossip and negativity.

Hey Henry, what do we do about these builders building all these homes so close together. The fire during the Christmas holidays burnt down five homes instead of just a couple, because they were so close.

Hey Henry, In response to "Whatever happened to good ole southern hospitality." The hospitality is still here, but with us overridden with a multiple melting pot of New Yorkers, Floridians and Californians, you wouldn't know the difference if it hit you.

Hey Henry, my question is why can’t they pave Simpson Mill Road connecting Hwy 20 and Hampton-Locust Grove Road. All the schools are along there and it is a very dangerous road with potholes and mud and has to be scraped every week. Oak Ridge Parkway was paved in a hurry and Westridge Park was thrown up in jiffy. Why do our kids have to continue to breathe dust and dirt running up and down Simpson Mill road?

Hey Henry, the present McDonough Library is in an old antiquated building, not to mention that is is not centrally located to most McDonough residents. The other Henry County cities have built new libraries and it is time for McDonough to do the same. We all contribute that same amount of tax dollars!

01.09.08

Hey Henry, while parked at one of the local parking lots to ride a carpool van into Atlanta for work, someone removed the catalytic converter from my car. It isn’t the fault of the store providing the parking lot, but everyone should just be aware of leaving your car in an isolated area all day.

Hey Henry, attention Bus 305 from Ola Elementary. When you come into my subdivision, slow down! The limit is 25 not 55. How dare you pass a car on the street that is going the correct speed. You are going to hit a child. I know you can do it because when the principal is on the bus with you, you obey the speed limit. I want my child to get to and from school safe first, on time second. What is wrong with you?

Hey Henry, I know this is an old issue but how did the new traffic pattern help with the traffic in the square? When you need to turn, please turn into your own lane, then merge over if you need to. I know it’s not you, it's everyone else, right? I think the city has to send out an instructional video on how to navigate the McDonough Square. Driving down here is worse than New York City. What ever happened to good ole' southern hospitality?

Hey Henry, a hawk came out of the sky over the holidays, grabbed my seven month old kitten, Porkchop, and killed it. He was a good cat and will be greatly mourned by his father and other caregivers. R.I.P. Porkchop, we will miss you.

Hey Henry, I must be invisible. I'm in a mini-van and it's pretty large, but some people cannot seem to see me when I'm driving down the road. They are pulling out in front of me and I’m not even a car length from them. Either they are truly stupid or blind and if they’re blind they shouldn't be behind the wheel. So, yes, I am here and if I end up hitting you, I hope you have a good insurance plan because I will go after you with my attorney.

Hey Henry, it's nice to know that Ola High School had four plasma screen televisions placed in the cafeteria for "educational purposes." I have not yet seen anything besides TV Land or ESPN play on them during lunch. And people wonder why Ola gets such a bad reputation?

Hey Henry, I appreciate that it feels good to break traffic laws to help people trying to turn left from a minor street to a major one, but realize that your brief stop is multiplied many times over miles down that road, causing longer and longer delays as the wave moves back. So you might help those people, but you hurt countless others behind you. Those people should get frustrated and take an alternate, less populated route. That's the way traffic is meant to work.

Hey Henry, if the people who are missing their beloved dogs had put them on leashes and taken the time to take them outside to do their business instead of just opening the door to let them run and mess, they would still have their dogs. There is a leash law. so get off your lazy butts and walk them and then they can grow old with you. This is a tough lesson to learn. Learn it.

Hey Henry, as an observer only, I would like to thank the two ladies at the McDonough unit of the Salvation Army who made it possible for numerous families in the local area to have a brighter Christmas. These two ladies worked hard and selflessly to make sure everything was taken care of behind the scenes so that the end result would be a great one. So thanks again, Miss S. and Miss L. Thanks also goes to all of you that gave to the Salvation Army angel trees and kettles.

01.02.08

 Hey Henry, my Red/Brown Miniature Pinscher is missing. I live in the Luella area off Hwy 155. My neighbor said he saw him on the side of the road and he wasn’t when we got there. If anyone has any information it would be greatly appreciated. His name is Bullet and if you have any questions please call Eagles Landing Vet and his information is on the computer (under the name of Yates) and they can let us know. Thanks, Henry neighbors.

Hey Henry, My wife and I saw Babylove with her husband and she is not doing well. She had to medically retire. Hey county commissioners, you lost one of the best. She always called everybody by their first name, but she also knew everyone's last name. She treated each and everyone with love and respect and made each of us feel special. Babylove, we love you and miss you. We hope to see you sitting behind the desk at Heritage Senior Center real soon.

Hey Henry, a special "thank you" to all those wonderful people who found the time and patience to give blood last Friday at McDonough Presbyterian Church. And to all who've given the gift of life this past year. You have truly made a difference in many people's lives. Happy New Year and may God bless you all!

Hey Henry, can someone in the sheriff's department explain why with the "Dunn House parking lot" behind the bank finished, that the deputies need to park on the Lawrenceville Street sidewalks. Too lazy or out of shape to walk the distance?

Hey Henry, if the police want to make extra money, all they have to do is sit and wait at the County high schools until the 3:35 dismissal time. Most of the speed limit zones are 25 with double yellow lines. I have witnessed several students at one particular school speeding out of the parking lot. I have even witnessed one student pass a car in the double yellow lines. I called the police non-emergency number to complain but they told me to call the school to complain to the SRO. I told the lady, the SRO stands outside the school with the principal watching all this go on. Nothing has been done. What will it take? Someone to get hurt or killed?

Hey Henry, the traffic light at N. Henry/138 and Flippen also needs to be fixed. In the mornings, ten cars can be on both sides of Flippen waiting three minutes for the light to change while there aren't any cars on N. Henry/138. Smart lights, anyone?

Hey Henry, regarding the new four way stop sign at Mt. Carmel Rd and Chambers. I travel Mt. Carmel Rd every day and I’ve seen numerous accidents there because people fail to come to a complete stop. A rolling stop does not count at a stop sign; you need to stop and look both ways. I’m glad we have it to slow people down and save lives. Did you know the speed limit on Mt. Carmel is 45 miles per hour? Also, you need to get off your cell phones and stay in your lane. Everyday I have cars cross the center line and come right at me. They are almost always on their cell phones. Im afraid I’m going to have a head- on collision one day. Come on, slow down and pay attention to the road.

Hey Henry, I would like to thank everyone that made Christmas so wonderful for everyone at Grier Senior Manor. The area church choirs, McDonough Police Dept, Chief Dorsey and Staff, Heritage Senior Center, J C Penney, Mike Hall and Staff, Angela Tomlinson and Family, Girl Scouts of McDonough, Sharon Francois, Jenny Polk and the Spiritual Dancers. You all have touched many hearts with your kindness in giving.

12.26.07

Hey Henry, have you tried the Saratoga Chips at Season's Bistro in McDonough? Wow, they are tasty! Lynn gave us a sample before our meal recently, and I hope they will be adding them to their full menu soon.

Hey Henry, what's up with the McDonough Post Office and carriers? They lost everything I mailed one day (including my car payment), and delivered the mail for everyone on my street to the wrong house on another. It's not that hard to read an address!

Hey Henry, I don't mean to be ugly, but it should be "find out what you're" missing." Not find out what your missing. You know how picky people can be and I don't want them to pick on you. Sent with love. (Thanks, we need all the love we can get - Editor)

Hey Henry, oh my gosh! I was over at Tuesday Morning and was trying to go to the store when I was put through an obstacle course. There was some unfinished construction in front of the store. I was not able to just walk across because of the river in front of the store, I had to jump over a concrete moat. The sad part was I did not make it over and fell in the water. I cannot believe the city is not doing any thing about it. That is a big hazard to everyone especially the customers.

Hey Henry, could our citizens please turn down their "boom boxes" while they are at the square of McDonough on Saturday evenings? The local historians are giving their AKA "History Tour" around the square and every time the music is very loud they have to stop and wait until all the lights turn green for the people who are blaring their radios in their cars to leave the area. It's disturbing the locals.

Hey Henry, to the person griping about the McDonough library; A: you know nothing about grants, because it is illegal to divert a construction grant to buy books. B: in the same amount of time it took you to submit your "Hey Henry" you could have picked up the phone and asked your commissioner to increase book funds for the libraries.

Hey Henry, why must someone always invoke the "remember to honor the troops" card whenever they hear someone say something they dislike? Just argue your point, rather than distract everyone from the original argument with finger-wagging and pious statements about an unrelated issue.

Hey Henry, to all the people that were backed up onto Lake Dow waiting to turn left onto Upchurch Rd. this morning - you are so welcome. I saw each and everyone of your smiling faces as I stopped traffic with my car to let you all go and it made my day! And to all of those scrooges that were behind me honking - get over it. It only took about 20 seconds to let all those people out. You should try it sometime it feels so good.

Hey Henry, in response to the writer in the Hey Henry question of the good samaritan giving away bicycles at the Locust Grove Library, they have requested to remain anonymous. But to our donor a great thank you from the Locust Grove Library staff and the young people that won. You are a wonderful contributor to our community. As a part of random acts of kindness you have made a great impact on our patrons at HCLS-LG. We know the young people will pass on the kindness to others.

Hey Henry, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

12.19.07
Hey Henry, happy birthday to Nick on December 20 from
the boss, anchorman and clownboy!

Hey Henry, lets wish the following teams the best of luck as they get ready for Nationals in Chattanooga in January. Stallion Division-Henry County Bulldogs and the Locust Grove Hurricanes; Blazer Division- Henry County Bulldogs; Competition Cheerleaders- The Falcons. Good luck girls.

Hey Henry, the lights on the square of McDonough are great. At least out tax money is being used to please the children of the town even if they don't please the adults of the town. I love to ride by and see all the lights on my way home every night. They are so gorgeous. My children especially love the tall tree on the square and Santa in his sleigh. Love the decorations, too. How do you get the lights on the tree branches to stay in one straight line? I'd like to know that so I can do the trees in my front yard that way! So pretty in town. Love it. Thanks.

Hey Henry, I just want everyone who doesn't know that our police in Henry County are catching criminals left and right. There has been more than one bank robbery up and down Hwy. 20/81 and an armed robbery at one of the new department stores. Our police have arrested these criminals and taken them out of our communities. Way to go.

Hey Henry, maybe if your Yule log doesn’t burn, it’s wet.

Hey Henry, my highest compliments to Mrs. Kelley and Mrs. Shaw for putting together such wonderful Christmas decorations on the McDonough Square. I have lived here for over 30 years, and have never seen the downtown area look more festive. My grandchildren love the reindeer flying in the air, and those huge ornaments are so whimsical. Just great.

Hey Henry, Beverly Wittler's article "I Haven't Got A Clue" was right on. Kudos to you, Beverly.

Hey Henry, please help me to convince the person or persons who keep removing my grave site marker stones at Locust Grove cemetery that they are in the wrong. These stones were put there approximately eight years ago to mark my grave plot; and, suddenly someone thinks they shouldn't be there. I have been taught that churches and cemeteries are sacred ground. God is watching you.

Hey Henry, I would like to see Beverly Whittler run for President. I like her ideas better than what I'm hearing on TV.

Hey Henry, I also live in a ... managed community and those are the most unprofessional and rude people I have ever encountered.

Hey Henry, what happened to Baby Love (Glenda Stroud) who worked the desk at Heritage Senior Center? We (Seniors of Henry county) would like to see her smiling beautiful face. She always made everyone feel special. We love you, Baby Love. No one can ever take her place.

Hey Henry, when is the city going to fix the pothole on Jonesboro St. as you are leaving the square before you get to Lowe Street. It has been patched many times, but it is bad again now and I am tired of driving through it.

12.12.07
Hey Henry, I challenge anyone in the county to tell me where there is a more beautiful town square other than the one in McDonough. The Christmas decorations are absolutely gorgeous.

Hey Henry, wish I could thank the drivers that stopped to help me when I was hit on my motorcycle Tuesday morning before Thanksgiving at Hwy. 42 in Locust Grove, but I can't since nobody stopped. Guess we are too much in a hurry. And to the driver in the gray car that hit me and drove off - Merry Christmas.

Hey Henry, congrats to the MYA Blazer and Stallion Bulldogs on the cyclone competition. Blazer and Stallion Coaches, I love y’all dearly. You are the best.

Hey Henry, to whoever it was that commented about the Blazer Bulldog coach. The routine was completely original and took first place twice. And it's coaches like the Blazer Bulldog Coach that make the numbers go up and the team number one.

Hey Henry, to a certain Commissioner who never returns his phone calls or answers his emails from taxpayers; we will remember you at voting time. Commissioners and the Chairman are responsible and must answer to the taxpayers and any commissioner who thinks they can ignore a taxpayer's phone calls or emails will not be commissioner for long. If you forgot, the taxpayers are your boss, you must answer to us or you will be fired from your job. Does anyone know who is running for the District 3 Commissioner’s seat?

Hey Henry, anybody know about the two unsupervised prison Trustees unloading furniture from a house into a U-Haul on Deertrace last week? Then one of the trustees got into a red mustang with a lady who was not dressed as a prison guard and the other trustee took off with the U-Haul for parts unknown. What kind of prisoner security does this county have? Children live in that neighborhood.

Hey Henry, kudos to CVS Pharmacy from the citizens of McDonough! During and after the Christmas parade on Saturday, CVS opened its restroom doors to the public. While their competition across the street closed its restrooms to the citizens, CVS welcomed us with spotless restrooms. We even saw a manager replenishing the tissue! Thanks CVS!

Hey Henry, instead of renovating the McDonough library, could the grant be used to actually put some more books in it? The children's section is pathetic.

Hey Henry, to those folks in Virginia Meadows, have you ever thought about starting a Homeowners Association, or can that be done after the fact? I live in the Kelleytown area also and I would certainly hate to see the value of this neighborhood go down. That is one of the reasons we keep fighting builders who want to build one-sided or even three-sided brick homes. Have you checked to see if these people are capable of taking care of their yards, or are they working two jobs to make ends meet? Are they single parent families?

Hey Henry, it would really be nice if whoever threw their Hardee's bag in my yard, which incidentally went into two other yards, would have waited until they got home and put the bag into their own trash. Where is your pride?

Hey Henry, who is the good Samaritan giving away bicycles at the Locust Grove Library?

12.05.07

Hey Henry, am I the only person in the world who puts the lights and all the decoration on my tree and the whole time I'm doing the lights I have them plugged in. Then I do my bulbs and what not, only to find after unplugging my lights before I go to bed that night that the next morning when I wake up my fully decorated tree that took hours to do, won’t light up. Argh!

Hey Henry, the "school zone" signs do not say everyone except Henry County Police have to obey. So, patrol cars please obey the laws you are paid to enforce!

Hey Henry, wasn't the fall color beautiful this year. so intense in McDonough? If we leave it to our government, the developers and excavation companies will make sure we never see it again, and this goes all through Georgia. I love those trees.

Hey Henry, give me a break. You’re going to bash a coach of MYA, someone who dedicates their time and money to the kids of McDonough? I've never seen a coach work so hard for those girls...and it shows...just look at the 1st place wins! Maybe it's the unappreciative parents that are making the numbers go down. Try that!

Hey Henry, you want another SPLOST funded park on Jodeco? Don't you know the strip mall with condos will bring in mucho tax dollars? Economic development is what SPLOST is really about.

Hey Henry, MYA has some of the best coaches around. The Blazer Bulldog coach cares 110% about those girls and it would be such a shame to lose someone that cares so much and actually knows what they are doing simply because others can't just get along and be nice.

We have been on squads many times where the coach just doesn't have a clue. I have never bashed a coach of any sport, because I myself would not be able to do it and I commend them for their efforts. At least this coach knows exactly what she is doing and leads her girls to success.

Hey Henry, thanks to the sacrifices of our troops and veterans, the many loud mouths of the county are allowed to continue ranting, screaming, moaning and pointing fingers at everyone under the sun who they think has done wrong. Without our troops making sacrifices, many making the ultimate sacrifice, these loud mouths would not be able to open their mouths and complain about anything, investigate anything or criticize or crucify anyone in government. Remember and honor those who have made you free and allowed you to run your mouth.

Hey Henry, attention Henry County Parks and Recreation. Henry County needs a park on or near the Jodeco Road area.

Hey Henry, do we really have nothing better to do except to complain about a few yard sale signs being up too long. Wake up! We live in a beautiful part of the country, stop looking for things to complain about and try to enjoy yourself.

Hey Henry, Whose bright idea was it to do construction work on Highway 155 on a Thursday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. when people are getting off of work and out of school. Traffic was backed up on both sides.

Hey Henry, the Square looks the best it has ever looked. Hats off to the people responsible! Outstanding job. Thanks for bringing our square to a higher standard. When considering our budget next year, the lights around the buildings would be an extra special touch.

11.28.07
Hey Henry, I agree, yard sale signs need to come down when the sale is over, but what about the SPLOST III signs that are still up? Aren't political signs supposed to be down within so many days following an election?

Hey Henry, anyone who missed the Henry Players production of "A Christmas Carol" missed a rare treat! It is the most professional production the Players have put on. As a flight attendant, I have seen many Broadway plays and John Gilbert's portrayal of Scrooge was top notch! Who knew we had such a talent in Henry County. I think I'll head up his fan club! Thank you to the Players for putting me in the Christmas spirit.

Hey Henry, remember that especially during the holidays we have a lot of visitors here. These people may be unfamiliar with our street patterns, especially the one-ways around the McDonough Square & environs. So let's be extra vigilant and watch out for the other guy. Have a safe holiday season.

Hey Henry, what is going on with the building of the YMCA. We have the money, we have the plans drawn up, and the location. It seems the only hold up is your signatures. We need the Y to help keep our kids healthy and active. Keep kids off the streets by giving them an alternative.

Hey Henry, am I the only person who thinks those new xenon headlights are hurtful & distracting for oncoming drivers?

Hey Henry, some schools are reportedly installing waterless urinals. Families had those back in the 30's, they were known as 'slop jars. Isn't technology wonderful?

Hey Henry, all the reservoirs seem to be full in this county! Why are we under a water ban?

Hey Henry, we have a new traffic light at Salem Baptist Church and the Fire Dept. on 155 N. We desperately need one at Fairview & 155 and also at 138 & 155. Some people do not know about taking turns and it is very dangerous.

Hey Henry, MYA Blazer Bulldog coach, you have got to be kidding. Why do you always say that other cheerleading teams can’t make up their own routines? MYA wake up, this a big reason your numbers are going down each year.

Hey Henry, two earlier posts about traffic lights at Tanger and N. Bethany tell the story. Development before infrastructure. You gotta ask Warren why traffic is not a higher priority.

Hey Henry, everyone complains about the traffic around the McDonough Square, but nobody does anything about it. The law states, unless otherwise posted like the Left turn East on Jonesboro Street “NO TURNS”, that you can turn left onto a one-way street after stopping. Maybe if the City of McDonough or the DOT would post signs like to remind people of that law. Then maybe the traffic might flow more smoothly around the Square.

Hey, Henry, speaking of helpful pharmacists at our homegrown Moye's Pharmacy, we would like to express our appreciation to Woody Hunt ... we have always been impressed with his friendliness, kindness, and caring attitude. So, thanks to Woody, our "Mr. Congeniality," and kudos to Moye's Pharmacy, for providing us with a true class act.


11.21.07
Hey Henry, an expansion and renovation is in the works for the McDonough library. FYI, it will be paid for by a state grant and money that was set aside from the sale of the old library on Sims Street. No SPLOST or other county funds are involved.

Hey Henry, how about those ELCA Varsity Softball players, 3-time Region 5A Champs and two time State Division A Champs! Go Chargers.

Hey Henry, thank you Henry County for your support in the haunted house. The turnout was more than we had expected for the first haunted house in the county. Thanks also to the cast and crew and the local merchants who helped make this a success. We were able to save the house. Thank you all.

Hey Henry, I shower with each foot in a bucket so I can water my plants. But, if I'm on the McDonough city council I can have new sod put in my yard and water the grass. Government has it's own rewards.

Hey Henry, with all this "superbug" staph infection going around, it might be wise to check with the county to make sure the restaurants near the schools that have reported students with staph infection have a health permit. You'd be surprised what restaurants are not supposed to be serving food right now.

Hey Henry, everybody, take notice of the beautiful lights on top of the Henry County Courthouse clock tower. It's like a welcoming beacon on the square. I hope it's not just for the Christmas season!

Hey Henry, thought we are in a water ban? I live in the S/D behind where new schools are being built. First there was one water truck every hour on the hour filling up... after complaining to HCWSA, there are now two. My son was a grader for many years and never used that much water. If we were not in such crisis that would be different, but they are using thousands of gallons a day.

Hey Henry, I just want to say thanks to the administration at Ola Middle School for not letting my nephew go home with his book bag. His house key was in there so he had to wait out on his front porch for two hours. What if it were the dead of winter, or if someone with bad intentions approached him? No excuse for this.

Hey Henry, great play, great acting, and neat how the Henry Players made me think of Monty Python with their tight English Accents. A Christmas Carol received a well-deserved standing ovation. And I loved the way it ended, “God Bless Us, Everyone.”

Hey Henry, the Board of Education is not a good steward of tax payers’ money. The high schools leave the stadium lights on all night in some cases. At games ... lights to burn on all athletic fields when there is only one game being played on one field.

Hey Henry, want to have a yard sale? Fine by me. But, please, when your yard sale is over, go pick up all the signs you litter the road with. Nobody wants to look at your yard sale sign for 2 or 3 weeks until they get knocked down.

Hey Henry, I'm impressed that the venter from last week at Oakland Elementary can smell the mold and mildew for the horrendous smell of methane gas that permeates the building. Are we to believe it is harmless as the maintenance workers from the county office tells us?

11.14.07
Hey Henry, when is Locust Grove going to get the light fixed at Tanger Blvd. and Locust Grove/Griffin Road. It's ridiculous. I sat there for three minutes at 11:00 the other night, waiting for the light to change with no traffic coming in either direction. Come on people, get with the program!

Hey Henry, when in the world is the DOT going to realize that the intersection at N. Bethany and Highway 81 is a death warrant. Come on guys, get us a red light before some innocent victim is killed. The new construction at Old Jackson, which consists of a doctor's office and who knows whatever else, is just going to make the traffic even worse and even harder to get across Highway 81.

Hey Henry, it’s a sad day in McDonough when out of nearly 8,000 registered voters only 800 showed up to vote. I don’t want to hear any complaining about the "crooks" running our city council. If you want change, YOU HAVE TO VOTE. As few as fifty more votes could have changed our city for the better. Instead we are now stuck with four more years of poor leadership. I have a challange for these "Re-Elected" Councilmembers....Stay off the television for once.

Hey Henry, in a prior Vent someone stated: "Jason Pye moved 5 minutes over the Newton line. His heart is in Henry County! Larry Stanley posts there, too. Why not attack him?" Beacuse Larry Stanley lives in Henry County, Jason Pye lives in Newton County. Pye has no business stirring up things in Henry. If Henry County is really in Jason Pye's heart, then WHY is he paying taxes in Newton County?

Hey Henry, been in McDonough a long time, since 1968. Have met a lot of wonderful friends for life. Some of the best years of my life were spent riding around the square in McDonough, Butlers Bridge and the Nite Owl parking lot. Placing soap in the water fountain at the bank was awesome! I had good clean fun and these are memories I will never forget. To all my friends that were on the square on Friday and Saturday nights, rock on! My little town will never be the same, thanks for the good times, Ms. 1968.

Hey Henry; there's another fun place to take the kids and you don't even have to leave the county. We checked out farm animals, a hay ride, corn maze, fired the corn cannon and had some nachos and cheese at Southern Belle Farms. Can't wait to see what they come up with for Christmas!

Hey Henry, I was delighted to learn from Hey Henry that the county has a community meeting room in the newly-bought old Save Rite complex. Could the person who submitted this information write back and tell us how to get a copy of the guidelines for use? Or could they reply back in this column and give the guidelines in the paper?

Hey Henry, McDonough needs a new library, more in line with the ones in Fairview and Stockbridge. This library needs to be more centrally located than the present one.

Hey Henry, what does it take to get someone's HEY HENRY POSTED? Is it picked by the editor or is it just a subject you don't want to discuss? Carriage Rides with Santa. I have a very upset customer that forwarded me a copy of her hey henry when she found there would be no carriage rides this year.... it never got posted. I guess we need to take our story to the competition paper!

Hey Henry, there are no Henry County rec parks in the Jodeco Road Area. A new strip mall is being built at Jodeco and Peach Roads. This space could have been better utilized for a recreational park. There is still lots of room left - Come on SPLOST!

11.07.07
Hey Henry, this is in response to the October 31 comments about John Quinn and the train wreck of 1900. According to Mrs. Rainer’s “Mother of Counties” book pages 328-329, there were two funeral homes in McDonough, Carmichaels and Bunns. Also, Mr. George C. Alexander said he’d never forget the coffins around the Square. The person who sent that Oct. 31 Hey Henry has insulted the integrity of two of the finest Henry Countians of the past. Whomever wrote those statements did not know their history of McDonough and this is from a true life-time resident of Henry County.

Hey Henry, I love ya'lls town in McDonough, it is such a beautiful place. And ya'll do a fantastic job. The only thing I hate is seeing young men walk around in baggy pants. I think its time for parents to take a stand and put a stop to all this.

Hey Henry, Why do city councilmembers get more than 5 minutes to rattle on about issues that they are addressing from a personal perspective? Should they not be held to the same standards as the residents of McDonough? Residents get a 5 minute limit.

Hey Henry, visit the Auto Quick Castrol GTX on Keys Ferry in McDonough. As a female, it is nice to go into an auto place and not feel like someone's trying to pull a fast one on you. They're honest, don't treat me like I don't know anything about cars, don't try to sell me things I don't need, the waiting room is clean with a working TV and stocked current magazines of a variety of interests. I always see the same faces too. They're super nice!

Hey Henry, thanks Oakpark Subdivision! To all of you who passed out candy on Wednesday, October 31; It was greatly appreaciated! The kids really enjoyed ringing the doorbells and receiving the candy. You might have only had a few kids, but they loved it! Thanks bunches for particapating on that night!

Hey Henry, has anyone realized that six high school volleyball teams from Henry County advanced to the state sectional competition this year, including first year school Woodland High? Congratulations to those young ladies, their coaches, and their schools.

Hey Henry, thanks to the great security at Double D's Night Club. Those guys are awesome, I felt very safe out there! Keep up the good work!

Hey Henry, please continue to remember those families who lost their young boys in October. Trent Pyles and Chad Walker. As the holidays are approaching, keep their families in your constant prayer! This is going to be a very difficult remainder of the year for them. Also, continue to remember their close friends. Many of which have never faced death before and do not know how to handle it. If you know any of them, reach out to them, so they are not reaching to a bottle to comfort them. Trent Pyles and Chad Walker--RIP! You are both greatly missed!

Hey Henry, with the high taxes we pay in the city of McDonough, why does the Big Springs Park and walking trail go so unkept? It looks terrible. I would think this area is the oldest, most historic, and certainly the closest to the square of all the parks in the county. Why build more parks and recreation areas if we fail to keep up the ones we already have? It is sad.

10.31.07
Hey Henry, Alert. Need a 4-way stop or light @Bethany Rd and Hwy. 81,,,,Please.

Hey Henry, All the reservoirs seem to be full in this county! Why are we under a water ban?

Hey Henry, I would like to thank the Hands of Hope Clinic for referring me to Dr. Dellinger, DDS of McDonough. Dr. Dellinger, I thank YOU for excellent work and you and your staff for making my visit a good one, as well as making me confident to smile again without worrying what people will say about my teeth. You saved my mouth's life!

Hey Henry, exactly how bad must the mold and mildew get in the ceiling at Oakland Elementary School to have the water leak fixed? The smell is becoming a real problem, not to mention a potential health hazard. Here's a solution for your consideration - fix the leak and stop patching it everyday.

Hey Henry, How many lives have to be lost before you install a light on King Mill Road and 42Hwy. That area right there is a death trap. Look at the accident that happened on October 3 - wasn't that horrible enough to install a light? Either that or put the light coming out of Industrial Parkway. Something to slow traffic down in that area. ...Wake Up McDonough, let's use our money for useful things. Like Lights or maybe even a 4 way stop sign right there. Anything would help slow down that traffic! Thanks for letting me vent. Lives are being lost for no reason, and ... whoever is involved in red lights or more stop signs needs to wake up ...

Hey Henry, when did John Quinn replace Gene Morris as the local historian? In my opinion as a life long resident of this county, as well as a member of a long standing family of the county, is that Quinn's self-proclaimed title is misleading as well as damaging. What are his credentials to prove he knows what he's talking about? He has given misinformation on this county's history, such as his claim that bodies of the 1900 train wreck victims were laid out in the Square. He also has made claims that different buildings on the square were funeral homes or used for other purposes that weren't true. I should know he made the claims, I went on the first ever "ghost tour" Quinn offered last October. Biggest laugh I had in a long time.

Hey Henry, wake up, how long will we continue to let profane and suggestive lyrics be played at school sponsored "skate nights?" Our K-5th graders grow up fast enough without this. There is plenty of music across all genres that have decent lyrics.

Hey Henry, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the McD Middle School Gators play football this fall. They are a great team and full of drive and determination. Congratulations players and coaches for a great season so far - 6 and 0! You guys are awesome!

Hey Henry, Jason Pye moved 5 minutes over the Newton line. This guy's heart is in Henry! His blog gets ... hits from across the state - and has a lot of Henry news. Post your opinions, but leave the personal stuff in the drawer. Larry Stanley posts there, too. Why not attack him?

Hey Henry, The Best Kept Secret in McDonough is at Season's Bistro. Chef Jeffrey Bell is back across the square. Stop in and have him prepare you a meal that will keep you coming back for more. If you're lucky you may even catch Tony, the Piano Man.

10.24.07
Hey Henry, why did the county pay for additional parking for the courthouses? When court is in session, couldn't the officers in the parking lots direct people to park in the lots and not on Lawrenceville St. If we don't use them then it is a waste of taxpayer money.

Hey Henry, love the new Pennys and Kohls. had a great time shopping there and getting all those great buys, but at the 81 entrance into Penneys there needs to be a light or a 4 way stop. That mess is a definite accident waiting to happen, many times over. Don't even try to make a left turn there. Somebody needed to think about this in the planning stages.

Hey Henry, I don't know what is going on at Tuesday Mornings. My elderly aunt and I tried to go shopping there but the handicap ramp was blocked by this cement wall. Something needs to be done. Who would be so inconsiderate to block a handicap ramp. I asked the workers at Tuesday Mornings and they said the manager of the building next door said the parking lot was theirs so they can do whatever they want to it. I don't care who it belongs to but that ramp needs to be unblocked. Don't know why the cops aren't doing anything.

Hey Henry, just wanted to say thank you to the city workers who keep the square looking so great. You are the ones that keep this city beautiful!

Hey Henry, what is it going to take to get speed bumps at Warren Holder Park? One of our children getting run down by the idiots that use this as a cut through? They are so concerned that their music is up loud enough that the spectators can hear their tunes that they are not paying attention to the children running around. Come on HCPR do something!

Hey Henry, the new dentist in Locust Grove, Dr Bruno, is wonderful!

Hey Henry, yes, we DO influence the Henry County Commissioner votes and we are glad that they stood with us in prohibiting beer and wine sales at the Heritage Park Arena. We also need to get alcohol out of our supermarkets and restaurants. If you want to drink, go to somewhere like Atlanta to watch a concert or sports event! What if a child were to take a sip? Beer and wine are Satan's vice!

Hey Henry, the County did purchase the old Sav-Rite shopping center, but it was to house Public Safety, Code Enforcement and SPLOST – not transportation and vehicle maintenance as a previous quip suggested. SPLOST and Code Enforcement are both functioning out of the facility currently, while the space to be used by the Police and Fire Departments is still being renovated with an anticipated completion date in early '08. The Community Room is indeed being used regularly by a number of different community organizations as well as by County staff for additional meeting/classroom space. Anyone can make reservations as long as certain guidelines are met.

Hey Henry, I would like to praise Kim Delk at Moye's on Jonesboro Road. I actually met her at the McDonough location and she was wonderful, therefore I followed her to Jonesboro Rd. She is an excellent pharmacist and is so caring and thorough with all customers. She is kind and courteous and explains everything, with the meds in a wonderful manner. She is an example of a great pharmacist! Thanks, Kim!

10.17.07
Hey Henry, kudos to Chuck Kimbel for his Letter to the Editor in the 10/3/07 edition. Well written and well said. .... and yes, Miz Martha did have eyes in the back of her head!

Hey Henry, isn't bringing in a consultant team that the CFO has personally known for more than 10 years, a conflict of interest?

HeyHenry, Jason Pye...everyone knows you moved away to another county, so stop pretending you still live in Henry County on your website.

Hey Henry, I think that Racetrack road in Mcdonough is very scary to drive down at night. I think they should put down reflectors on the street cause when you driving down it at night and another car is coming toward you, you can barely see the road. I'm sure I'm not the only one it scares!

Hey Henry, I just want to express my gratitude to the women who found my wallet at Wal-Mart gas pumps and turned it in to the police. I would like to tell the world that there are still honest people. It restores your faith in your fellowman, or should I say fellowwomen. Thanks again.

Hey Henry, please take your paper to the next level and become a daily paper, We the people of the county certainly don’t get the type of service we deserve from the other daily papers in our area.

Hey Henry, why doesn’t the City of McDonough go ahead and buy the Georgia Power property and turn it into a public street. It seems that the public is ignoring the “No Thru Traffic” signs. If not, why not station a patrol car there and turn it into a revenue source by giving tickets to the violators.

Hey Henry, so the county bought up the old Sav-Rite shopping center property in McDonough in order to house their transportation & vehicle maintenance. Is anyone doing anything there, really? Or are we waiting for SPLOST III to pass? No wait, they did do something there; they made some very nice offices for SPLOST management. And, oh yes there's a so-called community room that is not open for community use. What gives?

Hey Henry, does anyone else miss the old First State Bank display showing only the date and time? If you are watching the road, you do not have time to read all the other information while driving.

Hey Henry, you better start attending your Henry County Board of Commissioner's meetings unless you want your County run by a vocal minority. Our elected officials are letting religious and personal beliefs determine what's good for the greater number of people. I even saw representatives from ELCA trying to influence the Board on the beer and wine ordinance at the Heritage Park Arena. And look what happened!

Hey Henry, how can we cut out all the car wrecks where Sloan crosses Hwy. 42 North? Hwy 42 is a very dangerous place Two of my cars have been totaled out. One by a drunk driver hitting my parked car outside my work and he was going about 70 during rush hour. Wow! What are our cops doing? Then the second I was crossing over Hwy. 42 by passing the square, someone was speeding again. I have seen a dozen wrecks there but it never changes. We as the city need to fix this problem!

Hey Henry, welcome to the neighborhood Penney's, but you're going to need a traffic light and if I were you, I'd turn the music down too.

10.10.07
 Hey Henry, I just want to compliment the Ola Middle School Administration, espically the counselors. My son could have easily been a statistic, but they actually cared and went above and beyond their jobs for him. We need more people like them! I want to send them a very heart felt thank you.

Hey Henry, in response to the Junior in high school commenting on my poor spelling, I in fact was educated in a second-rate government school and that is the exact reason why I am sending my child to a private school. The really sad part is that my school was a "National School of Excellence" and I still spell poorly. I am sure most of the other poor spelling and grammar that you see on here came as a product of the government school system too. Thanks for the well wishes!

Hey Henry, what is up with the new 4 way stop at Mt Carmel Rd and Chambers. Oh I see, since the County Planning and Zoning approved the "New Birth Church 10,000 members" to be built, knowing that Mt Carmel Rd can't handle the traffic when they open. Decides now to stop traffic all along Mt Carmel so the traffic will be even worse. Nice Job.

Hey Henry, we just returned to Garland, Texas from a visit to McDonough. I have never been in such traffic as you have there on 75 and Airline Road coming into town. I can’t believe the changes that have taken place since we left 44 years ago. No matter what, we still love that town and hope to visit our family and friends again next year. Mary Ann Barnette

Hey Henry, my father is 67 years old and has worked all his life. He has worked hard, not just worked. He retired from driving 10 years ago and has been working for a small company since. He has recently started looking for another job, but people look at his age and turn him away. I know that my father could out-work anyone~ I am willing to put money on it! He has never missed a day of work for as long as I can remember. I just don’t understand how law states you can not discriminate against age yet everyone in Henry County does! Want to give him a job - email me at ljohnson1011@yahoo.com. Make a difference and prove me wrong.

Hey Henry, the pet of the week, Coco, is a doll! We visit McDonough frequently and have a male piebald dachshund named Romeo. Maybe we will meet Coco and Oscar Meyer on the Square!

Hey Henry, I was born in McDonough in 1964. I moved a short distance away, but long for the peace, serenity and neighborly qualities that I held so dear. Change and progress are good and inevitable, but I pray that those in government who control Henry's infrastructure will remember the true value of our county, and not surrender to the siren's call of growth without heeding the wisdom of control.

Hey Henry, is it just a coincidence that Gail Notti's house just missed the "mark" of the sign that proclaims the area as the "Great Historic District". It must be really nice that she is able to make changes to the one truly historic house on that road without anyone saying anything to her. But wait a minute, didn't she vote NO to the houses being torn down up the road from her? Makes you go hmmmmmm, huh?

Hey Henry, Aren't you sick of being the "goyim" of the "elites" running this Country? If you don't know what I'm talking about...Look it up on the internet. Wake up

10.03.07
Hey Henry, I support the complete watering ban and I will totally support it. Seeing the pictures of Lake Alatoona is very upsetting. I just have one question, during the times that Henry County was on odd/even watering days, why was it okay for the businesses in the industrial parks in and around McDonough to continually water their lawns every day of the week? Are they exempt or special? I especially believe that those large businesses would have to abide by the ban more so than the residents!

Hey Henry, why don't you care about your mentally handicapped children? My son is autistic and had five lead teachers last year. On his second month of school this year his teacher is quitting. The school board is failing these kids, HIRE REAL TEACHERS! - A Ticked Off Voter.

Hey Henry, did you know our politicians in D.C. are personally making MILLIONS of dollars from the blood and deaths of our soldiers in this war?! WAKE UP !

Hey Henry, shame on you HC BOE and Ola High School for making your ninth grade football team play their games without uniforms when all the other ninth grade teams in the county seem to have them. Could it be that their coaches care more about their teams? Ola is a second year school, not a first. Will the ninth grade ever have uniforms? Why are parents paying $250 each?

Hey Henry, I would like to thank the man who stopped and change a tire for my pregnant daughter and grandson on Old Jackson Rd. Tuesday around lunch time. It's nice to know that men like you are still out there. (Too bad my son-in-law isn't one of them! ) Thanks for your kindness.

Hey Henry, please help save the internet and don't let big business tell us what we can and can't do.

Hey Henry, looks like Mayor Copeland is trying to WHITEN up McDonough again. I thought diversity was one of his campaign platform issues!

Hey Henry, I have a real concern with animals running in the neighborhood. My subdivision along with Henry County encourages all to keep their pets fenced. I've been bitten by the neighbor’s dog that broke from the child that was walking the dog. I entered my yard, the dog saw me and made the attack when the owner was yelling at the animal. Thereafter, the neighbor was angered with me when I reminded him again of the laws. I do enjoy my dog. There is a place for everything, including our animals. Thanks you.

Hey Henry, to all you bored teenagers out there who enjoy drinking smoothies, try this: Get a couple scoops of vanilla ice cream (3 or 4), about 3/4 cup of orange juice, around 4 or 5 sliced strawberries and pop it all in a blender, mix it all up and take you a swig. It's so good I'm about to make me one right now.

Hey Henry, I attend a "government school" and there is nothing wrong with my spelling or grammar. So while you're saving money for your child to attend a private school, I'm sure they'll be teaching us at government schools the difference between the homonyms "sea" and "see."

Hey Henry, we don't like being lied to! Don't tell us we're finally going to get a mall down here and get us all excited only to find out it's just going to be another strip mall! A mall is enclosed - you know - so you don’t have to go out in the hot, cold, rain, whatever to get from store to store! Southpoint is not going to be a mall and is not what we wanted or needed! I'll still be going to Southlake, Stonecrest, or Macon - real malls!

09.26.07
Hey Henry, Peeksville & South Ola - Does anyone know if they plan to put a light here before the new schools are done? We live about 1000 yards away and have seen mulitple accidents since the county took away the 4 - way, and now only one direction of traffic has to stop...very very dangerous intersection, should have been left a 4 way to begin with.

Hey Henry, the "children" that hung the manaquin from the I-75 Bridge should get a more harsh punishment. That is a hate crime and does nothing but cause conflict.

Hey Henry, Ummm, I hate to break it to you, but sports bras are made to be worn in public situations. There is nothing obscene about the bodies we are born in. Get over it.

Hey Henry, this is in response to the ... complaining about people not proofreading their statements before they submit them: I must say as a Junior in high school that, if I'm not mistaken, the principles of English (not principals) are something everyone can learn in a "government school." If your (and other people's) poor spelling and grammar skills are due to attending a second-rate public school, then good luck saving up to send your child to a private school.

Hey Henry, what happened to Aspen Brook S/D? It looks abandoned.

Hey Henry, to a previous "Hey Henry!" quip, the GMAC sign is not advertising their business....they are advertising the fact that they have a CLASS going on at the Merle Manders Center for GMAC employees. Saw it for myself.

Hey Henry, if tall grass freaks you out, how about a dump truck, trailers, bobcats, junk cars, a dirt yard where grass used to grow, oil spill trailing up the street along with other property destroying factors? The residents of Virginia Meadows would like to invite you to drive down into our S/D and check out the really big issue that we have been dealing with for some time now. It is ... bringing our Kelleytown community down not just for us but for all Kelleytown residences. Code enforcement has done all that they can do, which doesn’t eliminate the eye sore. The residents are searching for any answers that will help us keep the value of our homes and community up. If Virginia Meadows loses property value, the entire community will start to lose. We welcome everyone’s ideas on this issue including the concerned neighbor that asked about the tall grass.

Hey Henry, you always hear about the shortage of GA state troopers patrolling our rural highways. Turn on a football game and see why? Why on earth do GA troopers accompany college football coaches out of state?

Hey Henry, don't confuse Fred Thompson with his TV character. In a recent interview, Fred wouldn't comment on his opponents' political positions - said he hadn't studied them enough. He also wouldn't comment on the Terry Schiavo situation - said he wasn't familiar enough. Either Fred is very uninformed or he is not willing to take a position.

Hey Henry, instead of everyone fussing about what 'everybody else's kids are doing' why not go back to good, Christian morals and standards. If you will raise your children and yourself to follow God's standards--what a difference there will be.

Hey Henry, nice article about the North Ola Road completion. Only thing you forgot to mention is that the completion was a year late.

09.19.07
Hey Henry, I just want to say thank you to the young couple on Sloan Street. I have no idea who they are but everytime my husband and I walk by they say hello and we love seeing thier beauitful front porch and all the plants. Thanks for keeping downtown McDonough a nice place to live!

Hey Henry, the time a lot of us have been waiting for has finally come. Sen. Fred Thompson has officially entered the Presidential race. As good American citizens and as Georgians we need to stand up and support Sen. Thomspon's candidacy. He is a principled man who says what he means and means what he says. It is up to us to protect our nation and help Sen. Thompson win! The alternative would be devastating.

Hey Henry, to the woman at Woodland High School that thinks our girls are behaving badly, have you not heard of Hoover High in Alabama? They are so good and have so much spirit that they have a TV show about the team and school, and that's where the painted stomachs came from. Also, have you ever been to the beach or public pool? What do you think the girls wear, that's right bikinis, so maybe you need to get out of the house a little more. We here at Ola have the best test scores in the county, no gangs, kids with their pants hanging down so low their boxers show ... and I think you’re just jealous. So why don't you move to the Ola district, if you can afford it, and get your kid a great education and maybe some spirit.

Hey Henry, is the Merle Manders Center in Stockbridge for sale or is GMAC real estate getting free advertising? I thought we had an ordinance against signs like that.

Hey Henry, thank you to the City of McDonough for making the two minute moment of silence on September 11 around the square what it was. That was a first class act for everyone involved. From the church bell ringing to the fire truck lifting the flags. It made me feel very patriotic.

Hey Henry, I would like to invite everyone to ride through Rainer Park (just off the square) and see the beautiful homes that certain members of the city have slowed down for over a year while new apartments and strip malls come up everyday after a strong rain. These homes and the ones on Bryan street should be models for what we want in our county.

Hey Henry, to the venter a while back who complained about the exterior renovation of the Courthouse not being historically accurate. Look on page 73 of A Pictorial History of McDonough by Gene Morris. You will see that what has been done nearly matches how the building looked in 1905.

I attended the Dutchtown High School Football game [last night] against Luella High School and as a concerned father and parent it was very offensive and embarrassing to look into the crowd and see students (young ladies) that were allowed to come into the gate with SPORTS BRAS on.

Hey Henry, I think Richard Jewell deserves a memorial of some sort in Centennial Park. He saved lives, yet suffered & sacrificed for it. The last decade of his life was spent defending his reputation.

Hey Henry, raise flat rate garbage rates and give discounts for the amount of goods recycled. To charge for the amount of trash collected will encourage illegal dumping.

Hey Henry, why can't we, the people of McDonough, have advanced life support engines like Henry county fire department?


09.12.07
Hey Henry, next year Henry High hits Woodland and others. Enjoy your dress code while you can.

Hey Henry, the Historical Preservation Committee should have to either purchase your property or pay your yearly fees if they can control what you can do with your own property. I thought we lived in the Land of the Free.

Hey Henry, I agree on cheerleaders and dance teams outfits... too much skin. But do know booster moms help pick out outfits. Yes, the same rule should go for them as dress code. And change after class. They don't need to have them on in class.

Hey Henry, wonder what side of the fence Mayor Billy and Councilman Wayne will be on when First Baptist Church wants to start construction on the new church and requests moving or tearing down one or more of the houses the church has purchased on Brown Ave.

Hey Henry, to Virginia Meadows Residents. How tall are you going to let the weeds and grass grow in the front of your neighborhood before you decide to cut them? That is such an eyesore and hurts the value of your homes. Take pride in your neighborhood and take some initiative and cut the grass.

Hey Henry! Why do not you people proof read you post befor you submitt them, for all to sea.... I find it hard to even read these post when commas are in the wrong place, words are misspelled, and just the basic principals of the English language are ignored. I am assuming you all must have gone to government schools? I am going to start saving my money right now to send my 2 year old to Strong Rock!

Hey Henry, to the guy who thinks police officers should be able to smoke in their cars because their job is stressful: I guess that means everyone with a stressful job should be able to smoke during it? ... if the county thinks it can tell a restaurant it can't even allow smokers on its outdoor patio, it shouldn't let policemen willfully destroy their county-owned cruisers either.

This is in response to the person who had such a horrible time at the Ola H.S. football game against Woodland. We are very proud of our school and our students. I would love to know what happened for you to think that our parents are rude. I have been to every school in the county and have seen girls with their mid sections painted. They got this idea from a show on MTV. They are teenagers supporting their school.

Hey Henry, my son plays football for Ola High. We have a great group of player, coaches, parents and administrators. I think it’s great that the students are proud of their school and show school spirit. I don’t know if Ola is “The School” or not, but I do know my son is receiving a great education at this facility. I don’t understand where this writer gets the idea that Ola parents are rude...all we saw was very polite, well-mannered interaction between parents from both schools.

Hey Henry, after many months Fred Thompson has decided that he would like to be president. We have had seven years of the 'decider', we cannot stand four years of the 'undecider'.

Hey Henry, I am now convinced that I did the right thing by putting my child in private school last year. The 9/5 edition contained a complaint from a Henry County teacher who claimed that a 3% pay raise vs. a 10% increase in his/her medical insurance premium resulted in a net 7% pay loss. DUH. . .do the math.

09.05.07
Hey Henry, what makes overweight people, young people with grandma’s blue handicapped window card and just about anybody else think they can park in a handicapped parking place. Yesterday just as I was about to pull into a place at the Hudson Bridge Kroger a young girl very capable of walking pulled into the only place left, so my handicapped husband and I (he has to ride a scooter) had to park elsewhere. If you can walk you should feel blessed because someday you might not be able to, and someone who can will be parked in your handicapped parking place! If you don't have the handicapped person with you don't park in a handicapped place.

Hey Henry, I agree with Mr. Brittner. We do need a children only or a non-children section for eating out. It's bad when you have to pay $30 to $40 for a meal and you can't enjoy it. It's not the kid’s fault, its the parent's, for not making them behave.

Hey Henry, the volunteer ladies on Wednesday at Henry Medical Center really miss Josh. We're all really sad. But we appreciate the lady that's coming on Wednesday and we'll grow to love her too. Josh, we miss you. We love you.

Hey Henry, as a Henry County school teacher and proud of it. I want to thank Rep. Davis, Senator Emmanuel Jones and John Douglas for my 3% raise this year. And on the other hand I also want to thank them for allowing our medical premiums to rise by 10%, thus giving us a negative 7% raise. A headline in the AJC last week read "State Employees Insurance Goes up by 10%" The very next day and I quote Allowing our officials to build up a record 1.2 billion reserve fund for the state because of the good economy and tax collections. It seems like school teachers are only liked by politicians during election years. Thanks again for the increase in my insurance rates.

Hey Henry, how come people can't pass on the right at Peeksville Rd. in Locust Grove. What genius figured that one out? And of course if you get frustrated some cop is sitting there waiting to give you a ticket, so traffic is backed up all the way down Bill Gardner past I-75. Wouldn't it be a lot smarter to let people pass on the right so traffic wouldn't back up. But then again, there would be less money in the public coffers.

Hey Henry, I was at the Ola - Woodland Scrimmage game on Friday Night, and I was appalled at something I saw. I saw several teenage girls with, short shorts and skimpy white tank tops rolled up, with their middle painted green and gold. It is one thing to have school spirit, but please, this is unacceptable. Ola High is suppose to be "the school", but I beg to differ. Moms please pay closer attention to your teenage daughters leaving your house, before they get into trouble. And administrators at Ola, please don't allow this at your football games, it is not attractive at all. And Ola parents, you all are not better than other school parents , so please stop being so rude, and wake up and realize we are all equal, and want the same for our children.

Hey Henry, I read a quip this week on Police Officers smoking in patrol cars. First, Police cars are not taxi cabs so if the stench bothers you try not and get arrested. Second, I pay taxes as everyone does so part of my money will allow them to smoke if they so choose. Why, Well, lets just say that I have an emergency and the little time that the officer uses to quit his/her smokebreak and get the Patrol Car into action to assist myself or whoever. I wouldn't mind the stench. Plus, What officers go through I feel I would need a smoke also. "Peace cannot be kept by force, it can only be achieved through understanding"

08.29.07

Hey Henry, congrats to Mayor Copeland, Gail Notti, Gina Riffey and Sandra Vincent for doing what is right for the McDonough historic district and not backing down because of a "threat" of a possible lawsuit over the requested demolition of homes on Jonesboro Street. Thanks for listening to the citizens who live in the area around the square and all McDonough citizens interested in preserving what's left of our beautiful city. It breaks my heart to see how the original character of downtown has been dismantled bit by bit over the last several years. It's great you've taken a step to stop it. Kudos also to the Historic Preservation Commission for their votes and standing firm. "Profit over Preservation" developers need to go elsewhere!

Hey Henry, when are you going to realize that your libraries need help. Would you say the library shelves are half-full, or half-empty? Either way, all that you care about are sports and weekends at the races. Don't blame the schools when your kids fall behind. Counties that aren't in the Pines, and have their own library systems, such as Gwinnet and Dekalb, get books in as soon as they are published. It takes weeks in Henry just to get enough books through the Pines to work on kids projects for school. Get your priorities straight, so the library doesn't have to wait a year after a book is released, to get copies. Navigate the library websites of these other counties, and you will realize just how much our kids are missing out.

Hey Henry, the alleged physical and mental abuse of those children on Macon Street in McDonough should make us all want to be a little more perceptive of what our neighbors are doing. What a shame that no one noticed what was going on in that backyard...

Hey Henry, What in the world has happened to Henry County's mowers? Where Harris Drive connects to 42 Highway, the grass is higher than the stop sign! This is a dangerous highway and the grass makes it hard to see oncoming traffic. Has Snapper gone out of business?

Hey Henry, why are McDonough police officers allowed to smoke in their patrol cars? Those cars are city property, paid for by taxpayers, and that stench will never come out. Are officers allowed to smoke inside other city facilities? Are they allowed to intentionally destroy other city property? They shouldn't be allowed to smoke in patrol cars, either! Not to mention the terrible example it sets.

Hey Henry, to all the people taking their dogs to the park at Pates Creek Elementary. Not everyone enjoys having to dodge your dogs as they run loose while they are trying to walk or run. Anyway, aren't all dogs supposed to be on a leash? Take your animals to the dog park located on Mount Carmel. Going to the park at Pates Creek is becoming a very unpleasant experience.

Hey Henry, to the person writing in about 155 and Walker Rd. Just slow down, please. You have teenagers also driving thru there. My son and I were nearly killed ... along with some teenagers coming from the other direction and a semi with transformers was barreling up behind him. I complained to the school commissioner, the dot and the state then and nothing has been done... It’s up to us to do our part. Just slow down when approaching it and be mindful, please.

Hey Henry, since the McDonough Historical Preservation Committee supposedly has a say about what I can or cannot do to MY house, can I charge them rent OR will they be willing to make my next mortage payment???

08.22.07
Hey Henry, thanks Publix for reaching out to the confused lady who wandered into your store. It was nice to watch the employees hovering around, and then locating a family member to come to the rescue, plus staying by her side the whole time. What a store!

Hey Henry, I've been driving by Heritage Park and have been watching as they've built that new covered arena and parking lot. I see a problem in the parking lot as being all too tight to bring in large rigs......large trucks with large trailers. These rigs are going to take out any curbs and shrubbery and probably clip a few cars along the way. Also I don't see any parking space for these rigs. They need a whole lot of space! Even the small trucks and trailers are going to have a hard time maneuvering around there. I know, because I used to go to show horses at open shows and also registered shows... and 81 is an absolute nightmare. I hope you build better ins and outs to the place. A traffic light will make things somewhat safer. Good luck!

Hey Henry, saw the plans on display at McDonough City Hall for the Christmas decorations on the Square this year. Looks absolutely marvelous and I can't wait to see them in all their glory come December!

Hey Henry, it happened again, three times today in fact! I became invisible, was able to get checked out finally, but in silence. A drugstore, a grocery store and a convenience store in McDonough need to teach their clerks to have eye contact, stop reading their book and say 'thank you'.

Hey Henry, this is to the parent that wants to be notified about their kid owing lunch money to the school. It is pretty obvious that your kid needs lunch money every day, I don't think you need to be notified that lunch is being served everyday. If you know your kid is eating lunch without paying for it (and I don't see how you can't know that) then get off your lazy you know what and find out for yourself how much your kid owes. Chances are you have been notified by a note home, however you probably never read that either since you didn't realize that lunch was being served everyday. Duh, get a clue!!!

Hey Henry. Someone correct me if I'm wrong but, was not the old courthouse suppose to be renovated to its original exterior condition? If so, what is with addition to the roof line of the clock tower?

Hey Henry, I would like to thank Most of the Salvation Army staff and volunteers for making my community service there a good experience. Most of you have become friends and will remain so for life. I will miss being with you all on a daily basis, but WILL be back to help out when time allows. THANK YOU MY NEW DEAR FRIENDS.

Hey Henry, to the woman who thinks the bus should pick her kids up from their doorstep... You know, YOU could always walk them to the stop, or heck, maybe you could even drive their precious little bodies to school. I'm only 28, but I walked
to school everyday. The world hasn't changed so much that your kids can't walk to their bus stop! Also, just how is a bus supposed to get through those gates?

Hey Henry, Stockbridge Middle School has the best teachers in the county. Why want they come in and give the school a face lift. Or is that asking to much?

Hey Henry, is Stockbridge Florist staying where they are on the corner of E Atlanta and N Henry?

08.15.07
Hey Henry, Kudos to Kaye West for her article on Restaurant Manners for children in the Aug. 1 issue of Welcome to the World. I would like to see a copy of that posted at every restaurant in Henry County. Not only is behavior a problem when you go out to eat, but also at the Grocery Stores and Department Stores. Parents, please teach your children manners.

Hey Henry, to schools county buses and their routes. I find it very selfish of you to not go on to apartment grounds and make children WALK very long distances to the bus stop outside of the apartment grounds. Consider the weather too, cold, raining, and other forms of inclement weather. And what if one of the children were to get hit by a car while going to/or from the bus stop. Thanks Henry County for protecting our children!

Hey Henry, who let a trustee prisoner select those way-too-big orange pants? Aren't we supposed to be leading them away from the gang-inspired dress code?

Hey Henry, I just wanted to thank all the people who stopped to help me after I had passed out while walking with my children the other day in Locust Grove. Also thanks to all the first responders who were so nice! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

Hey Henry, to all of you who stop at Hwy 155 and Walker Rd solely to let people turn from Walker to 155, you are causing accidents. No one expects you to just stop and let people out. Instead, let's tell the county that a light is needed there. With all the school traffic there, you would think they would do something.

Hey Henry, why is Representative Steve Davis using GA House of Representatives email to send out information on his real estate affiliations?

Hey Henry, if Henry County schools could come up with a better system of notifying parents that their kids need lunch money then maybe you wouldn't have kids eating sandwiches either. How about an Edline, e-mail, note home, or carrier pigeon message?

Hey Henry...School starting, fall clothes in stores. I started thinking fall was coming but the Aug. heat had just got to me.

Hey Henry, Barry Bonds has NOTHING on Hank Aaron! Hank hit 756 WITHOUT Steroids! Now THAT was doing something!

Hey Henry, is he really gone, or is it possible that you are just joshing us! What about the dog with a degree, is he gone too, or maybe he's just laying out under the moon.

Hey Henry, Woodland is cleaner than Union Grove, the administration is kinder, and the teachers are wonderful. Union Grove students, you really shouldn't refer to our school as Hoodland, just because we ended up with the better school. What if we called you Bumpkin Grove. We also can't help but notice all the kids that ride the bus to Woodland in the mornings, but are then shuttled to Union Grove. You are really missing out on a superior school, and the traffic on 155 can't be very much fun either. We shouldn't have to get on our buses earlier than last year, just to make sure that you get shuttled in on time. I thought they did away with busing, or did they just change the name to shuttling.

08.08.07
Hey Henry, a submitter says that, “Nothing of real importance happened at Nash Farm.” That begs the question, has anything of real importance happened in Henry County? That sounds like a local blogger who is steeped in “politically correct” history, hates Nash Farm, and to listen to him, nothing of importance has ever happened in Henry County. I mean if our local heritage and the July 4th heritage of our county mean nothing to this guy, he’s not only in the wrong county, he’s in the wrong country.

Hey Henry, Lets hope we get some new faces that will run for Chairman of this County. I know many taxpayers will not want to see the same good old boy's running for political office. Can't some of these old timers just go off somewhere and retire and give us a break?

Hey Henry, this is for the hungry developers and excavation people. For those of you who call yourselves men and women of God. Check out Revelations 11:18, the last line. (And for destroying those who destroy the earth.) This comes from the New International Version. I'd be scared if I were you. Remember what Matthew 19:24 says. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. Lets save God’s pride and joy, the planet earth, and all his people, and all his animals. Let’s put a stop to extinction and find better ways.

Hey Henry, I thought green lights meant go, and red lights meant stop, and also I thought stop signs meant to stop; I did not know they meant to cruise right on through. I'm confused. And also, why is it that when I'm going down a one way street that has two lanes going in the same direction, that if you were going to make a left turn you would be in the left lane to make that turn. It only makes sense to me. But why, oh why, are there so many out there that think you make a left turn from the far RIGHT lane. Kaboom! Oh my, what happened. Go figure. Lets get smart around here, OK.

Hey Henry, what is with our teenager girls who are Cheerleaders walking around with their back sides showing. School sprit has nothing to do with showing skin. The uniforms should have to meet the same dress code as average students. It's pretty bad when my 5th grade daughter has to tell them no she cant cheer "because I can’t wear that outfit." Come on parents, stand up and protect our girls. If you refuse for your child to dress that way to participate I bet things will change.

Hey Henry, great job to Woodland Middle School. The principal spoke eloquently, the cheerleaders were adorable, and the spirit was great. Looking forward to making this the BEST school in Henry County.

Hey Henry, let’s see if Stockbridge High School adheres to its own dress code requirements. Open house on Thursday had girls with exposed bellies and lots of cleavage and boys with the crotch of their pants down to their knees. Where are the parents of these teenagers anyhow?

Hey Henry, let's do the 287-G thing; it's working in Cobb Co, why not Henry Co? Henry Co needs to reduce criminals and criminal activities.

Hey Henry, I have been walking my dog at Heritage Park for the past two weeks and I noticed that the sewer line coming from the bathroom is overflowing next to the playground. No one has done anything about it. When is the county going to fix this? It is a health issue!

08.01.07
Hey Henry, the MCC serves at the pleasure of the people and they are our servants. The people are supreme.

Hey Henry, it’s too bad that after the money was donated to have those windowbox planters purchased and installed at some of the McDonough Square buildings that the owners/renters couldn't even keep them watered or maintained. Many of them make the storefronts look worse now than if they had never been put there to start with. Despite good intentions, that’s just money wasted that could have gone to a legitimate charitable organization that would have appreciated it.

Hey Henry, the McDonough city council ruled that no videotaping would be allowed at council meetings. What about the Open Meetings law O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1 that says: Visual, sound, and visual and sound recording during open meetings shall be permitted? What are they hiding?

Hey Henry, if anyone is looking for old cemeteries in Henry County they only need to visit the Genealogical Society and the Henry County offices. They've all been found and documented; there are no "lost" cemeteries to be found in Henry County.

Hey Henry, may the new school year be safe for all schools and students.

Hey Henry, get involved, save a kid. McDonough and Henry County have some kind of sports going on year round to keep kids off the streets.

Hey Henry, President Bush tells us he is a Texas cowboy, but he was born in Kennybunckport, Maine. Wouldn't that make him a maniac instead?

Hey Henry, This is my first quip! Don't drive to Atlanta and take the risk. We have 2 wonderful dining establishments on our square. Redz Restaurant and Seasons Bistro. With the cost of gas, we can afford it, but more important here's what I over heard a couple from Atl.. say about Redz. "... nothing compares to the food or the atmosphere. We come here all the time." A first time native of Henry Co. said to me"Wow, I never expected this." He went back and said the bone-in rib eye was the best ever. Seasons offers the "Cheers" of Henry Co. a great place for food and hospitality. They both have their own "WOW" factor. ...With all the growth in this county let's stop the rumor that I have heard for 30 years - We aren't a bunch of red necks and we DO have something to offer here.

Hey Henry, leave Nash Farms as it is. We need the open space. You want music outdoors, go to Music on the Square, or Lakewood. You knew it when you moved here, if you didn't I wouldn't admit it.

Hey Henry, students served a sandwich at school are ones who bring no lunch money and after giving them credit so many times and parents don't pay the amount owed. They then give them a sandwich. They are not on free lunch program, just don't bring money for lunch like all children do. Since the lunch bill is not paid by parent they only give a sandwich; they could give them nothing. Parents send lunch money to school. There is no free ride.

Hey Henry, I wonder when Al Sharpton will come to the rescue of the Black Mafia Family and play the race card? Its about time we are getting these violent, thug and gangster like criminals off the street no matter what skin color they are; they are low life thugs and criminals that need to be put behind bars.

07.25.07
Hey Henry, ... It is sunny. It is breezy. It is time to drive down to Jackson, order a deluxe plate at Fresh Air BBQ, sit at the tables out front, wiggle your toes in the sawdust and enjoy waving hello to everyone passing by as you savor the delectable aromas and flavors of bbq-done-right. Ahhh.. the rites of summer.

Hey Henry, it appears that the City of Morrow is more interested in preserving Historical McDonough than the McDonough Hysterical Preservation Council is. Now that the city of Morrow has purchased that beautiful old house that was on Griffin St. and moved it to THEIR historical park at Southlake Mall, we can go to Morrow to see how McDonough USED TO look!!

Hey Henry, many older folks are passing their land to their children who just wish to make money and sell to ones building homes. This is sad for if your parents had not sold the land you should not either. Keep open land. We do not need it taken away for more houses or strip malls. Think about it.

Hey Henry, to the person who is looking for good customer service- Come on over to Moye's Pharmacy in Hampton. We'll show you great customer service! We know what it takes to make a small business thrive.

Hey Henry, to the person who left two little starving kittens on the sidewalk in front of Subway on Fairview Rd. Thursday, they got out of the box during the lunch rush. You will get your due. To the young man employed at Subway who saved the kittens as he was leaving work, you are my hero. Thank you.

Hey Henry, we need an outdoor amphitheater-like venue for performance and artists. As nothing of real importance happened at the Nash Farm, and it is ideally located, lets level the fields and build something that will truly be enjoyed by everyone, not just a few nostalgic costume wearers.

Hey Henry, McDonough First United Methodist Church has outdone themselves this year with a wonderful Vacation Bible School. All of the volunteers and youth did an outstanding job making this a hit for our children. As a parent I cannot expresss my appreciation enough. My child had a wonderful time and looks forward to next year.

Hey Henry, Having a great homecoming is important to the students of our local high schools. This task, however, has become increasingly difficult due to the fact that the schools aren't getting ANY support from the citizens. As a new senior of Henry County High School I am asking that the local citizens at least come out for the homecoming parade of their local high school. We are the adults of tomorrow (scary) so please help us make Henry County a place to be proud of. Make the 2007 homecoming the best homecoming anyone has ever seen.

I just called Charter Communications, of course, I was answered by their charming voice mail. The captivating lady's voice offered me several options including this one, "If you are having trouble getting a dial tone press #2." IF I COLDN'T GET A DIAL TONE HOW COULD I BE TALKING TO YOU??? Morons! In the words of Bill Engvall, "Here's your sign"

Do you think any official from the Board of Education will get a set... and do something about the disgusting and ghetto clothing that some students wear as well as the filthy dirty, racist and sexist music that is blasted so loudly on school property?

07.18.07
Hey Henry, I would like to sell my 1.75 acres to the city of McDonough so they could build five or six houses on it. Or maybe rezone it and build another ugly office building or yet ANOTHER bank!

Hey Henry, thanks to BCs for giving fast service; I meant to stay loyal to Pizza Hut but dinner never arrived and when I called to check, the order-taker left me on hold over 5 minutes. When service takes a plunge, customers will go elsewhere.

Hey Henry, I am a concerned "Granny." I had lunch with my grandson at an elementary school awhile back. The vegetables were out of date. We want our children to attend school, yet they could be eating something to make them sick. Also I would like to comment on the children that have not paid for their lunch for some reason or other and get served a sandwich. As much as we pay in taxes, these children should get a free lunch. The lunches couldn't cost that much. We stress children eating right and doing good on the test scores yet give them a sandwich. What do we really want? It looks like the county wants to look good.

Hey Henry, I just couldn't stop laughing at the person who wrote real Americans vote Republican. Well, I am a real American and vote Democrat. Guess the so-called real Americans are the ones to thank for the mess the Bush Administration has gotten us into. It’s so funny to hear people complain about the direction our country is going. My standard question is who did you vote for president and 9 out of 10 say Bush. You get what you paid for or vote for.

Has anyone lost a Siamese Cat around Brannan Road? If so, call 678-614-0970!

Hey Henry, next 4th of July someone should do a little planning about the traffic routing situation. Me and hundreds of other cars were stuck in the parking lot for an hour at Nash Farm after the fireworks. Other than that it was a great event.

Hey Henry, since my City Council person Monta Brown, ignored me I will certainly return the favor on his next run for public office.

Hey Henry, I really enjoyed the cover story for July 4, 2007 issue. Ichabod Slateworthy's story of the Declaration of Independence being signed was as if I were there to hear him speak back in the days of old. Thank you for an inspiring story!

Hey Henry, You know "progress" is getting out of hand when the photo submitted to the "Henry As It Was" feature was taken LAST WEEK!

Hey Henry, if you don't want to leave the square, you can also pick up a copy of the Henry County Times at Ward Drug, the original Sudden Pharmacy Service.

Hey Henry, so how come whenever I'm on Rock Quarry on the left sided right turning lane, and the light is red, do I always get honked at when I'm obeying the signal? There are two right hand turning lanes. The one on the right has to yield to traffic, but the one on the left is to obey the traffic light in the lane. Come on, Henry...re-read your driving manuals and quit honking at me!!

Hey Henry, we do have nice young men living in our county. A very dedicated employee lost her server book which contained cash during the Geranium Festival. A young male returned the pieces that he found near the railroad tracks to her place of employment. To this young man, the restaurant would love to treat you to a meal on us. Thank you so very much for being honest and upstanding. It will come back to you many fold.

07.11.07
Hey Henry! With all the "progress"(translation: destroying small towns to build bigger, newer ones.) in McDonough, we had all better start taking pictures NOW to submit to the "Henry As It Was" feature.

Hey Henry! Fairtax.org is a great idea for Democrats and Rape-ublicans. You are brainwashed if you believe Republicans can save our country. I'm tired of hypocrites telling me how to be patriotic. You want a change for the better? Check out the Green Party and tell your friends! Just think for yourself people!

Hey Henry, as someone who can appreciate the ultimate goal of the McDonough Historical Preservation Committee, I would advise them to choose their representatives a little more carefully. The lady (with the curly blond hair) that spoke at the last two Council meetings did more harm than good with her over-the-top grandstanding.

Hey McDonough! Since when did Mayor Copeland's assistant become a part of zoning and code enforcement?

Hey Henry, I am referring to the jerk that mentioned he would clip a person riding a bicycle in your 6/27/07 issue. Sounds like he is a person with road rage and might consider having someone drive him before he commits murder.

Hey Henry! Is good customer service a thing of the past? I’m fed up with dealing with salespeople with surly attitudes, no respect and a lack of manners. We as consumers have a right to be accorded a certain modicum of respect. If you don’t like your job as a salesperson, find another! Another where your contact with the public is minimal! I will pay a higher price and drive a little further to get good customer service, as opposed to the nonchalance that is prevalent today. The small business owners seem to know that in order to thrive, it’s not only the product or service you sell, but it’s how you regard your customers. I for one avoid the “Big Box” stores whenever possible because I’m tired of being treated as if I’m an inconvenience!

Hey Henry, the two, one-way pairs for traffic flow through the McDonough Square have been proposed since about 1992. It is now 2007 (15 years later!), and we still do not have these improvements in our roads. I understand the current Mayor of McDonough is not interested in implementing this design, and doesn't even have it in the budget until 2009 at the earliest. And people wonder why the traffic is so bad?! Perhaps our elected officials need to be contacted and asked some hard questions.

Hey Henry, it's summer once again. Picnics in the park, sunny days and air conditioning. This is for those of you who sit in your vehicles with the engine running so that you can stay cool in the summer heat. Do you realize the damage that your V8 is doing to the ozone layer as you sit in cool comfort? The ozone layer that protects all of us from the harmful UV rays from the sun. At the same time we enact a law that prohibits smoking in public parks because of the dangers of "secondhand smoke." I think it's time to "reprioritize." You can avoid the smoke but you can't avoid the sun. Do your part to minimize the damage to the ozone layer!

Hey Henry/McDonough PD!! Why did you kill the Snapping Shoals deer? My kids loved her. So did many others. Really CAN AN OFFICER speak up about the details of the shooting? How did it pose a danger except to the ignorant, misinformed or hungry?

Hey Henry, to the guy who's scared of the filmmaker/ghosthunter using Ouija boards in his documentary. I have one word: Boo.

07.04.07
Hey Henry, obviously the "Hysterical Preservation Council" poster is not informed enough to know that the HPC has not ruled on the Jonesboro Street demolition request and has no control over rezoning of properties.

Hey Henry, I drove by the Square on Friday night, so nice to see so many people come out and enjoy the events. Keep up the GOOD JOB!!!

Hey Henry, the "Ladies With Science" cancelled their afternoon performance at McDonough Library at the last minute, but Miss Debbie and her crew didn't bat an eye. They quickly assembled a room full of crafts, Miss Debbie led the kids in song and acting, and her assistants then helped 42 kids build insects to take home. Way to go library ladies and gents!

Hey Henry, most of us bicyclists do follow the laws of the road to include red lights and stop signs. But just like everything else in the world there are those few idiots that give us a bad name. I apologize for the idiot that you saw.

Hey Henry, every time I go into the Henry County Tax Commissioners office in McDonough, I am greeted cordially, treated courteously, and deal with ladies who are both extremely competent and willing to assist me. These folks need to be recognized for the outstanding work they do. This is one taxpayer who appreciates their job performance.

Hey Henry! Tired of working hard just to have your money taken and given to lazy people who won't work or working illegals who don't report income, in the form of food stamps, welfare and medicaid? Don’t vote Democrat and got to FairTax.org. Real Americans vote Republican! Duncan Hunter is our best hope to get things back on the right track in this country. P.S. did anyone else know Georgia has the fastest rising population of illegals in the U.S.?

Hey Henry! Please realize that gangs come in ALL shapes, sizes, household incomes, and colors. Henry County gangs are also interracial. Yes, that's right folks, interracial. Everyone, please get involved to make Henry County a better place to live, work, and play. Law enforcement needs our help to accomplish this.

Hey Henry, with all the construction, trucks and traffic on Hwy 155, why don't they widen the road?

Hey Henry! We need to stop all of this changing. Roads are getting too crowded, there are too many neighborhoods being built. It's growing up way too fast. All the head people are not worried about us, only the benefits the will have. It needs to stop! The people in charge need to ask us what we want, not what they want.We need to decide as a county! We can still grow, but not so fast. We still want to enjoy the country in some places. All we're asking is to stop growing so fast before we have nothing left then neighborhoods, shopping centers, and buildings! (Even though shopping is good - ha ha.)

Hey Henry, congratulations to Monica. Monica is the City of McDonough's first black female city planner.

Hey Henry, you people ought to start using your blinkers, especially at 4-way stops. There’s going to be an accident and it will be your fault.

Hey Henry, is it only on Sunday mornings at church that some 'Christians' behave, speak and act like true Christians should? I have met more mean spirited so called Christians who speak with such hatred and do nothing but gossip maliciously about other people. What a bunch of hypocrites.

06.27.07
Hey Henry, why didn't McDonough City Council members Monta Brown and Gail Notti recuse themselves from the vote regarding the Jonesboro Road properties? Monta Brown owned a restaurant with the folks who own the Jonesboro Road properties, and Gail Notti's nephew Andrew is the attorney representing the folks who own the property on Jonesboro Road. There is a clear appearance of a conflict of interest here, and this time, someone is noticing.

Hey Henry, I think “Share The Road” is meant to go both ways. If bicycles are considered vehicles on the road, then that also means red lights apply to them as well. I watched a biker run a succession of lights on Jonesboro Rd. the other morning and it irked me. If you cyclists aren’t going to follow the rules of the road, then you’re pretty much just pedestrians on wheels and we’re allowed to clip you with our cars. Look out!

Hey Henry, it really makes me sick that the Board of Ed is taking away all of the fine arts programs. Sure, science and math are nice and all, but a student can only do so much. Programs like band, chorus, and drama provide a creative outlet for children to positively affect their schools. I'm so glad I'm graduating in one year and I won't have to deal with any future ideas the Board comes up with.

Hey Henry! Why is it that our community and our school boards have failed to realize that our children are at risk in these schools due to gang activity that our school board is aware of, but do nothing about. Our children should be able to go to school and not be pressured by their peers. It's enough just being a teen today. What are our schools going to do? Probably nothing, as usual.

Hey Henry, it's a little to LATE too be trying to do something about the GANGS NOW! They are already here. Y’all should have done something about it before it got too dang far. It's a crying shame kids had to get killed before the county wanted to get off there butts and do something.

Hey Henry, on Tara Blvd. near the racetrack on 6-20-07 (5:05 p.m.) I saw one of our finest shooting radar within 100 yards (within sight) of a lady that was broke down on the same side of the road with her hood up. "To Protect and To Serve"? More like "Revenue Enhancement and Nothing Else." It sure is a shame. Only 2 days prior, a friend and I were helping two ladies who ran out of gas. An officer pulled up and asked, "Hey, are they tryin' to run the flim-flam on you?" Obviously he wouldn't have helped either. Keep up the good work officers.

Hey Henry! We McDonough residents should now realize that "our" city council and the Hysterical Preservation Council DO NOT work for our city.With the passing of the rezoning request on Jonesboro Rd for a new bank, it is obvious that respected bodies are nothing more than rubber stamp yes-men for big-buck developers.

Hey Henry, just what we need in McDonough - another bank.

06.20.07

HEY HENRY! WAKE UP! As you enter the Square on Jonesboro Rd., I’m sure you have noticed the historic old homes with the large yellow posters that say that all these houses are to be torn down so a new bank can be built! How many banks does McDonough need? [The developer] and his smarmy lawyer claim, as a life-long McDonough resident, he wants what's best for McDonough too. It’s obvious he thinks of our town only as his own private cash-cow.

Hey Henry, there aren't enough homes for them all. Spay or neuter your pet.

Hey Henry, RE: Walk the halls of the schools. I’ve been doing it for 15 years in Henry and it's worse than ever. If schools would stand up to parents this would stop. Schools are not doing their jobs most don't even follow handbook rules. The county by letting this happen you have earned bad reviews. I would think a county would want to be known for being a safe leaning place for children. Kids have to follow the rules how about the county and schools following the rules. Also stop putting so many in special ed. to avoid problems. Most of these children just need to follow the rules and get set straight. Stop in-house, schools send kids home wake up parents. In-house is a joke no punishment. Time to step up or get bad reviews and children who don't learn.

Hey Henry, happy birthday to my wife, the most pampered woman in Henry County. ("Let me fix you a big breakfast." "Here's a fistful of cash-- Go shopping!") Then, last night, as I was rubbing your smelly little feet, you had the nerve to say, "Gee - that Paris Hilton sure is spoiled!"

Hey Henry, I work for Henry County and so do my friends. We are Public Safety Officers. We drive our county vehicles home. You DO NOT want us to drive our county vehicle home? What if something bad happens to your children on our way to work? Do we go get our vehicles, and then go save your children? There have been many times, when Police, Fire, EMTs, and Animal Control have all helped people on their way to work.

Hey Henry, good laugh for the month: this town hall meeting about gangs. So you actually think that the real issues, the true reality of it all, will be discussed OR will the majority remain “politically correct’ and not say it like it is? The reason why we are in this mess, with thugs taking over our community is because of the 'politically correct officials' who are scared to say or do anything for fear of 'offending someone' or putting a parent on the spot about their hoodlum kid.

Hey Henry - Can someone tell me why, if the City of Hampton has the largest percentage of senior citizens than anywhere in Henry County, don’t we even have a senior center or senior housing like Grier Manor? Someone needs to wake up and smell the liniment. The opportunities are ripe over here!

Hey Henry, maybe we're having a drought because we're acting like the modern-day Egyptians and the Lord is not pleased with our national and state behavior. HMMM? Now that's a thought!

Hey Henry, the intersection of Colvin and Harris Drives has to be the only place in the country where a dirt road (Harris) has the right of way across a $3 million paved road (Colvin). What say SPLOST throw in another couple of dollars and add 2 more stop signs and make it a 4 way! Although it is fun watching cars coming out of a cloud of dust zooming across this paved east-west connector!

Hey Henry, why do so many [not nice] people hide behind the word Christian? I try to be a good Christian, I try to do the Christian thing, yet they live not by those terms.

06.13.07

Hey Henry! How sad it is it that on June 5, the Board of Commissioners did not pass a resolution for a moratorium on residential construction in Henry County for a period of 1 year? Just 1 year! Jason Harper was the only one considerate enough to even answer e-mails to concerned citizens. Apparently most of the Board is happy with the fact that our fine new schools have trailers parked around them before they're even finished and that our traffic now looks like Gwinnett County’s. Perhaps their own interests in real estate made it too difficult for them to look out for anyone's interests but their own. Foreclosures in the county are at an all time high! Oh, yeah, let's build some more!

Hey Henry, actually I like those digital flashing signs; kind of a small-scale laser show without having to drive to Stone Mountain, and I know what the temp and the bank rates are. But you should only read them while you're waiting for the light to turn green.

Hey Henry, can you picture our high schools without art, band, chorus, or drama? The Department of Ed. is proposing new graduation rules that require more science classes, meaning less room in students' schedules for the arts. The new rules do not even mention fine arts. Dutchtown High is already eliminating drama next year because too few students could fit it into their schedules with all the state-required courses. The Department of Ed. is asking for public input now. Speak up by e-mailing policy@doe.k12.ga.us.

Hey Henry, Please tell "church lady" that wearing a cross from her neck does make her a good person.

Hey Henry, I agree that the McDonough HPC has a lot of problems. I live in one of the so-called "Historic Districts," and received a document in the mail last week (presumably from Mr. Robinson). It was a copy of an ordinance with misspellings and grammatical errors. There wasn't a note even explaining why I received it! Did I do something in violation? Are they just making sure I am familiar with the ordinance? Who knows why? Just more confusion from the MHPC!

Hey Henry, does anyone know who may be running for chairman as well as any other seats open for grabs next year? Will we get some new faces in here or just the old recycled good ole boys who continue to reappear not only for commission and chairman seats but also on every darn committee out there, you keep seeing the same old names and faces.

Hey Henry, it's time for the citizens of Henry County to wake up. Attend those rezoning hearings, pay attention to what is going on in the county. The county commissioners are elected to serve the citizens in their districts, NOT THE BUILDERS. So citizens, let the commissioners know that you support them. If your commissioner is selling out to the builders then replace him/her when the next election comes around. Uncontrolled growth will totally ruin our county. The rural way of life is why we moved here some thirty years ago.

Hey Henry, kudos to Spivey Community Church for throwing some awesome youth activities over the month of May! Y’all have done some great stuff. The Suds Bowl last week was awesome! Keep up the FANTASTIC work, guys! It's great to have a place to go hang out and have some good clean Christian fun!

Hey Henry - I just wanted to let everyone know what wonderful people are running Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors. I recently lost my precious preemie daughter, and they donated their services to us. It was a large weight off our shoulders. They were very caring and supportive of all we wanted to do. It was wonderful to know that there are still generous people in the world who care about what they do.

06.06.07

Hey Henry, does anyone else besides me find all these digital billboards distracting? And shouldn't we be paying attention to traffic, not flashy signs?

Hey Henry, Fred Thompson is thinking about running for president, is his new wife old enough to be first lady?

Hey Henry, what are we going to do? Stockbridge is no longer safe. Our schools are full of trouble makers who bully other kids and have the mentality of a criminal where they feel that shooting or stabbing someone is the answer to solving their problems or in resolving a disagreement. Have any of you walked the halls of some of our schools? If not, do so because it is a real eye opener.

Hey Henry, has anyone noticed that the McDonough Historic District stops at the railroad tracks on Jonesboro Road, just a stone’s throw away from the Gail Notti Welch Talmadge Mansion/ Butterfly Park?

To the nicely dressed, middle aged woman who refused to let me onto highway 42 from Peeksville Road last Saturday afternoon, BOO on you. To the 30 something father with his children in his car who refused to let me out also, BOO on you. To the young teenager wearing a sock cap and trying to grow a goatee who did let me out, thanks a bunch. I'm gradually learning not to stereotype people.

Hey Henry! Why is it so hard to find a decent guy in this county? I'm a 23 year old woman, attractive, nice, smart and have a great sense of humor, and yet I've never had a guy! Is dating really that hard? Are there any bigger guys out there not over the age of 30 who is interested in giving a nice girl a chance? If so, email me at lookinginmcdonough@yahoo.com.

Hey Henry, who is the person making $84,000 per year in the City of McDonough government for soil erosion duties? This is insane. Who is this person, and the venter who stated there is another person being paid $54,000 per year who cannot even pass a soil erosion test, who is this person and WHY are they still employed at that pay and in that position if they can not pass the State required tests?

Hey Henry, the good ole boy 'clique' boys’ club are nothing but a bunch of cranky old men. They sit around and gossip about people not in their 'clique' while at the same time they run their hypocritical old butts to Church each Sunday trying to 'act' like good Christian boys after their tongues have spewed filth all week long.

Hey Henry, the Henry Players’ 07-08 season is going to be AMAZING! You made some wonderful choices this year! I am looking forward to seeing every one of these shows!

Hey Henry, people with a foul mouth are immature, usually uneducated, embarrassing to family members and a poor example to children. Please give some serious thought to cleaning up your act.

To the person in Hey Henry that wanted to know where to find Huckabee's BBQ Sauce. Call 503-554-1250. $3.95 a pint. Go to: Huckabeesbbq.com.

Hey Henry, I was all for cutting Mr. Lee's salary. But as a fiscal conservative I question the wisdom of granting the highest end of the range at $115,000. And then hiring a new HR person at $65,000. The City is now $35,000 poorer than before. Sorry to be so cynical, but it sounds like they have a poorly educated accountant - or fiscal responsibility is simply not in their philosophy.

05.30.07

Hey Henry, I agree that Henry County employees should not be driving home county owned (tax payer owned vehicles). My tax dollars should only be paying for employees to drive to and from job sites etc and not going towards these employees driving tax payer owned vehicles to and from their homes. With the price of gas I am not happy with our Commissioners allowing this to continue.

Hey Henry, what happened around the square? Suddenly all the lights are synchronized and traffic is moving rapidly through McDonough. I love it!

Hey Henry, did anyone else think that "Our Yearning for Collective Suicide" was a missed attempt at Chuck Palahniuk-style writing, and kind of creepy to be in a local hometown newspaper?

Hey Henry, don’t do any good to submit a vent! I submitted one a long time ago and other have too and they never get printed.

Hey Henry, why doesn't the Henry County Board of Education consider building multi-level schools instead of rezoning every year! They spend more money putting trailers out in the back of schools and rezoning kids to other schools than they do on the kids Education.

[To last week’s poster] I know Randy Stamey. Randy is my friend as well as my district commissioner. Sir, I AM NOT Randy Stamey. Larry Stanley, 17-year resident of District 3, constituent of Randy Stamey, “smart” enough to serve, SPLOST Oversight Committee appointee.

Hey Henry, what's up with the garbage pickup companies? Do they have to take a class to learn how to leave the trash containers they empty in the streets and roads? Our roads are just barely wide enough for traffic without having to dodge the green and/or black hazards they leave in the way. Does anyone besides me have a problem with this? Also, why do they block the roads with their trucks? You couldn't pay one of them to move over to let the mile long line of cars by.

Hey Henry, why wouldn't someone want to go to Woodland? We are excited! A chance to be the first graduating class from any high school doesn't come along that often. Let alone a chance to get away from Stockbridge High, the gangs and the racial tensions there are out of control. Ahhh, if only everyone could get a fresh start once in awhile. By the way, why are there so many kids still waiting to be picked up at Stockbridge around 5? Hard to get a ride home from another county?

Dear Kid Activity Mom Looking for Help, I encourage you take your children to the local public library. From June 1 through July 31, children will embark on the “Reading Takes You Everywhere” summer reading program. All programs offered through the library are at no charge. For your teenager, there is the young adult reading program called “Lost in Time”. The children’s and young adult librarians have worked hard to create a fun filled package for kids of all ages. Please go to the Henry County Library System website at www.henry.public.lib.ga.us to view the calendars for all the branches within the county. There are also programs for toddlers at some of the libraries, so there should be plenty for you and your children to do and enjoy. If you have any questions, please call your local library system or you can call me, Tracy Ralston (children’s coordinator for the Henry County Library System) at 770-954-2812. Have a great summer!

Hey Henry, a big thank you to all the caring teachers at SMS. You do your job well, proud of you!

05.23.07

Hey Henry!!! If you want a copy of the Henry County Times just come to Eagles Landing Pharmacy in McDonough, and while you’re there get your prescriptions filled fast!!

To Jack Parish, Henry County School Superintendent. I challenge you to eat lunch at one of your elementary schools when "veggie sticks" are on the menu. I wouldn't feed those things to my pigs. One in ten students might eat one of them, but they are thrown away by the thousands. Just how much money are we throwing away each day in poorly selected food choices? And is there no accountability for the person who prepares the menus? Does no one review them to see that they are being eaten? Please, ditch the veggie sticks next year. Thousands of students in the county will love you.

Hey Henry, why is the McDonough Welcome Center promoting a filmmaker and ghost hunter who uses Ouija boards? This is very dangerous, Ouija boards are used to conjure up spirits and entities that are often demonic and extremely hostile in nature. Sometimes one does not have to try to conjure these dark entities, they find an opening and just come right in, even though the intention was at first good. Once these spirits are here they are not easy to return. I am sure the Mayor would not like this going on in the city. I believe the Welcome Center needs new management or be shut down and let the McDonough Main Street people promote the City. McDonough and Henry County has a rich ghost history and it needs to be explored and documented but not at such a danger this filmmaker will be doing it.

 Hey Henry speaking of County Commissioner Randy Stamey, why didn’t he appoint one of his constituents to serve on the SPLOST III committee rather than appointing himself. How do you spell “SELF INTEREST” or does he think he is the only person in District III “SMART” enough to serve?

Hey Henry, I am so glad school is ending, but I'm looking for something fun for the kids to do during the summer. If anyone knows of any fun activities this year, please send in a vent to Hey Henry. I have a two year old and a seven year old, and a thirteen year old. Thanks. - Kid Activity mom looking for fun!!! :)

Hey Henry, why, if the 13 parking spaces beside the courthouse annex on Hwy. 42 are reserved exclusively for law enforcement vehicles, have there been only one or two cop cars parked there in the past six months? Why not give them back to the tax payers that footed the bill?

Hey Henry, why is it that small businesses join the Chamber of Commerce? The Chamber courts big businesses to come into town. Those big businesses run the small businesses out of business. Are the small businesses paying for their own destruction? Maybe we need a small business council in Henry County.

Hey Henry! For all the negativity and junk that goes on in the world some of this crap is just redundant! How about some joy and peace! Hey Henry! I love my husband Steve and I can get through or over anything with him! How about that Henry, something positive!

Hey Henry, help! If there is anyone out there that knows where you can buy "Hucklebee's BBQ Sauce" please post it. We have searched everywhere! It use to be sold at the hardware store on the corner. Thanks.

Hey Henry! Many thanks to the hard working city employees who had our beautiful square back normal (free of trash) on Sunday morning. Thank you.


05.16.07

Hey Henry, I agree - schools should not allow some music. Kids don't have to have it. They will enjoy most music if it's loud and fast. Schools set the bar; and don't lower it - you set the rules.

Hey Henry, is it necessary for the train to stop and unload at Stringer Lumber at 4:00 in the afternoon? And for 20 minutes? Hey Norfolk Southern and Stringer Lumber: McDonough has enough traffic problems without your poor timing. I'm sure you both could come up with a better time for this deliver without a complete gridlock of McDonough

Hey Henry, if it works for a 17 year old, would it work for a 52 year old. I’m looking for the same type of work? Anyone out there willing to give me a job too? I know I’d be more reliable than a 17 year old. I’ve been looking and sending resumes out, with no response. If I were a 17 year old, looking for a job I would not have an e-mail address start out with dramadork.

Hey Henry, in a few more weeks, we will be half-way through the year and into summer. We purchased our home in the Henry County area for its beauty. I’m sure that is why you bought here also. Maybe it’s time certain people took down their Christmas lights. Time to keep it looking beautiful. Get the lights down.

Hey Henry, yes, isn’t it amazing how the school system will allow vulgar music to be played at a dance? Yet, they do not allow a prayer in the school and want to take ‘under God” out of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Hey Henry, PLEASE, enough with this white/black junk! Can't we all just get along?

Hey Henry if you want a copy of the Henry County Times at the Publix at Lake Dow, you have to ask for it.

Hey Henry, those of us who supported the winners of Stockbridge Middle School's 2007 Mr. and Ms. SMS Pageant can't understand why the winners were left out of your school yearbook. Mr. SMS 2007 Scotty Cashon and Ms. SMS 2007 Anna White, we are very proud of you fine students. Hope the yearbook next year is dedicated in forgotten honor.

Hey Henry, I am not responsible for the way people treat me. I am only responsible for the way I treat people. Excuses will not be my motto. God is the ultimate decider. Americans spend their time hating each other (black, white) while foreigners are getting ahead quietly. Do you know that Asian kids are the smartest kids in American schools? Go figure......

Let's get rid of every councilmember and start over....next local election just might see that happen. Gail, you need to pay attention to raising money for your butterfly park....and forget about politics. The rest of you need to remember you were elected by the people you are snubbing with your foolishness.

Hey Henry, you can disallow me to vote, and even keep me from holding any public office, but please, oh please, don't take away my right to vent.

Hey Henry, at first I heard that the UGHS football players didn't have to go to Woodland, now it’s the cheerleaders that have already paid for their uniforms. Well my child has a UGHS academic letter, and is in the Beta Club. What’s more important sports or academics? As for the doctors’ excuses claiming your children are traumatized by Woodland, they haven't even attended the new school yet. I hope that you realize those excuses stay on your child's file through college.

05.09.07

Hey Henry, I need a job, but I don't know where to look. I'm only 17 and I really don't wanna work in a food place! Anyone have any ideas for a gal who wants to be a receptionist/secretary? THANKS! dramadork1018@yahoo.com.

Hey Henry, be aware of zoning changes. Going through one now, builder wants to put 350 homes on approximately 140 acres. This nets down to 2.55 homes per acre. R3 zoning. - Campground Resident

Hey Henry, I feel that some of the music that is allowed to play at school dances and on school property should not be tolerated. Some of the music playing at these dances use every single nasty word that many people complain about yet this trash is played on school property, at school dances where the 'unacceptable' is now being 'accepted' even though these songs are vulgar, degrading, sexist and racist.

Hey Henry, manners were taught at home and school but not anymore. It might be against someone rights. My child is well mannered and teachers thank me but he's picked on for being odd. How many children do you know today that know the Golden Rule? It's not even posted in classrooms anymore. Sad.

Hey Henry, WOW! Congratulations to The Luella High School Drama Department for the wonderful production of "The Wiz." It was very entertaining! This is, by far, one of the best high school musicals or any musical we have ever seen!

Hey Henry, where did the idea come from that women are oppressed? You print my vents on a regular basis, but it takes my husband weeks at a time, or even months to get anything in print.

Hey Henry, if we all come up with excuses to keep our kids out of the Woodland school district, our community will just fall, because it will make Woodland more diverse for the ones that are really doing the right thing by attending. You are bringing on a repeat of the DeKalb and Clayton problems. White flight will hit Kelleytown fast if we don't all work together to keep it strong. Who wants to keep moving, and never remain loyal to a community? Our community is more important than worrying about diversity in our schools, or whether another child’s family is as economically advantaged as our own. You do not appreciate what you have, until its gone.

Hey Henry, I get so tired of people thinking all African-American people know each other and can in some way control their behavior. Believe it or not we want the same things whites want. We want nice homes in safe neighborhoods. We want good teachers in accredited schools. We want our children to have the same opportunities as others. It amazes me how we can sit in our churches and proclaim the word of the Lord, yet in 2007 we are still intolerant of others who don't look like us. My words to those who feel it is necessary to move every time a black family moves into the neighborhood...Pack your bags again because we are everywhere, there's no escaping us.

Hey Henry, "White" insight is meaningless, unless you know what it's like to be a minority. You live in a great community, and I hope you don't choose to give it up. Before I moved here, I was the last man standing in DeKalb, the tail end of white flight. So believe me, I know what a fabulous community this is.

Hey Henry! So women should still not be able to vote. Look out, all those crazy menopausal women are looking for you..and some that are not.


05.02.07

Hey Henry, in response to "Cultural diversity vs. white flight," I would like to give some "white" insight to the author of that article. As a white, life long resident of Henry County, I admit I am one of the covert racists. I haven't always been this way. It wasn't until I saw how this "diversity" affects the community I grew up in that my thoughts changed. It is hard not to be that way when you see your community changing (not for the better in most cases) and what a burden that this "diversity" puts on our society! From government housing going up, value of our homes going down, to worsened behavior of students in the school system...those are just a few of the issues that us "white covert racists" are concerned with! Why would we want to stay around if we can move away from it? So my advice to you is to quit preaching about diversity and put your time and effort into making sure the new members of Henry County can keep it safe and clean like the "old school" Henry County members did. If not...you’ll have another Clayton County on your hands.

Hey Henry, re: white flight article. Sometimes people from different races/cultures have different ways of acting. My African-American friend is appalled by our music, lighting of candles, staid worship practices; I get bored at her church because the songs, though beautiful, get so repetitive. Neither of us is bigoted. By the same token, I don't care who lives next to me; just tone down the music and the language, allow no fighting or drug use, and you are welcome.

To crazy menopausal woman: YOU GO, GIRL! From: another crazy menopausal woman!

Hey Henry, a personal big THANK YOU to County Commissioner Randy Stamey for his prompt response to my problem. Due to the recent high winds, a huge tree on the right of way on my property fell, I had no idea which department in the county to contact. I asked Randy for the department and phone number, he did not merely send me the info, he called the appropriate department for me and had them come out and clear the tree, all this happened within two days. Here's to a Commissioner who cares for the residents of Henry County. Kudo's Randy ! P.S. The county did a very thorough job of cleaning it up.

Hey Henry, it amazes me how fake the City of McDonough portrays themselves to outsiders on a "Bus Tour." Art Council? Historical Societies? Yes, we have these, but does anyone support them unless the city needs money or grants?

Hey Henry, women should still be disallowed to vote or even hold any public office.

Hey Henry, last weekend our neighborhood had a clean up party. We witnessed an accident and it took Henry County Police 30 minutes to get there. Then we were accused of illegally dumping brush in a vacant lot and someone called Henry County Police. In ten minutes not one but two cars were there. What gives guys?

Hey Henry, A big thank you to the HCPD and HCFD for being there for all of us in Henry. Thanks for doing a great job each day and night!

Hey Henry! To the person who asked why the need for apologies for what our ancestors did or didn't do regarding slavery. Apologies and/or reparations have been made to the survivors of the Holocaust, to the Japanese for being mandated into internment camps, and to other groups of people. Why is it so hard for some to accept that African Americans deserve an apology and reparations as well?

04.25.07
Hey Henry, please tell my neighbor if she would be responsible for her dog, I would not have to call animal control! Dogs are like kids, if you can't control them, don't have them! It's a no brainer!

Hey Henry! A big round of applause to Beau Kelley and all the people who worked on Taste of Henry. The crowd was great, the vendors did a fantastic job and the overall feel was a big social event. Bridge Catering/The Abbey and Truman's were standouts and who can resist Bruster's Ice Cream? Only one question...where were the restrooms? Looking forward to next years event!

Hey Henry! Manners and respect go hand in hand. If you don’t have one, you won’t have the other. How many times have you said thank you and received a ”uh huh” in reply? Whatever happened to “You’re welcome”? How often have you answered your phone and the caller asks for someone without introducing themselves? It seems as if the only ones that introduce themselves on the telephone are telemarketers. If someone holds a door for you, a simple thank you is all that’s required of you, not a life long relationship. Everyone complains that the youth of today have no respect. Now it’s up to you parents and adults to lead by example!

Hey Henry! I think we all owe a bit of gratitude to Quinn O'Neill of Redz Restaurant for all of his hard work and dedication towards raising money for the beautiful planters and flowers that now surround the McDonough square! Thanks Quinn.

To the scumbags who threw a rock through my window in Lake Dow: I am one crazy, menopausal woman!! Please come back!

Hey Henry, I just wanted to send a huge congratulations to the Henry County High School NJROTC Rifle Team for their 1st place overall in the Inter-Service National Competition held at Ft. Benning. Congratulations Nick, David, Catilyn, Matthew and Capt. Tucker. Excellent job! And a special congrats to Matthew for taking 1st place Individual NJROTC and David for taking 2nd place Individual NJROTC.

Hey Henry, I would like to go back in time, so that the doors that closed, and the windows that opened were slower, and not so frequent. The doors all lock behind me, and a new window opens every day, which leads to frequent venting.

Thoroughly Modern Millie is a must see. Some of the dance numbers were choreographed by a member of the original Broadway cast. Come out and support the Henry County High School Studio 54 Players - April 27, 28 and 29. These kids are awesome!

Hey Henry, to the individual who wrote in exclaiming that dogs have no soul, Please read the article by Gary Kurz “The Souls of Animals.” He also wrote "Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates." I believe that dog's do have souls and there is biblical evidence that proves it. You will see your little sweethearts again, that is, if you go to Heaven. To quote the great Reverend Billy Graham, " I think God will have prepared everything for our perfect happiness (in Heaven). If it takes my dog being there, I believe he'll be there." I'm writing in for all of the adoring souls from the many animals that I have loved, and have since left this world. I look forward to seeing them all again one day. Job 12:10:, says: " In whose hand is the soul of every living thing."

Hey Henry, did you know that you can no longer pick up The Henry County Times at the Publix on Hwy 81E? I was told that someone complained. Now who would complain about getting a free newspaper? Could it be someone from another newspaper that doesn't cover Henry County's more meaty and controversial issues like The Times does? Just asking.

04.18.07
Hey Henry! Why can't the Henry County Fire Department send somebody to Career day at Dutchtown High School? McDonough Fire is nice enough to send their personnel and we are in the county!

Hey Henry, somebody please give my neighbor something to do all day besides stare out the windows and look for dogs roaming through her yard to see if they are defecating on her grass so she can call animal control on the dog owners. I don’t know about anyone else, but my life is just too busy for that silly stuff.

Hey Henry, I hope when the bus tour leaves town up Macon Street extended that the host on the bus points out that that pile of trash on your right belongs to our BOC Chairman!

Hey Henry, when did it become OK to add more notes to our National Anthem than Mr. Key composed and wail like a wounded elephant singing it at televised performances?

Hey Henry, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales has been practicing telling the truth for a couple of weeks, before he testifies in the U.S. House. The truth comes really hard for some people.

Hey Henry, is there something in the water in Henry County that prevents drivers from following some basic principles on our highways? If you are making a lane change, use your blinker. It is the law. If you are "turning," use your blinker (it does not matter whether you are in a turn lane or not). It is the law. If it is raining, put your headlights on. It is the law. It does not take much effort to use your brain while driving.

Hey Henry, I came here to post about something else, but after reading the current Hey Henry, I had to say something. Why is anyone having to apologize to anyone for what our ancestors did or didn't do? I have never done any research into my lineage, but whether or not my ancestors owned slaves or brought slaves over to this country in no way reflects on me. The same goes for any particular state or city. The forefathers of that governmental body may have dealt in or approved of slavery, but the current administration owes nothing to anyone concerning the past. Let's just not make the same mistakes again.

Hey Henry! Last Friday (4/6) my son and I were going down East Lake Rd. and someone had hit a dog and left it. I don't think they have ever had a dog get ran over, or they would have stopped! I just wanted to praise the lady with the Animal Shelter that picked up the dog to care for it or at least help its pain. Hope she gets this message. Thanks, *L*.

Hey Henry, dogs don't have souls...I would hate to be the dog that belongs to the person who made such a knowledgeable comment. Tell us... oh wise one... however did you get the inside track on who and what goes to heaven? Please let me know. In the meantime, I will go and play with my 4 soul-filled dogs who I am sure probably deserve heaven a little more than some. Oh, and by the way, I don't think you will have to worry about running into any dogs that you would love to see again because according to your theory, you have to actually have a soul to get into heaven and clearly you are lacking.

Hey Henry, and how does anyone "know" that dogs do not have souls? The Buddhists believe that animals have souls and so do I. I'd like to see anyone prove me wrong. You expect everyone to "have faith" in the unknown, and yet people are anxious to say they "know" what entities have souls and what don't. Let's all treat every living thing as though they were ourselves and maybe, just maybe we can have some empathy for all living beings.

04.11.07
Hey Henry, the freedom to smoke marijuana and live your life as you see fit, as long as it doesn't harm anyone else's, is one of the Libertarian party's tenets. But with that freedom comes responsibility, and the understanding that there are consequences to your actions. Dye your hair blue, pierce your nose and wear a tattered wedding gown to work; that's fine. But also realize that if your employer wants to fire you for doing so, that's fine too.

Hey Henry, the ones who should worry about universal healthcare are the doctors who make $500 an hour and give you a whole two minutes of their time and for that you should be grateful. They have three homes, four cars and sometimes a plane. So the average person will get the same healthcare treatment, but the doctors will lose their fortunes. And the profits for the pain med makers might not be able to push their drugs off label and make billions in profits. So maybe the poster so worried about the Democrats and socialized medicine was a doctor afraid of losing his beach-front vacation home. So sad.

Hey Henry, while our stupid politicians are ‘apologizing’ for something that happened MANY decades ago how about apologizing to ALL women as well. We were refused the right to vote until 1920, ‘suffering’ while men were granted rights we were not.

Hey Henry, traffic congestion at I-675 and I-75 is not due to speed. It's caused by drivers forgetting the little mantra "take gap, give gap." Everyone wants to go as far as they can before merging, and people in the lane they are merging into don't let them. Come on people, give a little gap, and take it when it's there, then we can actually drive the speed limit and get home faster.

Hey Henry, I want to send out a big thank you to all the 4-H leaders. You're doing a great job and parents thank you!

Hey Henry, I think the Henry Players can't get any better...but they keep proving me wrong. Wonderful singing, dancing and acting in Hello, Dolly!

Hey Henry, so the Gail Notti Butterfly Park needs $43 million dollars and the City is doing all it can to locate money for this "butterfly paradise." These City Council members have got to be kidding? What are they smoking? Between The Gail Notti Butterfly Park and Nash Battle Grounds the taxpayers will be broke after these two wonderful parks are completed. Can anyone get a list of what private donations are being made and by whom or are the taxpayers fully funding the butterfly oasis?

Hey Henry, W.A.V.E and W.A.V.V...more power to you!! Women Against Vernon Everywhere and Women Against Vernon's Violence.

Hey Henry, I'm sorry to disappoint the individual who says all dogs go to heaven. Dogs do NOT have souls; therefore, when they die, they die. I know a couple of dogs I would love to see again in heaven, they were sweethearts, but unfortunately I can't.

Hey Henry, while apologizing, how about apologizing to all women for their ‘suffering’ and being denied the right to vote until 1920? And let’s apologize to the Indians, the Irish, the Italians and also the white man for reverse discrimination and hatred aimed at them.

Hey Henry, I believe that every Henry County Commissioner and official from the last fifteen years that has callously contributed to the overpopulation of the county and its roadways should be sentenced to three years of driving back and forth through Stockbridge and McDonough six days a week from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Enough said.

04.04.07
Hey Henry, are those thousands of dollars in the state budget referencing Civil War digs and Civil War trails all to do with Nash Farm Battlefield? Good Lord, how much taxpayer money is going to be used for this Civil War park-project? Who is putting all of those funding request in the state and county budgets?

Hey Henry, can someone, anyone, tell me where it is legal to sell a home when it is under contract with someone else?

Hey Henry, think Walter Reed V.A. Hospital that is run by our government is bad? Just wait until the Democrats completely take over. They call it universal healthcare. Socialist medicine is what it really is! Keep healthcare in the free market! If you want Socialist medicine or "universal healthcare," just ask our neighbors up north in Canada how things are!

To the person asking about how helpful Edline is...it isn't! I hate it! I'm constantly grounded because of it! (And I don't even make grades that are that bad!)

Hey Henry!! Please don't allow your children to scan items in the self scan aisles in grocery and retail stores. These aisles are there to make it quicker to get in and out of stores. When you let your children scan your purchases it really slows it down for everyone else in line behind you.

Hey Henry, the Locust Grove city-wide yard sale was a lot of fun. I had never been to something like that. After reading about it from you guys. I decided to go. I really didn't see anything I wanted, but one thing. It was a lawn mower. It had already been sold. That led me to want to go to other yard sales in the Henry County area. Can't wait until next time.

Hey Henry, if you are on Interstate 75 in Henry County please do the SPEED limit of 65 miles per hour or 70 miles per hour. NOT 40-45- or 55 miles per hour. Let's stop the congestion around 675 and Jodeco Road. Places in Atlanta where it is only 55 miles per hours. You have to do nearly 70 to 80 miles per hour.

Hey Henry! Can't wait for Taste of Henry on April 20...but why aren't the other McDonough Square restaurants Redz, PJ's, and Pasta Max participating this year?

Hey Henry, can the Parks Department please clean out the little creek in Heritage Park, so the water runs in the creek and not down the walking trail? It’s a little slippery when wet.

Hey Henry, this is directed to the person not getting their correct mail in their mailbox. You are not the only one, by a long shot. My neighbors and I have been upset for about 2 years with this problem. I have contacted the post office to little avail. Then, I was given a Consumer Affairs number to call. It is 404-765-7702. That helps for a little while as they follow up on the complaint. And, yes, you are right. If they'd just match up the numbers, there would be no problem!

Hey Henry, may all enjoy a safe and fun Spring Break!

Hey Henry, wow. That Garden Guy is hot.

Hey Henry, why was a Henry County school bus traveling east on Highway 138 in Rockdale County at 7:45 a.m. on March 29?

To the person who wrote that schools don't recognize minorities: HELLO, we had a whole month of Black History Month including reports to do on famous black Americans! When do we recognize white Americans??

03.28.07

Hey Henry, I just wish my mail carrier would pick up my mail. I have the flag up and everything and he throws my new mail in but leaves my mail that I need mailed in the mailbox. Go figure this one.

Hey Henry, Dystopian McDonough? Who would ever use a work [sic] like that?

Hey Henry! Did Walgreen's miss the memo about daylight savings time? If you're going to have a huge flashing sign displaying the time you should make sure it's right!

Hey Henry, Dr. Galen and Dr. Jason at Spine Care Chiropractic are the best! Not only do they treat each patient very well, they also are very kind to their staff. They are appreciated! Keep up the good work, guys!

Hey Henry, help me understand this. If I am sitting at a stop sign waiting to pull out, it's my decision to decide if I feel confident to pull out yet or not, right? Not the decision of the guy sitting behind me. He gets a turn after me, right? People, please have a little patience. You never know when a new driver or old lady is trying to pull out and does because you feel it’s safe for them and may one day cause a death or two because you are in a hurry. Donna, Locust Grove

"The American Indians found out what happens when you don't control immigration." - Scott Zajac

Hey Henry, you look so pretty with trees and flowers in bloom. Spring in Henry - what a delight!

Hey Henry, is reckless and irresponsible, the same as kooky, erratic, and unaccountable?

To the two gentlemen in the maroon Tahoe pulling the small black trailer who dumped the worn out piece of furniture in the parking lot of Phil. UMC - our surveillance camera got a good picture of you and so did the HCPD.

Hey Henry, I miss Mr. Bowler! This new principal spent 15 minutes of the assembly we had talking about how much trash is all over the school, but honestly...what does he plan on doing about all of the fun new violence problems, selling of drugs, and other problems like that? We don't need to worry about trash or tardies when people are constantly getting threatened by gangs or some tramp is doing cocaine in the bathroom.

Hey Henry, thanks to everyone who volunteers at the Henry County Humane Society. Everyone there works so hard for the animals. The animals are very lucky to be there until they get adopted. They get taken care of very well by very caring people. So many animals are euthanized every day and every little bit does make a difference.

Hey Henry, a huge “Yes Ma'am!” to Deidre Cochran for winning first place in the girls' solo category at Literary Competition for the region. You represented Henry County High School and your community at regional and state with confidence and grace; we're all very proud of you. Your vocal instrument is A-MAZING!

Hey Henry, I cannot wait for Vernon Jones to run for senator. The women will go to the polls and make sure he does NOT get in office. The Women Against Vernon Everywhere campaign (W.A.V.E).

Hey Henry, the McDonough Historical Committee is a joke. Do you realize that since this committee was appointed McDonough has lost three historical properties? The locations were as follows Griffin St., Dunn St. and Brown Avenue.

03.21.07
Hey Henry! My wife and I found five abandoned puppies on Stroud Rd. last summer and rescued them. After 2 weeks and $200 of nurturing them back to health, I took them to [a pet store] to give them away. I spent 20 minutes getting a lecture from a rude lady with the Humane Society about how irresponsible I was for not having their mother spayed.... After I explained to her that all 3 of my own dogs were "fixed," and that I had rescued these puppies she said she did not mind if I tried giving them away outside the store while their adoption section was going on. However, a [pet store] employee kicked me out from in front of their store and then called the police on me after I moved out to the end of the parking lot. Thanks to the help from the HCPD officer who responded I found homes for all 5 puppies.

Hey Henry, congratulations to the Ola High School team on High Q. They did a terrific job! They were only 10 points from making the sweet 16.

Hey Henry, is there anyone out there who finds Edline helpful or accurate? Does anyone know how much money is has cost to develop and maintain it?

Hey Henry, here it is a school holiday, kids outside playing, enjoying the beautiful weather and what does Stormwater do? They send prisoners out to my subdivision to clean up storm drains! No notice was given to any of the homeowners. Talk about poor planning.

Hey Henry, the astronaut diaper lady that attempted a kidnapping and who knows what else, gets reassigned and the enlisted sergeant who posed for pictures with no clothes on, is discharged from service. Go figure!

Hey Henry, I thought a person had to be dead before a park or public road could be named after them. "What's up, Henry County?"

Dear Henry, why do schools set aside time to recognize every one else but minorities? Women's and "Exceptional Children's" month were both celebrated, but Hispanic, Asian, African-American and other history months were not. During Women's and Exceptional Children's months funds were raised, flyers were distributed, and announcements were made, but none of our months were acknowledged. Any ideas why, Henry?

Hey Henry! Does anyone know if there is a sound ordinance in Henry County? There is a dog in the Fairview area duplexes that barks nonstop all day into the night. Sometimes I feel like screaming. I'm sure it's driving everyone else nuts, also. Just wanted to know what I should do, call the police or what?

Hey Henry, are we the only ones not getting our mail put in our own mail boxes? We get the neighbors’ mail all the time. Is is so hard to match the numbers on the boxes? If it is then I think it’s time to go back and learn the matching game. We want our own mail.

Hey Henry, are the majority of Americans asleep at the wheel, complacent or just don't give a seconds thought to the horrors that our military men and women are enduring just to protect our freedom. What makes things so bad is that the lucky ones who survive and return home safely are treated like dirt by our V.A. and government.

03.14.07
Hey Henry! How has all the action at McDonough City Hall managed to stay out of the paper? I'm sure people want to know about the reckless action and the outcome.

Hey Henry, I'll take a dirty hippie anyday, compared to what’s running our county.

Hey Henry, it's time to let the county commissioners, city councils and the board of education know we're fed up with uncontrolled, unregulated and high-density growth. Vote NO to SPLOST!

To the person that stole my Snoopy March holiday flag off Iris Lake Road in McDonough. It took a little more effort than last time to steal this one to satisfy the Snoopy fetish you seem to have didn't it? It really disappoints me that I live in Henry County with people who have no respect for other people's property.

Hey Henry, each time I pick up a newspaper I read how much more space and new buildings the county has obtained. I know of an organization who needs help and could save the county thousands of dollars each year. Its the Hands of Hope free medical clinic. It is the only free clinic in the county. They have to depend on volunteers and donations in order to stay in operation. Why can't the county or city place them in one of their empty buildings? Come on guys, lets find them a place so they can continue to help people who
so badly need it. Remember, this clinic saves the county and hospital thousands of dollars each year. These faithful and reliable people work to help people who have no insurance.

Hey Henry, I'm just calling to tell the school teacher who can't get a flu shot, because the health department won't stay open long enough. Just go to Moyes Pharmacy. They give flu shots till 8:00 p.m. everynight.

Hey Henry, why are decorative pavers being installed on the newly widened Jonesboro Road median instead of concrete? They are attractive but I would think more costly than concrete. Just curious.

Hey Henry, to any McDonough speeders, take notice; the Protect and Serve fleet now has a Charger in their fleet, hot-looking car and I don't think you can outrun it.

Hey Henry, does anyone have a good recipe for Canadian Geese?

Hey Henry, wow, what a nice pageant at Stockbridge Middle School. The Mr. and Ms. SMS 2007 in February. Teachers did a great job and students look great. Best wishes to the winners Mr. SMS '07 Scotty Cashon and Ms. SMS '07 Anna White.

I happened to be sitting in traffic the other day and wrote down a few things that I would like to share. 1) I have been sitting at a light from red to green and counted 36 out of 44 cars that the driver was on his or her cell phone. 2) I am trying to figure out why our great county has let all the box distribution warehouses build on a two lane road (155 S). Its great! 3) Traffic would be a lot more fun if there were dancing bears and hula girls on either side of the road. 4) I can get around Downtown, Midtown, East Atlanta, etc. faster than I can get around this lovely town comfortably south of Atlanta. Did we get to vote on that slogan? 5) Whoa, I almost hit that guy on the bicycle. Someone should give him a ticket!

Welcome to the world, Graeme Ronin Navarro! We’re glad you’re here, little man!

03.07.07
Hey Henry, it's March! How about you rednecks get your Christmas lights put away? It's making our property values go down!

To the person who rescued the 10 pups on the side of the road, Bless you! Not many people will do that. I hope you find the person who did this. People seem to think animals are just trash that can be discarded.

Hey Henry! I am one of those dirty hippies that moved to the city limits of McDonough!!! Right on! Steal your face right off your head!!!! (I secretly wish your nonsense was true. Dirty hippies are a whole lot cooler than dirty politics!)

Hey Henry, please say a prayer for our troops who are risking their lives for us with many of these brave men and women either not coming home alive or coming home with permanent injuries. We all need to take time from our busy day and thank our troops and veterans for all they have done and continue to do for us.

Hey Henry, shame on whoever dumped a puppy with a loaf of bread on Sowell Road. You should have found him a good home if you didn't want to keep him.

To the teenagers who live in City Square: Please use your own entrance to your subdivision and stop using Towne Village as a walkthrough and then jumping the privacy fence. It trespassing and damaging the fence, not to mention downright RUDE.

Hey Henry, ready for some good news? This isn’t an advertisement. It is a compliment to Shorty’s Auto Repair in Flippen. I have been taking my parents’ vehicles and my own to Shorty’s for quite a few years now. The employees there are the most honest and capable repair people I have ever met. They always tell me the truth, and advise me as to the best and safest solutions for our vehicles even if I have to go somewhere else to get the work done. They always recommend the most reasonable people to go to if they can’t do the particular repair! Thanks for honesty in these days and times!

Hey Henry, Check out some really cool paranormal activity occurring in Henry County and surrounding areas. www.HenryGhostHunters.com.

Hey Henry, you entertain my husband weekly, by continuously publishing my vents.

Hey Henry, thanks to everyone who volunteers at the Henry County Humane Society. Everyone there works so hard for the animals. The animals are very lucky to be there until they get adopted. They get taken care of very well by very caring people. So many animals are euthanized every day and every little bit does make a difference.

Hey Henry, I have just finished reading over past entries and I am absolutely disgusted by the number of submissions that have to do with a) poor treatment of animals and b) poor treatment of little children. Just remember, all dogs (and babies!) go to heaven. There is, however, a special place somewhere else for people who mistreat them. If the puppy deserter gets there before the day care abuser does, I am sure he/she will be happy to keep the other's seat nice and warm for 'em.

Hey Henry, once again, Locust Grove Elementary has out-done themselves on another fun family event. I just want to say thank you to the PTO for putting on the sock hop that gave my family and other families a chance to have fun all together. Keep up the good work and thank you for putting the fun back into our school!

02.28.07
Hey Henry, you know it's a shame when people have to fence their property in and then place a chain across the entrance to keep other people out, but people still find a way to dump their trash (old mattresses, box springs and tires) on the property! Yep somebody else in Henry County got a new mattress and box springs and then had enough left over to buy new tires!

Hey Henry, we should let the Henry County High School NJROTC Rifle Team members know how proud we are for their 1st place in the Eastern Region Navy National rifle match down at Ft. Benning. Congratulations Nick, David, Catilyn and Matt. Great job! David: awesome job on your 1st place over all.

Hey Henry, every year in Henry County there are thousands of wonderful cats and dogs gassed due to the carelessness, stupidity or ignorance of pet owners. The animals deserve better. Please spay or neuter and keep your pets healthy.

Hey Henry, this is about Blossom. To the demon possessed person, I know what you did to my pig. My heart is broken and I hope you feel the same pain I feel.

Hey Henry, to the pizza delivery person who complained about his tips and the service charge going to the company and not to them: He needs to make his complaints to the company, cause I'm not paying both a tip and a service charge. So screw his company.

Hey Henry, live music in Henry County is really kickin'. Go hear groups like Doc Driver, Mackie Creek, and McDonough Rhythm Section.......all local, all great sound. Keep the local talent going!

Hey Henry, who in the world could do better than Bush? Why my dog could.

Hey Henry if we can tip someone 15 to 20% that carries our food across the room we sure can take care of the one driving a pizza out to our homes. Remember that they are dealing with the Henry County traffic (of which stinks). You don't get out you don't have to get dressed, just sit back and relax. I for one appreciate all of the Pizza delivery people in the County. My favorite is Buck's in Locust Grove but they all do a good job.

Hey Henry, whoever was cruel and heartless enough to dump ten puppies out on River Rd. should be ashamed. It was 23 degrees with a 16 degree windchill the night I found them. They would have died in weather like that, and whoever did it knew they would have died! I hope your conscience eats you alive! They were all shaking and shivering and sooo hungry. That is ten counts of cruelty to animals, and if anyone would like to give me information on who dumped them, I would pursue charges. Thank you to Amy at 911 for helping me find homes for some of the puppies and to keep them warm for the night!

Hey Henry, I need to cleanse my Karma. I gave my wife Christmas M&Ms for Valentine’s Day. I took all the green ones out and will give them to her on St Patrick’s Day. She still cannot figure out where they sell only red M&Ms.

Hey Henry, thanks to everyone who came out to support the Henry County Animal Shelter/Praying for Paws Adopt-A-Thon on Saturday. Over 25 needy animals found new homes, and many more wonderful dogs and cats are still waiting. Please check the shelter for your next pet!

Hey Henry, I would just like to know if there are any restaurants - more likely eatin' joints - that serve fried mullet or any markets that sell mullet.

02.21.07
Hey Henry, I bet I wasn't the only nervous Times reader frantically searching for 'Hey Henry' this week. Better than The Vent, and it's all ours!

Hey Henry, why doesn't the County Health Department want Henry County teachers to get flu shots? First they told me they're open until 4:30 - on Monday and Thursday only, mind you, which seems ridiculous. Then when I showed up last Monday at 3:50, they said they quit giving them at 3:30! Do they honestly think a teacher can get there before 3:30? Do they expect us to take off work a quarter of a day in order to get to the Health Department to get our much needed flu shot? Of course we make so much money that we can either (A) take off quarter day or (B) go to a doctor who charges an office visit to get a flu shot. Teachers need a flu shot as much as anyone, so why doesn't the Health Department accomodate us by coming to our schools to give shots, or by giving the shots until they close, maybe even several afternoons a week? Oh, I also took my asthmatic child to get his flu shot at the same time, but now he'll have to miss school to get it at the Health Department that is supposed to "serve" our county's residents.

Hey Henry, I do not like people putting labels on others. I have one exception with my own definition: My definition of "trashy" people are people that litter!

Hey Henry, standing in line at the tag office today, a lady behind me was talking on her cell and to be honest, she was loud. If you’re that loud you should expect people around you to listen and I did. She was telling her friend she would be late that it took longer to get her car inspection than she thought it would...She had to go to three places before it passed. My question is if it doesn't pass the first time or even the second how would you know it would the third? Where in Henry County do you go? Is it like monopoly if you don't go pass go you just keep rolling the dice until you get the number you need?

Hey, Henry...There's no such thing as a teacup Chihuahua, Poodle, Yorkie, Schnauzer, Shih Tzu, or whatever it is you're spending too much money on. They're called runts. Crack a book before you buy a purebred animal.

Hey Henry! I have been living on Hwy 155 N. since I was 10 years old. The traffic is terrible when you have to wait for 30 cars before you can come out your driveway. They also need to slow down - going north, when they come to the city limits, they take off and I have come close to being hit a number of times. Stop this building and letting people move in. Also, stay off of President Bush. Who in this world could do any better?

Hey Henry, to the poster who was upset at the police for writing a ticket to the bicycle guy here in McDonough. I am glad they did because I almost hit this very same guy at the intersection of Racetrack and Hwy 42. He has no concept of traffic laws and it almost cost him his life. Next time don't ride when it's pitch black, no lights, dark colored clothes, and car traffic that has the right of way with a green light.

Hey Henry, my daughter and son-in-law closed on their new home in mid-January of 2006 so they could not file homestead. In October they received a tax bill for over $5000 on a $321,000 home! Of course this exorbitant levy completely drained their escrow, so now the mortgage company wants an extra $575 per month in order to build up escrow for this year. Anyone out there that can afford an extra $575 per month house payment on their new home? Welcome to Henry County the highest taxed county in Metro Atlanta outside of Fulton! Why are we citizens allowing this to continue?

Hey Henry, stay loyal to your community, and exercise voice.

Hey Henry, are we going to continue to let HCBOE make all of our decisions. There is no representation, unless we speak up.

02.14.07
Hey Henry, what a legacy! $45 million for the Gail Welch Talmadge Notti Theme Park. If she wants another Callaway she ought to remember that is funded by a private foundation.

Hey Henry, to those of you who keep referring to this country as a "democracy," I tend to disagree with you. A democracy is a government of "majority rule," which is not how our forefathers intended this county to be. Does anyone remember the Pledge of Allegiance? "I pledge allegiance to the flag.... and to the 'REPUBLIC' for which is stands....." The US is a 'constitutional republic' based on 'rule of law' with checks and balances, not majority rule. This was intended to protect individual's rights from the majority or 'mob rule'. The fathers of our nation specifically intended us to not be a democracy, though most people think we are that today.

Hey Henry, for any of you needing to know just how safe your daycare is please go to http://www.decal.state.ga.us/ and research. You will find reports of where daycares have left a child unattended on a school van alone for several hours such as the case at [one local daycare]. This is becoming a serious problem in our society where we trust our daycare facilities to care for our children and they neglect the children or put the children in harms way. Let's get the word out and this website out to our Henry neighbors so that we can make sure these daycares are held responsible for their actions.

Hey Melanie, have you forgotten Vietnam? I think so because we are living it all over again. During the Vietnam War we were told that if we didn't stay and fight that the Communists would come and get us. It was the biggest mistake we ever made until now. We are in the middle of a civil war, one that we cannot possibly win. So if you continue your scare tactics we will be right back where we started 30 years ago. Though, this time trillions of dollars have been spent that would have been spent on our children here in Henry County. So, please, don't play God. We prefer the one we have.

Hey Melanie Caldwell.....you said it all very well...all should remember that we are the land of the free, BECAUSE of the brave!

Hey Henry! Why doesn’t McDonough launch an investigation into its own city council member/mayor pro tem who still owes the state plus residents of McDonough thousands of dollars?

Hey Henry, I agree the GBI should investigate the McDonough city hall situation with regard to city officials James and Nan Lee. Why should my city taxes pay for a local attorney to do the job the GBI is supposed to do? Is city hall afraid of calling in the GBI?

I agree with the writer about police officer upholding the law. If you are going to be a law enforcement officer then you need to be a testimony to your choice of career. Clayton and Henry have the worst officers for upholding the laws they enforce. Help us respect you instead of mistrust you.

Hey Henry! Does anyone know what happened to William Barber who was on the local cable channel?

Hey Henry, this is from a pizza delivery person. The delivery charge charged by the restaurant does not go to the driver, it goes to the company. So for all the people not tipping out there, the drivers need their tips for gas and to cover the wear and tear on their cars. And for all the people who do tip, thank you very much. Your tips are much appreciated by the delivery drivers.

Hey Henry, this is to the demon-possessed person or persons who came over a fence with a locked gate and killed my 16-year pet pot-bellied pig, Blossom, and then killed my cat, Mutt, on the same day. God will punish you. I hope your soul burns in Hell.
02.07.07
Hey, it's Melanie and no, I'm not Dick Cheney! I am the one who posted that I can't believe all the flaming liberals against the war. And I'm all for demonstrations and freedom of speech . . . that's why I believe it is vitally important to defend our country and to spread democracy wherever we can. I'm sorry I scared you but you should be afraid! We’re in the middle of a terrible war and our soldiers need your support... they don't need Americans who are easily scared and run off with their tails between their legs. We are all in this together, Buddy-Boy. This is the home of the "Brave," and the land of the FREE. We will see how "scared" you are when we pull out of Iraq and Islam comes after us here on our own soil. So by all means go ahead and take advantage of your freedoms because we might not have them for long. God bless George Bush, Dick Cheney and the boys with the "HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN" signs. I for one have NOT forgotten. Sometimes it takes so-called "war mongers" to keep us all safe and free. Signed: Melanie Caldwell, a retired mother of three and a resident of Henry County.

Hey Henry, was __ Sanitation trying to lose my business during their recent "route re-structuring?" They have missed two pick-ups in a row at my house and the garbage is piling up! How about letting your customers know next time you plan to "re-structure."

Hey Henry! I just want to gripe about our restaurants in the county. We are running out of places that are decent to eat at! They all seem to be getting bad health scores or they are just plain nasty! Just last week I was sitting in a certain over priced diner in the East Lake shopping area and a cockroach ran past me in broad daylight! Don't worry, he didn't eat much. The next day a co-worker picked up a sub sandwich from a place near Campground and 42. Well lets just say she had a multi-legged friend baked into her bread. Extra fiber I guess? I don't cook so I guess I'll be starving to death since I won't be back to these lovely restaurants! Gross!!!

Hey Henry, is it true that a McDonough policewoman gave a ticket to a gentleman who rides his bike all over McDonough, and has for years without bothering anyone, for not having a light on his bike. If so, shame on you that you have nothing better to do than bother this man. There are many places in town that people drive too fast. You could better serve the city writing tickets for this than wasting time on a ticket of this nature. Did you ever stop to think how this man would pay the ticket?

Hey Henry, McDonough Methodist Preschool and Kindergarten had a wonderful policeman that would sit and direct traffic in the mornings and in the afternoon as school let out. Where did you go? It is very hard to get out into Macon street without almost getting hit. It is a school zone, just like any other school in the county. Please slow down and bring back our policeman.

Hey Henry, Speaker Pelosi talked about five-day work weeks and financial responsibility when she took over. She declared a holiday the first day so that a few members could go to games. Now she is saying she wants government air transportation for her family and friends. This begs the question,when will she begin?

Hey Henry, if our esteemed (and I use that word very loosely) legislators truly cared about the quality of education in Georgia, they would propose to lengthen the school year, not shorten it.

Hey Henry, I have shot the Editor so many times. You have no idea how much I enjoy reading The Henry County Times and most of all Hey Henry. I only complain when we come home and have to fight all the traffic. Here in Garland, with over 60,000 people, it isn’t like McDonough. We hope to be out there this Spring and I hope they have a red light on Race Track Road. All I know is coming from the Holiday Inn into town is a mess.
01.31.07
Hey Henry, I was passed on a double yellow on Pinehurst Road Saturday morning 1-27-2007......By an HCPD cruiser. He took his time and didn't pull out in front of anyone, or use his blue lights when turning left onto Old Conyers; i.e. he wasn't on any urgent call. Police officer, (A) You need to set the example by obeying the laws you are enforcing (I was going 35 in a 35), and (B) You're a hypocrite among hypocrites if you ever give others citations for traffic offenses. You were speeding, illegally passed, and crossed a double yellow line. How would you have treated anyone you saw doing the same thing?

Hey Henry! Congratulations to Duell Willard and Bryan Casson for counter demonstrating against the anti-war demonstration. Their picture in a paper and that sign "Have You Forgotten" with images of 9-11 said it all. It's great to see these young men willing to stand up for what they believe in, especially in the face of their opposition.

To the person who posted that they could not believe there was an anti-war demonstration in Henry County, this must be Dick Cheney visiting Henry County and writing in to Hey Henry. No one else would try such a horrific scare tactic to suppress the voice of the people. He thinks this is a dictatorship and not a democracy. In a democracy the people have a voice and they are allowed to use it. I for one would like Dick Cheney to go back to Washington and leave our county out of his war-mongering, threatening, scare tactics.

Hey Henry, the 27 folks who participated in Stockbridge's first peace vigil thank you for covering this historical event. The responses by the passers-by were overwhelmingly positive instead of negative. Why did Henry County residents hold the vigil in Stockbridge? Stockbridge is the birthplace of Martin Luther King, Sr. His son, whose birthday we celebrate each January, linked the non-violence of the civil rights movement with opposition to violence abroad in Vietnam. Violence does not produce long term success. We oppose the proposed escalation of violence just as Dr. King did. Of the 94 soldiers from Georgia who have died from the violence in Iraq, one of Stockbridge's sons is among them. We don't want escalation because we don't want any more to die. Henry County residents intend to hold similar events in McDonough and possibly in Eagles Landing in the near future. We are finding that opposition to the escalation of the war is all over - even among soldiers and people in our small Georgia towns. - Roger Mills, Georgia Peace and Justice Coalition/Stockbridge, Stockbridge resident and local coordinator.

Hey Henry, did you notice the article on SPLOST failed to mention that most of the projects to the parks are half done and don’t provide a finished product. They also fail to mention how long it takes to get these projects done. We shouldn’t be voting for SPLOST again until we get someone in control that can manage the projects and money correctly. Your next article should be on all the problems with SPLOST projects.

Hey Henry, Butler's Bridge Road was much smoother to drive on when it was just gravel. Now, the partial pavement job is so rough to ride on it feels like it could shake your teeth out! It's pitiful. Also, the road used to be wide enough for two cars to pass each other oncoming, but now if you were to stay too far on your side of the road, you fall off in the ditch! It's a drop off. Surely this is going to be fixed and not be like this forever? What's the deal, Henry?

Hey Henry may I reiterate, there are no class differences, we are all people, so love your neighbors, and quit worrying about what class you think you are in.
01.24.07
Hey Seasons' Bistro, great desserts, and the man with the guitar was so talented. Thanks for being very welcoming and pleasant to seniors with grandkids in tow. We'll be back for a full course meal.

Hey Henry, I would hate to spoil my husband's new year's resolution, will you please help my husband with his venting! Editor that's three for 07, but who is counting?

Hey Henry! So I heard about the fumes and the "explosion" at the Wal-Mart store. It's funny how the fire department minimalized this incident and blew the incident late last year at Eagle's Landing High school out of proportion. Five faculty members at ELHS who never even got formaldehyde on their person were "decontaminated" (MADE to take a shower) in the street. Do you think the firemen needed to fill their quota of "training" hours at ELHS before years end? Or maybe the firemen got new video games for Christmas and as a result wanted to get out of Wal-Mart and get back to the station (sirens screaming?). Perhaps both? I report you decide, hmmz.

Hey Henry! Thanks, Ryan Plantz, for your wonderful observation and comments.

Hey Henry, please, please, please, if you see a crime or suspicious activity call the police (911) instead of calling your husband, mother or friend. Law enforcement can stop it, with our help.

Hey Judge Amero and judicial candidate Hopson, I've seen your signs on Highways 42 and 20. It’s 2007. The election is over. You know the law and pledged to uphold it and apply it equally. After you receive your citations and pay your fines, hope ya'll can share the same cell at the Henry County jail and discuss what's wrong with our judicial system.

Hey Henry, If we are all equal and everyone has a fair shake why do we have Affirmative Action?

Hey Henry, I guess Lakehaven has something that the rest of us don't. We were redistricted, but Lakehaven will remain at Eastlake. Affluence wins!

Hey Henry, I paid a great deal of money to live in English Oaks and my house is falling apart. Why is it when I went to city hall to complain about the builder they just overlook what you are telling them? It took them 4 months to find the paper work on my property. Needless to say the guy who signed off on this shabby work and only found one thing wrong on the house is still working there.
He is now the head of the department. I had to go and get legal services. How are these builders still being able to continue to build in this county. Who's watching who?

Hey Henry, I can't believe my eyes! An anti-war demonstration right here in our own county. I'm ashamed and embarrassed. If we weren't fighting that war in the middle east, we would be fighting it here on our own soil. If we pull out we will only add fuel to the Islamic fire. You demonstrators are going to be eating your anti-war rhetoric when terror rears it's ugly head right here in our own country yet again. When our school buses are blown up, when we have loved ones go down in another hijacking, or when a truck full of dirty bombs goes off in one of our cities, you'll be saying, "What were we thinking?" The Islamic radicals will laugh all the way to their virgins in heaven if we pull out of Iraq. So go ahead with your demonstration. Someday demonstrations won't be allowed when we are under Islamic rule.

Hey Henry, President Bush's 'new way forward' in Iraq: kick the doors in with the left foot.
01.17.07
Hey Henry, it's Jason, the guy who drove the Supergeek van. I've joined the Air Force. Just wanted to let everyone know that. I'll miss Henry and my friends and family here, but it's time I move on to serve my country and to help the world.

Hey Henry, I'm wondering if Gail is the real Mayor of McDonough?

Hey Henry, I have always loved where I live in Henry County. Boy did I get my bubble popped recently when I came up the main road that I live off of and spotted a sign for a hearing for rezoning. Then I noticed all of the little wooden stakes with orange ribbons on them. Oh the signs of "progress"; don't you just hate them! No wonder there is so much rezoning, landowners can't afford the high taxes on their land any more so they have no choice but to sell.

Hey Henry, please teach your little brats not to fish poop out of the toilets and run around the elementary school with it!

Hey Henry, I don't know if Henry County has any addiction programs but Heritage Baptist Church in Locust Grove has a Christian-based addictions program called 'Reformers Unanimous' that meets every Friday night at 7:00 p.m. and is helping a lot of people. Henry County is meeting a lot of needs of the people in this community and so are some of the good churches.

Hey Henry, Bob Gates is taking over as Secretary of Defense. Is there no end to the cronies in the Bush pool?

Hey Henry! Let's get the word out! There is a federal flag code that prescribes the proper display of and respect for the United States flag (Public Law 94-344). For all of you who are not "in the know" here's a lesson: The US Flag is flown at half-staff for 30 days from the death of a President or a former President. That means all those businesses and homeowners flying their flag at full staff right now need to pay respect to the flag and our former, deceased President Gerald R. Ford, by flying our Nations flag at half-staff until the end of the day, January 24, 2007. If you fly a United States flag at your business or residence, please become familiar with the laws so that visitors to our country witness the respect and regard we have for our country, its history and its symbols of greatness. Thanks.

Hey Henry, the city of McDonough is in deep debt and you go to Las Vegas compliments of the taxpayers! Is anybody on the McDonough City council watching out for us?

Hey Henry, Christmas is over! Please unplug your lights! I love Christmas more than anyone, but come on, there’s always next year.

Hey Henry, please tell me you aren't talking about the black guys who run the frame shop in the square. What's the deal with some signs advertising their fine business? I met those guys during the Geranium Festival last spring and what fine men they are. You can't be selective about your "rules." Everybody on the square and elsewhere should be treated "equally!" Does make you say, "Hmmmm."

Hey Henry, to the only black owned business: DUH. It's always about who you know. So just put that race card back in your pocket and use it the next time something does not go your way.

Hey Henry, to the person who wrote in on 1-10-07, I totally agree with you the food, service and cleanliness of a certain fast food restaurant...in Locust Grove is getting really bad! Thank goodness your little boy is alright!

01.10
Hey Henry, roses to McDonough for their clean-ups after special events. One personal observation was early on a Sunday morning after the Geranium Festival. More roses for recognition of our service personnel.

Hey Henry! Beware - its not just bad service anymore; I got food poisoning from [a] Locust Grove [fast food restaurant]. The store and play area was filthy with trash and dirty tables, but I didn't consider the conditions of the kitchen or those employees preparing my double cheese burger. Thankfully, my 6 year old son did not get sick - he had the nuggets.

Hey Henry, my new year's resolution is to get more HEY HENRY's than my wife. That’s one. - Ed.

Hey Henry, I find it difficult to ignore that the comment posted two weeks ago regarding Barack Obama had racist connotations. Yes, his white mother raised him. Yes, he is a very successful individual. Is this a weak attempt at proving causality? Does the fact that his white mother raised him make Sen. Obama less black? If his black father had raised him, would this loaded comment still have been written?...I don't think so. Most importantly, why is the race of the Senator a relevant topic of political discussion? - Ryan Plantz

Hey Henry, to all the smokers who are currently upset with the smoking ban.... get over it! You have the right to "cough" smoke in your car, "wheeeez" smoke in your house, "AHHWHACKHACK" smoke in your space. I shouldn't have to smell you, deal with you, or even for one minute put up with smoke as a liberty in my own right. Do tell me what a non smoker takes away from you like smokers take breath away from non smokers... puff puff give up!

Hey Henry, they need to synchronize the lights on the Square!! We avoid it at all costs!

Hey Henry, the way things are going, McDonough's Historic Preservation Commission isn't going to have anything to preserve.

Hey Henry, no, you have not been singled out because of your race. Our store was also asked to remove our sandwich signs from our yard and from the corner or we would be fined $500. We complied and were told that all other stores would be given this same warning, as it was a code violation for all. Have any of the other stores removed their signs? NO. Why the blatant inconsistency? If we are told to comply, ALL should comply! It is sad that with all the obstacles we small business owners have to deal with, we have to struggle with our own city to be successful.

Hey Henry, thanks for the platform for the Henry reformation.

Hey Henry! If your brats didn't do things in the high school restrooms like smoke, urinate on the floors, vandalize, cut class, fight, and have sex, all the restrooms could maybe be open all day. As it is, there are plenty of open restrooms.

Hey Henry: How does our county currently provide help, treatment, etc. for alcoholics and drug addicts who are residents who cannot afford to get help? What about a place for the homeless or recover options provided for them if they want to recover from addictions. While most may be lazy and sorry people who won’t work, I know for a fact that many do want to better themselves and recover. They're just to sick to know what to do or where to go. And if they were to approach, say DFCS, would they get help for their recovery? We do it for the foster kids, the abused wives, etc....how about these?
01.03.07
Hey Henry, why is the City of McDonough jumping all over the only black owned business that's been on the Square for over three years? Other businesses have banners and sidewalk signs out there for months and years without any reaction, but as soon as we put anything out there to advertise our business the Code Enforcers are all over us. Is it all about who you know? Or is it a black thing? It's sad to have to go so far as to pull the race card, but it's really beginning to look that way. How can you have "overlooked" signs that have been up there day and night for years, but as soon as our signs come up, and may I add, in places where they do not hinder pedestrians in any way, we get a 7 day warning? Makes you go hmm...!

Hey Henry, at the regular City Council meeting "Rules of Decorum" were introduced by members Smith and Mayor Pro-Tem Brown. The public will not engage in any of the following: No emotional comments, inappropriate remarks, personal affronts or jeering will be allowed. The citizen speaking portion will be limited. Personal attacks toward Council, Mayor and staff will not be tolerated. Applause must be "tempered." Public must be quiet when entering or leaving Council chamber. On the other hand Council members must be respectful to one another. Mayor Pro-Tem was quick to add, "This is not censorship." I bet Ben Franklin, John Adams and hopefully McDonough voters disagree.

Hey Henry! Will everyone please stop blocking the intersections in the square and at the Eckerds on Cedar Street. It seems no one can wait until the next green light, so they have to push their way across and block the traffic for everyone. Don't you know everyone is staring at you, what makes you so special you don't have to wait.

Hey, Georgia - great! You have reached another top 10: #3 on the list of states with most home repos - and the builders just keep building. Any wonder our values have not gone up?

Hey Henry, shout out to Ms. Long at Locust Grove Elementary! Great performance at the Old Time Christmas in Locust Grove by the choir you put together! I know the kids are really getting something out of it!

Hey Henry, the developer on Hemphill who is willing to donate $450,000 to the county for road improvements is for his own benefit. He is only worried about his back yard, not ours.

Hey Henry, is this an okay place to state publicly my repentance for almost hitting a girl at a crosswalk a few Saturdays ago? With my apology I offer a cautioning: there are drivers even less safe than I, and pedestrians even less safe than the girl I nearly squished, so I can only assume that soon enough a more dangerous driver and pedestrian will collide on our cherished Square. Please roam safely in car and on foot. I trembled for days after the narrowly-escaped collision; I fear an actual crash would be all the more traumatic.

Hey Henry, I didn't go to Chelsea's Party at the American Legion. And, is there still a yard sale going on on Ben Horton Dr.? There have been signs up on Lawrenceville St. for a long time now. I also thought you could not post signs on telephone poles.

Hey Henry, the dog groomers of Henry thank all of you who were kind enough to tip us during the holidays. Most of us are young and trying to make it on our own. We depend on that bit of extra money to get by. Happy New Year to you and your family canine.

Hey Henry, I will agree that the fresh greenery on the lamp posts around the McDonough Square "browned" a little fast, but what can you expect when it has been 70+ degrees in December with little rain? The volunteer Decorating Committee did a nice job.
 

12.27.06

Hey Henry, all good things eventually have to end, but thanks T.P. and Willene for the years and years you filled your yard with Christmas decorations, especially the treed Santa!

Hey Henry, why does the news media and Barack Obama himself keep saying he is African-American....For one thing his mother is white, his father who is black left the family when Barack was very young...why no mention that Barack is also half white? And his white mama raised him to be the man he is today?

Hey Henry, who is responsible for paving Fairview Road? It is absolutely the worst. While it looks somewhat okay, it rides likes a Western backroad to the back of the barn yard - ouch! If the lowest bidder received the contract, I think reconsideration is in order.

Hey Henry, does anyone remember a hoard of gold coins being found here in Henry county in the last 20 to 30 years? Or was this a hoax? Was it in the newspaper and which one ? If so, put the answer in the next Hey Henry. I would really like to know the truth!

Hey Henry! I was sitting in the Seasons Bistro just the other night enjoying their nightly live entertainment when in tramps Charlie and Sam. Can you believe it? They had on matching hats. What an ODD COUPLE.

Hey Henry! The Times is a newspaper not Headline News. Check the idiot box for Headline News if all you care about is Headlines.

Hey Henry, I beg to differ about class. Some of the have nots have more class than the richest people and some of the richest people are of the lowest class. Class is not about money.

Hey Henry, we are now living in a socialist county thanks to a Hitler-like county commission. The ordinance is not enforceable, that is what DeKalb County CEO Vernon Jones said when the Dekalb Commissioners tried to pass the same thing. I wonder if Adolf Harper will spend our tax money on smoke police; remember power can corrupt any one. I also wonder how the commissioners feel that they spent millions of our tax dollars on Nash Farm Battlefield instead of giving the County employees a pay raise, which some have not gotten in years. Now they have killed Nash Farm because most of the people that come to do the battles and living histories will not come when they find this out. Why, you ask? Well some of them are smokers and the Battlefield is to honor people that died for individual freedom which this ordinance kills.

Hey Henry, goodbye picnics and family gatherings in the park. Although most park lovers won't know this until Spring arrives, you can't have a smoker in the picnic pavilion. You can have a chewer, apparently, (ugh), but even having cigarettes or cigars on your person is now banned. The unsmoked smoke might bother someone somewhere else in the park. Has all reason left this planet? - A non-smoker

Hey Henry, my kids stay sick. Do you think soap, and paper towels in the school restrooms may help, and not so many locked restrooms? By the way, after lunch in the high schools, toilet paper even runs low.

Hey Henry, I have lived in this county all of my life and have seen it grow rapidly. It disheartens me to see all of the corruption that goes on. It is very hard for small business owners to make a decent living unless you are one of the selected few that can pad the pockets of officials to ensure they are the ones that get the work and special favors. I think this county needs a great big enema.

12.20.06

Hey Henry, to the “Wilma Hudson a bigot?” inquirer from 12/06/06: Yep, and you, too! Here’s what a bigot is, because your mini-rant suggests you aren’t already aware: bigot (noun) one who is strongly partial to one's own group, religion, or race and is intolerant of those who differ. With comments like, “Isn't that grounds to have your head chopped off?” you demonstrate the very bigotry you attempt to disown. From 1 Corinthians 14:34 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible: "Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak.... And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home...." Moderate-minded Christians don’t urge this doctrine. Moderate-minded Muslims don’t chop off the heads of ex-spouses. (Remember the Klan used Christianity as an advocate.) Best to berate an audience more likely to accept it; I hear suicide bombers are inspired by scorn and ignorance.

Hey Henry, to all you fat-cat Hummer drivers (and I think Henry County must have one of the highest per capita rate of them in the nation) don't you realize what a mockery you make of our brave military men and women who have to ride in the original version of that vehicle, in part, to ensure the flow of gas to put in your vehicle, which consumes more than your fair share. I think that no one should be allowed to drive a Hummer unless they have spent time in harm’s way, with the constant threat of roadside bombs, in the dusty, squeaky, hot, hard-seated version of it.

Hey Henry, there are no class differences, there are just the haves and the have-nots. If you are a have, help the have-nots instead of running from them.

Hey Henry, to the person that can't deal with a girl marrying a Muslim. I am an American, born and raised in Georgia, married to a Muslim for many years. Nothing out of the ordinary has happened to me and I have dressed, lived and worshiped as I believed for all my married days. As one of those "girls" you describe, I just can't understand or visualize the marriage rules to which you refer.

Hey Henry! In reference to the person who is complaining about the inflatable decorations at the residence located at Iris Lake Road and Racetrack Road; It is really hurting you? I do not know who they are, but they spend their time and money just to show the holiday spirit to those of us whom drive by each evening. As long as my children enjoy it, I do not see a problem. Merry Christmas "Scrooge" and God Bless Us Everyone!

Hey Henry, am I the only one who noticed the flattened squirrel or cat on the center line near Pate’s Creek Elementary on Flippen Road that was painted bright yellow by the guys repainting the lines? I didn't actually see that did I?

Hey Henry, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Garland, Texas - Mary Ann Barnette.

Hey Henry, who's the nut who laid out the intersection at Jonesboro Road and McDonough Parkway? Any amount of rain and water stands at the intersection for days. Maybe McDonough finally got a community pool after all!

Hey Henry, this goes out to the fine folks that made the Return to Bethlehem live nativity scene at Harvest Point United Methodist Church. Live Roman soldiers, King Herrod, baby Jesus, camels, sheep, donkeys, blacksmiths, Bethlehem, the list goes on and on. Please sell tickets next year so I can buy mine in advance.

Hey Henry, I have the best chiropractor in the world. Dr. Jason at Spine Care Chiropractic in McDonough is awesome. He cares about his patients and really cares about his job. Way to go, Doc!
 

12.13.06

Hey Henry, to the person who thinks that the inflatable decorations on Iris Lake and Racetrack roads are tacky. Is your name Mr. Scrooge Grinch? Tis the season buddy!

Hey Henry, kudos to PJ's Restaurant on the McDonough Square for the awesome Christmas lights display!

Hey Henry, to the folks on Racetrack with the inflatables....WE LOVE to go by and see them! Thanks for taking the time to set them out.

Hey Henry, yes, to most of us the inflatables on Racetrack Rd are tacky...but my 2 year old thinks they are beautiful!

Hey Henry, in response to the caller who complained about the number of “TACKY” inflatable decorations at the house on Racetrack Road – Of course, they’re tacky! They’re gloriously, outrageously tacky – they also speak of a tremendous holiday spirit and they make me smile every time I drive by. Perhaps the big green one (THE GRINCH!) should be moved to the caller’s yard!

Hey Henry, I loved the Christmas Parade But I am used to seeing Military marching in the Parades.With all that's going on around us it would have been nice to see some in our parade this year to show our support for them.They need to know we care...

Hey Henry, the changing face of Henry County: Gwinnett County here we come! Do I say more........Moved away from it and we are a picture perfect image of Gwinnett years ago. Crime, drugs, gangs, if it isn't nipped in the bud now we will be the ones moving.....Jenkinsburg here I come.....

Hey Henry, To the person that don't like the Decorations a Racetrack and Iris Lake. You know there is always someone against everything. There is a group that would stop you from purchasing a pellet gun! There are people that would take the "Christ" out of Christmas! Why don't we all just learn to be happy and love one another. Let everyone celebrate the Season in their own way. Do like the Tim McGraw song says "Live like you were Dying." Let me say, "Merry Christmas to all..."

Hey Henry, I am so sick of the corruption in Henry County government. Good old boys and girls are placed in positions of authority and abuse those positions constantly. Family members are given jobs with outstanding pay, and do nothing. What a joke! But, the tide is turning and in the near future a new group of crooks will take over those positions. I'll be glad to get out of Henry County as soon as I possibly can!

Hey Henry, I'm not sure who was in charge of the tree lighting on the McDonough Square last Saturday evening, but it was very disappointing for me and my children. We got there shortly before 5:30 pm, only to find that the trees were already lit! Where was the ceremonial lighting of the trees? And the entertainment was not very festive at all. The songs the band played weren't even real Christmas songs (although they mentioned Jesus heavily). What happened to traditional Christmas standards like "Joy to the World" and "The First Noel"? Perhaps a high school choir would have been more appropriate. The trees were beautiful, though!

Hey Henry, I see the county is doing some construction work on the court house clock tower, must be getting ready to gold plate it. Its nice to see we are supporting local building materials suppliers...Lowes for example.

Hey Henry, I cannot jump over the car in front of me so get off my bumper pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
 

12.06.06

Hey Henry, is “divine intervention” an oxymoron?

Hey Henry, would someone PLEASE tell the residents at the intersection of Iris Lake and Racetrack Roads that a couple of those "inflatable" decorations are nice, but 20+ are a bit TOO much ! In a word - T A C K Y !! Makes those of us who live in the area want to purchase pellet guns and put them to good use popping "balloons" !

Hey Henry, "Wilma Hudson a bigot?" I would be inclined to say she is a realist. I too find it appalling that 120,000 American "girls" would marry a Muslim. Any girl raised as an American is used to more freedom, less restrictions than is given to women in Muslim countries. If the marriage doesn't work out, what about the children. Will they be dragged off to a Muslim country where the boys become suicide bombers, and the girls are barely taught to read. What happens if the American bride decides she doesn't want to be a Muslim any longer? Isn't that grounds to have your head chopped off? Yes, I agree with Wilma, it's appalling.

Great article Josh! Most people I know have friends of several nationalities. Their concerns about change in Henry County is due to class differences, not race. One of my black friends said to me recently "I don't know where we will move to, but we'll probably have to move soon."

Hey Henry, you’re #1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey Henry, does anyone know of a good vet in Locust Grove? I don't.

Hey Henry! did you know that there is blasting going on so close to Oakland Elementary School that all the children and teachers can feel the blasts shaking their rooms? Are our children safe? Can the school withstand the pressure? Men were taking pictures of the cracks in the inside walls Monday, November 20. Our children are SCARED! Teachers are too! The first time that the blasting happened, the school was not warned and the teachers were shocked. The children started screaming. They had no idea what was going on. What is more important -the school or the mall?

Hey Ola residents complaining at the Monday night transportation meeting in McDonough. # 1, I can't get out of my road because so many people have moved here....your two families for example. but instead of getting irate, I just leave home 5 minutes earlier. #2. The meetings have been given plenty of publicity...in the local papers. Oops, don't guess you'll read this either.

Slow down...iron fence, you’re in my way!

Hey Henry, this is a response to the lady who called Bush a gunslinger. All I've got to say is amen. I agree with you 1000% and so do millions of other people.

Hey Henry, how about making people sign their names to their "opinions" published in this column. Maybe that would keep some people from being so rude and it would hold them accountable for what or who they are bashing. -Lori Beth Blaney

Hey Henry! It's nice that someone is in a festive mood, but those decorations on the telephone poles with over half of the light bulbs burned out a month before Christmas look sad and pitiful. And, don't you think it would have been wiser to wait until a little closer to Christmas to hang the pine garland on the poles around the square? That stuff is going to be dead long before Santa finishes his carriage rides around the Square.
 

11.29.06

Hey Henry, this is to, "Do 55 mph on Hwy. 81." I am sadly amused at a person instructing other drivers how fast to drive on Hwy. 81 for his/her convenience, then in the same breath admits, "I don't care" what your needs are. "All about me" is a textbook example of a rolling accident looking for a place to happen. (Of course, when the accident does happen, the blame will be put squarely on the shoulders of the slower, safe, and courteous drivers, not Mr./Mrs. 65 mph in a posted 55.) What is an accident? Oh. That is when hundreds of us have to sit in line with our engines turned off while the poor authorities try to clear up the carnage. We are all doing ZERO mph.

Hey Mrs. Julie Kelley, you are the next Martha Stewart! What a beautiful Christmas display at your lovely home.

Hey parents, when you're talking on your cell phones all the time, you're ignoring your kids. And maybe setting a bad example?

Hey Henry, so it’s ‘OK’ and acceptable for blacks to use the ‘N’ word in rap music, while doing stand up comedian shows and while talking to other blacks BUT it is NOT acceptable for any other race to use the ‘N’ word… What a bunch of double standard hypocrites..

Hey to the person who wrote about slow drivers on Hwy. 81. I get up at 5:30 every morning to be at work by 7. I drive at about 50 and make it on time. You're probably one of those that gets up at 10 minutes before you have to be at work and you have an hour drive. Either get up earlier or get over it. We live in a hurry up world and there's no reason for it. Slow down and enjoy your "young" life before you get old like me.

Hey Henry, why does it take Henry County so long to pick up dead animals on the road. They deserve dignity too!

Hey Henry, I would like to thank NAACP Vice President Thomas Hester. I think Mr. Hester made it clear on the crimes statistics in the county. On any given day anyone can change a percentile at their own free will to fit their agenda. Race DOES NOT have anything to do with crime. As for the Sheriff and the County Solicitor, everyone in the county knows where they stand. I was born and raised in Henry County, I'm neither black nor white. I absolutely positively agree with every word Mr. Hester stated. The Sheriff and the County Solicitor’s office should come up with an outreach program for all age groups.

Hey Henry! Yes, most of the political signs need to come down, but we have a run-off election on December 5th for Superior Court Judge. Brian Amero and Mary House are running to fill some important shoes. Don't forget to vote on Dec. 5th - if you don't vote, you can't complain!

Hey Henry, are they ever going to time the lights throughout the square so more than 5 cars can go through at a time?

Hey Henry,...I have as a business owner been pleased to offer your paper in my store for our customers and have advertised with you, however I can't tell you how much I feel that your paper "also a small business" had lowered it's standards to allow the personal attacks that have been published the last two weeks. It's hard to make it around here and harder when you don't, but to continue to allow this saddens me because I do feel that you are allowing a person to be kicked while down and you are allowing personal insults. I suppose that you can always claim free speech. I don't think that I can ever again pick up your paper. You can make what ever excuse but it's just not right. Respectfully, Born and Raised in Henry County.
 

11.22.06

Hey Henry, when are you going to draw the line on new housing? It is impossible to sell houses anymore because of all the new neighborhoods. Also, why don't you begin to require at least 1/2 acre lots? Houses two feet away from each other is crazy.

Hey Henry, it is not the developers that are having the problems, it is the residents of these communities and the neighbors! With a "wink, a nod and a handshake" from the City Administrator, these unscrupulous folks are taking advantage and then "bugging out," leaving their mess to be cleaned up by someone else. Do not renew James Lee’s contract! He is of an age where he can retire.

Hey Henry, in response to “You know, Henry, it breaks my heart the way people continue to bash our President. He has done so much for our country as far as keeping us safe from further attacks.”: I would really like to see some documentation to support the claim that George Bush has done anything that is keeping us safe from attack. What he has managed to do with his "gunslinger politics" is to involve us in an unwinnable war, agitate people who were already angry with us and generally foment unrest in the world. George is a big boy and he knows the rules! Save your broken heart for abused animals and children.

Hey Henry, I would like to pay tribute to Jerry Harris Brannan, born 11/3/46 and passed away 8/9/2005. Jerry was a friend to all that knew him. A fine son to his mother, Ruth, and always put her first in everything. He was a man of God and active in his church. I am grateful he was my best friend for 25 years! I miss him every day. - BJ

Hey Henry, I myself own a fast food place and take pride in how clean our shop is; however, we are in a strip center and all stores share the dumpster. The cleaner had a broken glass and put it beside the dumpster. On inspection we made 100 inside, but got big points off because the glass was there. I know there appears to be a big turnover in the staff that does the inspections, but my goodness - please give what people deserve. People put a lot of stock in the numbers, but most of the time they aren't what they appear.

Hey Henry, the thought of the City Manager making almost $2,000 more a year as a bonus, and his wife making the same, not to mention the City Attorney, makes Enron looked better managed than our city. Isn't it time the city and Council members brought the salaries of employees back in line with similar statewide employees and enact a bonus plan which is not so clearly designed to favor those already making too much?

Hey Henry, ...I can understand why the City of McDonough would link Christmas bonuses to an employee not taking his/her sick days..i.e. so that employees will show up, but I think if people don't show up, they should be fired. What's next in McDonough, employees who don't take their vacation time get a new car?

Hey Henry,...It's not a bonus, because you as an hourly employee have earned the hours for the sick leave. Then the City wants to pay you for half of what you didn't use in the current year at half the salary you would get...What a way to pull the rug out from under the hourly employees by reducing the earned benefit and reducing the pay (making it look like a bonus). So think about it, wouldn't it be nice if the city would give that bonus without taking something away that you earned?

Hey Henry, is it just me or is the Times columnist Wilma Hudson a bigot? In her last column she wrote, “there have been an appalling 120,000 marriages of Muslims with American girls just since 9/11.” Does that sentence bother anybody else?

11.15.06

Hey Henry - kudos to whoever at the County thought of buying up the old Save-Rite shopping center for county offices. Now there's a use for all that open space and concrete, without adding another building and tearing down more trees. This should be what growth and expansion is all about!

Hey Henry, to the folks who drive on Highway 81: the speed limit in most areas is fifty-five. Please do not poke along at forty, thirty-five, or even thirty. I don't care if you have nowhere to go on time, I do!

Hey Henry, isn't it sad that we have so many ignorant and lazy people in our county that they don't even stop to get the facts straight! I know the MYA Cheerleading Board members very well and they work hard for these girls and the board has never accused any 5 or 6 year olds of cheating!! I'm sure this comment was made by a person who does nothing to volunteer their time to this organization which gives them absolutely no right to say a word!

Hey Henry, I'm tired of seeing the political campaign signs still up! Aren't you? The election is over people, take your signs down!

Hey Henry, why is it that the City of McDonough is going over bonuses now in November? What happened to the ARC study? No one has heard anything about that. The City spent over $5000 on the study. For what? Something should be done. That money could have gone to the hourly employees.

Hey Henry, I am sick and tired of hearing of people complaining about voter I.D.s First of all, most seniors and minorities get out to go to the store, the doctor and to vote. What is wrong with having your photo made at the same time? Just something else for the minorities to gripe about. My husband was asked for his voter I.D. yesterday (and we are seniors). He let it be known that maybe he wasn't the right race? I was also asked for an I.D. but didn't say anything. I proudly showed it.

Hey Henry, it must be pure Hell for some of our citizens to live in a "red state"!

Hey Henry, the announcer for the 105 lb. little league game on November 4 at the South Henry Sports park needs his mother to teach him manners all over again. He was the worst, most prejudiced announcer I've EVER heard. He was constantly showing praise and favoritism for his own team, South Henry, which is poor sportsmanship when performing the job of the announcer. The players were all approximately 10-11 years old and I can imagine how his announcing made the visiting team feel. What a pitiful way to treat your guests, the Peachtree City Packers, or any visiting team! South Henry, you need to be sure your announcers don't do this in the future. It makes South Henry look ignorant.

Hey Ola High Fine Arts Dept.: I never knew "You're A Good Man Charlie Brown" was a musical! Thanks for a splendid professional performance.

Hey Henry! I just wanted to send a congratulations to Ms. Kicklighter for winning the Teacher of Year! As an ex-student she definitely deserved it! Congratulations Ms. Kicklighter!

Hey Henry, just wanted to give a big thank you to the staff of the Henry Medical Center ER. I went in with a horrible stomach virus and the ER staff had treated me and had me back on my feet within 3 hours. I was born at HMC and have been there many times for my illnesses and they've always been great! So thanks ER and congrats HMC on your new expansion, I'm sure I'll see it sooner or later. Hopefully later. THANKS!
 

11.08.06

Hey Henry, has anyone else noticed the weird new music the Henry County government phone system has when they put you on hold? It sounds like old Autechre or Kraftwerk. Give it a try. Call any county department and ask to be put on hold.

Hey Henry, did you know that MYA Cheerleading Board Members and their families are so scared of competition that they will accuse 5 and 6 year olds of cheating?

Hey Henry! Wouldn't you think that our local restaurants (after being published as having the worse scores around), would start caring a little more about there reputations. It's pretty bad when our teenagers go to [a mega fast food chain the name of which we won’t mention] (where most of our kids like to eat), and are grossed out when they see the person who's not only cooking, but also, handling the sandwiches (with no gloves), go outside to smoke and straight back to work without (so much as) washing his hands. That's ridiculous! I guess people just don't care anymore.

Hey Henry! The HCHS theatre department won first place in region 4AAA with their one act play, "Hush Little Celia, Don't Say a Word." Congrats to the cast and crew. Good at luck at state!

Hey Henry! The Henry County Police Department will have the new East Lake Road extension paid for real soon with all the expensive tickets they are writing on Springdale! Come on, 35 mph on that road? What's cooking?

George Hazelton, I'd like to see YOU do better than George Bush. Any ideas? All you liberals want to do is criticize our President but you never come up with any original ideas about what to do to fight the war on terror. Bush is doing all he can to protect your freedom and your very life and all you can do is find fault. All you do is whine and talk about our "broken policies" in Iraq. Come up with some new solutions, will you? God help us if we ever have a liberal House and Senate during these harrowing times. God bless America.

Hey Henry! Oh my gosh! What a traffic mess leading to the square on Halloween! As much as I appreciate policemen, the one directing traffic was causing most of the problem! It took me an hour to drive from I-75 to the square! When is this going to end? What are we going to do about all this traffic? It's incredible.

Hey Henry, I have a complaint. Several people have told me about the rusty sign on Hwy 42 going towards Stockbridge, and we wish that they would either paint the sign or do away with it. And also, on the other side of the street across from the sign on 42. There are so many cars in the front yard that it looks like a car lot. I wish someone would do something about it. Thanks.

Hey Henry, to the venter who called in about the historical society not doing anything about a 100 year old house. Will you call the newspaper and let them know which house it was so that the historical society can run that by the McDonough Historical Preservation Commission.

Hey Henry, We love the beautiful homes in McDonough. We have those homes because General Sherman signed an agreement not to burn these home in 1864. Now it looks like McDonough First Baptist Church is doing what General Sherman wouldn't do.

Hey Henry, I just wanted to give a shout out to Locust Grove Elementary for having the best Fall Festival. Way to go!

Hey Henry, if you see a brilliant red small pickup, please tell him not to transport teens and kids in the truck bed. Dumb and dangerous!

11.01.06

Hey Henry, Steve Davis is a joke, better than any comic strip. Thanks for publishing his picture.

Hey, Henry! If Monta can pay his business/liquor taxes on time and not leave his investors out on a limb, then by all means bring back Bistro 41. But history is a good indication of future performance and, frankly, Monta didn't cut it as a business owner. Our city needs business owners who can bring in the tax revenues, not stiff the city.

Hey Henry, seems like everyone calling for Bistro 41 to come back is forgetting there’s a pretty great restaurant in its place already. Perhaps you should check it out.

Hey Henry, to y’all people about the yard sale signs, stating that you see the men picking them up. Well here's your answer! Put them where they are suppose to go. They are to go so many feet from the road and not to block the view of any drivers. Call your city or county, whichever one it is and they'll be more than happy to tell you.

Hey Henry, to you that wanted to know where to find the nice smelling candles. They have them at the Peachtree Peddlers Fleamarket, they are also much cheaper.

Hey Henry, how about that costume contest at the Fall Festival? It's pretty strange how most of the kids don't have a fair chance. All the volunteers’ grandchildren and kids won the costume awards. Way to go judges for picking your friends’ kids. How 'bout next year be fair!

Hey Henry, as soon as Monta pays his unpaid sales tax to the state of Georgia $111,608.46 then and only then Bistro 41 could return to business.

Hey Henry: two more banks in Stockbridge robbed today; other robberies took place last week as well in Northern Henry County. We have been invaded by scum, by thugs and criminals and I blame the parents of these criminals because they allowed their children to look, act and behave like animals and now we are all paying the price for their negligence.

Hey Henry, thank you to the community of Lake Haven for taking down our family garage sale signs. I find it hard to believe that a one family garage sale was too much competition for your whole neighborhood. I referred many many customers to your neighborhood when we didn't have something that they were looking for. It just seems like good manners are hard to come by these days. When you put our signs out in your trash, I am sure that you didn't stop to consider that those signs cost money to have made. Shame on you and how tacky.

Hey Henry, have the Henry County employees ever been unionized? Judging by the pay scales by comparison with other counties, I'm surprised they are not! Especially since Henry is one of the fastest growing counties in the country!

Hey Henry, I wondered why McDonough City Councilwoman Gail Notti was so in favor of a big park in McDonough which she says will have an amphitheater and butterfly garden. Then I found out that she voted to buy the park land with city money, and the land is located directly behind her home on Jonesboro Road. This land was chosen over other properties, and this seems odd because an amphitheater and butterfly garden, not to mention a park where a lot of children will play is split in half by a very busy and loud railroad line. I bet the butterlfies, the concert goers, and parents who have their kids hurt on the train tracks love this idea!

10.25.06

Hey Henry! Why do so many developments in McDonough have the same serious problems? Why are the same developers who "developed" these problems being allowed to continue to build within the city, without first correcting these problems? If you have reason to care about answers to these questions...join us on October 30, at City Hall, 6:00 p.m. (or as soon as you can make it...we'll be there awhile).

Hey Henry, this is a warning to all Henry residents to be aware that there are people who will approach you in a parking lot and ask you for "just one dollar" so they can get gasoline to get home. Don't believe them. I gave a woman one dollar in the Kroger parking lot and she got in her car and drove right by the Kroger gas and kept going. I've heard of other people being asked for "one dollar" also and when they offered to put the gas in their car instead of giving them the cash, they acted insulted and left. Just beware.

You know, Henry, it breaks my heart the way people continue to bash our president. He has done so much for our country as far as keeping us safe from further attacks. The DOW is over 12,000, unemployment is lower than ever, we've had no further attacks from Islama-facists, and yet nobody talks much about that. President Bush is a good man. That's his problem right there. He isn't a flashy politician, he doesn't speak perfect English, which is true of so many people around here! But what goes around comes around. President Bush will be rewarded in the long-run for the good he's tried to do and all you Bush bashers will also "get yours."

Hey Henry, to the person who was complaining about stopping to let a person out on Hwy. 155, that’s just Southern hospitality. What part of the North are you from, buddy?

Hey Henry, there’s nothing at all honorable with what the mole is doing in the City Council or at City Hall in McDonough by leaking half-truths to the media. If you have an issue with a councilperson or a city employee you need to investigate fully before you report to the media.

Okay Henry parents, its time to grow up and learn to pick your children up from school on time. You are causing school staff members to have to stay late with your children and to be late picking their own children up, which is costing them up to $5 a minute. I personally think your child should go straight to afterschool and you pay for being late, not the school staff. And you wonder why our children act as they do, they are learning from their parents! They should also be brought to school on time!

Hey Henry, President Bush is not capable of running a waterfall nor leading a mudslide.

Hey Henry, I thought the point of the historical society was to help keep the old city intact. So how come when I called to ask for help moving an over 100 year old house instead of the owners demolishing it, was I turned away?! That's the first step in having our city's memories torn down, rather than trying to keep them standing. Thanks! You're great!

Hey Henry, we're all still mourning the loss of Bistro 41. We're just making do with the restaurants we have. Will somebody please bring back Monta and Bistro 41?

Hey Henry! Just a note from a local dog groomer. We are "hair dressers" too! And we have to cut hair on "moving targets!" We get bitten two or three times a week, we get wet on and worse, but do everything we can to handle your family pet with love and gentleness. You tip your hair dresser, right? How about a little tip now and then for Gizmo's hairdresser. It would be greatly appreciated.
 

10.18.06

Hey Henry, what happened to the traffic light that was supposed to go up at Hwy 81 & N. Ola before school started? There is a police officer there to direct traffic in the mornings, but someone needs to remind him that he DOES need to get out of his car to direct! WE NEED THAT LIGHT!

Hey Henry, the signs along the Locust Grove ballpark ingress/egress clearly say "NO PARKING." I guess that means the drivers who've left their vehicles in the road can't read?

Hey McDonough! I just wanted to thank the person or persons that play the neat music at Avalon Park during the football games. My son plays for a team that we dare not mention in the state of Georgia. He loves the music and running through the banner with the music. I am a Bulldog fan but my son is a Gator. Thanks again!

Hey Henry, BOO! It's the Black and White Shoe!

Hey Henry! Dear whiny teacher, I am a Henry County teacher too. In the corporate world, you work all year. You also wear a uniform or what they tell you to wear. We get a week off every 5-7 weeks. We only work 190 days. And, ten of those days, you wear what you want. Respect is hard to come by these days—looking professional only helps. The kids need a POSITIVE role model instead of someone who worries about jeans.

Hey Henry, what part of "no cell phone usage in the library" is difficult to understand? When I am in one of the local libraries here in Henry County, I can hear a chorus of beeps, songs, shout outs, etc. It really irks me when I hear people having everyday conversations on them in the library. Can't it wait? One woman even had the gall to call someone twice just to chat, and looked directly at me and smirked. When you walk through those doors, have your cell phone shut off, please.

Hey Henry, your Big Cotton Indian Creek residents will soon
learn what fire in the hole means when the creek banks are blasted.

Hey Henry, look, Ma! No hands, no brain! Seen on Hazlehurst Street, about to cross Keys Ferry Street--A driver with a cell phone in her left hand, held to her ear, and a cigarette in her right, held out the left window. My wife and I watched her drive across, oblivious to all except her cell and smoke, evidently steering with her knee.

Hey kind firemen/emts; thank you for coming to the rescue of elderly people in distress, calmly and professionally.

Hey Henry County citizens, commissioners! Why do we keep adding new subdivisions, strip malls that aren't being filled. Do you know that there are approximately 3000 homes in Henry Co. (new) that aren't being sold. If you try to resale yours, chances are you will get less because there are so many new ones to be sold. Did you know that 3-4 years ago there weren't enough books to go around to the students of HC and this year there still aren't. Do we have enough teachers? I'm not sure. Do we have enough traffic, crime? I am sure. I don't blame the school system but I think the building has gotten out of hand. Take a few minutes and let your commissioners know what you think. So many talk about the growth and the traffic, we need to tell someone that can help with the problem.

10.11.06

Hey Henry, my teenager said she would gladly use porta potties at Woodland high school if it would stop the sewer lines from being placed on the banks of the Big Cotton Indian Creek. We should be stewards of the land. Not destroyers. As for the blasting of granite and the damage to tree roots, our fragile ecosystem will never, ever be replaced.

Hey Henry, number one: I thought I lived in the USA. I am sad and frustrated that I can’t talk to any major company anymore, because they do not speak or understand English. I am just very frustrated and so are my friends. Second: I have just learned that our children are being verbally abused in many of our schools, by their teachers and no one knows that it is against the law, and no one knows to report it to DFACS, of course DFACS is so overloaded they probably can’t handle it.

Hey Henry, all you people getting redistricted out of Union Grove, before you start moving away give Woodland a chance!

Hey Henry, another exciting day in northern Henry County on Fairview Road(10/5/06). Another place of business robbed. For the second time in the past several months a bank was robbed and the thugs left behind a bomb inside the bank. The new drug store that just opened a few months ago has been robbed several times; a gas station on Fairview Road robbed again; high speed chase through the new Publix parking lot on Fairview Road. Theft is up, violent crime is up, homes are being broken in to; businesses and their employees are being robbed at gun point by these hoodlums...DeKalb and Clayton Counties have arrived in Henry. I stand with the police in shooting these scumbags first and asking questions later.

Hey Henry, you wonder why people's reaction is what it is. To those three of you who walked out on your check this week without paying. Congratulations! You re-affirm that the thoughts and reactions are indeed correct.

Hey Henry, you have no idea how much I enjoy “Hey Henry.” Way out here in Garland, Texas, it is so good to know what is going on in Henry County. I still say it is a wonderful place to live, but the traffic is unreal. Keep me up on all the news. - Mary Ann Barnette.

Hey Henry, with the recent shootings in the schools across our country, I want to know what does the Board of Education and our local politicians/government officials plan to do to get our principals, teachers and staff ready for such attacks if they come our way. I have a daughter in the 4th grade who is afraid to go to school because she is scared she will be shot. How do I assure my child that she is safe? I appreciate all the hard work our school officials, government officials and law enforcement does, but sometimes we as parents need a little assurance. Thankfully, I have faith in God and am trusting Him.

Hey Henry, I can't believe that the McDonough City Council has not done anything about the outrageous pay of the City Manager, City Attorney, Economic Development Director, and others. It's time for the City Council to act and show some financial responsibility.

Hey Henry, there is no "Stop" sign going south on Hwy 155 at Miller's Mill Road. It's nice to be courteous, but you are breaking the law and could cause a wreck stopping there. I wonder whatever happened to the traffic light we were promised over a year ago!!

10.04.06

Hey Henry, I live about 10 minutes from the Jonesboro Road shopping area. Yesterday, it took me almost an hour! Paving on Hwy. 20. . .a 15 minute wait (couldn't they pave at night?); another 10 to 15 minutes or so to get through the square (court had just let out for lunch); then I was stopped for 12 minutes by a train! Does anyone remember when there was no traffic in and around McDonough and long for those days? I guess this is the price we pay for progress...

Hey Henry! We have choices in the two races for Superior Court Judge in Henry County. In the Patten vs. Crumbley contest you have two choices. In the Amero vs. Harrison vs. Hopson vs. House vs. Manigault vs. Reynolds contest you have six choices. Use your choices wisely to provide justice for each of us!

Hey Henry! Music is alive and well in Henry County! Congrats to the High School Marching Bands from Henry and Jonesboro from Clayton. You looked and sounded wonderful Monday night!! This is why we need to keep music and fine arts in the public schools.

Mr. and Mrs. Beau Kelley, you guys have the BEST holiday decorations around! Thank you for always making McDonough such a festive place.

Hey Food Depot, thanks for quickly taking care of a minor personnel shortage in your McDonough store. Now it’s business as usual but with bigger aisles and selections.

Hey Henry, many, many kudos to Henry County Animal Control. We always knew they were there, but in May we lost our miniature Schnauzer. We called immediately and could not have received a warmer, more compassionate response to our cry for help. We called nearly every day, went to the shelter many, many times and were treated with respect and caring. Unfortunately, we found our dog - not as we wanted, but now we know where he is. One day we took our new puppy to EL Vets and I met a gentleman there from HCAC. On his own time, he had taken one of the found dogs there for treatment - that is above and beyond - just the way we were treated! They deserve the biggest thank you ever.

Hey Henry, I'm from New York relocating to McDonough. I have dealt with some rude people in my time, but those ladies at City Hall in your lovely town, take the cake. However, they did give me directions to that really neat Welcome Center. Now the lady in this Center (Cathy) really shows what that southern hospitality means. She helped me with directions, made some calls for me, got me tools I needed to make my move here easier. I think I'm going to like it here, but would rather do all my business with your Welcome Center than to deal with the ones at City Hall.

Hey Henry, as a teacher of the Henry County School System, I want to let the person who took away the benefit of "Jeans Day" know how upset many of us teachers are. There are not many perks that we get (like incentives, bonuses, etc.), and one little thing we looked forward to was taken away from us. It isn't like we can really afford nice wardrobes anyway, due to the fact that we barely get paid enough to get by on enough every month (as a single person). Maybe I should go back to the corporate world where the pay was better and I could wear what I want. Oh wait, I can't...the kids need me.

Hey Henry! I wanted to thank the Hands of Hope Clinic for their great work in our community. My prayers are with the staff as they are attempting to open a Vision and Dental Clinic as well. If you would like to help them attain this goal, contact them today. They are wonderful people with a wonderful mission.

09.27.06

Hey Henry, last week’s venter failed to mention Ola Middle School 7th grade football team beat Henry County Middle 30 to 8.

Sandra, you are the sorriest politician to come down the McDonough pike in a long time. Move over Cynthia McKinney!

Hey Henry, I'm sure all the council members would like to take family on a little free vacation. Wonder why the others didn't do it? Was it because they knew it was not appropriate, or maybe they just didn't think of it. After all, there were no "policies against it."

Hey Henry! I am a server at Gritz Family Restaurant in the square of McDonough and I would like to let everyone know how wonderful our customers are. On Saturday, the 16th of September, we had an employee get injured and got much appreciated help from nurse, Lisa Wallace, and 911 dispatcher, Kathy Owens, along with her son, Robby, and his friends, Dan and Cody. They were all of great assistance and support, as were the paramedics, which were superb as well. Just wanting to say, thank you!

Hey Henry, the NEW Cynthia McKinney has found a home in McDonough politics. Vincent is just the pits. She is going to do as much as she can on the tax payers’ dime, just like this vacation for the family, and see nothing wrong with it. McDonough has to have better controls over the way they spend money. How stupid is it to have a honor system with the likes of Vincent and Notti? McDonough stupid!

Hey Henry, does anyone doubt that gas prices are going down just before the November election just like they did in 2004? Let's not be so gullible this year and believe that it will last if we vote them back into office, this worst Congress in the history of the United States of America!

Here's to the City of McDonough. The highest paid city manager in the state...he makes more than Sonny Purdue, and his wife who works for him, and keeps getting raises. Don't forget the city attorney, who is paid almost $100,000 a year, when no other comparable city in Georgia has one. Imagine how many police officers McDonough could add if they got rid of these folks.

Hey Henry! If you haven't tried the Willingham’s Kitchen on Highway 42 North, you're missing some REAL Southern style cooking! To sum it up in one word - DEE-LICIOUS!!!

Hey Henry, somebody wanted to hear some positive things about the county. We're gonna get 2 new commissioners the first of the year. This is positive.

To the county employee that has been picking up garage sale signs. How about picking up some of these political signs? I see them all over the place on the right-of-way.

Hey Henry, thanks to the EMTs at the Fairview fire station. They're professional, very gentle and know how to handle sick folks. I'm proud of our EMTs. Thanks.

Hey Henry! While you were interviewing Monta Brown on Sandra Vincent's actions at GMA training, you should have asked him about his failure to even attend the training! Or what about his failure to complete the required ethics course? Or about the 2003 GMA training where taxpayers paid for his room and his courses, which he did not attend because he was out golfing with one of McDonough's biggest developers! As one of the longest reigning councilmen he has completed the fewest amount required GMA courses! Asking Monta Brown about what is "reasonable for taxpayers" is like asking a fox to watch the hen house!
 

09.20.06

Hey Henry, isn't the purpose of the Chamber of Commerce to promote local commerce? Shouldn't the president of the Chamber be patronizing one of our local pharmacies? I'm sure the local guys would give much better service. When I go into Moye's they always greet me with a smile and most of them know me by first name. Local business is what the Chamber was built on.

Hey Henry, congratulations to Henry County Middle School on defeating Ola last week, 14-8 in 8th grade football! The win was significant because HMS is now at 600 students as many families BEGGED and PLEADED with the BOE to keep 'rezoning' so that their precious children could go to the 'new school'! Well, now your 'new school' with 1,200 students and 50 portable classrooms just got served a dish of HUMBLE PIE! Enjoy those traffic jams, we're doing just fine without you!

Hey Henry, how refreshing a real candidate running for the 4th district. A candidate that is willing to truly represent all people not just the good ole boy mentality. I am white and the changing landscape she is talking about is not about race its about growth and development. Anyone who has half a brain knows that!

Hey Henry, I just read a quip in "Hey Henry!" that said say something nice about a person, a business, or your town instead of complaining. Well, here it is. The Heritage Senior is a blessing to Henry County seniors. When I moved here a few years ago, I didn't know anyone except my immediate family. Someone invited me to the Heritage Senior Center and since that time I have met and made friends with many people there. Many of these new friends are in the same boat as me needing to make a new life for themselves. The staff has been very nice and helpful. Thank you to the "Center" for bringing us together and providing many activities we can get involved in.

Hey Henry, I've got two for you this morning. I saw the funniest bumper sticker on the way to work. It said "your village called, they want their idiot back." And I'd also like to say that in a lot of respects Josh was right on target about the way women dress. But I also want to say that I am sick and tired of the baseball cap rage. I think it's time for men to get something else to put on their heads. And whatever they put on their heads, they should take it off when they're eating.

Hey Henry, there is a street in Indian Creek mobile home park in Locust Grove. The street is named Shawnee Lane. The Indians never desecrated or destroyed the lands.

Hey Henry, way to go Ola High School Marching Band and Color Guard parents! Thanks for stepping up, volunteering and making the first night of running the band concessions a huge success! Too many times in today's world people have an attitude of "let someone else do it" and then complaining when it's done exactly right. I am proud to be part of a group of parents willing to support their kids by volunteering their time and hard work! What an example we set for our young adults.

Hey Henry, what is it about the crisp cool nights that remind you of the one you let go and how much you still love him?

Hey Henry! I want to thank the youth of Luella High who helped me move and did it at the moment they were asked. I lost my husband August 14, and moved on Labor Day weekend. My great nieces called their friends and without even knowing me they showed up to help. Stacee, Amanda, Matt, Kim, Jarvis, Jeff, Matt, Chris, Casey, John, and my grandson, Sam. They made the move go really quickly and I feel that the youth of today only get bad press. They deserve good press also.

09.13.06

Hey Henry, a young man was delivering the Henry County Times to the newsstand in Publix grocery store this week when I walked up eager to get my copy. He was so gracious and kind to the senior citizen who put her foot in her mouth. Thanks, Joshua Clark! My parents raised me correctly, I guess. And you’re right, I am definitely too liberal.- Ed.

Hey Henry, I should have made myself clear in my last view. I have a stray dog that someone dumped at my house that I was trying to get the Henry County Humane Society to help me find a home for. I was willing to pay all vet bills but they did not help at all; trying to get in touch with them was almost impossible. Have you ever called them? There is no way to leave a message and no help about strays other than call Animal Control, which will kill them within a week. Sorry, I thought the Humane Society was about saving animals.

Hey Henry, I just wanted to say thanks to the Georgia Power gentleman who stopped to help me with my flat tire. I was so thankful to have my angel looking out for me when I needed him most!
You may not be able to see the Lord every time you want to, but at least he lets you know he's still there!! THANKS!!! :)

To all Hey Henry readers. Let's flood the Hey Henry line with positive things about Henry County this week. I get tired of reading nothing but negativity week after week. Say something nice about a person or a business or your town instead of complaining about something or someone.

Hey Henry, the cinnamon rolls at Mrs. Winner's Restaurant are the best around! And I don't even work there.

Hey Henry, I love the fact that we open up a place for the youth of Henry to be able to run around with guns and shoot each other for fun. Kudos to the county recreation department for not only creating the paintball area and making our youth great shots, but also building it on methane gas areas....

Hey Henry, for your info. I always get my pets from a shelter, but I would not get my pets from the liberal, better than thou, Humane Society. Anyone who gets a pet from them must jump through too may obstacles and pay too much for a pet that just needs a good home. As for the editor, I am glad that you read your articles or comments before you print your paper, but it only shows how liberal the media can be when you can't keep from making a comment in your own paper. Leave that to your readers and advertisers who actually pay your salary. I agree completely. - Ed.

Hey Henry, since when does it become legal for someone to park in a handicapped space with no permit? I went up to the lady and told her that I needed the space and I that I have a handicapped permit. She told me it was okay, since she was behind the wheel while she was parked in the space.

Hey Henry, To the parents of the students who attend HCHS. The Principal stated "that enforcing the dress code at the school is more important than the students’ education."

Hey Henry, would you please tell the President of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, he should be ashamed for screaming in public in the Publix Pharmacy because his coupons were expired.

Hey Henry, last Thursday I noticed two city employees pouring concrete on the corner by Family Dollar. It was raining at the time. I would like to know who asked them to do this.
 

09.06.06

Hey Henry, has anyone else noticed that Citgo consistently sells gas for the lowest price? Thank you, Hugo Chavez for doing what our own President can’t: delivering cheap gas to American pumps!

Hey Henry, I thought everyone should know that the Henry County Humane Society is not interested in finding unwanted dogs homes even when people are willing to pay for shots and spay neuter. What kind of people are you when you are more interested in politics and money then you are unwanted animals? Next time Henry County residents want to donate money to you I hope they do something else like find a home for a unwanted animal.
My question is this: Why would the Humane Society take a pet that already has a home, albeit one inhabited by irresponsible humans? - Josh Clark, the Editor.

Hey City of Stockbridge, I saw some of your guys out there mowing the grass alongside the roadway. Snapper did continue making bigger and better mowers after the 1960s, you know. Maybe it’s time to update your equipment.

Hey Henry, in reference to the issue with the yard sale signs: We witnessed a county worker pulling the signs at the intersection of Hwy 155 and Locust Grove Rd. Saturday morning.

To the person who stated Henry had the most sex offenders, you may want to do a search and check your "facts" again.

Hey Henry…Does anyone know where to purchase the Crème Brule candles that Country Mouse used to sell? I was told that a local woman in Locust Grove made them. Thanks for your help.

Hey Henry, who picked out the vulgar and way too loud music playing at Avalon Park while Little Leagues played football? I didn't know parks and recreation would allow that.

Hey Warren Holder Park, what's up with the Blazer Lions and their lack of team members? Go to any game and see a fully stocked team on the opposing side, then look at those poor 7 year olds playing both defense and offense. They were promised 6 frozen players but somehow those players were taken and put on other teams. They have only one player who has ever played football before and yet they play from their hearts with no complaints. Hats off to those kids for playing their hardest in the extreme heat they endured last Saturday, even after the concession stand denied their request for some ice to put in their warm water. Go Lions and keep your chin up kids!

To the administration (I guess?) at Union Grove High School - I'm pretty much sick and tired of getting shoved, punched, pushed and cussed at in the hallway because there are 500 kids stuck in the crosshall. Isn't there something that can be done? Staggering the bells maybe? Someone can really get hurt in there!

Hey, Henry, what's the purpose of the having a website for our county residents to enable us to voice our concerns("Key Concerns") as a customer service effort when it doesn't work. Also, a telephone hotline(678-583-5539) to leave messages on when you don't return the call. Do you really care about what we think?

Hey Henry, I am a citizen of McDonough and I go to Gritz for breakfast most mornings. Every time I drive through the back there is a City of McDonough Ford truck parked there, making it difficult to drive through. Why is this employee eating at Gritz when they should be working? I think the Mayor needs to look into this.
 

08.30.06

 Hey Henry, my Mother and Dad took me and four friends to the Nash Farm Battlefield this past weekend. We loved the reenactors and the soldiers were real nice. We rode on a wagon with real horses. The music and cannons were real neat! My older sister liked the dresses and stuff. I am 9 years old and I am proud that I am an American. One of my ancestors fought defending Georgia in the War Between the States.

Hey Henry, I see where we are spending 1.5 million dollars on a new football field. I wonder if we could have spent that much on two red lights, one on each end of Millers Mill Rd. Congratulations Commissioner Adams, that’s one reason we didn’t vote you in again.

Hey Henry, I see ya’ll paved Fairview Rd. I think we should re-name it Washboard Rd. it’s so rough. And what about the red light on Thurmon Rd. and Fairview Rd., what happened to it? Another Commissioner’s biting the dust.

Hey Henry shoppers; better start reading your receipt before you leave the cash register. For the third time in two weeks, I've been overcharged, three different stores!

Hey Henry! I am a cashier at a grocery store and I want to thank all the well mannered polite people who throw their Kroger, Ingles, Save Rite and whatever other cards out there in my face when I am helping them with their groceries. Better yet, how about when I'm not even done with one customer another one is jabbing their set of keys in my face with the card on them. How would you like it? Well, I don't, it's very rude so STOP!

Hey Henry! This is a response about the yard sale sign being stolen. I had two signs taken from Racetrack Road and Hwy. 81 that same day. It was probably by the same scum who took yours. I called the Henry County Road Department and I was told that they are not working on sign violations on Saturdays. I was also told that they would not bother yard sale signs because they are temporary. To whomever took the signs down, I hope the fleas from a thousand camels infest your armpits.

Hey Henry: what a pleasure it is for those of us in Sandra Vincent's district to be represented by someone with her intelligence, dignity, and vision. She has the interests of our fine city and its residents at heart.

To the person who stole the Spaniel puppy from the WalMart parking lot in McDonough on 8/21/06 - the surveillance cameras caught you in the act. It's just a matter of time before you are found. Do the right thing and turn the puppy over to the animal shelter.

Hey Henry, people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. Does focusing on Clayton and DeKalb defer attention away from Henry's meth labs, shootings, and sex offenders. According to a recent news program, Henry has the highest rate of sex offenders in metro Atlanta. Guess Bubba's making meth in his doublewide and dragging little Sally Sue behind the shed!

Hey Henry, there are still some wonderful and caring people in this world (Henry County). Recently, as I was walking up Hwy 155 N. due to my car breaking down, a young couple (two off-duty police officers) stopped to help me. They started my car and got it to a repair shop. [They also] stayed with me until my car was fixed. I call them my two angels.
 

08.23.06

 Hey Henry, in response to the “PIG” observation, if parents made their children dress age appropriate instead of letting them dressing like a 25 year old woman, then maybe the high school girls wouldn’t be stared and jeered at. When I was growing up, and I graduated in 1990, we did not dress like these girls now are dressing; better yet, our parents did not let us dress like they are dressing. Remember the Police are there to protect and defend and if they are staring and jeering at these young girls think what a pervert or sexual predator would do to these young girls...

Hey Henry County music blasters, want to play your radio too loud and offend others with those strange lyrics and beats? Go ahead. But when you're grown and applying for a job, you may not be able to hear any of the interviewer's questions. Oh, and too bad about your speakers.

Hey Henry, was The Dukes of Hazard based in Henry County? Some of you good law abiding citizens sound like Boss Hogg. Don't forget to warm up the General Lee to do your patrolling.

Hey Henry, it was nice that Ryan's Steakhouse gave coupons for the library summer reading program, but they must also HONOR the coupons before they count as a reading reward! Are there any other businesses that want to step up and give UNEXPIRED coupons to our young readers as a reward?

I just read a campaign sign and can say I have read enough B.S from this candidate running for District 4. Her "different voice" wanting to represent this "changing landscape" says it all folks. Running for office and saying something like that on a sign makes me think she is biased and will not represent wholeheartedly the white people in her district.

Hey henry, President Bush, bless his heart, says the economy is doing good. Receently I bought three dollar a gallon gas, drove to the supermarket and saw $9.99 a piece watermelons. Can President Bush, bless his heart, spell inflation?

Hey Henry! I was visiting a friend who lives on Judy Drive in McDonough this past week and I was amazed to see the amount of litter on their street. Shame on the person who cannot drive a few more feet to their own trash can. Maybe those that throw out their beer cans and cases are too ashamed to let their parents know they have been drinking. I sure wouldn't like the litter in my yard.

This is to Mr. Martin Wright, the new principal at Luella Elementary School, we are going to truly miss you at Luella Middle School. No one will be able to fill your shoes!! We wish you the best! - Cody

Hey Henry, the new City Clerk in McDonough was the most qualified candidate for the position and a resident of McDonough. The mayor was not paying a campaign debt - she was hired by the Council. As for his personal assistant, he should have the right to hire a person in whom he has faith and trust. Otherwise how can he be effective in his job? Stop the "mudslinging"!

Hey Henry, what a privilege it is to work with a group of educators that care enough about student safety and academic achievement to keep them safe and accountable. I have taught in the county for 11 years and it is wonderful to see a school that is being handled like true learning environment. Awesome! Keep up the great work and your willingness to go outside of the BOX is great and students appreciate it. Go Mustangs!! - From a teacher at Ola Middle School.
 

08.16.06

Hey Henry, it's no wonder some of our police force are called "PIGS." Last night, 4 McDonough Police officers came out of Higgys Pizza - at the same time, so did some of our High School Girls from Salem Baptist Church. The girls went straight to their car, but as I drove by the officers, they stood there and stared and jeered at the girls - Protect and Defend? I certainly don't want them around MY daughter!

Hey Henry, is there anyone else that thinks that the new Ola Middle School has gone a bit overboard in the discipline department? I’m all for discipline but walking in a single line on the 3rd tile , absolutely no talking as you walk to your bus, teachers strategically stationed along the way to make sure there’s no chance of a rule infraction, smacks of militarism. What, are these convicts or kids? When you’re in the 8th grade you shouldn’t be treated like an elementary student. It makes you wonder what preconceptions the principal has of our kids. Am I overreacting or is there anyone else out there that has a similar viewpoint?

Hey Henry, what's the deal with not being able to do a 35 mph speed limit? North Henry Blvd for just over a mile is 35. Pinehurst Dr, is 35 (not 55). Old Conyers has a couple of areas that are 35 mph. Slow down... relax.. Don't forget SCHOOL is back in!

Hey Henry, I live in McDonough and when coming home from work, I get off at I-75, Jonesboro Road exit 221. After I cross over I-75 heading to McDonough, I notice a lot of self-centered drivers who insist driving in the right lane. You right lane drivers must YIELD because YOUR DRIVING LANE ENDS! Don't expect any more quarter from us rednecks. If you don't know what yeild means, we don't mind teaching you what the skull and crossbones flag on top of that earth scrapper stands for!

To the person who stole the "Garage Sale" sign at Hwy 81 and Mill Brook subdivision on Saturday the 5th....SHAME ON YOU! This sale was a fundraiser for a squad of 5 and 6 year old cheerleaders. Thanks to you they had NO visitors for 3 hours of the sale! These little girls worked hard in the hot sun all day. They had also made snacks and drinks which most of it went to waste. What a mean, hateful and spiteful thing to do. Shame, Shame, Shame on YOU!

Hey Henry, I hate to say it folks but the Clayton and DeKalb County 'slime' has infiltrated our once safe community of Henry County. My wife and I both have our weapons permit and we will do whatever it takes to protect ourselves, our home and our family. The thugs are here and I am not sure if Henry County police and its 'law abiding' citizens can stop these gangsters from ruining our community.

Hey Henry, Austin Road Middle School opened quite a few years ago. Why haven't our county officials, in their infinite wisdom, installed a stop light and turn lanes at the intersection of Fairview Road and Austin Road?

To the mother of the firefighter, as a fellow firefighters wife, I assure you that this probably goes on at every firestation and is usually in a playful manner, I mean, they are guys ya know, and if your son is old enough and can handle the job as a firefighter he is old enough to take care of himself.

Hey Henry, I heard the polite mechanic ask the manager if he should go ahead and change the oil in the lady's car....3 months but only 300 miles. Also heard the manager whisper back to him to check it and if it was clear 'we can't take her money'. Okay Walker BP!
 

08.09.06

Hey Henry, as a local fireman I didn’t expect to be rich doing this line of work. But when I have fellow firefighters that qualify for WIC and food stamps its getting a little bit ridiculous. Have the Commissioners help their firefighters instead of just waiting around till September 11th to say "Thanks, we appreciate you."

Hey Henry, this goes out to the city of Locust Grove. Hush, hush, sneaky, sneaky, dirty, dirty. They are blasting with dynamite down here and its shaking everybody’s houses. But they didn’t have the courtesy to send out letters to everyone who lives on this road.

Hey Henry, time to go back to school! Let the inflated grades, skewed politics and overzealous school athletics begin!

Hey Henry, what notables keep dying? The flags at Henry County Police and Fire Departments are at half staff every day. Henry County must have an awful lot of dead and dying dignitaries that nobody's ever heard of.

Hey Henry! McDonough Fire lost a GREAT friend and a great firefighter brother this week with the passing of Capt. Tim Albea. May you rest in peace now our friend !

Hey Henry, to the person wondering why gas is cheaper in South Carolina: It is closer to the ocean, there is greater accessibility and therefore cheaper to deliver there.

Hey Henry, does anyone else out there think that maybe some of the truck drivers on the roads are former pilots? They fly down the road and wabble from side to side as if they are in the sky and there is nobody else around them. They act as if they own the roadways of America and you never see them pulled over by the police because they receive warnings from other truck drivers via CB on where the police are located. I'm tired of hearing of accidents, every other day, involving big trucks! Something needs to be done!

Hey Henry, what a delight to be Welcomed to the lovely City of McDonough. The Welcome Center on the Square is great and such a very nice lady to greet you. Cathy's very helpful and doesn't mind taking the time to assist people. Great Customer Service, others could take lessons.

To the person who inquired about the light at Campground and Brannan: Obviously you haven't seen the amount of wrecks that happen there. I can count at least 7 or 8 that have happened in the year or so before the light was put up, and those are only the ones that I know about.

Hey Henry, well the thugs and criminals have finally moved in to Stockbridge and will destroy this once nice City with violent crime and ghetto mentality. All the while the mommies of these criminals will continue to blame everyone else as to why their babies are low lifes. The blame game (again) always spews from their mouths. I say lock the momma and the poppa up too.

Hey Henry, has anyone actually been able to use the "free wireless internet" that is set up in the square? I live a block off the square and I can't get a signal. They state that it covers a 3 block radius.

Hey Henry, kudos to the Henry County Health Department for finally hiring some food inspectors who are actually doing their jobs. It's great that we now have so many choices of restaurants, but it's a crying shame that most of them are too nasty to eat at!
 

08.02.06

Hey Henry, to the writer that is concerned about the use of tax funding generated by the citizens of the county..everything you say is true. The animal shelter, the lack of traffic signals in the right places, etc. But don't we have a big police presence? Lots of tax dollars spent to employ hundreds of cops with nothing better to do than set speed traps on the few roads that are not too congested to actually speed on. If all the cops would get off the streets a good deal of our traffic congestion could be eliminated. There's something wrong here, all I can figure is that dogs and traffic signals can't vote in Henry...we are not Chicago yet.

Hey Henry, you know its bad when developers are now stopping by my house and inquiring on building tree houses in my oak and pecan trees. I can see the billboard now..."Come to environmental Henry, we live in trees here. Its comfortably South of Atlanta, but in a tree!"

Hey Henry, in answer to the people criticizing the Locust Grove Library customer service, I would like to respond that my family visits this library at least one time each week. We have never felt ill-treated by the clerks working there. They have always been courteous to us, and anxious to help in any way. We are very, very proud of the fact that we have a facility of this nature in Locust Grove. We waited a long time for it. I suggest that if you have a complaint, you ask to see the manager on duty. I bet there is always one in the building.

Hey Henry, we should lighten up a bit. We take too much to heart when it comes to trivial things like money, social status and influence. A good person in his or herself has no walls, no boundaries. This place is not as constricted as we feel. Really, lighten up!

Hey Henry...why is it that gas is $ 3.00 a gallon in Georgia, but the other day, I drove to South Carolina and that SAME gasoline was only $ 2.77 a gallon? Sounds like Georgia gaining more TAX dollars than South Carolina....or maybe South Carolina is trying to HELP their citizens more than Georgia is trying to help theirs?

Hey Henry, it took four months for me to receive a permit from my fingerprints. Does it take the same amount of time for us to find out if a child abuser is working for the Henry County school system? Maybe the sheriff's office needs to catch up with this century along with Protect and Serve.

To the people with slimy pet bowls and dishwater: You don’t need an investigative reporter, you need common sense! Pets slobber in their water and any dishwater that is left in the sink overnight is going to be slimy! What do you think you are washing off your dishes?

Hey Henry, the entrance ramps onto interstates are there so you can get up to the speed limit BEFORE you merge - so you don't slow down traffic that is already on the interstate!

Hey Henry! Henry County is slowly getting more places to go have a date with my husband without going to Atlanta...like Seasons and Redz but it would be great if someone would open a place to go and see live music for the 20 somethings or maybe even a comedy club. Anything to avoid Atlanta traffic! I'm glad to keep my money in Henry County but please give me a place to spend it. Thanks.

To all the people that cut through the Northbridge Station subdivision, It is not a part of the Atlanta Motor Speedway. We have kids and pets that live in this area. The speed limit is 25mph.

07.26.06

Hey Henry, yes we need a place for our many talented groups to entertain in Henry County. We also need those things that entertain our young people. I'm sure you've heard the saying "Idol hands make mischief."

Hey Granny/Nanny; yes we could hear your pointed bragging about your little ones' swim instructor, but the reason we vacated the pool and left was because your little ones kept up-chucking and sneezing in the water. See if the instructor has a solution for that!

Hey Henry, am I the only one who thinks new home construction in Henry County will come to a halt if Immigration and Naturalization ever checks the papers on the construction workers?

Hey Henry, a few weeks ago I called my bank three times and got no answer. With all the problems in the world, I became concerned, having the Henry County Police phone number handy I called. A lady answered and I told her of my concern thinking she would say," I will have one of our patrol cars swing by and take a look.' Instead the reply was " you need to call McDonough Police.' So much for Homeland Defense knitting everything together.

Hey Henry, so what's up with some Henry County Firemen recently roughing up a young rookie fireman. It may be OK to 'rough up my son', knock food out of his hand and think it is funny but you have just met your match. I will not tolerate any veteran firemen treating my young son or any other firemen for that matter the way you recently treated my son. Shame on you for your belittling and hostile behavior towards another fireman.

Hey Henry, does anyone know who that woman was on McDonough Square Sunday morning in her night gown?

Hey, Henry! Perhaps Mr. Crosby would like to take us all on a guided tour of Crosby Door Company. I’d really like to see the place since the Better Business Bureau, the Henry County Chamber of Commerce and the Secretary of State’s Corporations Division never heard of it.

Hey Henry, the person talking about the slimy water in Henry County is right! I live in West Henry County. I don't have any pets, so I hadn't noticed that. But I do wash dishes by hand, and when I leave my dish water in the sink overnight, it is very slimy the next morning, and so is the dishcloth. We need a good investigative reporter to jump on this and find out why.

To the person who receives a "shock" at the Lake Dow Publix, it must not be specific to that location because I shop at the Stockbridge Lakes Publix and I love the store, but I hate to touch the shelves. I get shocked almost every time! What could it mean?

Hey Henry, somehow, I was given the impression that economic development was in favor of economic prosperity for ALL of McDonough, not merely the 'chosen.'

Hey Henry, because District 5 was so watered down with a ton of candidates from: Cheryl, Nish, Dawn, Don, Johnny, etc., now we have to contend with getting Holman out of office with a runoff between he and Basler. I do not know Mr. Basler, but I do know I will vote for him. Thanks to the many candidates out there for flooding District 5. Now we have to deal with this mess of again trying to remove Holman.

Hey Henry, does anyone dare tell the McDonough City Councilwoman who brings her whole family to city paid excursions that it's not "kosher"?
 

07.19.06

Hey Henry, why is Henry County water slimy? If you leave a pet's bowl out overnight or a dish rag out it is slippery or slimy feeling in the morning. I have asked several residents in other neighborhoods and they have noticed the same thing. If you call the water authority they will tell you everything is within limits. Does anyone know if there is a certain chemical, plant or additive that would cause this? Any ideas?

To the unpatriotic art, dance and drama nut who said they could picture a 1,000 seat amphitheater in the hills at the Nash Farm Battlefield. "Don't worry, the curtain of the amphitheater was pulled back in 1864 when real men who were brave enough to spill their blood did so and danced with the death angel so you would remember what courage, honor and devotion to duty was all about!" Want more drama? Dance your way back to Chastain or elsewhere to experience your drama, music and art.

Hey Henry, I wonder how Brannan and Campground Roads got a light though they hardly have any traffic.

Hey Henry, has anyone else who shops at Publix at Lake Dow received static electrical shock while in the store within the last couple of weeks?

Hey Henry, to the person who keeps talking about the restaurant scores. Apparently they’ve got an ego problem and they own a store and they’re not getting any business. A restaurant’s low score does not always mean the food is not good. It can be a dirty floor, something left out, something broken. I am hoping that it is the 2 restaurants on Jonesboro Rd. that do soul food. They need to hire another cook and the one that make the cakes, they are awful.

Hey Henry, the Locust Grove Library is doing a wonderful job. The only thing that is lacking is the customer service. There are some ladies that work up at the front desk of the adult section that feel like it is an imposition to put down the book they are reading or the computer game they are playing and wait on customers. These are not the people that were there when they opened, these are new people. It has gotten so rude that people in my church and neighborhood have decided that they would rather go to the McDonough Library, than to have those people be very ugly to our faces in front of our children. We are trying to set a good example by smiling and saying please and thank you, but we are not getting a pleasant response from them.

Hey Henry, you might need to get a life if the mid-week high point in your life is seeing what Publix has on sale.

Hey Henry, Ola Middle School will open next month with 29 trailer classrooms. Why doesn't the Henry County school system exercise its rights, as outlined by state law, to object to any re-zoning request that, if approved, would have a negative impact on schools?

Hey Henry, with all the taxes we Henry Countians pay - where is the money? We live in one of the fastest growing counties in the nation and teachers have to buy their own teaching supplies? 300 dogs a month are killed by gassing at the Henry County animal shelter? Wreck after wreck at the intersection of Bethany Rd. and Hwy 81 and many other intersections throughout the county because there is no traffic light? And on and on. Where are our tax dollars being spent?

There is a new Church in town; The Caucasian Presbyterian Church, and it is right next to the African Methodist Church. Also, saw the Ebony Magazine sitting next to the Ivory Magazine in a local store!. Now this IS Diversity at work!

07.12.06

Hey Henry, I was reading in a local paper about the City of McDonough audit. The audit noted that the city illegally spent over $50,000 of SPLOST funds, and that over $12,000 in checks were found in a utility clerks drawer at city hall. City Manager James Lee said these items were minor. It's this type of thinking that bankrupts our cities. In the real world of private business, heads would and should roll. By the way- what about the other $100,000+ that the city has lost in 2005?

Hey Henry, shouldn't we be ashamed that we are recklessly rushing to pave over the most beautiful parts of this county without preserving anything in a county park system for future generations? Looks like we're proving the recent study that shows we'd rather sit in front of a tv or computer than go to a park.

Hey Henry, about that online poll that showed people willing to vote for McBerry in the Republican primary: nice that he has the free time to sit at home and cast that many votes. Somebody needs to ask why he's no longer employed by Henry County schools. There's a reason.

Hey Henry, you can rest assured that all the local papers do a good job of not reporting on distasteful and unpleasant developments in the county. Consequently you never hear about the near riots, where the drive by shootings occur, or which area of the county you should stay out of at night.

Hey Henry, I have a simplified solution for the primary elections on July 18 in the county commissioner race for Henry County. Make it simple. Don’t vote for any incumbent or any of the former commissioners. They’ve had their chance to help the county and they have done a horrible job. This time make it simple and vote for some new faces and new blood on the county seat. And a little addendum, could someone please remind the representative from the house district 109, he works for the people of Henry County, not the people of Gwinnett.

Hey Henry! Why does the McDonough female councilwoman have to take over six people to every city function that involves food? Once again, the taxpayer foots the bill. It's an outrage!!

Hey Henry, Mayor Copeland seems to be returning some political favors – hiring 4 people who worked in his campaign: one being his executive assistant and one being the new city clerk.

Hey Henry! And, especially the nice lady that stopped in traffic to let my wife know the company name on the truck that smashed her car and then fled the scene. This was Tuesday 6/27/06 at the intersection of 155 and I-75. Please call me at 770-954-0217. The truck company officially denies that anything even happened. We need witnesses to come forward. Please help if you can.

Hey Henry, isn't it nice that the Henry Vent has just come back on line after being down for six months. Could it have something do do with the upcoming Primary elections? Does that mean comments favoring the right candidates will be allowed and those ...aw, you know the rest.

Hey Henry. The Henry County Times could do us all a favor in frankness by renaming the "Religious" section of the paper "Christianity." Ray McBerry's ad for governor - with its pro-life and pro-family boastings - could be wedged aptly between the Baptist and Methodist church listings. Last week's piously defiant quip ("Hell will surely be full to the brim with people who have roamed this planet and did nothing but served themselves") could be another in a series of these alarming displays of evangelism. I think we could all use a sermon on the dangers of narrow perspective.
 

07.05.06

Hey Henry, this is to all the NEW folks in the Kelleytown area, do you mind changing the time you turn on your automatic outdoor sprinklers? I don't have enough water pressure at 5:30am to get a shower!

Hey Henry, I have only been a resident of Henry County for two years now but I am really impressed with Chairman Harper. For the first time I have met a politician that is genuine, honest, forthcoming and is very attentive to the citizens that elected him to office.

Hey Henry, Hell sure will be full to the brim with the people who have roamed this planet and did nothing but served themselves.

Hey Henry, I hope Commissioner Mathis holds all of her district-citizen meetings in a church. What many people need is God, so thank you Commissioner Mathis for holding your meeting in a church. Keep up the good work and do not let the cruel, mean spirited people get you down. What they say is poison and venom anyhow.

Hey Henry! We keep hearing about the new addition to Alexander Park. When will someone actually begin working on it? Our little neighborhood streets need a boost to the area or all of the nice, clean people are going to move away. Let's quit talking and bragging about it and get moving, PLEASE!

Hey Henry, we have been knowing that Sonny lied for years and now the Big Guy lied. Is anyone running for governor not a liar?

Hey Henry! Check out the car wash at the end of Jodeco Road and Hwy. 42 (near Bruster's). It now has an enclosed room to wash your dog in - equipment and washing station included! What a great idea! After bath time, take your dog to Bruster's - or before bath, if you have a messy eater - They have small doggie ice cream cones!

Hey Henry, wouldn't it be nice to experience drama, music, dance, etc... in an outdoor setting, much like Chastain? Why should we have to drive to neighboring counties or Atlanta to enjoy an evening of the arts outside? Surely, an amphitheater would bring more money to the county than, shall we say, a paintball stadium! I can just picture a 1,000 seat ampitheatre in the hills at Nash Farm Battlefield.

Hey Henry, with all the bad scores the restaurants are getting. Maybe they should inspect the inspectors. Sounds like a power play to me.

Thank you, Henry Times, for being discreet and not running a sad local story. Bad Herald, bad Herald!

Hey Henry, I like how Ralph Reed's campaign site mentions he "grew up in Toccoa, Georgia.” Ralph was born 24 June 1961 in Portsmouth, Virginia. Reed moved often as a child, spending most of his childhood in Miami, Florida. He moved to Toccoa, Georgia, in 1976. So Ralph grew up after he was 15 years old? In 1981, Reed moved to Washington, D.C., so Ralph lived in Georgia for 5 years.

Hey Henry, WELCOME HOME VINCE FARAH!

Hey Henry, what's going on at Henry Medical Center- Seems as though a lot of high level administrators are being asked to leave lately!
 

06/28

Hey Henry! I am looking for Henry Stokes of Atlanta, or somewhere close to Atlanta! I spoke to Wayne Hammrick and John Golding. Henry - do you remember Debbie Senn in Leesburg, Florida? Jan, Sheryll and I were up in Georgia a couple of weeks ago and spoke to John and Wayne! We tried to call you and got an answering machine! We thought you would call back. If you see this, please contact me. Jan, Sheryll and I would love to hear from you!! Thanks, Debbie.

Excuse me Henry County....To all those people who complain about how Henry " used to be". Next time you’re sitting down with your child in McDonald's or going to the gas station up the street from your house, think about how nice it was and quick it was to get gas in the expensive SUV your driving these days... Thanks to Bellamy Strickland, or Ford. And how happy your son or daughter was to get that cheeseburger and toy. And...next time you’re in the grocery store, think about how nice and quick it was to stop on your way home from work and get those eggs and bacon you need for breakfast in the morning. I'm tired of all the complaining of "How Henry County Used To Be." Instead, let's try and compliment Henry County. Like, thanks Henry County for thinking of me to put that park up the street so little Molly can go play with her friends next week. We all need to grow up and face the facts that this is the year 2006, not 1945 anymore. Things change... face it.

Hey Henry, Great Escape Theatres, which started out pretty good has turned into a joke and getting progressively worse! Where's the Southern hospitalilty in management or better yet, where is manager presence? Appears no employee there is over 25 and has no clue on how to run the place. Total confusion and even the managers are rude and not friendly at all. Also appears they are not even from the south! Implants once again taking our jobs. Check out your concessions when you attend a movie -- could be something in your popcorn? Something that started out so well has ended up like a disaster. Too bad.

Hey Henry! Please tell the McDonough City Councilwoman to return the computer and equipment to city hall! It's our money and we want it accounted for! It's ironic that you have all the latest and greatest but never return your emails!

Hey Henry, I am planing on attending Stockbridge High School. I was just visiting your website to get more information about the lunchroom because it does not mention it on the school webpage anyway I just wanted to see what kind of lunches you all provide for the students there. Thank you for your time. I’m afraid the Times no longer provides the lunches served to county students. We lost that contract after that salmonella thing, which we thought was totally unfair, because it was that one jerk who was responsible, not us. But you try telling that to the Board of Education.

Hey Henry, my co-worker got stopped and ticketed for doing 55 mph on Jonesboro Road while a cop in a Clayton County patrol car travels it almost every morning around 4:30 a.m. doing 70 - 80 mph, passing on double yellow lines and has even passed cars in front of the courthouse in downtown McDonough. Are officers not required to obey traffic laws while on their way to work like the rest of us?

Hey Henry, I have heard of Senator Johnny Isakson. A man who cares for special interest and votes strictly for Bush's failed policies. Cares about the people? Yes, his people like Abramoff.

Hey Henry, will the last hard working, law abiding citizen leaving Clayton County to come to Henry County, please close the door behind you!
 

06/21

Hey Henry! Exactly how long does it take to get business names on the Square corner sign posts? I was looking for a particular business that I knew had opened at least a month ago by reading the street signs. I had to walk down every street until I stumbled onto the business. When I inquired why they had not put up a sign, they said they had contacted Mainstreet but that it had not been taken care of yet.

Hey Henry! Should the health department inspectors be held to the same standards as the actual restaurants? While eating at a local restaurant the other day, I observed people in the kitchen area without hair nets and sleeveless shirts. When I asked my waitress, I was told they were from the Henry Health Department and they were doing an inspection. Seems strange to me doing an inspection in the kitchen without at least a hairnet! Especially since they both had long hair.

Hey Henry, you can always tell when Nan Lee writes a vent.

Hey Henry, ever heard of Senator Johnny Isakson? A man who cares about his people and keeps his word!

Hey Henry, talk about gang activity in Henry County and the poor parenting skills that go along with it; I say we need to lock up these dead beat, brain dead parents for allowing these kids to run wild and act like gangsters. Rev. Edwards is stepping up to the plate trying to help these young kids get back on track BUT Rev. Edwards forgot to mention if he is going after these hoodlum parents for creating this mess to begin with. Take a look at some of these parents and you will see why their kids look, act and dress the way they do.

Hey Henry, if I came through the Square with straight pipes on my truck I would get a ticket but let a motorcycle come through with loud straight pipes and it is ok. We condemn teenagers about their loud music but if you have a motorcycle it is alright.

BJ and John - Our hearts and our tears are with you. We share in your grief and send our love. - Mark and Monica

Hey Henry, thank God for people like Cheryl, a true Christian lady, who paid for my 92 year old mother's pedicure at Nail Tech. It renewed her faith in Henry County after moving from her beloved home in Hiawassee.

Hey Henry, this is to wish Mr. Brown, band director of Luella High school a wonderful summer. During the summer we will be looking for a rainbow to remind one of a magnificent rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" performed by the symphonic band on their last performance of the school year.

To the senior who was complaining that SPLOST money is being used to build a skateboard park and tennis court: You live in a county where more is done for seniors than anywhere I've ever lived. You have two new senior centers where you can do everything from play cards to learn computers to get a massage, all at bargain rates, too! Our kids don't even have ONE public pool in the county to use. Most every park is just an excuse for ball fields for organized teams and that means money and schedules that not every parent can manage. Thank goodness there is now someplace the kids can go to PLAY. Just be grateful they are not skating down the curbs at the senior centers.

To the people on Hwy 81 east who ride my tail on my way home from work: Look guys, there’s usually someone in front of me, so you aren't going to get there any faster by trying to push me to go faster. Is my 60 mph not fast enough for you?
 

06/14

Hey Henry, please someone tell me that we're going to have a stop light at North Ola and 81! Surely we aren't going to have 3 schools on N. Ola without one? Oh wait! This IS Henry County so I probably already know the answer to that one.

Hey Henry, to the person who is wondering about Stockbridge High, the school is going in the right direction (after having an incompetent principal for the last 3 years). I know first hand, I literally just graduated from SHS. Stockbridge unlike the others live up to its motto “A cut above the rest”. SHS has the best teachers in the county (check out ratemyteacher.com) so if your son does his work he’ll do great academically. Also make sure he gets involved, SHS has great programs: fine arts, media, yearbook, and of course athletics. Good Luck to you and your son, I hope he enjoys it as much as I did. Go Tigers!

Hey Henry! Why is it that the Commissioners and Recreational Department can't figure out that kids use the bathroom. I mean really the new playgrounds are great. However the bathrooms that are already there are locked. Yeah, vandalism is bad. But, ya know Mommie's having to take their kids behind the bushes to use the bathroom is NOT right.

Hey Henry, has anyone else noticed how loud certain commercials are on TV? My neighbors could hear them from my own TV! This will cause me to be sure and not purchase whatever they're selling!

Hey Henry! The next time you are stuck in traffic, remember the good old days when [there were] dirt roads [and] cow pastures, [and] you could see the stars shining bright over old Henry County was the norm.

Hey Henry! Life used to be great here in Henry that is why so many of you moved here and now it is the same as the rest of Atlanta!

Hey Henry, we're spending too much SPLOST money on that Fairview area. They've spent over $100,000 on a skateboard park and a new tennis court. Us senior citizens can't use these.

Hey Henry! To all parents who have children entering Kindergarten at Timberridge Elementary, don't you know you are sending your little babies off to a trailer park at East Lake Elem. instead? Your school is not anywhere near being finished. That will be fun to walk in the rain, mud, ice and tornadoes every time they need to go to the bathroom, lunchroom or gym! McDonough Methodist Preschool and Kindergarten has some kindergarten openings. They have their OWN building, AND have their accreditation, just like ELCA and the public schools! Check it out! Or, have your little babies crammed into that trailer park!

Hey Henry, I would just like to say how wonderful it is to go into a store and be treated with full service and smiling faces. I went into the Hush Puppy store at Tanger Outlet Mall and they still give you the full-service that you are used to at the Full-Service stores and Malls and it was just awesome. After going into several other stores at Tanger and practically being ignored, it was refreshing to go into the Hush Puppy store and seeing the staff bouncing around with so much energy.

Hey Henry, trust in the Lord with all your heart. He will lead you in the right direction.
 

06.07

Hey Henry, when did the grammar rules get changed so that now an apostrophe is needed in a plural word? I thought an apostrophe between a word and the "s" signified possession. Maybe someone should inform the folks making signs for businesses.

Hey educators, thanks for a job well done.

Hey Henry, I think if a restaurant gets a score under 89, they need to stay closed until they get the score up to at least a 90. (Or at least have someone come out again and check over the restaurant in a week.) And why did people even invent gloves if the restaurant staff isn’t even going to wear them?

Hey Henry, WOW, that railroad mural is really something to behold! Just think what the really big one of the scene of 1920's McDonough is going to look like. This artist is very good indeed...... Let's go City Council!

Hey Henry, our deepest condolences go out to The Hodges Family on the loss of their daughter Angie. We have you in our prayers.

Hey Henry, I heard a beautiful voice and an acoustic guitar around 5:30 a.m. Friday morning, and realized "Josh and Ashley are getting married!" Congratulations you guys - how inspirational love is.

Hey Henry, I want to know who is writing the letters to the editor for Richard Craig and Rufus Stewart. I suspect its someone that wants turmoil in our city!

Hey Henry, I'm sure Talitha Smith is smiling down at the new owners of her home. They have done a magnificent job of restoring it to show the original charm. From those of us that enjoy seeing it as we pass by on Macon St., thank you!

Hey Richard, it wasn't right! You know you wouldn't have liked it if that had been done when you were going into office. I lost a lot of respect for you over this.

Hey Henry, happy birthday to my wife, the Mama of Drama! You're either Little Nell tied to the railroad track, or Scarlett O' Hara with the Yankees always burning Atlanta. Your life is just one long soap opera. After your last, tiny operation, you wanted to linger near death for a day or so, but the best you could do was a slightly upset stomach. P.S. Thanks for all the hissy fits; I'd pay ten dollars to watch one!

Hey Henry, I saw the sign in front of the Stockbridge Florist and Gifts for Ralph Reed for Lt Gov. Just to let the Meeks know, you have lost my business for good and my friends’ also.

Hey Henry, to the person wanting to know what's being built next to Garden Ridge, it's a Brandsmart store.

Hey Henry, I thought good Southern customer service was a thing of the past, until I had the good fortune of shopping at Beth's Bargains on the square in McDonough. Wow! Great gift ideas, good prices, and wonderful friendly service. I'll certainly be going back!

Hey Henry, Unity Grove Elementary's kindergarten program last week was great. I truly enjoyed the children preforming. They should do more throughout the year. WAY TO GO KINDERGARTNERS. YOU DID IT! We should acknowledge the children more in our community, because the children are our future.
 

05/31

Hey Henry, to the gentleman who stopped at Tanger Blvd. by the Department of Driver Services on Mother's Day at 3:00 p.m. to aid a turtle in the middle of the road: Just maybe it was a momma turtle.

Hey Henry, Bill Cosby is so right. The truth may hurt but please, get the ‘bling-bling, vulgar music and prison style clothing’ away from your children. Any parent that stands back and lets their child live that lifestyle is an ignorant parent at that.

Hey Henry, congratulations to the class of 2006!

Hey Henry, I would like to send a big THANK YOU to all the public service officers who directed traffic during the Geranium Festival and kept us festival goers SAFE.

Hey Henry, to the writer wanting information on Stockbridge High School. I had two children graduate from this school and it was a great school. In my opinion it still is. All schools have problems and I'm sure SHS is no different but if your student is at school to learn and further his/her education then it will be a good experience. Get them involved in activities such as band, chorus, drama, and encourage them to take the Honors and AP courses. If the student has a good attitude about learning and school then they will go a long way. My children are now both college graduates and one is about to enter graduate school.

I was ill at ease as the two dress store employees talked rudely about another employee; two days later, I was again ill at ease as the counter ladies at BK did the same thing! Please, ladies, keep your cutting comments to yourself until your customers leave.

Hey Henry, to the residents of Indian Creek Mobile Home Park in Locust Grove. Be aware of the devastation that is underway. No one told us. Thanks to Hey Henry, you can be warned. Again, Thank You Hey Henry, for enabling us to express these opinions. We all thank you from the Mobile Home Park.

When did the grammar rules get changed so that now an apostrophe is needed in a plural word? I thought an apostrophe between a word and the "s" signified possession. Maybe someone should inform the folks making signs for businesses.

Hey Henry, what is being built in that large concrete building adjacent to Garden Ridge in Stockbridge?

Please someone tell me that we're going to have a stop light at North Ola and 81 !!! Surely we aren't going to have 3 schools on N Ola without one? Oh wait! This IS Henry County so I probably already know the answer to that one.

Hey you get off my bumper. I can not run over the car in front of me. Thank You.

It was neat to watch an old house move through McDonough in two pieces, but it wasn't neat to hear the anger and derision from the crew boss as he yelled and snapped at those guiding the old residence down 81 East. Glad I don't work for Bishop Home Movers.

There are only three silent things on this earth: the falling snow. . . the hour before the dawn. . .the hallowed ground of a Civil War battlefield.

Hey Educators, thanks for a job well done.
 

05/24

Hey Henry! We are so glad you are going to preserve Nash Farm instead of giving in to development!

Hey Henry, imagine going to a meeting that kept to the agenda, let the people have their say and ended before I had a chance to get bored. Thank you Henry County Commissioners!

Hey Henry, I know as an American that we have laws to live by. I also know that if you violate those laws by doing something illegal that you have to suffer the consequences. If we succumb to the pressure and demands of the illegal immigrants that are in this country, I feel that no law passed by the government is worth the paper that it is written on! I understand that opportunities are better here, but if you want to be here, do it legally!

Hey Henry, Way to go Billy. Keep it up!

Hey Henry, looks like Henry County restaurants are back on the list this week for the CBS 46 restaurant review for getting some of the worst reviews. As this booming county as seeing new subdivisions popping up on every inch of land here how about getting your act together and get us on the other side of this list, we're running out of places to eat.

Hey Henry, I hear from some very good sources that Henry County Board of Education workers, such as, maintenance workers do not have to pay for their lunches that they get from our own Henry County lunchrooms. Do you have any idea how many lunches that is a week, we could save a lot of money if everyone would pay for their lunches. This should not be. Every employee should pay for their own lunch. Even our teachers pay $2.25 a day for their lunch. Let’s see, you multiply $2.25 times how many workers a day eating free, I don't even want to know what that comes to monthly. This needs to stop!

Hey Henry, can anyone tell me how good or bad Stockbridge High School is? My son will be entering 9th grade this coming year and I had heard some really nasty rumors about Stockbridge High School. Anyone have any real facts about this school regarding academics as well as any violence, etc.?

Hey Henry, to the person who wrote about not making bad vents to Union Grove High. Union Grove is always shined as the top school in the county, even though they have just as much crap as the other schools in the county. "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen" You all don't seem to have a problem gloating about achievements that everyone has already accomplished.

Hey Henry, The people in Fairview did get some money out of SPLOST. There’s a beautiful red and green sign going to Thurmond Road in Fairview. This may be payback for voting against Wal-Mart.

Hey Henry, "Burning wires can be smelled from a far." (Hey Henry, May 3.) Lots of thangs can be smelled from a far, especially if the far's real hot. I kneel in penitence. - Ed.

Hey Henry, what's up with the billboard advertisement on I-75 northbound in Stockbridge?! What a message to send to passing and visiting travelers. Is that where this county is heading?

Hey Henry, congrats to all the Luella Juniors that passed their graduation tests...and to those that didn't pass, good try and better luck next time I know y’all can do it!
 

05/17

Hey Henry, since Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton are so concerned with racism and people being discriminated against I was wondering WHERE they are now with all the racism in Dekalb government? Oh, I forgot, they seem to only care about blacks who are victims of racism and not whites.

Way to go, Josh. I thought I was the only one in this county who sees the President for what he really is. On his best days, he can rise to mediocrity; at all times, he listens to the poison whispered to him by his puppet masters, Rove and Cheney. If the people of this nation don't drive him from office before the midterm elections, he's going to lead us right over a cliff.

Hey Henry, I would like to thank the staff of Arby's on Hampton Road. They greet you when you walk in, the service is fast and they never get your order wrong. This is how food service is supposed to be. Great job guys!

Hey Henry, want to know why and for who our government is letting our brave soldiers die for in Iraq? Then look up and read a published work by the "great" Henry Ford, Sr. called "The International Jew," and you will TOTALLY understand!
Yes, and while you’re at it, be sure to also read Mein Kampf, as Adolph Hitler gathered much of his views on Jews as well as justification for his protracted genocide against them directly from the writings of the “great” Henry Ford, Sr. - Joshua Clark, Editor.

Hey Henry! I just read a small 3 line paragraph in the Metro section of the AJC (5/11). The Henry County BOE has unanimously voted to have all BOE employees pay both the employer portion and employee portion for dental insurance. There goes our teachers raises! They got a 2% increase last January but health insurance went up 9%, so teachers took a 7% pay cut. Thanks to our local board they are going to take another one. How can Henry County hope to attract new and top teachers if we don't offer them decent benefits? It will save the BOE approximately $1 million this year, but what will it cost our children?

Hey Henry parents: please don't make bad vents about Union Grove High School. My sister has a son who goes to Stockbridge High School and she is soooo jealous. She LOVES when there are bad vents about Dutchtown and Union Grove High Schools.

Hey Henry, what is being built in that large building across from Kohl's in Stockbridge?

Hey Henry, if you all are going to come to my yard sale this weekend, do me a favor by not asking me to reduce my price on items I have marked under $3. My aim in having a yard sale is to help people find new treasures for themselves and to make a little profit myself. If I just wanted to get rid of these things, I would have donated them to the Salvation Army in the first place. A friend told me about a woman who drove up to her sale a while back in her brand new Lexus with her phone stuck into her ear and offered her 50¢ for an item she had marked $1. What a cheapskate!

Hey Henry! The current Georgia waitress salary is $2.13 per hour. Try buying a gallon of gas to get to work on that. Standard tip is 20%. Otherwise, your server is PAYING to wait on you...
everyday is be kind to servers day!

Hey Henry, everybody just slow your roll! Hey Henry is getting out of hand. Since when did it become a place for everyone to take pot shots at each other. Here’s a nice rule of thumb: If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, you probably shouldn’t say it at all! Besides, I’ll bet all of you warring over trivial matters would probably like each other if you met.
 

05/10

Hey Henry! I just received my 2006 Tax Appraisal. I sure hope I can sell my house for what you've