Kemp is wearing a red tie. Photo via Office of the Governor.
By Elliott Brack
Editor and Publisher, GwinnettForum
MAY 13, 2025 | Some people seemed surprised that Brian Kemp will not run for the U.S. Senate seat against Sen. Jon Ossoff this next election.
We never thought he would run. We agree with the governor’s decision. Why should Governor Kemp leave the relatively easy years as Georgia’s governor to try to hold a seat that might be difficult to win, and even if won, would be an entirely new arena and probably not very satisfying for someone who has been sitting in a more active environment? After all, senatorial actions are very slow. Then, as a senator, he would have to either move his family to Washington and all that entails, or else undertake weekly commuting. That might make life entirely unsatisfactory, and certainly cramped and tiring.
Or he could leave office as governor, return to his business, spend his life in his hometown of Athens, and enjoy a simpler life.
The second choice ought to sound mighty good. He’s earned a peaceful term away from the hustle-and-bustle of politics. And who would want to go to Washington and have to be around the Trump bunch, with its array of self-important and not very qualified people?
While we have often disagreed with Governor Kemp, we can understand him removing himself from public life. And while some might feel he owes something to the Republican Party, look what a strain it has made on his life as it would anyone who is governor.
Enjoy your time away from politics, Mr. Governor.
WORLD ATLAS has named their nine cutest small towns in Georgia for 2025. It says: “Visiting these cute Georgia towns is one of the best ways to experience the Peach State….Each of these small hamlets offers unique styles and personalities, making every one of them worth checking out! So pack a bag and get ready to experience what life is like in the Empire State of the South in 2025.”
Then it lists these towns:
- Covington
- Thomasville
- Americus
- Madison
- Helen
- Dahlonega
- Tybee Island
- Ellijay
- Blue Ridge
But it appears the World Atlas is short on its geography. It says that Americus is in “the rolling hills of the Piedmont Region.” The southern edge of Piedmont stretches from Columbus to Augusta with Macon in the middle. It’s 74 miles from Macon to Americus, and 60 miles south from Columbus.
It also says that Ellijay is “near” Chattanooga, Tenn. Somehow, we don’t consider 67 miles away as being “near.”
We look forward to the 2026 list of cutest “hamlets” from World Atlas.
A NEW CHAPTER in Braselton’s story is opening its doors. Step inside the Museum at The Mill and explore the historic Enterprise Roller Mill — a beautifully preserved flour and grist mill that helped power a growing town. Original equipment, detailed displays and thoughtful storytelling offer a glimpse into the hard work and ingenuity that shaped Braselton’s early days. The mill is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It’s at 16 Frances Street. Check out the web site.
BOCCE BALL: Looking for some weeknight fun? Join the ATLBocce outdoor league at the Town Green in Peachtree Corners on Wednesday nights starting in June! Registration closes on Monday, May 19. Tag your friends, get your co-workers, and create your team before all the spots are filled! For more details, go to this website.
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