Bureaucratic lunacy. That describes proposed higher education cuts submitted last week. When the legislature asked for more cuts, the chancellor’s office submitted proposals for thousands of people to lose jobs and even more to take dramatic salary cuts. The people affected have dedicated their lives to helping educate children and youth.

Among proposed cuts was the 4-H program. 4-H has been a huge part of my life ever since my family came to Fitzgerald almost a decade ago. The 4-H program provided me many advantages. Georgia 4-H has helped young people develop life skills in leadership, citizenship, communication and decision-making skills for over a century now.

Budget cuts are necessary. However, I believe we should begin to look at other revenue options available. Lawmakers should avoid harming Georgia's education by getting rid of vital services and decimating organizations that instill important values in our youth.

Why not institute a $1 tax on cigarettes? Our state incurs high Medicare and Medicaid costs that can directly be linked to smoking. It’s also true an increase in the cigarette tax has a direct link to a decrease in teen smoking. I don’t see how this isn't a win-win situation unless, of course, you are a smoker.

As a student at ABAC, I value the small class size and student teacher ratio. Now, many ABAC jobs could be at stake, especially new hires. One of my favorite professors, Hans Schmeisser, was just hired this past year. Nobody has made a bigger impact on my education than has he. I hope ABAC takes into account teaching ability and professors’ relationships with students, rather than just seniority before a firing catastrophe begins.

UGA President Michael Adams said he has worked hard to support 4-H, but could not guarantee the program would not be affected. "I'm all for 4-H, but sooner or later you have to deal with realities. There are no cuts left that we want to make. We are down to very difficult decisions," said Adams.

I highly doubt many of hundreds of thousands of 4-H supporters throughout the state, are feeling sympathy with Mr. Adams’ own compensation package totaling more than $600,000 a year. Do your own part, Mr. Adams. Showing you do care would be taking leadership and reducing your salary for a start.



Justin Gilleland

Fitzgerald