Gold Dome Live is moving!
Our new spot will allow us to get the news to you even faster and make commenting easier. Please bookmark the new site and sign up for our rss feed:
http://blogs.ajc.com/gold-dome-live/
AJC.com > Legislature > Georgia Beat > Archives > 2005 > January > 10 > Entry
In Senate, recalling George Washington
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The 2005 Georgia Senate convened shortly after 10 a.m. with plenty of pomp, circumstance and picture-taking.
Following a long tradition, the first order of business was the Pledge of Allegiance and then a devotional message.
Senate President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson (R-Savannah) introduced Cam Huxford, pastor of Savannah Christian Church, as chaplain of the day.
Huxford opened his message with an anecdote about a visit to Poland. There, he said, some Polish friends asked him and other Americans to sing the national anthem. When Huxford asked his Polish hosts to return the favor, they replied they had no national anthem. Huxford reflected on America’s proud heritage, in particular the strength and courage of President George Washington during battle.
He said that if there was ever a time when Georgia and the nation needed to look to their leaders, who are blessed and guided by God, now is the time.
“We need you to be as confident as George Washington was,” Huxford said. “We’re praying you will play your part.”
Then, the Secretary of the Senate announced role call for the 56 Senators-elect.
Lt. Gov. Mark Taylor announced that state Sen. Tommie Williams’ (R-Lyons) wife had a daughter, Emma, last night. Taylor said of Williams, “He has gone beyond the call of duty,” to be here today. “You might have expected him to be in the hospital today, but he’s here for the people of Georgia.”
Then, Superior Court Judge Jeff Bagley, of Forsyth County, administered the oath of office for the Senate’s new members.
Next, Taylor called for bipartisan support to do the work of the people of Georgia.
“After a contentious election, can we as members of both parties put the public interest over partisan interest?” Taylor asked rhetorically. He urged his fellow lawmakers to work toward improving education, health care, creating jobs, and crafting ethics legislation that keeps the government transparent.”
Johnson, after being unanimously re-elected to his position as top dog in the chamber, welcomed his fellow Senators and offered advice to both veterans and freshman.
“Be grounded. Never forget your family, business and constituents. Be honest. Your word is your currency in this building. Be patient. There are no shortcuts to success. Be civil. We are not enemies. Make friends across the aisle. Visit other districts. Think globally. Have fun. Keep your sense of humor. Take your job seriously, but not yourself,” Johnson advised.
Permalink | |
