Editor:

Some oil and gas company officials in South Dakota were hauled into court for causing the death of two dozen migratory birds near their construction sites, with punishment of $15,000 per bird or jail time. Most of these exploration companies are fully aware of the Obama administration’s hostility toward them and operate in full compliance with environmental laws.

On the other hand, according to the American Bird Conservancy, wind turbine companies had already killed 440,000 migratory birds by that time – and the killing goes on.

There was nothing joyful about that first Easter morning, as the small band of women made their way through the darkness to the grave of their friend Jesus. They went to perform one final act of friendship – anoint his battered body with ointment and clothe the corpse with fresh linen.

That’s all they came to do, and when they were finished they expected the tomb would be forever sealed up, along with all their hope, all their dreams.

One of the companies that scrubs homes and businesses after fires has a reassuring slogan (paraphrased): “As if it never happened.”

That’s a great promise for a messy cleanup. It’s not so great when it comes to public records, and that’s an unfortunate side-effect of House Bill 1176, a bundled series of criminal justice reforms approved by the Georgia Legislature and awaiting the governor’s signature.

On behalf of the Columbia County Convention and Visitors Bureau, I would like to extend a warm welcome to our many visitors. We are thrilled to have you with us during this exciting week of entertainment, tradition and, of course, golf.

One of the more notable things about our area is the presence of Southern hospitality, so in true Southern belle style, please allow me to graciously be your hostess and tell you about all of the wonderful things to do and see in Columbia County.