On Wednesday, June 21, 2006 a large group of Forsyth County residents braved the broiling sun during the afternoon rush hour in order to show their unwavering support for Commissioner Charlie Laughinghouse.

As the crowd held up signs for Laughinghouse and waved at the passing cars, the sounds of honking horns filled the air – passersby showing their support for the Commissioner.

Commissioner Laughinghouse is a committed friend of the environment and responsible growth. He tirelessly lent his support to groups working to preserve trees in the County. Charlie was one of two Commissioners, (Dave Richard, being the other), who voted to accept the Tree Canopy Study last year. This study came to the County as a result of the Forsyth Forest Conservation Group applying for a $17,000.00 grant from the Georgia Forestry Commission. The group conducted community service projects for nearly two years in order to match in kind the $17,000.00 given by the Forestry Commission for the study.

The study, conducted by American Forests, would help the local government set goals to increase tree canopy, identify where more trees need to be planted and spot forests that the county might want to conserve.

After the grant was awarded to the group, it was decided by the Board of FFCG to turn the study over to the County as the Engineering Department would be the proper entity to utilize the study to its best advantage. Those in the Engineering Department were happy and excited to receive the findings of the study. Neighboring communities such as Alpharetta, Atlanta and Roswell – and many others - had paid - out of tax payer dollars - to have the same study conducted.

However, Commissioners Tam, Ledbetter and Conway voted to refuse the study. This released a backlash of shock from the media – among which the AJC ran an editorial: “Forsyth Tree Study Worth It”. During this time, Commissioner Jack Conway was quoted in the AJC as stating, “A study telling me that the tree canopy is diminishing isn’t telling me anything I don’t know.”

Charlie Laughinghouse understood that although everyone who lives in Forsyth is aware of the rapid tree loss in the County, a study to help the County better understand where the tree deficit might create flash flooding, erosion and air pollution concerns was of vital importance to a growing community such as Forsyth County. He viewed accepting the study as a responsibility to the citizens he represents. This is one of many reasons people are willing to brave 95 degree temperatures and the burning sun to show support for Charlie. They believe he truly cares about how the County unfolds and about them.

Look for Laughinghouse Road Rally’s around Forsyth County. When you see them, Honk Your Horn!

[Fortunately the study was completed as The Federation of Forsyth Homeowners, a 501 © (3) non-profit was willing to step in and receive the grant money. When the study was completed, it was handed over to an appreciative Engineering Department, as originally intended.]

Those interested in the results of the study can contact the Forsyth Forest Conservation Group at: HonrEarth@aol.com.