FYN sends our condolences to the family of Bill Kokaly
Community, Featured, Featured Stories June 12, 2020
FYN’s saddened to report the passing of dear friend and longtime Field Representative for Congressman Doug Collins, Bill Kokaly. He moved on to a better world on Friday morning of June 12 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Kokaly loyally served Collins since the congressman’s first campaign and was instrumental in managing the military academy nominations for Ninth District high school students.
He retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service in 1996, and passionately represented Collins’ military constituents whenever they needed assistance. Additionally, he discussed public policy and issues of interest at Ninth District events in order to better understand the citizens.
An outpouring of condolences for Kokaly’s family is taking place across Georgia and the Ninth District. Collins released a statement mourning Kokaly’s passing on June 12:
“Like most people, I have been blessed with childhood friends who have walked with me and my family through every phase of life, constant in a sea of ever-changing tides. However, I believe that God brings other folks into your life at the right time to help you through a season in your life that only that person can fill. This morning one of those people finished his calling.
“It is with a very heart that I have to announce that Bill Kokaly died this morning. Bill has been with me from the beginning of my first campaign for Congress and has been a part of my staff – and more importantly, a part of my family – ever since. His amazing dedication to the work of the 9th District and to his family will never be replaced. He was a man of passion and strength, which is growing rare in these times.
Bill and I both shared a love of, as Bill would put it, our Air Force. The old MSgt never left his service behind. There is one group this morning that will miss Mr. Bill as much as I do, and that is all of the students that he helped get accepted to the service academies. He loved each and every one of those kids and followed their careers just like a proud parent.
To his wife, Gail, and the rest of Bill’s family, we share your pain and hold you close in our prayers. On a personal note, I will miss you, my friend. You taught me so much and I will miss our time together. Your season in my life ended too soon but I am the blessed one to have even had this season with you at all. God bless you, my friend. We will miss you.”
People throughout Georgia continue to leave condolences on social media.
Georgia Speaker of the House David Ralston also released a statement of mourning and commemoration of Kokaly:
“I was so sorry to learn of the passing of my friend, Bill Kokaly, this morning. Bill served our Congressman Doug Collins and represented him at countless events and community gatherings in North Georgia.
“A tireless worker and selfless servant, Bill never met a stranger and would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He worked everyday to build up our community and see a better tomorrow for our children and grandchildren.
“I will miss his friendship and his infectious generous spirit. My prayers go out to his bride, Gail, and his family in this difficult time. May he rest in well-deserved peace.”
We at FYN send our prayers, thoughts, and condolences to Kokaly’s wife Gail, and his family. He was a great man who genuinely wanted the best for everyone in the Ninth District, the state of Georgia, and the United States. Kokaly’s lifelong career of service to his country will be remembered and valued by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
To read people’s memories of Bill Kokaly, please view Congressman Collins’ Facebook page.
Images were taken from Kokaly’s and Collins’ Facebook.
BKP Has A Call-In With Doug Collins!
Politics April 30, 2020
BKP has Congressman Doug Collins on the show this morning to discuss Georgia and the 9th district. They discuss endorsements such as club for growth. They touch on the President and how Collins feels about Trump’s response to the pandemic. They also discuss General Flynn, State bailouts, and much more!
Collins urges Windstream to provide increased access to rural broadband
Press Release, State & National April 10, 2020
GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Reps. Doug Collins (R-Ga.), Austin Scott (R-Ga.), and Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) today sent a letter to Windstream underscoring the importance of providing increased access to broadband – particularly in rural areas – in the midst of COVID-19.
“As representatives of thousands of Windstream customers, we write today regarding the impact coronavirus has had on broadband access in rural communities throughout Georgia,” they wrote. “In the past, we have written to you regarding the inadequate internet service our constituents are receiving despite your company’s acceptance of federal dollars to expand access. While we know Windstream has upgraded some areas that are more populated and less rural, many of our constituents continue to struggle with poor broadband speeds.”
For years, Windstream customers across Georgia have consistently struggled to gain access to reliable broadband speeds. Congress has taken significant steps toward expanding rural broadband infrastructure in recent years, including securing federal funding to providers in rural areas. However, some carriers – like Windstream – have failed to provide adequate broadband speeds to consumers despite collecting taxpayer dollars. As this pandemic is forcing more and more Georgians to rely on the internet, access to reliable broadband is more critical than ever before.
“Due to the coronavirus outbreak, thousands of Georgians are being forced to work, learn, and recreate from home. This undoubtedly has increased the strain on the networks your consumers depend upon. Over the past several years, we have heard complaints of a network that is overburdened and cannot keep up during peak use. Even though we have been calling for increased internet access in rural areas for years, this moment in time shows that Windstream has yet to meet the mark.”
Read the full letter here.
Live Call-In with Congressman Doug Collins
State & National April 9, 2020
Due to the upcoming election BKP states that we need to meet the candidates. This morning, we start with Congressman Doug Collins. We discuss beginning to campaign again, the senate race, social distancing, ballot harvesting, and much more!
BKP Interviews Congressman Collins regarding Government Shutdown and More
Politics, State & National January 22, 2018
Tune in as BKP interviews our very own 9th District Congressman Doug Collins on the current government issues and day 3 of the government shut down. Hear how Collins feels about the situation and what needs to happen to resolve the issues at hand.
COLLINS PRAISES PASSAGE OF WATER INFRASTRUCTURE BILL WITH CORPS REFORMS
Politics, State & National June 7, 2018
COLLINS PRAISES PASSAGE OF WATER INFRASTRUCTURE BILL WITH CORPS REFORMS
WASHINGTON—The House of Representatives has passed the Water Resources Development Act, a bill that authorizes water infrastructure projects across the country. Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) advocated for the bill to include reforms of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages Lakes Lanier, Hartwell, Russell and Carters.
The bill would give local entities a larger role in sourcing funding for projects and directs the Corps to consider local opinions in projects that involve ports, dams or lakes under its authority.
“The Corps of Engineers too often ignores the impacts its actions have on local lakes and residents, and it’s time for a fundamental change to how the Corps handles its responsibilities. I’m glad to see provisions in this infrastructure bill that would increase the influence that residents of Northeast Georgia have over their water resources, homes and communities, and I’ll continue holding the Corps accountable for how it manages lakes in Northeast Georgia.
“The Water Resources Development Act also ensures that the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project, which creates jobs across the state and is critical to Georgia’s economy, continues to receive necessary resources,” said Collins.
The House Rules Committee oversees every bill that comes to the House floor for a vote. As part of this committee, Collins also spoke to the chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee about improving the Corps of Engineers.
Collins Bill to Honor Fallen Marine Sent to President’s Desk
Press Release, State & National March 9, 2018
COLLINS BILL TO HONOR FALLEN CLERMONT MARINE SENT TO PRESIDENT’S DESK
WASHINGTON—The Senate last night voted unanimously to pass H.R. 3821, legislation to rename Georgia’s Clermont Post Office in honor of Zack T. Addington. Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) introduced the bill this September, and it passed the House in November.
“Lance Corporal Zack Addington represents the selfless courage that’s cultivated in northeast Georgia, and I’m excited to see this bill leave Congress and head to the president’s desk for his signature,” said Collins.
Collins also honored Addington when he spoke about the bill on the House floor.
Background:
Known to his neighbors as Zack, Addington joined the United States Marine Corps in 1967. A native of Clermont, he became a rifleman in the 3rd Marine Division of the Fleet Marine Force and deployed to Vietnam that year. Addington was promoted to Lance Corporal and served his country honorably until he was killed in action in May 1968.
That June, Addington received the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon in recognition of his service there.
Collins issues statement: “We stand with Israel”
News May 15, 2019
WASHINGTON — Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) released the following statement after signing a discharge petition to bring anti-Boycott, Sanction, and Divestment (BDS) legislation to the House floor. This petition will force the House to consider H.R. 336, the Strengthening America’s Security in the Middle East Act of 2019.
“The statistics are clear: anti-Semitism is on the rise, and tragically, certain Democrats in Congress continue to add fuel to the fire. It is our job as elected officials to stand with Israel and defend its right to exist, and to condemn hateful rhetoric of any form. I’m calling on Speaker Pelosi and Democrat leadership to join us in taking a stand against anti-Semitism and the BDS movement, and to support Congress in sending a clear message to the world: we stand with Israel.”
Earlier this year, the Senate passed companion legislation, S. 1, with strong bipartisan support.
In the 115th Congress, 30 current House Democrat members cosponsored similar anti-BDS legislation.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that covers Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYN attracts 300,000+ page views per month, 3.5 million impressions per month and approximately 15,000 viewers per week on FYNTV.com and up to 60,000 Facebook page reach. If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of those counties, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com
FYN Interviews Rebbeca Yardley on Georgia’s 2018 Sine Die – Last Day of Legislative Session
Politics, State & National March 29, 2018
It’s Sine Die day, that means it’s the last day of the 2018 Legislative Session! Interviews First Vice Chairman of Georgia Congress 9th District GOP Rebecca Yardley on the experience and what to expect from the Georgia Capitol today!
Tim Satterfield will run for county commission
News February 12, 2018
Tim Satterfield received the “Hero” award from Bill Kokaly, a representative of U.S. Congressman Doug Collins in September.
DAWSONVILLE, Ga. – Former Dawson County Deputy Emergency Services Chief Tim Satterfield announced today (Feb. 12) that he is a candidate for the District 3 seat on the Dawson County Board of Commissioners.
In a phone interview with FetchYourNews, Satterfield said, “I just feel like I have some more to give back to Dawson County. I have a passion and a desire to help create a safe, clean community for citizens to live, work and play in.”
Satterfield retired last month, following a stellar 41-year career. He gained national recognition while specializing in canine search and rescue and has taken part in more than 50 state- and federal-level missions, including water search, arson, bomb disaster search and work with missing and abducted children. He was state coordinator for the urban search and rescue team and was one of the first of 12 team members in the U.S. to be certified in child abduction response. His K-9 unit received the Marguerite Brock Rescue Award from the Emergency Management Association of Georgia.
In September, 9th District Congressman Doug Collins presented Satterfield the “Hero” award as “someone who has gone above and beyond the call of duty during their career to help citizens in and around their communities.”
Satterfield said he recently viewed a television program that listed the safest communities in Georgia. “I believe Johns Creek was number one,” he said. “I would like to see Dawsonville and Dawson County on that list. I feel like if we have a clean, safe community where people can live, work and play, we will be able to attract more desirable type businesses.”
Satterfield believes the county can obtain grants to help accomplish those goals and reduce the cost to taxpayers. He stated, “I did some (grant writing) when I worked in fire services, and I believe my experience in that could be helpful.
When Satterfield retired in September, County Manager David Headley said, “Knowing Chief Satterfield, both on the job and in his personal life, his hand is always stretched out to serve others. He is someone who has given his life to something other than himself and truly is a hero.”
Satterfield will run for the position being vacated by Commissioner Jimmy Hamby who has announced he will retire at the end of his term.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that covers Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of those counties, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com
A hero retires from Dawson County EMS
News December 19, 2017
Bill Kokaly presents Tim Satterfield (right) “Hero” award on behalf of Congressman Doug Collins.
DAWSONVILLE, Ga. – Dawson County Emergency Services Director Lanier Swafford faces a nearly impossible task in the new year – replacing the old warhorse Deputy Chief Tim Satterfield, who is retiring this week.
Satterfield, a 41-year fire services veteran, has humbly, selflessly and heroically served the citizens of Dawson County the last 12 years, following stints in Clayton County and the cities of McDonough, Georgia, and Clearwater, Florida.
Dawson County Commissioners recently celebrated Satterfield’s service with a reception following the Board of Commissioners work session.
Satterfield has specialized in canine search and rescue and has taken part in more than 50 state and federal level missions, including water search, arson, bomb disaster search and work with missing and abducted children. He is state coordinator for the urban search and rescue team and was one of the first of 12 team members in the U.S. certified in child abduction response. His K-9 unit received the Marguerite Brock Rescue Award from the Emergency Management Association of Georgia.
In September, Ninth District Congressman Doug Collins presented Satterfield the “Hero” award as someone who has gone above and beyond during their career to help citizens in and around their communities.
In presenting the award, Collins said, “First responders represent some of the most selfless and skillful public servants I know. As the son of a Georgia State Trooper, I have seen their commitment to their neighbors throughout my life, and Deputy Chief Satterfield is an example of humble service. I’m grateful that northeast Georgia is home to such brave first responders.”
County Manager David Headley added, “Tim has risked his life and put himself in harm’s way so that others may live. He has minimized pain for others and given them comfort in their time of need. Knowing Chief Satterfield both on the job and in his personal life, his hand is always stretched out to serve others. He is someone who has given his life to something other than himself and truly is a hero. A grateful community says congratulations and thanks to Chief Satterfield.”
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that covers Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. If you would like to follow up-to-date local events in any of those counties, please visit us at FetchYourNews.com
GA 9th District Congressman Collins (R) Interview on the new Tax Bill and its passing
Politics, State & National December 19, 2017
Georgia’s 9th District Congressman Doug Collins joined us for a brief phone interview this morning. He started out the interview by saying today is going to be a good day and a good day for the American people. The new Tax Bill should be on the President’s desk by the end of the week, Collins said. This new bill will do away with the Obamacare/health insurance mandate. The American people will no longer be “forced” to purchase health insurance. BKP went on to ask Collins about topics such as the government funding, a possible spending resolution, Russian dossier on going investigation, and a possible 2nd council. Collins finished the interview with a comment about President Trump’s National Security speech. “We have a world that is unstable but a leader who wants to keep America safe and keep our leadership in the world.” As always we would like to thank Congressman Collins for taking time to speak with us.
Rep. Collins: “Speaker Will Keep Us Through Christmas” for Tax Bill
GMFTO, News, Politics October 16, 2017
9th Congressional district Rep. Doug Collins (R-GA) spoke exclusively to FYNTV on Friday’s edition of Good Morning From the Office. Collins spoke on a multitude of issues, from the executive actions regarding Obamacare, to his personal crusade for adequate internet service and competition in rural Northeast Georgia. However, his remarks regarding tax reform were quite revealing. According to Collins, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) has informed House members that he will keep the House in session, if necessary, throughout the Christmas recess in order to pass tax reform.
The tax question is asked around the 11:00 minute mark of the FULL INTERVIEW below.
BKP: From the House side, will we get tax reform?
Rep. Collins: Yes. I feel very comfortable, in fact, it is the top priority for us in leadership, and the speaker. In fact, the speaker put us on notice yesterday (Thursday) that he would keep us through Christmas or any other holiday to make sure it gets done this year. It was very disturbing to hear some members of the Senate saying “Well, we gotta negotiate, it may be the first of the year” No. It’s time to get behind the American people, time to get behind the President and pass tax reform. It’s way past due.
Ga 9th District Congressman Collins on Tax Reform passed in the House
Politics November 21, 2017
Congressman Collins had the privilege to gavel in the passing of the Tax Reform Bill. The bill passed in the House on Nov. 16 with 227 votes. Of the 227 votes, there were absolutely no Democrat supporters on this bill. Collins says the passing of this bill strictly by Republican votes shows that Republicans can come together to get the 218, or over 218, requirement. This tax plan is designed to give people a tax break; to put money back into their pockets, but doing so in a way that will stimulate the economy for small businesses.
Collins Petitions USDA for Improved Poultry Line Speeds
Politics May 23, 2017
Collins Petitions USDA for Improved Poultry Line Speeds
WASHINGTON—Today Congressman Doug Collins (R-Gainesville) sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue urging him to consider implementing policies that would make U.S. poultry processing facilities more competitive in the global marketplace.
Currently, poultry producers in South America, Asia, Canada, and Europe are safely operating at line speeds that outpace the maximum speeds allowed in American facilities, which represents a significant disadvantage to northeast Georgia’s poultry industry and America’s domestic production. Agriculture remains a vital dimension of Georgia’s economy, while poultry production generates more than $18 billion for the state economy and $10.9 billion for the Ninth District economy annually.
Congressman Doug Collins Updates us on Recent Good Works in The House of Representatives
Politics, State & National August 4, 2017
The main stream media is focused on all the things that have not been accomplished or are not getting done by the government. But what they are not telling you and we feel they should be, are all the good things in process in The House of Representatives. Congressman Doug Collins came on the show this morning to tell us about what they have been working on recently. Some topics he tells us about are: VA Bills, Preliminary Healthcare Bill, Dodd Frank Repeal, 260+ bills that have been passed by The House and are waiting on The Senate, James Comey, and more.