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July 29, 2010

Bachtel’s findings to be made available to the public

Dwain Walden The Moultrie Observer The Moultrie Observer Thu Jul 29, 2010, 12:28 AM EDT

MOULTRIE — Rural sociologist Doug Bachtel has studied issues in Colquitt County for many years. His findings are hard hitting such as 100 percent of women seeking aid have no man in the home. As well, he finds that single mothers are no longer dominated by teens but rather that status reaches into the late 20s and early 30s.

His observations are part of a video recently presented to Archway of Colquitt County.

Other notes include that there has been a drastic decrease in school drop-out rates and an increase in graduation rates “but little else has changed” since Communities in Schools was brought into play here about 15 years ago.

Many unwed mothers, says Bachtel, are transient and move monthly. Also, crime is a “young person’s game” and young males need to be taught about the criminal justice system before they enter it.

In conjunction with that assessment, recent news stories involving homicides and other violent crimes have involved young men as victims and suspects.

At an Archway meeting Tuesday, it was noted that the community needs enlightenment on these many issues and so the Archway executive board said Bachtel’s video will be made available to the general public.

Board member Bob Swadel said a printed synopsis or overview of the video should also be provided to facilitate greater understanding of what Bachtel is saying to the community.

“We can do that,” said Emily Watson, Archway executive director.

Board member Jimmy Jeter said it would be good if all civic clubs and churches got a copy of this video and viewed it. Individuals may also get copies by contacting Watson at the University of Georgia Extension Service here. You may call 616-7455.

Archway is in its third year and was a pilot effort of the University of Georgia and local leaders to provide a “think tank” and “facilitator” to examine and provide leadership in addressing community issues. Such issues have included crime, poverty, education, transportation, housing, community health, etc. Archway has now been expanded into other communities in the state.

Basically, Archway seeks out resources to address these issues as well as bringing together other community leaders for their input and analyses. Archway is now seeking a health-care expert to come into the community to help address child obesity. Grants are being sought for this project, given that child obesity is defined as a national problem.

Many of the issues are connected in a cause and effect venue.

Board chairman Roy Reeves suggested that the executive group seek to determine which single issue could be defined that links to the greatest majority of the issues.

Swadel said he thinks that one issue is poverty.

The Archway executive board will be meeting soon with Family Connections to discuss that agency’s plans and see how it might help find resources toward its goals.

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