There comes a time when we all go home and Carl Rogers has chosen this to be his time to leave the Georgia legislature. He is looking forward to spending more time with Linda, his wife and high school sweetheart, and his children and grandchildren.

Carl has seldom missed a grandchild’s baseball, football or soccer game, but at least now his drive will not be starting in Atlanta. The Georgia House of Representatives is losing a leader and its members are losing a true friend.

I cannot remember when Carl Rogers was not a friend to me. My family lived down the street from the Rogers family, and was one of the most respected families in Gainesville. Carl’s sister, Jean, and I started the first grade together. His father and my father were good friends and served on various local boards together.

I supported Carl when he first ran for the House in 1994, and attended the swearing-in ceremony when he entered office at the Capitol in 1995.

Throughout the early years Carl had been in office, I was asked to testify on health care issues before the House and Senate health committees. Most often, I would seek Carl’s advice and knowledge on the issues and the legislative process. Carl’s leadership abilities are evident by his many years of tenure serving as a chairman of various committees.

During my own time as a legislator, first in the Senate and now in the House, Carl has always been a valuable adviser. He is 100 percent honest and unselfish. If he knows the answer to a question, he gives you the solution. If he does not know the answer, he tells you he doesn’t and if asked, will offer an opinion.

He can disagree without becoming angry, which is a most valuable quality. I really do not remember the issues on which we disagreed, and there were a few, but what I do remember is the friendship and trust I always have had in Carl Rogers. I will miss his quick wit, the quick smile and his infectious laugh.

Congratulations to an honorable man on a excellent career representing our community and our state. The Georgia House of Representatives will miss you.

State Rep. Lee Hawkins
Gainesville