Jonathan McCollar, Democratic candidate for the 156^th District, is hosting a kickoff event on Saturday, July 19, 2008, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Southern Links Golf Course in Statesboro.

McCollar, a native of Statesboro and graduate of Georgia Southern University, wants to bring common sense governance to Atlanta and put the focus back on supporting and respecting our local communities. And that's because an efficient government recognizes that the needs of Swainsboro are different than those of Savannah, and that the ways to grow the economy of Bulloch County are different than those for Bartow County.

McCollar is seeking the District 156 seat currently held by Rep. Butch Parrish (R-Swainsboro), who has served in the Georgia General Assembly since 1984. In 2006, he switched to being a Republican after serving the district for more than 20 years as a Democrat.

A graduate of Statesboro High School, McCollar earned a Bachelor's degree in History and a Masters degree in Public Administration from Georgia Southern University. He is very proud to be a certified Georgia educator, and he currently oversees the operations of 11 programs that assist at-risk students seeking graduation.

McCollar has dedicated his life to being a public servant, working tirelessly in the community as an educator, volunteer coach, community organizer and youth mentor. He has been instrumental in developing a program that helps adults obtain their dreams of high school graduation, as well as a program that prepares youth for the American workforce.

The rally is open to public, and McCollar hopes all interested citizens in the district come out and share their thoughts, concerns and ideas with him.  For more information, please contact Jonathan McCollar at 912-414-2292, or jonathanmccollar@yahoo.com [1], or visit www.jonathanmccollar.com [2].