Woman at Center of LFO Cheerleader Controversy Says She Didn't "Complain" About Signs

The woman at the center of the LFO Cheerleader controversy steps forward.

Donna Jackson says she was trying to prevent community division.

But at least one cheerleader questions her motive and says her own patriotic opinions are already on the record.

Over the speakers in Gregory Hathaway's home studio Lauren Suddeth's voice rings. "Thank you Lord for giving us this beauty in life."

Three months after the LFO Cheerleader recorded those words her cheerleading squad is in the middle of a separation of church and state controversy.

Last week the school system banned the cheerleaders' "inspirational/Bible Verse" banners after a call was placed to the superintendent.

Lauren says, "I know that people have different beliefs. But we're kids and I don't understand how someone did that and I just think the song will uplift people's spirits and let them know there's still hope in this country."

Lauren says the song is about faith and love of country.

Gregory Hathaway wrote the song.

He says he couldn't help but think of it when he heard the controversy over the cheerleaders' signs, "I think the same people that are criticizing it are the same people that have to place their hand on the Bible if they're testifying in court."

But the woman at the center of the debate says there was no criticism...

In a statement released by WAAK radio Donna Jackson says, "I called the superintendent with the hope of heading off the type of community division that hasty actions have now caused."

Jackson says her children attended Lake View Fort Oglethorpe and she doesn't have a problem with Bible verses displayed in public.

Lauren says, "If she thought that the signs weren't a problem I don't understand why she pursued the fact, I don't understand."

In the statement Jackson says she never complained, and only raised concerns after a law class taken at Liberty University.

In the meantime the community is rallying around the cheerleaders.

Lauren says she hopes the song will inspire more to support the "Bible Verse Banner" tradition.

While her song continues, "More than anything else I want to thank You myself for giving us this land today, USA."

Tune into WDEF News 12 at 11 to hear more from Donna Jackson.