Clayton.Talk

By Whatever

June 23, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

I was at the Lovejoy town hall. Wasn’t impressed, they didn’t answer quite a few direct questions and Thompson declaring himself our “permanent superintendent” based on some georgia law worried me based on what drama he’s caused since he got here. All we can do is “wait and see” unfortunately and pray our kids don’t suffer any more than they already have. If I could afford too I’d take my kids out of CCPS and I haven’t ruled that possibilty out yet.

By anonymously anonymous

June 23, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Dr. Glenn Dowell posted on a previous topic:

By Glenn Dowell

June 20, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

To “anonymously anonymous”, aka a “nobody” probably in real life and similar bloggers who have linked me to “Trotter” and others;

Get your facts straight:

Be a “man” or “woman” and go to my website voteforglenndowell.com and make me out of liar in terms of who the best candidate is for District six;

The only arsenal that you detractors have is an alleged relationship that I have with John Trotter. You advance this asinine premise because your candidates “(puppets)” will lose the 6th district election;

Your ranting and raving against any qualified candidate in favor of your intellectually immature candidates is transparent-you are not interested in any qualified candidate, you are interested in a board member that has undergone a frontal lobodomy. I am not the one;

You are right in one sense. Candidates this time will not be elected entirely on endorsements. This includes the endorsements done by CCEA or more correctly, by “Sid Chapman”. In that I went through the interview process with “CCEA” and the “Board of Realtors”, I can say without any equivocation that “Sid Chapman” is no less a danger to Clayton County Schools than “Trotter”. Sid Chapman knows full well that I would not allow “any” entity, CCEA or MACE to unduly influence the Board of Education when I am elected;

With respect to my receiving money as a vendor to the school system, I am a “Federal No Child Left Behind Provider”. I can operate in many counties as a vendor. If it is determined that I should stop being a vendor when I am elected, I will desist being a Clayton County provider. If you want evidence concerning my credentials in this area, go to my website to see what other counties say about my services in the area of education “(YOU ARE AFRAID-YOU WOULD MUST RATHER REST ON YOUR LIES IN THIS BLOG;”

I am also not a lobbyist. I was a consultant to “Community Education Partners (CEP)” In terms of the choices for the best alternative school program for Clayton County when this program bid for services last year, CEP was the best program. The one that was recommended over CEP had major flaws. “Liar”, if CEP comes up when I am elected, I will recuse myself from any deliberations relating to their being a future vendor; and

Your lying has no conscience. You have even accused me in this blog of embezzlement of monies from the Rainbow House. You “LIAR”. I have never worked for the Rainbow House. It was a woman who stole more than $500,000 from that agency. It was reported in the county’s local paper. The Executive Director, “Phil Koins” was unscathed;

“You Liar”. You even referenced a biased article written by a Clayton News Daily reporter concerning my former financial costing my agency nearly a quarter of a million dollars in an attempt to cast dispersions on my reputation. The fact of the matter is that even the publisher of that paper admitted that the reporter may have gone too far in his reporting the incident. The problem was with the former financial officer-“you liar.” If I had misappropiated any money I would be in jail. You are such a “liar” that “you”, faced with the truth will continue to lie.

I truly feel sorry for you. The only existence you have is adopting another identify because in real life you are truly “nobody.”

“YOU CAN BE SAVED-TELL THE TRUTH- YOU LIAR”. BY THE WAY, I DO NOT GIVE A HECK IF YOU OR SIMILAR DISPOSED BLOGGERS VOTE FOR ME AS THE 6TH DISTRICT CANDIDATE. “GET A LIFE”

GLENN DOWELL, Ed.D.

Dr. Dowell, you are correct in that I do not have any first-hand information of improprieties on your part concerning Rainbow House, or any other enterprise. I do apologize for impugning your reputation with my remarks. However, I do have first-hand knowledge of your relationship with John Trotter, and your regular communications with him. I also have first-hand knowledge that John Trotter has abused this blog to create a malicious rumor against Eddie White, then influenced a current board member, Michelle Strong, to ensure that Mr. White had knowledge of his assault. As a result of this action, Mr. White resigned his position leaving the 6th district seat open. Which district seat of the BOE are you running for again? I find this all a little too convenient. How soon after taking office will you be repaying your good friend, Trotter, for helping you acquire your new position?

Sir, your ego alone is more than enough for me to speak out against your election. Citizens of this county are frankly quite tired of politicians behaving as if they are better than the nobodies that they are supposed to be serving. Most of the people in this county are just like me. You don’t know our names or our faces. We get up each day and go to work, pay our taxes, and send our children to public school hoping that the public servants charged with their education has their best interests at heart. Sir, I am sure you have helped many with your empowerment program and I will not deny that you have excellent qualifications. But, it is integrity that is most important to the citizens of this county when choosing our public officials, closely followed by qualifications. You are NOT the best candidate for the district 6 seat on the BOE.

John Askew for District 6 Diana Nicholson for District 5

By catlady

June 23, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Kimberly what do you say about the abysmal turnout (150) at the candidate forum last night? Does not sound like the 60,000 students of CCS have much of a chance, does it? And what about those taxpayers and business owners who were frothing at the mouth a couple of months ago? And what about “anything to help our kids” that we heard out of so many?

By TM

June 23, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

I too am concerned about Dr. Dowell. Particularly after reading his publication that someone linked on the previous blog. He may have qualifications but we certainly don’t need his type of character on our Board. He seems very vindictive and backstabbing when things don’t go his way. Much like those we have now.

Does anyone know the status of our Ethics Committee and the guidelines and procedures for filing, receiving and processing ethics complaints? Will this process be completed and in place BEFORE new candidates take office? We don’t need to go through what we are now.

By The Source

June 23, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Over the last few months, The Source has observed and followed the candidates (VERY CLOSELY) who are making their bid for the school board. It is our intention to endorse the following:

District 2 -Lindsey McDaniel III, District 3-Tammie Hardy, District 4-Deverick Williams, District 5-Diana Nicholson, Distrcit 6-Mary Baker, District 7-C. Denese Sampson, and District 8 - Ed Rigdon.

These candidates have exemplified what we think as important qualities needed to restore our educational system in the county.

If any voter in the county is really concerned about moving away from the behavior we currently have, then we highly suggest at The Source, that you reconsider your vote if you are thinking of voting for any of the following:

District 3 - Jessie Goree; District 4-Michael King, District 4 - Milton Mack, and District 6- Glen Dowell.

All of these candidates bring a wealth of knowledge and experience; however, they also bring controversy and combative behavior into the equation, and we as a community can not afford to make a lateral move at this point.

The Source - closer to the election than most realize.

By Researcher2

June 23, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

This is my first time on a blog but I have been attending the forums on a regular basis. I agree with some of the information said about the cadidates.

I live in the sixth district and there is no way that I will vote for Mary Baker. She is closely aligned with the Lake Spivey Group, including some attorneys who see her as a patsy that can be manipulated for their personal gain. She was pathetic at the Atlanta ConStitution/WSB-TV forum last night. Give her an audience and she will repeat the same script crap she repeats at all the forums. Everyone is tired of her mock trial crap that she recites assuming that this will cause her to appear smart. I hope all the voters know that we need more than another flunky on the board whose only qualification is that she has attended a lot of board meeting: so has the friendly custodian who opens and closes the building for each meeting.

I am looking at John Askew or Glenn Dowell for district six.

I did my research on Dowell and he does not appear to care what is said in this blog and has challenged everybody to make him out of a liar.

My research revealed that he was fired from the Atlanta Board of Education for having a school board member arrested. He had tenure from what I discovered and the termination was a moot issue. Dowell prevailed with the State Board of Education and won a substantial sum of money as a result of the stupidity of the Atlanta System. The legal document indicated he could have continued in his old job but chose not to do so.

I also went on his website and discovered that he helped some county get off probation under the No Child Left Behind Act.

On another subject, I like the Georgia State University guy who is running for the Board of Education. He should not care that he was not endorsed by Sid Chapman’s CCEA group. People are now seeing Chapman for what he is: the overseer of a lot of teachers who do not know any better. Chapman is just as dangerous to the schools as is John Trotter.

The following is my list of buffoons and people who if elected could possibly be a conduit for enabling their handlers (masters) to pimp the public: 1. Mary Baker (aligned with attorneys currently doing business with school system and is just dumb) 2. Eldrin Bell 3. Jonathan Newton (does not have a mind of his own) 4. Damont Davis-maybe 5. Tracy Graham Lawson (scares me)

I also am tired of this racial crap on the blog-vote for the best candidate.

SEE YA!!!

Note: I have observed that anonymously anonymous * in this blog appears to be unduly fixated on Dowell who is clearly in the lead in the six District race: are you *gay anonymously anonymous?

By anonymously anonymous

June 23, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Researcher2 - What the h*?!!!

Why would you make the assumption that I am a man, STUPID?!?

I’m sorry Dr. Dowell. Your ego has yet again failed you. I don’t go for wrinkled, old egomaniacs, like you and Dr. Trotter!! And if I did, then I couldn’t possibly be GAY! Wow, you talk about me being immature!

By anonymously anonymous

June 23, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Concerned Husband,

I am a voter. Not a candidate. I am also a mother, and I am not in the least seeing that your wife is bringing “TRUE” leadership. She is another of Trotter’s misguided and deluded puppets. I’m sure she began with the best of intentions, but she, just like all of MACE’s members, has been deceived.

By raja

June 23, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Concerned Husband, your wife is an elected official so you can forget that, her name will be mention. Also, her characater is already screwed, she will never be elected to anything else in this county.

By Larry OKeeffe

June 23, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

To TM

Regarding the Ethics Commission created by HB1302

House Bill 1302 Sec. 7 states “This Act shall become effective upon its approval by the Governor or upon its becoming law without such approval”

House Bill 1302 was signed into law by Governor Perdue on the 30th of April 2008.

Sec. 4(2) states “Before the commission is established, the delegation shall determine whether all members of the commission shall be residents of Clayton County or whether all such members shall be selected from outside the county. Once such decision is made, it shall be irrevocable and may be changed only by legislation.”

It is my understanding that the delegation met and determined that the members of the commission shall be residents of Clayton County.

Sec. 4(3) states “The members of the delegation should make their initial nominations within 30 days after the effective date of this Act, and the delegation shall vote on the first members of the commission within 60 days after the effective date of this Act.”

It is my understanding that the delegation is in the final stages of the nomination / voting process.

Sec. 5 states “The board shall provide for a mandatory training program for persons who are elected or reelected to the board and to persons who are newly appointed to the commission. Such training shall be completed within 60 days of such election, reelection, or appointment. The training program shall include an explanation of the prohibitions contained in Section 2 of this Act and the practices and procedures contained in Section 4 of this Act. The board may contract with an institution of the University System of Georgia or any certified institution or individual qualified to perform such training, and the cost shall be borne by the Clayton County School System. No appointed member of the commission shall be eligible to participate in any function of the council until he or she has completed such training program.”

This implies that it could be as early as July or as late as September before the Ethics Commission is fully constituted.

I hope this answers your question.

Larry OKeeffe

By TM

June 23, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Thank you, Mr. OKeeffe. This does answer my question. I appreciate the response and the work moving our County forward.

By District 1 Voter

June 23, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Concerned Husband,

I live in your district and would like to know where this character, leadership, and professionalism were in the beginning. I saw none from A. Michelle Strong.

It’s easy to do what’s expected when the stadium is full and all spectators are watching. TRUE character and leadership is doing the same when it’s empty, the lights are off, and noone is around. Perhaps you should take notes. Leadership? I don’t think so.

By Frederick Johns

June 23, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Kimberly now you are shoveling sh… on the taxpayers and citizens. what line of communications are you refering to with the corrective superintendent. The meetings I went too were not well attended and he was very condescending to the parents. Do you know the meaning of communications?

do not dilute the integrity of your blogs. the new “corrective” superintendent is an embarrassment. I just read where he and Eldrin Bell talk all the time. Now there has got to be something fishy here. The Commission and the School Board are seperate.

Oh I see it is election time and Bell has done nothing to improve the quality of life of the citizens. I guess he has to pretend tht he has something to do with saving our accredittion. Voters do not be fooled by this Bell game. He has not and can not do anyting to save our accreditation.

We need to question the association between Bell and Thompson? Did Bell bring him in here? Why was there a rush to hire this man?

By Michael

June 23, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

We have Trotter and Chapman. We have Thompson and Strong. We have a dysfunctional Board of Education. We have more candidates than Carter had peanuts. However, I haven’t heard a word about how we plan on improving the education of the students in this county. We are graduating and promoting kids that can’t read and write. They can’t put together a logical thought process. They can’t reconcile a bank statement/checkbook. Many of them can’t speak understandable english.

Can we please get away from this character assassination mindset and get to figuring out how to best educate the children and youth of this county so that Clayton County High School graduates are ranked as the best and brightest in the nation?

By Realistic

June 23, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

I believe Thompson and Bell collaborate re: the ethics policies, correct? I remember seeing that in the PPT as next steps - slide 9. I believe Thompson and Bell should be communicating. It’s in both their best interests.

By Clayton Taxpayer

June 23, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Supporters of Glenn Dowell must realize they are supporting our Sheriff Victor Hill as well since Dowell considers that Victor Hill will one day be known as the greatest public servant in the history of Clayton County.

Someone who could make such a statement about the Demented Dwarf Sheriff Walking Small is not anyone I want associated with the education of our children.

By JDR

June 23, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

And don’t forget that he believes Cynthia McKinney is a “heroine”

what is he smoking?

By JDR

June 23, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

FINALLY I went to a candidates forum last night (thanks AJC & WSB.) While the question and answer portion was informative (I did listen to most of the candidates from other districts, as well as my own that took time to show up), I especially enjoyed speaking with them one-on-one.

In my opinion, that is where the rubber meets the road. In the course of conversation, it’s interesting to see how people interact. Some are clearly more knowledgeable than others, some are clearly more sincere than others. One of them is a hot mess.

Sadly, not one of them is the “total package.” While one was most knowledgeable, her handshake was like shaking a fish - scary. I also have questions about her political associations. (We are judged by the company we keep.) Another seemed very put-together and informed, but faded into the woodwork when another candidate began speaking on a topic with authority. A leader? Not sure. A third seemed a bit disingenuous - talked a lot but didn’t really say much. A fourth candidate - I really related to - not a politician, sincerely wants to serve his community, but not too organized and didn’t seem to make much of an effort to sell himself - perhaps due to the aversion to politics. I really appreciated that and really like the guy. But he wasn’t organized, didn’t have written materials (not even a 1 page fact sheet), didn’t speak on the panel or even show up on time. I question whether he really wants this or not and maybe that’s why I liked him. Not sure if the slack approach is the best one, tho. The last candidate didn’t really try to speak to voters, other than a “hi, vote for me - hee hee hee.” Not a serious contender.

To be quite honest, it’s a tough choice for me. I didn’t realize how difficult it would be. I thought that I could just go to the forum, listen to their comments, shake their hands and engage them in conversation and read them like a book. Not exactly.

Confession time: Being an informed voter is a tough job! Unfortunately, most people do not realize this and are not willing to do their homework. That’s the most scary part. I don’t know if Clayton County could withstand another shakeup in the political arena that leads us further away from leadership that is competent, and has integrity and a true vision for our county.

Although a person of faith, I am not one to mix religion and politics. But I do pray that I make the right decisions when I tap on that touchscreen. I also hope and pray that others will take the time to learn and take this responsibility seriously.

I intentionally left out which district I’m in and which candidates I assessed and how they fared with me, because it’s a personal decision that each of us has to make. If you ask me my honest opinion, I’ll give it to you. However, that is not the point of this post… I just wanted to relate to all of those who follow this little tome that we have an awesome responsibility in less than one month. This is everyone’s future at stake. GET EDUCATED!!! If you don’t bother to learn about who you are voting for, then don’t bother bringing down the collective IQ of the electorate by voting at all.

By HOPEFUL

June 23, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

“We will have to repent in this generation in Clayton county not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people.”

By THE COUNCIL

June 23, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Now more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of Clayton County government. If the County government is ignorant, reckless and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness and corruption. The man who reads nothing at all is better educated than the man who reads nothing but newspapers.

By CCBOE 1998

June 23, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

“No man or woman will ever bring out of a term on the Clayton County school board the reputation which carries him into it. To me personally, it brings nothing but increasing drudgery and daily loss of friends.”

By Be Gone

June 23, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

KLAN TRAP (aka Trotter and professional racebaiter) -

Your gimmicks don’t work anymore. You’re history in this county. You refused to clean up your act, so we’re breaking your act in two for you. Adios payaso.

By Old White Lady

June 23, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Two White Men, John Trotter (MACE) and Sid Chapman (GAE) destroyed the school board and school system, in a fight for Money and Power. All candidates associated with them are poison. A lot of the new candidates are Baker, Rigdon, Dowell all the white ones. OK, Clayton can you say SACS #3 in 2009.

By Funny 2 Me

June 23, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Funny 2 me how everybody that disagrees with GETB members or a white person who makes a racist remark, that person is called John Trotter. That is as bad as, Christians saying the devil made me do it. That is, so Funny 2 me.

By Mary

June 24, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

Is A Mitchell’s husband defending her or his JOB with CCPS?

By Tired

June 24, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

I was at the AJC WSB meeting and, I live in Aleika Anderson district and am voting for her. I believe that She is better suited than Ed to support our children. She is in the class room and deal with our kids and know their needs. Being a professor at a college does not mean you are qualified in anyway to know what is best for our kids. Mr. Rigdon does not impress me at all. If you notice, he never directly answer your questions and, make jokes about thing. Our County is no laughing matter. Let’s do our homework.

By CCWHOA IS NO GOOD

June 24, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

The Clayton Countywide Homeowners Association is the most corrupt, underhanded group in the county. Cinnomon’s hidden agenda is dangerous. She is a maniac! She told me she will control county politics in three years and i don’t care if she knows who I am.

By catlady

June 24, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

NOW the grossly overpaid and overpowered supt admits that SACS accreditation is unlikely! What a surprise! Wake up, Clayton County! Hello, is anybody home?

By anonymously anonymous

June 24, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

The only reason he has so much power is because the board wants him to take the fall for the loss of accreditation. But, he’s not stupid. He knows they are just as likely to take the fall as him so he’s just going to ride the gravy train as long as possible.

By anonymously anonymous

June 24, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

The only reason he has so much power is because the board wants him to take the fall for the loss of accreditation. But, he’s not stupid. He knows they are just as likely to take the fall as him so he’s just going to ride the gravy train as long as possible.

By As I see It

June 24, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

You would think the baffoons on our Board would have listened to everyone, including the one who will be determining our accreditation status when they all said, “HE IS NOT QUALIFIED”!! What did they not understand about this? Idiots. Was there anyone other than the Board who agreed he could do the job?

You know people, we have the same mentality in a few offices now and if we are not smart by eliminating them, the same types of problems will/continue to occur. These include Victor Hill and Jewel Scott. We have a very good Clerk of the Court in Linda Miller. Do not make the same mistake we made with Bob Keller in getting rid of something that is not broken just to make a change. And DO NOT vote Lee Scott in. Eldrin has not done what I had hoped but Lee Scott will take us so far downhill that it will take decades to come back.

By Kimberly Allen

June 24, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

The Concerned Citizens of Clayton County in collaboration with the Clayton County Council of PTAs will be hosting a Board of Education District 6 Meet and Greet on Tuesday, June 24th at 6:30pm at the *Jim Huie Recreation Center, 9045 Tara Blvd, Jonesboro *

By catlady

June 24, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Kimberly I am assuming you have been to all these town hall meetings. How about giving us a rundown on how many citizens attended each one?

By anonymously anonymous

June 24, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Not that I’m endorsing one over the other, but in defense of Mr. Rigdon. He is not a politician, but a professor. He is used to making planned and prepared speeches on topics that he is well-versed. When you see him dodge questions and make jokes, it could be that he has not researched or given a lot of thought to the topic. Making jokes maybe his way of dealing with pressure and nervousness.

By Kimberly Allen

June 24, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

I have only attended 2 of the 3, but it’s just my opinion that there should have been more residents in attendance. Although at the Lovejoy town hall, Thompson said more people came out than he expected to. My guesstimate is about 150-200 showed up that Saturday. The initial public outcry doesn’t seem match the turnout. I usually see the same faces at each accreditation/BOE meeting I’ve attended.

Perhaps some residents have already made up their minds about the current regime and are just waiting for July 15? Or maybe the turnout is due to the timing/location(s)/lack of advertising for these forums? I don’t know.

Kim Allen

By GT

June 24, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Tired,

We need a highly diverse Board this time around across all aspects (expertise, backgrounds, gender, race, employment, etc.). Mr. Rigdon is not in my District but I have done my research on all candidates and will offer this perspective that perhaps some may have not thought about.

One of the essential necessities of a successful school system is the development and maintanence of a strong relationship and ties within the system, to the community, and to the business community in and outside of our County. Our current community relationship to the school board is severely fractured and our relationships to the business community is even worse.

In my opinion, there is no one better qualified running for the Board of Education to assist in putting some shape around how to repair these ties to the community than Dr. Rigdon. He has a tremendous wealth of experience strengthening these and he has been succesful doing it for many years. He’s responsible for it at GSU.

I believe his influence, perspective, and expertise will be invaluable to our school board as they make decisions.

By Unfortunately Clayton Resident

June 24, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

I concur with As I See It. Great comment!

By Registered Voter

June 24, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

My vote is for William Hill in District 6. He has the experience and ethics to lead in difficult times. He is a voice of reason and a beacon of hope for Clayton County. Despite being misquoted by a aloof reporter John Hollis (who prints his own version of things versus the actual truth)on yesterday William Hill is not entangled in the dysfunctional web of confusion and self serving allegiances that some of the other candidates have wrapped themselves up in. www.electwilliamhill.com

By WTF?

June 24, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

To A. Michelle Strong’s husband … What exactly has your wife done? As a resident in District 1 if we can’t get a recall going (the idea is not dead yet so don’t get comfortable) I will patiently wait until 2010 to vote her out.

I hope District 1 residents don’t forget all the damage A. Michelle Strong has caused (with the help of the others on the board during her term) and will vote her OUT of office if for no other reason than she started her term as a Trotter flunkie/supporter.

and if anyone has information on the district 1 recall, please post that here. some residents want her gone NOW especially since she has jumped out of the frying pan (i.e., Ericka Davis) and into the fire (i.e., John Thompson) by giving him that absolutely ridiculous contract and allowing him free reign over our school system. How much is it gonna cost for us to get rid of this “corrective” superintendent? The only thing he has corrected since he’s been here is the balance in his bank account and his tax sheltered annuity because whether we retain accreditation or not, he gets paid.

By Bob Hartley

June 24, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Now that Mr. Thompson has pretty much threw in the towel and declared that our school accreditation situation is “hopeless,” I urge every remaining school board member to resign immediately. At this point we have 70 days before accreditaion is lost. If the school board resigns now, a compelling argument can be made to SACS that the “fataly flawed” school board has steped down and at least santion probation or warning status. Even the recall effort won’t be completed in 70 days.

The BOE members must listen to any and all voices of reasoning, intestinal fortitude and have the courage to do what is right by the children and citizens of this county and step out of the way of progress.BOE members, Do what you know is right Step down. Why are you holding on? What are you holding on to? YOU MUST realize your actions are harmful to the economic outlook of this county. Your own hire, Dr. Thompson has echoed what EVERYONE has already said. This board can’t function.

By Petey

June 24, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

Dr. Thompson held a news conference Tuesday to dispute a newspaper report that quoted him as saying his system had a “slim” chance of retaining its accreditation. It’s back on!

http://www.11alive.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=117704&catid=40

By Lil Black Sambo

June 24, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

Bill Cosby said it best when he said, “You can turn painful situations around through laughter. If you can find humor in anything, even poverty, you can survive it. AJC, Megan is trying to scare the Black population about accreditation. Megan is using the same SCARE TACTICS about accreditation to frighten the Black people as the Republicans will use in November. The Republicans will use The TERRORIST are coming, The TERRORIST to frighten the population into voting for McCain. Just like Bill said we Black Folk will find humor in everything, we’re even laughing the AJC with this THREAT. This TACTIC by Megan is to SCARE Black Folk into VOTING for White Folk in the upcoming elections. Mandingo Warrior said a few days ago that we, Clayton County resident have some forces living amongst us really working to ENSURE we “Don’t” keep accreditation. Yes, those same people with all the MONEY, The White Folk, who else can BUY this kind of MEDIA Coverage. Here’s some wise advice for Newspaper. Common-sense in an uncommon degree is what the world calls wisdom. The wise Black people get more use from their enemies than a fool from his friends.” Even Your boy, Thomas Jefferson said, “The man who reads Nothing at all is better educated than the man who reads Nothing but NEWSPAPER.” Black Folk don’t read your paper NOHOW!!!!!

Old White Lady told you yesterday that, Two White Men, John Trotter (MACE) and Sid Chapman (GAE) destroyed the school board and school system, in a fight for Money and Power.

By Power to the People

June 24, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Bob Hartley stop being an Idiot,” the Negro needs the white man to free him from his fears. The white man needs the Negro to free him from his guilt.” Dumbazz, stop believing those White Folk, silly Half-Negro.

“The gap between those who worship different gods is not as wide as the gap between those who worship and those who don’t.” “Ethical religion can be real only to those who are engaged in ceaseless efforts at moral improvement. By moving upward we acquire faith in an upward movement, without limit.” I see you in church; Bob Hartley has no ethics you takes up the congregations “Tides and Offerings” go to the back of the church and steal the money to pay his House Note and Truck Note. You’re not Religious, You’re Crooked. Being religious means asking passionately the question of the meaning of our existence and being willing to receive answer, even if the answer hurt; I have asked that question and received the answer; my purpose is to expose Lairs, Thieves, Crooks, and Prostitute Preachers like you Bob Hartley aka A Child of God. Your purpose in life is to be flunky for the white man, an Uncle Tom and a Thief. At least you know your role in life. Go clean up the Outhouse, Boy, and don’t forget to take out that stinky slop jar.

By THE COUNCIL OF BLACK

June 24, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Bob Hartley stop being an Idiot,” the Negro needs the white man to free him from his fears. The white man needs the Negro to free him from his guilt.” Dumbazz, stop believing those White Folk, silly Half-Negro “The gap between those who worship different gods is not as wide as the gap between those who worship and those who don’t.” “Ethical religion can be real only to those who are engaged in ceaseless efforts at moral improvement. By moving upward we acquire faith in an upward movement, without limit.” I see you in church; Bob Hartley has no ethics you takes up the congregations “Tides and Offerings” go to the back of the church and steal the money to pay his House Note and Truck Note. You’re not Religious, You’re Crooked. Being religious means asking passionately the question of the meaning of our existence and being willing to receive answer, even if the answer hurt; I have asked that question and received the answer; my purpose is to expose Lairs, Thieves, Crooks, and Prostitute Preachers like you Bob Hartley aka A Child of God. Your purpose in life is to be flunky for the white man, an Uncle Tom and a Thief. At least you know your role in life. Go clean up the Outhouse, Boy, and don’t forget to take out that stinky slop jar.

By Mandigo Warrior

June 24, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Bob Hartley,Common-sense in an uncommon degree is what the world calls wisdom. The wise Black people get more use from their enemies than a fool from his friends.” Silly man You fool You Bob Hartley is hurting this county’s chances of keeping accreditation more than anything else even your silly White HOE at the Newspaper Friend.

By Mandigo Warrior

June 24, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Bob Hartley,Common-sense in an uncommon degree is what the world calls wisdom. The wise Black people get more use from their enemies than a fool from his friends.” Silly man You fool You Bob Hartley is hurting this county’s chances of keeping accreditation more than anything else even your silly White HOE at the Newspaper Friend.

By Maude

June 24, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

To compare Sid Chapman with John Trotter is STUPID. Chapman is nothing like Trotter. Do your research before you print lies!!!

By CURIOUS1

June 24, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

I am curious, my understanding is that Victor Hill was arrested this week-end in Fayetteville. Does anyone know what happened and about that? He has once again embrassed us and trying to keep it hush hush!!!

By Attn: Clayton Parents

June 24, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Maude,

You’re right about Trotter and Chapman. It’s Sid Chapman, not John Trotter who is earning years toward Teacher Retirement as a “teacher” who does not teach, but rather sits in a union office. And what pays for Teachers Retirement? YOUR taxes.

By Whatever

June 24, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

Curious one, I also heard Victor Hill got arrested over the weekend in Fayetteville. Can it be true? Why isn’t the media all over this? Somebody please confirm!

By TH

June 25, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

If Victor was arrested, I don’t think you’d need to be asking the question. It would be front page material.

By Tired

June 25, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Not really. I believe it is hush hush. I have other ways of finding out which I am going to check.

By JDR

June 25, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Where’s the Mole? Shouldn’t this warrant a “Mole Update”?

By CURIOUS 1

June 25, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

O.K. mole, do your work!!!!!

By catlady

June 25, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Kimberly thanks for your reply. For something affecting so many people, there seems to be little interest in being informed (which may be what got CC into this position before)? I would think, with students, taxes, and property values hanging in the balance these forums/meetings would be OVERRUN with citizens.

Many of the posts to this blog seem to be of the “Yeah, your mother!” variety. That is not helpful to the issues at hand, IMHO.

I am afraid, even worse than what has already transpired, is what is waiting to transpire for the folks of CC, given this apparent lack of interest.

By maxx4955

June 25, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

I am a 1st timer here. I have however been very amused by the constant negativity, smears and outright racial bigotry on this message board. I am resident of Clayton County and I too would love to see this county rise above its’ current tragic political situation. I’m under the opinion that this didn’t happen overnight. I myself never gave any thought to the school board. I always figured it was just common sense to do the right thing by children…period. I guess my figuring was wrong. How do you screw a school board up? How do single handedly hold an entire county hostage and walk around blameless without body armor and no security to protect you…and then smile and pretend you had nothing to do with this pathic embarrasing mess of a situation. No accountibility for these individuals. Shame on all of us. I believe we’re all at fault. We fell asleep at the wheel and blamed the car. Ask yourselves, who really has the answers to Clayton County’s internal problems? No one on this blog I can tell you. But then again, maybe so. I’ve been taught long ago, when you point the finger at someone…there’s always 3 pointing right back at you. I myself will admit to my apathy. I have pledge to my children and myself…never again will I sit by and say and do nothing. Oh, and by the way…to the candidates that come on this blog…I strongly suggest you stop…It makes you look bad…There’s no need in trying to justify your positions to armchair couch potatos who sit and peck on their computers looking to stir the pot of division…because if they really had solutions…don’t you think they would be running for a political office to help bring about change? I think not.

By anonymously anonymous

June 25, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Maybe Victor did something to the Mole, and that was why he was arrested!!!

By Greg L.

June 25, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

I agree with Max. No good comes from this blog. If you are here and are not at the commissioners meetings nor the school boards meetings, then you are doing this county no good. Anyone reading this should understand that this blog has turned into an avenue for certain individuals to destry this county. It must be for one of two reasons: Either for personal gain or for revenge.

By First Thing Smoking

June 25, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

I don’t care what happens to the school board or this pitiful pathetic ghetto of a county because I’ve enrolled my daughter in private school and will actively try to rent my house to someone from Bowen Homes ASAP. I will be on the first thing smoking once that occurs and hopefully I can unload the house on some uninformed Northerner who just wants to move down South and hasn’t heard of Clayton County.

Nothing will change and Clayton County is and will always be the trashcan of the metro Atlanta area. This stigma has stuck and the only saving grace will be “gas price” motivated gentrification or state backed intervention resulting in a total purge of all the parasites and opportunist who currently hold public office. Our current politicians are having a field day down here because the majority of the residents are uneducated, unread, uninformed, unmotivated fourth generation ghetto/food stamp mentality who will never hold anyone accountable for their actions except the folks at the beauty shop, nail salon, rim/tire store, or welfare office. They are having a grand time at the public trough and you won’t hear a word from their constituents unless the public assistance checks cease or the free lunches stop. These blogs, forums, and discussions are pointless because the majority of the evidence supports that no one cares.

By Clayton Co Teacher

June 25, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Sid Chapman’s pay comes from the dues of his members. It says that on their web site. Not one cent of tax money either.

I would like to know how many people go the the meetings. It does not seem to be very many. I live in a district that will vote in November. So far, I have not met very many who seem like a good choice. After the elections we may not be any better off than we are now.

By Candidates on TV

June 26, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

If you are like me and because of work schedule or transportation issues were unable to make the public forums held in recent weeks, here is your chance to become educated before the election.

The Clayton County Democratic Party is sponsoring televised forums on the Comcast local access channel 25 starting tonight from 7pm to 9pm.

The forums will air every Tuesday and Thursday until the July 15th election.

“The pre-recorded shows will feature candidates for all Clayton races, including the 31 Democrats running for school board and five Democrats running for sheriff.”

Please pass this information along to anyone you know who will be voting in the July 15th election. Every single Clayton County voter now has the opportunity to make informed choices at the polls.

By inside man

June 26, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

First of all, what the hell do you Bob Hartley know about anything. Stick to making signs and robbing people. How’s that disfunctional family of yours. By the way a friend of mine will be looking to buy that nice house that you couldn’t afford.

By tax payer

June 26, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

On July 15th I will voting for all mexicans in Clayton to stop working for Rosa Barbee. I also will vote for Bob Hartley to move out of Clayton, oh can’t afford it, well I hear that ATLANTA has a hood for you.

By Tones

June 26, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

GT,

That is a very good perspective. I never thought about it that way. We do need those relatioships back, that’s for sure. I also think Mr. Rigdon is a critical thinker, an analyzer, and those skills are needed very badly. I just may change my vote now.

By GT

June 24, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Tired,

We need a highly diverse Board this time around across all aspects (expertise, backgrounds, gender, race, employment, etc.). Mr. Rigdon is not in my District but I have done my research on all candidates and will offer this perspective that perhaps some may have not thought about.

One of the essential necessities of a successful school system is the development and maintanence of a strong relationship and ties within the system, to the community, and to the business community in and outside of our County. Our current community relationship to the school board is severely fractured and our relationships to the business community is even worse.

In my opinion, there is no one better qualified running for the Board of Education to assist in putting some shape around how to repair these ties to the community than Dr. Rigdon. He has a tremendous wealth of experience strengthening these and he has been succesful doing it for many years. He’s responsible for it at GSU.

I believe his influence, perspective, and expertise will be invaluable to our school board as they make decisions.

By anonymously anonymous

June 26, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

In spite of all the lies, hatred, and race-baiting, the truth is within the content of this blog. Miss Kimberly and the AJC have provided us with an excellent outlet for self-expression. Unfortunately, some wish to abuse this blog for their own purposes and selfish gain. They have learned along the way that this blog was not designed to serve their purpose, and therefore, they cannot control the beast. Some bloggers have come too close to the truth, and the deceivers would love nothing more now than to just shut it down.

Believe what you will and say what you like. It is your right to do so.

By JDR

June 26, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

“Everybody complains about politicians. Everybody says they suck. Well, where do people think these politicians come from? They don’t fall out of the sky. They don’t pass through a membrane from another reality. They come from American parents and American families, American homes, American schools, American churches, American businesses and American universities, and they are elected by American citizens. This is the best we can do folks. This is what we have to offer. It’s what our system produces: Garbage in, garbage out. If you have selfish, ignorant citizens, you’re going to get selfish, ignorant leaders. Term limits ain’t going to do any good; you’re just going to end up with a brand new bunch of selfish, ignorant Americans. So, maybe, maybe, maybe, it’s not the politicians who suck. Maybe something else sucks around here… like, the public. Yeah, the public sucks. There’s a nice campaign slogan for somebody: ‘The Public Sucks. F* Hope.’”

Did George Carlin visit Clayton County?

By anonymously anonymous

June 26, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

JDR,

With all due respect, that is exactly the kind of attitude that got us into this. Your anti-semitism falls just short of saying, “Don’t vote. Why bother?” I didn’t live in Clayton in 2004, but as I understand the voter turn out was very low. By not voting, all the votes were essentially thrown to the selfish and ignorant candidates. Let’s rally together to change this circumstance and stop condemning it. This is spilled milk, folks. Let’s clean it up.

By Tired District 8 Resident

June 26, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

I have viewed Mr. Ed Rigdon at many of the forums and especially, at the District 8 forum. I believe that Alieka Anderson is the best candidate for District 8. She is highly educated, has community ties, and has a highly diversed perspective of how to move this school system forward. At the District 8 and all the forums Mr. Rigdon acted like a clown. He truly acts like he is on some kind of medication. He is weak and I see him being nothing more than a “yes man” for the private interest groups out there. District 8 residents we do not need that. If you all could have seen Mr. Rigdon, you would have cried when you saw how incompetent he was at the District 8 forum. As a resident of District 8 it needs to be told and I am going to make sure everyone knows how much of a joke this man is. Many people have high ranking positions however, are they competent enough to do the job. Georgia State University must have given this man a job because I cannot see him leading anyone. I was disgusted at how he did not answer the questions at the forum and thinks because he works for GSU that the people of District 8 are going to be stupid enough to vote form him.

**Alieka Anderson is smart, competent, and has the expertise to move our school board in the right direction.

Vote!!! Alieka Anderson District 8 because we back Ms. Anderson in District 8.

By D

June 26, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Wow! If this is representation of who is attending the BOE meetings no wonder we aren’t getting any answers from the canidates. They have no reason to address our childrens needs because we are so busy fighting with each other here we are exhausted when it is time to hold our public officials accountable for the things they are doing and not doing. Please unite and fight the battle that will win the war.

By CC Resident

June 26, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

My vote is for William Hill in District 6; he is educated, experienced, and ethical. Very humble and passionate about serving the community on the Clayton County School Board; not arrogant or aloof. www.electwilliamhill.com

By Vote no to incumbents

June 26, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Kimberly, you posted a link a while back that told you what district you were in based on your zip code. Where can I find it?

Am I the only republican in Clayton County? Although, I vote across party lines. I’m concerned with the lack of diversity in the county.

By Concerned Parent and Homeowner

June 26, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

anonymous anonymous: Although I do not agree with him, what does anti- semitism have to do with JDR’s comment?

By Concerned Parent and Homeowner

June 26, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

anonymous anonymous:

Although I do not agree with him, what does JDR’s comment have to do with anti-semitism?

By anonymously anonymous

June 26, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

You know, when I used that word I wasn’t quite sure it applied. I thought it meant “not patriotic.” I just looked it up…

Sorry everyone! No, I’m not a blond… just a little tired.

::: so embarassed :::

By IN THE CHANGE

June 26, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Now more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of Clayton County government. If the County government is ignorant, reckless and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness and corruption. The man who reads nothing at all is better educated than the man who reads nothing but newspapers. “The most dangerous moment for a bad county government is when it begins to reform.” An oppressive government is more to be feared than a tiger.

By Pressing Issues

June 26, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

“To know what is right and not to do it is the worst cowardice.” “He who learns but does not think, is lost! He who thinks but does not learn is in great danger.”

There are a lot of people out there that know the TRUTH about this Clayton County School System, however are bound to stay silent. Please come forward with this information. NOW

By The CHRONICAL

June 26, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

SAGA OF TWO WHITE MEN AND A NUT

Two White Men, John Trotter (MACE) and Sid Chapman (GAE) destroyed the school board and school system, in a fight for Money, Power, Contracts, High Paid Administrative Jobs. All candidates associated with them are poison here’s the new candidates are Baker, Rigdon, Dowell, all the white ones and now Aleika Anderson— Hartley’s dog in the fight. OK, Let’s All you say SACS #3 in 2009. Sounds familiar Two White Men and Bob Hartley!!!!!

By The Real

June 26, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

All these Political Wannabes come on this forum talking about losing property value and foreclosed Homes and businesses being lost. Even the County Chairman said the County gained revenue and has a Balanced Budget. No rise in Property Tax. Local TV News is telling everybody about the multitude of home foreclosed all over the Metro Area and this county fared well. What are you guys talking about? All out the Dummies David Barton, Bob Hartley, Mary Baker all sound like FOOLS. These guys are Political DITWITTS and Crooks. Their motives and agenda ARE NOT in Your Children Best Interest.

By The Insider

June 27, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

Word is Eldrin Bell and Bob Hartley and their “subjects” will sue SACS soon. Should get interesting to say the least.

By Leave It To Beaver

June 27, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

By Real, Get real! If you can’t see the problems in this county than you are blind as a bat. By the way just what is their motive?

By bySome from the Past

June 27, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

IF ANYONE KNOW THE REAL MARY BAKER STAND UP!!!! Everyone knows that she doesn’t like black people. Mary was probably the one that was holding the picture of the NOOSE when Dan was fired. If you VOTE in based on her attending board meeting then Clayton you deserve whatever you get. Sound like she maybe part of the problem as well. She acts like she was working with the Mock Trail everyone know that she didn’t. She attending a pre-trail and I guess she’s an expert now. Once again she attends the meeting like she attends college in Oregon. Maybe someone needs to give her the definition of attending. That doesn’t make you an expert. Don’t get cost up with Mary pathetic performance at these forum, but I guess it’s working. If the qualification is about attending a board meeting then Clayton you’re in trouble.

By raja

June 27, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

AJC pick for Clayton Chairman

By Maureen Downey The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 06/27/08

Despite challenges from four fellow Democrats, Clayton County Chairman Eldrin Bell deserves to hold onto his job in the July 15 primary. As chairman, he has controlled both controversy and county spending. He has pushed for a stronger ethics policy and took a lead in urging the dysfunctional Clayton school board to step down.

None of Bell’s challengers build a strong case for replacing him; two of his opponents —- political rainmaker Lee Scott and former Riverdale Mayor Phaedra Graham —- would only tear the county apart.

Graham earned a reputation in Riverdale for showing up for work only to pick up her $1,200 monthly paycheck and $200 monthly automobile allowance. Apparently, it wasn’t enough to just ignore Riverdale taxpayers; she now wants to neglect an entire county and be paid handsomely to do so.

Scott seems intent on turning Clayton County into his personal fiefdom. A real estate developer, Scott relied on divisive racial politics to get his wife, Jewel Scott, elected district attorney despite her utter lack of experience in criminal law. Scott also stage-managed the election of two of the worst public servants in recent memory, Graham in Riverdale and Clayton Sheriff Victor Hill.

Because no Republican filed, the winner of the Democratic primary takes the seat.

—- Maureen Downey, for the editorial board (mdowney@ajc.com)

Vote for this story! Buzz up!

By Someone from the Present

June 27, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Some from the Past,

Here’s a little tip and perspective from another brotha, Ma Man. What are you talking about?! It’s BLACK people that don’t like black people. Don’t worry about whitey. They are the minority in this county, remember? I hear this daily: Ain’t black enough! Brotha is too light skinned! Trying to act white! Talk too good. Get too high of grades. Got a white man job. Isn’t from the hood! Ain’t keepin’ it real!

Black on black crime is through the roof. You think the white man was involved or got robbed on James Dr.? There’s a new term in Clayton County - “black collar crime”. It’s our church leadership. Fake reverends, pastors, etc. who are only out for $$ and politics.

We’ve got more problems than worrying about the white man. Our black folk got us in this SACS mess. Couldn’t think or act for themselves. Our crazy sheriff is black. We voted for a black DA who is still pretending she’s a DA. She don’t even know how to do her job. It’s our own people. Leave white Mary Baker out of it.

By WTF?

June 27, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Where was Maureen Downey when Eldrin Bell publicly claimed for MONTHS at BOC meetings prior to the CCBOE imploding, that the BOC could do nothing about the school board? She must have missed those meetings.

I watched for months as residents asked Eldrin Bell and the commissioners during public comments to get involved with the school board, and Eldrin Bell refused to do so until around December or early this year when he had no choice but to address the situation. Is Downey also on the Eldrin Bell payroll or something?

One thing I agree with her on is Eldrin Bell is the best of the worst. Nobody running against him could do a better job, unfortunately. One bonus we got in this is that Virginia Gray will NOT be a commissioner next year. Hopefully she and Charley Griswald will get married and just disappear.

Lee Scott has run for everything from commissioner to dog catcher and never wins. That should tell new Clayton voters something. Stay far far away from the Scotts and anyone they endorse. The Scotts and Victor Hill are poison to this county.

By WTF?

June 27, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

I don’t know if Someone from the Present is really black or not, but AMEN to your post except for the Mary Baker part.

I don’t know if she’s a racist or not, but based on the forums I’ve seen thus far she’s not the best or most qualified candidate in that district race, and going to every BOE meeting is expected of parents, not something that should be rewarded with a job. That district can do better than Mary Baker.

By Ain't Real

June 27, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

The Real/John Trotter, says that there are some people that are political dimwitts. I guess that may be correct compared to him. He is a masterful political manipulator. Just by his statement alone, he tried to point out to you bloggers and readers that the people he named are not capable of doing anything, but the reality is that he is intimidated by them and must resort to tearing them down. John Trotter is on these blogs and this is what he does. DO NOT BE FOOLED. Do your own research and vote for the best person for yourself, but please ensure that they are the most qualified.

Note to John Trotter: Shut the F@#% up Bi&# and get a job to pay all 3 of your mortgages on your home. Oh yeah, we know. It is on record at the courthouse. Anyone can go and see in the deeds and records office. We know you are hurting financially and you need CEP or the board to get your agenda through so you can get your kick-backs up and running again. Or to get your friends contracts so they will continue to pay for you kick-backs. We know John, We know, and soon enough you will pay for all the bad that you did to this county and the citizens and especially the kids…..Karma is a BI%$, and hell has a special place for you and your kind.

anonymously anonymous: Girl, We have our eyes on you too; Sabrina

By Nicholsonforboe

June 27, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

I wanted to let everyone know about the forum that C4 is hosting for District 5 School Board Candidates.

The format of the C4 forums is unique and affords citizens an opportunity to meet and question the candidates in a roundtable setting.

The forum will take place Monday, June 30th from 6:30 to 8 pm at the Clayton County Water Authority(1600 Battlecreek Rd.), Community Room.

Hope to see you there, Diana Nicholson

By claytonres

June 27, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

How much did Bell pay for this endorsement? You say that no one has built a case for replacing Bell. Well, what has Bell done for Clayton since he’s been here? Answer, absolutely nothing! He has claimed to care about the community and pledged to keep Operation Clean Sweep. Well, he vote against it on yesterday. As a result, Clean Sweep is gone. Try to match his contributions to Ms. Gray’s. Take a stab, try to match his contributions to Phaedra Graham!! Some of you are so against Charley Griswell. Try to match Eldrin’s contributions to the county to Charley’s.

By claytonres

June 27, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

How much did Bell pay for this endorsement? You say that no one has built a case for replacing Bell. Well, what has Bell done for Clayton since he’s been here? Answer, absolutely nothing! He has claimed to care about the community and pledged to keep Operation Clean Sweep. Well, he voted against it on yesterday. As a result, Clean Sweep is gone. Try to match his contributions to Ms. Gray’s. Take a stab, try to match his contributions to Phaedra Graham!! Some of you are so against Charley Griswell. Try to match Eldrin’s contributions to the county to Charley’s.

By www.virginiaburtongray.com

June 27, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

www.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.comwww.virginiaburtongray.com

By anonymously anonymous

June 27, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Whoa!

Ain’t Real - I wasn’t expecting that, but hey, I ain’t mad at ya or the person who told you who I am. I am exactly what Dr. Dowell says that I am, a nobody who until recently had very little interest in politics. The SACS thing got my attention, and then I found this blog. I don’t like it when innocent people are deceived and manipulated, particularly for selfish gain. Why should Trotter, Dowell, Hill, and the Scotts live like kings at the expense of Clayton county citizens and their children? I’m smart enough to see that two plus two equals four. Watch me if you want to, but anything that I do is because I think it might make the county better. After all, me and my family have to live here!

By the Shadow

June 27, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

To: Some from the Past (Researcher)

This is a LIE. Obviously from a Glenn Dowell supporter or maybe even from the man himself. Your words give you up, sir.

Voters - go out to the community forums - talk to the candidates about their plans, their history, their thoughts and ideas. Do not let their opponents define them, not here on a blog.

It is so sad - a campaign taking a page from the John Trotter and Lee Scott campaign guide. Just LIE about your opponents. But the voters of Clayton have become much smarter than that.

This campaign now has stooped so low as to be another race-baiter in the same company with John Trotter and Lee Scott. Remember inflammatory and slanderous remarks will only bring trouble. Lies from the Trotter group help defeat his BOE majority before and also Lee Scott’s loss during the last election just 2 years ago.

Apparently, Ms. Baker was fighting the last Trotter-led fiasco 5 years ago. And, she is well-known for participating in the process. Others, like Mr. Dowell, go to the meetings and sit in the foyer and hobnob and swap stories with John Trotter all during the meeting. John Trotter said those women on the last BOE betrayed him - maybe he was your non-existing sign holder.

Facts are Facts - Public Records for non-profit organizations, such as Dowell’s -“Youth Empowerment Project”, are eye-opening. Anyone interested should check out www.guidestar.com . In particular Form 990, Section: Tax Liability. If you dig a little – you will find it.

All Clayton parents should be proud of the accomplishments of the students in our system. I for one would love to hear more in the press and news about the good of our school system and our county, and much less about the incompetent fools in some positions of power in our county. Such as the BOE, Sheriff Hill and DA Jewel Scott, all who have made us the laughingstock of this state and the country.

Where did your integrity go, once an opponent to Trotter but no longer. As Dowell has said about his relationships - “ya gotta do what ya gotta do”. Guess they are right, MONEY TALKS, at least for those that integrity has become optional.

By Time for real change

June 27, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

William Hill www.electwilliamhill.com is the right person to represent District 6 in Clayton County. It is good to see a young man who has character, vision, and passion for our children. He is not tied to the coat tails of any special interest group or self-seeking. He has a true understanding that being a member of the school board is a service to the community not a political pundit. On July 15, I urge the voters in District 6 and all of Clayton County to declare at the polls “No more business as usual in Clayton County”.

By concerned parent

June 27, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

I attended the forum at Lovejoy. I did not get any relevant information. The sound was awful, so I could barely hear, much less understand what Mr. Thompson was saying. I guess he was not saying much judging by the skeptical faces that I saw, and the fact that only a small group, I believe Mr. Thompson’s people, was clapping. The question and answer part was not better. Most people did not pose a question. They were only venting their frustation with the board,and neither the superintendent nor any of the members of the board gave a single satisfactory answer, and I still do not know where we are in this accreditation process. In spite of this, I am keeping my son at Mt. Zion High because I do believe that this is a good school system, and I believe so because there was never an issue that could not be solved by the teachers or school administrators in the thirteen years that I have had children in CCPS. It is a shame that a group of people that should be working toward improving our system have been doing exactly the opposite for many years.

By JDR

June 27, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Ol’ Bill stepped in it at the AJC/WSB forum tho, when he advocated for teacher-led prayer in schools. He wasn’t aware that that was struck down by the Supremes or does he just choose to ignore the highest court of the land?

Please people, no more preachers, teachers and busy-body parents without a life on the school board.

By SOMEBODY FROM THE PAST

June 27, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Mary Baker was close to Erika Davis and whomever she could and can used. Mary can’t make a good candidate because she is too close to the situation. She is part of the problem since she attend the meeting so much why didn’t she voice her opionion. She stood by and did nothing . We need a person that we be accountable. She love to brag about that she attending the meeting and did nothing. by the way I’m white……. As you can tell I tell of hearing that…….

By The Real

June 27, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

Ain’t Real,

The County isn’t any worse off than all Metro Counties, in fact all Georgia counties or even the Nation. That White man did it to us all, you know the one Dubya Bush. The only reason YOU are crying is because Black people are running this county’s government. However, that’s not true; a lot of your Black county officials are puppets for the White man, they’re too simple minded, and Uncle Tomish to be their own man.The Negro needs the white man to free him from his fears. The white man needs the Negro to free him from his guilt. All the candidates are CROOKS in waiting.

Benjamin Franklin once said; “There is no kind of dishonesty into which otherwise good people more easily and frequently fall than that of defrauding the government.” or woman.

By Victor Hill Sued Again

June 27, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Read the entire 42 Federal Lawsuit filed on 25 June 2008 against Victor Hill. It documents alleged money corruption, intimidation, and malfeasance of office.

http://www.give-em-the-boot.com/smf/index.php?topic=1381.msg11982#msg11982

By Former CC Politician

June 27, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

Clayton County Wannabe Politician here a bit of advice; I don’t embrace trouble; that’s as bad as treating it as an enemy. But I do say meet it as a friend, for you’ll see a lot of it and had better be on speaking terms with it. The position YOU chose to run for is in fact TROUBLE!!!!

By DUMFOUNDED

June 27, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

The harder the conflict the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly. `It is dearness only that gives everything its value. Chaos in the midst of chaos isn’t funny, but chaos in the midst of order is. Thompson has order; however, there are force in our own community that is inciting CHAOS and PANIC. They should be ashamed of themselves. However, Thompson may be Freakin CHAOS!!!!!!

By Fight the Power

June 27, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

Bob Hartley, here little proverbial wisdom for you; “The man who views the world at 44 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 24 years of his life. Wise UP, KISSAZZ!!!!!!

By Power to the People

June 27, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

“The new rage is to say that the government is the cause of all our problems, and if only we had no government, we’d have no problems. I can tell you that contradict evidence, history, and common sense.”

Be thankful we’re not getting all the government we’re paying for.

By Government Man

June 27, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

A man may be loyal to his government and yet oppose the particular principles and methods of administration. Today we can declare: Government is not the problem, and government is not the solution. We, the Clayton people, we are the solution.

By Old White Lady

June 27, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

BREAKING NEWS: Mary Baker seen holding a NOOSE with a Black Baby Dool head in it back in the day. STAY TUNED PHOTO LINK coming

By CURIOUS 1

June 30, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Time is drawing near to Jul 15th.

Please let’s take time to reflect on what has happened in this county and decide that we are not going to take this anymore and we will make a drastic change for the betterment of this county. It is imperative that we all vote smart without prejudice or hangups. It appears that the school board will be on their way to success so let’s make this county our home again.

By SOMEONE FROM THE PAST

June 30, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

To: By Old White Lady When can we expect the link? Please make sure we get that picture. So many need to know the real MARY BAKER…….Racist

By Antoine for Commissioner

June 30, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Voter Alert

There is an alternative for Chairman.

Do you want strong leadership on the County Commission?

Do you want strict ethical behavior?

Are you better off today then you were four years ago?

If not, visit my website at www.enoughisenoughga.net

There is an alternative for Chairman, and his name is Dabouze Antoine!!

By Clayton County Voter

June 30, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

To Old White Lady and Someone From The Past.

The practice of race bating by posting racial slurs, roomers and innuendo on this blog is disgusting. Ignorant fools resort to slander and liable when they lack any reasonable, logical or thoughtful comments about a candidate.

You desperate cowards attack using race from behind your keyboards emboldened in the knowledge that you can not be held accountable for your libelous and ignorant statements.

Racial divisiveness has led to the ruin of many governments and societies. Clayton County has enough problems. Wise up and look for the individuals that will profit from the perpetuation of hate and bigotry. Learn from the past do not perpetuate the bigotry we fought so hard to overcome. Those who align themselves with racial hatred and bigotry are doomed to suffer the wages of their sin.

Old White Lady refers to a picture from the past but does not post it. perhaps we will see it as soon as she finishes her PhotoShop editing.

Ask yourself these questions. Which candidate has the most to gain from this kind of attack? Which candidate has the most to loose if an opponent wins the election? Which candidate depends for his livelihood on contracts with school systems? Which candidate pays himself $70,000 from his nonprofit corporation? Which candidate pays his son and daughter from the same nonprofit? Which candidate lists the name of the chief operations officer of Clayton County schools as a director of this same nonprofit on the 2006 tax form 990?

The Items listed above are a mater of public record.

I ask you who do you think is behind the bigoted comments posted on this blog.

By JohnsonQP23

June 30, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Vote for Aleika Anderson, School Board, District 8.

She is a parent who cares. I saw her in Morrow on Saturday.

BEEP BEEP, HOLLA!

By anonymously anonymous

June 30, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

C-4 is having a meet-and-greet for district 5 tonight at 6:30pm at the community-use building behind the water authority on Battle Creek Road. I plan to be there. I hope many of you district 5 bloggers will too.

By The Truth

June 30, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Being a parent who cares is not good enough. We need quality BOE members.

Here’s something to think about. Aleika Anderson ran for County Commissioner in 2006 and now is running for a place on the school board. She’s just a good parent who cares? There’s more too it than that. Who’s behind her for county politics? Follow the trail. She was a documented MACE member who supported John Trotter in many things. Now she’s not? If you don’t think Trotter and Aleika are smart enough to “undocument” her alliances from MACE so they can show everybody how she is no longer a member, you’re mistaken. Just because she has her letter does not mean she still does not have John as one of her supporters. Christmas party 2007 ring a bell? John is doing everything in his power to gain a foothold in Clayton County Schools. Keep him out.

By Fly on the Wall

June 30, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

To: Someone from the Past (Glenn Dowell) and Old White Lady (John Trotter)

You both know there is no forthcoming picture. It is despicable that you think so little of the voters of this county, to try to inflame them with such lies as these. Numerous people throughout this area: black officials, black teachers and educators, black community leaders know Ms. Baker thru her involvement, work and dedication to this county.

Ms Baker received endorsement from the AJC. Sorry, you were not even mentioned.

Your endorsement? came from David (will anybody give me a job?) Barton. It really gave the South Metro Realtor group a black-eye to sell-out and endorse a known Trotter guy. The voters have better memory than you think. Moreover, we are more mature than you two. Come Election Day you will be like-wise rewarded, with yet another defeat.

By JohnsonQP23

June 30, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

To ‘BTT’: Sorry, but you need to do better than that! Aleika is a caring parent, yes, but morseo she is also qualified to help manage the School Board. The problem with current and past board members is that they didn’t care. She is a current teacher and will soon have her doctorate in education. What have you done (for the children) lately? She is honorable and will help us ‘turn it around’ in Clayton County.

P.S. Don’t you know TROTTER is too busy managing Virginia Gray’s run for BOC Chairman to even bother with Alieka anyway. LOL!

By Antoine for Commissioner

July 1, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Clayton County needs a Chairman who has worked for positive change in our community.

There is an alternative choice.

Visit Enough is Enough for more information.

By www.virginiaburtongray.com

July 1, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

If John Trotter is working on Virginia Gray’s campaign, it must do it in disguise. I’ve never seen him. Stop making things up. We have enough to deal with in the county other than fairy tales.

By www.virginiaburtongray.com

July 1, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

If John Trotter is working on Virginia Gray’s campaign, he must do it in disguise. I’ve never seen him. Stop making things up. We have enough to deal with in the county other than fairy tales

By Fair & Balanced

July 3, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

As we celebrate our freedom on Independence Day; Only July 15th lets celebrate our freedom from special interest groups and political indebtedness on the Clayton County School Board. If you live in District 6 vote for William Hill www.electwilliamhill.com. A person of integrity and true leadership for our children, parent, and the entire community.

By Making a better choice

July 3, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

Voters use wisdom on July 15 and declare No More Business as Usual in Clayton County; especially on the school board. Elect William Hill District 6 school board www.electwilliamhill.com

By Questions

July 3, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

Who is making phone calls for Glenn Dowell trying to convince people that he is not a white collar criminal? And why is Mary Baker ponying up to every black person for votes? Why is Victor Hill running for re-election? Voters beware of these self-serving wolves disguised as candidates seeking elected office.

By response to JDR

July 3, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Your comment about the outrageous misquote by shock joke reporter John Hollis is without merit and is not true. The question that Megan asked William Hill in its context, his response, and what was John Hollis wrote in the paper is a far cry from the truth. This was just another attempt by the AJC in quest to increase sales, slant the truth, and continue their liberal self serving agenda. This type of journalism is a insult to Cox Communications and good hard-working reporters. The truth of the matter is that William Hill www.electwilliamhill.com is a true community servant with superb leadership experience. He will make wise, fair, and balanced decisions that will benefit our children in District 6 not special interest groups or political pundits. What we need on the school board is 9 people who understand setting public policy on a governing board, not having any outside political influences, and understand this is not a job; but a service to our children and the community. If you look at facts you will clearly see that Glen Dowell and Mary Baker don’t understand that. Vote for real change on July 15 www.electwilliamhill.com

By PRAYING HANDS

July 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

Earlier in the blog didn’t someone say thatMARY BAKER is part of the problem. She doesn’t have a problem accepting money from outside interest groups or having input for outside interest group. SACS Report clearly states that is part of the problem. We have Michelle claiming she didn’t know what she was during when she voted on the budget. Ron Johnson got in trouble for voting on the budget for his wife.(RED FLAG)** same thing (Michelle). CLayton County you can put her in and you will see how close she is to Erika Davis.

In addition to the CCEA contribution, Baker received $150 from former Board of Education Chair Ericka Davis, and $101 from Clayton County Commissioner Michael Edmondson.

“I have known Ericka since she got on the board [in 2000],” Baker said. “We had a rough period there, but I do not blame Ericka for all that has happened on the board. She said she would like to make a contribution to my campaign and I graciously accepted.”

The disclosure forms also revealed:

• Chick-fil-A president Don “Bubba” Cathy, and his wife, Cynthia, made a $500 contribution to Nicholson’s campaign. Cynthia Cathy also made a $500 contribution to Baker’s campaign. Nicholson, Baker and the Cathys all attend First Baptist Church of Jonesboro.

CLAYTON COUNTY PLEASE READ BETWEEN THE LINE.

By Speaking The Truth

July 7, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

To JDR in the AJC article that Mr. John Hollis wrote a direct quote “that the Supreme Court stated that church and state should be separate” never mind that we just celebrated the fourth of July Independence Day freedom to choose any religion in the United States. So never mind that we have educated adult teachers conducting prayer in school regardless what religion the student practices at home with their parents. What happen to church and state being separate? As for Mary Barker, she as proven can be bought for the right price (CCEA). In Clayton County, we need someone that can stand up on their own merits. We need someone who has a proven track record not only in education but from a business stand point as well. Who has 20+ years in the education field and can be a leader not a follower. ON July 15 vote for Dr. Glenn Dowell Let get it right this time

By HLS

July 9, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

To - Praying Hands - Rev. Hill - attacking a candidate for some contributions does not seem your style. Just where were you and your indignation when the brotha - Noreese - A CEO of the MACE teachers association was a member of the BOE and advocating for CEP in accordance with his boss’ paid lobbying (consulting, as Glen Dowell calls it - but paid for just the same). Talk about influence peddling.

And to - Speaking the Truth (Glen Dowell) Do you have so little support that you need to attack a concerned and very active and involved parent to make you feel better about yourself. Looks like you are worried. Go look at and explain the post in the July 8th blog.

By Bobbie

July 18, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

To: Tibbs,

You have to be the perhaps the Stupidest-(watch this) man I’ve heard. You say I’m a progressive (point 1 against you) who gave you the term progressive; the White Man. You ‘re so SILLY, that you’ll comment about Jesse Jackson and Rev. Wright. “Watch This”, Your DUM Blackazz, will vote for Klan McCain over Obama, all the while claiming the Crab in the Barrel Effect. –First of all You Klanazz double-gut white boy. You tried to disguise yourself as a African American, I saw through your dumbazz instantly, see how you’re still reading now! You even got the name TIBBS off the old TV show (the Mississippi show), you DUM BI,. Every Black see through you, However, I’m the only one bad enough to KICK a WHITE MAN in His AZZ. The White Man have F-uped the World. I don’t and never will TRUST one. The only good White Man is a dead white man!!(the ones on the Money!) NOTE: Shorty want Thuggg, Shorty want Thuggg, Shorty want Thuggg, Shorty want Thuggg; Jigger mutha, Jigger!! Hey Tibbs, I must go now, back to Saturn; the outer ring, but you know what; I could have freed more than 200,456, 321, 569 Negroes in 2008, if only they would have known they were STILL Enslaved.