Clayton.Talk

By HLS

October 13, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Kimberly - please do us all a favor and delete the comments from a user called ‘Marta sux’ on the previous blog titled -“Election notes: Sheriff and censure “. These are vile comments. Decent people do read these blog and should not be subject to such filth.

By Drakes Landing

October 13, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

It absolutely absurd to have hired the man. According to Commissioner Bell, he had done work before saying “Ed has an outstanding track record on getting us the best prices.” Sometimes you have to look at more than just the bottom line. Bell is more concerned with getting more money in the county as he knows property tax and sales tax for SPLOST have declined and will continue to do so. With as many issues as Clayton has had lately this was not something we needed.

Although you are innocent until proven guilty I don’t think that Wall has disputed the fact that another man was in the stall with him. I think he just said they were not having sex. Why couldn’t Bell and the others have waited to see the outcome before hiring him full-time? What was the rush to get him in now? Does he need the money for his defense?

I am so sick and tired of Clayton County getting only the rejects (both citizens and politicians) of other counties and states; Bell included.

I guess Clayton is today exactly what the politicians in power around the mid 90’s wanted it to be. I just wish I could have seen this coming to this degree, I would have been gone years ago. I am embarrassed to tell people that I am from Clayton. God help us.

By Larry O'Keeffe

October 13, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

In a press release dated July 29, 2008 the Board of Education announced the change in Public Participation as follows.

“During its July 14 meeting, the Board of Education adopted policy BCBI – Public Participation at Board Meetings. The policy calls for a special meeting of the Board on the Thursday following its monthly work session. This meeting replaces the public participation item that had been a part of the Board’s regular meeting agenda each month.”

“The decision establishing a meeting dedicated to public comment was made in an effort to give our citizens a greater opportunity to express themselves on issues of concern,” said Charles White, acting Director of Communications. “Instead of a 30-minute session which restricted the amount of public comment, our citizens now have an entire evening if needed.”

Since this change there have been only 4 or 5 speakers sign up for each session. At 3 minuets per speaker that resulted in a 15 to 20 minute sessions. Assembling the members of the Board and the staff for the sole purpose of public input from this limited number of individuals has become a waste of valuable resources and time. The original policy set aside 30 minuets for public input during the regular business meeting and that time was rarely exceeded.

As this policy revision has not had the desired effect of increasing public participation it is correct for the new Board to consider its further revision. Communication to and input from stakeholders is necessary for the proper function of any Board of Education and I applaud this Board for being responsible in regard to this issue. This is a perfect example of the new board functioning as a unit to fulfill its duties.

The public had input in the last revision of this policy and it will have input into this revision. The final version was a compromise between what the Board was proposing and what the public wanted. Any policy revision should allow for input from those affected by its enforcement and an honest effort to reach a satisfactory compromise position.

Pray for our Schools

Larry O’Keeffe

By Kimberly Allen

October 13, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Thank you for posting that press release Larry!

to HLS - I apologize to those who had to read that nonsense. Unfortunately trolls, spammers and generally hateful people are an unnecessary evil in ANY blogsphere.

I sent all of these posts to my editors, as well as filing a complaint above in the COMMENT REMOVAL REQUEST area, just above the “Access Atlanta Blogs”

The editors listen to YOU as readers and participants of this blog much more than I.

May I please suggest that if any post on this blog (or any AJC blog for that matter) offends you, that you copy and paste that persons’s name, date, time & offensive comment into the Comment Removal Request area above. You could get a faster result than me going through the editors believe it or not.

Thanks once again to those do who read and post on this blog intelligently. I appreciate you as do the others who use this blog to discuss Clayton’s issues.

Kimberly Allen

By Clayton Resident

October 13, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Just because Wall is qualified to do the job does not mean he and all of his baggage should have been put on the payroll by Eldrin Bell, Virginia Gray and Michael Edmundson (who is up for reelection in the very near future keep that in mind).

these days Clayton is under a microscope. We can’t do ANYTHING right and it shows.

While I also agree everyone is innocent until proven guilty, I could not have put this guy on a county payroll until I knew for sure which one he was one or the other i.e. innocent or guilty.

If this guy is found guilty it’s gonna be another media circus and one more way that clayton looks like the biggest joke in Georgia.

I am beginning to believe that Eldrin Bell owed Ed Wall some kind of favor (they are both former Atlanta politicos, think about it) because this hiring makes zero sense and I’m with Drake Landing, had I seen this coming I would’ve sold my house long ago and got my family out of here. Add this to Clayton’s long list of embarassments.

As far as the public policy goes, I am glad they changed it. I have only gone up to public comments once but by the time a whole month went by and since I have no children in the schools I’d forget and move on to something else. I may comment more often under a new policy.

And yes although it is not SACS accreditation where kids can go to school in ANY state, some kind of accreditation is better than none I guess. I just thank the lord every single day I have no children in this system. thank you Jesus!

By Clayton Resident

October 13, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

If there are so many people dissatisfied with Bell’s behavior and actions, why did he receive the majority of votes for Chairman? Today, when I voted, I submitted the name of a write-in candidate. Stop supporting him and others like him.

Of course, the gentleman from the MARTA board should not have been hired. But Bell essentially does what he wants. Remember, he is the reason Commission meetings are not televised. There is no good reason for the meetings NOT to be accessible via television.

But again, Bell tells us what he will or will not do, not the other way around.

And guess what, you all just voted him in for another four years.

I really don’t get it.

By phred schwartz

October 13, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Clayton Resident: I agree with you 100% BUT, it was Eldrin or Jabba the Scott. Who is the lesser of 2 evils? Somebody with some common sense and credibility needs to start campaigning now for the next election in 4 years. NOT YOU LEE.

By phred schwartz

October 13, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Clayton Resident: I agree with you 100% BUT, it was Eldrin or Jabba the Scott. Who is the lesser of 2 evils? Somebody with some common sense and credibility needs to start campaigning now for the next election in 4 years. NOT YOU LEE.

By JDR

October 13, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

With all due respect to Clayton Resident regarding election of Eldrin Bell…

Lee Scott would have been a better choice? And how about Victor’s crony? I don’t even remember his name. Earl something?

There was a Republican businessman that ran four years ago and I thought that he was going to run again. I would’ve voted for him (again) in a heartbeat if he had run. What happened?

I DETEST Eldrin Bell, but I had to hold my nose and vote for him anyway.

By Clayton Resident

October 13, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

I have noticed on this blog and throughout the county that when people want to assure that someone is NOT elected, they associate them with Lee Scott. I met and spoke with Earl Randall and did not find him to be a Lee Scott “crony” or incapable of leading. On the contrary, the man appeared more competent than Bell to lead as an administrator. I don’t know him personally, but I gathered from speaking with him and from my own research that not only did he have the intellectual capacity, he had practical experience to actually lead.

But that is water under the bridge. We are now left with a chairman who is a legend in his own mind.

Let’s hold him accountable!! But even that will be a challenge. He’s a “lame duck” chairman — he knows he will be too old to run again and win. In fact, he IS too old now.

And finally, I agree, Bell will use these four years to line the pockets of his friends. It’s what he has done since his arrival in Clayton. As a “lame duck” chairman, why would it stop now. That’s a rhetorical question, of course.

By the way, let’s cutivate some of our young people for leadership. It’s the one way we can restore confidence in the county and retain some of our best and brightest.

Anyway…

By catlady

October 13, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

GAC accreditation is not exactly something to brag about. Look at the percentage of schools that apply (and who they are) and the percentage that get “accredited” andhow fast.

By Ethic Laws Only Apply to Blacks

October 13, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Sarah Palin violated Ethics Laws of the U.S of America. Call Sonny and Dubya to remove her from being Governor of Alaska.

Note: You nice folks living in Lake Spivey and in the lower panhandle put Elgrin in Office. Now you’re embarrassed!That what you get!

By Writing On The Wall

October 13, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

CONGRATULATIONS to CCPS for receiving the highest levels of accreditation from the Georgia Accrediting Commission. To bad SACS, Elgart is into playing politics and not looking at the actual education kids are receiving in Clayton Schools. As soon as right people get paid the right money the kids will get SACS accreditation. Of course the school system will be BROKE then.

By The Bright Side

October 13, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

I hope America thinks like Clayton County. The elite wantED a multiracial figure in as Commission Chair—now we have Elgrin Bell. America please give me another multiracial leader! ONLY IN AMERICA! Our next leader decision will be better than Elgrin’s.

By The Bright Side

October 13, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

I hope America thinks like Clayton County. The elite wantED a multiracial figure in as Commission Chair—now we have Elgrin Bell. America please give me another multiracial leader! ONLY IN AMERICA! Our next leader decision will be better than Elgrin’s.

By Clayton Resident

October 13, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

To Ethics Laws Only Apply to Blacks:

I live in one of the areas you describe, and you are absolutely correct. We supported Eldrin (I didn’t, but my neighbors did) and we must live with it, unfortunately.

I’m not embarrassed, perhaps frustrated is a better word.

I also agree with your assessment of the state of national politics. Isn’t it ironic that people like Lee Scott are villified for appealing to the uneducated and under-educated in Clayton, and McCain and Palin are praised for appealing to similar voters in the U.S.? Take a look at the people who serve at the human backdrop at a McCain-Palin rally. Interesting sight, indeeed. I have never met Lee Scott nor have I ever voted for him, but I am assuming from reading the blogs that he is the boogey-man. Next time however, (should he decide to run again), I may consider it.

The point, stop allowing the small majority in Clayton to convince you that because you are supporting African American candidates, you are voting along racial lines. Vote for the best qualified candidate — period. If she is or he is African American, support the candidate, without concern about what the minority thinks.

Today, when I voted, I supported Barack Obama and Deborah Hunnicutt. My neighbors unapoligetically have McCain, Saxby and Benefield signs all over their lawns. Do folks question them about whether they are supporting candidates because of race. Of course not?

Anyway…

By wtf

October 13, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

I definitely think Wall was hired in part because Eldrin owed him a favor OR Eldrin knew he could be Wall’s puppetmaster & control him. If for no other reason than to spare the county further embarassment, Wall should have NEVER been hired & if he is found guilty, will be interesting to see what Eldrin does from there.

But as someone already said this is a moot point - Bell’s here for 4 years even if he was the lesser of 2 evils. All we can do is pray someone who cares about the county steps up to be chairman next time around because NONE of the candidates for chairman last time around I thought were good enough.

By whatever

October 13, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

What upset me about the hiring of the fool that got caught with his pants down or foot out or whatever. Was not what he was doing the the men’s room. But HOW Well???????? he managed MARTA. Do we of Clayton County really need a man who worked for a government agency that was as rift with corruption and greed as was MARTA.(Remember the computer fiasco anybody?) With the mess our County is in financially (can you say Sheriff’s lawsuits with more to come?) We do not want any mismanagement of our County funds. The County Commission should remember That even if they get elected or reelected as the case may be at six months and one day recall petitions can be started.

By John Stewart

October 14, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

To Clayton Resident:

Let me clear up the Earl Randall / Lee Scott connection and why we had to vote Eldrin.

Do you recall Earl Randall being fired from the district atty’s office right before Christmas 2007 when he declared that he was going to run against Eldrin Bell for Commissioner? Do you also recall in April 2008 when Randall filed a million dollar lawsuit against Jewell Scott and Lee Scott for wrongful termination? Randall stated his firing was retaliation for running against Lee Scott.

At this point it looks as if there is some animosity between Randall and the Scotts right?

Well you tell me why was Earl Randall stated as Jewell Scott campaign mgr on her campaign disclosure form right before this summers primary? Mind you this is a legal document that she submitted.

That was all a ploy to split the vote to send Scott in a run off against Bell.

Thank God it didn’t work!!!

By Concerned Clayton Citizen

October 14, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

I am like most of you, embarassed again by Bell who believes he has the right to hire any of his old buddies and remove anyone who questions him. He doesn’t work for the citizens he works for show and lined pockets. We had two commissioners who are still sane. Gray is just marking time and Edmonson needs to be replaced in the next election. Both of them only vote as Bell tells them too. It is sad when we are forced to accept a person handling our money when they can’t keep their own pants on!!!!!

Bell you have set a new low for yourself and I didn’t think that was possible. It looks like PAPPY strikes again and we must suffer.

Concerned Clayton Citizen

By Oh please

October 14, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

I usually defend Eldrin, but this was a monumentally stupid decision on his part. The arrest alone without conviction shows that this guy is at the least irresponsible. And why hire someone with such poor public image when the county is already viewed as just short of a ‘third-world county’.

By Oh please

October 14, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

MARTA is not a government agency. They receive state funds, but it is a private entity.

By Mr. Nolan

October 14, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Once again the image of Clayton County takes a hit. Why?Why hire a guy who may be found guilty only to have to remove him in the first place? In fairness to Bell, he does appear to losing his mind. This county is slipping deeper and deeper into the abys because of the decisions of the leadership. What is wrong with the voters here? I’ve seen better government in the Amazon forest. All commissioners should be recalled today for driving this once proud county into the ditch

By Wrong Way Driver

October 14, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

Sarah Palin violated Ethics Laws of the U.S of America. Call Dubya to remove her from being Governor of Alaska. Elgrin hiring unethical persons, Elgrin allowing gas price gauging, Chamer of Commerce owns Elgrin, CCBOE still in trouble. Clever people are you happy yet? Keep playing politics!

By Chemical Imbalance

October 14, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Every body keep talking about Clayton being a once proud county! Yah right, the only diffence between Then and Now is the once powerful are no longer in public office. Now the powerful uses the MEDIA to Exploit Less-powerful that holds public offices. That’s a difficult balancing act for Elgrin and the like. Clayton County is still ran by 1% of its population. As soon as the MASSES realize they’re FREE, things will get better

By Oh please

October 15, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter who has office, the color of their skin, where they came from, who they agree with, or what they promise to do. This country is on a freight train to socialism and it reached top speed yesterday when the Department of the Treasury literally strong-armed all the top executives of all the financial centers of the country and forced them to sign an agreement promising to sell stocks to the federal government.

Don’t be mistaken, citizens. What Paulson did yesterday was illegal. He committed a crime. He pulled all of those people in a room and refused to let them leave until they signed his agreement. That is false imprisonment!

Clayton County is not the only government system wrought with corruption. D.C. has now become the heartbeat of it and this presedential election will determine how quickly American citizens give away their freedom. Don’t be complacent! Don’t leave your fate in the hands of the government (people who don’t know you and don’t care about you)!

Clayton County is only a symptom of the true problem.

By Choice Matters

October 15, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

First Secondary Charter School (6th grade- 12th Grade) Approved for Clayton County

Informational Meeting: Oct 27, 2008

Clayton County Performing Arts Center (PAC)

7:15PM-8PM

The Elite Scholars Academy was approved by the Clayton County Board of Education as the first secondary Charter school on May 5, 2008.

Where: Clayton County Performance Art Center (PAC) 2530 Mt Zion Pkwy Jonesboro, GA 30236 404.249.6400

When: Oct 27, 2008

Time: 7:15PM-8PM

Elite Scholars Academy……Starting with the End in Mind!

For additional information contact Dr Graysen Walles at drwalles@elitescholarsacademy.com

By huh?

October 15, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

When you think about or remember Ed Wall, especially when and if he is found guilty, think about and remember who put him there:

Eldrin Bell: will get a free pass because he just got reelected. Nothing can be done about him except a recall and I doubt Clayton citizens will see that through if they couldn’t even see through school board member recalls.

Virginia Gray: She is irrelevant since she is out come Jan. 1, but looks like she plans to do damage on her way out the door. But hey, she’s got a recreation center named after herself, right? Mission accomplished.

Michael Edmondson: He is up for reelection in the very near future. I hope people in that district will think about all he had done and not done for this county and his area when it’s time to vote on him.

Wole Ralph and Sonna Singleton don’t do much harm, but they haven’t done a whole lot of good either. For Sonna Singleton district residents, pay close attention she is up for reelection soon too.

By Black Rain

October 15, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

This group of commissioners at least have not followed the sins of the past White-led commissioner boards of Crandell Bray and Charlie Griswell. The actions of these two turned Clayton into the Section 8 housing mecca of the Metro area. Course it tended to put much money into the pockets of these two families. I would rather have who we have now.

By Mr. Nolan

October 15, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Wole and Sonna have not done much harm? Are you out of your mind? The entire commission has caused this once proud county harm by their lack of leadership and selling out to special interest.Crime is up, forclosures are up and business are fleeing. How bad does it have to get before you people wake up?

The fact of the matter is Eldrin is only one vote. The entire commission could have voted to not hire the bathroom pervert if they wanted to. This falls on the hearts and minds of all commissioners and not just Eldrin.

Clayton County is approaching the point of no return. You people better start waking up. I remember when this county was the pride and joy of Georgia and look at it now and for you who claim race is a factor, it’s not but ignorance is.

By huh?

October 15, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Do you ever attend county commission meetings? If so you would not think that I am out of my mind.

I’m not saying Wole and Sonna are the best commissioners ever, but if you pay attention Eldrin, Viginia and Edmonson are the main 3 who vote to approve a whole lotta b.s. that has done NOTHING for the county as a whole and probably only lined their own pockets and the pockets of their supporters and the old regime in charge as described by another poster above.

You are right Eldrin is only one vote and can not inflict damage alone. But if you research past votes you will notice who and where the alliances lie and why only certain things get done in this county.

It is ALWAYS the same three commissioners who consistent voted for and against things that did little to help this county and move us forward. Those three are: Eldrin Bell, Virginia Gray and Michael Edmondson.

If you check the votes you will also see that Wole and Sonny have normally voted AGAINST these three, including employing Ed Wall. Again, I am not saying they are the greatest commissioners, but from what I have seen Wole and Sonny vote on the side of the citizens of Clayton and the best interests of the county a lot more often than the other three do. not always, but more often than not.

The “hearts and minds” that need to be checked belong to Bell, Gray and Edmondson.

By Joseph

October 15, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

Thank you by huh? that person and anyone who comes on this blog to diminish the work of Ralph and Singleton does not attend commission meetings. You have said it all in your response.

May I add that Gray is out the door, Edmondson is steps away from the door and Bell is hanging around at the door. next year can not come soon enough for clayton county.

By Chemical Imbalance

October 15, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

One-half percent (1/2%) of Clayton population runs the County. The three Amigos on the County Commission does what your Chamber of Commerce and handful of Rich people tell them to do. Of course they receive KICKBACKS, that’s how you play politics in Georgia/Clayton.

That’s what the State Rep and Elgart told us about a Superintendent—“we need somebody who knows how to do business/politics in Georgia”. There is one thing for curtain—you guys crying on this blog are not RICH. You few fools complaining on this blog are worthless. You got your children accreditation taken, you’re hiring perverts.

You put crooks in office, crooks like Buckner—she’ll only work for a “Select Few”, but that few are you, kinda. You people on the blog will run your county in the ground—just like the Repubs that have run this country for the last eight years.

Important: You guys can’t handle fair and impartial Leadership—you prefer leadership that will lean your way and give you something, because you think you deserve more than the average people.

By AntiSpam Zebra

October 15, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Kimberly, there is a easy way to improve Clayton’s image. Make the MEDIA and the county’s rich, that give all these stories and Yellow journalism to verify the validity and truthfulness of this trash you guys publish DAILY. When you write SMEAR, you get SMEARED. But I know, when the favor of leadership change the MEDIA will change.

By Truth

October 16, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this

Kimbrough, you are looking real good right now you and your Klan. Keep posting your trash about Rainwater but, parents are not responsible what their children do when they are adults and going thru a divorce. Ask you buddy turner about his son, also Bell. Bell knows he was a officer and seen this stuff in the streets of ATL. He has kids as well. God will deal with this mess something I am sure you know nothing about. He is in control and will surely with deal you.

All your stuff isn’t out there yet. Rainwater knows and has all of it. Shows he is a better man than you. Next time, don’t try and bribe him to move aside and take a position at the Sheriff office so you can just slip right in. Something you have done to the other candidates.

He is not for sale nor in your pocket. You may be 37 but you need to run this race alone instead of going thru other people higher than you. Be a man!!!! Grow up.

By what now

October 16, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

Chemical imbalance - that is a good one - John Trotter. And oh so true - Just remember to follow the physician’s instructions for your lithium pills J.T. and the world will not seem as bad a place. Paranoia, schizophrenia and bi-polar sux , huh?

By TiredOldTimer

October 16, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Hey,

Chill amigo! Please leave J.T. alone. Don’t you know his house is in foreclosure, he is facing bankruptcy, the end of MACE, and possibly some jail time.

Don’t forget to light a candle for him.

By Mr. Nolan

October 16, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

The Entire County Commission needs to go. Why do we have the highest crime, the highest unemployment and the highest rate of forclosures?

Eldrin, Wole, Gray, Singelton, Edmondson you all should be proud of yourselves. Clayton County was once a proud county where people moved here because of the quality of our schools. What a diffrence a few years make.

People take close look at your commissioners. The board of education had to go and now the next up needs to be the commissioners.

P.S. Vote for John McCain for president. Lord knows we don’t need the nation to be governed like Clayton County.

By Marta Sux

October 16, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Are you IDIOTS still here argueing over which Clayton County Democrat is the biggest failure?

Well news for ya…YOU ALL ARE FAILURES. ALL WORTHLESS…NO GOOD TO YOURSELVES or ANYONE ELSE.

By Marta Sux

October 16, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Clayton County was once a nice place to live. Then all you democrats, losers, malcontents, miscreants moved in with your bling bling, 20 inch spinners, yarn hair stacked on ya head like so many pretzel twists, outhouse dwelling bums moved in.

See…thats the issue…not all this politically correct double talking mumbo jumbo nonsense. You have ran your property values into the ground, lost SACS accreditation and turned a once viable area into nothing more than a ghetto.

The real shame is you ignorants are proud of your accomplishments. Ya…unbeleivable…you foolish fools with your furry pimp hats and pimp canes actually think you are doing something positive…too bad you ALL are too STUPID to come in from the rain.

By Marta Sux

October 16, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Why dont you Clayton County democrats do something positive with yourselves…like get a job? Im sure some of you could qualify for something…say cooking french fries…well that may be expecting too much.

What about Airplane crash test dummy? What about working with Lepers? What about firing range target? What about outhouse inspector?

Those are just few of the jobs for which most of you jerk-offs may be qualified.

By stanthefireman

October 16, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

here we go

By Marta Sux

October 16, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

You silly Clayton County democrats….you think Clayton County has screwed ya…well just wait until Obama gets finished with ya.

AHH HAhAHAHAAAA!!!

Now go back and read some of the posts made by yourselves. The amount of ignorance and stupidity is just staggering. And yet you JERK-OFFS think you are so intelligent and again you are incorrect. Dullards at best is the appropriate description for the ilk of your type.

Keep following your hero’s, jackson-extortionist, sharpton-jackass, useless-Lowery and remain stagnant.

By Marta Sux

October 16, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Look at this Stinky piece of defication from your leader Kimberly…

“Finally, CONGRATULATIONS to CCPS for receiving the highest levels of accreditation from the Georgia Accrediting Commission. Every little bit of positive change helps, and keeps our kids encouraged.”

OH WHOOP DE DOO DOO!! Change…accreditation from a State agency isnt change. NO…its pandering, plain and simple…it political correctness stretched to the “Nth” degree. Its akin to offering congratulations The HildaBeast for running a good campaign…in other words its a waste of time and you all should be infuriated that Kim would stoop to such a level as this pandering. You Clayton County democrats should be outraged that this Kim thinks you are so stupid to notice said pandering.

Its like getting rewarded for bringing home a grade of F+ in lieu of an F. Until you people get good and p** off with your leaders constant “dumbing down” and congratulating your for buttoning your shirt then you will always get this same type of Lackluster BS from IDIOTS like this KIM.

By WTF?

October 16, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Why are we paying so much increasing property taxes when there are so many forclosures affecting the values? Should not our taxes reflect the falling property values? Maybe Terry Baskin needs to be booted! Why did the representative on the other side of the county, Mr. Glanton, give the Lee Scott crony Michelle Thomas $500 in her bid to unseat Linda Miller? This is not good! Here is a question for Mr. Glanton, Do you think Linda Miller should have been replaced by Michelle Thomas? If so why?

We await your response.

By Oh please

October 16, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Marta Sux - I am not happy with GAC accreditation, but I think Ms. Kimberly’s point was that at least CCPS qualified for something. Your kind of negativity is not productive. Please take your ‘clirty’ mouth elsewhere.

By Kimberly Allen

October 16, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

I apologize to those who had to read more of that nonsense above. Unfortunately trolls, spammers and generally hateful people are an unnecessary evil in ANY blogsphere.

I sent all of these posts to my editors, as well as filing a complaint above in the COMMENT REMOVAL REQUEST area, just above the “Access Atlanta Blogs”

The editors listen to YOU as readers and participants of this blog much more than I.

May I please suggest that if any post on this blog (or any AJC blog for that matter) offends you, that you copy and paste that persons’s name, date, time & offensive comment into the Comment Removal Request area above. You could get a faster result than me going through the editors believe it or not.

Thanks once again to those do who read and post on this blog intelligently. I appreciate you as do the others who use this blog to discuss Clayton’s issues.

Kimberly Allen

By Kimberly Allen

October 16, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Thank you “Oh Please”, what you said in your post was exactly the point I was making. Of course SACS accreditation is preferred and what our BOE is, and should be, striving for.

Kimberly Allen

By Morrow Blues

October 16, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

The City of Morrow is a bunch of crooks. That 100 year old judge needs to be retired ASAP!~

By lyn

October 16, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Do we really need someone (else) with a negative public image and uncertain future working for us? ha ha ha

By Truth

October 16, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Lyn, absolutely not, we do not need any more negative media. Clayton is full of crooked polticians raping this county and leaving the tax payer to foot the bill.

I know them all, putting their buddies in office for control. The tax payers need to stop and take a look at who they are voting for. We really need to move forward. This mud slinging dirty throwing is only a cover up for the ones that is throwing the dirt.

I too am tired of my taxs getting higher because our tax money is not nbeing managed properly. We can’t even get good business’s to open up here in this county.

I agree with almost all that is being said about the politics here in Clayton.

Things need to change and remember, we pay their salaries

By Choice Matters

October 16, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

First Secondary Charter School (6th grade- 12th Grade) Approved for Clayton County

Informational Meeting: Oct 27, 2008

Clayton County Performing Arts Center (PAC)

7:15PM-8PM

The Elite Scholars Academy was approved by the Clayton County Board of Education as the first secondary Charter school on May 5, 2008.

Where: Clayton County Performance Art Center (PAC) 2530 Mt Zion Pkwy Jonesboro, GA 30236 404.249.6400

When: Oct 27, 2008

Time: 7:15PM-8PM

Elite Scholars Academy……Starting with the End in Mind!

For additional information contact Dr Graysen Walles at drwalles@elitescholarsacademy.com

By District 9 Resident

October 17, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

Speaking of a good image for the County. This morning on my way to work and last week I noticed one candidate out early in morning showing that he is willing to go above and beyond for this County. This tells me a great deal about what he will do on the School Board. Mr. Charlton Bivins, you have convinced me that you are the right person and you have my vote.

By Kimberly Allen

October 17, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

Good morning All,

The Clayton County Council of PTAs will be hosting several political forums between now and Election Day:

On Monday, October 20 at 7:00pm a forum for DISTRICT ONE candidates will be held at the Jim Huie Recreation Center, 9045 Tara Blvd., Jonesboro.

On Tuesday, October 21 at 7:00pm a forum for SENATE DISTRICT 13 candidates, CLAYTON CO. SHERIFF candidates and CLAYTON CO. JUDGE candidates will be held at the Police Department Community Room, 7911 N. McDonough Road, Jonesboro.

On Wednesday, October 22 at 7:00pm a forum will be held for DISTRICT 9 CANDIDATES at the Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center, 3499 Rex Road, Rex.

Have a great weekend Clayton.

Kimberly Allen

By TiredOldTimer

October 17, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

What others are saying about District 9 BOE Race:

In attendance at the District 9 BOE candidate forum, about 30 residents and 4 forum participants: Charlton Bivins, James Searcy, Irene Lewis, and Troy Walker. Also in attendance - Curt Yeomans (News Daily), Representatives Gail Buckner & Mike Glanton, and District 1 BOE candidate Dominick Crea(?:)

Everyone presented well, except maybe for the sole female Ms. Lewis. She seemed nervous. District 9 needs a man in this seat as there are already too many women on the Board. A need for more balance and a non-educator would be a great addition to the Board!

Mr. Charlton Bivins - an early favorite who had all his answers down pat. A well-known figure in the area due to his community work with C-4, DADS, as well as being a parent, mentor and resident of Clayton County for over 20 years. He was very knowledgeable and knew his audience. A plus - being a non-teacher as a Lieutenant with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office. Mentioned need for better discipline in schools. Has regularly attended BOE meetings before.

Mr. James Searcy - a former military man and current realtor, who some say may have a shot at a run-off with Mr. Bivins. I hope not as he is knowledgeable about the issues, but has no real community ties other than being a resident and member of Synamon Baldwin’s CCHOW group. A red flag for that association! He seemed really uptight, rigid, and dry. He had the most experience in larger budgets. He also stated that he has no kids in the system and has only lived in Clayton County for about 4 years. Has not regularly attended BOE meetings before, but has taken classes.

Ms. Irene Lewis - seemed very timid and nervous. As a stated political novice, she has no prior experience in running for office. Her answers were very general in nature, with nothing unique or different to add to other candidate statements. Some budget experience. It’s a good thing she didn’t have to go first with most questions, lol. Has not regularly attended BOE meetings before, but involved in PTA. Has children in school system.

Mr. Troy Walker - answered questions well, confident, but seemed a tad bit effeminate(?). Although he gave correct answers, he is another one from the Atlanta Public Schools System. He has lived in Clayton County for almost 7 years. Has not regularly attended recent BOE meetings, but had some experience with the system as a parent under Dr. Pullnam. Son is graduate of Morrow H.S.

Overall, the most qualified and passionate about change in Clayton person is without question - Mr. Charlton Bivins.

By I was there too

October 17, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

My wife and I attended the forum and Tired Old Timer must have been tired, blind and deaf to say that Bivins did well in the forum. His diction gave me and my wife reason to cringe. Bivins would go on and on and not answer the questions. He even went over his time limit several times and still did not answer the question. All those signs and his poor presentation did not convince us to vote for him.

So Old Timer you can have your special pick, just be straight and not put down the other candidates. You can support your candidate without having to make negative false comments about others. Maybe you can learn something from McCain - negative does not work in this election.

The other candidates should ask that this blog be removed. Tired Old Timer has an ax to grind. He used the word effeminate describing Troy Walker. Mr Walker you may have grounds to bring charges against this Tired Old Timer. Check with a lawyer after you get with AJC to have this character attack removed.

By TiredOldTimer

October 17, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

*To I was there too - *

Excuse me, but I did not write that blog nor was I at the forum. I identifed as much at the top! I cut and pasted that information from Give em the Boot.

Give em the boot is a very reliable source for news in Clytaon County that provides factual information for residents.

Thank you!

By AppleBottom08

October 17, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

VOTE SEARCY FOR DISTRICT 9

The only truly qualified candidate!

VOTE SEARCY FOR DISTRCIT 9

By District 9 Voter

October 17, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

I also attended the forum. I disagree with the previous poster. I thought ms. lewis did an excellent job! She was a real person. My impression of Mr. Bivins was tht he was rehearsed and not emotional enough in response to the questions. Mr. Searcy will not get my vote because he was on the opposit end of the spectrum. He was robotic in his response but thats to be expected with prior military people. I’m leaning heavy towards Ms. Lewis because the impression I got from her was “Genuine”. None of the other candidates make an impression at all. I look for websites where I can read a bio and collect more information. Mr. Bivibns and Mr. Searcy do have those up.

By Vote4Searcy114

October 17, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

James Searcy is a Georgia native who is willing to go above and beyond the call to duty. He is a true Captain who can hoist the damaged ship of Clayton onward to success. Please make your voice heard by voting for James Searcy.

By HearKnowSeeNo

October 17, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

James Searcy is a GA native who is willing to go above and beyond the call to duty. He is a real Captain, able to hoist the damaged ship of Clayton, onward to success! Please make your voice heard by voting for James Searcy.

By I was there too

October 17, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

describing a person as effeminate how does that rate as factual information about residents?

By Melvin Drops A Ball

October 17, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

I arrived early to the forum and was disappointed to see so few people. Where are all the parents??? Do they not even care??? In my opinion, everyone one did well, but only two deserve a chance at a run-off, either Mr. Bivins or Mr. Walker.

Ask yourself these questions: 1)What has any candidate done to earn your vote? 2)Where have the candidates been since the School Board mess? 3)Who was at the rally in March? 4)Who currently is involved with the school system? 5)Who has sacrificed for other people’s children, not just their own, in the community?

By PaulaPatton

October 17, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

Mr. Bivins is the only candidate who has a proven track record in District nine. I do not care that someone does not like his diction. The vacancy left by Sandra Scott is an important one to fill. The children need people who care. I have only seen James and Charlton working in the community and at meetings. What have any of the other candidates (present at the meeting or not) done for the community or schools?

By Yeah, okay

October 17, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Give em the boot is a very reliable source for news in Clytaon County that provides factual information for residents.

Yeah, okay. That depends on whether or not you are liked and accepted by the regulars on that site. If you are not, you get trashed and facts go out the window.

By Vote4Searcy114

October 17, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

VOTE FOR SEARCY!!! VOTE FOR SEARCY!!! VOTE FOR SEARCY!!! VOTE FOR SEARCY!!! VOTE FOR SEARCY!!! VOTE FOR SEARCY!!! VOTE FOR SEARCY!!! VOTE FOR SEARCY!!!

By raja

October 17, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

District 1 vote Dr Pam Adamson

District 9 Vote Charlton Bivins

By Lisa Lomax

October 17, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

Well the person I would have prefered to run for the District 9 School Board seat did not run. I was disappointed but I think Bivins will do a good job. I was not at the forum but I’m aware of the work he did with Bob Hartley’s group so I give him the thumbs up.

By Marta Sux

October 17, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

LOL…yea…congratulations Clayton County on acheiving an F+ instead of an F.

GOOD Job and keep up the good work…LOL.

By Mojo Mist

October 17, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Raja,

I agree. Dr.. Adamson and Mr. Bivins and our best choices.

Yeah, okay, I disagree. Those who come to that site with healthy debate, ideas and suggestions, etc. and back up their statements with some rational thought and fact are respected by those on give-em-the-boot.com no matter what side you are on. Those who don’t find out real fast that members see right through them and will call them on it. I guess we know what happened to you.

By Melvin Tanner

October 17, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget the other races…

Please get out and vote for Diana Nicholson, BOE District 5

Diana can help turn things around and restore pride in Clayton once again.

By **VOTE FOR DOMINICK CREA BOE 1**

October 17, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

VOTE FOR DOMINICK CREA FOR BOE DISTRICT 1 He’s free from outside influences, smart as a whip, deliberate, pragmatic, and knows how to serve on a board (an ETHICS board, no less). He can help bring respectability and sanity back to our BOE.

By Lovejoy

October 17, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

I think by electing Tracy Lawson DA and Kimbrough for sheriff it will start to head Clayton County in the right direction in rebuilding Clayton Counties image to what it was 10 or 15 years ago. After all Hill and Scott were daily embarasments to Clayton County . I hope the new incoming school will use the example of the old board members as what not what to do. Two things I would suggest to the new school board is to fire Thompson and find a non-controversial superintendent and not go by race. Number two being completely ignore John Trotter and Mace. I think the new school board should keep in mind that they will be under a microscope by the press and others. I would advise them to try to fix the problems with the school system and get rid of the ‘This is my house’ and defiant attitude the old school boards had. Far as firing Thompson , fire him and make him get a judgement in court before he receives another penny of Clayton Counties tax payers money.

By District 9 Resident

October 17, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

BLOGGERS BEWARE:

People will try all sorts of trickery to get you to vote a certain way. Look at the below two blogs, saying the same exact thing but my two different user names.

Uhhmmmmmmmm….

By Vote4Searcy114

October 17, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

James Searcy is a Georgia native who is willing to go above and beyond the call to duty. He is a true Captain who can hoist the damaged ship of Clayton onward to success. Please make your voice heard by voting for James Searcy.

By HearKnowSeeNo

October 17, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

James Searcy is a GA native who is willing to go above and beyond the call to duty. He is a real Captain, able to hoist the damaged ship of Clayton, onward to success! Please make your voice heard by voting for James Searcy.

By District 9 Resident

October 17, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Further evidence that I should vote for Mr. Bivins and not Mr. Searcy is stated below. This was taken off the “Boot’s” website. Mr. Searcy, if this is a true statement that yoou made, you owe the citizens of District 9 an explanation. If this is inaccurate, I apologize for spreading rumors. As an individual I would appreciate an answer from you.

Well since Mr. James Searcy just totally refused not to answer my simple questions on the Boot, because he did not know my real identy on the Boot he said he will not answer them so with that being said he clearly are connected to those persons or organziations and he did not want to say. In my and my family eyes he is another person seeking a public office just to see what he can get out of it and appears to be only sef serving and by his actions appears not to care about us the normal ciitizens or our children……

SHAME ON YOU MR. JAMES SEARCY

PLEASE VOTE NO FOR MR. JAMES SEARCY

Here is the proof:

JSearcy Newbie

Posts: 3 Your on-site questions ? Sent to: VirusData on: October 10, 2008, 12:19:06 pm ? ? You have forwarded or responded to this message. ?

I saw your recent message with certain questions but you are one individual and I don’t even know who you are. I answered the more general questions from the site administrator. I won’t answer your questions until you come forth with you real name and preferably have the influence to inform other voters. I’m not a scrapper on web forums like this so please keep this in mind when dealing with me. You can find out WHO I am in this county and what I do by going directly to sources including the Board of Commissioners and Housing Authority and others who are out and about in Clayton County business.

James Searcy

By whatever

October 17, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Well if Mr. Searcy did say that to one of the members of the Boot Family. I would be sort of leery of what he was trying to hide. I know that the boot family do not give their identities to keep from being retaliated against by people in power. (IE our good sheriff and Lee Scott) If those two knew who they were they could be in real danger. Some of the questions could be asked by one person but that one person is speaking for most of them wanting to know the answer. I also know if you go onto the boot site and you become pushy and dare them to find anything against what you are saying they can and will do so. They do not like trolls. There are people from all over the county who post there. And some of the data is very informative. It is posted there to help anybody to make up their mind. And yes they will post both sides. You do have to be a member to post. But you don’t have to be a member to read the posts. So Mr Searcy you managed to shoot yourself in the foot.(the one you do not have in your mouth that is)

By EagleEyeCherry

October 17, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

The only candidate with enough community + budget + management experience is Mr. James Searcy. He has earned my vote.

By Mojo Mist

October 17, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

EagleEyeCherry,

Earned? If so, great. But please enlighten everyone how he’s “earned” it more than just saying he has “enough” experience. We don’t need people on our BOE who have just “enough” community, budget, or management experience. People who have “enough” are a dime a dozen. There is much more we need on our BOE and an attitude that he is somehow more important than everyone else isn’t one of them. Funny how other candidates have been open and willing to have dialogue in all venues. For some reason, Mr. Searcy thinks he’s above that. I’m waiting for him to explain his email before I draw my conclusions.

Let’s hope you’re not voting for him just because of position or occupation. Jewell Scott was a lawyer. Lee Scott a “successful” business man. Victor Hill a congressman and LE officer. Get my point? They all have one thing in common: Booted.

By KimWhit

October 17, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Clayton county will continue to be a slum as long as 65% of the property is rental property. Itinerates typicallly do not invest much into the communities they inhabit. Who wants to live in a majority renter neighborhood? This is the main reason for the poor voter turnout, lack of parental involvement regarding school matters, and the overall grimy look of Clayton county. The few people who showed up to vote or question the school board are the minority of property owners in this county. That’s why citizen turnout is so low and that’s why people like Eldrin Bell will always find a home here. There is no pride of ownership or financial investment attached to a renter’s existence. Why should they care that Riverdale Road is a trashcan or Tara Boulevard looks like a third world dump? Why would they care about the garbage bag that fell off the car as they speed out of the apartment complex? Why purchase sanitation services for the house you’re renting when it’s cheaper to dump your refuse on a vacant lot? The solution is to buy out and tear down the older, crime ridden apartments and build no more. Locate and fine the homestead exemption slumlord cheats who are getting a property tax break in our county while living in another county. Give a reward to homeowners who turn in homestead exemption tax cheats. Freeze Section 8 housing and force landlords to register their properties with the county code division. Strictly enforce curfew law and bring back truant officers. These actions will rid our county of the transient demographic and make it a hostile place for all who have a ghetto mentality. Clayton county will be attractive for professional families with disposible income who will expect and demand better government, schools, and quality of life.

By Real Proud People

October 17, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Why don’t the once proud people of this once proud county run for public office and return this county to its rightful once proud self. Yah, that’s a thought huh! However, the reality the once proud crooks, racist and former slave masters are afraid.

I know it’s very hard for the once proud people now, but you should have learned from your own bibles, history books and intellectuals, that tried to teach you to be fair and impartial, loving and caring. On the contrary, you learned nothing, except more evil, like exploitation, manipulation, tricks, illusions and lies. You took the children accreditation for no reason.

You, Marta Sux ran a MEDIA SMEAR campaign to try to disgrace some of your county officials, but the county’s majority is fully aware of your deeds. Yes, Congratulations to the Clayton Schools, we the people knows our school are impeccable. We also know why you and SACS, Elgart took accreditation. You time is coming again, like the time you had to leave public offices, like the time you weren’t in the majority with your JOKER politics hid from the MEDIA.

You know who REALLY PROUD PEOPLE are? We are the ones who don’t give a DAMN about a RACIST like Elgart or you Marta Sux or your mother.

By Oh please

October 20, 2008 8:00 AM | Link to this

Dr Dowell,

I think you are beginning to see the light. For once, you wrote a blog that didn’t offend me. Although your style is unmistakeable, at least you are finally getting to the real heart of the matter instead of laying a blanket of blame on a nameless, faceless group. Keep striving, Dr Dowell. It does get better.

By Marta Sux

October 20, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Well…it appears Stupidity once again reigns supreme in Clayton County and on this board.

So…how many of you actually completed a job application, picked up your child, pay child support this weekend.

mm hmmm…just what i thought, Zero…a BIG ZERO!!

By Marta Sux

October 20, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

Real Proud People states…”You took the children accreditation for no reason.”

Proud is right…

A REAL PROUD Arrogant, Ignornant, complacent, conceited, egoistic, egotistic, self-conceited, self-important, self-satisfied, smug, uppity, vain, vainglorious, arrogant, pretentious, snobbish, stuck-up, supercilious; cavalier, overbearing, overweening, peremptory, swaggering; high-sounding, pompous; condescending, patronizing, cocky, overconfident, presumptuous, bloated, boastful, bombastic, audacious, bold, brash, brassy, cheeky, cocksure, forward, impertinent, impudent, saucy, confident, presuming, self-absorbed, domineering, self-centered, selfish PEOPLE.

As long as you live in the past there so shall you remain.

By Marta Sux

October 20, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

I just hope all you Proud People will be able to remain proud when your ARM adjusts, when the repo man takes your prized Pontiac Grand Am, when Rooms to GO wants their furniture back because you allowed your interest free loan to adjust retro-active to you purchase date, when Obama doesnt write you a check from his personal sludge fund, when you get canned from your job for being absent, lazy, shiftless, tardy, being on your cellphone for hours on end, taking 2 hour lunches…thats right Im watching and what Im seeing is a HOT GHETTO MESS.

We will then see how proud you all are.

By Marta Sux

October 20, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Review of Janet Jacksons appearance at Philips Arena…

Stink, Stank, STUNK!!

By Oh please

October 20, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Marta Sux - You don’t know what you are talking about or who you are talking to. Do you have a job? Do you have anything better to do than to come on here and spew hostility and negativity? Or, do you just need to mitigate some angst with anybody who will give you attention?