Access Atlanta > Blog > Archives > 2009 > January
January 2009
Kanye West as Martin Louis the King Jr.?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s what people are talking about on the new Wordpress blog: Kanye West is at it again. This time, the singer/rapper tells fans he’s like to be known as Martin Louis the King Jr. Joke or no? West was in Paris at the launch of his new Louis Vuitton sneakers during Fashion Week in Paris.
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Is 51 just too old to model?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
French model Ines de la Fressange stole the show during Fashion Week in Paris. The 51-year-old strutted down the runway as the crowd cheered this one-time queen of the catwalk. She wore a creation by designer Jean-Paul Gaultier. “Fashion models are not just 14-year-olds,” Gaultier said. “There are no barriers to beauty.” Do you agree?
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Bye-bye to six-day mail delivery?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Are you a big snail mail customer? If so, you might be interested in this:
Postmaster General John Potter said huge losses and less volume could force the agency to reduce mail delivery by one day each week.
Testifying before a congressional panel, Potter asked to kill a requirement that the postal service deliver mail Monday through Saturday, according to AP.
Are you OK with the prospect of five-day mail delivery instead of six? If one day has to go, which one should it be?
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Hungry restaurants and shops improve service to keep customers
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In a tight economy, shopping and dining out are usually among the first guilty pleasures to go.
As a result, stores and restaurants have to do everything they can to keep customers coming in their doors. That includes everything from offering coupons and discounts to beefing up customer service.
Do you think customer service has improved? Are you being treated better where you shop and dine? A reporter may contact you for a story. Or you can email the reporter directly at ktagami@ajc.com.
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Less water use equals higher prices?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You’re using less water, so why is your bill going up?
Well, part of the reason is that revenues in some metro water departments continue to drop, according to an article by AJC staff writer Patrick Fox
For instance, in Gwinnett County residents and businesses cut water use by 17.2 percent in 2008, the article states. “As a result, revenue for Gwinnett’s Department of Water Resources fell $11 million, or 5.4 percent. The loss would have been greater — as much as $35 million — had the agency not improved collection rates, adjusted fees and implemented a summer surcharge, said Lynn Smarr, acting department director.
Have you tried to conserve water, but noticed an increase in your bill?
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Are you a fan of E. Lynn Harris?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Author E. Lynn Harris has hit the literary court with his latest novel, “Basketball Jones,” the tale of a NBA player who has an explosive secret that could threaten his relationship with his teammates.
Harris, who splits his time between Atlanta and Arkansas, quit a sales job to write his first novel, “Invisible Life”. After failing to find a publisher, Harris published it himself in 1991.
He recently talked to AJC reporter Rosalind Bentley about his new novel.
Here’s an excerpt:
Q: A few years ago you were brought in to counsel an NBA star who was thinking of coming out. He didn’t, but I’m curious about what your advice was?
A: I was just approached [to help], but he decided against it. To this day, I don’t know who it was, but it basically gave me the idea for the new book. Partly I wrote the book because I did not have a conversation with the player. It kind of surprised me when I got the initial call [from his representatives]. It was not John Amaechi, who had already come out.
You can read the full interview here
Are you a big E. Lynn Harris fan? What’s your favorite book? And while we’re on the topic, would it make a difference if you found out your favorite sports figure was gay?
And folks, this isn’t the time or place to name names.
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Who’s ready for the return of “Lost?”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
When we last saw “Lost,” we weren’t so sure just what we were seeing. That bug-eyed weirdo Ben turned some wheel and made the whole island vanish.
Meanwhile, back in the States, good old Locke was not only laying dead in a coffin, he wasn’t even Locke any more. He was being called Jeremy Bentham. And the survivors, who spent four seasons getting off the island, now think they need to get “back” on the island?
So what the heck is going on in what may be the most complicated TV series ever aired?
Season 5 starts tonight with a recap at 8 p.m., followed by new episodes at 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. If you’ve heard any spoilers out there on the Internet, let’s not let them loose here.
Instead, talk about what you want to see this season. A Sawyer-Juliet hookup? Sayid put a beatdown on Ben? Some freakin’ answers??
Sound off, Losties.
The time travel got you spooked? Check out our gallery of other time traveling scenes.
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Your morning after thoughts
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The inaugural events have ended. The parade participants have come in from the cold. The last songs have been sung at the balls.
Today is the first full day of work for the new Obama administration. How are you feeling? Still jazzed from the history and ceremony of Tuesday. Warmed by the words of the nation’s new leaders? Back to workaday worries about jobs, the stock market, the cost of health care?
Tell us what you’re thinking this morning after.
What do you think of “America’s Song”?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Have you heard “America’s Song”?
The song by, Will.i.am, debuted on “The Oprah Show” Monday and features appearances by several artists including Mary J. Blige and Seal. “America’s Song” is a collaboration between the Black Eyed Peas MC and composer David Foster.
Until 5 p.m. Tuesday, you can get a free download of the song
What do you think of the song?
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Where are you watching the inauguration?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Today, Barack Obama takes the oath of office to become this country’s 44th president.
Where are you watching the inauguration? Did you take the day off from work or school to watch? Do you plan to attend a public or private inauguration viewing party or will you watch from the comfort of your living room?
If you have to work, has your boss made provisions for employees to watch? Can you watch video streaming from your desk? How do you feel about this moment?
We also want to share your inaugural experiences. Send us your photos whether you’re in Atlanta or D.C.
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Who’s your favorite comedian?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Which comedian tickles your funnybone?
Filmmaker Michael Kantor recently put together a documentary on the history of comedy and what makes Americans laugh.
The documentary, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America,” focuses on all forms of comedy - from stand-up to TV series.
So we decided to do our own ‘comedian laugh-off’ and asked you to decide who was the funniest. Robin Williams or Lily Tomlin? Jerry Seinfeld or Whoopi Goldberg?
Who did we leave out? Which comedian leaves you in stitches?
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You call THIS cold?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You call this cold?
Apparently our Northern transplants aren’t too impressed that metro Atlantans can’t stand a little drop in the mercury. Temperatures in the low teens and a wind chill as low as 0? Ya ain’t seen nothing.
“Toughen up,” chided one reader of our Weather Vent:
“From Chicago, I’m watching the temp outside my back door going down - 11.3 below now and it’s only 10:00 PM. With the wind, 30-something below. Gotta toughen up. I “quickly” shoveled the front walk in a sweatshirt and pants - no gloves, no hat. But I can tell you, I hate this weather. Enjoy your balmy above zero temps!”
Another wrote:
You people don’t have a clue about “cold” weather. Perhaps we should call you a wahhhhhambulance.”
Are we just a bunch of whiners? What’s your worst weather story?
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Baby, it’s REALLY cold outside
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Baby, it’s cold outside and going to get colder.
After days of warmer-than-normal weather, metro Atlantans will get an arctic blast tonight and Friday, with temperatures in the low teens, according to the National Weather Service.
But nothing takes the chill off but a little winter humor. Can’t think of any on your own? There are several websites that offer weather jokes. Can you do better or do you just want to vent about frigid temps?
Share your best cold weather joke here, or simply finish this line:
It’s so cold that…
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Innovative products get a little love
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Good Housekeeping recently presented its inaugural V.I.P. (Very Innovative Products) Awards to recognize inventive new products that performed exceptionally well when evaluated by the Good Housekeeping Research Institute.
The items vary. Some will improve your health, like the Wii Fit and Dole Portobello mushrooms — they have extra Vitamin D. Others, such as Tide Total Care, will make your clothes look better. Atlantan Sara Blakely even gets a little love. Her Spanx Original Footless Pantyhose won the Hall of Fame Award. (See all of the products here.)
Do you agree with Good Housekeeping’s selections? Are there products that are too pricey to try out considering the economy? Or are there some you’ve used that you think should have made the list?
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Should pit bulls be banned?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Are pit bulls a danger to the public?
Thomas County Sheriff Carlton Powell thinks so. Powell has asked county officials to consider banning the breed from his county.
Recently, pit bulls were blamed for the death of a 5-year-old Thomasville girl. The girl died after being mauled in her yard by the family’s pit bulls. Other counties have sought to have pit bulls and another breed, Rottweilers, banned.
But there is stiff opposition to bans on specific breeds, advocates instead argue for more responsible ownership.
What do you think? Should pit bulls be banned? Is the breed (and pit crossbreeds) more inherently aggressive than others?
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Take to the skies: From Gwinnett to Hartsfield
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Lawrenceville-based Wings Air has added a new stop to its schedule — Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
Beginning Feb. 1, Wings Air will begin 15-minute flights from Gwinnett County to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport for a flat rate of $79, according to an article on ajc.com
The company already offers a dozen flights a day each from Macon and Athens.
The company said it’s primarily audience is the business traveler, who may not be want to sit several hours in metro traffic.
Would you pay $79 to fly to Hartsfield from Gwinnett County? Waste of money or smart move?
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What are your inauguration plans?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In a few days, millions of people will watch as Barack Obama takes the oath of office to become the 44th president of the United States.
It will be a historic day as Obama becomes the first black president of one of the most powerful nations in the world.
Do you plan to watch the inauguration? If so, will it be from Washington, D.C. or the comfort of your home? Do you plan to take the day off to watch the inauguration at home or has your office made preparations to let workers to watch on the job?
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That Detroit sound: Motown hits 50
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Fifty years ago, Berry Gordy received an $800 loan agreement with his family’s co-op fund to produce records. The boxer-turned-entrepreneur stated a record company that would later change music history.
Based in Detroit, the Motor City, Motown went on to record some of the music industries greatest artists including The Supremes, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5 and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. There was no mistaking the Motown sound with its musical and vocal arrangements. The label was credited by some with helping integrate the industry.
The Detroit Free-Press sent staffers far and wide to collect stories about the label and it’s influence yesterday and today. Gordy later sold the label.
What are your memories of the Motown sound? Who were your favorite artists - past and present?
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What is the Bush legacy?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
President Bush has just one more week in office.
In his final news conference, the two-term president discussed his record on everything from the federal response to Hurricane Katrina to the Iraq war, according to an AP article. “He also admitted many mistakes, from the “Mission Accomplished” banner during a 2003 Iraq speech to the discovery that the alleged Iraqi weapons of mass destruction that he used to justify war didn’t exist.”
What do you think? On what note does Bush end his presidency? What is the Bush legacy? Are you better off than you were eight years ago? Is the country?
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Surf the web from your car?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Just what metro drivers need - another distraction.
CNN reports on some of the latest in technology for four wheelers, including a dashboard computer from Ford. “Ford will release a fully functional, dashboard computer — complete with keyboard — geared to contractors and other business folks who want to access the Web, review documents and log inventory while on the go,” according to CNN.
The convergence of the auto industry and technology is nothing new, but industry experts expect it to grow in coming years. The new technology was discussed at the recent International Consumer Electronics Show.
It includes a new system by Hyundai lets motorists know when they start to drift out of the lane, reports CNN.
All this comes just as a Georgia lawmaker is pushing a measure that would make it illegal for drivers under 18 to text, e-mail, or instant message on their phones while driving.
Will these gizmos make you want to ditch your four-wheeled technological dinosaur and buy a new car, as automakers hope? Or, are you more concerned about drivers having just one more reason to take their eyes off the road?
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Hey Cobb, ready for the ‘Michigan left’?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Cobb drivers, get ready for the ‘Michigan left.’
County DOT officials are borrowing an idea from Michigan designed to ease congestion at busy intersections. In this case, Burnt Hickory Road and Barrett Parkway.
The county will install median-crossing lanes on Barrett Parkway near Burnt Hickory Road as part of major improvements to a big chunk of Barrett Parkway. Here’s how the indirect left works: Drivers won’t be able to make left turns onto Burnt Hickory Road. Instead, they will continue 900 feet to make a U-turn at a signaled median crossover, then continue on Barrett in the opposite direction before turning right onto Burnt Hickory Road.
If you travel that area, you probably have your own unsanctioned maneuvers, but at least this way there’s less likelihood of a ticket, warning or fender bender.
Still confused? Check out this demo from the Michigan Department of Transportation.
So, what do you think? Is the “Michigan left” a good idea for Cobb. Are there other congested intersections where you think this might work?
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Are you ready for digital TV?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
President-elect Barack Obama wants to delay the Feb. 17 switch from analog to digital television broadcasting because too many people won’t be ready.
On that date, all television signals are scheduled to transfer from analog to digital. If you don’t have cable or satellite, you won’t be able to pick up a signal without a converter box.
Ready for the switch or should it be delayed? Are you having trouble understanding what the switch actually means and how it affects you?
(Editor’s note: The deadline was extended until mid-June because Obama administration officials believed millions of Americans were unprepared for the switch.)
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Bill targets teens on cell phones
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It may be time to hang up and drive.
Peachtree City lawmaker, Rep. Matt Ramsey, is pushing a measure that would make it illegal for drivers under 18 to text, e-mail, or instant message on their phones while driving.
If the bill passes it will carry stiff penalties: violators would face a fine of $175 and the addition of a point on their license on their first offense, and a $500 fine and two points to their license with a second offense, according to an AJC article.
Drivers using their phones at the time of an accident would receive an automatic 90-day suspension of their licenses and a six-month license suspension for a second such infraction.
A similar bill went into effect this month in California. The California law bans drivers from writing, sending, or reading a text-based communication while behind the wheel.
Do you think it’s time for Georgia to pass such a law? Should it be limited to teen drivers?
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That Seventies City: When Atlanta came of age
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
As we enter 2009, we look back at Atlanta’s transformation in the ’70s. It was a breathless transition for the city, and its growth stood in stark contrast to the nation’s other urban centers. Atlanta went from the Heart of Dixie to Hotlanta, the hub of the new South.
What do you remember — or not remember — about the 1970s in Atlanta?
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California law bans texting while driving
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
OK, thumbs up.
As of Jan. 1, there’s no texting allowed in California, at least while driving.
A new law bans writing, sending, or reading a text-based communication while behind the wheel in California.
Drivers who can’t go without a text fix will be fined. There’s a $20 fine for the first offense and $50 for each time after that. Penalty assesmements could triple that amount.
The same thing could happen in Georgia. Georgia lawmakers will reportedly consider a measure banning ban teenage drivers from texting and using the cellphone while driving.
According to the AP article, “Georgia would join 17 other states and the District of Columbia that have passed cellphone restrictions for teen drivers if legislators adopt the measure during the legislative session that begins in January.”
The exceptions would be emergencies or reporting a road hazard.
Should Georgia adopt similar anti-texting while driving measures?
