Talk of the Town

By Sigmaman

March 24, 2006 06:10 AM | Link to this

Just awful! It really makes me sick! This lady is doing absolutely nothing wrong and there are so many others doing straight out evil that’s unchecked and the state has nothing better to do than harass her! Absolutely sickening!

By steamboatdawg

March 24, 2006 06:27 AM | Link to this

This is absolutely rediculous. The state is worrying about the wrong thing.

By Timothy

March 24, 2006 06:36 AM | Link to this

This is a terrible thing for her to have to go through this. I think if she could find out what she could do to operate from her home would be great. You have plenty of people just baking cakes/pies for others and charging money. This is unfair.

By George

March 24, 2006 06:51 AM | Link to this

I understand the “need” for a proper facility however; after an inspection I’m sure that could be waived. Additionally, Aren’t most of the working stiffs on a fixed income, I know I am. I could work 100 hours a week yet make no more money; salary don’t ya know.

By Pete

March 24, 2006 07:02 AM | Link to this

Just another example of big bully government picking on the little guy who can’t fight back. They claim there are not enough resources to shut down these restaurants that are health hazards but they can go after a little old lady trying to make ends meet.

By carl

March 24, 2006 07:03 AM | Link to this

the local public school system has appropriate kitchen facilities that sit unused for 16 hrs daily.there are tons of people like this lady whose culinary skills are much greater than those operating fancy restaurants that should be allowed to use such public facilities.

By Wesley

March 24, 2006 07:04 AM | Link to this

Where do you draw the line. How about people selling cakes and girl scouts selling cookies on the side walks of Walmarts all along this nation. Have we gotten so out of touch with helping others that we can’t just turn our head once in a while. She is right that God will open another door and some one will open there life to help. But I think this was wrong. God bless the USA.

By A Thinking Fan

March 24, 2006 07:04 AM | Link to this

I wonder how many of those State Inspectors are on the take? AJC should do a story on “Health Inspectors” on the “TAKE.”

May God bless this family with renewed resources…

By Grandma of 3

March 24, 2006 07:04 AM | Link to this

I hope the person who reported her and the State officials who shut her down sleep well, if her husband dies as a result of not being able to buy his medications. This is outrageous!

By sandi d

March 24, 2006 07:05 AM | Link to this

does the state allow her to have her kitchen inspected and continue? the government overlooks so many things, why not this? i say let willie keep fryin’!

By Ricky

March 24, 2006 07:07 AM | Link to this

This is ridiculous. A perfect example of how NOT to spend our hard earned tax dollars. I know people who have been doing this for years, it hurts nobody and puts a little extra money in their pockets. Wouldn’t we all like to have a little extra? Why can’t the government focus on real problems instead of screwing with the little people.

By OldSchool

March 24, 2006 07:11 AM | Link to this

I certainly understand the need for regulations. At the same time, I understand the need for the means to buy necessary (and expensive) medications. Maybe the restaurants she also bakes for could provide space in their kitchens for her small business? Couldn’t that become a win-win for both this nice lady AND the restaurants? At least lease her the space for $1 a year.

On a slightly related note, this funny story: Back in my home state there was this amazing barbecue joint that featured equally amazing sweet potato pies for dessert. When the restaurant’s owner had a falling out with the pie provider, you could no longer enjoy that perfect dessert at the restaurant. You had to journey across the street to the tables set up on the lady’s carport to have a slice of heaven on earth sweet potato pie. To my knowledge, no government body ever complained and regular patrons of both places certainly didn’t!

By Cindy

March 24, 2006 07:12 AM | Link to this

It’s a shame but she is right, the Lord will provide.

By Disgusted

March 24, 2006 07:12 AM | Link to this

I am disgusted! What kind of a bottom-feeder would do that to one of our senior citizens?

By ERVIN

March 24, 2006 07:13 AM | Link to this

When are we as a country going to stand up to our goverment and say,”ENOUGH” ?

By Becca

March 24, 2006 07:15 AM | Link to this

I think it is terrible that we have to have so many regulations that the cottage industry is severely curtailed. If I remember correctly, in order to come up to state standards, these poor folks would have to have an industrial type kitchen in their home and undergo inspections. I would bet that they could easily pass a health inspection, but the cost of the new kitchen would be prohibited. I am sorry that we have to have so many regulations.

By Mark

March 24, 2006 07:20 AM | Link to this

How come kids can sell Krispy Kremes on every street corner or bake sales for fund raising but this lady can’t sell her own pies? I think she should give them away for a “donation” (wink!). In fact, if anyone has her address, I will send the first check. The AJC should send the next donation for being stupid enough to not understand their article would put her out of business.

By Flibberdigibbit

March 24, 2006 07:22 AM | Link to this

Well-meaning, but a bureaucracy out-of-control.

Many many people use their home kitchens for commercial baking purposes, from community bake sales to making custom cakes for all kinds of functions.

All those fried pies in north Georgia’s apple houses surely aren’t coming from commercial kitchens.

Somebody oughtta warn Food TV that the home studio kitchen Savannah’s Paula Deen may be next.

By Randy Hester

March 24, 2006 07:22 AM | Link to this

For every rule there is an exception. This lady and her husband should definetly fall into the exception category but since she doesn’t have the money to open a commercial kitchen and she doesn’t want to fight it she is gonna give in to the government. Hard working, honest people don’t stand a chance these days!

By Mark

March 24, 2006 07:26 AM | Link to this

For those that think she can operate under a sanctioned state and city food service business, you can’t believe how many licenses you have to get ($$), taxes you have to pay ($$) and reports you have to file ($$). The govt makes the simple complex.

By Mom of 4

March 24, 2006 07:29 AM | Link to this

Somebody obviously has too much time on their hands when they can report to authorities an elderly couple making pies while earning a little extra money to make ends meet. Whoever took the time to make an issue of this needs to be ashamed of themselves! If they felt the need to rid our community of criminals, I believe the intended targets should have been drug-dealers, child-abusers, and the like.

By matt

March 24, 2006 07:29 AM | Link to this

COME ON PEOPLE…how can we help these folks out…let’s finally put a stop to people being treated poorly by a government that takes and takes, but never gives…This is our opportunity to stand up and unite..I live in powder springs…I care about my area…I love my country, but I’m starting to wonder how much my country loves working people just trying to get by….LETS FINALLY PAY IT FORWARD for some neighbors that need our help….suggestions??? what if everyone who read this sent this lady and her husband 5 dollars, just think what that amount could be???

By LH

March 24, 2006 07:30 AM | Link to this

If she gave the pies away and asked for donations, would it still be illegal? If not, maybe she would come out ahead.

By archie

March 24, 2006 07:34 AM | Link to this

what will they do next!!!!!!!!! shut down the lemonaid stand that the little girls have on the streets or at events like the horse show at rome each year.

By Carolyn Alabama Gal

March 24, 2006 07:35 AM | Link to this

I know many people will miss the pies and it does seem like an alternative could be worked out. As a health care provider, if the couples income is low, their physician should be able to help them get medications free from the pharmaceutical company which could help them so much financially.

By Angela

March 24, 2006 07:36 AM | Link to this

This is absolutely rediculous. There has to be an exception made for this business. Watch and see what the Lord will do…!

By connie

March 24, 2006 07:37 AM | Link to this

Maybe it’s time for the Citizens of Georgia to make a change within the Department of Agriculture at the voting polls. It’s sad when you have people using taxpayers money inspecting Senior Citizens kitchen when there restaurants within the State of Georgia not being kept clean (just look at some of the local TV stations investigative reports)and the Department of Agricuture says they don’t have enough inspectors. The Watts are only doing what most people do who have a hobby (baking for others).

Can the Department of Argiculture tell the Citizens what products are being used to grow the food we eat each and every day? Are they monitoring this?

By George S Ellington

March 24, 2006 07:38 AM | Link to this

Doe’s the goverment have nothing better to do than bully a senior citizen and tell her that she is breaking the law! Im sure if Tommy Irvin really wanted to he could find a way to bend the rules so that she would be able to continue cooking her pies! If he had a heart he would even her her find a way to buy her husbands medicine without going broke! This is big goverment bullying the little guy and it is really getting old!

By Reba Davis-Bass

March 24, 2006 07:39 AM | Link to this

I understand there are laws and guidleines, but there has to be somethig that can be done to help Mr. and Mrs. Watts. I’m a firm believer all wrongs will be put right.

By Christy

March 24, 2006 07:44 AM | Link to this

Home based bus. is everywhere! Babysitting, mowing lawns, vegetable stands,… It shouldn’t be a problem for her to continue “legally”. This is ridiculous!

By Terry

March 24, 2006 07:44 AM | Link to this

The attack on this family is terrible! Here is a woman in her 60’s trying to make ends meet. She has a work ethic that we don’t see anymore. She has not asked for help from the “government”, yet it is the government that has reached out to crush her. I think my tax dollars could be put to better use! Sensitivity Training for the state employee who reported her maybe???

By bob

March 24, 2006 07:46 AM | Link to this

some yankee has too much time on his hands. if he ever tasted a fried pie no phone call would have been made.let mrs watts make her pies, and keep her husband in medicine!

By Karen

March 24, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this

How disgusting that they wasted no time in closing this lady’s little business; (one day after the article) yet we have criminals (not naming anyone) that don’t go to trial for years. Wonder why this was a priority? I have faith that someone reading this is going to come to her rescue though so I’m glad she’s not worried. God will provide.

By MARKESHIA

March 24, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this

THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS WRONG WITH THIS WORLD, SO MANY THINGS GOING BAD. HURRICANES,TORNADOS,FLOODING,CHILDREN HAVING CHILDREN,DRUGS,ITS GETTING SAD. PEOPLE NEED TO OPEN THEIR EYES TO WHAT IS IMPORTANT AND WHATS NOT.WHAT BATTLE TO FIGHT AND WHAT BATTLE TO TURN THEIR HEADS ON.TRUELY THIS LADY WAS NOT HURTING ANYONE. ONLY THING SHE IS GUILTY OF IS BRINGING LOVE TO MANY PEOPLE HEARTS THROUGH HER HOME COOKING,THE ONE THING THAT SOME PEOPLE DONT HAVE THE CHANCE OF EATING A LOT.WHO EVER REPORTED HER NEEDS TO GET A LIFE. AND REALLY ASK “WAS IT WORTH IT.” THE QUESTION IS IT MUST HAVE BEEN TAKING BUSINESS AWAY FROM THEM. WHEN ONE DOOR IS KNOCKED DOWN A THOUSAND OPEN.

By Jim

March 24, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this

Such a waste of tax payers money to shut down that woman’s kitchen. I would love to know who the ingorant jertk was that ratted her out. She was hurting no one. Just a little extra money that she won’t have now. She better be careful. the same jerk may have called the IRS too.

By Rich

March 24, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this

I say as long as they are claiming this money and being taxed for it….then go for it. I sit and think about all the other types of restaurants that take cash only.Gee,wonder how much they are reporting?I’m sure nearly half or better is not reported.

By Eddie Ann Moore

March 24, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this

I Think America need to get a Life. They are full of Bull.

By Ty Cardin

March 24, 2006 07:53 AM | Link to this

AP Atlanta - There are no signs of intelligent life within the state Department of Agriculture.

By George

March 24, 2006 07:53 AM | Link to this

Once again, yet another example, while some people live off of the government (in reality, off of other taxpayers), some try to do something good on their own, and get shut down.

Government Sucks.

By Rita

March 24, 2006 07:57 AM | Link to this

I think this is ashame. This lady is just trying to make a little money to pay for medication and the state wants to close her down. Why don’t they work on meth labs and other illegal matters and let her make her little extra money.

By Kathy

March 24, 2006 08:00 AM | Link to this

The government is so busy trying to regulate everything, that they forget this country was founded on the backs of the little people. The country has gotten to the point that you have to many mega money just to be able to open a part time business. What will it take for the government to start to hear the little peoples voice again?

By Lee

March 24, 2006 08:00 AM | Link to this

This is a prime example of how the government wastes out tax money. We have tremendous problems undermining our country and they go after an elderly lady just trying to make ends meet. This is another example of we did it because we have the authority…right or wrong.

By RobC

March 24, 2006 08:02 AM | Link to this

I would venture a guess that if she were an illegal there would be massive outcry from the latino community and the state representatives and senators who are pro illegal would be telling us that we are racists or bigots or whatever because we are trying to keep a working person down, but alas she is an american and deserves no such support. It is stories like this that prove the governement does not share the same “american dream” as the rest of its legal citizens.

By paula

March 24, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

I understand all y’all’s feelings in this matter however, this nice lady looks like she is clean as a whistle. If she is allowed to do this, it might open the door to a lot of ”un-clean” foods being prepared under the same situations. I am all for her effort,(and man those pies look YUMMY), but it could get out of hand if you think about it that way. (Please don’t bite the messenger)!

By Kathy

March 24, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this

Pleeeeeease……okay, so there is a “law” that requires for her to cook in an approved facility or have a license, but what harm is she doing? Aren’t bigger crimes being ignored??? Let’s get real here!!!! Leave her alone.

By dg

March 24, 2006 08:05 AM | Link to this

The law is the law. Businesses that are caught buying illegal fried pies should be fined and all illegal fried pie makers should be sentenced to house arrest.

By singlemom

March 24, 2006 08:05 AM | Link to this

What a shame, this sweet lady just doing what she loves, not making much money, and some idiot has to report her to the State. Pity some people just have too much time on their hands, they have to make someone else’s life miserable. God Bless the Watts.

By Richard

March 24, 2006 08:06 AM | Link to this

The lady will have to take donations for her pies, not charge for them. This will get around the regulations. Hope someone gets this to her. I wish the sweet lady luck with this. Bet her kitchen is much cleaner than places I sometimes eat at.

By S Tony

March 24, 2006 08:07 AM | Link to this

Sad but legislation is legislation and no one wants to be on the wrong side of the law. Especially if/when ol’ Uncle Sam decides he wants to come calling. I am really hoping this wasn’t a whisteblower type situation with someone calling the Dept of Agriculture. I applaud Mrs Watts’ attitude towards it potentially being a blessing and recognizing that The Lord will open another door for them. That is precisely what He does.

By pam

March 24, 2006 08:07 AM | Link to this

I agree with everyone; this is such a sad, ridiculous thing! Come on! I assure you that this lady is among a very LARGE group of people that does cooking and baking out of their homes, as a source of extra income; including me! So come get me “Johnnie Law”! This lady is providing a service and tradition; I guess some folks don’t care about that.

By Ralee

March 24, 2006 08:08 AM | Link to this

What in the WORLD is wrong?! What was she really doing wrong?! NOTHING! She wasn’t making enough money to breaking a law. She was making an honest living. The person who called the State probably purchased pies from her - a true “HATER”. Mr. & Mrs. Watts, GOD has your back! (Philippians 4:4-7)

By hpoe peter

March 24, 2006 08:11 AM | Link to this

What ever happened to people being able to help themselves.Years ago people worked and took care of themselves by GOOD OLD FASHION ingenuity and hard work.My grandmother[ when left a widow and both sons were sent to war leaving her alone with a house to pay for and no government handouts available] made baked goods to sell, took in boarders,did washing,ironing and sewing. She had no drivers licence and managed to shop,go to doctor appt. etc. This lady found a solutin to their problem and now will they have to seek state assistant[Medicaid etc] to help pay for her husband’s medicine? I admire her for her solving her own problem but of course the government would rather have people rely on them so they can hold it over our heads come election time.[

By Sam Snelling

March 24, 2006 08:11 AM | Link to this

I’m sure the lady’s kitchen is clean and bug-free, and she and her helpers probably wash their hands often. But if she is allowed to operate without inspection and licensing,then every tubercular, nasty, cockroach sanctuary must be also be allowed to do so. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. What guidelines are the sanitary inspectors supposed to use? Are “She’s a nice, little ol’ lady” and “She needs the money” on the inspection checklist?

By linda

March 24, 2006 08:12 AM | Link to this

She is not doing anything wrong, but you could open up a big-o-can of worms if she is allowed to do that. What next? Anyone could say, well guess what I want to make and sell! Could be icky.

By Lindsey

March 24, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this

This is completly absurd. It is very discouraging that hard working people are always held down. She found a way to make people happy and earn a little bit of money to help with mediacal bills and is being punished for it. It is almost like they are encouraging people to commit crimes for money instead of earning it honestly.

By Melanie

March 24, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this

Such a sad story…Where can I donate my 1.65? And if Willie wants to GIVE me a pie she can.

By lexie

March 24, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this

You know she was just making an extra $100 a week to pay for that medication. You would think she was making millions by the way the govenment is reacting. It is terrible. The government takes everything, no wonder none of us can ever get ahead in this life.

By Kim

March 24, 2006 08:18 AM | Link to this

I can’t beleive this! She is doing nothing wrong. People have been doing this for years, baking cookies, cakes and pies for their loved ones and neighbors. At times the recipients of those goodies may give back some money because of the hard work and time that it takes to bake those treats. It’s not like she is raking in thousands of dollars! she is bringing in a mere $100 to pay for her husbands medical expenses. So I guess the state department needs to shut down churches for their weekly bake sales. Know your history! This was how some people made extra money to help take care of their families.

By Blondsky

March 24, 2006 08:20 AM | Link to this

It seems most people bring out the stock “She is doing nothing wrong,” “Why doesn’t the state go after the worse people,” “She isn’t hurting anyone,” whatever. My favorite from one genius - “They are on the take.” Yes, money was flowing to shut down the poor woman. Great analysis! In short, meaningless bunk people use every time they want to whine but don’t actually have a valid response.

Sure, her situation is unfortunate. Just like many other people who a breaking laws (perhaps unknowingly.” That is why we have laws and regulations - to keep the inspectors from having to come up with different results for every case. There is an obvious reason for them, unless you want to go in the local restaurant and take your chances. It seems the woman has the right attitude. Most of the people here need to get a brain and a little common sense.

By JOSEPH WHITE

March 24, 2006 08:20 AM | Link to this

I really think that what the state is doing sucks, we have so many laws for things that don’t make sense.I can see if she was making a corprate money, but she is barley making it and I don’t see the State or Government willing to help them get their medications. Instead of closing her down, why don’t the state help her get a business and a building to help her make a better life for herself, if she sold drugs she would have more than one chance. Our laws state and government sucks, please quote me on that.

By irene

March 24, 2006 08:21 AM | Link to this

Perhaps the restaurant that bought Mrs. Watts pies could provide her with a part time position in their kitchen so she can provide their customers with her treats and help continue her tradition. It is also a tragedy that this country has plenty of money to deal out DEATH. But little or nothing to provide the citizens who make this country so wonderful a healthy and comfortable retirement.

By Corey

March 24, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

This is an outrage. The government and the nark who reported her should worry about real problems facing their community. What ever happened to free enterprise. Furthermore, she was doing something she felt she had to do to make ends meet without asking for government assistance in getting the heart medication for her husband. I’m certainly glad the “nark” is not a neighbor of mine! Shame on you!

By Carmen

March 24, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

What a crock! There are tons of people who bake and sell cakes from their homes, and what about all the people who bake goods for bake sales? Is our big bad government going to shut them down too? The folks who boil peanuts and fry pork rinds on the sides of the roads in the South…what about them? They’ve been part of the Southern culture for as long as I can remember…are you going to go after them too? I seriously hate what this country is coming to.

Leave that woman and her pies alone, and go find a drug dealer to pick on.

By Emily

March 24, 2006 08:23 AM | Link to this

you all just need to calm down in here. You are right. Lot’s of things crazy goin on in the world. This ain’t one of them!

By Gina

March 24, 2006 08:25 AM | Link to this

The state is worried about an elderly lady baking pies — go find the crack houses and leave people just trying to get by alone!

By Crystal

March 24, 2006 08:25 AM | Link to this

What has happened to our society when little ladies can’t make fried pies and sell them to earn a little extra spending money? What about all the drug dealers, who are making thousands of dollars a day? Why isn’t more time spent taking them out of business and leave people like this alone!

By Carolyn

March 24, 2006 08:26 AM | Link to this

It is a shame that the state is shutting down this woman who has found a way to earn income to help herself and her husband buy the things she needs. I think the state has bigger fish to go after. I would bet this woman has cleaner standards than most of the fast food restaraunts we all patronize.

By Tim D

March 24, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this

How ridiculous! Doesn’t the government have better things to do with their time than to pick on old ladies? They probably saw her as an easy target.

By Shawn

March 24, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this

It is a shame she has been shut down, but the state is under obligation to make sure that all restaurant food is safe for consumption. If this lady does cook the pies for a restaurant, then she needs to cook them from an inspected kitchen. Why can she not just go to the restaurant and cook the pies there?

By Swangirl

March 24, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

I’m willing to bet that Mrs. Watts’ kitchen is a lot cleaner than many restaurant kitchens in Atlanta. And yet it practically takes an act of Congress to get those places shut down.

Mrs. Watts, you’re a gem.

By Albert Bolet

March 24, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

Another example of big government’s inability to distinguish between people who need to survive and commercial enterprises out to make a buck. If you are an individual on a fixed income and you are not infringing on the rights of others you should be allowed to do what this lady has been doing. I wonder where she is going to get the funds to pay for her husband’s medicines now???

By Chicago

March 24, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

Your state government has gone crazy. Catch the real criminals and leave this poor lady alone!

By Larry

March 24, 2006 08:29 AM | Link to this

Jeez…I hope dg is being facetious. If you’re serious, you’ve got a problem. Yeah, there’s a need for laws about cleanliness in restaurants, but this borders on the insane. I’m on disability, but I’d be willing to pitch in on a ‘medication fund’, anybody else?

By Donald

March 24, 2006 08:29 AM | Link to this

It’s a good thing they didn’t find out about Paula Deen and sons when they were getting started.

By Bill

March 24, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this

Where’s the apology from the AJC for putting her out of business?

By Shirley

March 24, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this

Leave Mrs. Watts alone. Tell her what is needed to get legal and let her return selling her pies. She is making an honest living and is not asking for state of federal assistance. They need to go after the business owners running illegal drugs activity and stealing from the government.

By E. Lewis

March 24, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this

There is a reason for the health code.

By David

March 24, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this

I’m sure her local church has a kitchen where she could fry her pies! She could donate some of her profit to the church and still be legal. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

By Melinda

March 24, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

It’s a shame. Nice sweet lady like this, just trying to share her love.

By Lynn Murphy

March 24, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this

This is so sad. I think the lady should be left alone to cook her fried pies. She is not hurting anyone.

By MHicks

March 24, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

This is crazy. Leave her alone and allow her to cook the pies! She isn’t doing anything wrong!

By Melinda

March 24, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

The Department of Agriculture needs to get a COLONIC, because they are full of IT!!! They need to be more concerned with the Mad Cow Disease, the Bird Flu, and several other health issues.

By Anthony

March 24, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

I have a suspicion that this matter may have more to do with the state not receiving money from a business license than with health concerns. The article did not mention that anyone had become sick from eating Willie’s pies. Shame, shame, shame on the state.

By MHicks

March 24, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

This is crazy. Leave her alone and allow her to cook the pies! She isn’t doing anything wrong!

By Toni R Stenson

March 24, 2006 08:34 AM | Link to this

It’s a sad day in America when our elderly has been reduced to making pies in her kitchen and an even sadder day when the local government comes in and shut it down. We have illegal immigrants in this city doing all kinds of illegal acts, like making fake licenses and license plates none of which have insurance. This woman is law abiding citizen trying to make ends meet for her and her family. Stop sweating the small stuff and get the crime out, not the little old ladies making pies in her kitchen.

By Jeffrey

March 24, 2006 08:34 AM | Link to this

Doing this for years and so the AJC decides to do a story and it gets out. Can’t you see it? The AJC should pay for this lady to make her pies somewhere else besides her home. It’s the AJC that caused this lady to be shut down because you notice nobody cried about her great efforts to help those around remember what good southern food is and not this “stuff” they sell at some of these cafeteria style restaurants. So while the story seems warm hearted it’s yet again the AJC messing up somebody else’s life. So AJC it’s your fault this lady is being shut down so your editors need to step up and put those huge salaries you don’t earn to good use and rent this lady some space to make these pies.

By Jetson Black

March 24, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

Welcome to the totalitarian police state!!! These government clowns won’t be happy until they control every aspect of our lives - when to get up, when to sit down, when to wipe your butt. And then they have the nerve to say we’re occupying other countries in the name of freedom and liberty. What freedom?!

By Mark

March 24, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

I don’t know which is more expensive: legal fees to fight it or the taxes, license fees, inspection fees, reports and accounting to keep it open.

Shouldn’t we now move to have all the Krispy Kreme street corner sellers and church bakery sales for “donations” inspected.

By Jerome

March 24, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

This is a crying shame that this family has to stop making history, buts it ok for people to sell pies on the streets and illegals to build house and cut grass, I’m in the Washiton DC area and will pass this to everyone I know.

By chief

March 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

Long ago, Mark Twain said: “A man who carries a cat home by its tail will learn a lesson that can be learned in no other way.”

Here’s your cat: Tommy.

By mahwah

March 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

Why doen’t the state worry about real crime? Let the lady make her pies for heaven sake! Someday people will not even know the taste of homemade goodness, only store bought mass produced products.

By Paula Manning

March 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

Absolutely, the state should allow her to continue to make pies. At least, we have a person whom is willing to work and make a living. The tax payers will now be paying for the heart medication.

By JM

March 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

Mrs. Watts, I love your attitude. God is going to provide for you and your husband. I will continue my prayers for you and your family. Great things are coming, no matter how many stumbling blocks are thrown out there, know that, here are so many blessings ahead for you.

By Kirby

March 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

Once again it looks like State Employees have too much time on their hands. This should be looked at no no differnet than bake sales at churches or schools, c’mon 100 bucks?? I would hope a Senior official at the Agricultural department would help re-focus their employees time on what is important to the residents of the state. It is certainly not the elderly who are upholding family traditions!

By Bwells

March 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

March 24, 2006 I have no problem with this lady cooking out of her kitchen and making a little money in these hard times. I do however would like for the health dept to visit her kitchen and rate it the same as any other business making sure that all things are up to code requirements.

By sandra

March 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

A possible solution to this delima, would be if a local Resturant in the area would commission her to make the pies for them to sell. This would be under their license, and they could sell them for slightly higher and pay her the difference.

By anna

March 24, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

I believe the lady should continue to do as she can. Along with the lack of true southern cuisine are the tenants that a person is allowed to make money picking up trash (if need be) without approval of the state. She is in the same category. I believe she should be allowed to continue to make the money she needs to buy prescription drugs since we all know the government programs aren’t working, are too cumbersome and don’t even work for most elderly any longer. She was only selling to family and friends. She was not in a business relationship, there was no CONTRACT, so the Agriculture Dept. has no beef in this matter.

By Tea

March 24, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

This kind of idiotic behavior from the agencies that are supposed to protect and serve is becoming more and more apparent. Police-Let’s go bust this guy, he won’t give us any flack. That guy might make us work harder. Dfacs- Let’s go check the same cases that 2 other case workers closed 8 months ago. The new cases take far too much paperwork. Sewer/Water- Let’s watch all this water gush from the broken pipe for at least another 45 minutes. Then we go to lunch. State Inspector who closed her down- You are easier and take less work to close down. I get points either way. Anyone had enough of tax paid agencies yet?

By Mark

March 24, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

Jeffrey is exactly right!!

By moses

March 24, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

Flip side to this story: 100 people get sick after eating fried pies from uninspected facility, state was notified and did nothing. Inspectors must be on the take! Why arent they doing what they are paid to do?

Give me a break. Even grandma has to follow the ruls.

By Hugh Howard

March 24, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

This is more government going where it doesn’t need to go. This lady probably has a much cleaner kitchen than most restaurants in this town. We need a whole lot less government. I’d like to know where I could send this fine lady some money

By Auntiepreneur

March 24, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

Just wait a couple of months for any publicity to die down and start selling the pies again under another name from a neighbor’s house. Where are the Moonshine Business Consultants when you need one?

By barry Bill

March 24, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

Good job. government mules! Clearly this person could be a terrorist. Thanks Big Brother, I feel so much safer.

By Paul

March 24, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

Laws should NEVER be black and white. There should always be room for some gray. This is a good example for that argument.

By James

March 24, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

If the AJC will set up a fund to get this lovely lady some equipment I think enough good people would make it possible for her to continue making pies through contributions, how about it AJC?

By CJ

March 24, 2006 08:40 AM | Link to this

You have a great attitude Mrs Watts! Thank you for all your years of service, but you never know what could happen in these days of lawsuits and evil people. You are doing the right thing, so think of it as retirement and I am sure you will find a new opportunity with your new found time.

By Peace

March 24, 2006 08:41 AM | Link to this

Mrs. Watts, we love fried pies. So, if you would do me a FAVOR and GIVE me fried pies, maybe I’ll GIVE you cash to help cover the cost of your supplies. As a matter of fact, I bet your pies would be a big hit at our church functions so I may ask you to GIVE me a large quantity. I don’t want to BUY them, mind you. With me on this?

P.S. I really don’t care where you cook them.

By melonie

March 24, 2006 08:41 AM | Link to this

Lighten up Larry. dg is seeing it on the LIGHTER side. Like most of you should be. It’s not like they repossessed the house. (Lot’s) of folks struggling! ie…

KATRINA!

By Mary Morrison

March 24, 2006 08:42 AM | Link to this

That is a shame..good homemade fried pies are good and I am sure the people will miss them. Wish I was close enough to have one.

By ALTON

March 24, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

i don’t think this is that terrible. this woman has lived through events that would trump this one easily. however, of all the things wrong or illegal in the world today this is the one crime that this particular branch of government plans to eliminate. what would we do without the enforcers keeping us safe from grandma?

By ripdog

March 24, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

Although I understand the couple’s need to make money, I do have to side with the government in this case. Food preperation is regulated for a reason. I see many posters have suggested alternatives such as preparing the food in an unused school kitchen that has already been inspected and approved for commercial use. The overriding concern should be public safety.

By poppop

March 24, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

What a crock! The one department in the government(Agriculture) you would hope still had a passion for the little man,closes a lil’ol’ senior citizen,making fried pies.I am ashamed for Georgia.

By Diane

March 24, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

It seems that if state or federal governments aren’t receiving their cut (taxes) then it has to go. If this was a drug sting they would watch it for years on end. For God’s sake she’s just making fried pies to pay for her husbands medication. She’s not on welfare or medicaid and yet she is being harassed. Way to go Georgia!!!

By SS

March 24, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

I believe that food safety is extremely important. If food providers and restaurants have to follow guidelines, the Watts should as well. It is not a problem to sell to friends and neighbors, but when she began supplying a local restaurant the rules must be followed for the safety of the general public.

By myron shear

March 24, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

thay should have to conform to helth and safty requirerments and than be able to sell there proudects

By Bertha Shade

March 24, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

This lady is honest and was trying to make an honest living. Evidently she is selling a good product with her heart in it. It is hard today to find this type of food. It was made without any artificial support. It is my opinion that she should be commended.

Stone Mountain

By John Horton - Richmond, VA

March 24, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

The state of Georgia can’t deal with illegal immigration, drugs, car racing on 285, and myriad other real problems - but can hassel an elderly lady in Cobb County. Wake up Sonny & get the boys at the Capitol focused on important things.

By Atl Pearl Girl

March 24, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

Two sides remember…..I love fried pies…(my hips can testify) BUT…..if someone had gotten sick, or had allergic reaction, they could have been sued…..maybe they are being protected also? Maybe they can somehow get the required kitchen space somewhere to continue their tradition.

By Jane

March 24, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

SAD SAD SAD Willie should be applauded for trying to help herself. Willie your right God will open another door and I think it will be a much bigger door. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Lionel.

By John

March 24, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

What law or regulation is she breaking? Is there some way she could come into compliance? It’s not like she’s a threat to the public health — but if she is in violation of some rule, can she be helped to comply with it.

By Stephen

March 24, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

I live close to this lady and have had those pies from the restraunt. If I had known why she was making them I would have bought more.

By Rob DeWitt

March 24, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

Thank God the state has finally got around to stopping this illegal operation. With Willie Watts now taken care of and summer approaching, the state can now direct its resources toward shutting down another dangerous enterprise rampant in our state - kids’ lemonade stands. I am ever so appreciative of the beauracracy that protects me. Now I am going to go have a smoke and think some more about it.

By Glenda

March 24, 2006 08:46 AM | Link to this

You people do know what the problem is - this is an electon year. Got to get the Dept of AG in the news since we really don’t hear from them at other times. What better target than an elderly family trying to get by. Give her the 1000’s of forms she needs to do buisness in this state and charge all the taxes she will have to pay and you will never hear another word from the state about her. ALL THEY WANT IS THEIR SHARE OF HER $100 A WEEK.

By Glenda Ali

March 24, 2006 08:47 AM | Link to this

It is a ‘shame and disgrace’,that decent people can’t even make an attempt to ‘survive’,but I know God will make a way.Stay encouraged my sister,and know that you are covered in prayer.I have faith to believe that the ‘favor’ of God is with you,and this is just a set-up for you to be tremendously bless.I can hardly wait to hear the testimony!

By red

March 24, 2006 08:47 AM | Link to this

Ridiclulous. Here is another example of how our local and state govt. worry about the wrong things. They crackdown on a poor lady trying to make a honest buck while thousands of illegal immigrants are saturating our state workforce. Nice job.

By greg

March 24, 2006 08:48 AM | Link to this

Who is this lady’s congressman? Maybe they could contact whoever it was that shut her down and see what could be done to open her back up without breaking some regulation. Then change the regulation so the little guy wouldn’t be stepped on all the time.

By KABA

March 24, 2006 08:48 AM | Link to this

I heard on the radio that the State came in after a Cobb newspaper article was published featuring her fried pies. Perhaps the newspaper could sponsor a fundraising effort to get this lady some money to upgrade her kitchen and meet State standards.

By Fred

March 24, 2006 08:49 AM | Link to this

Perhaps the operation can be relocated to their church kitchen. It has been my experience that these facilities are certified by the appropriate agency to meet health standards. Some personal chefs and caterers use the facilities for that primary reason. They’re generally cheaper to use than commercial kitchens.

By James

March 24, 2006 08:49 AM | Link to this

Think along with the government types….. don’t sell the pies….simply ask for a “donation”……

By Stan Green

March 24, 2006 08:49 AM | Link to this

Why can her kitchen not pass a health code? If it passes, what difference does it make wheather it’s in her home or a commercial location?

By Sarita

March 24, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this

It seems to me that the Commission could inspect and approve her kitchen based on the facilities she currently has. It’s a one-person operation. What’s next? Ban “funnel cakes” at local festivals? Surely her kitchen facilities far surpass the portable ones they use at fairs, etc.

As far as their meds are concerned, I have a feeling they’re in the same class as my aunt and uncle was…too much in retirement funds to get help and not enough funds so they didn’t NEED to ASK for help. The middle-class yet again is caught between a rock and a hard place.

By Moore Cowbell

March 24, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this

Lawyers and politicians, truly the blackest, grimiest scum of the earth. I have nothing but utter contempt for any of them. Tort reform folks. This is why this woman isn’t allowed to sell her pies. 90% of lawsuits need to be thrown out of court as frivolous and inconsequential. Judges are ex-lawyers and are usually affiliated with a law firm is some form or another. They make money from lawsuits, the more the better. It impacts EVERYTHING in our daily lives. Lawsuits impact insurance, making medical insurance out of reach of the indiviual. Insurance is the primary cost after employees in any business and that cost is passed on to you and I. Fear of lawsuits impede progress and innovation as everything must be infallible before being made available to the public. It is ruining our country and lawyers, politicians and out apathy are to blame. Let Willie make her pies!

By Pam

March 24, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this

Good grief—leave the poor lady alone and God bless her for being a “doer” instead of a “taker”. It is the same as a retired hairdresser—can’t do minor cutting and curling at home—because the government can’t get a grip on how much they make—to tax them!. I agree with Carl—there are school facilities that aren’t being used in the afternoon and early evenings—why doesn’t the system—charge a small fee to rent out these facilities? How many billions of dollars are we spending to support other countries—why not leave “our” people alone.

By Edward

March 24, 2006 08:51 AM | Link to this

You can’t get help from your Government and your government want let you help yourself.

By Tonya

March 24, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

This is SAD. What’s more important an elderly lady cooking pies in her kitchen or some idiot cooking dope in his?

I wish I had the money to buy this wonderful lady a small restaurant!!

God will definitely work this out!!

By Stuart

March 24, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

My gosh. Of all the things we have to worry about in this world and we are to persecute this wonderful lady for doing the right thing. It is sickening to me that she has to do this to provide a little extra income to help her hsband with his medications. Look the other way on this one.

By Barbara

March 24, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

It is sad that Mrs. Watts can not continue but with the way people constantly file lawsuits the State does what it is required to do. Her pies maybe delicious but it only takes one person blaming her for their getting sick to make her life a living hell with a lawsuit that she does not need. May God open that window since the door has been shut.

By Saundra

March 24, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this

There is something wrong with the fact that this little old lady is being harrassed for making pies. Is a dollar and change or one hundred going to break the State of Georgia. We should truly be embarrassed by the actions of these idiots. I say let “granny” keep on baking and while you’re it, where does she live - I would like a few of those pies.

By Gayle N. Walton

March 24, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

I understand both ends. But it’s ashame the people that really need help can’t get help. And then there are those people that are cheating, stealing, and all the above that receive all the help the govenment has to offer. More that likely the govenment has told her that her fixed income is to much for assistance. Mr. and Mrs Watts don’t worry about it. What the devil has tried to destroy is nothing compared to the blessing that God has for you. I remember those pies My momma makes them when we go home to the country. We called them Peach Puffs or Apple Puffs they are cresent shape and she uses a fork to seal them close. Who ever told was just mad because they didn’t think of that idea. That what wrong with the world today somebody is always trying to bring a good person down. In stead of hurting each other we need to help each other. Ms. Watts if there is anything I can do to help you please email me at gaylescooby@aol.com.

By P.B.Jackson

March 24, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

Yet another example of government bureaucracy at its worst. A capitalist society is supposed to empower the people not hamstring them.I say no harm no foul.Rules are made for the unruly and laws for the lawless. It seems government goes too far in penalizing governable citizens and is too lenient on the more wily criminals who understand the ins and outs of the system.

By Wendy

March 24, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

I think it is sad that this lady is trying to make a few extra dollars to buy her husband’s medicine, not to even have a nice life, but to buy medicine and someone had to report this. The person that reported this must be a truly unhappy persona and let me tell you, “what goes around, comes around”. God will take care of this lady and something good will come out of this. I will keep her and her husband in my prayers!

By SB

March 24, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

It’s a sad day in America when a person can’t operate under the free enterprise industry. What harm were these two people causing? People like to eat and they apparently enjoy cooking. It’s a simple example of supply and demand “101.” The $100.00 for heart medicine for the husband was the only reason they had to do this. It was an honest means for getting the money without being at the mercy of the government for everything. There was nothing anybody could gain for closing down the Watts’ kitchen. Thank God for the positive attitude of Ms Watts, who shows her faith in the article by stating that maybe it’s not so bad. To the Watts’ remember when man says No, God says YES!!!!

By Dianne

March 24, 2006 08:56 AM | Link to this

I know this family meant well and didn’t intend on breaking any laws…and God knows, I’d love to have one of her fried pies! But, having a friend in the ‘home bakery’ business, I know all too well the regulations they must follow. The health inspections to ensure the facility is clean, that food is kept at a proper temperature..an endless list. My heart aches for her, but if she is allowed to sell baked items from her home, thousands of others would have to be allowed as well…and they might not be as meticulous as she is. God bless you Mrs. Watts.

By Mark

March 24, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this

Willie Watts is in the phone book. Let’s send her some checks, maybe she will find a way to stay in business.

By MT2

March 24, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this

If you are troubled by the way the Dept of Agriculture handled this issue, please contact them. … As concerned citizens, we must inform officials of our feelings.

By Laurie

March 24, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this

I hope those who shut her down also informed her of how she could reopen. I’m sure because of this story she’ll be climbing through that open window and making more money than she ever thought of. The world is good and someone in the baking business will eventually get wind of this story.

By Glenda

March 24, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

You people do know what the problem is - this is an electon year. Got to get the Dept of AG in the news since we really don’t hear from them at other times. What better target than an elderly family trying to get by. Give her the 1000’s of forms she needs to do buisness in this state and charge all the taxes she will have to pay and you will never hear another word from the state about her. ALL THEY WANT IS THEIR SHARE OF HER $100 A WEEK.

By James Meinken

March 24, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

Obvious proof we have TOO MUCH government.

Who are they protecting us from? Ourselves?

In the “Land of the Free”, with all the ‘laws’ that are enacted we have less freedom today than we had one year ago and a year from now we will have even less freedom than today.

Sad.

By Bud Adkison

March 24, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

I think most of the state inspecters have fried brains anyway and if they had brains they would have a different job.

By yousuck

March 24, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this

Maybe he wouldn’t need heart meds if he hadn’t eaten so many fried pies in the first place?

By Joy

March 24, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this

The best revenge would be for everyone who sees a lemonade stand, vegtable stand, someone selling cookies or cakes or anything that might resemble these situation to call the department of agriculture and report them. flood the system! overwelm them! Put your tax dollars to work! find them somthing to do. make them go all the way to the mountains, the beach every inch of their territory!

By Gina

March 24, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this

To Bob,

By Barbara

March 24, 2006 09:05 AM | Link to this

In every walk of life there is always that someone who feel the need to police everyone but himself. It makes me think they have no power anywhere else in their lives so every opportunity they can exercise their muscle, sensitivity is not a part of their logic. Logic would say that this lady, more likely than not, is being patronized by the same people over and over again. If they are not complaining why should we be complaining? The world today has many immoral and illegal woes. Can he do something about that?

By Kathy Klassen

March 24, 2006 09:05 AM | Link to this

This is very sad. Whoever thought fried pies would cause such sadness..Willie’s comment “When somebody closes up a door, the Lord opens up a window” is an inspiration to me! I love Willie!

By indira

March 24, 2006 09:06 AM | Link to this

this is TOTALLY ridiculous!!! – she is not doing ANYTHING wrong – my God, she’s trying to supplement here income to help pay for her husbands heart medicine. it’s not like she making mega money selling her pies. to the person who wrote that she (or people like her) should be placed under house arrest and the restaurants that buy her food should be fine, that’s CRAZY. what’s wrong with buying cakes or pies from someone you know and the product tastes great. i think all of us at some point and time have enlisted a friend, or someone we been put in touch with, to make a birthday cake, peach cobbler, etc… and paid them for it – isn’t this the same type situation?! i wish that i could get in touch with mrs. watts, i would order 100 fried pies from here!! the government AND the person who reported mrs. watts really should find something better to do with their time!!

By TRUTH

March 24, 2006 09:06 AM | Link to this

I know by the grace of God this lady is getting ready to receive a ‘BIG BLESSING’.

Let no weapon formed against her prosper.

I would hate to be in the shoes of the person who reported this to the state.

Shame on you,Shame on you. You have blocked your blessings. Just wanted to let you know.

Mrs. Watts, receive your Blessing!!!!

By Stephen

March 24, 2006 09:06 AM | Link to this

There should be a reasonable way to make exceptions for home-based sidelines without having to build a full-fledged commercial kitchen. She should be able to demonstrate some basic hygeine and permitted to continue.

By CJ

March 24, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this

Does that mean that bake sales are now illegal as well? Will all kitchens need to be inspected?

Start concentrating on the real problems, not an elderly couple trying to make ends meet.

By LaVeeda Barnes

March 24, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this

I think it is really sad that the government spends more time investigating a senior citizen that was just making a little innocent extra money to assist in paying the outrageous medical costs. Yet, they do not focus their attention on all of violations that go on in restaurants daily. I pray that they re-think their decision and let her be able to continue to make the fried pies. I sure would like to buy some.

By Mary G

March 24, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this

You know, I find this ridiculous. There are times when the state needs to stop playing big brother and show a little compassion. Medical costs and fixed incomes do not go well together. I admire this lady for making the fried pies to help defray expenses. I remember my mom’s fried pies.~sigh~…sure wish I had found out about her before she was closed down.

By Valerie

March 24, 2006 09:08 AM | Link to this

The person that turned her in should be ashamed; has Americans become so bitter we do not sympathize with those that need extra help. And the government should be even more ashamed. There are others that are committing crimes that actual hurt people; I would think that my tax money would be spent looking for them. If this dept have enough time to bust old ladies baking pies they sould return some of ther budget to the police and other dept that are looking for those that do harm to others.

By taco slammer

March 24, 2006 09:08 AM | Link to this

I sure hope Monica Kaufman finds out about this story. Another classic example of big brother slapping the little guy.

Ms. Watts I know someone who would be interested in a couple dozen pies every month. I’ll bet they are nearly identical to the ones my Grandma used to make many years ago. You should be commended for practicing the art of a fine Southern tradition.

Shame on your organization Mr. Irvin.

By arlene

March 24, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

Totally ridiculous! Let the lady make extra money for her husband’s much-needed medication. Her customers know the pies come from her kitchen at home, so why is it the business of the government as to where they are made? I guess they think the income from these pies will put her in a higher tax bracket…and that the government isn’t getting it’s “piece of the pie!” (Sorry, no pun intended.) LOL

By Curhams

March 24, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

Every day I’m amazed anew by incompetent and sociopathic behavior from our state, federal and local government in the name of the American public, supposedly for the American public. Will somebody respresenting the American public please draw a line in the sand and show just how capable and caring we the people truly are? This situation is infuriating! If exceptions can be made for corporate america without our say, then make an exception now…

By Stanley Williams

March 24, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

This is the ultimate in bureaucratic stupidity. No doubt those in that department will now find a way to allow it to go on if they can somehow profit from it. But I know the Wattses will survive because they have put their trust in a higher power. God bless them.

By Diva

March 24, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

I think that she should keep on making fried pies. Because she is not hurting anybody. May God bless you and keep making those fried pies. God bless Mrs. Watts.

By Claudette

March 24, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

It is amazing that the state has time to shut the mom and pop operation down in less than 24 hours, but a resturant that does not meet code or standards gets a chance to clean up or no inspection is done at all. How is it that these workers have time to shut this down and can not inspect areas of compliant by the us in a timely manner?

By chasta penny

March 24, 2006 09:10 AM | Link to this

This is really ashamed. You have people selling alcohol and drugs in their home and here this lady trying to make an honest living helping her husband with purchasing the medication he needs. When I was a child the neighbor use to sell ice cream and cold cups - That wasn’t against the law. The Lord will make away and provide.

By Craig Ford

March 24, 2006 09:10 AM | Link to this

Hell has a place reserved for bureaucrats!

By Ann

March 24, 2006 09:10 AM | Link to this

God help us against ourselves. We certainly manage to pick the easy fights and let the others go. No wonder we have large drug rings and gangs and murders — our law enforcement and legislaturers are too busy making sure we follow the small rules. We are trying to ban religious symbols, ban dogs, ban homemade pies — what next? I guess we can’t say “as American as Apple Pie” anymore.

By Mickey Elliott

March 24, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this

This burns my “grits” That someone would take the time to report this lady and that someone in our government would take the time to even listen or act upon something so trival. Doing this type of cooking has been a southern tradition for as long as I can remember and selling them to neighbors or local stores. In the smaller towns you will find this in nearly all of the country stores are they going to go around to the entire state of GA and stop them!!!! This only goes to show that we have to many government officals with not enough to do. Why don’t they take the time find new ways to help the elderly who live on fixed incomes or people who are disabled and have a hard time getting the money to eat, live and pay for medicines, instead of wasting their time and our tax dollars on something of this nature. Why not take time to make sure that lower income children are not going hungrey or cold. And BOOOO to whoever was SMALL enough to make a big thing out of this anyway. I am sure that whoever is involved with this would not hesitate to buy one of the homemade pies at a local store and enjoy every bite of it.

By Becca

March 24, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this

Some of you are missing the point. It isn’t the selling of pies, it is the making of these pies in the ladies kitchen that comes into question. Using kids selling donuts and cookies doesn’t compare because these donuts and cookies were made in an inspected kitchen. Someone in another blog also said that it is almost impossible to shut down a dirty commercial kitchen. One way would be to stop going to that particular restaurant. If these pies were made in a sanctioned commercial kitchen, then it wouldn’t be a problem. I hope someone offers her kitchen space.

BTW - The AJC did not print the original story that led to someone ratting on them to the DOA.

By paul stanley

March 24, 2006 09:12 AM | Link to this

This is nothing but discrimination! It is the same as having a bake sale or yard sale at your home!

By redwine

March 24, 2006 09:13 AM | Link to this

Totally absurd. I lokeothers in this article will send one of the first donations if she wants to give the pies away. She is not asking anyone for anything, just trying to uplift herself and her husband in the AMERICAN WAY!

By Becca

March 24, 2006 09:14 AM | Link to this

Oops, sorry, I reread the story and it was in the Cobb section of the AJC. That was not the report I heard on the tv news this morning. However, it would have been difficult for them to do the story if Mrs. Watts had not cooperated.

By OutSideAgitator

March 24, 2006 09:15 AM | Link to this

This is the first time I have ever seen 99.99% of folks agreeing on the same thing. So here’s my 2cents worth from the good old Florida Panhandle. LEAVE THE LADY ALONE. Let her sell her pies.

By Zeron

March 24, 2006 09:15 AM | Link to this

It may not be legal but it happens all over this grand state of ours. The state has no idea how many people do this from their homes. My entire life (as a native Georgian) there has always been some ‘candy lady’ or ‘cake lady’ in the neighborhood. The profit isn’t very high, but they are filling a need or demand in their area. I see no harm in Miss Willie making her pies to help make ends meet. Maybe someone with some legal knowlege can assist her and get her back in business. I also like the ‘cash donation and give a pie’ approach mentioned earlier in this thread. Good Luck and GOD bless you Miss WIllie.

By dg

March 24, 2006 09:15 AM | Link to this

One time I got sick from eating chicken salad. I made it myself with chicken that I left in the fridge too long. Can I report this to some government agency so they can assure me that I will never have to cook again? Please?

By PatC

March 24, 2006 09:16 AM | Link to this

Seems we are in agreement that The Department of Agriculture has over reacted in enforcing regulations. Mrs. Watts should be given time to make arrangements with a commercial kitchen to continue her pie business while meeting health regulations, established to safe guard the public. What can we do to assist Mrs. Watts? Let’s request The Department of Agriculture provide her with 60 days to locate a facility that meets their criteria. Below is contact information; let’s call, email, or write a letter in support of Mrs. Watts.

Georgia Department of Agriculture 19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr., S.W. Atlanta, Georgia 30334

Tele: (404) 656-3645 Toll Free: (800) 282-5852 TTY: (404) 657-8387

Commissioner Tommy Irvin tirvin@agr.state.ga.us

FYI: Bob, this blog was about an injustice towards an elderly woman by State government. There was no need to be divisive by pointing fingers. And by the way, it wasn’t a Yankee that turn her in.. perhaps, it was one of your good old southern boys.

By Pat

March 24, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

I think if the proper authorities got behind Mrs. Watts and helped her to go through the proper channels to allow her to continue making her fried pies that would be a blessing. I do agree with her when one door closes the Lord will open another. Now lets see who it will be to help her open this door again. No harm being done, I’d rather eat from her kitchen than some restaurants that are state approved. God Bless you Mrs. Watts may your efforts be rewarded. Citizen in Florida.

By Teresa

March 24, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

This is ridiculous! Her kitchen is probably cleaner than most resturants in Georgia! There probably would not have been a problem if she has offered the inspector cash under the table! They are just as corrupt as the rest of Georgia’s Government! Shame on the person that reported Mr.& Mrs. Watts making them out to be criminals! I guess my kids can’t sell lemonade anymore because I don’t have a commercial kitchen and my kids don’t charge tax on each cup they sell. Get a life people!

By MeShell

March 24, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

Mrs. Willie just remember the word of God says let your gift make room for you. God has BLESSED you through your cooking and he WILL provide for you and your husband. There are no good things that he will withhold from you and though the devil meant it for bad just know that GOD is setting you up to reap the GOOD!!!

Much Love, Peace & Blessings Mother :)

By Bob

March 24, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

“…this might open the door for un-clean foods”? People have been doing this kind of thing for years. It’s this kind of work that generates a local “flavor” for different parts our country and I, for one, enjoy the fruits of their labor. Otherwise, McDonald’s, Burger King, and the other corporate chains are the only ones “authorized” to define what our “flavor” is. If there is a concern about cleanliness, do a test on the food. If there’s a problem, offer ways to correct the situation. In there’s not a problem, leave them the heck alone!! This is an abuse of power that smacks of something even more underhanded and we should not let these people get away with this crap! If this really affects you, please send a message to the Governor and your state representative. I know I will.

By SaraB

March 24, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

And what would have happened if someone had gotten sick from eating one of these pies? The poor woman would have been sued and lost what little she has. Then most of you would be fussing that the Department of Agriculture didn’t do their jobs.

By yolanda

March 24, 2006 09:18 AM | Link to this

Lord have mercy on us all, especially on those in government making these stupid laws. This lady was trying to make ends meet for herself and her husband. Nobody was getting hurt, and she was not making a “killing” selling her pies. In this society all us have to a hustle to make it. God Bless this lady anyway, and I would buy 100 pies just to make a point. SOmethimes the GOVERNMENT just needs to stay out of our business!!!!!!

By Melanie

March 24, 2006 09:18 AM | Link to this

This is not right! This lady took this on after her Aunt past away! This tells you how long she has been doing this. For someone to come along and report her to the State was WRONG! It doesn’t matter what the AJC didn’t put in the paper regaurding what “led the State to close her down” Are you going to give her the money she will be losing because of this?

By TC

March 24, 2006 09:19 AM | Link to this

WHOM EVER REPORTED HER SHOULD HELP PAY FOR HER HUSBANDS MEDICATION!!! We have soooo many other problems with our government as it is that they have to pick on this poor woman. Snitching neighbor!!! You will not sleep well for awhile for opening your big mouth!!! All of these murderers roaming our streets everyday and you want to report on someone taking care of their love ones! Ashame…People Wake Up!!!!

By Ann

March 24, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

Perhaps the State should step back and take another look at what is actually happening here. The service that Ms. Watts is rendering is not for a profit/gain but for the benefit of another. The finished product does not even reflect the expense/time that was exerted to produce it. The amount that she received per pie is normally referred to as a donation.

By Mark

March 24, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

Becca: Your point on donut and cookie sellers is wrong. How do you know how the food is handled AFTER it is distributed? And yes the AJC DID print the original story in its Cobb edition.

By Tamika

March 24, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

This is an outrage. We complain when people milk the system, however, this is a 60+ year old woman that is still working hard every day to provide for her family. Her husband has to have the medication to sustain his life, it’s not like Uncle Sam is eager to pay for that! Yes there is the new Medicare program and Prescription assistance, but these are obviously resources that this woman doesn’t have access to and chooses to not take handouts but make an honest living. Whomever the jerk was that reported this to the State Agriculture dept. should have the conscious to jump off of a cliff right now. These types of “goody-two-shoes, brown nosing, by the book” folks are the reason why so many of our seniors and poor struggle to this day. This is just another sad, sad day in our states treatment of its’ most vulnerable citizens.

By julie

March 24, 2006 09:22 AM | Link to this

Here we go again… has anyone gotten sick from her pies? Have neighbors complained about traffic to & from the house? Come on… people complain about BigGovt, & this is why. The govt goes after the “little” things instead of focusing on the big things that matter: crime, drugs, large company violating major development laws. She is supporting local stores by purchasing her goods there, AND she is doing a wholesome service to her neighbors (plus they are rumored to be REAL good & rival some of the best Fried Pies out there…AND they are cheaper than the Varsity. I bet her kitchen would get a higher restaurant rating than some LICENSED restaurants out there too. Leave them alone. Whoever turned her in should be ashamed!!

By Scott

March 24, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this

Unfortunately, I can understand why the Dept. of Agriculture has to do it, and it all has to do with sanitary conditions. However, I can only conclude one thing: too much government interference. Our tax dollars are going toward keeping a legitimate business from functioning. A minimalist, Libertarian government wouldn’t have interfered.

By Lillian

March 24, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this

This is a prime example of the none caring people in the United States. We are selfish and self centered. No compasion…It is very hard living off of a fixed income with the high cost of gas, good and housing. What can we do to help? Where can we send a donation? Where are we headed in this wonderful America? The poor people are paying the most taxes and the rich get richer. I think it’s all because the government will not get it’s share….

By Linda C.

March 24, 2006 09:24 AM | Link to this

MY GOODNESS!!! My 78 year old mother makes cakes and sells them on occassion. I know she would be heart broken if she had to stop. BIG BROTHER!!! Why can’t you let the couple make ends meet??? Aren’t we suppose to care for our seniors??? Give me a break. COME ON SONNY……STEP IN AND DO SOMETHING!!!!!

By Writeman

March 24, 2006 09:24 AM | Link to this

Let’s see, if I’m part of the state government, should I worry about bird flu or fried pies? Go figure.

By Lew

March 24, 2006 09:25 AM | Link to this

I can not believe this- lets see: shut down all lemonaid stands, all fruit stands, all vegetable stands, all boiled peanut vendors, yard sales,…This is ludicrous. Can Tommy Irvin and elect Brian Kemp this fall.

By Mark

March 24, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

Let’s stop complaining and start doing. Her address and phone number is in the book. I’m sending her a donation TODAY!

Free Willie’s Pies!!

By Stephanie K

March 24, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

I’ve been hearing for years about the legendary “Southern Hospitality” and since moving to Cobb county from Brooklyn, NY a few months ago I have been lucky to see that the legend is alive and well. All of the wonderful, caring comments about this poor woman are just more proof of that fact. I understand that there may be problems that will crop up with selling food from a “lay person’s” kitchen, but what about that girl who found all of the bacteria in the water/ice at fast food restaurants a few months ago? Has anyone shut those places down yet? Still getting ice with your Coke (more ice than Coke, usually…)? Do check-ups on her operation, make sure that she’s using good products and clean equipment and then back off. Oh and AJC…? You guys at the very least owe this lady an apology and at the most…???? Readers - let’s all help out! I’ve never even had a fried fruit pie, but I’m more than willing to send in my $1.65 and then some. Don’t let this Yank think that the glorious legend of big Southern Hearts is just an old, tired myth.

By cliff

March 24, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

I’m amazed.

In all the comment and even in the article itself, a major item is missing. WHY was it shut down? Does she need a business license? Does she need some inspection? These things can be obtained.

My question is why the article wasn’t thorough enough to tell about and explain these issues. As it is, we know about an action taken by the state, but have no context to understand it.

By Helen

March 24, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

This is absurd, there are commercial kitchens selling food everyday that are filthy, yet they are allowed to continue. Let this lady make & sell her pies. I’m sure her kitchen is as clean or cleaner than the kithens of the people who closed her down.

By Deb

March 24, 2006 09:32 AM | Link to this

HEATHENS!!!!!!!

By Jo

March 24, 2006 09:33 AM | Link to this

What’s next? Is the government going to shut down churches that sell BBQ dinners and hold bake sales? What’s the difference? While they’re at it, they can bust all the little kids that have lemonade stands!

By Bill

March 24, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

I support shutting down all the unlicensed boiled peanut stands. Then let’s see the outrage on THAT!! You think the flag issue was big, wait until boiled peanuts are banned!!

By Allison

March 24, 2006 09:35 AM | Link to this

What about people who run catering businesses out of their home?? How do they get away with it and this poor woman can’t bake some pies?? How ridiculous!!

By Mark

March 24, 2006 09:35 AM | Link to this

This amkes me ashamed to be a Georgia voter and taxpayer.We let illegal workers run rampant and when our own elderly citizens try to be self supporting, we stop them. SHAME ON US ALL!!!!

By Stephanie

March 24, 2006 09:37 AM | Link to this

Are there not any Meth Labs they could be chasing down other than focusing there attentions on elderly women trying to supplement her and her husband income by making an selling fried pies earning a whopping $100 per week. Perhaps the Department of Agriculture can hire the person who reported this woman can help with the Meth Labs. This is far more a concern of mine than someone making pies. This will not pose a threat to the community. Nor will the aroma from the pies release toxins in the community like the Meth.

By P. Lanier

March 24, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this

Yes, we need the regulations that protect us and our foods. But, why pick on this couple when there are “roach coaches” all over our parks, street corners, and constructions sites? Why are they being allowed to sell their foods without being inspected? Where is our tax dollars being spent on? How about shutting down the airport rat kitchens? What are we thinking? Where are our priorities? I know God will bless this couple and open another door.

By Brian

March 24, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

Outrageous! This is another example of absurd government bureaucracy. Honest, hard working people often suffer the consequences when government becomes insensitized to the needs of citizens. The Constitution provides that the government will “promote general welfare”, which means to promote health, happiness prosperity and well-being. Maybe the state agriculture officials need to read OUR constitution!

By Chuk

March 24, 2006 09:44 AM | Link to this

I owner of Foghorn Grill in Norcross, if you can come there, I will provide my state licensed kitchen and supervision to make the pies, call 770 246 0643 and ask for Chuk or Mike. Leave your phone number and we will get back with you.

By Tami

March 24, 2006 09:49 AM | Link to this

You have got to be kidding me. Rather than shutting her down why don’t they tell her what she needs to do in order to keep running her “business”? The comment by another person about the school cafeterias was a good idea. There are many businesses that have started this way. If there was anyway I could help I would (not that I know how) but I’m currently looking for a job myself and I live in Nashville. My prayers go out for this woman, may a new opportunity come from this tragedy.

By Gitonia Morrison

March 24, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this

First of all if the government would take care of our eldery like they take care of other countries,she wouldn’t have to be in the kitchen all day making pies.Our eldery black people have worked all their lives in other people kitchens and have never been compensated for it or given any regonition.This is the time in her life when her and hubby should be traveling or sitting on the porch rocking in chairs and enjoying each other.The Lord works in misterious ways and he has something much better instored for her.We still have angles on this earth.If it was in my power I would start her franchise.But watch Oprha in a couple of weeks,and she will be on the show.And won’t have to do nothing but smile for the camera. I can’t wait..

By Don

March 24, 2006 09:51 AM | Link to this

Her kitchen is probably cleaner than most eating establishments in Atlanta.

By JC

March 24, 2006 09:51 AM | Link to this

I would seriously enjoying helping Willie Watts start a business with all appropriate licensing, in any way I could. If any business owners are reading my post, please consider donating your knowledge to the process!

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if her recipes could be used to mass-produce the fried pies and they could be sold to grocery stores all over the country and even online through a website?

That’d show the State! Pie in their face, so to speak!

By Ellie

March 24, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

Door closed—-OPEN WINDOW.

I don’t live anywhere near this lady to avail myself to her pies. I do remember the wonderful taste of FRIED PIES. This is now a lost art.

Would love to be able to buy this type of pie. A BIG difference between baked and Fried pie. An established bakery could use this woman’s skills to market this product.

Her skills could be used to teach others to make the pies. This could be done on a television program (Martha Stewart type of program) I would certainly be interested in learning.

By Becca

March 24, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

Well, Mark, I did see that my report on the AJC printing the article was wrong, I correct that just a blog or two down. The cookies I buy from the Girl Scouts are sealed. I don’t buy donuts but they are usually sold by school groups and unless they are complete idiots, they don’t mess with them. I don’t think that what Mrs. Watts did was morally wrong, however, she is breaking the law. A law that was written to protect the consumer. BTW - I won’t eat anything that comes out of a kitchen if I don’t know the people. I am going to guess that the people who bought these pies knew Mrs. Watts and knew that she kept a clean kitchen.

By Malinda

March 24, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this

Instead of talking about this, I am asking the AJC to use some of its powers (this could be one instance were the AJC might be able to use its journalists to actually do some good for someone) to contact the people who shut her down, give them a print out of everyone who wrote about this and put pressure on the entity that shut her down to reexamine the case and help obtain whatever she needs so she can make her pies. The government will spend money on someone so they can sit around and have babies, how about doing something worthwhile. Or maybe we should all just eat cake.

By Tricia

March 24, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this

Maybe the window God will open for her is the door to the resttaurant she has sold these pies too.They could let her use the kitchen and sell her pies there as well as other businesses. I know I would by them.

By Judy Jones

March 24, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

It’s a shame she has to stop, but I understand the laws to protect people buying her product. She should contact one the restaurants who has been selling her pies and see if they will let her cook in their kitchen. A friend of mine did this to make cookies, and it worked out great.

By carman563

March 24, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

just another example of BIG BROTHER at work !!i saw some kids giving away free puppies at walmart !!whos ??, protecting me from god knows whatever disease they may have !!only in america !!

By Harry Ingram

March 24, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

We all should contact Commissioner Tommy Irvin and ask him to reverse the decision by his inspectors. Tommy is a good man and most likely would permit the lady to continue to make the pies. I would like to become a customer of hers.

By Concerned

March 24, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

I’ve read all of the posts and by the majority, everyone agrees, “she wasn’t hurting anyone”. There are the few who pointed out that if you let her, then everyone will want to. Who would have known anyway. I know it sounds underhanded but if the Inspector saw no reason to believe this woman’s pies were not prepared in the best of conditions, why did he have to say anything at all. The only reason there is a follow up in the paper is because she has been shut down. Sometimes we need to think before we act. While we all appreciated the article regarding this woman’s business, it put a spotlight on her ‘illegal’ activity. In the future, it would be wise to look before you leap AJC. Thank you for you wonderful reporting.

By Babalu

March 24, 2006 10:00 AM | Link to this

What is the difference between a school bake sale and what Mrs. Watts is doing? The baked goods sold at bake sales and fundrasiers are produced the same way, in someone’s home kitchen. Lets see, fundraisers for atheletic equipment, fieldtrips,etc. Then we have Mrs. Watts, who’s efforts were not meant to to make her the next georgia millionaire or even to pay her way on a fieldtrip to somewhere she has never had the opportunity to see. Her mistake, she chose not to be another dependent of the state, (you know, the easy way out). Lacking malicious thoughts her endeavor of providing for her husband has been shattered, it seems as though if she would have used some under-handedness things might be different, being honest just does’t cut it anymore. I sure hope that the Agriculture Department “Swat Team” are regulating fundraisers the same way, sure would hate to think that there are “Double Standards”.

By Bill

March 24, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

I think some of us are missing something. Making her fried pies in her own kitchen with her life-long husband helping her is a labor of love for Willie. Taking this little operation and commercializing it in a big kitchen somewhere might satisfy the State, but takes the uniqueness and the love out of it.

It’s not only the money, it’s the home that makes it special. I would hope she keeps making the pies at home and finds a way to get donations for giving away her product full of love.

By Blonsky

March 24, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

Geat, many more nonsense “she isn’t hurting anyone,” yada yada. Another mental giant comes up with the “discrimination” garbage often used by losers who go through life with excuses.

In other words, more meaningless comebacks can use any time they need an excuses.

The laws and regulations exist for a reason. There are no exceptions for “husband needs hear medicine,” “no one has died yet,” etc. Quite obviously, there should not be any such exceptions. This forum merely shows a failure of education or common sense.

Want an example of a good response? Check out the offer a poster made to let her use a kitchen.

By Rebecca

March 24, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

So how can she keep this cottage industry going? Would she consider teaching cooking? I’d be happy to purchase or barter for her fried pies. I’ll bet they tast just like my grandmother’s pies. My mouth is already watering!

By TC

March 24, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

Mark I with you! I’m sending my donation TODAY!! People lets show our love today, this could well be our relatives. The State doesnt have a clue about their people. Sometimes I’m ashame to say I’m from Georgia! Willie Watts is listed in the phone book! Send her your love!!!!

By kimberly

March 24, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

They should be small-business FRIENDLY, not small-business FATAL. If there was a compliance issue that could not be ignored (this story does not provide such details) then they should come around to help her meet compliance, and even encourage her to expand. Government at all levels should treat us like human beings, not stats on a page. What a disgrace.

By Janice

March 24, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this

This is so wrong. We will hand millions of dollars to other country’s but wont let someone try to HELP themselves. God Will provide. And God will punish those that caused the shut down - Just angers me…. i have made several cakes/cookies at a time to donate for free to the schools… maybe that was a violation also. In the mean time you have deadparents that don’t support their kids and no one wants to go after them. Fight for that which is worth fighting for. Like all the drugs, and violence on our streets.

By rlisa

March 24, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this

If our governement would take the time to care for OUR country the way it does other countries then we probably wouldn’t have these problems. There are so many businesses out here that operates on a daily basis that shouldn’t. Once again they will find a way to keep us down NO matter what it is that we do. Mr. & Mrs. Watts just know that ‘WHAT GOD HAS FOR THE BOTH OF YOU IT IS FOR YOU!!!!!”

By Dave Maurer

March 24, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this

Once again, government officials show their imcompetence. Where is the humanity? Where is the judgment, the priorities, the exercising of discretion? …All the things needing to be addressed that never are, and this is where the government chooses to flex its muscle. It makes me sad.

By bud

March 24, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this

Yet another example of “We are your government and we’re here to help you!” I hope the State Legislature can see by this example of why we are all SO sick and tired of our misguided leadership.

By Brenda W. Arbuckle

March 24, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

Unfortunately another good, upright citizen is being maligned for trying to make ends meet in a time when the president has made it almost impossible for seniors to get all their medications; when shady politicians line their pockets with ill-gotten gaines; when female teachers get off scot free for having relations with their male students; and the real criminals get away with everything. My prayer is that someone will come forth with enough money to bring her kitchen to code. Like she said God will make a way as he always has/does.

By rebarb

March 24, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe that some of you folks are actually blaming the AJC (no I don’t work for them). All they did was do a report on a lady with (I would bet) her full cooperation.

By Kym

March 24, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

This is the most shameful display. A whole 400.00 a month she is earning and spending it on medicine. I can see the headlines now 80 year old widows busted for baking pies, or how about 75 year old retiree jailed for making sweet red velvet cakes. What the heck is going on in this state? Linda C watch out they may find out about your mother’s passion for baking and put her in a line up. Just insane!!!!!

By Blonsky

March 24, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

From Harry Ingram — “Tommy is a good man and most likely would permit the lady to continue to make the pies.”

Yes, I consider elected officials “good men/women” when they overlook the law they taken oath to protect.

It is a joke that some posters here whine about such things as payoffs to officials and how OTHER people should be shot down, and now we have the opinion from Harry that it is OK to look the other way and ignore the laws. Great job!

By scott

March 24, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

TYPICAL GOVERNMENT YOU FOLKS LET THEM GET AWAY WITH IT ON TAXES, ETC BUT ONLY REACT ON FRIED PIES AND ATM FEES

By Lori

March 24, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

There shouldn’t be a problem if she keeps her food at safe temperatures and has a clean kitchen. Maybe there is a local restaurant that would allow her to cook during non-peak times.

By Gregj

March 24, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

Come on.Somebody should give her a job bakeing pie’s God Bless!! God will open up a BIGGER DOOR!!!!!!!!

By JazzyGA

March 24, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

I think this is terrible. I wish I lived closer to the Watts I would certainly buy her pies. Having grown up in the south, I had several Aunts in Louisiana that did the same thing as The Watts. Is any of her customers complaining? I don’t think so. The state should go after these restraunts that open up and are not clean.

By happy

March 24, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

its horrible, they should be ashamed, the world is coming to a end i say

By Brenda Brown

March 24, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

There are millions of drug dealers and prostitutes selling out of their homes and on the streets. The agriculture department should simply inspect the woman’s home to ensure it is clean and safe for selling her goods to the public. She should be issued a permit and then inspected on the same basis as other businesses. The time spent harrassing this old woman should be spent at some of the fast-food facilities to fine them for unclean counters, floors and simply being nasty. GOD BLESS YOU WOMAN OF GOD.

By Yvette

March 24, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

Since the Dept. of Agriculture obviously has nothing better to do, here’s a job for ya: COME UP WITH A GAS ALTERNATIVE!!!!!! I’m paying almost $3 per gallon; I’d rather give half of that to Mrs. Willie for one of her delicious pies!

By Name

March 24, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

You’re all a bunch of idiots. There is no issue selling Krispy Kremes or Girl Scout cookies because they are produced in an approved facility. Its not where they are sold, but where and how they are made. When you are selling food to the public, it is in the best interest of all of us to ensure those facilites are safe and clean. 1 case of food poisoning and she could be sued or have criminal charges brought against her. Also, since she’s been selling these pies for years for money, I wonder if he has a business license. Also, has she declared this income to the IRS? I think she has broken quite a few laws here and she’s getting what she deserves. Age and ignorance are not excuses for breaking the law. I think I’ll forward this article to the local IRS office and see what they think.

By MAP

March 24, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

This lady should give away her pies, and if anyone would like to leave a donation that would be fine.

By mechelle

March 24, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

If the state of Georgia and the agriculture department were as concerned about the education in GA as they are about a little old lady and her pies….children in GA would be the smartest in the world….leave this lady alone and earn your paychecks state of GA….that is why the world is going straight to hell in a handbasket….worried about the wrong things…get a life and improve the test scores in GA

By Tina

March 24, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

Older and sick people should not have to worry about how they are going to pay for their daily medicines. This has always bothered me about this country. Why are we taking care of everyone in other countries, but we can’t even get the goverment to control the companies charging $76.00 for a bottle of insulin over here and only $30.00 in Canada. Why the difference? Is the goverment levying taxes on this or can the Drug Companies just do as they d* well please. The lady should be able to make her fried pies. I am positive her kitchen is cleaner than some of the restaurants I have eaten in. Let’s get some real lawbreakers, like people that hire illegals, so can they can can the work done cheaper. Okay I admit that a lot of the work is actually done by illegals, because a lot of us would not work anywhere, where we get dirty or actually break out in a little sweat. I am sure there will be a door opening up for the lady and it will be ten times better then what her rewards were before.

By Stasi

March 24, 2006 10:09 AM | Link to this

I agree with Mark about giving her pies away for a donation. Sounds like a plan to me. Anyone else up for it?