Norcross.Talk

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Woody, You said People that need to pull their heads out from where the sun don’t shine: Approximately 22,838 Republicans and 4,685 Democrats.

I say you couldn’t be more wrong.

At least those 22,838 cared enough about Gwinnett County to actually take a few minutes to vote. The other 322,002 registered voters are the ones who need to get their heads out of the dark dank place.

85 out of each 100 Gwinnett County registered voters simply had no interest whatsoever.

Your soap-box should be positioned directly in front of them and be sure to take a mega-phone because apparently they’re not listening to you or anyone else, thus far.

By Paul

July 21, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

I’m interested in how Mr. Bannister can even lie about lying. I would suggest to anyone that hasn’t seen it that a look-see be given to the debate between the two that was hosted by the Atlanta Press Club. The differences between them are as clear as they can get, and I think that the winner should be obvious from it.

The debate can be accessed via Green’s website, www.greenforgwinnett.com

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

Sorry ya’ll, I got in a hurry with my complaining, the total that cared was 27,523.

By Paul

July 21, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Right on, Cindy! We saw a lot of flag-waving on the Fourth of July, but 85% did indeed appear to forget WHY we had the holiday.

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

July 4th? It’s for “We The People” to grill out right? NOT.

Unfortunately Paul, those flag wavers were alot of the same ones who put flags or clings on their cars after 9-11. Then when it seemed to go out of style, they looked around to see if they’d completed their quota of caring.

You know what? It takes a good bit of effort to be “in-the-know” with what’s going on locally! Some people…oh wait…85% of Gwinnett County’s registered voters aren’t willing to invest the time it takes to know.

People…please get out and vote August 5th!!! I was in and out of my polling location in 7 minutes. Your county’s well-being is surely worth 7 minutes of your time.

By Paul

July 21, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

An afterthought - does anyone else find Danny Porter’s backing of Bannister as the “law and order” candidate a bit bizarre? Particualrly since the feds have just told us that Gwinnett is awash in gangs and drugs? As I recall, it was a fellow named Bannister that fought to CUT police and Sheriff budgets - what are these people smoking? At this point there is only one good option to a known failure - Lorraine Green.

By Paul

July 21, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Again, very astute, Cindy. We have become very lazy and very stupid, and the one-sided viciousness of the race for chairman is a symptom of that. One candidate discusses the issues (hard - must think), while the other tries to shock and frighten with lies (easy - just react). We have met the enemy and it’s US, rotting from within. Personally, I’m going down fighting, campaigning my scalp off until the last of the dust settles. Gwinnett is where I live, and it’s worth saving.

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Yes Paul. Bizarre is a polite way to describe it. I was in awe…and I’m not talking about the kind of awe like when I see a shiny Corvette cruising down the street…I mean shock like if someone you don’t know walks up and just smacks you good, just to get a reaction. I read it last week and I’m pretty sure my jaw dropped and I was like “whut???”

Literally, I was waiting for the punch-line, to that train-wreck of a joke.

Of course, Porter is free to endorse who he feels is the best candidate, but “let the record show”…it’s NOT Bannister. HaHa, I used some lawyer-people humor. :)

Our current chairman went up to seek knowledge from another state about 287g, not in addition to what he learned from our sheriff, but instead of.

All a person has to do is watch the meetings. They’re right here on the internet…for the world and everybody to see, at their leisure. Heck turn it up and listen while you take a shower…multi-task…just get a little informed. Knowledge is Power.

http://www.gwinnettcounty.com/cgi-bin/gwincty/egov/ep/gcbrowse.do?channelId=-34860&pageTypeId=536880236

By David Smith

July 21, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Paul, Quite clueless you are! The Sheriff’s budget has ballooned from about 8% of the budget only 5 years ago to over 14% of the county budget today! I also remember that Chairman Bannister was campaigning against Hill on the issue of increasing the size of the county police force. I think I saw something that showed that 4 years ago there was something like .9 officers per 1000 people and now there are 1.1 officers per 1000 people.

Look something up instead of just posting rhetoric! Bannister had to go elsewhere besides Gwinnett to find some information about 287G since the Sheriff was fighting against it for the last 2 years! He finally gave in last winter when even though he didn’t see the light he started feeling the heat of a bunch of phone calls!

Cindy, would you be so kind as to put some numbers where your mouth is? What cuts in the Sheriff’s budget. As I stated above, the Sheriff’s budget in 2002 was about $30M and in 2007 it was $62M!!!

Ummmm….. What are you two smoking? Maybe we should send the Police over to see y’all and take care of some of the drug crime!

By Tom

July 21, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

David,

Let us just go by what Bannister himself sent to my mailbox. He said Lorraine Green voted to double her own salary. Does ANYONE know the real story here? Bannister set up the salary increase while he was still in the Legislature. Thinking he was going to set up the existing commission, then use the salary increase to project himself into office,but he was disapointed because he didn’t get a bite. So, after getting elected using other lies, he had to try to quietly move forward with it. Everyone was ready for that move and he got a slam dunk. This had NOTHING to do with Lorraine, and Charles is a compulsive LIAR. Has anyone asked Charlie why he doesn’t own property in Gwinnett? You would think any 60+ year old man with even a moderate amount of success would own property. He showed his hand on that one when he sent his wife’s tax bill for their house out to every voter in Gwinnett to show what he was paying in property tax. So Charlie, why put the house in the wife’s name? Worried?

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

David Smith, Apparently Paul and I smoke a tricky thing. It’s called reality and has alot of side effects. Peer pressure can be a real monster, but seriously you should try it some time. It burns really smooth and doesn’t tend to leave a bad taste in your mouth like the bullcrap you’ve apparently been partaking of.

You want to talk about the sheriff’s budget? We can do that. Ok, here’s your numbers kind sir: if the manpower increased, what exactly do you think funded it? Also, try the utility and fleet costs being added into the sheriff’s budget. Next, try the cost of housing out inmates when he shouldn’t have to, and at no fault of his own.

About Bannister. Intention to table 287g, but giving in because of the pressure applied, throwing his hands up like a baby and saying he’ll go along with whatever the commissioners decide, doesn’t count as supporting it. What it means is that he was forced into a corner of funding it or being on live tv as opposing it. He chose the lesser of two evils at the moment and then decided he should add it to his resume as pioneering it for Gwinnett. Yeah, I saw him fighting tooth and nail for 287g…NOT.

But you have it your way, I’ll just have it the right way. Remember though just because you repeat something enough times, doesn’t magically turn it into reality. You can listen to what others say but ultimately it’s your responsibility to prove or disprove it.

By the way, you called me out on the budget information…and that’s ok…but it wasn’t me who mentioned it. I was speaking about our voting public.

Now about Lorraine Green; an excellent choice for our next Chairman. Available to the public, stands for something and will actually disclose what those “somethings” are, campaigns on her own merit, not a mud-slinging and falsifying campaign. Apparently she has enough successful measures under her belt that she can use that as the reasons she’s the better choice, instead of pointing out flaws in her opponent.

And that my friend, is the reason I will be voting for Lorraine Green.

Ooooh, time out! Attention diverted. Clint Eastwood on Spike, and omg he’s all kinds of cool and stuff.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 21, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Gwinnett, “The Land of Cartels” according to Sundays AJC, guess MARTA cannot be blamed for it, but the major highways that choke Gwinnett. But we need more roads for the over development the Commissioners approved, all the commissioners, just like the stadium scam.

Here is an interesting aside, the Braves, the Real Ones downtown, are cutting ticket prices to get people in, ah, the foresight of our leaders.

The Sheriff is a joke, he is like a little kid who stomps his feet till he gets what he wants, more, more, more. But the Democratic’s chickened out as usual and didn’t put up anybody to run against him, at least he has Green singing his praises and giving him whatever his lastest demand is.

Woody what they call this action is a party line vote. Nothing will change until the majority do what you suggested and actually look around.

Thanks David for breaking up Pauls usual campaign commerical.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 21, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Tom, are you saying it’s a lie that Green did not vote to DOUBLE her salary?

Isn’t it also true that Bannister refused to except his raise?

Two questions with very simple yes or no answers.

By Tim

July 21, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Bruce,

Still up to your anti-success blogging, huh? We don’t go downtown to see the Braves because we don’t have MARTA. And since we are getting a Braves stadium right here, I guess we don’t need MARTA. The problem with you Democrats is you put out of touch Muslims up to run in a predominantly Republican County. Do you really think we are going to vote in one of your communist puppets to shut down our economy? Bruce, tell me, why has Gwinnett been so incredibly successful without Democrats? Your message is clear Bruce. Success is bad. Don’t grow your business because we don’t want to have to find a place to put the new employees. Anyone who moves here has to ride a transit system, packed in like sardines, watching the goob across from you pick up bits of trash off the floor and eat it. Yeah buddy, the Democrats idea of success.

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

You proclaim that the sheriff bahaves as a little kid…but really…who exactly doesn’t? You act like a little kid always whining about the same ol, same ol…and on the flip side of that…hey, I’ll be the first to admit it…heck yeah, I’m like a little kid, too. The difference is, you and I do not lead a public life and aren’t held accountable by the county/public for each and every microscopic thing we do and say.

You should shadow the sheriff for a little while and see exactly what all he does…you might sing a different tune…but remember to put a hold on your own life, because you certainly won’t have time for both. Sheriffing is a 24/7 job.

By Tom

July 21, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Bruce,

All of their salaries need to be increased. The job is too demanding not to provide proper compensation. Charles set up his own salary increase, tried to get it through quietly, and when he saw it was going to cause a major stink, he distanced himself. And since you are a lowly Democrat, don’t EVER tell me to answer yes or no you wormy little crumb. However, I can see someone with your lack of intelligence voting for ANY Democrat who runs, or Charles Bannister. Either one will give you a steady supply of lies and laziness. And a Teleprompter…

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

The raise was not to be in effect until the next commissioners term. So the 3 who voted yes, voted yes for future commissioners. Gwinnett Commissioners deserve adequate pay, comparible to other counties with similar responsibilites. You can’t add to or take away from the facts. It’s neither in favor of or against Green or any other commissioner.

By Tom

July 21, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Anyone have any data on what Charles Bannister has accomplished while in office? He says he rolled back millage rates. Now we have eaten up over half of our reserve. Isn’t the reserve down to 70 million from 150 million? Jock doesn’t let him go anywhere unless he has a babysitter. Mainly because he can’t carry on a normal conversation without making promises he can’t keep. He attempted to get his Campaign Manager in the last election to run the county for him, but the other commissioners nixed that idea. We could however make him more useful by lighting his breath and using it as alternative energy. I hear it is 200 proof.

By Cindy

July 21, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

*Anyone have any data on what Charles Bannister has accomplished while in office? *

That’s what I call a blog stop sign…a show stopper. :)

I do like to give credit where credit’s due…so if anyone comes up with something Bannister “genuinely” did…please…enlighten us.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 22, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

If the Tom, Cindy and Paul show would allow me to ask the same simple yes or no questions again I will.

Did Green vote to DOUBLE her pay?

Did Bannister refuse to take the pay raise and voted against it?

For Tom and Cindy, if you can only come back with attacks it shows you’re holding a very weak hand.

It is not fair to Southern Democrats to imply that I am one of them. I am a Liberal, a New York Yankee Liberal, which is far, far different than a Southern Democrat.

As far as the Sheriff, up North he would be laughed out of office, no one should accept the fact that before he does HIS JOB that he is elected to they have to kiss his butt. The reason I raised the issue of the Democrats not running anybody against him just means he can stomp his feet all the much harder being his job is a lock.

It’s funny, Tom wants his millage rate rolled back? Give me a break, you folks are getting services, plus a stadium on the cheap. Look around you at all those empty strip malls, the empty houses, don’t you think somebody is going to end up paying for the commissioners approving all the over developement?

Tom I exercise my rights which gives me free range on complaining, which also means I am not a lemming.

Woody, as far as Saxby, I agree, the Senator returns my complants and questions with intelligent responses, I respect that, that other one I cannot say the same for. I can’t knock the Democratic candidates, but I don’t think Saxby should pack his bags.

By Cindy

July 22, 2008 7:16 AM | Link to this

Firstly, let me take a brief moment to point out the obvious. I’ve issued no attacks whatsoever on you or anyone else here. Truth be told, I’ve made a special little point along the way to ensure my tone was watered down enough.

Secondly,talk about rhetoric. Why do you keep repeatedly asking the same questions? I answered you above. This time I will spell it out though. YES. Green voted for THE raise that will be effective for the NEXT round of commissioners that begin in 2009. NO she will not be one of them. IS that clear enough? Please say yes, as I’m not sure how many more ways I can answer the same question.

Thirdly,the issue of the sheriffs up North. Please, be a Northern, Yankee, Canadian, New Yorker, Liberal all you want. That doesn’t add to or take away anything from you or me. As far as I’m concerned there’s room here for both of us.

By David Smith

July 22, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this

A quick note on the issue of the reserves.

The county’s reserve policy until 2007 was 25% of total budget. In 2007 THE WHOLE COMMISSION VOTED UNANIMOUSLY to lower that to 16.67% which is comparable and in line with other Triple A counties across the U.S.

But just for giggles, here are the reserve fund numbers for the last 6 years (I do not know where the Green campaign got their numbers… but they LIED about the 150M number going to 71M in the paper on Friday… and don’t give me the “that was Pirkle’s numbers… that country boy doesn’t know what the M behind the numbers even means).

2003: $65M 2004: $68.5M 2005: $74.2M 2006: $79.6M 2007: $99.6M 2008: $76M

So now Cindy. Help me out with why you are spreading lies that the Green campaign simply made up… or will you do more double talking?

Oh. And on the subject of following the Sheriff around on his job: Guess I could hang around with him on the farm and watch him take care of his horses… that’s what he does most of his time. He’s an absentee Sheriff. Goes along with his wife… the absentee judge (seriously, if you are around the GJAC enough you too would know that she’s never on the bench!)

By Paul

July 22, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this

Did Green vote to DOUBLE her pay? NO - Since the raise takes effect in 2009, there is no way that she could ever receive it herself. Regardless of the outcome of the runoff, she will no longer be a district commissioner, and those are the only ones included in the raise.

Did Bannister refuse to take the pay raise and voted against it? See above. Regarding the one that he specifically requested for himself, no vote was involved.

I didn’t see any of you at the April 1 287(g) meeting - it would have resolved a lot of your questions.

By David Smith

July 22, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this

I was at the 287G vote in April…. have no idea what you are talking about.

I DO remember personally witnessing LG telling a large group at a breakfast in early February that the county didn’t need 287G and that it didn’t need to be pursued. I also very vividly recall statements by the Sheriff in the paper stating that he didn’t need 287G because he had ICE agents in the jail full time (which was a lie since they are actually on a circuit… not sitting at the jail full time). The Sheriff was bragging about the 300 or so that were recommended for deportation in 2007…. UNTIL it was noted that Cobb did 4 times that many in the first 6 months of their 287G program….

All of a sudden the light went on (and an election year kicked off) and the Sheriff felt the heat and decided he was now for 287G after he was against it. He promptly told his friend and co-conspirator LG and they were off to the races with rushing into the program and throwing mo-money at it (even though no one else that had instituted the 287G program across the South had required mo-money… it’s just what he does).

Bannister, as I recall was being fiscally conservative and trying not to throw money down the Sheriff’s rat hole and make the case that everyone else that had done the program didn’t need mo-money. In the end he DID capitulate because the Sheriff and LG had successfully played politics with the issue…

Same as the Illegal Alien thing last summer that LG proposed that wasn’t enforceable and the county was sued and after a couple hundred thousand in legal fees was fixed… by Bannister and the legal department… She rushed into it to take credit for it before having it checked out for the legal issues around it.

Lorraine Green reminds me of Belushi in Animal House when he talks of the Germans bombing Pearl Harbor….

By Paul

July 22, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

That’s odd – you might want to check out Talk Gwinnett – a week or so ago a two year old e-mail from Lorraine was posted therein, indicating her already ongoing efforts with the 287(g). I’ve heard about it from her own mouth for at least that long. She has also been criticized for slowing the process down, when she wanted to whatcha call gather the FACTS rather than “just do it” blindly. As she discovered, we were not quite ready yet at the time.

In point of fact, at the April 1 meeting the Sheriff noted that he had already spent considerable time in working with Homeland Security over the previous months, and had already submitted our application for the program, and at that point needed a commitment from the BOC. At the end of the day, Bannister voted for Lorraine’s measure. No, in conversations with Butch he has always clearly indicated that the ICE support was not nearly enough – they deal primarily with the deportation of felons, not the rest that will fall under the 287(g).

We needed mo-money for two things: to meet the minimum requirements for the program (a large section of the jail had been shut down due to lack of staffing, resulting in gross overcrowding), and well, to provide staff for the program. Other counties (I happen to have a long time friend, a Captain in Mecklenberg, NC’s system) did not have the staffing shortages that we had, or the pay inequity (between Sheriff and GCPD) that Lorraine and the BOC fixed by outvoting Bannister. This will be well worth the money spent – note that the latter Captain has already heard comments about Gwinnett’s program from some of his “clients”.

Personally, I am not happy with the direction that Gwinnet is going in – it’s time to rotate the Chairman’s position, and there’s only one choice.

By Paul

July 22, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Afterthought about the Sheriff’s budget – last year over $3 million was spent in overtime pay – sounds like a bit of a shortage to me. Also, due to the personnel shortage, there are THOUSANDS of outstanding warrants and such that have gone unserved – feeling safe and secure yet?

By Cindy

July 22, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

Paul, thank you so much for already setting David Smith straight and presenting some facts to correct his untruths.

You wouldn’t believe how many people will read something such as this blog, and when someone like Bruce or David says something with such authority, they actually sound like they know what they’re talking about. So many people don’t go and find the actual truth, they just believe what is presented by people who say something strongly, and with confidence, so it MUST be true. NOT.

I don’t know how many ways I can say this, but people please do the research for yourself. Don’t believe something just because it came in your mail or you read it on a blog.

That part, David about the horses and Judge Brown. Puh-leeze. I call a very public Bull-crap on your claims, and that’s all they are, claims. It’s as obvious as the mis-represented facts you present on this page, that you have absolutely no clue about what the judge nor the sheriff does. Or WHEN they do it. I have a newsflash for you. Judges have this thing…it’s called evenings and weekends and believe it or not, if she chooses to have horses, and isn’t being unethical, illegal or have any conflicts of interest in the position she holds, guess what…it’s ok! I won’t even address the part about the sheriff being absentee. You’ve heard that said before or something and thought it sounded realy cool so you took it and adopted it as your own words, to make you sound smart. Guess what. It doesn’t. All it does is show your ignorance of the facts when you present such downright lies and misreprentations as your own words. It just goes to show that nobody can take anything you say as factual.

Don’t be so stupid as to think that a sheriff’s job is simply sitting in a chair in an office waiting to see who walks in to take role call. Get a clue. I’ll state the obvious here…again…the shadowing…that was so ignorant (unknowing of the facts) people who make false claims publicly, would find out what truly is involved in holding the position, instead of sitting behind a computer and complaining about what he/she knows nothing about.

About Lorraine Green…you seem to be the only warm body on Earth who heard her say any of the things you’re so displeased about. When everybody but you heard something different, guess what…it’s you.

By Floyd Akridge

July 22, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

Lorraine Green wants to change Gwinnett. Charles Bannister wants to change the subject.

I love you kool-aid drinkers who just suck up the Lorraine voted herself a pay raise nonsense. Remember…Bannister asked for his pay to be doubled shortly after getting in to office.

Quote the Bannister talking points all you wish but Lorraine Green was the leader on 287g.

Watch the forums/debates. You’d never know Bannister was the current chairman. The Atlanta Press Club debate should have had a mercy rule. Bannister just embarassed himself.

The only reason bannister is chairman is that he wasn’t wayne hill. In 2004 Wayne Hill would have lost to a cardboard cutout.

The people of Gwinnett obviously know something. Bannister raised nearly 1 million dollars (for a $55K yearly job)…more than any other commissioner in Georgia ever has I believe, and he couldn’t win outright.

Whether it’s tax relief for Gwinnett Familes, illegal immigration, etc…Lorraine Green has shown a solid grasp of today’s issues and an unmistakeable passion for the good that can be done in Gwinnett. Charles Bannister looks like he doesn’t understand that not being Wayne Hill just ain’t good enough.

Bye Bye Bannister.

By Michael H. Smith

July 22, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

I was told by a political friend after Bannister was elected not to expect much.

Wow, was that ever mis-stated?

I should have expected nothing. Mr. Bannister shows me nothing this time around as well. No real vision to move the County forward. Just alot of crow is what I’ve heard from that old Banni-Rooster. And, his negative attack mailings on Green are truly way-over-the-top.

In 2004 Wayne Hill would have lost to a cardboard cutout?

I’m not so sure he didn’t lose to a cardboard-cutout.

The shame is, we could have found better cardboard behind most any retail store in the County.

I’m ready to see what Lorraine can do for us on the issues that matter: Water, transportation (without MARTA), illegal immigration and most importantly of all growing the “green economy” (no pun intended) that does not exists in this County today that will create high wage and middle class wage jobs to prosper and secure our local economy.

By Paul

July 22, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Oooops - just saw another one. Regarding the “Illegal Alien thing” hopefully you are aware that the county has its own attorneys that wrote the ordinance, declared it sound, and that in discussions with a couple of contractors the matter was quickly resolved. Sorry, but there were no couple hundred thousand in legal fees (see “have our own lawyers” above), etc. but nice try. By the way, the discussions noted and the ordinance repairs were orchestrated by Lorraine. That’s a lovely fantasy, but again, Bannister’s record of accomplishments is a myth.

Heck yes, I voted for Bannister too, desiring to rid us of Wayne Hill. We now have something vastly better than that “lesser of evils” scenario - someone magnificently COMPETENT. Being negative is a fool’s game and will accomplish nothing. Clearly it’s time for a positive change.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 22, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Paul we have never met, how would you know if I was there or not, is it your job to take attendence or are you just a run of the mill stalker?

“Did Bannister refuse to take the pay raise and voted against it? See above. Regarding the one that he specifically requested for himself, no vote was involved.”

So you cannot give a simple yes or no on Bannister, yet you jump right up and tell us Green voted no. That’s the oldest political scam in the book, congress uses it and every state legislature uses it, vote yourself a raise to take effect hoping your elected to cash in on it.

So Paul, all you’re saying is Green was in on yet another scam and you refuse to give an honest answer about Bannister.

Sad, just a few short short years ago Bannister was the great white hope of Gwinnett, now it’s Green, hope she isn’t making any long term plans if she is elected, next time around she’ll be the worse thing that ever hit Gwinnett, what hypocrites.

As far as the Sheriff and not being capable of handling a budget, how many years has he been sheriff? How come the only time he seems to wake-up is around election time? How did it get so bad under his leadership that he keeps holding his breath until he gets his way. He really isn’t the best leader, how many have been zapped to death under his command, sounds like poor training. Five jailers on a man handcuffed and in leg restrains getting zapped five times dying? When the Sheriff cannot handle a budget, soon he will become part the Defense Department, bloated and sucking every dime he can get.

Do I feel safe, sure Paul living in the Drug Cartel of the metro area why shouldn’t I, course if we give the sheriff a few million more he’ll actually hit the street, like the under staffed and under funded Gwinnett Police Department.

Wake up folks, Green didn’t arrived on a cloud from above, she is the typical political hack, in on the scams and great at photo-ops. Bannister may not be any better, but he is only one vote, it takes a majority to pass the scams and the county seems to be holding together.

Paul since your the man on the inside can I get an honest answer on Green’s “Hire No Illegal” ordinance? Has nay business ever been inspected? How much has the cost of the program been raised? Isn’t it true that Green wants to hire or already has an expert to tell them how to run and enforce the program she wrote and they all voted on? Be honest Paul, isn’t it nothing more than a feel good ordinance that has been watered down so many times it worthless to spend the hundreds of thousands of dollars to put into effect.

The Braves team should be called the Gwinnett Lemmings, it fits the clear majority of the county.

PLAY BALL!

By Cindy

July 22, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Floyd Akridge , all good points you made, thanks! Now if we can just figure out how to get the voters to actually vote August 5th.

Bruce, you keep repeating that Paul is saying that Green voted NO. I don’t see where he stated that.

David Smith, where exactly are my lies that you called me out about? If you were referring to Conways budget, you’re beating a dead horse, sir…and to no avail. My biggest point that I was going to make and just got caught up in the moment and forgot…sorry…I didn’t present my arguement as effectively and efficiently as I’d planned…is that after “Brian Nichols” (no explanation necessary), GJAC had to have a few changes, didn’t it? Were you under the mistaken impression that those changes were free? Do the math, ask the questions. Instead of attacking people and going off on a tangent, simply ask. It does tend to put people on the spot if you ask alot of questions, but hey that’s ok, because if they don’t know the answer, you’re actually doing them a favor, so they have to do the research and find out too.

BTW…I’m not ashamed, not one little teensy weensy particle of a bit that I voted for Charles Bannister to replace Wayne Hill. But he’s just not working out and we have better options. To do the same thing and expect different results is just plain dumb. We don’t have to stay in this rut. We have the power to choose and we shouldn’t minimize that. We’re not convicted felons, we’re not illegal immigrants, we have the right and it’s our duty to exercise it.

I’ll see ya’ll at the poll’s on the 5th. I’ll be the one there bright and early at 7:00, smiling. But hey, ya’ll don’t have to show up that early if you don’t want to. Just show up before it closes because guess what: The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.

P.S. Paul, there’s some good information on Talk-Gwinnett, isn’t there? BobG is good at what he does.

By Paul

July 22, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

Hey, Bruce - actually, we have met, but if you’ll look closer that comment was not addressed to you, so no need to exercise the paranoia.

I answered quite thoroughly – you asked about Lorraine, I responded NO, she did NOT vote herself a raise, and there is no possible way that she ever could have seen the first penny of it. In contrast, Bannister’s funding does NOT come via the same route (namely, the vote of the district commissioners) – I presume that you understand this process and have seen the famed letter that he wrote, REQUESTING his own raise, and are aware of the outcome. Surely you’d not come to a blog that uninformed.

No, I in fact said that Bannister was the lesser of the evils, and that Green is head and shoulders above. Talk about your “oldest political scam in the book” – nice try, but no spin there.

As indicated, the Sheriff has done a great job, even in between elections. Incidentally, the Sheriff’s job is keeping those that GCPD has arrested in custody – not to “hit the street(s)” to track them down as suggested.

Actually, as far as I am aware, I was the first to request an inspection. All I can say is that suddenly the “Help Wanted” sign went up on the business in question. I’m not sure what happened, but I can say that when one strives to work with public officials rather than to spew on them, the results of such requests are usually much better.

Bruce, using your analogies, should we hold all spell and grammar checkers in contempt for not doing their jobs for you?

Glad you got the workout by jumping to so many conclusions. Speaking of lemmings, in light of the reality before us, so what’s your solution, and what have you done to enact it?

By Kayne

July 22, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Woody? sorry bro, your hat has been on too tight for too long. Stick with BBQue Stories. Bannister served his only purpose and that was to boot Hill. Now he can go have breakfast every morning with his slash, burn and scrape Developer friends. Now we need a new Chairman and a new Sheriff. Boot the illegals out of Gwinnett or we will boot you to the curb too. As for marta, I will vote against it everytime it comes up and I’ll vote often too. Why should the Welfare Slaves have all the fun.

By Cindy

July 22, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Bruce,

Earlier you stated I believe the Sheriffs biggest duty is to keep the jail ,serve warrents, evict people and used to include teach drug education.

Now you say Do I feel safe, sure Paul living in the Drug Cartel of the metro area why shouldn’t I, course if we give the sheriff a few million more he’ll actually hit the street, like the under staffed and under funded Gwinnett Police Department.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 22, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Paul sorry but I have no idea when or where we would have met, must be you didn’t make that much of an impression.

“I didn’t see any of you at the April 1 287(g) meeting - it would have resolved a lot of your questions.”

And thank you Paul, seeing that I am above “any”, I must have made quite an impression on you.

When Queen Green voted for her raise, was that before or after she decided to run for Chair? Better be careful on how you answer that.

I realize the the sheriff doesn’t hit the streets like in some other counties around here, it was a suggestion for him to ensure even more money. But after the zapping incident, maybe it wouldn’t be such a good idea.

Thank you for the advice on how to kiss butt, I’d rather the Thomas Paine approach.

Now Paul come on, talk about losing a discussion, “hold all spell and grammar checkers in contempt for not doing their jobs for you?”, sad. Paul if you have ever met me you would know I have large hands, typing isn’t easy on small keyboards. As far as grammar, tell me what part you couldn’t understand and I’ll be more than happy to explain it to you, maybe that’s why your answers seem as if you’re confused?

PLAY BALL!

By Paul

July 22, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Sorry, no comprendo estupido. Still looking for YOUR suggestions on how to deal with current realities and make improvements - how about it?

By WhoCares

July 22, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

The reason nobody will show up at the polls on August 5 is because they both suck and everybody already knows that neither one of them will make any difference.

By Cindy

July 22, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Ignoring the county’s future will not help with anything. If you’ll take a little time to figure out what’s going on, you’ll change your mind. Difference WILL happen, it’s inevitable. The ones who don’t bother to vote are the ones who complain the most.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 22, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Now, now Paul, no need to get nasty. Simple Paul, I’m suggesting that people actually look at the issues, look what this entire commission has accomplished, look how they and the school board laugh at the idea of open government and public input. It’s all very simple Paul, if the voters study where the candidates stand and vote for the best candidate, who knows it actually maybe someone from the other party, change may come. If they vote party line without question, like usual, we’ll be in the same old dung, just a little deeper.

PLAY BALL!

By Paul

July 22, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Well, let’s see - who threw out the usual juvenile opening pitch: “Thanks David for breaking up Pauls usual campaign commerical.”

Actually, there is one candidate that has stepped up to the plate, advocated and (as much as is currently possible) implemented open government. My wife and I are breathing home run examples of that.

Again, given the current realities, other than the usual party line rant (I am not personally affiliated with one), what’s your suggestion? What have you done to improve things?

By Bruce Wilcox

July 22, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Paul the second comment made in the column you gave out Greens campaign site, if that isn’t a commerical I don’t know what is. The first eight comments in the column were by Cindy and you repeating the party line, it was nice to have someone finally break in. Hardy juvenile pointing out the facts.

I’m not a member of any party either, I am a New York Yankee Liberal, a Southern Democrat is not much more than a Northern Republican and a Southern Republican is so far right they are off the radar.

But I never get invited to tea either.

PLAY BALL!

By Paul

July 23, 2008 4:59 AM | Link to this

I’m assuming that you have actually looked at each candidate’s website. Only one appears to have any actual information (read as - something positive) - including a direct link to the debate noted. Hmmmm - wonder why that might be.

Sorry, I’ll not feed your personal demons any more, just again wondering what your solutions are - what have you actually done to improve things?

By Bob

July 23, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

@Woody:

It took a week for you to come back with this?

You don’t like it, so everyone who voted no is “Stupid”

There are quite a few reasons for different “No voters.”

Fundamentally, for an assortment of reasons, the majority of voting voters do not want a closer connection with Marta & the City of Atlanta, nor an increased sales tax for the purpose.

Deal with it - or move in-town.

Or- If you really want to use public transportation, you can catch an express Gwinnett Bus at the Indian Trail Park and Ride, or a Gwinnett local bus which will take you to the Doraville Marta station.

Maybe we should start a movement for Norcross City buses to interconnect with Gwinnett Transit.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 23, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Bob did you happen to see, on I believe channel 46, how poorly the Gwinnett Transit buses are maintained? So bad in fact in fact the manager had to quit, gee another shining example of our commissioners leadership. I’m sure they would have it on their web-site.

Telling people to leave town, that’s orginal, maybe they would if they had some confidence in the buses!

Here is an example Paul, post public hearing notices for every, not just some, but every zoning change to be voted on. Like last nights rubber stamping meeting, the really hard ones were put off till after the election.

An example, the major mixed use project proposed for Pleasant Hill that will tower over a neighhborhood of older single family homes. Commissioner Green told the concerned citizens it was all about balance. Now what is Green’s idea of more balance, a hotel 220 yards from a citizens back yard, more traffic for Pleasant Hill, a six or eleven story hotel overlooking the entire neighborhood?

But it is not only Green pushing for more over developement but Bert too.I couldn’t believe this one, a corner lot needed to basically remove the set-backs or barriers to make the land profitible, of course it was approved, but Berts words ring in my ears, “It is the only un-developed corner at this intersection”. WHAT, a piece of property NOT paved over?

Paul, think Green Space, how’s that for an idea, leave up a few trees instead of empty strip malls.

I am surprised that even after you say you met me you asked me what I have done to improve things, you should, of all people know?

By Bruce Wilcox

July 23, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Paul, here is something else to chew on, Commissioner Kevin Kenerly puts limits on what can go in the strip malls in his district, no pawn shops, tatoo palors, title loans, or cash checking businesses.

Then he said “We do not want another Jimmy Carter or Pleasant Hill”, a little behind the curve on the two sections of Gwinnett that Kenerly feels are below his district.

How does the planning board make it’s decisions, is it depending on the district, Hopeless, Little Hope, Some Hope and the New and Improved Gwinnett?

Common sense would be the same rules apply across the board wouldn’t it?

Maybe the Master Plan has to be changed, screw the tax base on empty strip malls, let’s start moving on Green Space, pocket parks in the Hopeless sections, maybe if given a chance, change will come.

I’ll let them soak in today Paul, defend Green on the “Balance” between a massive mixed use project and a older established neighbor whose character will be destroyed.

By Bob

July 23, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

@Bruce -

Your ad hominem response doesn’t surprise me at all.

“That’s original”

You don’t like the outcome of an election so you stamp your feet and yell that its not fair and the the people who didn’t vote for your position it are mean & stupid - or both. Re what I said to Woody: I didn’t tell him to leave town. I offered him a choice. *Just like the voter’s had a choice. *

Actually, I offered Woody three solutions to his dilemma. Re Buses breaking down. Cars break down. New Flash! So do Marta trains.

So what?

Buy two cars. That way if the bus and the primary car let you down, you still have a throw-down - er I mean backup car.

Oh, and have a nice day.

By Bob

July 23, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

One more thing. I voted for MARTA extension for all the wrong reasons. I would have made a $killing$ if there were a Marta Station near the IT ParknRide.

That’s OK., though I respect the voter’s and their decision.

By Paul

July 23, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Hey, quick – look over there! Back to the topic herein, Bruce, I have selected my choice for the commission chairman from the current candidates, applying firsthand knowledge, thought and judgement to the available facts. I have found this to be the best process, and I remain certain that personal attacks are no substitute for informed action. Offering commentaries of what others are doing wrong is not providing facts, it’s just insipid negative claptrap, only useful as food for personal demons and the inspiration of more of the same. Again, what’s your plan, and what constructive things are you doing to make things better?

By Bruce Wilcox

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

Bob, could you show me where I even mentioned MARTA in this column?

If I don’t like an electon? So Bob I must assume that the minorities viewpoint should be dismissed until the next election? Free speech should only apply to the majority?

About the terrible maintence on Gwinnetts Transit buses I don’t report for Channel 46, just wondered if you realized there was a problem, it’s clear you did not. Another informed voter.

Telling people to leave to me is kind of childish, instead of attempting to correct what maybe a problem for some, the easy answer is to tell people to run away. Makes me always wonder how those people handle problems.

I guess you can probably guess where to store your “Throw Down”.

Next time try reading the column, it really helps. I always have a nice day thank you, hope you do too.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 23, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Paul, the suggestions I offered and what happened at last nights meeting are not personal attacks. You ask for suggestions, they somehow are personal attacks, what happened at the meetings is not firsthand knowledge?

How many different rules do you have for yourself, that do not apply to others?

By Bob

July 23, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Bruce,

Try reading the column???

Did you miss this at the top of the page?

*From Woody: -In case you missed it, the July 15th primary ballot included questions to both Democrat and Republican voters on whether they would approve a sales tax for MARTA’s expansion into Gwinnett . The tax was narrowly defeated.

Yes: Approximately 13,639 Republicans and 10,713 Democrats or 24,352 total.

People that need to pull their heads out from where the sun don’t shine: Approximately 22,838 Republicans and 4,685 Democrats.

I cannot believe that there are roughly 27,523 people residents who are so blind and insecure as to not embrace the only viable long term solution to the one county on target to be the largest in the entire state of Georgia.

Regardless of what many believe, MARTA coming into Gwinnett is not dead. The question was regarding a sales tax to pay for it - not whether MARTA can come to Gwinnett County.

“By Bruce Wilcox

July 23, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Bob did you happen to see, on I believe channel 46, how poorly the Gwinnett Transit buses are maintained? So bad in fact in fact the manager had to quit, gee another shining example of our commissioners leadership. I’m sure they would have it on their web-site.

Telling people to leave town, that’s original, maybe they would if they had some confidence in the buses!”

Whether or not you realized it at the time, you were responding to a comment about Woody’s view on the Marta vote. I hope this clears that issue up for you. As such, since Woody is unhappy about the MARTA vote, he can:

A) Move in town - to areas that are serviced by Marta

B) Catch the ParknRide Red Bus at Indian Trail

C) Connect to the # 10 Local bus which has service to the Doraville Marta Station.

No one is telling anyone to leave. Its just an option. If you fully read the article header and the comments, you’d know that. I am indeed concerned that you seem to have an issue (problem is such an insensitive word) with reading and comprehension. I would strongly recommend that you take Option C above. Once in the MARTA system, you can connect to a MARTA bus that will take you to Georgia Perimeter College. Here you will be able to enroll in a remedial reading course.

http://www.gpc.edu/~acadaff/cat/Academic_Regents.html

People watch 46 for anything other than Dagmar? Wow!

I live in the area. I have seen broken down Gwinco buses. I have also seen broken down Marta buses and broken down Marta trains.

Once again - So what?

By Bruce Wilcox

July 23, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Sorry Bob I guess “Deal with it or move in-town” has a different meaning in the South? Man you cannot even grasp your own comments, glad you know where the Georgia Perimeter College is. I watch 46 because it comes on just before Letterman, I will admit Dagmar is a BIG plus.

By Bob

July 23, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

@Woody:

It took a week for you to come back with this?

You don’t like it, so everyone who voted no is “Stupid”

There are quite a few reasons for different “No voters.”

Fundamentally, for an assortment of reasons, the majority of voting voters do not want a closer connection with Marta & the City of Atlanta, nor an increased sales tax for the purpose.

Deal with it - or move in-town.

Or- If you really want to use public transportation, you can catch an express Gwinnett Bus at the Indian Trail Park and Ride, or a Gwinnett local bus which will take you to the Doraville Marta station.

Maybe we should start a movement for Norcross City buses to interconnect with Gwinnett Transit.

By Paul

July 23, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Just a very few of Bruce’s “gee - what - ME being nasty?” comments:

“Thanks David for breaking up Pauls usual campaign commerical”

“are you just a run of the mill stalker?”

“you refuse to give an honest answer”

“typical political hack”

“why your answers seem as if you’re confused?”

Anyway, once more - what have YOU done to improve things?

By Bruce Wilcox

July 23, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

To me you are some kind of a stalker, do we run into one or the other often or once in a great while? I do not yet know where we have ever been introduced, sorry?

Paul what have I done to improve things you ask, I responded if you had met me as you say you have you would know how I have done, I, unlike some, do not need the ego boast or a public back-slap that some require.

As far as thanking David, he did break up eight verses of the party line by Cindy and you, including a second comment commerical by you.

I offered up a lot of information on the approval meeting/rubber stamping meeting and even offer up suggestions how how to improve our county. The quotes I gave from the meeting are not taken out of context, ask Bert or Green.

Your morning comments, “Again, what’s your plan, and what constructive things are you doing to make things better?”

Paul I offered up several idea’s, open government, to improve the zoning and approving process. I offered idea’s on pocket parks and green spaces instead of empty strip malls.

Now since that is out of the way, we lost two houses to fire due to the intense storms in the past two weeks, we are known as the Cartel of Drugs in the metro area, yet the sheriff stomps his feet and holds his breath, who gets the money, the sheriff, I’m sure there will be more than than a few asking why?

I have invited commissioners and every big mouth to stop by, we’ll have a cup a coffee, I don’t do tea, and have a look/see about my neighborhood, and tell me it ‘s so bad (Paul have you writing on how bad this neighborhood is, so far no one has showed?), where you been?

So Paul it would seem that the only chance you have is to destroy my credibility, you cannot, most every meeting is recorded for the public. But, like the stadium who knows what goes on behind closed doors?

Anything more Paul, you asked for suggestions, I offered them, no response? Only, what some may attack, these are my tax dollars, I need answers, I refuse to be a lemming.

How about the downtown Braves lowering tickets prices just to get people in? How about the economy, how many times will a family be able to afford even Gwinnetts discount Braves??

PLAY BALL!

By Paul

July 23, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

“Paul have you writing on how bad this neighborhood is, so far no one has showed?” No clue what that means, but both Bert and Lorraine have indeed been to and helped us with assorted neighborhood issues. Hint - being civil really helps.

One more time, bloviation and your personal demons aside, what have you actually DONE to improve things?

By Cindy

July 23, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Being civil is at bare minimum a good starting point.

Bruce, why do you refer to me and Paul as commercials? I started off in this blog talking about the voting public. For a change, I didn’t want to repeat myself and run the risk of sounding like a broken record. You and I usually go full circle and end up stating the things we each feel the strongest about, before we’re over and done. Truth be told, you and a few others use to wear me out, thinking I didn’t know anything. You told me I needed a civics class. :)

By Rage Against The Machine

July 23, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

I can’t stand it. Can I come out and play? Do I know you Paul? Hi Cindy.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 23, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Now as far as the suggestions I offered a few on the county, no response? No rebuttal?

YOU Paul said my neighborhood was bad in pervious columns, yet I ask and ask if YOU would show me where these supposed sections are? You do realize that all your comments and all my invites, (even to commissioners) are recorded by the AJC?

My neigborhood is protected by the residents, no HOA’s, just people who care. Now you want me to start a list of who cares and who doesn’t?

See Paul you’re full of BS, if you knew me like you say you do, you wouldn’t be asking what I do. You keep on offering the same old tired BS, I offered an invite, you refused,I offered the commissioners the same, never seen them.

The point IS, the neighorhood is not a dump or does it have a gun-fight every night, as you have said before. Paul you may try to intimated people, it doesn’t work with me, you forget I’m a New Yorker.

Sorry but you’re not really the brightest blub in the pack, I invited you and the commissioners to visit. The comissioners may have drove by, but seen no need to stop by, everything seems fine. Now you shoot your mouth off all the time, yet I have never seen you, nor have you accepted my invite to show where we should call in the Quality of Life unit? Why is that Paul, gee, maybe someone takes care of the neighborhood.

PLAY BALL!

By Bruce Wilcox

July 24, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Now Paul as far as complaints and insults you do have your share don’t you? Most relate to a certain ‘Letter To The Editor’, one day the QoL unit is the worst in the world, but by late afternoon, after tea at Queen Green’s, you could not sing her praises high enough and it hasn’t stopped since. Sometimes a big mouth will get you in trouble, look at Jesse, but we know why you support the person you do, all it took was one afternoon. From incompetent QoL to, “Hey forget everything I said”. Paul that is were you lost all credibility you may have had. There is more, but why rub it in. Me, hey not many like what I say, but I’m not a butt-kisser, I don’t endorse anyone and I’m not a member of any political party, just a Yankee Liberal.

Now here we go, before you want me to bring up more. I laugh because Paul is going through everything he has writen in the past several years. That is why I’m proud to put MY name on my opinion, same with few others, Mr. Smith comes to mind, not many others.

“I had been filing complaints for several months about the knee-high yard and general state of decay of the house”…well Paul, would you tell me where I am wrong?

Woody’s blog…

“By Paul August 7, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Way to go, Angela! On a related note, we learned again last evening that the best way to instantly resolve problems like those noted herein is to point a TV news camera at them. I was in a WSB spot last night regarding the tagging of an abandoned house. I had been filing complaints for several months about the knee-high yard and general state of decay of the house, all to no avail. Send one news crew out and SHAZAM - action at last! The reporter was amazed that our side of the subdivision (opposite from where this toilet was located) seemed to be in a completely different world - quiet, well kept, etc. The moral of the story is don’t give up, even just one person can make a huge difference.” Bruce Wilcox

August 14, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

“I had been filing complaints for several months about the knee-high yard and general state of decay of the house”…well Paul, would you tell me where I am wrong?

Woody’s blog…

“By Paul August 7, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Way to go, Angela! On a related note, we learned again last evening that the best way to instantly resolve problems like those noted herein is to point a TV news camera at them. I was in a WSB spot last night regarding the tagging of an abandoned house. I had been filing complaints for several months about the knee-high yard and general state of decay of the house, all to no avail. Send one news crew out and SHAZAM - action at last! The reporter was amazed that our side of the subdivision (opposite from where this toilet was located) seemed to be in a completely different world - quiet, well kept, etc. The moral of the story is don’t give up, even just one person can make a huge difference.”

By Paul

August 15, 2007 6:27 AM | Link to this

Really thick, aren’t you? Last try - note the last part of the story, “QOL gives 72 hours for compliance” - duh? Once more again redundantly, the startup problems are being addressed, most admirably. Sorry you didn’t like the ending, but sometimes things do work out. Stay tuned - the public will see more from them very soon.

BBy Bruce Wilcox

August 15, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Just honest Paul, give it a try sometime. YOU me boy called a television story to whine about, as you say now, nothing? In your own written words you tell a completely different story on Woody’s blog. Let me get this right, you whined for several months, but “QOL gives 72 hours for compliance”, do the math. Stay tuned, how can I, the story keeps changing dailey. And Paul where is this magical, “note the last part of the story, “QOL gives 72 hours for compliance”?

By Paul August 15, 2007 6:27 Really thick, aren’t you?

Now you will find no insult by me, but maybe Pauls fan club can explain what I seem to be missing. For three months he complained and no action was taken, it was so bad he contacted a local television station, after it was aired action was taken and the problem corrected within 72 hours. Now if I read this correctly, three months of complaining and having it aired on television would give most sane citizens the impression that the QoL unit wasn’t on the ball. But finally after all that hassle the problem was fixed in 72 hours so we should all jump for joy for what a wonderful job the QoL unit does. Now I wish someone would point out what I missed?

Play Ball!

Sorry so late, but my daughter got the house she was trying for.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 24, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

Oh sorry Paul, I screwed up because I was writing my ideas down, which to me is far more important than a spelling contest, so you may run into a were instead of a where, forgive me. Please any other mis-spelling you cannot figure out yourself what the meaning may be call me please.

P.S. Cindy you are not part of this discussion, no offense.

P.P.S. Talk about being petty elitist’s, seems the South has it sowed up. I came down here to relax, not be in some kind of a petty spelling contest.

By Rage Against The Machine

July 24, 2008 2:37 AM | Link to this

I wonder if any one from the elitist South ever retires and moves up North to relax. Just wondering. I’ve had nortenjos call me Red Neck, Cracker, and White Trash. To tell ya the truth I’m kinda diggin Petty Elitist.

Gerry Owen

By Bruce Wilcox

July 24, 2008 3:02 AM | Link to this

Unless they love sking, or ice skating, no one retires to the North. I loved this place in 93’, it’s a hole now. Guess the only thing I can hope for is global warming to warm up Canada for me.

Bet if we take a collection, I’ll be out of here in days, maybe hours!

By Paul

July 24, 2008 6:02 AM | Link to this

Bruce - Actually, the graffiti noted had only been there for a couple of days, not the “several months” you stated. Indeed, it was cleaned up within 48 hours, and as conveniently left out of your diatribe, some internal “adjustments” were made in the QOL thereafter and I later published a “way to go!” piece in the AJC. Nice try on the negative focus, though.

Again, what have you actually DONE to make things better?

By Bob

July 24, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this

Bruce - Nice non-response. - Yawn!

Your repost reinforces the point. Its about Marta and your comments indicate that you have difficulty understanding the meaning sentences and context in the English Language. -Which are not base don geographic locale among competent English speakers.

Please get help for your own good.

And have a nice day

By Cindy

July 24, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this

Rage!, Hi to you too. Of course you can come out and play…welcome back.

Bruce, check it out, I have enough smarts about me to check the subject matter at hand and determine what does/doesn’t apply to me. Notice I wasn’t imparting my opinion or any facts on the QOL discussion. But the “no offense” you offered up…I’ll take that at face value, because I know your posts well enough to know if you meant offense, you’d plainly let me know. No biggie.

I can’t quite figure out why either of you are trying to discredit the other based on former neighborhood issues, nor why it is being done publicly here on this blog. But don’t mind me or the others, carry on. Conduct your written p** match as you see fit.

When I look hard enough, I do see where it all ties back in to the topic at hand. Around the way and through the hills, to blame land we go.

And NO Bruce we won’t be taking up any collection to get rid of you. You fit here just fine and create the balance. Heck if it weren’t for us keeping these folks (you know as well as I do that the government people’s read this stuff. Remember when Nasuti posted and dressed us all down? I thought it was pretty cool.) entertained, there’d be no use to even have the ajc blogs.

Even though it didn’t pertain to me…I posted anyway :)…no offense. :) (insert Cindy’s evil laugh here.)

By Michael H. Smith

July 24, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Let us not depart from non-substantive thought people. The questions remain as to who has the best vision to lead the County forward? Issues are on the table, looking over the two candidates Websites indicates one of them is seriously lacking initiative going forward.

It is nice in the minds of some to see what a person has done during their tenure in office; however, all things being equal, yesterday is gone and no one ever accomplishes anything in the future by living in the past.

Of the two candidates, which one has the better plan for moving the County forward on the following issues that matter?

Economy

Energy

Water

Transportation

Public Safety

By Bruce Wilcox

July 24, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Paul the ‘several months’ are your words not mine, I didn’t call the station to get help. I didn’t write the Letter to the editor, I didn’t write or edit anything you wrote. Now after your tea the story starts to change, that’s when the “QOL gives 72 hours for compliance” pops up, we all must give the Qol a chance and on it goes.

You like to present yourself as the insider, but you must have been calling the wrong department for three months, the inaction by the county left you with no other choice than to call the local television station to air your woes.

We all knew that the QOL gives 72 hours for compliance, too bad you didn’t know enough to call them in the first place.

Paul I know your an expert on patting yourself on the back and telling others what they must do, just do us a favor, when you don’t know who to call in county government don’t bring out the television crews again, just ask, I’ll tell you who to call.

Cindy, I worded it wrong, you’re part of it, I just didn’t want to see you get in the middle of our insult fest.

Right Bob, like I said it must be a Southern thing.

Finally!!! I’m voting in the Democratic primary, local politic’s are more ego than action or stepping stones, some going up, some going down.

It’s been fun.

By Michael H. Smith

July 24, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Local politics are more ego than action?

Federalism be damned, though 90% of the government that affects the daily lives of the people living in this county is derive from local government?

Someone please remind me why I am a conservative that holds strongly progressive populists views and why I like so many others who have seen what the Democrat Party has done in and to this state for over 100 years has been the stepping stones to a dismal BACKWARDS abyss!

By Bruce Wilcox

July 24, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

Thank you Lou Dobbs.

By Rage Against The Machine

July 24, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Damn Michael H. Smith, your last two posts were amazingly profound.

By Paul

July 24, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

Bruce - please grow up - that was ridiculous! Seriously, if you believe your twisted bitter version of truth, you need some serious help. Again, what have you actually DONE to improve things? Michael, thanks for the blinding contrast!

By Bruce Wilcox

July 24, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Paul, it’s all recorded on these blogs, lie if you like, I could care less. Are those words in the comments of the past I posted yours? Did I edit any of your comments? If you say I did please post it, just remember to check the dates, I may be a lot of things to you, but I am never sloppy of the facts.

As far as local politic’s for many here it is their only life, their world is the county line. I just love pointing out the faults of it. Locals just do as their told by the state or feds, the only real power they have is allowing over development and wasting my tax dollars on a private stadium when the Real Braves are lowering prices to try to fill seats, brillant.

Paul I listed a number of things just on zoning that would improve this county, yet you remain mute. You repeat this stupid what have you done crap, Paul you say you know who I am, if so you should already know what I have done, I, unlike you, don’t need a pat on the back.

By Paul

July 24, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

“I just love pointing out the faults of it” - that is truly sad.

No pats necessary here either - just still wondering (days later) what you have actually DONE (other than just carp) to improve things? I’ve never followed your “career” - too busy with my own - again, please enlighten us all, my ESP is broken.

Quick - look over there!

By Cindy

July 24, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

A puppy?

By Rage Against The Machine

July 24, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Explain Cindy

By Michael H. Smith

July 25, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

You are more then welcome Jesse Jackson.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 25, 2008 3:58 AM | Link to this

“I’ve never followed your “career” - too busy with my own”, yet you say you know me?

You never addresed the zoning suggestions I offered?

How many hosues were lost to fires in the past few weeks because we just didn’t have the resourses to send out? How did we become the Drug Cartel?

How many millions is the Sheriff getting for stomping his feet, which he’ll get, just like the $18 million he got for enforcing a law thats been in effect for years?

See Paul, it’s a laugh. There are so many people lying, how do you know who is telling the truth. The county has great services, the fire department and police are top notch. They need the money more than a cry-baby sheriff.

All, and I do mean all commissioners, are incompetent in taking care of the people they are charged to represent.

Paul, here is another ‘Pat On The Back’ award, “King of the Lemmings”.

btw…just before I wrote this my daughter called, the old farmhouse in Maine she just purchased, major storms, like the ones we get, which they hardy ever do. No power, alone at night, new house, noises from the wind, needless to say I had to stay on the phone till the lights came on.

By Paul

July 25, 2008 4:55 AM | Link to this

The topic here is not the storms in Maine or who shot JR, it’s commission political realities. What have you actually DONE to improve Gwinnett? Well, I thought about it a lot? Please share with us!

By Cindy

July 25, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

Rage, Paul said “quick look over there.” It’s like the radio commercial for cellphones when the woman is calling the salesman out on all the false advertising, he feels the pressure and says “Look, a puppy!” :)

Paul, bad boy…play fair…it was sweet of Bruce to stay on the phone with his daughter.

Michael Smith You’re a funny, funny guy. :)

By Katie

July 25, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

There would be no drug problems if there weren’t people who wanted to use them. It’s simple, supply and demand. We should legalize drugs and watch the money roll in. National deficit—gone. Sure, people might kill themselves but heck, this planet is over populated anyway.

By Cindy

July 25, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

That’s so crazy it just might work! (movie quote from Master if Disquise).

Of course then the government would have to regulate the drugs…aw man, and then next comes a welfare assistance program for underpriveledged people who can’t afford the drugs on their own.

:)

By Cindy

July 25, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Typo correction…oops…I meant Master OF Disquise. At first I typed the O capital, then I thought nah, that should’ve been a lowercase o. Somehow it evolved into an i, dangit.

By Rage Against The Machine

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

Cindy. I’m not sure that I’m smart enough for you people. I totally didn’t get the puppy thing. Now I’m sad.

By Michael H. Smith

July 25, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Did you mean the government would of course have to TAX it?

Oops, my bad…. silly me…. how did that liberal thought ever possess me?

TAX is a regulation!

Ah, not to worry though, I’m sure Big Carbon Footprint Al Gore will devise some liberal Caps and Trades scheme so all the crack smokers and joint tokers will be able to buy carbon offsets from those who don’t use to limit any carbon liability they might incur to a carbon natural position, thereby enabling them to continue partaking of their humble delight as they joyfully watch those CNN news reel loops showing the melting ice in the polar regions of our globally warming world. yada, yada, yada…

Moral of the story ?: Who gives a rip when they our stoned?

Take it away Bob Dillon from the Rainy Day Woman, or should that have been, “Rainy Day Women”?

Either way, they’ll go running for the shelter of “mother’s little helper” just to get them through their day, according to Mick Jagger.

There would be no drug problems if we all could endure facing reality chemically sober. <:)

Then again, it is hard to imagine life without at least an addiction to Fritoes. :( !

By Michael H. Smith

July 25, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Dang it Cindy, now you have me doing it too. grr…

Correcting my typo.

Moral of the story ?: Who gives a rip when they “are” stoned?

By Pirkle Person

July 25, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Lorraine Green isn’t fit to call herself a Republican. Pure opportunism, given the county’s proclivities. Wasn’t she a John Edwards supporter? Would love to see a list of all her presidential ballots cast dating from, say, 1976. She’s just a NIMBY who took over whack-job Neaton’s constituency. None of the 3000+ who voted FOR Pirkle & his positions will switch to her. They’ll just stay home. Another reason she’ll lose is the ‘Lorraine Green voodoo doll’ — complete with chicken-bone incantations and long, sharp pins shoved into her buffalo bee-hind.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 25, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Gee Paul, you’re getting kind of nasty in your blad, er old age. Have someone read my comments to you, see if anything up there stirs, like a brain cell.

Sorry I mentioned Maine, I forgot the small world you live in. Sorry I mentioned my daughter, but I’m not as self-centered as you.

Paul you know me, the last thing I need is approval from anyone, I don’t require attention or rewards like you. I do not keep a media packet to send to people. I know what I do, as do my neighbors, that’s all that is needed.

By Cindy

July 25, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Michael yes by regulate I did mean tax it, along with tampering with the potency of the product, mandating use of certain ingredients…blah, blah, blah…you know…hehe, I’m just being a goof-ball.

Rage you still didn’t understand? dangit man, that’s because you don’t listen to the radio with commercials, you cruise down the street with the lid off the top of that jeep, bumping and thumping to Rage Against The Machine. :)

Anyway the commercial was a funny one about cellphone company’s using fake selling points and the lady was disproving all the dudes offers, and finally as a diversion, he said “look a puppy!”

Keep in mind, I like commercials…coupled with the fact that i’m rather easily entertained. So things like that stick in my mind. But this morning and just now, both I tried to find the audio clip for you, unsuccessfully you’ll notice, by the absence of the link. :( sorryyyy. There was the very best one though about 8 years ago about America’s Best Eyeglasses…it really cracked me up, but audio commercials aren’t stored up like video’s on youtube. dang.

Tell ya what though, if whoever it was on Steve Rose’s blog that would periodically tell me to stop myspacing (term he used when I got off-topic)on there, saw this post of mine, he’d really get on me right about now. Like I care…NOT.

Rage you fer-sher ain’t too stupid to post with us. Post on…heck you even “totally” use my style verbage! :)

You better watch that cussing though! Never know who reads this stuff ya know. Be a good boy.

Bruce never, even in jest, apologize for doing something good for your kid. You know that! It was a good thing you did.

Pirkle Person…huh? whut? 1976? That’s just trolling, stirring the pot, topic baiting, whatever you want to call it. Her butt? Please get over yourself, no matter what her career is, she’s a beautiful woman. Perhaps you’re a bitter, scorned person. Actually, I’ll stop now because your post is just outright tacky. Not even fit to reply to.

By Rage Against The Machine

July 25, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

“Baltimore’s a great place to pick up dance moves. I find.” OK Cindy. No more profanity laced tirades from me. I swear it.

By Mensa

July 25, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

This blog is beyond pathetic with the Green supp-hore-turs in ‘agreeance’ with each other, but ignoring arithmetic, the primary %, runoff history, and basic political philosophy.

If Green had had her way there would be no Discover Mills on Sugarloaf Parkway. That means no Bass Pro Shop, no Medieval Times, no AMC theater, no revenue for Gwinnett and no jobs for thousands of people. Wonder if the hypocritical chubbette ever shops there? I mean, they do have a Needless-Markup Outlet, but she’s probably too much of a snob to waddle through.

Gwinnett will not elect that smirking papist.

By Cindy

July 25, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Dumbsa or is it Dumbas? Just because she wouldn’t date you doesn’t mean you still need to carry a grudge. For the blog to be so pathetic, it certainly seems to be holding your attention. Go take an online smart test or something…your mensa level decreased 100 points with your post.

By Rage Against The Machine

July 25, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

When all else fails…. attack physical apearance. (chubette) (waddle)”Gwinnett will not elect that Smirking Papist.” What the heck is that all about. You sir are a Petty Elitist! And I know Petty Elitists.

By Pirkle Person

July 25, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

Hey, Cyndie — if you think Lorraine Green is “beautiful,” then you 2 should get a room.

And, if my post questioning Green’s Republican credentials (which are non-existent, BTW) is “not fit to reply to” because it’s “tacky,” then why did you? Looks ta me like you swallered the bait. But, from the tenor of your remarks, I’d say that’s an activity to which you are well accustomed.

By Rage Against The Machine

July 25, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Pirkle Person. That was down right nasty. Loser!

By Michael H. Smith

July 25, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Oh I understood you Cindy, I was just playing along in the foolishness and having a laugh at something that really isn’t a laughing matter. Legalizing drugs is not the answer. Admittedly the history of drug use in this country has been often tainted with non-related issue. However, what remains clear and undeniably evident is the abuse and addiction that follows in the wake of using drugs.

By bruce basher

July 25, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

Brucie boy, there is a difference in 18 million dollars and 18 deputies. You sound so foolish when you miss it that much. If you are going to be so nasty you should use facts, not just make up things. I bet the sheriff knows he got 18 deputies and not 18 million dollars. You should call and ask him. CS

By Bruce Wilcox

July 25, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

bruce basher, hey I like that an honest person. The $18 million included teaching staying away from drugs to our children in the schools.

Think about that, here we are in the Drug Cartel of the metro area and the sheriff pulls the program, kind of sad to have a temper tantrum that hurt the children.

If your don’t educate the children in the dangers of drugs, suggesting how not to bow to peer pressure and reporting anyone trying to tempt you, the price above is will be minor.

Can youu tell me what the budget is, or how much the requested deputies, plus the added deputies needed to put the drug education plan back into effect cost?

Now your comments would be taken a little more seriously if you dropped the Brucie, makes you sound childish.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 25, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

bruce basher here are some budget figures before the exrtra deputies and with the drug program cannned.

Courts and Sheriff 106,244,927, this is the 2008 budget, leave the courts out and cut lt in half, over 50 million and all he does is boo-hoo.

Add a few extras this year… Sheriff Inmate Store 455,200 Sheriff Special Operations 76,650

Only in a Republican administration could this happen, in private business the Whining Sheriff would have been shown the door a long time ago.

You really think 18 million is that far out of line?

By Rage Against The Machine

July 25, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

I guess that’s why he keeps gettin elected and what not.

By Rage Against The Machine

July 25, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

Here’s another thought. I consider it my responsibility as a parent to teach my child about the dangers of drugs.

Also I thought we had been declared “The Drug Cartel of Metro Atlanta” for only a few days. (After suspending ADVANCE)

Let’s face it dude, the only thing that is going to give you inner peace is for you to drive a stake through the mans heart. You are a hater.

By Cindy

July 25, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Pirkle person, dang you figured me out right quick like. You saw right through the smoke and mirrors and into the depths of my soul and sought out my deepest darkest secrets. oh wait, you weren’t talking to me were you? cuz my name is cindy not cyndie. stay focused…

…truth be told though cyndie is spelled out kinda pretty. you can call me that if ya wanna. and i don’t need to snuggle up to the woman (l green) to know she’s not ugly. my body doesn’t need to rub up on somebody before i can tell whether or not they’re pleasing or offending to the eye.

i’m just not the type to call someone’s beauty of lack of, into question, especially over politics. that’s all i was saying…guess i did it a little rudely. you just got me all hyped up and stuff though.

By Rage Against The Machine

July 25, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Yeeeea Bouy!

By James

July 25, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

I already did not like Bannister and Green before I read this blog, but the supporters of both candidates have further turned me off from both of them. I will definitely be voting for Vincent Passariello in November, and hopefully I won’t be the only one.

By Cindy

July 25, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

well james if bloggers can sway your opinion that much, you aren’t voting for the person anyway, you’re voting based on public opinion. so don’t blame your self-righteousness on us. you can say what you want, just as we can. besides, the majority of us on here always post back and forth to each other. it’s what we do. and at the end of the day, we check back to see what the other has said. it’s just one of the many ways we educate ourselves. you should try it, instead of basing your vote on the rumor mill.

By James

July 25, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

I don’t really want to play this game, but I don’t think you really read my post closely. I stated quite clearly that I already didn’t like Green and Bannister. I keep quite informed with Gwinnett issues (in ways other than reading this blog or listening to the rumor mills). I’m not satisfied with the work Bannister has done as chairman (nothing) and I’ve communicated several times with Lorraine Green and found her answers to my questions less than satisfactory. So, thank you, but I am an informed voter and have made informed votes in every election I’ve voted in. Which is more than I can say for most people my age.

And your talk of my “self-righteousness” is exactly what I was talking about. You can blog without insulting people you don’t know. You’d do your candidate a favor if you followed her example and kept things positive.

By Michael H. Smith

July 26, 2008 2:16 AM | Link to this

After reading Vincent Passariello’s issues statement from his Website I can honestly say he is not well informed on the issue he spent most of his issues page attempting to articulate.

I spent a great deal of time in conversing with Commissioner Green on the water issue. She is well versed and understands unlike so many others that our over-dependence on the one single - Federal controlled - reservoir we have relied on for far too many years must yield way to include alternative solutions. Commissioner Green’s water initiative is cutting-edge. That can when implemented assure the county a sustainable water supply far into the future.

What most impressed me was the fact Commissioner Green unlike others now in our government on any level has a complete grasp of water reuse and the vital role that water reuse must play in our water strategy - which is truly state-of-the-water-art for those in the know on water efficiency.

I was very satisfied with all of her answers to my questions on the water issue, including the Rainwater Tax as it is now known - A.K.A. The Stormwater Fee.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 26, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

You know I have to disagree with you Lou, teh Stormwater Tax is mostly for the developers, they do not take care or do they care about maintenance of drainage ditches in older sections.

By Michael H. Smith

July 26, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

Very simply, Jesse, on the Stormwater Fee or Tax, you are mostly wrong.

Valid information pertaining to the Stormwater Fee is obtainable from the Gwinnett County Website contrary to the previously mentioned hearsay.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 26, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

Boy it is not a surprise you would have used that name instead of Teddy being the bigot you are.

Several backyards, including mine, flood everytime someone up the street sneezes, why because people filled in a ditch that was at least four feet deep lined with large rocks.

Our boy’s at the famed stormwater team said, “Well they could send a letter, but that’s all”. On my deed, as well as my neighbors have a twenty-foot drainage set back control for my backyard. The gentleman behind me had to go to the county and get permission to to put in a 36” pipe for he could cover the ditch for more backyard, the rest just filled it in.

On all maps the ditch has a county drainage number, in the older sections of this county, when you pay the stormwater tax, it is one thing they give you more than you ever asked for.

Maybe I shouldn’t say anything, they may charge me more because they are giving more rain water from everyone else’s backyard.

By Cindy

July 26, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Teddy? Teddy bear? smile

By Michael H. Smith

July 26, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Ah Jesse, I would never infringe on your narrow weak-minded privately held turf of bigotry to prosper ignorance. I’ll leave that odious hate-task to you and you alone.

But, I would like to point out to any possible readers focusing on the water subject at hand a few items for consideration on their part.

First, why do we have a need of open ditches or retention pounds of any sort?

Hint: Poor design and engineering governed by inadequate building codes that allows inferior development to occur. Quality development would abate stormwater runoff from the get go.

Secondly, why are we homeowners now faced with having to replace storm drainage pipe via this Stormwater Fee?

Hint: Builders and/or developers where allowed to use lower grade cheaper drainage pipe in the past. Yes, yes, bringing home the painful truth and feeling your pain - add anger.

It is very clear the County must update building codes, as well as at the State level where the State Plumbing Broad sets code precedent on such things as plumbing for water reuse codes that must be established at the State level to remove any conflict with possible County code updates.

Meanwhile, under Commissioner Green’s tax proposal she would eliminate the Stormwater fee.

From the GDP:

Green said the property taxes would be replaced with a 1 percent sales tax - the homestead option sales tax, or HOST. She said she anticipates the sales tax could generate $157 million a year, enough to offer homeowners a 100 percent homestead exemption and *eliminate the stormwater fee. Gwinnett County collected $242 million in property tax revenue in the 2008 fiscal year, of which $107 million came from owner-occupied residential property, Green said.*

In our discussion Commissioner Green seemed interested in offering incentives to property owners who made stormwater abatement improvements to their property, including implimenting water reuse. However, she did stipulate and wisely so, that water harvesting and water reuse would need to be metered, allowing limited amounts to be withheld from the water treatment system, as to insure that the system would have sufficient amounts of water to continue to operate.

Perhaps inconcidrate neigbors just need the carrot of a lower water bill to persuade them to correct their errant water runnoff, hmmm?

It would probably do more good than all that huff and puff, lets get rough stuff.

Oh, and by the way, Commissioner Green did say she liked offering the carrot to the citizens rather than using the stick on them.

Smart Lady.

By Cindy

July 26, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Smart lady indeed. And yes we much prefer to be offered something rather than baited.

p.s. I confess…it’s too cute that ya’ll call each other Lou and Jesse. Seriously. I laughed out loud at ya’ll.

By Michael H. Smith

July 26, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Just a note of historical trivia for you Cindy.

Do you know where the term “Teddy Bear” is said to have originated and to whom it was applied?

Hint: He walked softly and carried a big stick.

http://www.theodoreroosevelt.org/kidscorner/tr_teddy.htm

By think i know

July 26, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Yep, I knew that. And I love trivia. When Pringles had the chips with the questions printed on each chip, my kids (teenagers)would get aggravated with me, because I knew alot of the answers. Then they came out with Nascar trivia and I didn’t know any of the answers. Now I can’t even find the Pringles with questions built on them. :( I guess they did it just to get me liking it, then stopped making them. Kinda like IHOP and the carrot cake pancakes. I never even wanted to eat IHOP until I saw the commercial with those pancakes. One month only (June), you believing that? Then they snatched them from me. Grrrr.

By Cindy

July 26, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

think i know was me. I was being sassy on the Steve Rose blog and forgot to change my name back. busted.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 26, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Cindy more like Teddy Kennedy, the WASP Lou was going for a shot below the belt, with the Jesse comment, I assure you he’d never say it to my face.

“Hnt: Poor design and engineering governed by inadequate building codes that allows inferior development to occur.”

Oh Lou, what a great come back, people filling in drainage ditches is okay, you lemming parrot, as long as Commissioner Green takes care of the new developments so bad, bad things don’t happen again. Man it sounds like bush and New Orleans.

The sales tax idea sucks, we have SLUSH, oh wait that’s SPLOST (Nixion have a SLUSH fund), a new upcoming School penny tax and now Queen Green Tax wants to add another penny, let’s see, a dime TAX on every dollar, well anyone think of a football stadium yet?

I don’t have grey water Lou, just that Georgia clay color flowing in the backyard, maybe Lorrine and you could go for a Swan Boat ride in my backyard, no charge of course.

The Republican promise, “Smaller Goverment, More Taxes” or is “Bigger Government and Even More Taxes”? Challenge me if you want Lou, but you really better look at the rate of growth, the rate of completely uncontrolled development and the increase in services (except for the sheriff of course) and tell me how great this county is doing?

Compare services with the growth, compare the water system with the growth, compare the schools with the growth, campare the taxes raised by over delvelopment and the services.

People shop here for the lower sales tax, Queen Green whats to add to the sate and county tax, why travel here to shop, DUH?

Is Queen Green going to approve the massive development that will destroy a older Duluth neighborhood? The one she tabled until after the primary, did she happen to mention, while I cut back on water, how much the new development will use? Did she introduce new construction codes that they will have to use gray water, did she even mention any kind kind if county over sight that IS NOT already on the books for the new massive delvelopment.

Lou if Lorrine wins and approves the massive development that will destroy a neigborhood, add more traffic, more water useage and more pollution will you admit I was right?

I doubt it.

By Cindy

July 26, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

Bruce you had me laughing out loud again. The husband and kids were wondering what I was laughing at like that, so I read them some of your stuff, in between laughs of course. They didn’t find as much humor in it as I did, but they just don’t get it I guess. Swan boat ride? LOL. Man, that’s funny stuff…well except the sheriff part. I didn’t laugh at that. But then again, you knew that, didn’t you?

About the folks discontinuing to travel to Gwinnett to shop…if they like the stores, they’ll still come. If the additonal 1%, stops them, they’re not spending much money anyway. For every $500 spent, that’s a $5 bill.

Locally, only Cobb and Fayette are equal to us now, so it’s just not feasible that Gwinnett implementing a HOST and saving the taxpayers from paying the M&O portion of their Property Tax bill,which is the biggest portion besides School taxes, is going to decrease the shoppers that come here.

Gwinnett residents who have a regular middle class home ($120-$160K) will save approximately $50 to $60 a month off their escrow payment with HOST. It’s a good plan.

By Michael H. Smith

July 27, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

Oh blather, blather Jesse. Your hostilities are showing again. Changing subjects, making threats, the insecurities revealed in losing focus… I mean really, it is so unbecoming when the mic is on and the public is listening to all that low blow.

Have a good day Cindy. Best to the family. I’ll have to retire to the heat of a different kitchen for the rest of the morning to do some Italian cooking. mm, mm, mm

By reader

July 27, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

MHS: The quote is: “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” There’s more to it, but that is the famous part.

By Michael H. Smith

July 27, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

I stand corrected, thank you. Seems I’ll have to do penance for a long time. Lou and “Teddy the Good”, as in Roosevelt, may never forgive that faux pas.

By Michael H. Smith

July 27, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

No update Woodrow? By now you should have received something from the candidates. I read in the GDP the Bannister team is now going to run an issue oriented campaign. Pleasant switch…. So where are the issue initiatives, team Bannister?

Commissioner Green has always campaigned on issue initiatives and has given us plenty of information on the goals she wants to pursue in the interests of serving the county going forward.

By Cindy

July 27, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Michael,you pose such a good question about the issue initiatives from team Bannister. However, his constituents shouldn’t hold their breath lest they make their final preparations beforehand, or can survive without breathing.

A good tree brings forth good fruit. Bad trees brings forth bad fruit. The truth is not in Bannister. He uses his position to influence the people who either owe him political favors or simply don’t invest the time to find out that he can say things whether they’re true or not, and some people listen. The mouth is a powerful tool. Even when it’s used through others in a ventriloquist type manner. Ultimately what he’ll accomplish is ruining the reputation of others who’ve supported him, as well as his own.

However, as i’ve said in the past, sometimes a person can right their wrongs and simply say “I was wrong to do what I’ve done”, and express the right thing that should’ve been done. That way, it admits the error, corrects the wrongdoing, brings and end to it, and has the power to bring others to the truth.

He doesn’t even focus his campaign on the county’s well-being and future goals. No providing plans and prove of why he would be the best candidate for the next four years. The main focus for him is to discredit his opponent. He deflects his inadequacies by issuing constant attacks.

Who would support that? A person needs to examine themselves to see why exactly they’re buying into it.

His plan is to keep everyone busy and sidetracked long enough for August 5th to pass and hopefully win becuase of the (I) beside his name. Then if by some off-chance, he wins from running a smear tactic campaing, he doesn’t even have to deal with her being a commisioner.

By Cindy

July 27, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

grrr, I just noticed several typos. sorry…ya’ll know what i’m saying though.

By Michael H. Smith

July 27, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

This about the best I’ve come across on Bannister initiatives going forward, it comes by way of The Gwinnett Citizen.

“In my next term, I plan to work to implement a plan to reduce property taxes on Gwinnett homeowners, refuse business licenses to illegal aliens, and require individuals who lobby for rezoning requests to register as lobbyist,” says Charles.

That leaves unanswered questions on the following major issues:

Economy

Energy

Water

Transportation

Public Safety

By Woody Bass

July 27, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Michael: Ohh.. I did, they should be posted tomorrow or Tuesday at the latest.

By Michael H. Smith

July 27, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Good! I’m looking forward to that event. Thanks for the update, Woodrow.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 28, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

Oh Lou and Woody I just can’t wait for the two of you to present your articles!!!

By Cindy

July 28, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Bruce!!!

So glad you posted something. What a boring blog day.

By Bruce Wilcox

July 28, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

Tis it is, but it was Monday after all.

By Woody Bass

July 29, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the delay… it’ll be up shortly!