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 mu