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DEL.ICIO.USNothing puts the ‘fun’ in dysfunctional like a family reunion
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Two years ago, to celebrate the GOP consolidation of power at the state Capitol, Republican leaders ordered up “Family Day,” when legislators could bring their spouses and kids to the state Capitol on a Saturday morning, to watch how government really works.
It wasn’t a complete disaster, but it came close.
Brian Nichols had gone on his courthouse rampage only a day earlier, a few blocks away. He hadn’t been caught.
Moreover, Republicans had just rammed through their new Voter ID bill past incensed black and Democratic lawmakers. Bewildered families saw state Rep. Alisha Thomas launch into a civil rights anthem from the well, as newly elected House Speaker Glenn Richardson hammered her down.
Then there was the Republican discovery that their promise of free food and a picnic on the Capitol lawn had consequences.
The nearby Shrine of the Immaculate Conception let it be known that the Catholic church’s shelter would be closed for the day, and that its homeless regulars would likely stop by for a chat with lawmakers to discuss the issues, and to sample the menu.
The House Republican Caucus persuaded the church to keep its shelter open. In exchange, the politicians supplied a Saturday of free food later that spring.
All of this to say that Republicans enjoyed the first “Family Day” so much that they’re going to try it again. Circle Saturday, Feb. 10 on your calendar. We’ll bring the baloney-and-butter sandwiches.
Do you prefer them with the crusts? Or without?
Comments
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By RiverRat
January 26, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
If I recall more, shall we say, “non-traditional” families from the Midtown/Decatur area showed up than cookie-cutter GOP family models. And I think there was an issue with a union protest, too?
By SweetPea
January 27, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this
There was also the problem of people being locked out of the Capitol. Many of us were turned away and told by the guards there was “no more room” inside, even though there was only a fraction of the number of people who show up on opening day of the session, for example. We had to send word to our elected officials to come outside and bring us in. It was a total mess.