Political Insider

By Will Jones

September 24, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Draft-dodger and Bush-pal Perdue has shown himself willing to look completely corrupt, the likely beneficiary of a Diebold cheat to get elected, with the tax legislation he drove which worked so well to his conflict of interests advantage.

Now he’s again trying to help a Bush crony rip off the People of Georgia’s beach down at Jekyll Island…where Bush overlord Rockefeller helped devise the unconstitutional Federal Reserve Bank, the heart of our financial crisis today, to suppress and control America, and to profit Rome’s agents, a century ago.

The principle of government integrity serving the many, the People, must be upheld against another rapacious and treasonous attack of pseudo-aristoi against the People’s sovereign interest.

Perdue backs Bush. Bush committed 9/11. Perdue backs Bush pal Reynolds. Reynolds, in “good” company with a moron shot down by his own stupidity now “married to the Mob,” wants to steal our land.

We, the People, must stop them, by any means necessary.

By Theresa Matt

September 24, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

How transparent can you get, Governor Perdue?

The firing of Ed Boshears, the only hope on the JIA for the average citizen of Georgia, is just more evidence that the governor is rewarding his cronies for their support. They are being allowed to carve up our last remaining barrier island that is not a haven for commercialism. We, the people for whom Jekyll Island is already a treasure, do not want another overgrown tourist trap.

I’m sorry that I voted for Sonny Perdue.

By Theresa Matt

September 24, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

How transparent can you get, Governor Perdue?

The firing of Ed Boshears, the only hope on the JIA for the average citizen of Georgia, is just more evidence that the governor is rewarding his cronies for their support. They are being allowed to carve up our last remaining barrier island that is not a haven for commercialism. We, the people for whom Jekyll Island is already a treasure, do not want another overgrown tourist trap.

I’m sorry that I voted for Sonny Perdue.

By Jean

September 24, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

Hallelujah and hooray for Ed Boshears. I have known him and watched his career over the past almost 20 yrears. He is truly a man who works for the people of GA. In my 26 years on JI I have never seen such a self-serving secretive group of political appointees as Gov. Perdue has named to the Jekyll Island Authority! (Ed Boshears’ appointment must have been a mistake - he didn’t fit the perdue mold.) Sentor Boshears is absolutely correct in what he has put forth. The people of GA should be enraged by the present perfidious state administration and the attempted give-away of a precious asset that belongs to the people of Georgia. JI can be supported and rejuvenated if really creative and new measures are taken. It cannot be saved for the ordinary folks of Ga if the same old tired “give it to my favorite developer” philosophy prevails.

By Greg Lowery

September 24, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

The removal of Ed Boshears from the JIA Board is a sad day for the citizens of Georgia. Since the beginning of the development debate, Boshears has demonstrated his understanding that the stewardship of Jekyll Island is a sacred trust. Without the voice of reason on the Board, future visitors may expect to weave their way through condos in order to pay a visit to the island’s Linger Longer Tree Museum.

One need not be a conspiracy theorist to see that this deal reeks of “coincidences” and connections. It’s high time for a full, non-partisan investigation; and perhaps some national news coverage.

By Diane Bryant

September 24, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Where do we go now for a voice? This is a truly disheartening situation. I appreciate and commend Ed Boshears for committing political suicide for the people of Georgia. His position on the JIA was assured as long as he kept his mouth shut and went along. The situation in regard to the development and give away of our State Park and state land needs to be addressed. A concerned band or should I say army of average citizens have been asking for balanced over site of the situation for the past year. The JIA was suppose to be representative of folks with various expertise and backgrounds. This has not proven to be the case with the stacking of the Authority with representatives parroting the Governor’s interests and those of his financial backers. Gov. Perdue has not looked out for the citizens of Georgia but rather his own self interests and those of his cronies. The merits of the development of Jekyll Island are not what need to be addressed at this point but rather the legal ramifications of the shenanigans of what has been going on behind the scenes and behind closed doors. An investigation does need to be launched. An investigation by the media and the court system needs to be conducted with full disclosure of the facts. The citizens of Georgia when presented with the facts are wise enough to them make up their minds and make their voices heard at the polls. We need a change in our government and that needs to start here in Georgia.

By Vicki Miller

September 25, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

Mr. Boshears was a true advocate and one of those JIA members unafraid to ask questions about the controversial Jekyll development proposed by Linger Longer. He has been advocate of Georgians rathet than puppet to the governor. This is a true loss as the JIA is now, apparently homogenized, with Perdue’s self interest folks.

By susanme

September 25, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

I wrote an email to Sonny Perdue back in June and asked that he re-appoint Ed Boshears as a member of the JIA. I was surprised when I received a letter from Sonny Perdue in the mail. In my letter I had told Sonny how proud I was to have Ed Boshears serving as a member of the JIA. I told him that Ed Boshears wasn’t a “Yes” man and we so needed more men like him serving in our state government. In Sonny’s letter he didn’t promise me that he would re-appoint Mr. Boshears he just wanted to assure me that he would select Georgians with the greatest ability, highest ethical and professional integrity to serve this great state. Sonny might not have realized it, but he was describing Ed Boshears. Mr. Boshears represents the people of Georgia with GREAT ABILITY and THE HIGHEST ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY.

I do believe that just like with the Yazoo Land Fraud the truth will come to light and the corruption will be exposed. Ed Boshears has stood up for the people of Georgia, and I think he deserves the support of his fellow Georgians as he battles to find the justice he so well deserves. I would like to end by thanking Mr. Boshears. He has truly been an inspiration to all of us who have had the opportunity to be in his presence.

By Jon Stevenson

September 25, 2008 7:54 AM | Link to this

No one should be surprised at the firing of Ed Boshears as it is only one example in a long line of outrageous and evidently illegal misdealings by Gov. Perdue and the JIA board. It is unfortunate but this is probably only a small example of what goes on in government at all levels. Let us hope that average citizens will band together and say “enough is enough, it stops here now”.

We are all in the debt of Mr. Boshears to have the courage and integrity to stand against the corrupt and well connected individuals who are no more than common thieves dressed in business suits.

By Bert Richmond

September 25, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this

The Perdue treatment of Jekyll Island shows his contempt for the people of Georgia. He is interested only in his own financial and political gains and his pretense to piety is a further insult to all of us.

Ed Boshears was the one membe of the Jekyll Island Authoriuty who tried to protect Jekyll from becoming the next Sea Island for the richest of Perdue’s friends and Bush-McCain supporters.

Let’s hope that there is a Grand Jury investigation of this sorry mess. Let’s hope that good State Senators , such as Jeff Chapman, who represents the Jekyll area and other of our elected representatives in Atlanta will stand up to the obvious efforts to deprive all Georgians of one of their most unique state parks.

I am more than willing to serve on the Grand Jury that leads this much needed investigation.

By Bert Richmond

September 25, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

The Perdue treatment of Jekyll Island shows his contempt for the people of Georgia. He is interested only in his own financial and political gains and his pretense to piety is a further insult to all of us.

Ed Boshears was the one membe of the Jekyll Island Authoriuty who tried to protect Jekyll from becoming the next Sea Island for the richest of Perdue’s friends and Bush-McCain supporters.

Let’s hope that there is a Grand Jury investigation of this sorry mess. Let’s hope that good State Senators , such as Jeff Chapman, who represents the Jekyll area and other of our elected representatives in Atlanta will stand up to the obvious efforts to deprive all Georgians of one of their most unique state parks.

I am more than willing to serve on the Grand Jury that leads this much needed investigation.

By Bert Richmond

September 25, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

The Perdue treatment of Jekyll Island shows his contempt for the people of Georgia. He is interested only in his own financial and political gains and his pretense to piety is a further insult to all of us.

Ed Boshears was the one membe of the Jekyll Island Authoriuty who tried to protect Jekyll from becoming the next Sea Island for the richest of Perdue’s friends and Bush-McCain supporters.

Let’s hope that there is a Grand Jury investigation of this sorry mess. Let’s hope that good State Senators , such as Jeff Chapman, who represents the Jekyll area and other of our elected representatives in Atlanta will stand up to the obvious efforts to deprive all Georgians of one of their most unique state parks.

I am more than willing to serve on the Grand Jury that leads this much needed investigation.

By Sandra Hamel

September 25, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

I am not surprised that Ed Boshears was removed from the JIA board. I actually expected it to happen earlier. All board members are appointed by the Governor and they all, with the exception of Ed Boshears, seemed to push the Governor’s belief that LLC’s beach village project is just what JI needs for it’s revitalization. It was quite evident at a board meeting I attended that he wasn’t a JIA board member the rest of the board liked to hear from. It’s a sad day for the people of Georgia when they lose, what seems to have been, their only voice on the JIA board. This has been a frustrating time for many. The thousands who have been trying to have their voices heard through blogs, and, letters to our Governor, House Majority Leader and others are now losing one of the few who have been working on their behalf for the future of their state park. Ed Boshears, Senator Jeff Chapman, Rep. Debbie Buckner and Rep. Stephanie Stuckey Benfield have been there, on the side of the people of Georgia, from the beginning. With them, on our side, we have not felt completely helpless. There has always been some hope for saving Jekyll Island from Linger Longer Communities’s plans for over development. Someone mentioned we can make our voices heard when we go to the polls. We can certainly do that when we vote for people running for an office. Don’t, however, expect to have any referendum, through Governor Perdue’s term of office, so we can vote on what we want for Jekyll Island’s future. When, then JIA Board Chairman, Ben Porter was asked at a JIA Board meeting if they would consider a referendum so the people of Georgia can vote on the issue of their state park….the answer was NO.

By Diane Shearer

September 25, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Well, unlike Susanne above, I wrote the governor a letter in May 2008 concerning the board and Jekyll issues and never received a reply of any sort from his office. (Copy of letter below.)

The JIA Board is nothing BUT politics at work, and that’s been evident for a long time. I would trust what Mr. Boshears says before any statements of denial issued by the governor, Linger Longer, or the JIA.

**Dear Governor Perdue:

I was thrilled by your April 24, 2008, announcement of a new “culture of conservation” here in Georgia. As a native of south Georgia, I was especially happy to hear of the preservation of another section of the longleaf pine forest near Bainbridge.

I do hope this new focus on conserving the natural environment extends to Jekyll Island. I first wrote you in January 2007 about my concerns relating to proposed development planned for the island. I’m afraid what has happened since in the legislature as well as in JIA board meetings I have attended have not assuaged my fears that one of the last, beautiful barrier islands on the East Coast is about to be destroyed by Linger Longer and the JIA’s ill-planned commercial development. No environmental or density studies before drawing up a project? How ludicrous. Citizen objections? Repeatedly ignored or belittled.

If you are truly interested in conserving Georgia’s natural resources and being remembered for such, I encourage you to stop this juggernaut that the JIA has mishandled. I am totally in favor of the revitalization of Jekyll in terms of replacing the convention center and hotels that have been torn down, as are most people who object to the Linger Longer plan. In addition to reviewing all that has happened regarding Jekyll over the past year, I would ask that you do the following:

● Remove Ben Porter as chairman of the JIA. He is a rich developer and has no interest in protecting Jekyll’s natural environment. In addition, he is arrogant and untrustworthy. He has used questionable statistics to manipulate the need for massive change on the island, and I have had firsthand experience of sitting in legislative hearings and listening to him berate elected officials.

● Remove Michael Hodges and Sybil Lynn from the JIA board. Hodges’s term was up a year ago. Lynn’s term is up in July, and she is merely a head-bobbing doll for whatever Porter says. Fill these slots with Georgia citizens who actually care about the island and have some knowledge or willingness to learn about the fragile nature of a barrier island.

● Reappoint Ed Boshears. He is not afraid of speaking the truth, and he is not intimidated by Porter and Steve Croy. As far as I can tell, he is the only voice we ordinary Georgians have on this board.

In the 1950s a misguided Jekyll project called the Sea Circus died, but not before a chunk of maritime forest was destroyed. Now nearly 50 years later the area has not fully recovered. To some extent, the future of Jekyll is in your hands. I hope you will be remembered for protecting the natural environment and affordable escape that is Jekyll, not as the governor who stood by and sanctioned excessive development and destruction of wetlands and maritime forest.**

By Don Carson

September 25, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

This whole process stinks. Why do say we have a democracy and when it comes to deciding the fate of Jekyll Island, our process is the back-room deal. Any final decisions for the island should be voted on by the people of this state. Ed Boshears is right. Perdue and his gang should be removed from any involvement, and there should be an attempt at getting a representative group of people, weighted with Jekyll Islanders, to determine the fate of the island.

By Don Carson

September 25, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

This whole process stinks. Why do say we have a democracy and when it comes to deciding the fate of Jekyll Island, our process is the back-room deal. Any final decisions for the island should be voted on by the people of this state. Ed Boshears is right. Perdue and his gang should be removed from any involvement, and there should be an attempt at getting a representative group of people, weighted with Jekyll Islanders, to determine the fate of the island.

By J D Black

September 25, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Governor Purdue:

I voted for you twice. The appointment of Richard Royal to replace Ed Boshears is a smack in the face to Georgians. Royal’s qualifications are irrelevant; we know this was done simply to remove the voice of reason from the JIA. As a previous supporter of yours, I’ve asked, in fact begged, you to Do The Right Thing in regards to the redevelopment of this state treasure. I have never been so disappointed in all my life. Sensible redevelopment is The Right Thing. Sensible redevelopment is renovating and restoring. Ed Boshears supports sensible redevelopment. The proposals from Linger Longer constitute over-development on OUR state park, and it can NOT be considered sensible. It CAN be considered LUCRATIVE for LLC, which is my perception of what is driving you in this cause. Greed, Governor, right?. Boshears offered a reasonable voice of dissent, so you removed him. Yes, Georgia is in a budget shortfall. Yes, Coastal Georgia may be in an economic turndown. To use these problems as an excuse to drastically change this island jewel is embarrassingly irresponsible. The only financial certainty, if LLC’s plan goes forward, is the short term revenues for the developer. Long term, JIA and YOU are leaning on studies commissioned by groups who appear to be less than unbiased. Regardless of the financial viability of the proposed project, it is more concerning that the character of the island is at risk. People choose to come to Jekyll because it IS NOT Hilton Head, St. Simons, Amelia, etc. Jekyll Island is utterly and wonderfully unique; the needed renovation & redevelopment should fit that character. LLC’s proposal is not unique. They looked at the land and planned a development to fit the land. Sure, they added some “green space” to show how they are environmentally friendly. This development is cookie-cutter stuff. Jekyll deserves so much more than this. I can only surmise that you are either blind to the facts or sadly, you see it all too clearly. If you understand the facts and continue on, then you are the very definition of a dirty politician who is cutting back-room deals with corporate interests who are only concerned with their personal gain. Governor, I hope this is not the case. I know you can open your eyes and can Do The Right Thing. The question is: Will You? Any clear minded individual who has been to Jekyll knows that the LLC plans do not fit with the island’s character, history, and environment. Please, listen to the other side. Seek advice from someone with an opposing viewpoint. Take a step back and realize what is going on. You have the ability to make a positive difference for Jekyll Island and for the common Georgian. But make no mistake, this island WILL change for the WORSE if YOU do not re-set the course in which we are currently heading. Governor, again I beg you, Do The Right Thing, for all of Georgia.

J. David Black Lifelong Georgian and Jekyll Visitor Ringgold, GA

By Georgiaonmymind

September 25, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

In removing Ed Boshears from the JIA, Gov. Perdue has demonstrated once again his disdain for ordinary Georgians, most of whom populate this state, and his concern for keeping the cash flow of the wealthy real estate establishment rolling. Seems to me we’ve seen more than enough of this attitude lately. Boshears is right to call for an investigation. It’s time we take back our state from legislators who, bedazzled by the earning power of scenic land-even if it’s in a state park-are willing to give away our most precious assets to avaricious developers. Boshears has been one of our strongest allies in fighting these profit-mongers.

By SG

September 25, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Which beautiful spot on Jekyll Island has Sonny chosen for his free retirement condo in exchange for helping Linger Longer get state owned land for private use? I know there has to be something in it for him or he wouldn’t be interested in helping. With the state of GA being in this financial crisis I can think of a better use for the money he has obligated to Linger Longer for the Jekyll Island Project.

By SG

September 25, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Which beautiful spot on Jekyll Island has Sonny chosen for his free retirement condo in exchange for helping Linger Longer get state owned land for private use? I know there has to be something in it for him or he wouldn’t be interested in helping. With the state of GA being in this financial crisis I can think of a better use for the money he has obligated to Linger Longer for the Jekyll Island Project.

By SG

September 25, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Which beautiful spot on Jekyll Island has Sonny chosen for his free retirement condo in exchange for helping Linger Longer get state owned land for private use? I know there has to be something in it for him or he wouldn’t be interested in helping. With the state of GA being in this financial crisis I can think of a better use for the money he has obligated to Linger Longer for the Jekyll Island Project.

By SG

September 25, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Which beautiful spot on Jekyll Island has Sonny chosen for his free retirement condo in exchange for helping Linger Longer get state owned land for private use? I know there has to be something in it for him or he wouldn’t be interested in helping. With the state of GA being in this financial crisis I can think of a better use for the money he has obligated to Linger Longer for the Jekyll Island Project.

By Sixtring

September 25, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

We are preaching to the choir, people!

Get your cellphone out RIGHT NOW and call our double-crossing Governor and tell him what you think in no uncertain terms.

We can write to one another on here and that’s a good thing.

But…CALL THE GOVERNOR AND DO IT RIGHT THIS MINUTE!!

Here’s the number:

404-656-1776

What else can I say that hasn’t already been said?

We can win this thing big-time. Do NOT let he establishment overlook Ed Boshears’ testimony.

Now, PICK UP THE PHONE AND CALL SONNY!!

404-656-1776

By steelekirk

September 25, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Sonny has always lied. I apologize for voting for him

By Save Georgia's Jewel

September 25, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Perdue ought to be thoroughly ashamed of himself. He has fired the only honest person on the JIA board, keeping the other two who are merely “nodders” and who have done nothing to protect Jekyll Island. Ed Boshears has the people’s admiration and complete trust because of his repeated willingness to question underhand dealings by the JIA and to always fight for the rights of the people of Georgia. The letter Boshears has written is revealing indeed. Porter and Kreuger should be removed from the JIA board, as well as other mindless members who toe the “party” line. Moreover, as Boshears indicates, a grand jury investigation is sorely needed for the terrible Jekyll Island situation that Perdue, Porter, Bleakley (and the people at Linger Longer) have unnecessarily created. The extensive development proposed and supported by these individuals is shocking — it’s clear to everyone that they are bent on this plan to line their own pockets. And they are doing this in blatant disregard for what Georgians and out-of-state visitors have repeatedly said would be best for Jekyll Island’s future. It’s the last barrier island that is still naturally beautiful, a sanctuary for wildlife, and a peaceful place for people from all walks of life to have unique experiences, uplifting and spiritual. Let us pursue a grand jury investigation of these politicians and the entire JIA board. We need to appoint people to the JIA board who have their priorities in the right place, exactly as does Ed Boshears. Let us do all we can to keep Jekyll the wondrous treasure it is and not allow a few immoral individuals to create yet another moneymaking machine for their own greed.

By Sixtring

September 25, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

OK…….I have just checked in with the governor’s office and the admin asst won’t disclose how many calls have been received.

This is YOUR government, people!

USE THE CELLPHONE and CALL THE GOVERNOR.

If I call back over there again and can get an answer, I’ll know that you are not calling!!

And I’ll be back on here again. Don’t make me do that.

This is known as THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE.

You and I both know what the will of the people is in this case.

Now, explain to me why you haven’t called the governor several times on the issue. Better yet, explain it to yourself why you, as an American citizen, are intimidated enough that you won’t call your governor about a vital issue.

OK, I’m waiting……explain it to me. Please tell me why you haven’t called.

Just call up and register your disapproval of what is happening on Jekyll Island.

There is something good about doing it. You’ll feel much better afterward that you participated in the governing process.

It’s the best example of The American Way.

Now, pick up your cell phone and dial the number!!

404-656-1776

By Lindsie Tucker

September 25, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

The stench of corruption hangs over this administration and its use of Jekyll Island as a pay off for back room financial and political deals. Boshears’ removal from the JIA is just one more piece of evidence in a towering pile.

By Meljohns

September 25, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

The corruption of the JIA is now complete with the removal of Ed Boshears. Sonny Perdue has systematically installed people loyal to him and his desire to cultivate the graces of the politically influential Reynolds family, with total disregard to the wishes of the people who own Jekyll Island. I fervently hope we do not let him and the corrupt JIA get away with it.

By Tom

September 25, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

What a bad joke the Perdue admistration has turned out to be! Corruption and incompetence seem to be running rampant.

By Jedi

September 25, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Forget about calling Sonny today…he’s in Europe on a $100,000 trip funded by taxpayer dollars drumming up business for…you guessed it…ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.

By Boris

September 25, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

The actions of the Jekyll Island Authority, appointed by Perdue, have been a microcosm of the same greed and unconstrained avarice that infects Wall Street and our state and national political system. They all act as if they were laws unto themselves and accountable to no one in their quest to further crony capitalism—and line their own & each others’ pockets—at the expense of the common folk—us poor sshmucks the citizens & taxpayers. And they think we are too stupid to realize that we are being pillaged. I hope that they are wrong. Ed Boshears was the one public servant on the Jekyll Island State Park Authority Board, and now they have deep-sixed him. The rest are either crooks, cronies of the gov. or sycophants, or all of the above.

By Terry Miller

September 25, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

I called the governor’s office to register my outrage. I don’t know how many others are calling, but I agree that this is the way to go. I hope we can hang in there until Perdue leaves office. He seems not to care about the average Georgian at all.

I will never work to elect another Republican to state office. I am a native Georgian and always voted Republican, but now I see that they are as corrupt as the Democrats.

By Barbara Driggers

September 25, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

I have known for years, there was a pig in the sty. And that is the Good Old Boy, Sonny Perdue, our Governor I have sent out dozens of letter over the last year, all to no avail. Now I know why, they all were in on this thing together. I hope when these big wigs get their FREE vacations, at my cost, my taxes. Maybe the wrath of God will come down upon them and show them what a hurricane is all about. Don’t worry, he will protect the good and wash the dirt out to sea. I am so tired of getting stepped on by these mucky mucks I can’t see straight. Maybe we ought to go back to the 70’s and have a sit-in all across Linger Longer Property and dare them to lift a shovel of sand. I have called the Gov’s Office, all to know avail. Snotty bunch of people up there. They are either afraid of their jobs or are going to get a Free vacation to. JIA you had better increase your law enforcement, as I have come to the Island at least 2 to 3 times a year for the past 40 years. And if I can’t afford a room, I will sleep on the beach, if there is any left that is. At least if you put me in jail, I’ll get 3 hots and a cot, and at 73, it would be better than how I am living now. Why don’t you just keep on raping the poor people and give blue ribbons to the rich. I wish Mr. P was my Son for about 24 hours, I would slap him back to where he came from. I am so blessed mad about all this I could spit. Mr. Boshear, if you need any help, let me know, I will testify for you as to how crooked the whole gang is.

By Wendy

September 25, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Governor Purdue’s actions and those of his Republican cronies make me sick. Their shameless favoring of wealthy business interests at the expense of ordinary Georgians is disgraceful. They seem to exemplify the statement, “The bigger the lie, the more likely people are to believe it.” The people of Georgia are being held hostage by people of, at best, questionable ethics and selfish motives.

By Jim Bloom

September 25, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Perdue has been blatantly unethical with regard to the handling of Jekyll Island affairs—he’s the one who should be ousted.

By Anne

September 25, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Boshears has publicly stated at JIA board meetings that he inisists that the JIA/Linger Longer Contract be given to the full board AHEAD of the day of the vote (unlike the Trammell Crow contract which was slipped in, later Porter….APOLOGIZED….big deal! Trammell Crow got $10 million in rent abatements, Jekyll Island State Park got $10 million LESS for its needs and Porter and gang got HOW MUCH $$$…who knows?)

Boshears stated he wanted to be able to talke to the lawyers to discuss the contract before he and others signed it to make sure there were no provisions that would hurt the park and the people of Georgia. I think that is why he got the boot. This contract may well be the give-a-way of the island…the park may well be PRIVATIZED…we all know what that means…high priced condos, hotels and amenities!

Don’t just call Perdue, call the LT. Governor, Casey Cagle 404-656-5030 after all he wants to be gov and has a lot of power.

Call the uh, hum “legislative oversight committee members for JISP:” Tommie Williams: 912-526-7444 Ross Tolleson: 478-988-1206 Chip Pearson: 770-886-6971 Jerry Keen: 912-634-4500 Terry Barnard: 912-654-1048 Karla Drenner:404-656-0202 and ex-officio JIA board member Eric Johnson: 912-234-4021 or 912-234-0370

We have to fight for OUR STATE Park! Don’t let them, as Senator Jeff Chapman put it so well, “kick the little guy off his public bench!”

By Whitey N Clarkston

September 25, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Sonny firing Boshears from the JIA is just his way of lashing out for getting snubbed by McCain…and Sonny spent all that money on his hairdo. Now petty little Sonny will funk up everything possible before he is removed from the Guv shack on West Paces. Maybe we’ll luck out and his plane will crash on the way back from Europe - or he will be invited to duck hunt with Uncle Dick.

By Mary Alice Carter

September 25, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

JEKYLL ISLAND BELONGS TO THE CITIZENS OF GEORGIA. it is one of the last places on the Atlantic Coast that is in its natural beauty for all citizens to enjoy. The current Linger Longer plan will destroy this, and make it practically too expensive for the average person to visit. They need to use the footprints of old buildings to develop and leave the beauty of the seashore for future generations. THIS MUST BE A LEGACY FOR OUR CHILDREN.

By sassysue

September 25, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forget the recent article in the AJC on Sept 10 in which it states “Perdue fails to disclose property”. He bought a vacation property on Jackson Lake in Butts County, Georgia for $550,000 last year but failed to disclose it in July. It should have been included on his annual personal financial disclosure. His spokesman called the omission “a staff oversight”. Do we actually believe that?

We all need to be suspicious of every move the JIA and LLC makes. They have tried every way possible to slide things in without the public’s knowledge and will continue to do so. Just like when the increased acreage was allowed from the initial bid process so that LLC could win the bid.

Mr. Boshears was for the people and in the way so he had to go. I agree that a Grand Jury needs to investigate who’s pockets are being padded by whom.

We must continue to fight for Jekyll!

By Jody Butler

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

I’m surprised Perdue waited this long to fire Mr. Boshears, the lone voice of the citizens of Georgia on the JIA. It’s so obvious that the governor wants Jekyll Island developed as much as possible by those to whom he owes political favors. I voted for him in his first election but I can hold my head high and say I did not in the last election. The JIA has categorized citizens of the state who oppose widespread development of the island as a handful of fanatics when nothing could be farther from the truth. The ‘partner’ selected to develop the island has refused to make public, as it had promised, the public input it has received about its development plan. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out why - the input doesn’t support their position and that of Sonny Perdue.

What a shame that a public state park is considered by our own governor as the spoils of political power to be awarded to his cronies as he deems fit.

Thank you, Mr. Boshears, for being a voice of reason in the midst of cacophony.

By Jessica Neeley

September 25, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

SHAME ON YOU GOVERNOR SONNY PURDUE. I see he has created another good ol’ boys club. Jekyll Island is one of our favorite places to visit and enjoy. It’s peaceful, clean and beautiful. More developing will ruin the Island and the only people I have heard speak for the development of Jekyll is greedy politicians or developers. I’m pretty sure that it isn’t all about you ALL THE TIME folks. Go pick on some other Island and LEAVE JEKYLL ALONE!

By islandhow

September 25, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

A few months ago, I wrote to Sonny Perdue, asking him to reappoint Ed Boshears when his term was over. I cited Ed’s objectivity in considering the best interests of the citizens of the state. I got back a form letter, with a rubber stamped signature.

I then predicted that Boshears would not be reappointed based on the cozy relationship of the Governor and the development community. It was quite evident that the rest of the JIA board barely tolerated Boshears. I’m sorry that I was so right in predicting his being replaced - sorrier still that I voted for Perdue, who seems quite willing to sacrifice the serene beauty of “Georgia’s Jewel” for filthy lucre.

It’s high time that the lid be blown off this pathetic state of affairs. Grand jury investigations? Bring ‘em on! Like the man said: follow the money trail.

By Jessica Neeley

September 25, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

SHAME ON YOU GOVERNOR SONNY PURDUE. I see he has created another good ol’ boys club. Jekyll Island is one of our favorite places to visit and enjoy. It’s peaceful, clean and beautiful. More developing will ruin the Island and the only people I have heard speak for the development of Jekyll is greedy politicians or developers. I’m pretty sure that it isn’t all about you ALL THE TIME folks. Go pick on some other Island and LEAVE JEKYLL ALONE!

By James English

September 25, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Sonny has been praying for this day longer than he has for rain: a chance to dump the one JIA board member who was not a developer or a fellow traveller. Now those folks and their buddies at LLC and Mercer are waiting to carve up the available sites on Jekyll and build over-scale clones of Sea Island lodging. NOT if we can help it! Show your support for Ed Boshears, call Sonny today!

By SG

September 25, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

Can we impeach him for lying on his taxes when he “forgot” he had property on Lake Jackson? If he forgot he had that property then Linger-Longer can develop that piece of property and he’ll never know it because he don’t remember having it.

By Anne

September 25, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

You can see an analysis of the comments submitted by visitors to Villa Ospo on Jekyll where the diorama of the town center proposal was on exhhibit by visiting www.savejekyllisland.org and go to the third item under “Must Reads”.

This professional analysis was done by Dr. Babs MacDonald, a scientist and long time Jekyll visitor. She had to obtain the comments by filing a Georgia Open Records Act Request.

It is strange that despite The JIA and LL’s assertions that they take the public’s comments very seriously that neither of them thought to compile the comments for review by their staff or make them available to the public.

Ok people, let’s not just blog let’s get calling the governor, Lt. Gov and those JIA oversight members and tell them we want an independent review of the whole “revitalization process.”

By Patty A.

September 25, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Yes we should all call Sonny’s office and also the other officials as previously suggested. Also we should have as much representation as possible at the meeting being held on Mon. Sept. 29th. at the Convention Center on Jekyll. It is to go over the The Bleakly Plan for Jekyll. This is the plan that the JIA had the Bleakly Group write,although they had no experience in dealing with areas like this. Their suggestions are very questionable and many questions need to be answered as noone was allowed to ask questions when the plan was presented at the last Board Meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 2;00 oclock which will make it difficult for many working people to attend. Lets have a good turnout, so the JIA and Sonny know haw serious we all are about keeping Jekyll from being overbuilt and affordable for the people of Georgia and other visitors who love its charm.

By coastalviewpoint.com

September 25, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

The dark does not like light. Senator Boshears was putting the light on their evil deeds. We cover his comments in full on coastalviewpoint.com.

By Brunswick Born

September 25, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Was there ever any doubt about the governor’s true intentions? First, he appointed a do-nothing JIA who let the island deteriorate, then he delivered the island’s “savior” in the form of Linger Longer. But, as the average citzen of Georgia is well aware, Jekyll does not need or want the kind of saving that Linger Longer will inflict upon Jekyll’s pristine assets. Let’s continue the fight to save Jekyll Island when the leislature convenes in January!

By Joe W.

September 25, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Remember when you needed a gun to commit a crime….? Now you only need a political appointment. What is shocking is how cavalier Perdue is about the whole situation. It is very sad he is representing the people of this state.

By Thurbert Baker

September 25, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

The question is: Is Attorney General Thurbert Baker going to do anything about it?

C’mon, Thurbert, show a set of brass ones for the first time you’ve been in office, and thoroughly investigate these accusations.

C’mom Casey Cagle and John Oxendine, you two are running for Governor in 2010. You can’t possibly tolerate this shadiness, can ‘ya? Call Sonny Don’t out for this!

By Michael Jaski

September 25, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

How transparent can you be, Mr. Governor? How many times are you going to reward your friends and contributors instead of serving the people who elected you? How quickly you forgot about your fellow Republican governor, George Ryan from Illinois! He was caught and punished for similar offenses.

By Michael Jaski

September 25, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

How transparent can you be, Mr. Governor? How many times are you going to reward your friends and contributors instead of serving the people who elected you? How quickly you forgot about your fellow Republican governor, George Ryan from Illinois! He was caught and punished for similar offenses.

By Karen Brown

September 25, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Purdue’s action in removing the one JIA member who was working toward transparency in plans for Jekyll Island is a deliberate slap in the face of the the ordinary Georgia citizen. His arrogancy is amazing. It isn’t even shadiness—he’s doing it out in the open. The Republican party of Georgia should respond so that this is not a stain on the whole party!

By Rickster - SSI

September 25, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Another outrage!
Perdue and his cronies will do anything to subvert the will of the people vis-a-vis Jekyll Island. Perdue want to ensure that the developers reign king the JIA has no dissenters within its ranks. Grand jury investigation? Absolutely! Thanks, Senator Boshears for having the guts to do what’s right. It’s clear you have not been bought by the would-be developers.

By Justice Sought

September 25, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Senator Boshears alleges that Mr. Porter and Mr. Krueger conspired to bamboozle and cheat the citizens of Georgia by holding secret meetings, violating the State’s sunshine laws. One might reasonably also suspect that there was illegal venality involved. These allegations by an upstanding Georgia public servant must not be taken lightly. Those accused deserve the grand jury investigation for which Senator Boshears has called, to either clear their names, or to show that there has been criminal conduct, and the public has every right to see the outcome of a thorough investigation. The public does not want to see another nationally embarrassing sweeping-under-the-rug of charges of ethical violations, such as has happened in the case of previous real-estate scandals involving Georgia government officials (e.g., use Google to look up “Oaky Woods scandal”).

By Helen Garrett

September 25, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Governor Perdue, I am ashamed of you! You are not the owner but the overseerer of the State of GA. We, the people, do NOT want Jekyll Island sold out to the developers. Leave it alone, as the State Park it was created to be. The GA coast does not need to be developed to look like the FL coast.
Mr. Breshear was doing a wonderful job defending Jekyll Island on the JIA commission and you go selling him out to one of your cronies that you probably owe a favor. I am proud of him for filing his lawsuit and just wish I could testify for him.
Once again, shame on you. I am so disappointed in you for showing your true colors to be a man of the big developers and money makers and not a man of the people and for the people. You have overstepped your authority.
I am contacting every newspaper I know until someone picks this story up and runs with it all the way to the Supreme Court, if necessary. Channel 2 may be interested since they are showing their Democratic selves these days.
Recind your decision and extend Mr. Breshears appointment and prove me and all the others wrong. It will make my day.

By JaneFraser

September 25, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

What a shock that Sonny Perdue has replaced the ONE valuable member of the Jekyll Island Authority who truly cares about the people of Georgia and the unique nature of Jekyll. Bravo for Ed Boshears. I think the Republicans in Georgia do not realize the damage this does to the entire party including those running for office this year. Wake up, Sonny!

By Charles Busfield

September 25, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

I am politically independent and am angered by Gov. Perdue’s removal of Mr. Ed Boshears from the JIA board. I suspect most knowledgeable Georgians see this as a suspiciously questionable move and I am so grateful to Mr. Boshears for having the courage and integrity to give voice to our concerns. Democracy has to be continually defended and I do feel democracy is at stake here. So if you love Jekyll as I do, I urge you to get involved, make your feelings known. get behind the movement to protect Jekyll from what may well be a sadly questionable, rapacious land grab. I strongly support and commend Mr. Boshears’ call for a grand jury investigation. For the love of all things decent and good, Jekyll is an idyllic refuge for people and wildlife, and is both unpretentious and affordable. We must be sure that any development be sensible and prudent, and not driven by greed, ambition, or abuse of power. Thanks also to Sen. Jeff Chapman of Brunswick for his brave and tenacious efforts to help protect this lovely, timeless place, and to the AJC for providing unbiased reporting on this vital issue. It is a situation that will in large measure show if Georgia has enough soul and resolve to stand for something so worthwhile. Seems ironic to me that this is going on as Gov. Perdue has endorsed preservation of Georgia green space. Folks, it does not get much greener than Jekyll Island. I say bring on a thorough investigation and let’s see what we find. I am not afraid of what the truth would reveal. Jekyll deserves at least that much.

By Jennifer Carlile

September 25, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

Given that taxpayers are being asked to bail out a bunch of private banks whose leadership gamed the system and behaved unethically at best (and probably illegally), it is outrageous that Governor Sonny Perdue would even think it appropriate to sell publicly owned Jekyll Island to his Republican buddies. For what? So 20 years down the road the taxpayers of Georgia can bail out Linger Longer?

This state administration stinks as much as the one in D.C. Governor Perdue should be investigated, as should every other member of the JIA Board.

By Gail Michaels

September 25, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

I no longer live in Georgia, but I visited Jekyll Island often when I was a child, and I’ve gone once as an adult. It’s a lovely place, and I’m sick that the People’s State Park should be done away with by money grubbers who care for nothing but enriching themselves. We’re seeing the consequence of unbridled greed on Wall Street right now. Wake up, Georgians. It’s time to stop voting Republican.

By Rennie Fulford

September 25, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

I, like so many others, am deeply sorry to have supported Sonny Perdue. As far as I can see, he has never supported the people of Georgia. He, like most politicians these days, is only interested in lining his own pockets. As far as I am concerned, the entire JIA board needs to be fired, and Ed Boshears needs to be appointed as the new director. When it is obvious to everyone that Mr. Boshears appears to be the only one with the interest of the people at heart, it just proves that Sonny Perdue is an ignorant, money hungry boob!!!

By Joy

September 25, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Ted Stevens Jr. is our Governor. We need a grand jury now. Time to stop the corruption in Georgia. And they say Chicago is bad…ha!

By Brian

September 25, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Senator Ed Boshears has a long history of honesty and guarding of the public trust. When an individual of this stature alleges: violations of the Open Records Law, unethical conduct by the Chairman of the Board of Jekyll State Park Authority, granting of a sweetheart deal valued at 10 million dollars to a developer, and illegal board meetings and votes, then any state government with any integrity must initiate an independent investigation or be stained by these allegations. Senator Boshears is dismissed as being in some other reality by the Governor’s office. Perhaps this statement reveals the true reality of our present state of government.

By Nathan Farnau

September 25, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

I hope America sees these devils for what they are. Carving up our state’s natural heritage for ridiculous profits and politcal favors is obscene.

I hope people keep in mind this election year, that our vote is our voice. So on election day, be aware that the ringleader and chief profiteer in this plot to ruin Jekyll Island is one of John McCain’s closest advisors. I beg of you, Georgians, don’t send another self-interested criminal, like Perdue or Bush, to the oval office - to once again squander our nation’s wealth and good name.

By Lt Col George Sweeney USMC (Ret.)

September 25, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

As a former resident of Jekyll Island I have followed this issue closely. This latest act of transparent cronyism should not stand.

By Mimi Waite

September 25, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Sonny Perdue has shown his lying cheating colors so many times that the people of Georgia need to weep for the Peach State and for Jekyll Island, and we MUST fight this Land Grab until we defeat Mercer Reynolds and Sonny Perdue if it takes all the strength we can muster. I join Ed Boshears in calling for a Grand Jury investigation, now. Mimi Harris Waite, St. Simons Island, Georgia

By Chicago Visitor

September 25, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

We watch from afar the changes that seem inevitable to Jekyll Island. We have been back to visit three times because Jekyll is what it is - a beautiful, peaceful and AFFORDABLE place to spend a family vacation. It is too bad that we get rid of those that try to preserve that beauty in favor of big business money makers that only want to make a profit for themselves. Thank you Sen. Boshears for your attempts. Georgians please don’t give up the fight. I can not vote on this, but your vote does count! Show the governor your displeasure in the upcoming election.

By longtime Jekyll visitor

September 25, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

how very sad that a voice that represents the will of the peopleis being unfairly silenced. I encourage the investigation.

By Peggy Crowe

September 25, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

My family has been coming to Jekyll Island since the 50’s because of its pristine beauty and slow pace of life. My father bought a home a few decades later because our love of the island had become synonymous with our love for each other. Now, as the threat of Jekyll becoming another Hilton Head appears to loom large, we are considering whether we should stay or sell. In reality once Jekyll has been raped she will be cast aside as damaged goods.

Jekyll was set aside for the people of Georgia so that each and every one could have their own piece of paradise. If we wanted hotel-lined beaches we would go there but that is not what we seek.

Yes, Jekyll could use a facelift, but we don’t want her to look like one of those wealthy housewives whose faces have grown eerily tight after years of force-feeding nature.

We need to do whatever is necessary to ensure that the one island for all remains that way.

By Robert Bay

September 25, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Someday when I return to Jekyll Island State Park I hope to find a statue honoring the honesty and integrity of Ed Boshears, and local news articles about the sentencing of Perdue, Porter, Krueger, and Reynolds to many years in federal prison.

By paul patterson

September 25, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

This is a classic case of government corruption, from the JIA board all the way to the govenors office, Mr. Boshears muct really have the goods on the whole bunch to be thrown off the board like that. I hope the deadbeats and yes-men of the JIA board that have let facilities and finances on Jekyll get in such sad shape are exposed for the frauds they are.

By paul patterson

September 25, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

This is a classic case of government corruption, from the JIA board all the way to the govenors office, Mr. Boshears muct really have the goods on the whole bunch to be thrown off the board like that. I hope the deadbeats and yes-men of the JIA board that have let facilities and finances on Jekyll get in such sad shape are exposed for the frauds they are.

By Peggy Brown

September 25, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

You can better believe; if it does not pad Sonny Perdue’s pocketbook he is not for it. He and his cronies must be stopped to keep Jekyll Island the island it was meant to be when the state of Georgia bought it….”a place where ordinary can AFFORD to take their famliy to the beach”!!! Sonny and his cronies are trying to rape this pristine island of affordability, beautiful unspoiled land and much history. All that has been proposed to “change Jekyll” will only turn it into another St. Simons. If you want that type of vacation go there and leave Jekyll Island as it is!!!!!!!!!

By Royce amd Marjorie Clark

September 25, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

We support Mr. Boshears 100%. He has been a refreshing voice for saving Jekyll Island from the greedy, non-caring politicians and builders. He should have been reappointed to the Board. Royce and Marjorie Clark Jekyll Island, Georgia

By Georgia Educator

September 25, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Governor Perdue, it’s time to DO THE RIGHT THING !!!! The Bible tells us that the LOVE OF MONEY is the root of ALL EVIL….how true this is. Do not let a love for money cause our precious Jekyll Island to be RUINED by greedy developers! Yes, improvements need to be made on Jekyll, but NOT what LLC is proposing. ~ Ed Boshears NEEDS to be ON the BOARD, and others need to be OFF. Sonny, don’t let us down again!!!!

By Vicki

September 25, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

I was fortunate to be able to attend the January JIA Board meeting in Atlanta. I would say that is not that astounding now that during that meeting as Mr. Boshears was asking legitimate questions about the affordabilty issue in regards to Linger Longer’s development, that the arrogant Ben Porter, told Mr. Boshears “he had already asked that at a previous meeting.” (basically - “be quiet”) Mind you, this was a packed room full of those wishing to preserve Jekyll from an overwhelming development, and other members of the JIA, literally did “not give a hoot.” What a relief that Mr. Boshears had the guts to stand up for what Georgians own versus desires of those who believe they are entitled to dismiss concerns about Jekyll’s future.

By Dennis

September 25, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

Linger Longer and the JIA may think this protest is going away, but they will misjudge Georgians again if they do. The allure of Jekyll Island is its simplicity.

All these political/developer fat cats aren’t interested in maintaining that simplicity. All they want to do is to make another buck.

What they already have is never enough.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By Donovan Schoonover

September 26, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

They,Sonny and his cronies, will do any thing anything to get their hands on the ocean front property on Jekyll Island to pay off political debts. Semator Boshears and Senator Chapman where two of the people who where for the average Georgian and not the rich with their condo’s and townhouses which are not needed to redevelop Jeykll. Sonny has already taken the people of Georgia twice with his land deals. Enough is enough.

By Contact Attorney General

September 26, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

Instead of calling the Governor’s office about this issue, would it not be more fruitful to call the Attorney General’s office? He’s the one who needs to hear the wide and strong support for a grand jury investigation. Or send him a fax of opinions posted on this blog.

Attorney General: Thurbert E. Baker, Phone: 404-656-3300, FAX: 404-657-8733.

By Dory

September 26, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

This morning’s WSB news broadcast includes Bob Coxe’s interview with Ed Boshears as well as adamant denials by the Governor’s spokesman of any involvement by the Governor in the revitalization of Jekyll Island. These denials and denials by Linger Longer spokesman Jim Langford bring to mind an incident in the Coverdell Legislative Office Building during the hearings on House Bill 214 in the early spring of 2007. House Bill 214 is the bill that renewed the lease of the Jekyll Island Authority; and, with Senator Jeff Chapman’s help, it ultimately saved the south end of the island from development literally at the 11th hour. As a concerned citizen, I had spent many days at the capitol, attending hearings on this bill. One afternoon, I was walking down a corridor in the Legislative Office Building and rounded a corner just in time to see and hear a handful of our elected officials huddling in the hall. I ducked back around the corner to see what I could discover. I heard one of them say, “So do you support the Governor’s plan for Jekyll Island?” My blood ran cold at that moment, and I realized what we were up against. Does this sound as if the Governor has not been involved in this issue but has “said to the JIA to only do what is best for Jekyll Island”? Remember, this was in early 2007. With the selection of his number one campaign contributor as the JIA’s “Private Partner,” one can only imagine how “uninvolved” our Governor must have been since that time!

By Phyllis B.

September 26, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Ed Boshears in one of the most ethical and upstanding men I know. Even though we belong to different political parties, I have the utmost respect for him. If you could see how he manages his legal practice you would know that he really does represent the interests and needs of the common man and not politically connected high rollers such as Mercer Reynolds. He stands for the best in the Republican Party. During his time as a State Senator he represented us, not big corporations or large campaign contributors which is THE reason a certain influencial company here on the Coast ran their own candidate against him. Both lost which is how we ended up with Tommie Williams as our Senator(another story for another time!).

We MUST stand up and support Boshears in his couragous “outting” of a corrupt Jekyll Island Authority. Governor Perdue has systematically appointed people to state councils, boards and committees who have no experience with the subject matter they are charged to oversee. Their most important qualifications are how much they contributed to his or other Republicans’ campaigns and how they can use their positions for personal gain. I, personally, have witnessed this as an ex-member of a state council.

For months I have encouraged a journalist I know to research and publish an expose on some of the players in the JIA scandal. Where are the press and investigative reporters? These crooks aren’t even hiding much of their insider dealings and illegal meetings. Come on people, where are the honest people in our government and leadership?

Ed Boshears deserves our respect an support for standing up to these bullies and scoundrels. There is much more dirt on these players that he has not revealed. Let’s dig a little and expose them once and for all.

Yes, Jekyll needs a facelift but it shouldn’t be sacrificed to satisfy the greed of a few developers. The housing market here on the Coast is in the toilet. Do we really need more condos on the beach, especially in a state park?

By jim

September 26, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

politics at its finest.same good ole boys, you grease my hand and i will grease yours. eleminate the opposition at any cost. remember the vet keeps a sharp scapel!

By Phyllis B.

September 26, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

This is not the first time Perdue has “fired” someone he didn’t like from a state board and who his cronies told him was making “trouble”. He arranged the axing of Sally Bethea from the DNR Board because she, like Boshears, asked too many thoughtful questions that required honest, intelligent answers. Allowing that might result in the sound management of state resources. And who would benefit from that, right? To this administration, true public servants are losers and the guys with the money and influence are “successful businessmen” operating in the public interest. Yeah, right!

By Nancy E

September 26, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Greed yet again?! Again “ours” is being used by “them” for their financial gain. If we are not careful, Jekyll will again be the Millionaire’s Island and not the park of the people.

By From "away"

September 26, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

My family and I have spent the winter at Jekyll for 30 years. Last March I asked in a blog on ACJ whose pockets among Sonny Perdue’s political cronies were being lined by the development plans. And I suggested it was time for some investigative journalism into this manifestation of greed and corruption in Georgia politics. Even an “outsider” could tell something was going on.But nothing much happened. Well, finally!! Ed Boshears clearly understands the need to spruce up Jekyll ,and, at the same time, protect that last unspoiled bit of coast along the Atlantic seaboard. (I live in Maine: the coast has been ruined by developers) With his firing from the JIA for standing up for the people and for protecting the Gerogia environment and Georgia’s Jewel, Mr. Boshears can now really have an impact on the political cronyism that is threatening to wreak havoc with the delicate environment on Jekyll. Go for it, Mr. Boshears, and know that even those of us who cannot vote FOR you and AGAINST the Perdue gang want to support you as the truth finally begins to unfold.

By Sue Gay

September 26, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

The dismissal of Boshear and the goings on that he describes of the JIA is exactly what we are seeing now with the financial crisis in this country. It all is nothing but greed, greed, greed and to hell with the common man. I do not reside in Georgia but have been keeping a close eye on this situation. Not only Georgians use Jeykll for family vacations. Shame, shame , shame on Governor Perdue and on all that support him. Here in Kentucky we voted out our lying Governor. If he’s up for election at this time you must demand a grand jury investigation.

By burke harrison

September 26, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

i am from a family from middle and south georgia that have been in georgia for over 200 years. your governor needs to be RUN out of georgia. he sounds like a liberal democrat. Ya’ll need to tar and feather him. the common man founded this country by geting rid of people like sonny purdue. it is time ya’ll stand up to people like this.

By John Phillips

September 26, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

As a non residnt who has been going to Jekyll Island for 30 years, I just have to sit back and watch the politics of Georgia destroy something beautiful. The latest fireing of Boshears is just another nail in the High Rise. They truly are “taking paradise and putting up a parking lot”. Shame on you Governor.

By burke harrison

September 26, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

i am from a family from middle and south georgia that have been in georgia for over 200 years. your governor needs to be RUN out of georgia. he sounds like a liberal democrat. Ya’ll need to tar and feather him. the common man founded this country by geting rid of people like sonny purdue. it is time ya’ll stand up to people like this.

By Tom Davis

September 26, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Poster Will Jones called Gov. Perdue a ‘draft-dodger’ and Diebold-cheat … upon completion of graduate school at the UofGA “Dr. Perdue” now Governor Purdue volunteered for combat and served in Viet Nam. His democratic-rival Cathy Cox (herslf defeated in the primary) almost single-handedly selected Diebold and pushed that boondoggle through the legislature … Perdue FOUGHT her about it.

Jones is s far off-base as you can get. I’ve known Ed Boshears for almost 30-years … he’s a damn idiot, a simpleton, a dunce, a drunk and a loudmouth.

Boshears couldn’t wash Perdue’s shorts, and Will Jones apparently knows zip, zero about history. Two bums, let ‘em cackle!

By Tom Davis

September 26, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

Poster Will Jones called Gov. Perdue a ‘draft-dodger’ and Diebold-cheat … upon completion of graduate school at the UofGA “Dr. Perdue” now Governor Purdue volunteered for combat and served in Viet Nam. His democratic-rival, former Sec. of State, Cathy Cox (herself defeated in the primary running for Governor) almost single-handedly selected Diebold and pushed that boondoggle through the legislature … Perdue FOUGHT her tooth and nail about it, but his vsnquished challenger, then Governor Roy Barnes backed Cox.

The DEMOCRATS bought Diebold … Perdue fought it.

Jones is as far off-base as you can get. Also, I’ve known Ed Boshears for almost 30-years … he’s a damn idiot, a simpleton, a dunce, a drunk and a loudmouth.

Boshears couldn’t wash Perdue’s shorts, and Will Jones apparently knows zip, zero about history. Two plian ‘ol bums, plain and simple. Let ‘em cackle! Idiots; both.

By Tom Davis

September 26, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Poster Will Jones called Gov. Perdue a ‘draft-dodger’ and Diebold-cheat … upon completion of graduate school at the UofGA “Dr. Perdue” now Governor Purdue volunteered for combat and served in Viet Nam. His democratic-rival, former Sec. of State, Cathy Cox (herself defeated in the primary running for Governor) almost single-handedly selected Diebold and pushed that boondoggle through the legislature … Perdue FOUGHT her tooth and nail about it, but his vsnquished challenger, then Governor Roy Barnes backed Cox.

The DEMOCRATS bought Diebold … Perdue fought it.

Jones is as far off-base as you can get. Also, I’ve known Ed Boshears for almost 30-years … he’s a damn idiot, a simpleton, a dunce, a drunk and a loudmouth.

Boshears couldn’t wash Perdue’s shorts, and Will Jones apparently knows zip, zero about history. Two plain ‘ol bums, plain and simple. Let ‘em cackle! Idiots; both.

By Tom Davis

September 26, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Poster Will Jones called Gov. Perdue a ‘draft-dodger’ and Diebold-cheat … upon completion of graduate school at the UofGA “Dr. Perdue” now Governor Purdue volunteered for combat and served in Viet Nam. His democratic-rival, former Sec. of State, Cathy Cox (herself defeated in the primary running for Governor) almost single-handedly selected Diebold and pushed that boondoggle through the legislature … Perdue FOUGHT her tooth and nail about it, but his vsnquished challenger, then Governor Roy Barnes backed Cox.

The DEMOCRATS bought Diebold … Perdue fought it.

Jones is as far off-base as you can get. Also, I’ve known Ed Boshears for almost 30-years … he’s a damn idiot, a simpleton, a dunce, a drunk and a loudmouth.

Boshears couldn’t wash Perdue’s shorts, and Will Jones apparently knows zip, zero about history. Two plain ‘ol bums, plain and simple. Let ‘em cackle! Idiots; both.

By Open Government

September 26, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

The FBI and the U.S. Attorney need to look into these allegations. Clearly there is something terribly wrong going on. Ed Boshears is a lawyer and an ex-legislator. With such credentials, surely his allegations merit reasonable investigation. The Georgia Attorney General, Thurbert Baker, is clearly too intimidated by the ruling powers to take on the task.

By Jodin

September 26, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Gov. Perdue appointed Ed Boshears to the Jekyll Island Authority in 2005. Why would he appoint a “damn idiot, a simpleton, a dunce, a drunk and a loudmouth”? (Quoting Tom Davis, a previous poster.) Boshears is also a member in good standing of the State Bar of Georgia.

By James Archibald

September 26, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

I am a non-resident but annual visitor to Jekyll Island. I agree that the island needs some upgrading but nothing like the changes planed by Linger Longer. Having read the news of Mr. Boshears removal and his statement, I feel that a federal grand jury is the only way to get to the bottom of this mess.

By Will Jones

September 26, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

“Tom Davis,” share with us Governor Perdue’s MOS and what units he was with in “combat” in Vietnam, OK?

Then perhaps you should update Perdue’s biography section on Wikipedia and let “Sonny,” “The Flying Veterinarian,” know that his dodge into veterinary school, like Gingrich’s dodge knocking up his high school teacher, never happened.

Birds of feather flock together. Any Vet, man, or patriot knows Bush is a draft-dodging closet-queen whose family has been fronting for the Roman Anti-Christ’s Rockefeller Big Oil faction for five generations.

Pick your side, “Tom Davis:” The false-elite, worshipping Mammon, which needs to destroy the Constitution and the Electorate - “The Many,” employing a cadre of draft-dodgers, false patriots and closet-queens willing to assassinate our leaders, steal our money and commit treason; or the sovereign People - the rulers and owners of Our Land, by G-d.

There is no middle ground in America…

Serve Satan’s representatives, agents of the known Anti-Christ, who committed the assassinations of John and Martin for false war in Indochina, and committed 9/11 for false war for heroin, oil and the Saudis in the Middle East…and now want to steal $700B by inflating the money supply in a declining economy having saddled us with trillions of dollars of debt;

or, serve G-d Almighty and the sovereign People of the United States of America.

Live Free or Die

http://www.theamericanfundament.blogspot.com

By Charles Garrison

September 26, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

The times I’ve visited Jekyll Island in the last 5 years have been a peaceful, pleasurable and affordable respite in a world where that is all too rare. JI doesn’t need condos crowding the pristine beaches and disturbing the sea turtles with their excess light and activity. JI doesn’t need shopping malls and food courts- I can go across town for that nonsense! Shore up what’s there and nothing more. It is too bad that we get rid of those that try to preserve that beauty in favor of big business money makers that only want to make a profit for themselves. Thank you Sen. Ed Boshears for your attempts! Georgians please don’t give up the fight. Show the governor your displeasure in the upcoming election, and visit JI and see what it’s all about.

By Will Logan

September 26, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

The state of Georgia has a crown jewel in the historical and lightly developed Jekyll Island. Increasing the level of new development on Jekyll may look like a great opportunity for the state coffers, but would most certainly devalue the assett for future generations. Jekyll’s attraction lies in it’s quiet and pristine nature. Destroy that, and you destroy what would make Jekyll a special destination for many generations of visitors yet to come.

By Paul B. Tillman

September 26, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Jekyll Island (JI) is the Crown Jewel of Georgia’s Barrier Islands. JI is a place where peace, serenity and communing with nature are available so as to provide a break from the pressures of life outside of such a setting. As it was set aside to preserve these attributes, we need to live up to that mandate. Senator Boshears had been attempting to do just that. Unfortunately, our all too often corrupt governor decided he needed to be replaced by someone who would better support his greedy desires. I hope a Grand Jury is indeed convened to examine these recent changes. Let’s preserve JI as a locale where quiet and solitude are the sought after ideals and prevent it from becoming another Saint Simons Island.

By Leon Galis

September 26, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

I strongly support Ed Boshears’ call for a grand jury investigation of the Jekyll Island Authority. Only a body with subpoena powers can get at the truth about that operation. One legal lapse that Boshears could have mentioned in his letter to Attorney General Baker is this.

In the section of the Georgia Code (12-3-235) that established the Jekyll Island Authority and spells out its powers, the only mention of private development entities or persons is a requirement that the Authority “evaluate the feasibility” of engaging such entities or persons for any project costing over a million dollars. And the language of that provision makes clear that the feasibility evaluation isn’t just some minor hoop that the Authority can jump through by scribbling something on a napkin over lunch. On the contrary, the statute requires the Authority to conduct a thorough and substantial enough feasibility evaluation to produce a report, a copy of which is to be filed with the Office of Planning and Budget and with the Recreational Authorities Overview Committee.

It’s reasonable to think that the General Assembly included this reasonable provision in the Authority’s enabling legislation because, while preferring public/private partnerships for large scale projects on the island, they recognized that Jekyll Island development presents special challenges that private development companies might be reluctant to take on. For one thing, Jekyll Island is publicly owned, which means that developers would be putting up projects on land that they couldn’t own. For another, they would come under the Authority’s legal mandate to make Jekyll Island’s “facilities available to people of average income.” Taking that requirement seriously seems to rule out private developers charging whatever the traffic will bear for rentals and sales in their projects.

Because of constraints such as these, the General Assembly wisely declined to impose on the Authority an absolute requirement that it enlist private development companies for island projects, going no further than a requirement that the Authority evaluate the feasibility of doing that for large scale projects.

Notwithstanding the importance that the General Assembly attached to this requirement, in responding to an Open Records request for a copy of the feasibility study, the Authority admitted in writing that the study had never been done! That admission was accompanied by a legal justification so tortured as to defy belief. When I asked an attorney of very long experience his opinion of it, he told me that it was totally bogus, “absurd,” he said.

So it appears that the Authority, abetted by the Governor, has embarked on a massive development scheme for Jekyll Island while blowing off legal requirements that it finds annoying or inconvenient. That’s the pattern that Ed Boshears observed during his tenure on the Authority, and that’s the pattern that more than merits the attention of a grand jury.

By Evelyn

September 26, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

It smells like Bush, looks like Bush and sounds like Bush, “Those that have, have more and take more”

By Ruth Marley

September 26, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

I just called the governor’s office to add my voice to the host of others complaining about the dismissal of Ed Boshears and was told that I needed to put my concerns in writing, and so I will.

Jekyll Island has been the least commercially developed of the accessible barrier islands of Georgia which makes it a favored destination for people like myself. The natural beauty of the place must not be sold off to developers whose sole interest is quick financial gain. Once the land is stripped and developed, it will never be the same. Jekyll Islanders and Georgians do not want this to happen.

Governor Perdue, if he chooses this action against the will of the people of Georgia, can rightly expect consequences from the electorate. Evidently, our governor thinks he can operate in secret and get away with it. But like the Bush administration, he will learn soon enough that the people have had quite enough of this. Political favors and gifts are taking down Ted Stevens - someone with a long political career in his state.

I would urge a grand jury investigation into all the actions that have led up to this point. Georgians deserve to know the truth so those responsible will be held accountable.

By Marian Gordin

September 26, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Just when I think that elected officials cannot sink any lower, the further they shrink from their duty to the average citizen and from their stewardship over our little piece of creation.

By Chris and Ward Milner

September 26, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

We support Ed Boshears. We deplore the actions of Governor Perdue. It is typical of all his years of administration. Deprive the people of all natural resources in order to give these resources to my developer buddies so they can make more and more money at the public’s expense. Sure we think this dishonest group that Perdue so heartily supports should be proscuted. And we have no problem with the Governor himself being prosecuted for his illegal and unethical management of publically owned resources in Georgia.

By R.M. Bowens

September 26, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

This is no surprise that Sonny has interferred yet again in the economics of Coastal Georgia. He and his buddies on Sea Island forced the move for Coastal Georgia Community College convert to four year status AT THE EXPENSE of the TECHNICAL PROGRAMS. For WHAT? Why, to make it a DESTINATION COLLEGE (beach college) to attract that young collge age job market out of Atlanta to work the tourist trade. Was it what is best for the REGION? Camden County, south of Jekyl has limited access to technical training and it has a NUCLEAR SUBMARINE BASE. Already served by TWO universities (Brenau and VSU) through Navy campus THE REAL TRAINING NEEDS are in the TECHNICAL fields…you know??? the training that gets people JOBS and promotes economic growth. YOu’d thing a governor that claims to be bringing industry to Georgia would be more informed about the value of tehnical education and NOT put HIS SPECIAL INTEREST FRIENDS ahead of what’s best for the REGION. Tourism IS good for Georgia;s economic grown but so are CREATIVE CLASS OCCUPATIONS as defined in the 2005 GA TECH WORKFORCE DIVERSIFICATION STUDY that wasn’t even included in the “Morgan Report” that the Board of Regents based their decisions on. What is the Morgan Report? A retreaded 1987 study by a Board of Regents employee, hired independently by the BOR to produce the 2007 Morgan Report. Check out how any regents on the BOR are “connected” to Sea Island. Check out how many visits Sonny has made lately to the coast. The JIA issues with Boshears is another example of NOT PUTTING THE REGION FIRST. Why would you appoint someone in Camilla to replace a local representative??? NOT PUTTING THE REGION - REGION - REGION - FIRST, SONNY!

By Phyllis B.

September 26, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

You may appreciate knowing that Constitutional Amendment #3 on November’s ballot in Georgia addresses yet another Perdue sweetheart giveaway deal, this one to his buds in his home county of Houston. If passed, Amendment #1 will open the floodgates for LARGE private developments in Georgia, one in what has been a State Wildlife Management Area, Oaky Woods. Perdue refused to use state funds to purchase the site when it was sold by a large timber company and has supported the passage of legislation that will allow private developers to create huge(I’m talking about thousands of residences)private cities funded with tax-free bonds and no county government oversight. Not surprisingly, one of Perdue’s buddies bought up a very large portion of Oaky Woods.

PLEASE VOTE NO ON AMENDMENT #1 ON NOVEMBER’S BALLOT!

Send Sonny and his friends a very clear message…..We are tired of his insider deals and we won’t take it any more.

By James Neves

September 26, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Evil (YES EVIL), greedy actions by irresponsible politicians has been common for the entire human existence. Corruption IS rampant. Lies ARE everywhere.

I just want to express my sincere thanks to Ed Boshears and to all of the men and women who have made some sort of effort to prevent the LLC over-development of JI by sitting on boards, writing letters to the state government and media, and tirelessly communicating their dismay to other Georgians. It is because of you that I even know about this disastrous development plan and could do my part by calling the governors office to express my disapproval of the LLC plan.

Also, thanks to the AJC for their coverage of this issue. Please continue to highlight this potential tragedy.

By Sue Osier

September 26, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

All I can say is “Ditto”. And- tho those of you who are suprised- when was corruption not alive and well in Georgia?

By James Neves

September 26, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Evil (YES EVIL), greedy actions by irresponsible politicians has been common for the entire human existence. Corruption IS rampant. Lies ARE everywhere.

I just want to express my sincere thanks to Ed Boshears and to all of the men and women who have made some sort of effort to prevent the LLC over-development of JI by sitting on boards, writing letters to the state government and media, and tirelessly communicating their dismay to other Georgians. It is because of you that I even know about this disastrous development plan and could do my part by calling the governors office to express my disapproval of the LLC plan.

Also, thanks to the AJC for their coverage of this issue. Please continue to highlight this potential tragedy.

By Richard and Martha Lang

September 26, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

A tremendous thank you to Ed Boshears for calling a spade a spade and placing the truth regarding the Jekyll Island “Land Grab” clearly stated for all to see. We fully support an independent grand jury investigation of Sonny and his boys. How perfect!

Sonny Perdue’s spokesman made the following response “These claims are far from reality.” “They are laughable.” Let’s see who gets the last laugh.

Once again, it illustrates Perdue’s surpreme arrogance in trying to portray this as “laughable.”

Everyone who supports Jekyll, please fax the governor at (404) 657-7332. Lets just jam his fax machine. Calls are not being documented.

Richard and Martha Lang

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis” Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Charlie

September 26, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Information for “Tom Davis”: Dunces, idiots, and simpletons don’t usually hold degrees from Emory, Mercer, Georgetown Law School and the University of Exeter. Boshears must be an exceptionally outstanding “Simpleton”. As for the “drunk” title, you must have been thinking of your uncle Ed and not Ed Boshears. I have known Ed for 47 years and have never seen him “drunk”. There is not a more honorable man than Ed Boshears. He ain’t perfect but he is as straight as an arrow. If he tells you something, you can take it to the bank.

By Nancy Eley

September 27, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

September 26, 2008 11:36 PM Richard Royal we are watching you! Mitchell County was named after Larry’s Great-Great Grandfather and you had better believe we are watching you will replace our friend, Ed Boshears of Brunswick. All of you need to WAKE UP!!!! Sonny is planning to close some of our state parks and I BELIEVE JEKYLL ISLAND IS IN HIS PLAN!!!! Can we have a recall on SONNY PERDUE!! He has been a disgrace to our education in our great state of GEORGIA !! He lied to we Georgians too many times. He has his planes and helicopters and don’t forget his pilot license to fly OUR helicopter, he bought with OUR MONEY!!! He also told people to stay home because of OUR GAS whatever!!! He was too busy since he was leaving on HIS TRIP at OUR EXPENSE, ou of the COUNTRY!!! I WISH he would give the teachers, policemen and firemen the SAME HEALTHCARE and BENEFITS HE has!!! Our state has seen more CORRUPTION WITH SONNY PERDUE as GOVERNOR than anyone in my lifetime. I’m sorry I voted for SONNY PERDUE. WE, the PEOPLE need to stop them AMEN! Can we recall him? How impeachment?

By Tiki Mon

September 27, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

The rape of Jekyll Island is just what I expect of Georgia politicians. They seem to feel that winning an election entitles them to nice prizes at the taxpayers’ expense. They don’t care what trauma they visit on us or our land… They’ll be long gone, enjoying the fruits of their collaboration.

Please, how do we STOP these leeches?!?

I’ve worked with a guy who worked for Sonny once. Everything you hear about him is true. It’s why the guy couldn’t stand to work there anymore.

By Nan Page

September 27, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

There are more superfund sites in Glynn County than any other county within Georgia. The late John Gilbert, who formed Gilbert & Gilbert Law firm, set in the necessary provisions to protect the Jekyll Island State park from development. However, we live in an era where it is common place for elected officials to foster relationships with the developers for the gain of a few rather than voters who placed them in office.

Guvna Purdue and the southern carpetbaggers have placed this State with 1.9 billion dollar deficit. When will the voters of GA feel the economic correction? When Guvna Stumpy and his Yes-men leave office will the voters of GA get hit with another bail-out of greed? What happened to economic accountability?

We live in a capitalist country and embrace a free-market society until an economic bailout or economic correction then our elected officials become socialist. We need a statewide correction come the next election…

By Nan

September 27, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

There are more superfund sites in Glynn County than any other county within Georgia. The late John Gilbert, who formed Gilbert & Gilbert Law firm, set in the necessary provisions to protect the Jekyll Island State park from development. However, we live in an era where it is common place for elected officials to foster relationships with the developers for the gain of a few rather than the voters who placed them in office.

Guvna Purdue and the southern carpetbaggers have placed this State with a 1.9 billion dollar deficit. When will the voters of GA feel the economic correction? When Guvna Stumpy and his Yes-men leave office will the voters of GA get hit with another bail-out of greed in the form of state taxes? What happened to economic accountability?

We live in a capitalist country and embrace a free-market society until an economic bailout or economic correction then our elected officials become socialist. We need a statewide correction come the next election…

By azi

September 27, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

I am not surprised that Ed Boshears was not reappointed to the JIA - it is typical Sonny. Mr. Bosheras was too interested in protecting Jekyll Island from over-development. Sonny is not interested in what is good for Georgia - only what is good for him and his friends. Given the record of Republicans, will I be voting Republican this year? I think not! And not in 2 years either unless there is drastic change. By the way, with the governor looking to close state parks due to lack of funds, where is the $84+ millions coming from to build the infrastructure for LLC to over-development Jekyll Island?

By Ed Goudelock

September 27, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

Bravo, Mr. Boshears! Jekyll Island is a tresure for ALL Georgians and should not be developed except for the recreational benefit os the people of the state. Allowing the construction of high end condos on the island does not serve this end and will damage the ecco-systems of the island. A grand jury should be empaneled to investigate the allegations of corruption in the conduct of certain members of the Jekyll Island Authority and Gov. Perdue’s involvement.

By MHBrandon

September 27, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Jekyll Island is a treasure for South Carolina citizens as well. We can’t find a better natural location in which to enjoy the sea turtles, rabbits, raccoons, deer, etc… while on vacation. The history of the island should dictate its future. It’s sad to see that so many Georgians want to preserve the natural beauty and the politicians want to destroy it. I’ve seen many comments about the will of the people. You all have expressed your will and I hope your state officials respect that. It appears you have a commanding respect for Boshears and what he has stood for on the JIA. I pray that he will effect some change and that I will be able to continue to celebrate the natural beauty of Jekyll Island with future children and grandchildren. Developers have plenty of land elsewhere to destroy. Keep Jekyll Island safe and natural!!!

By GeorgiaNewNative

September 27, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Govenor Purdue’s budget deficit and subsequent cutbacks for many state programs reflect his inability to lead and serve the people. Why else would a state that has severe water shortages be represented by a govenor whose most recent brainstorm involves the construction of fishing piers?

But perhaps Purdue has nothing better to do with his spare time than throw his considerable weight around bullying those who, like Ed Boshears, are true public servants.

The final outcome of Purdue’s governance will be a newly energized electorate that will read and think more carefully the next time they enter the voting booth. Purdue and his cronies should start looking for work in the private sector. Unless, of course, they end up in jail.

By CONNIE

September 28, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this

JEKYLL ISLAND - it is your state park. Protect it! This is on my bumper. This is a State Park and the people of Georgia have expressed their desire to allow some of the motelS to be rebuilt or remodeled. Then let’s see what revenue this will produced. With our almost certain down turn in the economy, the state of Georgia should not burden the taxpapers with costs for intrastructures that will allow the Governor to repay Mercer Reynolds et al for contributions to his and other Republicans campaign funds. This bumper sticker says it all. It is not my desire to provide Linger Longer with valuable property along with intrastructure. From reading the BAG report nowhere was it mentioned that Jekyll is a state park which was created 1950 for the average Georgian. Let’s not allow Jekyll to be turned into another tourist trap. The south Atlantic Coast is lined with facities for the rich. JIA DO THE RIGHT,HONORABLE THING AND LEAVE JEKYLL FOR THE AVERAGE GEORGIAN TO ENJOY AND LEAVE FOR THEIR CHILDREN TO EXPERIENCE.

By WEB

September 28, 2008 1:20 AM | Link to this

It is interesting that the situation on Jekyll Island with Linger Longer and the Jekyll Island Authority is very much like the present Wall Street problem. Greed and lack of ethics has turned out to be a disaster for the average citizen and taxpaper. The JIA should not be made up of only the Governor's appointees. These are people who the governor is paying back for major support. The JIA by and largely consist of developers, real estate and business people who really are only interested in Jekyll as a business. Jekyll Island should be either put under the control of the state park services or appointed by a bipartian committee of the Georgia Legislature. The Governor should not have the power to appoint the JIA. This is a unique and wonderful place and should be improved with the average citizen in mind--not by the rich powerful people whose major interest is making money. Let us improve Jekyll, this great natural island, so all can enjoy.

By WEB

September 28, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this

It is interesting that the situation on Jekyll Island with Linger Longer and the Jekyll Island Authority is very much like the present Wall Street problem. Greed and lack of ethics has turned out to be a disaster for the average citizen and taxpaper. The JIA should not be made up of only the Governor's appointees. These are people who the governor is paying back for major support. The JIA by and largely consist of developers, real estate and business people who really are only interested in Jekyll as a business. Jekyll Island should be either put under the control of the state park services or appointed by a bipartian committee of the Georgia Legislature. The Governor should not have the power to appoint the JIA. This is a unique and wonderful place and should be improved with the average citizen in mind--not by the rich powerful people whose major interest is making money. Let us improve Jekyll, this great natural island, so all can enjoy.

By WEB

September 28, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

It is interesting that the situation on Jekyll Island with Linger Longer and the Jekyll Island Authority is very much like the present Wall Street problem. Greed and lack of ethics has turned out to be a disaster for the average citizen and taxpaper. The JIA should not be made up of only the Governor's appointees. These are people who the governor is paying back for major support. The JIA by and largely consist of developers, real estate and business people who really are only interested in Jekyll as a business. Jekyll Island should be either put under the control of the state park services or appointed by a bipartian committee of the Georgia Legislature. The Governor should not have the power to appoint the JIA. This is a unique and wonderful place and should be improved with the average citizen in mind--not by the rich powerful people whose major interest is making money. Let us improve Jekyll, this great natural island, so all can enjoy.

By Paul DiGian

September 28, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this

Gov. Perdue’s removal of one of the few local members of the JIA and replacing him with a developer friendly crony from Atlanta only confirms to me that Gov. Perdue and his pals are doing everything they can to give Jekyll Island back to the robber barons who once called Jekyll their summer home and that Gov. Perdue and the Republicans in general couldn’t care less about the average working class citizens of the state of Georgia.

Suffice it to say that Gov. Perdue has guaranteed that I will never vote for him again for any office what-so-ever and with the exception of Sen. Jeff Chapman (who has been working hard to keep Jekyll Island for the average citizen), I will not be voting Republican again any time soon.

By Janet Busse

September 28, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Once again Gov. Perdue is not taking care of the taxpayer, and once again he is not listening to the one board person who knows what is in the best interest of Jekyl Island and the state at large. Instead he simply eliminates Boshears from board; why, because that way he can wonder down a path without debate.

It is exactly like Gov Perdue’s behavior with the current gasoline shortage situation, dismissing the words of the CEO of a fuel distribution system. The last thing Jekyl needs is more luxury development in an economy where there is a glut of it already. Gov Perdue moves down a path destined to be free of healthy debate and destined to untoward decisions for the Ga taxpayer he is sworn to serve.

By Allen

September 28, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

I am not the least bit suprised by the governors actions. Remember Oaky Woods, shady land deals and retro-active tax breaks for himself…the list goes on and on. I am however surprised that this is allowed to go on unchecked. Purdue’s behavior is at the very least unethical and in my opinion, criminal. It is time to call out Purdue and hold him accountable. Read Bill Ships article about Purdue’s involvment in the current financial crisis. I think it can be found at athensonline.com. It was in Sunday’s Athens Banner Herald.

By Theresa

September 28, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

I strongly encourage a call for investigation in the activities of the Jekyll Authority. These suggestions of unethical actons have been remored for a long time. Not only is the Authority attempting to give asay land that belongs to the people of the state of Georgia, they are doing this in an underhanded method that will line their pockets while taking money from ours.

By Priscilla ,40+year visitor

September 28, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

Jekyll Island deserves to retain its character. The people of Georgia deserve the leaders they elected. But if we speak the truth till justice shines on the iniquity, we will rejoice together in watching the tide wash the corruption out to sea.

This is a textbook example of what grand juries are for, and we need to allow our democratic mechanism to work. Thank you, Mr. Boshears. Please save Jekyll Island.

By Myrna

September 29, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

As a Canadian and winter resident of Jekyll Island, I am very saddened and concerned that “my beautiful paradise” will be taken away from me just to satisfy the pockets of the developers and politicians.
In Canada our provincial parks are funded by the various provincial governments and saved for the people to enjoy.

I fully understand that some development must take place. Three or four new hotels are enough to make this beloved island viable again. If Gov. Purdue’s government put a little money into the golf courses, for instance, I believe there would be many more visitors to this paradise.

By sassysue

September 29, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else besides myself think that it was strange that Sonny Perdue just happen to be out of the country when this news hit. I also thought it strange that both Ben Porter and Bob Krueger were out of the country on Thursday too.

By Janny

September 29, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

The removal of Ed Boshears from the JIA by Sonny Perdue is absolutely rude and shameful treatment! It is definitely obvious that Mr. Perdue (I refuse to call him by his political title)is interested only in colloborating with his chief financial backers! As a native Georgian and long-time Jekyll visitor, I truly appreciate the untiring efforts of Ed Boshears, and I agree that an investigation should be conducted!

By holtsred

September 29, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

My husband and I have been coming to Jekyll Island for years, because of it’s beauty and underdevelopment. It is a wonderful quiet getaway that an average family can afford. It infuriates me that anyone wants to change that. Shame on you Governor Perdue. Jekyll belongs to the citizens of GA, not politicians! Leave it alone!

By LeoT

September 30, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

I’m having a hard time understanding why the print version of the AJC has not given any attention to Gov. Perdue’s Ed Boshears’ dismissal from the JIA board. I say this in light of three facts: 1) Boshears, who has stated repeatedly that he is suspicious of the terms that will be in the long term public-private partnership contract now being negotiated with Linger Longer Communities (meaning with Mercer Reynolds, Gov. Perdue’s close friend) and would insist that the contract be examined closely by an independent legal counsel, has suddenly been dismissed from the board; 2) Boshears has also been the leading critic of Reynolds’ pet project, the condo-heavy Jekyll town center proposal, and just as this proposal (in revised form) is about to come before the board for review, he has suddenly been dismissed from the board; and 3) Boshears, having been removed from his post in the board, has blown the whistle on a series of abuses and unethical practices by board leaders Ben Porter and Bob Krueger, and implicates Sonny Perdue in what appears to be a Jekyll giveaway deal. It seems to me that the timing of Boshears’ dismissal, and the seriousness of the charges he has made deserves some ink, and yet the Georgia press, with the exception of the Savannah Morning News, has remained silent on it. Why?

Of course, Mercer Reynolds, who is currently serving as campaign finance chair for John McCain, has a lot of clout in the upper levels of the Republican party, and this fact cannot have been lost on Gov. Perdue, who reportedly has hopes of receiving a cabinet post in a McCain administration. So, it should come as no surprise that Gov. Perdue, in dictating JIA board policy toward Jekyll’s development and in orchestrating the selection of the Reynolds’s firm as the JIA’s pirate (oops, make that “private”) partner, has been criticized by Ed Boshears, whose known as a man of integrity and for speaking his mind. What is surprising, again, is that the “Boshears story” is not attracting attention in our state’s press. So, I ask once more, please, AJC, do something with the Boshears story.

By Joe Iannicelli

September 30, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Governor Perdue has tried to silence Mr. Edward Boshears, the most public spirited member of the Jekyll Island State Park Authority, by not reappointing him. However the Governor has seriously misjudged the energy, dedication, and perceptiveness of Mr. Boshears who alone on the Jekyll Island Authority has seen through and exposed the vast conspiracy to give away the jewel of the Georgia State Park system to a politically connected private developer. On September 15th, 2008 the JIA has publicized the forecast of its Bleakly Advisory Group calling for an increase in Jekyll’s lodgings and homes from its current capacity of 1600 to 3700 (an increase of 231%)! The increase in Jekyll’s peak season population would jump from 7800 to 15,000 (an increase of 192%). Hotel rates were projected to increase from an average of $116 to $240 or 207%. Bleakly made no mention of how this doubling of Jekyll’s population would impact water consumption. DNR has an existing cap on increasing water withdrawal from the Floridan Aquifer. No mention was also made on strains to infrastructure, roads, sewer, traffic, law enforcement, parking, and damage to the environment, wildlife, and endangered species, etc. For over fifty years, Governors of Georgia and the Legislature have made significant investments improving and supporting their most precious and unique State Park. Now the current administration is hell bent to convert our State Park into an over- developed resort that will wreck forever its ecology and its appeal to the public. Now why would the administration and its lap dog Jekyll Authority want to alter and destroy their best park in the face of all economic and ecological considerations, against overwhelming public opinion, and in the face of adverse economic prospects? How could the administration justify issuing an 84.5 million dollar bond for infrastructure improvements to a developer who is demanding 64 acres of beachfront land and an open pass to build on beach front public parking lots, divert public roads, create numerous borrow pits, privatize beach access, and destroy a convention center that was renovated at a cost of $10 million. Moreover, this proposed massive redevelopment proposes to build on top of current construction, for new and expanded accommodations on the beach by Trammell Crow and the Jekyll Club Group (replacing the demolished Buccaneer and Holiday Inn). These new and expanded facilities could easily satisfy current need for new, modern accommodations on Jekyll Island. The massive redevelopment trumped up by the hired gun Bleakly Group flies in the face of the current market for tourist accommodations in the Golden Isles. A large five star nearby resort recently expanded at the cost of hundreds of millions of dollars and is now facing challenging times brought on by declining tourism. So what is behind this hell bent drive by the present administration to give away State Park land to a favored developer. Evidence points that this scheme was hatched before Perdue’s 2006 campaign for a second term, and was the brain (?) child of Representative Jerry Keen. Representative Jerry Keen had decided he wanted to run for Governor of Georgia in 2010. To do this he would need a huge campaign chest and an affluent politically motivated donor. Incidentally, Representative Keen was unaware that Jekyll Island is a State Park and part of the State Park System. He personally told me Jekyll was not a State Park. So Keen cobb1ed a plot with Governor Perdue to give the south end of Jekyll to a favored politically motivated developer with deep pockets. In 2007, the administration introduced a bill (HB 214) to extend the State’s lease of Jekyll Island to the JIA from 2049 to 2089. Many residents saw this as a plan to extend their residential leaseholds. Nothing could be further from the truth. The main intent of HB 214 was to pave the way for developers to finance massive new developments on waterfront land. Imbedded in HB 214 was a plan to develop the South end of Jekyll Island using 8 acres of undeveloped land east of the current St. Andrews subdivision, evicting and tearing down the 4H Center, and also plowing up the soccer field for development. With courageous conviction, State Senator Jeff Chapman stood up and challenged this blatant new development of prized ecologically sensitive land. He rolled back the Administration and amended HB 214 to prohibit any new development south of the south water tower one mile from Jekyll Point. So the Administration was forced to back up and find a new place for development. They picked 0.7 miles of waterfront between Days Inn and Blackbeards Restaurant. As predicted by nearly everyone, Reynolds Linger Longer had been selected as the privatization partner even though they were the only one of four bidders that required the JIA to spend money for infrastructure improvements. Linger Longer apparently was so confident of their acceptance that they required the JIA to spend 84.5 million dollars. Some members of the JIA believe they are performing a public service by attempting to “revitalize” Jekyll Island. In reality, all the JIA is doing is paving the way to finance Jerry Keen’s gubernatorial bid in 2010. Never mind that they will destroy the beauty and ambiance of Georgia’s Jewel State Park and replace it with an overbuilt “resort” that will inevitably collapse after is has ruined Jekyll by trying to convert it into another Myrtle Beach. In the meantime, the Georgia public and visitors from around the nation will have lost a unique natural recreational destination. Members of the JIA and the Administration will be forever tainted for destroying an irreplaceable beachside State Park amid allegations of malfeasance and corruption.

By Sandra Hamel

October 1, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

Such a web of corruption being spread over Jekyll Island State Park. I wrote a letter to Governor Perdue at the first of the year. One of my points was how troubling it is to me that House Majority Leader Jerry Keene, who lives next door to Jekyll Island, can honestly believe that the JIA’s and Linger Longer Communities’ proposed beach village is what will “revitalize” Jekyll Island. Because the people in his district stand the most to lose, as day visitors to Jekyll, I’ve never understood how he could not be working with Senator Jeff Chapman, on the side of the people of Georgia.…..until now. It certainly is time for the media, in the state of Georgia, to do some investigative reporting. The people of Georgia deserve to know the truth about the alleged corruption surrounding Jekyll Island State Park.

By Will Jones

October 1, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Simple solution for Jekyll Island: All the good People of Georgia who work for an honest living and ever hope to take in the beach at Jekyll Island free of the barriers the corrupt rich are trying to throw up on us…vote all Democrat next month…and make it stick “by any means necessary” as the “filthy lucre” grubbing, treasonous faction of Mammon-worshipers may try for three-in-a-row…so the federal level U.S. Attorneys will be available, no longer Gay Old Perverts, to ream the scum now trying to rip us off and Georgia’s posterity…the finest in the Land.

By Ian Cartwright

October 2, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

As a second of three generations that have winter-holidayed on Jeykll Island I am really upset over the refusal of the Governor to make this re-appointment.

We have lost a courageous Board member who really cares about the protection of the Island for “the plain people of Georgia” and we winter visitors, who come from all over North America and Europe.

By Claire DeLand

October 4, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

What can “average” Georgians do to stop Linger Longer and Gov. Perdue?

I was in attendance at the public “information” meeting at Jekyll last Monday and came away determined to do SOMETHING to help …

That there is corruption in the JIA is not something I doubt. That Sonny Perdue is “capable” whether guilty or not, is not something I doubt because I have seen his handiwork and political crony-ism first hand in another situation (i.e., what he did to STOP Cabela’s from opening a store in Adairsville GA which would have greatly benefitted the community, but not Sonny’s “backer” Bass Pro Shops).

I am an independent voter, generally leaning “Republican” and intending to vote for McCain/Palin in the election this year. I need to know more about the allegations in the Boshear letter …

Again, WHAT CAN WE DO?

By sharon mills

December 21, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

This is a travesty and unethical move on the part of the governor and others involved. Everyone remember this when the next election comes. Let’s get rid of those who are working against Georgia citizens.