Home > Thinking Right > Archives > 2007 > May > 09 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USClark Howard for mayor?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thinking Right, an often invaded gathering place for enlightened conservative discourse on the weighty matters of the day, does not usually deign to intrude into local politics. But I must admit to being intrigued by the prospect that penny-pinching consumer advocate Clark Howard is considering a run for mayor of the City of Atlanta after Shirley Franklin.
If so, count me as an early and inspired booster. A penny-pincher would, no doubt, be an ill-fit for a city more noted for pinching taxpayers than pennies. But he intrigues, nonetheless. Like many Americans, I’ve grown disenchanted with politicians who profess one set of values in the campaign and exhibit another in public office. Pork, for example. Republicans railed against it year after year while in the minority. But once in office under the Gold Dome, the aversion to pork seems to have faded. The only way to limit government is not to want anything from it. When Republicans who profess to be fiscal conservatives start thinking their job is to bring home the bacon, all pretense that the expansion of government can be contained is lost.
Whatever his politics — liberal, moderate or conservative — Clark Howard comes across as genuine and honest, qualities highly prized in public office. I know. My wife makes me listen to him in the car. He’s one of those figures, like Oprah Winfrey, who can draw attention, in a good way, to the ideals and values he expresses. Nearing the edge of doubt that there is any such thing as a fiscal conservative in public office, I’m ready to embrace a dyed-in-wool penny-pincher.
Give it a shot, Clark. We need cheapskates in public office.
Comments
By Jim's a Cherry Picker
May 9, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this
Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
Please Clark. Get in there.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this
Mr. Wooten,
I too would fervently want Mr. Howard in the Mayor’s office. Maybe a step towards a certain house on Paces Ferry Road???
HOWEVER, Mr. Howard is a straight white guy. He stands no chance in Atlanta.
By Curious Observer
May 9, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this
I must demur on Clark Howard for mayor. We need a mayor who will stay in town. Once in office, every time Clark heard of a special air deal to some vacation spot, he would feel compelled to buy a ticket and leave.
By jbmlaw
May 9, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this
Good morning all. Since I live OTP this is arguably outside my area of interest, so I will reinterpret – would Clark be desirable as the next mayor of Duluth? He is amiable, unquestionably bright, there is no question about integrity or honesty – even if you are on the other side of a diatribe you could not accuse Clark of hiding the ball. I always perceived Clark was a squishy moderate, but I have no real reason for that belief; his only pronouncements seem to relate to personal finance. Would Clark manage public finances with the same diligence that he manages his own? One cannot know.
By Aquagirl
May 9, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this
Clark for Mayor…where do I get my bumpersticker?
ITP or OTP, what the city of Atlanta does affects the entire state. I’m certainly interested in who’s running the city even if I don’t live there. OTP’ers like to pretend that if Atlanta didn’t exist, the ‘burbs would just roll on like nothing happened.
Hey, how about Julia Emmons, the former director of the PRR for Clark’s Chief of Staff?
By JohnD
May 9, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this
Would Clark Howard be an effective Mayor? Time in office would tell but how could he be any worse than the Mayors who allowed the city infrastructure to crumble beneath them?
Development continues at an ever increasing density while the sewer and water systems literally erupt into our lives on an almost weekly basis. How about a tax upon new development to repair the systems that are failing?
On the topic yesterday, the state currently has one of the least penal income tax systems in the nation (for those with an income tax). Georgia does not have an industry, such as tourism in Florida or oil in Texas or gambling in Nevada, sufficient to overcome the need for an income tax without a more studiously applied sales tax.
The Richardson plan appears to be no more than a poorly contrived “power grab” and I see no reason to give the idea any support. The plan IS NOT the “FairTax” and the attempt to usurp the name is an indication there is likely little substance involved.
On the “FairTax” subject, the articles by Jay Bookman are replete with the same lies and distortions used by liberal opponents across the nation. The current federal tax system is an abomination that is no longer an income tax plan but a social/welfare system redesigned over the years to buy votes. NO INDIVIDUAL IN THIS COUNTRY HAS A THOROUGH UNDERSTANDING OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE. Evidence supporting this statement is abundant and incontrovertible.
The “FairTax” would succeed where the current system fails - bringing the criminals and those who successfully evade taxes into the system, thus lowering the burden on everyone. How much more FAIR can the plan be?
Clark will have my vote for the simple fact he appears honest. Wait, I do not live in the city but I doubt that has stopped voters in the past.
Perhaps “Redneck’s” people will send buses to the gated communities in the burbs sort of like in the last Mayoral election in New Orleans or most any in Chicago.
By Dennis
May 9, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this
Mr. Wooten writes, “I’ve grown disenchanted with politicians who profess one set of values in the campaign and exhibit another in public office. Pork, for example. Republicans railed against it year after year while in the minority.”
But while in the majority, you have supported all kinds of corporate pork and tax breaks for the unneedy as Republicans have bankrupted the country.
If you have not already done so, may I suggest your reading of “Imposter” (How George W. Bush bankrupted America and betrayed the Reagan legacy) by the strong Republican economist, Bruce Bartlett.
Here is one of your own, Mr. Wooten, saying the same thing the “libs” have been saying (and you’ve been denying) all during the GWB years.
Admitedly, Mr. Bartlett will agree with you on “entitlement” programs, he specifically mentions the Bush “Medicare entitlement” (under which most of us are worse off than before as we were forced to get into Bush’s “improved” drug program).
But, I wonder if he too, goes to church and sings, “Jesus loves the little children, red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight”, until it comes to money.
(Am I a Reagan fan? “No”. Working stiffs like me had a hell of a time making ends meet while he was president. I’ve recovered, but I was worse off after he left office. Unless you were already well off, his fiscal policies were lousey, too. And remember, a LOT of white collar people lost their jobs under his administration as corporations merged or moved out of country).
You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.
By Dave
May 9, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this
Sadly, he is not corrupt enough to be a proper politician. He never will be and that makes him a bad fit. He would be in constant battles with the city council and due to his good values, intelligence, and ability to think out of the box. Society is not ready for him.
By Dusty
May 9, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this
Ah Jim Wooten,
Just the most entertaining piece you have written. I almost fell asleep over taxes yesterday but I’m smiling today.
I nominate you as Clark’s campaign manager. How about bumper stickers “Hark hark! It’s CLARK!” or “Don’t be a coward. Vote Howard!”.
Oh well. We can have a BS(bumper sticker)contest. Winner gets to pinch a ….penny. (Fooled ya!)
By Brian Curtis
May 9, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this
Clark Howard is the only redeeming feature in the otherwise endless drivel parade of WSB radio. I’m surprised he’s willing to be associated with lunatics like Boortz and Hannity, when Clark himself is so sensible and rational.
By harold
May 9, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this
only if he could be mayor for 30 years.
facts are El Clarko would be mayor for one term only, the first penny pinching term, but would get kicked out before the savings could accumulate and benefit the city.
somebody else ran for an office not to long ago on the platform of “genuine and honest.” lessee, who was that agan.. hmm.. oh yeah DUBAI, the guy who puts the W in WORST PRESIDENT EVER
By Van
May 9, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
Interesting, people seem to think he is too honest to be elected Mayor of Atlanta.
Living outside 285 does have its advantages. We pay less in sales tax, we pay less for our homes and apartments and the cost of fuel is less out here.
I wonder if Clark Howard is too thrifty for Atlanta?
BTW, which one is Paul and which one is Clark?
By Eric
May 9, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this
To Dennis @ 9:12:
You are:
(a) An incoherent writer. (b) A whiney crybaby. (c) A jealous, distraught individual. (d) A socialist with no solutions.
Bereft of ideas, why not just sit on the sidelines and read what others write?
Wooten disapproves of outrageous government spending—even (especially) by conservatives.
Shouldn’t that make you happy?
Oh that’s right, nothing does.
By Midtown Atl.
May 9, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this
Are you kidding???????!!!!!!
There is no way that a white man would be allowed to be mayor in this town. Dream on….
By Dusty's a BrownNoser
May 9, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this
Ah Jim Wooten,
Just the most entertaining piece you have written.
I don’t know who Dusty fawns over more, Wooten or Bush.
By the way, It’s the 9th day of May and we have already lost 31 troops this month - if anyone is keeping count.
By Chief Wiggum
May 9, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this
Wow.
Midtown Atl, what you said, if you replaced the word “white” with “black” and backed up 40 years, would be seen as extremely racist. Maybe you speak of a harsh reality of Atlanta’s “entitlement class”, which is why so many have left.
By The Truth
May 9, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
Howard is a criminal. He breaks the law or and does whatever he needs to save money. We dont need more criminals in the goverment
By Liz The Wiz
May 9, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
Wanna Bet??? Take off your blind glasses buddy! It’s 2007,,,NOT 1997..
By Chief Wiggum
May 9, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
Hmm, “The Truth”, are you being sarcastic, or do you have some proof to your rantings? You said “He breaks the law or and does whatever he needs to save money”
What exactly has Clark Howard done to break the law? What proof do you have of this?
You folks will have to excuse me, there is a donut (who am I kidding, it’s 4 donuts) calling my name! I’m 10-7!
By Captain Freedom
May 9, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
The Captain is loathe to distract from the serious and weighty issue proffered today by Mr Wooten. Indeed, to do so feels a bit of a violation, as it is evident that the goodly Lord Jim spent a very long and agonizing time composing today’s Deep Thoughts, thoughts that will likely go down in the annals of modern punditry. Look out, there, Cynthia Tucker McKinney…I smell another Pulitzer here. It’s not just for liberals any more.
That said, and with my mea culpa sincerely submitted, I wish to highlight news regarding the Oil Kickback Scandal that made Saddam Hussein and someone-who-knows-someone-who-once-worked-for Kofi Annan very, very wealthy. To wit, from today’s news:
Chevron, the second-largest American oil company, is preparing to acknowledge that it should have known kickbacks were being paid to Saddam Hussein on oil it bought from Iraq as part of a defunct United Nations program, according to investigators.
The admission is part of a settlement being negotiated with United States prosecutors and includes fines totaling $25 million to $30 million, according to the investigators, who declined to be identified because the settlement was not yet public.
Yes friends, despite the Islamolibedwetter denials, this was a true and horrible scandal. Not only that, but as we of True Belief always KNEW in our Right Thinking hearts, this scandal cuts right to the core of the State Department:
According to the Volcker report, surcharges on Iraqi oil exports were introduced in August 2000 by the Iraqi state oil company, the State Oil Marketing Organization. At the time, Condoleezza Rice, now secretary of state, was a member of Chevron’s board and led its public policy committee, which oversaw areas of potential political concerns for the company.
You see?!?!? We told you so. Powerful people had their stinky fingers in the pie. I demand that heads roll!!!! It is time to hold these underminers of decency to account.
Thank you for your indulgence. I now return you to the heady brew that is today’s Wooten column. Be careful, though, it is heavy lifting to debate today’s topic. Drink plenty of water, and know your limits.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this
Clark’s three strikes:
1) Straight
2) White
3) Male
(not necessarily in that order, but because of those three factors he does not stand a CHANCE at being Mayor of Atlanta)
I for one think he would be a good fit in a certain house on Paces Ferry Road…
By Captain Freedom
May 9, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this
Jeff -
Agreed that Mr Howard would be an exemplary Governor. Alas, he does not speak the Goober Dialect, and as such is unelectable on a statewide basis.
I feel for the poor devil. As a straightwhitemail who does not speak Goober, he is truly a man without a country in his own state.
Plus, he looks suspiciously like one of those Friends of Soros, if you catch my drift. That would explain the thrift, but further precludes his electability.
America does not cotton to cultists. This is the same hurdle that Muff Romney will be unlikely to overcome, even with the help of his several wives.
It is not pretty, but you must admit that it is Solid Right Thinking.
By Sri
May 9, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
Dear Jim,
Glad to see you mention Clark on your column. Just a quickie from me — unlike Oprah, Clark is not going to be touchy-feely. He will demand the best from City Hall — I am sure he will not tolerate mediocrity.
Our city needs a mayor like Clark. I am very happy for Atlanta. Happy days are here again!!
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
HOWEVER, Mr. Howard is a straight white guy. He stands no chance in Atlanta.
Every day you astound me more and more by your ignorance!!! Kudos sir to you and your ilk!! When they said that people couldn’t possibly get any dumber in this world of enlightenment, (tv, internet), I will make sure that they log on to ajc.com and look for a guy named “Jeff”. You make the south proud!!!
By JustMe
May 9, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this
I am shocked by the homophobic remarks in this blog….
Has there ever been a gay person that was Mayor of Atlanta? Please post their name(s) because I would love to see who you all are talking about.
It seems to me that more gay people vote for straight people rather than the other way around.
By Dusty's a BrownNoser
May 9, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this
If the President I fully supported had gotten the country in a war without reason that had killed 31 soldiers in the first 9 days of the month 4 years after it began, I would be writing articles on Clark Howard too.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
Debbie:
Simple fact. The VAST majority of the citizens of the City of Atlanta fall into at least one of three categories:
Gay, Female, Black.
VERY FEW of these three are going to trust a straight white guy, and most will vote against him simply because of his sexuality/race/gender (take your pick).
Add to the fact that he would more than likely take away as many of the “entitlements” as he possibly could, and he stands ZERO chance, though quite possibly a good chance at that house on Paces Ferry.
By deegee
May 9, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
I just think he’s too nerdy for politics. Maybe he should try a TV talk show first, like Oprah’s and see how that goes. If it bombs then maybe he should save himself the time and expense of running for mayor of a big city.
By Chief Wiggum
May 9, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
Just Me:
I think you shouldn’t use the word “homophobic”. The definition of that word talks about an ‘irrational fear or aversion to homesexuality”. This person may be wrong, but that does NOT mean they have any fear or bias toward homosexuals. The word is over-used…don’t cheapen the meaning of it.
Debbie…
Saying that Clark doesn’t stand a chance has to do with several realities. First reality is that there has not been a white mayor of Atlanta in decades. Second thing is that being a white male may be seen as a negative. The census says that whites make up 33.2% of the Atlanta population, white males are probably 16-17% of the population, and I’m guessing that 10% of those are gay white males. Fact is…Clark is part of a minority group, when looking at Atlanta.
By JustMe
May 9, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
Jeff,
I challenge you to prove anywhere with any statistics your claim that gay people distrust straight people. Why would you make such an inflamatory remark? What would lead you to such a conclusion?
Gay people have straight parents. Are you saying that all gay people don’t trust their parents? How silly are you?
Also, I believe that you are wrong when you state that most citizens of Atlanta are gay. Gays are still a minority in the City of Atlanta. Again, I challenge you to show where you get your numbers from.
Time to put up or shut up.
By Lee
May 9, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
In response to Jeff, Clark Howard appears to appeal to many across racial and socio-economic lines, as well as gender and sexual orientations. I think you might surprised at the broad base of support from all communities that Clark Howard would receive.
By JustMe
May 9, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
ChiefWiggum,
I think that I do use the term, “homophobic” correctly. It seems that these people that I am talking about have a fear of gay people only voting for a gay candidate and not considering a straight candidate.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
JustMe:
Midtown, L5P, and the areas around Emory and Agnes Scott didn’t get their reputations as gay havens for nothing….
Atlanta’s Pride Parade being one of the biggest in the country didn’t happen because they don’t live there…
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
Debbie:Simple fact. The VAST majority of the citizens of the City of Atlanta fall into at least one of three categories: Gay, Female, Black. VERY FEW of these three are going to trust a straight white guy, and most will vote against him simply because of his sexuality/race/gender (take your pick).
You are TRULY ignorant!!! Most POLTICIANS IN AMERICA are white males! The GOVENOR of Georgia is a “white male”; He ran against another “WHITE MALE”. The President of the US is, (here we go again) a “WHITE MALE” and guess what? Somebody Black, Somebody who was female, somewhere actually VOTED for him!!! Even if C. Rice ran for the Republican ticket tomorrow as President, you had better believe that black people won’t just vote for her because she’s BLACK and females won’t just vote for her becasue she’s FEMALE.
Black people in Atlanta are concerned with the same things everyone else is: Their police force, their city’s infrastructure, their taxes. For you to say what you’ve said just makes me wanna laugh!!! Archie Bunker lives again!!!
You are just too dang funny for words!!!
By irish65
May 9, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
First time I’ve ever been able to spark any level of agreement with Jim!!
I don’t know whether it means he’s mellowing or I am.
Clark’s candidacy would be ver-r-r-r-ry interesting.
By Chief Wiggum
May 9, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this
Just Me:
I’m not Jeff, so not directly defending him, but I do believe his comment is correct when he says that most citizens of Atlanta fall into one of these three categories: Gay, Female, Black. Use your noggin, that never said that being gay was being a majority.
Some facts:
Black people make up 61.4% of Atlanta. I can’t find the data, but I bet that females make up slightly over 50% of the Atlanta population. The big point is that being a heterosexual white male puts Clark into a group that might be 10-14% of the Atlanta population.
By Old People
May 9, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Will we still get those cute little streetcars that Miss Shirley has promised?
By JustMe
May 9, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
Stating your opinion does not make it a fact. I am still waiting for you to show any real statistics to support your opinion.
There are more straight people living in the City of Atlanta than there are gay people. Heck, even in San Francisco there are more straight people than gay people.
Your outlandish opinions should be stopped unless you have proof.
By Redneck Convert
May 9, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
Well, I say lets bus all us rednecks downtown to vote in this Clark Howard. He would fire a whole bunch of Those People that hang on to city jobs and don’t do nothing. Next time you are there take a look at a city road building crew in action. Five are standing around talking and the other one is down in a hole digging. Anyways, word is that people get city jobs handed down to them in a will.
We could teach Clark Howard how to be a better redneck. If we load up his mouth with Redman or Skoal and make him set in Billy Bob’s listening to us talking he could get the hang of dropping that g in -ing words and being right flat on the “i” words. He needs to learn to dress better too. Right now he looks like a city slicker, what with the suit and tie. He needs to start wearing t-shirts that say “Forgit heck!” and such and maybe a picture of the stars and bars. Grow a beard and wear a old slouch cap. Maybe Sonny would be willing to teach him. I hope this Howard has a pickup truck. He can’t get elected in GA without a pickup truck. Even in downtown Atlanta.
Glad to see Sister Dusty is back. I knowed the topic yesterday was over her head. But she can handle who ought to be mayor of Atlanta.
By JustMe
May 9, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
ChiefWiggum,
Statistics have shown that in most large metropolitan areas, the most often quoted percentage of gay people is 10%. That is far from any significant voting block.
My point is this…. why was “gay” even brought up? Why not say that “Black haired people won’t vote for Clark Howard because he has brown hair?” There are far more black haired people than gay people living in Atlanta. Or, why not say that “Muscular people won’t vote for Clark Howard because he has a slender build?”
IMHO, it sounded like rantings of homophobic people that live outside the perimeter that know nothing, first hand, about the City of Atlanta. They would rather spread false rumors and lies that have no foundation of truth.
By Dusty
May 9, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
Brownoser or whatever alias you use,
I’ve met funeral directors with a better sense of humor than yours. Whatsa matter? Your liberal politics going off the cliff as usual with you in hot pursuit? Go sob somewhere else.
Captain Freedom,
If Clark Howard can’t speak “Goober Dialect” maybe you could teach him the “Flubber Phony” that you use all the time. But better hurry. Your nose grows longer every day, dear FreePinoch.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
Saying that Clark doesn’t stand a chance has to do with several realities. First reality is that there has not been a white mayor of Atlanta in decades
And WHY is that? When was the last time a white person RAN for Mayor of Atlanta? Let me google that question and I’ll get back with you — probably the last time one ran was in the 70’s. If you don’t run you can’t WIN. Duh.
By Morris
May 9, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this
All Clark has has to do is buy time on local black radio stations and tell everyone that his opponent is going kill all the black people that he/she doesn’t rape, rob blind, or enslave first. Works everytime in the A-T-L!
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this
JustMe:
Two quick comments:
1) Atlanta is 50.4 percent female (all races), roughly 62% black, and that doesn’t even take into account sexuality.
2) That you would say essentially that I need to shut up is yet further proof of the liberal agenda to strip conservatives of their Free Speech rights.
By JustMe
May 9, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
You are an idiot. Yes, I said idiot.
According to you, I represent the “liberal agenda?” LMFAO!!! I do think that you give me too much credit.
I simply requested for you to support you opinions and claims with any type of fact. You could not and so you lash out at me. That, my dear sir, it how conservatives do it!
Continue with your pitiful life. I am certain that you must be a ditto-head, so be gone with you to your kind and pat yourself on the back. Continue voting for Bush or whatever copy of Bush pops up in the future. Continue losing your real income to large companies and continue to feed on the social fears that is part of the conservative agenda.
Finally, I noticed that in your point #1 you didn’t quote any % of gays. The general ‘high number’ quoted is 10%…… a large voting block? If you say so. LOL!!!
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this
JustMe:
If they were so unimportant, why does Franklin cater to them so much?
Lest you forget, the past two Presidential elections were decided by less than 1% of the voters.
By Dusty
May 9, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
Did RedNeck Convert say something? OH? Nothing important. Figures.
Yep, yesterday was boring tax day with Wooten. I DO know the first rule of taxes, ‘specially the IRS. PAY THEM. And I certainly do. Paris may go to jail (not for taxes) but I’m not going to THAT place. I might meet up with prison guards, RedNeck, Captain Freedom and BrownNose. oooooo
By Cindy
May 9, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this
Oh……my……..what a great idea, Clark would be a wonderful change for Atlanta……sure wish I could vote for him! Atlantans wouldn’t know what to do with themselves!
By Blaney
May 9, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Sidney Marcus was the last white of any stature to run for mayor that I can recall. He was defeated by Andrew Young who served eight forgettable years.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
If they were so unimportant, why does Franklin cater to them so much?
Jeff how about saying that Mayor Franklin cares about EVERYONE in her city? How can you say she “caters” to anyone? The woman, when she came to power, kicked out 55% of her workforce because the City couldn’t handle their salaries and was over budget!! She stood up and said “I’m going to have to raise taxes to fix the sewers”, and knew that the idea of raising taxes could be political suicide!! But she knew she had to get things DONE and not just TALK about doing them. THAT’s the difference between men and women. Women do the work, men do the talking about when it’s a good time to do the work.
By Dusty's a BrownNoser
May 9, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Dusty,
Just where from my previous two posts today do you see that I am trying to be funny? Is there anything funny about you fawning over Bush or Wooten? Is there anything funny about 31 troops dying in the last 9 days?
Go sob somewhere else.
You mean like the families of those 31 troops? Or the kids of those troops who won’t be growing up without a daddy?
By the way, one of those 31 troops was a 19 year old girl who graduated from high school in 2005. Her name was Katie Soenksen from Davenport, Iowa - in case you’re keeping up……….
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this
Debbie:
Taking a page from Kanye’s book:
Shirley Franklin don’t like white males. (Period)
By Facts is Facts
May 9, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this
Howard’s qualifications, agenda, or popularity will make no difference. His skin color will. His opponent could be Bill Campbell and Campbell would win for one reason. He is black. Simple fact of life. Face it.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
Facts is Facts: Maybe you shoud change your moniker to stupid is as stupid does.
By Facts is Facts
May 9, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this
And maybe you should grow up, DebbieDoRight.
By Didya Know
May 9, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this
I’d like to hear Clark Howard comment on this: (from bartcop and the smirking chimp)
In case you’re wondering why crude oil prices are down from last year, hanging around at about $60 a barrel, while gasoline prices have soared past $3.10/gallon nationwide, just check out the latest profit reports from the oil companies. They are at record levels.
The answer for this seeming contradiction is simple: Americans are being robbed blind by the oil ndustry.
Sure, the oil companies, and their PR agency will give you all kinds of reasons for higher gasoline prices
at a time of falling crude prices: problems at two refineries in Texas and Oklahoma, rising demand or whatever. But the real answer is that there is simply no competitive market in this industry.
The three remaining oil companies are so tight, they don’t have to get together to conspire to raise prices. One raises prices, the second follows suit, then the third raises prices even higher, so the first robber-barons raise the price again and the second follows suit again.
This will continue until the Democrats say “Enough!” Granted, they have a thousand investigations to get to, but just issuing a round of subpoenas to the sons if b*** making $75,000 profit per minute might bring prices down 50 cents.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
Jeff: How can you say Mayor Franklin doesn’t like white men?
By JustMe
May 9, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this
Didya Know….
I agree completely. Nothing is going to be done about this until Bush is gone. He will protect his big oil friends and their profits as long as he is in office.
My own personal solice is that the idiot republicans that voted for Bush and drive their large SUVs are now paying the price - gotta love it!
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this
Debbie:
Because 99% of her actions are designed to support anyone OTHER than the white male.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
If growing up means that I’ll be a disillusioned, cynical, elitist, like you; then I’ll stay the same thanks. I actually have HOPE for this country.
By Daedalus
May 9, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
After reading several of remarkably ignorant posts from the usual collection of suburban conservatives with their typical “hate Atlanta” theme I must ask what are y’all smoking?
Clearly you have not been inside the perimter for a while — midtown, L5P and other neighborhoods have had a huge increase in white heterosexual couple starting families. Don’t believe me — come inside the fence and have a look.
The difference is that these people don’t mind living alongside people who may look or think differently — unlike the typical suburban “hate Atlanta” crowd that worship the drivel that comes from Wooten’s paranoid ramblings.
As the old joke goes —what is the quickest was to Alabama from Little Five Points?
The answer: 10 miles in any direction. Once you go outside 285 its all Alabama.
By James (P.E.)
May 9, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
I never knew Mayor Franklin did not like me and other white males. Never got that vibe from her….interesting. Next time the city hires my firm, I’ll only assign the engineers that are white female, black, asian, hispanic, arab, jewish.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this
Debbie: Because 99% of her actions are designed to support anyone OTHER than the white male.
Examples please.
By melo
May 9, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight and JustMe girls you are holding your own with these “bankruptofideas” men. See how they lash out when they are cornered with facts!!!?
Nice showing.Now the lashing….watch this space..hahaha
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
Debbie:
Case in point:
The “hate whitey” “art” STILL stands in City Hall East….
By RC
May 9, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
Daedalus - Why do you assume that anyone who thinks differently from you automatically lives outside I-285, or the Atlanta city limits even?
By Chief Wiggum
May 9, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
Very interesting, Daedalus..
The very intolerant behavior you chide the OTP folks for, you reinforce with that little joke.
Seems that while you like to gripe about the OTP folks stereotyping the in-town crowd, you do exactly the same thing when discussing those dreaded suburbanites you loathe.
And by the way…the influx to town has not been white heterosexuals having kids. It’s white, wealthy liberals who more often than not are childless due to choice, lifestyle, or sexual preference.
And James…SURELY you are aware of what a “Joint Venture” is, and how critical it is to get work with the City of Atlanta. That’s a scheme that goes back to Maynard Jackson, and is still in force. If you run an engineering firm that is owned by a white male, and you’re able to get city contracts without being forced to be part of a joint venture…my hand goes out to you. You’re rare indeed.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this
Jeff, the art was done by a HISPANIC artist; and was NOT COMMISSIONED BY THE MAYOR’s OFFICE.
The Office of Cultural Affairs, oversees the City Gallery East exhibition spaces, NOT Mayor Franklin.
Read the article from Creative Loafing, it’s very informative and takes another look at art in our society.
http://atlanta.creativeloafing.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A227739
By James (P.E.)
May 9, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this
Because 99% of her actions are designed to support anyone OTHER than the white male.
Mayor Franklin’s accomplishments:
Restored financial stability by making tough decisions that have resulted in five balanced budgets and have generated a healthy reserve. Jeff thinks this meant firing all white males
Implemented one of the strongest ethics reform programs in the nation and an Ethics Task Force.Jeff thinks this meant firing all white conservative males
Laid the foundation for a $3.2 billion overhaul of the city’s aging water and sewer system.Jeff thinks White men can’t design utilities
Convinced the 2004 General Assembly to allow Atlanta to place a municipal option sales tax before the voters that overwhelmingly passed and generated money for Clean Water Atlanta. Jeff says white men hate Clean Water
Completed the $6.3 billion Fifth Runway of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Jeff says this was for non white males only
Established a commission of city leaders to study the problem of homelessness in the city and creating the “Blueprint to End Homelessness in Atlanta in 10 years.” The flagship project, the 24/7 Gateway Center, designed to serve 500 people a day with needed personal and health services, opened in July 2005.See previous
Implemented the New Century Economic Development Plan outlining an economic vision through 2009 that includes Brand Atlanta, the Beltline, and transportation improvements.Jeff says white males hate the A-T-L..prefers to use “‘aLanter”
Created “Next Step…The Atlanta Promise”, a program for every Atlanta Public Schools high school senior designed to engage students in planning for their future beyond high school, whether it is college, the workforce, technical school or the military. Since 2005, over 900 Atlanta Public School graduates were helped with tuition, laptops and other assistance through the Next Step program.Jeff thinks no white males were assisted
Administered the $150 million Quality of Life Bond Program, which leveraged funds to add new sidewalks, beautify major arterials, enhanced both pedestrian and vehicle safety by improving traffic signals, provided for walkways, trails and amenities, as well as reconstruction and resurfacing damaged streets and bridges. Nearly 1,200 projects are underway or completed.White males were not allowed on these improvements
Helped secure the Martin Luther King, Jr. Papers for the City of Atlanta with corporate and community partnership to help guarantee a loan for $32 million.Jeff thinks this was too easy..she would have never gotten the Robert E Lee papers
Established an Environmental Initiative and programs that reduce operational expenses and preserve our environment. Jeff thinks white males don’t care for the environment and this was a slap in the face
The City of Atlanta has one of the highest percentages of LEED Certified buildings in the US.This means its better to be green and not white male
Established the “Dear John” public education campaign to end the commercial sexual exploitation of children in Atlanta.Jeff thinks this meant only for Nappy headed hos..not dog haired trailer skanks
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this
So she didn’t put it there. Neither has she done anything to remove it. You can’t tell me that the Chief Executive can’t have a racist piece of art removed. The fact that she hasn’t even said that it is wrong is proof enough that she supports it.
By harold
May 9, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this
so we should stand up and wave our flags because a store clerk in new jersey saved ameriker from terrorits? he was asked to transfer a movie to dvd and it had people firing guns at a firing range while yelling about jihad? um yeah ok. the firign range owner/operator did not notice this behavior when it occurred? harold’s arse. what a crock. this sounds even more made up than the jessica simpson rescue or that patrick tillman is gonna get us all killed if we dont kill him first “accidental” shooting
By Van
May 9, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight,
When some supposed artist displayed a piece of art that contained the image of the Virgin Mary and elephant dung, the then Mayor of New York, yes Rudi, denounced it and tried to get it removed or covered.
I can only assume from her lack of response mayor Franklin sees nothing wrong with “Formula for Hate.”
Interesting.
Daedalus, The neighborhood I live in is more diverse than most mid-town neighborhoods. Liberals, Conservative, black, white, yellow, brown, dark skin, lightskin, single, married (and some without license), and since sexual preference is a private matter, we have no idea if any are not heterosexual.
Oh, by the way, we are half way between Stone Mountain and Loganville.
By Facts is Facts
May 9, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight - Disillusionment, cynicism, elitism, or lack of hope have nothing to do with the fact that a white would have to overcome huge odds to be elected mayor in this city. Could a white beat John Lewis in the Fifth Congressional District? No. Would I prefer politicians who represent everyone and who don’t go on the radio (like Franklin, Lewis, and Andrew Young) during election time to accuse whites of plotting to kill blacks? Yes. Do I lose sleep over it? No. All things change with time. The fact that blacks can get elected is proof of that. The fact they can go on the radio and make outrageous race baiting claims and get away with it proves we need more time.
By SAWB
May 9, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this
Lived here all my life. This stuff is sickening. It may take 10 more years but I’m leaving as soon as I can. You can have Atlanta whoever you are.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this
Mayor Franklin also changed the name of Hartsfield International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson, a move catering to BLACKS.
Mayor Franklin also pushed through strict hate-crime laws in the city, a move that protects BLACKS, FEMALES, and GAYS and singles out STRAIGHT WHITE MALES for prosecution.
And lest we forget the race baiting political ad that aired the week of the election in which MAYOR FRANKLIN says that if the white person wins, Atlanta would be plunged back to Slavery.
By getalife
May 9, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this
“Chambliss traveled to Iraq with several other members of Congress as part of an Intelligence Committee fact-finding tour. His comments contrasted with those of another Republican in the delegation, Sen. Olympia Snowe of Maine, who said in a weekend interview that she found little to be cheerful about.
“The good news is mixed; the bad news is downright troubling,” Snowe said.”
Bring back Max.
By Heard it here first
May 9, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this
And yet… here we are again.. more concerned about stereotypes and how they will play into an election and politics in general…
and substance is becoming a second thought.
This is 2007 correct?
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this
The ONE thing that I will give Franklin is that at least she never said Atlanta is a “chocolate” city, ala the Racist Idiot Thug Nagin. Even then, she never denounced Nagin for saying it.
Anytime the Idiots Jackson and Sharpton are in town, who does the photo-op include? Franklin. These two Idiots are some of the biggest Racists I’ve ever seen, and I’ve known some leaders of the KKK!
By Ryan
May 9, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this
Since when are liberals trying to take away free speech rights?
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this
Ryan:
Hate Thoughts Legislation.
By jbmlaw
May 9, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
Dear deegee @ 11:50, I think you posted best of all today. Your efficient language also reflects humor. I wish I had written your argument.
By Dusty's a BrownNoser
May 9, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this
Mayor Franklin also pushed through strict hate-crime laws in the city, a move that protects BLACKS, FEMALES, and GAYS and singles out STRAIGHT WHITE MALES for prosecution.
I’m not even in this argument, but this statement is a joke.
Oh, those poor, straight, white males………
By Captain Freedom
May 9, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
Jeff is correct. Mayor Franklin did change the airport name. It proves that she hates us. What could be clearer than the simple truth that honoring a black man denigrates White Christian Men everywhere. It’s the creed of Nathan Bedford Forrest, a REAL True Belief Right Thinking White Christian American.
By LMK
May 9, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
Didya Know at 12:09,
Great post. Assuming your facts are correct, essentially we purchase our gasoline from an oligopoly (indirectly). If so, that’s certainly not my idea of a free market.
I’ll look into this some more, but if correct, I’m going to write to my Washington representatives and ask them to do two things:
Collect backpayments for roytalties owed by oil companies to taxpayers (Bush has been allowing oil companies to cook the books so they can avoid paying us royalties for extraction of public resources), and
Institute an excess profits tax on oil companies (not to be confused with a windfall profits/excise tax).
http://www.csmonitor.com/2006/0428/p01s03-usec.html
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this
Captain:
At this point I’ve named quite a few things Franklin has done to cater AGAINST straight white males.
My challenge to you:
Name a SINGLE thing she has done to cater TO straight white males.
By harold
May 9, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this
Since Evolution is false, offspring are the genetic equivalents of their parent, correct?
That is the only way to prevent natural selection.
But people and animals have two parents?
No wonder I failed the scients portion of the gradutation test. That don’t make no cents. Not 35. Not 50.
By Larry
May 9, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this
I am very surprised though at Shirley Franklin. She never seems to denounce racially motivated remarks from African Americans. This latest fiasco regarding Eaves campaign for the FulCo commission made the national airwaves..and once again gave Atlanta a bad image. I live in Fulton County and am sad to say so. I too long for the day which will be in a few years when I can leave all this crap behind. Yes, I won’t let the door hit me on the way out so don’t even go there.
By Joy
May 9, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this
Where do I sign up to volunteer for Clark. GO CLARK GO!!!
By harodl
May 9, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this
Dear Jeff, Maybor Frankling caters to the white males with the beltline project. The white male plantation owners oops land owners / developers will get rich off that projects.
By Aquagirl
May 9, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this
“Hate thoughts legislation”?
And where can one find that? In your mind, Jeff?
BTW, being told to shut up isn’t an attempt to infringe on your free speech. Being told to shut up or you’ll be arrested or otherwise punished by the state is infringement. So shut up and go obsess over city hall artwork. Be thankful that Shirley Franklin fixed the sewers so those few white men could take a * when they’re in Atlanta instead of freaking out over symbolic gestures.
By James (P.E.)
May 9, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
I clearly posted a list of things Mayor Franklin has accomplished. Not a one is anti-white male..pro-black, pro-female, pro-gay.
You do not want to see the facts. This is oddly common with conservatives. You hen peck one item out of thousands and you come to a conclusion without consideration of the entire package.
We could easily compare Mayor Franklin’s accomplishments with Pres. Bush’s..I’ll give you one similarity: They both have made it harder for the working poor. At least after being forced out of Atlanta they moved OTP. Too bad there isn’t an OTP for the country.
By harold
May 9, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this
if the sun revolves aroung the earth why doesnt it leave heat trails in the sky like a jet? it must be going much faster than a jet.
By harold
May 9, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
thoughts are now speech. if you think about destroying ameriker you go to guantanimo
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this
James:
Just because she has done things for the benefit of all does NOT negate all the catering she HAS done to non-straight-white-males.
My challenge to Captain stands to you as well.
harold:
I would counter that the beltline was designed more to cater to the liberal EnviroFreaks than any developer.
By getalife
May 9, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this
Harmon Wages for mayor!
Geez®
By harold
May 9, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this
the sun is faster and hotter than a jet
harold cannot feel heat from the sky when a jet passes over, but harold can feel heat from the sun
therefore, the sun MUST leave heat trails like jets since it revolves around the earth like jets
By harold
May 9, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this
the beltline does not purported to helping the environment, only developers and landowners. otherwise it is merely a multiuse path like the silber comet trail
By J in Braselton
May 9, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
There are quite a few stupid comments that are going on here.
First things first, gay people do not hold anything against straight white males.
Second, we don’t just live in Midtown either! We live in the suburbs too.
Why does Shirley seem to cater to gays, that is an interesting question. Take a look at statistics people, gay people have more disposable income than any other statistical category. Most gays don’t have kids so that saves a ton of money. Another interesting note is that gay people average higher salaries than any other statistical category. Finally, the gay demographic is one of the fastest growing outside of the hispanic community.
So the comment that gay people wouldn’t vote for Howard is completely stupid. My opinion is that gay people typically are better with their money, hence the statistic that they have and earn more money. Therefore, we would be more inclined to vote for somebody such as Howard that would bring fiscal responsibility.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
J in Braselton:
Care to explain my experiences while at Emory then?? Granted, I have known a FEW gays that were decent towards me, and even a couple that I considered friends. That said, while I was at Emory (and even when I worked in the Midtown area), gays would OFTEN treat me as a second class citizen. CONSTANTLY saying they were “enlightened” and “progressive”. I claim they are blinded and so thirsty that they are drinking the sand.
By Aquagirl
May 9, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this
I can explain Jeff’s experience at Emory: Most Gay people recognize angry white men with a chip on their shoulder and treat them like the a-holes that they are.
By Chief Wiggum
May 9, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this
Jeff:
I can’t imagine why anyone, gay or straight, would treat you poorly. You seem like such a nice guy. (snicker)
By the way folks, the donuts wee delicious. I highly recommend going when the HOT sign is on.
By Dusty
May 9, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Captain Freedom,
At last!! We know in WHAT you hold rank as captain. The KKK!! You know the founder, the creed and the qualifications!! I bet you have also paid your dues at the John Birch society.
Do you get promoted for your undercover work here? I wouldn’t pay a nickle for phonies like you. But you might make Brownoser laugh and that’s difficult. Almost like waking the dead.
And nosy Brownnoser@ 12:32.
Today is not parade day for the Anti-War Protest group. So calm down.
I saw Katie Soenksen’s picture on Lehrer News Hour last night. She was brave enough to volunter, fight and die for her country, something I do not think you have the inclination or desire to do.
I do not mourn for our dead soldiers with histrionics like you but I mourn. Why don’t you try supporting the live troops for a change?
By getalife
May 9, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this
Support the oops!
No more hate in 08!
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
So she didn’t put it there. Neither has she done anything to remove it. You can’t tell me that the Chief Executive can’t have a racist piece of art removed.
Hmmm I see you didn’t read the article I referenced. Art is subjective — and sometimes controversial; what’s art to you may not be art to someone else. And NO the “Chief Executive” of the city would catch all kinds of hell from the ACLU, (like in NYC), and others for removing a piece of Art. they would’ve accused her of suppressing Freedom of Speech and/or Freedom of Expression. Name one mayor in one city anywhere in the US who has removed a piece of art because someone protested over it? Guiliani didn’t remove any — he hemmed and hawwed a lot about it, but he NEVER removed any Art because it was offensive to some people.
Her NOT removing it does not make her “hate all white men”; just like your NOT eating strawberry ice cream makes you hate all strawberries.
By Jeff 2
May 9, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
So, am I alone in wondering if the original Jeff on this blog works for a living? He has spent all day posting comments and bantering himself silly on topics his pea-sized brain cannot seem to grasp. Wouldn’t you love to be his boss? Oy! So I guess all of us blacks, gays, hispanics, Jews, women and all NORMAL straight white guys need to get back to work to support Jeff’s lazy a*.
By harold
May 9, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
“gay people do not hold anything against straight white males”
not and live to tell about it!
heh hehehe !!!
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight, When some supposed artist displayed a piece of art that contained the image of the Virgin Mary and elephant dung, the then Mayor of New York, yes Rudi, denounced it and tried to get it removed or covered.
The relative adverb in the city is tried; he couldn’t get it to happen.
I can only assume from her lack of response mayor Franklin sees nothing wrong with “Formula for Hate.”
That’s because you like to look for all the negatives in a situation that you can. Instead of the half-empty approach, why not try “half full”?
By Jack
May 9, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
Power corrupts. Clark would start out good. The money would hit, downhill from there. Bill Campbell was good at first too.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Jeff2:
Suffice it to say that I am in an occupation with significant down time while things run, and that often the initial setup is quick but error-checking is a very time consuming process (as in make a two second change, let the process run, check it when it completes).
In my occupation I am just starting, but within a couple of years - particularly with what I am currently doing - I’ll be making enough to shop exclusively in Buckhead…
By me
May 9, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
Well Clark if you become mayor can we get some the streets paved in midtown so we can go ride our scooters (isnt yours yellow?) without them being destroyed by all those metal plates?
By Bart
May 9, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
You people who talk about Clark not getting the gay vote are just plain stupid. I’m gay as a Christmas goose and I’d vote for Clark in a heartbeat. I’m a white, well-educated, high-wage earning City of Atlanta resident. I’m tired of this city being run so poorly. Has nothing to do with the gay thing, but you people are obsessed over it.
By JeffersonJester
May 9, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
Didya Know
Don’t tell how much the oil industry’s profit was, tell us what their profit margin was. They typcially are less that 20%; not an obscene amount. Who do you think will pay if their taxes are increased? Here’s a hint: businesses don’t pay taxes, people do.
Guess ya don’t know.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight - Disillusionment, cynicism, elitism, or lack of hope have nothing to do with the fact that a white would have to overcome huge odds to be elected mayor in this city. Could a white beat John Lewis in the Fifth Congressional District? No.
YES. He could. Think — people voted for GEORGE W. BUSH twice!! If that could happen; then YES a White man can beat John Lewis in his district. ESPECIALLY if the people in that district looses faith with Lewis and is looking for someone who more effectively supports their views and ideals. If Dubya can get elected twice; anything is possible.
The fact they can go on the radio and make outrageous race baiting claims and get away with it proves we need more time.
The fact that you listen to Fox News does not suprise me.
By Van
May 9, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight
I guess you also support the hate whites sentiment. You seem to support it. I thought “hate” was not inclusive and goes against the whole concept of tolerance and diversity.
I do hope I am not offending anyone while I damn you with your own (leftist) words.
By Red Skull
May 9, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight,
What do you have against a white person being mayor of Atlanta? I thought racism was wrong.
By Jack
May 9, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight. You are in fantasyland if you think a white boy could beat John Lewis. Very amusing comparison to Bush win. LMAO.
By Van
May 9, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight
I guess you also support the hate whites sentiment. You seem to support it. I thought “hate” was not inclusive and goes against the whole concept of tolerance and diversity.
I do hope I am not offending anyone while I damn you with your own (leftist) words.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
I am very surprised though at Shirley Franklin. She never seems to denounce racially motivated remarks from African Americans
She’d be apologizing all the time. Mayor Franklin is not, repeat NOT the spokesperson for EVERY BLACK PERSON in Georgia. Nor would she want to be. Does GWB apologize for every time CHENEY opens his mouth and says something stupid? How about the Attorney General? How about Wolfowitz?
From James: Just because she has done things for the benefit of all does NOT negate all the catering she HAS done to non-straight-white-males.
MY GOD!! What a WITCH!! She’s done things to benefit EVERYONE but she still can’t get an AMEN!! Tough crowd.
From Jeff: Mayor Franklin also pushed through strict hate-crime laws in the city, a move that protects BLACKS, FEMALES, and GAYS and singles out STRAIGHT WHITE MALES for prosecution.
I’m really amazed you said that. In one sentence you just made all KINDS of crazy correlations. Basically what you’re saying is ONLY Straight white males would be guilty of Hate Crimes. Hmmmm…. I think that’s a freudian slip…….
From Aquagirl: I can explain Jeff’s experience at Emory: Most Gay people recognize angry white men with a chip on their shoulder and treat them like the a-holes that they are.
Hee. Hee. Hee. You are sooo bad. (See I’m denouncing Aquagirl in public in behalf of ALL women in the ATL-GA area) :)
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight I guess you also support the hate whites sentiment. You seem to support it.
Because I don’t agree with you I support the white hate sentiment!!! LFMAO Fool I’m MARRIED to a white man!!! Buy a vowel!
By James (P.E.)
May 9, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
Debbie,
From James: Just because she has done things for the benefit of all does NOT negate all the catering she HAS done to non-straight-white-males.
Please do not confuse my statements with ones actually made by Jeff.
I know I’m a straight white male…however, we are not a monolithic group.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Debbie:
Look at those prosecuted for “hate crimes”. 9 times out of 10, the defendant is a straight white male.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
Since I be married to white folks dat mean I be good colored folks. Dem city council people ova der won’t make a good mayor ‘cause dey don’t be likin white folks. Dem gay peoples want to take ova da city but we be don’t let dem do dat.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
RedSkull and Van: Are you two related?
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this
Sorry I posted twice so fast ya’ll, but I be takin my time from dis day fowa.
By harold
May 9, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
Jack, yes the Internets are full of fat chicks but please go try to pick them up on the dating blog not here.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
Sorry James. :)
To the person pretending to be me. Thanks. You’ve just made my point on ignorance and the vapidness of people filled with hate. Totally Dude!
By Red Skull
May 9, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
DebbieDoRight,
Why don’t you just answer the question. Dodging it won’t help your cause.
P.S. You might want to work on your spelling and grammar.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
Da only ting I wants to say about da Irak waw is this: Swing Low, Sweet chariot. Comin for ta carry me home!
By Jackie
May 9, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
This argument has been going on for many decades and no one has been able to disprove that blacks do not have the ability to manage and govern. The city of Atlanta has been one of the fastest growing cities in the USA because of the Airport, which is the economic engine of the Southeast USA. I do believe the city of Atlanta owns the facility and it is judged to be one of the best managed airports IN THE WORLD!!!! Wonder why the complainers are never satisfied with being the best? Go to any other major metropolitan area, for that matter, go to any other Georgia city and determine if that city is better managed that THE BIG PEACH! The complainers still wants us to believe they are being racist and that their lying eyes are the only ones that have knowledge of the truth.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
Jackie:
I can name about 150+ cities all across this great State that are better managed than Atlanta.
By Jackie
May 9, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
@Jeff
If that list is available, please publish it. I do not believe that any such list exists that will show Atlanta is not one of the better managed cities in this country. Please, provide a ranking of cities by any reputable organization that shows Atlanta is not well managed and is not a dynamic, growing city that has placed restrictions on growth.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
This is from a poster named Steve-O from another blog; I’m copying it and pasting it because of its relevance. To some of you who rode the short yellow bus to school, you won’t get it, but I’ll post it anyway. It’s amazing how thing just remain the same and never change. This one’s for you Jeff, RedSkul, DDR imposter,et al!!!
Where you and your crew are wrong is that you assume that I somehow blame white people [for everything]. You also assume that I am bitter against whites and hold some sort of antipathy towards them, no matter how many examples that I give you regarding my outlook towards diversity and how it affects my personal life.
YOU choose to ignore the facts so you don’t have to trouble your little fragile mind by actually thinking instead of having some talking points parroted to you by some media personality [On Fox News]!
[I respect your opinions] It’s just such a shame that you are incapable of reciprocating that same respect because of your “us versus them” mentality of people of different political persuasions.
By Lib...ertarian
May 9, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
@DDR/Steve-O:
Agreed. It is unfortunately true that both sides of the debate move farther and farther from the center, and are very vitriolic towards the other side.
Those of us that are not wed to extremist positions generally want, in no particular order: 1. Honor 2. Leadership 3. Competence 4. Fiscal Responsibility 5. Open Mind
Where can we find such a person in ‘08? I’m afraid there are very few of them running on the major party tickets, and the ones that are barely register in the polls.
Keep me away from the wingnuts of BOTH parties.
By getalife
May 9, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this
“Cheney’s message with Iraqi leaders, according to a senior administration official who briefed reporters, was to be: “We’ve all got challenges together. We’ve got to pull together. We’ve got to get this work done. It’s game time.”
Game is over coach.
Geez®
By Jackie
May 9, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
@Jeff,
Seems that the list you purported to have is hard to find! It appears to me that you have diahrrea of the lip!!!!!!!!
By Jack
May 9, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
Harold. Take a long walk off a short pier. Please.
By Jeff
May 9, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
Debbie:
a) I’ve never watched a SECOND of Fox News, nor do I intend to. I get the news from reputable sources (note that I include NEITHER CNN nor Fox News in that) and perform my OWN analysis. You would be surprised how often I am proven right when I predict the way things turn out. Indeed, I’ve had several lawyers urge me into THAT profession due to my astute analyses.
b) Jackie: Your initial post said NOTHING about a “reputable organization”, simply to give you a list. You added the “reputable organization” as a qualifier in your second post in order to avoid a debate.
As far as cities in GA that are better managed that Atlanta:
Adel, Albany, Alpharetta, Americus, Athens, Augusta, Baingridge, Baxley, Blakely, Braselton, Brunswick, Cairo, Calhoun, Canton, Carrolton, Cartersville, Chickamauga, Cleveland, Colquitt, Columbus, Conyers, Cordele, Covington, Cumming, Cuthbert, Dahlonega, Darien, Douglas, Dublin, Eastman, Eatonton, Elberton, Ellaville, Ellijay, Fayetville, Fitzgerald, Flowery Branch, Fort Gaines, Gainsville, Gibson, Greensboro, Hartwell, Hawkinsville, Helen, Hiawassee, Hinseville, Jasper, Jonesboro, LaGrange, Lawrencville, Lexington, Lincolnton, Lookout Mountain, Lousiville, Ludowici, Lumpkin, Macon, Madison, Manchester, Marietta, McDonough, Midway, Midway, Milledgeville, Millen, Monticello, Moultrie, Newnan, Newton, Ogelthorpe, Peachtree City, Pelham, Pembroke, Perry, Plains, Richmond Hill, Ringgold, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Sparta, St. Marys, Statesboro, Sylvania, Talking Rock, Thomaston, Thomasville, Thomson, Tifton, Valdosta, Warm Springs, Warrenton, Warner Robins, Washington, Watkinsville, Westville, Winder, Wrightsborough, Dallas, Hiram, Acworth, Adairsville, Bremen, Emerson, Dalton, Douglasville, Lithia Springs,… you get the idea.
By Jackie
May 9, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
@Jeff,
Find you some medication for you diahhrea of the lips. Secondly, your lying eyes and your pontification does not prove anything. Take your medication and eat some cheese.
By DebbieDoRight
May 9, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
Keep me away from the wingnuts of BOTH parties.
Amen!
By Don't Even THINK About It, Whitey!
May 9, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this
CLARK HOWARD: If You’re Going to Not Vote For Me, A T L, Please Just Don’t Hate Me For Being White!
CLARK HOWARD: Making Atlanta Better for EVERYONE
CLARK HOWARD: Not Really as Caucasian as He Looks on TV
CLARK HOWARD: The Mayor For the City with Few Dollars and EVEN LESS Sense
CLARK HOWARD: Elect Me Mayor, and I Promise No More A J C * in the *A T L!
CLARK HOWARD: He Can Beat Up Dave Ramsey!
CLARK HOWARD Don’t Even THINK About It, Whitey?!?!? What in the World of Does That Mean?
By Clark Can Govern
May 9, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
Hey, folks. Clark would be elected in a heart beat! No problem. When he tightens the belt on City Hall and fires all the unneeded employees, some Atlantans will scream…but it should have been done years and years ago. Sadly, City Hall has become the employer of last resort for families and friends of politicians…even though they have no skills, but somehow, get a paycheck and benefits at OUR expense. Go Clark. I will campaign for you and you will win.
By getalife
May 9, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
Truck bomb in Kurdistan.
Morter attacks in the green zone.
cheney in body armour.
They lowered the bar on victory again.
Now, it is if the Iraqi government shows any progress.
Amazing.
By gregor
May 9, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
Atlanta’s demographics are rapidly changing. It just may be possible for a straight white guy to be the mayor of a new Atlanta. The new arrivals are going to be less inclined to put up with high taxes, poor city services, and unabated crime.
By JimBob
May 9, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
As a liberal from Cobb County (there are not many of us),I would love to see what appears to be an honest,fiscally conservative person like Clark Howard elected as the next Mayor of Atlanta. Ditto Brian Curtis’s comments about Boortz & Hannity.
By For the Record ...
May 9, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this
OTP folks, the next time you find yourselves downtown, take a short drive east on Highland Ave, through the erstwhile bad streets of Old Fourth Ward, and see the continuing resurrection of this city. Trust me: you will be amazed.
We who live in the city and can vote for Mayor will listen carefully to all the candidates, discuss their positions with friends and family, then vote for the one we deem to be the best on a wide variety of issues — whatever his or her race, color, creed, or sexual orientation.
This simple statement should be ridiculously obvious even to the right-wing suburbanites who frequent the Wooten blog.
By Debbie DuBois
May 10, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this
Absolutely, Clark Howard for Mayor. Though Clark really still has yet to decide definitively, he would be doing all of us in Atlanta a great service. I hope he heeds to call to service. It won’t be easy, but he will be serving honorably and setting an example for others for following! Go Clark!