Swamp-Vittles

What would Baby Jesus do?

2006-09-22T14:14:00.000-05:00

My sunday school class never covered
this

Atlanta and child sex slaves

2006-04-04T10:22:00.000-05:00

ATLANTA (Reuters) - In a sleazy hotel room, 'Brittany,' then aged 16 and drugged into oblivion, waited for the men to arrive. Her pimps sent as many as 17 clients an evening through the door.
A 'john' could even pre-book the pretty young blonde for $1,000 a night, sometimes flying in and then flying out from a nearby airport.
None of this happened in Bangkok or Costa Rica, places that have become synonymous with sex tourism and underage sex.
It took place in Atlanta, the buckle of the U.S. Bible Belt, where the world's busiest passenger airport provides a cheaper, more convenient and safer underage sex destination for men seeking girls as young as 10.
'Men fly in, are met by pimps, have sex with a 14-year-old for lunch, and get home in time for dinner with the family,' said Sanford Jones, the chief juvenile judge of Fulton County, Georgia."

This is something the Legislative branch and the Governor should have tackled this past session. But no, we are worried about putting the ten commandments in public buildings.

Local Hispanic Group protest

2006-03-25T09:53:00.000-05:00

"The March 17 Alliance of Georgia a coalition of Hispanic clergy, business owners and activists called on Hispanics to not buy anything Friday as a way of signaling the Latino community's importance to the state's economy. They also asked Hispanic workers to stay home if they could do so without jeopardizing their jobs. That piece of the partial boycott appeared to be getting less compliance.
Manuel Garcia said he and his 15-man landscaping crew were told they'd be fired if they didn't show for work today. That's why they were busily sprinkling pine straw around bushes and flower beds at warehouses along Best Friend Road in Norcross. 'We have families to support,' Garcia said.
The workers went out of their way to buy water yesterday, however, and brought their own lunches to avoid having to make purchases.
Ali Mesghali, owner of Rumi's Kitchen on Roswell Road in Sandy Springs, said two of his cooks approached him to tell him about the boycott.
With a staff that's a good mix of Hispanic and American workers, Mesghali closed the Persian eatery for lunch Friday, choosing instead to open for the day at 5 p.m. for dinner.
'We wanted to support the Spanish people,' Mesghali said. 'I told them that if this is what you believe, I'm supporting you guys.'"

The Republicans do not know how bad the backlash is going to be.

Some local history of Buford

2006-03-25T09:31:00.000-05:00

"'American Made,' the 9 1/2-foot tribute to this former leather capital's history, was moved from McCallum's Tannery Row studio into a small park across the street last Saturday, ringed by six hitching posts and six benches made of granite and iron and a surround of engraved pavers.
The life-size portrait of cowboy movie star Roy Rogers, his faithful steed Trigger and saddlemaker John Johnson representing the hundreds of leather workers who came before him freezes a moment in time.
Rogers, his Western scarf uplifted by wind, looks as if he's trying to calm his horse, who's reared up on two legs. Johnson holds the Western saddle aloft, ready to place it on Trigger's back the minute he touches back down on all fours.
No matter if it ever actually happened this way: The action trio tells Buford's story writ small."

Interesting what small towns are known for.

Another Georgia manufacturing plant closes

2006-03-22T13:25:00.000-05:00

Fruit Of The Loom Shuts Down Georgia Plant: "Fruit of the Loom is shutting down its plant in Rabun County in north Georgia laying off 900 workers.
Owners of Rabun Apparel notified workers that the plant in Rabun Gap will shut down on August 26.
Layoffs will begin on March 27.
The owners blamed competition from imports from China for the shutdown.
Rabun Apparel is the largest employer in Rabun County. "

This is going to be tragic for this rural community. According to the US Census Bureau the poplulation of Rabun county was 16,011 in 2004.

CDC Budget cuts......

2006-03-22T12:26:00.000-05:00

"Budget documents submitted to Congress last month by the White House suggest overall spending at the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would remain essentially flat in fiscal year 2007, which begins Oct. 1. However, a nonprofit organization established to advocate increases in the CDC's budget said the White House proposal conceals 'major cuts' in the agency's core budget.
Karl Moeller, executive director of the Campaign for Public Health, said the administration has used emergency influenza pandemic funding to mask deep proposed cuts to the agency. 'Once these items are excluded, it becomes clear the administration's proposal drastically cuts the CDC,' the organization said.

Gerberding acknowledged the budget cut during an appearance at a forum on government investment in research and development.
'That's correct,' she said. 'Obviously, it creates a challenge. We do what every family does when their budget is short. They have to really priortize and make sure that the investments they're making are accomplishing the most they can.'
She added that the CDC was 'working hard to be more effective with less, but I'm not going to pretend that it's not a challenge.' "

This is just sad. Most public health programs nationally have been "doing more with less" while in Iraq we are "doing less with more".

At the Go Go race

2006-03-11T14:19:00.000-05:00

Aris and Mark waiting in line for go cart race track. After all the crashes, yellow flags and penalties I believe I won. Thanks for all the support!

Aris looking perplexed....

2006-03-10T15:45:00.000-05:00

Must have been the chicken burning on the grill....

Driving back

2006-03-09T14:36:00.000-05:00

Think he really needs BOTH hands on the wheel.......

Finally someone steps up

2006-02-24T19:34:00.000-05:00

It is about time SOMEONE acted like an damn advocate for the poor of this state. Cause that is who is on death row here and every other state in the county.

AP Wire 02/23/2006 Democratic lawmaker calls for death penalty moratorium: "ATLANTA - Executions would be put on hold in Georgia and a commission would study the state's use of the death penalty, under legislation introduced Thursday by a Democratic lawmaker.State Sen. Vincent Fort of Atlanta said the pair of bills is needed to ensure that the death penalty is applied fairly across race and income lines. A recent report by the American Bar Association raised questions about Georiga's death penalty.The moratorium isn't given much chance of succeeding. Republican leaders who control both chambers of the Legislature and Gov. Sonny Perdue have continued to endorse the death penalty, saying the appropriate checks and balances are already in place. Even prominent members of Fort's own party remain supporters."

It pisses me off to hear canidates and their supporters afraid of taking on the REAL issues of this state and country and getting all twisted and worrying about how "the voters" or the other party will paint them soft on crime by doing the right thing. Funny how they do not worry about supporting the status quo, even if it means killing some of "the voters", especially the poor brown ones.

Our "Christian" (wink,wink) Coalition in Georgia

2006-02-24T12:02:00.001-05:00

As this link from John Sugg shows, the Christian right only functions in a vacuum. When they are exposed to others not like them (white) they always end up being exposed for what they really stand for.

Does lowe's carry these?

2006-02-01T22:25:00.000-05:00

Does lowe's carry these?

So, if I have a chicken in my car.....

2006-02-01T12:44:00.000-05:00

Republican offers 'hot chicken protection bill' ajc.com

Only In A Small Town

2006-01-18T17:32:00.000-05:00

Only In A Small Town

Ice

2006-01-07T18:53:00.000-05:00

Ice

The cement around Cathy Cox's ankle

2005-09-28T04:10:00.000-05:00

Seems like Cathy has a wee political liability. Link

Drowning Uncle Sam........

2005-09-12T13:21:00.000-05:00

Katrina illustrates folly of starving Uncle Sam

September 10, 2005

BY RALPH MARTIRE
rmartire@ctbaonline.org

from the Chicago Sun Times

The grim events of the last week have had a profound, devastating impact on millions. Family members, loved ones, friends and acquaintances all were lost as Hurricane Katrina ravaged the Gulf Coast. Americans, being the resilient folks we are, will rebound from this disaster. We always do. But if something really positive is to emerge from Katrina's wake, the storm must claim one more victim.

The casualty won't involve the tragic loss of innocent life. Instead, it will be the end of a pernicious philosophy that simultaneously distracts Americans from our nation's real problems while driving wedges between segments of society. Simply put, Katrina should shatter the belief that government, as an institution, is the enemy. Grover Norquist, one of this ideology's most ardent champions, summarized it best in a 1998 interview: ''[When] I got out of college in 1978 there were two threats to American liberty: the Soviet Union and Washington, D.C. One of those is finished. . . . We now have the opportunity to turn our attention from fighting the Soviet Union to reducing the size and scope of the federal government, which is the other threat to our civil liberties.''

The preferred way to destroy the enemy that is our own government is simple: Starve the beast. In 2003, Norquist made this clear when he maintained the objective is ''to reduce the size and scope of government in half over the next 25 years,'' so that ultimately it is small enough ''to drown in a bathtub.'' In this world view, government threatens, rather than protects, civil liberties. Somehow, the size rather than function of government is what matters. ''Big government'' equates with ''bad government.''

I wonder if the millions who desperately need federal aid after Katrina agree. To the contrary, evacuees' main complaint is government isn't quite big enough. The Federal Emergency Management Agency was understaffed and deprioritized, military and National Guard units that could have made a difference were deployed in Iraq, and our nation didn't have the capacity to replace them.

The big government/small government debate misses the point entirely. It's not government's size in an abstract sense that matters, but rather whether government is adequately equipped to deliver needed services and perform essential functions. Certainly, having the capacity to respond to natural disasters is an easy example of a societal function that requires ''big'' government. Large-scale disasters are easily recognized, the media cover them extensively, and eventually, a clear resolution is reached.

Unfortunately, America's most significant problems aren't as easy to recognize, don't have the same media appeal and defy clear resolutions. For instance, America, the wealthiest nation in the world, is simultaneously experiencing an increase in poverty and a decline in wages for 80 percent of its workers, while the economy grows! More than 45 million Americans don't have health insurance. The United States ranks a woeful 43rd in the world in infant mortality rates.

Meanwhile, Congress is considering policy options straight out of the ''starve the beast'' playbook. These include cutting around $35 billion in funding for: Medicaid (despite the growing ranks of uninsured Americans); food stamps, housing and cash assistance for poor families (despite the growth in poverty); and student loan programs (despite census data making it clear that a college education is the only ticket to a growing income).

Big government didn't cause any of these big problems, but it can and should play a role in countering them. In many cases, it does. Government programs like Medicaid, Social Security and food stamps help alleviate many societal ills, while creating a fairer, more just America for all. ''Starving the beast'' ignores this reality, while incapacitating government's ability to play its role in making America great. The real issue isn't ''big'' government vs. ''small.'' It's competent, adequately financed government vs. incompetent, unprepared and incapacitated government. For the wealthiest nation in the world, the choice should be obvious.

Camp death puts DHR policies, practices on trial

2005-08-08T17:07:00.000-05:00

Interesting article.....

By CRAIG SCHNEIDER
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 08/08/05

The counselors who restrained 13-year-old Travis Parker in a face-down "full basket" hold at a state wilderness camp insist they were doing what they were trained to do with an unruly kid. But all six have been charged with murder i n his death.

And though state child protection officials claim they neither permit nor condone such restraints, the state Department of Human Resources will be judged on the incident as well, both in the court of public opinion and at the trial of its employees.

"DHR will be on trial," said Normer Adams, executive director of the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children. "The counselors say they were acting according to policy and how they were trained ... How can that not reflect on the system?"

Child welfare advocates say the state agency must offer an accounting of what policies, training and oversight occurred at the camp for troubled boys.

On April 20 at the Appalachian Wilderness Camp, counselors held Travis, who had asthma, on the ground for about an hour and a half, much of the time face down, and denied the boy's request for his inhaler, according to documents from the Human Resources Department.

Travis was restrained after he angrily confronted one of his counselors after being denied food as a punishment, according to written accounts from counselors and campers who witnessed the incident.

The restraint, which involved at least three counselors at a time, ended when the boy stopped breathing and went limp, the reports said. He was hospitalized and died the next day. An autopsy said his death resulted from the restraint.

Seeming conflict

The state's own investigation into Travis' death showed the face-down hold from which he died has been used for years at the camp.

But DHR child protection officials say the face-down restraint the men used on the Douglas County boy is not permitted and not in the camp's training manuals.

In May, Gwen Skinner, a DHR director, said "face-down restraints are not allowed, period."

In July, she said, "We do not train staff to do face-down restraints."

Last week, she said she wanted to clarify her remarks.

"I'm willing to acknowledge that our report says it was taking place," she said. "I believe our own report."

Skinner added, "But this is an issue that is being investigated by multiple agencies ... It's going to be a court matter and I want to be very careful."

She explained DHR policy as stating that the camp staff must abide by two official training manuals which recommend different restraints than the one used on Travis.

But the managers of the Appalachian Wilderness Camp say that these manuals were never formally adopted as the restraint protocols at the camp. DHR officials said that rules and regulations for the camp did not specifically prohibit a prone "full basket" restraint.

Since Travis' death, the DHR board has proposed adding specific language banning prone holds to the rules governing camp operation.

"Obviously there was a breakdown in between the policy and the practice," said Adams, the child welfare advocate.

That breakdown is what worries the families of the camp counselors — six young men who their lawyers say were dedicated to helping troubled kids.

Nancy Binford, the mother of counselor Paul Binford, said she believes DHR is using her son and the other counselors as scapegoats.

"These employees are just disposable to them," she said. "Easy to hang out to dry."

The Binfords say the case has turned their lives upside down. Paul's career with children has been thrown into limbo.

"This is horrible," said Michael Binford, an associate professor of political science at Georgia State University. "Just when I think it couldn't get any worse, it does."

Paul's mother added, "We are living in the hell of an innocent accused."

Lawyers for the counselors say the young men were trained in using the face-down restraint. During the restraint they checked Travis' pulse and breathing often during the hour and a half he was held down, the attorneys said.

Training pivotal

The question of training, and what was accepted procedure at this camp, almost certainly will become an issue at the murder trial next spring.

"If they were doing what they were trained to do, then they are not responsible in a criminal sense for what happened to Travis," said lawyer Abbi Guest, who is representing Mathew Desing, another of the counselors charged in the case.

A trial may also help reconcile some conflicting portraits of life at the Appalachian Wilderness Camp.

Phyllis Tate said her 16-year-old son, Raphael, who has been at the camp since January, is better at managing his anger. At his worst, the teen's rage had him destroying the mailbox and a screen door with a machete.

"In spite of this sad accident, I cannot think of a better place for my son to be," said the DeKalb County mom. "The young men who work with our children are caring, dedicated and idealistic. They are there to do something good in this crazy world. They are strict but loving, and people must realize that if a child is totally out of control, they must be restrained to protect not only those around them, but they often must be prevented from injuring themselves."

But former counselor Bill Hewes said he quit working at Appalachian Wilderness Camp in 2000 after six months on the job because he thought the restraints used on the children were too harsh.

Hewes said restraints were used as punishment, and that injuries sometimes occurred, including cuts, scrapes and, on one occasion, a fractured arm.

He quit, he said, after he witnessed a boy in a face-down restraint vomit several times. "I thought the kid was going to die," he said.

For now, the accreditation of the state-run wilderness camp is under review, the counselors are free on bond, and DHR will be holding a public hearing later this month on revising the camp rules on restraints.

Symbols matter......

2005-05-03T17:35:00.000-05:00

Let’s not forget that symbols matter

Symbols matter. We need look no further than the fight in Georgia to remove the Confederate flag from a position of sovereignty.
It is profoundly saddening that any time a group of black people requests a change, the majority of white people respond with irrational opposition. Groups such as the NAACP, Rainbow/PUSH, and The People’s Tribunal must resort to litigation, boycotts and civil disobedience before progress is made on issues affecting black people.
I lived in Virginia when Arthur Ashe died. Many black leaders in Richmond wanted to erect a monument to him on the city's main thoroughfare, known as (Confederate) Monument Boulevard. The viciousness expressed by white people opposed to his statue being placed next to that of Robert E. Lee was horrifying.
It is not up to any white person to decide for black people what should be important. Almost every public building in Valdosta was named before black people could vote. I know of only one public building named for a black person, the rest are named for white people.
We white people have plenty of our own symbols all around us, and it must give great comfort to some that we can drive past the Courthouse every day and see a symbol of white superiority called the Confederate Monument. I know, it’s heritage, not hate, it's about how proud we are that our ancestors took up arms against the U.S. government.
I want my daughter to grow up in a city where people come together in a spirit of goodwill for the greater good.
As long as that Confederate Monument is on the Courthouse lawn, I think black people in Valdosta ought to be able to rename any place they want.

Leigh Touchton
Valdosta

Civil Rights Leader in Valdosta Arrested

2005-04-22T08:35:00.000-05:00

Dear Editors and All Patriotic Americans

On 21 April 2005 at 6:43 PM Floyd Rose was arrested by Valdosta Police
Department. Rev Rose is President of the Peoples Tribunal, former
pastor of the Church at Pine Hill, Author, founder of Save the Children in
Toledo Ohio and activist that galvanized over 2,000 Lowndes County
Citizens and marched on the Lowndes County jail in 1998 following the death
of a Black jailed inmate Willie James Williams who died while in
custody of the Lowndes County Sheriffs Department after a routine traffic
stop.

Also arrested was Willie Head Vice President of the Peoples Tribunal
who lives in Brooks County and was carried to the Lowndes County Jail.
While many others stood by desiring to be arrested along with these two
heroes---for the cause of justice and self respect. (Not just ten like
our local paper The Valdosta Daily Times reported on 22 April 2005

The arrests took place in City Hall because the Valdosta City Council
voted against renaming a recent renovated park in memory of a black
person. The present name “Barber Park” was a man who had a history of
refusing to allow Blacks into the park to swim and participate in other
activities during the ugly period of segregation.

Barber Park is now in a community that is approximately 97 percent
Black and will be frequented mainly by Blacks. However, in Lowndes County
it appears that elected officials refuse to take Blacks seriously. One
can only speculate why Black Councilman Willie Head and White
Councilman Sumner were absent from such an important meeting.

Valdosta seem to consistently disrespect Blacks. For example: When
Rev. Floyd Rose ran for Chairman of the Lowndes County Board of
Commissioners and received racial slurs and threats on his life that caused the
polling place on Jaycee shack Road to be shut down and a Sheriffs
Deputy remain at the sight. However, no elected official within the City or
County spoke out against such ill treatment of a Georgia Citizens
running for public office.

Our local newspaper only reported the story after citizens demanded
something be reported to the public. In addition: For over 16 years
citizens have complained about the inhumane, abusive, unsanitary conditions
in our jail and the denial of inmates constitutional rights. This has
been documented and identified by Civil Action 89-54-Val of the U.S.
District Court of the Middle District of Georgia, Valdosta Division, by
United States Judge Hugh Lawson. The case was filled back in 1989 by
inmates who continues to send signed letters and notarized statements
trying to get their elected officials to respond to their cries for an
outside investigation of the jail—but to no avail and Blacks are tired of
this repeated practice.

All this added to Rev Rose refusal to remove himself from the podium
because he felt the Black community was once again not being treated
fairly in Lowndes County.. This is especially true when it comes to
monuments, naming of schools and other symbols that will instill pride in
Black children. Even though Valdosta is a newly established Metropolitan
City it has one of the shortest streets recognizing the Nobel Peace
Prize Winner Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. that has only five blocks. When
much smaller cities in South Georgia have thorough fares named in Kings
honor. This is proof of how Blacks are respected in the circles of
Lowndes County.

It is no secret that Brooks and Lowndes County Georgia have had a long
history of mistreating Blacks that dates back before July 1918 when 12
Blacks were killed in what was known as a “Week of Terror.” The
Georgia Governor and the President of the United States had to get involved
to stop the violence, and it is recorded that 500 Blacks left the area
immediately after the matter was resolved.

One Black man killed during that week of terror was named SIDNEY
JOHNSON-#1 for what ever reason was castrated and dragged up and down
Patterson Street in Valdosta Georgia behind an automobile while the crows
looked on in glee. So reported in NAACP crisis in 1918. This week of
terror is recorded in America and World History.

Also, killed were WILL THOMPSON-#2, WILL HEAD-#3, HAYES TURNER-#4,
CHINE RILEY-#5, EUGENE RICE-#6, SIMON SCHUMAN,-#7 victim #8,#9,#10, name
omitted but included in the week of lynchings and lawlessness against
Black citizens in this South Georgia Area. Others were Hayes Turner’s
wife MARY TURNER-#11, who was lynched and her 8th MONTH OLD FETUS-#12,
was violently ripped from her womb with a knife by a white MOB member
while she hanged from a tree, and the head of the child crushed beneath a
mob member boot. But our city council seems to want us to forget
unlike the Jews who said, “We will never forget.”

These acts of violence all comes to mind to Blacks concerning the name
Barber Park. Councilman Sessions would never have gotten away with
making a statement concerning the Jewish Holocaust that he made concerning
Blacks and the naming of Barber Park at the meeting. Moreover, no one
has been brought before the Bar of Justice for any of these crimes
against humanity. Yet, local elected officials seem to believe that Blacks
and White Right people will let this matter fade into the sunset of is
gravely mistaken. This is an extremely, serious matter that combines
many historical pains and heartaches of the past.

The dream of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and those who suffered, bleed,
and died for this Republic will not rest until justice comes to the
streets of Lowndes county Georgia. My ref for the lynchings is The Crisis
September 1918, Vol. 16, page 5. Lead into this story, and in the book
Before the Mayflower by Leone Bennett.

Our elected officials in South Georgia continues to disrespect Blacks
and refuse to provide even a courteous reply to jailed inmates who are
suffering----many of whom are American Veterans. Moreover a U.S. Court
Judge rendered a Court order and consent decree but no one knows who
was responsible for insuring the order was carried out. Moreover,
approximately eight inmates have died in or surrounding our jail but our
elected officials have never sought to really resolve these long standing
problems within our community. But in the end all this will be a matter
for discussion during the renaming of Barber Park.

Rev Floyd Rose has called for a news conference at 2:00 PM on 22 April
2005 on the steps of City Hall. The seriousness of this just cause
will not stop with two arrests.. Blacks are tired of being treated as
second class citizens in this county.

It must be known that Blacks see Rev Rose as their only and final hope
for change--- in a city that jailed inmates have called a Hell Hole for
Blacks.

Rev Rose has always been available to the press and very much capable
of speaking and addressing the real issues of his community. He is a
patriot that cannot be bought or sold by the status quo. He can be
reached at 229-444-1938-or 229-241-1288. Rev Rose is truly a community
organizer and highly respected by all Black and White Right folks of this
ill community.

I write because our local editor Kay Harris article on 22 April 2005
maintains the status quo as usual in her article. Moreover, all local
media seems to follow the status quo so no real change can come to this
South Georgia Town. However, in the end the voice of the people will
eventually win as it always does.

I’m sure that Rev. Rose passionate action is only a beginning and as
Rev. Joseph Lowery, one of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. lieutenants said,
“Valdosta will set the tone for Civil Rights in the 21st Century,” and
without knowing it local governmental agencies seems to be full filling
this long time civil rights prophecy. Peace!

GEORGE RHYNES
A concerned citizens and brother of humanity
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

2005-03-10T04:57:00.000-05:00

Sad. Hacks bringing down hacks.

Ethics my ass..........part two

2005-02-07T14:45:00.000-05:00

Why is it that no one except the AJC and creative loafing are raising hell about this. If you want to hurt Sonny in 06 why does not someone beat him over the head with this? This guy OVERSEES an organization that includes the Public Health for the state. And Public Health does lots of prevention around teen clinics, pregnant women, HIV, STD and other health issues.

HE IS THE DAMN CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD!!!!!

oh, and they set policy for the state around health care and how it is done.

OUR OPINIONS: It's best for state that Cook choose one job

Staff Friday, February 4, 2005

When Department of Human Resources chairman Bruce Cook spoke in October at a state-funded conference on teen abstinence, he boasted of the effectiveness of his own company's line of books and videos. Conveniently, representatives from his abstinence-only publishing empire, Choosing the Best, were at the event to sign up new customers from the local schools and agencies in attendance.
The conflicts in that situation are so blatant that a blindfolded man sealed in a vault and buried 100 feet under the ground would notice them. How could Gov. Sonny Perdue not see them?
After all, Perdue himself had clearly defined the problem in an executive order issued early in his term: "An appearance of conflict exists when a reasonable person would conclude from the circumstances that the employee's ability to protect the public interest, or perform public duties, is compromised by personal interests."
As chairman of the DHR board, Cook directs social service policies and has shown a willingness to slant that policy toward his ideology and his business. In September, Cook and the DHR board even imposed a policy mandating that the counseling offered at teen centers focus in part on abstinence, which just happens to be a perfect match for what Cook markets. Those teen centers, which rely on DHR for funding, cannot help but feel pressured to use Cook's products in their work.
Cook says he won't realize any direct economic gain if a teen center chose his product, because his company will provide the material free of charge to any DHR-funded program. (The company does provide material to Georgia schools that is paid for through federal programs.) However, Cook enhances his company's prestige and reputation by adding teen centers to its client list, and effectively shuts out potential competitors in the state.
Perdue should tell Cook that he can either run his company or the DHR board, but not both.

Ethics my ass.........

2005-02-07T14:37:00.000-05:00

From the AJC on Friday.....

OUR OPINIONS: Sex miseducation

DeKalb parents were smart to say it's a mistake to teach teens that abstinence is their only course

Staff Friday, February 4, 2005

Bruce Cook, tapped 15 months ago by Gov. Sonny Perdue to lead the Department of Human Resources board, is a very smart guy. He went from co-chair of a sex education study panel at his son's school to founder of one of the nation's largest abstinence-only publishing companies, Choosing the Best.
So when Cook faced a roomful of parents with Ph.D.s at DeKalb County's Shamrock Middle School last week, baring both their research and their teeth, he wisely stepped back and let county officials deal with the heat for adding the Choosing the Best program to all eighth-grade health classes.
And that's who deserves the flogging.
Choosing the Best's sex education course relies largely on fear to persuade teens to abstain from sex until marriage. There's nothing wrong with putting a little fear in 14-year-olds, but the program twists statistics to make its case, in essence misleading children in order to help them. That's what upset DeKalb parents, especially those who work in AIDS research and health and know the importance of honesty in such discussions.
Why did DeKalb schools embrace Choosing the Best without reviewing its scientific accuracy, those parents asked. (While the curriculum was approved by a review committee, it turned out later that it had never been sanctioned by the DeKalb school board, as required.) Apparently, school officials were sold by the ease with which Choosing the Best can be taught, since it includes videos and workbooks. Central office staff could not explain to skeptical Shamrock parents why the sex ed course already in place in DeKalb wasn't sufficient, beyond the fact that Cook's program came free of charge.
The Bush White House is investing heavily in abstinence-only programs, allotting $170 million this year alone for such programs. Choosing the Best received a three-year federal grant for nearly $1.5 million in 2001 and last year won another three-year grant, for $2.4 million, to serve eight Georgia districts, including DeKalb, Fulton and Rockdale.
Cook contends that children are ill-served by what his books deride as Planned Parenthood's abstinence-plus approach. Telling young people that they should not have sex, but urging them to use precautions if they do, sends a mixed message, he says.
The Choosing the Best program doesn't deal with contraceptives at all, which the Shamrock parents argued ultimately puts kids at risk for sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy if they do have sex.
"Yes, we would all like our children to be abstinent, if not to marriage, at least darn close to it," says Shamrock parent and biologist Sarah L. Pallas. "But you can't take this head-in-the-sand approach. You still provide them with the information to protect them."
The parents prevailed, at least for the moment. Chastised DeKalb officials agreed to suspend the teaching of Choosing the Best in Shamrock until more "dialogue" can occur between the school and parents.
But the whole controversy about abstinence-only education has to move to a larger stage than a middle school cafeteria in central DeKalb. The $170 million question is whether federal tax dollars should underwrite sex education programs for teens that essentially ignore sex.
Cook says "yes," and cites statistics showing that just about everyone abstaining from sex --- perhaps with the exception of the Virgin Mary --- graduated his program. Neither Cook nor his literature mentions that 88 percent of teenagers who pledge to remain virgins until marriage eventually break that pledge, according to a study based on the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health.
In other words, no matter how much Americans want their children to delay sex until marriage, most don't. Pretending otherwise --- in the name of protecting kids --- does just the opposite.

speechless......

2005-01-10T21:02:00.000-05:00

This is the ONLY option these idiots have left in their teeny tiny brains ?!

Salvador option
The Pentagon may put Special-Forces-led assassination or kidnapping teams in Iraq.
Jan. 8 - What to do about the deepening quagmire of Iraq? The Pentagon’s latest approach is being called "the Salvador option"—and the fact that it is being discussed at all is a measure of just how worried Donald Rumsfeld really is. "What everyone agrees is that we can’t just go on as we are," one senior military officer told NEWSWEEK. "We have to find a way to take the offensive against the insurgents. Right now, we are playing defense. And we are losing."

Now go read this.

On the night of November 16, 1989, a Salvadoran Army patrol entered the University of Central America in San Salvador and massacred six Jesuit priests, their housekeeper and her daughter. Nineteen of the military officers cited for this atrocity have received training at the US Army School of the Americas.

Jesus...we are doomed.

Tell Sonny not to worry about education.....

2005-01-10T20:15:00.000-05:00

This from the Dougherty County Republican party website. Link

The Republican Party has worked to eliminate the confiscatory death tax, the double taxation of dividends, the unfair marriage penalty, as well as other taxes, which serve only to dampen economic growth. The Republican Party stands for strong defense, law and order, and high ethical standards. In contrast, the Democrat party has gerrymandered, philibustered, and used parliamentary tactics to bury legislation in committee.

Bus buddies - fascists, ADD boy, a mean old lady and what the hell is that smell?

2004-12-22T19:04:00.000-05:00

What a jacked up ride home today.

damn.

Ok, while waiting to get on the bus I overheard "Susie" and "Bob" behind me yammering:

Susie: ...and you know I think that we should make them have the election next week. After they vote just turn the county over to them. We have tried to work with them long enough. It's a county full of terrorist. Let them have it. If the new leaders want to work with us then fine. If not let them kill each other. We aren't getting any help anyway from anyone and we are the ones that have to shoulder the burden helping those folks.
Bob: Yeah....
Susie: you know I listen to talk radio driving home everyday to keep up with what is really happening. And I am tired of people blaming the US for fighting against terrorism.
Bob: Yeah...on Fox last night they were talking about that armor question that Rumsfield was asked. Like that armor they are putting on even really helps at all...
Susie:...You know that John Kerry and John Edwards and John Kennedy...uh...what's that guy's name....kenndy......the bad one....Ted Kenndy....they all voted against giving the armor to the troops. They are the reason the troops do not have what they need.....
Bob: ....and we are the only ones that can do the job.....the UN can't...
Susie:....please, the UN has never done anything good. The UN has never gone into a county and done anything...and they are nothing but a bunch of crooks.
Bob:.....yeah, and all they want is for us to give them more money....

Kiss my ass.

Then I get on my bus and manage to sit at the front away from the Hannity twins.

At the next stop tons of people get on board and a guy sits down next to me. As he settles in I am surprised to see he has Howard Zinns
Peoples History of the United States. I start to think about telling him what a great book it is. You know, here is a comrade and maybe I can get him to talk loud enough to piss off the twins. But then something tells me to keep my mouth shut. Very good idea.

The guy (now named ADD boy) can't be still. I first think that he is just uncomfortable and full of office fruit cake. But within the first 10mins ADD boy takes off his coat, re-arranges his shirt 5 times and shifts around in his seat like he has some severe ass rash. By the time we get 20 mins into our 1 hour ride, ADD boy continues to shift around, readjusting his shirt, opening and closing his book 37 times, and all the time bumping into me. The whole hour long trip he does not finish the first page.

While this is going on next to me, up front this older woman is talking loud as hell. As people are having causal conversations around her, she is attempting to tell them what she thinks about everything she overhears. She is the mean old lady.
Someone mentions that the credit unions are closed the rest of the week. Mean old lady starts talking over this person saying that credit unions don't matter and that banks are not allowed to be closed but 3 days straight. Like anyone cares.

So, as I am trying to sleep a little and ignore all this around me......something starts to smell.

What is that funky smell....and the smell keeps getting stronger.

Finally halfway through the ride I finally determine that what I am smelling is rotten bananas.

Who smells like rotten bananas......never figure it out.

It's good to get off this bus today.......

I am happy to announce today that we are winning the Christmas war

2004-12-22T14:03:00.000-05:00

Christmas War?
here

"When we began the Christmas season this year, we were all very much aware that a war was being waged by the Christmas grinches -- the American Civil Liberties Union [ACLU], Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and other secularists, to steal Christmas from America. To not only take Christ out of Christmas, but to remove Christmas totally from the American scene. I am happy to announce today that we are winning the Christmas war."

WTF

Is this all you got?

Let me be the first.....I am declaring war on the Ester Bunny!

I really hate the Ester Bunny and what he stands for. Eggs from a rabbit?

Ester 2005 dinner will feature scramble eggs and smothered rabbit.

With a nice Merlot

Bring it on Jerry

at work today......poor damn christians

2004-12-21T17:44:00.000-05:00

ok, I have heard this over and over at work, on the bus, and in meetings.

"you know you can't say merry christmas anymore in _______ "

" at ________ they won't allow kids to sing frosty the snowman"

and my favorite.... "They are trying to ban Christmas"

crap.

it's all lies

all of it

Quit looking for a cross to hang on.

oh, we fixed that racism thing back in the 60's.......

2004-12-20T21:24:00.000-05:00

This shows that outside of the urban areas things have not changed much in the past 40 years.

"A recent afternoon found Eugene Alexander chopping firewood outside a tar-paper shack in this hamlet 80 miles east of Atlanta. With no plumbing, insulation or electric heat, the tin-roof shanty looks vacant and deserted, but it isn't. Alexander, 67, pays $50 a month to live here.

Alexander's home is a dusty little museum piece of the segregated South. Rural Greene County has several such artifacts: a doctor's office that still maintains separate waiting rooms for black and white; a big mural in the post office that depicts black field hands picking cotton, their children eating watermelon in the dirt."

Coming from a rural area of GA six months ago I can tell you this could be 100 other counties in the state.

We ought to be a little more outraged......

Gary Webb, 49, Journalist, Is Dead

2004-12-18T19:31:00.000-05:00

I have been so busy that I had not seen this until today.

What really pisses me off is the byline that says his work was discredited. Bullshit.

Someone will one day prove him right. Betcha money on that.

here is a cartoon cartoon that Tom Tomorrow did back in the mid nineties.

Here is a more indepth article about Gary Webb and his career.

There is a special place in hell for these folks.

Deranged third rate vendors? Underground Walmart?

2004-12-18T13:49:00.000-05:00

So, in the wake of the underground announcing another go at it, the AJC let a Walmart suit write an editorial opinion where he calls homeless people deranged and the area around the underground full of petty criminals.

Now the whole piece is racist as hell.

But the best part is when he rants against street vendors (who have permits) and calls them "third-rate street vendors ". Seems that he wants the Mayor to clean things up and "the vendors could be forced to comply with city regulations regarding the size and physical appearance of their displays".

I imagine that all those small business owners just drive him mad....and just.....so......so......un-uniformed.

Chaos!

Wonder if Walmart is eyeing underground.

My daily bus ride

2004-12-18T08:07:00.000-05:00

I work in downtown and ride a commuter bus from a park and ride lot.

going to keep it vague at this point as to the details.

I am just amazed at the arrogance of people and the assumptions they make because you look like them. These people ride into downtown everyday and treat the experience as a visit to the zoo. We sit up in this tall, comfortable, heated, bus and view the "city" as a urban getto full of crazy, drunk, messed up homeless folks. oh, and lots of black folks.

Way too many of those...."gotta keep your eyes open".

Christ on a crutch.

I sit there on Monday morning hearing people talk about Sunday's sermon at church and how their spiritual leader moved them.

Then I see the look on their faces as we cruise into downtown and pass the homeless guy sleeping on the sidewalk. The look is not one of tolerance, sadness, or even pity.

The look I see would shame Jesus.

It is the look of fear, loathing, intolerance, and worse....Indifference.

"guess he is happy like that"
"wish the police would do something about this"
"why doesn't Franklin (mayor) do something about this"
" need to put them to work picking up the trash around here"

Actual comments by my bus buddies.

At times I make comments like " you know, we really do not fund mental health very well in this nation or the state" or comments concerning that there is a "big picture" and historical issues (poverty, education, racism) that created this.

Then the uncomfortable silence.

Another bus buddy lost. damn.

Ok, gotta put somthing up

2004-12-16T22:01:00.000-05:00

Well, guess I will do this quick post to let folks know I am still around. Moved to Atanta area recently and have not had the time or creative juice to write much.

2004-11-21T15:15:00.000-05:00

Big Mike, Little Mike and Landyn

letters

2004-07-18T09:49:00.000-05:00

George Rhynes
(229-251-8645)5004
Oak DriveValdosta,
Georgia 31605

Death of Another Inmate, where is the news coverage?

Luke 4:18...Twenty-Four days ago the Valdosta Daily Times reported the death of a 49 year old White male inmate who died on 21 June 2004 in the Lowndes County Jail. However, his name and cause of death have not been released to the general public---by local news media. Other inmates who have died in or surrounding our jail were Rosemary King age 40, died on 20 Jun 2001, Ronzie “Sonny” Graham age 48, died on 13 July 2000, Willie James Williams age 49, died on 2 Sept 1998, Willie Lee Gay age 39, died, on 23 Oct 1995, and years earlier Willard McFarland also died to mention a few. This was reported in The Post a weekly investigative newspaper on 15 April 2004, Vol. 17, No. 2, (Al Parson owner, 229-242-7179, FAX 229-242-7143).For over fifteen years inmates,parents, pastors, organizations and others have petitioned the Lowndes County Commissioners, Grand Jury, District Attorney, Representatives, Georgia Attorney General, Georgia Lieutenant Governor and others who seems to ignore the ill treatment, and deaths of inmates in this county. Many of whom are American Veterans.
This prolonged lack of attention can only be compared to a week of terror in Brooks and Lowndes County in 1918---wherein over ten Black American citizens were killed: They were Hayes Turner, Mary Turner, Will Head, Will Thompson, Sidney Johnson, an eight month old fetus, Willie Schuman, and three other black individuals whose name were with held but included in the Governors investigation report.It was a white Georgia Governor Hugh M. Dorsey that took a strong stand for law, order, and justice---instead of chaos. Unlike our present elected officials in my opinion---who have reviewed the two hour documentary video entitled “A Chorus of Fear,” put together by a class at Valdosta State University highlighting the fear that exists in Lowndes County---but they continue to ignore jailed inmates.
Regardless of the reason surrounding inmate’s death, my condolences go out to his family, friends, and relatives. However, after eighty-six years there is no record where the perpetrators of the crimes committed in Brooks and Lowndes County in 1918, were ever brought to justice. Therefore, valid questions must be asked whenever human life is dissolved.
In addition, on 14 July 2004, I received a copy of another Civil Action filed in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia Valdosta Division against the Lowndes County Jail. So where will it all end, and at what cost to local citizens, and does anyone cares?
GEORGE RHYNES
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity!
cc: Closed: But made at request of local inmates!

2004-06-27T12:50:00.000-05:00

Pitcher Plants at Grandbay in Valdosta

2004-06-27T12:47:00.000-05:00

one of Banks Lake in Valdosta

Trying out the new picture post....this could be dangerous.

2004-06-27T12:34:00.000-05:00

Just taking this picture posting software out for a spin......kinda cool
One from Jekyll

Posted by Hello

Letters on the Jail

2004-04-26T19:52:00.000-05:00

Please read theletter
below this post BB

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 21 Apr 2004
605 ½ East hill Ave
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor

The Valdosta Daily times (VDT) is our only daily newspaper in Lowndes
County Georgia. On 14 April 2004, Michelle Taylor reported “George
Rhynes questioned why his letter had not been responded to and that no
amount of renovation of the jail will help inmates.”

My actual quote: “The Valdosta Daily Times reported a few days
ago---that the Lowndes County Commissioners should work quickly to renovate
the jail facility. However, no amount of renovation alone, in my opinion
will fix discrepancies inmates are facing today.”

THE FOLLOWING IS MY REASONS FOR MAKING THE ABOVE STATEMENT BEFORE THE
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS. AS A CONCERNED CITIZEN I WILL----REPEAT THE
SAME STATEMENT TO THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA, PRESIDENT OF THE
UNITED STATES, AND FELLOW AMERICANS-----BASED UPON THE FOLLOWING
COMMENTS FROM REAL INMATES SIGNED LETTERS, AND NOTARIZED STATEMENTS SENT TO
ME….
“LOWNDES COUNTY JAIL PROBLEMS”
Information Provided From: [Inmates in the Lowndes County Jail (19
July – Aug 2003). These items were extracted directly from inmates
comments. One should also see Capt. Yeager Report to the County
Commissioners/Valdosta Daily Times on 29 Aug 2003], Georgia problems 1989 – 2003]
Notice: This does no include the many letters received at the Lake
Park Post, a local newspaper and other community organizations available
for review!

1. Inmates are incarcerated for months without seeing their Court
Appointed Attorney. Therefore, they are denied due process.

2. Deputy pulls out a pistol like object and waves all around before
aiming squarely at inmate and telling inmate to “get against the wall.”
All because inmates want to complete a complaint form on a deputy.

3. Inmates kneed in back by deputy and his forearm in the back of his
neck and trying to push inmate (Name withheld but available), face into
the wall – at which time inmate (Name Withheld, but available),
rightfully defended himself against those unwarranted, unprovoked acts by
deputy.

4. Inmates denied the right to file a legitimate complaint form in the
State of Georgia when it is against a deputy.

5. Georgia Inmates have problems getting regular complaint forms
notarized as proof that action was taken deputy said; “I ant’s signing a damn
thing – get it signed yourself.”

6. Inmates must show copy of sixth amendment to educate deputy on
inmate rights. (The deputy tells inmate to “get out of my face,” and pushes
inmate, unprovoked. All as a result of attempting to fill out a
Georgia complaint form.

7. Incidents are swept under the rug rather than being properly
investigated. And no one will listen to inmates concerns within Jail
facility.

8. Inmates must endure cruel and unusual punishment at the jail. There
must be an outside agency to inspect this jail for things to change.

9. Many tours are done through the jail. But the bad areas are not
shown. Only tailored tours are given. The kitchen is not always shown;
therefore, no valid review of the jail is done.

10. Drinking water is unfit to drink and food is terrible.

11. Inmates are required to live in inhumane, unsanitary and abusive
conditions. (Squalid Conditions).

12. Cell doors sticks when opened from control booth --- that creates
problems! Inmates are locked in cell because of malfunction!

13. Deputies play with the fans and taunts and agitate inmates in
cellblocks where there is no ventilation or air conditioning.

14. Inmates must endure leaky water pipes, in dormitory; pools of water
are over the floor. This is a hazard because inmates are required to
wear flip-flops.

15. When inmates try to keep a potential bad situation from getting
worst. Deputies often make things worst by not paying attention to the
needs of inmates—as it was on 23 July 2003!

16. Lowndes County Administrations lie and don’t acknowledge the
handbook they give out to inmates.

17. Food is not nutritional, and inmates have questioned its
cleanliness.

18. Two cells (cell 12 A & B) has no bed frame or nothing in it at all,
besides out of order toilets and the sink does not work at all.

19. If an inmate does something, like cursing a Sgt. or Officer. He
will be booked 9 out of 10. He is going to one of these cells depending
what Sergeant.

20. Inmates are stripped naked left in this conditions for long periods
of time.

21. Jail staff will not provide water as needed and inmates do not get
showers or wash his/her hands face or do any hygiene customs.

22. Inmates are placed in cell (12B) with no mattress or nothing else
for necessities.

23. Inmates are placed in handcuffs and shackled for 7 days and six
nights straight. (Copy of incident on File in Jail says inmates)..

24. The jail has a restraint chair, inmates are not allowed to use the
bathroom, and a chance to stretch as provided by polices in force by
the State of Georgia.

25. Medical staff is very much on the side of the Sheriffs office, and
does not administer the needs of inmates.

26. The Medical Staff lies, hides issues, and don’t document incidents
that happen that could cause legal trouble for the administration.

27. Inmates families are lied to by Jail administration when they call
concerning their love ones welfare.

28. This jail is very unconstitutional and several inmates say that it
is ran in a racist manner.

29. The jail handbook is a fraud; in fact, it is so easy to prove.

30. Inmates needs to be interviewed, and the facility should be
inspected everywhere there is a swinging doors.

31. (Name Withheld but available), was recently fired; (Gender withheld
but available), could be a vital witness in every issue if (Gender
withheld), is willing to do so --- to confirm these horrendous conditions.

32. Since the Jail started toting lasers to Las inmates when out of
control. But that’s not how they are being used and I believe the
situation will get worst.

33. Inmates are denied their rights to have access to the Law Library
even without requests and that’s not happening.

34. Inmates are taxed when they buy stamps and on store items.
(Inmates believe they are exempt from this practice.)

35. PERSONAL REQUEST: Inmates requested that I (George B. Rhynes) call
on the community to sign a petition for the inspectors office and the
U. S. Marshals Office to inspect and investigate the Jail
Administrations.

36. Inmates (Name Withheld but available) was left in the restraints
chain for 18 hours straight on one occasion in the past.

37. HANDBOOK VIOLATIONS: Each inmate may designate up to twelve
immediate family members etc. [This is not being done we are limited to six]

38.Each inmate will participate in an organized and supervised program
of daily cleaning within his housing and common areas. [This is not
being done at all]

39.Inmates in the hold (cell 8) do not ever get to clean his call ---
practically have to beg to receive cleaning materials.

40. Each inmate will be entitled to shower daily and required to shower
three (3) times a week. [This is not happening. Inmates in (cell 8,)
and the (MP) area. Also medical isolated inmates are forced to receive
the minimum (3 showers a week). Even officers try to rush inmates out
of showers.

41.Disciplinary process must be fair and systematic so that no person
staff or inmate may plead ignorance of the rules or bias in the
procedures. Hasty arbitrary decision and/or corporal punishment shall not be
allowed. [This is not the case]

42. Inmates are convicted by one person, where inmates are suppose to
be placed in lock-up then incident is supposed to be investigated and
then a hearing. [This is not being done}

43. ABOVE ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT VIOLATIONS: But there are many more!

44. The Medical Staff and Administration: (Name withheld, but
available), LPN/RN is the Head Nurse. She distributes medication in water out
of the capsule before she’s in inmates presence. This violates inmates
rights to confirm exactly what’s in the water and if it’s the correct
medication.

45. (Name withheld but available), (LPN) ignores inmates verbal
complaints. If it is about issues and Sheriff Admin Office say, “they can’t
make medical to nothing.”

46. Some nurses will refuse inmates his/her medicine if the inmates and
nurse has had an altercation and jail Administrators condone the action
and will not stop it.

47. Constitutional Rights and Civil Rights are still being violated as
of 2003.

48. Inmates have exhausted all their avenues, and they seek outside
help from any body that will help them. They believe many people only
procrastinate about providing relief about the ill Administration in the
Lowndes County Jail.

49. Some inmates are willing to take some steps but not nearly, enough
that would be significant to bring enough stress on the jail to change
their ill actions, inhuman, treatment towards inmates.

50. The whole issue of the extreme bad conditions in the jail rests on
the Sheriff because of his lack of concern and interest of the Jail’s
operations.

51. The Sheriff is intentionally accepting fabrications from jail
administrations to hide the facts that there are some serious violations
inside his jail and with its operation in my opinion.

II. SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT OWN ADMISSION: Capt. Yeager from the Sheriffs
Department as reported in the Valdosta, Daily times!

52, We have massive plumbing problems.

53. Water runs non-stop in sections of the jail creating safety
hazards.

54. Toothpaste tubes are stuffed into showerheads in attempt to stop
leaks.

55. Water in cell refuse to discharge any water this is typical.

56. Staff has to pour acid down all of the drains to keep leeches and
other pests from entering the jail especially shower areas.

57. Rusty shower frames, which Capt. Yeager said inmates are using to
make shanks.

58. Heat swelter to over 100 degrees and no air.

59. Many windows no longer opens and oscillating fans only serve to
push heat air around.

60. Cell locks are obsolete larger security pods can be opened with as
little as a bed sheet or an identification card, giving the inmates
undesired freedom of movement.

61. Control boards are also fading that controls operate most of the
doors. The alternative is to give jail personnel individual keeps, which
is a liability risk.

62. Jail held 570 people, but jail staff was forced to cook three meals
in a 1956 kitchen designed to feed 80 prisoners.

63. Capt. Yeager said “A jail our size should have a kitchen four times
this size.”

64. Jail intake area was designed to handle 120 people though they have
500 and there is no way to segregate male and female prisoners at the
intake desk.

65. The Infirmary has a capacity of only 10 prisoners. It has no
negative air flow areas to handle infectious disease cases---it has become a
logistic nightmare.

64.Transporting prisoners to court appearances are so inadequate that
inmates are stacked in visitation areas.

66. Sewer lines are also corroded and the City of Valdosta has put the
Sheriffs Office on notice that they jail will soon need its own lift
station and grinder to keep solid waste out of the city’s treatment
system.

66. Doors jambs are stifling, creating unstable doors, which could
potentially be forced opened.

67. The conditions at the jail also effect the 108 jail employees.

68. Employees should not be exposed to such bad conditions that now
exist in the jail.

CONCLUSION: For more read the legal section on page 6B of the Valdosta
Daily Times dated 5 September 2003. And ask the real question-
 Who is responsible for allow this jail to get into this condition?

Note: Most of the violations are the same ones identified in U. S.
District Court For the Middle District of Georgia Valdosta Division.
Civil Action No. 89-54-VAL, Consent Order And Decree, and Class Action
dated June 6, 1989, and should have been corrected and complied with.
HOWEVER THIS DECREE IS NO LONGER VALID AS I UNDERSTAND IT.

a. The Question to this community should be—who ensured that this order
was complied with? Was it the DA, County Commissioners, Sheriff, or
the concerned citizens! Somebody should be held accountable!
Information compiled from letters received from Inmates & Valdosta Daily times.

No end to this story----only God can and will resolve this nightmare!
I thank God for allowing me to help complete Luke 4:18, of his divine
word. Peace!

Letters

2004-04-26T19:50:00.000-05:00

George Rhynes, Speaks to the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners!

Mr. Chairman and Board of Commissioners---First allow me to apologize
for being here—on an old issue. However, you have not responded to my
26 August 2003 letter on behalf of inmates, incarcerated in the Lowndes
County Jail.

I have had a cockatiel bird for 12 years. When she have needs she
chirps, and I respond to her needs.

Between 1989-1997, Judge Hugh Lawson, U.S. District Court Middle
District of Georgia Valdosta, Division. He too, heard chirps coming from
(Some Jailbirds incarcerated in) the Lowndes County Jail.

On 21 October 1997, he issued a Court Order and Consent Decree that
inmates 1st, 6th, 8th, and 14th Amendment to the Constitution of the
United States had been violated. He gave two (2), years for Lowndes County
to comply.

However, on 26 August 2003, I stood before you because…like Judge
Lawson. I too, heard some chirps from the Lowndes County Jail. They came
in the form of signed letters, and notarized statements. Many were the
same chirps or violations---listed in Civil Action #89-54-VAL.

After standing before you on behalf of (over) eleven (11) inmates,
their parents, and former employees---for relief... You ignored our
request. All I could give them was the 35TH Psalm of David, as a symbol of
hope!

The Valdosta Daily Times reported a few days ago---that you should
work quickly to renovate the jail facility. However, no amount of
renovation alone, in my opinion will fix discrepancies inmates are facing
today.

This is my actual retirement document. It is proof, that I put my life
on the line for over 20 years for this Republic. I helped to insure
that our nation would remain a Government of the people, by the people,
and for the people. I even received several Commendation Medals.

However, if I-----cannot get a reply on the outside from you---one can
only imagine what inmates must go through in confinement. But they
have rights that are guaranteed by the Constitution. They are not
---Shiites, Sunni----or terrorists from Afghanistan, nor Iraq. They are fellow
American citizens; many are Veterans and deserve to be heard by their
elected representatives.

Attorney Robert W. Cullen for the plaintiffs of Atlanta, Attorney Oris
d. Blackburn Jr, for the defendant Lowndes County---knows of this
Decree. But the decree---seems to be Valdosta’s best kept secret---thanks
in part to the Valdosta Daily Times in my opinion.

I love this country, but I do not like the way----you have treated me,
inmates, parents or former employees. The Bible says; “As it is
written, so shall it be done.”

Judge Lawson wrote and ruled on the following violations: Moreover, the
signed letters, and notarized statements identify these same violations
remains at the jail. Therefore, no amount of renovation alone will fix
all of the following:

- Inmates personal mail being open without them being present.
(Violations and or/recommendations)
34 – Violations under Inmate Health Care.
15 – Violations under---- Access to Courts, inmates to communicate
with Lawyers and Non-Communications.
11 – Violations under------ Inmate Hygiene.
10 – Violations under------ Population.
8 – Violations under------ Visitations.
6 – Violations under-------Miscellaneous Provisions
6 – Violations under-------Food.
3 – Violations under-------Staffing and Security
3 – Violations under-------Recreation.
2 – Violations under-------Commissary
2 – Violations under--------Environmental Control.
2 – Violations under--------Racial Segregation.
1 – Violations under--------Jail Procedures and Policies etc.
1 – Violations under--------Change Provision
1 – Violations under--------Lowndes County Board of Commissioners.

Over 105 violations or corrections order! But you failed to answer my
letter addressed to you on behalf of many concerned citizens. It also
appears that a U.S. District Court Judge has also been ignored by this
body. So I am in good company. Thanks you for your time!

GEORGE RHYNES
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity!

VALDOSTA DAILY TIMES COVERAGE OF THE MEETING, (14 April 2004).
(Renovations to Lowndes County Jail, land rezoning also discussed.

“George Rhynes questioned why Commissioners had not responded to his
letter concerning several inmates at the Lowndes County Jail. Although
the jail will be renovated, Rhynes said no amount of renovation would
help the inmates.”

Rod Casey, chairman of the board answered that an architect had been
chosen, beginning the process of renovations to improve the jail.

Casey also informed Rhynes that he could visit Case’s office to discuss
any other problems or concerns.”

Various links

2004-03-16T20:12:00.000-05:00

Great little note about the presidents 911 commision.
More on the fight on terrorism
Via thismodernworld and counterspin
look who is scared of the Dutch
and here comes the big gun

Iraq on the Record- the REAL record

2004-03-16T19:55:00.000-05:00

Here is a great link to the REAL record of the Iraq II war.
On March 19, 2003, U.S. forces began military operations in Iraq. Addressing the nation about the purpose of the war on the day the bombing began, President Bush stated: “The people of the United States and our friends and allies will not live at the mercy of an outlaw regime that threatens the peace with weapons of mass murder.”
One year later, many doubts have been raised regarding the Administration’s assertions about the threat posed by Iraq. Prior to the war in Iraq, the President and his advisors repeatedly claimed that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction that jeopardized the security of the United States. The failure to discover these weapons after the war has led to questions about whether the President and his advisors were candid in describing Iraq’s threat.

Guest columnist

2004-03-15T11:01:00.000-05:00

Dear Editor - Message Boards

Another “HotBed,” issue,” bites the dust in Valdosta, Georgia!
Recently I addressed the Honorable Mayor John Fretti, and City Council on
removing an 1860 charter from display near the City Municipal Courtroom to
the local museum.

The charter refers to slaves, free people of color as hogs, dogs,
horses, and other live stock, and that they must be suppressed, controlled,
and abated, by Valdosta elected officials in paragraph 100 Section XI.

I responded to the Honorable Major’s letter during City Council
Meeting---before a packed house.

Folowing the meeting a local radio talk show host Mr. Scott James from
WVLD 1450 am commended me for taking a strong passionate stand on the
issue. He then invited me to be a guest on his talk show the next day
and I accepted. We discussed removing the 1860 charter for 20 minutes.

The Honorable Mayor Fretti was Mr. Scott James guest earlier that
morning and they too discussed the 1860 charter.

However, our local editor Ron Wayne of the Valdosta Daily Times made no
mention whatsoever in his article covering the City Council Meeting.
It appears that VDT is the reason our city is locked into a time
warp---unlike Macon and Atlanta.

Nothing seems to get pass the South Georgia Media Machine—with no
relief in sight. We need local government and news media outlets that are of
the people, by the people, and for the people. Peace!

George Rhynes
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity

George Rhynes responds

2004-03-14T13:43:00.000-05:00

George B. Rhynes (229-251-8645) 11 March 2004
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605-1144

10 March 2004

Valdosta City Council & Mayor
Valdosta, Georgia 31601

SUBJECT: Response to Mayor & council Letter
(Verbal Address Before City Council)

Dear Mayor and Council

Yesterday, I received your response to my request---to retire the
historical City of Valdosta charter of 1860---to a location away from the
Municipal Courtroom. Where citizens come in hope of receiving respect,
and equal justice under the law in Valdosta, and the state of
Georgia----in the 21st Century.

In Paragraph 1, of your letter you said that the 1860 charter allowed
for the creation of our City, as it was developed by the state
officials, and our local forefathers---of that time.

Mr. Mayor, and Council----Webster’s Dictionary third edition defines
(forefathers) as a male ancestor. What ancestor male or female---would
want to control, enslave, suppress, and abate another human being.

a. ABATE means to beat down, reduce, moderate, diminish, and lessen.
We also find the word nuisances, being used—which means annoying or
obnoxious person or thing.

SECTION 11, of the charter says and I Quote! “The Mayor and Council
shall pass all proper and necessary laws, and ordinances for the control
of SLAVES, and FREE PERSONS OF COLOR, in Valdosta, and SUPRESS, and
abate all NUISANCES arriving from HOGS, DOGS, HORSES, or OTHER STOCK
straying at large in Valdosta, or from other causes.”

Mr. Mayor! You agreed with me that—we should not hide the facts of
history or deny that which has come before us. And that the same logic,
should be applied to the items displayed in City Hall for over 20 years.
In addition, that the 1860 charter is the City’s first charter, remains
a permanent record both in Valdosta, as well as in the “State Records
Archives,” and cannot be ignored.

Mr. Mayor and Council: Twenty (20) years is not a long time for us to
treat our neighbors as we ourselves wish to be treated by others.

It is recorded in the “Library of Congress,” that some of our
ancestors—first came to these shores in the year of 1555, 449 years ago, aboard
a slave ship called Jesus, captained by one White European named “Sir
John Hawkins.”

In the documented Archives of this nation, Blacks were treated worst
than live stock, called 3/5ths of a human being. In the charter outside
these doors, in Section 11, stipulates that they were to be controlled,
chained, suppressed, and totally humiliated before the world.

If these words were directed towards my “Jewish Brothers and Sisters,”
there would be no debate---today.

Mr. Mayor! You spoke of Archives in your letter! In our Archives, at
FAMU, in Tallahassee, just a few miles away, and many other
Institutions, Museums, and Libraries, around the world. There are millions of
documented artifacts, pictures of pain, and strange fruits that trees did
not produce.

So no human being of Black African decent should want those pictures
displayed upon these walls---if they offend, and inflicts pain upon
another human being or their children, perceived or real.

I presented you a winnable case, and in the not too distant future.
Men and women, of conscious will vote, and pass this historical document
on into the museum of antiques. You see, we are all pilgrims passing
through, and what we fail to correct---others will do!

Because Luke 4:18, must become real. Moreover, when truth, justice,
and equality come, that which is invalid like falsehood must vanish---and
falsehood is forever a vanishing thing.

After 20 years, I was presented this “Retirement Certificate from the
Armed Forces----for placing my life on the line for this Republic.

There is a seal on this Certificate, and there is a seal on the 1860
city charter---and as long as it is displayed----Paragraph 11, is a
constant reminder to all Black people that they are in the same paragraph:
Along with Hogs, Dogs, Horses and other beasts of the field.

Retire it—or leave it where it is! But our God has instructed us to
treat our neighbors-- as we ourselves would want to be treated.

My words probably will not change your mind or your conscious.
Nevertheless, the plumb line of justice will meet us all at the eternal
Council Meeting. I thank, God, for allowing me to stand for what I believe
to be both spiritually, and morally correct. Peace!

George B. Rhynes
A concerned citizens and brother of humanity!

Racists R Us

2004-03-06T17:56:00.000-05:00

Yeah......right or " It was taken out of context......."

"When the 81-year-old retiree arrived, however, he found himself in the middle of a controversy created by his calling Macon a 'n----- town' at the team check-in table on the arena's concourse before Thursday's Class AA semifinal session.
Goldston was overheard using the phrase twice by Macon Telegraph reporter Josh Kendall. He then repeated the word another time later Thursday to other people at the Coliseum.
Macon Mayor Jack Ellis called for Goldston's resignation during a hastily called afternoon news conference at the Coliseum. GHSA official Earl Etheridge then asked Goldston, who heard much of the press conference from the back of the lobby, to leave the arena.
'I got in my car and drove home,' Goldston said when contacted at home Friday evening. 'I don't want to cause the GHSA any embarrassment.'
Goldston, who admitted Thursday night that he should not have used the language, reiterated that stance on Friday.
'It was my fault. I used the n-word. That's bad, but I didn't use any derogatory remarks about any blacks,' he said."
-snip-
Etheridge, who is a member of the GHSA executive committee, said he was told to handle the situation by GHSA Executive Director Ralph Swearngin, who was in Gwinnett County for Friday's Class AAAAA and AAAA finals. Etheridge, who apologized for the GHSA during the press conference, assumed Goldston's duties on Friday, then sought to shift the focus from the controversy to the games.
Four Class AAA semifinals were played Friday and six state championship games will be played today. Swearngin will be on hand for today's games.
"It's obvious to say we would not look at all positively on anybody in any context using a racial slur," Swearngin said when contacted Thursday night about Goldston's comment.
Said Etheridge: "The important thing is that the games be played and everybody go on about their business of playing."
He said the city and GHSA would need to meet after the tournament's conclusion to discuss the situation.
"When this is over, we need to sit down and mend fences to make sure that the tournament comes back here," Etheridge said. "We need to make sure that we do everything we can do to keep things as they are. And I'm sure it will be."
-snip-
Goldston said he did not see the story, which did not appear in the edition of The Telegraph delivered in Bonaire, until after receiving a "congratulatory" phone call in the morning. Goldston said he received three or four calls from people congratulating him for telling, "them like it is. There are a lot of n----- in Macon."
"He should be able to say it if he wants to. If he wants to say it, he should without any repercussions," said Bobby Glover, a 49-year old white male from Laurens County who was at the Coliseum on Friday night. "I don't think anything should've happened. I didn't agree with the uproar. It doesn't surprise me, but I don't think anything should've been done."

Guest Columnist- George Rhynes

2004-03-04T12:54:00.000-05:00

Here in South Georgia there appears to be an asserted effort to block
citizens from reaching their higher consciousness!

Recently, an International Exhibit "SANKOFA"known around the world as
"An African American Museum on Wheels" It is considered the foremost
collection of African American History---with over 1,500 artifacts.
This collection is compiled and owned by Angela Jennings, a South Carolina
Native.

The exhibit spans the period from 1860 to present, and beyond. The
exhibit was displayed at Valdosta State University.

However, here in South Georgia it never made the front page of our
local newspaper or was reported on local television. This lack of coverage did
not come as a shock to local citizens.

For example: There is (Now) an 1860 City Charter displayed near the
Valdosta Municipal Courtroom in Valdosta that reads, (Section XI), "The
Mayor and Council shall pass all proper and necessary laws or ordinances
for the control of slaves, and free persons of color in said town and
suppress, and abate all nuisances arriving from hogs, dogs, horses, or
other stock straying at large in said town, or from other causes"

Other items excluded from local news media are: Eleven inmates in the
Lowndes County Jail requesting help from an outside source to
investigate the denial of their individual Constitutional Rights, incidents being
swept under the rug involving an alleged weapon, problems filing state
complaint forms and getting them notarized, Lowndes County Board of
Commissioners failure to respond to inmates request of 23 Aug 2003.
Also eye-witnesses' in the arrest and death of a Black male motorist were never
called as witnesses.

Moreover, candidates running for public office are not treated the same
at news conferences, and the way they are endorsed by local news media,
valid registered election problems never published during a recent
Mayoral, and City Council race, alleged gang activity have senior citizens
afraid to come out of their homes, marches and protests against the war
with Iraq, local school being built on a controversial site
(hazardous), controversial opinion columns and editorials excluded from the
public, citizens to be heard at public meetings are seldom published unless
they are a group, or organization, hazardous railroad tracks in the
Black community not published, several local merchants continuos problems
with panhandlers and loitering, Valdosta Lowndes County Conference
Center has only one Black full time employee, while all employees of the
work crews are black---with no job benefits, white applicants with medical
problems being hired over blacks, present and former employees
complaining of unfair hiring practices and promotions at public establishment.
However, little investigative reporting is done to gather the facts
surrounding these items of interests.

Therefore, local citizens have been forced to use Message Boards,
Blogs, Internet, and other news outlets to keep Free Speech, and Press
alive. Unquestionably, citizens must start their own newsletter, or
newspaper in this South Georgia Town. Peace!

George Rhynes
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity!

The sky is falling....into my wallet

2004-03-02T18:36:00.000-05:00

This article explains how the social security program is being funded mainly by middle and lower class folks....

You see, although the rest of the government is running huge deficits — and never did run much of a surplus — the Social Security system is currently taking in much more money than it spends. Thanks to those surpluses, the program is fully financed at least through 2042. The cost of securing the program's future for many decades after that would be modest — a small fraction of the revenue that will be lost if the Bush tax cuts are made permanent.

And the reason Social Security is in fairly good shape is that during the 1980's the Greenspan commission persuaded Congress to increase the payroll tax, which supports the program.

The payroll tax is regressive: it falls much more heavily on middle- and lower-income families than it does on the rich. In fact, according to Congressional Budget Office estimates, families near the middle of the income distribution pay almost twice as much in payroll taxes as in income taxes. Yet people were willing to accept a regressive tax increase to sustain Social Security.

Now the joke's on them. Mr. Greenspan pushed through an increase in taxes on working Americans, generating a Social Security surplus. Then he used that surplus to argue for tax cuts that deliver very little relief to most people, but are worth a lot to those making more than $300,000 a year. And now that those tax cuts have contributed to a soaring deficit, he wants to cut Social Security benefits.

The point, of course, is that if anyone had tried to sell this package honestly — "Let's raise taxes and cut benefits for working families so we can give big tax cuts to the rich!" — voters would have been outraged. So the class warriors of the right engaged in bait-and-switch.

Slyvester Police "not our fault"

2004-03-02T06:55:00.000-05:00

What is not mentioned is that they did not take him to a hospital but to the jail

Grand jury joins police probe: "It does appear that there was a tussle between these three officers. One of our officers, in an effort to subdue the arrestee, put his arm around his head and neck and they all fell forward, and apparently this gentleman passed away as a result of a broken larynx.' "

Letters.....uh let's call him a guest columnist!

2004-03-02T06:45:00.000-05:00

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 1 March
2004
605 ½ East Hill Ave
Valdosta, Georgia 31601

Dear Editor – Message Boards, and American Patriots of Free Speech!

Recently on C-Span the question was asked if our freedoms had been
curtailed under the present administration?

After submitting many opinion columns, and being published in the
Chicago Sun times, Albany Herald, Tallahassee Democrat, USA-Today and other
papers. I believe our rights are fading---even here in Valdosta, where
a framed copy of an 1860, City Charter is displayed near the Municipal
Courtroom of Judge Edwards.

This charter reads (Par 100, Section XI), “The Mayor and Council shall
pass all proper and necessary laws or ordinances for the control of
slaves, and free persons of color in said town and suppress, and abate all
nuisances arising from hogs, dogs, horses, or other stock straying at
large in said town, or from other causes.”

Apparently, our elected officials and local news media sees nothing
wrong or offensive in displaying this charter. However, many people of
conscious are very much offended and want it removed to the City Museum.

When I observed this document I wrote the Mayor, City Council, Valdosta
Daily Times, WCTV Channel 6, WALB TV Channel 10, Valdosta NAACP,
Peoples Tribunal, and other local news media outlets.

As of today, nothing has been published by any Local News Media in
South Georgia concerning this matter. Although, several web-sites have
published it on the Internet with a copy of the 1860 City Charter.

This lack of local coverage is nothing new in this area: For example,
the complete circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Willie James
Williams, and how eye witnesses of his arrest was never called as
witnesses, eleven incarcerated inmates in the county jail requesting help from
an outside agencies have been ignored by local media, and our County
Commissioners since 26 Aug 03.

Moreover, an alleged incident at the jail involving a deputy and a
weapon has been sweep under the rug----says eleven inmates, and that they
often have problems filing complaints and getting them notarized.

In addition, candidates running for City Council was not equally
represented at a news conference, valid election problems in the last City
Mayoral and Council race went unreported in the news, elderly citizens
are afraid to come out of their homes because of alleged gang activity,
protests and marches against war with Iraq, local school allegedly being
built on an unsafe land site.

Also, individual complaints are seldom reported from City and County
monthly meetings--unless they are in groups or represented by an
organization, hazardous railroad tracks in the black community, the Valdosta
Lowndes County Conference Center has only one Black employee in a
management position, while 100% of work-crews are black---with no job
benefits, applicants and people on staff speaks of unfair hiring practices.
However, there is little if any investigative reporting to try to rectify
these community problems.

Therefore, many citizens have turned to Message Boards, Blogs,
Internet, congress, senate and other means to ensure local citizens are
informed. Therefore, it appears that local citizens have no alternative but to
begin a newsletter in this South Georgia Town.

Yes! Freedom of Speech seems to have been curtailed in America at the
expense of the American people. Peace!

George Rhynes
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity!

History will be the judge.

2004-03-01T20:24:00.000-05:00

Can anyone think of any moments in history that we celebrate because the majority denied a minority of law-abiding citizens the same rights as themselves?

Me neither.

Seems to me we celebrate those that gain freedoms, rights, and equality.

What are you going to tell your grandchildren when they ask?

How would you feel if you saw a picture of your grandparents jeering at civil rights marchers in the 1960’s?

Photos from the Atlanta Journal Constitution - Marriage debate.
Don't these guys look like they could have popped out of the 1960's...just change the sign to read "No Niggers in the schools"

This is a link via Atrios on the subject.

Jesus wasn't no Whitey!

2004-02-27T11:12:00.000-05:00

Glad someone else noticed this....

Link:

"My question is much simpler: Why would Mel Gibson make a movie about people in the ancient Middle East and cast it with so many white people? To look at the central actors in this film, you'd think Jesus did his work near Manchester, New Hampshire instead of the Holy Land. The answer to that question lies within the United States, the prime market for this film. There are millions of Christians in America, some 25% of whom would characterize themselves as evangelical. It stands to reason that this film would do very well here, especially given the controversy that has surrounded the content.
The whiteness of the cast, however, speaks to a decidedly un-Christian truth that lies near the heart of this republic. Simply put, nailing a white Jesus Christ to the cross on film will generate a far more emotional response from the American viewing public than the crucifixion of a savior who actually looks like he is from the Middle East."

Legacy of Racism

2004-02-26T11:43:00.000-05:00

This is unbelievable.....

Updated. Here is a picture of the Valdosta charter as of 2-26-04 Link

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 23 February 2004
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605-1144

Dear Valdosta, City Mayor & Council

SUBJECT: Displaying the Valdosta City Charter of 1860, near the Hall
of Justice in Valdosta Georgia!

As the Georgia State Flag issue will be revisited, voted upon, and
hopefully---resolved in the upcoming election.

The Citizens of Valdosta, and Lowndes County Georgia, should be focused
on the second floor of Valdosta City Hall---leading into the Valdosta
Municipal Courtroom of Judge Edwards. Where one will discover a copy of
a framed, Valdosta City Charter of 1860, displayed on the wall that was
passed by the Georgia General Assembly of 1860, Valdosta (No. 108).

100: Section XI, Âthe Mayor and Council, they shall pass all proper and
necessary laws and ordinances for the control of slaves and free
persons of color in said town and suppress and abate all nuisances arriving
from hogs, dogs, horses, or other stock straying at large in said town,
or from other causes.Â

It is mind boggling as to why our elected officials have allowed this
1860, Charter to be displayed so close to the Valdosta Municipal Court
RoomÂin the first place. Where American citizens must come in hope of
receiving equal justice under the law in the State of Georgia---in the
21st Century.

This document does little to complement GeorgiaÂs Justice System---here
in Lowndes County. Especially for citizens whose ancestors were slaves
and veterans today---who served and paid the ultimate price to keep
America a free and democratic society.

While we cannot, nor should we try to hide the facts of history. It is
of utmost importance that we remove even a stake from deceased
remains---if within our heart of compassion to do so.

Therefore, as a moral and ethical gesture, the new Valdosta, City
Charter should be on display, or the 1860 charter be removed and placed in a
location away from the Hall of Justice in Valdosta---to the City
Museum. The symbolism and insensitivity of displaying this 1860, City
Charter is inappropriate at this period in Georgia, and American history.

As a retired United States Air Force Vietnam era veteran, I cannot
understand why this document is displaced near the Valdosta Municipal
Courtroom. Because too many Georgians suffered, bleed, and died to preserve
the right to be respected as human beings and not as live stock, or
second class citizens.

Therefore, it is my hope, and others prayer---that someone will do the
right thing in the 21st Century. That the healing process may begin by
being sensitive to others---for the overall good of our community,
state, nation, and world. Peace!

This letter is addressed to you in an attempt to resolve this situation
as soon as possible!

Sincerely

GEORGE RHYNES
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity!

Cc: Lake Park Post, Valdosta, Daily times, Valdosta, Lowndes County
Branch of the NAACP, Peoples Tribunal, WCTV Â Channel 6, WALB TV Â
Channel 10

letters

2004-02-26T08:05:00.000-05:00

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 25 February
2004
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor

The Celebration of African American History Month at Valdosta State
University Office of Equal Opportunity Programs and Multicultural Affairs
presented SANKOFA. This African American Cultural Museum on Wheels
with Angela Jennings, Curator/Director of Denmark, South Carolina, an
educational experience for all that attended.

The Curator Angela Jennings was extremely knowledgeable of African
American History. She called the exhibit, “A journey from Africa to modern
day inventions and everything in between.”

Among her displays were models of Black inventions such as: the
Cellular Phone, by Henry Simpson, The Lawn Mower, by John Albert Burn, Grand
Father Clock, (first striking wood clock) by Benjamin Banneker,
Switching Device for Railways, by William and Burr, Telephone System and
Apparatus, by Granville T. Woods, Golf-Tee, by George F. Grant, Kitchen
Table, H.A. Jackson, Refrigerated Trucks, F.M. Jones, Spark Plug, Edmond
Berger, Riding Saddle, William S. Cambell, Door Knob, O. Dorsey, Tunnel
Construction for Electric Railways, Gramille T. Woods, and Guitar, Robert
F. Flemings Jr., to mention a few.

Also on display were lynchings of Blacks, slave ships, magazines,
historical documents and quotes from Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Banneker
for his accomplishments, and many other never before seen items in this
area.

The Curator told a story to a group of children brought over by Joseph
Matchett of the Valdosta Boys Club on Tombs Street, who heard about he
exhibit on WJEM Radio Station. She told the children about an elderly
Black man whose eyes had been put out because the plantation owner
discovered he was trying to learn how to read. She told the students that
there was no reason why they should not be on the honor roll.

Joseph Matchett said: “Every student in Lowndes County both Black and
White should have been at this exhibit.”

Ms Jennings when asked why she started the Museum on Wheels---she
replied, “When I realized that my honor student nephew knew little about the
history of Africa she established SANKOFA in 1995.”

Now less than a decade later, her museum on wheels is considered to be
one of the foremost collections of African American History readily
available in this country today.

As SANKOFA’s Curator, Ms Jennings has traveled throughout the United
States the U.S. Virgin Island, West Africa, and Europe to amass a
collection of art, collectibles and memorabilia that rivals many traditional
museums.

While here in Valdosta her “Museum on Wheels,” exhibited the testament
to the vast contributions that African Americans have made to this
country and the world.

The Ghanaian term, SANKOFA, tells us to “use the wisdom of the pass to
build the future.” Angela Jennings and her Museum on Wheels epitomize
the meaning of the term by educating, enlightening and empowering young
and old alike with living history.

The Valdosta community is indeed grateful to Angela Jennings, Curator,
Dr. Beverly Richardson-Blake, Assistant Director, Office of Equal
Opportunity Programs and Multicultural Office, James E. Rice, Administrative
coordinator, and a special thanks to Valdosta State University. A job
well done, and very much needed. Thanks!

George Rhynes
A concerned citizens and brother of humanity!

Sylvester citizens rally against police brutality

2004-02-25T20:42:00.000-05:00

Sylvester citizens rally against police brutality:
"'Enough is enough,' said Bruce Washington. 'This is 2004, not 1940.'
They say they know it was police brutality that killed Herman Jackson. And they've had enough.
John Cole Vodicka, director of civil rights group the Prison & Jail Project, told the crowd that most police officers are good enforcers of the law.
'But we also have some very bad law enforcement officials,' Vodicka said. 'Either because they're poorly trained and underpaid or because they're mean spirited and racist bigots.'
Vodicka sent a letter to the US Attorney's office asking that the FBI investigate Jackson's death.
The Sylvester Mayor Bill Yearta said the city is doing an investigation with the GBI.
'We won't tolerate police brutality,' Yearta said. 'We have good police officers and then we have some that aren't good police officers.' "

Our community organizations SHOULD look like the community!

2004-02-25T20:27:00.000-05:00

The Valdosta-Lowndes County Conference Center and Tourism Authority has amended its personnel policy on equal opportunity and affirmative action to state that it will cast a "wide net" to find the most qualified person for a position to maintain diversity.
This decision comes a month after The People's Tribunal, a local civil rights group, questioned past hiring practices and asked the Board to find the most qualified African-Americans to fill positions as they become open at the conference center.
The Rev. Floyd Rose, president of The Tribunal, stated in a press release that he and The Tribunal were pleased with the Authority's decision.
LINK

Letters

2004-02-23T22:10:00.000-05:00

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 19 February 2004
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor/Message Boards

{Guest Column where applicable and where posting is available. The
truth must be told to the American People—to maintain our present form of
Government!}

Tick tock, tick tock! America must begin to vigorously address the
problems concerning the American people. Otherwise, our greatest threat
of terror could come from within our own boarders.

Many Americans are dissatisfied with the direction our nation is
headed. They are being ignored by elected officials. While America's news
media reports tabloid type news stories----that is of little interest to
ordinary American Citizens!

Tick Tock, Tick Tock! Americans are angry because their jobs and the
future of their children success--are going to India and other foreign
nations. Our public schools are falling apart, citizens are being abused
and dying at the hands of law enforcement. While elected officials
turn their head the other way, and approve The Patriot Act behind closed
doors!

Our constitutional rights are being taken away, veterans are losing
their benefits, and citizens are being divided by political party
labels—as never before. While Freedom of the Press and Freedom of Speech are
being suppressed--that could lead to another civil war.

Statistics show that there is still discrimination towards America’s
Blacks in top management positions. While crime, violence, and drugs are
allowed to run rampart across our nation.

America is spending billions of dollars in Iraq. It has been reported
that toxic waste is (now), being brought into America from foreign
nations with a life expectancy of perhaps millions of years----into the
future.

We continuously give billions of dollars to Israel that is used to keep
the Middle East conflict going. We have failed to keep immigrants from
crossing the boarders from Mexico. In addition, we declared war on
poverty, illiteracy, drugs, terrorism, hate crimes, and violence---yet
things have become worst.

Tick tock, tick tock—our democracy seems to be in great decline, and
could be on the brink of a war from within. This threat is real
---because many American citizens refuse to vote! Especially since our President
was selected into office by the Supreme Court instead of---by the
American people.

All Americans, must remember the words of President Abraham Lincoln:
“IT IS RATHER FOR US TO BE HERE DEDICATED TO THE GREAT TASK REMAINING
BEFORE US---THAT THESE HONORED DEAD WE TAKE INCREASED DEVOTION TO THAT
CAUSE TO WHICH THEY GAVE THE LAST FULL MEASURE OF DEVOTION---THAT WE HERE
HIGHLY RESOLVE THAT THESE DEAD SHLL NOT HAVE DIED IN VAIN—THAT THIS
NATION, UNDER GOD, SHALL NAVE A NEW BIRTH OF FREEDOM---AND THAT GOVERNMENT
OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE, SHALL NOT PERISH FROM
THE EARTH.” Peace!

A Minister, Business Owner, Retired Veterans from the United States Air
Force!
Single Parent, Black African American, and patriot beyond words, and
game playing!

From the ACLU

2004-02-23T22:07:00.000-05:00

From: Debbie Seagraves [mailto:dseagraves@acluga.org]
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2004 10:59 AM

Dear Freedom Train Participants,
We have an emergency developing in the legislature right now and we need your help. HR 595, the resolution that would define marriage as being between one man and one woman only, could be voted out of the rules committee today and be brought to the House floor for a vote as early as this afternoon. We talked about this proposed constitutional amendment at our Freedom Train meeting in your city. It is very important that this bill not come to the floor for a vote. We are asking each of you to call the Chairman of the Rules Committee, Calvin Smyre, and tell him that you oppose HR 595 and that it should stay in committee.
This bill would write discrimination into the Constitution. Regardless of how one feels about marriage for same-sex couples, we cannot justify using our constitution to discriminate against one minority group. This is especially true when we already have laws on the books prohibiting marriage between same-sex couples. We would like the Legislature to focus on more important issues-like the budget-rather than focusing on issues that discriminate against and divide us.
Please call Representative Calvin Smyre with this message,

“We are depending on you to stop HR 595 in the rules committee. It must not come to the floor of the House for a vote.”

and then call five friends and ask them to do the same.
Together, we can make a difference TODAY, but we must take action immediately.
Call Calvin Smyre’s office at 404.656.5024, then if you can, follow up with a fax with the same message to 404-657-8278. You can also forward this e-mail to as many friends as possible.
Thanks,
Debbie Seagraves
Executive Director
ACLU of Georgia

PS. If you have a moment, please let me know by return e-mail when you make the call.

Marriage 45 years ago.......

2004-02-18T19:04:00.000-05:00

The language is the same - plus 45 years

In the years after the Civil War, it was an eagerness to "preserve the integrity of the white race" by preventing the birth of mixed-race children that in great part motivated states to pass miscegenation laws. Some states, like California, chose to specifically prohibit "intermarriage of white persons with Chinese, Negroes, mulattos, or persons of mixed blood descended from a Chinaman or Negro from the third generation inclusive." In 1869, a Georgia judge blocked the marriage of a white Frenchman and a black woman by saying, "The amalgamation of the races is not only unnatural but is always productive of deplorable results. Our daily observations show us that the offspring of these unnatural connections are generally sick and effeminate." And a Missouri judge in 1883 prevented an intermarriage, because, "It is stated as a well authenticated fact that if the [children] of a black man and white woman, and a white man and a black woman intermarry, they cannot possibly have any progeny, and such a fact sufficiently justifies those laws which forbid the intermarriage of blacks and whites."

In contrast to the ignorance that muddied such racist rulings, the clearer prejudice of Virginia's Judge Leon Bazile in the famous 1959 Loving case (in which a black man and white woman were sentenced to prison for trying to circumvent Virginia law by marrying in Washington DC) is almost refreshing. "Almighty God created the races white, black, yellow, Maylay and red, and he placed them on separate continents," he said. "And but for the interference with His arrangement, there would be no cause for such marriages." The 1967 federal law superceded state statutes, but it took decades for all states to officially remove these laws from their books; Alabama did so just this year.

The first Gallup poll conducted on the issue of interracial marriage was in 1958 and showed that 94% of whites opposed such unions -

Marriage - Geogia House pay attention!

2004-02-18T16:53:00.000-05:00

Here is the link to the whole article

Here's why: No matter what the final outcome, this past week will go down as one of those defining moments, a seminal point in American history. It hearkens back to the civil rights movement and to women's suffrage, though with less screaming chanting effigy-burning marches and beatings by angry cops, and more roses and warm-hearted grins and life-affirming smooches on the steps of city hall.

It was a delicious and heartwarming historic spectacle indeed, and there was simply no way for any person of any elevated consciousness or spiritual awareness -- anyone with any heart whatsoever -- to witness the huge line of happy, eager same-sex couples snaking around city hall and not be deeply moved, profoundly touched.

I was there. I saw the lines, the smiles, felt the intense emotional energy. It was simply irrefutable: These are people in love. These are couples who have been together for years, decades, who have started families and raised children and set up homes replete with dogs and dinner parties and antiques and regular shopping excursions to Safeway and the mall. You know, just like "real" Americans.

These are couples who are willing to go the distance, to commit and connect, and who are eager to prove to themselves and the world that their love is something true and real and momentous, something that, in truth, can only serve to reignite and reunite our stagnant, fractured, contentious, 50 percent-divorce-rate nation. Hey, we need all the help we can get.

And one other thing was very apparent: It was a situation in which you simply could not imagine anyone hurling gobs of intolerant hate at it. It would have required a serious amount of nasty, inbred ignorance and appalling nerve to march up to any of the passionate and committed couples waiting patiently in line for their marriage ceremony and say, you know, God hates you for this, you immoral disgusting sodomites, and it's intolerable and unacceptable that you wish to love and honor each other till death do you part.

Which, yes indeed, is exactly what a great many antigay groups are doing, in effect, right now.

But here's the best part: The City's brave move was not merely a giant well-manicured middle finger to the Christian Right and indignant homophobic conservatives everywhere.

Nor was it just an audacious act of civil disobedience, guaranteed to raise the ire of Bible thumpers and so-called pro-family groups hailing everywhere from Orange County to Colorado Springs. That's just a nice bonus.

It was, more than anything, an incredible celebration of love. The more than 2,600 wedding ceremonies performed so far were the purest evidence, an irrefutable outpouring of the most wondrous and messy and baffling and orgasmic and desperately needed of human emotions, the air electric and warm, the ceremonies themselves radiant and poignant and genuinely tearful.

And no question became so clear, so obvious, as the one being asked by same-sex-marriage advocates around the world: What, really, is so wrong about this? What is the horrible threat about two adults who love each other so intensely, so purely, that they're willing to commit to a lifetime of being together and sleeping together and arguing over who controls the remote? And what government body dares to claim a right to legislate against it?

It is a question no group, no homophobic senator, no piece of antigay legislation, no BushCo stump speech, no Bible-humping pastor has been able to answer with any clarity or conviction.

They can only mumble about immorality and quote some vague Scripture about sodomy that makes them all tingly, as wary biblical scholars all over the world roll their eyes and point to a thousand proofs that demonstrate, over and over again, how the Bible is basically a reinterpreted regurgitated piece of classic patriarchal misogynistic mythmaking that says exactly what the church rewrote it to say.

But I might have part of an answer. From what I can glean from some of my hate mail and the general conservative outcry, here is what the homophobes fear about same-sex marriage: bestiality.

That is, they are utterly terrified that same-sex marriage is a slippery slope of permissive debauchery that will lead to the utter breakdown of social rules and sexual mores, to people being allowed to marry their dogs, or their own dead grandmothers, or chairs, or three hairy men from Miami Beach.

In short, to the neocon Right, a nation that allows gays to marry is a nation with no boundaries and no condoms and where all sorts of illicit disgusting behaviors will soon be legal and be forced upon them, a horrific tribal wasteland full of leeches and flying bugs and scary sex acts they only read about in chat rooms and their beloved "Left Behind" series of cute apocalypse-porn books.

You know, just like how giving blacks the right to own their own land meant we had to give the same rights to house plants and power tools, or how granting women the right to vote meant it was a slippery slope until we gave suffrage to feral cats and sea slugs and rusty hubcaps.

This, then, is why it is a time to be incredibly proud. San Francisco is slapping this moronic worldview back to the dank basement of subhuman intellect, where it belongs. We have broken the taboo, challenged the ignorant and the easily terrified, made it beautifully clear that what matters most in a modern society is not unfounded, naive fears, not uptight religious puling, but a humane and equal, joyous sense of love for all.

The war is far from over. It will be a brutal battle, with much hate yet to be spewed, much Bible waving and law mangling accompanying what will undoubtedly be a slow, painful sea change for a very uptight, easily terrified American society.

But S.F. has taken the lead, has sounded the battle cry, has defined itself anew. And for that, more than any other of its wonders, I am incredibly proud that I live in San Francisco, the best city in the whole goddamn world -- gay, straight or anywhere in between.

Please tell me how this is different

2004-02-17T09:02:00.000-05:00

Please tell me how the arguments against gay marriage are any different than the ones used against allowing interracial marriage years ago. Didn't people then quote the bible, common cultural values, and what God and the founding fathers meant? Seems like the same sources were used for denying intergration and voting rights. What we really have here is an argument about POWER.
Who controls access to it, allows others to "join the club" and how you have to act to become a member. The white, straight power of this county is making sure that they stay the dominate culture. They are going to try and redefine gay culture in their image.
Does this not all seem/feel familiar?
AJC editoral

The Working Poor: Can't Win for Losing

2004-02-17T07:09:00.000-05:00

New book out that documents the issues surrounding the working poor. Check it out.Link:
"The phrase ''working poor'' doesn't carry much weight in this fractious political season. It slips by in a campaign speech, with nothing much to grab onto as it passes. It suffers from a kind of blunt-edged simplicity -- a collision of enormous, rounded terms that, by the lights of American exceptionalism, should not be joined. Both political parties quietly agree that it is an ugly, unsettling combination -- that any American who works steadily should not have to suffer the barbed indignities of poverty. But Americans do -- millions of them. There are 35 million people in the country living in poverty. Most of the adults in that group work nowadays; many of them work full time. And while there are heavy concentrations of African-Americans and white single women in the mix, the group is every bit as diverse, and diffuse, as the nation is. "

So, we now are one step away from having a state constitutional that requires discrimination.....sweet jesus

2004-02-16T22:25:00.000-05:00

What Would Jesus do? Not this:

"You want to put all your energy into legislating morality,' Thomas said. 'The men and woman who feel they want to live in a world free of sin, I suggest you find another world.'

Thomas said she was disturbed when 'I see people come to the Capitol in the name of the Lord God but they don't come here in the name of love. I do have an issue ... that they are for God but come down here with a legislative agenda to take rights from everyone.'"

Thanks Dad....

2004-02-16T22:08:00.000-05:00

Mary Cheney (vice president's daughter) is campaigning for her father.....it would be sweet except she has been openly gay for years and daddy is pushing for a non-marriage amendment for gays. Thanks dad!
Guess it does not matter- daddy has money.

More Letters

2004-02-15T09:03:00.000-05:00

George Rhynes (229-251-8545)
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605-1144

Dear Editor

If living beings are found on Mars, I pray they have a better method of dealing with conflicts than our leaders of today.

In Vietnam, we lost over 50,000 American lives, with 300,000, physical casualties (many more with mental, and emotional problems). North Vietnam and the Viet Cong's suffered 900,000 deaths and 2 million wounded at a financial cost of more than $200 billion.

Today in Iraq more than 500 of our sons and daughters have been killed, with thousands of others being wounded.

Therefore, if Martians exists, and know how to stop this war, feed the hungry, cloth the naked, shelter the homeless, promote diversity, create jobs, save the children, and give us a new religion of peace. Then bring it on ---and liberate us from our own weapons of mass destruction internally. Because we are the number one threat to ourselves, others, and our environment.

Therefore, our President should use his influences among his advisors---to bring our sons and daughters back home. Then maybe the Martians will liberate us from a flawed foreign policy in the middle east. Peace!

Letters

2004-02-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

George B. Rhynes (229-251-8645) 10 February 2003
605 ½ East Hill Ave
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Governor Bush! America always had an Affirmative Action Program
and Set-Asides for the white privileged and their children. There was
an invisible sign, which read “Blacks need not apply.” This practice
went on into the sunset, and met at the O.K. Corral of economic
prosperity.

Even the bathrooms, restaurants, theaters, armed forces, water
fountains, churches, State, and Federal Contracts etc., were all
set-asides for privileged whites and their children. They benefited
tremendously and were able to send their children to Technical Schools, Colleges
and Universities. While blacks were relegated to discrimination,
inferior schools denied their civil and human rights. This was no myth of
the imagination---this is American history. In addition, many White
Christians gave their approval by silent consent decree.

Today, we hear! “I had nothing to do with what my ancestors did,”
which may be true! However, Jesus had nothing to do with Adam and Eve
committing sin in the Garden. Yet, he dedicated his life to eliminate
the inequities in society without oppressing others directly or
indirectly for self-gain. Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as you love
yourself,” this is an easy undertaking when God’s love exists within the human
heart.

Our conscious is what distinguishes us from other animals. In
addition, until Americans desire for their neighbors, the same things that
they themselves and their children have received. Then Americans will
continue to lose their humanity, on the world sage of
respectability----. Peace!

George B. Rhynes
A Concerned Citizen & Brother of Humanity

Letters

2004-02-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

Been busy...but here are some recent letters.

George Rhynes (229-251-8645)
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor

Don't blame the president alone!

We cannot blame President Bush alone for the war with Iraq. It was the
American people who refused to hold our elected officials, news media
outlets, religious leaders, and cooperation’s accountable.

Instead many Americans buried their head in the sand like the legend
concerning the ostrich bird, and remained silent concerning the war.

It is said that in our form of government that the power is with the
people. However, after 911, apparently we have been tricked, used, and
misled by politicians, mass media, and false patriots ---who seems to be
chiseling away at our Constitutional Rights.

Here in America people were afraid to speak out against the war with
Iraq. They believed they would be viewed as unpatriotic.

Now unless real Americans step up to the plate of responsibility. Our
nation may go into decline. With our active duty, retired, disabled
veterans suffering, and their benefits being cut while the American
people seem to be powerless in helping their own children---in the Armed
Forces.

Therefore, Americans must question their government as to why--- the
Islamic world hates Americans---so much.

Is it our foreign policy towards Israel and the billions of dollars we
give. Of which is being used to oppress the defenseless Palestinian
people--- to the point of strapping bombs around their waists, blowing
themselves up in a public place to maintain some level of dignity, and
self respect before their love ones?

So, was 911, a retaliatory strike because of our inhuman foreign policy
around the world? I pray not, but questions must be asked and
answered. Peace, and God Bless everybody!

John "Jackboot" Ashcroft

2004-02-15T08:56:00.000-05:00

This should scare the crap out of everyone. The goverment wants the the names of anti-war protesters. What for? Who wants them? Where do the names go?

Article:
Federal authorities drop subpoenas to Iowa anti-war activists
By Joanne Laurier
World Socialist Web Site
12 February 2004
Federal prosecutors February 10 effectively withdrew a subpoena demanding that an Iowa university hand over information on participants of a November 2003 anti-war forum. Subpoenas directed at four activists were also withdrawn. This extraordinary attack on democratic rights had provoked protests from civil liberties and anti-war organizations.

Various posts

2004-02-04T20:38:00.000-05:00

This is incredible.....

and this

And more on Bush and his missing time on military service...

How the white house got us into Iraq....

and if you want even more reading please take the time and read this

Letters

2004-01-25T16:22:00.000-05:00

George B. Rhynes (229-251-8645) 25 January 2004
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

“GUEST COLUMN,” WHERE APPLICABLE, THIS IS A REAL WORLD PROBLEM IN THIS
SOUTH GEORGIA TOWN.

The New South may not be so new after all! Here in Valdosta, Georgia
approximately 240 miles south of Atlanta, Rev. Floyd Rose, President of
the People’s Tribunal a local Civil Rights organization addressed the
Valdosta-Lowndes County Conference Center and Tourism Authority on
behalf of concerned citizens on 20 Jan 2004:

“Of the more than thirty (30) employees only one full time positions is
held by an African American all other blacks compose the “Clean-up,”
crew. None of them have health or retirement benefits---this is
unacceptable to all people of good will,”

The attorney for the authority stated that, “they are following the
law, and cannot discriminate against anyone. Moreover, that they will
continue hiring the best qualified, and experienced applicants.”

Rev. Rose’s main objective seemed to be one of diversity, and fairness.
“We are not asking you to terminate or remove Whites who are currently
employed to make room for Blacks. However, we are suggesting that as
vacancies appear they be filled with qualified blacks until such time
they reflect the racial make-up of your clientele.”

The Center reemphasized its position that they were following the law
and could not discriminate against anyone.

Rev. Rose said, “Our concerns are both morale and legitimate. We are
prepared to (1), conduct public demonstrations (informational
picketing), (2) pursue legal actions, and (3), lead a boycott, until African
American are equally respected at every level of your employ.”

As an applicant I reminded the board that Blacks were well qualified a
few decades ago, to use the restaurants, bathrooms, motels, and other
public facilities but was denied---by those following the law.

However, people of good will stood up on Christian, Jewish, and Islamic
principles and changed America’s laws for the better---in the eyes of
the world.

However in South Georgia, the question remains---has the Old South
really changed? Peace!

George Rhynes
A concerned citizen, community organizer, Minister, Retired U.S Air
Force Veteran, Single Parent, Business Owner for 14 years, Author of
several writings, and believes totally in free speech, and freedom of the
press!

Letters

2004-01-25T16:20:00.000-05:00

Dear Editor

My intake and observations of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Conference Center Monthly Meeting on 20 January 2004 – was in contrast to what has been reported by our local news media.

The Rev. Floyd Rose President of the People’s Tribunal made his concerns clear “Of the more than thirty (30) employees only one full-time position is held by an African American at the center and all other Blacks compose the “clean-up,” crews.” None of them have health or retirement benefits---which is unacceptable---to all people of good will.”

Therefore, it appears that local media has focused on boycotts, and picketing instead of focusing on what appears to be unfair hiring practices.

The Rev. Rose main objective was diversity, and fairness, “we are not asking you to terminate or remove whites who are currently employed to make room for blacks. However, we are suggesting that as vacancies appear they be filled with qualified blacks until such time they reflect the racial make-up of your clientele.”

Attorney William Moore for the center stated that “they are following the law, and can not discriminate against anyone. Moreover, that they will continue hiring the best qualified, and experienced applicants.”

I reminded the Board that blacks were over qualified a few decades ago to use the restaurants, bathroom, motels, and other public facilities, but was denied---by those following the law.

However, people of good will stood-up on Christian principles, and changed America in the eyes of the world. Peace!

George R

Letters

2004-01-19T10:50:00.000-05:00

Dear Editor

King’s example: Keeping freedom alive

As we celebrate the accomplishments and legacy of the Rev. Martin
Luther King Jr., let’s remember in whose footsteps he stood. He preached
nonviolence in the church, in the streets, and beyond. He committed his
life to changing an Old World Order into a New World Order. Moreover,
because of his efforts, he redefined the meaning of Truth, Love,
Freedom, Justice, Liberation and the methods we used to achieve them.

Dr. King saw the war in Vietnam as a cruel, unjust and costly
war—fueled by the arrogance of leaders who used our tax dollars to kill innocent
peasants in Southeast Asia. He stood in defiance of his government
because he stood on principles and chose the morale high ground as Jesus
stood before King Herod and Pilate.

Dr. King refused to bend his knees and buckle from criticism. In
addition, history records him as being one of America’s finest patriots
because he showed us a true picture of ourselves as a nation. His
nonviolent methods align him with the Messiah Jesus (Matt 2:2): “the government
was upon his shoulders,” and as they conspired to silence Jesus, J.
Edgar Hoover of the FBI sought to silence Dr. King, for no other reason
than that he followed the principles of Jesus.

Therefore, today Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus and others cannot
hide behind their denominations and keep silent concerning war with Iraq.
We must follow the martyrs who dressed themselves in the robe of one
blood, one love and one humanity.

So just attending a ceremony in memory of Dr. King—but failing to stand
up for what he gave his life for on a daily bases—is to make mockery of
both Dr. King and Jesus. America must unite by blood, love, kinship,
and citizenship in order to keep the fight for freedom alive in America
and beyond.

George B. Rhynes, Valdosta, Georgia

More
Dear Editor

Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., was a great humanitarian, and winner of
the Noble Peace Prize. He gave the world a universal message of love.
His message went beyond the Halls of Congress, Christianity, Judaism,
Islam, the Commander-in-Chief of the United States, and is applicable to
the war on terror of today:

“We’re not going to win this battle of hate and terror by hating other
folks. Hate doesn’t help the hater, and it doesn’t help the person who
hates. There is something about hate that hurts the hater. Somebody
must have the power to transform through love. You just hate somebody
and you are as uncomfortable and as frustrated as the person you are
hating.

There is something about hate that keeps you from walking straight,
something about hate that keeps you from standing up straight.

And when you hate you can’t see straight. When you hate, you lose your
power of objectivity. When you hate somebody, you can’t see them.
When you hate strong enough, the ugly becomes beautiful and the beautiful
becomes ugly. A good speech becomes a bad speech, and a bad speech
becomes a good speech. When you hate strong enough, hair pins begin to
sell for $1,000 and diamond rings for five cents, because that’s a wrong
price tag on things. Something about hate, that does something to the
hater and so our way must be a way of love.”

Hate is a weapon of mass destruction---so don’t participate in it, and
it will destroy itself. [GBR]

George B. Rhynes, Valdosta Georgia

More

Dear Editor,

There should be no arguments as to where the Ten Commandments should be
displayed. However, there is a strange dilemma sweeping the landscape
across America. Today it seems that Gold, Oil, and Diamonds (GOD) have
become America’s deity.

Too many Americans in my opinion look to these resources to get them
out of their modern day Egypt. We kill our foreign neighbors because
they want to be free and respected, as we ourselves want to be
respected.

Our foreign neighbors whant to control their own natural resources,
diamond, gold, uranium, pearls etc., as America used her
natural resources in the past.

We not only cover our neighbors wife, but we are covering our sons and
daughters because of an unjustified war with Iraq. In addition, words
engraved on stone should be left along, but their principles should be
stamped in the human heart.

If America is to survive, she must look into the mirror at herself.
She terrorized Blacks, in the land of the free, and the home of the
brave. They could not own land, a business, assemble in groups of more
than five, forced to obey dictators, called three fifths of a human
being, worked without being paid by-law, and never received an
apology.

For over 250 years, they were not allowed to be educated equally. In
1857, the
Supreme Court said that no black person had rights that a white man had
to respect. Therefore, Black African Americans were terrorized for
centuries in America. Where were the Ten Commandments, and the
Christian Institutions? Peace, and God bless everybody!

Save Marcus!

2004-01-17T11:48:00.000-05:00

This is happening in the NE part of Georgia.
There is an 18 year old African American honor student -- Marcus Dixon -- in Rome, Georgia who is spending ten years in prison for having consensual sex with a white classmate who was just three months shy of 16 yrs old at the time they had sex. Although a jury acquitted Marcus of rape and three other counts of violent acts, the prosecutor also charged him with "aggravated child molestation." Consensual sex with a virgin fits into the technical reading of this Georgia statute. The statute has never been applied to consensual sex between two teenagers with less than three years age difference, until now.

Letters and comments

2004-01-13T08:38:00.000-05:00

George B. Rhynes (229-251-8645) 11 Jan 2004
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor,

After watching 60 minutes on 11 Jan 2004, it appears that President
Bush own cabinet member finally revealed that President Bush had
decided
to go to war with Iraq prior to 911, and before taking office.

Therefore, it appears that Cynthia Mckinney, a representative from
the State of Georgia was correct---after all. This bold, courageous
black female politician reported what the white, male, dominated
controlled mass media in America refused to report to the American
people.

Everyday throughout America a group of whites strategically select
stories, editorials, and opinions that will maintain the status quo,
keep their jobs secure, disregard freedom of the press, and keep the
American people in the White!

AmericaÂs mass media is a powerful tool with the ability to start and
stop wars---as in Vietnam. I am convinced that Americas media refused
to report the truth concerning war with Iraq, eliminating weapons of
mass destruction, and liberating the people of Iraq.

It is not the president or political leaders whose children are dying
on daily bases in Iraq---in a war that could have been avoided.

Our sons and daughters are being killedeverydayy in Iraq, and
casualties may never be known. While the foreign press seems to be our
best source of information.

Moreover, the American people may never know the actual number of
deaths, until their children fail to return home.

Therefore, all politicians who failed to represent the American
peopleÂs interest are as much to blame for this war---as the president
of the United States.

This government was intended to be of the people, by the people, and
for the people. Therefore, AmericaÂs media should not be controlled
nor censored, and politicians should not just go along to get along.

Thanks to 60 minutes for reporting that our President had decided to go
to war with Iraq prior to 911, and before taking office. Peace!

Never was any WMD's

2004-01-09T16:03:00.000-05:00

This was produced by an independent think-tank. The bottom line is that we were lied to about the need to attack Iraq.

Bush Bypasses Senate, Makes 12 Appointments

2003-12-27T11:25:00.000-05:00

This is what I was talking about (watch the whitehouse). More to come in this next week.

" President Bush went around Congress on Friday and installed 12 people to government posts after their nominations stalled in the Senate. "

Merry Christmas Darryl Hunt!

2003-12-25T10:29:00.000-05:00

If you have the time to read one thing this week let it be this Mr Hunt was set up in 1984 in Winston-Salem NC for a rape and murder of a young white woman and spent 19 years in prison. And he did not do it. I lived in Winston-Salem at the time and was 21 when it happened. I will comment later.
Please read the entire series that the local paper did on the story.

Merry Christmas!!!

2003-12-24T10:29:00.000-05:00

Happy Festivus! Enjoy your family and friends.
-but also

Keep your eyes and ears tuned to the whitehouse. I feel they are going to pull something either today or tomorrow.
I am betting on either a photo- op or they will sign some kind of excutive order tonight that will benefit a "friend" of the whitehouse.

Amen!

2003-12-23T11:09:00.000-05:00

Go to google.com and type in "veteran in need" and see how many hits you get. I have be in meetings in the past 6 months with VA clinic professionals who are wondering what they are going to do once all the folks come back home from Bush Jr's little war. These folks are reporting that they are not really serving the vets they now have. One person told me that there are wait times of months to years to get seen for medical and even psychological appointments. The VA has been cut SINCE the war started in Iraq by the whitehouse and are facing more cutbacks in the next year!

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 22 December 2003
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor – Message Boards

SUBJECT: Our Veterans Needs Media Attention!

On 21 Dec 03, the Valdosta Daily Times our only daily news paper
published an opinion column from the President of Lowndes Veterans Council,
“New bus needed to transport veterans,” requesting financial help to
purchase a new bus to transport military veterans to and from Veterans
Hospital.
This appears to be a great gesture to the untrained eye. However, the
more pressing veterans complaints go unreported by America’s mass media
network. Therefore, the disgraceful and shameful treatment of our
veterans continue because media networks refuse to report that:
Too many active duty personnel are living on welfare; homeless veterans
are living on the streets without help from the government they served.
Veterans must make co-payments for their medicine, wait up to 12 months
to see a medical specialist at a Veterans hospital, pay their own
travel pay to and from veterans hospital, chiropractic care is not available
at many Veterans Hospitals. Veterans constitutional rights are
violated in many law enforcement institutions across America. Some retired
veterans who get a divorce lose half of their retirement pay to their
spouse, and they have no free dental care. Many retired disabled veterans
with disability lose part of their hard-earned retirement pay.
These are real world issues confronting veterans. However, America’s
mass media, politicians, and others would rather bury their heads
beneath the rubbish pile of (UVC), Unreported Veterans Concerns.
Moreover, this is totally unacceptable, and unpatriotic to mistreat our
sons and daughters who served their country honorably. Peace!

Is this how we are supporting the troops?

2003-12-20T16:59:00.000-05:00

Are we going to support our troops only when they are useful and then kick them out to live in poverty?

"Lieutenant John Fernandez, who lost part of both legs in Iraq, knows he can no longer be a soldier, but he's not ready to leave the army.
'I personally don't think it's right to be forced out of the -- military and all of a sudden be forced to live on half of the pay that I was getting,' he says.
Ryan Kelley, who lost his left leg below the knee, makes about $20,000 a year as a staff sergeant. Once he leaves the army, he will receive about $8,000 a year in benefits. "

More Letters

2003-12-20T16:49:00.000-05:00

Sorry I have been busy- keep writing!

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 17 December 2003
5004 Oak Drive
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor,

The police raids on Stratford High School in South Carolina on 5
November 2003 seems to be a precursor to what is coming to other
schools, and institutions across America. A great prophet of our times once
said ‘be aware of what you see happening on distant shores, because soon it will be knocking at your door.”
The Associated Press may never have reported this incident---had there
been no surveillance cameras at Stratford High School showing students
being ordered to the floor. In addition, with police guns pointed at
children, with drugs dogs, and police searching the students.
After police searched about 100 students, no drugs were found, and no
one was arrested. However, several civil suits have been filed in
federal court, and Rev. Jessie Jackson is now being criticized by the media
as Rev. Martin L. King Jr. by the media for helping the least among us.
Yet, after he was murdered----they praised him.
We should not in good conscious ignore the children at Stratford High
School and their constitutional rights. Because when Law Enforcement
comes into our children schools and institutions under the banner of
“Routine Police Procedure,” how will we react?
It appears that our freedom in America is dissolving, and we are
becoming a police state. Just try submitting an editorial or controversial
opinion column against the status quo, and see if America’s media
conglomerate will publish opposing views.

Wake-up America---that’s not coffee in your cup!

Let Them Eat War

2003-12-18T11:02:00.000-05:00

Great article on how the republicans are selling their message to the folks they are doing the most damage to.

No turkey for you

2003-12-17T13:57:00.000-05:00

Seem like the presidents trip to visist the troops onThanksgiving was not really about supporting the troops but his election. Bet a lot of them are hoping he does not come back for Christmas......

Letters!

2003-12-06T14:36:00.000-05:00

Please pass the word! If you are tired of the VDT and it's "editorial" opinions fire off your comments and concerns. Thanks!
Now for another letter....

George B. Rhynes (229-251-8645) 5 December 2003
605 Â½ East Hill Ave
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor

Thanks to you, and other Internet web-sites, the citizens of Valdosta,
Georgia can finally get their editorials, opinions, and columns
published in Lowndes County.

In my opinion: For years, I have watched the Valdosta Daily Times
(VDT); our only local daily newspapers omit the real news, and concerns of
the community. Therefore, the Internet has become a breath of fresh air
for many local citizens. Now the hoodwink of an 1857 time warp can be
permanently removed from the eyes of the masses.

Especially, since we have Moody AFB, Valdosta State University, Wild
Adventure, many Retired Veterans from around the world, and Educators
from the best schools, colleges, and universities known to man. Yet, many
of these professionals are dissatisfied with our local news media
outlets.

Even local organizations come together across racial lines to condemn
the manner in which meetings are inadequately covered by VDT at various
city and county monthly meetings such as:

a. Supplies needed by our youths as brought before the mayor and city
council recently. Some elderly citizens are afraid to come out of their
homes because of alleged gang activity. The director from South Side
Recreation Center that helps under privilege youths were recognized at a
City Board of Education monthly meeting. That railroad tracts in
several locations on the South Side of the City presents a hazard, but since
the (VDT) times will not report on items of this nature. The citizens
have no way of knowing that problems presented are being worked by
mayor and council.

b. Moreover, local citizens are not notified by the VDT, concerning
drive by shootings addressed at various meetings. Eleven, Lowndes County
Inmates constitutional rights allegedly was being denied. In addition,
they requested help from outside sources by written official
statements---which was presented to the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners.
Serious incidents were being swept under the rug. Irregularities, in
the local electoral process with candidates names missing from ballots,
voters name was not listed on voting list, citizens in district 1,
having to drive over 10-12 miles round trip to a polling place to cast their
votee, incidents at the County Fair was not reported and many local
citizens knew nothing these incidents.

However, these problems are seldom reported and addressed in our local
media outlets, although some are sent in writing. Therefore, it is the
local citizens responsibility to network, write letters, make telephone
calls, make full use of internet services, and create newsletters to
keep the community informed when news outlets fail to do so.

In addition, we must hold our news media accountable to their
responsibility---not only to the citizens of Valdosta, but also to the Founding
Fathers of this Republic. Moreover, to the Veterans who served our
nation to preserve our Freedom of Speech and of the Press indefinitely.
Peace!

We also get letters! #3

2003-12-04T09:07:00.000-05:00

George Rhynes (229-251-8645) 4 December 2003
605 1/2 East Hill Ave
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

Dear Editor – Editorial Boards

SUBJECT: Iraq/Unanswered Questions!

America’s intervention in Iraq has become a war of unanswered
questions!

The associated press reported that Rebecca Suell in Tyler, Texas wants
answers, and not the ones the U.S. Army is giving her. Since April
2003, over 17, U. S. Troops has committed suicide. Why, does the Army
keep calling the last letter her husband sent to her, the one he mailed
from Iraq on June 15, a suicide note? Can taking a bottle of Tylenol
really kill you?

In addition, how he got his hands on a bottle of Tylenol in the middle
of the desert any way? Questions, questions, questions, the war of
questions continue over this war with Iraq, also known as the Project for
a New American Century---as explained on the Internet.

There are no answers, because no questions were asked before the war
began. After 911, American failed to ask why are fellow human beings mad
at us and those who stands with us.

Questions remain, who and what cooperation’s will benefit from this war
with Iraq? Are nations mad at us because we give billions of dollars
to Israel to fight the Palestinians?

When did our President first decide to fight this war with Iraq? How
much money would be diverted from the American citizens to take down a
foreign leader of a sovereign nation? Who provided the intelligence to
substantiate the war with Iraq? Who determined that they possessed
weapons of mass destruction? Who will find America’s weapons of mass
destruction---and should they to be eliminated?

How many funerals have our president attended for those killed in Iraq?
How many of our sons and daughters will return home as veterans, with
disabilities, and then be forced to wait for 12 months to see a medical
specialist at a VA Hospital. Rebecca, Suell is right to ask questions,
in contrast to other citizens who refuse to question their government.

Why must retired disability veterans be required to make co-payments
for their medicine? Why no free dental care for retired disabled
veterans? Why are they required to pay their own travel pay to VA hospital?
Why do retired disabled veterans lose part of their retirement
pay-----if they acquired a disability while on active duty? Why are divorced
veterans required to give up 50 percent of their retirement pay---to
their spouse?

Why is there no chiropractic care at VA hospitals? Why are active duty
personnel on welfare? Why do our politicians scream patriotism while
cutting veterans benefits---at the same time? Where is the real support
for those who serve their country in peace and in time of war?

Will the war with Iraq go down in history as the completion of the
Project for A New American Century? Every question deserves an answer, and
every answer should meet the needs of the question. This war with
Iraq may be the best mirror for America to see herself as the world sees
her. Moreover, there is hope for America, if she will only become a
Christian nation, something she has never been.

In addition, America’s history proves this point—by how she landed on
the native Americans. Therefore, America must begin to treat fellow
human beings, as she wants to be treated by other nations of the world.
Until then questions will continue to be asked---- by the real patriots
of this Republic. What have we done to others for them to hate us so
much, and are willing to die in order to be heard? Super power does not
mean to drive your beliefs and traditions down the neck of others.
Answers are required to the questions. Peace!

We also get letters! #2

2003-12-04T09:03:00.000-05:00

Subject: Cincinnati Routine Police Procedures

George B. Rhynes (229-251-8645) 4 December 2003
605 1/2 East Hill Ave
Valdosta, Georgia 31605-1144

Dear Editor

According to Cincinnati Police Chief, and Mayor the force used by six
Cincinnati Police Officers in arresting Nathaniel Jones was not
excessive force---but Routine Police Procedures.

This should not come as a surprise since judges and juries across
America repeatedly rules in favor of Law Enforcement. However, Black
American males over stand what routine procedures really mean dating
back to "The Good Ship Jesus, and Sir John Hawkins!"

Moreover, these approved Law Enforcement Procedures may never be fully
over stood by others until they themselves, their children, and love
ones become victims lying on a hospital bed or worst.

Therefore, how many American citizens have suffered from routine police
procedures, but not caught on videotape---and exposed to the media.

Our rights are dissolving before our eyes and eventually these same
routine procedures could become engraved in stone and made The Law of
The Land. Then there will be no Black, White, Republican, Democrat,
Christian, Muslim, Jew, etc. being abused.

All of us will be under the spell of the Leviathan, because we gave our
silent consent decree.

A great prophet once said, "Be ware of what is happening on distant
shores, because soon it will be knocking at your door. Moreover, take
notice how police treat your neighbor and their children down the
street, because your house and family will be next."

Jesus sealed the truth of the prophets---by saying "Love your neighbor
as you love yourself." We are all in this maze of life together.

We also get letters!

2003-12-04T08:57:00.000-05:00

George B. Rhynes (229-251-8645) 4 December
2003
605 ½ East Hill Ave
Valdosta, Georgia 31605

SUBJECT: Affirmative Action

America always had an Affirmative Action Program and Set-Asides for the
white privileged and their children. There was an invisible sign,
which read “Blacks need not apply.” This practice went on into the sunset,
and met at the O.K. Corral of economic prosperity.

Even the bathrooms, restaurants, theaters, armed forces, water
fountains, churches etc., were all set-asides for privileged whites and their
children. They benefited tremendously and were able to send their
children to Technical Schools, Colleges and Universities. While blacks were
relegated to discrimination, inferior schools denied their civil and
human rights. This was no myth of the imagination---this is American
history. In addition, many White Christians gave their approval by silent
consent decree.

Today, we hear! “I had nothing to do with what my ancestors did,”
which may be true! However, Jesus had nothing to do with Adam and Eve
committing sin in the Garden. Yet, he dedicated his life to eliminate the
inequities in society without oppressing others directly or indirectly
for self-gain. Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as you love yourself,”
this is an easy undertaking when God’s love exists within the human
heart.

Our conscious is what distinguishes us from other animals. Therefore,
until Americans desire for their neighbor, the same things that they
themselves and their children enjoys. Then they will continue to lose
their humanity--on the world stage of respectability. Peace!

Shut your trap for Jesus...uh Bush!

2003-12-03T21:20:00.000-05:00

So shut up and quit thinking! Just pray dammit!:
"'I'm very proud of President George W. Bush. He has once again, with his Thanksgiving trip to the troops, proven himself to be a man of conviction and courage. Our brave men and women who are defending our freedoms need for the people back home to stop this bashing of their commander-in-chief and get about the important business of praying for their continued safety and success. Make it a point to say thank you to a man or woman in the armed forces here at home everyday. They need to hear it. Write letters of thanks to the troops abroad. They need to read it. Our prayers and unwavering support for them are what matter right now. Nothing else.'"

The local mouthpiece speaks again

2003-11-23T00:08:00.000-05:00

I am really fed up with these guys. I am sick and tired of their patronizing attitudes towards people. Just read this and see if it does not make you crazy.
Saddam Hussein flouted United Nations resolutions for 12 years. He plotted to kill former President George Bush, an act of war if there ever was one. Osama bin Laden, emboldened by what he saw in 1993 in Somalia -- a superpower that ran when casualties mounted -- decided the United States' underbelly was soft enough for terrorist attacks that escalated through the 1990s and culminated in Sept. 11. The past administration's answer to Hussein and bin Laden was to lob cruise missiles at tents

Is this the best you can do as an argument? How many other people have plotted against democrats, especially Clinton. I remember some of the far right wingers at the time plotting to take out Clinton (impeachment) because he had sex in the White House (like that was the first time). But I did not see Clinton taking Jerry Falwell, Pat Robinson, Rush lumbaugh or the like out with the army. Maybe attacking Lynchburg VA would do some good, you know they have Falwell's university and lord knows they could stand a little liberation in that town....been there.
If the republicans would quit messing around and jacking up other countries then you wouldn't be getting death threats! The Bush Klan seems to be just spoiling for a fight and when it does not go their way they want to take their ball and go home. Jesus.
Getting back to the VDT folks. With all the right wing controlled papers in America the best job any of you could find is in Valdosta? That is sad, really.
Ok, you mentioned it in this little editorial so it is fair game. WHAT ABOUT BIN LADEN?!!!!!!!!!!!
Would someone please find ANYONE to buy up this sorry chain of mouthpieces? I will chip in $100 for this. Maybe we could have a fund raiser to buy it out and the community could run it. It would only take a bake sale and some car washes. They can't really want more than a few thousand for the whole thing (minus equipment).

ACLU Survey Reveals Massive Civil Rights Violations Against People With HIV/AIDS

2003-11-18T15:47:00.000-05:00

ACLU Survey Reveals Massive Civil Rights Violations Against People With HIV/AIDS:

"Some of the more startling violations included:
*In rural Texas, a patient with AIDS who was admitted to a local hospital for vomiting and diarrhea was found lying in a hospital bed with nothing but a cup of water on the table. Staff from an AIDS service organization delivered medication to him and asked that he be given an IV. When they returned the following day he still had not been treated. He was transferred to another hospital, but it was too late and he died.
*A provider in New Mexico reported that a patient first learned that he was HIV-positive from a receptionist in front of a waiting room full of people.
*A landlord in Arkansas found out that his tenant was HIV-positive and tore up the lease.
*A teacher in Florida informed an entire classroom of one child�s HIV status.
*A provider in Arizona tried for three months to get an HIV-positive client into a skilled nursing care facility, calling almost every home in Arizona.
*Even in Los Angeles, many nursing homes and psychiatric facilities will not take clients with HIV.
*In Texas, HIV-positive parents have been denied visitation of their children because of their status."

Please read and tell people

State's ethics still down and dirty

2003-11-17T20:55:00.000-05:00

Sonny,Sonny,Sonny
"Gov. Sonny Perdue fought hard to put his own people on the state Ethics Commission, so it was no surprise when the panel decided Perdue had done no wrong to mix business with quail hunting -- at state expense"

Living wage jobs can rescue working poor

2003-11-17T20:52:00.000-05:00

Go read:
"A May 2003 study documents that nearly 60,000 Atlanta residents earn less than $10.50 per hour, making up about 21 percent of the working population. Please meet the working poor: Their average age is 35 years, with nearly 17 years in the work force. Average family size is 2.8 people. Ninety-three percent are adults, 40 percent are nonwhite and 56 percent are female"

What an analysis......

2003-11-17T20:43:00.000-05:00

Our editor Ron Wayne:
"Depending on their race and their political party, residents have opposite views of how things are going in Georgia and in the United States. To put it simply: Republicans and whites see the glass as half-full, while Democrats and African-Americans see it as half-empty"

Just stop with these lame comments. Say SOMETHING or let someone else write this column.

Putting Valdosta on the Map!

2003-11-17T20:33:00.000-05:00

This is just one of the reasons I like calling Valdosta home.

Am I the only one to question this?

2003-11-08T18:16:00.000-05:00

This is the quote from the new governmental reporter for the VDT. I could not make this up.

"Before this job, I really had never dealt with politics, and I feel I've learned so much in the past month. I guess that's really the reason why I fell in love with this job, with reporting -- it's ever changing, ever growing and never dull. And it always goes over well at parties when you say you're the government reporter. Some people think that makes you smart."

What about the corporate welfare?

2003-11-05T16:47:00.000-05:00

This is what keeps me awake at night:
"The final version of the $87 billion spending bill for Iraq and Afghanistan is missing provisions the Senate had passed to penalize war profiteers who defraud American taxpayers. House negotiators on the package refused to accept the Senate provisions."

2003-11-04T22:24:00.000-05:00

Wonder what kind of voting machines they have? (see below)
GOP Wins Ky. Gov.; Miss. Gov. Race Close

2003-11-04T22:02:00.000-05:00

By the corporations for the corporations
It seems that there is a bug in the system. A must read.
And more

2003-11-04T21:46:00.000-05:00

Stop the draft!

When I first saw this link I thought the person was either kidding or trying to blow things out of proportion but......now I am scared. I know a lot of people see the possibility of the draft coming back as remote at best and political death to those who would suggest it but this administration has been going it's own way a lot and seems to bend people to their message quite well.
Those who keep writing in about how we should support the troops need to do so by getting these sellers of death and destruction out of office. What is it going to take to piss off enough people?
Here is another indication that things are not going so well.

2003-11-01T16:56:00.000-05:00

He wasn't a God; dammit!
Do we remember

"The chairman of the Republican National Committee has told CBS' president that historians should review the miniseries 'The Reagans' for historical accuracy, or the network should run a disclaimer that the program is fiction."
"We live in a culture today of reality TV," GOP chairman Ed Gillespie said in a conference call Friday. "Lines between fact and fiction get blurred.He said he resents particularly how the miniseries depicts the Reagans' attitude on AIDS and how it depicts former first lady Nancy Reagan.

You know, as to Reagan and his administration attitude towards AIDS just read the book "And the Band Played On". I remember Pat Robinson and Jerry Fallwell, being all over the white house during Reagan, and he as much as said in his policies that people with AIDS deserve to die. Read the book and if it does not make you mad seek help.

2003-11-01T14:53:00.000-05:00

They broke the law and want a break?
Look at who defends rich hunters:
"The plantations had faced potential fines totaling more than $10 million. Kolomoki Plantation alone could have been hit with nearly $6 million in penalties for allegedly setting out more than 500 pesticide-laced eggs.After the EPA reopened the cases, the plantation owners contended the federal agency lacked statutory authority to do so and sought help from U.S. Sens. Saxby Chambliss and Zell Miller of Georgia. Chambliss and Miller in September wrote acting EPA Administrator Marianne Horinka a letter demanding the agency explain why it had renewed enforcement actions against the preserves. They also asked the agency to spell out its legal authority to pursue the cases.Palmer, the EPA regional administrator, replied that the light penalties initially imposed by the state and 'the pervasiveness and seriousness' of the violations warranted tougher punishment, and asserted the agency has the legal right to renew enforcement actions."