The purpose of the "Giles Free Speech Zone" is to identify problems of concern to the people of Giles County, to discuss them in a gentlemanly and civil manner, while referring to the facts and giving evidence to back up whatever claims are made, making logical arguments that avoid any use of fallacy, and, hopefully, to come together in agreement, and find a positive solution to the problem at hand. Help make a difference! Email "mcpeters@usit.net" to suggest topics or make private comments.
What a morning, two hours in the County Commission Meeting and about the only things “decided” were simple administrative appointments and updating.
Three items that I find interesting...(click on "comments" to continue reading)
posted by J. Kendrick McPeters | 11:02 PM
134 Comments:
Item #1 -- As I began sitting up the cameras I was approached by the Sheriff and a deputy who had been given the County Executive’s personal order that I was not to sit in the jury area during the Commission Meeting. To support her order was a “court order” signed by Judge Hamilton that prevents anyone from sitting in the jury area during Commission Meetings. Is this a case of judicial irresponsibility or just absurdity? Seems the County Executive by her own words can’t prevent someone from parking their motorcycle on the courthouse lawn but can find a way to prevent someone from sitting in a position that actually faces the commissioners. Perhaps I should have taken a Harley to the meeting.
Item #2 -- The Commission appointed Mrs. Ronda Turner to fill the unexpired term of Mrs. Bernetta Houston to the School Board.
Item #3 -- The Courthouse Annex?
After listening to proposals that included buying two buildings and a vacant lot, building on land already owned by the county, buying and remodeling the Heilig-Myers building, buying land by City Hall and three different ideas about the Hunter Smith building the commission entertained only one motion. That motion was defeated and the meeting was adjourned leaving the county right where it’s been for ten years with an eyesore and crowded courthouse.
The proposals were and remain as follows.
1) Buy the Ace Hardware building; buy the Ace Hardware building and the vacant lot next to it, buy the Ace Hardware building the vacant lot and the building next to Ace Hardware. Any combination of offers on this spot would provide space for the fee offices to be moved from the courthouse.
2) Buy the Heilig-Meyers building with its more than adequate office and parking space and move the fee offices there. This would be in the range of 1.4 million dollars.
3) Buy vacant lots next to City Hall and build whatever is wanted along with adequate parking.
4) Tear out everything inside the Hunter Smith Building and remodel leaving the basement for storage and the two other floors for office space. If this building is used by the county, regardless for what use, it will require a complete gutting, roof repair, foundation repair and walls stabilized. This proposal would include an elevator shaft but no elevator and about 9,000 square feet of actual office space. Cost would be in the area of $900,000.00. Draw backs would be a lack of parking and still have an old building.
5) This proposal is simple, tear down the Hunter Smith Building and build a new 15,000 square foot office building for about 1.8 million. Problem is there would still be a parking problem.
6) This proposal is to build a new building next to the County jail and move the courts there. This would save the county about seven thousand dollars a year in rent currently paid for Highway Patrol offices on the square; $200,000 a year in money spent on courthouse security; the cost of transporting prisoners from the jail to court appearances; remove the danger of prisoners or others summoned to court from endangering people in the courthouse; and free up any number of parking spaces on each side of the square.
Each proposal carries with it a new construction cost of approximately $150.00 a square foot.
The final question that comes to mind is the matter of how any of these proposals will be paid for especially in light of all the new spending that has taken place in the past six months. Is the County Commission following the lead of the school board and spending themselves into a financial crisis that will be used to justify another tax increase, fee increases and/or a wheel tax? Folks, you better get ready there’s a train a-coming and it’s the mo’ tax and spend express. Allen Barrett
Here is the content of the Court Order that was obtained by Mrs. Vanzant without any consultation with Commissioners. What are your thoughts about this? Was this a matter of over-reach and exceeding her authority or do you feel her time and the people’s money were used appropriately? Allen Barrett
--------------------------------
In The Circuit And Chancery Courts For
Giles County, Tennessee
In Reference:
Use of Areas in Circuit And Chancery Courtrooms – Giles County Courthouse
______________________
ORDER
It appearing to The Court that the area which is surrounded by railing in the Circuit Court Room and the area surrounded by the County Commissioners’ desk are both considered to be areas where the Commissioners, Chairmen of Committees and Committee Members conduct their business.
The same space is also considered to be the area where court cases are heard with lawyers, court reporters, court officers, and probation officers, etc. present. Ample space will always be available for the General Public to be seated while Court is in session as well as the General Public to be seated while court is in session as well as the County Commission or their committee meetings are held.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that the areas in both upstairs courtrooms which are surrounded by railings and/or County Commission desks and chairs will be considered areas where court sessions are conducted and/or the business of the Commissioners, either for their regularly scheduled meetings and /or other committee or public hearing-type meetings will be conducted, and no persons other than Court personnel, Commissioners, Chairmen of Committees and Committee Members shall sit inside the areas surrounded by railing or commissioner desks during any sessions of court or meetings of the County Commission and/or their committees.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that ample space will be provided for the General Public to attend Sessions of Court as well as each and every meeting.
Enter: This _________ day of February, 2007
______________________________
Jim T. Hamilton, Presiding Judge
THE GILES COUNTY COMMISSION HAS TOTAL CONTROL OF THE COURTHOUSE AND SURROUNDING LAND. JUDGE HAMILTON ONLY HAS AUTHORITY OVER THE COURT ROOM WHEN HE IS HOLDING COURT IN THAT ROOM. HE DOES NOT HAVE AUTHORITY TO ISSUE ORDERS CONTROLLING WHAT GOES ON IN THE COURTHOUSE AT ANY OTHER TIME. THE COMMISSION ALSO HAS AUTHORITY TO PROHIBIT PARKING ON THE COURTHOUSE LAWN IF THEY HAVE THE INTESTINAL FORTITUDE TO DO SO. VANSANT HAS NO CONTROL OVER THE COURTHOUSE UNLESS THE COUNTY COMMISSION SPECIFICALLY GRANTS THE AUTHORITY.
I'm glad the Sheriff and a deputy has the time and the ability to prevent such a heinous crime such as someone sitting in the jury box during a commission meeting. This is much more important than catching drug dealers. I mean it takes 45 minutes for a deputy to get to Elkton at the report of a break in, but that's ok as long as they can bravely defend the jury box.
Mr. Barrett has done some good for the county as a whole and for its citizens. Mr. Barrett also has a self-feeding ego that has an insatiable appetite to be in the spotlight. He assumes that he is right (unless someone proves him wrong). He assumes that what he knows is the truth (though what he spouts is, at times, very far from reality). He loves to pick a fight. He loves innuendo. He loves to spread rumors (as does the majority of the county). He loves to be in a self-perceived position of “I know something that no one else knows”. Because no self-respecting news media is willing to “hire” Mr. Barrett he has attempted to create himself into “Boy Wonder” news reporter extraordinary. I thought that Clark Kent had that title, or was it Jimmy Olson?
Mr. Barrett is a self-made man. He has and continues to make himself into what he is. He has grown from a citizen who was concerned for the betterment of our community into a selfish ego-monger who is bent upon making himself the center of attention regardless what it takes.
Mr. Barrett ….. take time to reflect upon what you are doing. You were someone for whom I had respect. Now? You need to stop being a childish idiot who is doing more harm by perpetuating hate, discontent, bad rumors and stirring the pot for the sake of running the stew.
You have a self-created perception that you are a legitimate reporter. GET REAL!
Get the training, and get hired by a legitimate and registered news organization and stop being a child playing in your world of fantasy.
9:00:00, I could not have said it better. I agree with you. No good reporter would inject such rabble-rousing language in his report. A good reporter would report only the facts.
Einstein, Don't we all persume we are right until someone proves us wrong. Name one legitimate news media in Giles Co. The paper? NO! Too much censorship! The radio? I hardly think so. Swap-N-Shop does'nt count. Name one rumor Mr. Barrett has started or has helped spread. What have you done for the county? Shut up and get ready for your next school board meeting. And while your at it why don't you go and brush your tooth with some cynide?
Have any of you given any thought to the FACTS Mr Barret reported ??
These commissioners get PAID ($30 an hour !! >>not bad for Giles Co eh ?) to attend meetings and make decisions for the people they supposedly represent .
21 commissioners =$630 an hour .
So what did you get for your 2 hrs-worth yesterday ?? .Answer, A Court Order most of them knew nothing about .
That is progress in Giles Co??
AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WAB, this Order does not allow for the County Mayor, County Attorney, visiting speakers, department heads, and commissioners that might chose to observe a committee meeting to sit behind the railings and I guess STAARS won't be using the courtrooms again for their plays. Seems like they "shot themselves in the foot".
Hey dumb ass,
They don't get paid $30.00 per hour. They get paid $30.00 per committee meeting and $60.00 per full commission meeting. Any work done before or after the meeting is not paid. No telephone bills are paid. No gas or any other expenditures reimbursed etc.
Anonymous 8:07 - you appear to be the dumb butt - the writer quoting $30 per hour is basing that on the $30 each committee meeting which quickly gets adjourned when the hour is up and $60 for the commission meeting which rarely lasts two hours. The reimbursement is not intended as salary but to off-set gas, etc. If a commissioner chooses to make phone calls thats up to them. If they don't like it then they shouldn't make the phone calls. What other expenses are you talking about. You failed to mention the free trips and meals!
Did you ever try submitting your phone calls for reimbursement - you would probably get it.
Anonymous 8:07 - you appear to be the dumb butt - the writer quoting $30 per hour is basing that on the $30 each committee meeting which quickly gets adjourned when the hour is up and $60 for the commission meeting which rarely lasts two hours. The reimbursement is not intended as salary but to off-set gas, etc. If a commissioner chooses to make phone calls thats up to them. If they don't like it then they shouldn't make the phone calls. What other expenses are you talking about. You failed to mention the free trips and meals!
Did you ever try submitting your phone calls for reimbursement - you would probably get it.
90000 - a lot of zeros - filled with a void. Defender of deceit, purveyor of untruth, the virus that infects on contact. Hard to believe the likes of you have invaded the education system.
Caan't imagine your kind doing anything to preserve our way of life
Looks like we are moving into a new era. The court order game is a two way street. Next time there is a sly meeting, get a court order naming names. There is no penalty for violating the sunshine laws, but penalties are brutal for violating a court order.
I thought the war against open government was over - wrong! The commission needs to turn that court order around & defuse the situation NOW. It will get way out of control before we know it and no one will win!
It will be the commissioners who will be afraid to speak amongst themselves for any reason, and that will be a tradgedy!
It appears Vansant just wants to show her authority. Too bad she doesn't show it to perserve a nice appearance outside.
Folks, doesn’t anyone but me realize that by continuing to post here, or respond to WAB and McPeters in anyway only perpetuates this idiot blog? If we stop feeding the cancer, it will not grow. Let’s let it die the death is deserves.
Good-bye Anonymous.
March 20, 2007 9:56:00 PM,
I suggest you follow your own advice!
Yes, the "muckraker" continues to stir the pot and will never give up his fantasy....or should I say grandiose delusions of self?
Way to go wab it was a great piece of satire. I doubt if Anonymous even realizes how utterly stupid you made him look. Maybe someone will explain it to him later, maybe the County Mayor could get a judge to issue an explaination.
Anyway it was one of the most funny put-downs I've read on here.
stark dark
bright white
light light light
gone now
books upon books
knowledge at your side
read not one but none
lie in shambles from all to hide
eleven more enter at left
four come up from behind
see what you see
go through the bees
no more will come to find
did you see what happened there?
it seemed as if nothing grabbed me from below
i tried to get a lift of the jacket of night
but it stiffened before the knot was tied
enter the door of the east
walk straight until the right is visible
turn left go four not more
wait until the knock is heard
over the facade
not once did it crumble
sounds of hyperbole fly here
i will record it all with my mind
disputing it later is the game
trimhed..even though you don't post anonymous,do you think you are anonymous?
the front of rope, the smell raged
dawning over us, we could not see
idiocy, pessimism, blatant futility
those who wish do not breathe
upper reaches, tossed and not to the throw
what do you see lie, heels unto toe
twist and scream, blast and shoot
the cover we found, it all became moot
and then under the shadow, the wings of words became a gush
i sought not a lie, but that was all it had brushed
when those who dream and grow fearless hands
they will never trust others in the sand
trash
rocks
flitter and grip
heat
mist
pour rigid
vein of safety
The Riddler is really feeling poetic these days. Say, why don't we have a poetry contest on this thread?
Tis not the riddler
with that of no rhyme
but, the school pediddiler
to waste your time
95600 & dimhead - Someone needs to drop you off downtown - You'd never find your way back home & we'd be rid of you.
Vote for school board replacement - sounds like Jackson lost??? holt, reedy & lovable voted for someone else. ???
what if someone revealed that on here trimhed?
Why not flap those lips? We's wood like to no-
Someone must know what happened -
What is the real story behind the story? I wanna know! Big Daddy can't see behind the Blog.
Is it a coupe in de grass?The bored of education mafia will soon have no fangs to sharpen.
What then?
Ok, Riddler. Now let's see who can come up with prose of the quality you exude. Laughable.
"Ok, Riddler. Now let's see who can come up with prose of the quality you exude. Laughable."
What?
who/what are you trimhed?
I too, am just an ordinary average blogger that just so happens to think that trimhed is an idiot in every sense of the word and then some. Just in case the need to know ever arises.
To the guy with the funny blue head
I just thought trimhed might be thinking he was anonymous and wanted to let him know that he isn't. Whether he is an idiot or not remains to be seen. He is however very misinformed.
He posted something on swap and shop some time back and it wasn't hard to figure out from his ad who he was. I was just being kind..something I think to be very elusive on here. Guess he doesn't mind if people know. So many people post with some sort of alias on here whether it be anonymous or some other name. I personally would be rather careful of what I say on here if I didn't want anyone to know my identity. If he doesn't believe that this pertains to him, then he can politely withdraw from posting to any of my comments. But,it seems most of the boldest of comments come from posters unwilling to attach their name. Nothing wrong with being anonymous..don't get me wrong. I have made my own comments on here anonymously as I am doing now. The reason is, when you speak your mind and stand your ground in this county(on certain issues)you can suffer the consequences. I think most would agree with me.
My question to trimhed is...what did you mean by this statement, "Although I don't know what the big deal is regarding who I am, Go right ahead, just make sure you know what you are doing...
Is that a threat? Just wondering...
I don't recall threatening to reveal you at anytime in any of my posts. See what being a kind person gets you?
I am not speaking of the things you say towards WAB resulting in "consequences". You have commented on other subjects.
In regard to your statement,"I only meant that you should be sure of yourself and not name the wrong person. It wasn't a threat".
I don't post falsehoods or half truths when posting...One of the most valuable things I have learned in life is if you don't know it first-hand you can never be sure of its truth. Well, where some people on here love to spout on and on what is their opinion and hearsay on subjects, I always speak the facts. Hence, why I don't tell you who I am.
I have a feeling you will be thanking WAB one day. He could quite possibly be the best thing to happen in Giles Co. in a long time. I know you don't agree, but just because you don't like certain aspects of him or the fact that he is knowledgable does not mean the message he is delivering and his motive is wrong. If you find fault in exposing the wrong-doing in this county then you my friend need to re-examine yourself. Because as far as I am concerned, anyone who doesn't feel our county officials should be accountable to the people who elected them,then I consider those individuals more part of the problem than the solution. The same applies to our director of schools who has no concern whatsoever about his employees or students. He definately needs to be accountable for his actions.
I am really disappointed in the people that get on here and constantly post negatives about WAB. And, the oh so familiar phrase of how WAB is jealous of those in power. You must be kidding right?? Oh how sweet it would be to have decent upstanding citizens in these respectable positions count wide doing the right thing. If that was the case I am more than positive that WAB would be happy to spend his time fishing, reading, farming or whatever he does in his limited spare time these days instead of second guessing and questioning those who don't seem to think they are accountable to anyone. WAB correct me if I am wrong.
Yes, in re-examining my feelings toward your hero, I maintain my disgust for his arrogance...not his message. I've said this before.
Perhaps the word "jealous" was not the best choice of words to describe a power hungry person. However, a more definitive word escapes me at the present time.
No, I doubt the day will come when I regret that dangerous minds are "in charge" here in Giles County.
You accuse me of being one who doesn't seem bothered by things that need "fixing".....according to your standards. That is a foolish statement.
I'm sorry, but the reason your hero has such limited spare time is because he chooses to do exactly what he is doing. I think he would rather be (in my honest opinion) running hither and yon stirring up trouble than to be on a creek bank with a fishing pole. We are all different beings, and there are those who love the spotlight and attention. And, sadly, there are those who think themselves smarter than everyone else. Personally, I prefer anonymity and peace. But, before you go accusing me of being a mole or an ostrich, let me just say that I care deeply about what goes on in Giles County. I too am concerned about issues. But, as I've eluded to MANY times, the answer does NOT lie in beating people over the head with your "truths" and attempting to belittle and humiliate those you feel are responsible. Holding elected officials accountable is right, but the tactics being used by this little group of malcontents (your hero being one of them) is wrong! Think.
82800 venom is venom & your communications drip with it. You agree that something is wrong but disagree with anyone who tries doing something about it. To you, the struggle to correct is automatically a power struggle. Unfortunately, that is always the case. Evil must rule with blind absolute authority. You criticize the communicator who exposes wrong doing and defend the wrong doer who refuses to communicate, respond, or defend their acts.
Have you ever thought about the absurdity of: "Taking the high ground by not lowering one's self to respond to questions of impropiety"? The thief is always indignant about being accused of doing "his thing". "His thing", is masked by the turmoil he creates by denying all questions with expressions and actions as if insulted.
You are literate, obviously an "educator", and dedicated to perpetuating the problem... a problem very close to home for you. It isn't going away!
Wrong! I never said I am happy with status-quo, or that I see improprieties. In addition, I did not say that I would attack anyone who sought to correct wrongs. I was always a Lone Ranger fan.
And, once again wrong, you assume that I see anyone who protests things in government as being evil and jealous. On the contrary, I am all for corrective change but never in favor of the tactics you guys use.
I'm thinking you might profit by listening to John Lennon's song titled "Revolution". He speaks of minds that hate and how he wants no part of that. Peaceful change is an entirely different matter. Would it do any good to suggest that we give peace a chance? I doubt it, don't you?
As I've said numerous times on this blog, I do not support anyone who is doing wrong. But, there is a right way to deal with them. I just happen to think this bashing thing is wrong. That's my right under free speech, isn't it? And my dedication is only in standing against people who do the things your hero does. I never said he was wrong.
Finally, you assume that I'm an educator. Have you ever considered that I might be retired?
Very well put...
I just want to say one thing. You have to be a total loser if WAB is your hero! Anyone in that shape doesn't have very high standards for their role models.
It greatly concerns me to see two citizens of this county who feel the way the last two posters do. You are the very problem with this county. You say you stand for what is right, but yet you have no solution to the problem and criticize anyone trying to make things right. I would like to know why you are so blind? Do you ever seek your own truth? Because if you did then you would find the truth. Clearly you only base your opinion on what people tell you and not the facts. There are problems..WAB is not dreaming these things up. I am so sorry for you that you choose to not be honest with yourself. I really wish you knew how wrong you are. We have some people in positions of authority in this county that have a lot of people fooled. If you see things for what they are you cannot deny the facts in every instance WAB has brought to light. I have to admit that I wasn't so sure about him when I first met him because of his approach. I knew of him for a couple of years until I began to see that he is quite a substantial man. He had been on the same track of figuring out some of the same wrong doing in this county as I was. I had been privy to some information and been keeping a close eye...well what do you know, comes to find out some of these people in positions of authority in Giles Co. were also being carefully analyzed by some other people interested in some of the claims being made against those "In Power". Well, I know you don't choose to believe this, but corruption exists and either you are the" beloved fool" who's greatest fans are those "In Power" or you are amongst those trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the citizens of this county.
There is way more shame in being either of the above beings than to happen to agree with WAB on issues.
Please try and do better than, "You have to be a total loser if WAB is your hero! I would expect a comment like that from some snotty nosed adolescent. Being a total loser doesn't in my opinion constitute agreeing on issues with WAB.
In your statement, "On the contrary, I am all for corrective change but never in favor of the tactics you guys use".
What tactics would you use?
Your statement,As I've said numerous times on this blog, I do not support anyone who is doing wrong. But, there is a right way to deal with them. I just happen to think this bashing thing is wrong. That's my right under free speech, isn't it?
You are correct and it is also my right to free speech to speak the truth about someone's character if I so desire. It is not bashing if it is the truth. If these people don't like it they shouldn't be in public office or in positions that require accountability to the taxpayers.
You are sounding more and more like the very ones we honest and concerned citizens seek to flush out of this county.
It seems to me you are the jealous one in all of this. You are angry because you don't have what it takes to be a standup person. You see, you can't stand up with lies as your weapons...you can with truths and that is what WAB is doing and it eats you up inside that you can't be as sure of yourself and that is all it boils down to. Pathetic but true!
Pathetic, but true? You are so far off base about me that I'll not even bother to respond. What's the use anyway? You would just come back with more derogatory and defaming remarks about my character and intestinal fortitude...both of which you know nothing about.
So, have the last word. It doesn't bother me one bit. But beating people over the head with your perceptions and opinions about truth is not the way to get rid of elected officials whom you dislike. Why not try the democratic process that is sanctioned by law? Again, I refer you to John Lennon's song. Listen to it. You might find it enlightening. In addition to that, you may discover that I, like you, want things that are for the betterment of this county.
You need to get over your obsession with the Commie, druggie, athestic John Lennon and open your eyes to the real world.
I don't know wab except he sure as hell isn't hiding. Whatever else he is you have to give him credit for getting involved and putting himself on the front lines with his identity fully exposed. Can't say I've see many willing to do that including me.
Yes, I see that you are anonymous as well. But did I accuse you of hiding? No. I have a little more class than that.
While I disliked Lennon's view of politics and world peace, I still think you can learn a lot by listening to Revolution. Peaceful change is the answer, like it or not.
Goodness, I thought you were going to call me a communist (among other things).. I suppose you showed some class yourself in not doing so.
As for your hero's being on the front lines and fully exposed, I would agree with you wholeheartedly. He loves the attention, but I fear the biggest thing he is exposing is his posterior.
Look first of all wab is not my hero, I just happen to argree with many of the things he says or writes. I have no problem with his tacticts. If you could get people to respond by just asking them to do better as you seem to suggest there would be no need for his kind of tacticts but the reality is there are many people who will not change until they are beat over the head. I'm sure you would agree that when a person has sworn to kill you that there's not going to be much negociating going on.
Perhaps you wouldn't be so supportive of his tactics if you were one of the people he (and others like him) openly criticizes on this blog. Would you like it? I think not.
Now, as for beating people over the head when you disagree with them or when you don't like what they are doing, I just think it's wrong. We have a system of laws in place as well as the electoral process. If elected officials prove to be unresponsive to the wishes of the people, then vote them out!
Let me ask you this question. Was Robin Hood justified in what he was doing? Would you say the ends justified the means?
I suspected that it was him...incognito, of course.
So you figured me out?
Keep this up and I will shut this board down. If you cannot give the utmost respect to Mr. Barrett then please, do us all a favor and post elsewhere.
Kendrick McPeters
I didn't post the above... it's an incompetent forgery. Nor will I shut this site down. And respect for Mr. Barrett is obviously optional... I'd prefer to see people respect him, but I'm certainly not going to make it mandatory.
Carry on.
If I am so off base about you then why don't you do as you said and not respond? I am really trying to see your point, but you are not making a point for me to see. What do you suggest one do to fix the problem? I have been awaiting your response to that question. Not all of the problems lie with those elected. Example: Director Of Schools. You apparently have to be beat over the head to even have an open mind. I know the truth. I am the one that sees you unable to seek it out for yourself. You base your opinion on what you hear and not what you have researched. If so, you would know the truth. You choose yet again to protect or defend those you have no knowledge of being so trustworthy. Every time you choose to be oblivious to the truth, you help the dishonest.
Again, holding a position in our county government leaves you open for criticism and accountability. Obviously, you don't think the same as I do.
When has anyone beat anyone over the head? If there was no wrong doing perhaps there would not be this kind of criticism. You are really proving beyond a shadow of a doubt that your views and opinions aren't in line with what is best for the people of this county. You say you want the best for this county and then post a lot of baloney.
There are many people in positions throughout this county that feel they shouldn't be questioned. Do you feel that is ok? Attend some county meetings, talk openly and listen without prejudice to many people and then seek out the truth. That is all you have to do. I understand that would take an effort from you and it would be much easier to just follow what some people are saying. But, you are being greatly deceived. WAB has never done anything but question the ones you choose to defend. Where has he overstepped his bounds? Give me one example.
And to the genious that thinks I am WAB...I was a lady the last time I checked. But, I appreciate the compliment!
Hey WAB!!!!!!
How about expending some of your overly zealous intellect and attempt to report on the good that is being done in Giles County? You seems to have a desire to show everyone how you are the only one in the county that has it right. But you spout off on only what you consider to be bad. Why not cheer us up and give us insight into those people how are doing good?
Hope this wont task you to much
GTC
Isn't it funny how the very people who are screaming "freedom of speech are the one's blasting Mr. Barrett for that smae right?
Isn't it funny how a moron can say "While I disliked Lennon's view of politics and world peace, I still think you can learn a lot by listening to Revolution". And then blast Mr. Barrett for his approach not his message.
Isn't it funny how someone can admit that they dislike Mr. Barrett only because he is exposing that person. Anonymous said "Perhaps you wouldn't be so supportive of his tactics if you were one of the people he (and others like him) openly criticizes on this blog." I guess we know this anonymous is on the school board.
And for the real reason trimhed made the comment "As far as the funny blue head guy goes, He must agree with idiots from time to time." He must be referring to the post where I posted,
the guy with the funny blue head said...
I can not believe it. I thought this would never happen. Trimhed, I agree with you. Yes, I said it. I agree with you.
Thursday, March 15, 2007 10:00:00 PM
And to the big Lennon supporter, Don't forget he also wrote "Imagine", maybe you should listen to that one.
to blue head...
Isn't it funny how the whine gang has you in their back pocket? That is hilarious. Are you a family member? I'm certainly not a school board member.
And to 12:22 anonymous who is a lady the last time she looked:
I have explained my position over and over and over and over again. My problem is not with the message but with the self-righteous and arrogant attitude of the messenger. Why is that so difficult for you to grasp?
I was born and raised here in Giles County, and it will always be near and dear to my heart. How dare you to say that I would not want what's best for it? You ask what I would suggest to "fix" things. Well, I wouldn't think allowing malcontents to be in charge would be a very good remedy. Would you? I still believe the lawful electoral process is the way to affect peaceful change. Don't you believe in that as well? If you don't, then you are right; you and I do not think the same way. As for appointed officials, I have mixed feelings about them. That being said, I would think we need more and better qualified elected officials to begin with. The bad ones can be voted out by the will of the people at the VOTING BOOTH. Would you agree with that? The elected officials should have the power by statute or law to remove a "bad" appointed official. I'm sorry if you don't agree with this, but it's the way I was taught. And I still believe in democracy and in following the law. Don't you?
to 82800/113500 - person(s) with unusually large pupils -
You're riding a burning ship. Most rats would smell the smoke, feel the heat & bail out. I know, - you carry too much baggage & can't swim. You are in the engine room trying to keep the water hoses running. Big hopes the fire will go out!!!
That little wake, way off in the distance is a long cylindrical device designed solve your fire & water challenge - help is on the way. Up periscope.
You write to deceive & distract. You claim moral high ground, but wallow in muck. You beg for attention, consideration, and kindness; yet malign with impunity. Unfortunately, that which you inhail has burned your brain instead of your lungs and utterances.
So, is the county buying this voting machine? Where will/did they purchase it? Who set it up? I heard a projector is needed. Did they not know this beforehand? Where will this be gotten and at what extra cost?
Projector will be available from another county office at no cast to the commissioners or to our citizens
Anonymous, you wormy little hypocrite! How can you post "While I disliked Lennon's view of politics and world peace, I still think you can learn a lot by listening to Revolution." and then say "My problem is not with the message but with the self-righteous and arrogant attitude of the messenger." You've got me confused. Are you an idiot or just stupid?
Obviously, the concept went over your head. I was simply trying to get you to see the need for peaceful change. I too dislike atheism, communism, and bigotry. But your response is so typical of the malcontents.
Could it be that you favor civil disobedience over the democratic process?
You need not stay in a state of confusion. Education cures ignorance and confusion. Try some. It might help.
Obviously the concept went over your head anonymous. The contradiction and hypocrisy the blue headed guy was pointing out in your postings is the fact you say you dislike Lennon for his politics and positions but accept his message while at the same time rejecting Mr. Barret's message because you dislike his personality. You can't have it both ways and show any consistency.
You claim to dislike atheism, communism and bigotry but what do you do about them, nothing, then complain when someone else stands up against such things and this is what makes your attitude and behavior so cowardly and despicable.
As our founding fathers noted on a number of occasions in order to fine tune democracy a little civil disobedience is needed now and then.
I agree that education cures ignorance and confusion, the difference in us is that I see much of what you seem to consider education as encoding and it is not the same as education.
92300 Good response. Lesson - Wormy is on a hook looking for fish who will bite! What a life!
Democracy is government of, by, and for the people. Dictatorship is of, by, and for the ruler. There is nothing democratic about our school directorate.
The director isn't elected, and the polit-burros (intended sp.) have no tolerance for their masters (taxpayers). If they don't like you they jail you! Ahh, but they are threatened by the very process they claim to have conquered. Sanity has creaped into their ranks, and they find themselves mired in their doings.
Wormy is a Constitutional scholar and "sorry decide us" advocate - dedicated to pervert the covenants of freedom.
Wormy, the sun is out. Crawl back in your hole or you'll dry up & blow away with the "dandy lion" seeds.
Fortunately, the rest of our local government tries very hard to serve the people to the best of their ability.
No, Howard, you see me as uneducated because I do not see things the way you do. As I've said before, differences of opinion stimulate debate. I don't call people like you names because we do not see eye to eye. Do you?
As for the blue-headed guy, he is creating his own contradictions and hypocrisies.
As for elected and appointed officials, I have clearly explained my position on that. I'm sorry that you and I don't agree on it, but.......isn't that the spirit of debate? We can disagree without resorting to name-calling, can't we?
At any rate, I must overlook your calling me cowardly and despicable. It's just par for the course, isn't it?
By the way, who was it that changed the school director's position from an elected to an appointed one?
Wait just a minute anonymous I have no grip with you but am developing one with what you are saying. I did not call you any names. I went back to my post to double check and I repeat I DID NOT call you any names. I did describe your attitude and behavior as being cowardly and despicable but isn’t that a far cry from calling you that?
If you are writing to me I expect you to respond to me not to someone else. I accused you of being hypocritical in the way YOU describe your thoughts of Mr. Lennon and Mr. Barrett and NO you have not explained anything CLEARLY to anyone’s satisfaction but yourself. I sincerely want to understand many things, part of which is your point of view but you do not express yourself clearly because you leave too much information out of your explanations. I know nothing of Mr. Barret’s personality but what I have read on this blog. One thing I can say for him is that he presents his arguments in a very clear cohesive way then signs his name to them. Whether right or wrong I don’t know but when I finish reading one of his entries I know exactly where he stands and I tend to trust a person more who puts their own name on their statements.
Also I did not say you were uneducated. I was speaking in reference to your statement that addressed the idea of education as a concept and that I agreed with you that “education cures ignorance and confusion”, the difference in us I stated, is that I see much of what you seem to consider education as encoding and it is not the same as education.
You speak of debate but for real, productive debate to take place each party must be willing to look at self honestly and openly and determine what they truly believe then examine how well they have actually put forth those beliefs in word form.
Howard..
You judge me harshly, my friend. Perhaps I was wrong in assuming that you were calling me cowardly, hypocritical, and despicable. Maybe there's a difference between actually calling someone a name and inplying it. Either way, that's not a good way to rally support for your cause, whatever that may be.
As Lennon said, let's give peace a chance.
As for John Lennon, I never said I liked or disliked him. What I said is that I didn't like his views. Please don't interpret my appreciation for his genius and for the song I mentioned as anything more than what it is. I despise communism and atheism.
You say that I didn't make clear my beliefs about elected and appointed officials. Please scroll back to my March 28 and read them. I thought I made it very plain. Maybe not.
Anonymous, I thought you said you were not going to post on this blog anymore? What happened?
Howard, you are arguing with the author of the movie "50 First Dates". You know the one where each day that person forgets what happened the day before. Good luck anonymous, I hope you don't try beating up the mirror.
Funny head..
Anyone can change his or her mind about posting. OK? That's easy enough to understand, isn't it?
As for Howard, I'm trying to make peace with him. But that's really none of your business, is it?
Wormy was the result of scholastic debait, a process where each side dangles de bait in front of the other, and politely argues amongst themselves. A few reefers later, they walk away holding hands, complimenting ach other on the convincing story each told the other.
One says the world is flat and the other claims it's square. They walk to the the Pacific, booth peer over the cliff and agree that's where it ends. The argument changes to thickness and the probability of squareness versus the purist flat with no surface substance.
Their arbitrator, who held de bait, peers over the side to settle the argument, leans a little too far, and away he goes. The de baiters, knowing not what to do without de bait, peer over to see where it went. Shur, nuff, away they go, too. Some will never accept the round theory!
downwared not flat
but square up ended
till kersplatt
de bait was ended
And so, no one won, to two, too.
Uh...I think the poetry contest is on another thread.
So, is the county buying this voting machine? Where will/did they purchase it? Who set it up? I heard a projector is needed. Did they not know this beforehand? Where will this be gotten and at what extra cost?
They did choose to buy it. / I do not know who the seller is and I don't think it was disclosed. / I can only guess they court house staff set it up. Why is that important? / Projector is required, I do not know if that was known prior to the acquirement of the voting equipment. / Again, it was not told where the machine came from and the cost was a little over $6,000 as reported by the newspaper.
I think that covers most of your questions, please fill in where needed.
The purchase of the voting machine came about due to complaints by members of the public and a few "seasoned" commissioners. When approached a couple of years ago Vanzant announced it would cost the county $60,000 +! Vanzant was aware of the additional need of a projector. If you read the newspaper report of the budget committee a few weeks ago you would know they voted for it and that it was to have been a trial at the March commission meeting.
Will this machine be where the commissioners can record their votes and no one know how each one voted?
To Wormy anonymous, I guess it's okay to change your mind about posting.
To Wormy anonymous, No! It is not okay to change your mind about posting!
To Wormy anonymous, I guess it's okay to change your mind about posting.
To Wormy anonymous, No! It is not okay to change your mind about posting!
To germy antalope, Yes it is oil of olay to scratch....... WAit a second, I've changed my mind so many times I've forgotten what I'm talking about.
funny blue head..
Why are you so angry? Do you ever ask yourself why?
I suppose it's okay for you to act in a very stupid way.
He is angry because not everyone thinks his hero WAB is as great as he thinks he is. Anyone who doesn't think like them are automatically labeled "Wrong" in their eyes.
By the way, his head is blue because there is no blood circulation to his brain.
Yep, everybody doesn't share his views about the reporter hero. Laughable indeed!
I guess I should stop giving anonymous a hard time. With his track record he's probably going to change his mind about WAB and make him his hero.
Oh, and by the way I am very angry, I'm sure a blood vessel will pop in my brain eventually. Keep your fingers crossed.
Well, you need to get over it before you do pop a cork. Ok?
Although I'm not on your side, I wish you no misfortune.
We need an update on the Cagle escapade. What's TJ doing to us - no news isn't good news. Is the Pyramid under construction yet? Has the garage fallen in yet?
We're living in a house full of termites - we know they are gnawing their hearts out somewhere, but no one will tell us where to look. The termite man hasn't been heard from in a while & I'd like to see the bag man go down the river
What TJ is doing to getting ready to present his new budget askings - get ready.
I think your paranoia about Mr. Jackson is getting the best of you.
Surely, TJ wouldn't ask for more money! What is in his new budget?
A new bus garage.
Attend the nezxt school board/school commission meeting and find out first hand.
Whenzit?
WAB, are you planning/trying to speak at this meeting? If so, what lunacy have you planned this time? Who or whom will you be publicly insulting if they allow you to speak?
Since when is Mr. Barrett luney for exposing the truth? The ones who do not want to know the truth are either luney or afraid something will be exposed on them.
To anonymous of the preconceived “stifle free speech of everyone but him” mentality who posted at 6:45.
Just the kind of thing you would expect from a person with their head up the school systems smokestack. Fear of what a person may say is what allows and gives power to the dictators of the world not all of whom rule countries as has been proven many times right here in dear old Giles County. Have you ever considered how totally limited our children's education is when it's controlled by those so fearful of an open exchange of ideas? Teaching the test instead of teaching about ideas and expanding our ways of thinking is what we have ended up with. Just try and engage a student or even a teacher in a conversation about topics of today, exclude the pop icons and Anna Nicole Smith, and see how very limited they are in their conversation. I certainly accept that there are a few in each group who will far exceed the expectation but they will be in a severe minority.
Why would Mr Barrett give warning he might plan to speak at ANY meeting? That would just give the Chair a better opportunity to be prepared to put him down and/or stifle him in somwe way. This doesn't just happen at school board meetings. Try attending a county meeting sometime and see for yourself.
I've noticed that whenever the school board expects Mr Barrett to speak they require extra police to be on site. Once I was at the school board meeting and counted four uniform police and two plain clothes officers. I never realized we have such a dangerous man in our town. Smart people who are not afraid of the "bosses" are always dangerous.
New heading: Jackson asking $838,066.00 to next years budget. Is that going to be a $.20 property tax increase figured at the old tax rate.
Why is he leaving out things for the students like funding for books, teachers that are needed, again offering the teachers a $1000.00 without being negotiated, cutting fuel, roofing money not in maintenace budget, and many many other things that are a necessity. Will the commissioners fill the gaps and give the money in an amendment?
I thought Mr. Barrett was now a reporter? Do reporters speak at meetings as well? Laughable.
As for smart people being dangerous, I would add that people who think themselves smart are in "danger" of exposing their rear ends. That is precisely why police officers are on hand at those meetings. Think.
And sadly, the "reporter" is quite a lunatic....not because of his "exposing" truths but rather because he exposes his rear end.
Mr Barrett has never been arrested for indecent exposure as far as I know and as far as being a reporter and asking questions in meetings - why not? He has a perfect right to do so. What has being a reporter got to do with it? He's still a Giles Co resident.
Anonymous,
Are you at it again? What is your fasination with Mr. Barrett's rear? I'm sure you are making him feel very uncomfortable. You may even be straddling the line of sexual harrassment. As wishy washy as you are in all of your post I would'nt be too suprised if you were some kind of perv trolling for your next encounter. I'm sure somewhere between Mr. Barrett's wild and crazy years serving our country overseas to his wild and crazy days as a preacher there's a picture of his exposed rear on the internet somewhere. Go to google and keep looking til you find something.
Have you changed your mind on something that you stood so strongly for yesterday?
That is the best way he knows how to get more money-get what he wants passed and then turns around and says oh by the way we need this and we need that and in the past the commissioners have always filled in the gaps-Not only does the board of Education need to stand up and do it's job the commissioners need to learn the word NO-just because he asked for it shouldn't mean that he gets it.
Oh by the way, the bus accident that happened yesterday probably would not have happened if Tee Jackson had not revised the qualifications for the job of bus drivers. he raised the age limit on when you can apply to drive a bus, the safety of our children should come first not the wants of a couple of people. This is how it went down-bus driver quit-decided to come back but was over the age limit-went to Tee Jackson-age limit was raised-drove for a little while-quit again.
Funny blue...
I think yours is the classical example of the pot calling the kettle black, the bit dog first to bark, etc. Could it be that you are the homophobe and not me? You are the one who continually makes something sexual out of my pointing out your hero's continual ability to "expose" his posterior. Laughing here.
And for anonymous being so concerned that the reporter has a right to ask questions....I agree. But would you also agree that I have just as much right to question his motives? I also have a right to think he's a lunatic, just as much as you have the right to see him as the greatest thing since french toast.
Anonymous 4-5-07, 4:02 pm
Wrong, I do not think Mr Barrett is the greatest thing since French toast, I don't even like it! You can question his motives and think he is a lunatic if you want but most decent people are not as critical as yourself.
You suggest my indecency when you call me (and perhaps others) names? You know NOTHING about me, although you continue to "suggest" my imperfections. I'm sorry that I don't measure up to your standards. I just don't like the arrogance of those you seem to esteem so highly. It's as simple as that.
So, why are we splitting hair over opinions?
82400/40200 We know what you are by the idiocy you write - look in the mirror, show us your mail order diploma, smell your garbage, puff out your cheeks, & pass a little wind - you're little more than a whiffle in a wind storm.
tHE BUS WAS ONE OF THE NEW ONES. Maybe Wach foster or Ed Hartselle made a big mistake when they did there bid rigging and the bus is out of alignment.
Splitting hair, anyone? The pot continues to whine and call the kettle black.
Come on Anonymous, how can you sit there and let someone say they don't like frensh toast? As far as you pointing out the name calling bit. Just remember you are the one that crossed the line by suggesting someone is a homophobe. That's as serious as suppesting someone is a racist. As far as suggesting I am a homophobe, my partner Steven is very upset.
Laughable.
No, YOU are the one who crossed the line by "suggesting" that I was interested in someone's rear and! I always heard the guilty party barks loudest.
What's a rear and?
A "rear and" is a lot like the picture 2-21-7 below (more than one - a lot like a Hydra, except this is rear ends - whack one & two more appear).........
If it's automatic, it would be shiftless, too. - (a "hydramatic") -
A strange question for the blog.
I heard a rumor today that a lawsuit is being filed, challenging the court order the county got to keep people from sitting in the jury box during commission meetings.
Any truth to that?
I just want to say that I've been reading the posts and most of the comments on this site for the past couple of weeks and I don't know if I've ever laughed harder. Every post, no matter what the content, always leads to the same old comments. With one "anonymous" sniping at another "anonymous" (and vice versa) this "anonymous" would just like to say keep it up. You're providing not only myself, but in all likelihood, countless more individuals with much hilarity.
I agree with the above comment. I enjoy this blog as a source of amusement. I just wish I was worth as much as Allen Barrett thinks he is!
poor worthless baby - sounds like a possum learning how to cross the road, reassuring his mom with, "I ain't chicken!"
To 3:34 comment
I wish you were too. Maybe if you would put in the effort he does to keep this place informed, stop your whining and actually do something productive, develop a personality and character, and get a brain that's not defected you'd become as valuable. Until then I guess you're stuck being your same sorry self.
I can't stand much more, where is Mr Barret. I need his input for educational purposes. Without Mr Barret I can't even get my daily laugh out of Mr. Anonymous. Come back Shane, come back. Oops wrong movie.
I think that WAB and McPeters have lost their desire for this website. At first, there were new topics quite regularly. That is not the case now. The Giles Rebel website has been given up on, it seems as well.
Good riddance to the rebel and to the reporter if that be true. Maybe some peace and harmony can be restored to Giles County without the continual bickering and implicating (aka suggesting).
I think the reporter has finally decided to do something productive....that is...to butt out!
If he did, he probably reasoned (rationalized) that he is so much smarter than the average person that, to continue exposing, would be like casting his pearls before swine. Laughable.
Anonymous April 13,9;40;00 I AGREE WITH YOU COMPLETLY. WE JUST NEED MORE LIKE MR. BARRETT. I hope if they purchase the two buildings and vacant lot we have someone overseeing the construction that knows more than they did with the Hunter Smith building. We do not need to commit the same mistake twice.
We had the same CEO then as we do now. Vanzant ultimately was the one in charge of the Hunter Smith.
The HS is far from the only situation she has created problems with. Its one after another but we never hear about it. As I write this it makes me aware that what we don't hear about in the local media is what WAB writes about on this blog. Perhaps readers should be a little thankful to him.
Pucker up! It's budget education time again! The slashers are back in action, but the old blade is worn and they need a new one.
If education spending increased $1.3 million in 2004-5, $2.5 million more in 2005-6, and $2.4 million in 2006-7, what was cut? Blood and carnage are everywhere! It was the many throats of Giles County taxpayers! Can anyone suggest anything else that was cut?
Let's look in the professor's kaleidoscope and see what's around the corner. We see immediate roof repairs of $360,000, $600,000 for a Southside roof, $355,000 for another roof, and $420,000 for a road to get to Southside. Ahh, but there is no money! Pray for drought!
Things are $7 million upside down, but we're told it's rightside up. If they live in an upside down world, downside up is the right side up. Things fall out of your pocket that a way.
The landscape in the scope shifts! I see a big $600,000+++ hole being dug on the downward side of Niagara Falls, next to the building that floods every year. Pray harder! The sands shift a bit more, and we see a temple arising out of the hole, a shrine to the Mullah of Moola ($$$). Could this be God's Little Acre? Got to keep digging, no time or money to fix the roofs, pay the help, or feed the children! Pray much harder! Pray for the teachers. Pray for the children. It's time for the prey to pay!
Maybe board can enlist some leprechauns who will work on commission to check out both ends of the next rainbow. Till they bring in that pot of gold, we'll see that old magic table with the moving shells, hidden trap door, & collection bucket!
Are you suggesting that the roofs should not be repaired?
sounds to me like the suggestion was talk to God - it's obvious the roofs will not get fixed because all resources must be devoted to digging holes. Grandpa said we'll never make it to California if we don't find the burried treasure. The reference material is found in the classic publication "God's Little Acre". What do you suggest?
Question - Is the hole going to be in a wet land area or a navagable stream. Are any snails disrupted - anything fishy going on?
75000 Choices, choices, choices - If you had $600,000 to spend would you be digging a hole or patching your roof?
Step on your tongue? obviously you dig holes - a holy one amongst the bored of education!
What you might see at the Central Office is the old building fall into the hole they are digging within a couple of feet of it. The water is pouring into the hole now.
I wonder if a frog can spell boondoggle
Okay...I want to know if the judge was rewarded funding for a secretary position. If so, I think that is a waste of money. We need our Judicial Commissioners way worse then he needs a woman in office. Please I encourage everyone to do as I have and call every commissioner that you know and let them know that if we can not afford the Judicial Commissioners than we can not afford Judge Damron a secretary. He has done just fine for 8 years and Judge Lee went with out the extra exspense as well. Our money can be used for better things. Please call and voice your opinion. I would also like to see opinions on this blog. Thank you.
I am interested to hear where Allen B. stands on this subject...
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