Giles Free Speech Zone

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.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Would You Pay This Invoice The Way It Is Presented?




This is a copy of the "itemized bill" supposedly, I say supposedly because there is nothing on this that identifies it having come from Mrs Henson, sent by Mrs Henson to the Financial Management for payment. Payment was made for the full amount based on this bill.
Several interesting things about this "itemized bill". First of course it's easy to notice that it is not on any official letterhead, in fact it has nothing identifying where it came from or from whom.
Second the charge is for 98 hours of work but there is nothing stating what that work was for or how it was spent.
Third the 98 hours charged is over twice the number of hours my attorney spent preparing for this case.
Fourth notice the expenses charged for the court reporters they are twice what I was required to pay, yet they were to be divided three ways not two.

Some questions that I find interesting. Did the County Attorney actually charge the county for both her and Mr Williams fees? Mr Williams was the counsel for Mrs Coleman concerning a violation prior to her election which means she was not entitled to a county paid attorney.

Since the charge for the court reporters was double what I was charged the question arises did Mrs Henson charge the county for both the county and Mrs Coleman's share of the reporters fees?

Recently Mr Williams dropped Mrs Coleman as a client and became the lead attorney for the county for the appeal. This was done, I was told by Mr Menke with the "Pulaski Citizen", by Mrs Henson on the authority of the Election Commission which gave approval. The question is where did the Election Commission get such authority, and if this is a matter under the control of the Election Commission why aren't they using election funds instead of County General Funds?

Why is Mr Williams now doing the job of the County Attorney when the appeals process does not require two attorneys nor does it require any additional work other above what's been done already?

With this amount Mrs Henson as county attorney has charged and been paid over $56,000.00 this budget year with the promise that there are more expenses to be paid her office.

It is my opinion that the County is being defrauded in an attempt to collect from the County taxpayers, attorney fees for Mr Williams and court reporter fees owed by Mrs Coleman.

It is also my opinion that the whole matter needs to be brought before the Tennessee Bar Association and the Comptroller's Office of Audit and let them ask the questions that the County Executive and Commissioners are so determined not to answer.

210 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

I have always supported, in theory, the right of any individual - regardless of their current mental state - to sound off against local government in any way he sees fit. We all do, I would imagine; this kind of activity substantiates the First Amendment in a very basic way. And besides, there has always been something charming about watching one's local elected officials squirming in the hot glare focused (so often, and so often without restraint) from the local busybody lunatic. However, the reality of this situation is, more often than not, anything but charming. While its true that our lunatic does, like the blind pig in the colloquialism, "find a nut" every now and then, most of the time his howling from the fringes of society only serve to produce ill will, unfounded distrust, and bad feelings in general.

The issue in question is, sadly, one of the latter situations. When we back up a bit, and take a look at the whole of the subject, it seems absurd that this blogger is castigating the County Attorney for her fees in providing legal representation, for a case that he himself brought against the county in the first place. To me, that is the epitome of hypocrisy. However, as my father once said, "you can't account for a crazy man", meaning, of course, that it is pointless to utilize logical thought patterns to explain the illogical. If this presents an unexplainable position to normal people, all we can do is put it down to the ravings of a lonely, attention-starved, mentally unbalanced individual, and move on. Unfortunately, there is more to this issue. The County Attorney, a fair-minded, hard working person if ever there was one, has to stand by and watch her name being dragged through the mud by our erstwhile lunatic; which would not amount to much, but for the fact that some gullible few might be tempted to believe him.
I'll close this comment with this thought: we have been conditioned, from a very early age, to believe anything we see in print or on TV. While this is a sad state of affairs in it's own right, it becomes disastrous in the information age. While anything that makes it to a newspaper or news broadcast would have been (we assume) somewhat vetted, anyone can get a presence on the internet and fire at will, with absolutely no oversight whatsoever. Which is what we have here – the ramblings of the town lunatic, broadcast far and wide, to be read by anyone with an internet connection....how pathetic.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 4:59:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What is pathetic is your post, Vicky.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 5:23:00 PM  
Anonymous Mary Margaret said...

Wonder why nothing was said about the mostly blank bill. Did they answer the question about them paying a bill like that. For any business and especially for a lawyer to present such an unprofessional statement and claim it is itemized or even legitimate is beyond belief. I for one would like to know why her bill was twice that of Barrett if it was when everyone knows it takes less time to prepare to defend someone than
prosecute. Something about this smells.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 6:09:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I agree 5:23.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 6:12:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

4:59
I must commend you on an excellent and enlightening post. I totally agree with you.
You are right that it is pathetic that anyone with an internet connection can read his lunacy and that, even worse, some believe it.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 6:22:00 PM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

Gee 4:59 Did I touch a nerve seems like it must have been mashed flat for so much venom to pour forth.
I must agree with Mary Margaret and wonder why you failed to answer any of the questions. Would you pay an invoice like the one presented to the County by Mrs Henson?
Can you possibly explain why the charges are double?
Seems like the energy you expended in your convulsion of hate could have been better spent in examining the points I raised. But I understand why you would react so strongly getting caught in your own rat trap.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 6:41:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

I don't care if it is Vicky Harwell or Santa Claus that posted 4:59, it is the truth. And a huge majority of people in Giles County feel the same way. It looks like that page has been altered. Maybe there was a cover sheet?

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 7:09:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To Vicki Harwell at 4:59 and Daniel Woodard
Vicki, as you well know, working for your son Chris Williams, this is not an itemized bill. As you are fully aware, attorney's have software installed on their computers that they key onto as soon as any work is done on a case, whether it be research , telephone or consulting with their client, etc. I have to agree with Mr. Barret this smells as though the county paid for Williams as Coleman's attorney. I further agree this matter should be investigated by the TN Bar Association. Comptroller's office too, as long as it doesn't come before the auditor who does Giles county's audit. I have to question what in the world was a so-called CPA Finance Director doing paying a bill without it being itemized. This further adds to the suspicion.
Understand this supposed bill was brought before commissioners in a recent budget committee meeting and none of the commissioners wanted to know about it. Could it be they already knew the county had paid for Coleman's attorney fees? Wasn't the approval made to pay this extra $16,000 plus in one of the two last commission meetings? DAW, if grandpa is so knowledgeable, why don't you ask why he didn't call for an itemized statement from the county attorney rather than just rubber stamping what was presented? He also ignored the issue when it was brought to the budget committee and visiting members.
DAW, while talking to grandpa, you might remind him the hospital money investment was never put out for bid on interest and never has been.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:01:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I saw the bill when Barrett had it at the budget meeting I still have the copy he passed out and it was not altered, he had his attorney's bill there and I have to say there was a big difference with nothing professional about the bill we paid not even a name on it. Ms Garner confirmed the bill when asked and the whole thing was hushed up by Campbell, Vanzant and Flacy before anyone could even ask a question.
DAW I thought you was interested in finding out the truth about things but your comments show you more interested in personal attacks than finding out the facts. I don't know the facts yet but I for one think they need to be told and I will be asking some questions of other commissioners

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:10:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What does WAB stand to gain if he wins this lawsuit? Money? Pride? Commission seat? Why go to all the trouble of costing himself and the county money, and looking like the biggest hypocrite of alltime?

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:14:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

I am not questioning the bill. I knew about the bill long before it was made public. I want to know why Mrs. Coleman is involved in the lawsuit? I thought it was against the county and the election commission?

DAW

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:18:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:14 PM Maybe WAB is looking to raise some honesty from the folks who so-called 'represent' us, and to show the dishonesty of many in county government, both elected and appointed, and employees.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:26:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

But what if he loses? Will he allow everyone to say I told you so and apologize for costing the citizens so much money?

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:29:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:01,

What or who is your source of information about the hospital money? I need to know more than what DAW said about it isn't true.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:35:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

DAW
If you already knew about the bill before it being made public, did you not question it? And if not, why not?
Thanks.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 9:28:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

DAW, get up off your lazy butt and find some answers for yourself. Surely the taste of being a mushroom gets old after awhile. Yes you were questioning the bill. If you knew about the bill so long ago then why are you questioning if it has been altered. Did you see the real one or the one grandpa showed you?

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 9:30:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

I didn't see a bill. I knew that we were being billed $16k because of the lawsuit. We have been dealing with Lucy long enough that I don't think we need to have some long drawn out bill to know that she is trustworthy. Again, comparing compensation to the county lawyer for her work and WABs for their work isn't apples to apples.

We need to get back to the fact that WABs lawsuit is costing the county money. Now he is trying to take away the criticism of him by posting this topic. My grandfather didn't stay to discuss the bill because he couldn't sit and listen to WAB throw a fit over something he caused in the first place. He has no tolerance for foolishness.

I still want to know why Mrs. Coleman was involved in the lawsuit?

DAW

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 9:49:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

DAW you told what the problem was when you said "I THOUGHT". You thought one thing but you don't no. It's the same with lawyers including Lucy you think you no but you don't. I had one in town that was sleeping with my ex wife when he was helping me get divirced from her. Think I got the shaft you bet.
Have you ever seen WAB "throw a fit"? How far did he throw it? You listen to the wrong people instead of finding out stuff for yourself then try to make everbody think you no so much when you don't no doo.
WAB has told more about what's going on that the newspaper and radio and tv all combined and that why some like you don't like him. He tells the truth and you and your buddies can't take the heat.
WAB ain't cost the county he has saved it money the crooks are the ones costing the money.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 10:20:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

10:20,

The proper spelling is KNOW, when used in the context you did above. I guess you were trying to make an attempt at humor with "throw a fit"? That was very good. I am sorry that your lawyer was sleeping with your ex. You did get the shaft. That does not make them all bad.

I have never said that I don't like WAB. I don't dislike people just because I don't agree with them. I would just like to see him be a little more civil and professional with his whistleblowing. More people might pay attention to what he says.

He cost the county $16k because he lost the case locally. By their judgement the county was wrongfully sued. Now we will see if the state has a different opinion. If he loses, we can truthfully say that he wrongfully appealed and has cost the county more money. If he wins, the county should have done right to begin with. In the end the taxpayers will know who to blame. It is really that simple.

The people that I listen to are the majority. If 9 out of 10 people think a certain way it is hard to argue the other side.

Thanks,
DAW

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 10:52:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I think this blog has a very valid point. How many other invoices are presented on unidentified paper and paid. Maybe these ghost letterhead invoices need to be checked out to make sure there is not a slew of them.
I'm also concerned for the people that voted for WAB in district 7. Were those voters not defrauded if everything was not above board in the election qualification process.
I think it is the peoples right to know and Wab has cost the taxpayers nothing other than lack of accountability by public officials.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 11:17:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Mrs. Coleman is named in the lawsuit because she commited fraud. She even admitted under oath that she knowingly commited fraud.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 12:12:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

The county was included in the lawsuit because the Elections Office failed to do their job according to state law.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 5:20:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

12:12
You are accusing Mrs. Coleman of committing fraud. Why didn't you sign your name to the accusation?

5:20
Not according to the judge who found in their favor.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 5:43:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 5:43:00 AM, Mrs. Coleman admitted to commiting fraud! The judge agreed but said that he felt it was too late to do anything about it. That is why WAB has appealed. So, no, I am not accusing her of fraud, that has been proven, so therefore I am stating that she commited fraud.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 6:52:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Fraud how? By getting the names that are in question? How did she admit to fraud? You know a lot about the case. Maybe you can answer this for me?

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 7:21:00 AM  
Anonymous howard said...

DAW for many years the majority agreed that slavery was OK. The majority in many places agreed that blacks shouldn't be allowed to vote.
Do you agree with those majorities?

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 9:57:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Look, Mrs. Coleman didn't commit fraud, and Barrett is not going to be able to take her job away from her. It is my understanding that those who signed her petition supposedly in error were, in reality, in her district. They just hadn't reported a change of address to the election commission. Mrs. Coleman beat Barrett by a huge margin, and that should be the end of it.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 11:16:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

It is also my understanding that the NAACP is watching this situation closely as well they should be.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 11:20:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'm sure that has Barrett trembling in his boots 11:20. "my understanding " is the NAACP was behind this whole thing to begin with.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 11:41:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

11:41
Then we shall wait and see, right?

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 1:45:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

The NAACP is watching do you mean colored people are involved?

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 3:03:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey guys, Vicky here - really don't have any thoughts on this topic in particular. Just wanted to pass on a message from the hubby - "I'm a COUNTY COMMI-SHENER" K, thanks!

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 4:29:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:03 and 4:29 (perhaps the same person)
Shame on you for those two posts. Are you just trying to stir up trouble?

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 5:16:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

If you have read the paper today, you would have noticed a long list of budget cuts proposed by the Finance Director. Some of these cuts will not be very popular, and some will probably be justified even though there are sure to be complaints. If you have read the cuts, which ones do you feel are necessary, and which would you like to see kept in the budget?

I am okay with positions being cut. However, I feel that the commissioners should survey the positions themselves before making a decision. I am also okay with the county employees paying for the insurance increase. Most Americans suffer a little each year due to health care costs. As far as the commissioners pay, that will probably be a pay increase for some that rarely attend meetings. I do feel that commissioners should be compensated for attending meetings because of high gas prices. I doubt any of them are there for the money. They do it bacause most of them care about the county.

I feel that it is my duty as a citizen to help fund the senior citizens home and other organizations that help the less fortunate and mentally ill. I am alo a proponent of funding tourism.

As I see it, we are still short much needed revenue to fund the four basic needs of the county. I am hopeful that the list of cuts in the paper will give citizens more insight as to why I have been pushing for a wheel tax. In particular, a wheel tax over a property tax increase.

I feel that all of the negative remarks toward Loretta Garner should be taken back. She has proven that she is not scared to propose cuts that will definitely be unpopular among many citizens.

This is the perfect time to call your commissioners and let them know how YOU feel about the current situation.

Thanks,
DAW

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 7:01:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Good post DAW. You seem to ask a lot of questions which is good. I have one for you. You stated,"I do feel that commissioners should be compensated for attending meetings because of high gas prices. I doubt any of them are there for the money. They do it bacause most of them care about the county." Which commissioners do you feel don't care about the county?

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 7:37:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

7:37,

Thanks! Please respect me for not wanting to open that can of worms. Maybe I should have said they seem to not understand what is best for the majority of the citizens and the county.

DAW

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 8:36:00 PM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

If you read the paper and saw that list of proposed cuts you can take a black marker and just cross them off because in the Thursday Budget Committee they most all given back. The positions were restored and the plan is to do a percentage cut and borrow a million dollars for the Highway Department.
It seems clear that some in county government are now intent on using the proverbial credit card instead of doing the right thing and "hurting the feelings of some county employees". Included in the put back was all the proposed money taken from Commissioner pay and travel, Chamber, charities, etc.
The only thing out for certain is the free coffee. Seems more commissioners were embarrassed by that than such things as a custodian using the county truck for personal activities so out goes the free coffee and keep on truckin' Roger.
It appears evident that those in charge are positioning the county to destroy our credit rating and bust the budget yet again, in order to demand a new wheel tax and property tax increase. So far, in the last two budget meetings both taxes have been mentioned as being required, not just needed but required.
About the charities as much as some charities are deserving of help it is not the responsibility of the county government to use taxpayer dollars to fund them. Charity by it's definition is voluntary giving from the benevolence of ones will, not taking from one and giving to another. Involuntary giving is taxation, taking it from one who has earned and giving to one who has not earned it is socialism.
Are there those who deserve help absolutely but today we have become a nation of parasites sucking the life blood out of the nation until it can no longer sustain itself.
Schools advertise for people to get free lunches and never validate the need or qualification of those who apply. Food stamps and welfare is given without even proof of citizenship much less verification of qualifications. Take a look at the parking lot at GCHS and consider well over half those cars belong to people getting free meals. People who have worked hard all their lives can't get help in times of need because the bums who have learned to work the system have taken all the resources. And the solution for that is to raise taxes even more on the ones who are abused by that system already? Hard working people are losing their homes and some want to tax them even more. No home, no job, no medicine, no food but taxes aplenty.
The answer to wasteful and over spending is not to spend more but to use discipline and control that spending. Keynesian economics is a bust of major proportions and a fraud on all people.
The topic of this thread speaks to the very issue of waste and fraud in county government but no one in charge is interested in rocking the boat and taking a chance of their own little boat being swamped. So most everyone looks the other way and those who want to do something are intimidated by the job that was done on Commissioner Wilburn the last few years.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 8:50:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

So you want me to respect you for making a statement and wishing not to be held accountable for it? If we could only afford Mr. Barrett that same courtesy.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011 10:25:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Free lunch application are verified. You have no idea what you are talking about. Do those people cheat on applications, sure but the school system cannot help that, the apps are verified through other programs, if they have qualified for other programs they will qualify for school lunches. I don't have a problem with kids eating.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 6:39:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Sounds to me like the county's attorney simply worked twice as hard and put more time into this serious case than the other side did. The results certainly seem to confirm that fact as well.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 6:43:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Barrett
Why don't you give up on this witch hunt?
Please allow me to make an observation. What if you spent as much time trying to lead lost souls to Christ as you do out stirring up trouble and strife? Would that not be a significant contribution to the betterment of Giles County? Think about it.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 6:52:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

6:52 please allow me to make an observation, What if you spent as much time eating fiber as you do criticizing Barrett then you wouldn't be so constipated and full of fecal matter.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 10:06:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

@6:52 Please allow ME to make an observation - I am on the other side of this debate, but I have to give you props for the funny...

Thursday, June 02, 2011 12:33:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I see the cheerleaders (all one or two of them) are out in support of Barrett.
If he did what I suggested, then there would be no reason to criticize him. After all, is that not his profession? Just a more pointed observation.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 4:05:00 PM  
Anonymous ABS said...

And if he did like you were doing he would be classified as a mushroom. Sorry but it seems like Mr. Barrett isn't as content with riding in the back of the bus as you are.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 4:51:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I understand that Barrett is a retired soldier before he was a minister so wouldn't his profession also be soldier should he go about shooting people because he was a professional soldier?

Thursday, June 02, 2011 4:58:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Well, the two cheerleaders (or is it only one) have again came to the rescue.
No, I would think Mr. Barrett would want to be on the front seat where everybody who got on could see him. And, rather than tooting the bus horn, I would think he would be much too busy tooting his own.
As for soldier or minister, one is a former profession and the other is current. What a lame argument.
I still say (my opinion) he ought to be out trying to convert the unrighteous instead of stirring up trouble, calling pweople names, and the like. If my minister behaved as he does, I would find another place to worship.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 5:21:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

5:21 I thought you knew everything but you didn't know Barrett is retired military and retired minister now why is one different from the other you stupid jerk. You hide behind anonymous and you hide behind your self righteous hypocrisy. You said that you wouldn't listen to a word Barrett said then whine about him not converting the unrighteous when you the biggest unrighteous jerk to ever crawl out from under a rock.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 6:29:00 PM  
Anonymous I'm Your Huckleberry said...

Hey 6:29, unless you're an idiot you would understand that you dog him out for posting anonymously then you post anonymously. That is the true definition of a hypocrite. Congratulations! Here's your sign!

Thursday, June 02, 2011 6:54:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey 6:54 guess you don't know the term "I'm your huckleberry" was a derogatory term about a persons sexual orientation.
I never said I wasn't being a coward for posting anonymous so where the hypocrisy enabler?
I just can't stand the self righteous crap some people try to push on others.
One person wrote about Barrett being a minister and shouldn't do anything but chase around trying to make others believe like he does.
I just pointed out that he was a retired soldier as well as a retired minister and the jerk wasn't wanting him to go around shooting people so why expect him to spend all his time trying to convert those who are satisfied where they are wherever that is.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 8:04:00 PM  
Anonymous I'm Your Huckleberry said...

Huckleberry defined: "A man; specif., the exact kind of man needed for a particular purpose. 1936: "Well, I'm your huckleberry, Mr. Haney." Tully, "Bruiser," 37. Since 1880, archaic.

My purpose was to point out that you are being a hypocrite.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 8:27:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My purpose was to point out you are an idiot. How can there be hypocrisy with out making one claim and doing the opposite?

Thursday, June 02, 2011 10:27:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:27
You can't reason with stupidity. That cheerleader does not understand being a hypocrit. Might as well leave it alone. He won't ever get it. That was Barrett not signing in.

Thursday, June 02, 2011 10:56:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To the cheerleaders:
He claims to be a minister. Ask him. Even if he wasn't, a Christian doesn't go around causing trouble and calling people names.
I attend church services regularly and am truly a believer. However, there are things in my life that I, like most people, need to fix. But let me just say this; a hypocrite I am not. I believe you need to point that accusing finger at someone else.

Friday, June 03, 2011 6:14:00 AM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

Well it seems some are up to their old tricks of personally attacking those they don't agree with, divert attention away from the scam being run on the taxpayer and put all the focus of what level Christian one is.
Just to set the record straight I am retired from active military service having served in the Army from February 1964 to March 1984.
I am also listed among the retired ministers with the Tennessee Baptist Association, having served churches as an ordained minister from March 1986 until March 2010.
I am in regular attendance at church services and am serving the Lord as I understand my privilege. Some, primarily 6:14, obviously understand this privilege differently than I do and that's find, I haven't tried to make you worship my way, don't try and force your way on me. It's obvious that 6:14 has not been reading their Bible or religious histories with much understanding or they would be less inclined to falsely state "a Christian doesn't go around causing trouble and calling people names."
Now since you no longer have to speculate about me perhaps we can get back to the subject of this thread.
I have yet to find one person willing to say they would pay the invoice submitted in the form posted in this thread.
Something to consider is what happened to the $40,000.00 retainer the county paid Mrs Henson. How was that money spent when you consider, according to her, she started on this bill in August just days after the new budget went into use?
Now a new invoice has been "discovered" and date stamped into the Finance Office in October 2010, the day is not legible.
Is there reason to believe this new invoice is much newer than October 2010 and possibly back dated? Well, something isn't right because Mrs Garner when she gave me the invoice I published in this thread stated, "This is all I have, this is all they gave me". I'm sure Mrs Garner will not lie especially since she had to see the digital recorder I was holding at the time she gave me the paper and made the statement. I guess we'll see. So far no one in authority has shown enough concern to do anything preferring instead to continue looking at tax increases as the only way to cover county expenses.

Friday, June 03, 2011 8:17:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

listen to this everybody. alan baret is the hero of the little man. he is the only one standing up for our rights in this county like the democrats used too. just because not many on here make comments supporting him dont mean there arent alot of us out here. i am a Country Music songwriter and am writing a song about him now, any ideas let me know. go alan!

Friday, June 03, 2011 11:45:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

11:45
How about "Here Comes Trouble"?
Hey, isn't it illegal to record someone without his/her permission?

Friday, June 03, 2011 1:13:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:13 I've been reading but keeping quiet. Now I'm going to start posting.
How do you know Mrs. Garner didn't know she was being recorded? What business is it of yours anyway, you just want to make a crack against a man who is trying to help the people of Giles county.

I'm glad someone is trying to help us.
I look back on how many people use to work at the school system office and how many it takes to do those people's job now.

Friday, June 03, 2011 4:05:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What makes him think he can just waltz into Mrs. Garner's office with a recorder anyhow? In my opinion, it was nothing more than a bully tactic this so-called "helper" of Giles Countians is good at.

Friday, June 03, 2011 7:19:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Trust me, the Finance Director is not concerned with Barrett. They all laugh about him and his followers. C.A.V.E. people. Citizens Against Virtually Everything.

Friday, June 03, 2011 8:35:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

7:19 and 8:35 What have you said worth while?
The enabler upset again.
Who said Mrs. Garner was upset with Barrett. She gave him what he ask for. You could even ask for information if you cared.

Friday, June 03, 2011 11:38:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:35
You are right about that. I have heard it around town myself. It's just a shame.

11:38
She had no choice but to give him what he asked for, because it's public record. The point you miss is that he went in there with a recorder. I'm not sure that's legal. Consider the tantrum he would have thrown had someone done that to him.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 5:28:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

5:28 Try it and see if he has a tantrum. Then we can believe it.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 5:35:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

5:35
His past behavior indicates that he would. But you didn't know that I suppose.
Tell me; why would he walk into Mrs. Garner's office with a recorder? What say you?

Saturday, June 04, 2011 6:16:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Up early to get in your attack on Barrett aren't you 5:28.
and 5:35 up early also.

I would guess he walked in Mrs. Garner's office with tape recorder is because he expected her to refuse to give him what he wanted or lie to him one, so he wanted to have proof.

Or it could be because he expected her to tell something on him and he wanted proof.

Maybe we will see it on U tube.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 9:07:00 AM  
Anonymous Deanna said...

7:19 What makes you think he CAN'T walk in the finance office with a tape recorder. He plainly stated she saw the recorder and fyi, Rabid (welcome back) it is NOT illegal to tape someone without permission, but possibly the recording may not be admissable in court. I am curious about your calculations of the "one or two" cheerleaders. Do you have ANYTHING to back up your statement. I know I am asking the imfamous non question answerer but I thought I would give it one more shot. But let's just say you are right and it is one or two... don't they have rights also. Here's some food for thought Rabid. If you do NOT question our tax paid employees and officials, then YOU are being careless with MY money. They are accountable to me. It's MY money, not theirs. So here's the bottom line for you Rabid as well as anyone else, (all one or two of you) who disagree with Mr. Barrette questioning appointed and elected officials: "Lead, follow, or get out of the way." Your hypocrisy is as disgusting as your ignorance. Your indifference at real issues but total obsession with Mr. Barrette is more than a little weird. Our DIVINE example that you think you are quoting is pretty clear on how our Savior felt about tax collectors taking advantage of citizens.
My only question and surprise for Mr. Barrette is: Why do you seem surprised and/or shocked at any of this? You know the standard "motis operandi" for Giles Co. "Ignore it and the citizens long enough and they will give up. Brush any and all problems under the rug rather than attempt to solve them. And if that doesn't work, lie."
Deanna

Saturday, June 04, 2011 9:24:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

11:45. A country music song about Barrett???? Are you kidding me?

Too late, I am afraid. "Coward of the County" is already taken.

You may want to explore a refresher course as well in grammar if you really intend to write professionally.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 11:09:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

deana
Oh I see you are back with a venom (vengeance). What a laugh.
I beg your pardon. It is illegal to tape someone without their knowledge. What would you do if I walked up to you and started a recorder before asking you questions? I can tell you this much; I would not stand for it one second. It is my opinion that the one you are so eager to defend was simply using bully tactics in an attempt to intimidate. I believe he loves that. But trust me when I tell you that Mrs. Garner is not frightened by the likes of Barrett.
You mentioned my calculations about the Barrett followers. I was mistaken. There may be as many as three; I forgot that you are among them.
Look, amnybody has a right to question elected officials, but using intimidation, character atttacks, name-calling , etc. are not ways to go about it. Have you ever heard the old expression that you catch more flies with sugar than with salt? Surely, you can make the proper application since you claim to be highly intelligent.
You accused me of having some weird obsession with Barrett. That's a lie. But I will say that, in my opinion, he is the chief troublemaker this county has had to deal with, and that needs to be pointed out. Isn't this free speech blog about vopicing opinions and belief? If not, then why does it exist? Those who constantly seem bent on causing trouble is but one of many issues I have concerning the welfare of Giles Countians. So your charge that I am indifferent is another lie or at best a misunderstanding on your part. I've lived here all my life and I care deeply for Giles County.
I suppose some people just can't seem to stay away from the kool-aid. Is that why they resort to name-calling and attempts to belittle when they do?

Saturday, June 04, 2011 12:37:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Coward of the County song is for the enabler.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 6:46:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

The one you all call the enabler is entitled to his/her opinion as much as anyone else. You all don't like it because he/her disagrees. Leave 'em alone and let them talk.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 7:42:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

You are right Janet he does have a right to post so does WAB who the enabler thinks shouldn't post.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 8:06:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Question:
Why is it that anytime anyone disagrees with status quo on this blog you guys resort to calling names and rudeness?

Saturday, June 04, 2011 8:28:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:06

Sorry, not Janet. He never said that WAB shouldn't post. He just calls him out on his hypocrisy. It is true and you can't stand it. So you defend him in the best way you know how, childish banter.

Saturday, June 04, 2011 8:38:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:38
Thank you. You are right; they can't stand it.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 5:39:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Who can't stand what, the enabler can't stand it when Barrett posts?
Or is it the other two or three on here that don't like Barrett?

Sunday, June 05, 2011 10:59:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

There's a huge number of Giles Countians who can't stand him. Just ask around. By no means should you take my word for it.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 11:33:00 AM  
Anonymous ABS said...

Surely by now everyone should know that Mr. Barrett could careless about what anyone thinks of him. Thank you Mr. Barrett, keep on looking out for use.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 1:16:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

That huge bunch don't post on here. Also just ask around there is a huge bunch that do like what Barret's doing.

A huge bunch didn't like Jesus and a huge bunch that did. That's just how it is.

But it's not a huge bunch glued to this blog every minute.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 1:23:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:23
Yeah like the 140 or so who voted for him in last August election? I've yet to run into one of his supporters.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 3:01:00 PM  
Anonymous I'm Your Huckleberry said...

Hey ABS, isn't the saying "COULDN'T care less"? And you would think he's looking out for US. Riiight.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 3:09:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Giles County is bigger than one district. I doubt 3:01 lives in District 7.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 8:00:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Don't you people have anything to do but act like children?

I check this blog every once in awhile to see if anything is going on and find a lot not about the subject. Makes me glad I moved away.

Sunday, June 05, 2011 8:36:00 PM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

The question seems to be by what right did I go to Mrs Garners office with a recorder in hand? Well, I think the resulting actions by the County Executive should give the answer to that question. She has now put herself or Mrs Garner in a most embarrassing situation.
Here's the thing, with the exception of these two offices, the election office, tax assessor and City Hall I have not felt the need to take a recorder with me when visiting most places. There is a major difference in a video recording and an audio recording. While there are legalities to be considered with video they don't apply to audio only recordings.
To me it seems the question should be about why there is such a difference in the bills and why the more detailed bill was not presented to Mrs. Garner who paid the bill based on what I posted on this thread.
Another question is what happened to the $40,000,00 retainer given Mrs. Henson in the 2010-2011 budget that required another $16,000.00 dollars just days after the budget went into effect?
I guess she earned her money since she accounts for six hours on Sunday 29 Aug and fifteen hours on 1 Sept. and I don't imagine it's real easy to have so many phone calls all lasting the exact same amount of time and then there's the one and a half hour call to Mrs Bassham?
I'm still checking on the e-mails and calls made on Sunday to my attorney seems he has no charges for Sunday work. The smell is growing.

Monday, June 06, 2011 10:45:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Why are Mrs. Henson's phone calls to anyone your business? I smell more troublemaking and sour grapes.

Monday, June 06, 2011 11:18:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Her phone calls are our business you stupid jerk because we paid for them.
If you would pay attention to what was going on you wouldn't look so stupid.

Monday, June 06, 2011 1:57:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Local phone calls are our business? Hardly so.
Why do you have to call people names when you disagree with them? Have another refreshing glass of the hate and resentment kool-aid and relax.

Monday, June 06, 2011 2:20:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To 2:20

It is painfully obvious that you have either never dealt with an attorney or had to pay a bill submitted by an attorney. Whenever an attorney does anything, I mean anything, in regards to a client; that client is billed for the amount of time spent (talking on a phone, working on a computer, speaking personally to some other person, speaking to the client, writing letters, reading documents, thinking heavy or even light weight thoughts) all time is billed …. No exceptions.

In this case Ms. Henson was working for "the people og Giles County" we are and were her client. it is her duty to account for her time spent working for us. Obviously she has not done that; I am sure that her office has the same (if not similar) legal reporting and time accounting software and every other legal firm in Tennessee has. If you hire Ms. Henson; I can guarantee that you will receive a detailed accountying of her time. If not ... you are not obligated to pay her fee.

I guess Giles County has an overwhelming sense of trust that they are willing to overlook Tennessee Bar Asssociation requirements.

Monday, June 06, 2011 3:03:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:57 is a big idiot. Pay them no attention.

Monday, June 06, 2011 3:04:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Call the bar association if there is a problem and quit whining about it.

Monday, June 06, 2011 3:17:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:03
And you don't think there's a troublemaker in our midst? Where have you been? Just because Mrs. Henson talks to someone for whatever length of time she chooses does NOT mean she is on taxpayer time. Is the lady not allowed personal phone calls from her OWN phone and office? Stop whining and lay off the troublemaking kool-aid.
Like 3:17 said, if you have a problem, call the bar association and stop trying to stir up trouble. Otherwise, sign your name after any post wherein you are making allegations.

Monday, June 06, 2011 4:58:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I thought Barrett said the calls were billed to the county or something like that, but it wasn't about personal calls.

Monday, June 06, 2011 5:51:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

How would the all-knowing one determine which were personal or business? More sour grapes. I have never seen such a sore-tailed loser. But the sad part of it is that it's costing taxpayer dollars.

Monday, June 06, 2011 6:20:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Mr Barrett
Love it! Thanks for delving and publishing the information. So Ms Henson claims to have called your attorney on a Sunday? Bet your attorney didnt bill for the same conversation!

Mr Barrett
You are absoltely correct in recording a conversation is not illegal.

Monday, June 06, 2011 7:29:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Putting aside all this nonsensical bickering and bashing, the bottom line is I would not pay an invoice as the one shown if I received it at my house. I would expect a person with a CPA to use better judgment than to pay one submitted as the one shown.
Such action COULD leave the door open for invoices that are not legitimate to be paid.

Tuesday, June 07, 2011 9:28:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Programs such as Medicare would have more monies if the people responsible for payment to Providers would check to see if the invoices submitted were legitimate. Same holds true for local govt.
It's like the Postal Service commercial where the guy says he doesn't care about saving money because it's "not my money".

Tuesday, June 07, 2011 9:41:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

9:28
I agree. As the bill payer at my house our paychecks wouldn't go very far if I didn't pay attention to the bills we get and just blindly paid them.

Tuesday, June 07, 2011 8:40:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I humbly offer the following selection in the modest hope that some may find it to be an enlightening take on the current issue.....

There once was a fellow called Alan the Barret
A tireless pot stirrer was he
He loved to dig dirt and straight away share it
His latest topic is Ms. Henson's fee

It seemed that this lady had committed the sin
Of shooting down his lawsuit in court
True to his form he began to attack her
When he should have just been a good sport

Oh, how sad it must be to be like this fellow
Sitting on the sidelines just booing and hissing
What experience in life could have made him so bitter
And force his inner peace to go missing?

Tuesday, June 07, 2011 10:26:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

10:26
EXCELLENT ANALYSIS!

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 12:11:00 AM  
Anonymous Deanna said...

So Rabid the answer to my question, you don't have any evidence to base your one or two cheerleaders calculations on. You just picked a couple of numbers out of the air. I'm sure nobody's surprised.
Deanna

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 1:27:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

deanna
I base my calculations on a variety of things, but primarily because of the one or two (yourself included)who come here in defense of behavior that should be frowned upon and condemned. Similarly, your calling me a name is noted.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 5:38:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I would be so ashamed had that poem been written about me.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 5:45:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What amazes me about this poem is that someone seriously took the time to write it. I mean, who does that? Talk about holding grudges, and pent up aggression. 10:26 seriously needs help! Anyway, I don't agree with a lot of people a lot of time, but I would never allow someone to get the better of me and consume my mind like the 10:26 poster has allowed Mr. Barrett to do. Ridiculous and sad.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 8:51:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:51
I think the poem was truthful.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 9:15:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

You are probably the one who wrote it but, even if you are not, I never give my enemies that kind of power over me. To the point they consume my mind enough to dedicate time to write a poem, song, book, etc. Just ridiculous. It shows just how much the one who wrote the poem is intimidated by Mr. Barrett. I think the person has lost their marbles. But, one thing is for sure, they are quickly becoming unstable with this kind of behavior as well as making a fool of themselves.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 10:27:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

You guys are great; I didn't realize how hilarious this blog is. The the previous "anonymous": who would be intimidated by some old fart like Barret? I don't know, since I didn't write it;), but I bet the guy who did spent all of three minutes on it, maybe because he had already heard enough about King James and the Heat on WKRN, and was waiting on the final weather wrap-up, and thought it would be a funny way to spend the time - hardly a "consumption of the mind" ....that's just a guess, though :p

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 10:50:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oops, should have read "to the previous...." instead of "the the previous..." Thank you and good morning!

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 10:54:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

10:27
I did not write the poem, but I do think it to be truthful.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 11:00:00 AM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

Indeed there is an Allen the Barrett
Who tired of the political stick and carrot;
He spoke up against a mighty wrong
And was attacked with a versifier’s song.

The would be poet glowed at their wit
Unaware they’d become a mindless twit.
A coward, content without integrity
Always posting their venom anonymously.

Although Barrett offered documentation
For some, enabling had become their occupation
So truth and facts were ignored
And the people were taxed out of their gourd

Some cried just take it and be a good sport
After all a decision was made by a court;
But the Wab would not accept being mistreated,
For bad behavior by the powerful will only be repeated.

If one is content being a beaten down serf
The lords in the manor will be happy enough
To lie and cheat and keep it the way its always been
For that’s how…… they always win.

(everyone needs a little laugh now and then)

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 11:12:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Well, I have to say congrats for the effort - everyone likes a gamer. I have to point out, however, that after all night sweating over a rhyming dictionary, coupling "integrity" with "anonymously" and "serf" with "enough" just isn't good enough. Get ahold of yourself, man...rise to the challenge!

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 11:25:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

11:12 Good poem.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 11:37:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

11:37
I think it is good only it the sense that it points up the arrogance and contempt of the poet. Oh, and don't forget the accusing, negativism, and name-calling.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 12:50:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Yea, like you don't have any arrogance and contempt are do any accusing negativism and name calling.
What a self deceiving fool you are 12:50

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 1:59:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:59
I admit that I have trouble with troublemakers and with arrogance. But no, I don't point fingers and call names.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 2:12:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Mr. Barrett
Great poem! Your effort ran circles around the other feller.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 5:58:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

2:12 what do you call what you have done to Barrett if not pointing fingers and calling names? Just another of your hypocritical lies.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 6:27:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

6:27
Wrong. However, I don't mind pointing out blatant hypocrisy.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 9:33:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

NEW TOPIC PLEASE!!!!

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 10:37:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Here it goes again, just like before accusing and denying.
Please ignore him. He want shut up again.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 10:38:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

If Mrs. Henson billed the county for 15 hours on Sept. 1, did she have time for personal calls?

Wednesday, June 08, 2011 11:18:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

New topic? Why doesn't the blogmaster start a thread concerning the Freedom from Religion greoup who are causing trouble over that kindergarten prayer?

Thursday, June 09, 2011 8:36:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

DAW
What an arrogant idiot you are! Just like gramps. If you want a new topic then send in a subject to Mr Barrett and he will give consideration for it. It is not Mr. Barrett's job to attend every meeting (at his expense and time) or to delve into local government actions in order to create topics to keep YOU entertained. Get off your lazy butt and contribute something yourself. What did your last slave die of?

Thursday, June 09, 2011 10:01:00 AM  
Anonymous DAW said...

10:01,

You are a moron! I really hope I get to find out who you are. Why don't you be a big boy or girl and quit hiding behind anonymous? Unless you can do that, quit posting to me. Get back in the coop with the rest of the chickens.

DAW

Thursday, June 09, 2011 11:36:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

In a earliser post on this thread someone posted that the highway department was "borrowing" a million dollars. My questions are: Do they have a itemized line item budget as to how this money is going to be spend? And how is this money going to repaid? At what cost to taxpayers in higher property tax, wheel tax, etc. And which commissioners are pushing this kind of debt! Has anyone really looked at Mr. Hyatt's fleet of employee's vehicles, office and supervisor's pay scale, or other waste. Just check Steve Kelly or Julie Phillip's salary. I bet they are two of the highest paid employees in the county system and also in the private sector. Come on commissioners...please do your job before you approve this!

Thursday, June 09, 2011 12:44:00 PM  
Anonymous Soll said...

WOW 10:01. I noticed Mr. Barrett did post a new topic this afternoon. It was time. Your rant just got shot-huh? You seem to have a HUGE chip on your shoulder 10:01. What's your hang-up?

Thursday, June 09, 2011 12:51:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What's the point of a new thread nobody stays on the subject anyway.
The county is borrowing the million dollars and giving it to the highway department. Vanzant and Campbell are behind it. Payment will have to have a tax increase and a wheel tax which is what they are really pushing for.
Don't be fooled by those you talk out both sides of their head.

Thursday, June 09, 2011 1:26:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

But will this be yet another opportunity to blast away at Mrs. Vanzant and the District 7 commissioners?

Thursday, June 09, 2011 3:03:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:03 Tell us why we shouldn't instead of silly comments.

Thursday, June 09, 2011 3:32:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:32
I'll bet your cheerleader uniform is a couple of shades of hate and jealousy kool-aid.

Thursday, June 09, 2011 5:23:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'll bet your brain enjoys being away from you 5:23 that's why it's been gone so long and ain't a comin' back.

Thursday, June 09, 2011 6:41:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

12:51 No chips on my shoulders, I'm free as a bird. Just get tired of Daniel Woodard's posts with his 'know it all' attitude and demands of other people who owe him nothing.

Thursday, June 09, 2011 7:16:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

7:16,

Hey Chip, you don't have to read my posts. I always sign my name, so you can just pass right on by. You keep up the personal insults like you made earlier and I will make it a point to find out who you are.

DAW

Thursday, June 09, 2011 8:26:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Have you noticed the trucks that Barry Hyatt & Steve kelly drive that the tax payers are having to pay for. Why do they have to have the most expensive models. With the price of gas why would they have to drive a duley. I know its not coming out of their pockets. Remember there will be another election.

Thursday, June 09, 2011 9:17:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

9:17: I agree with you and I would also like to see a budget for the million dollars!! Commissioners..don't be caught up in this game. This kind of stupidity will break our county government!!! Stand up for the citizens of Giles County! Go to the highway department and look at the salaries of the office and supervisors, then check out the trucks, equipment, etc. Make sure that the people who are suppose to manage taxpayer dollars are capable of making wise decisions! See for yourself before you commit. Be accountable!

Thursday, June 09, 2011 9:25:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

The highway dept. is not the only dept. that waste money. They all should cut back. We all need to live within our means. Just because you want something doesn't mean you have to have it.

Friday, June 10, 2011 3:21:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

NO WHEEL TAX. The citizen have spoken 3 times. NO WHEEL TAX. What part of NO don't some of the commissioners understand.

Friday, June 10, 2011 3:29:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:21
ALL department heads have been asked to trim back their budgets. The cost of doing business goes up just like anything else. That's not hard to understand. It cost me more money for gas, food, energy, and practically everything else.

Friday, June 10, 2011 6:55:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

They were asked to cut back last year and the year before but a look at the budget shows nothing but increases in every department but the highway.

Friday, June 10, 2011 8:01:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

The cost of living AND of doing business goes up everyday. Can't you understand that?
I know for a fact that some if not all departments have cut their budgets.

Friday, June 10, 2011 8:08:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Yes I understand, but the highway dept. hasn't cut. They have a new fleet of trucks which they didn't have to get all at once. They didn't have to buy the most expensive ones for Hyatt & Kelly to drive. You can find used trucks that are very dependable.
The budget commitiee needs to look at do they teally need or do they just want. I would like to drive a jaguar but I drive a cheep model Chevy because it is in my means.

Friday, June 10, 2011 9:30:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I noticed it was asked for Mr. Barrett to start a post on the prayer at graduation, but very few post.

All departments need to cut somewhere.
All older families are having to make cuts in their life.

Friday, June 10, 2011 10:21:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey folks ... that is why we have an AUDIT COMMITTEE to look at descrepancies in spend!!!!!

Yeah ... right

Friday, June 10, 2011 12:23:00 PM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

The Giles County audit committee is non existent. The state chief auditor for the county is close friends with the asst director of the finance department. The only things the state checks is a few samplings from all the records not all the records.

Friday, June 10, 2011 12:27:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

All commissioners who represent the citizens of Giles County need to investigate the expenditures and needs of the Giles Hwy. Dept. and vote according to their conscience. This debt is not needed for the county. Find out how much was spent on vehicles, office renovations, raises for top employees (when other employees received nothing), etc. Ask Mr. Hyatt why he is still hiring when he is asking for this kind of debt for the citizens to pay back!?!

Friday, June 10, 2011 3:02:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I know the cost of living has gone up, but can you imagine what would happen if everyone went to their employers and demanded a raise because the cost of living has gone up? We all have to cut our budgets, what makes government any different? The fact is government is partially to blame for the cost of living going up.

Friday, June 10, 2011 3:04:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

well said.

Friday, June 10, 2011 7:02:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:02
Why don't you call and ask Mr. Hyatt? When you do, why not take along a digital recorder just in case you can trip him up and use it against him? We both know someone who is adept at that kind of sleaziness.

Friday, June 10, 2011 8:32:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

If everything is honest and above board, why would a camera be a problem?

Saturday, June 11, 2011 8:47:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

No camera or recorder would be necessary. Look at accounting records, truck fleet, equipment bought but not used, pay scales for management, and revenue brought in with government watershed. Highway Dept is mismanaged not mis-FUNDED How can someone who can't manage personal finance manage county Dept ? Ask to see for yourself If you don't. You are just as responsible for your county debt as they are !!!!

Saturday, June 11, 2011 9:18:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

State Auditors do not audit spending. They audit procedures.

Saturday, June 11, 2011 9:45:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:47
I conduct my life in an honest and above-board way, and I would not tolerate a camera or recorder in my face. What happens in a person's life that would make him so distrustful and resentful?

Saturday, June 11, 2011 12:31:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

12:31 Unfortunately, hearing lies previouisly told by those you would now choose to record.

Saturday, June 11, 2011 1:34:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

9:18 is not saying to take there word for anything; they are saying that every commissioner should go and see for themselves before voting to borrow money for Highway Dept. That would put county in debt for a million dollars plus interest! Is that not we vote commissioners into office for is to protect the citizens and make good, sound financial decisions........

Saturday, June 11, 2011 2:05:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:34
I choose to record nobody, particularly without their eprmission or knowledge.

Saturday, June 11, 2011 3:39:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What would it hurt for the Commissioner to go check it out. They could find is in order.

I wonder how many ran for commissioner but don't want to do a little checking.

Saturday, June 11, 2011 5:14:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:39 Your choice, but it is also the choice of the person who feels compelled to record. Per law, recording does not need permission from the one you are speaking with.

Saturday, June 11, 2011 5:27:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

If I feel a need to record what someone says, I will record.
There are reasons it might be a good idea to record them.

Saturday, June 11, 2011 9:00:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I would refuse to say a word if anyone stuck a recorder in my face.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 12:59:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

12:59 are you afraid that you might be held to your words if some one recorded you? People that speak honestly and knowledgeably have no reason to fear a recorder.If there is nothing to hide recorders should be welcomed especially by public servants.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 2:20:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

2:20
Ridiculous! No, I'm not afraid of being held accountable. Why must there always be something sinister or dishonest going on? Have another glass of refreshing kool-aid and relax.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 7:42:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

2:20 Good post.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 7:42:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

7:42 Is all you now is for someone to move or drink kool-aid? If you go to church today, listen, don't just be a bench warmer.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 7:46:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

2:20 I agree with you 100%. 7:42 has just been drinking too much of their kool aid, they are always referring to.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 9:21:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Mr. Barrett, your last paragraph 0f the topic, hit the nail on the head. This and a lot of other things need to be investigated by someone outside Giles County.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 9:27:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

7:46
Yes, as a matter of fact, I did go to church this morning and was actively involved in worship.
Look, the concepts are simple. If one is unhappy here, there's always the option of moving somewhere else. But, should that person choose to stay, he or she might better be served by refraining from drinking the hate and sour grapes kool-aid and try to work effectively and constructively to get things changed for the better. Calling people names and acccusing them of all sorts of wrongs is not the way to do that.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 12:59:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

12:59 Know you wont say which church you attend, but at least share the denomination of your church. Thanks

Sunday, June 12, 2011 4:55:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

12:59 in response to this and your other comments, you are a pharisee satisfied with the corruption that enriches and empowers you regardless of if it's right or wrong or what effect it has on regular people. Jesus identified you and you still haven't changed.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 10:12:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

10:12
Wrong. I am neither Pharisee nor Publican. However, I used to call myself a Republican, but I chose to disassiciate myself from the party of Haslam, Ryan, and the like. I am just a conservative in the tradition of Ronald Reagan anymore.
I think Christ would identify me as a follower of Him.

Sunday, June 12, 2011 10:30:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Is DAW on vacation?

Monday, June 13, 2011 6:44:00 AM  
Anonymous DAW said...

Just reading. Wanting to see if this silly arguing will go on for another week.

DAW

Monday, June 13, 2011 6:54:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Why don't we have a "BITCH" blog where anyone who wants to get off subject can go and vent their spleene and baldder

Monday, June 13, 2011 7:27:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi DAW
What is your guess as to why properties are valued so much higher in Giles county over Marshall, Maury, etc for lesser quality homes?

Monday, June 13, 2011 4:04:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

4:04.

You would have to show me some examples of this before I just believe it to be true. Giles County is still a better place to live than Marshall County and Maury County. The unemployment is lower here. Giles County is also a good place for retirement. I was looking at homes in Columbia a couple years ago and they were priced much higher than Giles due to being close to Williamson County.

There are a ton of things that have to be considered when putting a value on a home. Please give me some examples to research.

Thanks,
DAW

Monday, June 13, 2011 4:14:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Don't they have a date stamp in the county financial office? Noticed its hand written as to the date the bill was supposedly received for payment. That in itself raises a red flag to me.

Friday, June 17, 2011 3:13:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

3:13
Perhaps Mr. Barrett should go up there (with his digital recorder of course) and demand that Mrs. Garner produce proof that her office has a date stamp. If she doesn't have one, I'd say the matter should be investigated and any corruption immediately exposed. Something sinister may be going on right before the taxpayers' eyes.

Saturday, June 18, 2011 6:24:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

6:24 Was Mr. Barrett the one asked if they had a date stamp?

Saturday, June 18, 2011 7:45:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I thought 6:24 was going away again!

Saturday, June 18, 2011 8:16:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

6:24 Enjoys showing how much he dislikes Barrett to go away. He wouldn't have anything else to do if he went away.

I'm glad not many people drink 6:24's kool-aid.

Saturday, June 18, 2011 10:29:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

10:29
No, I believe 6:24 was just pointing out the foolishness of troublemaking.

Saturday, June 18, 2011 1:02:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

6:24 proves they are full of it by saying they are going away and then posting the same old stuff. We all know they don't like WAB. I get tired of hearing the same album play over and over.

Saturday, June 18, 2011 1:06:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:06
No, it's his behavior that is so despicable. Oh, please don't take my word for that. As I have said before, just ask around the county. His name came up in a conversation at church the other day. I was not involved, but, when Barrett's name was mentioned there was laughter. Isn't that a pity?

Monday, June 20, 2011 7:16:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

A church gossiping?

Must of been the one that don't believe in public prayer.

1:06 has it right same old record, "just ask around."

Monday, June 20, 2011 9:17:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

9:17
Do it; just ask around, and you will see for yourself what a laughing stock he is.

Monday, June 20, 2011 10:15:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

10:15 Was you the one asked if DAW was giving his employer his money's worth in the job? I've often wondered that about you.

I've often asked around what people thought about WAB and the one some call Enabler. It was about 50 50 in what they thought. So what did that prove?

I'm retired at 79 so my time is mine.

Monday, June 20, 2011 10:36:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

10:36
I think it proves that Barrett is disliked. I'm sure you didn't ask about an enabler; people wopuld have thought you nuts. How do I know that? Because very few actually read this blog besides those who cheerlead for Barrett. So perhaps your survey lacked reliability and validity.

Monday, June 20, 2011 4:57:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oh people have heard about the enabler, christian man. Are you should I say the woman that keeps saying she's not going to post anymore, but can't live without posting.

Some times they will say who they think dislikes Barret the most.

More people read this blog than you think, just want post.

Monday, June 20, 2011 6:15:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

4:57,

You need to stop posting if you are going to keep up the childish ranting. Some people like WAB and some don't. There will always be a person standing on every side. You continue to make yourself look bad.

Monday, June 20, 2011 8:08:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

8:08
More find him a joke and a nuisance that do those who like him. inthro

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 6:48:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

6:48,

Do you know the definition of insanity? You need to look it up and cut and paste for all to see. Fits you well.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 8:53:00 AM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

To the gossiping enabler; If you had a car worth $25,000.00 and it had a burned out tail light would you abandon it on the side of the road or focus on the taillight and getting it replaced?
If the transmission went bad and it would cost a $1,000.00 to repair it like new, would you just dump it at the salvage yard or would you have it fixed?
To me Giles County is like that $25,000.00 car and just because it might have a few problems doesn't mean you abandon it by moving away, you just fix it and do good maintenance and it will give good service for a very long time. If however the car becomes more costly to maintain than it is worth then it goes to the salvage yard, but even then some parts are still worth saving and using.
When I feel like this county isn't worth the efforts to make it better then I'll move. Until that time we must focus on the parts that are broken, repair them and make the vehicle roadworthy for another generation.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10:13:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

WAB
But the good thing is that YOU are not and will never be the mechanic. Oh, how that must burn you up that you aren't allowed to sit at the mechanic's table. Well, that's your own fault for being so obnoxious.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 11:26:00 AM  
Anonymous DAW said...

Why don't you go away 11:26. You have nothing to offer this blog. NOTHING. WAB has his faults, but what you do is childish and stupid. Go bury your head in the sand.

DAW

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 12:11:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

daw
Sorry, my arrogant friend, but I have as much right here as you do. Who do you think you are anyway?
I believe Allen Barrett is a troublemaker, and I have a right to voice my opinion. Thank you!

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 12:58:00 PM  
Blogger Allen Barrett said...

To the gossiping enabler,
While I also appreciate and supported President Reagan and believe him to be the second or third best president to this time, one must realize his administration was not without flaws and bad decisions.
While President Reagan is well known for cutting taxes he also signed tax increases of some type in every year from 1981 to 1987 including TEFRA, Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 which was the "largest peacetime tax increase in American history up until that time.
Federal spending increased by 7.1% annually and the national debt increased from 997 billion to 2.85 trillion.
In Oct 1983, 241 Service members were killed in the Beirut barracks bombing. They had been sent into a civil war situation as part of a UN peacekeeping force. Then after pledging to destroy the training area of the Hezbollah killers he withdrew the troops with Hezbollah still intact.
He granted amnesty to approximately 3 million illegal immigrants. He also made a huge mistake in appointing the liberal Sandra O’Connor to the Supreme Court.
Just saying that you are "a conservative in the tradition of Ronald Reagan" might need a bit more clarification because till now the way you have acted has been only aligned with the bad side of his administration.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 1:06:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

12:58,

I think everyone that has read the blog knows how you feel. I don't think repeating it over and over is going to do anything but make you look more foolish.

As to "who do you think you are". I am a person that can put up with a lot of nonsense, but you are turning into an obsessed moron. Why don't you try and post regarding the topics a few times, in depth. I really don't think you can.

DAW

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 2:35:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Mr. Woodard,
I'd say you are cut from the same piece of cloth as someone else I know who is equally arrogant and condescending. Can you not see that? Have you two become friends now? Your name-calling is so similar to his.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 10:58:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

10:58 you should realize that most people that know more than you aren't arrogant and condescending the problem is you're ignorant and inadequate.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011 1:04:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:04
I believe those comments were directed to Mr. Woodard and not to you.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011 6:39:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

1:04
I believe those comments were directed to Mr. Woodard and not to you.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011 6:39:00 PM  
Anonymous DAW said...

6:39,

It is best that I ignore you. You keep talking and never say anything. I have to agree with everyone that calls you the enabler. I tried to give you a chance but you really let me down. I have broken records at home if I want to listen to noise.

DAW

Wednesday, June 22, 2011 7:47:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oops 1:04 posted to the enabler and he only wanted Mr. Woodard to answer. Noticed that before.

Free Speech anybody can post!

Wednesday, June 22, 2011 9:01:00 PM  

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