Sheriff candidates make their case

Thu, 06/26/2008 - 9:34pm
By: John Munford

The four candidates vying to become Fayette County’s next sheriff laid out their plans and goals to the public at a forum in downtown Fayetteville Thursday evening.

Barry Babb and Thomas Mindar explained how and why they’d like to get more patrol units on the road via a reorganization of the department.

Babb noted in particular that the sheriff’s department has an average response time now of 12 minutes and he’d like to see that improved. Mindar said he wants to combine the traffic and patrol deputies to get more cars on the road, and his goal is to make sure that criminals have to pass a patrol car before they get out of the county on Ga. Highways 85, 314 and 279 in north Fayette.

Babb said he wants to establish a precinct in north Fayette to shorten response times, but Wayne Hannah said he’d rather have those deputies on the road with computers in their cars so they can type in reports and remain visible to the public.

“Visibility is real important for crime prevention,” Hannah said.

Hannah said a precinct would be costly to build and staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But Mindar said the county would be willing to host it at the new Kenwood Park, and he didn’t think it would need to be staffed all the time.

Dave Simmons didn’t broach the patrol manpower or precinct issues but said he wants the sheriff’s office to do more to combat crime at the Fayette Pavilion shopping center, such as the use of undercover officers making arrests to convince criminals “they can’t come to Fayette County and steal.”

Simmons said he wants to create a task force with members from Fayetteville, Tyrone and Peachtree City’s police departments so they can work cases all over the county including at the Pavilion.

Simmons said he’s talked to “a ton of people” who have had their purses and wallets stolen from them while shopping at the Pavilion.

Mindar said he wants to “clean up” the Pavilion by working with the city of Fayetteville. The Pavilion is in the city limits but can also be worked by the sheriff’s department, Mindar said.

Simmons also said he wants to utilize his expertise from the Detroit Police Department in “breaking up gangs” to “once and for all end gang activity in Fayette County and protect our county.” He also said he wanted to create a reserve unit so citizens could volunteer to help patrol the county.

Mindar said he wants to combat gangs by working closer with police in Fayetteville, Clayton County and Spalding County in large part by dedicating a deputy to dealing with gang incidents.

“We need to get with the Fayetteville PD and follow their lead. They are doing a great job,” Mindar said.

Simmons pointed out the recent robbery of the manager of the T.J. Maxx and the recent kidnapping of a businessman at a local gas station as signs that crime is becoming more intense in Fayette County.

He also mentioned that some criminals were stealing grave markers in the county.

“This is unacceptable,” Simmons said, adding that he wants criminals to again fear crossing Ga. Highway 138 into Fayette County, a fear which he asserts does not exist today.

Hannah said one of the first things he’d do if elected would be to audit the department’s physical assets and accounts, including the federal drug forfeiture fund which consists of money taken from drug dealers and used to purchase equipment and pay for training.

Hannah agreed with Babb that the department has good people, but “I think we need to come together and work together more.”

Mindar, asked by the panel what he thinks of the relationship between the department and Fayette’s other police agencies, said “I think it’s much better now that Chief Murray left,” referring to retired Peachtree City police chief James Murray.

Mindar added that the officers in the departments have always worked well with each other, and he’d like to see the sheriff’s department deputize the cities’ detectives so they will have the police power to seek arrest warrants in other counties instead of relying on having those warrants taken in the other jurisdictions.

Mindar said he thinks its important to have Peachtree City participate on the drug task force operated by the sheriff’s department, even if some policies have to be changed to accommodate the city’s accreditation standards.

Babb said he would continue the sheriff’s department’s policy of working large drug cases outside of the county as currently occurs with the DTF. The reason is that by stopping suppliers, DTF agents can keep those drugs from being distributed to Fayette County, even if the busts are in other counties in the metro area, Babb said.

Babb lauded the Fayette DTF as being the best in the state, which drew a round of applause from a large group of sheriff’s department employees who attended the event.

Mindar said he wants to change how the jail is operated, making inmates remain locked in their cells for 23 hours of the day and having them work for the one hour they’re out of their cells. He said criminals want to some to Fayette’s jail because they are allowed to watch TV, play basketball and congregate in a commons area.

Mindar also said he wanted to offer classes at the jail for inmates such as financial management classes for those jailed for passing bad checks. Such classes are usually offered by the state probation office but only after the criminal is released from jail, Mindar said.

Mindar added that the jail’s unused space could be used to house inmates from other jurisdictions as a way to boost the department’s revenue. He said some cost savings could be achieved by having two deputies share a car, since often times a second deputy is called to the same scene for backup.

Mindar said he’d like for the department’s helicopter to be used at night for patrols and assisting on chases and the location of criminals hiding from deputies. He also said he wants the department to look into leasing a more modern helicopter that could stay in the air longer and carry more weight.

Simmons said he wanted to evaluate the sheriff’s office, including a reading of the personnel file of each employee, as one of his first tasks in office along with audits of the department’s financial accounts. He added that he believes in having an open door with employees for communication and that he believes one way to get the most out of employees is to praise them for good work.

To address dwindling revenues, Babb said putting more officers on the streets will result in less overtime, and he added that the new Dodge Charger police vehicles have better gas mileage than the Ford Crown Victoria cars, saving money on gas.

Asked how gas prices would affect the quality and amount of patrols, Babb said he would look to cut in other areas of the department’s budget such as uniform expenses before cutting gas for patrol cars.

Simmons said he would like to expand the DARE drug resistance education program into the middle and high schools, since those students receive peer pressure to drink and use drugs, including tobacco.

Mindar said he agreed that the DARE program is important to help police interact with youth so the children understand the officers aren’t out to get them, but are instead normal people just like them. He added that it made sense to have more school resource officers in part because the Board of Education pays half their salaries.

He also noted that a few years back Whitewater High School wanted to have a drug dog located at the school, which Mindar supports, but he said the sheriff’s department didn’t make it happen.
“I don’t know why we didn’t,” Mindar said.

Babb said one of the reasons that the county is experiencing more burglaries is due to the poor economy.

Babb was the only candidate who chose not to ask a question of another candidate. Hannah’s question was directed at Babb, asking if he’d stay at the department even if he’s ultimately not elected.

Babb said he has considered not returning to law enforcement if not elected, in part because he “felt uneasy” after he previously told Hannah that if he (Babb) was elected sheriff that the jobs of Hannah and his wife, who runs the department’s DARE unit, “would be safe.” Babb said at that time Hannah didn’t reciprocate, which left him wondering about the matter.

Plus, Babb said, his wife might be having ideas of getting him out of law enforcement if he loses the election.

“Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that,” Babb cracked, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Mindar got some laughs when he followed up by saying he hoped Hannah would ask him the same question that Hannah asked Babb.

Mindar asked Simmons what he proposed to do to fight crime in Fayette. Simmons said he wanted the community to be involved and he particularly wants to educate the community on how not to be a victim of crime. He also wants to get involved in neighborhood watch programs and other “different programs” he will evaluate.

Hannah said his experience in being a division director and also in working with the county commission on budget issues will help smooth the transition from the current leadership of Sheriff Johnson.

Simmons touted his education and training experience along with the department’s need to "work smarter, faster and safer.” Simmons also said he wants to “put the fear of God” back in criminals.

Babb noted that he counted up the staff the other day and determined that he either trained or worked alongside 59 percent of the staff and said he could provide stability to the department.

The forum was sponsored by the Metro Fayette Kiwanis Club.

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Submitted by lallgers on Thu, 07/03/2008 - 1:08pm.

Maybe Dave Simmons should check out the facts, from what I can see the Sheriff's Department has been helping out with crime in the Pavilion, I always see deputies in the Pavilion. Dave Simmons need to stop trying "scare tatics" and start looking at facts.

Submitted by 30YearResident on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 7:07am.

You mentioned putting undercover offices at the Pavilion... are you aware that the Pavilion is under the jurisdiction of Fayetteville Police Department? (it's in the Fayetteville city limits).

Don't you think that with the revenue they receive and the precinct they already have on site that they should be doing this themselves instead of the Sheriffs Department? Are you saying the Fayetteville Police aren't doing their job at the Pavilion?

Second, your comment of wanting to utilize his expertise from the Detroit Police Department in “breaking up gangs”, seems a strange to me. If I read the Detroit crime statistics correctly, not much progress (if any)was ever made up there while you were on the force. Exactly what "expertise" do you bring? Maybe you should take your "expertise" back to Detroit where it is apparently really needed.

Submitted by KCW56 on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 3:08pm.

I can't believe someone who has been a resident this long would have such idiotic questions!

"You mentioned putting undercover offices at the Pavilion... are you aware that the Pavilion is under the jurisdiction of Fayetteville Police Department? (it's in the Fayetteville city limits)."

Duh, yea, it’s under the jurisdiction of the F'ville PD; however, it should be of great concern for every F'ville, Tyrone, PTC and FC resident. Simmons spoke of a plan of collaboration with F'ville, Tyrone and F'ville PD's to curtail crime. That’s how they do it in the 21rst Century. If the Pavilion looses more and more retail, and continues to have empty buildings, what is every resident going to feel in their taxes when the Pavilion is crime ridden, boarded up and all of us are shopping out of the county.

“Don't you think that with the revenue they receive and the precinct they already have on site that they should be doing this themselves instead of the Sheriffs Department?”

Do you understand that no officers are staffing and manning the Pavilion PD precinct? It's empty!

“Are you saying the Fayetteville Police aren't doing their job at the Pavilion?”

Not enough and that’s quite obvious with reading crimes listed in The Citizen. The Calvary needs to be called in.

“Second, your comment of wanting to utilize his expertise from the Detroit Police Department in “breaking up gangs”, seems a strange to me. If I read the Detroit crime statistics correctly, not much progress (if any)was ever made up there while you were on the force. Exactly what "expertise" do you bring? Maybe you should take your "expertise" back to Detroit where it is apparently really needed.”

Same ‘ole nauseating spin from one who obviously meets up with Sheriff Randall every week and listens to his horse stories. Another closed minded blogger who thinks FC should stay status quo.

Get informed and wake up 30yearresident. We need a Commander in charge and its not in Hannah, Babb or Mindar. They haven't been groomed to be one.

Cyclist's picture
Submitted by Cyclist on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 9:31pm.

what's Chief Heaton's opinion of using county resources to patrol city areas?
-------------------------------------------
Caution - The Surgeon General has determined that constant blogging is an addiction that can cause a sedentary life style.


Submitted by drewpdawg on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 9:44pm.

Good point, Cyclist. I believe back when Simmons wrote his letter to the editor with all of the supposed crime stats, that in addition to Sheriff Johnson's response, there was also a letter of response from Major Gooding of the FVPD concerning crime at the Pavilion. Nothing though from Chief Heaton to my knowledge.

In regards to the extra patrols by the FCSO of the Pavilion, why do people like KCW56 think that paying higher taxes for losing businesses is any different than paying higher taxes for double services? One need only look to Clayton County next door for the current peeing contest underway between Clayton PD Chief Jeff Turner and Clayton Sheriff Victor Hill on who can best tackle crime in the county!

Submitted by skyspy on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 8:59pm.

That sounds like the Fayetteville police dept. has a problem. Sounds like they are as short-handed as PTC police. If we had better starting salaries cops would want to work in Fayette county. That is a problem for the county commission and the city councils to tackle, because right now we are short of cops.

Submitted by sageadvice on Tue, 07/01/2008 - 7:01am.

I thought pavilion needed cops? What difference does it make where their office is? Does everyone have to cluster at headquarters? Walk or bicycle the pavilion!
Anyway there must be 5000 dudes who would like to be a cop? Pick a few!
Can em if no good.

Submitted by skyspy on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 8:58pm.

*

yardman5508's picture
Submitted by yardman5508 on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 8:19pm.

actually, I am sure you meant to say "the cavalry needs to be called in". Keep the faith.

Even a dead fish can go with the flow.


Submitted by 30YearResident on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 6:58pm.

Being on Mr. Simmons election committee are you answering in behalf of him?

If so, then you and he agree that Fayetteville Police are not doing their job at the Pavilion, correct?
And that you and he believe that it's time to hire more deputies to move in and take over policing the Pavilion since Fayetteville is doing an inadaquate job, correct?

Have you or Mr. Simmons brought this up to the Fayetteville City Council, the Fayetteville Mayor or the Fayetteville Police Chief?

I would think that right of jurisdiction would need to be considered first of all, wouldn't you? And wouldn't Fayetteville be given the consideration to request additional support before allocating it? Just asking the questions, because I'm not certain.

Also, isn't it amazing whenever someone can't come up with a valid response to a comment they always resort to name calling and "put downs" to discredit truth. Yes, Detroits bad crime stats are the "same 'ole nauseating spin", but unfortunately, it's the truth.... no spin is needed.

Now go back and to your "hate Sheriff Johnson" rally's with Mr. Dunn and his crowd and we'll see you at the polls.

Silence Dogood's picture
Submitted by Silence Dogood on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 10:55pm.

I believe Detroit beat out Geary, Indiana for the top crime spot this year. What a great legacy to leave behind and to bring forth on a resume'. I guess my stating that concern makes me a slanderous and libel concerned citizen too.

This whole SO election is becoming very scary.


Submitted by KCW56 on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 9:21pm.

Being on Mr. Simmons election committee are you answering in behalf of him?"

No dude, just a blogger and voting for Simmons.

"If so, then you and he agree that Fayetteville Police are not doing their job at the Pavilion, correct?
And that you and he believe that it's time to hire more deputies to move in and take over policing the Pavilion since Fayetteville is doing an inadequate job, correct?"

Uh, no, re-read it again. They need help. Should be obvious to you when Radio Shack,TJ Max and Friedman’s had burglaries recently.

"Have you or Mr. Simmons brought this up to the Fayetteville City Council, the Fayetteville Mayor or the Fayetteville Police Chief?"

I have expressed concerns and actually don’t understand why a Security company hasn't been hired by the Pavilion. Why is this a F'ville PD problem? Shopping centers staff with security personal all the time, why not this one? When did this become our problem, all we got was an empty precinct. I believe Simmons states that he has indeed spoken with the Chiefs; I am not on his staff to be in the know about the Commish's. Ask him by contacting him directly.

"Now go back and to your "hate Sheriff Johnson" rally's with Mr. Dunn and his crowd and we'll see you at the polls."

Why you have connected me to Dunn & his crowd is beyond me. I’ve been living here almost as long as you have. I am in the know.

Spear Road Guy's picture
Submitted by Spear Road Guy on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 9:34am.

I agree with 30YearResident on the Pavilion. That place is nasty but it's Fayetteville's responsibility! Mayor Steele brought the problem in so let him babysit the bad guys.

How about Babb saying the average response time is 12 minutes! Someone could smash and grab and be long gone before a deputy ever gets close.

Vote Republican


Submitted by sageadvice on Mon, 06/30/2008 - 10:59am.

Response times are wonderful but they will never be short enough to catch these guys in the act---they know how long it takes. On occasion
some of the dunces hang around too long and are intercepted on the road.
Prevention is the key--not wait until it happens. Maybe Simmons does know how to do some of that! Without cops in Detroit, no one could even live there!

The sheriff contends that he may make arrests anywhere in Fayette County.
If you will remember a sheriff (Jackie Gleason) out west followed "the bandit" (Burt Reynolds) all the way across country trying to catch him!
Don't say, "not my yob monn."

Submitted by ROSEBUD on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 6:38pm.

that the majority of the audience questions that were screened, did not seem to make it up to the panel - I thought maybe it was because of time constraints, BUT I figured it out upon leaving. The lady that was the final screener, left the forum at the end carrying out a HANNAH sign. That makes sense now, why Hannah did not get many of our questions. To the Kiwanis Club - that was NOT right and very disappointing to witness by more than one person......

Submitted by McGerkin88 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 7:36pm.

if that is indeed true, maybe she knew he couldn't answer them.

Submitted by williammuddy on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 3:40pm.

I am having a realy hard time understanding something and I'm hope someone can help. I know both Hannah and Babb personally. They are both great guys. I know officers that work under each of them. But for the life of me I can not understand why a voter would choose Babb over Hannah. Here is what I'm asking for. If you are an officer at the Sheriff's Office or an Informed voter of either candidate let me know why you have decided who is best for the county. I don't want to hear the negitives, just the positives for your choose. I'm thinking maybe I'm to close to see objectively. Thanks in advance and God bless you.

Submitted by GentleTug on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 8:04pm.

I think Hannah is the best choice for the job. I like Barry and think he does a good job with patrol. The part that seperates the two of them for me is their attention to detail. One of the easiest things to look at is the way our cars are now being striped. Barry rushed to get something to show the Sheriff. Hannah took a little more time to come up with his design. In the end Hannah's was chosen. When it comes down to spending money, getting the most for your buck, and using the money for what it was originally budgeted for in the first place, Hannah in so much more proficient at this. Ask Traffic Ofiicers how many of them have lost their uniform allowance because that money had to be used for something else. Those that work for him realize that if they truly need something for their job, he will do all that he can to get it. But only if he has money in the budget to do so. He is straight forward and follows the rules set before him. The rules being the FCSO Standard Operating Procedures. If you follow the rules, Hannah will support you to the end. If you don't, expect to be disciplined according to the SOP. Not what he thinks fits this time. R U Smiling Yet!!!!

Submitted by grits on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 5:53pm.

I know and have worked with both of these men.

I support Babb because I think he is the best man for the job. My reasons are pretty simple. Hannah has been working Trafiic Enforcement for the past 20+ years. Before someone tries to crucify me for this statement, I am not downplaying the importance of this position. Hannah is good at what he does, enforcing traffic law and public relations. Babb has been working crime suppression longer than Hannah. Is this not what we want...to prevent/suppress crime? Babb has also supervised more employees; Hannah supervises about 15 employees which amounts to about one shift in the division that Babb supervises. Babb is popular among the rank and file deputies because he understands the challenges they face and he knows the changes that need to be made. He has been in the position most of them are in. I believe that happy employees=better service=safer (and happier) citizens.

Submitted by wannabeme2 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 6:07pm.

Have you ever wondered why Wayne Hannah hasn't been trusted to "supervise" more than 15 employees? In 20+ years doesn't that seem odd to you?

Submitted by GentleTug on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 8:09pm.

Just so you know he had the opportunity to be over everyone in uniform. R U Smiling Yet!!!!

Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 4:10pm.

My best advice is to take the time and look at each candidate websites. Go in with an open mind. Realize that things are changing very fast around here and we need to have a Sheriff that can take control quickly. It is a shame if you didn't go to last night’s forum. You may have gotten a better sense about each candidate and the direction they want to take us with the hot issues.

Write down some tough questions, each website has an email address and/or telephone number. Contact them with your questions and see what happens.

It is very hard when you know families, and know the candidates on such a personal level. Working relationships and personal relationships are two different animals when it becomes political.

This Primary and who gets elected and gets the power is critical to our survival in so many aspects; DA, Commish's, Sheriff, Tax etc. It is better to be informed.

Submitted by susieq on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 3:52pm.

I know the Babb family and I know Hannah personally. All I know about either one is positive. There is nothing negative that anyone can say that will make me change my mind about either one of them.

I choose Hannah because he is a dedicated law enforcement officer. Win, lose or draw, he intends to stay in law enforcement.

I feel that he is qualified because of his training and experience (look at all the degreed people who can't get a job).

Hannah's wife will understand his position because she is also in law enforcement.

Hi There's picture
Submitted by Hi There on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:40am.

Well, Mindar got it right on the nose, the relationships between all the police departments in the county has gotten much better now that Murray is gone!!! He was looked upon by officers from the other departments and by the majority of those in our judicial system as a complete joke! When the chief was labeled as such, the rest of the department look laughable as well, which many of the PTCPD officers knew. Now that “Chief Joke Murray” is gone, many of the city’s officers can shine and gain the respect from their counties colleges, as they should have many years ago, and work as one team to get the criminals behind bars and keep their cronies from returning to our county!! I like very much the mention of a drug dog at Whitewater High School. We should place a drug dog at every high school in the county. Talk about a deterent!!!!

Let me understand. Mr. Babb, if you are not elected, you will leave law enforcement? This sounds as if you are going to pick up your bat and your ball and not play because things did not go your way. This is not the mentality of someone who has their heart in what they are doing. This statement has shed a dark light over you to earn my vote as sheriff.

Hannah, forget the audit as the top priority! Closing the flood gates to the criminals coming into our county should be the top priority!!! Making sure the cases are clean and solid so our DA can put them away instead of giving the criminals loop holes to wiggle from should be our second priority!! I am not saying audits is not in order, but let’s not turn our backs to the criminals and crimes while man hours are put towards and audit. After the audit, how many more crimes will there be?

Simmons is correct, put the fear of God in the criminals who commit crimes in Fayette County. Right now, they know it’s just a slap on the wrist or a loop hole will get them out of a tough punishment. There are no real deterrents! Simmons is right, the gangs are here!!! Yes they are not as big or strong as those thought of as in LA, but “little weeds right now in our garden.” Pluck them out before they took strong root and take over. (Weeds have a way of multiplying and taking over the beautiful lawn in a very short time). Sherriff Johnson has blinders on or his vision is detereating rapidly when he responded months ago stating the county did not have a gang problem and there were no gangs here. Maybe he doesn’t want this label on his watch.

May the best man win.


brooksga1994's picture
Submitted by brooksga1994 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 12:04pm.

"Babb said he has considered not returning to law enforcement if not elected, in part because he “felt uneasy” after he previously told Hannah that if he (Babb) was elected sheriff that the jobs of Hannah and his wife, who runs the department’s DARE unit, “would be safe.” Babb said at that time Hannah didn’t reciprocate, which left him wondering about the matter."

Babb told Hannah his job would be safe but Hannah did not return the favor. Why would Babb want to work with someone like that?


Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 9:44am.

I came with a very open mind. I wanted to hear what all the candidates had to say. What a disappointment. NO CLEAR PLANS from Babb, Hannah or Mindar.

“Babb was the only candidate who chose not to ask a question of another candidate. Hannah’s question was directed at Babb, asking if he’d stay at the department even if he’s ultimately not elected.”

I don’t know where Babb’s head and heart was last night, but it sure wasn’t in this forum. He was scrambling, trying to find words at times, having to have questions repeated, some twice. He continued flipping through his notebook, trying to find his answers, sometimes giving up and winging it. No clear plan. When Hannah asked the infamous question, (will you work for me when I’m sheriff,) you could see disgust in Babb’s face. Hence, the statement of his wife may want him out of law enforcement entirely after this election.

“Hannah said one of the first things he’d do if elected would be to audit the department’s physical assets and accounts, including the federal drug forfeiture fund which consists of money taken from drug dealers and used to purchase equipment and pay for training.”

What a ridiculous statement. Here was his chance, to say promote his crime fighting plan, strengthen ties inside the SO, etc. And, he wants to do an audit? I kept waiting for something. NOTHING ever came out of his mouth that warrants him to become the next FC Sheriff. It is status quo with him and I am afraid that is exactly what we would get.

“I think it’s much better now that Chief Murray left,” referring to retired Peachtree City police chief James Murray.”

Mindar, you are a funny guy. Not the place for making light of some very serious questions. Don’t get me wrong, I think you’re funny, but, this was not the place. I thank-you for running in this race to off set Hannah, I believe one day you may make a fantastic Sheriff. Just not today and I believe you know this.

“Simmons said he wants to create a task force with members from Fayetteville, Tyrone and Peachtree City’s police departments so they can work cases all over the county including at the Pavilion.”

Now that’s a plan. I have seen all through out these comments that the Pavilion is not in the jurisdiction of the FCSO. I understand that. But, the FCSO can be involved, pro-actively in fighting Fayetteville including the Pavilion and PTC crime, and Simmons is the only one that has such plan. I found that he articulated a plan of action for every hot topic and then some. For those that are spinning otherwise, get over it. For those in the audience from the SO, he spoke to you, he will “one on one” get to know you. He let you know that there will be an “open door policy.” That he will show you respect and he will promote additional training and education and show you respect by providing positive “kudos” on a job well done. He was the first to state that he has talked with the other Police Chiefs, who incidentally have Bachelors and Masters Degrees, and has discussed coming together to combat crime.

I disagree in CI5835 statement “I think you had a strong showing but got little reaction from the crowd.” Hannah had the lightest applause and it was quite obvious. Babb and Simmons were comparable, Mindar, well there was applause and laughter.

In my humble opinion, I believe the citizens left a little more educated and really got to see these candidates for whom they truly are. The representation from the SO, hopefully, down deep, you heard and came out a little more knowledgeable about Simmons.

I have a question for D. Hannah. What do you think of Simmons plan to help your D.A.R.E program continue to grow into the middle and high schools? How did you like the plan of obtaining more grants for funding this program? Yet your husband had NOTHING to add and really hadn't given it any thought.

Submitted by Spyglass on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 9:50am.

But the race is between Babb and Hannah if you are interested in having a say in the race. Smiling

mapleleaf's picture
Submitted by mapleleaf on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 9:24am.

1- How old are you?
2- How much education do you have?
3- How many years of law enforcement experience have you had, and where have you served?
4- In your law enforcement career, have you ever been disciplined? If so, explain the circumstances for each event.
5- In your law enforcement career, have you ever received any special award or recognition? If so, explain when it was, where it was, and what it was for.
6- Have you ever been convicted of any crime, including traffic offenses? If so, explain the circumstances for each event.
7- Have you ever been sued for anything? If so, explain the circumstances for each lawsuit and state the outcome.
8- Have you ever sought relief in bankruptcy court? If so, explain the circumstances for each time you did.
9- What makes you think you might be the best candidate to serve as sheriff of Fayette County?

These are the basics. Age helps us tell about maturity and experience, and also how long the candidate might be able to serve us. Education tells us about the candidate’s intellectual capacity, willingness to learn, and adaptability (to new technology or otherwise). Experience is another form of education, so it matters. Past discipline or awards can help us learn more about the candidate. Convictions, even if just for speeding, tell us about a candidate’s respect for the law. Lawsuits for fraud or failure to pay debts, or bankruptcies, tell us about a candidate’s ability to manage public funds. The last question might help us choose between two, three or four otherwise fine candidates.

Questions about precincts on the North side of the county or car make preferences won’t tell us what we need to know. Get down to the nitty-gritty and help us out.


Submitted by KCW56 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:21am.

do you know something that we ought to?

6- Have you ever been convicted of any crime, including traffic offenses? If so, explain the circumstances for each event.
7- Have you ever been sued for anything? If so, explain the circumstances for each lawsuit and state the outcome.
8- Have you ever sought relief in bankruptcy court? If so, explain the circumstances for each time you did.

Submitted by NeedtoKnow on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 9:44am.

Education tells us about the candidate’s intellectual capacity, willingness to learn, and adaptability (to new technology or otherwise).

I disagree. A lack of a degree tells us none of these things. A highly intelligent, willing to learn and adaptable person may not be able to pursue higher education for many reasons. One of those reasons may be financial. A person working in law enforcement isn't paid much, and may take on a second job to keep food on the table. Even for someone who would like to make higher education a priority, it just may not be possible.

I think if a person gets into a job and is continually training and taking classes and getting certifications that are specifically job related, that is as important or more important than a college degree.

Submitted by CI5835 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 12:05pm.

Oh yeah I left something out. When I was in school I worked two jobs and went to school full-time for three years straight. At one point I did an internship at the same time (third job). It can be done, especially over a span of 20 or 30 years! I don't care what you have going on in your life. Excuses are just that, excuses. We need someone with answers and someone who doesn't need excuses.

Submitted by CI5835 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 11:55am.

The lack of a colleeg degree/pursuit of higher educaiton does tell us a whole lot actually. It tells us one doesn't value such education. It tells us one may not have been competent to complete such education (intelligence and mental capacity). It tells us the current leader of the department does not value such educaiton and has not encouraged his departmental leaders to attain such education. It does not however tell us that it costs too much, there was no time, or that one had other obligations such as family to attend to, making it too difficult. In-state tuition at several local colleges is relatively inexpensive. Evening classes are offerred for many required courses for you non-traditional students. Loans both publicly and privately funded are readily available. Additionally, one does not have to take a full load, atleast a couple classes a semester is easily done. It is not degrading to sit in a class with younger students. Many people go back to college when they are adults to complete degrees and attain additional degrees. The students would probably look up to you and be eager to learn about your experiences in your career. One does not necessarily need to complete a Criminal Justice degree, as having already been in the field for years. Any degree would suffice and show that you can stick it out and complete something meaningful. Maybe an accounting degree or a business admin degree since you might be handling large sums of taxpayer money and managing hundreds of employees. Educaiton is important and it is valued by the voters of Fayette County. Hopefully it will make a difference in this election. The info on the candidates education is already in the public domain. The only one with a degree is Dave Simmons, who not only holds a 4-year but also a masters degree. The days of electing a Sheriff with a high school diploma based on the G-O-B system are over. If this county does elect one of the less educated candidates then the voters of Fayette County are just as uneducated as the man put into office. We will be in store for a very rude awakening, four years of increased crime and no proven leadership or action to combat it. Best of luck to the only candidate truly worth electing Mr. Dave Simmons, CPP and graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA. Please vote for Dave July, 15th!

brooksga1994's picture
Submitted by brooksga1994 on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 5:01pm.

"Any degree would suffice and show that you can stick it out and complete something meaningful."

What about working the same job for 20+ years is that not important? It shows commitment. How about that? Fayette County needs someone with experience under Johnson. But I guess if you have a college degree then you are just ready to work in this county to some people.


Submitted by dreamer on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 3:55pm.

CI's quote: "Any degree would suffice and show that you can stick it out and complete something meaningful."

WHAT???? Are you kidding?

That HAS got to be the most arrogant statement that I have EVER heard! Puh-leeeze! While I do have a college education, I do NOT and would NOT base my vote for sheriff on such!

How about walking the beat for 20+ years - is that not "meaningful!?" How about carrying a weapon to protect ALL of our lives....? How about risking your life daily and just HOPING that you make it home to see your family at the end of the day....??? How about being a family man, good hard working honest Christian that has devoted his life to law enforcement...??
I don't know about you - but those things are in my Webster's Dictionary under "meaningful"!!!

I know many a idiot with a college degree... and many I wouldn't want to be my sheriff!

Give me Barry Babb anyday!!! Give me good...honest...hard working...and in touch!

Submitted by grits on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 5:18pm.

Well said.....I'll take honesty, integrity, morals, ethics (all qualities that Babb possesses) over a college degree any day.

He also has a great training record...all in law enforcement--the field he dedicated his life to.

This is what we need in our next Sheriff!

Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 4:31pm.

it is good to have both, especially taking over a job that should require it!

Submitted by loanarranger707 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 4:23pm.

...perhaps you would have written its instead of it's.

Submitted by dreamer on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 4:36pm.

Perhaps... I didn't "write" anything... but yet TYPED!

Thank you for todays lesson...
Carry on!

Submitted by loanarranger707 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 4:50pm.

you most likely would have written, or typed, today's instead of todays.

[Actually, this is taught in the third grade.]

Submitted by dreamer on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 4:53pm.

Please, just get back to work... I am sure there some really needy people who need loans...

What are they paying you? eight bucks an hours to check my grammer!?

BTW... My degree is NOT in english (as you can tell)... so just leave me alone... Now carry on with your little desk job!

Submitted by sageadvice on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 12:31pm.

Took him 30 years but look whut he went and got? A Colleeg educaiton!

Jethroe got a six grade educaitione and look whut he wuz---a brain surgeon and a soda jerk!

On their face only all degrees may be worthless, depending on how they were obtained--one can purchase anything nowadays. Anybody can also get through the FBI academy---just attend and pay.
Those without such degrees are also not necessarily unqualified for anything. A proper interview and background check along with whether degrees are certified by the state will help determine qualifications.
Self-educated people with proper good results experience can very often succeed where a Harvard Masters won't help in that job.
I am afraid however that the art of proper interviewing and checking is a lost art. Too much like work.

Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 1:54pm.

It would help your cause if you would just google to obtain some facts before ranting untruth's.

"Anybody can also get through the FBI academy---just attend and pay."

Per the FBI National Academy website...The FBI National Academy is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders that serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies at home and abroad and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide. It prepares them for complex, dynamic, and contemporary challenges through innovative techniques, facilitating excellence in education and research, and forging partnerships throughout the world.

Who attends?
Leaders and managers of state and local police, sheriffs' departments, military police organizations, and federal law enforcement agencies.

Participation is by invitation only, through a nomination process.

It is quite an honor for a leader to have achieved this level.

I've taken the time and you should to.

THE BOSS's picture
Submitted by THE BOSS on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 5:44pm.

Submitted by McGerkin88 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 7:53pm.

be in trouble with this F.B.I Academy application?

Authorization to Conduct Law Enforcement Check

I hereby authorize the FBI to conduct a standard check of law enforcement records on me. I understand this check will include, but not be limited to, any record of charges, prosecutions or convictions for criminal or civil offenses. This check will be used for the purpose of the FBI's Citizens' Academy application process. My consent is valid for three months from the date authorized below. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose of providing clearance to participate in the FBI's Citizens' Academy.

I'm glad this information negates anything on Simmons checkered Detroit past for those of you who suggest it. The F.B.I checked him out and he graduated in 2006!

__________________________________________

Submitted by drewpdawg on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 8:54pm.

McGerkin88, you might want to go back and re-read your candidate's website for your information before you go getting too excited. Your candidate attended the FBI Academy in 1984, not 2006! Any of the "alleged misconduct" he has been linked to in Detroit occurred around 1994-1996. So, no the FBI would not have done any "checking" him out at that time. Sorry to burst your bubble!

Go ahead with a background check of the others. Don't be surprised when you don't find much to go run back to Dave with. I mean they have only lived and worked here for the last 20+ years. I think if there was true dirt on them, we would already know it by now and wouldn't need the FBI!

And by the way, none of them have ever had any investigations with the GA POST Council regarding any improper actions! I have their files! Much more than we can say for your candidate who has nothing listed with the GA POST Council regarding his past employment, college degrees, FBI Training, or anything from Detroit! Wonder why?

Submitted by skyspy on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 11:18pm.

Has anyone been able to find or verify this alleged college degree?

Also have we been able to find out why Simmons was let go in 2001 from the little state capitol security thing?

It is kind of sad in a way, that he actually thought people in Fayette were so dumb that they would not check everything in his background.

I did not have the opportunity to attend this function, but one of my neighbors did.

They said Simmons stumbled and mumbled. They said he suggested things we already have in place like the Citizen Police Academies, which are used to educate the public about crime. Also the neighborhood watch programs that my neighborhood and most neighborhoods already have in place. Is this true? Did you have the opportunity to attend this question session?

The best part of the Simmons spin is that on the one hand he criticizes the Fayetteville police dept. for it's handling of crime, especially at the pavillion. Despite the stats. published that say crime has decreased at the pavillion. The Fayetteville and PTC police depts. have hired many officers that have college degrees. Which is what Simmons glee club says is needed in order to effectively fight crime. Then in the same breath they criticize the work of the same people who have college degrees. Huh?

I love the part where he says he will "stomp out the gang activity once and for all" ummm, how did that work in Detroit? Do we have any numbers that say crime went down or decreased when he was a sgt. in the gang squad?

I think our law enforcment in Fayette County has done a great job of keeping us safe. We aren't the only county that has had to deal with the fall out of clayton crime. Henry County has had to deal with as much or more crime than we have had here. We still have lower crime than the other counties who have had to deal with the same circumstances we have had to deal with.

Submitted by drewpdawg on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 10:45am.

Sky, not been able to find much on the degree. The Masters of Liberal Studies degree in Inter-Disciplinary Technology from Eastern Michigan University is not even listed on their website to find out anything about it. May not be offered any longer, who knows? What exactly is "Inter-Disciplinary Technology?" Everyone puts so much value in his having a college degree but I bet none of his supporters can show how it relates to law enforcement work. The school refers you to a website to verify the degree but you have to have authorization and personal information to do so.

Don't know why he left GA Building Authority except what the reference letter from Capt. Robinson says on the website. Robinson claims Simmons left due to a "restructuring of the department" when the agency changed to fall under the GA Dept of Public Safety.

Personally, I disagree with all of the focus in the Sheriff's race on the crime at the Pavilion. The Fayette Pavilion is within the City of Fayetteville's jurisdiction. Ok, it is also within Fayette County but if we start focusing the manpower of the Sheriff's department into areas already covered by a local jurisdiction then we are opening up a Clayton County Sheriff vs. Clayton County PD peeing contest!!

Submitted by skyspy on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 2:16pm.

Thats what I thought.

I think he honestly thought the people of Fayette are such idiots they would believe whatever he threw out there.

I would like to see something notorized by the resgistrars office of these 2 schools before I believe anything this guy says.

Submitted by thenatural on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 12:13am.

Sky,

For someone who was not at the debate you certainly have a lot to say about what went on. A piece of advice regarding your neighbor. Don't take all they say as the truth. I actually like parts of what each candidate said, but to say that Simmons mumbled and stumbled is wishful thinking. It didn't happen.

Face it, Simmons does have college degrees. Why do you waste your time trying prove to the contrary?

The comments about the citizen education and neighborhood watch did not even come from Simmons. The comments about crime at the Pavilion came from all four candidates. Simmons, Babb and Mindar all advocated providing assistance and cooperation with Fayetteville Police in solving the issues at the Pavilion. If that is criticism then fine but he was not alone in his assessment of the problems at that retail center.

You consider pointing out the academic accomplishments of the chiefs of PTC and Fayetteville, spin. All I heard was him pointing out that of all the senior law enforcement officers in the county the only ones who did not have significant traditional academic accomplishments were his three opponents.

Now after saying all of that, I am voting for Mindar because I believe that, despite his lack of experience (compared to the others) his no nonsense attitude will be a real contrast to the others and that is what I believe we need. Try a little objectivity.

Tug13's picture
Submitted by Tug13 on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 9:46am.

All of the talk about Hannah and Babb,I wouldn't count Mindar out!
I like the answers he gave to my questions.
He might get my vote. Smiling


Submitted by skyspy on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 6:00am.

I agree with you on Mindar.

Did you read the article above? Simmons is the one who talked about neighborhood watch programs. The citizen police academies already are in place and citizen volunteers help the real cops during big events, like the 4th of July activities. Old ideas that we already have in place.

When the state of GA listed credentials for Simmons certification in 2000 they only list a HS diploma.....maybe it is just a clerical error........

Having said that I have a degree in nuclear physics from Harvard hanging on my wall......simply amazing what you can do with a computer and a good printer.

No need to be defensive. Simmons throws out buzz words like "stomp out crime", but the fact is he never produced results in Detroit 12+yrs ago. He also had a hasty departure from his little security thing at the state capitol.....why? He had a job in law enforcment from 1999-2001, at the state capitol, why would you leave that, just to try and get back into yet another agency? Doesn't make sense.

I agree we need someone young and someone who is ready to go. It will be a hard choice between Mindar and Babb.

zoes's picture
Submitted by zoes on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 11:35am.

"The citizen police academies already are in place"

This is true for the cities of Fayetteville and Peachtree. However, I live in the county. I called FCSO and asked about a citizen's academy through them and was laughed at and told it would never happen. I can't recall who I talked with - it was a year or so ago. Point is - Fayette County does not offer a citizen's academy nor utlize the citizens to assist the police the way Fayetteville and PTC do.

I hope that changes. I'll be the first to sign up!!

Zoe


Submitted by skyspy on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 2:24pm.

I thought those classes were open to any Fayette County citizen, even though they were taught by the cities. Opps, maybe not.

I agree with you if the cities won't let everyone in the county in then the Sheriff's dept. should offer it also.

zoes's picture
Submitted by zoes on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 3:00pm.

PTC and Fayetteville PD's open up their police academy's to anyone who wants to attend. You really get to know the chiefs and officers and learn that they care. I would just like to see FC provide the same citizen support and involvement and not come across as so insulated.


Submitted by sageadvice on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 2:43pm.

"Through a NOMINATION process?????" They are invited!

Don't you know who nominates them? The sheriff---if he will pay!
There must be 10,000 schools like this who will gladly take anyone.
Also hundreds of "book" companies who will call you everything from, "Most Outstanding," this and that, to "important people." Just send the money and what you want it to say---nothing is verified!

All of that gobbledegook about how grand it is only is their opinion of themselves!

I have never known anyone to fail who went and paid, or bought the book!

Some people do need bragging on a lot, however! Police press conferences naming ever law officer in phone distance as "cooperating" is an example.

Just do the job.

Submitted by MYTMITE on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 5:10pm.

Never let it be said that he would let facts have anything to do with his foolish rantings. To him, everything is a scheme, scam or con game. According to his world, no one but Sage has ever obtained anything by hard work and/or intellingence. I would venture that at least three-fourths of the people in this country would be aware of what the F.BI. Academy is and what it does. Not Sage. There is a process and requirements that must be met in order to attend the F.B.I. Academy and anyone who attends and graduates should be proud.

And while there are many bogus universities that give worthless diplomas, there are many private universities and colleges that charge very expensive fees and fail those who do not meet the criteria. The same goes for our state colleges, if you do not make the grade, you do not graduate.

I would hate to live in Sage's world, where everybody (but Sage) is ignorant, uneducated, a crook, a grifter or overpaid and not worthy of holding their position-be that politician, policeman, fireman teacher,butcher, baker or candlestick maker.

Even though he says he does not believe in mantras, I bet he stands in front of the mirror every morning and night, intoning "Sage is great, Sage is omniscient, Sage is the be all, know all, Sage is great." And all the while that little voice inside is saying "Sage is a buffoon."

Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 3:52pm.

I am merely stating that Dave Simmons is a graduate of the FBI National Academy which I verified by contacting the Virginia Chapter. David L. Simmons attended the 137 Session of the National Academy and graduated in 2006. You can locate information about this FBI NA under the FBI.gov or better yet, www.fbi.gov/hq/td/academy/na/na.htm.

I am sure there are other nonsense academies such as you suggest, but Dave Simmons attended the FBI National Academy. Down play it if you want, it only makes you look a little ridiculous in your statements.

Submitted by drewpdawg on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 8:58pm.

I think you guys, better check again. Dave Simmons did not attend the FBI Academy in 2006. Think about it for a minute. Why would Dave Simmons, retired from Detroit in 1996, attend the FBI Academy which is for law enforcement personnel (current) in 2006? Go look on your candidates own website and look under Photos/Awards. There is even a picture of his class and the date is 1984! You people believe anything!

Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 9:22pm.

my error. I have spent so much time on research that I really need to slow down and check my notes before commenting. Here is the email I received from the Academy.

I discovered David's name in the 2006 FBI National Academy Directory of Graduates, 2006 Edition. The directory shows that a David LeRoy Simmons, who was a Commander at the Detroit PD attended the 137 Session of the N/A.

Chief Deputy Greg S. Harless

I am not sure if they go through a process for a criminal background check after some time passes, but I will seek and report back.

Submitted by drewpdawg on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 9:48pm.

A background check is really not needed. I, personally, don't think Simmons has done anything that would show up on a background check. Crimes/arrests show up on background checks- not unethical, improper conduct. That is what many accuse Simmons of being a part of.

I believe that Simmons was a true beneficiary of a defunct and corrupt system. He knew full well, of the many issues and wrongdoings of his former Chief and department. He condoned every action that the corrupt former Chief was involved in and he benefitted from keeping his mouth closed! You can't sell me oceanfront property in Arizona by trying to convince me that he was the second-in-charge and didn't know what was going on.

As far as the information about himself, he reveals only so much. He reveals what he WANTS us to know and not what we NEED to know. It is what he learned as part of the corrupt system in Detroit. If you really want to do some more research, call GA POST and see if you can find out why his training and certification from Michigan did not transfer to GA. It makes no sense. You can be certified in another state and all of your training will transfer to the new state. None of Simmons training, even the FBI Academy training doesn't appear on his training record! Try and find out also why they only list his highest level of education as a HS diploma. You would be wasting your time worrying about a background check that would just tell you he has never been arrested.

Submitted by wildcat on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:47am.

No, that is not an excuse. There are student loans for all and grants for low income students. Going to college and getting a degree shows commitment and hard work. It shows even more commitment and hard if done while working full time and raising a family (ie, mommy and daddy don't pay your way). It shows that you want it. That definitely will be a deciding factor in my vote if that information is released.

Submitted by NeedtoKnow on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:20pm.

No, that is not an excuse. There are student loans for all and grants for low income students.

Financial reasons may have nothing to do with being able to pay for school. Could be that a person can't afford to stop working the 2nd or 3rd job to go to school. This is a reality for many, even with all the loans and grants available.

Submitted by drewpdawg on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:26pm.

And, many officers can not attend college because they currently work SHIFTS. How is a person supposed to attend classes when they work 12 hour shifts that rotate every couple of months also?

Submitted by sageadvice on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 6:08am.

Make no difference about getting an on-line degree, which is what even the FBI Academy one also is!
It is a matter of laziness.

Submitted by drewpdawg on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 10:25am.

Sage, the FBI Academy is nothing related to college education. It is law enforcement training only, not classes for degree seeking college students. It is also not offered on-line, FYI.

How would you be able to determine that someone is "lazy" because they can't attend college and work in law enforcement at the same time? Have you ever worked in law enforcement (or any profession outside normal 9-5 type hours) working 12 hours shifts that make you switch from day shift to night shift, some departments every 56 days and others every 3-4 months. Then, you have to work your side jobs on your off days to support your family, attend training on your off days, and appear in court also. Try squeezing in an hour or two for family time, personal business, etc.

Sure there are some who have done this, but I seriously doubt you the arm-chair-quarterback have! Far from lazy, I do believe!!

Submitted by KCW56 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 11:16am.

Simmons is the only Sheriff candidate that has a BA in Criminal Justice and a Masters in Inter-Disciplinary Technology. Along with being a graduate of the FBI National Academy, all of which he will make available for his officers and promote it. I believe the Chiefs have Masters degrees as well. Be kinda nice to be on the same level as the other Chiefs don't ya think?

"That definitely will be a deciding factor in my vote if that information is released." Read the bio's on their websites.

So, another vote for Simmons I presume?

Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 9:59am.

blue collar. "Even for someone who would like to make higher education a priority, it just may not be possible." NeedtoKnow, we need you as a worker bee and we thank you for that. Let the ones who can accomplish higher education, Executive training, FBI Academy take the responsibility of becoming true BOSS'S.

hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:46am.

Is there something wrong with being blue collar? Could you be like, more, like, pretentious?

I yam what I yam....Popeye


Submitted by kikenbutt on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 2:04pm.

with being blue collar, I was raised in a blue collar home, my parents worked very, very hard to make ends meet. But they made damn sure their kids received higher education and that is not to be taken lightly when one achieves it.

The term "blue collar" is simply a term I grew up with.

Definition-Blue-collar work may be skilled or unskilled, and may involve manufacturing, mining, building and construction trades, law enforcement, mechanical work, maintenance, repair and operations maintenance or technical installations.

My apologies if I offended, it certainly was not my intent.

buZZard's picture
Submitted by buZZard on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 2:35pm.

Git-R-Done, Heck, I though you meant
Jeff Foxworthy, Larry The Cable Guy, Bill Engvall and Ron White


Git Real's picture
Submitted by Git Real on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 1:07pm.

ButtKicked,

You are a real {{{{EDITED BUT GIT HIT THAT NAIL SQUARE ON THE HEAD}}}}. This country is way to full of over educated hacks as it is now. Go crawl back in your hole and continue to rot away so the rest of us don't have to smell your stench. Good day and to your response that I probably won't be reading I'll just say: BITE ME!

What an arrogant POS. Simmons and the attitude of the elitist slate of Dunn, Pfeifer, Wells, and their Bost, OverBill McNally like supporters need to remain politically nutured.

Anybody but Detroit Simmons. And Ballard too! Eye-wink

________

"That man was Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Scott Ballard".

CLICK HERE FOR THE REST OF THE STORY


Submitted by wildcat on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 1:42pm.

That's rather insulting. I will surmise that you are referring to postgrad degrees and not a bachelor's. Hey...is your doctor an over-educated hack?

carbonunit52's picture
Submitted by carbonunit52 on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 2:11pm.

I am not insulted by the use of this description. Of course, I do not identify with either the noun or the adjective. My interpretation of Git Real's comments is that some people mistakenly think that they are a higher life form because of their education.


Submitted by thenatural on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 2:58pm.

I was startled by the ferocity of the "hack" comment from GR. I knew that he was strongly opposed to the former Commissioners and Dave Simmons but until now I did not know why. Viewed in the context of a personal grudge his comments take on an entirely different meaning. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and GR certainly is entitled to his. I just cannot understand how someone could hold a grudge against Dunn, Bost et al for 10 YEARS over something so trivial.

That is just the humble opinion of one of the many over educated hacks that live in Fayette County.

I do not agree with giving out people's names on here. That is an unfortunate turn of events.

Submitted by gitgone08 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 5:12pm.

Deleted and Banned

hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 8:28pm.

I never thought I'd ever say this about anyone, but, you should take poetry lessons from sage.

I yam what I yam....Popeye


Git Real's picture
Submitted by Git Real on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 7:53pm.

That's me. Yup, you got me. Eye-wink

________

"That man was Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Scott Ballard".

CLICK HERE FOR THE REST OF THE STORY


Submitted by gitgone08 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 8:08pm.

deleted

wulfman's picture
Submitted by wulfman on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 7:18am.

Time to take the trash out.

Wulf


Silence Dogood's picture
Submitted by Silence Dogood on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:23pm.

Are you trying to Muddle another blogger. Shame on you.


Submitted by gitgone08 on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 10:35pm.

deleted

Tug13's picture
Submitted by Tug13 on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 9:30am.

I've been away from the blogs for awhile and come back and see this!
Some nut did a lot of damage to Muddle and his family. Please don't let this happen again. If Git wants the bloggers to know who he is, he will tell them himself.

Apparently somebody has a grudge.


Cyclist's picture
Submitted by Cyclist on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 9:46am.

-------------------------------------------
Caution - The Surgeon General has determined that constant blogging is an addiction that can cause a sedentary life style.


hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 7:06am.

Give us some examples of Git's lies, throw something out with some meat on it.

I yam what I yam....Popeye


Silence Dogood's picture
Submitted by Silence Dogood on Fri, 06/27/2008 - 11:28pm.

"GitReal can defame and lie about anyone he wants without any reprisals."

Mr. Git Real has done a good job of formulating good counter points and has proved his arguements more times than not. I do credit him for admitting when in error. Obviously he must have offended your candidate by exposing facts that are difficult to rebute. Perhaps you are a Ballard supporter as it seems that Mr. Git Real has formulated a good case as to why he needs cosideration in being replaced. I hope he continues blogging even if you improperly out him as Muddle did.

Considering you have no desire to name him you seem to be dropping a lot of "true clues" about the man in his absence. Yes. Shame on you. Why don't you take on the issues with him instead of trying to draw blood. Good Day Mr. Gitgone. You are a cancer on this blog.


Henrietta Bui's picture
Submitted by Henrietta Bui on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 12:48am.

Silence Dogood,

You and your fellow anoynomus bloggers are a cancer on this community. Good people will not continue to step forward and run for public office if they know that they will have to suffer abuse from cowardly, pseudo intellectual hacks like yourself.

By the way, I am sick of idiots arguing that it is justifed to engage in anonymous slander because the Founding Fathers did so back in the day. Thomas Jefferson, a great American Patriot, had an illegitimate child with his black slave. Are slavery and adultry therefore morally justified?

I don't blog on a regular basis because I feel dirty after reading what people post on this thing. In fact, I am never going to blog again.

I wish y'all the best. I will continue to pray that these blogs don't result in somebody getting hurt.

Good night and good bye.


Silence Dogood's picture
Submitted by Silence Dogood on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 8:40am.

"I don't blog on a regular basis because I feel dirty after reading what people post on this thing. In fact, I am never going to blog again."

Mrs. Bui. I suppose if you are opposed to the idea of challenging a candidates position, ideas and track record then I understand why you as a Republican are so comfortable with silencing the detractors. Personally these blogs have helped me to learn about issues and candidates that I would not have learned anywhere else. And as an intelligent and "college educated" blogger I also have the cognizant skills required to additionally research and analyze the topics at hand to allow me to become an informed voter. Such is the case with our District Attorney Mr. Ballard. Enough credible and verifiable information was served up on this blog which allowed me to check around the community and with the fine men at the FCSO to allow me to allow me to change my support of Mr. Ballard.

If this is what you classify as "anonymous slander" then I support the questioning, or challenging if you will, of our "good people" who run for office.

I don't always agree with Mr. Git Real's positions or his manner of humorously and satirically presenting his positions. Yet I have to confess that he has a unique and practical ability to get people to examine the candidates and issues. I appreciate his and many other's willingness to go beyond the candidates canned campaigns slogans and their slick glossy mailers in analyzing our elected officials. I'm sorry that you are unable to join us "idiots" in doing the same. I will continue to use the Citizen blogs and one of the many tools I use in staying informed as to what is going on in Fayette County.

Since you will never blog again I say good bye forever.


carbonunit52's picture
Submitted by carbonunit52 on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 9:32am.

the information that I have gleaned from the blogs about the upcoming elections. I sort of wish it was condensed a bit more, with more wheat and less chaff to winnow out, but that is definitely not the fault of Git Real.


bad_ptc's picture
Submitted by bad_ptc on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 3:21am.

you need to get a life.

Although Cal and others would love to think this internet blog is responsible for determining the fate of Fayette County the actual effect is nill.

Do you really think anybody bases their decisions on what’s posted here?


Robert W. Morgan's picture
Submitted by Robert W. Morgan on Sat, 06/28/2008 - 5:23am.

Actually bad_ptc, I do think a few uneducated and misinformed people make voting decisions based upon what they read here. I heard enough chatter at a recent forum from audience members that made it obvious these blogs were their main source of info. To their credit they were at the forum so their horizons expanded - but others probably stayed at home and read this drivel. I hope they stay home on election day.

I thought Henrietta was a perfect name for someone of her age, attitude and station in life.


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