forgiveness devine. I truly hope that you will all be forgiven by your victims, and the society that judges mistakes so harshly. My own experiences over the past year with teens, have made me see that what they view as pranks, are actually felonies. Even I, a grown-up, did not know that theft of a golf car is a felony. I'm terrified by the number of juvenille's that I know of that are on probation in our town. I consider none of them bad kids, but they have all been in trouble for doing bad things.

I suspect that our adult examples of behavior, and the examples we have allowed to proliferate our society through media are to blame. Maybe nothing seems to be "wrong" in a world where angels walk through your living room in their underwear, killing people is done on a daily basis in the form of a game, and punking people is seen by some as an art form.

Brian, maybe you could help us adults understand where we are going wrong. What are you guys lacking, from your parents, your school, your community, that is causing this reckless behavior? I know everyone wants to blame the kids in Peachtree City, but science has proven you guys do not even have a fully formed frontal lobe until your twenties. So, lets get a conversation going. Get your friends to join in. Maybe if ya'll will get the conversation going here, we can stop this rediculously high crime rate among our seemingly privileged youth. I make that statement on the crime rate, because I should not know ten youth in trouble with the law!
I love you guys, and pray for all of you every day. Do NOT give up a vision of a great life, over this. Change is good, and it will bring you the life you want. Never give up, no matter where this all leads you guys. Life can only get better, right?

...good luck to you in your studies and your desire to set yourself on the right path in life. You really are at a crossroads and you can choose to stay on the right path or veer off at some point and head towards self-destruction. Always do the right thing and make good choices for yourself because those choices affect everyone around you, not just yourself. Your family still loves you but that trust was broken and needs to be repaired. From your post, it sounds like you are trying to make things right and I believe that the majority of people in our community support your efforts in doing so. Stay strong, keep your goals in sight and move forward.

“Watch your thoughts, for they become words.
Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

where is the apology to your VICTIMS? I see alot of "me, me, me" here, but nothing about how your actions have affected your VICTIMS. Which, is truly where your focus should be, not on a blog telling people how you can't sleep and the most important thing to accept is no soccer.

A completely new person would have focused on how you realize you have made these victims feel unsafe in their own homes. Still have some work to do, Brian. And it isn't on a blog in The Citizen. Keep thinking about all of this.

Most of us have made mistakes. Your mistake was bigger than most. Even so, it is entirely surmountable and it takes hard work and a mindset that you seem to possess. Good luck to you and good luck salvaging your reputation. You will get it back with the people in your life once you have a track record of a different life and thoughts. Push onward

Life is filled with ups and downs and those "down" periods usually sting. So here's the advice from a fat guy that rides a bicycle; learn from the past, seize every opportunity that comes along in life, and always keep moving forward. Good Luck!
-------------------------------------------
Caution - The Surgeon General has determined that constant blogging is an addiction that can cause a sedentary life style.

I think it's addressed in the "code of conduct" that the kids sign on the first days of school.

I know one of these boys. Honestly, I couldn't believe it was him involved. Hopefully, he will get over this and be a productive citizen. I promise you wouldn't ever believe it could have been him.

Gee, I guess he (him) must be white. Maybe he even goes to church. Comes from a good family too, huh? Those kids NEVER make mistakes.

We all know the only criminals are those who really LOOK like criminals.

Just say "true criminals are Latino or black and live in Clayton or Coweta county. Of course the really hardened criminals live in Atlanta and usually have scars and tattoos."

pssst.....shhhhh ..... listen, don;t let the word out but white kids smoke weed, snort cocaine, steal, cheat and lie and they have you so Eddie Hasckled that you would be their first adult reference.

Just say "true criminals are Latino or black and live in Clayton or Coweta county. Of course the really hardened criminals live in Atlanta and usually have scars and tattoos."

White criminals exist, we get it. So do black criminals, Latino criminals, Eskimo criminals, Indian criminals, and so on. However, the fact of the matter is that there are certain groups of people, namely blacks and hispanics, who commit more crimes than other groups of people. Saying "true criminals" are black or Latino and live in Clayton county is not a good way to phrase it. Saying more criminals are black or Latino and live in Clayton county is much more accurate, not to mention factual.

Per observation - most Fayette County residents agree with the thought process of JMartinez. Racism is giving way to reality.

Saying more criminals are black or Latino

That depends on the 'crime'. Right? What about fraud, tax evasion, etc., etc, etc.? Criminals have several criteria in common - education, (or lack of), income, home training, etc. The melanin content of the skin has little to do with it in Ireland, Norway, or China.

I am sorry my phrasing doesn't appeal to you but then again I was mocking the rantings of an obviously naive PTC parent 'shocked' that a white boy she knows is in fact a criminal. So, I suppose they were actually my representation of the fictitious musings of another.

You might want to investigate the socioeconomic factors behind the majority of specific crimes before you decide race is a primary factor in all crimes.

Meth, molestation, serial killings and other majority white crimes don't fit all whites, just those that fall in to a specific set of characteristics. Meth production and distribution for example is usually a white male in his 30's, lower middle class, no formal education, with a prior arrest record.

Property crimes, personal assaults, drug use and other more commonly reported crimes are usually more socioeconomic relative. In other words, those who represent a lower income level and a lower living standard are disproportionately represented among the criminals in state institutions.

Of course an uneducated person would simply see the color of their skin and make the spurious correlation that race was responsible for the crime and not anything less obvious.

Here is one from my college days for you: Ice cream causes rape. As ice cream sales increase so do the number of rapes. Therefore, people who eat ice cream are most likely to rape.

WRONG. That was a Spurious Correlation.

In the summer ice cream sales increase. TRUE

In the summer violent crimes, including rape, increase. TRUE and RELATIVE

The actual correlation is the long summer days and hot summer nights and the increase in time and activity outdoors. Those are the true factors involved in the increase in rape.

Regardless, you just keep looking out the window for those Clayton County folks...meanwhile you can get a good deal on some weed, coke, or a GPS unit from the Beav down the street.

Where in this article does it say anything about these kids being white? Or black, or Hispanic, or any other ethnicity?

Ah yes, the famous ice cream causes rape theory used year after year in intro stat courses across the nation to illustrate that correlation does not imply causation.

Of course one has to take into consideration socioeconomic factors when discussing matters of crime. But what exactly are you saying? Their criminality is somehow excusable or to be expected because of their socioeconomic status? The fact remains that crime rates for minorities, namely blacks, are wildly disproportionate to other demographics.

Taken at face value, it's easy to chalk it all up to sociological variables. Though that does little to explain why black-on-white rapes are so prevalent while the opposite, white-on-black rapes, are virtually unheard of. Some have claimed the black crime is high because racist cops target blacks for arrest and racist judges heap convictions on innocent blacks, but statistics belie this: three of the cities highest in crime are Washington DC, New Orleans and Detroit, and yet the governments of all these cities are in black hands. So clearly the cause of high crime in these cities is not "racial targeting of blacks." More generally, black crime is high WHEREVER you go, and it would be the world's most absurd conspiracy theory to suppose that the across-the-board high crime rates for blacks originated in a collusion of whites in every city and burg in the nation to target blacks and/or cook the books.

"racial targeting of blacks." Did someone say something about that? Other than you of course ... no, no they did not.

That red herring won't fly.

Not sure why you brought that up but it is obvious to most of us that you have a real problem with blacks sharing your air.

I would imagine you have a problem with anyone else that doesn't look like you as well. When you see a black cop do you automatically assume he is corrupt?

What about Clarance Thomas ... does he just look like a mugger and rapist of white women in a judges robe to you?

I feel sorry for you.

How could you forget Atlanta?

on many points in your letter. So wrong, that it sounds funny just reading it.

Hey, if I read it right, if found guilty, they're looking at minimum of 1 yr, max of 5 in the slammer! And seeing as lots of stuff was revovered, "intent" was obvious.

Here we go with the "OH my poor little child " excuses that we all love in this town.

"Honestly, I couldn't believe it was HIM!!!!...."

"Do the SCHOOLS have anything to do with this....???"

Shock, dismay, tears, poor family, bad cops, awful schools...SUCH a shame.....Oh me, oh my...how will he EVER get into college now? Well, I'm sure his WONDERFUL parents can afford an excellent attorney and get him out of this poor little mess he's gotten himself in to.

"You know, kids will be kids, they all make mistakes, let's not let this ruin the rest of his life. Mumsie and The Old Man will take care of it.

"Code of conduct???? MY child has to live by a code of conduct???? Well, I NEVER agreed to THAT." Why should HE take RESPONSIBLITY FOR HIS ILLEGAL ACTS WHEN I CAN fight the school, the D.A., and anyone else who even thinks MY little boy is supposed to understand the difference between right and wrong????"

AND, most importantly, what will this do to MY career AND my membership at the club????? No, I just won't tolerate anyone accusing us of having a FELON in our FAMILY!!!!"

Please, let me stop while I go wring out my crying towel.......

Same stuff different day. Yawn!

Just because your kid is polite and well behaved in your presence doesn't mean they are good. It just means that they are smart enough to play you for fools.

PTCGOIL ~ I like your post. It is refreshing to see that common sense is still alive.

Truer words are seldom spoken Goil. Prepare to be attacked by the denial squad.

is for sale, IMHO. I'll be curious to see what these charges are ultimately plea-bargained down to.

I simply stated some facts. The fact is, I was very surprised when I heard it was a certain child. IF you can show me where I said he shouldn't be responsible, I will print this out and eat it for you at your next so called Coffee Clutch.

Do you go through life thinking every child is going to turn out terrible? Or that ALL parents don't care?

It sure sounds like it.

hoping to God that adults who have the level of education and income that is so prevalent in this town have ALSO invested (and I do mean INVESTED) as much time and effort into their children to teach them that you break into other people's personal belongings, that THEY paid for and WORKED for, you are committing a CRIME and you will pay for it dearly, with harsh discipline from ME, your PARENT, from the LAW, who are there to protect the rest of us from you, and from a black mark on your record which will affect you in getting a job, getting into college, in getting credit, in losing the type of friends you have (had) who DON'T break the law.

I think that every child is going to turn out as a WONDERFUL adult if they have a structure in place AT HOME from their parents (ya, know the PARENTS)to show them the way TO that good life the Mumsie and The Old Man have is thru more than "caring".

You can't show me where I said he shouldn't be responsible for his actions. That is what you were railing about in your first post.

And I'm telling you, he heard those very things you are saying in this post from his parents and parents of his friends...sometimes, it's just hard to figure out.

Code of Conduct. Does that address innocent until proven guilty? Don’t get me wrong, as I am all for punishing these young men to the full extent of the law. But kicking them out of school? Our job as parents and community should be to make sure each and every child (including teenagers) gets an education. Without an education these kids will not be able to overcome their mistakes and will probably fail at becoming productive citizens.
Now, what if these guys are proven innocent…………………The Peachtree City Police have made mistakes before…………………………
Again, I am not on their side. But we as a community need to be sure as many kids as possible get an education

will find a way to get the class subjects and content that are being covered in their child's class until this situation is resolved. They are being excluded from the building - not the content of their education. While home, they can read and stay current of classroom studies.

They were EXPELLED for crying out loud! How in the world are they going to stay current? The work will not be sent home or avialable for pick up as these kids are no longer students at McIntosh/Stars Mill. EXPELLED! No, not suspended, EXPELLED!

Classmates, concerned teachers, responsible parents have through the years found ways to educate their children who have been 'expelled' from the building and the formal setting. In today's society, there are ways for students to receive their assignments so that they can keep up with the concepts being taught! You are very limited in your thought and imagination. If they are found guilty - the loss of a free public education is part of the consequence. If they can read and comprehend - they can continue to learn. Calm down All Smiles ..some of our most renowned contributors to society have been 'jailed' - but did not stop 'learning'.

Even though they were expelled from regular school they can still apply to attend alternative school in Fayetteville. I believe they can also attend night school. So they aren't really being denied an education they are just being separated from the general population.

" ... they aren't really being denied an education they are just being separated from the general population."

You are exactly right my friend.

They were EXPELLED for crying out loud! How in the world are they going to stay current? The work will not be sent home or avialable for pick up as these kids are no longer students at McIntosh/Stars Mill. EXPELLED! No, not suspended, EXPELLED!

Did it ever occur to you that they were kicked out of school for other reasons prior to this arrest?

DUH.

Or, perhaps you are just so eager to defend these thieves and attack the school system that you don't really care when or why they were kicked out.

Criminals like these ("Fine young men ..." lol) prevent good and decent kids from getting the best public education possible.

I’m not attacking the school system! I was merely questioning why they were expelled from school when the “crime” did not involve the school, another student nor take place on school property? I have been down this road with one of my own. My child’s crime took place on school property and was more a boyfriend/girlfriend issue. But again, my child’s issue happened on school property. My child was expelled the remainder of the school year. The other child is no longer at that school either. Yes, I could have fought it, maybe even won my child’s place back in the classroom, but my child was in the wrong so I chose not to fight and let him suffer the consequences. I do not defend any crime, even if one of my own is involved! All of my kids will tell you I love to speak the phrase “Unforeseen Consequences” as I rub their noses in their mistakes. Thank God I have the means to afford an education for my child, as education is paramount!
All of the kids are on the brink of adulthood and the “stupid things kids do” should not be happening this late in the game. Tough lesson for them as these crimes WILL follow them for the rest of their lives as it should.
P.S. JMartinez, I never typed or implied "Fine young me..." I sure don't think this of these fools! I am concered with a basic high school education.

(innocent until proven guilty), but with some of the attitudes some on here show, I decided to leave that part out.

The wording in the code of conduct was vague enough for it to mean most anything. My Son told me about it yesterday, and I looked up the code of conduct at the FCBOE website, as I was curious myself.

On another note, word is not all are fine with Fine at McIntosh.

Spyglass, you are right not all is fine with Fine in charge. She is Sucking the spirit right out of that school. I understand that she wants to remove the rocks out front that the kids paint every year.
She needs to pull her head out of her warm dark side, if she removes those rocks then the kids will start painting on other things. Those rocks were put there to keep the kids from putting their mark on the buildings and other places, how stupid can one woman be. I spend a lot of time up there and its not a happy place right now. To bad Eastern Airlines went under, she'd still be there and McIntosh wouldn't have to put up with her.

Obama's weapon of Choice!

She really wants to get rid of the rocks? Why? we have been painting those rocks for at least 20 years. Why is it an issue now?

"Code of conduct is vague enough for it to mean anything"

How many ways can you shift focus on the absolute wrong of all of these kid's actions? By blaming the code of conduct?

How about this...I know it's a stretch. "Crap, my friend's kid just got arrested. A felony. Big crime here. He knew better than this. He was WRONG, WRONG, WRONG. Now he has to pay with a lousy future, and his parents will have to pay, too. I thought my friend did a better parenting job than this, but, obviously not. I wasn't INSIDE" their relationship, so I can't vouch for how The Old Man parented. Maybe I can help my friend be a better parent, since whatever he was doing hasn't worked. One way I can help is to not make excuses for the lack of regard for the law that The Old Man didn't make clear enough to his son."

"And, I am going to call the administration of the school, to THANK THEM for not putting MY child in a position to have to try to learn while sitting next to a criminal(go, ahead, insert your "innocent" plea here) in class. This could drag on for the whole school year, which is a waste of MY child's education. I think my neighbor's child can go to an alternative school in the mean time."

I find it interesting that some here are anxious to blame others for the choice made by a young person. Through out the growth process, children learn that there are consequences for their actions. They make the choice to act. If these young men are 'innocent' - it is very damaging that the stolen goods were found in their possession - but the judicial system will be implemented. If found guilty - they will suffer the consequences. If they have a 'good reputation', the sentencing may take that into consideration. Blaming others, the school, the parents, etc. is not dealing with the reality of a situation like this. Some young people may have made a bad choice - and they are responsible for their actions.

they weren't responsible, or they shouldn't have been asked to leave school. If you can show me where I did, well you know the rest of the story. Obviously, you can't but never the less, your rant continues.

I told my Son I thought it was the right thing to do, getting him out of school.

You seem to enjoy implying things that are not even close to being true.

Victims every one ... can't they just give back all the goodies and apologize and us move on?

Gag me.

Please share the scenario by which you would defend these "fine young men" that are somehow victims of an overzealous police force and prosecutor. (Do you think they planted evidence for this 'big time collar"? LOL Before you embarrass yourself, you might want to read what the law book says about receipt of stolen property.

These "Fine young men" are indeed guilty of (at minimum) receipt of stolen property.

And as for the school - if a "Fine young man" rapes a fine young woman and is arrested, should he still be allowed to attend class with her? Or, should he be removed even though he is "innocent until proven guilty".

What about for criminal assault of a fellow classmate with intent to kill? Should the school remove them? What about drug arrests for sales?

Maybe YOU should decide who can attend a public school. Did you give up the pursuit of money after college to become an educator and give to others in your professional life?

Do you think it would be disruptive to have a bunch of burglars who broke in to other students' houses or cars and was selling the GPS, watch, or ipod to other kids?

just show me where I said anything like that. The biggest problem is that you can't.

I simply said I couldn't believe he was involved, and I stand by that fact. If fail to see where you bringing a made up crime to prove your point has anything to do with this scenario.

I also told my Son, it could have been worse for the kids they caught, they could have gotten shot. Or even worse, gotten someone innocent (ie a homeowner) shot.

I've yet to say these kids shouldn't be held responsible. Some of you need to take a reading comprehension class.

Find a nice big tree limb and hang em before the Judge gets ahold of em and sets em free. I sure am glad that we have a Constitution that states we Americans are Innocent until found guilty by a jury of our peers (you were probably absent that day). Because if we didn't you would have already hung these kids. I don't know if they are guilty or not and neither do you, all you know is what you read in a paper or online, which is probably about 10-15% of the story. But your ready to Hang em, aren't you. Your a piece of work you are, you sit behind that keyboard and rant and rave like your the only one out there that knows anything about raising kids. I have 2 children that were born and raised in good ol PTC and they have managed to stay out of trouble regardless of the fact that my wife and I are the total dumba$$es that you say we all are, how did we ever get this far without your help. Kids get into trouble for different reasons and in different areas. The kids in Fayetteville get into trouble, the kids in Fayette county get into trouble but the kids in PTC are the ones that draw your ire. Its a good thing you don't live in Riverdale your head would Explode. I sure am glad your not a cop, Hell you probably shoot one of them for spitting out gum!

Obama's weapon of Choice!

I am sure you know by now these poor little kiddies did not do this crime. You do know that the PD has nothing but time to go after innocents-they look in the phone book and pick 4 boys who know each other and decide at their weekly meeting to arrest them. They don't get evidence, they don't follow the law. Shame on you for suggesting they be hung. They didn't do anything, did they? I'm telling you, it's a conspiracy by the PD and the DA and the school and their friends and now by you! Poor things. Poor, poor babies. Don't call yourself a dumba$$, your kids will think less of you.
Are your 'roids acting up today?

Look I never said that these kids were innocent, what I am trying to say is that they have not been found Guilty by a Judge. Until then in the United States of America they are presumed innocent. And yes it is up to the PTCPD to make their case and help the prosecutor to PROVE them guilty of the crimes to which they have accused. Now granted the PTCPD does a pretty good job and these kids probably are guilty BUT, it is not up to us to make that decision unless we are sitting on the jury. And by the way I know quite a few of the local officers and most of them are good people but, their not all Saints.

Obama's weapon of Choice!

Okay, bring on the flamewars, as I'm sure I'll get blasted for posting this. But, seriously, I am SICK AND TIRED of all Peachtree City parents getting lumped in the same category -- rich (or pretending to be), idle, lazy, uncaring, drunk, high, flighty, uppity, snobby, enabling, weak, whiny, lying, delinquent-birthing idiots. Did I miss anything, PTCGOIL?

Some of us are just living here because we like it here. Some of us are attempting to bring up our children in a loving environment that includes discipline (in its true sense of the word -- look it up). Some of us believe that children should be taught responsibility and held accountable for their actions. And those of us who are attempting to teach our children to be good citizens are really tired of your comments all the time.

If we listen to you and your cohorts, we're all Mumsie and The Old Man. I'm just tired of it. I've lived in PTC for 17 years now. I have many, many friends who are solid, upstanding citizens who have brought some fine, responsible children into this world. Those children -- born & reared here in PTC -- include Eagle Scouts and missionaries. They are nearly all college graduates or working toward college. They are good kids, and their parents are good people. We are not all the same. We are not delinquent-birthing idiots, and I am tired of being lumped in with those few who may be.

Give it a rest.

if the parents of these thieves had been as tough and hard-nosed as you are, I'm sure these felonies would never have come about. So, go ahead and be indignant, because you obviously GET IT. If you already know you aren't a Mumsie, then just give yourself a pat on the back. Same with all of you here who have raised good kids.

And no, I won't give it a rest.

Not till parents here who KNOW they have raised delinquents still perpetuate the "oh, everything will work out" attitude by blaming others for their lack of parenting.

Would you have YOUR children be friends with these just arrested? I think not.

Oh, and judging by your first paragraph, you surely have run into these types of parents here while raising your own.

you came on this blog ripping ME for saying I couldn't believe a certain child was involved. You even went as far to say that I/and or his parents thought he shouldn't be responsible. You have yet to show where I said any such things. You can't, you just sit and rant, and in the meantime, make yourself look very small calling out your neighbors.

You might go back and re-read your rant. "Hopefully he will get over this and be a productive citizen." You also said "I never implied they weren't responsible." Hmm, I must have made that up in my small world or at my coffee clutch.
Surely you will correct me when I read your words in print.
A felony in the State of Ga. is not something "he will get over". Kind of like saying you will get over a cold or the flu bug. Or losing the tennis match. You have minimized the severity of this crime by implying this crime will be something to "get over". This is NOT what is known as taking responsibility. Go ahead and tell me you didn't say this and I'm misinterpreting what you said.
How about, hopefully, he will stand before a judge and the neighbors here whom he stole from and tell them he was wrong, he made a terrible mistake, cost the PD money, the DA money, the taxpayers money, the victims money and a sense of fear they now have. Not to mention what he did to his family and friends. How about his parents coming out publicly and apologizing to the community for what their child has done. Sadly, I don't think this will happen, as the attorney will probably advise against "taking responsibility"
.
Oh, and Spy, save the personal attacks about "small world" and "coffee clutch". I'm sure you're a bigger person than that.

Not sure what more to say. I do hope the kid can get over this and be a productive citizen? Do you wish that he doesn't? Sure sounds like you don't.

Am I wrong that occasionally this group of bloggers meets for a "coffee clutch"? You still haven't shown me where I said he shouldn't be responsible, I'm guessing you gave up on that one. I'm still curious though, IF you will find that.

I'm no Attorney, and I'm guessing you aren't either..so I'll refrain from legal advice..it's usually worth what you pay for it.

As far as your "small" comment, I said you continue to make yourself look small. I never said you had a small mind, but I'm not against changing my mind, if you keep making things up about Spyglass.

I hope they don't get over this. I hope the memory of what they have done stays with him till he dies. Crime victims don't "get over it." Do I want him to be a productive citizen? You bet, more than you will ever know. I would also say the odds of a felony in your past might put a crimp in that wish.
Are you wrong about clutches? Ha, are you?
Again, minimizing this "by getting over it" is you saying he shouldn't be responsible. I also realize you have a child here you are backtracking in print to make sure you come across as the higher authority.
Oh, it wasn't my small comment, it was yours.
I'll let you continue on your own here-making things up about Spyglass? I don't think there is any more room here for anyone BUT Spyglass and his ego. Go ahead.

This conversation, that is. So I digress.

I guess you never accused me of saying the kids weren't responsible. For me defending myself, I'm sorry. I guess you never saw where I said the kids shouldn't be in school after the arrest. For me defending myself on that, I'm sorry. If you felt that I called you small, for that I'm sorry. I was referring to your look on saying all parents in PTC basically don't give a rats rear end, but I digress.

And I guess there are more than one way to say "I hope the kid gets over this and is productive". For not saying it exactly the way you think it should be said, again I'm sorry.

Oh yeah, for me saying I was surprised that this particular kid was involved....I'm certainly NOT sorry...I'm still surprised.

I'm sure why I even go on, you can't even tell when someone if joking, especially when I slip to the 3rd person.

Thank you for trying to present a reasonable and empathetic viewpoint on The Citizen. I really admire rare things.

It's not easy being the carbonunit

It's called being stereotyped - so welcome to OUR world. I would suggest you learn to point out the hypocrisy and failures of those that are causing you to be stereotyped. It has worked well for me over the years and allows my friends to realize that not ALL people of (insert name, race, color, sex, origin, etc. here) Latino origin are the same.

Don't we all wish David's Mom and the Democrats would wake up and come to this conclusion as well?

I noticed that you are saying this to PTCGoil - think of the irony there alone.... she obviously recognizes SHE is not like those of which she speaks ....

Don't we all wish David's Mom and the Democrats would wake up and come to this conclusion as well?

If that is not a classic stereotypical statement - I don't know what is!! All democrats and David's mom don't understand that not ALL people are the same? What are you on? The Democrats with the help of many Republicans elected Obama - remember? Don't confuse liberal and conservative with 'race'. Not all Democrats are 'liberal' and not all Republicans are 'conservative' (Note the last 8 years) Let's get away from labels - and take a look at deeds. Geeeez.

"..point out the hypocrisy and failures of those that are causing you to be stereotyped."

You and your liberal friends who are watching possibly the worst President in my lifetime will never admit you were wrong to elect him. We have the highest death rate in Afghanistan since the war began ... you are silent after screaming that Bush lied, men died. We have record unemployement and you are silent ... we have a national debt that makes Bush look like Jack Benny and you are silent ... we have record foreclosures and on and on and on... get a grip and call them like they are... Obama is a dismal failure and a socialist and if you ever hope to have another black or democratic President in our lifetime you had better start calling him out on his socialist and communist friends and cohorts and ways ... otherwise, you are tacitly perpetuating the liberal tax and spend label and the stereotyping that goes along with being a yellow dog democrat and a liberal.

And while you are at it get the race chip off your shoulder it really gets old hearing you screech about what injustices you are suffering through..... geezus.

And while you are at it get the race chip off your shoulder it really gets old hearing you screech about what injustices you are suffering through..... geezus.

What's getting under your skin is that in spite of my being black and a woman - I'm not suffering at all! Great education; wonderful family; money in the bank; and enjoying life! What are you going to say about Obama when the economy continues to 'turn around', unemployment subsides, and you're still a disgruntled male? (Coconut) I quoted what you said about David's mom and the Democrats. What a stereotypical statement! . .and that is here for all to see - so don't try to backpedal that! You have proven what and who you are - white with a Hispanic name. You should be proud - but instead you go overboard trying to belittle others. You are only denigrating yourself. Have a nice day.

the pot and the kettle.....

But Pretty Good
Submitted by Davids mom on Wed, 08/26/2009 - 11:15pm.

when small business owners can purchase a 50" plasma! Great days are ahead!! Smiling Enjoy the football season - it is better viewing on a plasma! I know your staff will enjoy it - past and present.

You proved what you are also.

I yam what I yam....Popeye

This 'Git' has been coming at me for over two years! If you can't stand the heat - get out of the kitchen! (or keep your private business to yourself)

is that different then you, you don't miss a chance to speak up, but Git shouldn't? Is there a special standard for you and a different one for everyone else? The fact that you would use his laid off employees misfortune to make what you figure is a "point" tells a lot about your character.

I yam what I yam....Popeye

I am so sorry that I have the nerve to react when my gender and race are so flagrantly denigrated. I know, I'm just supposed to consider the source and not respond at all. To disagree regarding politics, etc. one should not stoop to the level of consistently calling one a racist, sexist, etc. Fortunately, there are those in this country, even on 'conservative' blogs who do not have to stoop to this level. I apologize for offending you and your sensitivities. God is not through with me yet.

So I'll say it again, it's the pot and kettle thing. You have no problem doing the exact same thing to other people on here, so now you're going to moan because they do it to you? Well keep it up, you only prove the point. BTW, you haven't offended me, or my sensitivities, but you go ahead and hold all of us to a higher standard then you hold yourself to.

I yam what I yam....Popeye

Will do. Have a good day.

Git Real already... you are so victim minded. No one gives a rip that you ain't white nor the fact that you can't pee standing up. Sheeeshh.... give it a break.

Obama.... The Bernie Madoff Of Washington

stated.

.

Do you think your station in life has even one moment of interest for me? Your feelings of grandeur are indicative of your ethnocentrism and prejudice.

What are you going to say about Obama when the economy continues to 'turn around', unemployment subsides, and you're still a disgruntled male?

No wonder so many black men are incarcerated. It beats living with a self-righteous head-bobber like you I feel certain.

A wonderful education, money in the bank and a terrific family is something we have in common. Thinking a socialist president with radical associations who has all but killed free enterprise and capitalism while prosecuting the CIA and releasing the terrorists is where we part ways.

Obama is awful and your racist views will never allow you to admit it - until you do you will continue to be seen as a partisan hack of the racial variety.

Have a blessed day.

The definition of ethnocentrism is currently under discussion by many. I understand you to mean that my pride in being black is in relation to thinking that 'blacks' are better than other racial groups. . and therefore would certainly be 'prejudiced'. I think I've stated this before - but will state it again. I am very proud of my heritage. I have never been taught that I was a 'victim' - but that since the day of my birth, I have been a survivor. I have been taught that hard work, persistence, honesty, and always doing the best that my ability allows will lead to success – and it has. I would hope that all Americans would feel this pride in themselves and their heritage. It has been, and still is, my experience that the majority of Americans do not feel intimidated anymore by others of a different color. On an individual level, Americans are learning to judge one another by their actions - not their color. I admit that in my earlier years, due to personal experience, I did fear some of a different color and gender. I'm sure there are those reading this who have experienced situations that brought forth a similar basis for fear. But we move on - and today, believe me I am learning to judge by actions/words - not skin color. In the last 20 or 30 years I have seen such growth in race relations, regardless of what is reported in the news media. I do not think that 'blacks' are better than 'whites' or 'Asians' or Latinos or anyone else because of their color or culture. I enjoy being black and have no intention of ever denying my culture. I love the food, the music, and the love that is associated with the black culture. To enjoy my culture does not mean that I have to denigrate another culture. The black Diaspora embraces many 'cultures' - and I love reggae music and afro-Cuban music - as well as European classical; country western; blues; rock; etc. I was fortunate to be educated in an integrated environment - where we shared cultural traditions. All students celebrated St. Patrick’s Day and wore green; all students celebrated Cinco de Mayo; all students celebrated Chinese New Year; all students were familiar with the Taiko drums. All students acknowledged that we were all Americans. The younger generation – and especially those involved in the arts are so far ahead of where Americans were 20/30 years ago. Am I a racist? I feel that most Americans my age have racist tendencies. Am I proud of that? Of course not – but it is a reality. Why do we have to attack one another and use ‘race’ when we disagree about a political policy or a religious position? I don’t know. Anyway, I will continue to embrace my ‘white’ conservative church members, my multi-cultural neighborhood in Fayetteville, GA – and my wonderful family who claims the black culture as their base – but embraces all races in our family circle. I hope each and every one of you feels the self-same pride in your heritage and family.

I grew up in a small farming community in rural Eastern North Carolina. Blacks & whites all ate the same food--and it often came from the same field, same garden, or same pigpen. I have never understood what "soul food" is. So when you include food as part of your culture that you love, I remain puzzled. Got any help?

The wonderful food of the south.. . and of those who depended on the soil for nourishment - black or white. The 'fried chicken', the grits, the black-eyed peas, the sweet potatoes, the greens, the pigs feet, etc., etc. - were comfort food to many - but especially black folks. The oral history is that the cooks on the plantations learned to do some creative things with the leftovers from the master’s table. All who lived side by side shared these recipes. I see more 'white' Atlanta residents at restaurants like Busy Bee that specializes in Soul Food. However - AHG - if you want to claim Soul Food as part of your culture - be my guest!! When one travels - it's considered American food - from the south. I have no problem with that! Do you? It sure is good - right? (and the above mentioned dishes plus ham, rib roast, bbq ribs, sweet potato pie, gumbo, dirty rice, fried fish are staples at black celebrations)

Country Cookin'

Yum....

Obama.... The Bernie Madoff Of Washington

As a child I saw hogs killed usually in November at a common place where many hangers were installed and drums of hot water for scalding off the hair were available.

The point I want to make is this: many blacks came to help or be available and although they had no hogs to kill were rewarded when it was over with all of the Chitterlings (guts), feet, ears,heads, "lights",
some liver, heart, tongues, and sundry other parts.

These people were mainly coal miners and farmers and were not on welfare. They wanted and liked the food. It was also free.

Some "soul food" was caused by availability.

Absolutely and the point I was trying to make was that that I don't know of any food specifically attached to Black Culture, as DM inferred. Certainly I have no idea what happened on plantations or anywhere else--just my personal experience. What I do know is that right now, in my freezer, you'll find sweet corn, a bushel of Butterbeans and 2 bushels of Cream Peas (White Acre), mostly purchased from a contact at the State Farmer's Market. Those and a case of Adams Farm Tomatoes put away in various forms, will guarantee some mighty fine eating til next spring.

I don't know of any food specifically attached to Black Culture, as DM inferred.

You've got to be kidding!! Butterbeans, cream peas, aren't part of 'Soul Food'. You have been really sheltered. There are restaurants throughout the country that advertise 'Soul Food' - and have pictures of 'blacks' in their advertisement. Soul Food in America has been associated with the 'black' community. In Europe, it is called American food from the South. Now you want to deny that southern food is part of 'black' culture? You want to deny 'blacks' are part of the 'southern' culture? You can't even share that? God - who are you people? Foods, art, are manifestations of a 'culture'.

1.the quality in a person or society that arises from a concern for what is regarded as excellent in arts, letters, manners, scholarly pursuits, etc.
2.that which is excellent in the arts, manners, etc.
3.a particular form or stage of civilization, as that of a certain nation or period: Greek culture.
4.development or improvement of the mind by education or training.
5.the behaviors and beliefs characteristic of a particular social, ethnic, or age group: the youth culture; the drug culture.

Is it too much for you to fathom or understand that Americans who live in certain situations may develop some of the same cultural characteristics, enjoy the same food, like the same music, speak with the same 'twang'? The important aspect of an educated person is that he realizes that Americans of different hues have more in common than they realize. Sorry you were unaware that there are foods that are specifically attached to Black Culture. We certainly hope you that you don't find it offensive that you also enjoy what we consider part of our culture. (We are well aware that you like it too!). . and have no problem with that! In fact, we enjoy your patronage at our restaurants!

All I know is that I was raised on that same wonderful artery clogging food. With my grandmother having been 'passed' now for over 20 years, I miss so many things about her - the biscuits are at the top of the list. What a shame that the art of biscuit making seems to be dying off with our grandmothers and that women like me haven't carried on that tradition.

I remember that she would eat anything: brains and eggs, chitlins, liver and onions. Good God, she must have grown up pretty poor!!! I have never eaten an organ in my life. I would have to be pretty hungry for that!

I can almost smell them now. They were on the tray over the burners on that old stove in the kitchen. . fresh and hot every morning! I remember using a glass to cut the biscuit dough. (I never got the recipe of this delicacy) Then there were the biscuits that you just dropped into the oil! Oh my goodness - were they delicious. The Europeans have it right - American food - from the south. Those in our culture (black) call it soul food - and it remains at the core of our family celebrations. (and remains at the core of our health problems) There are recipes out now that almost capture the original taste of this food - but is prepared with more healthful ingredients. Now they never got me to eat the brains - which were served usually in scrambled eggs. I did however develop a taste for liver and onions when I grew older. Thanks Dawn for your reasoned response. There are those who realize that we have more in common as Americans than issues that separate us. I was about to give up on the notion of having a non-combative discussion here.

Our 'racist' views collide. When you can't present a cogent argument - denigrate and belittle. You have a blessed day also.

Juveniles need Sheriff Joe Arpaio instead of Bedwetter Ballard. PTCGOIL you are so right in several ways.

If a teenager gets picked up, they should get them out of class each day at the end of the day, suit 'em up in jailhouse orange and have them working the school grounds as their buddies leave for home. Our high school students KNOW nothing will happen to them for this stuff. PTCGOIL is right-- Mumsie will raise hell and the politicians will back down.

Meanwhile an honorable Fayette grad deployed to Aghan lies wounded from in a hospital in Germany so that these miscreants are free and safe.