I Have Some Land For Sale

What exactly does Wanda Halbert's best friend (Toni Blankenship) do for a living, that she forgot she was given two thousand dollars? Unless she's a rapper or a cashier at the Med....LOL. She pays more attention to large sums of money than that. Even a millionaire doesn't lay that kind of money around. She's an okay looking young lady (2nd. R), but she's no Melissa Ford. So I don't think she's in the habit of men giving her thousands of dollars with no strings attached. I would say probably her most profitable pastime is being Wanda Halbert's best friend. I'm no fortune teller, but I'm not crazy either. Wanda was trying to cover her tracks, but she didn't do a very good job. She took Ms. Blankenship along as the bag lady in this caper. So if anything happens she could say "I didn't take the money she did." I don't think the jury is going to believe her, unless they're made up solely of people who voted for her in her district. I don't think Bobo the clown was on the grand jury. If you believe that, I have some land for sale. See if you believe them:

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2007/oct/31/jury-tracks-2000-hot-potato/

Where There's Smoke, There's Fire

There have been several members of the Memphis city school board who have been interviewed this week about alleged improprieties, in the awarding of school building contracts. The present scandal surrounds H&M construction, and former "County Commissioner Bruce Thompson" using his influence to win the bids to build three Memphis city schools. Yesterday Wanda Halbert, Tom Marshall and Bruce Thompson were all interviewed by the grand jury. Regardless what those subpoenaed would have you think, they wouldn't be doing this if nothing had happened. There will be some indictments, and some of these people will be the defendants named. Tom Marshall is in the clear, and he seems to be enjoying this whole thing. His two million dollar payday as a Architectural consultant has already been analyzed. It may have not been ethical, but it wasn't illegal. Everything he has done was both above board and documented. He conveniently recused himself from every vote that would've affected his employment. Actually I think he saved the city money. But school board member, and newly elected councilperson Wanda Halbert and Bruce Thompson are a different story. Wanda Halbert has this strange two thousand dollar campaign donation, and Bruce Thompson has hired famed attorney Leslie Ballin as his counsel. Need I say more? Go to the link below and get the full story :

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2007/nov/01/additional-witnesses-talk-about-thompson/

The Castle Is The Key

A lot of these people are still missing the point of what just took place here. A criminal in Mississippi can now be tracked down and shot legally. A seventy-one year old woman was carjacked at her home in Olive Branch Miss. as she unloaded her groceries yesterday. Much to the carjacker's surprise, she wasn't the only one home at the time. Her son was in the house and heard the commotion outside. He jumped up and pursued the thief and caught him, wearing nothing except his underwear. After chasing him across the Tennessee state line, eventually catching him about three miles up the road. He shot the carjacker once in the car while still in pursuit, and again after he got out and tried to escape. Needless to say the police have the carjacker in custody. Not only did he get shot, he'll also be going to jail. Read the link below to get the whole story :
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2007/oct/30/no-getting-away/

I hear a lot of people giving this man the stamp of approval because he came to the aid of his mother. That's a commendable quality, but that won't stand up in court. So don't think using a threat to your mother as a reason to shoot someone. Others are saying he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent, because he broke the law. I agree with the first opinion, but neither one will determine the outcome of this case. The latter opinion would be true if the crime had took place in Tennessee. He would be charged and accused of taking the law in his own hands. But since this crime took place in Mississippi not Tennessee. The disposition of this case was really open and shut from the start. The whole thing hinged on a bill signed into law last year, called "The castle law. " It not only gives the homeowner protection when he is facing an immediate threat. Like the " stand your ground" law which is more widely legislated. It allows the homeowner to use whatever measures necessary to protect him, his family and his property. Which includes chasing the perpetrator down and shooting, even killing him. Go to the link below and read more about the law yourself :


http://www.nraila.org/News/Read/Releases.aspx?ID=7405

How Can Deauntae Receive Justice Now

It has been four months now, and the results of the investigation surrounding the shooting death of Deauntae Farrow haven't been released to the public yet. The mother, and the local and West Memphis branches, of the activist organization NAN, have proposed a three point plan requesting that the report be released. The families former attorney "Javier Bailey" was noticeably absent from the press conference , along with others who were initially involved. Last time I saw them all together, he was suing West Memphis Ark. for 139 million dollars. Based on what I saw today, I guess that plan didn't pan out. I think the family has opted for what they think will be more national exposure, to bring attention to their plight. I don't think it would have made a big difference even in the beginning though. Americans won't allow their sentiments to be held hostage anymore. You better not give them a reason to write you off. When is the last time you heard about the Sean Bell case? Exactly , you don't even remember who he is or what happened. To refresh your memory click on the link below : http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSN2423013620070724

I have said from the very start, " if she gets out without owing anything, she'll be doing good." I based that assumption on the people that she was surrounding herself with, " birds of a feather flock together." An old saying, which doesn't often steer me wrong. So far I have called this thing just right. Justice probably won't come in the form of a big payday. If justice is truly knowing what happened and bringing this whole thing to a close, justice may be coming soon. If the report doesn't implicate anyone and squarely place the blame on the West Memphis police. I'm not so sure all the people waiting to hear the outcome, will consider it justice then . Do they just want closure, or does closure have a price attached? After he is dead; how can Deauntae receive justice now?

Are Citizens Being Bilked On Beale

I don't want to be a albatross, or as the bearer of bad news be called a "spook at the door." For me it has to do a lot with a little thing called "facts." Unfortunately when we look at them objectively, they don't always lead us where we want to go. Some people are all excited at the prospect of a big payday in a matter that hasn't been solved in twenty-four years. I think we may be finally getting to the long awaited end to this saga, but I don't think it will have the end many people expect. When the smoke clears nobody will become rich that already isn't.

At last public accounting the city owed Performa Inc., two and a half million dollars. That was almost twenty years ago. I would be willing to bet, that number went up before it went down. When you take into account management fees, operating costs and the money owed "Performa" for the cost of street development, the city's payday might not be that much.

All Things Work Together

I don't care for Mr. Cohen's politics myself, but I am heavily outnumbered in my disapproval of his selection. He has a reputation of being the most liberal senator in the state of Tennessee. Which is not such a good thing in my opinion. This man is of the Jewish persuasion, yet he even has Muslims supporting him. That's a pretty tall order in itself. To have Black Muslims overlook the fact that he is both White and Jewish, is nothing short of miraculous. Now that he has been elected, I don't see anyone that can beat him. The reason being those running against him are no better than him. The only difference is they are Black, which realistically could render them less effective.

Since all indications are that congressman Cohen will be re-elected. I have resided myself to make the best of a bad situation. Since I can't do anything about it anyway. I just "Take the lemons and make lemonade." When I looked at his job performance during his first term. I have to admit the congressman has been a very busy man. This man is like a dog treading water. He can't stop for a minute or he'll sink. Some people in the ninth district are just waiting for him to drop the ball. He hasn't stopped going since he took office. Unlike many other politicians, he doesn't have the convenience of being allowed to become complacent. He's done as much pandering in a year as his predecessor did in ten. He has renamed a couple of buildings, and unfortunately had a few high profile funerals to attend in his district. Which have turned out to be both photo-ops and image builders for him. Since it appears that he's going to be in office anyway, I've reached this conclusion. Some good will come of him being in office. If nothing else the constituents will have a responsive congressman. At least he'll be listening and fighting for his constituents concerns, even if he can't really change anything. I reflect on one of my favorite scriptures: Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Finally Ford Has Come

To me, a Ford has always been one of those cars you just end up with. It always was a matter of credit and price with most people I know. For one or both of those reasons, they've always been easier to get. I have never owned one myself, but my father and brothers have. They owned Ford trucks from time to time, but never their automobiles. Then the SUV was popular in the Explorer and Expedition models. They were a cheaper alternative to the higher priced Yukon and Suburban. The only time I remember Black folks buying their new cars, was when the "Mustang 5.0" was popular. It was an introduction of sorts, to the sports car market when cars were under $20,000. It was probably one of the cheapest high performance cars on the market at that time. Even then I don't remember them launching any advertisement campaigns aimed at attracting Black buyers. The Taurus was a big seller too, but most people got them used. Through the sale of rental cars and liquidating company fleets, it became the most popular pre-owned car on the market. Considering the fact that some buyers take whatever they can get. They assumed, and rightly so, that some Blacks would buy their cars anyway.

I first noticed their new found presence at the annual "Heritage Classic" football game. Where at the tailgate party, which attracts more people than the game itself. The "Ford Motor Company" gave away a brand new F-150 truck. That might not seem like a lot, but believe me it will gain them loads of publicity. Of course the message will be spread to more than the than 60,000 people that were there. They are going to tell their friends and family members, all about what the Ford company did. Another tidbit of information.... I recently learned something else I thought to be important. This could just be slacking on my part, but I wasn't aware of a Ford warehouse being here in Memphis. They employ several hundred workers who pay major taxes in this city. Any job paying unskilled labor $30 hr. plus benefits, should be more widely known. Needless to say, the plant is now closing down with the slump in sales. It would have been nice to hear more people were employed by them. Now Ford has donated a million dollars to the "National Civil Rights Museum Fund Inc.", who is already having financial troubles. The museum has been in operation for 19 years, where has "Ford Motor Company" been up until now? I'm sure this isn't the first million dollars donors have given to the cause. That's nothing more than a pandering move for Blacks. Why would you just give away a million dollars, no strings attached? Today I think I found out why.

Last year the "Ford Motor Company" lost 18 billion dollars, after being boycotted by some conservative groups. Since Blacks are the biggest consumers in this country, they figured they better try and tap into that. That's a whole lot of money to lose by any one's standards. The best way to get any one's attention is to lighten their pockets. Last year only one quarter was profitable, where they earned a measly 750 million dollars. They had to sell off some assets and stock options to do that. Since they're in the mood to get the Black community on their side, Blacks shouldn't go so cheaply. I'm sure they've done more than just this, but not much. Now that Ford has finally come to the Black community in search of their good graces. Blacks should get more out of this, than a free truck and be a tax write-off.

I Know It's Civil, But Is It Right

I wanted to talk about the "Civil Rights Museum" forum earlier this week, but it somehow slipped my mind until I saw this picture. I wrote a blog about it when it first came up http://indepcons.blogspot.com/2007/08/museums-need-money-too.html
saying what I thought about it then. Nothing has really changed except some new contributors have sweetened the pot. Now the Ford Motor Company has gotten involved by becoming a donor like Mr. Hyde has been all along. Suddenly they've donated a million dollars to the " Civil Rights Museum Fund Inc. ." Who have done a poor job of managing funds entrusted to them so far.That only adds fuel to an already raging fire. All grants and gifts are appreciated, but how far does it go and how often does it come?

Just Don't Say Anything

This morning Councilman Tom Marshall came on Ben Ferguson's radio show to defend his vote for the Mayor's $11,500 raise. Which would bring the Mayor's salary to $17I,500 annually. I say the Mayor's raise and not Mayor Herenton's, because the raise was given to the office not the man. Last week Councilman Myron Lowery came on the show defending his vote, but it didn't have the same effect as Marshall coming. To a degree I felt Ben Ferguson just patronized Councilman Lowery and dismissed him as just being one of the Mayor's cronies. It was clear they wanted to hear what one of their own (meaning Caucasian) had to say. Even the day Councilman Lowery spoke they never stopped asking to hear Tom Marshall's explanation. They wanted to know why someone who they normally agree with would see this thing differently.



I listened in and heard what seemed like Councilman Marshall enjoying himself defending his vote. It wasn't very hard to prove his point, considering he was right. He eluded to the same thing as what other Herenton-supporters and myself have been saying all along. "This whole thing is racially motivated." If Carol Chumney had won, we wouldn't even be having this discussion." He dressed it up by saying it was based on people having a problem with the Mayor's personality. In his own way he was telling them the gig is over. Detractors have done everything against him in their power and nothing has worked. Let it go.


What led me to write this post is his reaction to comments I made. By pointing out the fact that the Southaven Mayor makes almost as much the Memphis Mayor, despite Southaven only being a fraction of the size. I don't know whether it was news to him, or he just didn't want to give me props. Instead he brought up some off the wall instance, where a Mayor was being paid $300,000 a year to discount what I said. At first I wondered why, then I suddenly remembered. One thing I've noticed about whites unlike blacks. If they can't say something to help each other out, they just don't say anything.

The Blind Leading The Blind

Sometimes when you listen to some of the people it's frightening. You can't imagine how they come up with some of the things they say. Some of it can be reduced to Tacit approval. When people of conscious sit by and don't say anything. Those who don't have direction run rampant. Those people I'm talking about come in various disguises. They know better but they won't tell others. Sometimes their silence is motivated by greed. An uninformed follower can be quite profitable. Just because someone isn't actively participating. That doesn't help matters any. The problem with that is, it has the same end result.

I have been working on this story for several weeks. I just keep running across different angles to talk about. I never get much feedback on opinion pieces. I never know who does or doesn't agree with what I said. Unless of course I say it on the radio. Even then I'm not sure of a balanced argument. They are too long to submit to the newspaper. After they get through cutting it up, you won't even recognize your own writing. When it's all said and done . You only hear what some people want you to hear. Not the full story or the truth. This story is motivated by observation of some of the local radio personalities.

I know most of these people have a boss. So they have to do what it takes to keep their job. It's not about your personal interest, it's about who you can get to listen. Of course your show should reflect your style and opinions. If you're not for real, your phoniness will show. You can't genuinely argue someone else's point. You won't stay on the air if nobody is listening. Ultimately your boss is the ratings itself. If you can bring in the numbers. Whether the boss likes you or not. He will tolerate you though.

I was listening to WDIA one day last week. It's ironic that when Bobby OJay is finally right about something. The majority of his audience disagrees with him. He made a statement the other day that I have to agree with. People want to be entertained not informed. I guess that's the key to his success.

For Those Who Doubted Him

The only thing I think the Mayor should have done is clear the air of the Johnny come-latelys who just came on board supporting him. I think he should have held a press conference to let people know his positions hadn't changed. And that he appreciated all the people who supported him in his re-election bid. But don't expect him to change his positions to spite those who didn't. There were some things that he had already let his position be known. He hasn't even started his new term yet and some of these old scars have already been reopened.

The Mayor made his position known fifteen years ago concerning the "Beale Street Development Corporation" and it's property leases. The city is having no part of it, and they aren't going to pay. They presumably have a contract with the city for fifty-two years. No one, even one of it's original members "Randall Catron" can tell me for what. It is true, they were part of the initial group who secured funds for the street's development. But in the hands of the BSDC the street's progress came to a virtual halt. Enter John Elkington and his company Performa then known as Elkington & Keltner. They have developed it to the point it is now. At last public accounting the city owed Mr. Elkington 2 1/2 million dollars, but the city wanted an itemized bill. I'm sure the interest of the city is being protected. If it weren't they would be in court. Don't expect a change of heart now that Mayor Herenton has won again.

Now we have the Ernest C. Withers studio situation. Which has somehow now been included in the fray. He was renting space on Beale Street for $1 a year up until his death. Quite a bargain for space on the street that is the most successful tourist attraction in the state of Tennessee. I bet the other tenants on the street wish they had such a deal. Let's not paint this man out as being a wealthy man while he lived. But he by no means was a tramp. He wasn't Donald Trump either. Before the man was dead, the battle over his legacy began. It seems he chose to let John Elkington as opposed to his wife, or one of his seven children oversee his affairs. I hate that his family has attached themselves to some of these other causes. In the end it might work against them. They haven't generated any public outcry on their behalf in the past twenty-three years. What can they do other than quell interest in your cause now? Let's be honest here. It's really all about charity and the philanthropic spirit.

Just watch how these things turn out. That will serve as some indication that the Mayor hasn't changed his mind. In his acceptance speech he spoke of rewarding loyalty. I think he's aware of some of the ulterior motives in play here. I expect some of those same people that were so critical of the Mayor in the past, will soon be critical of him again. For those who doubted the Mayor's integrity, just wait and see.

FYI

This argument about the Mayor of Memphis making too much money is nonsense. There are other cities with not as many citizens and more reported crime, where the Mayor makes more than Mayor Herenton does even after getting the raise. Since cities like Boston and Washington are so far away. Let's compare somewhere closer to home. If Southaven, MS at 41,295 people and Memphis, TN at 670,970 people compared their Mayor's salaries and adjusted them accordingly... based on $130K for Southaven, the Memphis Mayor would earn $2,112,053!

Ernest C. Withers, Profile Of A Photographer

I would like to extend my condolences to the Withers family, on the loss of their father "Ernest C. Withers". He was like a walking textbook of the local civil rights movement. In addition to just the pictures he has taken. All he didn't document with pictures, he kept in his mind. As one historian put it "he had a knack for being in the right place at the right time." He was also one of the first Black policeman in the city of Memphis. His photography career spanned over a sixty year period. He was eighty-five years old at the time of his death (1922-2007). On last evening I had the pleasure of watching a documentary about the life and career of Mr. Withers. I was surprised to learn that he has reportedly taken over 12,000,000 pictures. He was never seen in public without a camera around his neck.

He Didn't Have A Choice

This happened back in July, but the people on the radio for some reason were discussing it tonight. I think this policeman went far beyond what was required. A lot of officers would have taken her down to the ground long before then. Heaven forbid she had ran into a female cop.

If Only This Were True

I'm Not Sure Yet

I am undecided about the run-off for the district 1 council race. My initial choice isn't in the running. I now have to reconsider my choice between two other candidates. One who I never heard of before, the other I had vowed not to vote for. I have a few days to take a closer look at them. I have posted links to both candidate's website. Which is what I have left to help make my decision. Click on the links below:

At first I was dead set against her being on the new city council. As it turns out, she may be the winner in district 1 anyway. Considering she is in the run-off. I have to take her chances seriously. I've met her once before and she appears to be a nice enough person. That's the problem though, we don't just need another pretty smile with no weight behind it. I'm getting leery of all these people running for office on the single mother's platform.

http://www.stephaniegatewood.com/

I don't think this guy is depending on getting to many of the Black votes in Frayser. I haven't seen any of his yard signs or saw him out in the community. I'm sure the base of his support comes from the Northeastern part of the district. The part receiving the most attention. I'm sure he will be a good representative for those he represents. The question is who exactly that is.

http://www.votebillmorrison.com/default.asp

This Is The Best Choice

I have remained neutral in this race because it's not my district. Then on second thought, I considered that this city council will have to work with the Mayor for the next four years. So even though I don't have a vote, they are one of the thirteen votes on the city council. After looking at this candidate's platform and record of community involvement, James Catchings is by far the most deserving of this council seat. He brings one thing to the table that none of the other candidates do, both running or seated. If elected, he plans to dedicate himself to the council full-time. Edmund Ford Jr. may be a fine young man, but he shouldn't win this time. Several candidates in this past election have been elected simply due to name recognition. Based on the way it looks now, this city council will be in dire need of a balancing force. In my opinion James Catchings is that balance. Go to his website below and see what you think.


http://catchingsforcitycouncil.com/



In all fairness I must give people the opportunity to see Mr. Catching's opposition, Edmund Ford Jr. I am not anti-Ford as some people are, but I don't think he should be elected just because his last name is Ford. A member of his family has held this office for the last 33 years. His claim to fame is an algebra tutoring program he is currently touting. Other than that he hasn't done very much other than get himself educated. Which is more beneficial to him than it is to anyone else. Click on the link below to go to his website.


http://www.edmundfordjr.com/

Fifty Years Of Math 1957-2007

Last week I purchased a burger at Burger King for $1.58. The countergirl took my $2 and I was digging for my change when I pulled 8 cents from my pocket and gave it to her to make it even .She stood there holding the nickel and 3 pennies, while looking at the screen on her register. I sensed her discomfort and tried to tell her to just give me two quarters, but she hailed the manager for help. While he tried to explain the transaction to her, she stood there and cried. Why did I tell you this? Because of the evolution in teaching math since the 1950s:

1.Teaching Math In 1950s

A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5 of the price. What is his profit ?

2. Teaching Math In 1960sA logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100 His cost of production is 4/5 of the price, or $80. What is his profit?

3. Teaching Math In 1970sA logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80. Did he make a profit?

4. Teaching Math In 1980sA logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80 and his profit is $20. Your assignment: Underline the number 2

5. Teaching Math In 1990sA logger cuts down a beautiful forest because he is selfish andinconsiderate and cares nothing for the habitat of animals or thepreservation of our woodlands. He does this so he can make a profit of $20.What do you think of this way of making a living? Topic for classparticipation after answering the question: How did the birds and squirrels feel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong answers, and if you feel like crying, it's OK.)

6. Teaching Math In 2007Un hachero vende una carretada de madera para $100. El costo de laproducciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?

Everythings Out In The Open Now

I think Harold Ford Jr. may have put his political career on the line in Tennessee, with the announcement of his engagement to soon be married. Being that he doesn't hold elected office anymore, now he has nothing to lose. He's going all or nothing, no holds barred. I felt he was limited in his quest for higher a position, by not having a better half (wife) anyway. Something about having a spouse just gives you more credibility. But I'm not so sure his latest decision to wed, has improved that standing in his home state. In case you haven't noticed yet, his fiancee Ms. Threikeld is Caucasian. We're not living in the dark ages here, but Tennessee is not the most progressive state in the country. In a rumored run for governor, this might be the proverbial icing on the cake. He didn't have the Eastern Tennessee vote anyway; now he might not have the stronghold he enjoyed in West Tennessee either.

There may be some good come out of this after all. Some people were beginning to wonder if he actually liked women. At least he temporarily put that rumor to rest. I think he just finally found that girl. And didn't feel the pressure from his constituents not to follow his heart. I hope he is doing it for love and not political reasons. When this whole thing is over , love may be all he has left. For everyone who has been wondering, every things out in the open now.

Something Just Isn't Right

I don't want to be the one to go against the crowd here, but I'm not convinced yet. I kept my opinions to myself out of respect for those Taylor Bradford left behind. It's always a shame when any young person dies, whether they caused it on or not. That's why I haven't mentioned what I think might have happened. I have a sneaky suspicion the news media isn't telling the public the whole story. The first time I saw this guy out of his football uniform in a suit. I had a funny feeling about him. He didn't look like your everyday 300 lb lineman who dressed up to take a picture. He had a Shug Knight type persona happening. He was quite dapper for his size, and looked real good in a suit. I'm a pretty good judge of character, and game recognizes game. I'm not a slickster these days , but I use to think I was. Based on his photographs he thought he was too.

Four young men have been arrested in connection with his shooting. One of them turned out not only to be a U of M student, but also his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend. The same girlfriend who Bradford had an "order of protection" against. Who is now dating someone with a long criminal record that includes 2nd degree murder. I don't want to sound judgemental, but she sounds like some "ride or die chick" to me. Considering the fact that these two young men had been at each other before. She could have very well been playing one against the other. I think it will eventually come out.

They say he won $7000 at the casino and still had it on him when he got shot. That gives us a motive; but how did they know he had it on him. People don't walk around with that kind of money on them, unless they're used to having large sums of cash. Even if they won it at the casino, they wouldn't be carrying it around. The only people packing wads like that are rappers and dope dealers, and I haven't heard any of his records. In due time it will all come out. I just feel like "something just isn't right".

Where It Ends Up Nobody Knows

I have been listening to these two talk show hosts go back and forth attacking each other for the past couple of weeks. Both claiming that the other has waged a smear campaign against him. Even though he's portraying himself as the innocent victim here. Honestly Andrew started this whole thing. He accused Thaddeus of making derogatory statements about him on his blog, which I don't think was Thaddeus anyway. He just didn't remove it, like he does other things he doesn't want posted. I think it's a matter of ego on Andrew's part. After bending over backwards to keep this guy's mouth off him. He felt it should have been removed out of professional courtesy. True to form,Thaddeus didn't see it that way. Andrew still ended up being attacked on his blog by one of his anonymous posters. It has somewhat of the same affect to readers. Even though he didn't say it, people who visit his site are still reading what is being said.

Thaddeus purchases his airtime himself, as opposed to Andrew being employed by WREC. The differences between the two of them aren't likely to ever disappear. One reason being they appeal to two totally different audiences. Andrew has the means to do far more damage to Thaddeus, than he does to him. The size of the listening audience Andrew has on the weekend far exceeds the one Thaddeus has on his daily show on KWAM. Not only in terms of numbers, but influence as well. If anyone stands to gain notoriety from this exchange it's Thaddeus. I think Andrew may be right when he says "they are in different leagues". Thaddeus will try to use this to boost the awareness of both his radio show and blog.

As for Thaddeus Matthews, I'm not surprised at him and I don't blame him . He's just playing the hand he's dealt. He has taken his "National Enquirer" brand of reporting, and turned a profit it seems. He is just doing what he's always done, by playing both sides of the fence. Like I always say "play with a puppy, he'll lick you in the mouth". And that's exactly what has happened here. When he was doing the bidding of Andrew Clarksenior and his Herenton haters, he was given the royal treatment. He was even given the number to the hotline, to make sure he was heard. I always suspected Whites and non-Memphians of backing the recall effort. As it turns out I was right. Thaddeus has admitted as much himself, saying he owes them no allegiance at all. According to him it was strictly a opportunity to exercise a provision in the charter. Which still doesn't explain why he did what he did. If he was doing such a bad job he needed to be recalled. Surely he needed to be replaced when all you had to do was vote. It's not against the law to make donations to the IRS, but I don't see people lining up to give.

What's Your Pick

2008 Election

Who is Your
Perfect Candidate?

Go to the link below and determine which of the candidates you share your opinions with. You might just be surprised.

http://www.vajoe.com/candidate_calculator.html

Lest We Forget

">

Is This What Some Memphians Want

Detractors of the Mayor blame him for the rising crime in Memphis. Regardless what you show them and no matter what the facts say to prove otherwise. I guess they want him to get out with a nightstick and gun and physically attack crime himself. Though his duties may be many, he isn't a policeman. You wouldn't want the hospital administrator to perform open heart surgery. In today's climate of filing lawsuits on a whim. Mayor Frank Melton in Jackson, Mississippi did exactly that. Look what happened to him.

Crime-Fighting Mayor Finds Himself Embroiled in Charges
James Edward Bates for The New York Times
Mayor Frank Melton of Jackson, Miss., greeted by supporters on Tuesday night. Mr. Melton won election in 2005 promising to fight crime.


By SHAILA DEWAN
Published: September 21, 2006
JACKSON, Miss., Sept. 20 — Most politicians who run afoul of the law are accused of bribery, kickbacks or ethics violations.

A raid last month left a duplex damaged and led to Mr. Melton’s indictment.

Mr. Melton on a raid by his mobile command unit in April.
But not here in the state capital, where Mayor Frank Melton, an erratic figure who took office in July 2005, does nothing by the book. Mr. Melton has disdained such basic functions as drawing up the city’s budget in favor of cruising through the city’s worst neighborhoods in a police department “mobile command center.”

He is known for carrying two guns, wearing a police jacket and a badge, searching cars, knocking on doors and raiding nightclubs while brandishing a large stick.

Mr. Melton’s activities now threaten to derail his career. Last week, he was indicted on eight charges, including burglary, malicious mischief and causing a minor to commit a felony. Prosecutors said he had illegally carried sidearms and improperly helped demolish a duplex he says was a crack house.

Although no drugs were found in the house, occupied by a man with a history of mostly petty crimes, the mayor’s sledgehammer-wielding crew took down its front wall.

Despite the indictment, the city’s frustration with crime has kept the mayor a popular figure. At the City Council meeting on Tuesday, he was bolstered by people chanting, “Fight, Frank, fight,” and criticizing other officials for inaction.

The mayor portrays himself as a man whose mission, lowering the city’s crime rate, has been hampered by the slow-moving wheels of government.

“The only mistake that I made was a procedural mistake,” Mr. Melton said when asked this week about the duplex demolition. He did not take the time to have the house declared a nuisance, he said, because young children next door were being exposed to the drug trade.

In June, he declared a state of emergency for the city, using the latitude this gave him to impose a curfew on the homeless.

Yet it is not clear that Mr. Melton’s unorthdox tactics have had any beneficial effect. This year, crime in Jackson has increased by about 16 percent over the same period in 2005, according to police reports leaked to local newspapers. (The city generally declines to release statistics.)

In April, the Hinds County district attorney, Faye Peterson, was forced to drop murder charges against an accused gang member, she said, when it came to light that Mr. Melton had provided an apartment and cash to a crucial prosecution witness.

Tricia Raymond, the executive director of SafeCity, a watchdog group on whose board Mr. Melton once served, said the increase in crime might be a result of underreporting by the previous administration.

“I can’t say there’s been a positive long-term effect,” Ms. Raymond said of the mayor’s focus on crime. “I do know that the community just feels energized simply because we have a mayor that’s willing to address the problem.”

But Mr. Melton’s vigilantism has raised concerns from critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, that he is bypassing due-process rights and engaging in racial profiling by focusing on black neighborhoods. (The mayor, like 77 percent of Jackson, is black.)

Though state officials have warned him that he cannot perform law enforcement duties or carry a gun in certain public places like parks and schools, Mr. Melton says he needs protection because he has “taken down some of the biggest gangs in Mississippi.”

A former local television executive, Mr. Melton was fixated on crime well before he took office. As the host of a commentary segment called “The Bottom Line,” he took out billboards featuring names and photographs of wanted drug dealers and helped negotiate the surrender of several suspects.

In 2002, Mr. Melton was appointed to lead the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, where he got into trouble after leaking a memorandum accusing two agents of illegal conduct. He said in a deposition that he did not leak it, but later admitted he had.

Though there is no evidence that Mr. Melton has ever been formally certified as a law enforcement agent, his anticrime platform and reputation as a man of action helped him rout the incumbent, Harvey Johnson Jr., in the Democratic primary with more than 60 percent of the vote.

Mr. Melton is known for his deep familiarity with the poorer neighborhoods of Jackson, often addressing criminals and street addicts by name and regularly volunteering at the YMCA. Over the years he has taken in dozens of teenagers and young men who he says have no one else to care for them.

He says he has put many of them through college and has paid for the funerals of others who did not take his advice. Although he is not officially a foster parent, the youths live in his gated home in Jackson and, before his indictment, often rode with him on his nighttime crime raids.

Some were with him on the night of Aug. 26, when the mayor and his two bodyguards approached the home of Evans Welch, 45.

Accounts of what happened next are somewhat jumbled, but Mr. Welch said in an interview in his parents’ home, where he is now staying, that the mayor came through the back door with a gun and that Mr. Welch was ordered to leave.

The mayor cut his hand on broken glass and left to get treatment, but returned later and ordered his youth crew to demolish Mr. Welch’s side of the duplex with sledgehammers. Mr. Welch was then arrested on charges of violating the open-container law and possession of drug paraphernalia, which court papers describe as a crack pipe. He pleaded guilty, but a new lawyer is now trying to withdraw the plea on the ground that Mr. Welch is mentally ill.

Mr. Melton said the house was a known crack den that had been repeatedly visited by the police, but his administration has offered no documentation to support that contention. Neighbors said that although there was plenty of crime in the neighborhood, Mr. Welch’s house was not the source of disturbance.

In an interview at his parents’ house, where he is now staying, Mr. Welch said he feared that the mayor would find him. “I’m afraid he might kill me,” Mr. Welch said. “Why did he do this to me?”

At least for now, Mr. Welch can rest easy. As a condition of his bail, Mr. Melton has been ordered to stay away from guns, drugs, alcohol and minors. And police vehicles.

Sour Grapes

The day after the elections. These people who were supporting the losing candidates, are still crying foul and making excuses. No one has called me out specifically, but they've made general statements about Herenton supporters. Thank God, the people weren't fooled by the fast talking and play on words. What these people are doing is quietly eating crow. For those who want to claim "it doesn't make them any difference". Like hell it doesn't. Something has happened to make them so bitter. Maybe it's the taste of sour grapes. Look at what one of them said, in the letter below.

Dear #####,

I want to clear up a comment that I made regarding the Mayor of any city and crime, this morning {Bobby's show}.

It has been disturbing to me over the last few weeks to hear the battle between Herenton supporters vs. non- supporters. If the non-supporters of this administration mention crime in this city being a part of the Mayor's responsibility, the supporters will say, "The Mayor can't stop no crime in this city. or He can't stop people from shooting each other, domestic violence or things like that." This is very true. We should all understand that neither the Mayor, the police, nor the District Attorney can do anything about random crime in any city. And I think folks know very well that, that isn't what's meant.

It is obvious that it has to be a part of the Mayor of any city's job description to be a part of the verbal and administrative communication with the Director of the Police departments, as well as implementing laws and legislation with law makers to create ways to curtail crime in their cities. If it wasn't, then why would what the Mayor plans to do about crime be, not only a part of his platform, but his opponents as well?

She is trying to be condescending, she knows already that you don't agree with what she said. Why would she want to know what we think about what she said? She's trying to belittle what we think. I've heard what her and others like her have said, and it requires no explanation. She is trying to hold Herenton responsible for something he can't control. I'm starting to agree with one of my friends about who voted for Carol Chumney.

These people kill me with their clouding of the issues and doubletalk. If we all know what they mean, then the subject should be closed. Now we want to bring up his job description, without considering the duties of others involved. The Mayor doesn't control legislation. The reason it's on his platform is because the uninformed electorate ask the questions. As a result they have displaced anger, like they do with most things.

He Shook The Haters Off

Tonight Mayor W.W. Herenton was elected for his record setting fifth consecutive term in office. This was his most competitive election since he was originally elected to office in 1992. In spite of all the mudslinging and obvious media bias, he still shook the haters off.

Get On The Bus

I should have posted this when it first came to mind, because I don't want it to sound like it's after the fact. I never thought the Herenton camp sought the help of Harold Ford Sr. to get out the vote. He couldn't get it out for his own sons. He's just getting on the bus like several other parasites. Once again he's attempting to pull another last minute desperation move. I don't think it will work this time though. Everyone wants to be with a winner, so the naysayers are quietly admitting their defeat. As far as Harold Ford Sr. supporting the Mayor for reelection. I think it was political posturing on the part of Harold Ford Sr., to keep Willie Herenton's mouth off his family in upcoming elections. The bad blood between them is no secret. At first it was said that he would be one of the rally's featured speakers. Last I heard, that development wasn't going to be happening. Supposedly, word got to him that future campaign donations would dry up for his son if he chooses to run for governor. If that's true, it only proves my point. After the shellacking the Fords have been taking lately. Harold Ford Sr. wants to be on the winning team for a change. He just wants to get on the bus.

Do Leopards Change Their Spots

A person's background has a lot to do with their future. A Leopard doesn't quickly change his spots. Notice I said quickly. People can change, but there must be evidence. If a person hasn't admitted their guilt and taken steps to overcome their shortcomings, they are likely to do it again. Below is a list that was posted in the Commercial Appeal. Some candidates claim this is an organized effort by the newspaper to discredit certain people in the race. Some of them have paid off delinquent taxes and judgements, but no one has disputed the claims.


MAYOR

Laura Davis Aaron: Pleaded guilty to assault, 1980; open and notorious public lewdness, 1985. Four bankruptcies: 1994 and 1995 in Memphis, 2001 in Chattanooga, 2005 in Memphis.

Fred Askew: Bankruptcy, 2006. As of Tuesday, owed $1,061 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 2006 city taxes and 2005 and 2006 county taxes).

Carlos F. Boyland: Bankruptcy, 2003. Lost $2,612 judgment, 2001. pleaded guilty misdemeanor assault, 1989; guilty, misdemeanor theft, 1992.

Willie Herenton: Fined $50 for disorderly conduct, 1960.

Bill Jacox: Pleaded guilty, tampering with utility metering device, 1988.

Dewayne A. Jones Sr.: As of Tuesday owed $3,311 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 2005-2007 city taxes and 2005-2006 county taxes.) pleaded guilty to misdemeanor theft, 1990.

James McKay: Pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance and violating probation, 1982; driving under the influence, 1982; disturbing the peace, 1986; driving under the influence, 1992.

Sharon A. Webb: Two Bankruptcies: 1993, 1998.

John Willingham: Lost $6,930 judgment after alleged breach of trust, 2005; now paid.

CITY CLERK

M. Latroy Williams: As of Tuesday, owed $124,418 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 1997-2007 city taxes and 1997-2006 county taxes). Got 14 citations in Juvenile Court for nonpayment of child support and was held in contempt five times, 1979-2003. Bankruptcy, 1991.

CITY COUNCIL

District 1

Jerry Benya: Bankruptcy, 1996.

Rudolph Daniels: Lost $3,599 judgment in Maryland, 2001. Debtor, State Farm Insurance, now alleges default on $1,924 balance. Evicted from Memphis apartment, 2007.

Stephanie Gatewood: Received General Sessions Court order to garnish her wages after losing $400 judgment to city Memphis EMS, 2002. Lost $2,376 judgment to Methodist Healthcare, 2002.

Jesse Jeff: Three bankruptcies: 1997 (2) in St. Louis; and 1998 in Memphis. As of Tuesday owed $7,748 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 2006 and 2007 city taxes and 2006 county taxes).

Antonio "2 Shay'' Parkinson: Lost $156 judgment, 2007.

Riesel Sandridge: Wages garnisheed by General Sessions Court to satisfy $1,661 loan, 2003. Lost $2,282 judgment for breach of contract on home repairs, 2005. Wages garnished to satisfy $985 judgment, 2006.

District 2

Daryl Benson: Bankruptcy, 2007.

Scott Pearce: Served with federal tax liens for $330,948 in unpaid income and payroll taxes, 2002-2004. Lost a $552,000 judgment in Chancery Court to Trustmark Bank for alleged default, 2004 -- records indicate it remains unpaid. Lost $10,000 judgment in Circuit Cuourt to JEH Inc., 2007. Lost $43,000 default judgement in Circuit Court to Renasant Bank, 2007. General Sessions garnishment order served on his bank accounts to satisfy $17,782 judgment won by Marshall County Lumber Co., 2004. Currently fighting General Sessions eviction suit brought in July. Also fighting breach of contract suit filed in Circuit Court in August by Renasant Bank.

District 3

Albert Banks III: Two bankruptcies, 2001, 2005.

Harold Collins: Served with federal tax liens for $155,512 in unpaid tax penalties, 2003. Lost $44,059 agreed Chancery Court judgment to First Tennessee Bank after alleged default on business loan, 2005.

Davida Cruthird: Bankruptcy, 1998.

Ronald Peterson: Wages garnished by Department of Employment Security to recover overpaid benefits, 2007. Four contempt citations in Juvenile for nonpayment of child support, 1989-1992; jailed 1990.

Madeleine Cooper Taylor: In March 2006 paid $7,187 in back taxes owed the IRS from 1997, 2000 and 2002.

District 4

Wanda Halbert: Wages garnisheed after losing $1,660 judgment to Sign Services Inc. for campaign signs, 2001. Faces ongoing suit by LVNV Funding for alleged past due debt of $2,332.

Johnny Hatcher Jr.: Pleaded guilty to reckless driving and no driver's license, 1995.

District 5

Jeff Bailey: Pleaded guilty to patronizing prostitution, 1992. General Sessions garnishment order served on his bank accounts to collect $1,889 credit card debt, 2002.

Richard Parks: Pleaded guilty to contempt of court, 2005.

Kerry Rogers: Pleaded guilty, possession of controlled substance, 1989; reckless driving and no driver license, 1992. Found guilty, violation of vehicle registration, 1997. Two bankruptcies: 2002, 2003.

District 6

Perry Bond: Bankruptcy, 2000. Bank account garnished toward collecting $3,192 General Sessions judgment to Sears Roebuck, 1999.

Charles Etta Chavez: As of Tuesday owed $77 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 2007 city taxes and 2006 county taxes).

Alicia Howard: Bankruptcy, 2000.

Willie H. Justice III: Lost $863 judgment in General Sessions Court to Midland Funding, 2007. Faces ongoing suit by Capital One Bank seeking $6,346.

Clifford Lewis: As of Tuesday owed $5,966 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 1998 and 2000-2007 city taxes and 2001-2006 county taxes).

District 7

Veronica Sherfield Castillo: Five bankruptcies: 1995, 1996 (2), 1997, 2007. Wages garnisheed in General Sessions Court for nonpayment of furniture debt, 1999. Target of garnishment orders for nonpayment of student-related debt, 2006.

Barbara Swearengen Ware: As of Tuesday owed $1,379 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 2006 and 2007 city taxes and 2006 county taxes).

Preston Poindexter: Two bankruptcies: 1995, 2005. Served with federal tax liens for $51,000 in unpaid income taxes, 2004. Lost home in foreclosure sale, March 2007.

Derek D. Richardson: Lost $1,500 judgment in General Sessions, and paid, 2005. Lost $1,988 judgments with appeal pending, 2006.

District 8 Position 1

Ian Randolph: As of Tuesday owed $6,846 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (included 2006 and 2007 city taxes and 2005 and 2006 county taxes). Bankruptcy, 1991.

Tiffany L. Lowe: Pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment, a felony, 1997. pleaded guilty to felony forgery, 1997. Served with a restraining order after a former lover alleged she roughed up two people, 1999. Wages garnisheed after losing $5,691 judgment to Delta Medical Center, 2007.

District 8 Position 2

Janis Fullilove: Wages garnished to satisfy $370 judgment won by Dr. Christine Mroz, 2005. Ordered to pay $50 a month to the clerk of General Sessions Court to satisfy $600 judgment won by Metropolitan Anesthesia Alliance, 2007.

Henry Hooper: Subject of 2005 federal tax liens by IRS claiming $445,603 in unpaid income taxes owed from 1998 to 2001.

Matthew Jordan: As of Tuesday owed $6,604 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 2006 and 2007 city taxes and 2006 county taxes).

David Vinciarelli: pleaded guilty to criminal trespass, 1990. Two bankruptcies: 1997, 2004.

Trennie Williams: Bankruptcy, 2007.

District 8 Position 3

Del Gill: Bankruptcy, 2005. pleaded guilty to reckless driving, 1982.

Myron Lowery: Pleaded guilty to assault and battery, 1982.

Toni Strong: Two bankruptcies: 1996, 2006.

District 9 Position 3

Reid Hedgepeth: As of Tuesday owed $33,202 in delinquent property taxes, penalties and interest (includes 2006 and 2007 city taxes and 2006 county taxes).

Memphis Metropolitan Area

In light of the latest skewered poll that list Memphis as the most dangerous city in America. It has come to the light that these statistics include eight other counties in addition to Shelby county where Memphis is located. Not only does it cross county lines but state as well. That's like adding Chicago Illinois and Gary Indiana together for statistical purposes. Though they're two separate cities with crime problems of their own. They're in the same general vicinity. The Memphis Metropolitan area includes cities in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee.


The Memphis Metropolitan Statistical Area, TN-MS-AR (MSA) is the 42nd largest among similarly designated areas in the United States. The metropolitan area covers eight counties in three states - Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas. As of the 2000 census, the MSA had a population of 1,205,204 (though a July 1, 2006 estimate placed the population at 1,274,704).

Counties

Tennessee
Shelby County
Tipton County
Fayette County

Mississippi
DeSoto County
Marshall County
Tate County
Tunica County

Arkansas
Crittenden County

Cities and towns

Places with more than 100,000 inhabitants
Memphis, Tennessee (Principal City)

Places with 25,000 to 50,000 inhabitants
Bartlett, Tennessee
Collierville, Tennessee
Germantown, Tennessee
Olive Branch, Mississippi
Southaven, Mississippi
West Memphis, Arkansas

Places with 5,000 to 25,000 inhabitants
Covington, Tennessee
Hernando, Mississippi
Holly Springs, Mississippi
Horn Lake, Mississippi
Lakeland, Tennessee
Marion, Arkansas
Millington, Tennessee
Senatobia, Mississippi

Places with 500 to 5,000 inhabitants
Arlington, Tennessee
Atoka, Tennessee
Brighton, Tennessee
Byhalia, Mississippi
Coldwater, Mississippi
Crawfordsville, Arkansas
Earle, Arkansas
Edmondson, Arkansas
Gallaway, Tennessee
Lynchburg, Mississippi
Mason, Tennessee
Munford, Tennessee
North Tunica, Mississippi
Oakland, Tennessee
Piperton, Tennessee
Somerville, Tennessee
Tunica, Mississippi
Turrell, Arkansas



Places with fewer than 500 inhabitants
Anthonyville, Arkansas
Braden, Tennessee
Burlison, Tennessee
Garland, Tennessee
Gilmore, Arkansas
Gilt Edge, Tennessee
Grand Junction, Tennessee
Horseshoe Lake, Arkansas
Jennette, Arkansas
Jericho, Arkansas
La Grange, Tennessee
Memphis, Mississippi
Moscow, Tennessee
Potts Camp, Mississippi
Rossville, Tennessee
Sunset, Arkansas
Walls, Mississippi
Williston, Tennessee



Unincorporated places
Arkabutla, Mississippi
Banks, Mississippi
Bethlehem, Mississippi
Bruins, Arkansas
Brunswick, Tennessee
Capleville, Tennessee
Chulahoma, Mississippi
Clarkedale, Arkansas
Cockrum, Mississippi
Drummonds, Tennessee
Dubbs, Mississippi
Dundee, Mississippi
Eads, Tennessee
Ellendale, Tennessee
Eudora, Mississippi
Evansville, Mississippi
Fisherville, Tennessee
Hickory Withe, Tennessee
Hollywood, Mississippi
Hudsonville, Mississippi
Kerrville, Tennessee
Laconia, Tennessee
Lake Cormorant, Mississippi
Lake View, Mississippi
Looxahoma, Mississippi
Macon, Tennessee
Mineral Wells, Mississippi
Mount Pleasant, Mississippi
Nesbit, Mississippi
Pleasant Hill, Mississippi
Prichard, Mississippi
Proctor, Arkansas
Red Banks, Mississippi
Reverie, Tennessee
Rosemark, Tennessee
Sarah, Mississippi
Savage, Mississippi
Seyppel, Arkansas
Simsboro, Arkansas
Slayden, Mississippi
Strayhorn, Mississippi
Thyatira, Mississippi
Tipton, Tennessee
Tunica Resorts, Mississippi
Tyro, Mississippi
Victoria, Mississippi
Waterford, Mississippi