ATL mayoral doings: Of gambling, schools for girls and Democratic yard signs
Radio stations V-103 and WAOK this morning had the last broadcast word in the Atlanta mayoral runoff, airing separate 30-minute conversations with both Kasim Reed and Mary Norwood.
The locale was a packed room at the historic Paschal’s Restaurant. Both candidates were preceded by a word from the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who was in town for a pair of protests against home foreclosures.
Jackson is neutral in the mayor’s race, and likened Atlanta’s contest to the Democratic primary bout between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. “It’s a good thing, so long as it’s civil,” he said.
Not much news was committed by either Reed or Norwood. (Fair warning: The Insider was the invited questioner during the portion with Reed.)
However, both candidates expounded on topics that had gone untouched. For Reed, it was whether gambling and casinos had any place in Atlanta. Said the former state senator:
I’m not in favor of it right now. Primarily, my opposition to gaming has been because of my religious beliefs, but I will share this: I think doing a gaming deal right now would be like selling your house right now. It would be a bad deal. The reason is, the offers the game companies would make to Atlanta right now would be low-ball offers that would not be worth the damage that’s done to our city long-term.
About three to four years ago, the gaming opportunities were so mind-blowing that anyone who’s reasonable would have to consider them. They would have to be back to where they were again for me to consider gaming. I think that we’re better this. I think there are other opportunities that are clearly available for Atlanta.
For Norwood, it was the topic of both charter and single-sex schools:
I have been a strong advocate for charter schools. I’ve been a strong advocate for innovation…I do love people being able to think outside the box and have some different rules….Other cities have many more charter schools than Atlanta does right now, and we have buildings that are vacant.
We need to be very thoughtful about what our resources are, and how we can best educate our children….I’m also a big proponent of single-sex schools. I went to a girls college for two years, and I understand the difference in single-sex education.
One of the more telling sights this at Paschal’s this morning could be found outside. Yard signs for both candidates were scattered up and down the restaurant’s property. But Reed’s signs included this: “Paid for by the Democratic Party of Georgia.”
Apparently to meet multi-candidate requirements that apply to spending, the fine print on the signs also encouraged votes for state Sen. Vincent Fort and state Rep. Kathy Ashe, both of Atlanta.
Neither is on the ballot Tuesday. State lawmakers stand for elections in even years, not odd ones.
The yard signs are a reminder that the state Democratic party remains a significant player in this race for mayor – though we probably won’t know how significant until after the votes are counted.
There are other indications that Reed is closing with a partisan argument. The blog Georgia Liberal has posted a Reed flyer that advertises the state senator’s status as a Democrat and also includes an image of Barack Obama.
On the flip side is the headline: “Mary Norwood isn’t a Democrat.”
If you’re in a position to send a pdf of the flyer, we’d be much obliged.
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141 comments Add your comment
Kasim Fan
November 30th, 2009
1:23 pm
Kasim Reed did excellent in yesterday’s debate. Norwood is out of her league.
Carole
November 30th, 2009
1:25 pm
I don’t see how anyone could vote for Mary Norwood. She’s been on the City Council for 8 years and has accomplished nothing.
Altanta John
November 30th, 2009
1:27 pm
Mary Norwood = Sarah Pailn. Atlanta deserves better.
atlantasfuture
November 30th, 2009
1:28 pm
Let’s end the Corruption a la Bill Campbell.
KASIM REED = 4 MORE YEARS OF TAXES WASTED and THE CITY EXPLOITED.
I voted Shirley FRANKLIN in twice – 2nd time was a MISTAKE.
MARY NORWOOD all the way.
I Love Mary and so does Atlanta
November 30th, 2009
1:28 pm
Go, Mary! Fight, Win, Score! My vote is ready for Mary Norwood tomorrow. ATLANTA NEEDS CHANGE!!!
Jane
November 30th, 2009
1:30 pm
Kasim will win tomorrow. Mary can’t remember if she voted for Bush and Reagan and she can’t remember her record either.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
1:30 pm
Kasim Reed did very good on the debate I thought Norwood was so scare to stand up to Reed and she was caught several time lieing on the debate especially with the robocalls and also with pension deal.
Norwood is just like the republicans
atlantasfuture
November 30th, 2009
1:32 pm
Jim, are you a paid staffer yet on Kasim’s team? You are a disappointment. Outside of lots of hits on this site, you are a disgrace to what journalism experts call Objectivity.
Have fun up in Kennesaw with your HS marching band.
Nash K
November 30th, 2009
1:32 pm
No objective personal can vote for Norwood. She an intellectual lightweight.
Jasmine Young
November 30th, 2009
1:34 pm
Jesse Jackson is not neutral in this race.
atlantasfuture
November 30th, 2009
1:36 pm
KASIM, where is your dignity and ethics? Any 38 year old paid $1 Million by a law firm has his HANDS IN TOO MANY POCKETS.
EVEN LISA BORDERS SAID SO: “Today I call upon Mr. REED to make the same promises I challenged him to make on Friday morning. “I call upon Mr. Reed to make the following promise: that he will not allow any city business to be contracted with or performed by Holland and Knight or any client that he has personally represented; that he will allow any existing contract to expire by its own terms; that he will not continue to employ his brother Tracy Reed in the Mayor’s Office or in City Hall, and; that he will follow my lead and promise to introduce legislation to further strengthen our ethics rules by making such conflicts of interest permanently illegal.”
I Love Mary and so does Atlanta
November 30th, 2009
1:37 pm
MARYNORWOOD MARYNORWOOD MARYNORWOOD MARYNORWOOD MARYNORWOOD
Get used to it.
Go, Mary!!!!!
atlantasfuture
November 30th, 2009
1:38 pm
THE INSIDERS BETTER START SHREDDING THEIR DOCUMENTS… THESE DEALS AND THEIR LINED POCKETS ARE YEARS IN THE MAKING.
NO BID SOLUTIONS ARE OUT
MARY NORWOOD IS IN!
Red Clay
November 30th, 2009
1:40 pm
I wanted to support Mary, but had to come to terms with the fact that she’s an airhead. Kasim is what’s best for the city.
AH
November 30th, 2009
1:42 pm
Although I don’t agree with Jim on his writing all the time and I know sometimes people have attacked him through out this election for being biased, I just wanted to say thanks Jim. You gave us all something to blog about, even the staffers from both campaigns.
I dread the end of the election season as much as I dread the end of football season.
Mary Mary
November 30th, 2009
1:45 pm
Did Mary really disclose her tax returns? Has anyone seen them????
I hate liars.
Bloggist Formerly Known as RJ
November 30th, 2009
1:46 pm
@Kasim Fan
We’re electing a mayor, not a Debate Team coach. Slick, polished responses– no doubt “focus group” tested– are not part of the job qualifications.
Vote Norwood and let Reed go back to using his panache in the courtroom fighting for big corporations.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
1:51 pm
Reed would bring change in the city hall by get rid of Norwood she is disgrace to Atlanta.
We need a demoncrate not a make believe republican
Vote for Reed
So True
November 30th, 2009
1:51 pm
Mary will win, nobody wants that crony Reed…every voter knows he’s the same old “behind the scenes” crook in the making like the last few mayors. Atlanta wants CHANGE! Not 4 more years of Franklin’s Reed!
Interesting....
November 30th, 2009
1:53 pm
NO BID SOLUTIONS ARE OUT????
Mary “No Bid One Call” Norwood is the only one who pads her pockets with taxpayer and campaign money.
Mary is the only one personally gaining from her work at City Hall and running for mayor.
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
2:01 pm
I love how these Reed campaign volunteers are clogging up the comments section. LEARN GRAMMAR! You make your candidate look dumb. And, no one will read all your copy + paste comments. There’s no depth to any argument y’all make.
VOTE NORWOOD! Her campaign can use grammar!
Dave
November 30th, 2009
2:05 pm
Kasim Reed = Kanye West
Mary Norwood = Taylor Swift
Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis
November 30th, 2009
2:08 pm
Galloway must be hating to see this election come to an end as it has lined up his pockets up well I’m sure. His objectivity in this race has hardly been apparent. He may as well just post Kasim’s entire website on here for everyone.
Undecided until last night
November 30th, 2009
2:15 pm
I voted for Lisa Borders initially. I think she was the best candidate, but unfortunately, that’s become a non issue.
Mary Norwood’s performance last night was beyond pathetic. I initially was on the fence, and was leaning heavily towards her. However, given her aweful performance in last night’s and previous debates, I cannot in good faith vote for her. She lacks the ability to effectively communicate and she becomes easily and visibly shaken under pressure. I’m still amazed at how she got so far in the election. She lacks presence and poise and has deplorable communication skills. Someone should have really worked with her prior to last night’s debate. She couldn’t even pronounce divisive appropriately! She’s clearly not ready to be on the national or global stage as The City’s next Mayor.
Neither candidate was my original choice, but Mary Norwood is defintiely not the person I want representing me as Mayor. Atlanta is a world city and we need someone who can effectively represent us on a local, national and international level.
AH
November 30th, 2009
2:18 pm
I’m sticking solidly by my original candidate.
Clark Howard for Mayor.
Jamal
November 30th, 2009
2:19 pm
I voted for Lisa Borders and I was very disappointed when she endorsed Kasim Reed, I wish she would have just stayed out of it after her defeat. I said I wasn’t going to vote in the runoff if Lisa wasn’t in it, however over the last few weeks I have saw Mary Norwood over four times in my area and spoken with her twice, sure she doesn’t seem to be the smartest person in the world, but she does come off as being genuine,real, and cares for this city(north/south/and everything inbetween). I will be voting for Mary Norwood this time, people have called her an airhead among other things in this very same comment spot, however I think that it is time for a little mix up at city hall, I voted for Shirley Franklin twice and would vote for her two more times if I could, I think she is/has been a great mayor. The thing that really made me decide to vote for Mary is the fact that she stated she would pick a new police chief from within APD, I think this is a great thing, I have been on the force for 3 years now and it would be nice to have a chief that came up through the ranks here in Atlanta, this is something that would really boost moral within the department, no need for a national search as Kasim said he would do, whats the point in that when you have very well trained/qualified people already on the force that knows this city like the back of their hand, this is the major reason that I will be voting for Mary.
MARY FOR MAYOR
Rick
November 30th, 2009
2:21 pm
Please tuesday come quick so these Norwood supporter would be crying to see Kasim Reed become our mayor
Rick
November 30th, 2009
2:34 pm
Jamal is one of thes blogger is using more then 2 names on here to confuse voters and he also is a Norwood staff
Ira in East Lake
November 30th, 2009
2:35 pm
I voted for Kasim the first time around.
Not sure he’s getting my vote this time though.
I don’t like his race-baiting or the attacks during the debates.
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
2:38 pm
An elected official is supposed to be a public servant, not a show-face, “above the voter” leader who thinks everyone looks up to them. No, they are supposed to be below the voter, and do the dirty work for the community. An elected official should practice “service leadership.”
Reed has not shown me that he will get down and dirty behind the scenes unless there’s a camera crew around to praise him and dang near EVERY “reverend” (anyone can use that title…I don’t see why people use it as if it makes them look better than the common folk) around behind him getting publicity for their money-making church.
Norwood has been running around town to every mom and pop store, every home, every street corner, and every bar to personally meet AND SPEAK to the voters, without the need for a film crew. I swear she’s either on crack with all that energy, or a true public servant. I like to belive she’s a true public servant who would practice service leadership, and not pompous “country club membership” politics.
She may live next door to a Buckhead Betty, but she ain’t one. Reed’s fancy cars and condos make him more Buckhead Betty than Norwood and her 10+ year old granny Buick. Sometimes the odd ball is the best bet. Norwood is that odd ball…Reed is the continuation of errors.
Logically
November 30th, 2009
2:38 pm
I don’t see how anyone can justify putting Norwood in office.
None of her supporters can make a reasonable case. She has no talent… no merit… and has done NOTHING in the 8 years she has been in City Hall except make excuses.
She doesn’t have the respect of her peers. She doesn’t have the trust of her colleagues.
Besides her claiming to be an outsider and “being in the neighborhoods fighting for the people of Atlanta” what has she done?
Her supporters say she works so hard….but at what? She doesn’t have much of a resume.
I want someone who can build a consensus. Someone who can get Atlanta on the right track with relationships at the state and nationally.
Doesn’t sound like Mary to me.
I Love Mary and so does Atlanta
November 30th, 2009
2:45 pm
City of Atlanta government already has a “consensus”–and we want them out!
Go, Mary!
Thelma Jackson.
November 30th, 2009
2:46 pm
Over the years Atlanta has changed. The New Atlanta now consists of educated and politically aware individuals. In spite of the lies, mud-slinging and race-card games, on tommorrow the majority of Atlanta will vote for the best qualified person MARY NORWOOD.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
2:58 pm
Look who talking Thelma Jackson I wondering if you the lady she paid to show up in her campaign rally. Look how Norwood staff on here using different name to confuse voters just like there boss Norwood confuse dont know how to run a campaign she always saying the other camp or I thought.
Vote for Reed
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
3:08 pm
@Rick…your writing show lack of a proper education. Reed would appreciate it if you distanced his name from your run-on sentences, irregular pronoun usage, and disrespect for lexical cohesion. No one will support a man who’s marketing material is YOU and your writing skills. Wait…Aren’t you [the false] “Gay Voter” from a week ago who lost all hope in life because Mary didn’t vote on that day of the consensus? Another Reed crook bites the dust! Stay tuned for the illegible rants of Rick (a.k.a Gay Voter, a.k.a Reed this and that, etc.)
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:09 pm
Norwood is only showing up in the black neighborhood that why when the election over you would not see her in the black area she only using black people for votes. Norwood staff on here saying Reed is just like Shirley Franklin how would Reed is like Shirley which he work for the state not the city. Norwood is worse then Shirley
Mark
November 30th, 2009
3:11 pm
Rick Please go back to school and learn to read and write.
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
3:17 pm
“Norwood is worse than Shirley.” Rick, let’s analyze that argument you just made. The Hon. Shirley Franklin’s campaign for mayor was twice managed by your “God”, Kasim Reed. So, in fact, your “man” installed Shirley into office twice. Yet you admit that Shirley is not up to par (that’s English for “performing well”) by stating that Norwood is “worse than Shirley.” If Shirley is not a good mayor in your opinion, why would you support the man who twice helped to put her in office? You make no sense. You’re only helping the Norwood campaign by a) writing like a 3rd grader and b) contradicting your own stance.
Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis
November 30th, 2009
3:18 pm
People like Rick are all staff members for Kasim Reed and it reflects in the way they speak and type.
Roekest
November 30th, 2009
3:22 pm
MESSAGE TO KASIM REED SUPPORTERS:
Please, please, please, PLEASE learn proper grammar. Reading your posts is as painful as dental surgery without the Novocain. See what I did there? I properly constructed a sentence. Do you know what a sentence is???
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:24 pm
I am in no way affiliated with the Reed campaign. I am simply an ardent supporter. It saddens me the way you all mock my writing style on these comment threads. English is not my first language and it is sometimes difficult for me to write my thoughts. Just because I don’t articulate my opinions well (Mary Norwood doesn’t either) it doesn’t give anyone the right to make fun of me.
Glad I do no live in Atlanta
November 30th, 2009
3:25 pm
Title says it all.
Atticus Finch
November 30th, 2009
3:27 pm
I’m glad you don’t either, though I’m pretty sure you benefit from our prosperity. Now get off our blogs!
Signed
Angry Gay White Atlantan
P.S. Kasim Reed for Mayor!
Michael
November 30th, 2009
3:30 pm
Jim, you are so biased. Why don’t you just get a job with the Reed campaign, eventhough you probably are already being paid by Kasim the thug anyway. You are a disgrace to journalism, which is probably why you have a job with the AJC.
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
3:31 pm
YAY! I’m so proud of you, Rick, for constructing a sentence. Now if only you refrain from bashing Norwood and making fun of her, then the world shall do unto you what you do unto others. But, I am very proud that you wrote a sentence using periods
The Mayor After Norwood
November 30th, 2009
3:33 pm
They both promise changes in crime, but I think we all know that a promise from a politician is a statement of what will NOT happen. Interestingly enough,
Reed = Insider
Norwood = Commerce
The reason Norwood is not an insider is because powers that be WANT Norwood to not be an insider. Watch how many investigations into the past 10 years come out of Norwood in office.
She will clean up the mess.
Atticus Finch
November 30th, 2009
3:34 pm
@Michael
Can you please explain how Kasim Reed is a thug? Is that the new code word for that God-awful word our Southern ancestors used to describe my darker brother and sisters? You know the n word that rhymes with bigger…I am tired of you people trying to bash this man.
There is nothing about him that even remotely resembles a “thug”. He is one of the most accomplished state legislators in the metro area.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:36 pm
Why do you think you are important? Has Mary Norwood promised you something too?
Intown lib
November 30th, 2009
3:39 pm
So now it’s unethical to be a good and successful lawyer who gets paid alot? Whaa?
I’m highly educated, white, and live in the 6th District. I’m voting for Reed AGAIN tomorrow.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:40 pm
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:24 pm
I am in no way affiliated with the Reed campaign. I am simply an ardent supporter. It saddens me the way you all mock my writing style on these comment threads. English is not my first language and it is sometimes difficult for me to write my thoughts. Just because I don’t articulate my opinions well (Mary Norwood doesn’t either) it doesn’t give anyone the right to make fun of me.
Look I knew Norwood staff would use my name to attack me I was once a undecided voter I was leaning toward Norwood that why I am going to vote for Reed because how Norwood staff on here bashing voters on here.
Norwood staff it a done deal Reed is going to win,
I just seen the polls that the undecided voters was for Borders they are going towards Reed.
Norwood staff on here are disgrace and they act like fools on here.
Norwood win I am moving from Atlanta with the rest of the white supporters for Reed
Atticus Finch
November 30th, 2009
3:40 pm
@Intown lib
You make a lot of sense. There is nothing wrong with Reed and people are using the black brute, boogeyman v. the helpless white damsel against him. This is truly shameful in 2009.
asudst1992
November 30th, 2009
3:45 pm
“Rick”,
Please, please, please stop posting these idiotic and poorly written posts. WOW! I really hope you are joking around and not actually this unintelligent!
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:46 pm
What it be like with all the people get mad at me, go Kasim Reed of Mayor!!
The Mayor After Norwood
November 30th, 2009
3:47 pm
No promises in politics should be listened to no matter the source…Now, I promised to myself that when I left the Air Force in 2006 that I would take the Mayor’s Mansion in some location where it was needed the most. I just happened to find employment here and google a little bit too much. If you think the backbone of smoke and mirror politics in web journalism go unnoticed, then you might want to consider who builds the web journalism networks.
The problem is that David Axelrod’s use of web “journalism” isn’t quite that of Air Force trained software developers with attention to detail. That guy is the most readable and predictable man in IT.
As for me being important, I’m not sure what you are implying.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:49 pm
It’s a joke asudst1992. I am an avid fan of political satire.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:51 pm
I live in Vine City….Mary comes into our neighborhood and has been for the past 6 years. She knocks on the crack house doors…calls code enforcement…cleans up the streets. She actually does care about everyone. I have never seen Kasim Reed in my neighborhood until last week…at the Kathryn Johnston memorial. He looked out of his element and does not understand what our neighborhood really needs. More educated people are voting for Mary Norwood. I am a lawyer and I have my masters in urban planning. Mary has the right attitude and spirit to be our next Mayor. Kasim is a career politician…who managed Shirley
’s campaigns. Sounds like Shirley all over again.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:52 pm
I would never vote for a lady name Mary norwood who been in office for 8 yrs and she has miss alot of vote for the city ordnance .
Norwood has furlough police dept, and she help close 20 recreation center down in the poorest neighborhood. I wondering why would someone vote for a person who dont have a clue how to run a big city like atlanta.
Kasim Reed might not the best man for the job but he is definitely better then Mary Norwood which has been in the city political machine for 8 yrs doing nothing for this city. She has accuse for everything she remind me of Sarah Palin. I bet Norwood is a republican.
Vote for Reed Dec 1, 2009
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:53 pm
Mary Norwood for a better more inclusive atlanta!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:53 pm
Mary Norwood loves all people
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:53 pm
Mary Norwood pays her taxes on time
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:54 pm
Mary Norwood is from Georgia not New Jersey
TP4U
November 30th, 2009
3:54 pm
The world will be watching the City of Atlanta residents vote for either emotional rhetoric or competence and leadership. I for one would like to hear from my friends outside of Georgia say to me that God you did the right thing and voted in competence and leadership. Even the outside world knows Ms. Norwood is not ready to lead the City of Atlanta. However, her great skill sets still could be utilized in Community Affairs or Media Relations. Not Mayor. This is not a beauty contest, nor is it a popularity contest. Experience and responsible leadership do matter.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:54 pm
Kasim just moved here within the past two years…south fulton is not the city of Atlanta
Rick
November 30th, 2009
3:56 pm
James Doyle what white woman would go in the worst neighborhood knocking on crackhead doors you can lie better then that. I have friends live in Vine City and they never seen Norwood in that neighborhood. If she a city council would you think she suppose to see what going on in her district. James you are lieing and the true should be told.
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
3:56 pm
@Intown Lib and Atticus Finch: Reed was walking a fine line on being rude and disrespectful to Norwood in his campaign and debates. He is a thug. And, no, it’s not a racial phrase to be compared to the “n-word.” “Thug” is widely used by our darker brothers and sisters. It takes two to tango.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:56 pm
Kasim Reed is more qualified than Mary Norwood, but Mary has been in my community with Able Mable Thomas. I don’t know Kasim, but I know Mary. Kasim should stay in his place and let Mary be the Mayor, she knows the citizens in Atlanta.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:58 pm
People outside of Atlanta do not understand the problems in Atlanta. People outside of Atlanta do not live in Atlanta. People outside of Atlanta have no business picking our Mayor. People outside of Atlanta would be shocked to see the real Atlanta…ie. dirty streets, more vacant homes than we know what to do with, a 7 year supply of condos, a terrible commercial real estate market. People outside of Atlanta should worry about their own City
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:58 pm
People outside of Atlanta do not understand the problems in Atlanta. People outside of Atlanta do not live in Atlanta. People outside of Atlanta have no business picking our Mayor. People outside of Atlanta would be shocked to see the real Atlanta…ie. dirty streets, more vacant homes than we know what to deal with, a 7 year supply of condos, a terrible commercial real estate market. People outside of Atlanta should worry about their own City
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
3:59 pm
People outside of Atlanta know nothing about Atlanta….if they lived here and had experienced living here…they would actually Vots for Mary Norwood
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:00 pm
Kasim is more qualified than Mary, but she has promised me that she’ll be at my beck and call when she gets elected.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:01 pm
Thankful Kasim Reed will represent the interests of black people and not you other kind who want destroy dis city. Come see me if problem wit anything I say, suckas!
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:02 pm
James Doyle why have norwood disclose her taxes, Mary Norwood using black people for votes, Mary Norwood from Augusta Georgia but she not from Atlanta, Shirley Franklin from Philly but she was elected mayor here so Mr. Doyle what are you trying to come up with. Reed love everyone also did you hear him on the debate.
Norwood was so awful on the debate I had could not but to laugh so hard at her and even the host was laughing at her she sound like somebody told her what to say on the debate she got confuse what to say.
Shemeika
November 30th, 2009
4:02 pm
I live in Vine City and I am voting for Mary Norwood. Kasim really killed it for me last night. I have spoken with Mary Norwood several times at several functions and I believe that she truly cares. I have been approached by several Reed supporters who have never met Kasim or seen Kasim in our neighborhood. They told me they are voting for him because he is a black man. I completely understand their reasoning…Black men have historically been given the shaft economically, politically, socially….but it certainly is not enough of a reason to vote for Kasim. Mary Norwood helped my neighbors out after the Tornado and she continues to help out neighborhood. Thanks Mary. We love you in vine city
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
4:04 pm
@Rick: I’m falling in love with you LOL
Satire is soup for the soul!
Shemeika
November 30th, 2009
4:04 pm
MARY NORWOOD FOR ALL THE NEIGHBORHOODS OF ATLANTA…not just buckhead, midtown, downtown, or cascade
atlantagirl
November 30th, 2009
4:05 pm
The reality is that Lisa Borders has shown up for more events supporting Kasim Reed (in a month) than she ever did for events while she was city council president (for many years).
asudst1992
November 30th, 2009
4:05 pm
“Rick”,
Thank God, but one can never be too sure these days. LOL
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:07 pm
Mr. Doyle your girl Norwood been in office for 8yrs she had plenty of time to clean up the mess in the city. Why did she run against Franklin 4 yrs ago if she knew this city was in bad shape. Why have she bust Franklin out in public eye to let us know what Shirley doing bad business for this city. Norwood had plenty time to go against Shirley in the last of Franklin election.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:08 pm
I am a successful Lawyer I do not need Mary at my beck and call. I am not voting for Kasim so Rick stop using my name. I WILL NOT BE VOTING FOR KASIM REED. He does not understand the plight of poorer less prominent neighborhoods in Atlanta. I will be voting for Mary Norwood who actually comes into our neighborhoods and speaks to everyone like they matter. Rick you are desperate to use my name….very desperate.
The Mayor After Norwood
November 30th, 2009
4:08 pm
“Thankful Kasim Reed will represent the interests of black people and not you other kind who want destroy dis city. Come see me if problem wit anything I say, suckas!”
Yeah, um, I have a problem what you are saying ya racist prick….good enough for you?
Zane
November 30th, 2009
4:11 pm
I live in Npu L…better known as the bluff area. Our councilman does not really take an active interest in our neighborhood. He is only present when he is campaigning. I have had several great experiences with Mary Norwood and she is who I will be casting my vote for tomorrow. I really do not know much about Kasim Reed other than he is quite a successful lawyer who represents corporations. I saw him last week in English Avenue and he seemed rather uncomfortable and it became apparent he did not understand what the people want in my area. We need a mayor that will concentrate on the vacancy rate and the homeownership rate. Mary understands both of those issues. No offense to Kasim…seem well qualified just a little out of touch with my area.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:13 pm
Someone answer my question why did Norwood go against Shirley Franklin in the last 4 yrs ago election against shirley franklin if she knew Atlanta was in bad shape. Norwood is scared of Shirley Franklin she was to scare to stand up to Franklin.
If I was Reed last nite I would ask her why did you Norwood run against Franklin the past 4 yrs election if you knew this great city was in bad shape under Shirley Franklin. Norwood keep saying Franklin has mess up our city but she scare to stand up to Franklin.
Cutty
November 30th, 2009
4:14 pm
A lot of people on here from both campaigns will be out of job this time tomorrow. Hopefully they will use the time to take some English classes at Atlanta Metro.
Jamesdoyle
November 30th, 2009
4:14 pm
Everyone knows that running against an incumbent is political suicide. The problems with Shirley came to light more over the past 4 years then the first. Mary was doing her job as an at large councilwoman…and was not focusing on becoming mayor at the time. She was only at large councilwoman that came into our neighborhood. I live in an area that needs someone like Mary…..we didnt see Shirley after the tornado…we didnt see young after the tornado…we saw Mary.
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
4:16 pm
James Doyle is “Hot Lawyer”
Laura
November 30th, 2009
4:17 pm
@Rick The most confusing things on this board are your poorly written posts. Half the time I have to read what you’ve written more than once to make sense of it. Honestly I just feel bad for you at this point. Win or lose tomorrow, you will still sound ignorant and uneducated. Go back to school, help yourself to a better future.
@Michael I’m sure those workers comp victims Reed went up against in court call him a thug everyday. He has encouraged an attitude of bullying and racial division in our city. While I might not call him a “thug”, a nice suit and a excellent education doesn’t hide the act that he engages in bad politics.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:19 pm
Grant Park Resident you sound like the same person as James doyle these Norwood staff on here using different name to confuse voters on here.
I bet some of these bloggers using different name who supporting norwood
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:19 pm
Zane,
Is you live in NPU L, who is the chairperson for the NPU? Kasim Reed is more qualified than Mary, but it is time for white leadership in Atlanta. Black leadership has run its course.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:20 pm
@Laura
What bad politics has Kasim engaged in?
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:20 pm
Laura you probably are some racist white lady voting for Norwood just cause. Kasim for Mayor!
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:21 pm
After the tornado, Ivory Young and Ceasar Mitchell responded and were on hand to offer help sponsored by Home Depot and Mary showed up for the photo-ops and press exposure.
Cutty
November 30th, 2009
4:22 pm
Norwood supporters:
“Never mistake activity for achievement.”
-John Wooden
Will Jones - Atlanta Jeffersonian Exegesis
November 30th, 2009
4:22 pm
People like Rick are why Kasim Reed will lose the election. They are uninformed and simply voting for the black candidate.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:22 pm
Rick…where do you live? just curious…I have been telling you where I live….just want to know….because I have to tell you…If I lived in a more affluent area of the city I may not have understand the importance of getting the right person into office. I think if I lived in Buckhead…I would not have needed Ms. Norwood at all….I would not have called her office for anything. Since I do live in a changing neighborhood I needed her….so my decision is based on the property that I own…the community I live in…and the fact that Mary does not allow her religion to get involved in her decisions about gay marriage. So Rick if you live in an affluent area I would understand why you would vote for Kasim…you probably never needed Mary.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:23 pm
I am the real Rick. Someone is using my i.d. to make me and other Reed supporters look bad.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:25 pm
I need Ms. Norwood to be at my beck and call, because she always answers the phone. She never has really done anything tangible besides tranferring me to the appropriate city department, but I needed her for that. Other councilmembers are too busy doing legislation to try to bring about real change, so I don’t like to call them because they aren’t at my beck and call. I NEED Mary to be Mayor!
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:26 pm
Once again someone is using my name….Mary went to 235 Vine Street, 112 Vine Street, 639 magnolia, 665 Delbridge…helped cut trees down at 205 elm street. Cleaned up debris, etc…..the money from Home Depot is a totally different story….I would rather not go into how it was spent…the community is still figuring that out. My neighbor next door had his roof repaired by the contractors hired through the home depot money and he had to have it all redone. MARY NORWOOD FOR MAYOR…the end!
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:26 pm
I live right in da heart of the 4th Ward..vote Kasim and let’s put brick to Norwood and her campaign!! We bringing everyone back.
Dis is the real Rick
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:26 pm
Don’t worry about where I live. It’s not the best of places either, but I chose to live there and I know nothing changes overnight.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:27 pm
Rick….I can agree with you on something someone is using my name too. I am not using your name….as I think that is a complete waste. We are all adults..and we are all entitled to opinions.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:28 pm
But Rick have you ever asked your council people to help you? Any council person? It does make a difference…and believe me neighborhoods do change rather quickly. Just look at Vine City
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:28 pm
Ok now, I am sick of the Norwood jackers stealing my i.d. I am the real Rick and the Norwood people are out in mass posting under my name to make me and other Reed supporters look bad.
I am tired of this lady and her shady tactics. How in the world was she able to pay her own company $90,000 and nobody say anything about it?
shirley
November 30th, 2009
4:28 pm
Rick, please stop with your bad grammer when supporting Kasim. It’s confusing and does not add to the debate for those still undecided in voting tomorrow with your rhetoric. Thanks!
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:29 pm
Laura=Teela is Zee Bradford Norwood campaign advisor she use to work for Bill Campbell now she working for Norwood machine politic’s.
Laura I bet one thing I smarter then Norwood I know how to lie good.
Teach Norwood how to announce words on the debate correctly and please teach her how to lie>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Teela.
She was lieing so bad on the debate, Norwood starting shaken so bad when bust her out on the robocalls, furlough, recreation center closing, and the city pension, and no vote for same sex beneficiary.
Laura=Teela this what you need to laugh at a complete fool like Norwood
Be the change you want to see in office.
November 30th, 2009
4:30 pm
James Doyle, parts of South Fulton are within the city limits of Atlanta. I am enjoying both sides of the debate, today. However, please make certain that you have all facts in place before you make a claim. It helps your argument.
Also, it is good to see a healthy, clean debate. When you are hitting below the belt with comments in regards to grammatical errors, it makes us no better than the mud-slinging politicians that we all claim to hate. Be the change you want to see in office.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:30 pm
Shirley,
I am the real Rick and I think the Norwood supporters are using my name to make me and other Reed supporters look bad.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:30 pm
The fourth ward is home to more affluent people than not….I would not need to call my council people living there unless I was off boulevard
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:31 pm
Well thanks for the compliment whoever you maybe…its a shame no one uses their real full name on this post. Its also a shame people hide behind stolen names…what does that say?
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:32 pm
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:28 pm
Ok now, I am sick of the Norwood jackers stealing my i.d. I am the real Rick and the Norwood people are out in mass posting under my name to make me and other Reed supporters look bad.
I am tired of this lady and her shady tactics. How in the world was she able to pay her own company $90,000 and nobody say anything about it?
This what you call Norwood supporter doing on the blogg,
I wondering if she paying my tax money to her staff to come on here to attack voters.
Look how they trying to attack me.
Ha Ha Ha Norwood campaign staff is disgrace to atlanta
Laura
November 30th, 2009
4:32 pm
@James Doyle
This is a nonpartisan race and if Kasim Reed were an upstanding politician he would’ve refused the Democratic Party’s money and campaign materials.
His manipulations of the racial tensions in Atlanta have helped him, but potentially cause long term damage to the city’s racial climate.
He is either directly instructing his volunteers and campaign workers to remove Norwood signs and harass her supporters or turning a blind eye to their actions. When presented with evidence of these transgressions he hasn’t even made a show of trying to rectify the situation.
These examples and more show the kind of politician and man he is.
@Rick. White Racist or not, it doesn’t change your situation. Go take a class somewhere. The only reason I can imagine you have so much time to continually write comments on these blogs is you don’t have a job, your command of the English language may have an impact on that.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:32 pm
I know Reed is more qualified, but aren’t you all tired of black leaders in Atlanta. They’ve messed up enough.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:32 pm
Its a shame no one uses their own name on this thing…What does that say about people>?
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:33 pm
again….my name is being used…this mayor run has nothing to do with race. its about the neighborhoods of atlanta
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:34 pm
James, this is Atlanta, it is chocolate city, why vote for unsmart white lady just cause she white. Kasim is the best candidate, black or white, glad he black tho.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:35 pm
Unfortunately Laura…I am not the one saying anything about Race. I am the James Brennan Doyle who lives in Vine City at 665 Delbridge Street I have nothing to hide. I am the lawyer who represents several police officers against the city in workers compensation cases. Someone is using my name…I do not think race has anything to do with the run for mayor. Its about the people….its about the neighborhoods…its about all the neighborhoods.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:38 pm
Once again….I moved here because it was chocolate city…so my wife of 10 years would feel more comfortable and we wouldnt feel like being any interracial couple was such a big deal. I was wrong about some things…but all in all Atlanta has been good to use…except for the job market at one point for both of us…someone is using my name. I would definitely like to see them at my house tonight at 665 delbridge…and maybe I can give them a lesson or two about the improper use of people’s names.
Sarah
November 30th, 2009
4:38 pm
Rick sounds like a real racist prick.
Davis
November 30th, 2009
4:38 pm
We all know the adage, ‘The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over, yet expecting different results. Since when is ANY city, Black OR White?, someone making that statement should prompt voters to vote against such racism and for a new tone. It doesn’t take a brain surgeon to understsand that anyone who was a campaign manager for Frankiln is anything but a clone, you vote for Reed and NOTHING will change and the ‘inherited’, ‘birthright’ political machine will go on and on. It’s perfectly clear to me that Mary Norwood should be a shoein for the simple reason of the need to bring new blood, not black blood, not white blood BUT NEW blood to the city of Atlanta. On December 1st, stand out from the crowd. Give an outsider a chance, VOTE NORWOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:41 pm
Sarah, you don know me. I’m voting for Kasim bc he black but also bc he is better candidate, even you know that.
Laura
November 30th, 2009
4:42 pm
@Rick, yea I don’t know who those people are. I think I’ve seen Teela’s handle on here before, but it isn’t me. Lots of people comment on this board with the same opinions, it doesn’t mean they are the same person.
I sympathize with your problem of someone jacking your handle, but I would think someone with such a problem would be hesitant to make accusations about others’ handles.
I apologize for poking fun at your grammar. Another commenter pointed out by making such attacks we are no better than the mud-slinging politicians. I do however, maintain that you have poor grammar and should attempt to improve it.
Finally, this is my real name and I never have, nor will I ever, use another.
Laura
November 30th, 2009
4:45 pm
@ James Doyle- I was replying to a post obviously made under a high-jacker that actually didn’t address race.
It simply asked what kind of bad politics has Kasim Reed engaged in.
You’re a brave soul for posting your address.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:46 pm
Rick I moved her because it was chocolate city. My wife and I are an interracial couple….we wanted to go somewhere where we would grow as a couple socially, economically…and we didnt want people to judge us on the color of our shell….that is why we came to Atlanta. I am the James Doyle that lives at 665 delbridge. I am not the person on here using James Doyle’s name…I have nothing to hide. My wife and I are voting for Mary Norwood because when we need something done in Vine City…her office responds. Ivory is nice…but woefully ineffective at certain things…he is very effective around election time though
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:48 pm
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:26 pm
I live right in da heart of the 4th Ward..vote Kasim and let’s put brick to Norwood and her campaign!! We bringing everyone back.
Dis is the real Rick
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:26 pm
Don’t worry about where I live. It’s not the best of places either, but I chose to live there and I know nothing changes overnight
Ha Ha Ha look how Norwood staff attacking me…..Ha Ha Ha I love it every minute I see them attacking me. Teela is sound like a fool on here trying to use her ignorant comments towards me Ha Ha Ha Teela it will be over with soon when Reed will become mayor of Atlanta
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:50 pm
I never posted anything about Kasim Reeds bad politics. That was probably someone else. Kasim reed does have his religious beliefs which is completely entitled too…but I have many gay friends who are not happy about having his religious beliefs clouding his judgement on the gay marriage issue. I believe in equal rights for all…bad politics is not furthering Kings message…..it was not long ago that a white man could not marry a black woman and vice vers…VA vs. Loving… race religion, sexuality should not stand in the way of marriage
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:52 pm
I posted my address because you know….it is my address and I am proud of myself and the neighborhood I live in. Again will the hijacker who used my name please come to my house at 6pm….I will be there with bells on. Shemeika will be home from work and we will bake cookies for your racist ass.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:55 pm
Hijacker get scared of the truth…the truth is…I am a white man—-what a surprise—-I do live at 665 delbridge—-my wife is black—-i maintain my property—-ive needed Mary Norwood a lot and she has come through….for my neighbors and I…..and if Kasim Reed does win tomorrow I will respect him and be willing to work with him. It is the responsibility of the constituents to work with the Mayor and keep them on their toes. So will the hijacker please come to my house tonight (665 Delbridge) so I can give him or her a lesson in civility. I have multiple cameras and a very strong woman at home—probably stronger than me…we would be happy to welcome you into our home…
Important Voter
November 30th, 2009
4:56 pm
James, can I pretend to be the hijacker for some cookies? BTW…Good seeing ya last night with Shemeika and Zane LOL
Rick
November 30th, 2009
4:57 pm
Look how Norwood staff on here attacking me I was leaning toward Norwood until last week. I was a Border supporter and also I was a undecided voter now I am supporting Reed because of Teela, Jackalope which work for Norwood who was on here attacking voters. They have call me stupid, dumb, literate, they call Reed a ghetto, thug, rapper.
That one reason I switch to Reed because of the bashing coming from Norwood camp.
Reed for mayor
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
4:59 pm
Hi=jacker Shemeika is actually making her famous pot roast tonight. If you have the gumption to show up tonight….we will feed you and give you lesson in civility. I do live at 665 delbridge Street…I am extremely approachable and not interested in any sort of physical altercation just a little discourse on civility. Again the address is 665 Delbridge NW Atlanta, Georgia 30314
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
5:00 pm
Thanks…nice seeing you too…
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
5:01 pm
Rick I may not agree with you on all fronts…but I am sick of the attacks and hijackers…I have posted my address and the jackers stopped. You should do the same…if you have cameras its even better.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
5:10 pm
Parts of South Fulton are the in the City of Atlanta but not the part that Kasim grew up in.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
5:15 pm
Ok…leaving work. Have an appointment with the hijacker at 6pm. I will be waiting for you with bells on. From what I gather dinners ready at the house. I will make sure we set the table for 3. I want a better city…I am not going to resort to attacking kasim…he does not deserve it…but I believe that Mary Norwood is the best person for the job. Again that address is 665 delbridge Street for any hijackers that want to discuss civility and using peoples names without permission or reason. If for any reason the hijacker gets lost he can call me at fourOfourfourfive2one98eight3 MARY NORWOOD FOR MARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
5:18 pm
Hey Jim Galloway….I hope the best person for the job wins tomorrow. Its unfortunate that you have infused your own belief about who should run a city that you do not even live in. But like I said earler if Kasim Reed wins I will be the best constituent that I can be. If Mary wins….I will be the best constituent I can be. Jim worry about the burbs dont worry about the people who live in this city.
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
5:22 pm
Enter your comments here
MC W
November 30th, 2009
5:23 pm
One more time now…for rememberances:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cugtdSrr4zM
James Doyle
November 30th, 2009
5:33 pm
Mary Norwood for MAYOR!!!!!!!
Andie
November 30th, 2009
5:59 pm
last appeal to everyone for CHANGE from the same ole same ole to a new direction that is inclusive of all Atlanta’s Citizens. Please vote her in as the next new mayor for the citizens of Atlanta; because she will listen, she will work with you, she will not lord herself over you and hide behind closed doors from you!
This time we really do need a hands on mayor, a mayor who participate with the common folks; and not separate herself as an untouchable mayor who hides from you; and becomes secretive once in! “Vote for Mary Norwood and speak up for change”
Remember we need 911 system overhauled (fixed)
We need a local selected police chief that knows what is going on in this city; that if selected by our new mayor Mary Norwood; this chief will quickly eradicate a great number of the crimes that are going on right now!
Mary will hire the police officers needed to take care of this city all over atlanta by actually bringing back patroling officers in our neighborhoods; to cut down crimes and to deter crimes.
Mary will open back the firehouses that were shut down!
We don’t someone like reed who talk a good game to try to get in so he can get his hands on the money! Please think deep before you touch that screen and change up Atlanta for all.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
6:49 pm
Stop makin fun of my writin skils i drop out of 6th grade cause the teacha embarras me in front of the hole class.
Rick
November 30th, 2009
6:53 pm
I guess i did a good job of rufflin fethers on dis blog the truth is i will reely be votin fir mary nowood on tommorrow.
MC W
November 30th, 2009
7:17 pm
Trite and pithy attacks aside, listen to this:
Please play long and hard about who you will be voting for tomorrow…God bless