Kasim Reed on extending Occupy Atlanta’s stay: Two out of three will suffice — for now
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed’s statement on why he’ll allow Occupy Atlanta to linger in Woodruff Park – two out of three’s not bad, he says:
”Civil disobedience is an appropriate form of expression, provided that it is peaceful, non-violent and lawful. As of today, the Occupy Atlanta protesters continue to assemble in a peaceful, non-violent fashion in Robert W. Woodruff Park. Therefore, I have extended the Executive Order allowing Occupy Atlanta to remain in Woodruff Park after the park closes. This Executive Order is effective through the adjournment of the next Atlanta City Council meeting on November 7, 2011.
“I remain committed to ensuring public safety and enforcing the laws of the city. The Atlanta Police Department and other city officials continue to monitor the park and the protesters. The Executive Order does not preclude the city from responding at will to changing conditions in the park or to any public safety issues. The city is prepared to act swiftly should the situation in the park so warrant.
“I am also cognizant of the concerns of neighboring businesses and residents about the effect of the protesters’ activity on the park and the surrounding area. The protesters cooperated with the city’s request to clean the park on Saturday; city crews pressure-washed the park’s hard-surfaces and removed litter and debris. The city will continue to maintain the park during the demonstration. My administration also will work with Occupy Atlanta members to minimize noise levels after 9 p.m. as a courtesy to downtown residents.”
- By Jim Galloway, Political Insider
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Reed Grants Occupy Atlanta Three More Weeks | Blog for Democracy
October 17th, 2011
8:56 pm
[...] grant three additional weeks to the Occupy Atlanta protesters camped out in Woodruff Park. The Mayors statement says: ”Civil disobedience is an appropriate form of expression, provided that it is peaceful, [...]
freddie
October 17th, 2011
9:01 pm
kasim reed should be fired..
freddie
October 17th, 2011
9:02 pm
is there a brain occupying kasim reeds skull?
freddie
October 17th, 2011
9:04 pm
why can i peacefully occupy a parking space for a month without getting fined..in fact, the city should provide a porta potty by my car for my usage for my disobedience..but when the city is run by —— for the benefit of —— causes, this is what you gt..rip atlanta
Jomama
October 17th, 2011
9:05 pm
Really like mayor Reed..Really disagree with him here..Peaceful protest do not include overnight privileges..Who is standing up for the rights of the intown residents, the landscaping of the park?
john
October 17th, 2011
9:06 pm
you sound like a troll….
william
October 17th, 2011
9:10 pm
Now that the precedent has been set, I hope and pray that groups Reed does not like occupy Woodruff Park and dare the police to evict them while screaming about discrimination. I see many lawsuits in the future of the city.
TruthBe
October 17th, 2011
9:10 pm
That’s not what the bigoted racist liberals and blacks said about the Tea Party Rallys. Total bias from the media and the government clowns like “Don’t let Whitie win” Reed. Mayor you are a paid public servant, and your job is to serve and protect the city not be a matt for the left-wing thugs. I guess your boss Obama and DNC called you Reed and told you to extend time in the park the gangs in the park.
Buzzard
October 17th, 2011
9:12 pm
So all I have to do is “protest” to do whatever I want within the city now? Ok, how about we protest the lack of dog parks within the city by converging upon one and declaring it off leash. We can chase away all the kids on the playground and people playing frisbee because I want a dog park! We’ll show up at 6am and wake up the neighborhood because its ALL ABOUT ME!!! While I’m at it, I also really dislike those silly open container laws. My ad hoc dog park will also have mandatory alcohol. I’ll carry some signs around about blah blah wallstreet and then we’re cool, right Mr. Mayor?
Kevin
October 17th, 2011
9:13 pm
Also, part of the oath of office you swore to include the words: “I will observe the provisions of the Charter, ordinances, and regulations of the City of Atlanta.”
You’ve legally violated this oath of office.
Boca Baby
October 17th, 2011
9:17 pm
I am thinking about starting “There is a fried egg on my shirt movement” It makes about as much sense as the occupiers. Please tell me, what is it that they stand for? And Obama is attempting to ride the coat-tails of this movement? How apropos that would be! Nobody knew exactly what he stood for when he ran the first time!
pete
October 17th, 2011
9:23 pm
He is not going to do anything about it because the democrats are going to use it to their advantage. Hippies and homeless bums love democrats
REDSTATENEMISIS
October 17th, 2011
9:31 pm
I applaud Mayor Reed for his action, regardless of what some may think of him. The demonstration is peaceful and is only bringing light to the ways of this country as it is not for all people, but for the fortunate few 1% who continue to make money while the rest of us, and this includes you who engage in attacking these individuals for what they believe in.
If my belief is correct, I promise you, most of you don’t make more than $250K a year. Most of you are out of work or are yet fearful that your income could be cut from a layoff or an illness that could decimate your family.
I’m certain, that most who have read this far, are no doubt rolling their eyes and saying that here is another bleeding heart liberal. No and completely wrong. I am a Republican who has had enough. I live in Cobb County. I’ve never been more ashamed of my party and those who represent it. Anyone who says that they have never thought that this movement was good for the people is lying or are so disillusioned they are going with the crowd. We want health care, jobs bill, regulation of the financial institution, but we are against it because there is a Black man in office. He is smarter and brighter than most President’s who has served before him, however, he is Black and with the wrong party.
Why? You may ask? It’s simple. Our party has never openly accepted a Black man or Woman for that fact. We have cut ourselves off from the nationality of our country and have embraced going back to how it once was and everyone else knew their place. I’ve sat in meetings and heard how we were going to take education, unions, healthcare, etc. out of social programs to preserve our thinking and way of life.
I am ashamed of all of it. I am ashamed of all that we’ve done and continue to do. We are taking the rights away of homegrown Americans, and now we are trying to take away their right to vote. Enough is enough. If you are a Republican who believes in this country, regardless of the color of whoever runs it, and are for sound ideas so we as a country can go for it, then say so. Our silence is destroying our country. Our silence is allowing our elected Republican officials to act badly and then run behind our Party’s name to continue this dismantling.
I am ashamed of us.
william
October 17th, 2011
9:36 pm
I don’t think anyone will be applauding his decision when the KKK or Arian Brotherhood groups decide to occupy the park as base camp for their long term demonstrations with no fear of arrest or removal.
td
October 17th, 2011
9:36 pm
I am very disappointed in Mayor Reed. He did a good job of letting these people have a protest and then did a good job of setting a time for it to end and now he bows to the far left and breaks his own ruling. I thought Reed has been the best African American mayor Atlanta has had but now I am starting to have my doubts.
pete
October 17th, 2011
9:37 pm
You are not a republican. You are a joke. Democrats continue these social programs because it keep minorities under their hand. That is the truth. As long as they continue with these programs, blacks and other poor people have to keep voting Democrat. Get off the plantation. You are a liberal, at least be proud of that and don’t lie
freddie
October 17th, 2011
9:38 pm
red state..you can stop cutting and pasting from your liberal websites..we know who and what you are. Drop the bon bons and go pick up your welfare check..blacks have more opportunity than whites have lady…they just can’t put it to good use. Look at what happens when Obama shows us how he really is..name one government in this country that is majority AA in a successful city? Ain’t going to happen. Kasim is the disease. Innoculate him in the next election
Buzzard
October 17th, 2011
9:43 pm
REDSTATENEMISIS
I believe the word is “Nemesis”.
pete
October 17th, 2011
9:44 pm
Ray Nagin, Kwame Kilpatrick, Bill Campbell, Marion Berry. Shall I go on?
td
October 17th, 2011
9:46 pm
REDSTATENEMISIS
October 17th, 2011
9:31 pm
Why must you come on this blog and not be proud of your philosophy. You are in no way are currently a Republican and have never been a Republican. Stop being a troll and be proud of who you really are. A young far left lib that is still wet behind the ears.
Jackie
October 17th, 2011
9:50 pm
The national democrat party has decided that Occupy is their friend and they are fully supportng having these people continue to hang out in the park. Reed got the message and is going along.
It’s a dangerous game they play. Obama needs a little emotion after his first term of Jimmy Carter Redux and he hopes that Occupy might provide that diversion. Of course when this turns ugly or violent, it will hang around his neck like a big dead bird.
Meanwhile, they don’t really care about precendent or the downtown residents or workers. They only care about re-electing Obama.
Kevin
October 17th, 2011
10:03 pm
Is anyone else beginning to think that Mayor Reed is allowing this to continue while his buddy Obama decides whether or not he’s going to hitch his wagon to this movement?
The previous poster hit the nail on the head when they asked if this would be permitted if the organization was the Klan or a neo-Nazi group. We all know the answer.
Do you job, Mayor Reed. Do your job NOW.
Karlise Y. Grier
October 17th, 2011
10:07 pm
I support Mayor Kasim Reed.
DannyX
October 17th, 2011
10:07 pm
I certainly can understand why all you Tea Party types are jealous, the Occupy movement is becoming more popular everyday, meanwhile the Tea Party has become very unpopular.
By the way folks, the real Boston Tea Party was an act of civil disobedience. Civil disobedience, from real patriots, not a bunch of fools wearing tea bag hats.
anonymous
October 17th, 2011
10:08 pm
Why are all of your comments so negative and hateful? How can almost all of you say such hurtful things about other human beings. Aren’t we a christian nation? Show compassion for your fellow man who doesn’t have the ability to care for himself. That’s what Jesus did. He didn’t shun anyone…ask like him! I’m disappointed in you all but I understand it is hard to recognize your own privilege. You’re right we should just tell those who can’t make it “on their own,” as if none of you had parents or family to support you at sometime in your life, to go away and suffer on their own. The occupy movement is trying to force a dialogue about the injustice of corporate influence on politics. I think you all understand that but just don’t agree. If that’s the case then why not just state that instead of using derogatory language to denigrate people? And why is it that people get so bold on blogs to say the most horrific things but wouldn’t dare say it in public. Shame on you.
pete
October 17th, 2011
10:17 pm
Liberals are such trolls. It shocks me that a woman name Grier supports Reid. Shocking I tell you.
Buzzard
October 17th, 2011
10:19 pm
She’s hoping he’ll appoint her to something or atleast put in a good word. I believe she ran for judge in fulton recently.
Thrasherjets
October 17th, 2011
10:20 pm
Too bad we couldn’t get all these smelly hipsters to help us during the Thrashers rally and camp out. That would have been a much more worthwhile cause. These protests make a statement but nothing will actually change, let’s just be clear about that. Your voice has been heard but the corporate world is not going to up and just reform during the weeks you are in your tents. If you want to make real change, get out and vote in 2012.
Lisa Simmons
October 17th, 2011
10:21 pm
I visited Occupy Atlanta to what all the fuss was about. What I observed is that: 1). They are in fact peaceful protesters. 2) they are for the most part in their 20s and look like current versions of the 60’s hippies. 3) They oppose capitalism, war, banks, anything having to do with corporations. 4). They did not put forth a proposed solution to solve the ills of this nation such as unemployment. 5) I saw alot of handmade signs, chanting and bongo playing but no real agenda for addressing what they are protesting against. 6). They need to take better care of their dogs and children
hdhd
October 17th, 2011
10:23 pm
“As long as I agree with you, you can break the law in Atlanta.” –KR, hugs, kisses
Buzzard
October 17th, 2011
10:27 pm
Lady justice is blind. The law is the law and it must apply to ALL equally, not just the ones that are politically convenient. Get em out of the park or repeal all of the laws that they are breaking.
Thrasherjets
October 17th, 2011
10:27 pm
http://www.hipstersuck.com/
Tom (Independent)
October 17th, 2011
10:31 pm
ATL is the home base for Liberal Democratic officials who have a higher regard for protesters than their citizens who reside downtown. Every single person who owns property downtown should put it up FOR SALE and move out making downtown ATL a ghost town. This is what Mayor Reed and his co-horts deserve!
td
October 17th, 2011
10:32 pm
Lisa Simmons
October 17th, 2011
10:21 pm
The problem is not that these people are protesting but that they are breaking the law by setting up camp in the park. They can protest all day long but then they need to go home and come back the next day. They are not above the law and the law must prevail or we will no longer be a nation of laws but a chaotic nation ruled by the mob.
blah blah
October 17th, 2011
10:32 pm
they oppose anything having to do with corporations except their smart phones, laptops, internet connections, tent manufacturers, cardboard makers, or anything else they have on their donation list.
while they keep saying they are the 99 percent they do not speak for me everyone in that 99 percent. and not everyone who is against them are in the top 1 percent..
the original and still the best John Galt
October 17th, 2011
10:34 pm
Told y’all the other day that there was no way Reed would come down hard on his fellow travelers.
td
October 17th, 2011
10:36 pm
blah blah
October 17th, 2011
10:32 pm
That is because this is really not about 99% vs 1% but rather 47% vs 53%. They belong to the 47% that do not pay taxes and live off the government and they want us 53% to continue to support their entitlement lifestyle.
Sonny LIED!
October 17th, 2011
10:36 pm
I LIED and all you fools know it.
Thrasherjets
October 17th, 2011
10:38 pm
Glad I live OTP.
td
October 17th, 2011
10:40 pm
the original and still the best John Galt
October 17th, 2011
10:34 pm
You did and I was hoping you were wrong because to this point I liked what Reed was doing as mayor. But it looks like Reed is going to be just another big city lib mayor.
Adam
October 17th, 2011
10:43 pm
Dear Mr. Mayor,
Please do us all a favor and let us know which laws we are allowed to not only break but openly flaunt in the face of every citizen of the city. You, and others that sit idly by do an injustice when comparing these people with no organized agenda to those that protested in the name of civil rights a generation ago. Civil disobedience has a place in our society but like it or not the vast majority of the bankers on Wall Street, while probably acting unethically, didn’t do anything illegal. The vast majority of Occupiers are openly and proudly breaking the law.
Mr. Mayor – Do your job.
Shame of Georgia
October 17th, 2011
10:43 pm
Occupy wall street is fighting for all of us so we can have a better life. I commend Kasim Reed for listening to the voices of Occupy Atlanta they are not bad people they just want free tratment that the government have fail us and keep up the good work Kasim Reed and the Occupy Atlanta.
pete
October 17th, 2011
10:46 pm
Shame on Georgia is a moron. I never ever ever need a bunch of 20 year old kids determining what is better for me
td
October 17th, 2011
10:49 pm
Shame of Georgia
October 17th, 2011
10:43 pm
Occupy wall street is fighting for all of us so we can have a better life.
I am calling BS on that statement. They are fighting for themselves so that they do not have to go out and make a real living and continue to live off the government, play video games, smoke pot and not grow up and be responsible.
Teery
October 17th, 2011
10:49 pm
Who is paying for the security and clean up? I’m sure it is the tax paying citizens of Atlanta.
BTW, if you don’t believe the administration is behind this, who do you think owns Zucotti Park in NY?
Nothing to see here it is just a coincidental company called Brookfield Properties. They recently received a $135.76 Million loan guarantee to build a wind farm in New Hampshire from the current administration.
No need to take my word for it, Google is your friend.
DannyX
October 17th, 2011
10:49 pm
” Civil disobedience has a place in our society but like it or not the vast majority of the bankers on Wall Street, while probably acting unethically, didn’t do anything illegal…”
LMAO!!!
You people named a movement for an epic act of civil disobedience but can’t handle 100 peaceful protesters in a park! You Emo-Republicans crack me up!
This just in from England….The King announced today that the protesters in Boston will never have the power they need to overthrow the king and should stop.
Occupying my home
October 17th, 2011
10:51 pm
I think Mayor Reed is very clever. We should force these idiots to stay in the park through the winter! However, after this week with the rain and cold moving in, they will scurry back under their rocks before you know it.
pete
October 17th, 2011
10:52 pm
What are the chances Danny has had any success in life? Liberal arts degree?
Off de Plantation
October 17th, 2011
10:55 pm
@REDSTATENEMESIS, 9:31pm;
“…but we are against it because there is a Black man in office. He is smarter and brighter than most President’s who has served before him, however, he is Black and with the wrong party.
If you can get your head out of your a$$, please furnish proof about the above italicized portion of your idiotic blog posted at 9.31pm.
You’re not a Republican, you’re a RINO, or worst still, simply a liberal who is still in the closet…but maybe not for political reasons, however.
Thrasherjets
October 17th, 2011
10:58 pm
Why don’t they just move all the smelly hipsters to Philips Arena… not like there’s much going on in there…
It's not like they have jobs
October 17th, 2011
11:00 pm
Typical “give back” mentality. No thank you, it wasn’t given me. Morons. I hope they stay as long as they’d like. The AJC seems to be the only one paying attention to them. Perhaps their time would be better spent looking for a job instead of wanting me to work to pay them. It’s still a free country and they have the freedom to look stupid. Doing a fine job too. I hope they never leave. What a fine example of failure to show our children. See, they DO serve a purpose (other than humor)
Tom (Independent)
October 17th, 2011
11:01 pm
td@10:36 – You are 110% correct in your assessment!
Adam
October 17th, 2011
11:15 pm
“You people named a movement for an epic act of civil disobedience but can’t handle 100 peaceful protesters in a park! You Emo-Republicans crack me up!
This just in from England….The King announced today that the protesters in Boston will never have the power they need to overthrow the king and should stop.”
Listen, I’m pretty much anti Tea Party as well. They claim to want a limited government all the time until it comes to people’s personal lives and then all the sudden the government ought to be mandating everything the Bible says is right. Both extremes annoy the hell out of me but at least the modern day Tea Partiers largely obeyed the laws during their protest and the original ones were willing to take up arms and fight for their rights instead of camping out in a government park, playing angry birds on their I-Pad, wearing their North Face gear while protesting all the evils of government and corporate America.
My biggest question is with all the handouts going on down there at what point do the truly homeless overtake the college idealists going to school on cheap student loans or daddy’s largesse?
kyle wingfield
October 17th, 2011
11:19 pm
i’m starting the silver spoon party, will be meating for tea and crumpets at high noon in my mommy’s womb.
kyle wingfield
October 17th, 2011
11:20 pm
oops! meeting. my bad, i blame the paramour.
pete
October 17th, 2011
11:21 pm
Kyle, did you graduate high school?
Kevin
October 17th, 2011
11:25 pm
Mayor Reed and Mr. Obama have a history of not enforcing active laws on the books. Funny. I always thought that was illegal. Please, someone, file suit against the mayor to force him to uphold our laws. He can’t pick and choose which laws to enforce.
WOW
October 17th, 2011
11:38 pm
Look at all the hate and name calling. Where was/is all this hate toward the tea party and all the name calling and disrespect they have been doing to Mr. President! Face it! As long as it is anti Obama then these southerners and republicans love it. I support you mayor Reed now and always! And no, hate groups should not have a change to camp overnite in the CITY OF ATLANTA. Go up to Cumming where they belong and camp out their where you live!
Paul
October 17th, 2011
11:39 pm
I don’t fault Mayor Reed for tolerating a peaceful protest in Woodruff Park. Its the American Way. The fact that many of these protesters have no clue about economics or even politics is no reason to deny them the right to complain about what they see as an unfair society.I work downtown and spent a half hour talking to some of these protesters. One told me that he wanted more regulation of Wall Street. I asked him if he wanted to reimpose the Glass-Steagal Act. Of course, the guy had no idea what I was talking about. When I asked him if he really wanted Barney Frank to call the shots on Wall Street (after he’d done such a “good job” with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae) I got another blank look. Another protester declared that she was against “the evils of capitalism.” When I asked her if she opposed the success of capitalism in raising literally hundreds of millions of Chinese out of starvation & grinding poverty in the last 30 years, she just shook her head, disbelieving. A protester came to her rescue, explaining that corporations controlled all the politicians. I asked him if he truly believed that corporate leaders would pick Obama as the leader of America or support Mayor Reed in allowing them to flaunt city ordinances and protest their very existence in the park. The sad fact is that these “protesters” got no game. They have only “feelings” that things aren’t right and something ought to be done to make things better. With that, I agree … its just they don’t have a clue as to what needs to be done. I’m sorry protesters, but if you don’t know your history, if you haven’t bothered to learn basic economics, if you really don’t understand how the political or legal systems work .. then maybe you should fold your tent, borrow a few books, and get some education
kyle wingfield
October 17th, 2011
11:44 pm
pete,
when your daddy molested you, did you find a happy place?
philip cho
October 17th, 2011
11:44 pm
How much longer is Freaknik going to go on??
STAN SILVER
October 17th, 2011
11:48 pm
Dear Mayor,
Thanks for your help with Woodruff Park. You have been a success in destroying the park and now making the protest even larger. I think if it gets any bigger we should move it to Centennial Olympic Park to handle the crowds.
pete
October 17th, 2011
11:51 pm
Seeing as how he died in a car accident when I was 1 I don’t think so. But one day you will grow up and not be such a bum and burden on society. You can’t always live in your parents basement
SAWB
October 17th, 2011
11:53 pm
“How much longer is Freaknik going to go on??”
You mean Hobonik don’t you?
I guess it can go on forever these folks do not work or contribute to society, so they got all kinds of time. I mean this beats sitting in your parents basement smoking weed and watching South Park. Now the leftist Mayor said it is OK to smoke weed in the park and watch South Park on your IMac.
kyle wingfield
October 17th, 2011
11:54 pm
pete,
your dad was lucky to not see the arse you turned out to be.
Jesus was and is a Liberal
October 17th, 2011
11:54 pm
Pity the phony Tea Party Folks. Jesus was and is the Original Bleeding Heart Liberal. Not eveyonevwho cries “Lord, Lorc, will enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” the hateful, spiteful tea party phony Christians will be thrown into the “Outer Darkness.” Jesus would not be rallying with the racist, hateful, demons of the Tea Party. Read the New Testament, the Gospel of Jesus the Christ! The hateful self proclaimed members of the Tea Party have completely and unequivocally rejected the Gospel of the Christ. Pity those who confuse the Old Testament vengeful, hateful, volcano false god, with the loving Chrsit.
pete
October 17th, 2011
11:56 pm
But he would be happy that I am a man that stands on his own two feet and does not rely on others. He would be ashamed if I was a bum like you.
Taylor
October 18th, 2011
12:01 am
I have lived in Atlanta all my life and I am really disappointed at Mayor Reed’s choice. If I was homeless I would bring a lawsuit against the city right now for kicking me out of that same park in the past, but letting these morons stay. I think I should have a choice whether I want to be occupied or not and guess what I don’t want to be occupied. Voting for a new mayor next time around.
JT Sexton
October 18th, 2011
12:05 am
I am positive that everyone complaining on here does not live in the city of Atlanta. You don’t pay Atlanta taxes and you don’t vote in Atlanta elections. If you live in Milton or Suwanee or wherever then go back to your crappy job at H & R Block and leave this issue to the people that matter. There is a reason you could only afford a $150,000 house. You are worthless.
kyle wingfield
October 18th, 2011
12:05 am
tea puds suck on the government’s teat like a virgin at a breast expose. Their pissed-off about having to share lady liberty’s nipple. A high percentage of the inbred jesus freaks are on medicare, medicaid, and unemployment benefits.
William
October 18th, 2011
12:17 am
Enter your comments here
todd
October 18th, 2011
12:23 am
Reed is black and liberal – what did you expect. His walnut sized brain is incapable of doing anything except blindly follow the liberal agenda. I truly hope that a war between the socialists and freedom loving people break out – we will wipe them out in a few days.
William
October 18th, 2011
12:24 am
If I were to organize a march or protest and request a permit to do so, it would be on a certain day, at a certain day for a specified period of time. If I extended that time, I would be found liable and charged. What agenda has Mayor Reed that would allow these anarchists to overstay their allotted time? I’ve been really impressed with his leadership up to this point but his weak decision on this issue makes me think he’s just pandering to the White House and their class warfare strategy. What a shame for a mayor who had such potential. The longer they have to vent, the more credence it gives to a cause that has no apparent outcome in mind. It’s just mindless chatter that seems to want to vote “present” on the current situation.
SAWB
October 18th, 2011
12:47 am
Just remeber this is one of the guys that wants you to vote for the T-SPLOST and give him all that money to spend. If the guy cannot handle something like this what makes you think he won’t waste all your money on memorials, rallies and trolley cars to nowhere?
Susan
October 18th, 2011
1:12 am
It’s so easy to look down on others from your high-rises when you still have a job, but if you have ever tried to practice the 1st ammendment at work for the sake of your consciences, you’d find yourself on the street without one (a job). So try and come down from your high horses and remember what it felt like to be at a high school rally yelling for your team. These kids are yelling for their team…their future, because as most of you demonstrate by your callous rants, you don’t care if Wallstreet cheats our young people out of a future as long as you can have your restful nights and manicured empty parks to view from your penthouse windows while sipping corporate wine. They are standing up for principle even if some don’t understand or know about Glass-Steagal. Knowledge is culpability – so quit being snobs and watch an award winning documentary named INSIDE JOB.
jdawgT
October 18th, 2011
1:59 am
Kyle, your not only an idiot, but an idiot thats going to fry in hell !
Signed
Jesus Freak
Don
October 18th, 2011
4:27 am
Doesn’t this just really piss you off? In the TIME poll, 54 percent of respondents had a “very favorable” (25 percent) or “somewhat favorable” (29 percent) view of the movement. Only 23 percent had an “unfavorable” view of the movement, while another 23 percent said they “don’t know enough” yet. This finding means that roughly 167 million people in this country view the OWS movement favorably. If even 1 or 2 percent of these people were to become active participants, it would make for a movement bigger than anything seen in this country since the 1960s, and probably since the 1930s.
Support is almost double that of the Tea Party, and, as for the size…. well, the tea party has never been more than a small, loud, and not very smart minority (I’m not saying that there aren’t any smart people in it, just that they are a distinct minority and terribly misinformed.)
Don
October 18th, 2011
4:30 am
” I mean this beats sitting in your parents basement smoking weed and watching South Park. Now the leftist Mayor said it is OK to smoke weed in the park and watch South Park on your IMac.”
I rest my case. He’s never been down there, has no knowledge that dope is being smoked, and doesn’t have any idea what the demographic is. But ignorance has never been a problem for conservatives.
waiting moderation
October 18th, 2011
4:34 am
We are a city of laws. I rode through the park on my bicycle sunday and the smell of urine and dirty feet took my breath away. It looked like a hobo camp of runaway teens, carnies, and gutter punks. Simple dreadful. Reid has abandoned his oath of office…
Jim T
October 18th, 2011
5:10 am
wonder if the mayors comments were written by the white house?
Wondering
October 18th, 2011
5:30 am
Can I come and camp out in the park for a few weeks when this group leaves?
Democratic Plantation Dweller
October 18th, 2011
5:31 am
The Mayor has to follow the orders from the DNC and Obama.
Fast and Furious Spending
October 18th, 2011
5:56 am
The demonstration is peaceful and is only bringing light to the ways of this country as it is not for all people, but for the fortunate few 1% who continue to make money while the rest of us……
…..while the rest of us…. what?
Was your whole argument like this sentence, a run-on?
Please finish your singular thought before blaming the world vaguely for its inability to please you.
Economic Justice
October 18th, 2011
6:01 am
Dear Bloggers,
These protesters are serious, they are right, and they have popular support that is fervent and growing. The mayor is doing a great thing here. He could have sent in the police, cracked some skulls, and cleared the park. Doing so would embolden the movement. Supporters and sympathizers would step away from their computers and take to the streets. By allowing the protest to continue he is allowing this movement to thrive or wither on its own terms. I am grateful for his leadership.
clem
October 18th, 2011
6:18 am
they now have a cain quote saying less than a year ago is was against a national sales tax……what an dolt
jv
October 18th, 2011
6:24 am
I too like Kasim Reed, but completely disagree on this one! What a horrible precedent, what an example, to cave in to terrorists, yes, I said terrorists, anyone who uses threats of violence to promote their agenda at any cost!
Misty Fyed
October 18th, 2011
6:45 am
I like this precedent. I can bring my family next year to Atlanta for vacation. We can camp in Woodruff park for free for weeks. All we have to do is put up a few signs claiming civil disobedience to some inequity in our lives, refuse to bathe and BAM…free vacation.
Misty Fyed
October 18th, 2011
6:48 am
I’m sure Mayor Reed would extend the same privileges if a Tea Party group chose to exercise their rights to civil disobedience and protest the free loaders who take far more from the govt teat than they give back. Right?
DannyX
October 18th, 2011
6:50 am
Since the protesters are Democratic leaning, they should be allowed to stay in the park…but keep those racist, ignorant, uncaring tea party nuts out of the park.
Edward Ruffin
October 18th, 2011
7:08 am
Did he say that?? “Civil disobedience is lawful?” Something is wrong with this statement.
Double Zero Eight
October 18th, 2011
7:22 am
Reed will most likely follow the lead of his
counterpart in New York, Mayor Bloomberg.
As long as they are allowed to remain in
New york, he will allow them to remain in
Atlanta. His threats to remove the protesters
have generally coincided with the threats of
Mayor Bloomberg.
Straight Talk
October 18th, 2011
7:24 am
Reed is a puppet for Obama whose minions, like Reed and Joe Biden, are being asked to support the ‘occupy’ folks.Reed is angling for a cushy job in Washington if Obama is reelected. It’s that simple.
Jack
October 18th, 2011
7:24 am
The campers need to be removed by force if necessary. Reed’s vacillating will cost him that federal post he wants so badly.
Smoke
October 18th, 2011
8:07 am
You have to admit that Dixiecrats can be funny sometimes. Removing peaceful protesters by force. HA. So, what do you want the Mayor and APD to do use firehoses, billyclubs, and attack dogs? Oh yeah, that’s what a Dixiecrat mayor would do. Say what? They did? My Bad.
a_mom
October 18th, 2011
8:11 am
I have a feeling that if the Tea Party wanted to set up camp for a month in a city park, they’d be evicted or arrested so fast it’d make your head spin! In fact, I wish some GOP folks would do it for no other reason than to show the double standard that would be applied!
The mayor needs to grow a backbone & evict these people. They have the right to peacefully assemble during the day to protest, but that doesn’t give them the right to set up camp for a month! When people have “sit ins” in the streets or on the steps of a building, the police calmly drag them off to be arrested if they won’t move. These people have the right to do the same – protest, but be willing to be arrested if they break the law. It’s insane that the mayor is letting them stay as long as they want! And how much money is it costing taxpayers to clean up/police the area?
I’m sure most Occupiers will lose interest when some good, cold weather sets in.
honested
October 18th, 2011
8:11 am
straight (out of the twilight zone) talk,
When the President is resoundingly re-elected, the Mayor will be deep in the midst of running for his second term and I doubt he has designs on working at the Federal level.
I am glad so many of the misguided here live far outside the city. I guess they are still under the broad misconception that Atlanta keeps ‘their’ tax money when the opposite is true. Of course, until grownups are elected to the General Assembly, the outlands will continue to be parasites who feel entitled to draw from the largess of this State’s commerce.
Scooter
October 18th, 2011
8:14 am
I wonder if they would be allowed to stay if protesting Fannie and Freddie’s securitization and bundling of mortgage baked securities? I imagine the government is content so long as the populace is focusing their ire elsewhere… like the private sector. After all, that will lead to more government powers and weaken the private sector. We Americans need to wake up and realize the GSE’s were at least as culpable as Wall Street, if not more.
honested
October 18th, 2011
8:20 am
scooter,
They ARE there about the ’securitization’ of mortgages and the disaster that followed.
They ARE there to remind us that Americans are not required to bow to the whim of the ‘markets’.
They ARE there to remind us that corporations are NOT people, are NOT citizens and do not vote, therefore corporate entities should not have continued control over the course of the Country.
Go visit with them, see how you can help, the sooner their goals are achieved, the better.
honested
October 18th, 2011
8:22 am
a_mom,
If the teapottys had been in the park as long as the Occupiers, they would have:
Placed a huge drain on public electrical outlets keeping their rascals charged.
Probably have had several shooting among them.
Been angry at having missed at least one Social Security check.
Declared ‘ownership’ of the property.
To start with.
Call it like it is
October 18th, 2011
8:25 am
The whole thing is a complete joke. Every interview you see with one of these guys, they dont even know why they are there. I just love the 19 year old teens, screaming that America has failed them. What???
Turn off the cameras, remove the police, and ignore them, and they will go home. More likely sooner then later when its get cold and starts to rain. I now have to go to work, good day.
smellsfishy
October 18th, 2011
8:29 am
These people don’t do anything for nothing. I smell a pay off. What other reason would he have to suddenly change his mind. He should be more concerned about his city and the people who live in the area. I think a full investigation is called for!
Lamar
October 18th, 2011
8:32 am
When is Reed going to show how much money Occupy Atl has caused TaxPayers?
Smoke
October 18th, 2011
8:43 am
Can any Dixiecrat tell us just what federal post Mayor Reed is seeking? Please, don’t say the Secretary of the Interior! That said, does anyone remember what great jobs Dirk Kempthorne or James Watt did at that post?
DavidEm
October 18th, 2011
8:46 am
I live literally next door to the encampment, and have visited it. They’re very considerate of the surrounding residences and businesses, and they really do have something of substance to say, in contrast to the drummed-up hysteria of the low information Tea Partiers.
And I’m very glad that some people are FINALLY protesting an economy that is thoroughly rigged by the financial influence of the very rich for their own benefit. “Privatized Gains/ Socialized Loss” really DOES sum up the set-up.
Tvshooter
October 18th, 2011
8:50 am
From what someone in Reed’s administration told me, he is eyeing John Lewis’s seat in Congress.
American
October 18th, 2011
8:58 am
I support Occupy Atlanta. I have been to the park twice to show support and found the folks there committed to peaceful protests that supports social justice.
Not Surprised
October 18th, 2011
8:59 am
They’re losers and so is Reed.
GAGirl
October 18th, 2011
9:09 am
I am all for equality HOWEVER, if everyone is equal, then there will never be any greatness in this country. If an individual or company is not allowed to be successful and make a profit, then what is the point of even trying? I think it is ironic that these protesters, who oppose big business and capitalism, are done there using PCs, Macs, Iphones, Ipods, all kinds of technology made by greedy corporations. Do they know that there beloved Steve Jobs had Chinese kids making those fabulous iPads they are using and that they lived in filthy dorms? Do they know that he shut down most of his charities? Here is the the thing – America is the land of opportunity and you have to get out there and work hard. You see this every day by people, who don’t know English, who come to this country legally and make a very successful life. Take the whiny energy and turn it into something positive. Are some companies greedy, unethical and immoral, yes…however, not all are that way. They give millions of people a chance at the American dream. So why these people are squatting in the parks, let the rest of America continue to work and make this country a better place.
Shameonu
October 18th, 2011
9:10 am
Mayor Reed I was once proud of you and now I am ashamed of you. You are only allowing this for political gain and you know I am right.
Raymond
October 18th, 2011
9:10 am
Reed has no backbone.
Danny
October 18th, 2011
9:21 am
Mayor Reed is looking indecisive and weak!
td
October 18th, 2011
9:30 am
If these people have been here for a month then how are they making getting money? Who is feeding them? Why are these young adults (kids) not in school wanting to improve their lives? Why are they not working an entry level job getting the experience they need to move ahead in the world?
SBinF
October 18th, 2011
9:34 am
Most of you morons complaining don’t even live in Atlanta. Drive your land boat SUVs, replete with “I love Jesus” and “support our troops” car magnets, in the suburbs. Leave the rest of us, people who actually reside within the city limits, alone.
Xanadu
October 18th, 2011
9:34 am
Well, the conservatives have the Tea Party….now the liberals have the Flea Party.
mum
October 18th, 2011
9:35 am
Oh, please! How many of you people complaining about the protesters in the park have actually use the space?
Jim
October 18th, 2011
9:48 am
For all the “haters”, who, for some reason, REALLY object to these people in Woodruff Park, the mayor is probably doing you a service in the promotion of your “cause”. If he were to say “enough is enough”, what would happen to these people? If they were true to their convictions, and it would be interesting to see how many truly are, they would go to jail for those beliefs. And if those who believe what these people are doing are true in their backing, they would take their place at the park ,and they would go to jail. I think it would get some national exposure then. I’m sure that many of you “haters” don’t think a riot would occur. But you never know.
KasimR
October 18th, 2011
9:52 am
Disgusting. I just heard that Susan Sarandon called the pope a ‘Nazi’. I am hereby officially inviting Catholics everywhere to protest this action in one of Atlanta’s many public parks.
Come on Down! Stay as long as you want.
Sparkle
October 18th, 2011
10:01 am
”Civil disobedience is an appropriate form of expression, provided that it is peaceful, non-violent and lawful.”
Since when is civil disobedience lawful? Isn’t the point of civil disobedience to break unjust laws in a peacful, non-violent way? In the lunch counter sit-ins of the civil rights era, the protesters were breaking unjust Jim Crowe laws in a peacful way. Whomever wrote this press realease for Mayor Reed is an idiot.
Carpetbagger
October 18th, 2011
10:03 am
This is a pick and choose government enforcement. If you are a homeless bum, you must be out of the park by 11. If you are the KKK, the National Guard would be called in.
mum
October 18th, 2011
10:03 am
@GAGal, if you use a cell phone or a computer, or any electronic device it’s made in China. If you eat prepackaged food check the point of origin. You cannot criticize these kids use of technology made in China because every person blogging here is complicit. So before you criticize, take a look at the place of manufacture of all the things in your home and then you’ll understand why there are no manufacturing jobs left in this country and the future growth of this country is at stake.
They may not have a cogent message, but at least they are trying to do something other that make snarky comments online. It’s a shame the so many here have forgotten what it was to be young, impressionable, impossibly confident about what you believe in, thinking that your ideas were better, stupid, smart, and having the luxury of maturing and learning sense. That’s why people from across the globe want to be here because you are allowed to fail spectacularly, and get back up to try again.
Retired Solider
October 18th, 2011
10:07 am
Mr. Reed should resign, pure and simple. If he doesn’t want to enforce the law he should do the decent thing and resign. Unreal.
Eric
October 18th, 2011
10:11 am
What part of “you bought Karl Rove’s anti-Constitutional message hook, line and sinker,” don’t YOU understand?
IvanAllen
October 18th, 2011
10:11 am
Sparkle-
The press release is basically saying that the protesters are doing 2 of the three elements themselves (peaceful, non-violent) so the mayor is taking care of the third (lawful) by his executive order allowing them to stay past 11pm.
too big to fail
October 18th, 2011
10:15 am
The Wall Street crooks set a good example for our country.
The law should be enforced against white collar crime,
pure and simple.
RockTheVote
October 18th, 2011
10:22 am
The Flea Party. That’s hysterical.
‘Cause they’re blood sucking parasites. I get it.
I’m going to make a sign that says that and then go down to Cop Killer Park today.
Reality
October 18th, 2011
10:25 am
I’m upset I don’t have a job. Instead of looking for one I’ll protest in a downtown park.
I’m angry I have student loan debts for a college degree I didn’t finish because I smoked too much weed. Instead of paying off the loans I think I’ll protest in a downtown park.
I have a house that I really couldn’t have afforded but I bought it anyway. Now it is getting foreclosed upon. I think I’ll protest in a downtown park.
Sounds like a bunch of whiny losers that didn’t think through their decisions. Life is tough…deal.
Sparkle
October 18th, 2011
10:27 am
@IvanAllen
You missed the point. What I am saying is that “lawful” is not an element of civil obedience, by definition. Here is the first line of the Wikipedia aritcle on civil disobiedience:
“Civil disobedience is the active, professed refusal to obey certain laws, demands, and commands of a government, or of an occupying international power.”
My point is that for Mayor Reed to say that civil disobedience is “appropriate so long is it is lawful (paraphrased)” is idiotic because the definition of civil disobedicne involves the breaking of law. He seems to have a basic lack of understanding of what civil disobedience is.
taylor
October 18th, 2011
10:30 am
With near freezing temps this weekend many will bail out. Reed is probably a lot smarter than you give him credit for
gnomeboy
October 18th, 2011
10:33 am
Mayor Reed needs to grow a pair. So how many more laws are these “OCCUTARDS” going to break? What a bunch of crap. I guarantee you if another group had dne this, APD would have sent them packing when the park closed at 11 pm.
NoDeal
October 18th, 2011
10:52 am
So they’re communists…..big deal. Once a new Cause Du Jour they’ll pack up and leave. Or if Phish goes back on tour.
Elizabeth
October 18th, 2011
10:52 am
So now the mayor wants to govern Atlanta like a dictator. Apparently he can issue an executive order and simply ignore the law. I wonder how quick he would be to issue such an order when a group seeks to camp out in a public area to bring attention to a cause which he does not support? These protesters should be required to obseve the law like everyone else. Even after several weeks of these folks protesting around the country, I am not sure what they want. The only thing I have heard them say is that corporations are making too much money and should pay more taxes and hire more people. These liberals are total idiots. Just wait, when the day finally comes that our braindead mayor decides they must go, then we get to see their true intention – a confrontation with authorities (with lots of media coverage asking the “tough questions”) followed by claims of abuse and violations of their rights. Meanwhile, the taxpayers of Atlanta will be left with the bill for the cleanup of the park and the costs of defending the lawsuits.
By my count, these folks have been camping out at the park for a couple of weeks. If they are allowed to stay for a few more weeks, they will have been there for over a month. Is this how they hope to find employment? I’m guessing many of these deadbeats are sucking up all the public benefits they can get all the while criticizing the companies and individuals who are paying for their lifestyle. Nice job mayor. Unbelievable!!!
Retired Solider
October 18th, 2011
10:57 am
Elizabeth-
Great post, you are dead on.
Not So Casual Observer
October 18th, 2011
10:57 am
The “occupy” group so clearly represents the Democrat Party.
The group espouses illogical, unattainable and poorly considered goals.
The group has no clear-thinking leader.
The demands change with the wind.
The group is composed of unemployed, non-taxpaying individuals who depend on government largesse to survive.
The City of Atlanta has a failing infrastructure and now “that which will no longer flow through the sewers” has accumulated in Woodruff Park – very similar to a convention of liberal Democrats.
Liberals are the root of all that is wrong in the US – the tax structure, the Federal Reserve, Wall Street and the “Rockefeller Bankers”.
#occupy my desk...
October 18th, 2011
10:58 am
I am going to civilly disobey my taxes? How about civilly disobey traffic laws, will that work too? Sorry, I just don’t think laws should apply conditionally for anyone.
Spock
October 18th, 2011
11:04 am
One of the first things they agreed upon as a group was to rename Woodruff Park after a man executed for killing an innocent person.
How…illogical.
Not So Casual Observer
October 18th, 2011
11:05 am
US Presidents, Cabinet Members, Members of Congress, Governors and Mayors all swear to uphold the US Constitution, their State Constitution and the laws of the land. When these individuals decide to ignore a specific law or mandate that does not meet their personal agenda they should, each and every one, be removed from office.
JohnQPublic
October 18th, 2011
11:06 am
Why not rename it Officer Mark MacPhail Park? He was also part of the 99%, you know.
Not So Casual Observer
October 18th, 2011
11:07 am
Spock,
Only illogical for an individual capable of cogent thought.
Gary
October 18th, 2011
11:17 am
It is funny to go donw their and see these kids decked out in High end REI gear with Ipads and Iphones complain about corporate greed while their parents are probably paying most of their bills. Frankly a 20 something squater in a $600 Moutnain Hardware tent, North face sleeping bag, and camping chairs cooking on a coleman stove is not doing much to convince me they want much more than to go camping in the city in between classes at GA State. I wonder how many of them took the day off to stand in line and buy the Iphone 4s. The flaw in the movement is that they are going after the very companies that build the products they love so much. Apple is the king of corporate greed yet these kids love them like a cult.
Downtowner
October 18th, 2011
11:23 am
And how much taxpayers’ money is Mayor Reed saving by not sending these demonstrators to our city jail right away? And then the replacement demonstrators, and on and on? I thought that our city jails at present are over-crowded anyway…I too think that the Mayor is doing the shrewd thing by letting them stay for awhile longer.
pleasewakeup
October 18th, 2011
11:24 am
Message to everyone who has commented:
The message being delivered by the Occupy Wallstreet…Atlanta…etc. protesters all over the globe is meant for the 1% who have orchestrated the economic mess we find ourselves in today. None of you are the 1%, but apparently you still have faith in the god of mammon that the 1% have promised will save you here in the good ole’ USA. The 1% have no loyalties to you or America or anything but their own power and influence. You are their pawns and they laugh at you when they read the arrows being fired between the right and the left of you. The message of Occupy is – we reject the corruption of all who have destroyed our chances for opportunity so we are showing you how we plan to live now that you have. And this is just a preview of what is coming to a theater near you very soon.
SAWB
October 18th, 2011
11:26 am
Funny how many folks on here state that if you do not live in “The ATL” or haven’t been to the park than you have no right to comment on the Hobo Encampment. However, these same folks are more than happy to take all the tax money from the “Burbs” to build their trolleys and beltlines. So, if Mayor Kiss-em demands my tax money than I have a right to comment on his decision making ability.
Gary
October 18th, 2011
11:35 am
Private sector bail outs – repaid with interest… Government made money off the evil banks they forced to take government money so people would not knwo which bank neede TARP and which did not. The big spending shovel ready projects and infrastructure? Still wainting for results. Mostly reporting waste and fraud. I will side with the private sector who makes all the little things I love and work for. I love my 401k. It is a great deal. Company matching. Incouraged savings. I love my private health care plan. Does not cost much and I see great doctors when I need to. I love my insurance. They protect me from worthless individuals who cannot pay for the damages they do to my car and accidents with my home. I love my life insurance policy whcih will take care of my wife should something happen to me. I love my car manufacturer for constanly making my cars better, safer, more fun. I love my 65 inch LED TV, picture is amazing. The channel choices and images of the world it provides me would be unimaginable to someone 70 years ago depending on readio and newspapers for information. Maybe these people should take soem time to see what is available to an avarage middle class worker. We live at a level of priviledge that is unprecidented in the history of man kind. Pretty sure wallstreet had a lot to do with my quality of life. May these lazy urban campers should go to wallsteet and thank a venture capitalist for risking large somes of money on high risk ventures in hopes of success and high returns. That is what makes this country better. Not shouting in the steet like some wanna be hippie war protester from the 60’s.
Not So Casual Observer
October 18th, 2011
11:36 am
Dear …Wakeup,
You should do as you recommend.
This is nothing more than Democrat/Liberal sponsored class warfare.
Bob in Sandy Springs
October 18th, 2011
11:37 am
Lets see. Homeless folks were run out of the Park at 10:00 pm or 11:00 pm daily I believe. Occupy Atlanta isn’t.
Seems like the homeless are being discriminated against. How can the law apply to one class, but not apply to another?
Shambreyah
October 18th, 2011
11:45 am
“I am also cognizant of the concerns of neighboring businesses and residents about the effect of the protesters’ activity on the park and the surrounding area.”
I don’t have a dog in this fight. But it seems to me that if you situated your home or business across the street from a city park you tacitly accepted the noise and disturbance that comes with the territory. If it’s so bad, then leave.
Corporate Greedy
October 18th, 2011
11:50 am
For those of you opposed to the protest, were you really for the Wall Street bailout of 2008 and 2009? They are outraged by it. They are outraged by the fact that these too-big-to-fail institutions made billions with fraudulent, unregulated, highly leveraged derivatives. They are outraged because this crisis was avoidable and predictable. They are outraged because this systemic risk continues due to the complicity of congress and our president.
WHY ARE THE REST OF YOU NOT IN THE PARK PROTESTING!
SAWB
October 18th, 2011
11:51 am
“Seems like the homeless are being discriminated against. How can the law apply to one class, but not apply to another?”
Let’s be honest here this entire movement is nothing more than a political tactic to get the Blessed Bringer of Hope Omama reelected. From the Unions to the cavalcade of celebrity endorsements it is pretty obvious what is going on. The current administration may have inherited a mess, but they have shown totally ineptitude at dealing with it. Since they can no longer blame Bush for their mistakes they need a new scapegoat and apparently Wall Street fits the bill. This is just sad old fashion class warfare
td
October 18th, 2011
11:52 am
pleasewakeup
October 18th, 2011
11:24 am
Well then they are all confused because this movement is really about bailing them out for the mistakes they made.
They want their college loans forgiven. Why do they not have the HOPE? Is it because they did not take the responsibility to do what they needed to do in HS or college? Why did they take all these loans and not go to school part time and work?
Some want their home loans changed? Why? Is it because they made the choice to over extended themselves and now they want a bailout? Did the banks force them to make this decision? Where is their personal responsibility.
They want the top 1% to pay more for their entitlement programs when they themselves pay nothing. Why do they think they are to good to go out and work an entry level job?
Now they think they are victims and are entitled to break the law for change instead of going through the election process.
These people make me sick and the name Flea party is very fitting.
td
October 18th, 2011
11:54 am
Corporate Greedy
October 18th, 2011
11:50 am
Most of these kids were 18 or younger when the bailouts happened and they have no clue what really happened. They are just parroting what they have been told to say.
SAWB
October 18th, 2011
11:55 am
“were you really for the Wall Street bailout of 2008 and 2009? ”
No, not at all, so why would I vote for the guy behind it – Obama? We need more freedom in the markets and that means freedom to fail, but we do not need more goverment regulation.
OMG
October 18th, 2011
12:08 pm
You are setting a very bad and dangerous example Mayor Reed…very bad indeed.
You're all socialists!
October 18th, 2011
12:09 pm
Asking the government to force people to leave Wooduff Park sounds like socialism to me.
td
October 18th, 2011
12:14 pm
You’re all socialists!
October 18th, 2011
12:09 pm
Asking the government to force people to leave Wooduff Park sounds like socialism to me
So now enforcing the law is socialism. Lord help this country when people like you have the right to vote.
agreewithwilliam
October 18th, 2011
12:28 pm
I predict 1) Southern Defense League will soon sue on behalf of the homeless who are/were run out of the parks, 2) Freaknik will return and will sue if they cannot “occupy”, 3) some crazy group like the KKK will “occupy,” 3) the sovereign citizens will find a way to use this. You have to say something to have protected speech. So far I have heard nothing from this group that makes me think they have a point to make.
Donna P.
October 18th, 2011
12:30 pm
If I wanted to set up a protest down there, I would have to have a permit, etc. This is just a Democratic political move to gain support for President Obama. It will fail!
Corporate Greedy
October 18th, 2011
12:34 pm
The OA protesters are not ignorant. They know that the money that flows from corporations to politicians has corrupted our political and economic systems.
The real question here is, why don’t you care? Is it ok with you that Obama’s campaign fundraising goal is $1 billion? Do you really think that he’s not beholden to many of the same corporations that the Republicans are?
Someone'sGottaSayIt
October 18th, 2011
12:36 pm
RECALL KASIM REED
Hey Mr Mayor – what the hell happened to your oath of office to enforce the law of Atlanta?
justanopinion
October 18th, 2011
12:38 pm
REDSTATEIDIOT – Last I saw, the GOP front-runner was none other than Herman Cain. I don’t know of anyone who hates Obama for being black. We hate him because he’s a left-wing socialist ROOKIE who has NO CLUE what he is doing in office, and all he cares about is taking vacations, playing golf, and seeing just how good of a time he, and his hypocritical wife can have on our dime. His biggest worry right now is that that NBA season won’t take place.
Herman Cain for President!!!
mum
October 18th, 2011
12:39 pm
@td, sometimes it seems that you are either really mean spirited or you don’t get out much to see what’s happening in the real world. So, let me clue you in: The jobs that used to go to young people, are now going to many of their parents because they need to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. Tuition has gone through the roof and HOPE has been paying less and less. Many people have had to dip into the money they saved for their children’s education to stay afloat. Corporations and municipalities routinely restructure loans to more favorable rates, so why is it wrong for consumers who keep these entities in existance allowed to get the same consideration?
Come down from your ivory tower and have James take you outside for a change, because you may learn something about live in 2011.
Atlien
October 18th, 2011
12:39 pm
What is funny is that the protesters aren’t smart enough to move to a place that would cause public attention. If the occupy people from NYC were running the show, they would have parked at 10th and Peachtree to lay siege to the fed. If the Atlanta protesters did that, they would have every TV station watching them instead of the zero that they have now. I have gone down to look at the protest twice, and didn’t see a single news crew both times.
I bet most of the people in Woodruff Park don’t even know what the fed is. No wonder they don’t have a job.
SAWB
October 18th, 2011
12:48 pm
“so why is it wrong for consumers who keep these entities in existance allowed to get the same consideration?”
They do. Simply go down to your local bank and they will help you refinance your loan to take advantage of the low interest rates. However, there is only one small catch – you have to actually make the payments.
Turn the Dogs Loose...
October 18th, 2011
12:50 pm
Turn the Storm Troopers Loose with the Guard Dogs…..throw in some military grade tear gas and make examples of some of these tramps and watch them crawl whinning and crying out of the park…..they are useless – just like the illegal aliens and that is what should be done to them as well…
JohnQPublic
October 18th, 2011
12:52 pm
I still say the solution is to go #occupyanametagandahairnet.
td
October 18th, 2011
1:24 pm
mum
October 18th, 2011
12:39 pm
@td, sometimes it seems that you are either really mean spirited or you don’t get out much to see what’s happening in the real world
You call it mean spirited and I call it tough love. It is those hard lessons in life that give a person character. If people do not go through the trails and tribulations of life then they will never become strong and will usually fail. Why is it mean spirited to not want someone to take personal responsibility for ones actions?
mum
October 18th, 2011
1:32 pm
@SAWB, the only people that use the park on any given day are the homeless. Been that way since after the Olympics. This is the most activity that areaa has seen after dark in years. As someone pointed out earlier, Bloomberg is jot pushing those people out so Atlanta is doing the same. Anyway, how would it look to the world when the town that symbolizes the civil rights movement, is seeh dragging it’s own people out of the park?
Taxpayer
October 18th, 2011
1:36 pm
If one red cent of my City of Atlanta tax money is going towards anything involving this annoying group of malcontents, I want them out NOW Mayor Reed.
What will it look like? Like we are a city, a state, a nation that respects and operates under a Rule of Law. Its the very idea that used to separate us from the barbaric hoardes of the world.
Walter Little, Jr.
October 18th, 2011
1:42 pm
You good folks are missing the point. Mayor Reed, as the City’s Chief Executive Officer, can temporarily amend any City Ordinance as needed. If you don’t believe me, go to the library and check out the Atlanta Code of Ordinances.
Corporate Greedy
October 18th, 2011
1:54 pm
The protesters are getting plenty of press coverage.
@mum
you are correct.
everyone else. Forget for a moment that many of these protesters are young men and women. Forget that some of them may be idealistic. Forget that their goals may not be attainable. ARE THEY RIGHT?
Is there too much corporate influence on our politics?
Citi Group announced really large profits today. Good for them, but they are still too-big-to-fail. If they get in trouble, we have to bail them out again. Don’t you want that fixed? We need to break-up the big banks.
Avser Bastian
October 18th, 2011
1:57 pm
WHITES AREN’T WELCOME IN AMERICA ANY LONGER !!! WE DON’T NEED YOU ANYMORE !!! OUT OF AMERICA WITH WHITES NOW !!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xGfYOAydjw
OR
http://www.youtube.com/user/BostjanAvsec
OBAMA’S HEALTH CARE RECORDED LIVE IN 2009. Facts about lunatic Obama/Bush’s twilight zone administrations(HORROR) or genocide against white population.
RGB
October 18th, 2011
1:58 pm
Decisions such as this one are the reason Mayor Reid will be unable to reach higher political office–save for a congressional seat perhaps where he would have a built-in, gerrymandered district.
When the going gets tough, the freaks turn pro.
Avser Bastian
October 18th, 2011
2:00 pm
WALL STREET PROTESTS AREN’T ANTI WALL-STREET AT ALL, BUT INSTEAD RACIALLY MOTIVATED AGAINST WHITES !!!
THEY WERE MURDERING YOU WITH AND INSIDE OF THEIR CORPORATIONS FOR OVER 66 YEARS !!! THEY HAVE CLOSED DOWN ALMOST EVERY SMALL COMPANY(FARMS) IN UNITES STATES OF AMERICA AND NOW, THEY WANT YOU TO GO OUT THERE AND PROTEST FOR THEM AGAINST WALL STREET(because corporations = Wall-street) !!!
http://multiculturalismisterrorism.blogspot.com/.
Corporate Greedy
October 18th, 2011
2:06 pm
ARE THESE PROTESTERS RIGHT?
Are corporations too powerful? Do they affect policy here in Georgia (think Georgia Power and why we are paying for a nuclear plant long before the first watt is put on a wire)? Do they affect policy in Washington (think tax breaks that make it so a hedge fund manager pays a lower tax rate than a school teacher)?
THESE PROTESTERS ARE RIGHT!
RGB
October 18th, 2011
2:10 pm
Corporate Greedy,
I think you should protest corporations by refusing to purchase anything made by them.
No food, cars, gas, clothing, electricity, medicines, medical care–nothing at all–if it is made by a corporation.
Who owns corporations by the way……?
DirtyHipster
October 18th, 2011
2:27 pm
Yeah, man. Let’s END these evil corporations by not buying any of their products. I am going to post an update about it on my Facebook page from my Dell laptop, then send out a mass tweet vilifying the 1% with my Apple iPhone. If the news cameras ever show up, I’ll be over here in my REI tent and North Face sleeping bag. Ciao!
Self_Made
October 18th, 2011
2:30 pm
None of these people (these serial posters who seem to be able to post all day while amassing their fortunes) want to discuss the merits of the protest. They are just repeating their same old tired mantra of “anybody who doesn’t hate Obama and the government is a lazy, shiftless, socialist”. They let corporations dictate their politics (the Tea Party movement is a classic case of Corporate TAKEOVER), barely understand the nuts and bolts of tax policy and government finance, and simply repeat the bumper sticker “common sense” they are fed. My dread is that they are as loud and motivated as they are ignorant and misled.
Self_Made
October 18th, 2011
2:35 pm
It doesn’t matter that real people own SHARES (or partial shares) of coporations, Mitt Romney wannabes. What matters is that corporations have only ONE motive…PROFIT. And unlike EVERYDAY PEOPLE who have families and futures to worry about, which tempers their choices and causes them to realize that others have the same rights as they do, corporate self-interest does NOT account for human beings and their rights…ONLY property rights. Allowing corporations to exercise the same rights as individuals UNDERMINES the Constitution and what it was meant to establish and protect. Catch a clue.
Aboli
October 18th, 2011
2:41 pm
Klan rally and free camping in Atlantas parks. Thanks OWS and Mr Mayor. You have really set us up now.
Pardon my blog
October 18th, 2011
2:44 pm
What Reed and the rest of the Democrats don’t understand is that most of these “Occupy” people want to do away with capitalism and the freedoms and move to a communist society or at the very least a socialist society where the government dictates every aspect of your life. Is the reason Obama is backing them because they reflect his true ideals? Is this the true mandate of Reed and his minions?
DG
October 18th, 2011
2:49 pm
Protests are legal and we should do everything to allow them to take place. Camping out on public or private sites without owners approval is illegal. These treaspassing events should all be shut down immediately. We had a bombing during the Olympics and this type of illegal activity could lead to the possiblity of it happening again (with even greater distruction and death). Who knows what is in the backpacks, tents, hand bags, or inside of the garments of both the protesters or spectators. We spend lots of time and money at airports etc. to prevent unwanted distruction. Why, for policitical correctness, do our leaders insist we allow these events to continue to go on without any consideration to innocent by-standers. Stop these illegal happenings before bad things do happen.
Michael McEachin
October 18th, 2011
3:02 pm
Mayor Reed should instruct the police to enforce the law rather than violate it through executive orders.
Mayor Reed needs to be voted out of office.
Drew
October 18th, 2011
3:15 pm
I think I’m going to protest ParkAtlanta by Occupying several parking spaces downtown for a month or two. I’m sure the Mayor will side with me.
Ghostrider
October 18th, 2011
3:39 pm
How many do you think will leave tomorrow with the Temps in the 50’s and raining….
RealTalk
October 18th, 2011
4:09 pm
Reed is a Loser and this proves it. Period. Do your Job! Those Protesters are losers and the New Flea Party. Send them to Cuba.
Corporate Greedy
October 18th, 2011
4:24 pm
Wow, not one person has a “real” response to the issue at hand.
Is it good for our democracy that politicians have to beg for money from corporations and the wealthy?
Obama’s goal is to raise $1 billion. Is that a good thing?
David M Howell
October 18th, 2011
4:30 pm
I am a local resident of Midtown Atlanta and I am deeply concerned about the recent Executive Orders (2011-2 & 2011-3) issued by City of Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. My concern stems from questions regarding the legality of these executive orders when being issued consecutively in order to bypass the duration limits imposed by City of Atlanta ordinance.
The power to issue executive orders is granted to the Mayor in city ordinance 2-182 of the City of Atlanta municipal code. The ordinance specifies certain criteria for executive orders which limit the duration as to prevent an executive using this power to implement long term legislation without a vote by the city Council. City of Atlanta Code 2-182 (b) grants the Mayor the power “To issue executive orders which may apply to events of short duration, including, but not limited to, the temporary exercise of extraordinary police power in times of emergency, such action to expire at the next meeting of the council subsequent to the issuance thereof unless ratified by a majority vote of the council present and voting;…”. Executive Order 2011-2 expired at the close of the City Council meeting held on 10/17/2011 when the full council declined to ratify the existing order. By issuing Executive Order 2011-3 consecutive to 2011-2 Mayor Reed is circumventing the legislative intent of Section 2-182 and violating city of Atlanta ordinance. This clear violation of the limits of Mayoral powers must be opposed in order stay within the bounds of the City of Atlanta charter which states that “All legislative powers of the city are hereby vested in the council…”.
As I am sure you are aware, the City of Atlanta has a strong Mayor form of government. By consecutively using the Executive Orders power the Mayor is implementing long term legislation without the consent of the council. This action clearly violates the spirit of the City of Atlanta charter and oversteps the bounds set forth in Section 2-182 of the City of Atlanta Code of ordinance. By letting the Mayor override existing legislation in this fashion the council becomes weaker and the executive office becomes even stronger. Given the broad powers granted to the Mayor by Section 2-182 it is imperative that the city council enforces compliance with the duration limits of the executive order power to limit the Mayor from implementing long term legislation without council approval.
Do we have standing to go for an injunction in Fulton County Superior Court?
Self_Made
October 18th, 2011
4:40 pm
Corporate Greedy…it’s like speaking to the wind, isn’t it? They won’t get it until they’re begging for scraps with the rest of the “socialists”.
Not in Tea Party
October 18th, 2011
5:50 pm
…Greedy,
If the protestors are “right” as you write, then all debt should be forgiven. Exactly how do you propose to enact the logistics on such a decision?
If the protestors are “right”, then every person deserves $20 per hour (for 40 hours?) whether they work or not. Will this money suddenly appear or do you suggest another tax surcharge on the wealthy to cover the cost?
By the way, as a means to measure this idiocy, if you confiscated the entire net worth of the 100 wealthiest Americans, the result would not cover the Obama deficit for one year – and then there would be no income to tax from these 100.
Is there a possiblity that some of the “occupy” rants have a legtimate aspect or two? Yes, but taken as a whole the demands are nothing more than the rantings of Liberal Loons.
mum
October 18th, 2011
5:51 pm
@td, so you think those out of work and in financial trouble weren’t personally responsible? The people I know who are struggling did everything right and are now unemployed, can’t even get an interview because they are considered way too old, and not currently employed. But of course, it’s their fault right?
td
October 18th, 2011
9:08 pm
mum
October 18th, 2011
5:51 pm
Is it all their fault? Maybe not, but can you tell they did not take every step to be prepared? If they are that old then why do they still have a lot of debt? Why did they not buy a house that one person could pay for if the other got laid off? If they are that old then they should have quiet a nest egg laid aside for retirement. Did they? We have all been told for years to build an emergency account and to not count on SS but to put money back for retirement. Do I have enough put back? No but if this happened to me I would be able to survive for a couple of years until the market picked back up without working at all and if I worked part time then I could survive for four or five years.
Betty
October 19th, 2011
7:34 am
Mayors who take oaths of office don’t ignore their responsibility to ALL citizens in favor of a small group of protestors unless they (a) agree with their agenda or (b) fear taking a stand.
I, too, am confused about what the protestors want. I don’t make $250k a year, but I do work for a living. Should I hand over half of my earnings to them because they want it and need to buy a better plan for their cell phones?
TakeBackAtlanta
October 19th, 2011
8:11 am
Very good point on the Mayor’s use of Executive Order to usurp the standard legislative process, David M. Howell.
It’s a shame that local “news” agencies didn’t think of that, or haven’t bothered to look into it….
Self_Made
October 19th, 2011
11:45 am
@td…that’s the point many of us are trying to make. A fair number of unemployed people did EXACTLY what you outlined. However, their incomes have been FLAT for over ten years. Property taxes and other costs have RISEN…in other words, they would have had issues keeping up even with continued employment. NOW retirement accounts are depleted, savings are dried up, and still…no jobs on the horizon. We have experienced an economic CATASTROPHE, that has been exacerbated by misguided responses by the federal government. I think its ludicrous to believe that the average person going to work everyday and following the script (meaning they go to work, raise their kids, spend what they must and save what they can and don’t hang out on financial websites and political blogs all day) should have been watertight ready for what has happened over the last 3-4 years. THAT is the Republican/Tea Party kool-aid that free thinking people not blinded by hatred of the “evil government” aren’t sipping.
Little Engine
October 23rd, 2011
9:24 am
We all know they have the right to free speech. I may even listen when they quit peeing in our public park and treating it like a toilet. Just a little dignity please.
Police patrol Woodruff Park perimeter; Mayor’s office denies Occupy Atlanta ordered to leave
October 23rd, 2011
6:52 pm
[...] Insider: Why Mayor Reed cut protesters some slack [...]