It's official, Beyond The Trestle has moved.
Go here for the skinny, or jump ahead to the site.
Switch out your RSS feeds to our new site's, and be sure to follow us at Facebook and Twitter.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
What goes around, comes around
The University of Georgia Police have issued a warrant for Gene Milner for charges stemming from the imprisonment and beating of a Clemson student.
If his name sounds familiar, it should.
Milner was involved in the overdose of Lewis Fish a few years back and had been barred from Athens-Clarke County ...
The charges listed in the warrant for Milner's arrest include violations that police discovered during the investigation into Fish's death that occurred before Milner left town, Williamson said. "We took the information to a magistrate judge and the judge felt we had probable cause to proceed," he said.
Milner has a record of misdemeanors that dates back to April 2004.
He was arrested April 15, 2004, on charges of giving false information to police, public drunkenness, underage alcohol possession, possession of fake ID, and again on Sept. 19 of that year on charges of underage alcohol possession and disorderly conduct.
Milner pleaded guilty and was sentenced in January 2005 to 12 months on probation and family counseling. He was ordered to wear a SCRAM, or Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor - an ankle band that regularly monitors the wearer's blood-alcohol content.
He was cited on Aug. 11 for a noise violation at 555 Riverhill Drive, to which he pleaded guilty on Jan. 4. The conditions of Milner's plea included six months probation, removal of the ankle band and being barred from Athens-Clarke County.
If his name sounds familiar, it should.
Milner was involved in the overdose of Lewis Fish a few years back and had been barred from Athens-Clarke County ...
The charges listed in the warrant for Milner's arrest include violations that police discovered during the investigation into Fish's death that occurred before Milner left town, Williamson said. "We took the information to a magistrate judge and the judge felt we had probable cause to proceed," he said.
Milner has a record of misdemeanors that dates back to April 2004.
He was arrested April 15, 2004, on charges of giving false information to police, public drunkenness, underage alcohol possession, possession of fake ID, and again on Sept. 19 of that year on charges of underage alcohol possession and disorderly conduct.
Milner pleaded guilty and was sentenced in January 2005 to 12 months on probation and family counseling. He was ordered to wear a SCRAM, or Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor - an ankle band that regularly monitors the wearer's blood-alcohol content.
He was cited on Aug. 11 for a noise violation at 555 Riverhill Drive, to which he pleaded guilty on Jan. 4. The conditions of Milner's plea included six months probation, removal of the ankle band and being barred from Athens-Clarke County.
A more respectful call
The Brunswick News calls for Rep. Glenn Richardson to step down.
Arguably, it's a more artful criticism that others we've seen recently, but I'm just not there yet. Richardson needs to get help - and if he opts to step down on his own that's fine - but there's no reason he should sacrifice his position yet.
Arguably, it's a more artful criticism that others we've seen recently, but I'm just not there yet. Richardson needs to get help - and if he opts to step down on his own that's fine - but there's no reason he should sacrifice his position yet.
Couple of things
- Damn good dawg.
- Loyal reader Cathi pens a very solid forum on the need for comprehensive financial literacy in the efforts to address affordable housing.
- Quoting The Washington Times is rather unfortunate, but I've got a suggestion for this ... let's get 500 or so uninsured Americans to read the bill. If Sen. Tom Corburn wants political theater, let's one-up him by getting the folks who will benefit from the bill on the floor reading it.
- This is a shame. I don't know the new owners, but I did know Tommy Wilson Sr. from my sports reporting days, and he was always very kind to me. In fact, the set of golf clubs I own right now were purchased at that very store with his help.
- Dan Lorentz coins a phrase for me, and I like it.
- Loyal reader Cathi pens a very solid forum on the need for comprehensive financial literacy in the efforts to address affordable housing.
- Quoting The Washington Times is rather unfortunate, but I've got a suggestion for this ... let's get 500 or so uninsured Americans to read the bill. If Sen. Tom Corburn wants political theater, let's one-up him by getting the folks who will benefit from the bill on the floor reading it.
- This is a shame. I don't know the new owners, but I did know Tommy Wilson Sr. from my sports reporting days, and he was always very kind to me. In fact, the set of golf clubs I own right now were purchased at that very store with his help.
- Dan Lorentz coins a phrase for me, and I like it.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
UGA VII has died
UGA VII has died. Apparently from a lengthy heart-related illness.
That's sudden ... and pretty sad.
That's sudden ... and pretty sad.
ALT video
An awesome video detailing the work the Athens Land Trust is doing. It's almost a mini-documentary, and it's got lots of really cool interviews with folks talking about how effective the organization is in revitalizing neighborhoods and providing affordable housing.
Clinton backs Baker
Thurbert Baker's got President Bill Clinton on his side, which is mighty interesting.
Clinton will attend and deliver remarks at a fundraising event for Baker in New York City, and Baker's statement implies the 'Big Dog' is with him ...
President Clinton brought people together to build a strong economy and create a record number of new jobs. That’s what I will do for Georgia as Governor, and I’m honored to have President Clinton’s support and counsel as we work to bring a much needed new direction to our state.
Clinton will attend and deliver remarks at a fundraising event for Baker in New York City, and Baker's statement implies the 'Big Dog' is with him ...
President Clinton brought people together to build a strong economy and create a record number of new jobs. That’s what I will do for Georgia as Governor, and I’m honored to have President Clinton’s support and counsel as we work to bring a much needed new direction to our state.
A change is gonna come
For folks who have followed this blog - and its predecessor 'Safe As Houses' - you've seen it go through various evolutions. Some of those have dealt with the content of the site, while others have focused on the areas of coverage.
This newest version, however, has proven to be something I rather enjoy ... a local/state blog that mixes some original reporting with a heavy emphasis on commentary and context on current issues of the day.
We've got some changes coming. They're big ones - and they've occupied a lot of my time the past two weeks - but they're gonna be good ones ...
A comprehensive site redesign that I'm very excited about. A designated domain for this blog rather than the Blogger one I've used for so many years (don't worry, we'll redirect you). Some planned programming including audio livestreams, regular podcasts, more liveblogs and, yes, the occasional online video. An area for guest commentaries from various folks in the community. A full integration with all sorts of social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. More regular and original coverage of various local happenings.
To be sure, it's somewhat bold, but it's also exciting.
Come Monday, we'll be up and running. It'll be the same Beyond The Trestle you've grown to love ... only better.
This newest version, however, has proven to be something I rather enjoy ... a local/state blog that mixes some original reporting with a heavy emphasis on commentary and context on current issues of the day.
We've got some changes coming. They're big ones - and they've occupied a lot of my time the past two weeks - but they're gonna be good ones ...
A comprehensive site redesign that I'm very excited about. A designated domain for this blog rather than the Blogger one I've used for so many years (don't worry, we'll redirect you). Some planned programming including audio livestreams, regular podcasts, more liveblogs and, yes, the occasional online video. An area for guest commentaries from various folks in the community. A full integration with all sorts of social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. More regular and original coverage of various local happenings.
To be sure, it's somewhat bold, but it's also exciting.
Come Monday, we'll be up and running. It'll be the same Beyond The Trestle you've grown to love ... only better.
Channeling Gen. Lee
Via Dan Matthews, North High Shoals Mayor Jeff Thomas borrows, rather liberally, from Robert E. Lee for his resignation letter.
It's rather impressive.
It's rather impressive.
The dangerous ledge
Marco Rubio, who is challenging moderate Republican Gov. Charlie Crist in the GOP Senate primary in Florida, is one of several conservative leaders blindly lurching to the right in an effort to purge the party. Via Andrew Sullivan, we find out that Rubio is now openly criticizing President Ronald Reagan, and Sullivan is baffled, but not stunned ...
The direction the GOP is heading does require a repudiation of Reagan's legacy.
Reagan raised taxes occasionally in deference to some concern about deficits. The current GOP refuses to even think about thinking about raising any taxes.
Reagan embraced immigrants and indeed granted amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants.
Reagan was prepared to negotiate with the Soviet Union. The current GOP does not believe in meeting or negotiating with any foreign enemies. ...
There's more. It's an excellent post.
The direction the GOP is heading does require a repudiation of Reagan's legacy.
Reagan raised taxes occasionally in deference to some concern about deficits. The current GOP refuses to even think about thinking about raising any taxes.
Reagan embraced immigrants and indeed granted amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants.
Reagan was prepared to negotiate with the Soviet Union. The current GOP does not believe in meeting or negotiating with any foreign enemies. ...
There's more. It's an excellent post.
Clarifications
Athens Banner-Herald reporter Joe Johnson addresses University of Georgia Police Chief Jimmy Williamson's accusation of being misquoted ...
... It's no big deal, just a matter of semantics. I used the word drunk, and not within quotation marks. He used the word intoxicated.
I've worked with Johnson, and he's a good reporter. His version makes sense.
... It's no big deal, just a matter of semantics. I used the word drunk, and not within quotation marks. He used the word intoxicated.
I've worked with Johnson, and he's a good reporter. His version makes sense.
Crunching numbers
Via a Twitter post by loyal reader Holly, we find this breakdown of the efficiency of our elected officials in Congress ... and let's just say the numbers aren't good for Georgia's delegation.
Rep. Jack Kingston has the most success in getting legislation he sponsored passed with 11 bills getting the OK out of 34 he tacked his name to. Given his ties to the area, Kingston has emerged as the go-to-congressman for Athens-Clarke County, and his track record suggests he's a solid worker in the political arena.
Sen. Saxby Chambliss has seen three bills he's sponsored out of 132 get passed, while Sen. Johnny Isakson has also passed three bills out of 93.
Who's down at the bottom of the list you ask? Why that would be our own Rep. John Barrow, who's sponsored 30 pieces of legislation, but only seen one of them enacted.
Rep. Jack Kingston has the most success in getting legislation he sponsored passed with 11 bills getting the OK out of 34 he tacked his name to. Given his ties to the area, Kingston has emerged as the go-to-congressman for Athens-Clarke County, and his track record suggests he's a solid worker in the political arena.
Sen. Saxby Chambliss has seen three bills he's sponsored out of 132 get passed, while Sen. Johnny Isakson has also passed three bills out of 93.
Who's down at the bottom of the list you ask? Why that would be our own Rep. John Barrow, who's sponsored 30 pieces of legislation, but only seen one of them enacted.
Bell's in, per usual
Mother of Mary, we're announcing for a run in 2012?
Also, can someone other than Sarah Bell run? She's like the Richard DeRose of Oconee County.
Also, can someone other than Sarah Bell run? She's like the Richard DeRose of Oconee County.
Deal favors cigarette tax hike
Rep. Nathan Deal may not think President Obama is a naturally born citizen, but at least he's exhibiting some sanity on some economic issues. It's way past time we raised the cigarette tax, both for the short-term revenue enhancement and the long-term public health benefits.
Interview with A.R. Killian
Dan Lorentz interviewed A.R. Killian, who was Athens's first African-American police officer. It's a really interesting read ...
But I came back to Athens [in 1961]. And I guess my job was to keep Hamp [Hamilton Holmes] home so he could integrate the University of Georgia. Then I integrated the police department, and then I went to the post office…And one thing after another.
When Hamp came—Hamp and Charlayne [Hunter]…the week they were supposed to start at school the decision came down that said unless Hamp had a place off campus to live, he could not go. My mother got a call wanting to know if she knew anybody who could keep Hamp. I hadn’t been back from California too long. I told her I had been through a war. I fought to be free. And he could stay with us. And he did. He stayed with us two years [at a place on Harris and Broad Sts.] And the clan came out to burn a cross…Now, the army taught me what to do. I didn’t go to the military just to go. I went to learn to be free…
But I came back to Athens [in 1961]. And I guess my job was to keep Hamp [Hamilton Holmes] home so he could integrate the University of Georgia. Then I integrated the police department, and then I went to the post office…And one thing after another.
When Hamp came—Hamp and Charlayne [Hunter]…the week they were supposed to start at school the decision came down that said unless Hamp had a place off campus to live, he could not go. My mother got a call wanting to know if she knew anybody who could keep Hamp. I hadn’t been back from California too long. I told her I had been through a war. I fought to be free. And he could stay with us. And he did. He stayed with us two years [at a place on Harris and Broad Sts.] And the clan came out to burn a cross…Now, the army taught me what to do. I didn’t go to the military just to go. I went to learn to be free…
Better blogs
There are few journalists in the state I respect more than Jim Galloway, but he's got to expand his blogroll.
Drawing only from Wacko McWacky, Andre and, now, Atlanta Progressive News leaves you with a narrow view of a rather impressive and diverse blogosphere in the state.
Case in point, talking about APN's hit job on Sen. Kasim Reed. As both Grift and Sara pointed out, APN's reporting was so shoddy it's staggering.
All in all, Galloway did what Galloway does, which is be the fair and responsible journalist that I admire and put together a very impressive piece. It's just somewhat disappointing that this hit job had to even be addressed and, that in addressing it, it was treated as legitimate journalism.
Related, Grift has some behind the scenes action on the fiasco, while Sara adds another level of perspective to it.
Drawing only from Wacko McWacky, Andre and, now, Atlanta Progressive News leaves you with a narrow view of a rather impressive and diverse blogosphere in the state.
Case in point, talking about APN's hit job on Sen. Kasim Reed. As both Grift and Sara pointed out, APN's reporting was so shoddy it's staggering.
All in all, Galloway did what Galloway does, which is be the fair and responsible journalist that I admire and put together a very impressive piece. It's just somewhat disappointing that this hit job had to even be addressed and, that in addressing it, it was treated as legitimate journalism.
Related, Grift has some behind the scenes action on the fiasco, while Sara adds another level of perspective to it.
Couple of things
- This is a good decision. It's a tough one, to be sure, but it's an essential one. The diversion center is absolute necessity for Athens-Clarke County in that such facilities have proven track records of having an impact on the local crime rate, but also in that it will alleviate the already overcrowded jail. The Boys & Girls Club is a great organization, but in tough economic times, tough choices must be made. This is the right one.
- Unfortunately, I wasn't able to make it to ReNew Athens's open house, but folks who attended said it was a nice event. I'm glad to hear it, and here is an interview I did with Rep. Doug McKillip on the project.
- Listen, I'm sorry, but I've got no sympathy for 'em. This is one of those rare instances where consumers (students) are paying directly for a service (education). If the cost of education has risen - either from a bad economy or other circumstances - the consumer needs to pick up more of the slack.
- Damn. Does Gov. Charlie Crist want to lose that Republican primary?
- It ain't the answer to our problems, but I'm not opposed to it either. Granted, I'd like to see us pass Sunday Sales, permit gambling and all sorts of other things to spur tourism and bolster revenues, but it probably won't happen. Much like how merely reforming our tax code into one that reflects the realities of the modern economy won't happen either, but hey ... horse racing!
- Poor form Lis Majersky. Rep. Glenn Richardson's politics are maddening, but his personal struggles aren't up for debate. You, my friend, can go to hell.
- I'll let Hillary handle Rachel Snyder ... 'Presumably you do that by allowing someone back onto the team who sucker punched another player during a game and tried to attack his own fans? That sets an example of collective responsibility beautifully.'
- Unfortunately, I wasn't able to make it to ReNew Athens's open house, but folks who attended said it was a nice event. I'm glad to hear it, and here is an interview I did with Rep. Doug McKillip on the project.
- Listen, I'm sorry, but I've got no sympathy for 'em. This is one of those rare instances where consumers (students) are paying directly for a service (education). If the cost of education has risen - either from a bad economy or other circumstances - the consumer needs to pick up more of the slack.
- Damn. Does Gov. Charlie Crist want to lose that Republican primary?
- It ain't the answer to our problems, but I'm not opposed to it either. Granted, I'd like to see us pass Sunday Sales, permit gambling and all sorts of other things to spur tourism and bolster revenues, but it probably won't happen. Much like how merely reforming our tax code into one that reflects the realities of the modern economy won't happen either, but hey ... horse racing!
- Poor form Lis Majersky. Rep. Glenn Richardson's politics are maddening, but his personal struggles aren't up for debate. You, my friend, can go to hell.
- I'll let Hillary handle Rachel Snyder ... 'Presumably you do that by allowing someone back onto the team who sucker punched another player during a game and tried to attack his own fans? That sets an example of collective responsibility beautifully.'
Hmmmm ...
University of Georgia Police Chief Jimmy Williamson, or someone claiming to be him, is taking umbrage in the comments section of this story ...
Joe Johnson needs to learn quote as stated. Changing people's words is irresponsible. Maybe, I need to go back to written questions with written responses.
Joe Johnson needs to learn quote as stated. Changing people's words is irresponsible. Maybe, I need to go back to written questions with written responses.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Have gun, will study
If you really want to feel horrifically uncomfortable, just take a gander at H.B. 615.
Thanks to an anonymous tip, the bill is set to head toward a committee hearing early next year. The legislation, which was sponsored by Rep. Tim Bearden, would let holders of concealed weapons bring those weapons onto most public places across the state, including college campuses. In fact, if you click on the link to review the proposed legislation, you'll be more stunned by what's crossed out rather than what's added on.
The bill would strip away all barriers to carrying concealed weapons on places like the University of Georgia, though, according to an internal email, various representatives from the Board of Regents are hoping to negotiate a compromise that would let concealed weapon permit holders bring the weapons to campus in their car, but they would have to leave them there rather than, you know, take them to English 101.
Thanks to an anonymous tip, the bill is set to head toward a committee hearing early next year. The legislation, which was sponsored by Rep. Tim Bearden, would let holders of concealed weapons bring those weapons onto most public places across the state, including college campuses. In fact, if you click on the link to review the proposed legislation, you'll be more stunned by what's crossed out rather than what's added on.
The bill would strip away all barriers to carrying concealed weapons on places like the University of Georgia, though, according to an internal email, various representatives from the Board of Regents are hoping to negotiate a compromise that would let concealed weapon permit holders bring the weapons to campus in their car, but they would have to leave them there rather than, you know, take them to English 101.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
