Not to toot my own horn, but I have been able to read since the age of 3. And the first things that I read were newspapers. Growing up 100 miles from Chicago, I read the Dixon Telegraph, the Rockford Morning Star and Chicago's American at my house. My grandparents took the Dixon paper, the Chicago Tribune (presumably avoiding the editorial section) and the greatest paper I ever read, the Chicago Daily News, where as a 7-year-old I first read the great Mike Royko.
Twenty years ago, when out-of-town Sunday papers were sent to Memphis, I would frequent World News downtown or Tobacco Corner Newsroom out east to find the papers I wanted, sometimes spending as much as $20 on a Sunday to get those HUGE papers to spend the day with. So, I love great newspapers.
While it may not have been great, the Nashville City Paper had great moments and good writers, at least one I know personally, and that is why I mourn its passing. Its last issue was printed and hit the streets today, and they went out with a wonderful editorial about how Nashville needs newspapers. They will be deeply missed.
Since Craigslist sucked all the money out of the classified ads with free online classifieds and with so much of our news coming online, it has become nearly impossible to make ANY profit with a newspaper, much less the unreasonable profit margins demanded by the demons of Wall Street. Somehow the Daily News and the weekly Memphis Flyer stay above water and produce good journalism for our city and region.
Which brings me to the major daily for the city (but no longer for the region; Scripps abdicated their coverage of regional events long ago), the Commercial Appeal. When we moved to Memphis 41 years ago, my folks took the Press-Scimitar, the afternoon daily, instead of the morning CA. When the P-S met the fate of all afternoon papers (at least 15 years pre-Internet) and closed in 1983, my dad reluctantly subscribed to the Commercial Appeal. Other than carrying Mike Royko, there really was not much to it, except for the ace political reporter, Terry Keeter, who knew where the bodies WEREN'T buried.
Until the bottom fell out, the CA has been the cash cow for Scripps and they meant to keep it that way (Google Chris Davis' stellar coverage of the CA-Newspaper Guild battles at the Flyer that decimated the Guild). Frankly, other than Wendi Thomas (who has even seen her columns cut back in the last few months) and Geoff Calkins (the best sportswriter in the country, day in and day out, IMO), there's no real reason to give my money to Scripps for less value every day.
Reading the City Paper editorial, I was about to give in and subscribe to the CA so as to support our major daily paper. Then I heard about something that was, frankly, the last straw. Over a year ago, I believe, the wonderful cartoonist for the CA, Bill Day, who was afraid of nothing and no one with his fearless cartoons, was released from the CA, ostensibly in a cost-cutting move. Other papers have done the same thing around the country, choosing instead to get a cheaper syndicated cartoonist.
The final nail in the coffin was, for me, hearing that this week they hired a cartoonist from South Carolina to be the regular cartoonist. Does this person know the area? Will he be fair and straight across the board, as Bill Day was? Why not just bring back Day, if Day wanted?
My own suspicions are that Day's cartoons aggravated the conservatives in the suburbs, whom CA management have desperately sought to appease and keep as subscribers, despite the fact that they do not make up a majority of the city or county.
I love newspapers, but I want value for my money. If I lived in Little Rock, I would take the Democrat-Gazette, horrid editorial and op-ed pages and all, because Walter Hussmann is committed to news coverage and staffing his newsroom. They still cover the state of Arkansas, because it is their mission.
I feel bad for the reporters at the CA, because, as the City Paper noted, you don't do more with less, you do LESS with less,. Sadly, less is all that Scripps management wants to give this city, and I refuse to pay for it.
Friday, August 09, 2013
Thursday, August 08, 2013
So where are the YOUNG Democrats coming from?
First, y'all need to go and read JR Lind's Weekly Obsession from the soon-to-be-defunct Nashville City Paper. Go ahead, I can wait. Ok, got it? Good.
He makes a helluva point that the TNDP and its enablers are living in a past where 1994 never happened and we are in perpetual 1992 and people WANT to vote for Blue Dogs and EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE IF YOU JUST LISTEN TO US!!!!
Well, no. The part that froze me but did not surprise me was this quote about the departure of Lowe Finney from the State Senate:
Where is our future coming from, people? I am not disparaging the state YDs; Sean Braisted is busting his butt to build that organization. Where, though, are our Young Democrats? We need more people like Braisted, Spencer Bowers (UT-Martin), Charles Uffelman (U Memphis) and more young WOMEN to be involved and to RUN for office.
Speaking of that, what happened to George Monger? Remember the young tech whiz that Democrats named to the County Election Commission but inexplicably refused to re-appoint him, naming Anthony Tate in his stead? (By the way, I hear good things about Tate's work so far.) I have heard disturbing reports that there were other legislators afraid of this rising star and wanted to short-circuit his career. PEOPLE, THIS IS THE TYPE OF YOUNG DEMOCRAT WE NEED!!! HERE AND THROUGHOUT THE STATE.
So, I will tell you what I think should happen. With the passing of Lois DeBerry, we now have an open seat in the General Assembly. George Monger is the type of young, aggressive leader that we need in Nashville who will not be afraid to call shenanigans on the GOP. We need to encourage him to run for District 91, and if the County Commission appoints someone to fill that position in the interim before the necessary special election, we need to encourage them to appoint George to that seat.
We don't need to stop with George; we need younger, stronger voices representing Democratic policies in our General Assembly, our County Commission , our City Council and our Unified School Board whenever and wherever possible. We need to build a BENCH, which is what the state GOP is doing, and they are smart to do so. We need these younger people because without them, the Democratic Party has no future here.
We need to make sure that they have good jobs, we need to encourage College Democrats clubs at ALL of our local colleges, not just U of M (I know CBU will be a tough nut to crack, but still....). We need to encourage the building of Young Democrats clubs in every county here. Terry Spicer was doing a terrific job, then he moved, but now he's back, so maybe he could get involved!
And Shelby County elected Bryan Carson as County Chair, who got elected for far more than his mother's good name, he got it because he WORKED for it. We need younger people involved because old farts like me won't be around forever. We need to ENCOURAGE our Young Democrats, not run them off.
So, what should we do about this? I want to hear from you in the comments. And, George Monger, PLEASE run for District 91!
He makes a helluva point that the TNDP and its enablers are living in a past where 1994 never happened and we are in perpetual 1992 and people WANT to vote for Blue Dogs and EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE IF YOU JUST LISTEN TO US!!!!
Well, no. The part that froze me but did not surprise me was this quote about the departure of Lowe Finney from the State Senate:
Not to disparage the Senate Democratic Caucus, many of whom have given years — and in some cases, nearly a century — of service to the state of Tennessee. But that’s just the problem.
With Finney, the average age of a Senate Democrat is 64.
Without him, it’s 69.Whoa. Now, I remember that Ross had noted something similar at VIBINC, but I can't find it right now.
Where is our future coming from, people? I am not disparaging the state YDs; Sean Braisted is busting his butt to build that organization. Where, though, are our Young Democrats? We need more people like Braisted, Spencer Bowers (UT-Martin), Charles Uffelman (U Memphis) and more young WOMEN to be involved and to RUN for office.
Speaking of that, what happened to George Monger? Remember the young tech whiz that Democrats named to the County Election Commission but inexplicably refused to re-appoint him, naming Anthony Tate in his stead? (By the way, I hear good things about Tate's work so far.) I have heard disturbing reports that there were other legislators afraid of this rising star and wanted to short-circuit his career. PEOPLE, THIS IS THE TYPE OF YOUNG DEMOCRAT WE NEED!!! HERE AND THROUGHOUT THE STATE.
So, I will tell you what I think should happen. With the passing of Lois DeBerry, we now have an open seat in the General Assembly. George Monger is the type of young, aggressive leader that we need in Nashville who will not be afraid to call shenanigans on the GOP. We need to encourage him to run for District 91, and if the County Commission appoints someone to fill that position in the interim before the necessary special election, we need to encourage them to appoint George to that seat.
We don't need to stop with George; we need younger, stronger voices representing Democratic policies in our General Assembly, our County Commission , our City Council and our Unified School Board whenever and wherever possible. We need to build a BENCH, which is what the state GOP is doing, and they are smart to do so. We need these younger people because without them, the Democratic Party has no future here.
We need to make sure that they have good jobs, we need to encourage College Democrats clubs at ALL of our local colleges, not just U of M (I know CBU will be a tough nut to crack, but still....). We need to encourage the building of Young Democrats clubs in every county here. Terry Spicer was doing a terrific job, then he moved, but now he's back, so maybe he could get involved!
And Shelby County elected Bryan Carson as County Chair, who got elected for far more than his mother's good name, he got it because he WORKED for it. We need younger people involved because old farts like me won't be around forever. We need to ENCOURAGE our Young Democrats, not run them off.
So, what should we do about this? I want to hear from you in the comments. And, George Monger, PLEASE run for District 91!
Wednesday, August 07, 2013
Let's talk about what we can do to help take control away from the GOP
A lot of people look at the Tennessee Democratic Party and ask, why aren't they doing more to turn the electoral tide back in our direction. First, of all, they really don't know how, because they have been the party of power for so long that they have no clue how to raise money other than to stick out their hands at lobbyists.
When the GOP is in control and the lobbyists don't need you anymore, and you really don't know how to do grassroots organizing, because you really haven't had to do so, you get kind of lost. Chip Forrester tried, but never really got anything going, though he had a good staff. Roy Herron has dedicated staff, but isn't really raising money these days, other than to sell tickets for Jackson Day.
So, what do we do? Well, start by getting involved in your County Party, if possible. If you look up your county and see there is no real party apparatus there, contact the County Chairs Association to see how you can get involved in your county.
In Shelby County, we have a good young chair in Bryan Carson, and he is building an organization and if you live here, he could use your help. Come out on August 27 to Spaghetti Warehouse from 7-9 PM and meet the Executive Committee. Yes, there will be a $20 donation, because they are going to need big bucks to run their August and November GET OUT THE VOTE drives in 2014.
I am going to have more later about the countywide races. I hope to see you on August 27.
When the GOP is in control and the lobbyists don't need you anymore, and you really don't know how to do grassroots organizing, because you really haven't had to do so, you get kind of lost. Chip Forrester tried, but never really got anything going, though he had a good staff. Roy Herron has dedicated staff, but isn't really raising money these days, other than to sell tickets for Jackson Day.
So, what do we do? Well, start by getting involved in your County Party, if possible. If you look up your county and see there is no real party apparatus there, contact the County Chairs Association to see how you can get involved in your county.
In Shelby County, we have a good young chair in Bryan Carson, and he is building an organization and if you live here, he could use your help. Come out on August 27 to Spaghetti Warehouse from 7-9 PM and meet the Executive Committee. Yes, there will be a $20 donation, because they are going to need big bucks to run their August and November GET OUT THE VOTE drives in 2014.
I am going to have more later about the countywide races. I hope to see you on August 27.
Tuesday, August 06, 2013
Sara Kyle is seriously considering a race for Governor!
This is nothing short of spectacular news, giving the state's Democrats a rallying figure at the top of the ticket.
Joey Garrison broke the story at the Tennnessean, referencing the Facebook page I mentioned earlier this morning. While she has much to discuss and think about, we need to be prepared to support her in this run as much as possible. We need to be there with time, money and whatever needs to be done in order to make this a successful campaign.
With a strong candidate like Sara at the top of the ticket, more candidates will be encouraged to attempt campaigns for the General Assembly and the State Senate, which are desperately needed. It will be an uphill battle, as Haslam has all the money he will need, with the Koch Brothers and ALEC standing by to give even more. This is why we have to be prepared with time, money, and organization.
More on this later, but this is terrific news!
Joey Garrison broke the story at the Tennnessean, referencing the Facebook page I mentioned earlier this morning. While she has much to discuss and think about, we need to be prepared to support her in this run as much as possible. We need to be there with time, money and whatever needs to be done in order to make this a successful campaign.
With a strong candidate like Sara at the top of the ticket, more candidates will be encouraged to attempt campaigns for the General Assembly and the State Senate, which are desperately needed. It will be an uphill battle, as Haslam has all the money he will need, with the Koch Brothers and ALEC standing by to give even more. This is why we have to be prepared with time, money, and organization.
More on this later, but this is terrific news!
Run, Sara, Run!!!!
Well, it seems as though my friends Matt Kuhn and Michael Lipe have started a page on Facebook to encourage the last Democratic statewide-elected official NOT named Bredesen to run for Governor in 2014. After thinking about this, I LIKE the idea, for more than just the reasons they state.
What, you don't know who they mean? Let me let them tell you:
Who was the last woman elected state wide in Tennessee?
Who could start tomorrow with an organization spanning from the tri-cities where she was born, Nashville where she served in state government to Memphis where she is a wife, mother and church member?
Who could start raising money next week through national women's groups for public service?
Sara Kyle (I'll give you that comes from her husband, Sen Jim Kyle)
Please forward this to interested Tennesseans who want Sara Kyle to run for Governor - who stands for all Tennesseans.
What, you don't know who they mean? Let me let them tell you:
Aside from Phil Bredesen, who was the last Tennessee Democrat elected to a statewide office in Tennessee?
Sara Kyle
In 1994, one of the worst years for Democrats in Tennessee, who was the only democrat to win a statewide office?
Sara Kyle
Who was the last woman elected state wide in Tennessee?
Sara Kyle.
Who could start tomorrow with an organization spanning from the tri-cities where she was born, Nashville where she served in state government to Memphis where she is a wife, mother and church member?
Sara Kyle
Who could start raising money next week through national women's groups for public service?
Sara Kyle
Who was perceived as the best campaigner in the last democratic primary for Governor?
Sara Kyle (I'll give you that comes from her husband, Sen Jim Kyle)
Who cares about the people of Tennessee and the consumers she looked out for as the Director of TRA than our current Governor, who seems more interested in giving kickbacks to cronies than working for Tennesseans.
Sara Kyle
Who does Tennessee need to protect working Tennesseans?
Sara Kyle
Please forward this to interested Tennesseans who want Sara Kyle to run for Governor - who stands for all Tennesseans.
Run, Sara, Run
Friday, August 02, 2013
J Smooth nails this.
Don Lemon made some really dumb comments on CNN this week about racism. J Smooth responds:
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
The news gets worse: Lowe Finney is not running for re-election to the Senate
Senator Lowe Finney (D-Jackson, District 27) sent out an announcement that he is not seeking re-election to his seat, which used to represent Madison, Gibson and Carroll Counties, but now represents Madison, Crockett, Dyer, Lake and Lauderdale Counties. If this is for a run for higher office, then this may be a good thing. However, from the tone of this letter to his constituents, it appears as though he is leaving politics, and that is NOT of the good:
Dear Friend,
Today I am making an important announcement, one that I wanted to share with you - one of my friends and strongest supporters - before it’s out in the news media. After much prayer and thoughtful consideration, I have decided not to seek a third term to the state Senate.
I have had no higher honor than representing West Tennessee families in the state legislature. I am proud to have worked to improve health care for senior citizens, cut the sales tax on food and provide great opportunities for young students and veterans to attend college. I thank my wife, Tiffany, for her support all these years.
Although I am leaving the Senate at the end of next year, I will remain your Senator for Dyer, Crockett, Lake, Lauderdale and Madison counties until the November election. I will work even harder in my last session, and I will be available to serve you in any way I can. I remain,
Respectfully yours,
Paid for by Friends of Lowe Finney | Teresa Luna, Treasurer
PO Box 1432 | Jackson, TN 38302
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
The sad times continue with news of the Ethics Complaint
As we are still mourning the passing of the legend that was Rep. Lois DeBerry, it was rather sad to see that the long-rumored House Ethics Committee complaint against Randy Wade had to be filed by our Congressman, Steve Cohen.
If you read the complaint at this link, you will see that what Randy did was in fact a violation of House Ethics rules, a violation that the Congressman himself warned Randy about. Randy, who retired in February as a staffer, can face no penalties, as he is no longer a staffer.
He used his title as a Congressional staffer to endorse a candidate (G A Hardaway in House District 93), which is against House rules. Period. If Randy had endorsed Mike Kernell, it would have been just as much of a violation of House rules. Period.
I like Randy and Steve is a friend of mine going back over 30 years, I am proud to say. They were a terrific team together, and I know Steve did all he could within the law to help Randy in his Sheriff's race in 2010, but it just was not to be. That's why this is a sad situation, reminiscent of a divorce more than anything else.
Supposedly Randy is going to work against Steve Cohen next year if someone is silly enough to try to do what no one since Harold Ford Jr. in 1996 has been able to do, which is to beat Steve in a primary. That, too, is sad, because it just looks petty, and Randy is a better person than that, or so I have always believed. Besides, if the 18-year Mayor of Memphis, Dr. W.W. Herenton, couldn't beat Steve, how will anyone else?
This has not been the best of years for Steve Cohen, and I know all of this has taken its toll on him. I would urge him to continue to fight for our city, as he has done since 1982 (24 years in Nashville, 6 in Washington. We will have your back, Congressman, as you have had ours.
If you read the complaint at this link, you will see that what Randy did was in fact a violation of House Ethics rules, a violation that the Congressman himself warned Randy about. Randy, who retired in February as a staffer, can face no penalties, as he is no longer a staffer.
He used his title as a Congressional staffer to endorse a candidate (G A Hardaway in House District 93), which is against House rules. Period. If Randy had endorsed Mike Kernell, it would have been just as much of a violation of House rules. Period.
I like Randy and Steve is a friend of mine going back over 30 years, I am proud to say. They were a terrific team together, and I know Steve did all he could within the law to help Randy in his Sheriff's race in 2010, but it just was not to be. That's why this is a sad situation, reminiscent of a divorce more than anything else.
Supposedly Randy is going to work against Steve Cohen next year if someone is silly enough to try to do what no one since Harold Ford Jr. in 1996 has been able to do, which is to beat Steve in a primary. That, too, is sad, because it just looks petty, and Randy is a better person than that, or so I have always believed. Besides, if the 18-year Mayor of Memphis, Dr. W.W. Herenton, couldn't beat Steve, how will anyone else?
This has not been the best of years for Steve Cohen, and I know all of this has taken its toll on him. I would urge him to continue to fight for our city, as he has done since 1982 (24 years in Nashville, 6 in Washington. We will have your back, Congressman, as you have had ours.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Rep. Lois DeBerry has died
From Deidre Malone comes the sad news:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Carter Malone Group,
The Passing of Tennessee State Representative Lois M. DeBerry
(MEMPHIS, TENN – July 28, 2013) For more than 40 years, Lois M. DeBerry served the citizens of the 91st District of Tennessee and the entire State. Today, she passed comfortably surrounded by family and friends. Representative DeBerry represented this community with passion and dedication across the nation and world. For her, there was no greater cause than serving. Children, her community, and most importantly her family, were her passions.
Her husband, Charles Traughber, son, Michael Boyer and other members of the Traughber/DeBerry family, have shared her for so many years with the world and ask for privacy at this time.
Arrangements are pending and will be announced when they are finalized.
About Rep. Lois M. DeBerry
Representative DeBerry grew up in Memphis and graduated from Hamilton High School and LeMoyne - Owen College. She was the first African-American female elected to the State Legislature from Memphis and Shelby County in 1972, and began her service in 1973. She was the longest serving member of the Tennessee House of Representatives. Representative DeBerry was the first female Speaker Pro-Tempore and the only African-American to serve in that capacity to date.
In addition to her son, she was a surrogate mother and mentor to many.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Two things of note today!
One, if you are in the Memphis area, go to the Germantown Democratic Club meeting tonight at Coletta's Restaurant, 2850 Appling Road; Dinner will begin at 6 P.M. and the speaker starts at 6:45. Who's the speaker, you ask? None other than our own VIBINC, Steve Ross, who will discuss the new County Commission districts. Nobody is more prepared than he is, so it will be informative and fun.. I gotta work late tonight, so I can't be there, but you should go!
Next, stop what you are doing and go read NEWSCOMA right now. Go ahead, I'll wait.
Again, she asks the right questions, but will the TNDP have the right answers? I like this part right here:
Ok, that's all for the moment, I will try to get back here more often.
Next, stop what you are doing and go read NEWSCOMA right now. Go ahead, I'll wait.
Again, she asks the right questions, but will the TNDP have the right answers? I like this part right here:
A lot of folks I talk to discuss the wealth of Haslam and it is a fair discussion. He has a great deal of money and how much is something that no one truly knows. It’s hard to fathom what kind of money would be needed to set up a serious gubernatorial challenger. And it’s not just democrats raising eyebrows but moderate republicans as well.Bingo. It's time for the TNDP to wake up and realize that GOP-lite will not work any more. Until we find candidates that EXCITE and INSPIRE people, we are screwed.
And then I think about Wendy Davis from Texas. I think that what it really takes is someone opposing what is happening in this state right now just as she did. She stood up for something she believed in.
Ok, that's all for the moment, I will try to get back here more often.
Friday, June 28, 2013
I think Mayor Herenton was RIGHT.
Before I talk about what, I would like you to watch this segment from Good Morning Memphis on Wednesday. Go on, I can wait, it's important.
Did you happen to notice how Councilors Strickland and Harris responded to the Facebook comment at the end of the video that we shouldn't throw any more money into a "dying city"? THEY DIDN'T. Really? You were elected by citizens to represent parts of this city and you couldn't muster a response to the idea that the city is DYING? For Jim Strickland, who keeps being rumored to make a run for Mayor in the event Mayor Wharton doesn't run, this is sending a message that questions how much he believes in this city. As for Councilor Harris, I have no clue about his non-response. Never mind, of course, that Steve Ross has pretty much eviscerated Strickland's theorem that crime and taxes are why people are leaving. I am not seeing a lot of FOR SALE signs in the Poplar Corridor, which Jim Strickland represents, unless it's by a child selling the home of a deceased parent. This is still not a market to sell your house.
Is the city having problems? Sure, what major city hasn't? The truth of the matter is that the local economic development people feel that we can't compete for corporations if we don't give away the store with PILOTs and TIFs. I disagree, because that means if there are jobs, YOU AND I are subsidizing them.
Mayor Herenton got in trouble about a decade ago when he suggested that if you didn't like living here, you should leave. You know what? HE WAS RIGHT THEN AND HE IS RIGHT NOW.
I am a Memphian by choice, not by birth. I have had opportunities to leave here in the past, but I stayed because there are tons of good people here of all races, creeds, colors, religions, sexual orientations, etc. No, the city is not like it was in 1950, and it will never be that white again. If you really think my city is a shithole and you can't wait to leave, go.
NOW. Move somewhere else where you think you will be more comfortable and where your visions won't be challenged by the diversity of this city. And I don't just want you to leave this city, I want you to leave the freaking SMSA. Stop sucking money out of this area and go somewhere else where you think you will do better.
As for me, and the rest of this city and metro area, we are going to stay here and make this a city where people can work together and build NEW businesses, one where it doesn't matter WHERE in this town you live, a thriving neighborhood will be possible.
Maybe then, we will elect people who will defend the city and the citizens who elected them.
Did you happen to notice how Councilors Strickland and Harris responded to the Facebook comment at the end of the video that we shouldn't throw any more money into a "dying city"? THEY DIDN'T. Really? You were elected by citizens to represent parts of this city and you couldn't muster a response to the idea that the city is DYING? For Jim Strickland, who keeps being rumored to make a run for Mayor in the event Mayor Wharton doesn't run, this is sending a message that questions how much he believes in this city. As for Councilor Harris, I have no clue about his non-response. Never mind, of course, that Steve Ross has pretty much eviscerated Strickland's theorem that crime and taxes are why people are leaving. I am not seeing a lot of FOR SALE signs in the Poplar Corridor, which Jim Strickland represents, unless it's by a child selling the home of a deceased parent. This is still not a market to sell your house.
Is the city having problems? Sure, what major city hasn't? The truth of the matter is that the local economic development people feel that we can't compete for corporations if we don't give away the store with PILOTs and TIFs. I disagree, because that means if there are jobs, YOU AND I are subsidizing them.
Mayor Herenton got in trouble about a decade ago when he suggested that if you didn't like living here, you should leave. You know what? HE WAS RIGHT THEN AND HE IS RIGHT NOW.
I am a Memphian by choice, not by birth. I have had opportunities to leave here in the past, but I stayed because there are tons of good people here of all races, creeds, colors, religions, sexual orientations, etc. No, the city is not like it was in 1950, and it will never be that white again. If you really think my city is a shithole and you can't wait to leave, go.
NOW. Move somewhere else where you think you will be more comfortable and where your visions won't be challenged by the diversity of this city. And I don't just want you to leave this city, I want you to leave the freaking SMSA. Stop sucking money out of this area and go somewhere else where you think you will do better.
As for me, and the rest of this city and metro area, we are going to stay here and make this a city where people can work together and build NEW businesses, one where it doesn't matter WHERE in this town you live, a thriving neighborhood will be possible.
Maybe then, we will elect people who will defend the city and the citizens who elected them.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Another legend is gone
The greatest blues singer that ever walked this Earth, Bobby Blue Bland, passed away this evening at the age of 83. Here is a video from the mid 90s, taped at the New Daisy, hat tip to Julie Green for the link:
No word yet on arrangements for the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, born in Rosemark in 1930 as Robert Calvin Bland. He will be deeply missed.
No word yet on arrangements for the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, born in Rosemark in 1930 as Robert Calvin Bland. He will be deeply missed.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Mark your calendars for TWO upcoming events this Thursday and NEXT Tuesday!
First, from the SCDP, comes an event this coming Thursday Night at Pearl's Oyster House on South Main:
Then, Drinking Liberally Memphis announces their Guest Speaker for next week's meeting, to be held on TUESDAY, JUNE 18 instead of Thursday, at Frida's on Madison (upstairs):
We are moving next weeks' DL to TUESDAY NIGHT, JUNE 18 at 7 PM as we have the new Director of Planned Parenthood's Greater Memphis Region, Ashley Coffield, coming to speak to Drinking Liberally Memphis!
This will be your chance to meet her and hear what is happening at PPGMR, our thanks to PPGMR's (and DL regular member) Joan Carr for making these arrangements. So come to DL on TUESDAY, JUNE 18 at Frida's at 7 PM!Looks like a busy few days for us all!
Thursday, June 06, 2013
The RETURN of the Sidney Chism Picnic (a NEWER version) is this Saturday!
From the desk of Leon Gray comes this press release:
For Immediate Release:
June 6, 2013
The Annual Sidney Chism Political Picnic returns this Saturday 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. with a new look and swagger.
For 13-years County Commissioner Sidney Chism; who has held office in the Tennessee Senate, is past Chairman of the local Democratic Party, and spent 40-years as a labor leader and Teamsters administrator; held a political meet & greet in a 12-acre park located behind the family owned Horn Lake Road Learning Center @ 3657 Horn lake Road in Southwest Memphis. The annual event allowed members of the community to meet local elected officials and candidates for local offices in an informal setting while enjoying food of the grill and various cold beverages.
Chism did not host the picnic last year but instead took the year off to restructure the event. On Saturday, June 8, 2013, the new “Sidney Chism Annual Non-Partisan Community Picnic” returns with a new look which allows citizens of Memphis and Shelby County the same access to local leaders and candidates plus more FREE FOOD & DRINKS and more LIVE ENTERTAINMENT and some surprises we’re saving for Saturday.
“We’re getting ready for the biggest non-presidential election year in the history of Shelby County and the campaign kicks-off this Saturday”.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Tennessee Democrats, you need to be a part of this!
Next weekend, the Tennessee Democratic County Chairs Association is sponsoring a two-day event in Spring Hill, the Statewide County Party Conference. The great news is that even if you are NOT on any county's Executive Committee, you can still take part in this event. Here's a list of what will take place:
Statewide Democratic County Party Conference
Statewide Democratic County Party Conference Friday & Saturday, June 7 & 8, 2013 at Spring Hill, TN
(scroll down to register)
Register now for this great opportunity to come together as Democrats, share with each other, and learn from each other!
Building and connecting effective networks of Hometown Democrats in every county across Tennessee is the theme of our "Keep Calm and County Party On" conference.*
This two day event begins Friday, June 7th at 6:00 pm with Make it Blue Tennessee: Evening Meet & Greet with live music, food & drink. On Saturday, June 8th the conference opens at 9:00 am and will feature round-table discussions, interactive workshops, luncheon, and presentations to help us move Tennessee forward, followed by dinner with Keynote Speaker, State Representative and former Knox County Chair, Gloria Johnson. All Democrats are welcome and encouraged to attend!
The Tennessee Democratic County Chairs Association will hold our biennial election of Officers. See our conference agenda for more information.
WHEN
June 07, 2013 at 6pm - June 08, 2013
WHERE
UAW Local 1853 Banquet/Conference Center
125 Stephen P Yokich Pkwy
Spring Hill, TN 37174
United States
Google map and directions
125 Stephen P Yokich Pkwy
Spring Hill, TN 37174
United States
Google map and directions
Click on the link for the conference at the top for contact information.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Taking a little break for LIFE
Well, I realized that I hadn't been here for a couple of weeks and thought I needed to put something up. As you may or may not know, I got married for the first time two weeks ago today at the tender age of 54.
I am deeply fortunate to have Susan, who puts up with me and my foibles and seems to understand me very well, which is a good thing. I have been paying attention to things going on in Tennessee (thank you Daily Buzz, if you aren't a subscriber for free, for heaven's sakes, SIGN UP, will ya?) but due to my wedded bliss, I haven't gotten worked up enough to write.
Something I noticed is that Mike Carpenter announced on Facebook today that he is going to work for the Plough Foundation; last I knew, he was working for Mayor Wharton. He will do a great job at Plough, he is a Republican who works with Democrats, even if he doesn't agree with us very much. Because he would work with us on the County Commission, he is a pariah in his own party. Sad. Mike Ritz, who would criticize Carpenter for doing that, now has taken that same path of bipartisanship on his own, to the point that some in his own party tried to recall him, with no success.
Any way, the Grizz are in the Western Conference Finals for the first time ever, it's BBQ Fest weekend and life is good. I'll be back in a couple of weeks or so with more news, go enjoy what's left of May!
I am deeply fortunate to have Susan, who puts up with me and my foibles and seems to understand me very well, which is a good thing. I have been paying attention to things going on in Tennessee (thank you Daily Buzz, if you aren't a subscriber for free, for heaven's sakes, SIGN UP, will ya?) but due to my wedded bliss, I haven't gotten worked up enough to write.
Something I noticed is that Mike Carpenter announced on Facebook today that he is going to work for the Plough Foundation; last I knew, he was working for Mayor Wharton. He will do a great job at Plough, he is a Republican who works with Democrats, even if he doesn't agree with us very much. Because he would work with us on the County Commission, he is a pariah in his own party. Sad. Mike Ritz, who would criticize Carpenter for doing that, now has taken that same path of bipartisanship on his own, to the point that some in his own party tried to recall him, with no success.
Any way, the Grizz are in the Western Conference Finals for the first time ever, it's BBQ Fest weekend and life is good. I'll be back in a couple of weeks or so with more news, go enjoy what's left of May!
Thursday, May 02, 2013
Sid Selvidge has left us far too soon
It seems like all I've done lately is put up memorials. Another giant of this city has passed away, the amazing Sid Selvidge, who died of cancer earlier today. While you younger folks know him as the host and producer of BEALE STREET CARAVAN, those of us of a certain age remember him with Mud Boy and the Neutrons, and as a solo act. That voice was stunning, and his love of Memphis music was unending. He leaves a deep mark on the musical history of this town, and we shall miss him greatly.
Here's Sid in London a few years ago singing BOLL WEEVIL, thanks to Scott Banbury for the link:
In addition to the Bill Dries post linked above, here's Chris Davis with more.
Here's Sid in London a few years ago singing BOLL WEEVIL, thanks to Scott Banbury for the link:
In addition to the Bill Dries post linked above, here's Chris Davis with more.
Friday, April 26, 2013
And now we lose ANOTHER legend - Maxine Smith.
And my friend and Congressman, Steve Cohen, remembers her on the floor of the House this morning. As you can see, this hit him rather hard, as it does all friends of justice and equality.
UPDATE: Here's Jackson Baker's obituary of this legend and Memphis icon.
UPDATE: Here's Jackson Baker's obituary of this legend and Memphis icon.
A legend is gone. The Possum has left us at 81
I would link the Tennessean article, but their site had crashed.
Here is what is considered to the greatest song in the history of Country Music, performed on Austin City Limits. Thank you, George Jones.
Here is what is considered to the greatest song in the history of Country Music, performed on Austin City Limits. Thank you, George Jones.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Robert Reich on Chained CPI
NO DEMOCRAT should ever vote for this, because they will lose a primary if they do.
Monday, April 22, 2013
Senator Joe Brown??
Nope, I am not making this up. I am serious, Jackson put a piece up on Sunday night about THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER's suggestion that the Judge, having recently been canceled by CBS, was headed back to town to take on LAMAR! Alexander in 2014.
I sent the article out to my list, and within minutes, activists started replying that this was a great idea. After having made rather decent money for the last decade or so judging on TV, Judge Joe might want to think about it. He's got enough money to run a poll to determine how serious his chances would be against the veteran Senator and former two-term-Governor.
Hell, I kind of like the idea; if the Tea Partiers aren't allowed to primary LAMAR!, they might just decide either to vote for their favorite judge, or just sit home. Either way, it's a chance for us to win a statewide race, which hasn't happened in a while. Your thoughts?
I sent the article out to my list, and within minutes, activists started replying that this was a great idea. After having made rather decent money for the last decade or so judging on TV, Judge Joe might want to think about it. He's got enough money to run a poll to determine how serious his chances would be against the veteran Senator and former two-term-Governor.
Hell, I kind of like the idea; if the Tea Partiers aren't allowed to primary LAMAR!, they might just decide either to vote for their favorite judge, or just sit home. Either way, it's a chance for us to win a statewide race, which hasn't happened in a while. Your thoughts?
Saturday, April 20, 2013
A wonderful moment for Boston
He flew in, called the Fenway Park switchboard and ASKED to sing SWEET CAROLINE, which is a staple after the 7th inning at Red Sox games. This was the first game at home for the Red Sox since the Marathon bombing and the manhunt to find the perpetrators. It got a little dusty around the house when he showed up, let me tell you.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
We need strong gun laws NOW.
What happened today on the floor of the US Senate was abominable. We need tough gun laws NOW. I am a gun owner for 44 of my 54 years on this earth and I understand this. If you don't, you don't deserve the right to own weapons now or in the future.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Sunday, April 14, 2013
You won't hear anything like THIS on Country radio anymore
Heard this on Y 105.5 yestreday, and it reminded me how great the writing was 20 years ago, IMO, it's gone to shit these days. Enjoy this all-star lineup:
Monday, April 08, 2013
Friday, April 05, 2013
You gotta buy the ballpark too, Cardinals.
Michael Sheffield reports at MBJ that before the St. Louis Cardinals will purchase their Triple-A affiliate, your own Memphis Redbirds, they insist that the City purchase AutoZone Park, which was built in the late 90s with only six million invested by the City and Shelby County, the rest put up by then owners Blues City Baseball (spearheaded by Dean and Kristi Jernigan and Willard Sparks) as a non-profit venture, the first (and apparently LAST) of its kind in baseball.
Well, as you know, BCB defaulted on their bonds, sold the team and bondholders now own the ballpark. The Cardinals, who clearly used AZP as a model for their own new ballpark on the river in St. Louis, want to own their AAA team (a growing trend in MLB, see the Gwinnett Braves) but don't want to cough up the $65 Million for the park.
The Cardinals, who, despite being in one of the smallest media markets in MLB, have the widest fanbase in the sport, aren't hurting for money, no matter what they would make you think. Their primary owner, William DeWitt, is the son of an owner of multiple teams like the old St. Louis Browns and the Cincinnati Reds, and was a chief fundraiser for George W. Bush. In short: THE CARDINALS CAN AFFORD THE DAMN BALLPARK.
It is in their interest to see that their AAA affiliate is stable and close-by, also a MLB trend (see Lehigh Valley IronPigs for the Phils and the Round Rock, TX affiliate of the Rangers). The city cannot afford to own the park, even though the Cardinals have apparently agreed to maintain the park, which is also in their interests.
We have come to the end of the times where cities and municipalities can allow businesses to force them to subsidize their expenses. Say no, City Council, call their bluff. They're not going anywhere.
Well, as you know, BCB defaulted on their bonds, sold the team and bondholders now own the ballpark. The Cardinals, who clearly used AZP as a model for their own new ballpark on the river in St. Louis, want to own their AAA team (a growing trend in MLB, see the Gwinnett Braves) but don't want to cough up the $65 Million for the park.
The Cardinals, who, despite being in one of the smallest media markets in MLB, have the widest fanbase in the sport, aren't hurting for money, no matter what they would make you think. Their primary owner, William DeWitt, is the son of an owner of multiple teams like the old St. Louis Browns and the Cincinnati Reds, and was a chief fundraiser for George W. Bush. In short: THE CARDINALS CAN AFFORD THE DAMN BALLPARK.
It is in their interest to see that their AAA affiliate is stable and close-by, also a MLB trend (see Lehigh Valley IronPigs for the Phils and the Round Rock, TX affiliate of the Rangers). The city cannot afford to own the park, even though the Cardinals have apparently agreed to maintain the park, which is also in their interests.
We have come to the end of the times where cities and municipalities can allow businesses to force them to subsidize their expenses. Say no, City Council, call their bluff. They're not going anywhere.
Wednesday, April 03, 2013
Prayer Breakfast for Kenyan Kids
I got this in email from Carol Chumney today, and I thought you should know about it:
Kick off Memphis Africa in April by attending this prayer breakfast on Saturday, April 13th, at the Kroc Center, 800 E. Parkway S., 8:30am to 10:30am, to support the orphans in Kenya, Africa. Seating is limited. Make your reservation, or a donation by April 5th, on-line at the following link:
https://public.serviceu.com/RegistrationForm/6593540- 251524831/?OrgKey=62ba2e09- 4316-45be-bc62-9fba668df7cb. [Or you may mail a check payable to GUMC- Kenyan Prayer Breakfast, to 2231 S. Germantown Rd. Germantown, TN 38138] If you want to pay in cash, just post a note on facebook, and we will meet-up with you!
Too often children are caring for children in Africa because their parents have died of HIV/AIDS, disease, war, famine and other causes. The monies help empower the orphans by teaching them to grow food for themselves, basic health practices to prevent disease, small business training, building homes for them, spiritual and basic education.
Breakfast includes some traditional Kenyan fare, music, and prayers from leading pastors in the Memphis area. Memphis children will present artwork they have prepared to be delivered to the Kenyan children. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $10 for children.
Too often children are caring for children in Africa because their parents have died of HIV/AIDS, disease, war, famine and other causes. The monies help empower the orphans by teaching them to grow food for themselves, basic health practices to prevent disease, small business training, building homes for them, spiritual and basic education.
Breakfast includes some traditional Kenyan fare, music, and prayers from leading pastors in the Memphis area. Memphis children will present artwork they have prepared to be delivered to the Kenyan children. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $10 for children.
Hosted by the Germantown United Methodist Church (GUMC). For more information, contact carolchumney@aol.com, (901) 844-7141.
Tuesday, April 02, 2013
Friday, March 29, 2013
Crises of Capitalism
With a doff of the chapeau to Gaius Publius of AmericaBlog, where you can read the backstory:
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Monday, March 25, 2013
It's been an interesting weekend...
As you may know, political folks like to make announcements that they don't want people to talk about on Friday, because people are getting ready for the weekend and overlook them.
So, I get a call from Steve Ross on Friday saying that George Monger had NOT been reappointed to the Shelby County Election Commission by the Democrats in the Shelby County Democratic legislative delegation. Norma Lester, fortunately, was reappointed; in Monger's place was named Anthony Tate, a nice guy as far as I know; however, I knew the technological expertise George Monger had provided the SCEC, as well as being a watchdog that pissed off the Republicans.
Now, campers, that pissed me off, so I sent the following email to my list, after having received one from Joe Weinberg:
First, I from Joe:
I just learned that the Democratic Legislative caucus has not recommended George Monger for reappointment to the Shelby County Election Commission. From my point of view of closely watching the SCEC in action for the last few months, I think this is a terribly unwise decision. The SCEC is dealing with a number of complex issues now, not the least of which is new registration software and new voting machines. George is the only one on the commission who has technology and computer expertise. He has been an invaluable watchdog for Democratic Party interests- indeed for the interests of all voters. I don’t know his successor, but his learning curve will be great and occurring during the transfer going on right now of the information technology function from the SCEC to the County IT Department. So the timing for this change could not be worse. Richard Holden will be unchecked by anyone who can be a technical authority and Mr. Holden clearly is way out of his level of competence when it comes to technology. John Halbert, the head of IT, is an appointee of Mayor Lutrell. I don’t know if he is a neutral technocrat or a partisan advocate. Now we will have no one to challenge his decisions.
Now from ME: Are you serious? What the hell are our folks thinking? Unless George Monger asked NOT to be reappointed, I cannot imagine why he was not. He is very technologically savvy, and if he was a PITA to the GOP on the SCEC, so much the better, they have been nothing but incompetent boobs, and that's assuming POSITIVE intent!
Our Democratic legislators are on this list, and if anyone can explain this action to me and would like me to forward to the list, I will be happy to do so. It better be good.Ok then. I got a call from Rep. Hardaway on Saturday morning, which I appreciated, to give me background on the matter and to make a REALLY good suggestion, which I intend to promote: There will soon be a West Tennessee opening on the STATE Election Commission, as Greg Duckett has decided not to continue, and wouldn't George Monger be a terrific person to have in that slot? Now, I am aware that Van Turner has considered that appointment, and he would be terrific, if this is what he wants to do.
sjs/LWC
However, who would be a better watchdog for the voter than Monger, who has the time, knowledge, energy and ability to keep the GOP on their toes? If you agree, and I hope that you do, let your Democratic legislators know how you feel:
Senate Democratic Leader, Senator Jim Kyle, 615-741-4167, sen.jim.kyle@capitol.tn.gov (30)
Senator Ophelia Ford, 615-741-1767, sen.ophelia.ford@capitol.tn.gov (29)
Senator Reginald Tate. 615-741-2509, sen.reginald.tate@capitol.tn.gov (33)
Representative Joe Towns, Jr., 615-741-2189, rep.joe.towns@capitol.tn.gov (84)
Representative Johnnie Turner, 615-741-6954, rep.johnnie.turner@capitol.tn.gov (85)
Representative Barbara Cooper, 615-741-4295, rep.barbara.cooper@capitol.tn.gov (86)
Representative Karen Camper, 615-741-1898, rep.karen.camper@capitol.tn.gov (87)
Representative Larry Miller, 615-741-4453, rep.larry.miller@capitol.tn.gov (88)
Representative John Deberry 615-741-2239, rep.john.deberry@capitol.tn.gov (90)
Speaker Pro Tem Emeritus, Representative Lois Deberry, 615-741-3830, rep.lois.deberry@capitol.tn.gov (91)
Representative G.A. Hardaway, 615-741-5625, rep.ga.hardaway@capitol.tn.gov (93)
Representative Antonio Parkinson, 615-741-4575, rep.antonio.parkinson@capitol.tn.gov (98)
Make the call and email to your legislator, and if you're a Democrat with GOP legislators, let ALL of them know how you feel.
You will be glad you did.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
So now they want to INCREASE the size of the ExecCom
Heh. So the plan all along was to INCREASE the size of the ExecCom? Suuuure it was.
In any event, it had the desired effect of shaking the TNDP ExecCom up and making everyone think about how things are going over there, so it WORKED. So, what's the NEW plan, you ask? here you go:
In any event, it had the desired effect of shaking the TNDP ExecCom up and making everyone think about how things are going over there, so it WORKED. So, what's the NEW plan, you ask? here you go:
- No changes are being made to the 66 members of the Executive Committee that are elected as one man and one woman from each state senate district;
- The amendment states that the House Democratic Leader shall appoint six members to the Executive Committee, two from each of Tennessee's grand divisions, for a term of two years;
- The amendment states that the Senate Democratic Leader shall appoint six members to the Executive Committee, two from each of Tennessee's grand divisions, for a term of two years;
- The amendment says each U.S. Congressman, if a Democrat, shall serve on the Executive Committee or appoint a member to the Executive Committee;
- The amendment says each U.S. Senator, if a Democrat, shall serve on the Executive Committee or appoint a member to the Executive Committee;
- The amendment says Tennessee's governor, if a Democrat, shall serve on the Executive Committee or appoint a member to the Executive Committee;
- The amendment states that the Executive Committee may create ex-officio voting positions, provided that the number of such positions shall not exceed nine members.
Figuring in 12 appointed by the Caucuses, one each from Steve Cohen and Jim Cooper (with more to be added if we take Congressional seats back) and ex-officio seats from College Dems, YDs and TDFW and we are now up to 83 members of the ExecCom.
That could be unwieldy, but if you get some of the older folks out and replace them with younger folks, it might just work, as long as they DO work.
Monday, March 18, 2013
If this is true, this is ridiculous
Steve Ross sent me a link yesterday to a Randy Neal post about a plan by Senate Democratic Caucus Chair Lowe Finney of Jackson and Rep. Jason Powell to completely overhaul the Tennessee Democratic Party Executive Committee. Take a minute and go read it if you have not done so. Go on, I'll wait.
Aren't you glad they believe in the "democratic" process? It would designate the current House delegation as the ExecCom and let the Democrats in the House and Senate appoint five other members each from around the state.
Given that it was a Democratic-controlled TNGA that put the current system in place, where a male and a female each elected from every state Senate district, you may well think this is the right thing to do. There are points to the legislators objections, as these seats rarely turn over (unless you live in Memphis!); as Ross notes in the comments of the Neal post, only NINE of the 66 seats were contested in 2010.
I also have a complaint that the system of electing these members in August of the gubernatorial election year does not hold the state ExecCom accountable for picking bad chairs or for non-performance (again, we only seem to do that in Memphis). One could argue that we should have these elections (albeit paid for by the parties) in March following a November general election so that we can hold these people accountable for the elections in their Senate districts.
However, even with all that, the reputed Finney/Powell plan is like trying to kill a gnat with a light anti-tank weapon. Ladies and gentlemen Democrats of the TNGA, if you want change, then, by heavens, why don't YOU find people to run for these seats and get behind them?? Get off YOUR butts and help rebuild the party and if you don't believe your ExecCom reps are performing to your standards, go find new ones, and then effect the changes you want from your ExecCom, it's that simple.
It's also the DEMOCRATIC way of doing things, both small and large D Democratic.
Now, ExecCom reps, I'm not done with you yet, either. Not all of the legislators' complaints are without merit, people. In the rural areas, there are county parties that are non-existent and some of you have sat there and watched it happen and done little or nothing to stop it.. What have YOU done about this? Why SHOULD you be retained? Why haven't you taken more action to prevent this from occurring? Do you really need another term if you're just looking for a title?
There needs to be a serious sit-down with the Caucuses and the State ExecCom members and the County Chairs, a retreat, if you will, to have serious discussions. Any one who fails to show up for any reason other than illness or work should be noted, and possibly replaced. Were I still Christian, I would call it a Come to Jesus meeting for all concerned parties.
Senator Finney, Chair Herron, the ball's in your court.
Aren't you glad they believe in the "democratic" process? It would designate the current House delegation as the ExecCom and let the Democrats in the House and Senate appoint five other members each from around the state.
Given that it was a Democratic-controlled TNGA that put the current system in place, where a male and a female each elected from every state Senate district, you may well think this is the right thing to do. There are points to the legislators objections, as these seats rarely turn over (unless you live in Memphis!); as Ross notes in the comments of the Neal post, only NINE of the 66 seats were contested in 2010.
I also have a complaint that the system of electing these members in August of the gubernatorial election year does not hold the state ExecCom accountable for picking bad chairs or for non-performance (again, we only seem to do that in Memphis). One could argue that we should have these elections (albeit paid for by the parties) in March following a November general election so that we can hold these people accountable for the elections in their Senate districts.
However, even with all that, the reputed Finney/Powell plan is like trying to kill a gnat with a light anti-tank weapon. Ladies and gentlemen Democrats of the TNGA, if you want change, then, by heavens, why don't YOU find people to run for these seats and get behind them?? Get off YOUR butts and help rebuild the party and if you don't believe your ExecCom reps are performing to your standards, go find new ones, and then effect the changes you want from your ExecCom, it's that simple.
It's also the DEMOCRATIC way of doing things, both small and large D Democratic.
Now, ExecCom reps, I'm not done with you yet, either. Not all of the legislators' complaints are without merit, people. In the rural areas, there are county parties that are non-existent and some of you have sat there and watched it happen and done little or nothing to stop it.. What have YOU done about this? Why SHOULD you be retained? Why haven't you taken more action to prevent this from occurring? Do you really need another term if you're just looking for a title?
There needs to be a serious sit-down with the Caucuses and the State ExecCom members and the County Chairs, a retreat, if you will, to have serious discussions. Any one who fails to show up for any reason other than illness or work should be noted, and possibly replaced. Were I still Christian, I would call it a Come to Jesus meeting for all concerned parties.
Senator Finney, Chair Herron, the ball's in your court.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Monday, March 11, 2013
It's time for the SCDP Caucuses and Convention
| |||
| |||
Saturday, March 09, 2013
Minerva Johnican, pioneer and trailblazer, leaves us far too soon at 74.
Minerva Johnican, one of the most fearless human beings I have ever known, passed from this earth last night after a long illness at the age of 74.
She served on the County Commission from 1975 until she was beaten in 1982 by Julian Bolton, a payback fro, Harold Ford Sr. for challenging him in the Democratic primary in 1980. She never backed down from anything, and she jumped right back in by getting elected to an at-large position on the City Council in 1983, beating David Hill with Republican backing. The SCDP did nothing to her, and should not have done anything; she proved her bona fides years earlier.
I got to know her working in her campaign for city Mayor in 1987, when she finished well behind Dick Hackett and John Ford. However, she bounced back again by being the first female elected county-wide when she won the Criminal Court Clerk race in 1990. She made great change that streamlined the processes and made things work smoother.
However, in 1994 the GOP decided to have a partisan slate for every county race and defeated her.
She was courageous and tough, and mentored countless numbers of women who wanted a career in public service. Without her service on the County Commission, we might not have the Regional Medical Center at Memphis. She fought for women, minorities and the poor and would work with anyone, but would not tolerate bullshit, either.
To say that she will be missed is an understatement. We could use more like her, but she was really one of a kind.
Rest in peace, Minerva.
She served on the County Commission from 1975 until she was beaten in 1982 by Julian Bolton, a payback fro, Harold Ford Sr. for challenging him in the Democratic primary in 1980. She never backed down from anything, and she jumped right back in by getting elected to an at-large position on the City Council in 1983, beating David Hill with Republican backing. The SCDP did nothing to her, and should not have done anything; she proved her bona fides years earlier.
I got to know her working in her campaign for city Mayor in 1987, when she finished well behind Dick Hackett and John Ford. However, she bounced back again by being the first female elected county-wide when she won the Criminal Court Clerk race in 1990. She made great change that streamlined the processes and made things work smoother.
However, in 1994 the GOP decided to have a partisan slate for every county race and defeated her.
She was courageous and tough, and mentored countless numbers of women who wanted a career in public service. Without her service on the County Commission, we might not have the Regional Medical Center at Memphis. She fought for women, minorities and the poor and would work with anyone, but would not tolerate bullshit, either.
To say that she will be missed is an understatement. We could use more like her, but she was really one of a kind.
Rest in peace, Minerva.
Wednesday, March 06, 2013
The question no one seems willing to ask Judge Mays
For all of the hoo-haw regarding the selection of Rick Masson as Special Master over the school merger (1 - if you're going to have such a thing, he's the one to have, because he can facilitate damn near anything, 2- $250/hour is a hell of a nice compensation), something seems to be overlooked.
Why, after all this time, has Judge Samuel H. "Hardy" Mays avoided making a ruling on the County Commission's suit that says the MSDs amount to de facto re-segregation of our school system? He keeps having status conferences, he names a Special Master, but at some point, he HAS to rule on the motion.
It's as if he keeps looking to the TN General Assembly to get him out of this mess, but it is not going to happen. Could it be because he KNOWS that he has to agree with them, killing MSDs in Big Shelby permanently? At the heart of the suit, the numbers are there to prove the Commission's point, that this is nothing more than an attempt to put back the wall that was torn down with the surrender of the MCS Charter.
Oh, and media folks? Why the hell aren't you asking what's taking so long?
Every day he waits, Judge Mays prolongs the problems of the merger. End this madness now, your honor, and make the ruling that you know in your heart you have to make. If Robert McRae could do it 40 years ago, so can you.
UPDATE: I have been advised by our friend and Councilor Shea Flinn that trial has not been held yet for that part of the motion. My mistake. However, then the question is changed to this: Why have we not had the trial for that port of the motion?
Why, after all this time, has Judge Samuel H. "Hardy" Mays avoided making a ruling on the County Commission's suit that says the MSDs amount to de facto re-segregation of our school system? He keeps having status conferences, he names a Special Master, but at some point, he HAS to rule on the motion.
It's as if he keeps looking to the TN General Assembly to get him out of this mess, but it is not going to happen. Could it be because he KNOWS that he has to agree with them, killing MSDs in Big Shelby permanently? At the heart of the suit, the numbers are there to prove the Commission's point, that this is nothing more than an attempt to put back the wall that was torn down with the surrender of the MCS Charter.
Oh, and media folks? Why the hell aren't you asking what's taking so long?
Every day he waits, Judge Mays prolongs the problems of the merger. End this madness now, your honor, and make the ruling that you know in your heart you have to make. If Robert McRae could do it 40 years ago, so can you.
UPDATE: I have been advised by our friend and Councilor Shea Flinn that trial has not been held yet for that part of the motion. My mistake. However, then the question is changed to this: Why have we not had the trial for that port of the motion?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)