Follow the money....

BJ Mathis has long been under the control of noted builder & developer Tim Jones. Check out her zoning votes and his work at Nash.

BJ's drooling and waste of SPLOST dollars to please developer Shai Shalendra is well documented. His proposed mall is the force behind 3 new roads (leading to the mall) and the Jodeco bridge - and not lanes on I-75.

There is strong reason to suggest BJ will not step down. Nobody on the BoC will protect and defend her special interests... and she would lose significant backers.

To step down would effectively cripple her campaign for chairman.

I ain't no political genius. But it looks to me like the rest of the commissioners already slapped her down. I saw that in the resolutions on April 8 - somebody called that Three For Three.

If she cannot be trusted, and the rest of the board want her gone, then what good is she?

News flash... BJ picks her puppet for District 2 commissioner.

Of course there is no way an ice cube can survive on a hot Georgia day....
And there is no way the board members will ever appoint her chosen hier.

Only if BJ can run and win as Chair does her puppet have a chance of even playing commissioner.

Sorry, Cindy, it ain't gonna happen. Everybody knows your Daddy's connection to BJ.

Too bad the truth is out. You might as well stay home and avoid the embarrassment.

What is Cindy's dad's connection?

Rick Jeffares all the way!

Oh yeah, and what happens if Elizabeth doesn't step down?

If she cannot be trusted, and the rest of the board want her gone, then what good is she?

I just gotta ask. Randy Stamey has been thick as two peas in a pod with Mathis. On every issue including lanes on I-75, Nash, Jodeco bridge.

What does Stamey get out of that unholy alliance?

Has he been the stabilizing factor that got the rest of the board to let her run wild? Is there more money to follow?

Citizens are speaking out and forcing the board to act responsibly - against her. BJ's financial backers will all be targets IF she actually runs a campaign.

Will we find the same people supporting Stamey???

Yeah, who else is running for District 3?

Harry, sorry to use this fake name - but Cindy knows me and it would cause too much grief.

Cindy Steele Kilen. Her father is a former Road Commissioner from many years ago. He thinks the sun rises and sets with BJ - and he gives her community credibility.

Too bad, though. BJ's choice was based only on Cindy's willingness to protect the sacred cows in her pasture: Nash, Jones and the Jodeco bridge project. Without those things she has no political base OR financial backing. Her successor must be onboard and pinky swear to keep the Mathis Agenda (and support) alive.

if Elizabeth doesn't step down?

The board members proved on April 8th that she now stands alone. None of them are willing to be tied to her devious and backhanded ways. BJ is alone.

Being alone - unable to stand public scrutiny - means she cannot fill promises to her supporters. She cannot get zoning requests approved without scrutiny. She cannot dump DOT and other money into Nash without scrutiny. She cannot tap the county budget to benefit her campaign.

All eyes are on BJ and anyone standing too close to her. She will be so ineffective as a commissioner that she is simply a bad financial investment.

If Mathis does not step down to run for Chair, she has NO possible future on the board.

If Mathis does step down, we are finally rid of her. She cannot stand toe to toe with Auletta or Mobley.

Mathis already flip-flopped twice about running for 2nd District. She prayed and got divine guidance to betray people she told had her support - both for 2nd and for chair. Her type of divine guidance reminds me of some TV preachers -- you cannot trust a person whose personal desires get translated into God's words.

My question was more from a legal standpoint. What happens there?

Just curious..... When will U.S. Senators Clinton, Obama and McCain resign their seats to continue their campaigns for President?

In the case of a vacant commission seat, and there is less than a year remaining in the term, the board will appoint an interim person to fill the seat. The appointment will last until the end of the term.

Otherwise, a special election must be held to fill the seat.

My father always said that bad decisions will come back
to haunt you. Listening to the wrong advisers have gotten Ms. Mathis in this position. We are known by the company that we keep. Sometimes the company may look good but there is usually a thorn inside. I sincerely hope that lessons have been learned from all this. Maybe people in the future who want to be a part of the political process will learn to be careful who they listen to.
I believe Ms. Mathis will find that she will seek to find her way. The only people who won anything in all this are the citizens of Henry County who when armed with the truth can climb mountains. Many thanks to the DOJ for rendering a timely decision that should have come years ago. Mr. Stanley was asked about eight months ago to look for the material about Nash and he would find the truth. He was told many times to follow the money and see where it leads. The problem with people is their vanity and the fact that they leave a paper trail. I sincerely hope everything works out for the best for the people of Henry County who work so hard everyday to provide a life for their families and pay taxes so the commissioners can do their jobs for "we the people."
The Doctor

Ahhhh! The question is:

If Elizabeth Mathis does not resign, then:
(A) Does she get arrested
(B) Does she pay a fine
(C) Is the county sued by the state or the fed
(D) Other

And Classical, they won't because there is no law against what they are doing. There is now an enforceable law against what BJ would like to do.

Hey, Jazz - I just wish Clinton, Obama and McCain would resign their seats.

Alas, there is no reason to believe a Senator atually represents citizens when there is a campaign to run!

I am thankful for people of sound moral character who recognize the abuses many people too often ignore.

BJ's character has been publicly displayed through Nash Farm, Life Management Solutions Department, Friends of Nash, Henry Clean & Beautiful, and other manipulations of county resources. Now the other board members see that regular citizens will not tolerate their silence or complicity.

I am thankful that a majority of the BoC members are people of character. Without that ace, citizens would have no cards to play!

Even though the Herald has been openly biased in favor of Mathis, we must remember that Clinton was once the darling of the NY Times - and McCain got their endorsement.

Even though Henry Update (the county PR newsletter) has given Mathis only rave reviews, remember that sucking up can mean eventual unemployment.

Local officials are more easily held accountable. Even as the press and special interests are "getting close" to shady politicians, we citizens are not stupid! Ever wonder why the Herald has only 4,500 paid subscriptions? OR why the email list for Henry Update contains so many out-of-county people? I would say Henry Countians can still recognize crap when they smell it.

My take is that many folks are happy to just believe whatever they are told. In Henry County we are, thankfully, still smart enough to call BS and willing enough to speak our own minds.

Think about this: The Clayton school board members were elected. This same mess happened only five years ago - and they are again in crisis. Sure, the board members are stupidly inept. But how did they get in office? It does not say much for the intelligence of the voters.

We make mistakes in Henry. But we are not shy about correcting them.

I just got home from work a little while ago and decided to see what was happening here. It seems that this Mathis person has stepped into something smelly. She needs to go the way of the Clayton Co. school board. Looks like she needs something else to do. From what I have read controversy seems to follow her around. Henry Co. don't need no more of this kind of politics. I think there is plenty of stupid to go around. You never know what your gonna read next. This heres Bill Jones come a drink wiht me.

Dear Mr. Jones,
I think you have had enough
to drink.
Sincerely,
The Doctor

To the Stockbridge City Council member:

If you do not comprehend the rule of law then perhaps you should resign your seat as well.

Hey, Reggie -- can't you recognize satire when you read it? I would say the Stockbridge City Council member has a stronger grasp on reality than the half-wits who cannot understand why BJ is dangerous forthe county.

Firstly
Thanks again to Larry for his research and to Jason for having a place to have axcess to unaltered information.
B J is not only an embarassment to Henry County she is the "Poster Child" for whats wrong with the political system in America.
Once in office too many of the elected elite seem to feel their appointments are mandates to think for the people and not represent the desires of the people. It is the common folk who pay the bills not the movers and shakers that buy the elected with campaign contributions.
I wish all the BoC were at each others throat so the county would be a standstill long enough to straighten out the mess the BoC has allowed over the last 10 years.
I get tired of hearing that we the county working hand in hand with the private sector are going to develop this or develop that to the benefit of the citizens and we the tax payer end up paying the bill. I could give too many examples of wasted money but Jason's space is limited.
It is time to get some business minds in charge and expunge our management structure of Politicians.
And Reggie is soooo correct in suggesting your resigniation Ms Council member. I guess enough SPLOST can turn even a level head.

*So as not to be labeled as a 'Mathis supporter' let's be clear - Fred for Chairman.

Now that that is out of the way, on with my comments.

Larry stated, "....OR why the email list for Henry Update contains so many out-of-county people?

Can you explain how you know someones physical address by an e-mail address? When I subscribed to the Update I was only asked for my e-mail.

Larry said, "I would say Henry Countians can still recognize crap when they smell it."

That's funny. I remember on your December 16,2007 post entitled, "Campaign of Personal Harassment", you stated,
"People should not condemn what they do not understand. Just think how ignorant the average person is... then realize that at least 50% of the population is even more ignorant."
Which is it? Does it depend on whether or not they agree with you?

Larry stated, "I am thankful that a majority of the BoC members are people of character."

Of the BoC members, can you name those you believe to be 'people of character?

Joe.Politco, I am pleased that you recall my earlier words and positions so well. And I thought that punditry was a lost art!

how you know someones physical address ...

What?? You did not receive the survey? Perhaps some addresses were omitted...

Of the BoC members, can you name those you believe to be 'people of character?

I think they are all 'characters' of some sort. In reference to the context and my intended meaning: Neither Bowman, Basler, Holder, or Stamey would intentionally dupe the citizens nor tap county resources in an empire building scheme. I recognize that virtue may simply mean a lack of temptation. But I do not perceive fraudulent intentions among any of them. Before you ask why Harper is not in the initial list.... well, there is a lot to respect in him but he is a lawyer.

People of character - now, that is an interesting concept. Mathis has left a trail a blind man can follow. If there are dubious deals afoot that we have not yet uncovered, perhaps the othes are just far smarter than she.

"What?? You did not receive the survey? Perhaps some addresses were omitted...

If by survey you mean, 'Do You Want To Know How To Keep It Up Longer?' and the survey on '5 Ways To Turn Any Person On' then yes, I received your survey.
I've noticed a significant rise in spam since you took my e-mail (and potentially thousands of your fellow Henry County residents e-mails) from the County 'Update' list.

Larry stated, "I am pleased that you recall my earlier words and positions so well. And I thought that punditry was a lost art!"

The fact that you offer your opinion more times than the sun has risen doesn't hurt. In other words, it doesn't make for a rigorous exercise of research.

Although, I question the way you are often 'spoon-fed' information by certain board members or those close to them, your posts do offer insights for those of us without such contacts.

Joe.Politico, you have revealed yourself. And I believe earlier suspicions are now confirmed.

potentially thousands ... You know there were only 1200 addresses on the Update list. But it is interesting that your knickers are twisted when I lampoon Henry Update.

exercise of research... Opinions are easy and often shallow. Most of BJ's minions are ready with such jibberish as she has "spoon fed" to them. Informed and educated opinion is something else entirely. I appreciate the intellectual integrity of folks who voice observations without spin. Blonde (sorry, Blind) ambitions and agendas simply do not qualify.

So here is the confirmation: 'spoon-fed' information ...

Unless you are the person (with all the motivations and agendas requisite to a certain county employee) I believe you to be, or someone otherwise very close to the specifics of which I speak, there is no way you could know what is "spoon fed" and what is gathered through acute observation from multiple sources.

At least I am comfortable with your jabs about internet porn. Knowing your ilk reminds me of a maxim my Daddy taught me: Consider the source. A shame, though, since both the Update and Herald could provide so much more incisive reporting.

I wish you well, especially after the coming election. But then, spin doctors are always in demand.

Joe,

Man, I feel your pain. I posted my e-mail address on Peach Pundit a while back and got signed up for a TON of porno e-mail span.

Now if I have to make contact info public, I typically use an alternate e-mail address that I don't care about.

I don't think Larry signed you up for the stuff...but still I empathize with your present situation.

"Joe.Politico, you have revealed yourself. And I believe earlier suspicions are now confirmed."

I'm Busted. You found me out, Larry. You are just too clever.

Now that you have taken it upon yourself to state what I am, I can say, without a reasonable doubt that you are a complete idiot.

Let's assume I am who you say I am...

I did say "potentially thousands" because I had no clue how many subscribers were on the 'Update' list, but now we all know how many fellow citizen's e-mails you TOOK from the county for your own personal use.

Larry mumbled, "...it is interesting that your knickers are twisted when I lampoon Henry Update."

I couldn't care less how you lampoon the Update. My 'knickers got twisted' because you abused 'open records' for your own profit at my expense as a tax payer by taking what is not yours. It was unethical what you did no matter how you spin it.
You have a predictable and annoying tendency to label people when they disagree with you and it appears I'm the only one willing to call you on it. This post is the most recent evidence of that.

Larry garbled, "Most of BJ's minions are ready with such jibberish as she has "spoon fed" to them."

Again with the labels. When you can't make an intelligent argument, you quickly go to the labels. "Larry the Label Maker".

I thought I made it perfectly clear several posts back. But for those that seem to have lead for a brain, I DO NOT support BJ Mathis. If everything you have 'reported' (or relayed) on BJ is true, then it's obvious she doesn't stand a chance in the coming elections.

Larry sadly stated, "So here is the confirmation: 'spoon-fed' information ...there is no way you could know what is "spoon fed" and what is gathered through acute observation from multiple sources."

I know you think the majority of Henry County citizens are 'ignorant' (your words), unfortunately for you, I am not one of them. You stated in your post that, "Today at about 3:45pm the Department of Justice cleared the local act and notified county officials."
How would you have known that at about "3:45" county officials were notified unless you had been told soon after. You posted at 6:43. That's less than three hours after county officials knew and you had a post with facts and opinion shoveled out for us to digest. Chalk it up to 'acute observation' from one sentence. Any assumptions beyond that on your part makes you look like a...well, you know what assuming does.

So far tonight I have checked my work e-mail, my personal e-mail, my wife's e-mail, my wife's sisters e-mail and I got my mother to check hers and so far no survey. You know you have to press 'send', right?

In the interest of civility,
all the ramblings of who is and who isn't keep the eye on the reason the post was made in the first place. What will come of the planned run of Ms. Mathis for chairman and what will come of District 2? We know the situation that has brought all this about and where it will possibly go.
There is even more that has not come to the surface yet.
All that has happened has happened because of poor judgement and bad information. There is a sense of arrogance in certain camps that would do anything blindly to help Ms.
Mathis. If this and if that
will not change anything about the truth. Attacks of character or what my former associates with the government call character assassinations will run rampant during this campaign season. You know Kilpatricks Raid pales to the battles that politicians wage amongst themselves. Campaigns are hard, grueling, and leave everyone drained emotionally and physically to the point they wonder why they got involved to begin with. I am not supporting anyone at this time for chairman until I have a chance to talk to the candidates and see which one I feel will do the best job for the people of Henry County. This job is very important to the future of our county and will be most important because of the down turn in the economy that is hurting so many good people out here. Who ever gets the nod will have a very hard job of balancing what is right for Henry County and what the people conceive is right for the county. Good judgement, intuition, and fair mindedness will be needed for this job. Leadership is a very important role for anyone. I have had the job of leadership in roles in the past that were so demanding that my decisions would impact the future of everyone's lives. The position was hard and I would not wish it on anyone.
Maybe we can bring more civility to the discussion at hand and learn more about the path that is being made for all of us.
Sincerely
The Doctor

Who is running,

You mention two peas in a pod (speaking about Mathis and Stamey) well, you could say 3 peas in a pod (B. J. Mathis, Randy Stamey, and John Douglas) B. J. supported and endorsed Douglas and he endorsed her. However, he has now endorsed Mobley according to his webb page. I wonder what B.J. thinks about that? I guess he used her as much as he could..... It doesn't surprise me that's Douglas's M. O., loves the one he's with at the time.
Don't be surprised if you find out very soon that Douglas is just like B. J. Mathis. THE SHADOW KNOWS!

Not being from here I don't understand who these people are but it would seem they
keep finding more and more
about them. They sure don't knwo how ot hide they're lives. My friend said that I am an idiot but
i do try to understand what is happening in my adopted home.

Joe, one more point and I willstop jousting with you.

How would you have known that at about "3:45" county officials were notified ... Private citizens were in contact with the Justice Department, ACLU (who got involved) US Congressmen, county commissioners, county staff, outside attorneys... I said PRIVATE CITIZENS - who were also notified.

Thus ends the lesson.

Please get on topic and drop the e-mails. I've had more spam recently as well, both of my personal and work e-mails. It has nothing to do with Larry, believe me.

I know for a fact that Larry got his information from a private citizen. That is something that you will just have to take his word on.

So was Life Management "department" part of BJ's empire building or payback for something else? That was an interesting exchange at the BOC meeting

"Please get on topic and drop the e-mails."

Of course! Just recently Doc and Terry Smallwood carried on a complete personal conversation, (which was way off topic) and that would have been better served in private e-mails and nothing was said by you.
As long as people agree with you guys, its okay and nothing is said. The minute your argument is shown to be flawed or you are taken to task, you label people and resort to saying 'stay on topic'. Incredible.
The predictable next quote is "...if you don't like it, you don't have to visit this blog".

As far as the e-mail subject. Why should I drop that? Is it not a legitimate topic that a private citizen took other private citizens information from the County for personal use? As a Libertarian Jason, why does this not concern you on principle? Is it because it's Larry?

Larry coughed, "I said PRIVATE CITIZENS - who were also notified.

Thus ends the lesson."

Then your assumption remains and only proves my point. I stated my argument and what I based it on. You went further and accused me of being someone and went on a weird tirade about that person. That was off topic and nothing was said. At least be consistent.

The only lesson in all of this is that if you disagree with Larry, you are 'off topic'.

Poor joe.politico. Cry me a river.

If I see one more comment about the e-mail addresses, it will be deleted. I don't care who it's from (you, Larry or anyone else).

You know the truth is bothering a lot of folks here in Henry County. I know sometimes the truth hurts, but it is the best course to take. If the truth had been kept in hand a few years ago we would not be on this subject right now. As far as a personal conversation I believe this person will find that those conversations were important to the issues being discussed. I believe if this person really understood they would learn something from these two old gentlemen. People will do anything to try and spin or take away from the issue to get what they want. The word here is controversy and try and take the mind off the situation at hand. I feel that Mr. Stanley and Mr. Pye have done an excellent job to bring forth the truth about the problems in the Henry County government. And I feel everyone should thank Jason Pye for allowing us to voice our opinions on his site and furthering freedom of speech. If we would listen to the posts here you will see that people are asking real questions about who, what, when, where, and why. Some folks may stray a little but listen to where they are going with their message. There is a lot more that has not been posted that is very important but it is not the right time or place to do so. As before we need to find a line of civility in all this. As I said months ago revenge is a dish better served cold. Listen to that word of advice. It is the citizens of Henry County and their future that is at stake here. May everyone be guided by their conscience and ask if this is what they want. Poor judgement and misguided adventures brought us here
maybe hard decision making and not thinking of self will get us back on track with our government.
The Doctor

Doctor - I understand you have leeway on straying off the topic, but unfortunately it appears I do not.
Because I disagree with some of your points (which in turn supports Larry's views), I must decline in responding to your single protracted paragraph.

I agree with Larry's header that Mathis must step down.

I agree with Larry that Mathis should not sue the County.

I agree with Larry when he said that Chairman Harper properly filed the request.

I disagree with Larry on...(edited)

Sorry, forgot...off topic.

Jason and Larry the person who posted above appears to be desparate to look for any
bit of information to grabble through as information people often do.
It's the truth that is hurting out there. Maybe follow the money could apply here also. Code words of intelligent minds often procure the logic of the action based on the whole of the equation offered. Look and you will find that more is amiss here than meets the eye. I don't mind anyone disagreeing with me because it let's me know they are listening. I sincerely hope that all does work out for the best and that everyone involved will find their way through their lives filled with eddy's and currents. Remember all is not as it seems and in this case smoke and mirrors abound.
The Doctor

I don't about you doc, but I feel like and ole tray. I appreciate jason letting us run a little bit off the road here and there.
Doc and I have had our disagreements on things, but we conduct our selves like gentlemen. I would like to think we maybe even contributed a little bit of the understanding of history of the county as well as even the Atlanta campaign. I do know this, what ever has been said, nobody has been deprived of there right to express what they feel .

Dear Curious, The creation of the Life Management Department was sold to the board as cost-neutral. The board already funds programs through the Juvenile Court system to the tune of about $200k annually.

BJ placed loyalists in key roles. Then the 'resolution' to move money from drug education programs into the new department would have increased the budget to over $400k. Red flags went up all over the place.

Empires require well placed loyalists. That is not new to Henry politics. However, she got caught with lies and budget increases.

The department is probably a good thing. However there is some duplication with Juvenile Court programs, and the littany of social programs the Department would provide DID NOT include the same drug education as the programs she wanted to take the budget increase from.

In a fell swoop BJ was reigned in on three fronts, all proving that she is a lone wolf with no respect or credibility among the other members.

I am pesonally happy that the county governing authoirty has finally forwarded that old local act to DOJ. I am ecstatic that DOJ returned clearance in about 2 weeks! THAT is the topic of this post.

It has been clear over the past months that whenever BJ (and her minions) are faced with Truth or sound arguments, they are not able to respond. Like a kid getting caught stealing cookies the only response is to deflect blame for something else onto somebody else.

That tactic is what I have read in posts by Joe.Politico. The post on April 26 listed points on which there is agreement. Why could earlier posts have not mde those points as well as points of disagreement - on the topic.

Someone, anyone, not agreeing with me is normal. I take that risk with every post.

Whether Mathis will step down or step back or just go home will be known at tomorrow's qualifying. Through it all I pray the citizens of Henry are served.

Stanely continues his disillusion by stating, "It has been clear over the past months that whenever BJ (and her minions) are faced with Truth or sound arguments, they are not able to respond."

"That tactic is what I have read in posts by Joe.Politico."

Where there is no intelligent argument, just throw a label. 'Larry the Label Maker'.
If it fits your agenda Larry to call me a 'Mathis supporter' fine, have at it. But anyone reading this exchange will no doubt be clear I do not support Mathis.
She will step down and, in my opinion, lose if she runs for Chairman.
If you want to throw labels, call me a Fred Auletta supporter.
But to continue to claim that my posts are any in fashion related to her support is foolish on your part and only hurts your claims for truth. At least be intellectually honest in your assessment of my stance instead of calling me a 'Mathis supporter' or trying to shovel an identity on me that is unrelated in order to suit your arguments.

You claim that I only post when Mathis is being attacked. That is understandable for someone who is a constantly attacking the County/City boards and is use to having everyone on this blog agree with you.
I only post on the local issues because that is what is of interest to me. Posts on the State/Sports/Thrice/Bob Barr are frankly boring to me and provide no day-to-day connection. Personally, I preferred Jason's coverage of the Henry County issues, but he has since moved on.

"Someone, anyone, not agreeing with me is normal. I take that risk with every post."

Not on this blog you don't. And when they do disagree, they are labeled, slapped with false identities or threatened to be 'shutdown' ("If I see one more comment about the e-mail addresses, it will be deleted.") in order to keep the narrative going. I have even had my name (joe.politico) hijacked on this blog before because someone did not like my views. Is this proof that this blog is after the truth or evidence that you have an agenda just like the politicians you attack?

I'm guessing this post will either be edited or deleted before most will read it. No problem. But anyone who reads this should have no doubts where I stand moving forward.

If you can't stand the heat, perhaps truth is not what you are after.

Jason and Doc.
My eyes were not good this morning. this is what I meant to say !!!
"I don't (know)about you doc, but I feel like and ole (stray) tray"
Ya'll just have mercy on me when I make a mistake.

Personally, I preferred Jason's coverage of the Henry County issues, but he has since moved on.

If it is a compliment, I appreciate that. I've been thinking of covering both Newton (home) and Henry (work) politics during the upcoming election cycle.

Not sure if I'll do it though. I would appreciate your off-site opinion.

It should be noted that Larry's last comment was edited by me because it mentioned the e-mail addresses and the open records request.

Larry argued, "The post on April 26 [by joe,politico] listed points on which there is agreement. Why could earlier posts have not mde those points as well as points of disagreement - on the topic."

I've never been known to stroke someone else's ego when I have my own to take care of.
There are a lot of areas that we agree on Larry, but how boring would that be for the readers to see a constant display of back-patting?

We have a big election headed our way in Henry County. I'm guessing there will be areas we agree and many where we will disagree. I love debate, but what's to discuss if we agree on everything?

Do you claim to know everything inside of an issue?
I do, but I'm open to the slight miracle that the other person might be owner of privy information.

I have been reading this site now for many months.
I have given information based on fact and truth.
I have been attacked here and outside this site in public. I am used to being
scutinized by others especially my peers who do
not like facing the truth.
I know many things that have not been posted in any of the posts that would probably ruin careers but I feel that is best left alone. I know things about our world that would make one ask do we have a future.
We do if everything goes as planned. I doubt that I will live to see my work come to fruition but maybe my children will. Remember
everything is not as it seems. Our lives are based on the knowledge that maybe a few can make a difference of just a few minutes. Political ambitions are the cause of many a scandal but at what cost. It is the citizens who pay the taxes who pay the bills and many have lost sight of that. Terry my friend I hope you are well today and sir you are not an old stray, you are a gentleman who deserves the utmost respect.
Mr. Stanley and Mr. Pye deserve our utmost respect also because they are doing what many people do not have the guts to do and that is to bring forth the truth about our way of governing here in Henry County. For myself I have no ego to feed and no glory to hunt. My days for that type of foolishness are over. I have my titles and awards but they mean nothing without good health.
My life is dangling on the edge but I do keep trying to hold on and supply the information that is badly needed even if everyone doesn't agree with me. It doesn't matter if you agree but at least you are listening and that is the point. It is part of our given rights. It is "we the people" in action. Go out today and take a look around and thank God you are still here for one more day. Times are tough for many and probably will get even worse but I remember the days when it was tough just to make $20 for a months rent. I watched my dad stand in the back yard and cry because he had 40 cents in his pocket and no work. I learned valuable lessons from these life experiences and I learned much through the universities where I studied. I worked very hard for that knowledge and the experiences of working with some of the best in the fields of archeology and Civil War history. I also worked very hard in the field of climatical physics and astro-physics. But all that knowledge is not worth what you can but in a teaspoon if you do not have the health to see you through. I have met some of the best minds in these fields and I have met some of the best in average folks
and people are just people.
I sincerely hope that everything works out for the best because I have a feeling that this election season is going to be very interesting. Like I have said before welcome to politics Henry County style.
Watch, Listen, and Learn.
The Doctor

With most of these blogs being so anti-Mathis and commenting that Commissioner Stamey and Mathis are like two peas in a pod with close ties in how they conduct business together WHY is there not a backlash against Stamey as well? Where are all the voices trying to run him out of office? The blogs talk about Mathis and who she hangs with and who hangs with her; well if Stamey hangs with Mathis why is there very little if any 'Anti Randy' blogs and citizens calling him on the carpet?

Even if in 2004 Atty Bowers found this 21 year old law to be 'moot' where both Harper and Freedman were allowed to continue on with their Chairman campaigns while holding their commission seats WHERE was the outcry and concern in 2004 from concerned citizens that this law was not being adhered to? I do not recall any real uproar by citizens back then about this issue, it was mainly an issue between Freedman and Harper.

Where is the outcry against Stamey since he supposedly is so close to Mathis? Who is running against Stamey and why the silence on his actions and/or inactions?

So let me see if I have this correct... She cannot qualify for chairman and she has yet resigned even though the law says she must? On top of that she is going to sue the County? What possible good will come out of filing suit against the County? If she does not resign to run can the board remove her and appoint someone else? She has dug a huge hole for herself and it is becoming too hard to climb out. The more she digs, the worse it gets. In a way, it is almost like the morons over at Clayton. When will people realize they have done enough harm and need to move on?

I have read the above addition to the original message. I remember a similar situation many years ago where a candidate who wanted to run for commissioner found out they could not run because they had been convicted of a crime. They threatened to sue because the crime was of many years before that. But it did not get them anywhere because the judge ruled that the laws of the time were specific and it should have not even come before him. It is always hard to decide how to proceed in any matter because of the many variables at hand. Ms. Mathis has many options here. She can step down and run for chairman inwhich she probably has as good a chance as anyone to get the job. She can stay in her seat and run for her district again. She again would have a viable chance for the job. She can file suit against the county as she suggested. Sometimes it is not a good idea to sue the county in which you have been elected to serve because it will be the tax payers who will have to flip the bill and they are the voters. Deciding how to proceed in this matter is not a simple one for anyone. Just as the person said above about Mr. Stamey. Why has no one said much about his connections to Ms. Mathis? It was stated they are like two peas in a pod. If someone from his district were to run they might here more on the subject. As far as the
DOJ decision I have wondered why the piece of legislation had not already made its way to them. Mr. Harper should have already seen that was done after the last election because of the controversy at that time. It would have not gotten to the DOJ this time if a private citizen had not pursued the matter. But in this election season I do wish the best to all those folks who are running for their particular offices whether it be for chairman of the BOC or for any other office. Running for any office is tiring and can consume much of your time. And time is precious.
The Doctor