Thursday, July 23, 2009
Sunday, July 5, 2009
July 4th Celebrations and Campaigning
The George Sneed for State Senate 35 campaign got off to an early start on July 4th at 10:00 a.m.. We participated in the Douglasville July 4th parade. It was a great event in which thousands of citizens came out to celebrate America's birthday. Our campaign was well represented with numerous volunteers and supporters. We had a convertible corvette owned and driven by supporter Richard Jones of the Emerald Point community and my wife drove our SUV. Both vehicles were decorated with "We Need Sneed" signs, and campaign volunteers were adorned in campaign tshirts and armed with flyers and business cards. We walked the parade route and also entered the crowds, behind the ropes, spreading our campaign message of leadership, common sense government, and accessibility. Even my oldest daughter Chloe Summer joined me in the streets to help reach voters. Spectators loved her smile and enthusiasm. George and Venessa Sims participated along with their three children. The parade route was approximately 1.5 miles which began on Fairburn Road and ended near City Hall.
Our campaign efforts continued at 4:00p.m. when we set up a boothe at the East Point Main Street Association's July 4th celebration. This was an event that is attended by more than 10,000 citizens from East Point and the South Fulton area. Our campaign was the only one from Senate District 35 represented with a campaign boothe presence. Hundreds of voters came by to visit with us or collect information about our campaign and my plans for leading District 35. The event also featured numerous other artists and food vendors. Music was provided by live bands and a local radio station. There were also East Point mayoral candidates and city council candidates present. There was enteratainment, food, and fun for all ages. Our campaign took this opportunity to network with other candidates and have one on one discussions with everyday voters. We spread our campaign message and informed voters of the fall election on November 3, 2009.
Our campaign efforts continued at 4:00p.m. when we set up a boothe at the East Point Main Street Association's July 4th celebration. This was an event that is attended by more than 10,000 citizens from East Point and the South Fulton area. Our campaign was the only one from Senate District 35 represented with a campaign boothe presence. Hundreds of voters came by to visit with us or collect information about our campaign and my plans for leading District 35. The event also featured numerous other artists and food vendors. Music was provided by live bands and a local radio station. There were also East Point mayoral candidates and city council candidates present. There was enteratainment, food, and fun for all ages. Our campaign took this opportunity to network with other candidates and have one on one discussions with everyday voters. We spread our campaign message and informed voters of the fall election on November 3, 2009.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Creating a New Old National
The Old National Merchants Association (ONMA) is celebrating 20 years of promoting business along the Old National Highway corridor. It runs near Hartsfield-Jackson Airport thru College Park and into unincorporated South Fulton County. ONMA is leading an effort to renew the area called the Old National Improvements Initiative (ONII). I'm happy to be a part of the effort because I live near the Old National Highway, shop in the area, and have friends who live in the area including my campaign manager Carrisa Baptiste. ONII has four areas of focus: Image/Perception, Aesthetics, Public Safety, Social Climate (A Culture of Excellence). I serve on the Aesthetics Committee and had the opportunity to address over 300 South Fulton Citizens. The event was held June 18, 2009, at World Changers Church International, and moderated by Michael Hightower of the Collaborative Firm.
Presenters discussed challenges the area faces and real solutions on how to improve Old National Highway. Moreover, there were offers and discussions on how citizens can be involved in the effort. There was a question and answer session which allowed input from the public. I reviewed "Community To-Do's" in which I expressed my wife Carmen and I are environmentalists and encouraged citizens to not litter, stop illegal dumping and to participate in recycling. I reinforced programs from Code Enforcement such as Click-It which is a new initiative started by Commissioner Bill Edwards which allows a citizen to take a picture using their cell phone and email code violations in their area directly to code enforcement: clickit@fultoncountyga.gov. The violations which are reported through Click-It will be investiaged within 24 hours. I mentioned the "Tell Line-404-612-TELL (8355)," which is a similar effort using the telephone to report code violations to Code Enforcement, and advocated the Citizen Deputy program.
The Aesthetics committee emphasized efforts to improve MARTA shelters (bus stops). I researched outdoor refuse cans and provided data to our committee. At this meeting I asked South Fulton neighborhoods to adopt a shelter. When individual neighborhoods take responsibility for their communities in concert with city and county governments, there is a better end result.
Presenters discussed challenges the area faces and real solutions on how to improve Old National Highway. Moreover, there were offers and discussions on how citizens can be involved in the effort. There was a question and answer session which allowed input from the public. I reviewed "Community To-Do's" in which I expressed my wife Carmen and I are environmentalists and encouraged citizens to not litter, stop illegal dumping and to participate in recycling. I reinforced programs from Code Enforcement such as Click-It which is a new initiative started by Commissioner Bill Edwards which allows a citizen to take a picture using their cell phone and email code violations in their area directly to code enforcement: clickit@fultoncountyga.gov. The violations which are reported through Click-It will be investiaged within 24 hours. I mentioned the "Tell Line-404-612-TELL (8355)," which is a similar effort using the telephone to report code violations to Code Enforcement, and advocated the Citizen Deputy program.
The Aesthetics committee emphasized efforts to improve MARTA shelters (bus stops). I researched outdoor refuse cans and provided data to our committee. At this meeting I asked South Fulton neighborhoods to adopt a shelter. When individual neighborhoods take responsibility for their communities in concert with city and county governments, there is a better end result.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
George Sneed discusses Nationally Certified Teachers/Education
At a fundraiser held on May 21, 2009, George Sneed, candidate for State Senate District 35 discusses Nationally Certified Teachers and Education.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heHzBihBt2U
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heHzBihBt2U
Thursday, May 14, 2009
05/12/09 Democratic Party of Georgia Jefferson-Jackson Dinner
On Tuesday I attened the annual fundraiser held by the Democratic Party of Georgia known as the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner. This is the premier annual fundraiser for the Democratic Party of Georgia. This year's honorees were former Georgia Governor Carl Sanders who was Governor of Georgia from 1963-67, and Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin. The evening began around 5:30pm with a reception at the Hyatt Hotel downtown. The event was attended by a "who's who" of the Democratic Party. There were elected officials, staffers, candidates, supporters, and many active Democrats. It was networking at its best. I worked the room letting people know that I'm a candidate for State Senate in District 35.
I recall a very special moment when I met former U.S. Senator Max Cleland. We were at the sink in the men's restroom and I said hello and he turned and said hello and noticed my button. He replied, "so you are running for State Senate in District 35? I replied yes I am. "He said that's Kasim Reed's district?" I said yes, right now. I reached out to shake his hand, which is a natural reflex of mine while talking and meeting anyone. I wasn't thinking about the fact that his right arm is amputated. So at that moment he opened his arm for a hug. I gave him a hug and he went on to say that "organization wins elections, from day one to election day."I really appreciated those words. It's ironic because prior to entering the restroom I was asking a person I met about volunteering and telling him that we needed volunteers to handle certain tasks that we had planned to do throughout the campaign. It was a special moment that I won't soon forget. Senator Cleland is an American hero, a giant in Georgia politics, and overall a great citizen.
The dinner was very nice. It was complete with a live band, introductions and acknowledgements of Assembly members, and other elected officials. I enjoyed the conversation at the table and met some great people. The keynote speaker was Phil Bredesen who is the Governor of Tennessee. I enjoyed his words. He particularly spoke about a period in which he was briefly being considered for secretary of Health and Human Services. He told us that because of some difficult decisions he had to make to maintain healthcare in TN, the organization MoveOn. org started a campaingn again him being nominated. He wanted to emphasize not that this is a bad organization but that our party has to embrace all types of Democrats and be willing to work across the isle with republicans as he does in TN. I agree. The current make up of the Georgia Senate is 22 democrats and 34 republicans. We are a long ways from a majority and I believe that in an effort to get legislation passed the next State Senator from District 35 will have to be a consensus builder. I'm a Democrat and a consensus builder. Moreover, I believe in working with people who don't necessarily agree with me. This thinking has been the cornerstone of a lot of the success I've had in service organizations, college, fraternity, church, and political groups. As the next State Senator is District 35, I will listen to the people. I'm the "man of the people" candidate who goes from one neighborhood meeting to the next. I will get the people's work done by hearing their concerns and representing their feelings in the legislature. Finally, I think that I possess the skills of negotiation from my experience as a franchisee and memberships in several organizations. I will be able to respectfully debate the issues and gain the support needed to provide for District 35.
I recall a very special moment when I met former U.S. Senator Max Cleland. We were at the sink in the men's restroom and I said hello and he turned and said hello and noticed my button. He replied, "so you are running for State Senate in District 35? I replied yes I am. "He said that's Kasim Reed's district?" I said yes, right now. I reached out to shake his hand, which is a natural reflex of mine while talking and meeting anyone. I wasn't thinking about the fact that his right arm is amputated. So at that moment he opened his arm for a hug. I gave him a hug and he went on to say that "organization wins elections, from day one to election day."I really appreciated those words. It's ironic because prior to entering the restroom I was asking a person I met about volunteering and telling him that we needed volunteers to handle certain tasks that we had planned to do throughout the campaign. It was a special moment that I won't soon forget. Senator Cleland is an American hero, a giant in Georgia politics, and overall a great citizen.
The dinner was very nice. It was complete with a live band, introductions and acknowledgements of Assembly members, and other elected officials. I enjoyed the conversation at the table and met some great people. The keynote speaker was Phil Bredesen who is the Governor of Tennessee. I enjoyed his words. He particularly spoke about a period in which he was briefly being considered for secretary of Health and Human Services. He told us that because of some difficult decisions he had to make to maintain healthcare in TN, the organization MoveOn. org started a campaingn again him being nominated. He wanted to emphasize not that this is a bad organization but that our party has to embrace all types of Democrats and be willing to work across the isle with republicans as he does in TN. I agree. The current make up of the Georgia Senate is 22 democrats and 34 republicans. We are a long ways from a majority and I believe that in an effort to get legislation passed the next State Senator from District 35 will have to be a consensus builder. I'm a Democrat and a consensus builder. Moreover, I believe in working with people who don't necessarily agree with me. This thinking has been the cornerstone of a lot of the success I've had in service organizations, college, fraternity, church, and political groups. As the next State Senator is District 35, I will listen to the people. I'm the "man of the people" candidate who goes from one neighborhood meeting to the next. I will get the people's work done by hearing their concerns and representing their feelings in the legislature. Finally, I think that I possess the skills of negotiation from my experience as a franchisee and memberships in several organizations. I will be able to respectfully debate the issues and gain the support needed to provide for District 35.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Save Marta
I've attended several of the "Save MARTA" community meetings. On 4/22/09, a meeting was held at Georgia State University (GSU) organized by the Progressive Student Alliance (PSA). The panel was made up of Marvin Tolliver, Government Relations for Marta, Margo Waters, Advocate for Disabled Citizens, C. Perry, Transit Riders Union Representative, and Terrance Courty, Atlanta Jobs for Justice. There were also other groups represented in the audience, and other union representatives present. The issue which currently exists is that MARTA has a budget shortfall as most organizations these days, but is not allowed to use approximately $65M in reserves it has because of state law.
Mr. Tolliver discussed the history of MARTA telling the crowd MARTA was created by a state of Georgia act in 1965, using a $0.01 sales tax. The five metropolitan Atlanta counties were approached to do a feasibility study on the creation of rail service. Cobb county elected not to participate, Gwinnett and Clayton counties participated in the feasibility study, and Fulton and Dekalb counties supported the tax. MARTA has an 18-member board which guides their decisions. Current law requires that MARTA maintains 50% of revenue for capital expenditures and 50% for capital reserves. MARTA's leadership advocates the removal of the restrictions on it's access to the reserve funds.
Mr. Tolliver discussed the history of MARTA telling the crowd MARTA was created by a state of Georgia act in 1965, using a $0.01 sales tax. The five metropolitan Atlanta counties were approached to do a feasibility study on the creation of rail service. Cobb county elected not to participate, Gwinnett and Clayton counties participated in the feasibility study, and Fulton and Dekalb counties supported the tax. MARTA has an 18-member board which guides their decisions. Current law requires that MARTA maintains 50% of revenue for capital expenditures and 50% for capital reserves. MARTA's leadership advocates the removal of the restrictions on it's access to the reserve funds.
I followed transportation issues in Georgia during this past session of the Assembly very closely.
I support an expansion of MARTA, and the creation of a statewide light rail system. I believe in doing so the state could create more jobs, generate more revenue, and remove more cars from the highways. When we decrease the cars on the highways we improve our environment, decrease the cost of highway repairs, and there are fewer accidents. The Assembly left transportation unresolved during the last session for the second consecutive year. There was an attempt by Governor Perdue to create a new commission which would give multi-levels of power to the Governor and Lt. Governor through appointments over transportation. This measure was rejected even by Republicans, while most Democrats viewed it as a power grab.
What I learned at this meeting about MARTA was that there are several transit dependent groups who are grossly affected everytime there are changes made by MARTA. If a route is cut or fares are increased, those who totally depend on MARTA suffer, especially the disabled. The problem is very multifaceted. There were many points of view on this issue. I don't think it's a quick fix and I think we will be dealing with it for quite a while. There is a sentiment that Cobb county leaders reject expansion into the Cobb area because of racism. I've heard this for many years, but I think that it's more than racism. The racism feeling is that MARTA would allow minorities from the inner city to venture into Cobb's nice suburban areas. I tend to think it's more about the associated taxes. I do know that Cobb County Transit (CCT) and GRETA connect with MARTA and many of Cobb County's citizens use it daily and for special events such as concerts and sporting events. But MARTA trains could also go further south into Clayton County along I-75, and further north along GA 400. Both expansions would take cars off the road. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) has offered to use funds from President Obama's Stimulus package to assist MARTA in the interim. The AJC reported on 4/10/09, the ARC recommended using up to $25 million for operating expenses." The vote on this action passed unanimously. This will serve as a patch on a big wound at best.
At the public meeting of concerned citizens, again, it was very difficult to get a consensus as to how members of labor and advocate groups felt. So I will offer my vision of how MARTA may be improved. I can appreciate the help from the ARC because this will allow MARTA to continue its operations with fewer reductions in service. However, next year MARTA will be faced with the same budget shortfalls. The state Legislature needs to remove the restrictions on MARTA's capital reserves. I followed a bill that would've lifted the restrictions which passed the Senate, but failed in the House. The approximately $65 million in reserves on hand would provide for fiscal 2010 budget deficits and the projected $40 million deficits for 2011. I think that MARTA's leadership along with an 18-member governing board is capable making sure that those funds are not squandered. Further more I think it's better that MARTA uses it's own money rather than levying an additional statewide tax during the current recession. As the next State Senator from District 35, I would reintroduce legislation to remove restrictions on MARTA reserve funds. The next community meeting will be held at the 5 Points MARTA station, Wednesday, May 6, 2009, at 5p.m.
At the public meeting of concerned citizens, again, it was very difficult to get a consensus as to how members of labor and advocate groups felt. So I will offer my vision of how MARTA may be improved. I can appreciate the help from the ARC because this will allow MARTA to continue its operations with fewer reductions in service. However, next year MARTA will be faced with the same budget shortfalls. The state Legislature needs to remove the restrictions on MARTA's capital reserves. I followed a bill that would've lifted the restrictions which passed the Senate, but failed in the House. The approximately $65 million in reserves on hand would provide for fiscal 2010 budget deficits and the projected $40 million deficits for 2011. I think that MARTA's leadership along with an 18-member governing board is capable making sure that those funds are not squandered. Further more I think it's better that MARTA uses it's own money rather than levying an additional statewide tax during the current recession. As the next State Senator from District 35, I would reintroduce legislation to remove restrictions on MARTA reserve funds. The next community meeting will be held at the 5 Points MARTA station, Wednesday, May 6, 2009, at 5p.m.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Swine Flu Confirmed in Georgia
The first case of swine flu has been identified in GA. AJC reports:
Swine Flu Confirmed In Georgia
Posted: 10:31 am EDT April 30, 2009Updated: 11:28 am EDT April 30, 2009
LAGRANGE, Ga. -- The CDC confirmed a case of swine flu Thursday at West Georgia Medical System Hospital in LaGrange in Troup County.
The patient, a 30-year-old female, is from Kentucky. She has been hospitalized in LaGrange since April 26 after returning from a trip to Cancun, Mexico on April 21.
Mexico has been identified as the source of the swine flu outbreak.
Troup County health officials said Wednesday night during a public meeting that a sample from the patient was sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for testing. The sample came back possible for swine flu.
The CDC lists cases of swine flu in at least 11 other states including Arizona, California, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas.
In Alabama officials shut down schools for about 31,000 students in Madison County because of two probable cases of swine flu.
Huntsville's 52 city schools and another 10 in Madison will be closed from Thursday through Monday to keep the sickness from spreading. The school attended by two kindergartners believed to have swine flu, Heritage Elementary in Madison, will be closed even longer, for a week.
Many of the county's private schools and day care centers also are shutting down temporarily, and leaders are deciding whether to let public events like plays and festivals go on.
Health leaders say they're 95 percent sure that two kindergarten students in Madison have swine flu. They say both children are at home and recovering.
Swine Flu Confirmed In Georgia
Posted: 10:31 am EDT April 30, 2009Updated: 11:28 am EDT April 30, 2009
LAGRANGE, Ga. -- The CDC confirmed a case of swine flu Thursday at West Georgia Medical System Hospital in LaGrange in Troup County.
The patient, a 30-year-old female, is from Kentucky. She has been hospitalized in LaGrange since April 26 after returning from a trip to Cancun, Mexico on April 21.
Mexico has been identified as the source of the swine flu outbreak.
Troup County health officials said Wednesday night during a public meeting that a sample from the patient was sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for testing. The sample came back possible for swine flu.
The CDC lists cases of swine flu in at least 11 other states including Arizona, California, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas.
In Alabama officials shut down schools for about 31,000 students in Madison County because of two probable cases of swine flu.
Huntsville's 52 city schools and another 10 in Madison will be closed from Thursday through Monday to keep the sickness from spreading. The school attended by two kindergartners believed to have swine flu, Heritage Elementary in Madison, will be closed even longer, for a week.
Many of the county's private schools and day care centers also are shutting down temporarily, and leaders are deciding whether to let public events like plays and festivals go on.
Health leaders say they're 95 percent sure that two kindergarten students in Madison have swine flu. They say both children are at home and recovering.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Kasim Reed announces Mayoral campaign at the Capitol
Friends and neighbors early this a.m. I witnessed history as State Senator Kasim Reed announced his candidacy for Mayor of Atlanta on the steps of the Georgia capitol. It was a very historic moment. I'll set it up for you. I arrived with my campaign manager, Carrisa Baptiste, and Glennis Curry, PR team member about 11:55pm, 4/3/09. Please note that the GA Senate was in it's final day (Sine Die) today of a marathon session trying to pass the state's budget which is mandatory by law and a transportation bill left over from last year. So I can only imagine that Senator Reed was exhausted. He had none other than one of his brothers to hype the crowd and to get the Reed for Mayor chants on point. I received a shirt as I arrived, and buttons were plentiful and flowing around the crowd. I would estimate at the height was probably 200+ with the steps packed and the area below covered with not only friends, relatives and neighbors but fellow Senators and Representatives. I think the show of support from many of Senator Reed's colleagues was one of the most impressive parts of the event. Many had great words to say about the man they hope will be the next Mayor of Atlanta.
His mother introduced him in a very personal and passionate manner, which expressed the closeness they share. Finally, Senator Reed took the mic and he gave a very intense and passionate speech. He even dropped a little history on the crowd, remarking about past leaders in Atlanta such as Dr. King, Maynard Jackson, Andrew Young, and many others. He discussed business leaders who got their start with that bunch such as HJ Russell, a local contruction giant who is a great success story. I was impressed with his words referring to one not needing to be from a particular family or group to lead. I found those words very inspiring. It was his night, but as I am hoping to succeed him my thoughts and emotions were mingling about those words and my place in this race which has swelled to 7. He ended with a statement about "taking off his Senate pin," and now being a candidate for Mayor of Atlanta. The crowd then left the capitol and marched to the steps of Atlanta City Hall. It was quite a site for 0100, on 4/4/09. The cars that were passing down Washington looked in awe and probably were wondering what was going on, until they saw the numerous signs displaying "Kasim Reed for Mayor."
It was impressive and I took a lot of notes. So to the citizens of District 35, prepare for new leadership. The great son is moving on from South Fulton County. I ask that you consider and choose me to replace him. George Sneed for State Senate District 35. Indeed it is time for new leadership and I'm ready to grab the torch and carry it to the gold dome. I ask that you here my platform, ask me questions, and decide that "We Need Sneed." Visit http://www.georgesneed.com/ to contribute and volunteer.
His mother introduced him in a very personal and passionate manner, which expressed the closeness they share. Finally, Senator Reed took the mic and he gave a very intense and passionate speech. He even dropped a little history on the crowd, remarking about past leaders in Atlanta such as Dr. King, Maynard Jackson, Andrew Young, and many others. He discussed business leaders who got their start with that bunch such as HJ Russell, a local contruction giant who is a great success story. I was impressed with his words referring to one not needing to be from a particular family or group to lead. I found those words very inspiring. It was his night, but as I am hoping to succeed him my thoughts and emotions were mingling about those words and my place in this race which has swelled to 7. He ended with a statement about "taking off his Senate pin," and now being a candidate for Mayor of Atlanta. The crowd then left the capitol and marched to the steps of Atlanta City Hall. It was quite a site for 0100, on 4/4/09. The cars that were passing down Washington looked in awe and probably were wondering what was going on, until they saw the numerous signs displaying "Kasim Reed for Mayor."
It was impressive and I took a lot of notes. So to the citizens of District 35, prepare for new leadership. The great son is moving on from South Fulton County. I ask that you consider and choose me to replace him. George Sneed for State Senate District 35. Indeed it is time for new leadership and I'm ready to grab the torch and carry it to the gold dome. I ask that you here my platform, ask me questions, and decide that "We Need Sneed." Visit http://www.georgesneed.com/ to contribute and volunteer.
Friday, March 13, 2009
3/5/09 Sandtown Community Association
I visited with members of the Sandtown Community Association. The community is one of the more established areas of South Fulton County. About 25 members were present. The meeting included an assigned Fulton County Police officer who provided crime states. He reported that four idling cars were stolen this am. It was a cold day and a few residents in the area decided to warm their cars and return to the indoors. The result was that the four stolen cars were recovered with one of them having received damage. What is significant about the theft is that the offenders were juveniles. He stated that their ages ranged between 14-15 years old.
Apparently, an older offender would drive the juveniles around looking for idling cars. This is a prime example as to why I speak to neighbors and voters about repeat juvenile offenders. Juvenile crime has increased significantly in South Fulton County. I have discussed the issue with members of the Fulton County Police and East Point Police Departments and they attribute it to school drop-outs and the economy. Nevertheless, I address this issue on my website at http://www.georgesneed.com/ I want to make it tougher for repeat juvenile offenders to commit more crime. I stress to the public that I'm not a "lock them up and throw away the key" kind of guy. I'm a mentor to at risk young men through my fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi's Guide Right program. However, I do believe that breaking and entering a home illegally is a very serious crime and for repeat offenders there should not be any leniency. As the next State Senator in District 35, I would change the current law to make it harder for repeat juvenile offenders to receive probation. I would also make it possible to face juveniles in a court of law. Currently juvenile trials are decided by a judge without a jury. I disagree with this law and would write a bill to change it. Finally, I support a new bill that was introduced in this current General Assembly regarding truancy.
Many parents have asked me what can I do about truancy and can the parents be "fined?" One voter mentioned an ordinance in DeKalb county sponsored by the Solicitor General which makes parents more accountable for their children missing school. I believe that with active PTA participation from parents and teachers, we can all have the types of schools we desire.
Apparently, an older offender would drive the juveniles around looking for idling cars. This is a prime example as to why I speak to neighbors and voters about repeat juvenile offenders. Juvenile crime has increased significantly in South Fulton County. I have discussed the issue with members of the Fulton County Police and East Point Police Departments and they attribute it to school drop-outs and the economy. Nevertheless, I address this issue on my website at http://www.georgesneed.com/ I want to make it tougher for repeat juvenile offenders to commit more crime. I stress to the public that I'm not a "lock them up and throw away the key" kind of guy. I'm a mentor to at risk young men through my fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi's Guide Right program. However, I do believe that breaking and entering a home illegally is a very serious crime and for repeat offenders there should not be any leniency. As the next State Senator in District 35, I would change the current law to make it harder for repeat juvenile offenders to receive probation. I would also make it possible to face juveniles in a court of law. Currently juvenile trials are decided by a judge without a jury. I disagree with this law and would write a bill to change it. Finally, I support a new bill that was introduced in this current General Assembly regarding truancy.
Many parents have asked me what can I do about truancy and can the parents be "fined?" One voter mentioned an ordinance in DeKalb county sponsored by the Solicitor General which makes parents more accountable for their children missing school. I believe that with active PTA participation from parents and teachers, we can all have the types of schools we desire.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
HR 21 Re-creation Milton 2/26/09
I attended a meeting of the Creekside/Westlake Cluster Advisory Council (PTA meeting) at Sandtown Middle School with other educators and parents last week. The headliners for the meeting were Rep. Virgil Fludd, Rep Roger Bruce, and Fulton County Commissioner Bill Edwards. There were many topics of discussion but one that was on the minds of many parents was HR 21 which is currently making it's way through the GA Assembly at a rapid pace. HR 21 is yet another piece of a big "master plan" puzzle to separate Fulton County. Historically around the 1930s Milton County existed in what is now North Fulton County, GA. Fulton County was in the middle, and then there was Campbell County, which is what is now South Fulton County. Milton County was failing financially and so it merged and later Campbell also to what is today Fulton County.
Present day concerns are how tax dollars are allocated in Fulton County for schools, roads, and other areas of government. The majority of the tax base for Fulton County is located in North Fulton County. If the county split, then South Fulton schools would be greatly impacted by a significant loss in revenue. The school system is currently facing $58, -$62 million dollar deficit for the FY 2010 budget. School board leaders are already scrambling to rearrange funding sources now that they are realizing losses from homeowner taxes due to the increase in home foreclosure. So to think that in a few years we could see a complete severing of the tax base is alarming to say the least. When I say "master plan," I'm referring to the North Fulton areas such as Dunwoody, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs which have recently broken away from Fulton County to form individual cities. I imagine they are struggling financially in their own right but there may be a brighter light for them at the end of the tunnel someday. If Milton County were recreated then I'm sure it wouldn't be too long before due to financial problems, Dunwoody, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs would just merge into North Fulton County and everything would be lovely. But down here in South Fulton County, schools would struggle. I am adamately opposed to this resolution. The Representatives who were present stated that it should be watched, and that they have polled other legislators about HR 21 and it is likely to fail. They went on to say that several pieces are legislation are introdcued, but never make it to law. I appreciate and understand their knowledge and respect what they are saying. However, I launced an email campaign with members of the PTA at Stonewall Tell Elementary to all legislators both Democrats and Republicans asking that they not support this piece of legislation. Commissioner Edwards stated at the meeting that "if you want services then you have to pay for them and your taxes will go up." Later we heard from Linda Bryant who is the District 4 representative of the Fulton County school board. She describes the situation as not imminent. I just want to encourage all citizens, parents and educators to contact the legislators today concerning HR 21 and let them know your feelings. It seems on face rather insignificant but I promise you that it is piece of a bigger plan and we need to act today.
Present day concerns are how tax dollars are allocated in Fulton County for schools, roads, and other areas of government. The majority of the tax base for Fulton County is located in North Fulton County. If the county split, then South Fulton schools would be greatly impacted by a significant loss in revenue. The school system is currently facing $58, -$62 million dollar deficit for the FY 2010 budget. School board leaders are already scrambling to rearrange funding sources now that they are realizing losses from homeowner taxes due to the increase in home foreclosure. So to think that in a few years we could see a complete severing of the tax base is alarming to say the least. When I say "master plan," I'm referring to the North Fulton areas such as Dunwoody, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs which have recently broken away from Fulton County to form individual cities. I imagine they are struggling financially in their own right but there may be a brighter light for them at the end of the tunnel someday. If Milton County were recreated then I'm sure it wouldn't be too long before due to financial problems, Dunwoody, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs would just merge into North Fulton County and everything would be lovely. But down here in South Fulton County, schools would struggle. I am adamately opposed to this resolution. The Representatives who were present stated that it should be watched, and that they have polled other legislators about HR 21 and it is likely to fail. They went on to say that several pieces are legislation are introdcued, but never make it to law. I appreciate and understand their knowledge and respect what they are saying. However, I launced an email campaign with members of the PTA at Stonewall Tell Elementary to all legislators both Democrats and Republicans asking that they not support this piece of legislation. Commissioner Edwards stated at the meeting that "if you want services then you have to pay for them and your taxes will go up." Later we heard from Linda Bryant who is the District 4 representative of the Fulton County school board. She describes the situation as not imminent. I just want to encourage all citizens, parents and educators to contact the legislators today concerning HR 21 and let them know your feelings. It seems on face rather insignificant but I promise you that it is piece of a bigger plan and we need to act today.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Sneed For Senate 35 Canvassing 2/21/09
Today was the first day that our campaign hit the streets in an effort to spread our message of "Leadership, Common Sense Government, and Accessibility." It was a beautiful day in South Fulton County. I met with volunteers outside of my neighborhood clubhouse about 1:30pm. The weather must have been in the high 50's which was a little unusal for February. At any rate, it was part reunion as I saw people from my days on the Obama campaign trail, to co-workers, neighbors, fraternity brothers, and FB friends. Again I wish to reiterate my belief in the innate ability of the ordinary person to make change.
Our strategy was to distribute flyers with an attached business card to the beginning of District 35. District 35 is the second largest district in the state and merges in and out and around Atlanta. In my basement I have a big map of the district on a wall. My basement is kind of a campaign brain center. It's where all of the planning started. We packed up the flyers, and jumped into our cars. We started in my neighborhood Lakeside Preserve. I would hope that each of my neigbhors would support me. They have witnessed firsthand my work organizing our neighborhood and may remember some of my efforts on the Obama campaign. But I've learned that new candidates can't leave any stone unturned. We are going after ever single vote. My neighborhood has about 100 homes and a few more still under construction. We finished my neighborhood in about 10 minutes. It was great to get back out on the campaign trail in this manner. Up to this point we have used neighborhood association meetings, email campaigns, and a word-of-mouth approach to reach voters. It has been quite effective, but there is nothing like taking your message directly to a voter.
On a Saturday afternoon with good weather, one can expect people to be out in the yard or walking and exercising. So volunteers were armed with the message and prepared to engage voters when presented the opportunity. We distributed over 400 flyers. Our plan going forward is to canvass neighborhoods in District 35 one weekend and the next weekend to make phone calls to tell voters of our plans and how I want to lead, change and improve our community. You can join our campaign by emailing campaignmgr@georgesneed.com
Our strategy was to distribute flyers with an attached business card to the beginning of District 35. District 35 is the second largest district in the state and merges in and out and around Atlanta. In my basement I have a big map of the district on a wall. My basement is kind of a campaign brain center. It's where all of the planning started. We packed up the flyers, and jumped into our cars. We started in my neighborhood Lakeside Preserve. I would hope that each of my neigbhors would support me. They have witnessed firsthand my work organizing our neighborhood and may remember some of my efforts on the Obama campaign. But I've learned that new candidates can't leave any stone unturned. We are going after ever single vote. My neighborhood has about 100 homes and a few more still under construction. We finished my neighborhood in about 10 minutes. It was great to get back out on the campaign trail in this manner. Up to this point we have used neighborhood association meetings, email campaigns, and a word-of-mouth approach to reach voters. It has been quite effective, but there is nothing like taking your message directly to a voter.
On a Saturday afternoon with good weather, one can expect people to be out in the yard or walking and exercising. So volunteers were armed with the message and prepared to engage voters when presented the opportunity. We distributed over 400 flyers. Our plan going forward is to canvass neighborhoods in District 35 one weekend and the next weekend to make phone calls to tell voters of our plans and how I want to lead, change and improve our community. You can join our campaign by emailing campaignmgr@georgesneed.com
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
1/29/09 Fulton County Police Department 2009 Neighborhood Watch Kickoff Forum
The Fulton County Police Department (FCPD) held a quarterly meeting of South Fulton County residents at Diamond Hall. The purpose of the meeting was to inform the public of efforts being made to thwart crime and address the concerns of citizens. The panel included the FCPD Chief of Police, Cassandra Jones, Major Charlayne Turner, Tony Phillips of Code Enforcement, Sonja Brown, South Fulton Community Prosecutor, Gale Banks, Senior Chief-District Attorney's Office, Janet Martin, Court Watch Coordinator, Todd Ashley, Deputy Director Juvenile Court, Corporal Troy Blackmon, Neighborhood Watch Procedures, and Captain W. Yates of the Crime Suppresion Unit.
I attended the meeting and was given the opportunity to address the citizens in attendance which were approximately 100. Local news stations covered the meeting, and there were vendors soliciting anti-theft mechanisms for the home. Each panelist briefly discussed their specialty and provided contact information. Crime is a very common topic of South Fulton neighbors and friends. Though our area pales in comparison to the other municipalities and jurisdictions, we still have problems with crime. I briefly ended the discussion with what I would do as State Senator of District 35 to decrease crime. Specifically, I addressed the laws which prohibit citizens from witnessing juvenile trials and laws that prohibit juveniles trials to be decided by a jury.
I told the crowd that I would be tougher on juvenile crime and stop the revolving door which exists because of the 12 point system or Dentention Assessment Instrument (DAI). After the meeting I met with many of the citizens along with my campaign manager Carrisa Baptiste and we further discussed our platform of leadership, common sense government, and accessibility. The next meeting will be held in three months, at which time I expect to have officially declared my candidacy for State Senate District 35.
I attended the meeting and was given the opportunity to address the citizens in attendance which were approximately 100. Local news stations covered the meeting, and there were vendors soliciting anti-theft mechanisms for the home. Each panelist briefly discussed their specialty and provided contact information. Crime is a very common topic of South Fulton neighbors and friends. Though our area pales in comparison to the other municipalities and jurisdictions, we still have problems with crime. I briefly ended the discussion with what I would do as State Senator of District 35 to decrease crime. Specifically, I addressed the laws which prohibit citizens from witnessing juvenile trials and laws that prohibit juveniles trials to be decided by a jury.
I told the crowd that I would be tougher on juvenile crime and stop the revolving door which exists because of the 12 point system or Dentention Assessment Instrument (DAI). After the meeting I met with many of the citizens along with my campaign manager Carrisa Baptiste and we further discussed our platform of leadership, common sense government, and accessibility. The next meeting will be held in three months, at which time I expect to have officially declared my candidacy for State Senate District 35.
Volunteer Meeting Sneed For Senate 35
Join our campaign. You are invited to a meeting of volunteers on February 16, 2009, at 6:30p.m. The meeting will be held at Lakeside Preserve neighborhood clubhouse. Lakeside Preserve is located off Camp Creek Parkway at Old Fairburn Rd. We will discuss campaign plans and opportunities for volunteers to help mobilize our message. Please RSVP by replying to this note or if you need more information you may email: campaignmgr@georgesneed.com.We will also begin our first door to door canvassing effort on February 21, 2009, at 1:00p.m. We will meet at Lakeside Preserve clubhouse and disperse from that location into groups. More details given at the volunteer meeting.
Thank you for your support,
George Sneed
Thank you for your support,
George Sneed
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
1/28/09 Lobbying For Family Planning and Women's Health
I joined members of Planned Parenthood and the Feminist Women's Health Center at the state Capitol to lobby State Senators on issues of family planning. Governor Perdue has required state agencies to cut their budgets to meet a projected $2.2 billion-plus budget shortfall. These cuts affect many human services programs but they include a very disproportionate cut in family planning funding. Out of a current family planning budget of $22 million, the state already cut our $7.5 million (34%) for FY 2009. Another $10 million (45%) is expected to be cut in the next budget year (FY 2010), which will be considered during the next legislative session in 2009.
Family planning services in Georgia have been chronically under-funded, never reaching more than 40-50% of the number of women who need publicly funded services.
-Publicy funded family planning helps women avoid the pregnancies they do not want and to plan the pregnancies they do.
-The best way to prevent unintended pregnancies is to ensure that women and families have access to contraceptive services.
-Family planning funding makes economic sense. Nationally, every public $1 invested in family planning saves at least $4.02. In Georgia, these savings are much higher.
I had the opportunity to speak with Senator Horacena Tate (D) District 38, and she shared what I felt was good advice. She encouraged me to also speak with Republican Senators considering they hold a majority in both Houses of the Assembly in Georgia. I plan an email campaign along with speaking to individual Senators. The funding from the federal government is likely to pass and will be sent to Georgia. I feel that it's important that we make our feelings known to the majority party about what should happen with those funds. I also spoke with Senator Kasim Reed (D), District 35, and he disagrees with the Governor's idea of an across the board cut of some of the state's budgets. He suggested the Governor is not cutting funding that affects things he supports, so it's not trully acorss the board. I asked him about protecting school budgets in south Fulton County which is very important to me. He feels that the degree to which cuts will actually happen are dependent on Stimulus funding dollars from the federal government.
Overall, the experience at the capitol was an enjoyable one as usual. It's a busy, bustling place, with lots of people with many agendas. It our democracy in action in Georgia and I feel right at home. I want to be there next year representing my friends and neighbors in District 35.
Family planning services in Georgia have been chronically under-funded, never reaching more than 40-50% of the number of women who need publicly funded services.
-Publicy funded family planning helps women avoid the pregnancies they do not want and to plan the pregnancies they do.
-The best way to prevent unintended pregnancies is to ensure that women and families have access to contraceptive services.
-Family planning funding makes economic sense. Nationally, every public $1 invested in family planning saves at least $4.02. In Georgia, these savings are much higher.
I had the opportunity to speak with Senator Horacena Tate (D) District 38, and she shared what I felt was good advice. She encouraged me to also speak with Republican Senators considering they hold a majority in both Houses of the Assembly in Georgia. I plan an email campaign along with speaking to individual Senators. The funding from the federal government is likely to pass and will be sent to Georgia. I feel that it's important that we make our feelings known to the majority party about what should happen with those funds. I also spoke with Senator Kasim Reed (D), District 35, and he disagrees with the Governor's idea of an across the board cut of some of the state's budgets. He suggested the Governor is not cutting funding that affects things he supports, so it's not trully acorss the board. I asked him about protecting school budgets in south Fulton County which is very important to me. He feels that the degree to which cuts will actually happen are dependent on Stimulus funding dollars from the federal government.
Overall, the experience at the capitol was an enjoyable one as usual. It's a busy, bustling place, with lots of people with many agendas. It our democracy in action in Georgia and I feel right at home. I want to be there next year representing my friends and neighbors in District 35.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Official Online Campaign Launch Sneed For Senate 35
Contact: Carrisa Baptiste
Campaign Manager, Sneed For Senate 35
campaignmgr@georgesneed.com
South Fulton Resident George Sneed Declares Intent to Run for GA Senate District 35 Seat
ATLANTA – Jan. 31, 2009: On the principles of leadership, common sense government and accessibility to the constituency, George Sneed today announced a campaign to succeed Kasim Reed in the Georgia State Senate. Reed currently represents the 35th District and is expected to resign at some point to further his campaign for mayor of Atlanta.
Sneed, 37, filed paperwork with the State Ethics Commission in late December, 2008. He will file with the Secretary of State upon Senator Reed’s resignation. Sneed has organized an online information campaign at www.georgesneed.com.
"I want to be the next State Senator of District 35 because I’m qualified to lead on the issues of healthcare, education, and economic development" Sneed said. "Our campaign is an inclusive tent and recognizes that we all want safe neighborhoods and good schools for our children."
Sneed is a registered nurse and 12-year resident of Fulton County. He currently resides in the area near Camp Creek Marketplace with his wife Carmen and daughters Chloe Summer and Maria Nicole. George is an active member of the Fulton and Douglas County Democratic Parties and was selected in 2008 as an Obama Fellow, representing the South Fulton County area. Other affiliations include Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the Auburn University Diversity Alumni Council.
Georgia Senate District 35 is the state’s second-largest district by land mass and spreads across Fulton and Douglas counties.
All communications are provided by friends of George Sneed for Senate 35.
Campaign Manager, Sneed For Senate 35
campaignmgr@georgesneed.com
South Fulton Resident George Sneed Declares Intent to Run for GA Senate District 35 Seat
ATLANTA – Jan. 31, 2009: On the principles of leadership, common sense government and accessibility to the constituency, George Sneed today announced a campaign to succeed Kasim Reed in the Georgia State Senate. Reed currently represents the 35th District and is expected to resign at some point to further his campaign for mayor of Atlanta.
Sneed, 37, filed paperwork with the State Ethics Commission in late December, 2008. He will file with the Secretary of State upon Senator Reed’s resignation. Sneed has organized an online information campaign at www.georgesneed.com.
"I want to be the next State Senator of District 35 because I’m qualified to lead on the issues of healthcare, education, and economic development" Sneed said. "Our campaign is an inclusive tent and recognizes that we all want safe neighborhoods and good schools for our children."
Sneed is a registered nurse and 12-year resident of Fulton County. He currently resides in the area near Camp Creek Marketplace with his wife Carmen and daughters Chloe Summer and Maria Nicole. George is an active member of the Fulton and Douglas County Democratic Parties and was selected in 2008 as an Obama Fellow, representing the South Fulton County area. Other affiliations include Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the Auburn University Diversity Alumni Council.
Georgia Senate District 35 is the state’s second-largest district by land mass and spreads across Fulton and Douglas counties.
All communications are provided by friends of George Sneed for Senate 35.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Woodward Community 1/24/09
I visited the Woodward Community Neighborhood Watch last Saturday. It was a rainy morning and I wasn't sure if they would still have the meeting. But I drove out to the community, a more established area along Old National Highway, because I was invited by their president Kimberly. The rain stopped about 5 minutes before the 12pm meeting was to start at the intersection of Old Rocky Rd. and Topaz Trail. The location and setting is significant to me because there were about 15 members of this neighborhood who came to a meeting in inclement weather to discuss issues affecting their neighborhood and they don't even have a neighborhood clubhouse.
Members of the Fulton County police attended the meeting also. Officer Eric Rosser who regularly patrols the area, and two other officers a Lieutenant and Captain respectively attended. The officers provided crime statistics and suggestions about how to reduce crime. The area where we were meeting was an intersection but it was also connected to a road (kind of a Y shape area) which was a dead end. The dead end led to a trail that several neighbors reported was the source of much of the crime in the area including assaults, drug transactions and an escape route for thieves. The trail actually crossed several neighborhoods and poured out to a shopping center along Old National Highway anchored by Walmart. I offered that the neighbors could contact the builders of the neighboring development of Woodward Hills townhomes. If the owner could fence their land, then it would block people who use the trail from passing through their neighborhood. While we were meeting, very suspicious-looking characters considered to use the trail and saw the presence of law enforcement and were deterred.
This community utilizes a very active website which now posts photographs of criminals who have committed crimes in the area. The residents who operate their neighborhood site obtain the photos from the Fulton County Sheriffs department after the arrests are made. The records are public for all adult arrests. This information is useful for residents when they can review the sight and compare the information to suspicious characters they may see walking around their neighborhood. I feel like they have the right idea and just need to reach a greater number of neighbors to regain the safe neighborhood they desire. But I think we can all take something away from the good things they are doing in the Woodward community. We all have to watch out for each other, and don't hesistate to all 911 for suspicious characters.
Members of the Fulton County police attended the meeting also. Officer Eric Rosser who regularly patrols the area, and two other officers a Lieutenant and Captain respectively attended. The officers provided crime statistics and suggestions about how to reduce crime. The area where we were meeting was an intersection but it was also connected to a road (kind of a Y shape area) which was a dead end. The dead end led to a trail that several neighbors reported was the source of much of the crime in the area including assaults, drug transactions and an escape route for thieves. The trail actually crossed several neighborhoods and poured out to a shopping center along Old National Highway anchored by Walmart. I offered that the neighbors could contact the builders of the neighboring development of Woodward Hills townhomes. If the owner could fence their land, then it would block people who use the trail from passing through their neighborhood. While we were meeting, very suspicious-looking characters considered to use the trail and saw the presence of law enforcement and were deterred.
This community utilizes a very active website which now posts photographs of criminals who have committed crimes in the area. The residents who operate their neighborhood site obtain the photos from the Fulton County Sheriffs department after the arrests are made. The records are public for all adult arrests. This information is useful for residents when they can review the sight and compare the information to suspicious characters they may see walking around their neighborhood. I feel like they have the right idea and just need to reach a greater number of neighbors to regain the safe neighborhood they desire. But I think we can all take something away from the good things they are doing in the Woodward community. We all have to watch out for each other, and don't hesistate to all 911 for suspicious characters.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
The Inaguration of President Barack Obama 1/19-21/09
I arrived to Washington D.C. a little after 9a.m. on 1/19/09. The flight went very smoothly. It began with the Airtran pilot setting the tone in Atlanta with a good morning and welcome of, "Yes we can fly safely to Dulles" Once in DC, I got my rental car and headed about 10 minutes down I-66 to Manassas, VA, where I was staying at the Red Roof Inn. I booked my package around September, 2008, after having a personal revelation that Obama would win. I checked into the hotel and then proceeded to call and text several of my friends who told me they would be in town. My wife took a later flight and wouldn't arrive til about 9pm. So I just couldn't stay in the room, though while flipping channels, I caught a PBS special on the Emmit Till murder, Montgomery bus boycott, and Dr. Martin L. King Jr.'s rise in the Civil Rights movement. It took my attention away for about 30 minutes, then I watched some CNN, and finally decided I needed to meet some of the people who were in town.
So I jumped in the car and headed back toward D.C. and found a Metro station. It was cold and snowing but still reasonably visible outside. To my surprise there was a very, very, very long line just to get a Metro card (train admission). The long and short of it, is that I stood in line for 2.5hrs to get the card, 30 minutes in the snow, and 2 hours in just brutal cold. But it was very necessary to make the rest of the weekend go smoothly. I'm happy that I learned this lesson on 1/19, rather than 1/20. It would prove to be extremely beneficial. Many people had to stand in similar lines later that evening and also on 1/20. So, I finally boarded the train and left to connect with a friend in the Cleveland Park area of D.C. It took a little coordination, but we all finally met. We enjoyed some Mexican food and sangria and caught up with one another, shared stories so far and plans. By this time, I really hadn't done much, but after dinner, I left my friends and continued on the Metro line to the Green Belt station where I was closest to BWI airport where my wife Carmen was arriving. By now it's 8:30pm and I'm down to one bar on the phone, so I'm texting Carmen and leaving messages frantically to coordinate with her. My phone eventually died, and I had to use a pay phone, but she got my message and as an experienced traveler found the bus that took her to the station where I was waiting for yet another hour plus in the cold. (Someone should really consider heating train stations). Finally, Carmen and met, I helped her with her luggage, we caught the train and headed back to the hotel. To put things in perspective we were at the end of one line on the Metro and needed to go to the end of another line to get the car. (Imagine North Springs to the Airport x2). By the time we got to the car it was nearly 1a.m. on 1/20/09. Then of course we were hungry again, so we stopped for a food and drinks at a late night restaurant near the hotel and I began to regain my excitement about what would happen later.
We ate and went back to the hotel. We then planned out the next day, based on sleep requirements and CNN reports of crowds and left for D.C. around 6 a.m. We drove as far east as we could on I-66 and caught a train around 6:30a.m. that would ultimately pack to "fire hazard" capacity. We rode like sardines from Falls Church (VA Tech/U of VA) to Federal Center. It was unbelievable how many people were on the train and how many people wanted to get on the train at each stop. Imagine leaving a Falcons game from Vine City, but then everyone at Georgia Dome actually gets on the train with you. Finally we exit the train, and walk thru the Woodrow Wilson Center, very nice area if you ever visit D.C., then things became familiar to me again. We passed a few protests of people accusing Obama of "advocating abortion", but generally there were thousands everywhere just trying to see what they could see. It was about 8:50a.m. by this time. (Yes it took that long on the train). We took in a few more sights and then figured we had better take our place on the mall. There was no security check. We had heard so many rumors of "only being allowed 1 bottle of water, bag checks, etc." None of that was the case and I'm happy because it would've just complicated matters even more. We just walked through gates and took our place on the grass. We were about the 3rd jumbotron back from the Capital. We could easily see the capital but it was about 9:02a.m. and still freezing outside. The other direction of course was the Washington Monument in the distance and there was at this time plenty of space to fall in line. This is the hurry up and wait moment. The program wouldn't begin until maybe 1130a.m. with the arrrivals of official guests. So we sat on the blanket, bundled up and talked to the people around us. Some were playing cards, eating snacks, standing, sitting, listening to ipods, filming, photographing or just doing whatever to pass the time. By this point text messages and phone calls were not transmitting. You could feel the excitement in the air, everyone was jubilant, waving American flags. I explain it as somewhere between Christmas Eve and Mardi Gras. Finally the dignitaries began to arrive, and the temperature began to warm a little, and the sun came out.
I will say, there were mostly cheers but definitely a few jeers. I think the only people who were booed were V.P. Cheney in his wheel chair after suffering the injury from moving boxes (go figure?) and of course President Bush. I don't like Bush, but by this time there was no need to disrespect the office of the President. Presidents Carter and Clinton got a lot of love from the crowd. And any citing of Michele and Barack caused an uproar of cheers with the waving of American flags. It was a special sight to see. So finally it's about 12:03pm. and I'm telling the guy next to me that technically he's already President according to the constitution, (the high noon) part. At any rate once he said the oath and became President everyone lost it, people were hugging, kissing, crying, cheering and jumping up and down and screaming. It was such a big release of emotion that for me had been built up since I first saw him live at Georgia Tech, April, 2007. It was then that I decided he was my candidate and I needed to dig in and help get him elected. As an Obama fellow I organized house meetings, voter registration drives, door to door canvassing and phone banks. At that moment all of the hot days and long nights flashed before my eyes. The debate parties and primary results viewings, and DNC convention, and election night all came to past. I got emotional. I witnessed history. I was part of making history. It felt good. We listened to his inaugural address and I really appreciated his words. The poem wasn't all that to me, but I enjoyed Rev. Lowery's benediction. So then we got the big idea to defy CNN's challenge and tried to make our way to the parade which was scheduled for 2:30p.m. It was by now 12:40p.m. We left the area, and had a good jump on the crowd, and immediately met chaos when the street toward the Woodrow Wilson area was now fenced off. It was probably 20 people deep just on the sidewalk. Once we got out of that jam we faced it about 2 more times and then found an underpass to escape. We basically walked in about a three city block square only to find yet another blocked exit. Now I'm feeling caged like I did in NY during "Y2K" in 1999. So I asked one of D.C.'s finest and he was cluest, but did offer that since the Smithsonian station was closed (bad idea on D.C. planners), we should try L'efannt which was another 6 blocks away. But we were by now like okay, whatever it takes, because we just wanted to leave the area thinking we needed time to rest up for the Southern States Ball which we would attend at 8p.m. So we get to the station and it was madness. We were about 20 feet of people from the entrance and people were moving in all directions. There were National Guardsmen on the scene for crowd control. They were encouraging people to remain orderly and not push. It was now kind of funny to me, but the line was moving. Apparently, they had several trains in a row and it was working but it took some time. So that took another 30 minutes in the cold before we reached the escalator and we were on the train. Once you get to the train, everything is fine.
We made it back to Falls Church station in about 20 minutes. It seemed so much faster going back and we got to our car and grabbed a bite to eat. We watched the parade on CNN and a local NBC station just for comparison. I think they all had the same feed from the back of a Toyota pickup truck but the commentators were stationed in different places and gave a little different detail. We took a much needed nap and that would turn out to be a good call for later. When we woke from our nap, ironically the parade was still on and we began to get ready for our first formal inauguration Ball. The Southern States Ball was held at the D.C.
Armory and I got tickets through the Georgia Democratic Party. So please join, donate, and support them. We were meeting friends and decided to head out for the train about 7p.m. There is a Stadium/Armory station on the train line so that really worked well for us. When we arrived there were National Guardsmen at the exit of the station checking tickets before you even got into the general area. Once passed that it all seemed like wonderland. There were really nice, I mean nice portable restrooms. The kind with faux wood, that smell nice and were clean. So after coat check, we immediately took the official photo with the Presidents seal in the backgroud. I can't wait to see it online. It's a must buy. We then entered the arena which was very well decorated, warm, with plenty of cash bars. I must say the snacks were a little lacking, basically hors d'oeuvres, fruit and deserts but plenty of it. It wasn't what I expected but again that excitement was still in the air. The first famous person I met was Avery Johnson, former coach/player of the San Antonio Spurs. I saw him with his wife and camera and took a photo for them, and then we posed for another. He's a really nice person. I ran into a few Georgians who I knew personally. Then there was Evander Holyfield and Bishop Eddie Long. I also met my fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi's Grand Polemarch DeWayne Murray. It was just that kind of night bumping into who's who. There was very little dancing but Susan Tedeschi was the entertainment. She's kind of a blues/country mix. Not too bad, but like a Sheryl Crow-lite to me.
So my wife and I mingled with friends and ate and drank until the rumor mill reached a climax about what time Obama would arrive. First a bartender told me 2:20am., then a friend said 1:00a.m., another 1:30a.m. We were all hearing different times. Finally one guy told me that he saw several secret service members and it was now about 12:15a.m., so I stayed close to the stage and sure enough a few minutes later the program began. First V.P. Biden and his wife Jill came out. He spoke to the crowd for a few minutes and they left. Then a color guard appeared about 10 minutes later. Next a miliatary brass band about 3 minutes later. Finally what we had all been waiting for President Obama and Michele Obama entered the room. It was so cool. He looked great and so did she. We were Ball #9/10, so the stories of them arriving in the late hours were incorrect. He gave a quick 3 minute speech, really good words and then they danced. Cameras were flashing and recording. It was so beautiful. And then just like that they were gone and despite there being another band ready to play most people left. We then headed for the train and made our way back to the car. By now it's about 1:30a.m. and it was freezing outside. I didn't have a hat and it was so windy. But we didn't care because we again had connected with our President on a personal level and he left me feeling really special and excited about the work we have to do as Americans to get the country back on track. So we made it back to the hotel, a little after 2:00a.m and got ready for bed. I had a 7:00a.m. flight but Carmen, my wife, had an 8:30a.m. flight. At any rate I had to drop her by the station around 5a.m. which is when the first train began running and then return back toward Dulles to drop off the car and take a shuttle back to the airport. It all really went smoothly. I was checked into the airport and eating breakfast by 6a.m. My flight took off and landed on time and I arrived back in Atlanta around 8:30a.m. I was exhausted and could feel a slight cold coming on. But I was so excited looking at the the Washington Post and Times covers. I would later buy USA Today and the AJC as souvenirs. While getting my luggage I saw a local news crew at the airport, I think Channel 2. I kind of avoided them because I was still at the point of not putting into words my experience. Only now can I do so. I will never forget it.
So I jumped in the car and headed back toward D.C. and found a Metro station. It was cold and snowing but still reasonably visible outside. To my surprise there was a very, very, very long line just to get a Metro card (train admission). The long and short of it, is that I stood in line for 2.5hrs to get the card, 30 minutes in the snow, and 2 hours in just brutal cold. But it was very necessary to make the rest of the weekend go smoothly. I'm happy that I learned this lesson on 1/19, rather than 1/20. It would prove to be extremely beneficial. Many people had to stand in similar lines later that evening and also on 1/20. So, I finally boarded the train and left to connect with a friend in the Cleveland Park area of D.C. It took a little coordination, but we all finally met. We enjoyed some Mexican food and sangria and caught up with one another, shared stories so far and plans. By this time, I really hadn't done much, but after dinner, I left my friends and continued on the Metro line to the Green Belt station where I was closest to BWI airport where my wife Carmen was arriving. By now it's 8:30pm and I'm down to one bar on the phone, so I'm texting Carmen and leaving messages frantically to coordinate with her. My phone eventually died, and I had to use a pay phone, but she got my message and as an experienced traveler found the bus that took her to the station where I was waiting for yet another hour plus in the cold. (Someone should really consider heating train stations). Finally, Carmen and met, I helped her with her luggage, we caught the train and headed back to the hotel. To put things in perspective we were at the end of one line on the Metro and needed to go to the end of another line to get the car. (Imagine North Springs to the Airport x2). By the time we got to the car it was nearly 1a.m. on 1/20/09. Then of course we were hungry again, so we stopped for a food and drinks at a late night restaurant near the hotel and I began to regain my excitement about what would happen later.
We ate and went back to the hotel. We then planned out the next day, based on sleep requirements and CNN reports of crowds and left for D.C. around 6 a.m. We drove as far east as we could on I-66 and caught a train around 6:30a.m. that would ultimately pack to "fire hazard" capacity. We rode like sardines from Falls Church (VA Tech/U of VA) to Federal Center. It was unbelievable how many people were on the train and how many people wanted to get on the train at each stop. Imagine leaving a Falcons game from Vine City, but then everyone at Georgia Dome actually gets on the train with you. Finally we exit the train, and walk thru the Woodrow Wilson Center, very nice area if you ever visit D.C., then things became familiar to me again. We passed a few protests of people accusing Obama of "advocating abortion", but generally there were thousands everywhere just trying to see what they could see. It was about 8:50a.m. by this time. (Yes it took that long on the train). We took in a few more sights and then figured we had better take our place on the mall. There was no security check. We had heard so many rumors of "only being allowed 1 bottle of water, bag checks, etc." None of that was the case and I'm happy because it would've just complicated matters even more. We just walked through gates and took our place on the grass. We were about the 3rd jumbotron back from the Capital. We could easily see the capital but it was about 9:02a.m. and still freezing outside. The other direction of course was the Washington Monument in the distance and there was at this time plenty of space to fall in line. This is the hurry up and wait moment. The program wouldn't begin until maybe 1130a.m. with the arrrivals of official guests. So we sat on the blanket, bundled up and talked to the people around us. Some were playing cards, eating snacks, standing, sitting, listening to ipods, filming, photographing or just doing whatever to pass the time. By this point text messages and phone calls were not transmitting. You could feel the excitement in the air, everyone was jubilant, waving American flags. I explain it as somewhere between Christmas Eve and Mardi Gras. Finally the dignitaries began to arrive, and the temperature began to warm a little, and the sun came out.
I will say, there were mostly cheers but definitely a few jeers. I think the only people who were booed were V.P. Cheney in his wheel chair after suffering the injury from moving boxes (go figure?) and of course President Bush. I don't like Bush, but by this time there was no need to disrespect the office of the President. Presidents Carter and Clinton got a lot of love from the crowd. And any citing of Michele and Barack caused an uproar of cheers with the waving of American flags. It was a special sight to see. So finally it's about 12:03pm. and I'm telling the guy next to me that technically he's already President according to the constitution, (the high noon) part. At any rate once he said the oath and became President everyone lost it, people were hugging, kissing, crying, cheering and jumping up and down and screaming. It was such a big release of emotion that for me had been built up since I first saw him live at Georgia Tech, April, 2007. It was then that I decided he was my candidate and I needed to dig in and help get him elected. As an Obama fellow I organized house meetings, voter registration drives, door to door canvassing and phone banks. At that moment all of the hot days and long nights flashed before my eyes. The debate parties and primary results viewings, and DNC convention, and election night all came to past. I got emotional. I witnessed history. I was part of making history. It felt good. We listened to his inaugural address and I really appreciated his words. The poem wasn't all that to me, but I enjoyed Rev. Lowery's benediction. So then we got the big idea to defy CNN's challenge and tried to make our way to the parade which was scheduled for 2:30p.m. It was by now 12:40p.m. We left the area, and had a good jump on the crowd, and immediately met chaos when the street toward the Woodrow Wilson area was now fenced off. It was probably 20 people deep just on the sidewalk. Once we got out of that jam we faced it about 2 more times and then found an underpass to escape. We basically walked in about a three city block square only to find yet another blocked exit. Now I'm feeling caged like I did in NY during "Y2K" in 1999. So I asked one of D.C.'s finest and he was cluest, but did offer that since the Smithsonian station was closed (bad idea on D.C. planners), we should try L'efannt which was another 6 blocks away. But we were by now like okay, whatever it takes, because we just wanted to leave the area thinking we needed time to rest up for the Southern States Ball which we would attend at 8p.m. So we get to the station and it was madness. We were about 20 feet of people from the entrance and people were moving in all directions. There were National Guardsmen on the scene for crowd control. They were encouraging people to remain orderly and not push. It was now kind of funny to me, but the line was moving. Apparently, they had several trains in a row and it was working but it took some time. So that took another 30 minutes in the cold before we reached the escalator and we were on the train. Once you get to the train, everything is fine.
We made it back to Falls Church station in about 20 minutes. It seemed so much faster going back and we got to our car and grabbed a bite to eat. We watched the parade on CNN and a local NBC station just for comparison. I think they all had the same feed from the back of a Toyota pickup truck but the commentators were stationed in different places and gave a little different detail. We took a much needed nap and that would turn out to be a good call for later. When we woke from our nap, ironically the parade was still on and we began to get ready for our first formal inauguration Ball. The Southern States Ball was held at the D.C.
Armory and I got tickets through the Georgia Democratic Party. So please join, donate, and support them. We were meeting friends and decided to head out for the train about 7p.m. There is a Stadium/Armory station on the train line so that really worked well for us. When we arrived there were National Guardsmen at the exit of the station checking tickets before you even got into the general area. Once passed that it all seemed like wonderland. There were really nice, I mean nice portable restrooms. The kind with faux wood, that smell nice and were clean. So after coat check, we immediately took the official photo with the Presidents seal in the backgroud. I can't wait to see it online. It's a must buy. We then entered the arena which was very well decorated, warm, with plenty of cash bars. I must say the snacks were a little lacking, basically hors d'oeuvres, fruit and deserts but plenty of it. It wasn't what I expected but again that excitement was still in the air. The first famous person I met was Avery Johnson, former coach/player of the San Antonio Spurs. I saw him with his wife and camera and took a photo for them, and then we posed for another. He's a really nice person. I ran into a few Georgians who I knew personally. Then there was Evander Holyfield and Bishop Eddie Long. I also met my fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi's Grand Polemarch DeWayne Murray. It was just that kind of night bumping into who's who. There was very little dancing but Susan Tedeschi was the entertainment. She's kind of a blues/country mix. Not too bad, but like a Sheryl Crow-lite to me.
So my wife and I mingled with friends and ate and drank until the rumor mill reached a climax about what time Obama would arrive. First a bartender told me 2:20am., then a friend said 1:00a.m., another 1:30a.m. We were all hearing different times. Finally one guy told me that he saw several secret service members and it was now about 12:15a.m., so I stayed close to the stage and sure enough a few minutes later the program began. First V.P. Biden and his wife Jill came out. He spoke to the crowd for a few minutes and they left. Then a color guard appeared about 10 minutes later. Next a miliatary brass band about 3 minutes later. Finally what we had all been waiting for President Obama and Michele Obama entered the room. It was so cool. He looked great and so did she. We were Ball #9/10, so the stories of them arriving in the late hours were incorrect. He gave a quick 3 minute speech, really good words and then they danced. Cameras were flashing and recording. It was so beautiful. And then just like that they were gone and despite there being another band ready to play most people left. We then headed for the train and made our way back to the car. By now it's about 1:30a.m. and it was freezing outside. I didn't have a hat and it was so windy. But we didn't care because we again had connected with our President on a personal level and he left me feeling really special and excited about the work we have to do as Americans to get the country back on track. So we made it back to the hotel, a little after 2:00a.m and got ready for bed. I had a 7:00a.m. flight but Carmen, my wife, had an 8:30a.m. flight. At any rate I had to drop her by the station around 5a.m. which is when the first train began running and then return back toward Dulles to drop off the car and take a shuttle back to the airport. It all really went smoothly. I was checked into the airport and eating breakfast by 6a.m. My flight took off and landed on time and I arrived back in Atlanta around 8:30a.m. I was exhausted and could feel a slight cold coming on. But I was so excited looking at the the Washington Post and Times covers. I would later buy USA Today and the AJC as souvenirs. While getting my luggage I saw a local news crew at the airport, I think Channel 2. I kind of avoided them because I was still at the point of not putting into words my experience. Only now can I do so. I will never forget it.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Women in the Halls Legislative Kickoff 1/8/09
I attended the Women in the Halls Legislative Kickoff party hosted by Planned Parenthood. There were several other co-sponsors including: ACLU of GA, Atlanta 9 to 5, Atlanta WAND, G-CAPP, League of Women Voters of GA, and the Sierra Club. This was a great event almost celebrating the influence of women in the GA legislature while spotlighting the advancements in public policy. Though the event was attended predominantly by women, there was a definite male presence from the public and legislators. Senators Nan Orock and Robert Brown received awards for their work on the Georgia Medical Privacy Act which was a constitutional amendment in 2008. Senator Orock also discussed the failure of the transit funding bill by 3 votes on the last evening of the last legislative session. She hopes the bill will pass this year.
Transit funding is an issue I'm passionate about and believe will improve our environment and create jobs. Moreover transit funding may align Georgia with President Obama's plans to renew America's infrastructure. Nikema Williams of Planned Parenthood offered all who attended an opportunity to become a citizen lobbyist. Every Wednesday at 9:00am at the Coverdell Legislative Office Building, room 306, Planned Parenthood and citizens of Georgia will lobby the legislature. There will be lobby training hosted by the ACLU's "By the People" program. Citizens will be briefed on pertinent legislation and how to lobby your elected officials. Then you'll be armed with talking points, facts sheets, and everything you need to articulate your views to members of the General Assembly.
Julie Edelson, the legislative consultant for PPGA discussed how the current budget shortfall may affect the populations they serve. Governor Perdue required that all state programs be cut by 6% and family planning funding was disproportionately slashed by 34%. She called the cut shortsighted, and said it will certainly result in increased rates of unintended pregnancies, teen pregnancies, abortions, high risk pregnancies and poor birth outcomes in our state. As a registered nurse in the Emergency Department at Crawford Long Hospital, I see these populations every time I work. The funding is needed for this at-risk population of women. I support more funding and will fight to preserve it if elected.
Transit funding is an issue I'm passionate about and believe will improve our environment and create jobs. Moreover transit funding may align Georgia with President Obama's plans to renew America's infrastructure. Nikema Williams of Planned Parenthood offered all who attended an opportunity to become a citizen lobbyist. Every Wednesday at 9:00am at the Coverdell Legislative Office Building, room 306, Planned Parenthood and citizens of Georgia will lobby the legislature. There will be lobby training hosted by the ACLU's "By the People" program. Citizens will be briefed on pertinent legislation and how to lobby your elected officials. Then you'll be armed with talking points, facts sheets, and everything you need to articulate your views to members of the General Assembly.
Julie Edelson, the legislative consultant for PPGA discussed how the current budget shortfall may affect the populations they serve. Governor Perdue required that all state programs be cut by 6% and family planning funding was disproportionately slashed by 34%. She called the cut shortsighted, and said it will certainly result in increased rates of unintended pregnancies, teen pregnancies, abortions, high risk pregnancies and poor birth outcomes in our state. As a registered nurse in the Emergency Department at Crawford Long Hospital, I see these populations every time I work. The funding is needed for this at-risk population of women. I support more funding and will fight to preserve it if elected.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Hallie Hills North 1/6/09
I visited with residents from the Hallie Hills North community at the neighborhood recreation center off Creel Rd. in College Park. The community is made up of mostly senior aged residents, however, over the past few years there has been an influx of renters, specifically Section 8 according to the secretary of the neighborhood association. The meeting was attended by 16 residents and apparently was a significant increase over previous meetings. Residents had multiple concerns but the central theme seemed to be crime in their community and the response time of local law enforcement. I listened to many of their concerns and suggestions and finally offered my own.
When the subject of how to increase turnout to meetings came up I suggested using email in addition or instead of the flyers they have used to announce meetings. Furthermore I suggested placing a contact name and email on the flyer so that those unable to attend the meetings could respond. I also suggested the officers obtain the original covenants which one member stated may be 30 years old from the county and plan to update them. The present community members could add new language and vote to make it binding and hold owners accountable whether they physically live in their properties or choose to rent them. Finally, I suggested that neighbors have to watch out for each other. I believe that is the most effective policing available when we show concern for our neighbors and are willing to call the police if we observe unusual behavior. I was invited to come back next month and am excited to do so when city and county representatives will be present.
When the subject of how to increase turnout to meetings came up I suggested using email in addition or instead of the flyers they have used to announce meetings. Furthermore I suggested placing a contact name and email on the flyer so that those unable to attend the meetings could respond. I also suggested the officers obtain the original covenants which one member stated may be 30 years old from the county and plan to update them. The present community members could add new language and vote to make it binding and hold owners accountable whether they physically live in their properties or choose to rent them. Finally, I suggested that neighbors have to watch out for each other. I believe that is the most effective policing available when we show concern for our neighbors and are willing to call the police if we observe unusual behavior. I was invited to come back next month and am excited to do so when city and county representatives will be present.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Georgia Politics Unfiltered: A Primer For The 35th State Senate District
Below is a link to a blog which mentioned the forthcoming State Senate District 35 race. It failed to mention my candidacy. I responded to announce our campaign. We indeed have more work to do.
Georgia Politics Unfiltered: A Primer For The 35th State Senate District
Georgia Politics Unfiltered: A Primer For The 35th State Senate District
Sunday, January 4, 2009
New Year Prosperity 1/3/09
Last night I attended a House Party/Meeting of sorts. It reminded me of working as an Obama Fellow during the presidential campaign. The gathering was called a "Prosperity Party" hosted by the Campbell family in College Park. It was themed as a prosperity party in an effort to give friends, family, and other guests an opportunity to express their hopes and wishes for a prosperous 2009. It began as a typical New Year's party with snacks, playoff football, and networking. Later the host opened the floor for people to express their feelings about how they would contribute to making 2009, a great year and what they hoped it would become.
As a candidate for State Senate District 35, I took this incredible opportunity to discuss my platform with would be voters as many were residents of College Park, and south Fulton county. I discussed affordable healthcare for Georgians, how the state can help to prevent home foreclosures, and my ideas about the development of an improved transist system for Georgia. I introduced myself to those who were new, but many were co-workers and some I had met briefly on other occasions. I spoke briefly and gained a few volunteers too. But overall I enjoyed the atmosphere and spirit of the occasion. I look forward to attending more intimate gatherings as we move forward in our campaign.
As a candidate for State Senate District 35, I took this incredible opportunity to discuss my platform with would be voters as many were residents of College Park, and south Fulton county. I discussed affordable healthcare for Georgians, how the state can help to prevent home foreclosures, and my ideas about the development of an improved transist system for Georgia. I introduced myself to those who were new, but many were co-workers and some I had met briefly on other occasions. I spoke briefly and gained a few volunteers too. But overall I enjoyed the atmosphere and spirit of the occasion. I look forward to attending more intimate gatherings as we move forward in our campaign.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Welcome to the 35th District
I would like to introduce you to the first posting of the 35th District. I am George Sneed, a native of Mobile, AL, and 13 year resident of South Fulton county. This blog will serve to bring you my opinions and beliefs about issues occuring and affecting State Senate District 35. The 35th Senate District covers: parts of Atlanta, East Point, College Park, Union City, Fairburn, Palmetto, and parts of Doulglas county. I look forward to you tuning in to view posts and encourage your comments. It's a new year with a new president in an ever changing world. As a long time community organizer, I am now offering myself for public service as your next State Senator. I offer Leadership, Common Sense Government, and Accessibility.
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