2010 Columns

This time of year is referred to as “Dog Days.” That is because state government feels that in appreciation for your tax contributions this is a great time to hound you with a bunch of new laws, regulations and similar irritations that usually become effective July 1. Hence, Dog Days. Perhaps the most noted change is the fact than in Georgia one can no longer text while … [Read more...] about July 5, 2010: Omg! Dog Days Mean No More Texting In The Car

Of some 15,000 school systems in the United States only one has lost accreditation in the past four decades. In August 2008, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools denied accreditation to Clayton County. Now, stand by for Warren County to join that ignominious list. If it doesn’t get its bad act together by July 30, its accreditation will be revoked as well. Two … [Read more...] about June 28, 2010: Will Warren County Join Clayton County On Ignomious List?

Not only is Vince Dooley a Hall of Fame football coach but he is a Master Gardener, too. I just got a copy of his new book, “Vince Dooley’s Garden: The Horticultural Journey of a Football Coach.” (Looking Glass Books) How many people do you know who have had a hydrangea named after them (Hydrangea Macrophylla, also known as the “Dooley”) and can recognize an over/under 4-3 … [Read more...] about June 21, 2010: Random Thoughts On Random Subjects

Okay, teachers.  It is put-up or shut-up time. Political candidates are out and about the state of Georgia trying to convince you and me that they are public education’s best friend. If you feel you have been cuffed around, disregarded and disrespected by the same politicians who now solicit your vote, this is your moment. Just as you do in class, ask them hard questions and … [Read more...] about June 14, 2010: Campaign Season Is Put-Up Or Shut-Up For Teachers

OK, class. Our word this week is Kakistocracy. It is from the Greek word “kakistos,” meaning “worst” and “kratia,” another Greek word meaning “power, rule, government.” Put them all together and you have “a government under the control of a nation’s worst or least-qualified citizens.” In plain English, it means Welcome to Washington Tommy the Swami, an astute political … [Read more...] about June 7, 2010: Tommy The Swami …Explains ‘Kakistocracy’ And Other Big Words