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Freddie Lee Peterkin
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Posted: Sun Mar 1st, 2009 09:39 pm |
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City of Pahokee Enviromental Health and Community Grant Issues
A letter from Pahokee born International Artist, Minister Freddie Lee Peterkin to Pahokee City Hall, Chambers of Commerce and Pahokee Housing Authority.....
February 26 2009
To Whom It May Concern
City Of Pahokee's Sewer/Canal Environmental Health Issues, Community Grant Issues and
How It Affects The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church And Neighbouring Communities
My name is Freddie Lee Peterkin, a Minister of The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., member of the NAACP and an International Recording Artist. During my last visit to Pahokee, Florida to promote my album/CD, out of shock I had to bring to the attention of Rev. Harrell some concerns of the canal adjacent to the church. To my surprise, Rev Harrell informed me of some disturbing facts: What is known to be a sacred place of worship and the grounds surrounding The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church of Pahokee, Florida: are now defiled and it's congregation infuriated from what seems to be a nasty stench of a cesspit. Less than 150 feet to the left of the church, adjacent to one of its' parking areas, is what seems to be a diseased filled canal.
The state of this canal’s condition has alarmed the church’s Pastor and governing body. On several occasions until this very day, the pastor and deacons of the church have approached the City of Pahokee concerning this matter and still there is no resolution. It has now been approximately 3 years ago in 2006 since the original formal complaint was made and still there is no resolve concerning the appalling condition of the canal, which is clearly an issue related to the City of Pahokee. This not only raise concerns for The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church but this is an environmental health and safety issue. It does not only concern the church but other neighbouring communities, who can be affected by such infectious and poor sewer conditions.
On several occasions after travelling from London, England to visit my church home, I found in the parking area of the church, near the canal, several turkey buzzards feasting on some unknown disgusting waste, as if they were at an all you can eat restaurant! How embarrassing for my guests and I. Moreover, to encounter such a thing is very offensive and to add insult to injury, to inhale such a pernicious unimaginable malodour. I can only imagine that this canal is a breeding ground for other wild life such as the Cottonmouth Moccasins which are semi-aquatic, Copperhead Moccasins and Rattle Snakes, which are indigenous to (North America) and have been found in South Florida Glades area. These snakes are known to approach and attack intruders. Let's not forget that these snakes are very poisonous and turkey buzzards carry diseases that are infectious to humans. Must an incident take place before the City of Pahokee acknowledge this appalling situation? The fact that it has now been 3 years and no attempt to resolve this disgusting, rancid and diseased infested canal, which clearly is a matter of the city of Pahokee and is an Environmental Health issue, leaves me no choice but to inform all related governing bodies concerning this perturbation.
After researching a few related facts concerning monies allocated to the City of Pahokee, raises more concern to why haven't the City of Pahokee responded to the formal complaints made by The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church members? On July 25 2004, the Pahokee Housing Authority celebrated the completion of Project Green space of Padgett Island Homes. The project involved landscaping, sign board installation and exterior painting to improve the appearance of the Bernice Bell Community Center. It was made possible by the County’s Community Revitalization Team (CCRT) Neighborhood Partnership Grant (NPG) program, which provided $5,571 dollars. However, sources say that the Bernice Bell Community Center has not been in use for over the last three years. (Taken from the Palm Beach County web site: http://www.pbcgov.com/PubInf/News_Room/07-03/07-29-03_Greenspace.htm)
In the year 2005 Visit Florida to support the Pahokee Chambers of Commerce allocated $50,000 dollar Tourism development grant. In June 2008 Pahokee has also received a USDA Rural Development grant of $400,000 dollars. Pahokee also received that same year $105,395 dollars for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and was allocated $700,000 dollars state funding for the Municipal Sewer System Development. Moreover, in a Pahokee City Commission meeting, Palm Beach County Commissioner Tony Masilotti presented the city of Pahokee with a $65,000 dollar check for General Recreational Uses. Accepting the check is Vice Mayor Henry Crawford. Commissioner Masilotti also gave the city of Pahokee an additional $5,000 dollars for the senior’s recreation program.
(Taken from (Boca News) – John Johnson)
Finally, in February 25, 2005 it was stated that state partners with the Federal Economic Development Agency issued the latest grant for long-term hurricane recovery. Governor Jed Bush and Assistant Secretary of Commerce, David Sampson of the Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced the award of a $ 500,000 dollar Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant to the City of Pahokee in rural Palm Beach County to fund critical infrastructure needs post 2004 hurricanes. The grant was to help fund temporary housing and will be used for improvement to the concrete breakwater surrounding the City's marina, which will provide a better wind and wave barrier in the advert of future storm events.
(INFORMATION FOUND IN THE PALM BEACH POST: By Jose Zaragoza and West Side Gazette http://www.highbeam.com/Westside+Gazette/publications.aspx?date=20050)
We can clearly see that the necessary monies have been allocated to the City of Pahokee for the Development of the sewer system and monies allocated for Rural &Recreational Development. My question is, "What is the problem with answering the formal complaint”? Is The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church not apart of the City of Pahokee? Why after 3 years haven’t the City of Pahokee recognized a legitimate complaint, of an issue that requires the City’s immediate attention? Until now nothing has been done to assist Rev. Harrell and the deacons of the church concerning this issue of urgency. As time move on, no one knows what awaits them in that disgusting, rancid, disease infested canal. As far as we know, some commutable diseases may have developed since this formal complaint was brought to the City's attention.
We are awaiting your response at The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. After 3 three years, surely you have come up with a resolve? As I mentioned, we see that you have been allocated the necessary funds for the development of the sewer system and development of rural areas. Make no mistake; I will make all necessary contacts to insure that this matter will not be over looked any further. My concerns are not just for The Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church But for the people of Pahokee who maybe affected by what can be a potential commutable airborne disease. Once again, we await your response. Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Minister Freddie Lee Peterkin
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pahayokee
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Posted: Fri Sep 26th, 2008 12:15 am |
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I don't know about you, but I am sick and tired of elected officials who decide they are much too important to communicate with their constituents. I know that sometimes people get tired of me and my opinions, but I seriously LOVE this community and can not stand to see it fall even further into chaos.
Before this past city election, I spoke with a commission candidate and an incumbent and expressed my concerns about the future of Pahokee. Both of these people told me in very plain English that they would work very hard with Mayor Whitaker if he won the election and I believed them because I thought they were telling the truth.
OOPS ! Shame on me for doing that because since the election they have done nothing BUT work against the new mayor. Shame on Mr. "C" for not only abandoning Mr. Whitaker, but for refusing to return numerous phone calls when I am trying to understand his actions.
I really thought we had a new day dawning after the election in March and never dreamed Commissioner Crawford would turn his back on all of us who trusted him. I only post this because I want to know WHY our commission seems to be united against the very man they fought hard to elect.
I want all this CRAP to end and, like J.P. Sasser tried to tell us in his letter to The Sun recently, I too want this community to wake up and get involved in making a future for all of us. Please don't get me wrong here....Mr. Crawford has worked very hard for this community for many years and I have worked hard with and for him when he needed me, but I just want him to see the error of his ways and stop this power trip he is on and get back to just being my friend and neighbor...... Henry
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For the Ride
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Posted: Sat Sep 20th, 2008 04:07 pm |
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| Amen. Spend time trying to get someone to clean up this town flower man. This place looks like it has been forgotten. You do not even see the city people around unless, the man is cleaning the medians on Bacom Point, near the mayors house. He should ride around and look how people are living. Now the code person is the city clerk. If she handles the city business like she did code then we are cursed.
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grassywaters
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Posted: Thu Sep 18th, 2008 04:59 pm |
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| I am glad you are DONE!!!
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grassywaters
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Posted: Thu Sep 18th, 2008 04:59 pm |
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| The Citizen of the Year award was given to you before you cracked up. Get a life and understand that all of us are entitled to disagree with you!
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pahayokee
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Posted: Tue Sep 9th, 2008 12:22 am |
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Just where would you go and what would you do if your entire world came tumbling down and you became so ill that you attempted to "leave this world" but failed ? That dirty little secret is out now, so maybe this letter will make sense.
You probably came to the same answer that I did............ you would return to where you felt the safest and most secure. You would take comfort in knowing that this was a place that provided you with good feelings and memories. This was somewhere that nurtured and coddled you. It was a community filled with caring, loving, informed and progressive people whom you trusted to prepare you for the ups and downs that this crazy world would throw at you. It was also the "Heart Central" of your immediate family.
Although I was not born in Pahokee, for me, it is that safe place. A place to retreat to when you are confused and broken. You know that just by "coming home" your world would get better because this is where you were first loved and educated. This place that was once beautiful and filled with opportunities. A town full of Life and Love for all who lived here.
I needed this place then and due to my own miserable failures, I needed it again some 30 years later. I came home to heal. I came home to remember. I came home to once again live among the people who had helped mold my Life. I came home to prove myself once again, that person I had lost. I had nearly died because I had given up on myself and the world. I knew God was still in control because it was the second time He had saved my Life.
I was in such a state of shock upon seeing Pahokee when I came home that all I could think of asking our community leaders was " What did you do to Pahokee ?" This community had lost its very soul and because we are only human, some of the "leaders" of this community saw a chance to not only line their own pockets, but to actually convince the majority of us that they would make things better. After all, they told us how much they LOVED Pahokee all the time. They have been the "smiling promisers" for so long that most of us simply lost the desire to try and fix this town we all loved.
I became very active in my community and my church. Along the way, I was blessed with the chance to be one of the care-givers for my aging parents and my oldest sister. We were always taught to work hard and prove ourselves, and I knew that I needed to give of myself so that my work ethics might land me a good job. All I wanted to do was to start over. You see, I had lost not only my health, but every cent I had saved for my retirement. I am a proud man, though some call me vain, so I did not want any "handouts". That is why I kept this information to myself (my family did not even know).
Most of the people who led this community knew of my need for work and helped as they could. Most of you know how much I have worked for this community, and I thought my prayers had been answered when I was approached by a city Commissioner and his hand-picked candidate for mayor to completely revamp the city’s Code Enforcement Department. I made the mistake of believing their promise and my dream of buying my parents’ house was dashed when they not only failed to hire me, but began a campaign to portray me as "one of the worst kind of citizens we have in this community". That mayor and commissioner are now gone, but to make it even worse, an incumbent commissioner whom I have always considered a friend pulled the same tactic this year to get me to help in the election. I vow to never fall for that agin.
Coming home a broken man was embarrassing so I did all I could to make it seem I had been okay. I only tell you this because I feel in some ways I have been lying to you for so long and to help you understand why I have been so aggressive when it comes to Pahokee. God has more for me to do and what better place to do it than here ?
I guess I was wrong for taking the actions I did, but all I ever wanted to do was to wake this town up. My many letters, comments., speeches and opinions were meant to create discussions and memories. Some have called me crazy and others still have called me so negative, while even others have named me a Racist. I am none of these things. I am nothing but a person who has been the target of character assassination
I only tell you this because you need to understand why I am no longer going to be involved in so many things in this community that always made me so happy in the past. I am doing this for my own health, both mental and physical. I am just tired of all the lies spread about me and even more tired of those who would believe such crap.
I love this community and would have and have done whatever it took to help it "re-life" itself, but the soul of this city is missing and I am not the man to find it. Please forgive me for "dropping out", but I have had enough. God Bless and give someone a smile today.
Larry Wright
Citizen of the Year 2003
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pahayokee
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Posted: Wed Sep 3rd, 2008 04:07 pm |
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O. K. Folks...................for all of you out there who have been complaining that the city is dirty and asking "why doesn't anyone (meaning the new mayor) clean it up". Here is your chance to put your money where your complaints come from.
I contacted Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful to see if anyone had signed up from Pahokee to help with the annual clean up campaigns and she said she had taken pictures of several littered canals around PAHOKEE and sent them to the Chamber of Commerce to see if they wanted to help and they responded by saying "the city is in the middles of several construction projects" and "this would not be a good time for us. THAT is one reason nothing ever gets done around here.
If you truly want to help Pahokee, perhaps we can join with the county on September 20th to help clean up the waterways around town.
Anybody want to help ??
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For the Ride
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Posted: Tue Sep 2nd, 2008 01:40 pm |
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| If you really mean this then you will stop blaming everybody who has tried and failed. We need CODE ENFORCEMENT. This town looks like crap and it looks worse now. Where is this city manager. I have called up there before the storm and he never talks to me and he will not do anything that I leave messages about. Crosby trailer park was underwater last week Does anyone care at all
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pahayokee
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Posted: Tue Sep 2nd, 2008 12:11 am |
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| You are a person after my own heart.............I have been writing and talking just like you for several years and have had my share of hate mail, eggings, flat tires and just nastiness. When I moved back here after 29 years in my career, I could not believe what my fellow citizens had NOT done for 30 years. I am only one m,an, but I can tell you exactly why this town is as it is.
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Mon Sep 1st, 2008 05:17 pm |
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Hi all
Wow alot of negativity here.
It is my opinion that this town is in need or repair and probably has for many years. As I have mentioned before I moved to Pahokee for my family. We wanted to be part of a caring community and I believe we are. The way you speak to one another on this board is none of my business I do not have the history or know that much of the history of this town to even try to help resolve old issues that seem more personal than anything. I voted for Mayor Whitaker not because I did not like Mayor Sasser I just felt he was not as effective as he could have or should have been (maybe I was right or maybe I was wrong...) . Mayor Whitaker has had, what is going on, 6 months in office. What I would like to know is how long is long enough to expect change? I am not an unfair person but within these blogs - arguements- letters to one another the one thing I keep reading is Pahokee wants change - The citizens of Pahokee want their city to grow - to improve - to get cleaned up- I have been to and will continue to go to City Hall meetings (are there still meetings now that city hall has moved?) when scheduling allows. I will continue to ask the same question - make the same statement. Give us an idea? let us know what is happening? Communicate with the local media something.
Bickering and belittling one another is counter productive and will result in no change in fact possibly pushing those who would otherwise like to get involved away for fear that the next opinion that is shread up will be their own. Just my opinion
Drew Shimkus
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pahayokee
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Posted: Wed Aug 27th, 2008 11:51 pm |
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| Since you are one of the people who have helped run this town to the ground while amassing your own fortune, which you brag about constantly, your input means nothing to many of the people here, especially since you no linger live here, so butt out. It amazes me how many of the "leaders" of our Chamber of Commerce have left town over the past couple of years.....hhmmm. You must know that most of the nasty, dirty things told to you and your fellow board members were lies and fabrications. That is something the "smiling faces" have been telling us for years.....I just thought you were a better man than that. I feel sorry that you could not just talk to me one on one. Such a shame.
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farmer one
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Posted: Tue Aug 26th, 2008 01:20 pm |
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| Mr. Wright, If it happens that you run short of tacky, nasty and as usual to your style attacks on people that you seem to have issues with always, then let me send you a stack of the personal letters, phone calls which I saved to you so you can reuse some of your old material. No one listens to you and no one likes you so stop making a bigger fool of yourself by getting used on a daily basis
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pahayokee
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Posted: Mon Aug 25th, 2008 11:50 pm |
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i would like the chance to respond to a recent Speakout concerning the new mayor of Pahokee and his alleged shortcomings.
It becomes almost comical at this stage of the game in Pahokee politics because any of us who have followed the political antics in this town over the years could have and Have told so many of our neighbors just what to expect. The same smiling faces who have lied to us for the past 30 odd years are so very predictable. That comes as no surprise to many of us because it is a well-known fact that so few of the members of this group of people has ever had an original idea in the first place. They are predictable because they are so shallow, callous, hateful and misguided. They operate under the assumption that somehow it is their birthright to rule Pahokee.
Now that they have succeeded in getting some of their pawns in the Black Community to sow seeds of racism and have accused the Mayor of being a "white supremacist", they attack the one thing they obviously know nothing about....a true Christian Church led by a man who has devoted his life to the entire community. This church (Good Shepherd Church of Christ) is one of the most vibrant, hard-working, dedicated visible churches in town because it is filled with some of the best people in the Glades. The people who attack Rev. Brewer for standing behind our mayor are the same ones who hide behind their own "Cloak of Christianity" while spewing hatred and lies throughout this community because they are so afraid of losing that power rush they get by being the "Rulers of the Plantation". As for the issue of Rev. Brewer not attending the Board he was appointed to, I chaired that Board and he had been excused for the grand total of 3 meetings we had. He IS a preacher and so is my brother, so I am very aware of schedules that have to be abandoned at the last minute.....God's Work comes before all the follies of man..
The people of Pahokee are mainly great people, yet so many are easily misled by people they have grown to trust, so many just don't have the time to worry about our community, and the rest are just plain tired of going nowhere but down for 30 years.
I have only one point to make here, each and every person in this community who does care should just sit back, think about all the great ideas promised over the years, all the planning supposedly done, the Charrette, etc. and put faces and organizations who produced or promised these things with the multitude of things left undone and you will soon realize, as I did, that these same people have never wanted any future for Pahokee. They have lied and plotted for some 30 odd years with only one outcome in mind...........to keep Pahokee down so they can be the "big fish in this very small pond".
The Speakout I read last week had one of their desired effects, they wrote it to give the impression that I was the author. Several people have commented to me on that and each of them had to laugh because they all had the same remark about it....they said they knew I did not write it because i always have the guts to put my name to a piece of writing I authored while these other "concerned citizens" seldom reveal their identities. I say this one last time..... who cares who they are ? We need to stand up and be counted and join forces with Mayor Whitaker. We need to stop listening to these "haters" who know nothing but deceit and hatred. We need to let them know, just as we did on election day, that we want J.P. Sasser and his cadre of rich white supporters to leave us alone as we move Pahokee somewhere where they never planned it to go...........forward. You may ask how i know these things I write about and my answer to you is this: I was, so to speak, in "the belly of the beast" for a long time to learn what it was up to. When the beast found out, I became a "cancer" that had to be cut out and dissected. They did what they had to do and it cost me dearly, ( they even boycotted my boss's business because I work there) but through my relationship with God and the Love of so many fine citizens of Pahokee, I have just about learned to trust again.
Speak out people, get involved, get mad, but don't get even as Mr. Sasser and his group always do. It is a shame that Pahokee has so many people in levels of "importance" in this community who never learned to "Play well with others". It has to be "their way or no way". I ask them to just "Grow Up and eat your spinach".
Larry Wright
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stinkroot
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Posted: Wed Aug 13th, 2008 03:23 pm |
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I attended the city commission meeting last night. I must encourage all of you that care about the city to start to attend the meetings on a regular basis. What I saw was that after almost six months in office - Mayor Whitaker is still incapable of running the meetings. From where I was sitting I watched former mayor Sasser squirm in his seat,shake his head and flip through a folder every time Whitaker was corrected by one of the other commissioners. I cannot believe that when Sasser was running the meetings that I was just as critical of him. At least the man can speak correctly. There is an old saying "It is better to let people think you are ignorant, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."This should be Whitaker's motto.
On the issue of the fired city workers- I feel Biggs,Babb,Walker and Crawford made a very good point that those salaries were budgeted through the remainder of this year. Babb's comment on department head's perks should be revisited as a way to reduce expenses was good politics since the commissionors are all getting ready to spend money to go to a league of city's meeting this weekend.
The real eye opener was Mayor Whitaker telling the commissioners that in his opinion they were too ignorant to read a budget let alone understand one and that was why the city is in the shape its in. Ladies and gentlemen I must admit that I always knew that Witaker was an arrogant ass -but now I am going to throw a little white superiority in there as well.
Biggs and Babb responded rapidly to his comment. I think Walker and Crawford were in shock. Commissioner Babb pointed out that in his 15 years on the commission that he never recalled seeing Whitaker at any commission meeting.I know that I attend on an regular basis and I have never seen him either. Commissioner Biggs made the comment that the city has been in bad shape for years and it is going to take years to change that- and where's he been all those years. I was sorry that most of the people attending the meeting had left and did not get to see this exchange. I wanted to talk to former mayor Sasser after the meeting but he was huddled up with Biggs,Babb and Walker. I can't wait to hear his comments.
The committee that reviews the city charter every so many years gave their report on the changes to the charter. I later found out that Mayor Whitaker's appointee to this committee,his preacher, Rev. Jim Brewer never attended a meeting. That dedication to our city. I find it laughable but sad that the members of Good Shepard Church of God the church that worked the hardest to get rid of Sasser because of his supposed life style ,contributes nothing to our community. They do not attend meetings, I never recall one working on a clean up day. In fact someone told me last night that Whitaker's wife made the comment once that she sure wasn't going to help on a clean up day- That they needed to call Barbara Branch .Many of you know that cleaning up the city was one of Mrs. Branch's pet projects.
At the close of the last nights meeting Comm. Walker and Comm. Crawford got into a war of words over the city clerk. This was also a surprise. I thought those two were friends.Earlier in the meeting there was a spirited discussion of the city manager/city relationship. The commission agreed that the clerk answers to the commissioners.Comm. Walker had issues with the clerk's job performance and tried to discuss it with the rest of the commissioners. Crawford jumped her and said she should do that in private. How can she do that when the commission has to meet in public?
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farmer one
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Posted: Fri Aug 8th, 2008 04:49 am |
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I am sorry to inform you of this situation. However since I believe you work for the city then you will certainly understand that it is unfortunate that the layoffs were only black people. This was pointed out to me by people in the city hall. So the very people who work for the city notice what has been done.
Secondly, I believe we discussed the financial situation when addressing Mr. Wright and his comments a month ago. The city has been treading water for many years and no one has been communicating that it was anything more. You should always try and get a copy of the budget and you would be better informed when you are talking. You are only stirring the pot a little deeper when you express that you are not pointing fingers. But remember when you point one, three point back at you. Most of the citizens know that you wouldn't want that.
As far as the property for the future tire warehouse. All anyone would have to do is look at the other 49 pieces of real estate that they own and realize that unless we have a second coming in the next year, I doubt seriously that this property will look any different than the rest of the junk.
I am sure that you will agree with everyone in Pahokee, that the code enforcement dept. in this city is a joke and that excuses are handed out like the offering plate at church, passed empty and coming up short at the end of the sermon.
What someone should do after they paint this gentlemens house, is load the commissioners and the code enforcement officer into the same car, and let her explain just why the citizens of this community deserve to have to not only look at this stuff, but also live amoung it. They deserve better, and they are certainly paying for it with their taxes.
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I believe Pahokee can
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Posted: Fri Aug 8th, 2008 01:26 am |
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One of the things that has always bothered me, is how everyone in this community always refers to things as black and white. In a community where the population is 64% african-american, that means the majority of the workforce is african-american. But why pray tell does everyone continue to speak, and see in black or white? We are people, neighbors. Have we not moved beyond segregation?
Everyone one of us are part of the HUMAN race, regardless of where our ancestors have come from. We are all children of God. We all breathe the same air, need water to survive and bleed the same color. People make a community, not races.
It is heartbreaking that those hard decisions (layoffs) had to be made. What is truly sad is that for years the community has been told that our city is doing well and in good shape financially, when it was not so. Please understand, I am not pointing fingers or accusing anyone of anything. Just making a statement. I have to agree with the commission when they say they feel that the city is top heavy. Where the city really and truly needs the staff, is where the city and the residents are losing the most.
I don't know much about the arrangement for Mr. Perez in leasing that warehouse, but I can say that looking at that building when driving by, that it appears to be in very bad shape. Maybe Mr. Perez can repair and improve the property. Who knows. Only time will tell.
In these times, one song comes constantly to my mind, "Keep on the sunny side of life". Let's keep our chins up, backs straight, and keep our heads up high. For every door that closes, our Lord sees that many more come open.
May God bless you and your families.
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Thu Aug 7th, 2008 08:35 pm |
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No I was not aware Farmer One and these are excellent points. If the Commissioners were unsure I wish they had said no to those cuts. I moved here because I believed this City was where I wanted to live with my family. To enjoy life more...... I thougth the people here would be kinder and for the most part the few I know have been very kind. I am still new here and I am on this blog to learn. There are many things I am not but I am a citizen of Pahokee and I want to see my New Home Town flourish it is depressing and frustrating to see the conditions that in any other city just would not be tolerated. I am trying to go to the commission meetings just so I can learn about the city I now call home.
Thank you for sharing this information. Something should be done. Communication should be open. The Citizens of Pahokee should have a voice.
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farmer one
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Posted: Thu Aug 7th, 2008 05:27 pm |
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It is an economically stressed situation throughout most of the United States, however, Pahokee is in a little bit of a different situation with regards to economics. Pahokee has not faced the housing crunch that most of our other cities on the coast have faced because there was really no other place to go but up. But I would like to comment on the city financial situation. Most of the employees being laid off were of course all black, many were part time, whom were hired to keep the overtime, and double time to a minimum, which can erode the citys finances. Secondly, perhaps the lease made with the old coke plant for Mr. Perez could have been a little more than the 1150.00 a month, expecially since all warehouse in both Pahokee and Belleglade rents for a minimum of 7.50 a square. Mayor Whitaker wasn't even worried about a deposit, by asking Mr. Perez what was good for him. The square footage alone would have help pay for the salaries of the people we are laying off for at least a few months. Bad judgement and not having a business head is leading this town to a fast death. The uppermanagement and their salaries along with what the interim city manager, city attorney gave them when she was acting as manager, could have kept the rest of the employees around.
Thirdly, are you aware that we have 291000.00 a year in salary leaves Pahokee everyday. These people don't even live in the city. The three commissioners that you spoke of went to the mayor to discuss the laying off of people after they thought about the decision. The mayor said no to calling a special meeting regarding the employees, so at this point I must say that Pahokee is not only economically stressed but also lacking of someone who is willing to sit and listen to what others have to bring to the table.
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Wed Aug 6th, 2008 10:35 am |
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| It is distressing that people are losing jobs! You're correct but with the present economy there is no suprise. People are losing jobs all over our country. We have a city budget that can't afford the staff they have. We have citizens that can NOT afford higher taxes. I am not an accountant but if we can't afford it we can't. I do however question the pay rates of some of our higher ranking officials and wish our commissioners would have looked at those salaries as well (and I am sure they did...) . I question what our city manager - accountant - lawyer make and wonder if their isn't some extra dollars in within those salaries. I am not being mean but $80,000 a year isn't that the salary I heard re: our city mgr WOW. I don't make that and wonder how many people in this area do. The three commissioners that spoke last week ( Ms Biggs- Mr Crawford and Ms Walker)all expressed chagrin related to these lay offs but agreed they were neccessary to keep the city close to budget. Again though as I mentioned before if the jobs of caring for and cleaning our city up were not being accomplished before HOW will they occur NOW with a minimized staff?
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For the Ride
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Posted: Wed Aug 6th, 2008 04:55 am |
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| Does anyone care that 16 people are losing their jobs. Never in the last 8 years have there been people laidoff. Could we not take a look at trying to save them, since some were just part time and many working in roads and streets. And why were there only blacks let go from the city. Cause they dont want them there. You folks better open your eyes fast or we will be back living in the Davis quarters. You better hope we can get through this with our city in tact. We made a serious mistake at the poles when we voted. We should have stayed with the one that liked us. And for those who did not vote well you better not open your mouths around me. And for the last time. When is someone going to clean up that mess in front of Crosbys. Last edited on Wed Aug 6th, 2008 05:00 am by For the Ride
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farmer one
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Posted: Tue Aug 5th, 2008 01:50 am |
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What you heard Drew was correct. The mayor voted no to a deal that could bring both tourism and some jobs to this area. It was more than obvious after listening to the meeting that the mayor has a personal agenda where the marina is concerned. This was more than evident by the hand motions made during the meeting by Mr. Davis, his cinfidant, and biggest fan. You were not here when Mr. Davis was elected mayor and was impeached within three months for creating total havic in the city. He lives vicariously through the present mayor. I am ashamed to say that I am in the same organization as the mayor. He not only cuts off the other commissioners but also belittles them infront of there constituents. Pahokee has sunk to a new low and the present mayor is taking it on fast course to no where. Yes the town does look bad. The mayors blog good ole boys, can only say it takes time. Well time is running out for Pahokee. People who are riding through are not even stopping because of the derelict bldgs, cars and the total lack of respect that the mayor and or the city manager has for the way the city is looking.
I moved to Clewiston a few years ago but still have assets in Pahokee. I hope you will continue to go to the meetings and voice your opinion. I have never had the oportunity to meet you but you sound as though you see things and people for what they really are.
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Mon Aug 4th, 2008 10:40 am |
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I think if I remember the Mayor voted no but didn't the other commissioners vote yes to the Marina? So it did go through correct? It was unclear to me.
Re: layoffs I am concerned that this city is looking so bad how does it make sense to lay off when the job that should be getting done isn't getting done . Now will it ever get done? I do get the budget stuff if we don't have the money - we don't have the money (it's like our household budget- it just is not there...) I sure can not afford another hike in taxes.
BTW speaking of taxes the taxes we pay in Pahokee for the limited services we receive and the poor condition the city is maintained in are OUTRAGEOUS. Maybe not for people who have been here long but my house is not nearly worth what the appraisers office says and when I tried to fight last year they knocked me down but I will fight again this year!
Heck this isn't Wellington? outrageous!
just my opinion
Drew
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For the Ride
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Posted: Mon Aug 4th, 2008 02:36 am |
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| You mean to tell me that in the last seven years we have not laid anyone off and now with this new mayor, he decided to get rid of sixteen people. Why want you get rid of that lazy code officer and give them that salary. You might try to put us back to the fifties, but it wont work. I also heard that you voted no on the marina. Do you think you run this city, Mr. Mayor.
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good old boys
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Posted: Sun Jul 27th, 2008 01:10 am |
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| city meeting tuesday night see you there take care
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For the Ride
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Posted: Fri Jul 25th, 2008 03:09 pm |
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| And by the way, why is it that it is always the white man who has a picture up there. You know we have some businesses in town that it effects to and also spanish. The mayor must have picked them. I think I am the only black woman that has ever gotten invited to the rotary in this town. Believe it Last edited on Fri Jul 25th, 2008 03:11 pm by For the Ride
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For the Ride
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Posted: Fri Jul 25th, 2008 03:03 pm |
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| Does it ever end? Poor ole Pahokee. We are so poor. Please give us something. Open the paper and read how the mayor and flower man portrays the city. Ecotourism. the mayor forgot that at the meeting with the tricities that he told a Belle Glade citizen that nothing would come of it or the marina. This is who represents us folks. Put Babb up there and let us get the support we need. You do not hear him begging. And fower man, when you have a flower shop and it is pictured on the front page of the business section. Put some floweres in the box and take those stupid cups out of the window. No wonder the business is bad. And did you not say that they had to close because of your negatitve crap months ago. Look at who the governor hangs around. He is going to think you are a bunch of hillbillies when you ask for the acreage. Let Crawford, Biggs, Walker and Babb go to Tallahassee and ask, they will get it for us. not you good ole boy
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For the Ride
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Posted: Thu Jul 24th, 2008 04:22 pm |
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| What is this statement referring to regarding the city manager. Do not comprehend this at all.
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good old boys
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Posted: Thu Jul 24th, 2008 02:21 pm |
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| I say it again the city manger is trying to decide if he wants to stay or go the truth is the truth he has 5months take care
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Wed Jul 23rd, 2008 10:41 pm |
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There is a code enforcement meeting tonight at 6 pm Wednesday 7/23
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Wed Jul 23rd, 2008 10:40 pm |
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There is a code enforcement meeting tonight at 6 pm oops 22 minutes
Drew
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For the Ride
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Posted: Tue Jul 22nd, 2008 02:30 am |
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| I would hope that no one from the city employment pool hears this comment. Could cause a problem with people even bothering to show up for work. Again, you shot your mouth off without thinking how it affects other peoples lives. And if you need the money then you had better worry about the water theft. Last edited on Tue Jul 22nd, 2008 02:33 am by For the Ride
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good old boys
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Posted: Tue Jul 22nd, 2008 01:30 am |
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| He is trying to decide if he wants to stay or go back to where he came from thats why he is here for six months take care
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good old boys
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Posted: Tue Jul 22nd, 2008 01:28 am |
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| wrong the attonery was there by the way no raises haven't you heard they are laying off people guess what no money take care
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good old boys
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Posted: Tue Jul 22nd, 2008 01:25 am |
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| I want be there I am going to a cert class at the PBC in Belle glade I agree it does look bad but like I said it takes time take care
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Mon Jul 21st, 2008 10:30 am |
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City meeting this Tuesday night at 7:30 right? I hope to see you all there
Drew
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For the Ride
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Posted: Sun Jul 20th, 2008 09:11 pm |
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| From the sound of it I do not think that farmer one was really that impressed with the meeting. He thinks this town looks bad to.
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good old boys
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Posted: Tue Jul 15th, 2008 02:53 pm |
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| I amglade you went to the meeting and you felt a little bit good about it Just keep on going and tell the newszap what you think I went to alabama to see Joe and Carloyn Davis his mom turns 90 years old July 16th she had a good long life they have retired in alabama take care
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farmer one
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Posted: Sun Jul 13th, 2008 04:10 pm |
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It is a very sad thing to hear on the streets of Pahokee, Belle Glade and Clewiston, that the new mayor has decided to take the lesser road and basically do everything he can possibly do to continue to create a negative atmosphere in city hall in regards to finance. On Tuesday, the budget workplace will take place and the entire meeting will be focused on what what has been the citys financial condition in the last six years. Very sad to think that this man came forward to run and has spent his time with the city manager playing the blame game. It is obvious that there is a little intimidation in the air when someone has to constantly bash someone else to make themselves look better.
Remember folks, the city of Pahokee, is not a wealthy city, we have bonds spread out over 30 years, 4 million dollars is our share of the regional water plant which is spread out over 50 years at the rate of 2%. I think that is pretty good for water that is drinkable. We still are paying on the note with the bank which saved the city from bankruptcy 6 years ago, and thank god we got it at that time. Remember, in government you do not pay bills in 30 days, although it would be nice to see it happen in a idea situation.
Instead of putting effort into creating an enviornment of harmony for everyone in the community, I personally and publically have hear dthe rest of the commisssion referred to as stupid regarding the marina contract. Mr. Whitaker, I am shamed of how you have represented this city in the 5 months that you have been in office. I have heard all over town and in my church how you were so uninformed and led to believe different things regarading the city. Everything regarding finances in black and white up at the finance dept. Please don't try and put a spin on the budget to try and gain favor in the community. It is only bringing to the spotlight, just how uninformed you really are in this field and how you cannot stand on your own two feet and show this city that you are this strong mayor that you expect people to believe you are.
Lastly, this will be my last entry because I don't feel that these blogs are either informative or constructive. Go to every meeting, listen and form your own opionions. Forget the former mayor, he has moved on, and will help the glades in a bigger way. We are stuck with the present situation and can only hope that they will guide us in the right direction. Crawford, Biggs, Babb and Walker, need your confidence and support. I am reserving comment on the mayor for after the meeting on Tuesday. The first paragraph is how I am feeling now and my all means I certainly hope that I am wrong
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DrewShimkusLadd
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Posted: Sun Jul 13th, 2008 01:04 am |
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Hi all I was at the city meeting this past week. I will say I do not feel that as much information was shared. I am not being critical and I plan on attending more regularly before I form any opinions but it seemed a little unorganized to me. I mean no disrespect to anyone but items that should have been taken care of like spelling errors etc prior to meeting were not. Issues discussed within the meeting ie planning and zoning issues etc. were approached haphazardly by the Mayor and Attorney. And probably should have been discussed and resolved prior to this meeting.
POSITIVE ITEMS:
I really liked that the commissioners and Mayor seemed to be saying "Let's find solutions to issues for businesses that want to be here! Enough with the problems that deter business. " Commissioner Crawford spoke elegantly and a little at length regarding this issue and the point seemed to be well taken by everyone!
Former Mayor Sasser and Commissioner Crawford made peace (maybe not the most appropriate forum but Kudos to them for doing so). Let go of past issues and work together for this community!
Former Mayor Sasser asked for support as he tries to assist in making sure Pahokee is not adversly affected by Gov Chris land deal ( I hope he can for all our sakes)
Mayor Whitaker to me seemed like an upfront kind of guy and I hope he does help this City get on its feet. I hope he can involve and encourage new business etc.
Anyway I hold any real criticisms or compliments until I feel I have a better Understanding of our city.
I thought Diane Walker showed how committed to her Job she is and I love Allie Biggs .
Just my opinion
Drew Shimkus
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For the Ride
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Posted: Fri Jul 11th, 2008 06:08 am |
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| I guess I was a little hard on the woman. I have been having problems with my pressure. All the community is talking about how crazy flower man is and how is friends with the mayor. Hope we did not make a mistake. Tell Sasser to go to the bank and get me a loan so I can get away from this town and take a vacation without all these kids.
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farmer one
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Posted: Fri Jul 11th, 2008 05:17 am |
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What a class act. If only Mr. Wright could follow suit. Everyone gets carried away with this thing. A simple question. I am sure she was alright with the oversight. I am a little concerned though that he is quoting things that could come back and haunt the current commission. It sounds like he could be starting a war between the city and the marina. He also states that the marina has no co[s on the buildings, if so then he has certainly put the spotlight on the permitting dept. at the city. Perhaps, he should be given the advice from you to sleep on his thoughts before he posts them. He could cost someone their job, and in this economy, I would hate to cary that burden on my shoulders.
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good old boys
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Posted: Wed Jul 9th, 2008 01:58 pm |
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| I am sorrow I did not think about that you are right again I am the stupid one I never thought about it that way I hope nothing don"t happen to her take
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For the Ride
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Posted: Tue Jul 8th, 2008 07:50 pm |
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| Who would be stupid enough to put somesones name on a blog and then ask a question like that. Why would you not pick up the phone and call the woman. I tell you what, if that was me and had problems after that kind of post, I would be at your doorstep. This blog is not for a bunch of housewives with nothing better to do with themselves. These are viewed by thousands, and with a well known person in town, you do not say those kinds of things. I called her and asked her and told her that she was mia, or for those who can not figure that out. Missing in Action. She told me to let the you know that quite the contrary, getting further envolved with Pahokee.. Also to let you know that she uses her garage, you know the thing that is clean of junk and you put your car into at night. Whoever you are you had better call her and apologize. If something happens to her or her house then we are pointing a finger at this blog. YOUR AN IDIOT. And your in college
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good old boys
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Posted: Tue Jul 8th, 2008 03:43 pm |
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| DON'T FORGET THE CITY MEETING TONIGHT I WILL NOT BE THERE I AM TAKING A CERT CLASS AT THE PBC IN BELLE GLADE IS REGENIA STILL IN TOWN LOOKS LIKE SHE HAS MOVED OUT TAKE CARE
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good old boys
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Posted: Tue Jul 8th, 2008 03:36 pm |
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| DON'T FORGET THE MEETING AT CITY HALL TONIGHT I AM NOT GOING TO BE THERE I AM TAKING A CERT CLASS AT THE PALM BEACH COLLEDGE JUST WANT TO KNOW IF REGINA IS STILL IN TOWN IT LOOKS LIKE HER HOUSE IS EMPTY TAKE CARE
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For the Ride
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Posted: Sun Jul 6th, 2008 04:07 am |
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| Man you had bettter not be talking about my church. I am going to print these and place them all over rardin and south lake ave. We may be alot of things but our church is righteous and strong. And we have been here 22 years to be exact.
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For the Ride
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Posted: Sun Jul 6th, 2008 03:55 am |
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| Child, you need a crazy check. I agree with the others, you ant normal. You bess not be talking about my church, cause your butt was up init when you ran for office.
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pahayokee
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Posted: Sat Jul 5th, 2008 10:35 pm |
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Dear for the ride.......in case you got your hopes up that I was done with this community, you once again read me wrong. I am DONE with the pettiness of people like you. Now quit your hateful name-calling and act like the adult your age says you should. I have ALWAYS had the town of Pahokee at heart and that is why I have worked so hard to break the hold that a certain church had on city hall for 35 years. Christians indeed !!!! I am not perfect, but God gave me talents and a brain. You and your "friends" have done nothing for this town for years except keep it down.
Now that ,more people know exactly what entity in town has killed Pahokee, maybe we will have some heroes step forward and work hard to turn around the sad state these people have left us in.
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good old boys
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Posted: Fri Jul 4th, 2008 03:36 pm |
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| your are right this is funny getting rid of the trucks is a good thing except for the business that depend on the truckers take care
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farmer one
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Posted: Thu Jul 3rd, 2008 03:53 am |
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This is funny
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