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Topic: Sandy Springs Called Racist
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Southeast
Member
Member # 6903
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posted May 03, 2006 07:17 AM
Sandy Springs Called Racist
Keith Whitney reports
Weblink: http://www.11alive.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=79353
Sandy Springs officials have been charged with racism by business owners who would be affected by a change in bar and club hours.
The city of Sandy Springs has set into motion a proposal that would shorten the drinking hours at local bars and restaurants. The idea was taken from a similar ordinance passed in the city of Atlanta.
But minority business owners say the measure is discriminatory and racist, and they're set to challenge it in court.
“They don’t want us out here -- that’s the message that we’re getting,” said protest organizer Donald Fields.
The protestors who converged on Sandy Springs City Hall on Tuesday night did not mince words.
“Racism has taken a foothold in Sandy Springs. There are African Americans that have lived here most of their lives and they don't deserve to be treated like this," Fields said.
The demonstrators, who lined the sidewalk and packed the city council meeting, are opposed to a proposal that would stop the sale of alcohol at 2 a.m. instead of 4 a.m.
“A majority of our businesses make their money after hours; after Buckhead is closed,” said Fields.
The charge of racism and discrimination arises from the fact that many of the clubs and bars are owned by minorities.
“The fact that there are no minorities on that council has helped create an environment and an atmosphere in Sandy Springs government that racism is permeated throughout this government,” said Fields.
City leaders say that allegation is outrageous.
“We’re just going to pursue a path that’s going to increase our public safety. That has nothing to do singling out any particular group. Everybody’s going to be treated the same, and all we’re interested in is improving our public safety, and heeding the advice of our police chief,” said Sandy Springs mayor Eva Galambos.
A half-dozen bar and restaurant owners have hired noted constitutional law attorney Alan Begner to handle their challenge to the city. The council will vote on the issue in two weeks.
Posts: 48 | From: Southeast | Registered: Aug 2004
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Southeast
Member
Member # 6903
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posted May 03, 2006 07:18 AM
Would you lead with this story?
Posts: 48 | From: Southeast | Registered: Aug 2004
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got the t-shirt
Open Line Veteran
Member # 4422
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posted May 03, 2006 07:31 PM
Why is everything 'racist'?? And no, I wouldn't lead with it. But that's just me.
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Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe.
- Albert Einstein
Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we're here we should dance...
Posts: 2932 | From: here | Registered: Oct 2003
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theultimatetruth
Senior Member
Member # 1400
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posted May 03, 2006 07:35 PM
Obviously, because the man is always trying to keep a brother down.....that's why!
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Pass or get out of the way!!!
Posts: 593 | From: Sunny Florida | Registered: Feb 2002
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oldfart
Member
Member # 8897
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posted May 05, 2006 10:00 AM
The city of Sandy Springs has set into motion a proposal that would shorten the drinking hours at local bars and restaurants. The idea was taken from a similar ordinance passed in the city of Atlanta.
I'd at least give them a listen to if they hadn't ALSO done this in Atlanta. I understand there's an attorney in Chicago who take race based cases!
Posts: 400 | From: Joliet Correctional Facility | Registered: Jul 2005
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