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| In The News Discuss political issues as they come up in the news. |
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04-18-2008, 03:15 PM
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Local News: Police and Fire calls
The addresses aren't the important issue the crime is...
Police and fire calls: CJOnline / The Topeka Capital-Journal - Police and fire calls The Capital-Journal Published Friday, April 18, 2008 Police calls Felony cases reported to the Topeka Police Department. Dist. Address, Crime, Time, Day 424 5200 blk. S.W. West Dr., making false information, noon 4/1-1:30 p.m. 4/12 433 300 blk. S.E. Hancock, agg. burglary, crim. damage, 9-9:15 a.m. 4/15 1400 blk. S.W. Lane, burglary, theft, 1-8:30 a.m. 4/15 434 800 blk. N.E. Wabash, theft, 4 p.m. 4/15-noon 4/16 3600 blk. S.E. 6th, burglary, theft from vehicle, 1-11 a.m. 4/13 443 5700 blk. S.W. 21st, burglary, theft, 4:30-9:30 p.m. 4/15 444 5800 blk. S.W. 25th, burglary, theft, 8 a.m. 4/14-5:30 p.m. 4/15 2100 blk. S.W. Wanamaker, theft, 4:30 p.m. 4/9-4:30 p.m. 4/10 453 1500 blk. S.W. 21st, crim. damage, 8:15-8:30 p.m. 4/14 454 1800 blk. S.W. 36th Terr., burglary, theft, 6 p.m. 4/15-1:15 a.m. 4/16 463 2300 blk. S.E. Maryland, burglary, theft, noon 4/5-7 a.m. 4/10 464 2400 blk. S.E. Indiana, burglary, theft from vehicle, 5:15-5:20 a.m. 4/16 2900 blk. S.E. Croco, agg. battery, 1:30-1:55 a.m. 4/16 3300 blk. S.W. Topeka Blvd., agg. robbery, 11:12-11:30 p.m. 4/15 3100 blk. S.E. Humboldt, burglary, theft, 8-10 a.m. 4/15 Felony cases reported to the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office. N.W. 6300 blk. N.W. 17th, burglary, theft, 4:30 p.m. 4/14-8 a.m. 4/15 5200 blk. N.W. 17th, theft, 4:30 p.m.-7 a.m., 4/10 6500 blk. N.W. 86th, theft, 9 a.m.-10 a.m., 3/7-4/11 S.W. 2100 blk. S.W. 70th Terr., burglary, theft, 6 p.m. 4/12-1:30 p.m. 4/14 2300 blk. S.W. 65th, theft, 8:45 p.m., 4/12 S.E. 10100 blk. S.W. Berryton, burglary, theft, 5:30 p.m.-6:20 p.m., 4/13 3400 blk. S.E. Lake Court, burglary, 10 p.m. 4/13-6 a.m. 4/14 N.E. 4600 blk. N.E. Widigan, identity theft, 8 a.m.-4:26 p.m., 3/30-4/8 3600 blk. N.W. 46th, forgery, 9:23 a.m.-9:40 a.m., 4/11 People booked into the Shawnee County Jail in connection with felonies. 4:29 a.m. 4/12, James N. Epps Jr., 24, in connection with attempted murder, criminal possession of a firearm by a person with a felony conviction and drug crime. 8:03 a.m. 4/12, Alex L. Williams, 22, in connection with aggravated battery. 2:06 p.m. 4/12, Erick J. Lopez-Flores, 26, in connection with forgery. 10:54 p.m. 4/12, Rigo Villalba-Silva, 40, in connection with theft. 11:04 p.m. 4/12, Juan M. Medina-Ramirez, 29, in connection with theft. 12:28 a.m. 4/13, Robert G. Weess, 69, in connection with felony driving while intoxicated. 10:55 p.m. 4/13, James M. Scholle, 69, in connection with felony driving while intoxicated. 6:28 p.m. 4/14, Tyler K. Bayless, 21, in connection with burglary and theft. 9:30 p.m. 4/14, Karl C. Kreipe, 26, in connection with felony criminal damage to property. 11 a.m. 4/15, Diana L. Rella, 56, in connection with theft and making a false writing. 8 p.m. 4/15, David L. Craig, 28, on a warrant charging him with burglary and theft. 8:32 p.m. 4/15, Nicholas G. Bales, 27, on a warrant charging him with aggravated indecent liberties with a child younger than 16. 2:05 p.m. 4/16, Kevin D. Henley, 37, on a warrant charging him with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. 2:12 p.m. 4/16, Timothy L. McCarty, 29, on a warrant charging him with theft. 11:06 p.m. 4/17, Francis S. Lamar, 20, in connection with forgery. Fire calls Time Day Address Action Soldier Township Fire Department 11:26 a.m. Sun. 3400 blk. N.W. Brickyard Illegal burn. Mission Township Fire Department One medical call between 3 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday.
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Yea can't keep the words of your great leader. Prophet Muhammad - Do you love your creator? Love your fellow-beings first. Last edited by mlurp : 04-18-2008 at 04:22 PM. 
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04-18-2008, 04:19 PM
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Local News: Crime in Topeka Fight goes on
Some truths about neighborhood crime in any city.
Crime in Topeka — Fight goes on: CJOnline / The Topeka Capital-Journal - Crime in Topeka Fight goes on Statistics show crime is down, but chief is right in saying there is still work to be done The Capital-Journal Editorial Board Published Friday, April 18, 2008 Two crime-related stories in recent editions of The Capital-Journal left very different impressions about public safety in Topeka. In one of the articles, Topeka Police Chief Ron Miller announced that crime was down 23 percent in the first quarter of 2008 compared with the same period in 2007. That figure is remarkable, especially since it came after a year in which crime dropped 9.8 percent compared to 2006. Miller attributed the decrease partly to community involvement through initiatives such as the Safest Capital City Campaign, in which a coalition of law enforcement authorities and community partners meet regularly to develop ways to prevent crimes and beef up enforcement. Miller said new enforcement programs also have spurred the drop in crime. That was terrific news. Then came a story in Sunday's editions showing there's still a great deal of work to be done to make Topeka safe. That story focused on a shooting early Saturday outside the Mahogany Lounge in central Topeka. It was saddening to learn that a 30-year-old Topeka man, Albert L. Conley, lost his life in the shooting. What made the story even harder to bear was a comment from a passer-by. The woman told a reporter she had paid little attention to the commotion surrounding the incident because it was common to hear gunfire and police sirens in the neighborhood. "You just stay indoors," she said. Granted, the source was unidentified and the comment possibly was offhand, but it shouldn't be dismissed. A recent story on The Capital-Journal's Daily Dose page showed that about a third of the city's homicides over the past six years occurred between S.W. 17th and the Kansas River and S.W. Washburn to about S. Kansas Avenue. So maybe the passer-by was exaggerating. But considering the numbers, maybe not. In any case, if Topekans feel it's unsafe to go outside of their homes, then the community has work to do. The crime statistics released by the police department last week suggest Topeka can reduce crime. But numbers are numbers. In fact, Topekans saw a large statistical drop in crime several years ago — during a previous police administration — only to later found out that the decrease came after the department adopted a new way of counting crime that no longer included incidents at Washburn University and in Topeka Unified School District 501. We're told that's not happening this time, which is good news. Miller has vowed not to let up in the department's efforts to reduce crime. "It is critical that we continue to work together as a community to decrease crime," he said. "We encourage everyone to get involved — whether it's taking items out of your vehicle, joining your neighborhood improvement association or attending a Safest Capital City Meeting, get involved and take a stand against crime." The shooting outside the Mahogany Lounge, and the sentiment expressed by the passer-by, underscore Miller's point.
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Yea can't keep the words of your great leader. Prophet Muhammad - Do you love your creator? Love your fellow-beings first.
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04-19-2008, 09:52 PM
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Local News: Police shoot out defense story.
I haven't posted all the material on this story during the it ongoing situation. But this is about a shooting up the street from me where twice the police were called but the watch on the pourch told them inside to turn down the music so th epolice ha dnothing to do but leave. But just 4-5 houses down on th esame side is a city police officer. He and 3 off duty officers wen tover to confront them and a fight broke out. Th ehom eowner went inside and got his hand gun and cam eoutside with it. This isn't home defense andseveral polic eofficers opened fire wounding two of these people. Som eof the reader comments willl explain the neighborhood feelings.
Lawyer: Siblings out of hospital: CJOnline / The Topeka Capital-Journal - Lawyer: Siblings out of hospital By Ann Marie Bush The Capital-Journal Published Saturday, April 19, 2008 The last of two brothers shot during an altercation with off-duty Topeka police officers March 18 has been released from the hospital, their attorney said Friday. "I am happy to report Daniel is out of the hospital," attorney Pedro Irigonegaray said in a telephone interview. "He is still suffering tremendously as a result of the shooting." Irigonegaray announced March 24 he had been retained to represent three brothers Daniel Llamas, 27, Devin Llamas, 18, and Damien Llamas, 24. Two of them, Daniel and Devin, were shot and seriously wounded during the disturbance. Irigonegaray wouldn't release the dates when the two wounded brothers were released, but in an earlier story he confirmed both remained hospitalized in late March. Early on March 18, Topeka police were dispatched twice to the home of Daniel Llamas at 7418 S.W. 25th to deal with noise complaints. Shortly before 3 a.m., a shooting linked to off-duty officers was reported at the house, and police found the wounded brothers. Soon after the shooting, Damien Llamas attributed the violence to the off-duty officers, saying the three men and one woman never identified themselves as officers. Llamas said the woman used derogatory comments. The four were told to leave, and an argument escalated into a fight, then gunfire, he said. The four officers remained on paid administrative leave Friday, said Kristi Pankratz, police spokeswoman. An investigation being conducted by the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office continues, said sheriff's Capt. Phil Blume. The investigation should be completed by the end of the month if all goes as planned, he said, adding that deputies are waiting to speak to the Llamas brothers. "That will expedite it," Blume said. Irigonegaray said he hoped the entire matter would be resolved in the near future. "We will continue our investigation and continue to monitor the sheriff's investigation," he said. Irigonegaray said the cost of care and treatment of the two brothers put "an unfair financial strain on the family." "The cost of health care is very, very high," he said. "It is not just the psychological injury that we are dealing with." The well-known Topekan attorney represented Matthew Clay in April 2006. Clay was 20 in 2004 when he was shot by a Wichita police officer. Clay had stopped in a parking lot to seek help from officers after a car hit two vehicles at his home and drove away. Wichita police thought Clay was reaching for a shotgun in his vehicle, but the lawsuit said Clay was trying to unbuckle his seat belt to comply with a police order to exit the car. A Wichita police officer shot Clay, paralyzing him from the chest down. Clay received a $4.75 million settlement from the city of Wichita in 2006. Ann Marie Bush can be reached at (785) 295-1207 or ann.bush@cjonline.com. Reader comments are the sole responsibility of the person posting them. You agree not to post comments that are off topic, defamatory, obscene, abusive, threatening or an invasion of privacy. Click here for our full user agreement. You can rate each comment by clicking the or buttons. To report an inappropriate comment, click the . Reader Comments -5 Rating Posted by: schaan at Apr 19, 2008 at 06:24:17 AM guess this means the wonderful peace and quite we have had on our block is probably ready to end now that the thugs are out of the hospital. Maybe all the customers and friends they had stopping by at all hours could help out financially, and they wont have to steal the tax payers and HERO officers funds for themselves and their self inflicted injuries. that night notwithstanding, there has been more than enough reason for such a confrontation. many of us in this neighborhood have shown great support for our HERO neighbors that gave us the best month of unviolated rights in years. my wife and i personally have made a monetary contribution in the form of restaurant gift cards, dropped off in one the HERO officers mailboxes and encourage any others who want to make a proactive difference to please do the same when the officers defense fund info is made available. its worth the price to have my kids able to play safely in front of my own home again. my 4 year old still dosent understand why its now ok to walk to his friends house with just his sister and not an adult. once again, thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you Great citizen officers of topeka !!!! im sure when pedro idontknowwhy learns that there is no case against the city and he wont once again fund his office with topeka citizens hard earned money, there might be a lawyer change. the family having financial difficulties is a long standing occurrence as the state of their residence indicates. maybe if they concentrated on reparations the city and folks like us will let them suffer their worthless lives somewhere else. im sure the recent passing of several of the elder Llamas family members was a blessing as they were not required to stomach the disgrace this family has been bringing to themselves and the town im sure the dead llamas cared much more for than their sons, daughters and grandchildren. -5 Rating Posted by: schaan at Apr 19, 2008 at 06:30:29 AM i do hope the neighbors are encouraged to testify and will do so. i have already spoken with many that live around the party house and a few are in fear of retaliation my the LLamas gang, but many have promised to stand by me when i show all my video and 5 minute recorded purchase stops. even if they when some sort of idiot settlement i hope that the criminal acts they have inflicted upon those who live and pay taxes around them will be presented for all to see. if the jurors can look past all that and still take money from the good and give to the evil then maybe i should be losing my faith in this city. -5 Rating Posted by: schaan at Apr 19, 2008 at 06:41:53 AM one last thing i can do to help the Llamas. if you will move out by the end of this month, several neighbors and myself are willing to rent you the largest moving truck available ( MUST BE IN YOUR NAME ). you have my number and email, if you are interested. -3 Rating Posted by: boopshalling at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:43:24 AM WOW! This neighbor has really laid it out for all of Topekans to read and view. I commend you! I am in hopes that all of Topekans find out the truth about what really happened and then the Llamas brothers and clan can pack up and move out. Perhaps soon you will have your neighborhood back and your children can play outside without fear of retaliation and harm. -3 Rating Posted by: MIX at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:51:41 AM lol @ the ignorance of some people.....i just sit back and laugh at people like yall Posted by: cbutchee at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:10:37 AM Is that neighborhood that dangerous???? Seem like if i could not feel safe for my children then I do believe that I would have to move to protect my family. SO if you are willing to rent a Uhaul for them to move then you can afford to move yourself. Take your family to a safe place to live. By All means PROTECT your family. I am glad that I do not live in Topeka. I love small town living and do not fear my children playing outsidealone. Maybe you should try it. After all you might like it. -1 Rating Posted by: MIX at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:23:19 AM they have no reason to fear there children palying outside. its called excuses. just because some family doesnt live the same way that they do, then they are the bad guys. -2 Rating Posted by: ToepkanForTrueJustice at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:00:25 PM Advice to any would be murderers/killers or vengeful minded. Apply for a job at TPD, get the job, find your victim, yell "STOP RESISTING!" and fire away. You not only get to infilict lethal force, some will call you a hero plus you get a great paid vacation. It seems not matter if you are on or of duty. Posted by: ksfrogger at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:04:20 PM schaan you are quite full of yourself what a self rightchous bunch of crap. you spurt out such hate no weonder your lfe is miserable it doesnt have anything to do with the "thugs" you just dont like the fact that anyone can live anywhere they want i hope one day "real Thugs move into your neiborhood to give you a taste of what a thug really is... -1 Rating Posted by: ljackson1234 at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:20:19 PM Neighbor (schaan), vigilante justice is NEVER the solution. There are established procedures for handling such situations. No one should understand the importance of law and order more then those who are hired to enforce it. + 1 Rating Posted by: psyberangel at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:55:18 PM schaan - tell the truth now. children in the neighborhood play with the Llamas' kids, do they not?? Unbelievable - me thinketh thou doth protest too much! -1 Rating Posted by: intopeka at Apr 19, 2008 at 01:00:09 PM Vigilante justice should never be the solution but does jackson really know what happened? doubt it. was it vigilante justice? doubt it. -1 Rating Posted by: elbombero at Apr 19, 2008 at 01:20:26 PM law abiding citizens dont get tased and shot, FYI. Those who break the law suffer the consequences. Posted by: InTheCounty at Apr 19, 2008 at 01:33:12 PM Schaan, seriously. If you're so afraid of retaliation, think about the welfare of your 4-year-old and his/her sister before you go showing any tapes. I don't believe you are truly that worried. ITA with the others here. I think you're just a bitter snob. Maybe the Llamas are a problem, maybe they're not. It's never right for a law enforcement officer or for anyone to act the way those off-duty jerks did that night. If handled correctly, all things are fixable. Those off-duty jerks did the Llamas a favor by giving them a lawsuit against the county & city. They aren't heros. They messed up something the rest of the neighbors were trying to get accomplished, but now never will. Oh well, buy them dinner anyway. Your dime, not mine. But if I had it my way, I would be purchasing their meals when they're behind bars. Posted by: carisa at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:06:06 PM Schaan isn't afraid of retaliation. If he was he would just shut up about it already. You better wake up, it might be one of your friends or family members in the hospital next time. The comments you've made on here are signs of an extremely disturbed person who is lacking in basic human compassion. I would live next to the Llamas and listen to their parties anyday before having someone like you as a neighbor. You need serious help. Posted by: alterego at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:23:15 PM Cops coming back off duty can only be vigilante justice which is against the law, last time I looked. Idiots!!Pedro has to make a living too whether defending slime or good people. My guess is he made over $1 million in the Wichita trial. He wouldn't dare take a case he did not have a good chance of winning. These kinds of trials make him more money than I make in 10 years. But it'll keep law enforcement in check as well. My guess is that the Llamas are about to win the lottery. This is not the way to keep Topeka streets safe - it'll cost us $$$$ in the long run. + 1 Rating Posted by: councilcrooks at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:41:57 PM Oh yes schan...we must thanks OFF-DUTY cops for SHOOTING someone for being a nuisance to you...what an idiot. Even IF all of your claims are true about these people, SHOOTING them is not the answer. Jeez, I'm glad you're not a meter maid...you'd be slashing tires for parking violations. I find it funny that you applaud the OFF DUTY cops for this action. Did you not call the cops before all of this? If so, I would have to conclude that the ON-DUTY cops failed to resolve the on-going problems youve described before. So, the cops who were apparently NOT following the rules solved your problem, so all is good in your world? Grow up. While you're helping your neighbors move, have them load a truck for you as well. With that attitude, we don't need YOU here either. In YOUR world DRUKEN, OFF-DUTY COPS are HERO? Thats your world sir; not mine. Posted by: councilcrooks at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:48:06 PM The bad thing is, even IF schaan's claim that these people were dealing drugs are true, all the trigger-happy cops did was set these people up for a multi-million dollar settlement. They now have Pedro on their side; our city's version of Johnnie Cochran. They'll get paid now....THANKS to a bunch of DRUNKEN, OFF-DUTY COPS. Nice... Posted by: 122088 at Apr 19, 2008 at 04:27:39 PM You now have the residence of Topeka that don't agree with the negativity (neighbors.) And most of you are proud to say your neighbors (RIGHT) It's what you keep expressing in your comments. Ever stop to think that people might come in your area and want to help rid people of the right for comments. People can assume it would be ok to do since our off duty officer thought it was ok to pay Llmas house a visit. To quite them. DO YOU PEOPLE GET THE PICTURE NOW. We can't take the law or judgements into our own hands. We have a legal system, and 911. We all have the oppertunity to use them. Slander charges with other legal alligations can be brought against people. users names can be tracked back to computers. LET THINK PEOPLE. Now the rest of the county will have to pay high taxes over this STUPID mistake made. Not only a case against the city but lets think................ + 1 Rating Posted by: JDDancer5368 at Apr 19, 2008 at 08:38:00 PM It is wonderful to hear they are out of the hospital, I saw them a few times in the hospital, it is great that they have such a great support system (family wise). And that hopefully this will show how screwed up the TPD and maybe there will be some changes. I live within 2-3 blocks of the Llamas, and they are truly wonderful people. Yes they have parties, everyone has parties. They are wonderful parents, fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters. I hope that Devin and Daniel heal fast and that they recover soon. + 2 Rating Posted by: JDDancer5368 at Apr 19, 2008 at 08:40:09 PM Schann if you know for sure the Llamas family sells drugs the only true way you would know is if they sold you drugs. They are not drug dealers. I have partied with them before and never once have seen drugs. I am 150% against drugs and would of left right then if I ever saw them. And they also are not in gangs. It sounds like you have some racial issues you need to address with yourself. I think you are just saying they are in gangs because they are mexicans. Does that mean if you see my 2 sons which are half mexican you are going to say they are in gangs also. And can you please tell me where you work so I can make sur I never come to your place of business. + 1 Rating Posted by: ljackson1234 at Apr 19, 2008 at 09:02:24 PM intopeka, I'm sure somewhere in training these cops were taught alcohol, and guns DO NOT mix. Had they been driving there'd be no debate as to their guilt. On duty cops are forbidden from drinking. Why? Posted by: mlurp at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:00:44 PM schaan I live down the street from the officer house about 3 houses and agree. I never noticed this house before except for the many kids out front playing and last 4th of July when they stoppped traffic for their fireworks that went long into the night. Our street was like London's fog when I got up off the floor from one very loud explosion it was like the Nam all over for me. And all from one family that says it likes its neightbors who work/go to school and need sleep. But when they gather it isn't all about the neighbors is it?
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Yea can't keep the words of your great leader. Prophet Muhammad - Do you love your creator? Love your fellow-beings first.
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04-20-2008, 02:56 PM
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Local News: School Board and Race #1
I read this last evening just before mid-night at Denney's while snacking. But felt unsure if I should include it. One remark stuck with me from Betty Horton, and this morning I find the continuing story. So I shall place both here for others to decide if black leaders need to think black while in any office or think for the whole of their representatively. Citizens comments included.
Horton: Woods 'thinks he's white' By Barbara Hollingsworth The Capital-Journal Published Saturday, April 19, 2008 This issue is far more than skin deep. There are three black school board members in Topeka Unified School District 501. But one was adamant late Thursday: Don't let skin tones confuse you. Only two of us actually are black. CJOnline / The Topeka Capital-Journal - Horton: Woods 'thinks he's white' Betty Horton Janel Johnson Patrick Woods Click Thumbnails to View COMING UP Board members discuss education issues that led to Betty Horton's discontent. Sunday "All I know is Patrick (Woods) thinks he's white," board member Betty Horton said in an interview after Thursday's board meeting. "That's it. Print it. Patrick married white. He thinks he's white." Horton and fellow school board member Janel Johnson continue to find themselves as the minority voices on the board in more ways than race. On Thursday night, they once again cast dissenting votes. And once again, Horton erupted angrily at fellow board members. Woods fell to the other side of the debate. The father of a 1-year-old, Woods has championed early childhood education since his election campaign. And on Thursday, he threw his support behind efforts to create a task force that would lay out a five-year plan for stepping up early childhood education efforts. Horton bristled when board members refused to do the same for issues she believes are more important, including addressing the achievement gap. (Board members said those issues already are being addressed, with additional planning under way.) After hearing about her comments on Friday afternoon, Woods said he didn't want to "dignify that kind of sophomoric and immature notion with a response — that notion that you aren't who you are." "I'm proud of who I am," he said. "Proud to be a young black man, a father, a husband, all those types of things." Several school board members were shocked by Horton's statements. "Wow," said board member Ned Nusbaum. A former district administrator, Nusbaum said the contentiousness has reached a level different than any time in at least three decades. "It's appalling," said board member Nancy Kirk. "I guess, is that reverse racism in the sense she is expecting him to fit into her criteria of what constitutes a black person?" Black politicians, such as Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, face particular challenges, said Bob Beatty, a political science professor at Washburn University. "If you picture it as two circles that overlap — the black and the nonblack communities in America — certainly the overlap has gotten larger in terms of the understanding in the communities, but it's not whole," he said. "What you're telling me is a microcosm of that, of Patrick Woods, who is trying to negotiate that overlap and basically being told by another person from the black community that you're going too far." Horton on Thursday went on to liken Woods to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and said black leaders have a responsibility. "He whited out in terms of the issues," Horton said of Woods. Johnson, who is far more soft-spoken — the good cop to Horton's bad cop routine, as Horton describes it — agreed that race should shape the decisions that minority politicians make. "You have a responsibility," said Johnson, who was interviewed with Horton after the meeting. "Plus, you have a life experience that makes you aware of certain things." Chris Hamilton, a political science professor at Washburn, said anger has boiled over for some in the black community, incensed by what is seen as a gnawing away of gains. But the language Horton used may simply add "fuel to the fire," Hamilton said. Beatty called the comments "pretty shocking." Race, he said, is a volatile issue that needs to be handled with care. "We don't know what Patrick Woods has gone through," he said. "We don't know. Betty Horton doesn't know." Jack Alexander, the city's first elected black official, said the conflict has more to do with personalities. He said he has had his own clashes with Horton, who he described as having "had a chip on her shoulder ever since I have known her." When he was the state fire marshal and Woods worked in Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' office, their paths crossed. He calls Woods "a nice young man." "For her to take every issue that doesn't go her way and turn it into a racial issue I think does not give grace and honor to the job they are trying to do, as well as to the people who run and are sitting there beside her," Alexander said. Ben Scott, a former school board member who is black, said he couldn't necessarily relate the school board's talks on Thursday to that of a racial divide, even if he could understand Horton's frustration as he watched from the audience. As for his own tenure on the board, he said his race didn't drive his decisions. "In my opinion, I don't think there is any reason to think that race should impact how you act, how you handle the school board's business," he said. When it comes to students, Horton said race isn't an issue. She said it is about getting them the best education possible. But as far as the people she has to work with to get that task done, Horton said she has respect for just Johnson. Still, isn't it possible that different people simply reach different conclusions regardless of race? "If you don't know who you are you can be an anybody, and that's who Patrick is — an anybody," Horton said. As for herself, "If I were afraid of who I was, I would be easily silenced by the majority." Near the end of the interview, Horton considered the impact of seeing her comments in the newspaper. For Woods' sake, she said she would hate to "burst his bubble." Alexander had another take when he learned that Horton's seat on the board will be up for election next year. "That's good," he said. "She needs to be on her way. I say that only because she makes one say that — not because of who she is or what color she is." Barbara Hollingsworth can be reached at (785) 295-1285 or barbara.hollingsworth@cjonline.com. Reader comments are the sole responsibility of the person posting them. You agree not to post comments that are off topic, defamatory, obscene, abusive, threatening or an invasion of privacy. Click here for our full user agreement. You can rate each comment by clicking the or buttons. To report an inappropriate comment, click the . Reader Comments + 12 Rating Posted by: topekasports at Apr 19, 2008 at 06:42:20 AM Oh yeah Betty, keep on " Keeping it real". African american racist like yourself are what columnist Walter Williams call the "Klan with a tan". Thank you so much for showng us who the true racist are in this city. Mr Woods, please continue making decisions that you believe are in the best interest of our children. + 7 Rating Posted by: jdubyaks at Apr 19, 2008 at 07:39:20 AM So much for judging people by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. Betty just goes to prove that the worst racists in this country are some of the black politicians and leaders like her. To these people everything comes back to race, no matter the fact that race played no issue in a decision making process. The professional victimization of a race continues. + 3 Rating Posted by: Noahbv at Apr 19, 2008 at 08:01:24 AM What a shame. Hey black people, 99% of us don't hate you. Get over it. Stop the double standard racism, you aren't helping or proving anything. + 1 Rating Posted by: greasyllama at Apr 19, 2008 at 08:53:14 AM I wonder how Betty feels about the white folks who talk "black"?Make tha public Betty and let's see where your career goes.I am non-white and married white.Care to comment publicly about that?Hmmm? + 5 Rating Posted by: ASBESTOS at Apr 19, 2008 at 09:34:05 AM This is the Ugly face of "Black Racism" and linked to "Jerimiah Wright" type of pressue to keep "fellow blacks" "inline" with the political powers that be. What a STUPID remark and a STUPID person Betty is. She needs to be removed from her office. ANY OTHER RACE making this kind of racist statment or just plain darn deragatory personal attack would be hammered big time. By the way to "Betty the racist", what difference does the race of this man's wife have to do with the political issue at hand? Would it make a white man with a black wife "black". That is just so stupid, and anyone that makes those kind of statments should not be in ANY office or Leadership position, period. There is also NO "REVERSE" racism, there is only "RACISM" and it does not make any difference. He (Woods) "whited out"? That is acceptable talk, stating that "whiting out" is deragatory? NOt toeing a political line is "Whiting out". This woman and her cadre are the problem with America, the State of Kansas, and Topeka. She and her ilk need to GO!! Posted by: cabocrazed at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:03:21 AM Pretty sad statements from a board member. I wonder if Glenda Overstreet will have any comments? + 4 Rating Posted by: papa57 at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:05:57 AM Betty Horton needs to resign now. Topeka is a so called "city of charcter". Lets see some character here. Posted by: mockflea at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:32:19 AM Noah-- We got your message! Thank you for spelling it out so clearly to the black community! + 4 Rating Posted by: lecook at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:44:20 AM When people resort to name calling and race baiting it is because they either lack the intellect to articulate their point of view, or the facts are not on their side. In either case, the full board should publicly censure this woman and call for her resignation. She is an embarrasment! + 3 Rating Posted by: JennyG at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:46:55 AM What a horrible example she is to all of our children, of any race. + 7 Rating Posted by: fairylight at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:50:30 AM Horton should step down immediately. Can you imagine the flack there would be had a non black person said something so bigoted? Everyone from Glenda O down would be calling for their head on a platter. Disgraceful and indicative of the very thing that keep racism alive in Topeka. + 3 Rating Posted by: mo at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:04:52 AM Betty Horton just finally said aloud what everyone has known about her and her ilk since the beginning. So many things that she champions have been derailed because of her bigoted attitudes and almost insane ramblings. She doesn't care one bit about the children of 501. She needs to resign immediately and her 'supporters' need to go away. It will be interesting to see if the same attention and outrage will be applied to these comments that would exist if a white person would have said them. She wants there to be conflict between the races because it furthers her selfish agenda. She should be immediated voted off the board.She should not have a choice. + 2 Rating Posted by: amself at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:05:41 AM Is this a glimpse of her parenting skills? If she had any, how did her kids turn out? And do we want her replicating those experiences on our kids? Posted by: czipperle at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:06:48 AM I thought that smart people were supposed to run schools. My bad. Posted by: czipperle at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:07:40 AM Maybe Horton has a who stuck in her hear. + 3 Rating Posted by: elbombero at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:12:36 AM Betty Horton needs to be fired. If she was white and made a comment like that, she would already be gone. Period. Posted by: maximumgq at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:14:23 AM Can somebody get her [Horton] a copy of the Chappele show so she'll lighten up, please? Posted by: psyberangel at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:26:06 AM Horton's disinhibition has finally gotten the best of her. Again, but this time by revealing her racism in a public interview set for press no less! Appears to me this woman woman needs to up her lithium. + 1 Rating Posted by: penystix at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:03:06 PM Lecook - "ditto". What a succinct and intelligent posting. Ms. Horton should resign - immediately. Racism, no matter where it comes from, should not be tolerated. Good grief! + 3 Rating Posted by: BAB at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:05:14 PM Why is she opposed to task force to look at ways to provide "early childhood education efforts?" How in the world is that a black or white issue? Sounds to me like Ms. Horton is angry person who has not gotten her way and lacks the political skill to get her way. If I was Ms. Johnson, I would distance my self from this idiot. She (Horton) is nothing more then a bigot. I feel sorry for Mr. Woods for being sucked into something when it sounds like all he was trying to do was promote something he believed in. What Ms. Horton did was outlandish and wrong. Mr. Woods did not deserve this from her or anyone else. I hope that the people with Children in USD 501 see this conduct for what it is which is a very stupid board member resorting to childish name calling in an attempt to get even for not getting something she wanted. This was really not what I expected to see in the paper this morning. Wow indeed. + 3 Rating Posted by: kansas51 at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:17:36 PM Betty Horton needs to resign ASAP. Her negative comments as well as her attitude toward anyone that disagrees with her "vision" shows how one-sided her view is. She is not the kind of person that should be making decisions about the future of our children. She is the kind of person that makes an issue of race which has nothing to do with why people do not want to support her. The 501 School Board should have people that can make a positive change for the district and have the compassion and intelligence to make those changes good for all. I am hopeful she will get the message to resign. + 1 Rating Posted by: kansasman101 at Apr 19, 2008 at 12:28:59 PM This lady is the type of person to incite race into subjects. She won't resign. However, she is up for re-election next year and she'll be sent to the pasture. + 2 Rating Posted by: owb99 at Apr 19, 2008 at 01:28:00 PM The people of Topeka need to take note of these immature and derogatory statements and do what is right next year when she is up for re-election. She is the only one on the school board that takes pride in the fact that she looks ridiculous in the eyes of the public. For someone who is suppose to help lead our children into the future, she is doing nothing more than drudging up this country's ugly past. + 1 Rating Posted by: marquis at Apr 19, 2008 at 01:38:13 PM I happen to know as a parent of a TPS student that the board adopted a "Bulling" Policy and after reading it, horton (her comments and actions do not call for a capital letter, or any other sign of respect) has continued to violate it time and time again. Mr. Woods should not have to put up with that kind af assult as an elected official. I only hope he and the TPS school adminstrative board would use the policy and get rid of this crazy woman! PATRICK SHOULD FILE FOR A RESTRAINING ORDER! Several of us know exactly how her parenting skills ended up for her family. Please don't allow her to act an a** as an example for the students of TPS. Resign or get rid of her! She is worse for the city of Topeka than the crazies with signs! + 1 Rating Posted by: EddieMoney at Apr 19, 2008 at 01:46:07 PM Betty Horton is an embarrassment to humanity. Posted by: vickit at Apr 19, 2008 at 02:25:39 PM Well, Welcome to whitedome Patrick. Being white ain't all that bad. You'll get use to it. You will have to be more carefull about what you say. You won't be able to use the "N" word anymore of course and according to the above referenced Mr. Chappelle you'll have to drink Juice instead of drink. + 2 Rating Posted by: carisa at Apr 19, 2008 at 02:55:08 PM This is an example of the underlying issues that just keeps racism going. Most people in a professional position would just never say it. I don't know what her motive was for voicing her thoughts, but I'm glad she did. Why should anyone wait for the next election? If she did what was reported and in the context that it was reported, she should be removed. People with views like hers do not need to be working with or for children. Posted by: councilcrooks at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:06:24 PM Horton: living proof that racists come from all walks of life. What an idiot. + 2 Rating Posted by: captainobvious at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:16:05 PM I'd like to ask Betty, since I am a caucasian, to define how to act "white", or "think I am "white". If it's working two jobs, paying all my bills on time, and providing a roof, food, and good transportation for my wife and little girl then I'd say I'm pretty white. I'd like to think that after all these years we could all just put the past behind us and be "Americans". Who cares about the color of my skin, I sure don't. And I don't care about the color of your skin either Betty. Too bad you're too bigoted to see past that point. To the school board: get rid of her now or I think you might have a really justified bunch of protesters on your hands. + 1 Rating Posted by: 122088 at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:54:24 PM I don't care what ya act like. With the positions both of them hold its all about the school board decisions that should have attention. It's all about business not about B/S. Come on aduts let show our children and teens professionalism, so they have something to strive for in education. Betty appears to be frustrated and needs to be remolded on the purpose she is needed for,captain just think how many times you would be throwed out of something for a stupid thought or comment you've done in the past. LETS GET THE LADY SOME HELP!!!! Capt. you trying to say black man can't work 2 jobs and care for his family. Think before you use your key board. I'm white female and have 2 jobs myself> -1 Rating Posted by: 122088 at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:55:42 PM I don't care what ya act like. With the positions both of them hold its all about the school board decisions that should have attention. It's all about business not about B/S. Come on aduts let show our children and teens professionalism, so they have something to strive for in education. Betty appears to be frustrated and needs to be remolded on the purpose she is needed for,captain just think how many times you would be throwed out of something for a stupid thought or comment you've done in the past. LETS GET THE LADY SOME HELP!!!! Capt. you trying to say black man can't work 2 jobs and care for his family. Think before you use your key board. I'm white female and have 2 jobs myself> -1 Rating Posted by: 122088 at Apr 19, 2008 at 03:55:42 PM I don't care what ya act like. With the positions both of them hold its all about the school board decisions that should have attention. It's all about business not about B/S. Come on aduts let show our children and teens professionalism, so they have something to strive for in education. Betty appears to be frustrated and needs to be remolded on the purpose she is needed for,captain just think how many times you would be throwed out of something for a stupid thought or comment you've done in the past. LETS GET THE LADY SOME HELP!!!! Capt. you trying to say black man can't work 2 jobs and care for his family. Think before you use your key board. I'm white female and have 2 jobs myself> Posted by: councilcrooks at Apr 19, 2008 at 04:10:14 PM Hello 122088... Where were you when people such as Jimmy the Greek, Marge Schott or Don Imus uttered their now-famous misguided (or even stupid) remarks? Try to use the same judgement for everyone in the same situation. Get her some help? No, she needs to get her OWN help, and we can give her a head start in doing so by throwing her ignorance out of office. Posted by: councilcrooks at Apr 19, 2008 at 04:12:25 PM Also...122088...what your statement implies is if she was frustraited, then it's ok for her to resort to racism. Posted by: buzz at Apr 19, 2008 at 04:23:46 PM Sad, sad, sad, sad, sad... Black people are still on the losing end. Discrimination and the evil effects are still mostly a thorn borne by people of color. How dare she cause more cruelty into people's loves? What a pathetic dysfunction. Horton is OUT... Hopefully, the next person is as good of a leader as she has been bad. Posted by: Formerarmy at Apr 19, 2008 at 04:56:54 PM I wonder what Glenda would have to say about this? Prolly nuttin, as the offending party isn't white. Posted by: EddieMoney at Apr 19, 2008 at 05:06:00 PM "I don't care what ya act like. With the positions both of them hold its all about the school board decisions that should have attention. It's all about business not about B/S. Come on aduts let show our children and teens professionalism, so they have something to strive for in education. Betty appears to be frustrated and needs to be remolded on the purpose she is needed for,captain just think how many times you would be throwed out of something for a stupid thought or comment you've done in the past. LETS GET THE LADY SOME HELP!!!! Capt. you trying to say black man can't work 2 jobs and care for his family. Think before you use your key board. I'm white female and have 2 jobs myself>" Can somebody translate this? Posted by: maximumgq at Apr 19, 2008 at 05:16:41 PM Hey 122088: Captain Obvious wasn't saying 'blacks' can't work two jobs. He was asking what does it mean to be "white". Does it mean working two jobs....etc.? Read the whole thing before "you" start to spout off? And "getting her some help?" Yes, I'm sure a therapist is going to cure her racisim. I'm pretty sure, but judging from the lady's picture, she has a "few" years under her belt in which I'm sure a couple "therapy" sessions won't erase the racism. If this was a white person who said this, e.g., "he got all 'black' on us"....Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and the rest of those no job having fools would be down here faster than a white girl buying "barry manilow" tickets....ya, that fast....so stop trying cover for her and call it what it is. Am I asking for her resignation? No, of course not. I say things all the time that aren't politically correct, and/or borderline inapporpriate....and that's only at work......so, no I'm not saying she should resign, but again, let's call it what it is and admit that she either (a) has a problem with white people, (b) hates black people, or, (c) was drinking a little too much of grandpa's "cough medicine" before this interview/meeting which led her to say these comments. Now don't make me get "all black" on you! "Black" meaning: good dancer awesome athlete and "Clinton" lover... -2 Rating Posted by: GBPackers at Apr 19, 2008 at 07:43:56 PM Whats wrong with thinking you're white?! Half of the white kids today try to act like they're black!!! Boy, i think white people hate white people. + 1 Rating Posted by: captainobvious at Apr 19, 2008 at 08:30:14 PM Plain and simple there is no "remolding" to racism 122088. Therapy will not help her. She cooked her goose anyways. Find someone to replace her. And no I wasn't saying another person besides a white man couldn't work two jobs. I was merely stating my current position in our society and that I work hard, and that for all general purposes resent being called "white". I would rather be called a hard working American. There are good and bad people in all races. + 1 Rating Posted by: melbrown at Apr 19, 2008 at 08:35:53 PM please tell me Betty was not the head of the magnet schools in 501 at one time !!!!!! -2 Rating Posted by: eldaremington at Apr 19, 2008 at 09:09:59 PM Way too much anger....pull back....has anything said made Topeka a good place to be Monday morning....Stop! Its all very ugly and distructive. Everyone grow up! For the children's sake. Just leave it to Betty and Patrick. They can handle this....just let it alone. Posted by: erviltnec at Apr 19, 2008 at 09:51:20 PM Read "How to Think White" and "Learning to Love Broccoli" by John Ashcroft. Posted by: jdubyaks at Apr 19, 2008 at 09:51:53 PM hey eldaremington, we're talking about public officials making this comment about public business......just because it is stupid and racist on the part of a black woman to say....you think we ought to just ignore it????? What blacks can't be just as racist as anyone else??? Get a grip. Posted by: gflo6757 at Apr 19, 2008 at 10:21:14 PM I am shocked and apalled by Betty Hortons racist remarks. She should be setting a positive example for our children. This definitely isn't positive and not something I want my children, or other children to think is okay. Shame on you Betty. I think you need to publicly apologize. Posted by: ramarshall at Apr 19, 2008 at 11:39:28 PM I would think the other school districts in the area have to stand to gain from insane comments like Betty Horton's. If 501 continues to allow people like this to be in a position of authority people will continue to leave the 501 district (is there any reason to doubt why 501's enrollment continues to decline?). With comments like this from a 501 school board member white families will continue to leave the district. 501 officials you must act NOW to remove this person from a postion of influence or you risk further declining enrollment and a very poor reputation. Posted by: vickit at Apr 20, 2008 at 12:20:06 AM Eldaremington... Betty doesn't WANT to handle it alone. Read the quote...."All I know is Patrick (Woods) thinks he's white," board member Betty Horton said in an interview after Thursday's board meeting. "That's it. Print it. Patrick married white. He thinks he's white." PRINT IT. She wants this in the public eye. She wants to stir up this hot getto mess in public. And what is Patrick supposed to say? This is like trying to defend yourself against a question like, "when did you stop beating your wife?" There is no repsonse that is going to be appropriate. Maybe Mr. Woods should adopt a new theme song from Billy Paul, "Am I black enough for you?" Posted by: kugrad94 at Apr 20, 2008 at 12:38:27 AM My applause to Mr. Woods for showing character and class by not responding to Horton's insults toward him and his family. People will remember you for your ignorance Ms Horton, not your color. Shame on 501 for keeping this hater on their board. I would be ashamed to say my tax $$ went to 501 as long as Ms Horton was still an authority figure there. PS Ms. Horton - the minority population in USD 437 is growing and diversity is embraced - would you care to share your thoughts on all of us minorities who moved out of 501 as well??
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Yea can't keep the words of your great leader. Prophet Muhammad - Do you love your creator? Love your fellow-beings first.
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Local News: School Board and Race # 2
And todays piece with readers comments and I see a news report that Kansas is behind in Teachers, which makes the matter worst.
Horton sincere, minces no words: CJOnline / The Topeka Capital-Journal - Horton sincere, minces no words By Barbara Hollingsworth The Capital-Journal Published Sunday, April 20, 2008 Betty Horton's emotions simmered late last year as fellow school board members considered the charter school application of her friend and former colleague Sandra Lassiter. Twice before, she had stood by Lassiter, asking board members to approve their charter school vision. Finally on the other side of the dais, she could cast a vote of support. But as it became clear the charter school was once again headed for rejection, her emotions boiled over her voice becoming louder and more forceful. "As a board member of this community I am saying stop it," she said in December. "Stop it now. No writ, no division should occur when we are talking about the lives and hopes of our students here in this district." Some four months later, Horton is angry as ever about all the children she believes are being swept aside with indifference. And some board colleagues are as puzzled as ever. "To say we're not doing anything is just flat wrong," said board president Doug Glenn. In an interview after Thursday's school board meeting, Horton lashed out at Patrick Woods, who hasn't fallen in line with her on key issues. They are two of three school board members who are black, but Horton charged that Woods "thinks he's white" and "had whited out in terms of the issues." But it isn't just Woods in her target zone of angst. Of the seven school board members, she said she has respect only for Janel Johnson, who like Horton is black and has long supported Lassiter. "And then this board, where are they living?" Horton asked. "In wonderland? I don't see Alice, believe me." Her problem: that the board isn't addressing areas she believes are upending children, families and the community. As she sees it, too many children are being expelled and suspended by uncaring educators. Poor children, black children and Hispanic children continue to perform well below the level of their white and middle- and upper-class peers. Children learning to speak English are fighting to survive in school. And in a district in which the majority of children are minorities, students walk into classrooms where the majority of teachers are white. "I feel like we are in a war," Horton said. If anything, board member Peg McCarthy said she shares Horton's concerns about the achievement gap and other topics. Actually, she said the entire school board supports those issues. That, she said, is why the district gathered one Saturday in November to hear from Kansas educators about the challenges they face and what they can do. From that meeting, McCarthy said board members unanimously charged administrators with developing plans for two goals: Create a five-year plan for better addressing the needs of children learning to speak English. Develop a plan for raising the achievement of district children to the state average in five years. "That's just so disingenuous on her part to suggest that," board member Nancy Kirk said of Horton's complaints they are ignoring problems. "The board sat there and those are the two goals we came up with." Part of what angered Horton on Thursday was that the board voted to charge a task force with developing a five-year plan for addressing early childhood education. A similar task force had already met to discuss broad principles that could guide future talks. But Horton complained that the effort was a deviation from what should be the board's priority children in kindergarten through eighth grade. And she was incensed when school board members refused to establish similar task forces to address the achievement gap, English language learners, suspensions and expulsions, and diversity in the district's teaching force. She believes the community should play a big role in developing all of the plans. But her colleagues argued that efforts already are under way to address her concerns. For example, the district has stepped up tutoring and adjusted instructional time to better reach low-performing children. Deans of students work in middle and high schools to address discipline problems that can keep children out of class. And in the midst of those initiatives, the performance of black, white and Hispanic children has risen. At the same time, the achievement gap between those children has begun to narrow. Woods on Thursday said that emphasizing early childhood education has everything to do with helping children later in life. "We understand the majority of our students who are left behind start behind," he said. But Horton said none of that matters if the school system isn't ready to prop up struggling children when they start kindergarten. As Horton sees it, many of her colleagues are out of touch. They don't get the same, disturbing calls that she and Johnson receive. To a point, McCarthy agrees. Every board member, she said, hears from different people. McCarthy notes that her children attend schools where the majority of students are minorities, giving her a chance to meet and talk to a variety of parents with different views. "Here's something I think gets lost, too," she said. "No single voice is the most important or should dominate. The job of the board is to take all of those in consideration and do the will of the majority or do what's best. That's what we are elected to do." Some of the anger, board member Ned Nusbaum said, comes as the board awaits the start of its new superintendent, Kevin Singer. Until then, he said the board is in a holding pattern as it waits to develop a comprehensive plan and set a course for the district. Former board member Ben Scott, who attended Thursday's meeting, can't see why board members don't get going on the plan give the new superintendent a head start. Without the big picture being clear to everyone, he said, people are bound to get angry when they think other issues are taking priority over what they see as most important. "If it's not addressed you see the kind of disgruntlement that was expressed last night," he said in an interview Friday. Still, Horton's tactics concern board members who find themselves in her cross hairs. As the board's longest-serving member, Glenn has found himself on the opposite side of issues before, but rather than railing against his colleagues when things don't go his way, he believes in getting on board. "It's just unfortunate," he said. "It really is. We've got business to do." While Horton's comments might not be politically correct, the Rev. Ronald Lassiter, Sandra Lassiter's husband, said he could understand them. At times, he said he has said things that were "pretty rough" although he strives for more diplomacy. And while most people wouldn't publicly acknowledge such feelings, he said there are others who deep inside share Horton's views. "I'm not saying that, for instance, that Patrick is not black," he said. "Of course he's black. I believe what she's trying to say is you don't act like someone who comes from a black culture or someone who can sympathize or empathize with the black plight of many in inner cities. I understand that." Barbara Hollingsworth can be reached at (785) 295-1285 or barbara.hollingsworth@cjonline.com. Reader comments are the sole responsibility of the person posting them. You agree not to post comments that are off topic, defamatory, obscene, abusive, threatening or an invasion of privacy. Click here for our full user agreement. You can rate each comment by clicking the or buttons. To report an inappropriate comment, click the . Reader Comments -3 Rating Posted by: carisa at Apr 20, 2008 at 02:03:32 AM While I still think the comment Horton made was a very poor choice, I can say that I understand her frustration with what she is trying to accomplish. After working in a local high school and then in an elementary school here in Topeka, I can verify how very real her concerns are. I can completely understand her uproar in not being able to accomplish what she's trying to do. Having these details, I think she should explain her comment and maybe some good will come out of this. She will be recognized for what she is trying to accomplish and the situation should be evaluated if she has been given unfair road blocks. + 2 Rating Posted by: gsandell at Apr 20, 2008 at 04:59:58 AM Well, Betty is a "big girl" who was elected to help make decisions that lead 501 in the proper direction. Her "style" of leadership would indicate that if she cannot convince her fellow board-members to follow her lead, she will badger them with name-calling, trying to "shame" her fellow black board-members into being "more black" and trying to lay a guilt trip on the members of other ethnic backgrounds because they don't understand what it means to be "black". If any "white" board-member tried these tatics,in reverse, they would be run out of the board room so fast, their head would "spin" and Glenda O. would be beating them up so bad, in her column, that they would be "black and blue". Racism is racism, no matter who's mouth it comes out of and no matter whom it offends. Citizens who vote, in the 501 district, really need to determine whether this is the type of representation that they want on the board and deal with it accordingly. + 1 Rating Posted by: ajs2472 at Apr 20, 2008 at 08:52:43 AM Oh yes, this type of behavior will insprire new teachers to come teach in 501. No wonder we have a teacher shortage in this district. + 5 Rating Posted by: papa57 at Apr 20, 2008 at 09:07:03 AM If Horton is not ousted from her board position, one way or another, it will simply be another example of what hypocrites some of these racial equality people are. She obviously feels this way and may others in Topeka. So what! That does not give her or anyone else the right to resort to racist remarks. How many non-blacks have made stupid remarks like this and been fired from their jobs not to mention being crucified in the media. If your going to give one of them a pass (Horton) you've got to give them all a pass (Imus). I can't wait to see how this gets swept under the rug since its already trying to be explained away. By the way, my son served in the a real war last year Betty, after listening to him tell stories I can assure you, you are not in a war. + 2 Rating Posted by: ASBESTOS at Apr 20, 2008 at 09:11:12 AM "Create a five-year plan for better addressing the needs of children learning to speak English." How about "Creating a plan" to keep illegal aliens out of the school systems and have MEXICO and the other countries pay for their citizens?" Or how about not burdening the Kansas Taxpayers and Kansas Schools with "failed immigration policy" and eject the illegal aliens from Kansas? I am sick of the politicians screwing the citizens and taxpayers for a "voter base" especially the putrid and corrupt way that politicians pander to "spanish speakers". Hell most are illgal aliens! If you are TRULEY concerned with KANSAS children and THEIR EDUCATION, we need to have a citizen and residency requirement for attendance in a public school. Hell my parents had to take my birth certificates to the school and their tax papers. Why is this not "equally applied" as per the constitution to "Spanis speaking" illegal aliens????? And Betty is stupid enough to be promoting this???? Additionally it appears that Ms. Horton can "only respect" blacks. Sad, and not what is best. + 3 Rating Posted by: erviltnec at Apr 20, 2008 at 10:09:25 AM What's wrong with "thinking American" or thinking solutions? We all live here regardless what color or IQ we have, and need to work for the common good rather than seeing only part of the picture. She needs to go, period. + 2 Rating Posted by: topekasports at Apr 20, 2008 at 10:20:55 AM Ask Betty about how she stands up for teachers that try to hold children of color accountable and make them follow the rules. Mom calls board member Betty and Betty stands up for the poor oppressed child irregardless of the circumstances. LESSON LEARNED BY CHILD: I can do whatever I want and continue down my parents path with no discipline and guarantee that I will be unemployable at 18. Way to go Betty, keep on keeeping it real.. + 5 Rating Posted by: vickit at Apr 20, 2008 at 10:21:31 AM betty is the new fred. if you don't agree with her you must be white and god hates white people..... + 1 Rating Posted by: chasss at Apr 20, 2008 at 10:51:19 AM Theres no place for racism in the school admin. or board. Anyone spouting racist remarks wheather white or black should be fired or removed at once. Remember, the longer we allow it to happen the better chance the child will pick up on it and promote it in their future. + 2 Rating Posted by: elbombero at Apr 20, 2008 at 11:10:01 AM If that comment by Horton is not racism, I dont know what is. + 1 Rating Posted by: papa57 at Apr 20, 2008 at 11:18:50 AM I am old enough to remember watching MLK "I Have a Dream" speech in Washington. Seems one of the famous lines from that was "one day all God's children will be judged by the content of the character not the color of their skin". Funny how some pull that line out when it is convenient, then turn around and make statements about people based on skin color, "whited out", "thinks he's white". Just exactly what is that supposed to mean? Does "whited out" mean Mr Woods doesn't care about kids, or just doesn't support Hortons agenda? + 1 Rating Posted by: GBPackers at Apr 20, 2008 at 11:41:55 AM Like Obama, the whites are looking for a way to clear up their bad name over slavery, which none of us took part in, but it's been beaten over the white folk's heads for so long it's become part of our lives, and almost want to feel responsible. I think white people had better wake up, and quit being taken advantage of. We ARE the minority in this country, especially the white MAN! I have fought for everything i have in life, nothing came easily, but i did it fair and legal, i never had an excuse for my race or gender. It's pitiful to think we're all so naive! + 5 Rating Posted by: dawkind at Apr 20, 2008 at 12:07:27 PM It looks like 501 has come full-circle.....Brown vs. Board to end segregation/racism and now Horton/Johnson to play the Race Card and put 501 right back where they were decades ago. It looks like to me that this paper is now trying to justify the atrocious comments printed yesterday by allowing more of them by people that have no say in the matter, namely the husband of a disgraced ex-employee of 501..... Racism is alive and well in the black community. Posted by: blazeoflaw at Apr 20, 2008 at 01:41:46 PM She should become a real-estate "sales person," I am sure they could find a place for her with the rest of the snakes! + 1 Rating Posted by: cabocrazed at Apr 20, 2008 at 01:52:48 PM She's nothing but a bully - "my way or no way." -1 Rating Posted by: dalemise at Apr 20, 2008 at 02:30:24 PM Horton's time would be better spent if she taught her patrons the importants of beginning a child's education when it is born and how to practice birth control.
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Yea can't keep the words of your great leader. Prophet Muhammad - Do you love your creator? Love your fellow-beings first.
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Local News: Teacher shortage hitting Kansas
Well I know othe rplaces in th ecountry have the same problem, and think it is because of the pay for th ework and sometimes danger involved. Our children are in some cases way out of control and if they are our future then why pay so low of a scale to the ones who teach them and try hard to educate them? Reader comments again wised me up to some of the many reasons I was unaware of on this topic. Teacher shortage hitting Kansas: CJOnline / The Topeka Capital-Journal - Teacher shortage hitting Kansas More than 13,000 educators eligible to retire by 2013 The Associated Press Published Sunday, April 20, 2008 HUTCHINSON Kansas is looking for a few thousand good teachers. And right now is prime recruiting season, with school officials across the state trying desperately to secure quality educators. Superintendent Jerry Burch, who heads Unified School District 309 Nickerson-South Hutchinson, was in Colorado last month trying his luck at a recruitment fair. In his district, 45 percent of the teachers are eligible to retire within the next three to five years, he said. Darren Dennis, Garden City schools personnel director, recently returned from a recruiting trip to Texas, where he said "salaries are nearing $50,000, with several thousand in signing bonuses." He intends to avoid a repeat of what happened this year: 15 new teachers have broken contracts and left Garden City since August some recruited to larger schools, including Las Vegas leaving officials scrambling to find long-term substitutes. The district responded by tightening teacher contracts. "It's a dog-eat-dog world we now live in, and it's getting harder to attract teachers," Burch said. The looming teacher shortage isn't unique to their districts, Dennis and Burch agree. It is a statewide problem. Kansas Department of Education commissioner Alexa Posny said 36 percent of Kansas teachers are eligible to retire within the next five years that is more than 13,000 of the state's 37,000 teachers. At the same time, she said, fewer Kansas college graduates are entering the education field. The number of math and science teachers coming out of college is several hundred short of what the state's school districts need, with the biggest number of vacancies in the math, science and special education fields. "Only two people in the whole state last year were licensed in the area of physics, so even if only 10 schools were in need, it would be a struggle," she said. "I know these figures quite well because it's staring us in the face." Other obstacles to retaining teachers, officials said, include pay with Kansas ranked 38th in the nation in teacher salaries difficulty in obtaining a teaching license and competition for recruitment. "We have great teachers in this state, and other states recognize that," Posny said. "Major cities recruit our teachers, pay $10,000 more, offer a signing bonus, pay for moving expenses and offer a housing allowance. They're in desperate times, too." Burch noted Kansas State University graduated just two science teachers in the past year. "Students used to line up to talk to the administrators," recalled Dale Dennis, deputy education commissioner. "Now, it's in reverse the administrators line up to talk to the students." Burch said solutions to the teacher shortage can't be addressed at individual district level. "There needs to be a concerted effort from all districts and the state board," he said. Area superintendents who are members of the Education Services and Staff Development Association of Central Kansas, or ESSDACK, have banded together to formulate ideas. One solution the group supports is making it easier to obtain a teacher's license by expanding license programs to community colleges, service centers and local districts, and possibly allowing partnerships with universities for approved programs. Specifically, Brax noted Butler County Community College in El Dorado is interested in developing and piloting a teacher licensure program to help prepare teachers in the areas of math and science. Butler plans to submit a proposal to the Kansas Department of Education. "The program, if successful as a pilot, could be expanded to include other critical shortage areas and be offered at other community colleges throughout the state," Brax stated in a letter to the Department of Education. The alternative licensure programs would target those who have a bachelor's degree and want to become a teacher, offering "greater flexibility" to licensure. Other areas the ESSDACK group explored were teacher salaries, incentives and marketing education. To move Kansas up from 38th to 25th in national rankings for teacher salaries putting Kansas at the national median would cost an estimated $135 million. It could be accomplished, the study noted, with additional 2 percent raises "above the national average" annually for five years. "We are losing out to industry, who can pay people out of college perhaps double what they can get as a teacher," Kraus said. "You don't go into education to get rich, so there has to be something to encourage them to go in that direction in the first place." Another proposal is paying just math and science teachers more money, but there is union opposition to that, Burch said. "The teachers union is going to stay as equal as it can across the board for all members, and that's what they should be doing," he said. "But on the other hand, to fill some of these positions it's going to take doing something differently. We can't expect to do the same thing and see results." A recent House resolution encompasses several of the ideas the ESSDACK group explored. It encourages the development of alternative licensure programs, including Internet-based, off-campus and weekend programs; teacher preparation programs; scholarships for students pursuing tea |
