Geddes Road to be closed down for march to Snyder's home near Ann Arbor
Barricades sit on Geddes Road near Dixboro Road in preparation for closing the area for the Occupy for Democracy rally this evening. Protesters will march down the road to the gates of Gov. Rick Snyder's neighborhood.
Danny Shaw | AnnArbor.com
Geddes Road near Parker Mill County Park will be closed this afternoon during a rally protesting Michigan's emergency manager law to allow participants to march to the gates of Gov. Rick Snyder’s neighborhood outside Ann Arbor.
Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Derrick Jackson said Geddes Road would be closed between Dixboro Road and Superior Road at about 4 p.m. today, when the Occupy for Democracy rally is scheduled to begin. The rally is taking place from 4 to 7 p.m. at Parker Mill County Park and will end with protesters marching a little more than a half-mile to the gates of Snyder’s neighborhood, Jackson said.
Jackson said protesters are parking at nearby Washtenaw Community College and then are being bused to the park. There will be a number of speakers at the park itself before the march takes place, Jackson said.
Sheriff’s deputies will be in the area to direct traffic away from Geddes Road.
Jackson said the protesters will not be marching to Snyder’s front door, but will give a letter to a Snyder representative at the gates of the neighborhood.
The protest in Superior Township is one of several Occupy for Democracy rallies going on around the state today to speak out against Public Act 4, Michigan’s new emergency manager law Snyder signed last year. The law allows state-appointed emergency managers to remove elected officials from local office. Critics say the law is a threat to democracy.
The rally is being led by the Rev. Charles E. Williams, pastor of the King Solomon Baptist Church in Detroit.
The rallies around Michigan are being held today to honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, organizers say.
Kyle Feldscher covers cops and courts for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at kylefeldscher@annarbor.com or you can follow him on Twitter.
Comments
Joe_Citizen
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 6:33 p.m.
I see a lot of bad attitudes here about the protest. I wonder if they would be so annoyed if their right to protest was taken away. I believe they would want to protest that! I'm not saying I agree, but if we let them take our rights away once then it will be done again, and as so long as they can take them away, we will be left with nothing.
MTL
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:03 p.m.
Yeah! What gives these people the right to peaceably assemble to petition the government for the redress of grievances? Who do they think they are? It's inconvenient to some people. Our forefathers wouldn't have stood for such a thing if it meant getting home late from work on a semi-holiday! Next thing you know, they'll want the right to post their opinions on public forums and in newspapers. All because one level of government's popularly elected officials has voted itself the power to displace other popularly elected officials and impose its will. Big deal. Since when does the right to vote supercede financial stability. Let's get our priorities in order here and stop all this complaining. If Snyder doesn't take over Ann Arbor, maybe the federal government should take over Michigan. As long as there's a LENGHTY mulitstep process invoked, it should be just fine to kick aside elected governments, assuming I can get home from work on time. And think of all the money we'd save on elections.
Catherine
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:10 p.m.
I don't know if you've taken the time to educate yourself, but you have to obtain a permit to peacefully protest. The rights granted by the constitution are not infinite. Your rights are not rights if they impede someone else's!
Mike
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:59 p.m.
Is this for real? We need to know the names of the officials who granted permission for this and have them recalled. This is pure intimidation and thuggery. How would Rev. Williams like to have his house and neighborhood marched upon? Somebody should get his address and get organized. This protest should be done at the capital building not at our elected officials private residences, scaring the heck out of their families. THIS IS WRONG AND CROSSES THE LINE. We are devolving into a mob mentality and they say the Tea Party is dangerous? What hippocrites.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:07 p.m.
Yeah. What he said. How dare these people exercise their First Amendment rights. GN&GL
lordhelmet
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:09 a.m.
Will the protesters pay for the police overtime?
Bob Krzewinski
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:01 a.m.
I am sure there were quite a few "upstanding" people upset with Martin Luther King in Selma, Alabama as they probably wanted to use the Edmund Pettus Bridge there on a certain Sunday in 1965 and couldn't.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:10 p.m.
That's right, Mike. After all, the First Amendment clearly stakes out residences as being excluded from its provisions. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." Or maybe not. Maybe you can point out for me what about yesterday's march was is not protected by the 1st Amendment? Likely not. GN&GL
Mike
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:02 p.m.
And this has to do what with marching on someone's private residence. How would you like to have this at your home? We elected our governor and there are ways to voice your displeasure. This is not one of them. We actually have a surplus for the first time in many years and all of the "progressives" are unhappy with it and want to spend it................
ranger007
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:56 a.m.
Maybe the should pile in some buses and head on down to Texas and protest in front of king kwames pad isn't he the one who got detroit in this position.
Karen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:31 a.m.
How dare you waste taxpayers money doing this. You want to have a march, pay for it yourselves. And that includes city services.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:28 p.m.
We dare because it is an American right ..... protest away ....
concerned
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:09 a.m.
I couldn't wait to get home to read all the negative comments about today's rally at the governors front gate of his very gated community. First let me thank the Washtenaw Sheriff's Dept. and the Michigan State Police for their friendly and very professional manner in which they helped to make this event go smoothly and safely. Bravo to you all. For the rest of you, inform yourselfs folks. How many of you know what this Emergencfy Manager Act is really about. Nothing is more sad then a me society vs. a we society.
Mike
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:04 p.m.
Nothing is more sad than seeing Detroit put into this position by their Democrat officials they so blindly continue to elect. They brought this upon themselves and now cry about it; that's what's sad............
grimmk
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:35 a.m.
That was not fun to drive through or around. I wish I had know before hand. It was really scary with all the cop cars parked everywhere and not know why. And then when I had to go back, I had to go around the hospital/wcc. And now I know I drive past that guy's house everyday?! Wouldn't have thought it. All I knew is that I had a pissed of cat in the backseat who wanted to be HOME NOW. And I couldn't because Geddes was shut down. What a waste of the police departments time and money.
grimmk
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:28 a.m.
If I had known about the shut down of Geddes I wouldn't have made the vet appointment. She was really stressed out and it's rather irritating having her cry at you. You wouldn't say this if it was your kid. Either way, both your replies made me lol.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:50 a.m.
Getting a pissed off cat home is MUCH more important that allowing citizens to exercise their First Amendment rights! I mean, come on--let's get our priorities straight!! Good Night and Good Luck
concerned
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:11 a.m.
A pissed off cat, you got to be kidding.
Mike D.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 10:21 p.m.
People think there shouldn't be protests because of the impact on traffic? But it's OK for stupid football games or the stupid art snare to shut down the city? Our country is being stolen from us by wealthy crooks like Snyder, and all people worry about is a ten-minute traffic delay (I can tell you multiple ways to detour around this part of Geddes, should be find yourself unable to use a map). The apathy expressed in the comments above is revolting.
grye
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 11:57 p.m.
Snyder hasn't stolen anything. You may not agree with changes that have been instituted to help return this state to a balanced budget. If you disagree with public law 4 you should also have disagree with the similar law initiated by Granholm. Got a better solution to the city/school bankruptcy problems, then implement it.
grye
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 10 p.m.
Public law 4 and it's predecessor have been put in place to help rescue cities the have been so ineptly run the options for any level of viability are minimal. To complain that the ability to take over a city or school system that is on the verge of bankruptcy is an injustice is blindly hoping that the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus will arrive shortly to solve the situation. If those in charge had done in a correct job in the first place, there would be no need for govt intervention.
justcary
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:33 p.m.
Hoped to recall Snyder. Not my candidate. Not on our side. But it is crossing a line to disrupt his family at their private residence. I'd even throw in with the protesters if they were marching on the state-owned gubernatorial mansion. But this elected official has an office space, and that's where the protest belongs. I feel bad for the residents of that neighborhood.
DonBee
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:41 p.m.
Hope no one on Geddes East of the St. Joe's complex needs to get to the hospital while the road is closed.
bigbluebus
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:17 p.m.
So how about some reporting on the differences between the previous emergency management law and Public Act 4? It really bothers me when the bloggers go off without starting with the facts and the discussion largely deteriorates into accusations, cliches, and pure opinions (not grounded in some facts). I fully support the right of peaceful protest. But again, those must take place according to local laws. I confess my ignorace when it comes to protests that are not held at the Federal Building or downtown somewhere. Is there a permit process? Can people protest anywhere? In front of my house? In front of a movie theater?
Ron Granger
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:17 p.m.
It's great that most of you are so gracious in your support of the right to have a non-violent march. Though the way some comment here, you'd think the KKK was marching. That too, is protected.
G-Man
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9 p.m.
What a waste of energy and resources. These same people should not complain about higher fees and taxes in Ann Arbor, when they are running up the bill themselves! Somebody has to pay for the street department help and police, to make way for their little folly..... Why not use their time for something productive like trying to save this Country from the Ruin and debt the Obama administration is causing!
racerx
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:23 p.m.
Isn't this area in Ann Arbor Township? Maybe even Superior Township? So, what's the city of Ann Arbor have to do with it? Also, isn't Washtenaw County Sheriff's department closing the road and not AAPD? So again, who's taxes are affected? The debt that Obama ran up. I guess that doesn't mean that for eight years Bush/Cheney didn't run up any portion of that debt. Good grief. Find some facts!
2WheelsGood
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:03 p.m.
Seems likely these aren't people from Ann Arbor.
AnnArBo
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:57 p.m.
Michigans emergency manager law was enacted in 1988 and signed by Democratic governor Blanchard, its has only been used 10 times in the last 20 years, one of the most recent times was by Democratic Governor Granholm to remove Kwame Kilpatrick from office. It is a tool to enable State intervention before a city goes bankrupt, and enables crisis cities to maintain services to residents. Read more FACTS; <a href="http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/EMF_Fact_Sheet2_347889_7.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/EMF_Fact_Sheet2_347889_7.pdf</a>
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:26 p.m.
Actually, Kilpatrick was removed by the Judiciary. Facts are Facts. Prior versions of EFM were less powerful and didn't involve the power to invalidate contracts among other powers that the new Snyder PA4 has. Get educated or at least try to speak with facts.
racerx
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:20 p.m.
Gov. Granholm removed Kwame Kilpatrick from office? Really? I thought it was due to him being convicted for lying under oath? What's that saying, "you entitled to you own opinions, but not your own facts."
djacks24
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:53 p.m.
Today would be one day I'd wish for rotten weather of some kind right around 4 o'clock. Specifically in the Geddes road area.
Sandman
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:43 p.m.
Us 99%ers need to remember what to do when the polls open. There are more of us than them; how in the world did a elitest like Snyder ever get elected in such a working class state as Michigan...answer: 1%ers are smart enough to vote at every election and the 99%ers, well, nuff said. Get off your butt and get down to the polls and us working class heros will win every time. Vote for who will put money in your wallet and get this governor out of office.
genetracy
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : midnight
Obviously Snyder was elected because the Democrats ran the state into the ground.
G-Man
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:15 p.m.
Yah, Let's MAKE the State of Michigan just give us stuff for FREE! Why should we have to work for anything? Let's keep making class envy and class warfare the number 1 issue! In fact, why don't we just make the State pay us all $1,000 a week so we can keep buying cigarettes, drink all the booze we want and not have to work a lick! Why should all the people that actually do honest work get to make a good living? Let's Make the State give us free food! And GAS!!!! Why should we have to pay to fill up our cars???? Especially since those huge oil companies are robbing us blind!!!!The State should just GIVE us gas. Let's all vote all the Democrats into office so they can give us all free stuff and nobody will have to pay for it! Yah, that's right it's those darned Republicans that ruin everything, what with all their fiscal restraint and attempts to spend less money than they take in. Yah, and It's that darned GW Bush that did it, it's all his fault! Bush made Obama run up the national debt another 5 Trillion Dollars, that's right! Yah, and another thing, let's just make the Government take away all the money from anybody that's worked for it or earned it and just give it to all us Democrats! All their attempts to follow the Constitution, heck with that........We don't need no stinkin' Constitution, not as long as the Government just pays us to be alive.........
Angry Moderate
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:03 p.m.
Do you ever wonder why you keep losing elections if 99% of the people supposedly agree with you?
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:49 p.m.
"Vote for who will put money in your wallet" Translation: Vote for the person that will, increase welfare programs and generally provide all the giveaway's they can at tax payers expense. And don't tell me how much those on welfare pay in taxes!
T. Kinks Heiss
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:42 p.m.
What a bunch of crybabies. I don't hear you crying when they close the roads & disrupt peoples lives for the U of M football games.
Catherine
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:04 p.m.
I would personally LOVE to be able to lodge a complaint against them closing off roads and freeway exits and changing the lights system. If you could direct me to where I would place such a complaint I would greatly appreciate it. My place of employment is on Ann Arbor-Saline Road... Which, if it happens to be a UM football Saturday, is IMPOSSIBLE to get to from my residence without having to go completely out of my way. UM alum/fans should not be awarded the right of way to wherever they're going on game day just because it's in Ann Arbor. So again, if you know where I can lodge my complaint, I would love to know.
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:54 p.m.
even the almighty u now pays for traffic control.
halflight
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:50 p.m.
I wouldn't have any problem with them protesting in UofM stadium (by the way, they don't shut down the roads for the games). Instead, they're marching and protesting in a rural area with a small two lane road, at rush hour, to protest against a law that holds them to financial accountability. If anyone is a crybaby and lacking responsibility. . . .
djacks24
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:48 p.m.
That's because UM football games are welcome and bring revenue to local businesses as oppose to this mess. Not to mention UM football games are held on weekends and not specifically at rush hour.
Jim Wilson
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:41 p.m.
Really People. Is this true that they think this is a racial thing? wow. Personally. what I see is city that sank itself in corruption and now they are trying to blame the governor for trying to pick up the pieces.. Wow this to me is a new low for people...
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:24 p.m.
How do you explain that 75% of African American citizens in Michigan would be under the effects of EFM then? Just happy coincidence ?
motorcycleminer
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:41 p.m.
Abject BS and a waste of tax payers $$$ ..leave the damn road open and let the rabble fend for themselves...If you want a police presence have em ready to arrest the first foot that steps on his property...
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:51 p.m.
i think were overwhelming the comment guideline police.
djm12652
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:39 p.m.
sure hope no one in that area will be in need of an ambulance...
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:49 p.m.
detroit ambulances have a 3 day waiting period+lottery.
racerx
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:19 p.m.
As oppose to any other time? Like at 5 o'clock rush hour traffic where cars don't pull over?
Pjohn3
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:33 p.m.
I'd like to know if these folks are all/mostly from the city of Detroit. If so, do they not see the blight of their fair city, the corruption in their city government (and county for that matter), the graduation rate of their school system, etc. Detroit has been in decline for 40 years and yet the reaction to those residents is.."don't tell us how to manage our affairs, but keep the checks coming". It is a pathetic entitlement thought process. I'm all for freedom of speech but that doesn't mean the message is flawed. Look in the mirror, acknowledge your problems and then set out to fix them. That is what Snyder is trying to accomplish by making cities accountable for their mismanagement.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:35 a.m.
They were from all the areas affected by EFMs currently and those that had them previously: Flint, Highland Park, Pontiac, Benton Harbor, Detroit, etc.
Angry Moderate
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 10:28 p.m.
LOL. They're leading a public protest to get media attention, and we aren't supposed to "judge" their beliefs?
Ron Granger
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:03 p.m.
"I'd like to know if these folks are all/mostly from the city of Detroit" Maybe they're local. Maybe they're from one of the other half dozen Michgan towns at risk of begin taken over in Snyder's zeal for "accountability". But who are you to judge them and make assumptions about their beliefs?
Angry Moderate
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:56 p.m.
These protestors are the beneficiaries of the problems you mention. Politicians, "church" leaders, union insiders, city employees, etc. Preserving the status quo in Detroit is in their best interest.
Faygo
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:30 p.m.
Upset every year when people decide new issues to assume Rev. Dr. King would have been behind. We know what he said, did, and beleived about civil rights, human rights, and lots of other things, lets not assume he would support things he hadn't heard of. He said enough great things that you don't need to put words in his mouth.
AnnArBo
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:29 p.m.
Hopefully this will clear up misconceptions, although I know most will not read it; <a href="http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/EMF_Fact_Sheet2_347889_7.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/EMF_Fact_Sheet2_347889_7.pdf</a>
average joe
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:59 p.m.
Mr. Sharpton didn't tell us that we should read something first before deciding to march.
Usual Suspect
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:48 p.m.
Don't waste your breath. All that matters to them are bumper sticker platitudes.
Roadman
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:26 p.m.
As long as the First Amendment right of free speech and freedom of assembly is scrupulously honored, there should be no problems. In fact I would welcome the demonstrators back on April 4th - the 43rd anniversary of King's death in Memphis at the Lorraine Motel. Weather should be a little warmer then. This demonstration represents an honoring of Dr. King's memory.
Sparty
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:22 p.m.
Slick Rick has brought his nasty brand of unconstitutional law to every Michigan home, so it's only fair that protesters bring their legally protected constitutional right of protest to his home. It's all being coordinated with the AAPD, Sheriff's Office, and other law enforcement agencies, so not to fear --- all will be done completely legally. Regardless of whether you approve or not, the US Constitution does approve and it prevails. Hopefully it will gain some national exposure for the Nerd's tendency to foster unconstitutional laws on the State, e.g. the EFM, domestic partner benefit ban, medicinal marijuana hijinks despite the citizens ballot approval, and others. The lawsuit filed in US District Court charging multiple violations of the US Constitution's 14th Amendment related to the Domestic Partner health benefit ban? Or perhaps they will highlight the pending May recall vote? Or perhaps his 19% approval rating, below the lowest rating of his Democratic predecessor, Gov. Jennifer Granholm, and nearing the lowest level of current Governors - the newly elected republican Governor of Florida. All in all, it's sure to put Michigan in the spotlight for intolerance and radical right-wing social re-engineering.
Hot Sam
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:53 p.m.
Once again in your confusion you are comparing apples to oranges...I realize that your are unable to connect the constitution to what your talking about, as the connection does not exist...
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:04 p.m.
Ok, well the Federal District Court litigation on the domestic benefit health ban is based on multiple violations of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution. I already mentioned the medical marijuana is based on citizen ballot initiative issues under the State Constitution. And the EFM being reviewed by the US Attorney General for probable legal action under the US Constitution is based on the invalidation of legal contracts. Feel free to google the exact section of the US Constitution that deals with contracts. Hope this helps answer your questions. Next time google.
Hot Sam
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:33 p.m.
A lawsuit is not a substitute for which part of which constitution your referring to. In reality, you won't find any part that says you can reach in to someone else pocket for any of this. These benefits are created with laws that often have no real basis in the constitution. I am not trying to debate these laws, only the erroneous reference to the constitution.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:23 p.m.
Well, given that the domestic partner benefits ban has been filed in US District Court and the EFM is being reviewed by the US Attorney General for probably legal action, those at a minimum involve US Constitutional issues. The medicinal marijuana issue is a State issue and involves State Constitutional issues related to citizen approved ballot initiatives, so Slick Rick has his hands full with both both State and Federal Constitutional issues, doesn't he ?
Hot Sam
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 11:35 a.m.
Perhaps the writer could enlighten us as to which part of the constitution, whether the States or Federal, he is referring to?
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:30 a.m.
Yes, arborcomment, that research study by Dr Ballard was conducted in 2009, two years before Snyder became Governor. What is your point? I'm sure he'd be willing to share the data behind the findings he summarized if you requested it.
Arborcomment
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:20 a.m.
So sad Sparty, 19.3% of the whopping 807 people polled for your survey led by a survey director that writes: <a href="http://www.themorningsun.com/articles/2009/10/02/opinion/srv0000006530761.txt" rel='nofollow'>http://www.themorningsun.com/articles/2009/10/02/opinion/srv0000006530761.txt</a>
Sparty
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 10:54 p.m.
EFM was expanded under Snyder --- prior emergency manager legislation was less powerful and didn't contain some of the same powers with respect to the right to canceling contracts and other things. Nice try tho. Federal Courts will determine the constitutional questions of the domestic partner health benefit ban as well as the EFM, and presumably others at the rate Slick Rick is going.
DonBee
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:39 p.m.
So Sparty, you going to help Fire Rick pay the overtime bills you are generating?
Angry Moderate
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:41 p.m.
The "pending" recall vote? You mean the one that *isn't* pending because you can't get enough signatures? LOL!
AnnArBo
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:34 p.m.
Please read my post below, the emergency manager law was enacted during the Democratic governor Blanchard in 1988.
halflight
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:29 p.m.
Sparty: There's nothing unconstitutional about any of the laws you mention. Just because you don't like them doesn't make them unconstitutional. Most Americans don't like Obama's health care plan, but that doesn't make it unconstitutional. Thanks for confirming, though, that the protestors are only interested in "civility" when they try to silence their critics, and think their politics absolves them of selfish, rude behavior. They obviously have no problem in harassing people who have nothing to do with their political battle.
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:28 p.m.
"Slick Rick has brought his nasty brand of unconstitutional law to every Michigan home" Blah Blah Blah ! If this is true, Take him to court! You're all talk! "It's all being coordinated with the AAPD, Sheriff's Office, and other law enforcement agencies, so not to fear --- all will be done completely legally." If it were the Tea Party YOU would be crying foul!
bigbluebus
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:19 p.m.
Lumberg - please provide your definition of "threat to democracy" before we all just agree on that. Is it because this measure was passed by a legislative majority that you do not agree with? Is it legal? Is it constitutional? (See AnnArborBo's comment) What is your proposed solution for municipalities that cannot or will not take steps toward solvency? I think by your definition the passing of our national health care bill was/is a threat to democracy. But I respect the legal process enough to accept it unless/until it is legally changed.
Ann English
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 11:23 p.m.
EFMs are a response to politicians lusting for power over their constituents, and public sector union leaders lusting for power over their members' livelihoods. Both groups want to keep people dependent on them or under their thumbs, not because they want what's best for their subordinates. But welfare-statism and public-sector-unionism are unsustainable; the money coming in from a shrinking private sector to pay union benefits and those who will not work is NOT limitless; the time to take back our freedom with all the personal responsibility required to keep it, is NOW. "Occupists" are protesting reality; we can't afford to sustain the nanny-state any more, unless we go socialist.
lumberg48108
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:20 p.m.
I said "for sake of arguement" to make a point that there is a real threat to democracy that our president just signed ... and these protesters would be better served by addressing that issue
2WheelsGood
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:14 p.m.
I have never prayed so hard for rain.
Kai Petainen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:13 a.m.
living in michigan, i can deal with rain and i can deal with snow. it's a fact of life. 2wheelsgood.... is being nice. it would be mean to say, 'i have never prayed so hard for an ice storm'. now, that would be mean.
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:38 p.m.
be nice
WalkingJoe
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:08 p.m.
While I am not thrilled with the whole idea of closing a public road and disrupting the lives of people who just happen to live near the governor, I would rather see this kind of peaceful protest than some so called spontaneous occupy protests that we have seen in other cities denigrate into riots and destroy property.
microtini
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8 p.m.
To all the pro-EFM commenters: How does it feel to have outsiders come in and take over?
Patriot
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 11:57 p.m.
You mean like Obama in the WH?????
halflight
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:03 p.m.
So Superior Township is bankrupt? Governor Snyder's political allies are blocking thoroughfares in Benton Harbor during rush hour? Ann Arbor residents are marching through Detroit neighborhoods to harass and inconvenience its residents? Spare us the false equivalencies.
dading dont delete me bro
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:43 p.m.
so why not post a map to let people know where to go and join in the protest?!? smh
dading dont delete me bro
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:19 a.m.
ha! it was there when i posted. i sucked kyle in w/sarcasm.
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:36 p.m.
and 4 legged sheep by radrick golfcourse.
djm12652
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:31 p.m.
hahaha...I feel the sarcasm but...what if you mean it?
Buster W.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:06 p.m.
I don't think this will be a problem, as I'm sure you'll be able to hear the deafening sound of sheep when you reach the general vicinity.
Kyle Feldscher
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:52 p.m.
There's a map of the area included in the story at the bottom.
djacks24
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:42 p.m.
I'll bet if it was the tea party, they wouldn't even think of closing the roads. But on the other hand, the tea party has regard for all individuals private property rights and would avoid disrupting business and traffic.
racerx
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:17 p.m.
The Tea Party would object to those very roads that the government built for them to march on!
USRepublic
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:40 p.m.
Send em back to Deeeeetroit!
AnnArBo
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:40 p.m.
This protest about "perceived injustice" is just another misguided uninformed reaction. The emergency manager law does not give the govenor unlimited power to point his finger and take over. Read the law and its process, It's a LENGHTY mulitstep process invoked AFTER mulitiple failures of a local governments inablilty to take care on their municipality. In the absence of this law, cities would go bankrupt, and the michigan taxpayer ends up on the hook for bailing out a mismanged city who cannot make the decisions required because of political gridlock or inepptitude. Now we have these protests framed as standing up for democracy and the status quo, when the only time it is used is as a last ditch effort to save a city from total mismanagement and taxpayer bailout of failure.
InsideTheHall
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:35 p.m.
Kyle: Have you asked who is paying for the buses????
djm12652
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:29 p.m.
c'mon...that would be almost like journalism...LOL
Alan Goldsmith
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:35 p.m.
Ann Arbor's Mayor and Conan Smith--are you going to renounce YOUR support of emergency financial managers? I doubt it. Happy Martin Luther King Day--if King were alive, I expect he would be speaking out against members of the Democratic Party like you as well as Republicans like our Governor.
Ryan J. Stanton
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:17 a.m.
Actually the mayor says he absolutely does not support the emergency manager law and believes it is unconstitutional.
lumberg48108
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:25 p.m.
For sake of argument, lets agree this law is a threat to democracy if that is the case, why aren't these protesters at the White House to fight this bill Obama signed and asking for attention <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/12/with-reservations-obama-signs-act-to-allow-detention-of-citizens/" rel='nofollow'>http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/12/with-reservations-obama-signs-act-to-allow-detention-of-citizens/</a> This law is a REAL threat to democracy and it is hardly covered as news ... perplexing
average joe
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:53 p.m.
But the Obama bill doesn't allow voiding of union contracts.......
Angry Moderate
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:01 p.m.
Forever27: Except that these "protesters" are largely coming from out of state. Real Michigan taxpayers know the threat to democracy is Detroit bankrupting the entire state to line corrupt pockets, not the Governor reigning them in.
Forever27
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:36 p.m.
don't worry, people are just as angry about that. It's just a lot easier to protest in your own state than it is to travel to DC to do it. There is such a thing as having more than one issue that bothers you. Just because you choose to do something about one issue, it does not mean that all others are forsaken.
Jon Wax
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:21 p.m.
waaaaaaait a minute here? Where is there any mention of filing for a permit? If you're going to cause a public nuisence and stop traffic in order to protest, my thinking is you would need to file for a permit in order to have all this take place. And with due process, not with the ann arbor news. com TELLING us that they are planning to protest. And exactly WHO is paying for this? I'm pretty sure we don't have the income locally to spend on random groups of people who decide to block traffic because they simply don't like someone. Now the ONLY reason I can see in the justification of this, sorry to offend, is because it's "Ypsi". Had they tried this near Barton Hills or any in Ann Arbor proper really, they would be sent packing. But because it's close enough to wcc and far enough away from UoM, then it's too bad for the Ypsi traffic. This whole situation is a joke and will solve nothing other then to make folks late, both coming and going and drain our locality of more resources we don't have. Nice job folks. Peace
Joe_Citizen
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 6:29 p.m.
So, do you believe in the right to protest? Why they did not ask you for permission first? I say put your money where your mouth is, so we can see the foot stuck in it. The next time some group wants to protest, I'm sure they will ask you for permission.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:20 p.m.
Glad to see, in a nation where people who have died to protect the freedom of speech (among others), there are so many people on the A2.com discussion board who understand and support that right. [sarcasm button to off position] Good Night and Good Luck
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:17 a.m.
@genetracy: the day I do something that incites mass protests, they will be here. Snyder wanted to be governor. He didn't want to move to Lansing. He has done things that many find to be outrageous. This is the consequence of those three decisions on his part. I don't hear him complaining. At least he understands the concept of free speech in a democratic society, unlike many who have posted here and who continue to express anger at the temerity of those who have exercised their rights today. Don't like their point of view? Fine. Upset that they dared express their opinions as guaranteed by the 1st Amendment? Time for a civics class. Good Night and Good Luck
Anders
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 11:58 p.m.
"The right to peaceful protest and express 1st amendment free speech ends when it infringes upon the rights of others" That's how the Chinese and Soviet Union government justify their crack down of protesters!
genetracy
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 11:53 p.m.
OK Ed, next time invite this crowd over to your block for their protest.
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 11:01 p.m.
I for one said they have the right to protest however they want. But I do not support their cause. They had their chance to keep Detroit out of this mess. But they kept voting for crooked politicians. I do not believe Mayor Bing is crooked. But ot is too late.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 10:36 p.m.
I think I understand the gist of the comments above. You all approve of their right to exercise the right to free speech the way you want them to exercise it. Gotta love it. Good Night and Good Luck
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8 p.m.
Glad to see, in a nation where people who have died to protect the freedom of speech (among others), there are some who choose not to respond to their critic's [sarcasm button to on position]
DonBee
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:56 p.m.
I put in my time for the country. I said on another thread that I support their right to protest. I just disagree with the tactics. That too is my right.
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:45 p.m.
"in a nation where people who have died to protect the freedom of speech" I think that also gives us the RIGHT to complain!
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:38 p.m.
They have the right. No question. And I don't think anyone here suggested they don't have the right. But we certainly don't have to support the protest or their methods! I doubt you would support every protest that goes on in this country or their methods. But you might? say everyone has the right to protest Would YOU support this? By RUSSELL GOLDMAN (@GoldmanRussell) Sept.12, 2009 Thousands of conservative protesters from across the country converged on the Capitol Saturday morning to demonstrate against President Obama's proposals for health care reform and voicing opposition to big government, what they say is over-the-top spending.
InsideTheHall
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:38 p.m.
The right to peaceful protest and express 1st amendment free speech ends when it infringes upon the rights of others. Blocking a major road for three hours infringes upon the those very same rights MLK fought for to the folks who utilize that road for transport or live in the adjacent area.
halflight
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:30 p.m.
Just because someone has a right to protest doesn't make the protest valid. The protestors have a right to protest, and I have a right to call them bullying demagogues for doing it.
dotdash
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:17 p.m.
Wow. There is a lot of hostility in the comments so far. Why? These are peaceable people making a point by gathering legally on the anniversary that celebrates peaceful protest against perceived injustice.
Patriot
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 11:54 p.m.
Spending tax payer money and closing down a major area road to get your "peaceful, lawful point" makes me an instant voter for Rick. I hope the protesters have to pay for the costs incurred by Washtenaw for this "Sharp-ton news Flash".
AfterDark
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:41 p.m.
If I deprive an alcoholic of the funds to feed the addiction, is that a diminution of rights?
dotdash
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:34 p.m.
Yes. It's MLK, Jr. day. People protesting against the FM law are protesting against what they perceive to be a diminution of their rights. People protesting against the Jim Crow laws in the South were protesting what they perceived to be a diminution of their rights. You may not believe that the FM law constitutes a diminution of someone's rights, and you probably also know that many Southerners didn't perceive any problem with Jim Crow laws. So far, apples to apples. And the hostility that is patent in these posts today? Again, apples.
djm12652
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:26 p.m.
um...so you are equating the fight of MLK for civil rights to a finanacially bankrupt city being run by a EM? are you sure this is comparing apples to apples? and was MLK's protests against a perceived injustice? I am from that time and I can assure you, the injustices WERE NOT perceived...
dotdash
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:52 p.m.
Always better to examine one's own character than to examine the character of others. More to work with. Good luck.
AfterDark
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:43 p.m.
Want to discuss the content of Detroit's "character"?
DonBee
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:12 p.m.
Ann Arbor dot Com - thank you for the warning, it would have been nice to know this on Friday for planning purposes. To the protesters - I want to thank the demonstrators for closing a day care, shutting down local roads, adding to the overtime costs for the sheriff's department and Superior township. Generally creating problems for people who are not your targets. If you want support, you need to support the people you want on your side. This is not the way to do it.
Joe_Citizen
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 4:57 p.m.
It was a holiday, so the day care would have been closed anyway. Your tone tells me that your not aware of the milieu in this state. Please read why they are protesting and that they have as much of a right as you do to protest.
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:19 p.m.
whew,that was a close one jcj.you almost recieved disciplanary action from guideline police.
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:52 p.m.
Forever27 I'll give you that and reword it. Most of people can't see past the end of their noses. They are like sheep.
Forever27
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:35 p.m.
@jcj, way to generalize and make disparaging comments about an entire group of people. I'm surprised that this doesn't violate the comment policy.
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:16 p.m.
These people can't see past the end of their noses. They are like sheep.
bunnyabbot
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:10 p.m.
although I am for the right of people to peaceably assemble, but think it's totally rude to march to the mans house, and cannot stand Sharpton who will be participating. This does cost tax payers for the Sheriff department to have to work it. I question if, since I have seen no mention of it, the protest had to get a permit, carry insurance and pay for the barricades, traffic directing and police presence? if not do these things usually have to get these? if not have other similar gatherings been required to and have they or have they not done so. Just want to know if yes, a permit is needed and police paid for if that is evenly enforced across the board.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:12 p.m.
But Sharpton didn't march ... what's your point now ?
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:25 p.m.
its cheaper than strobe lights.BRAINSTORM add mirror balls,donna summer,have a70,s disco party.
Fatkitty
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:01 p.m.
Did I read this correctly - Geddes Road is going to be closed for 3 HOURS because of this? Totally nuts...........
javajolt1
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 6:57 p.m.
Going to an elected leaders personal private residence is an act of pure political intimidation. If Al Sharpton and and is friends want to blame someone for disenfranchisement, how about blaming Kwame Kilpatrick and his predecessors (except for Mayor Archer and Mayor Bing who actually seem to have the best interests of their citizens in mind) for stealing from the citizens of Detroit.
Mark V
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:57 a.m.
What happened to the idea of marching on the capital? That is what MLK would have done.
javajolt1
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:03 p.m.
(I wish I could take credit for the response below from Steve to refute the same point made in another Snyder article) So? Can he do nothing right? He chose not to live in Lansing to save the taxpayers of Michigan money. His salary is a dollar. I don't think I'm going to rip on him for either of those choices.
Rico
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:23 p.m.
He's the one that chose not to live in the official residence in Lansing.
A2James
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 6:57 p.m.
If the people involved with this rally (and other protests involving Detroit) put as much effort into getting rid of the circumstances that led to an EFM being considered in the first place, then they would have nothing to protest...
Forever27
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:33 p.m.
you mean by getting rid of the governor who decides that democratic representation is irrelevant? I'm on board with that idea.
halflight
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 6:53 p.m.
So now we know why they're marching so late in the day. They want to cause the maximum disruption to the neighborhood by blocking traffic on Geddes Rd. during rush hour. Bully tactics.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:11 p.m.
Removing children and adult partners of same sex of employees the week of Christmas, without ability to make alternative arrangements, perhaps ? How about messing with medicinally prescribed marijuana for terminally or chronically ill people despite it's approval on a state wide ballot ? How many examples would you like ? Reducing K-12 education funding, reducing higher education funding, eliminating cash assistance for 27,000 children and 11,000 adults on welfare, taxing seniors on their already small pensions. How many more examples ?
halflight
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:37 p.m.
Such as?
Forever27
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:32 p.m.
bully tactics should be completely familiar to Snyder.
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 6:53 p.m.
Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office spokesman Derrick Jackson There will be a number of speakers at the park itself before the march takes place, Jackson said. Jackson said the protesters will not be marching to Snyder's front door, but will give a letter to a Snyder representative at the gates of the neighborhood. Is he a spokesperson for the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office or the protestors?
djm12652
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:36 p.m.
really? got a list so I can cross check with my donation list...
Faygo
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 8:27 p.m.
As frustrating as this whole thing is, the busses are being lent to the protestors by local churches and other non-profits.
jcj
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 6:56 p.m.
All he needed to let us know was the road closing details. Maybe he can tell us what they are having for dinner and the dress codes. Let them do their own press release. Why didn't he tell us who is paying for the busses?
Anita
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 6:42 p.m.
This is stupid!! It isn't going to make a difference. Sharpton, just wants to make sure his name is in the news on MLK Day. Surprised Jessie Jackson isn't with him.
cornelius McDougenschniefferburgenstein jr. 3 esq.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 9:11 p.m.
channel 4 just said sharpie is not there.
Anita
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:23 p.m.
@ John, this is the ONLY article his name isn't in. This is just going to piss off people more then it will help anything
Buster W.
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 7:17 p.m.
@John ...but will be plastered ALL OVER the national media!
John
Mon, Jan 16, 2012 : 6:52 p.m.
You mean the same Sharpton that isn't even mentioned in this article?