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A general as police chief?

When the mayor-elect suggested a retired general would be a good choice as police chief, I assumed he was merely thinking outside the box to inspire his fellow council members to think more creatively. I didn't think he was serious. After all, while they may be expert at many things, military leaders aren't necessarily known for crime fighting and crime prevention, unless they've been MPs. And they aren't known for cutting spending either, which is another of the council's aims.

I do admit, though, that I relish the idea of a retired general in charge. Can you imagine some of the exchanges between the retired general and the council?

Then I remembered that Greensboro already has a well-decorated general in its midst, Gen. Nathanael Greene. Some may think he's dead, but they would be wrong. He's alive, well and engaged with what's going on in Greensboro. He's responsive to people, and best of all, he was "one of the most trusted generals in the Revolutionary War." Isn't that what people think we need? Heck, we already have a statue of him downtown.

Perfect choice.

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Tags: Promos, city council

Posted by John Robinson on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 12:45 pm

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SueP

November 14, 2009 - 2:35 pm EST

Can you imagine any military general (or admiral) reading up on Greensboro's police saga and TAKING the job? We shouldn't hire any retired generals who would agree to work in such a winless situation. Besides, he'd have to be black. Or white.

gatecitykeeeper

November 14, 2009 - 8:31 pm EST

So is this how its going to be? Knitpicking everything comment that comes out of Mr. Knight's mouth?

Personally I hope he does find a retired general. You have to admit it is very refreshing to have new ideas and new leadership in the city.

It looks like Rhino was very good in its recommendations this year, which actually came to be. Could this be a sign that the Rhino has a greater following and makes a greater impact in the community? Lord knows their staff can run circles around anyone the N&R can offer up.

John Robinson

November 14, 2009 - 8:51 pm EST

Nitpicking? You think that was nitpicking the mayor-elect? You're too sensitive. I was just having some fun and promoting our Twitter character.

As for the endorsements, Allen Johnson takes that one up: http://www.news-record.com/blog/2009/11/04/entry/kingmaking_and_council_...

dusenberry

November 15, 2009 - 6:51 am EST

I'm good with a George Patton, if you can find one. I'll bet that would be a sight on top a Humvee.

gatecitykeeeper

November 15, 2009 - 1:21 pm EST

Sorry, I was unaware Allen Johnson was still around. The N&R fell victim to my personal budget cutting months ago.Surpisingly the sun still comes up every day.

Doug Johnson

November 16, 2009 - 3:24 am EST

If the terrorist attack at Fort Hood, turns out like Tailgate, there should be plenty available!

Jon

November 17, 2009 - 3:23 pm EST

Oughta go ahead and wrap the dysfunctional GPD into BJ's department. Won't have to spend time looking for another short termer Chief who'll probably get run out of town when he's/she's unable to satisfy the expectations of nine individuals with their own ideas how the GPD oughta be operated. Plus, won't have to fund the salary of the vacated position of police chief as well as other positions that can be eliminated as a result of the merger. Win win situation all the way around.