The time has come to make a reply to the article in The Citizen concerning Harold Logsdon suing me in court for defamation, resulting from an email exchange on the subject of extended alcohol hours of sales.
First, let me state the news story was not completely accurate regarding such as an apology or the actual words of the sentence. I do, however, apologize to the people of Peachtree City for my choice of words and promise to do better in the future. Some times in the rush of a string of 12 emails, with all else going on, we don’t take the time that we should. I certainly meant no harm to Harold Logsdon.
Contrary to what Mr. Logsdon has stated, his drinking habits was not the subject of the email. It was about a suggestion to reconsider the failed extended alcohol hours of sales.
To be honest, Harold Logsdon has not been a concern for me or on my radar since he left office at the end of 2009, either personally or in any of his past or current political activities. Why in the world would I start taking notice now?
The email string was entitled “Saturday Sales,” not “Harold Logsdon.” It was about the second request to extend Saturday serving hours of alcohol to 2 a.m. on Sunday. It was an exchange of numerous emails concerning the extended hours of sale (including city staff). That involved a discussion of the first denial in a prior City Council vote, which included myself and the current key council proponent for extended alcohol hours of sales.
The email for which I am being taken to court was sent solely to the City Economic Development Coordinator Joey Grisham. Being new, Mr. Grisham did not know the history. I explained that Harold Logsdon (an earlier proponent) was forced to vote “NO” because of some unfortunate events in Peachtree City. I emailed as follows: “Even then Mayor Logsdon, who drank a lot and came to Meetings part drunk didn’t support it.” In closing that email I said, “There is more to decisions than making a few more bucks. Especially in PTC.”
I do extend my regrets to Harold Logsdon since I never meant him any harm. I simply meant that even the likely supporters of the proposal were forced to vote against it, even someone widely known to frequent bars. As well, Mr. Grisham was not here to witness the aftermath of the Red Room bar homicide.
He simply did not know, but his response included the acknowledgment that “And by the way, Harold was the one that first asked the bars to pursue this.” That’s it concerning Harold Logsdon, the totality from an exchange of 13 emails.
My attorney is preparing responsive pleadings and so goes the legal process. We look forward to defending the suit and ultimately prevailing. We will have more for you later. Being human, I have made mistakes in past and will probably make some in the future. My choice of words in this hasty email were regrettable. To Harold Logsdon and the good people of Peachtree City, I express my regrets.
Don Haddix, mayor
Peachtree City, Ga.
