Comments and Emails from Around the World

We'd like to thank the hundreds of people who sent words of support and encouragement for Bum Bot. We even enjoyed reading the emails from our critics. It's obvious that most people who have seen the videos and read the news stories and articles "get it." Let's all keep up the good fight.

Very sincerely,
Rufus & Linda Terrill

 

Thanks for patrolling the streets! Come to Chicago, we need a Robo Cop here!

Good Luck!
Sean K.

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Sir, I just read about your "Bum Bot" and I have to say "right on". All I have to say about the people that are complaining is TOUGH. We need more people like you in this country and maybe we would not have all the crime and stress that is tearing our country apart. Keep up the good work! Larry

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Good for you. Just read about your invention. Always amuses me when the people from the Task Force for the Homeless bitch and moan that you aren't doing enough to stop homelessness and poverty. That's their job, as if it could ever be accomplished in the first place. They won't be around to police your neighborhood when crime waxes up and down your street, but they want you to do more!

Your problem as a business owner, is to maintain your place of business and hope for a safe neighborhood for your customers, and pay your business and income taxes so they can put food on the table for those who can't or won't work. Without a successful business who will pay that tab? The bums? I think not.

Good luck, but get ready to duck if your robot rolls over someone's foot!

Dan (former Atlanta resident, back in Massachusetts where everything is totally screwed up). Don't try to own a gun up here!

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Love Bum Bot keep up the good work.

Buddy
Former Marine

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Dear Mr. Terrill,

I read about your Bum Bot on a related link from Snopes.com. I live in North San Diego County, California, in a city that has seen a recent increase in vandalism, and I suspect other crimes as well. It's disturbing to me to see this, as I love my little city of Vista.

I think it's awesome that you care so much about your neighborhood, that you have put so much of your time and your energy, and even put your own personal safety on the line to make it a better place. I wish we had a Bot patroling our neighborhood. I bet then I wouldn't have to wake up and see yet another tagging taken place in the night.

It must get tiring and disheartening doing what you do, but please keep up the good work! The world needs more people with your intestinal-fortitude!

Sincerely,
Sandra M.
Bot Lover

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Let me see if I understand what is going on here...

Terrill is using his own personal time and resources to protect his property and that of his immediate neighbors when local 'authorities' can't or won't help. His methods are non-lethal, and he seems to be effective at merely moving the problem elsewhere.

Anita Beaty (director of Metro Atlanta Task Force for the Homeless) whines that he's not addressing the homeless problem. Irrelevant and off point, Anita. It's not Terrill's job to do that - it's your job, Miss.

If the city of Atlanta wants a better solution for the homeless and jobless situation than Terrill's, maybe the city should use more of its own resources at "...casting attention to the deep, deep poverty in Atlanta."

Terrill's job as a private citizen is to protect and serve himself and his family and to become as successful as he can within his community. He seems to be doing just that - all without sucking up any city resources.

How about some kudos for Terrill, Atlanta? You need more self sufficient citizens like Terrill. THAT will help your homeless and jobless problems.

BTW Terrill, I can't believe you're a Democrat - you sound and act more like a conservative Republican.

Posted: military.com blogger

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Hi Rufus and Linda,
I'm in Denver and just read a story about your bum bot. It's unfortunate that you have to police your own neighborhood. Your bot is creative and I think you've done a great job with it. Your found a safe and humane way to ease crime and increase safety in your neighborhood. Many congrats to you!

All the best all the way from Denver,
Jessica

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Great job on the BumBot and being the ad-hoc sherriff in your neighborhood! I wish more citizens were like-minded.
Good luck, and keep up the good work!

Kevin P. D.

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Fabulous! Just Fabulous! I think it is a great idea and think this will help clean up the streets! More people should do this and it would lessen the overloaded police duties…

Bravo and keep on botting!!!

Thank-You,
Doug K., Boynton Beach, FL 33436
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I just read an article on CNN.com about your efforts to curb crime in your tavern’s neighborhood, and I just wanted to say keep up the good work.

Kevin H.
Harrison County

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Highlander is spot on! A major BZ to Mr. Terrill! Maybe Ms. Beaty needs this figurative kick in the pants to start going proactive and stop whining - it's HER job to work on solutions to the poverty & vagrancy in that area, not Terrill's. And Mr. educator, Christensen at GT, needs to do the same - instead of negative sniping at Terrill, use some that wealth of brainpower at GT and work with the city on solving said problems. Terrill's doing what he can as a private citizen, policing his property and his neighbors', without compensation, and even giving employment to the homeless. He's certainly NOT the villain in this evolution!

Posted: military.com blogger

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All hail bumbot!!!! ( Too bad you can't use the water cannon)

kirby h.

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Terrill’s Pub,

Thank you so very much for doing something about the crime and drugs in your area. I live in Pa. in the rural area, and there is not much crime here where I live. Although the city of Williamsport is just 17 miles from where I live and the gangs and crime and drugs is very rampant there. I applaud you for your invention and wish more areas would do the same thing. I read about your pub and robot on my computer and I had to laugh when I read the article. It something which my father would of done if he were still alive.LOL Keep up the good work and keep the Bum Bot on patrol.

Sincerely, Minnie, Hughesville, Pa
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I just read about your bot on the News Vault...it's one of the coolest things I've heard in a long time. You're doing the right thing; nobody should have to be intimidated by thugs and criminals. Especially since our country is run by thugs and criminals. I wish we had a bot to take care of them. Keep up the good work, man! If I'm ever in Atlanta I'll definitely have a few beers at O'Terrill's!

________

I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed reading about Bum Bot in the online Palm Beach Post! GREAT IDEA!!!! Too bad more people aren't as concerned about their neighborhoods as you are - we sure could use them!!! Keep up the brilliant work!

Marlene

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Dear sirs,

I don’t even know you, or where you live, but your Bum-bot has given you some good press. I would like to thank you for taking a stand against lazy scum bags who won’t get a job, go to a shelter, or just plain do the right thing. You make us proud to be an American to get up and go to work, and protect your family and way of life and living. To hell with the homeless advocates, etc, maybe if they spent more time rehabilitating these useless sad sacks into productive members of society as you have become, we would all be better off. I hope your idea takes off, and you get wealthy and move to a place where your Bum-bot can roam free!

You have proud fans watching you take back America and the streets.

Sincerely,

Paul D., Bridgewater, Ma

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Hi, Rufus!

All of Philadelphia, especially the Irish, think you're doing a great job with the robot! Keep up the good work.

JOHN

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I just read the article about the bum bot that you guys have patrolling outside the pub, and i think thats the best idea i've heard of in a long time. The next time I'm in Atlanta visiting some of my family, I will be sure to come by and see this for myself and personally thank Mr. Terrill for such a great invention. I live right outside of Greenville, SC and we have a homeless problem also (not as bad as Atlanta's of course) but there are still places in town where homeless people hang around outside of certain restaurant's drive thru's and hassle people when they're leaving, wanting food or change. I have no problem with the homeless, don't get me wrong, but large cities need to take some type of action to help with their homeless problems. And when the problem is too much for the city to handle, I see nothing wrong with restaurant owners taking action like you all. Good job.

________

Hey,

I went to GT 20 years ago and there were bums downtown back then. I’m glad to see that someone is doing something about it. The bums are one of the main reasons I left ATL., that and the communists who run the city council. It’s too bad that they have to quote some liberal pussy professor from my school, not all of us feel that way.

Keep up the good work

Billy, Columbia, SC

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Mister Terrill!
I'll gladly buy the first set!!
You should have someone draw out and print up some plans and instructions for your Bum Bot. Or put the plans up on your website. But get it out there! We need Bum Bots by the thousands nationwide. You could make a few bucks to defray expenses! I know you did the right thing building it from largely recycled stuff, and I'd love to build one myself. More power to ya for your ingenuity in bringing some peace to the neighborhood! And I'm sure you've learned what I learned in 22 years of wine sales nationwide...all publicity is good publicity!! Your pub is now known to one and all, and loved by honest citizens coast to coast and border to border!!

Semper Paratus!
Tom R

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Keep up the GREAT work.

I have $20.00 if and when you 'spuirt' someone....Get'm GOOD!

Tom
Houston, TX

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I read about Bum Bot. I think it's a great idea. I also think that people who have a problem with it should solve the problem.

Don't let them get to you.

Regards
Bruce H

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It's great to hear of someone doing what the elected and appointed 'officials' should be doing with the good people of Atlanta's tax dollars.
Try hosing down that so-called homeless advocate. Maybe she'll wake up and realize ACTION and not 'political correctness' is what solves problems.
Keep fighting the good fight! Hooray for BumBot!

JMc
Illinois

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Keep it up! The only reason bad things happen is because good people do nothing. You are doing something. Thank you.

Greg

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OMG...
I just saw your Bum-Bot video on you tube and read the AP Story and wanted to give you a HIGH FIVE!! You should definitely market the Bum-Bot as we have a similar problem in Midtown Sacramento. Police rarely make the rounds and only come out if blood or bullets are involved, by then it's too late, someone's been hurt! I think your idea is a safe preventative way to deal with problems that small business owners face. Our only recourse is to turn on the sprinklers!!
Well done Mr. Terrill!!
--Josette

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KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, YOUR FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT, DON'T LET ANYONE STOP YOU . THIS IS STILL AMERICA YOU HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO DEFEND YOU HOME AND BUSINESS ANY WAY YOU SEE FIT, SINCE IT SEEMS YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS ARE UNWILLING TO HAVE THE POLICE DO THIER JOB, WHAT CHOICE DO YOU HAVE? KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

________

I just read the article, via a link on Drudge Report, about your business and Bum Bot. It is not your responsibility to cure homelessness, vagrancy, or poverty. Your business is to protect your business and neighborhood. Keep up the good work and don't let those Social Engineers discourage you! Next time I am in Atlanta I will definitely patronize your business.

Sincerely,
Chris

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They don't want to intimidate gangsters, but gangsters intimidating everyone else is okay!

Hang tough,

Next time I'm in Atlanta you've got my business

All the best!!
Dan C

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OY OY OY FOR THE BUM BOT.....BUILD A FLEET AND TURN THEM LOOSE...TODAY ATLANTA, TOMORROW, THE HALLS OF CONGRESS !!!!!!

RICH IN NJ

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Ruffus,

Judging by your website, your Pub seems and feels like the one I would like to have in my neighborhood.

Have a great continued success with your robocop and in your mayoral campaign.

I can see why all these people are protesting against the poor and inoffensive thing and giving you the rap. They are a bunch of jealous people who want to ride on your popularity. Forget them.

Best wishes,

Marco.-

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Just read the news article on your robot and all I need to say is; OOrah!! Screw the idiots who complain. Homeless Advocates. Uhh spend more time getting these people off the streets then complaining about a freakin robot, politicians, top the needles and drugs that litter that area, especially if a child daycare center is close by and start having your robot qouting R LEe Emery from Full Metal JAcket.
If I ever visit Atlanta again, I will be stopping in.

Keep up the good work. No one ares anymore and WE need to start taking matters into our own hands.

Michael
USMC

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Hi,

I just read an article online about the Bum Bot and I think that it is the most fantastic invention ever!! Having had to deal with bums of all kinds for most of my life this invention sounds like heaven.

I hope every city one day will have bum bots patrolling the streets.

Thanks,

Valerie

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I was glad to see that someone is taking charge on policing their own area. I live in Austin, TX and we too have many problems with the homeless, and the city will not do anything to outlaw panhandling. Keep up the good work, and you should expand your venture to Austin.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!!

Pura Vida,

JCB

________

Mr. Terrill, I just read about your BumBot. I admire you. I'm sure you've been told this by many people, but I'll offer the same unsolicited advice: patent it and get it mass-produced; you'll sell lots of them. In fact, every inner city police precinct in the country should have 20 of them.

Best wishes.

David F

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Just read the article about your Bum Bot and this is what I have to say about it. Keep up the good work, I am sick and tired of the bleeding hearts telling everyone, you are not allowed to protect your own property, you can not use deadly force if someone breaks into your home, you can use deadly force only if your life is in peril. (I guess I am supposed to ask if they are there to kill me!) I think when someone is on private property and can be scared off by a robot then they were there for something illegal.
I know I am far away, but please note that I support what you are doing. It is to bad the police cannot see it that way.

Al S, Waukegan, IL

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I just read about the Bum ‘bot. Bully for you. I can never understand why some people think that vagrants and winos have an unabridged right to run down neighborhoods that are home to decent people. If your detractors want to put their money where their mouths are, let them start a program to teach these people enough skills to get a job. (Make participation in that program a prerequisite to getting assistance and watch the rats scatter). Most people who run these shelters think they are some sort of noble, depression-era soup kitchen deal for those who are simply down on their luck. What they seem to fail to grasp is that you end up with every no-good freeloader in the county, out on your doorstep “spanging” for coins or breaking into working people’s cars to get their fix money. I have plenty of sympathy for folks who simply need a little help, but they are probably 5% of the homeless population. The rest are simply bums.

________

I just read an article about your bum bot. To me you're a hero of sorts, especially since you're up against the usual bunch of weenies that always rush to the defense of bad guys everywhere. Just wait until the ACLU gets in on it, and don't think they won't.

Keep up the good work and know that there are tens of thousands of us out here in the real world who support you 100%. While most people shrug their shoulders at the decaying social structure in America, you are actually doing something positive to stop it.

God bless and may the wind always be at your back.

Greg M, Baldwin Park, CA

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I read the article on your bum-bot on patrol.

I thought I would respond in support of the idea.

The article stated you have critics saying you are intimidating peole with it. If it takes a little non violent, nonconfrontational intimaidation to reduce crime on your block. It must be working.

It was also stated that you are only pushing the problem to another neighborhood instead of finding a solution. Wouldn't the solution be for enough people on every block to get involved and then there would be no tolerance for the problem and more incentive for the considered a problem to find the propper help for themselves?

They did cite your history on the board of the nearby day-care and hiring of people from the local homeless shelters. So what if their accusation that this is just a market scheme to gain your fifteen minutes of fame is partly correct? The best most people can ever ope for is to improve thier little corner of the world anyway, what is wrong with a little recognition.

If I ever make it to Atlanta, maybe I'll stop in and buy the bot a beer.

Greg from Southern Illinois

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I heard about your Bum Bot on the news.

GOOD WORK!

Keep it up and please don't let anybody stop you in your pursuit of law and safety for your neighborhood, your customers, and the children.

You are absolutely right in this matter and don't let anybody tell you different!

John

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Excellent! I heard you on 1670AM in Madison, WI.

As a "in the process" designer/inventor, I give you major cudo's on your robot.

It's great to see this type of ingenuity.

I will be visiting your business when i find myself in your area!

Kurt

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I read about your Bum Bot on the Drudge Report and thought it was a GREAT IDEA! I just wanted to let you know that even though I obviously don’t live in Atlanta I think this is a novel and apparently effective way to deal with a real problem. Nobody else has a solution but a lot of them can sure criticize you. They seemed to be upset that you are not solving the drug, crime, homelessness problem for them but I don’t think that is your intent with the Bum Bot. They apparently would prefer to let drug needles be left where children can get at them instead.

Anyway I just wanted to say GOOD JOB and please keep it up.

Sincerely,

Joseph D, Farmington, MN

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Three cheers for you and Bum Bot!

You've obviously done more to address poverty and unemployment in your
neighborhood than all those phony "community activists" combined. Don't
let them use that "intimidation" and "hate speech" blarney to ruin your
business.

I'll stop by next time I'm in town.

Jim C, Flagstaff, AZ

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Hi Mr. Terrill –

I just read the article about your robot and I, for one, think it is great! You should find a company to market it nationwide; believe me it would sell like hotcakes! I EVEN WANT ONE! Keep up your spirits! The only ones protesting against you are the bums and their sympathizers! More people need to do this!!!

REGARDS ALL THE WAY FROM NORTHERN CALIFORNIA!!!

Courtney C

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I LOVE IT - and I am sooo glad that you took the initiative and created a solution to the problem. Reader's Digest needs to give you a heroes award. I adore robots and want one. You need to patent your robot and sell them - it would be a real money maker. Be careful out there - make sure you are "packing" - because the drug dealers are dangerous to you and your robot won't protect them form hurting you. Can you arm it with a taser? There's an idea! Good Luck! Kudos to you forever!! If I ever come to Atlanta - I will stop by the bar to visit. A devoted fan,

Louise in Jacksonville, Florida
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Mr.Terrill

I saw an article about your robot today and I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate your efforts. I agree with your opinion and I think you approach is completely reasonable. I applaud you and I wish nothing but the best for your business, your family and your robot. You are a great American.

God Bless and Semper Fi,
Grant W
USMC

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Mr. Terrill:

Congratulations, you're an asshole. Desperate, down and out people are still human beings. Your NIMBY attitude would be much more useful if you spent your time and energy finding ways to help end homelessness and provide dignified housing options to people without hope of their own. Try a little compassion sometime, and ask yourself: "who would Jesus spray with a robot water hose?" If you're less stupid than you seem, you'll come up with this answer: no one.

Christopher C.

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hi,

of course i found out about you via news on yahoo about your bum bot. i applaud your actions. keep up the good work, and when the tshirts are available i would appreciate it if you would contact me so i can order one. next time i am in atlanta i will be stopping by your bar for some food and drinks.best regards,

jesse (florida)

________

I just read the story of your Bum Bot. I am behind you 100%. Many small business owners have a dream of owning and running successfully a small business all their own. Problems such as yours what with the bums have ruined many small businesses. Why you would be chastised for protecting what is yours is simply do-gooders not helping you but sticking up for the bums.

The child care center is at risk. What is the city doing about that? If they care about their children, shouldn’t they also care about their small business owners? What a shame. I hope you come out of this unscathed. Sally

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I read the article in the paper about your "Bum Bot". I think it's great! You're doing the right thing about getting the area safer. Plus that fool who who compared it to the Terminator should maybe do what your doing. Something good for the area. The Terminator was a movie and your Bum Bot isn't killing any Sarah Connors!

Hey, you can tell them that if they make you get rid of you Bum Bot, you'd walk the streets like Buford Pusser in "Walking Tall"

Good luck!
Regards,
Rocco

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I just read with much amusement and wonder about your Bum Bot 2000! Thanks for trying to keep your community safe! I live in Texas, but travel frequently. The next time I’m in Atlanta, I promise I will go to O’Terrill’s!

Thanks,

Mike, Laredo, TX

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Just read the story online and I think you're terrific--what a great idea. I would say the "activists" who disapprove are so busy jerking their knees they can't think. Yeah, you're picking on idiots, addicts and criminals. Keep up the good work.

Shelley S

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I've read the article (quite large) in today's San Diego Tribune (Wed 4/23). If you were running for President we would vote for you!!! What a great idea and demonstratable evidence of original thinking and a willingness to step forward and do something about a problem. Your leadership makes me proud to say that I also am an----former Marine. When we are in Atlanta we will without question make arrangements to come to your Club. Good luck and if you need any help and support from this far away please ask.
Sempre Fi
Gale H, San Diego
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Hi,

I'm out in California near Berkeley. I think your Bum-Bot is a great idea. We need one here.

Keep it up!

________

Great idea.
Keep up the good work.

________

I just don't get it on how vagrants(people living on the streets) have a right or an entitlement to live on the streets.

Keep up the good work. Don't let the people who are complaining deter you. Its something that is needed.

Thank You
Andy M, Grand Rapids, MI

________

Fantastic. I just read an article on yahoo news about your robot. I lived in a similar area in Cleveland until a year and a half ago. I know what its like to have to clean up after the vagrants and worrying about friends and loved ones being accosted by prostitutes and druggies. I applaud your efforts to clean up your part of your city. Keep it up! Without people like you helping to hold on to the city it would soon deteriorate into a no mans land. And anyone who argues that point need only visit Detroit to see what its like when the inmates run the city.

Good Luck!
Travis H, Cleveland Ohio

P.S. The next time I make it down to Atlanta I will make a point of visiting your bar!

________

I just wanted to let you know I heartily support what you are doing. Don't let the bleedin' liberals get to you.

Dave O

________

Rufus, Linda,

Hang in there. What you're doing needs to be done to challenge the bleeding hearts who don't think people should take personal responsibility for their actions. I know that I'll be dropping into O'Terrill's if I'm ever in Atlanta. Like they say, don't let the bastards grind you down.

Best of luck.

Jack C

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Dear Mr. Terrill,

I've just read an article about your "Bum Bot". The article indicates that many people aren't so happy with you for "intimidating" people and such. Well, too bad! People who trespass, vandalize, and put others in danger do not have the right to be treated with civility and respect.

Basically, I just want to say I applaud you for your efforts! If I lived in an area where that type of problem was an issue, I would be proud and grateful for a neighbor who would stand up, take the time, money and efforts to help protect me and my children. Although I do not live in Atlanta, I plan to make it a point to stop in your place the next time I'm going thru!

Also, please tell your wife I applaud her too! She loses a lot of time and energy with you out on this vigil so her support is, I'm sure, invaluable!

Thank you for being a great example of standing up for what is right and just, even when some disagree!

Julie

________

Bum Bot rules! You have found a creative solution to a problem and I applaud you.

Pat, Charlotte, NC

________

My husband heard about this on the radio. Hooray for you. How funny! But, I live in Michigan. Would there be any way you could put the video feed on the internet?

Thanks,
Mary B

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Hi, I just read the article about Mr. Terrill and his 'bum bot' - I want to applaud you - I think it is fantastic! The article quotes all these people who think you should focus your energy on

'solving' the problem of vagrancy instead of 'moving it elsewhere' - but I don't see why it is YOUR burden! Do we not have the right to protect our property anymore? We're talking about people who don't care about their rights - only about their next fix or meal - they don't care about the hard work you've put into establishing your business or about the safety of the children at the center nearby - I hope you withstand the firestorm of objections and continue to come up with creative ways to exercise your rights and protect your patrons - my family can't wait to visit O-Terrills the next time we're in Atlanta!

Your fans,
Dr. Glen & Leanne

________

You keep doing what u think u need to do to keep ur part of the world save . If we all did something like this Bum Bot thing or just spoke out more our neighborhoods would be safer. U keep going strong Rufus & Bum Bot.

________

I just read about you & Bum Bot in Yahoo news & I say WAY TO GO.... It is about time people stood up for themselves & others. I was disgusted to read comments by people in your area who said you should be doing more to help the homeless/drug addict problem than patrolling around your business & your neighbors. If they have time to bad mouth you about your solution then they should be out fixing the problem. Anyway I just wanted to show you some support. Have a great day, Jeff.

________

Hello Rufus and Linda!

I just read the news story on your Security Robot.

Keep up the good work! (LOL) I used to go to Atlanta frequently and I think it needs about 1200 more “Bum Bots” on patrol!

Best and Warmest Regards,

Mike W

________

Read about you all in a Yahoo news report by AP.

Glad to see someone is taking an interest in the place they live and work. You'd think from reading the article that somehow you are responsible for the homeless folks in your area and that by your actions you are not dealing with a problem that isn't even yours - dealing with the homeless problem in Atlanta. The article makes it sound like you are somehow undermining the progress Atlanta is making in dealing with the issue... They even make out like you are just moving the problem somewhere else and not helping with it. What a crock. Police have done that for years when dealing with prostitution and other issues.

Keep up the good work and God Bless. Good luck in running for office.

Charlie G

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Read an article about your Bum Bot......
Keep up the good work! The only way to save a neighborhood is to get involved. The more people that are out there reclaiming , and making the neighborhoods safe again, the better.

Good luck! :-)

Bud

________

Just want to drop a line of support for the Bum Bot. This is a great idea! I bet you'll get a lot of mail from people whining that you are violating people's rights or some such garbage (I got your e-mail from your website, which was linked in the article). Don't listen to them.

These people aren't homeless because of affordable housing or jobs; they're homeless because they're addicts or have mental problems or are lazy. They certainly have no right to vandalize property or litter a childcare center with needles, and shame on the people who apparently feel that they do!

Keep it up with Bum Bot, and good for you for standing up to these bums and the activists who support them. You have at least one big fan in New York City!

Mike

________

I just want to congratulate you on being smart enough to have invented the Bum Bot, and encourage you to continue sending him on patrol! Disregard the nay-sayers, and continue "intimidating" the local criminals!!!

I wish someone in my home town had been smart enough to think of this! If only I lived in Atlanta...

________

If you have read:

http://www.9news.com/news/watercooler/article.aspx?storyid=90458

I think you are a freakin’ hero… this article says something about “homeless advocates”… these are the idiots who are also advocating letting millions of illegals into our country. I say you are a HERO, keep it up. You have every right to keep these lowlifes off your property and I feel like you are doing a service to your community.

Just my 2 cents, I love to hear of red blooded Americans standing their ground!

Dwayne, Red Blooded in Colorado

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Mr.Terrill,
I just wanted to let you know I think your bum bot is completely awesome. Good for you its about time normal citizens started taking back the streets. Crime is rampant these days and someone needs to stand up. So thank you for being a great American.

h.r.
San Diego,ca

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I enjoyed reading about the hows and whys of BumBot, I’m delighted that you are tired of waiting for the authorities to regain sense and fix the problem. With such an outcry, it sounds like you are getting it done. Best of luck from

Kelly, New Tazewell, TN

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Way to go on the Bum Bot; great idea. I live in St. Louis, and we could use a Bum Bot around here. Don't let the hippies deter you.

Anthony

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Dear Mr. Terrill

Way to go! Do not let the bleeding hearts get to you! More and more we are seeing ordinary Americans saying enough is enough and standing up to take charge of their own neighborhoods! Good for you!

Should my travels find me in Atlanta, you can bet that I will stop by to congratulate you in person!

Dave T
MMCS(SS)
US Navy Retired

________

I don't think your bot is a bad idea. Maybe if you didn't call it the "Bum Bot", people wouldn't feel so negative about it.
Best regards,
Curtis

________

Rufus,

You got on the news and you got my attention. Thank you for raising awareness that neighborhoods need to be watched by active neighbors, so that problems either get resolved or move elsewhere.

Curtis R
Dallas TX USA

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Mr Rufus Terrill,

I just read the article about your robot and I say “Good for you!”. I live in Seattle, WA and we have our fair share of vagrants and crooks and druggies and I applaud what you are doing to keep your neighborhood safe! Don’t let those pansies who are complaining that what you are doing is “intimidating” and that it’s an “obstacle”. They can cry me a river and while they’re at it they can try to grow some balls.

Keep it up! We need more people like you in the world since most of the time the police are no help whatsoever until after the fact. In my experience more times than not they’re nowhere to be found when you need them and by the time they make their way to where the problem is the situation is over and is too late (however I do respect the police and the job they do – it’s not an easy job). Be assured that you have at least one supporter here!

Take care & God bless!

Paul B

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Great idea! Screw the whiney liberals - you are doing a great service!

Go get 'em!

Jon in Ohio

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To Whom It May Concern:

I just wanted you to know that I just read an article about what you are doing there in your town with this Bum Bot. I think what you are doing is absolutely wonderful. I think this type of technology should be used more often. Who cares if the homeless are scared or intimidated by this robot? If they are then this robot is serving its purpose. I am not sure what idiots in your town would be against something like this? If it is keeping needles, crack, feces and criminals from your area and from a nearby child care center, who in their right mind would have a problem with this? If they do, then they are serious need of mental help. I guess you can’t please everyone all the time. I just wanted to send you an email of support for what you are doing in your community. If I am ever in your town, I will definitely stop in to have a drink and check out the Bum Bot! Keep up the great work. I am sure there are plenty of SMART people who truly appreciate what you are doing!

Sincerely,

Mike Miner

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Good for you!! I just read about your Bum Bot and say it’s about time somebody ran off the vermin (that include the homeless advocates). If people like you don’t fight back, they will be everywhere soon.

Bruce C

Birmingham, AL
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I really liked hearing about the Bum Bot. The AP writer sure had an agenda but the coolness still came through.

I especially like the guy from Georgia Tech that thinks that your talents could be better served finding a permanent solution for vagrancy. He's the PhD, why doesn't he find the permanent solution?
Loser.

Anyway, cool use of technology. I wish you well.

John D
Pittsburgh, PA USA
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Just finished reading a Yahoo! article about your use of the "Bum Bot". I am absolutely appalled at the pansy, hug'em, negative comments directed toward what your doing. Not only are you (oh gasp) doing something about the problem, but you and your wife have done it in a way that removes conflict. Bravo good Sir, I wish your point of view was the norm and not the exception.

Semper Fi,

C. M.

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Your accomplishments:

1. Great Irish Pub
2. Making the area safer
3. Pissing off the Libs

I salute you!

Randall R

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Rufus,
Good on you for providing Security & Leadership in your neighborhood (...and State, although as a retired Marine I lean towards the GOP side - come on over!!).

Political hunor aside, the only thing the article got wrong was use of 'EX'- Marine - no such thing, once a Marine Always a Marine.

S/F (Semper Fidelis),

Bob
Major USMC (ret.)
New Bern, NC

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Next time I am in ur neighborhood, I am going to get a Ruben & a Beer.
In honor of the Bum Bot. Keep it up.

Jim M

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I have no idea of your real motives in using the Bum Bot to patrol your neighborhood but it never ceases to amaze me how people who do not live there and certainly are not willing to stroll there after dark are so quick to criticize. No shortage of "advocates" screaming that what you are doing is wrong. Funny how there are NONE willing to stand up and address the real issues you face.

Do the right thing; keep the faith. Next time I'm in Atlanta I am coming for Fish & Chips.

Steve P, Placitas, NM
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The Few, The Proud, The Bum Bots. Don't let the cry babies get you down. Hang in there.

SEMPER FI
K. R. H.
Fairfield Glade, Tn.

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Just a note to say "congratulations" . I read the article in the technology section and was pleased with what you are doing. Day care center, play ground, or streets should not be a place for drugs and vagrants.

I could go on a rant about the bleeding liberals who say you have gone to far, and yet the question returns to what have they done to clean the area? No, I like it, I applaud it, and I congratulate you on doing something about it.

Marty
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So let me get this straight.....
You pretend to be Irish by adding an O to your name...
You pretend to be tough by using a bot to intimidate.....
You pretend to be compassionate by faking caring for those less fortunate than you....
Hmmm, Atlanta is poverty struck in more ways than one could imagine.
It's no wonder it's such a nasty place.

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I just read about the Bum Bot.. I think it's great that you are doing something about problems in your neighborhood!

Keep up the great work!

Javier F

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Just read your article and think your doing a great job for your community keep up the good work!

From one Brother to Another
Semper Fi

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Keep up the good work back there. When can I would like to shake your hand and raise a beer to your efforts. willie n

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And from Canada.....

Wow - The BumBot is quite an appropriate (daresay elegant?) response to the sort of crime that can plague a neighborhood.

This clearly hard working business owner/concerned citizen Rufus - he deserves real credit: It takes a lot of guts to go out there and basically enforce the loitering laws that the police are unable to enforce.

Also, it's this sort of "civic-mindedness" that can resurrect a neighborhood that's fallen prey to felons, and the results are felt beyond the immediate vicinity - good neighbors make good neighborhoods.

And for the commentator who felt that calling it a "Bum" Bot (as opposed to a "DrugDealer" Bot") was a slap at homeless people...Well, being a bum has nothing to do with homelessness. I don't think that homeless people - those who have fallen on hard times due to tragic circumstances and are doing their level best to cope - think of themselves as bums. A Bum (as I understand it) is a freeloader, a ne'er-do-well - even a drug dealer. Characterizing the homeless as "bums" is engaging in profiling - pure and simple.

john f. | Apr 24, 08

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Mr Terrill knows the difference between those down on their luck and the persons out there that will destroy property and whatnot to get their drug of choice.The Bumbot was his creation to protect his property due to his frustration that the police refuse to get involved with.His video will hold up in court proving an drug deal going down or an act of violence or prostitution.Those commiting such crimes truly are Bums.Water.Good. Flamethrower.Bad.No ED.209.

Ed f | Apr 23, 08

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KUDOS!@@!!@ To the man. Keep up the good work.

Mike in Ohio | Apr 23, 08

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I live near this neighborhood. I know it. The homeless shelter that gets its due in the report is not entirely honest. Homeless shelters--at least those here in Atlanta--do house the disenfranchised, the bereft, and the luckless. But homeless shelters have a cutoff time for beds and those who either do not make the cutoff time are ferried to nearby shelters that do have room. Those whom are out at the hour that the bar owner is responding to are not out for the common good. I have no doubt that such are relative occurrences in urban Canadian cities, but don't talk to me if you haven't been accosted at all hours of the day regarding your interest in procuring drugs. The BumBot may be only effective in small ways, but I wish that other business owners in these areas had the balls to do something instead to rely on a police force that care very little about enforcing the law and more about their quotas. A little robot that squirts water and flashes lights is a better semblance of safety than waking up with a sore head and a missing wallet.

Kali | Apr 23, 08
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I think its a welcome addition to a neighborhood with severe crime and drugs.

As for the person above who stated that there should be more done to help them, a very large percentage of Homeless and drug users won't accept any help that requires them to ACTUALLY get of the drugs or get a JOB!!

WHy should we WASTE monies that could be better used tor education, healthcare,... on people who won't or can't help themselves??

I am tired of MY MONIES being spent on worthless individuals who only WANT A HANDOUT!!

You go RUFUS and keep up the good work!!

Ike | Apr 22, 08
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I think the point the bar owner made about the type of people out at 2 in the morning, selling drugs and breaking into cars, is being overlooked. He said they have plenty of programs for homeless people in his city to help people get on their feet and no one needs to be out on the street at that hour. If he feels revenge by moving the criminal element out of the neighbourhood, he must have a good reason to feel that way. He doesn't seem to be targeting homeless people, just criminals.

Lucy M | Apr 21, 08

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The bumbot (what an awful name) is the worst idea I have seen in awhile. It is appalling how the owner looks at drug dealers as somehow less human than himself. Instead of bringing the community together to come up with a solution to the problem he creates a device that sprays water at people, its ridiculous and inhumane. Once again this story fails to address the root causes of crime and poverty.

Christine H | Apr 21, 08

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I think it's an indication that local authorities are overwhelmed , by crime and don't have the effectives to patrole the area properly. Not for lack of trying but just can't keep up. Local vigilente is a risk. In that case he seems to help localy. But a solution at large i wonder. His robots seems innofensive enough and its spray, a benine form of persuasion.Solidarity in the community is essential, a one man solution, is not viable nor unreliable.I can see in the future, robocop in use by the police, to patrol dagerous areas. Not prey to racisme or personnal bias.

Christian G | Apr 20, 08