Councilman removes controversial picture

<p>A Cotati city councilman has removed a racially charged picture of himself that ran on his personal blog last week and drew calls for his resignation.</p><p>Councilman George Barich said Monday he took down the picture Sunday to give the city time to resolve legal questions stemming from his use of a city logo, not because of pressure from critics.</p><p>A likeness of the city's logo remained on the site, however.</p><p>Last week his blog, which is critical of President Barack Obama, contained a picture of Barich in blackface and a music video that many viewed as racist.</p><p>"How dare anyone dictate to me how I choose to wear my hair or makeup?" Barich said.</p><p>The blog is at www.gbarich.blogspot.com.</p><p>Barich, 51, who was elected in November, has been engaged in a running battle with city management over his use of official stationery and the city's logo. He posted his picture in blackface next to the words, "The funky city," which he has suggested as a new city motto.</p><p>"To those who are so ignorant as to ask me to resign from office, I say funk no," Barich said.</p><p>-- Paul Payne</p>