How can our school board members take trips when we can't get paper to print tests to grade our students?
web posted January 31, 2009

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It was nice to read that Rep Clyburn and Sen. Massey is trying to look out for education spending. We need more money not less.

Editor's note: No one spoke of more money, just lighter cuts. That means there will still be cuts to education. The question is, will it be directed at the classroom level or at the cushy administration level. My bet, it will be in the classroom.  Cutting an overpaid admin person is not as "emotional" as cutting someone at the front lines (teachers). Then the claim is that the cuts hurt at the lowest level.

Who is running this dog and pony show?
web posted January 31, 2009

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No oil company can make money if oil is under $40. Wow! How did they do it for the last 100 years and show a huge profit. Oil companies showed a profit non-stop no matter what the price was. They have posted record profits this year and in the last quarter when the price dropped to a ten year low.? I mus besa dummas cuz I cants add.
web posted January 31, 2009

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So we need to not try to prouduce any oil in the US because its not profitable? The US would rather put money into foreign oil and keep in bed with the Saudi's. Yes, it costs millions to drill and refine however, we know where the oil is, the research has been done. The US hasn't built any new refineries and therein lies the problem. I haven't heard any of the big oil companies say that they do not want to drill or build refineries, they WANT to produce more AMERICAN oil. The problem with the cost of refinement is states like California with there emmision requirements causing them to have different requirements for gas than other states or areas within the state. While the same gas truck may deliever gas to stations in N. Augusta and Augusta, same can't be said for the left coast. If they could come up with a STANDARD for All gasoline's and quit with the special california blends, that in itself would lower the cost of gasoline.
On a slightly different note: I do wonder though, why in this economy are we spending- and continuing to spend billions of dollars in Iraq- paying for the rebuilding, when a large portion of bombing was from taliban- why aren't they using the billions of dollars Iraq has in oil for IRAQ to pay for their own rebuilding. We shouldn't make money-but we shouldn't be spending what we don't have to rebuild what they destroyed.
web posted January 31, 2009

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Dear Editor:
I would like to thank Mrs. Essie Nicholson and all the volunteers who work with the Women in Unity program.  This after school tutoring/mentoring program is making such a positive difference in so many of the youth in our community.  It is people and organizations like you that make Edgefield County such a great place to live and work. Thank you for your hard work and for the difference you are making.
Ken Durham  

Editor's note: Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham requested that his name be attached to this posting. As an elected official the request was granted.
web posted January 31, 2009

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I don't know if you know this or not but people are making copies of the recipes on your (Country) cooking section of Edgefield Daily and using them in the Chamber of Commerce Cook Book they plan to sell.

Editor's note: If true, it will be obvious and those entries used will constitute a copyright violation. EdgefieldDaily.com enforces a strict compliance of our rights to material published. Thank you for your advisory and we will be monitoring the situation earnestly..
web posted January 31, 2009

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I was told that Bettis Rainsford aint coming to the (Edgefield) county council meeting.  Do you know if that is true? How arrogant is that? Who's doing his bidding?

Editor's note: I have no information if Mr. Rainsford will or will not be at the meeting. I expect that his attendance would be required for failing to meet Chairman Kneece's deadline that expired two weeks ago. That is a guess because we know how the "majority" of the county council works.
web posted January 31, 2009

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I read (where Edgefield Mayor) Ken Durham wants everyone to play nice and not say anything bad about what is going on in our county or our towns. How nice. Don;'t point out the bad so that it can run rampant while keeping the blinders on. I call (BS). Like you said, this aint Mayberry and it aint all good.
web posted January 31, 2009

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Rod Blagojevich and Bettis Rainsford – Like two peas in a pod. One down and one to go. It is time to clean house and for a fresh start for Mount Vintage with an honest, truthful leader.
web posted January 31, 2009

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I was just reading Mr. Rainsford’s letter to the editor. 97.84%? Seriously 97.84%? How do you determine 0.84%? It isn’t quite enough for 98% but definitely too close to being finished to call it 97%? If I ever told a client a project was 97.84% finished, they would think I was an idiot.
 
Besides if he is calculating this percent complete by the amount spent todate and the amount left to spend that he gave in the letter, then it should be 97.79% complete. Wouldn’t want to misrepresent yourself as 0.05% more complete than you actually are.
web posted January 30, 2009

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Dear Editor
I don't own a newspaper, online or off, but I do own a small company.  I receive in excess of 300 emails every day.  Including the weekends.  Please ignore lonely, ignorant people.  And God bless you for not being afraid to print the truth about Big, Bubba Bettis and his "sheep".
web posted January 30, 2009

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Re: He has signed an order stopping offshore drilling, putting a nail in the coffin of american's independence from OPEC- he wants gas at $5.00/gallon so we will not drive.

At this moment a I write this post, the futures price for delivery in March for crude oil on NYMEX is $41.35 per barrel. There is no American oil company or oil services company that can produce a barrel of oil for less $40 per barrel. New production facilities cost millions and oil companies are not going to construct new facilities with that small of a margin. Look at Alaska right now, they have almost curtailed oil production because the price of a barrel is so low. Natural gas is the way to go. T Boone Pickens had the right idea. Convert all semis to natural gas first, therefore, reducing the demand for crude. Then start to convert autos/light trucks to natural gas. The problem; however, is that the futures price of natural gas at NYMEX right now is $4.48 per dekatherm which is the cheapest its been in a long time. When prices are so low, big business will not put up the production costs to build new facilities to accomplish the tasks needed to reduce energy prices for consumers.

Editor's note: You are referring to the same T. Boone Pickens that went from an oil mogul to being a natural gas mogul that has Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as a huge investor in their plan to get richer? Funny how when a Democrat pushes their investment companies it's okay and the "right thing to do".
web posted January 30, 2009

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I heard you were going to do away with the business directory? Is that true? Please tell me no because I use it a lot.

Editor's note: Yes, it is something that is being considered. There will be an announcement in the coming weeks once it has been discusses further.
web posted January 30, 2009

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the letters of intent for the district teachers have gone out.  could you please do some investigating and let the public know how many teachers were not asked to come back next year and how many programs will be cut because of it? crenshaw said that no teachers have been cut - how can she get away with that?  the career center is getting screwed, could you ask why they have not hired a replacement for the health occupations courses?  kids have signed up for the classes and there is no teacher!
web posted January 30, 2009

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The way MY math worksMt Vintage has to come up with over 11 million pretty quick and that is just to get the bank off their backs and settle the liens.  Then they have to have another 400k to pave the roads, or was the money just for the one road (Mr. Brite) was complaining about?

Editor's note: I assume that the figure Mr. Rainsford gave was to finish all infrastructure. Although he has admitted since that each time it rains the damage to the roadbed increases and therefore, again assuming, it would add to the cost of the work needed to be done before the roads can be paved.
web posted January 30, 2009

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I would like to offer some positive comments as Mr. Durham suggested in his letter. I am POSITIVE that Bettis Rainsford has once again stomped on others to enrich himself. I am POSITIVE that he considers the rest of us to be peons in HIS county. I am POSITIVE that our county would be better off if he moved away. I am POSITIVE the only reason Mr. Durham is defending him is because he is owned by Bettis Rainsford. I hope I have been POSITIVE enough for Mr. Durham.
web posted January 30, 2009

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I found this little gem in the story on Mount Vintage. "Mt. Vintage Development has, “made the decision to bring in a new contractor for the water and sewer work who was able to dedicate more resources to the project." Talk about SPIN!!!!!! In other words, they didn't pay the other contractor so they had to find a new one to do some work. I hope Town and Country Construction of Greenwood reads Edgefield Daily!
web posted January 30, 2009

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I agree with the person saying we need to attend the school board meetings. Nobody covers what is going on. That includes you mr editor. Why don't you cover them like you do the rest of the meetings around here?

Editor's note: There are several reasons. The ECBOE makes it very difficult to cover their meetings, especially for me. They start late (7pm) and their meetings run longer than any other government body, sometimes well past 10 pm and some even later. After working all day it is impossible for me to attend a meeting that late, arrive back at my office and begin work at 1 am. I tried it and it was impossible.

I try to follow the meetings in a peripheral way and try to keep abreast by talking to school board members and then cover major issues. I would be more than happy to let someone that does attend the meetings send in their take on things. This is the only government body I know of that makes the meetings almost impossible for media to cover.  They're not going to change things, I think they like it that way. In fact, they have even made the meetings start later not earlier, which decreases the chance local media can attend.

In a perfect world, ECBOE meetings would start at 4 pm.
web posted January 30, 2009

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I see the Cheeseman is back. Do you know who he is?

Editor's note: No, but I have a feeling it is the "Cheese woman". I just can't prove it. Regardless, please do not encourage him or her.
web posted January 30, 2009

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OK “Mr Editor”. I don’t believe anything you have ever said. Especially about how much email you get.  I want you to give a picture of your email right now when you read this letter. I want to see the 1,000’s of letter you get everyday. You won’t because you are a liar. You won’t even put my letter in the wondering minds.

Editor's note: Thank you for your comment. The day I listed the amount of email was the week of the death of my Mother-in-law. The emails (those that were not answered or read) created a backlog for that week as I so stated. I have complied with your request and have supplied the screen caption of email for today at the time your email was received and read.  Be advised I had already scanned and deleted spam and other useless emails before I began reading emails so over 75 emails are not shown in this caption.
web posted January 29, 2009

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I dropped our child off this morning at STHS and headed for Aiken. I noticed that I had apx 48 miles left before the guage was on empty so I stopped in at (a Trenton) gas station to pump gas and pick up a bottled water before venturing to Aiken.  When i walked into the store I noticed that the clerk had a newspaper out across the counter and was leaning on the counter talking to a gentlemen in the store.  I picked up my water and a pack of gum and proceeded to the counter. i informed the clerk that I wanted to pay for $10 in gas and showed her the gum and water. The clerk who was so busy reading the newspaper told me that I would have to pay for my gas at the pump and that there was a $5.00 minimum to purchase anything with my card in the store.  What??? Why couldn't she ring up my gas, water and gum as would be done at any other store?  What kind of business practice is this?  Obviously they do not practice customer service!  I left and bought nothing from (the store). The story gets better....I make it to Aiken and stop at (another store) at the corner of Hwy. 19 and I-20.  I go in, pick up my water and gum and the clerk is so nice.  She rings up my gas, water and gum but my card does not work because the strip on the back has worn slap off. I told her I had money in the car and would be right back...a very kind deed happened next, the fella behind me quickly steps up and pays for my purchase ($10 in gas, water, and gum, about $14) and was happy to help....he turned a frustrating morning into a pleasant day. Now i will pay that good deed forward and to whomever that nice man was, thank you.
web posted January 29, 2009

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I would like to offer a few comments on Edgefield Mayor (Ken) Durham’s letters to the Editor. I applaud his effort to see more positive comments from citizens of Edgefield County in the Wandering Minds although I feel he is misdirecting his resentment towards the Wandering Minds and Edgefield Daily and not on those responsible for the impetus that draws the criticisms he finds so offensive.

(EdgefieldDaily.com) has done more to inform the citizens of our county of what is taking place far beyond that of any local medium in the last 20 years. Though this is just my personal view, I feel that the Editor has done more to investigate, report, and allow for a true honest and open discussion of matters that are paramount to our success as a county. I do not see that as a negative, but rather a positive.

I agree with Mayor Durham and encourage those who send in comments to highlight the positive aspects of our great county. Conversely, I would not discourage anyone from pointing out the problems that are in desperate need of attention, and we have many.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments.
web posted January 29, 2009

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President Obama put together a 600+ page "stimulus" bill. Exactly what is in this bill that is so urgent that it must be passed now without full knowledge of what is actually contained in the bill. Are we suppose to blindly support everything  this president wants passed? So far I have learned according to The Drudge Report
"The House Democrats' bill includes $335 million for sexually transmitted disease education and prevention programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In the past, the CDC has used STD education funding for programs that many Members of Congress find objectionable and arguably unrelated to a mission of economic stimulus [such as funding events called 'Booty Call' and 'Great Sex' put on by an organization that received $698,000 in government funds.]
 
They had a provision to replace the sod on the national mall that was removed from the bill along with provisions for birth control. Last night on the Glenn Beck show he read a provision on illegal immigrants that made absolutely no sense, and no one could explain what exactly the provision was saying. So far this president has decided to close Gitmo- without knowing what to do with the detainee's including stopping the case of the bomber of the USS Cole. He has signed an order stopping offshore drilling, putting a nail in the coffin of american's independence from OPEC- he wants gas at $5.00/gallon so we will not drive. He has signed an order so that the government pays for abortions in Mexico. Boy, I am so glad he did these things his first week in office, I was losing sleep over this stuff, Is this the change that everyone voted for? (not me) He has appointed lobbyist to his staff - but didn't he promise NOT to have lobbyist in his white house? Yep he's like Ol'e "honest Abe"- who wasn't honest, its like calling a used car salesman "honest john's used cars" he is a great orator, comes up with documents that do nothing but people think are the second coming.for example, Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation that actually didn't free a single slave. But historians make you believe he did it with the stroke of his pen.- Its time to stop drinking the Kool-aid and look at what this president is doing and not saying. Contact your US congressmen and let them no that you do not support this "stimulus bill" and want one of real substance. not another bill full of pork.
web posted January 29, 2009

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I think your math skills match mine.  Doesn't seem like there has been careful planning for MV development.  More money owed than is available, doing work that can't be paid for and work needing to be done that there is no money to get done.  Didn't know the "rules" or had them waived.  No wonder this county's economic development has gone nowhere.  Isn't Rainsford on that committee.  Hmmmm.
web posted January 29, 2009

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RE:  Not only will the Career Center be short staff, but STHS will be short staff.  At least one math teacher will be let go at the end of this year because of TERI.
 
Our county has many "at-will" employees (teachers), as they are being called.  These are people in positions of TERI and retirees.  My question is does Dr. Crenshaw plan on giving formal notification to these employees that they will not return next year?  Not one of these employees has seen a memo or formal letter stating that there services will no longer be needed.  It is all hearsay.  Sure, she came to our schools and MENTIONED that this might be a possibility, but to my knowledge no one has been told to their faces by her or by human resources that they will not have a job.  And what about all of the days they have accumulated?  Some of these employees are sitting with 60-70 sick days.  Will those days be tossed out with them as well? Some have already turned in days to count towards retirement and STILL have a lot to "burn".    AND have we truly evaluated some of the positions that were "created" just to keep employees at a school?  It isn't fair that valuable teachers may lose their jobs, while we continue to fund these "created" positions.
web posted January 29, 2009

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No one can speak out against Messiah!  If you do, then you will be persecuted. I wonder where these fools were when everyone was hating on Bush….oh, they were leading the charge.
web posted January 29, 2009

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Dear, Mr. Editor
 
I have had a view for a long time on how to fix the recession,and grant it some people might call me  UN-American,but it would be CEO's of big businesses and other country where the work has gone to ,but I feel it would work.  First I am a republican,and my idea would take for the Democrats,and Republicans,and independent parties in Washington to play nice together.  First part of the solution would be get a list of industries that say they are American made,and have moved the industries to a foreign country but left there headquarters here in the U.S. so they can get away with out having to pay higher wages and higher taxes,and let them know we are going to treat them like a foriegn country industry and charge them tariffs,other taxes associated with foreign goods.
 
Second we would have to look here in the U.S at businesses who close the doors on stores and plants suddenly without giving the employees any notices.  Fine them and the business who are hireling people here illegally fine them or make them close door till they hire American citizens.  As I understood the union has always been around but to me the union is what lead to the recession.  Don,t get me wrong in the late 1800's and early 1900's the unions use to be good but I feel have out grown the reason created and has caused lot of theses business to close or seek somewhere to make cheaper goods so they can avoid the high cost situation the unions have put them in therefore helping create the recession.
 
I believe if you treat these companies as foreign goods and make them agree to move 90% of their industry back to the U.S. and hire American citizens and limit the unions hands in it we can solve the recession.

Editor's note: Without cutting corporate and business taxes fining companies for seeking to locate outside the US is not going to solve any problems, but will encourage companies to move their home offices outside the US as well. The problem is the Democrat controlled US government is anti-capitalism and its tax policies are responsible for driving companies to divest to foreign markets to compete. If you want to blame someone for the companies going overseas, you need not look further than the US Congress, Republican and Democrats included.
web posted January 29, 2009

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RE: I read the story on the teacher that cussed at the kids in a computer class at Fox Creek and saw the video (by WRDW News 12). If this happened at Thurmond he would be fired on the spot.
 
Don't be so sure of that. A couple of  years ago there was a coach there who cussed the players each time they were loosing. This coach was not a football coach.  The coach (allegedly) used the F word and GD repeatedly at the team. Sure it was known by the coach's boss, and the parents, but nothing was ever done about it. The players were also taken to  bar & grills after away games. Bar....a place where drinking is occurring. Is this any place to take a group of high school athletes? This coach finally left on their own and went to a neighboring county to coach...thank goodness! I know all this because my child played under this coach, and I was there.
web posted January 29, 2009

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My life is complete, Cheese man is back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Editor's note: 
web posted January 29, 2009

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Editor's post: It seems Mt. Vintage is in a bit of another pickle with the road paving and infrastructure problems. According to public records, Jon Prince of Prince Grading Company, Inc. has placed another lien on the property of Mt. Vintage Development for $661,623.63 as of December 31, 2008.

Call it a hunch, but I believe that will throw a little hitch in the ability of Mt. Vintage to complete the project and the claim by Bettis Rainsford who stated in his letter to the editor, "To date we have invested $16,656,970 and calculate that we have only $368,113 left to spend. We are currently 97.84% complete."

Granted, I may not have been that great at math, but even I can see problems with that equation.
web posted January 28, 2009

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It makes me wonder why the parents of the student at Fox Creek would turn to channel 12 (WRDW News 12) to get something done about the teacher that cussed out the students instead of going to the school board.
web posted January 28, 2009

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Geez! You think Mr. Naas was mad or what? As a teacher at unmentioned high school in Edgefield County, I work extremely hard to keep my classroom in order, but kids will be kids. You have to patient with teenagers. Sometimes I feel like I am about to blow my top, but I know that I have twenty pairs of eyes staring at me. Not only is it a bad example to rant and rave in front of students, it is also very unprofessional. As for Dr. Murph, I don't know what he is doing about the situation, but if that happened at unmentioned high school the teacher's behind would be in a sling. Unmentioned high school's new principal would not put up with that kind of behavior. I said unmentioned because I don't want to come out and say the name of the school, but I am sure anyone can figure it out.
web posted January 28, 2009

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I saw on the news where SC needs more money for schools.  Have you looked at the amount of money being funded for each student?  That is almost as much as some people make in an annual salary.  It is not just about getting the funds, it is what you do with those funds.  When teachers cannot provide supplies and instructional materials for students and the board and administrators can take trips, there is something seriously wrong with this picture.  If the "standards for teaching and testing" were fully accountable with funding tied to students actual success, progress may become a reality.  The economy is in the tank, education is failing, people are losing jobs and yet the planned stimulus package includes millions for projects which will not begin to solve the problem. 
 
Shane Massey is correct there needs to be a group studying better ways of funding than always putting it on the backs of taxpayers who are facing their own budget cuts daily.  While they are at it, the group needs to review what is working and what is not in the educational system.  When teachers are allowed to teach according the needs of the students, then and only then will you see our young people succeed.  Throwing money trying to find a program that works while ignoring the fact that these children do not get the basics will keep them on a treadmill of failure.
web posted January 28, 2009

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You just look for stuff to report on Fox Creek. Why don't you spend some time looking at all the criminals Strom Thurmond has?

Editor's note: When arrests or criminal activity occurs at Strom Thurmond, Fox Creek, or any other school it is reported. Do not blame the messenger.
web posted January 28, 2009

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I am catching up on my reading of Wandering Minds today and just read the details of one gentleman’s life that was the most interesting thing I have read in quite some time.  I wish all of the Wandering Minds could be that interesting.  I am glad you allowed the full content, because it made me realize that there are some real people out there that seem to enjoy life and don’t go about bragging about what they have or complaining about what they do not have.

One thing he said he hasn’t done and that was go to Hawaii.  Well, I haven’t done any of the other things he has, but we saved enough money and went to Hawaii several years ago and he should book a trip soon and enjoy it to its fullest.  Since he has money but does not seem to be a worldly person, he need to rent a car and travel the road to Hana all the way around the Island.  It will be a trip he will long remember, just as I have. 

I would love to shake his hand some day and tell him personally what a delight it was to read his Wandering Minds (post).

Editor's note: He does not want to be known and I do not release the name of anyone posting to the Wandering Minds unless I am specifically instructed to do so, and even then the request is not always granted.
web posted January 28, 2009

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We support Fox Creek and our kids go there but I can't excuse the things that happen. Mrs. Bishop and the BOD (Board of Directors) need to do something to put a stop to the madness. It seems like they would rather gloss over all the problems and put on the pretty face for everyone. I understand that to a point but it is obvious that the kids and the teachers know rules don't apply.  Thank you for pointing out these things because it forces them to do what is right. We sure can't do it by going to the meetings. Sad but true.
web posted January 28, 2009

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RE: crenshaw said that no teachers have been cut

Not only will the Career Center be short staff, but STHS will be short staff.  At least one math teacher will be let go at the end of this year because of TERI.  Several math teachers are having to teach overloads this school year to cover a position not filled last summer.  With the second teacher gone, the 2009-2010 school year will only mean more overloads or gigantic classes for the math teachers who remain at STHS. Also, some of the science department teachers are currently teaching overloads as well. This position may or may not be filled for the coming school year. These positions do not include teachers who have had their fill of the destruction of the Edgefield County School system and have decided to give another a try.
web posted January 28, 2009

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I was so pleased to wake up this morning and read Mayor Durham's letter!  This is the kind of attitude that has the ability to make Edgefield an amazing place.  It's time to focus on the goodness in life and all for which we have to be GLAD!
web posted January 28, 2009

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Is the camera on the square online yet?  If it is, where can it be found?  

Editor's note: I spoke with Mayor Durham on Monday and it was not "live". I stopped by again on Tuesday and he was not in his office. As soon as I am informed the web cam is available I will place the link in a permanent location.
web posted January 28, 2009

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Wow the two things we all love to hate. Bettis and Fox Creek. When one dead horse have been beat to death here comes the other one. Lets see who will out do who this time… *sigh*
web posted January 28, 2009

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I've been reading the comments and articles about Mr. Rainsford and Mount Vintage.  I stopped to get gas yesterday at the downtown Edgefield Fuel & Convenience (EFC), which, as I understand it, is owned by Mr. Rainsford.  I started thinking about the articles and comments that have been made on my drive home.  I remember Mr. Rainsford claiming that Mount Vintage has brought so much revenue to the county.  MV must have brought the same amount of expenses to the county, too, because my property taxes haven't gone down.  If Mr. Rainsford wants to honestly say he's helped the people of Edgefield County, then lower your gas prices at the almost monopoly of convenience stores you own.  My unscientific research shows that North Augusta, Greenwood, Aiken, and even McCormick stores have consistently lower prices than EFC. Maybe this $0.10 - $0.25 per gallon is what will be used to pave the MV roads.
web posted January 28, 2009

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As a tax paying citizen of Edgefield County, what can I do to encourage formal charges be filed against the FCHS students that vandalized school property that I pay taxes on? The parents of these kids should have their pay garnished to pay for the damage and be required to attend, with their kid, rehab for drugs, alcohol and anger management. The kids did the right thing to turn themselves in as they may get some much needed professional intervention with what appears to be some obvious developmental  problems.

Editor's note: As I have been informed by investigators, the parents of the students can be held liable for the damages intentionally inflicted by the teens. I doubt any of them will see jail time for the incident.
web posted January 28, 2009

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does obama be fibbing
web posted January 28, 2009

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Did somebody say Cheese? Cheese? I LOVE CHEESE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Give me CHEESE! Cheese is a gift from the cow gods. It is the only real food. CHEESe pizza, CHEESE and crackers, CHEESE and wine, CHEESE and broccoli, CHEESE on anything is better!!!!!! I LOVE CHEESE!!!!!!!! I LOVE CHEESE!!! Visit the I Love Cheese website!!!!!!!!!!! My homepage.

Editor's note: Why me? What did I do to ever deserve this?
web posted January 28, 2009

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I was glad to see Coach Sawyer was staying at STH. I heard the rumors he was leaving from our son who plays football.  We;ve got a great team and I think we can repeat for a state title. That is because of Coach Sawyer. Thank you for staying with us and making this program the best in the state. Get involved and join the Booster Club at STH and show your support.
web posted January 27, 2009

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I read the story on the teacher that cussed at the kids in a computer class at Fox Creek and saw the video (by WRDW News 12). If this happened at Thurmond he would be fired on the spot. But Fox Creek wants to keep it all hush hush. Why do they think they are so special? I'm sick of those in Merriwether acting like they are better than everybody else in the county.

Editor's note: Do not label the Merriwether Community for the actions of Fox Creek Charter High School students. The vast majority of Merriwether students attend school in the Edgefield County Public School system. Fox Creek is a Charter School and has their own School Board independent of the Edgefield County School District. The only recourse the ECBOE has is to revoke the charter they granted for the school. The ECBOE did recently vote to extend the charter of Fox Creek in spite of violations to their stated charter.
web posted January 27, 2009

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I wanted to weigh in on the Townes Rd story. Why is it people build houses on a dirt road and then want to complain they live on a dirt road? DUH! You built your house on a dirt road!!!!!! How is that our problem? Here's something to look into. How many of these people are from Edgefield County? I bet almost all of them came from somewhere else and want to make us pay for their road to get paved. I've lived on a dirt road for 30 years and I like it that way. If they wanted to live on a paved road BUY A HOUSE ON A PAVED ROAD! 
web posted January 27, 2009

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Dear Edgefield Daily Editor,

Politicians and educational bureaucrats often characterize public schools as a progressive tool for social justice.
In South Carolina this claim doesn't stand up. Learn more:

"Race Gaps widen in South Carolina’s public schools"
web posted January 27, 2009

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RE: Great now we have students and teachers showing how ignorant they are! The pride and joy of Merriwether... Fox Creek
 
My guess is you are a ST parent that packed meetings years ago for a NEW HIGH SCHOOL and then turned your back on every  STUDENT that attends FC , just to be sitting and waiting for something to pop up on the news So you can GOSSIP !!!! ENOUGH ALREADY !!!!  We should support all the children in this community , We as Adults should not be playing this game with our Kids !! 
YOU have a choice ! FC , ST , or Wardlaw   Please make your Choice  and THEN SUPPORT ALL OF THE CHILDREN OF EDGEFIELD CO SCHOOLS !!!
web posted January 27, 2009

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I have to say I got a laugh out of the comments Dr. Tim Murph saying the kids at Fox Creek (Charter High School) would lead with distinction in Merriwether. Yeah, I get that feeling too but it aint a good one. I don’t remember the last time I heard of a kid at STH getting arrested for a big time crime but I seem to remember Fox Creek and their kids getting locked up all the time. A word to the wise, Dr. Murph might not want to go around tooting his horn and drawing attention to his school that harbors druggies that get to stay in school and their own students trashing the school about every month. The gem of Edgefield County schools is a lump of coal.
web posted January 27, 2009

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman J. Gresham Barrett released the following statement on President Obama’s executive order overturning the Mexico City policy, which prohibited taxpayer-funded abortions through international “family-planning” organizations:

“President Obama promised to bring change to our country. His decision to overturn the Mexico City policy effectively forces taxpayers to pay for abortions carried out overseas. That is not the kind of change Americans had hoped for.

“As a firm believer in the sanctity of life, I am deeply troubled by the President’s decision. Yesterday, thousands gathered in Washington to mark the 36th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision to legalize abortion, and today, President Obama, without the consent of Congress, has in essence signed a check on behalf of the American taxpayers to fund abortions overseas.
 
“I remain committed to working with my pro-life colleagues to protect the lives of the unborn.”
web posted January 27, 2009

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How sad that this beautiful county is being seen in such a negative manner.  Secrets for too long have been kept.  Certain citizens given preferential treatment to the detriment of the county.  People not checking carefully regarding roads, developments etc.  Looking the other way and errors in judgment.  Voting without thinking and not getting the true facts.  County council wake up, pay attention and be willing to make good decisions.  We knew the new breeze blowing through the council would bring change.  We can only hope that breeze infiltrates the other members to get this county moving in the right direction.  Are you willing to stand for what is right and just, are you willing to tell the citizens why you make the decisions you make or do you think the old way of doing business will carry you into the future? 
 
Planning on attending the council meeting February 3rd?  Better get there early, standing room only and a long night seems to be in store.
web posted January 27, 2009

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Congratulations to Dr. Crenshaw. There were only 8 errors in this week's Superintendent's Brief.
web posted January 27, 2009

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Is it ironic that at least two of the four folks involved in the FCHS vandalizing were members of the football team??  Guess all that time spent in the mandatory "character building class" did not result in the desired results.  Seems that someone can"t coach OR teach. I did hear that the Deetroit Lions were looking for a coach to continue their tradition of losing.
web posted January 27, 2009

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Hats off to Joel Jolly and Charles Kemp for attending School Board meetings and asking questions. These two men cannot do it alone. If you care about our school system please let's fill up the Board room at the next Board meeting. You really have to see it to believe it! Thanks also to Chris Hoffman and Brad Covar for thier integrity!
web posted January 27, 2009

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Fox Creek High School is having its share of staff and student issues recently. I have a child that attends there. My child enjoys the school, and for the most part the staff. I believe that when you see this much smoke there has to be a fire , or at least a hot spot. It is apparent to me that the student body is lacking in discipline. My child tells me that the students are constantly damaging the building, spitting tobacco everywhere, and showing generally a total lack of respect. This respect starts at home, but at school respect must be earned and expected. There are a lot of lack of attention to details in the day to day operation at the school. This will need to be improved on before moving into the new facility if the staff wants to be successful. Rules must be evenly and fairly enforced. The respect needed by the staff is earned, it is apparent that this respect has not being earned. I hear nightmare stories of people in employment at the this school, illustrating unprofessional and unacceptable behavior. If I hear it then the students are hearing it also. I know for a fact, because I have witnessed it, of people walking into the school that do not even have a student attending this school, and walking down the hall as if they have business in the building, just to visit with staff. People entering a school that are not employees should be checked in and out at the office, to assure that we have a secure facility for our children, even if they do have  children attending. Why would we have people in our school at their leisure walking through at will? Why would someone have their child attend another school, but then insist on staying in Fox Creek at all times? These things present problems and questions that the school does not need. It should be maintained like any other school. I can guarantee this person that so freely passes through Fox Creek would not be allowed to do so at say North Augusta, or Strom Thurmond. Some methods are tried and true, let’s try them first before creating a new wheel. Vested interest in the school is someone that has business, or children here. Anyone exposed to our children through a school atmosphere should have a S.L.E.D. background check before being allowed to have free rain. I am in favor of a school on the lower end of the county due to the distance and time to get to Thurmond. The size of the school, and the atmosphere, for the most part is excellent. Let’s not let it get away from us. Correcting it now will be easier than later.
web posted January 27, 2009

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I have a problem with the camera on the (Edgefield) town square. I don't want people being able to watch me when I do my business. It's none of their business. Recording it is one thing but to make it available on the (world wide) web is another. I say until Mayor Durham wants a camera in front of his house on the web he shouldn't put one of the town on the web. His street is a "public place" too.
web posted January 26, 2009

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Great article on the SC Constitution being created "in sin". Thought I would pass it on for your readers.
web posted January 26, 2009

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This is a link WLTX provides called Data Center....http://www.wltx.com/news/datacenter
 
From this you can access http://www.wltx.com/news/story.aspx?storyid=69455&catid=279 which is school district salaries and look for Aiken County, Edgefield County, Saluda County.....you can see there is a bunch of FAT at top with administration.
 
Also is a football coaches database.  These folks are our worst teachers  http://www.thestate.com/midlandspreps/football/story/646872.html
 
I have sent to everyone who I think will publicize this and see the overpay that coaches and district personnel receive.
web posted January 26, 2009

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I don't know if you saw the video of the teacher at Fox Creek cussing the kids but here it is. (The submitted video provided was not able to be duplicated for distribution due to format). Why is this guy even allowed in a public school? Like everything else it will will swept under the rug.

Editor's note: If the entire video that is being circulating is provided in a format to EdgefieldDaily.com (can be sent to 803-643-0964) that can be converted it will be published in its entirety.
web posted January 26, 2009

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I see (County Council Chairman) Monroe (Kneece) is giving Bettis (Rainsford) and Mt. Vintage (Development) another two weeks to try to get out from under his time line. That's a farce. The county council is a farce, it's all a farce. It's all in who you know.

Editor's note: I tend to believe that Chairman Kneece is seeking legal advice from the Association of Counties. Granted, that advice should have been sought the day after the initial meeting and not the week of the deadline passing. I doubt the two extra weeks will provide Mr. Rainsford any cover as the paving will not take place before the meeting.
web posted January 26, 2009

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Great! Now we have students and teachers at Fox Creek showing how ignorant they are. The kids get arrested for drugs and go back to school, four are arrested for causing $20K in damages at their beloved school, and a teacher cusses the kids out during class.  It wasn't that long ago a teacher nutted up and also had to be arrested if I remember right.  The pride and joy of Merriwether... Fox Creek HS.
web posted January 26, 2009

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An argument most people have against Fox Creek is that the school has a high percentage of students from out of the county.   Did the students that did the vandalism at THE CASINO resided outside of Edgefield County?

Editor's note: I do not have the residence information of the students at this time.
web posted January 26, 2009

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This is for the poster who declared Wardlaw Academy a second rate school.  My children graduated from Wardlaw.They were successful in college and graduated with honors. While it is true that Wardlaw cannot offer everything due to its size, and it isn't the place for children with certain learning disabilities, it is NOT second rate. In addition to the academics, Wardlaw offers a safe environment where students are taught Christian values. I am not a racist, and my children did not go there for that reason. I have always supported public schools. I attend the sports events, concerts, and plays. I participate in the fund raisers, and I want our public schools to succeed. However, I will ALWAYS support Wardlaw Academy and be thankful for the background, both socially and academically, that it afforded my children! Go, Patriots!
web posted January 26, 2009

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To the poster that wrote in about Wardlaw being a second rate private school... On what grounds are you basing this? I went to Wardlaw and graduated many years ago and if I was still in the area I hope I would be able to send my children there. It has nothing to do with being white. It has to do with the fact that God has been removed from any and all aspects of public schools. It has to do with the amount of parental involvement in their kids lives. It has to do with the quality of education. This is not a dig at the teachers in public schools. It's a fact. The public school system has been consumed with testing and the teachers are limited to what they can teach and are only supposed to teach what the kids need to know to do well on these stupid state standardized tests. This has come from the state department, not the local schools. It mostly has to do with the sorry school board not holding anyone accountable for anything they do because "it is their right". You are basically saying Wardlaw is biased toward whites and that is why it is substandard. What about the Edgefield County school board? Are you telling me the board is not biased toward blacks? A black student is given a slap on the wrist for any and all behavior issues because it's in their culture to do these things. To fight, drink, do drugs...there are no consequences!  The school rules say that they will be arrested for fighting and they will be expelled for drinking and drugs but when it goes before the school board what do you know... They get off and get to come back to school!  This type of behavior and lack of morals is encouraged and supported by the school board! At Wardlaw you don't need a sheriff there to make sure everyone is safe. It is a wonderful Christian school where the parents are all involved in their kids lives and education and the result is excellently educated, successful adults who have learned to make the right choices in life.  Teachers and district employees should be able to send their children where they know they will get the best education, in the safest environment. If someone feels that is Wardlaw - then more power to them! After all ... That is their RIGHT!
web posted January 26, 2009

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Well it looks like once again Big Bubba Bettis is going to have his way.  He's shown the council and all who live in Edgefield County that he runs the show.  The council has folded before him again.  His being drug across the carpet was just for show.  Why is it that we aren't just cutting out the middle man?  Instead of paying all our taxes to the county and then them padding the pocket of Bettis Rainsford, why don't we just pay him directly?  Oh wait... that would mean we wouldn't need a council or property "evaluators" (I heard this word just this last week) or even a Mayor.  Who on earth would do the bidding of Bettis without them?
web posted January 26, 2009

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I have read with interest the negative comments from posters concerning some public school staff members whom choose to send their children to private schools. I would dare to pose a few questions.
 
Wonder why Bill Clinton as President Of The United States chose to send his daughter to private school instead of the public schools in Washinton, D.C.? Didn't President Obama enroll his two children in private school? Aren't the President and The Department Of Education  ultimalty held accountable for our public school system? Isn't this a system which year after year contiunes to spend billions of dollars and thousands of dollars per student only to remain stagnate at best? And with all the trillions of dollars spent, why is the only solution offerd is "we need more money"? Why is there no prayer in public schools? Why is it necessary to have a Sherrif's Duputy at the school every time the doors are opened? Why is there so much discontent at the teacher and parent levels as evidenced on Edgefielddaily.com? And the questions go on.......
 
Every parent, whether pubicly or privantly employed has the right and responsibility to answer such questions for themselves. And they have the right and responsibility to act accordingly. They should not be rediculed for making what thay believe is the best choice for their children. That choice has no effect on their employment performance.
 
The last poster refered to the education of our young people as a "business". To the govenment, yes it is. To concerned parents, it is much more. This is not an attempt to bash public education. I finished at Stom Thurmond and earned a degree from USC. The kids at Thurmond now can get a great education if they want one. And their being there is their parents' choice. That is their right.
 
But wait..... Wardlaw should apply as a Charter School. Improved facilities with government money from ECSD. A north side Fox Creek. AHH.... but no prayer, no volunteer bible study, answering to govt. regulations, teacher discontent, no paper for the copy machine, administrators in Washington for Obama's day. Maybe not............
 
I would suggest that we let parents be parents and  respect their decision as to what is best for their children's situation without casting stones.
web posted January 26, 2009

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Re: Dear Edgefield Daily Editor, Check out this new video on the Voice for School Choice.

Exactly my thoughts all along.  I pay for my children to attend a private school.  The school in my district receives funds for my children to attend there and yet I pay the private school out of my own pocket.  The price I pay for a wonderful learning environment, a top notch education is less than half of what is being wasted on public schools here.  The teachers aren't being given the funds in these public schools.  The teachers aren't being given the authority to teach or discipline the children.  They are told discipline is to be done at home, however if it were being handled at home the children would respect their teachers more.
 
Then again if the teachers were given the funds to teach our children the way they should be taught, there would be a lot less money left over for nonsense trips and vacations for the "administration".
web posted January 26, 2009

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First, I want to express my sincerest sympathies to you, your wife and family on the loss of Ms. Adams. Although I have not had a chance to post sooner, I have kept you all in my prayers.
 
Now concerning the four young men that vandalized Fox Creek, it seems to me that they are in dire need of the mentoring that FCHS is now offering!   Apparently, it has been lacking at home.

Editor's note: Thank you for you condolences.
web posted January 26, 2009

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I recently viewed your website and found an article thinking I was going to laugh but I found it a little uncalled for. Maybe ones might find it funny but I don't. I understand this young man did not need to be driving because he had no DL and had been drinking and yes he should have been locked up for that. But what I can't understand is why would Edgefield Daily tell his past???????? And why couldn't you use John Doe's name instead of his real name. I'm sure Mr. Crow really doesn't appreciate he name all over the web for everyone to see and laugh at.. If they find it funny.
 
No one needs to be drinking and driving!!!!!!!
 
But what you must realize is half the people in Edgefield County has had a DUI. Some don't get one because they know someone and let them slide by or it happen when they where a lot younger. If one make that decision to drink stay at home or a least have a sober driver on hand or a call away...

Editor's note: The information provided in the report was taken from official incident reports on the arrest and all arrests are reported with the name of the individual(s) arrested. We do not believe in leaving out information in our reports regardless of whether or not it favors one side more than the other. We just report the facts. You can judge the facts on your own terms.
web posted January 26, 2009

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Reading the Edgefield Advertiser this week regarding George Brightharp gives me a better understanding of the word "Cult".  Apparently, if you tell some people something over and over, they really do begin to believe it. Regardless of the fact that they know the truth.  How can you say that Christ lives within you when you let the Devil walk with you and embellish on the truth.
 
Do you also believe God was smiling down on you when you maliciously ejected his children from His House?  Obviously your mind is clouded and your heart is veiled because by reading that article one would almost believe you are proud of what your "Magnet" of a "Spiritual Leader" has done to the faithful.
 
The most valid point in the article was the one referring to Brightharp as a "Comedian".
 
However, somehow I don't believe God is laughing at any of this.
 
 WORDS TO THE WISE  "DON'T DRINK THE KOOL-AID"!!!
web posted January 24, 2009

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I think a KUDOS section would be a good thing...but then you will probably have alot of stuff that  is junk and no one really cares about and  then you are going to have to do alot more reading of emails...of which I know you and your staff do not have time.  You do a wonderful job...I admire your guts to publish sutff that the people in higher places don't want us to know.  You have done wonders for
Edgefield County whether you realize it or not.

Editor's note: Thank you for your comments. It takes a lot of work to make EdgefieldDaily.com possible each day. It is nice that it is appreciated.
web posted January 24, 2009

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To the person that wrought in about Mt Canaan unplug your computer and go fishing. You are really an ignorant person to go and start that mess up again. You are the trouble maker I see why no one paid you any attention and you are mad because they did not give you a position or recognize you during hour of power. You see why they don’t. Trouble Maker
web posted January 24, 2009

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re:good news
I like the idea of good news but not a section. There is good news on edgefielddaily when there is good news.
I do not attend Edgefield First Baptist church, but I must say I truly have enjoyed their Pastors storys, he lifts my spirit. Keep the articles coming.
I would like and online forum where we can debate in real time wouldn't that be great.
 
oh well just and idea.

Editor's note: I tried that in the beginning. It was a nightmare. If you think comments posted now are rough, you have no idea what was being posted. With this format I have at least four or five a day that reconsider their submissions and write later to say to discard their comment.

The format of the Wandering Minds will stay for the time being.
web posted January 24, 2009

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Can someone please tell me how Foxcreek High School's Board can expel the 4 students under investigation for vandalism? They already set the president in pass years by letting a football player back in school after getting caught red handed with drugs at the school?

I'm not condoning either action, just trying to figure out what kind of logic their using?  
web posted January 24, 2009

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Dear Edgefield Daily Editor,

Check out this new video on the Voice for School Choice.

Senator Lourie (Richland/Kershaw) learns how school choice will save public schools money
web posted January 24, 2009

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It has been interesting reading Wandering Minds from afar.  It is a venue for attack and counterattack but actually it is far more than that, it is a mirror on the spiritual condition of the contributors.  It provides an unintended platform for self-indictment for far more is being revealed than the “facts” that the writer wants to expound.  The very condition of the soul of the writer is revealed in neon clarity and recorded in perpetuity. 

The fifth chapter of Galatians includes two lists against which we can evaluate a person’s spiritual condition.  The first and the most undesirable list includes such personal traits as, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy.  The second and most desirable list includes such traits as, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  I will not go into the spirituals consequences of these various traits because they are as close as your bible.  I do not indict any who have written and as I said your column provides an excellent forum for self-disclosure of what is good and what is bad within the writer.
 
My initial observation is that far too many of your contributors are consumed by attributes of the first list.  This is sad and reflects a lack of community or at least a community with a modicum of conflict.  Nothing but personal obstinacy precludes a person or community from embracing the desirable graces of the second list.

I am familiar with the spires that grace the skyline of Edgefield but the level of discord makes me question the effectiveness of the content of the preaching and whether or not lives are being changed beneath those steeples. 

A casual reading of Wandering Minds, however, does clearly indicate that both prince and pauper need to join hands and seek the “royal way” of love to build a life together that fosters the blessings of community and peace.
web posted January 24, 2009

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How much does a lot on a $3 Million Golf Course cost.  I might want to have MY lot on the golf course revalued since its a cheaper golf course now.
web posted January 24, 2009

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Re: "Good News Section": That would be nice. I am tired of all the whining and crying about Obama and Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 24, 2009

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Poor Mr. Rainsford, so poor that he can only put banner ads for Mt Vintage on the city of Aiken web site, and none on the Edgefield chamber site. Exactly who are you promoting? North Augusta addresses for Mt Vintage, N. Augusta contact numbers , city of Aiken web site, exactly how is this helping Edgefield County?
web posted January 24, 2009

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If you are in the Business of Education and yes he is.  His children need to be a part of that Business and yes It is public education.  The best system in the county is the public system.   Wardlaw is a second rate private school that was founded so white parents would have an option.   To all the public school teachers and staff who send there children to Wardlaw you need to change your profession.  If you don't believe in your product you should be fired.
web posted January 24, 2009

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It still bothers me that the County SPENT over $50,000 by placing gravel on (Johns Road)., prior to the Women’s Golf Tournament. If I remember, the gravel was approimately 6 inchs deep.  That could have covered many unpassable roads in the county.
web posted January 24, 2009

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Editor's post: I ran across an interesting tidbit the other day. While Mr. Rainsford wants to tout how much money he has brought the county in property taxes paid by residents of Mt. Vintage (money paid by them, not him) he has not mentioned all the money he spent to keep himself from having to pay those same taxes.

During the most recent reassessment the golf course at Mt. Vintage was valued at $8,896,899. Now there is some real tax money for Edgefield County. Alas, that money would have to come from Mr. Rainsford’s project and pocket. Completely unacceptable.

He appealed his assessment, as did hundreds of others (who saw no relief), and the value was dropped to $5,629,043. Not good enough for Mr. Rainsford. Though in the case Rainsford claimed those who bought property on the golf course indeed needed to see an increase in their assessment, Mt. Vintage did not.

So he took the matter to court. Armed with paid “experts” Mr. Rainsford was able to convince the judge to lower the property value to a mere $3,114,000 reducing the value by $5,782,899. That’s a lot of tax money that did not go to the county he “so loves”.

Then it dawned on me. In addition to spending all this money to hire people to get him out of paying his “fair share” of taxes and wanting those who bought property from him to pay theirs, he can’t find the money to finish the required infrastructure on the newest section of Mt. Vintage so those residents can be added to the tax books. That means they are not paying taxes either.

Why didn’t Mr. Rainsford spend his money (obviously he had money to hire these very expensive “experts” to do studies last year) to complete the infrastructure for those new lot owners on the “New Nine”?

Of course, don’t forget, Mr. Rainsford was the one who went to the County Council and the School Board seeking thousands of our tax dollars to lobby to get money from Fairfield County because they have a power plant going in there.

Funny, Mr. Rainsford always seems to be looking to take money from everyone else’s pocket and then boast about what he does, while he will spend his money to keep from paying his own “fair share”. 

Kettle calling the pot black.

Read the ruling here.

Of course, you have to consider Edgefield County has an inept and unqualified Tax Assessor in Lakeisha Bryant, who is only a "mass appraiser" and cannot legally assess property over $250,000 and no commercial property (actually, she is not legally able to be the Tax Assessor - ah, but who cares about the law in Edgefield County). In addition to her working less than anyone in the county (she spent days away from work recently after she sneezed and went "blind" but was healed after praying to the Lord and takes off to (supposedly) attend funerals of those she is not related to and still gets paid), it was not much of a legal battle to win.

In the past EdgefieldDaily.com took roll of her attendance and found she worked only one third of the time she reported. But that comes about because we have an unqualified County Administrator (John Pettigrew) who signs her time cards so she can get paid for not working and will not address the problems he is aware of and the countless complaints, documentation, and other information he refuses to address.

It is time for this county to get serious and fire those we overpay to be under qualified to under perform in their duties.
web posted January 23, 2009

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Do the street lights installed along Sweetwater Road in the Mount Vintage Area meet DOT standards? It seems they make driving/ visibility more difficult at night due to their height and their positions. During rainy evenings they could make driving even more dangerous because of the glare, which is bad on dry evenings. Who paid for the installation of the lights? Who is paying for the electricity to power all of these annoying lights?

Additionally how and why did roads previously maintained by the county, such as Johns Road, Jacob Mckie Road, etc… become private and/ or gated roads that cannot be accessed by the public? Didn’t the County make improvements to these roads over the years? Did the County just give our roads away? Surely we will never see a County employee performing work in a County owned piece of equipment working to maintain these “private” roads will we?
web posted January 23, 2009

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Mr. Durham, take down that camera.
web posted January 23, 2009

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The two families, (the Camps and the Stephens), who wrote an article in the Edgefield Advertiser,this week on behalf of George Brightharp, are the two families that instigated voting 4 Godly men out of the Mt. Canaan Baptist Church, also on  George Brightharp's behalf, for them doing their jobs as Deacons and Trustees of the Church at that time.  And they are also two of the many families of Mt. Canaan Baptist Church who violated 2 court orders to keep Brightharp as pastor of Mt. Canaan. 
Brightharp is a (removed) in my opinion and they all upheld him in his wrongness.  Their were more seemingly ungodly family members in the Church that wanted him to stay than the Godly Family members in the Church that wanted him gone: I guess the saying is true "birds of a feather flock together".  George Brightharp, also bought a law suit against these same 4 men that were voted out, (although "he said" from the Pulpit on 2nd Sunday of this month that he had dropped his law suit).  He has the church in a state of emergency, and he has dictated any and everything that goes on at Mt. Canaan since then, along with the (his) so called leaders of the Church that do whatever he says.  I guess he has all of them in his hip pocket.

Editor's note: I normally do not allow church names to be mentioned in such posts but since this has been in the courts and the press it was allowed.
web posted January 23, 2009

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the letters of intent for the district teachers have gone out.  could you please do some investigating and let the public know how many teachers were not asked to come back next year and how many programs will be cut because of it? crenshaw said that no teachers have been cut - how can she get away with that?  the career center is getting screwed, could you ask why they have not hired a replacement for the health occupations courses?  kids have signed up for the classes and there is no teacher!

Editor's note: I will see what I can find out on the matter. School Board members, any comments?
web posted January 23, 2009

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the mayor and Rainsford are wrong in that folks should have to say who they are to speak.  It's the internet!  People are crazy.  You say the wrong thing, crazy people will come hurt/kill you if they can figure out who you are.  I still think a forum would be a good format.  And the people who think you write all the WM...come on that's just crazy.

Editor's note: You are correct. I get threats on a regular basis that are never seen online. I have been offered a bullet proof vest more than once. I would never subject readers to that type of intimidation. There are those who also actively seek to prevent advertisers from buying ad space on EdgefieldDaily.com. I know who they are, what they have said, and to whom they said it to. I could sue in Federal Court just as Mr. Mims did when he exposed Strom Thurmond's bi-racial daughter and won millions. I have more evidence than Mr. Mims had, so it would be a easy case to win. But I like to give people all the rope they need to hang themselves before I tie the other end off for them.
web posted January 23, 2009

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Re: for the much - traveled millionaire

Hey, much traveled millionaire. I see some people do not believe your maybe fictional prose. I say prove your point. Do somehting to show off your treasure chest. Donate some money (say $200,000-$500,000) to the ECSD so they can buy some computer projectors for classrooms and make sure the money pays to have them installed in individual rooms and pay for the training to use; or, donate the same amount to pay for Promethian boards for STHS. Technology always help advance education. Let your money do your talking.
web posted January 23, 2009

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Mr. Editor is there a possibility to have a good news section added to your column? The only rule would be its content of only good news---I feel after a while the section will become popular and add desperately needed humor to the area.

Editor's note: We try to cover good, bad, funny, and indiferent stories as well as political (whcih can be all of the previous). Readers, what do you think of such a section? I would love to hear from you.
web posted January 23, 2009

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Keep up your good work.  Misery loves company, and exists to try any way to bring the successful ones down to a lower level. Apparently those who speak so against your efforts, and truths put into Edgefield Daily are some miserable people with little to do, and surely not much joy or success in their lives.  I for one thank you and commend you for all you do.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments and for reading.
web posted January 23, 2009

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re: Mr. Courtney's kids go to Wardlaw.
 
There are a lot of people working in the Edgefield County School system (teachers and admin) that send their kids to Wardlaw.  Ever wonder why?  Sounds to me like they too think OUR school system sucks. They are on the front line and see for themselves.  The children are running over the teachers because they can (no respect for elders and their parents are telling them they don't have to, you can't punish or dissapline anymore).   When I was in school I would have never been so disrespectful to an adult.  I was scared of what MAMA would do to me when I got home, and there lies the problem, no one is held accountable for their actions at HOME anymore.  I won't even get started on the FABULOUS decisions the School Board makes. 
 
By the way, Wardlaw follows Edgefield County Schools on weather closings.  So James Courtney was probably not real popular at home that day either.
web posted January 23, 2009

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Let’s bring foreign terrorists to American soil and give them American rights and trial lawyers (what a splendid idea Obama, Murtha, and the rest of you liberal wacko’s)….that is exactly what will happen as soon as Guantanamo is closed.  I bet if we dug deep enough, we would see some trial lawyers in the pockets of Obama, Murtha, Pelosi, etc.  The American taxpayer will pay a heavy price if these terrorist are brought to America, after some Benedict Arnold trial lawyer puts the Bush Administration on trial and makes these Jihadist out to be victims.  Benedict Murtha makes me nauseous.

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/01/21/murtha-says-hell-guantanamo-prisoners-district/

Editor's note: President Obama promised change. As I always said, change is inevitable, progress is not.
web posted January 23, 2009

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While the superintendent was in Washington, DC, there were scores of school personnel with personal and sick days, for which they will not be paid, that they will not use because their personal work ethic is too strong to leave the job unattended, even for a day.  Toilet paper is in short supply, as is floor cleaning material.  Paper is not to be had unless teachers buy it themselves.  Same for printer cartridges.    Technology is old, slow, sluggish, and dying.  Scores of good teachers are planning to jump to other counties.  Maybe there's a silver lining to all this, but it's hard to see right now.

Oh, and the grants that the superintendent brags about getting - written by individual teachers.  Parents, pay attention.
web posted January 23, 2009

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I don't believe your little claim of over 1000 emails a day. There is no way you can read that many emails every day and I doubt you get that many.  You just got caught in another lie.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading, although reading and not comprehending. Though the Editor's column you refer to encompassed several days that accounted for over 1,300 emails that went unread over the period of days during the death of my wife's mother, on average there are a few hundred emails sent in each day. I read each and every email. Not all are sent or set for publication. Some are tips to stories readers would like to see covered, alleged crimes, information relating to crimes, or other personal or business related correspondence including press releases from government and private agencies. Just because the information is sent in does not mean it appears as a story the next day.

Every local media outlet, including television, follows reports from EdgefieldDaily.com and feeds from our coverage. That is why we are consistently the largest, most widely read, and most quoted media outlet in Edgefield County for the past four years over all other local media outlets combined. Personally I have never seen any local broadcast media quote or source one of the local papers in a news report in the past ten years. I cannot count the times they have done so in relation to EdgefieldDaily.com.

I challenge you to prove otherwise.
web posted January 22, 2009

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Dear Editor: I want to commend you for standing firm on the Wandering Minds. You have given a voice to people who never had a voice before and those who do not like that have made that clear and want to stop (EdgefieldDaily.com) from allowing us to speak our minds freely. Thank you for not folding to the pressures of those who have always controlled everything in Edgefield County.

Editor's note: The more they complain the more I know your voices matter. I remain firm that I will never reveal the identity of a reader that sends in comments to the Wandering Minds. I have resisted attempts before, in the present, and will do so in the future.
web posted January 22, 2009

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I read the article on Patricia Moseley and her gawking of (President) Obama. She says there isn't enuf money for "education"? That they need more? I think the budget for education is bigger than the military. How about the schools doing a better job instead of asking for more money? (Pres.) Obama said this is the age of "responsibility", let's see some of that in the schools.
web posted January 22, 2009

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for the much - traveled millionaire .... who do you think believes you?

Editor's note: I do. But I am privy to information you are not. You are free to make your own judgments.
web posted January 22, 2009

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I traveled yesterday morning to work.  We were blessed to have safe roads.   Most counties that were closed on Tuesday had no business being closed.  if you want your kids home keep them home if you think that its the safest choice.

Dr. Crenshaw still should have been here, but if she paid her way that is fine.  She needs however to keep her relationship with the board members professional.  James Courtney sends is kids to Wardlaw.  If our schools aren't  good enough for his kids, he needs to find another job
web posted January 22, 2009

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"Rev" Lowery is a racebaiting whore. What gets me is the tv cameras on (President) Obama showed him smiling when this idiot gave his socalled prayer. Right out of the church of "Rev" Wright. Whitey is evil, damnation to the whites.  Free at last my (butt). These are the same ones that have sat on their (butts) for 50 years waiting on "guvment" to hand it over to them for free.
web posted January 22, 2009

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This is to the world traveler. If you are so worldly and been every where, why oh why are you here?? Sounds more like you were on the lam.
web posted January 22, 2009

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Simple question...why is it that oil is going for about $35-$40 per barrel and gasoline in edgefield is $1.75 per gallon??
web posted January 22, 2009

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To the poster who writes about Bettis....Have you ever asked yourself why you, a -I'm assuming- good person with good values could not get a lawyer and Bettis did in 30 minutes?  Corruption breeds corruption maybe?  Do you think that the fact that it wasn't what kind of person you are but WHO you are that made the difference, really speaks volumes?  An then what were you saying, that you had to work over 15 years to repay him for his help?  People with tons less in this county help tons more people everyday of their lives without expecting something in return.  That boat don't float with me.  I think YOU should hold your head high for repaying your debt to Bettis for over 15 years!
web posted January 22, 2009

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We were told at our school that James Courtney made the decision not to cancel or delay school on Tuesday. So long as the school district did not pay for the trip, I donʼt begrudge Dr. Crenshaw going to Washington to see the inauguration, but I wish someone who has or who have had children in the public school system had been left in charge to make a decision that would affect public school children.
web posted January 22, 2009

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Editor's post: I love the way I get called a racist, yet Rev. Joseph Lowery can claim in "prayer" at Obama's inauguration, "when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen." and it gets a pass from the national "media". He was not talking in past tense, he was talking in future tense. Imagine if a white preacher had done the same and replace white with black. It would be demonized by the media for weeks.

Here is the "prayer" in its context:
Benediction at Obama’s inauguration, Rev. Joseph Lowery: 'Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around... when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen. Say Amen'.

Maybe somebody should remind Rev. Lowery that Barack Obama was just sworn in as president and everything he "prayed" for has already happened. Seems someone can't let go of the "victim mentality".
web posted January 21, 2009

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Did you let your child drive today?? What about this?? The superintendent of Edgefield County Schools is NOT IN the district!!! SHE has NO CLUE ABOUT THE WEATHER TODAY!!!!  Mr. Courtney was left to make the decision.  I guess he doesn't have children  in school who ride the buses in this weather or who drive!!!
HOW STUPID TO SEND THE KIDS TO SCHOOL IN THIS!!! ANY COMMENTS??
 
WHAT can you say - -typical for Edgefield County?? AND they let the smart one get away - -He had enough sense to delay school in Saluda and now it's closed!!
 
I know SC doesn't get much snow - -precisely why NO ONE knows how to drive on it and should STAY HOME!!! 
web posted January 21, 2009

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 Parents' in Edgefield County. Do you know where Dr. Crenshaw was when she made the decision on the safety of your children this morning during the snow? Washington,DC.
 When Dr. Crenshaw is not here the decision on school closings should be made by (another official). That is my opinion! Also, I wonder who will be paying for her trip and two other school board members'.

Editor's note: I intend to inquire as to who paid for their trip.
web posted January 21, 2009

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I kept our kids home from school because of the snowy conditions and the chance of black ice on the roads and bridges. We have such caring school officials. What were they thinking? Putting kids on the roads when its icy? How dumb is that?
web posted January 21, 2009

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RE: 'Hey poster of the comment above. Now write in and list what you have accomplished in your life. I bet you barely graduated from high school and complain about anything and everything because you wasted your life away. You probably have a dead-end job, (removed), and then don't understand why you are a wastoid. Get a life, go volunteer and help someone less fortunate tha yourself. Or maybe better, take a trip and learn something. It's obvious you can read and plagarize some right-wing blogger you have come across on the Internet; or maybe yet, you are one of those White Power nazis that just hates all people who have made their life better than yours. You are a loser and you will always be a loser."
 
OK, I'll take you up on that.  Sure, here is a little about me:
 
I've traveled extensively across Europe, North America, and Canada - so many trips I couldn't begin to tell you how many.  I started traveling by myself across Europe at the age of 15, when I spent 3 months there traveling around Rome, Berlin, London, Paris, Brussels, and the Mediterranean.  I've spent weeks in the greatest museums around the world.  I've patted Venus de Milo on the butt, traced my finger along the ancient script of Hammurabi's Code, gazed at the Mona Lisa, stood in the Coliseum, read an original copy of the Magna Carta, and admired Charlemagne's Sword...I've visited tens of castles, toured all the major Cathedrals of Europe, and braved East Germany behind the Iron Curtain.  I've offered prayers at a Jewish concentration camp, and felt the bullet holes where Count Stauffenberg was shot in a tiny courtyard in Berlin.  I took pictures and made faces at the Soviet guards at Checkpoint Charlie, and watched the Queen arrive at Buckingham Palace.  I've even been to No. 10 Downing Street.
 
I speak two languages fluently and have some proficiency in several others.  I can (with difficulty) read French, but never learned to speak it well.  I attended private schools growing up.  I learned to play Chess from a US National Champion.  I've got a 4-year Bachelor's degree, and am working on a Masters degree.  At various times I owned, operated and sold 3 successful small businesses; and recently funded the startup of another.  I had to use a CPA to do my taxes by age 24, and became a millionaire by age 28; absolutely no one knows that but my family and my accountant.  I go to great lengths to prevent people knowing my wealth.  Even though I stand to inherit many millions more, I go to work everyday like every other person. (I ask that the editor not tell anyone who I am.)
 
I've enjoyed a friendly glass of wine with an Italian Countess who cultivated the grape on the same estate her family had worked for over 500 years.  I've had dinner with a World War II German officer who lost his fingers to a grenade and confessed he was glad they lost the war.  I've taken a bum home, fed him a good meal, and had a fascinating conversation.
 
I've run a V12 wide open on the Autobahn for miles, hot lapped a Winston Cup race car, and driven jalopies that had to be parked on hills so I could leave again later.
 
I've been refused service at a restaurant because of the type of person I was; yet I once spent over $5000 on a meal for two.  I prefer to carry my lunch to work.  I've slept in castles, checked in to 5-star hotels visited by Presidents and heads of State, and stayed in shacks with no bathrooms.
 
I've been discriminated against my whole life, and realize how much better I am for it.
 
I've given someone I didn't know $100 because I saw them perform a random act of kindness for someone I also didn't know, and I've refused to give a starving bum a quarter for a phone call.  I own a watch that's probably more expensive than your car.  It's too flashy to wear, but I treasure it.
 
I've fished in the North Sea, sailed the Mediterranean, canoed the Okeefenokee, motored down the Mississippi, toured the Intercoastal Waterway, and cruised the Bering Strait of Alaska.  I've been to the top of the Toronto Tower, the Arc de Triumph, and the Eiffel Tower; and to the depths of Death Valley, Carlsbad Caverns, and the Catacombs of Rome and Paris.  I'm pretty sure I've been in every state of the Union except Hawaii and Maine. 
 
I dreamed of designing and building a submarine as a teenager.
 
For enjoyment I used to collect classic cars and motorcycles, which I've still got but don't really care about.  I've donated money and volunteered my time for causes such as the Children's Center at MCG, and raised money for children with Down's Syndrome.  But I could do more.
 
I never read blogs but have 2 houses full of history books.  I've never been introduced to Bettis Rainsford, never seen a ghost, and I've never been to the Vegas Strip.  I hope to fix the last two.
 
I've got an expensive tailored Italian suit in the closet I've never worn.  I prefer dirty jeans to clean kakhis; and my boss thinks negatively about me because he thinks appearances matter.  He knows me, but he doesn't know anything about me.  He certainly doesn't know anything I'm telling you here today.
 
It took me a long time to realize that money doesn't make one happy. 
 
I make snap judgements of people and tell them later when I realize I was wrong about them.  Sadly, I'm most often right the first time.
 
My wife is a better person than I.  She is a person of honor and integrity that I try to emulate.
 
Never once did I think I was a loser.  I confess I have thought that of others.
 
I love the freedom I enjoy in America but am troubled at what the country has become in my lifetime.  I am horrified at the thought of our children having to pay our debts.  I hope my son is a better man than I, just as my father had the same hope for me.
 
I think that the measure of a man is what he does today; not what he did in the past.  I approach every day as a new challenge.  I love my job, feel honored to work with some great people, and regret that I have to work with others that are simply not capable of performing their job. 
 
I keep reminding myself I've never lived up to my potential.
 
All of the people that think they 'know' me - even my closest friends - don't actually know many of the things I recount here; nor should it be important to you.  Like most of us, I'm fascinated with the lives and thoughts of others but on the inside I'm a very private individual.  Now you know more about me than just about anyone: I may be a millionaire, but I'm just a man that puts his pants on the same you do, with many flaws he hopes to change before he dies.  That makes us equal.
 
A final note in response:  You might think I'm still a loser.  That's fine.  But I enjoyed writing this letter to you.  Think upon this though: you'll probably have never experienced all the things that that man working right beside you has.  That's why his opinion has value, just like mine. Get to know him a little better.  You never REALLY know someone until you've walked in their shoes, and shared their life story.

Editor's note: I allowed the post in spite of word count restrictions due to content.
web posted January 21, 2009

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What are our school officials thinking?? We had a ton of snow and a great deal of black ice this morning down Sweet water way (Sweetwater Rd.). A late entry time, wouldn't have hurt anyone. It just would have kept kids a little safer.  The news said that people were out at 3:00 am What a joke. We have a great deal of country roads that our students travel on. I took my kids to school this morning and it was 24 degrees. THAT means the roads are frozen.
web posted January 21, 2009

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I have a question. I missed the information on why there is a camera being installed in downtown Edgefield. It seems to be a concern for many people.  Has there been documented illegal activity or safety issues that need to be recorded?  Who exactly is watching the things recorded by the camera? I sense that people feel it is an invasion of privacy or the idea that big brother is watching. It is interesting that those who seem to be promoting the camera are also the ones who fear the anonomous nature of Wandering Minds. I may be wrong in that assumption,  but that is my observation.  As I said, I missed the information on why there is a need for the camera to be installed. There may be a legitimate reason for it. I am just curious what that reason is.

Editor's note: According to Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham it was something he just wanted to do for some time. Personally, I think the better location would have been on the opposite side of the square looking back towards Main Street. I think the traffic on another set of stairs would have been far more interesting to watch than that of the Courthouse. I spoke with Mayor Durham on Tuesday and the camera is still not "live" on the internet. When it is a link will be provided by EdgefieldDaily.com.
web posted January 21, 2009

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The Hate Fest on Bettis,  There are lots of peoples That Bettis has help at one time or another.eleven years ago I needed a Lawyer and could not get one in Edgefield or Aiken, for six months due to corruption of the law in high places.I called Mr Rainford at 8:30 on one morning he told me to come to his office at 3;30 with-in 30mi he made three phones calls my problem was solve saving me $ 30k.for the entire time I did contact work for him for over fifteen years, he and I never had a problem at all.  I respected him and he respected me. what more can you ask of a person. Bettis and I have been friends for fifteen years plus.
 
Mr Rainford I say to you hold your head high,In my opinion  you do not have any reason to feel bad or sad continual to hold your head high and speak with Atuthority as you have alway done. Remember that those that hate you do so because YOU have become the person that you are not, and the person that they will never be.  I suppose that I will be the target of the wandering minds well we will wait and see, may be  and may be not.   time will tell. Bettis remember what I told you eleven years ago, stand true today.
web posted January 21, 2009

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Re: "The best thing for America would be a failed Obama Presidency. His plans and first order of business is to expand the federal government, increase our national debt to heights never seen, and increase the burden of paying for it all on the backs of the 40% of Americans that actually pay taxes meaning the 60% who don't pay taxes get a free check from those who do work and pay taxes."

http://zfacts.com/p/318.html   (Editor's note: I could not get this link to load)

http://www.cedarcomm.com/~stevelm1/usdebt.htm
web posted January 21, 2009

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Isn't it interesting how so many want to whine and complain about how Mr. Rainsford is criticized in the Wandering Minds...I noticed that someone was downright rude and hate filled with their comment to you today stating that you are racist and a bigit.  that makes me cringe! 
at least you are above and beyond being fair with posting all comments, even those that are hurtful to you....simply in the name of not being a hypocrite and standing with our right to freedom of speech.  I am sorry that there are so many unfortunate small minded, rude people.  It makes me not want to read the wandering minds.  I am a happy person by nature and try to institute positive in others.  The wandering minds comments are a real downer for caring concerned citizens.
honestly, personally - I am sick of all the meanness from people.
web posted January 21, 2009

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You are a (bigot) and a racist. I hope you fry in hell.
web posted January 20, 2009

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Dear Edgefield Daily Editor,

Last week Senator Vincent Sheheen gave the Democratic response to the State of the State address.

Key to his speech were the themes of "Change" and "Equity."

Listen to Sheheen in his own words, including his thoughts on school choice.
web posted January 20, 2009

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I don't get to read that often but I did read your article on Kill the dollar to kill America. The article was informative but what I found most intriguing was the prediction you made back in 2005 that came true. You are very controversial but more often than not you hit the nail on the head. You sure called what is going on today years ago.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments. Sometimes I hate being right.
web posted January 20, 2009

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Re: Notable achievements by our President-Elect Obama and his administration:
appointed a man who has never held a management position, or even had any experience in the space program, to head NASA

Hey poster of the comment above. Now write in and list what you have accomplished in your life. I bet you barely graduated from high school and complain about anything and everything because you wasted your life away. You probably have a dead-end job, (removed), and then don't understand why you are a wastoid. Get a life, go volunteer and help someone less fortunate tha yourself. Or maybe better, take a trip and learn something. It's obvious you can read and plagarize some right-wing blogger you have come across on the Internet; or maybe yet, you are one of those White Power nazis that just hates all people who have made their life better than yours. You are a loser and you will always be a loser.
web posted January 20, 2009

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It is interesting to read Mr. Rainsford's request that the Editor cease anonymous posts on Wandering Minds.  As a historian Mr. Rainsford surely remembers that prior to the Revolutionary War the colonists used anonymous pamphlets and other postings to publicize and communicate among themselves and others their grievances and concerns as to how they were being treated by an arrogant, greedy tyrant, King George.  Why?  Because King George reacted irrationally to any perceived criticism.  King George's attempts to censor the press and shut down printing presses so that the colonists could not communicate among themselves without fear of retribution led in large part to the freedom of the press guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. While a comparison between King George and Mr. Rainsford may not be fair to King George since the King reportedly suffered from mental illness, the facts establish that both gentlemen react in an irrational, vindictive manner against those that dare speak the truth.  One only has to look to how Mr. Rainsford has expelled members from Mt. Vintage Golf Club in a fit of anger, his demonization of Mr. Brite for making the public aware of the two years of broken promises from Mr. Rainsford regarding completion of the infrastructure on the new nine and the tasteless diatribe he launched against the Editor.  A free press protects the freedom of all citizens.
web posted January 20, 2009

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Bettis Rainsford obviously likes to see his name in print. However, since he has such a short memory of his personal actions and wrongdoings, Wandering Minds serves as a good reminder. The problem is that he looks at everything he does through deeply rose colored glasses. He is a man who can never do any wrong. He is the big bully in the sand box that always kicked sand at the others and would take his toys away and not let others others play with them. Being bigger and growing up with more money than some must have left him with an overpowering sense of entitlement. There is little in the way that he handles himself at MVP I have seen on a personal basis - I am not the editor- I live here. that could change my mind about him. He is a bully.
He and Mr. Knight built a beautiful place. We love the physical place. Like his own personal residence with the tarp covering the roof, it is always in need of maintenance- not just the golf course, the entire plantation. Any facility needs maintenance and upkeep. However, Bettis will finagle and maneuver so that he can do the minimum and have absolute rule. He sold lots to people with a big flourish and told them they would be good investments. However he then prohibited For Sale signs and dis-incented his sales force from selling resale lots when there were still buyers out there. If people here don't agree with him, he tries to throw them out (removed). He wants everyone to sign their name on Wandering Minds so he can seek revenge. That is his style.
I could go on and on. The problem is that it does no good. The man is living in a fantasy world of disillusionment. A thousand people could line up in the Center of Edgefield and all tell him one by one, in person, what problems they have with him. He would still not believe it or get it that anyone does not like him or agree with him and his methods 100%. He may believe that people respect him for what he has done, however, there is a big difference between fear and respect. If he weren't so nasty to deal with, I'd feel sorry for him.
web posted January 20, 2009

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Actually, my words were that your writing at times has a definate racial tinge.  I never said you wrote anything specifically racist, however, anyone that reads Edgefield Daily will notice that many of your writings and postings are written very differently when the subject is an African American.  I will be more than happy to send you some examples if that is your request. 
 
The primary reason that I put that line in their is it is my opinion, it does not make it fact.  Just like many of the unfounded accusations that are labeled at Mr. Bettis Rainsford.  There are so many unfair and unjust things written that are simply not true.  I think the point of Wandering Minds is important--I think the citizens of Edgefield should have a forum such as this.  However, I think some use it in a poisonous fashion.  I do not think it should be simply a mean spirited attack vehicle to go after certain citizens.  If people would like to complain that is perfectly fine, but let it be fact based and fair.  Simply going after people with lies and out and out meanness should be banned.  I do not see where it benefits Edgefield to fan such flames of hostility. 
 
I have no problem with people disagreeing with Mr. Rainsford and openly communicated it, but some of the comments are below the belt.  Wandering Minds should not be a forum to hurt people.  It can certainly be passionate, but let that be reflected by the facts and not hate filled conjecture.  I think Wandering Minds is a service for this county, but I think we need to be more responsible in how we use it.
 
As a side note I would like to congratulate you on your MLK coverage today

Editor's note: Our coverage of the MLK holiday has been consistent over the years. I agree that the way the public uses the Wandering Minds should be improved. But I, nor EdgefeildDaily.com, controls what people say.
web posted January 20, 2009

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ST Rebels wrestling match Thursday January 22nd @ 6:30 p.m. at JET MIddle School.  Come  out and support our Rebels.
web posted January 20, 2009

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Unfortunately the problem for Mr.Rainsford and our county is much greater than we see on the surface. The county's failure to require performance bonds on a project as large a Mt. Vintage doesn't fall to the previous administrator or building inspector. It is a systemic problem of our county council and county government, Mr. Kneece pleading ignorance doesn't excuse you from this issue. The council oversees the county government and you as chairman failed to do that and enforce the laws of the county. Mr. Brite as they say "ain't from around here" therefore he has taken on the task of showing you the short comings of the counties government.

I ask Mr. Rainsford did you require your general contractor, architect  to provide Performance bonds on work performed? If you answered yes to this questions you knew that a bond was to be provided to the county. The architectural firm would have researched the county requirements and made you aware of all permits, bonds, wetlands,etc. They never ask but you weren't going to tell. Now look at the situation you have place upon the county your insolvency and the counties legal requirements. The very fact
that in your statement to county council "I don't want to lead ya'll astray, if we can't find the money it might not can be done. But that's what our challenge is to do that" Had you purchase Surety Bonds for Mt. Vintage the county could complete the work. The very reason the laws are place on the books to prevent sophisticated people as yourself from developing land. Not all developers can't borrow money (content removed).
web posted January 20, 2009

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I just wanted to say I am a real person and I work for a living. I don't care who thinks I'm the editor because I know I am real. Thanks for the Wandering Minds and please don't let anyone stop us from speaking out.

Editor's note: The Wandering Minds is not going anywhere.
web posted January 19, 2009

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I cannot get over the latest letter from Big B.  I find it to be concerning to say the least.  He is exhibiting what I think is psychotic ranting and rambling.  He talks about the editor as thought he's Lucifer himself.  He begins his letter with a silver tongue and then launches into unrelenting vituperation and veiled threats.  Beware Mr. Editor, someone appears to be coming unhinged.  Is there a doctor in the house?
web posted January 19, 2009

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i wander....is this really me writing to wandering minds....or is it you writing for me?  hmmmm....
 
My condolences and prayers for your family.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind words.
web posted January 19, 2009

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I read (Carl) Langley's article this weekend and it struck me that the only news you see about Israel and the Jews is how evil they are. Mr. Langley may be on to something. Signed a long time Aiken resident.
web posted January 19, 2009

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Re: Notable achievements by our President-Elect Obama and his administration:

You forgot one:
Cass Sunstein is slated to run the White House's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. He's going to be America's chief "regulatory czar". Radical-leftist Sunstein supports making sport hunting illegal, and completely phasing out the consumption of meat. And if that's not nutty enough, he's actually in favor of giving animals the legal right to sue people. Because the courts just aren't crowded enough with frivolous lawsuits.

What a freak show we have taking over Washington, D.C.
web posted January 19, 2009

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Congrats to Andy Livingston for his fine service to the school board, but instead of a lapel pin, they should have given him a descent pair of pants!!
web posted January 19, 2009

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To the writers of Wandering Minds please don't refer to Bettis Rainsford as "BOSS HAWG".   Billy (removed) in Johnston is Boss Hawg and has been since the early 1980s.  I hope Billy had a great Birthday. 
web posted January 19, 2009

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After reading wandering minds, I am convinced that it is based on jealousy.  If you have a problem with someone, do not  post opinions, post facts.  I see no facts to base the attacks on some chosen citizens.  I challenge you to read that much hate coming at you and not respond.  Mr. Rainsford signs his opinions, which to me, makes them valid.  Responders want to blame him for what is wrong in Edgefield, but don’t bother to mention how he has helped the county.  If you do not believe he truly loves Edgefield, then you definitely do not know him.  Maybe Mr. Rainsford’s letter was bad timing, but I noticed that the editor was busy posting on ED the day of Mrs. Adams’ death.  When you  fire the first shot, do not expect to have a cease fire at your discretion.  By the way, he did not say that your soul was rotting, he said that these attacks would cause your soul to rot.  I think we can all agree that these viscious attacks do not fall under the Christian doctrine.  I would encourage readers to treat Wandering Minds as an open debate that can help our county.  You will find citizens like Mr. Rainsford open to your ideas and willing to debate for the good of the county.  I too, feel for you and your family at the death of  your mother-in-law, but if you can fire shots on her death bed then you should be expecting to receive retaliation.

For those that post constantly on Bettis’ need for self-promotion, nothing could be further from the truth.  Mr. Rainsford is one of the most humble men I know.  If people truly knew all that he does for this county, I think their criticism would be muted.  The fact is Bettis does not make it a point to pat his own back.  Many citizens in this county are far better at extolling their virtues over far less than what Mr. Rainsford has done for this county.  And make no mistake, he truly loves Edgefield, and whether people want to admit it or not, he has done more for our county than any other citizen today.

In response to his attacks on racist writing appearing on Edgefield Daily—I have to agree with him.  Whether it is your intention or not, many of your postings have a definite racial tinge that has been obvious since I started reading Edgefield Daily.  I truly am sorry for your loss—I  know she was a wonderful woman and you and your family will be in my prayers.

Editor's note: I challenge anyone to provide one quote from me that could be even remotely considered racial. I asked this poster over the weekend to do so and there has been no reply. I would also ask to show where I posted any attack on anyone.
web posted January 19, 2009

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Bettis Rainsford, clean up your own backyard.  You've tarnished more than one commandment in your lifetime.  Need I say more, my dear?
web posted January 19, 2009

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We have now heard from both the puppet and the puppeteer. They both want to do away with the Wandering Minds, and they placed a camera on the square. Do we see a pattern emerging here? I find it a little bit creepy to know that big brother is watching my every move. I guess maybe it's a power trip type of thing. Do they sit around and think, what can we do next that the people will have no say in? Since we are talking conspiracy theory, maybe our pictures are being compared to some national database of undesirables(conservatives that believe in less intrusive government) and the Edgefield P.D. is ready to swoop in and quietly remove us. Yes I know that sounds silly, but is it really? With the coronation of King Hussein Obama, all of the lowly subjects here in the local fiefdom better keep a close watch on our Bibles, our guns, and our pocketbooks. There is nothing silly about that. The
attacks on our personal freedoms have already begun. Deviant sexual behavior, partial-birth abortion, welfare for everyone, and the redistribution of wealth will soon be the law of the land under this new administration. If you voted for this man then you have the same belief system and that is a telling sign for the direction of our country.
web posted January 19, 2009

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Editor's post: I have to wonder why Mr. Rainsford is so paranoid about being mentioned on EdgefieldDaily.com or the Wandering Minds. Though he wants to blame me it is he and those connected to him that keep his name as a topic. EdgefieldDaily.com reported a single story from the Edgefield County Council meeting regarding Mr. Rainsford. No opinions, no additional stories, and yet Mr. Rainsford and Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham have written a combined three letters to the editor making sure he was front and center. Then, somehow, for publishing those letters I am to blame for Mr. Rainsford being the focus of comments on the Wandering Minds.

It is not I that keeps Mr. Rainsford the focus of public scrutiny, it is Mr. Rainsford and those connected to him.
web posted January 17, 2009

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You have got to be kidding.  Rainsford in his "letter of condolence"  is so full of himself.  He has spent many years "helping" Edgefield County.  If you don't believe it just listen to him.  He has told everyone within ear shot how important he is.  If he spent half as much time doing instead of telling, this county would be on top.  How has it progressed in the last several years?  He is head of the Economic Development Committee.  Seen any new businesses moving in and staying lately?  Jesus set the example and taught us to do for others and hide it in your heart. 
 
Seems to me the documents Mr. Brite talked about at the county council meeting were filled with promises as far back at 2006.  That is well before the housing bubble burst.  Rainsford wants everyone to feel sorry for him because the negative publicity has slowed his ability to sell Mt. Vintage.  Would someone tell him that the people up north that he targeted are not getting the high prices for their homes they expected.  Now they can't afford the high priced ones in Edgefield county.  You see house and property values were inflated all over and the dream ended.  People are losing jobs, banks made loans that people couldn't afford to begin with and developers and real estate people saw a chance to make quick money.  Those are just some of the problems that caused our economic woes now.  Greed from Wall Street and the "high ups" living the high life came crashing down.    Greed will get you everytime.  The problem is greed got the "little man".  I don't have those problems.  If you struggle everyday to make ends meet you make better choices.  Eating and shelter are top priorities for most people.  Actions always speak louder than words.  Oh that's right I don't exist.
web posted January 17, 2009

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You know I think it is amazing how you can write almost 70% of Wandering Minds as well as covering all of the stories that you do on a regular basis. I know for a fact that there are quite a few people in the Edgefield community who write to WM on a regular basis, myself included. The uppler echelon of Edgefield society just gets (P.O'd) because you tell the truth. Here's my advice to the upper echelon: Get over it, Wandering Minds is here to stay! Fortunately, people who want the truth stamped down don't have the right thanks to our right to free speech.
web posted January 17, 2009

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I would like to pay my condolences to the family and friends of the late Mr. John Pettigrew. He was a terrific mam who did a lot for the community. My thoughts and prayers are w/ the family. He will truly be missed. 

Editor's note: Our heartfelt prayers go out to Mr. Pettigrew's family. I spoke briefly with John Pettigrew Jr. Friday at the funeral home to extend our condolences. He was very apologetic for not being at Mrs. Adams' funeral due to his father's grave situation. "You were where you needed to be and was supposed to be," I told him. Please keep him and his entire family in prayer during this difficult time.
web posted January 17, 2009

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Thank you again for the stand you take to allow your readers to "vent" and remain anonymous.  I do not consider myself ignorant, nor am I "trailer trash."  However, we all know that many times we or our families do face repercussions from our comments based on where they work, etc.  I guess Bettis showed his true colors by sending you that letter and especially when he sent it.  Oh Bettis, what a man you are!!
web posted January 17, 2009

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I want to know how you answer and read 1400 emails a day.

Editor's note: I don't. The backlog of emails spanned a three day period. Those answered or comments posted are deleted at that time leaving the unread emails. Of the 1,300 plus emails about 200 are spam. Of the remaining emails 200-300 are tips, 200-300 are personal, 100 or so are business related, and the rest are contributors, congressional communications, advisories from other news agencies, press releases from organizations, and Wandering Minds comments.

I read every email sent.
web posted January 17, 2009

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I would like to apologize for Mr. Rainsford's letter. That was the lowest I've ever seen anyone stoop. I Iost my mother 2 yrs ago and if someone had done that to me the day of her funeral I don't think I would've had the restrainst that you showed in your letter back. When I started to read your article I just knew you were going to cut him to ribbons but you were nice. I hope you're not losing your edge.

Editor's note: If you jump in a pig pen and try to fight with a pig you both get muddy and the pig is happy. He can wallow in his own slop, I will just sit and watch from the other side of the fence.
web posted January 17, 2009

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So, I don't exist, who knew? What they are really trying to do is to bully you into making us post our names. That way the mayor can make the rule that no employees of the town of Edgefield are allowed to post on Edgefield daily- never mind that it would be revoking their right to free speech. I'm sure they have a laundry list of repercussions against anyone that signed their name to posts that they(Rainsford and Durham) took issue with. The Augusta Chronicle allows readers to post comments on each story without using their real name, its a choice what name you pick to post but it is an option. I haven't seen anyone use a real name in their comment sections. Its too easy for someone to take what you say out of context and turn it around to hurt the poster or their family. I wouldn't want a comment I say to come back to affect my husbands job  and who is to say it wouldn't. As far as Bettis Rainsford goes, there are words to describe him but I am a lady and my mom taught me better. Lets just leave it at the fact that he did not display Christian values in choosing to attack  you at the day of your mother in laws funeral. Its not to say that he had no right to write the email, just his timing was in very poor taste. That's a way to get people on your side.
 
My question for him is this: If his work has benefited Edgefield County so much then where is the industry and jobs that he has brought to the county, the things that really grow the tax base and help the residents of Edgefield County?
 
Signed:
 a regular writer to wandering minds. BTW: if I don't exist then I don't have to pay county and city taxes this year, who knew. Yeah for me
web posted January 17, 2009

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Boy oh boy. When did this turn into a "Hate Bettis" paper? I liked it better when you were bashing Fox Creek. I for one would like to thank Bettis for his generousity to my family over Christmas. I will not go into details, but I want him to know how very special it was. It made all the difference between a stressful holiday and a wonderful time shared by our family. Thank you Bettis. Your are still a generous man.

Editor's note: It would suit me fine if his name never appeared here again. But I have no control over that. He does more to keep his name here than anyone.
web posted January 17, 2009

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Dear Editor,  
First of all I would like to extend my thoughts and prayers to you and your family during this trying time.
Secondly, keep fighting the good fight.  Seems you have rattled some cages, but I think the saying goes…” the bit dog, barks”.
Lastly, I cannot believe the audacity of Mr. Rainsford, to personally attack you with such venomous slander…ie (racist and writing 1600 emails to yourself), during this time of grief for your family.  After reading his letter, it occurs to me, that he just played the race card on his own kind.  Many well known “race baiters” use this technique to divert attention from the facts or to discredit an opponent when they are losing the battle…..i think he is reaching. 

Kudos to you for such a great site and job well done!

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind words.
web posted January 17, 2009

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Hi Mr Editor,
   Ok let it go we all know that you do not write the stuff in WMs. I post all the time and speak with alot of other people that post. Some people are just shallow and could not imagine that the people of Edgefield know what is going on. Some of us are informed.
But in this situation you Mr. Editor are the bigger person.
 
I am so sorry for your family's loss.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
 
Thank you for providing the forum in which we are able to speak freely.
I do have to say one more thing, Go Mayor Ken you are the best.
Think about it people he walks up and down the street all day, people stop him all the time to complain. I have seen him speak to someone and then get on the phone and have problem fixed and all for what the salary we pay him, I don't think so, because he cares about Edgefield and it's People.
Thanks Mayor Ken for the job you do.
(Name removed)

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind words.
web posted January 17, 2009

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I want to express my condolences on the loss of your wife's mother. I am praying for her entire family. It is a difficult process to deal with a loss like this and I know that pain. They will continue to be in our prayers. I am very sorry for the additional pain and turmoil you and your family have suffered recently. As Christians, we are all part of a family and when one is hurt or attacked we are all affected. Just remember that God is bigger that any person. The Lord takes care of His own and He loves you all

Editor's note: On behalf of the entire Adams family, thank you for your kind words. The outpouring of love and support is overwhelming.
web posted January 17, 2009

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Bettis we alll know yo are just trying to discredit the edtior, but you have a lot of dirty laundry he does not know about. I have an idea every one could list just something the editor would not know, that would prove to you we are real. Face it you are a fool and some people don't like you. I would be happy to start the list.

1. Do you still hurt after falling off Charger at opening meet. The whole fox hunt had a good laugh at that.
web posted January 17, 2009

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Notable achievements by our President-Elect Obama and his administration:
appointed a man who has never held a management position, or even had any experience in the space program, to head NASA

appointed a man who has no experience at all with intelligence agencies to head the Central Intelligence Agency

appointed a woman who was a card-carrying career Socialist (until her recent political appointment) to head a new global-warming beauracracy

nominated as Education Secretary a man who wants to establish a segregated school system for homosexuals only

nominated as Treasury Secretary (and head of the IRS) a man who 'forgot' to pay his Social Security taxes, and only then paid them after his nomination (and the statute of limitations had run out by then)

nominated as Attorney General the man notorious for rubber-stamping Bill Clintons pardons the last day in office, particularly that of Marc Rich, a major campaign contributor

appointed as his White House Chief of Staff a notorious gun-banner and enemy of the 2nd Amendment
picked as his Vice-President another gun banner who brags about his bringing about the 'Assault Weapons Ban' while in Congress

appointed as White House Intelligence Advisor a man who was fired from his last job for hacking gov't files on 3 passports: Hillary Clinton, John McCain, and Obama.  The last name is important because Obama has not explained why he carried a Nigerian Passport while a Senator, and refuses to show his birth certificate to prove US citizenship, required in order to be President of the US.  The Inspector General released a 100 page report on the incident, with only the first 5 cover pages unredacted.  (for Obama voters: that means you can't read what it says)

his new Intelligence Advisor is also on record as saying that the US should recognize Hamas and Hezbollah as political entities similar to countries so we can open diplomacy with them formally.  Yes, that means we could have a US Ambassador to Hezbollah.

nominated as Secretary of State a woman who's husband continues to collect large donations from terrorist countries for both his Presidential Library and his charities

decided to have the largest inauguration ceremony ever:  previous largest was Bush Jr who spent $40 million.  Obama is at $125 million and counting.

pushed Congress to allow the banks to have their private planes back after the bailout (which they did in a special session).  That's thoughtful.

Citibank is the largest corporate sponsor for the inauguration.  Strangely, they received $45 billion from the bailout and are in line for more.

unveiled another $850 billion giveaway package, and pried loose the last $350 billion remaining from the previous $700 billion bailout, saying, "Only government can fix the economy."

announced he was closing 'Gitmo', the notorious prison where terrorists are held, but hasn't figured out where he is going to put them, only that we will have to build a new prison somewhere else.

told the American people they need to get used to Trillion (with a T) dollar deficits in every year's budget

accepted a new presidential limo (price undisclosed) with a 10-disc CD changer

announced he will allow gays to openly serve in the military

started on his cradle-to-grave Canadian style healthcare system

installed a basketball court in the White House

insisted (and won) money to give to homeowners who can't pay for houses they've purchased and are facing foreclosure.

had the Secret Service close off the entire beach at his million-dollar rental home in Hawaii so he could vacation after the campaign

said his staff had no idea that his former Senate seat was up for sale, then praised them for not getting involved and 'doing the right thing'  (What?!?)

flip-flopped after the new Senator from Illinois was black.  First Obama insisted on a special-election to fill the seat, and saying any appointed Senator should not be seated; then saying we need to just move along...It should be noted that Obama repeatedly campaigned on behalf of the now infamous Illinois governor even after it was publicly known he was being investigated, and served as campaign advisor during the man's first run for governor.

asked a representative of Hamas to lead the National Cathedral in Washington, DC in Muslim prayer during the inauguration

Need I say more?
web posted January 17, 2009

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Editor's post: I have cut the number of comments short tonight as I want to spend time with my wife and our children who are grieving over the loss of  her mother. Countless comments have been held over and may or may not be listed in the coming days. It matters very little as Bettis Rainsford has proclaimed that everyone that submits comments to the Wandering Minds does not exist or is "one, or maybe two, warped cronies who are responsible for 30%" of those (comments) posted."

According to Bettis Rainsford, you are just figments of my imagination.
web posted January 16, 2009

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When I think of the job situation  in this country I can't help but think this helps in some small way.
 
 I don't know how many households there are in the US but if these were the only
 things we bought think of the impact.... This past weekend I was at Kroger.  I needed 60 W light bulbs and Bounce dryer sheets.  I was in the light bulb aisle and right next to the GE brand I  normally buy was an off brand labeled "Everyday Value"  I picked up both types  of bulbs and compared the stats - they were the same except for  the price.   The GE bulbs were more money than the Everyday Value brand but the  thing that surprised me the most was the fact that GE was made in MEXICO and the  Everyday Value brand was made in - get ready for this - the USA .  So throw  out the myth that you cannot find products you use every day that a re made  right here - from a company in Cleveland OH !
 So on to another aisle - Bounce Dryer Sheets....yep you guessed it Bounce was  more money and made in Canada, the Everyday Value brand was less money and MADE  IN THE USA!  I did laundry yesterday and the dryer sheets performed just like  the Bounce Free I have been using for years and at almost half the price!
 
 So my challenge to you is to start reading the labels when you shop for everyday things, and see what you can find that is made in the USA - the job you save may be your own or your neighbors!
 
 If you accept the challenge, pass this on to others in your address book so  we can all start buying American, one light bulb at a time :-)  ! Besides you might save a little green in the process.

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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To the poster complaining about inauguration parties for Obama:  Come on down to the fine city of Birmingham, Alabama, where the African-American mayor decided it would be prudent in these tough financial times to spend over $50,000 for a city-hosted inauguration party  Never mind that the city is broke and in dire financial straits, or that it ranks in the top 10 for most violent cities in the country.  Note: This upstanding mayor is awaiting trial on federal public corruption and money laundering charges.  Nice to see that Obama's supporters are from such noble backgrounds, and that they don't mind spending my tax money and yours shoving him down our throats.

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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I see in the paper that rainsford wants the town of Edgefield to rezone the church at the corner of Bausket and Penn St. and a lot that he owns across the street.Two questions. He is amember of the First Baptist church- why is he wanting to rezone this church? What has he got planned for the other lot? I thought money was tight for him.I thought that was the reason he could not meet his obligations at mt. vintage.Bettis needs to finish the projects he has started(plantation house and the house on cribbing -which is an eye sore and a hazard.)

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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I hate to admit it, but I love reading Wandering Minds just for the entertainment value. It gives me a laugh on a  daily basis. If I am having a bad day, I can read WM and always know there is someone out there with more of a bone to pick than I have. If they opened up a Wandering Minds Anonymous class I would have to attend. So what, there are  a few spelling errors, but the content is a riot. Especially when you have lived in this area long enough to know who people are ranting about.

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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BINGO! BINGO! BINGO!

Johnston Elementary School is hosting a hotdog supper and bingo night Thursday January 29,2009 in the school cafeteria.  Hotdog supper at 6:00 (hotdogs $1.00 chips and drinks .50 each); Bingo starts at 6:30.Cards cost $3.00 for the entire night. What a deal! This project couldn’t be accomplished without the donations made by our community merchants. For more information or to join the Johnston Elementary Parent Teacher Organization call Debra Aston 275-2345

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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I wish more people would attend the school board meetings. These people have control over our future leaders. You don't have to talk to be effective just be there.

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: I love the stories in 2000 and 2004 about Bush's inauguration being so "expensive" and a waste of money ($40 million) but the same media is now saying how wonderful Obama's is (so far over $100 million). Nice to know the "media" is not biased Common Editor you know this is History in the making.

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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Why want you just chill and pray that things would get better. Not keeping up with petty stuff. I thought you were better than that. Remember your wife is now apart of political lime life so be careful about what you say about others it could come back and bite a big chunk I mean a biggggggggggggggg chunk.To the residents of Merriweather.....please don't hold all Edgefield County residents accountable for the behavior of a few. We have no control over them........if we did, maybe we could get them to leave!

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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In regards to the Mayor's salary.  When I sent the post in I already had some idea that his salary was not much for the job that he does.  I did not know exactly what it was and I wanted it posted for everybody to see.  He obviously enjoys doing it because it is not for the money.  I am glad that we have someone who is as dedicated to being Mayor as he is.  He has made many improvements to our town.  I am sure that he gets calls from people complaining all times of the day and night and I wouldn't have his job.  I would like to recommend that you give him a call the next time you see something going on in town that you have a question about.  He will be happy to talk with you.  Don't just assume what is going on and put your false accusations in Wandering Minds.

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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Seems the 60 Minute’s investigation is proving to be true…..the oil price surge was created on Wall Street by big companies (not actual supply and demand), b/c they had a vested interest in seeing oil prices skyrocket…..well looks like we will see another price surge as soon as Morgan Stanley fills up their storage tankers……

Editor's note: You are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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Here it is a new year and yet the cheese man has been quiet. Cheese man, where are you????

Editor's note: Why would you do that? By the way, you are not real. I made up your comment according to Bettis Rainsford.
web posted January 16, 2009

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Editor's post: To the poster wanting to know what Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham makes in the position, he is paid $400 a month. Town council members make $200 a month. No one else mentioned is elected and/or does not make over $50,000 a year so that information is not being released. The Edgefield Fire Chief is also paid a stipend for serving. Mayor Durham estimated he puts in (excluding council meetings) around 15 to 20 hours a week fulfilling his duties as mayor. I would have guessed 10 to 12 hours a week. Splitting the difference it breaks down to around $6.65 an hour for running the town. By next year the person asking you if you want an apple pie with your order will make more than the mayor per hour. That would hold true for all three towns.

Then again, it is called "public service" for a reason.

To those asking about the Crime Blotter. It will be updated on Friday. I apologize for the delay.
web posted January 15, 2009

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You people are missing the point with wandering minds. Everybody has the right to give their opinion but they should be made to sign their name to their opinion. What's wrong with that? If you are man enough to give your opinion, then why not let the world know who you are. The answer is that you are scared, most of the time incorrect and clueless as to what is going on. I bet 95% of the writers to wandering minds does not have a clue who the VP of the United States is. Most of you are from Merriweather and we wish that if you do not like it here, go back to wherever you came from. You think you are privileged, self centered, spoiled and the world revolves around you. The absolutely silly incident when the parents had a fight with an official is a good example. This is a pathetic site that attracts the nutcases who will not tell us who they are. And Mr. Editor, your secret is out. We know that you write a good many of the wandering minds posts. Why don't you people sign your name? You don't have the guts to try and do something good for our community but you are eager to try to ruin other people's lives who are trying to make life better for all of us. You people make me sick. Let me know when you are man enough to tell me who you are. Until then, this site is for trailor trash people.

Editor's note: I find your comments a bit hypocritical since you have at least two posts listed today from different email addresses (and others over the past week) but the same "originating IP address" (That means from your computer). I guess you are trying to make people believe more people agree with you than there really are or you are getting others to use your computer to send their emails. I guess I am writing your posts as well since I have nothing better to do than sit up until 2, 3 and 4 am writing things in the Wandering Minds after working 16-20 hours each day.

For your information, for every post you read there are at least two that did not make the page due to rampant cursing or other rule violations. But you knew that already since you claim 95% of the comments are from people who don't know the name of the VP and you know I can name every member of the President's cabinet and all of our local, state, and federal delegations. You also obviously need a course in remedial math, in more ways than one.

I also like the way you call the fine people of Merriwether "privileged" and "spoiled" when they pay 60% of county property taxes and get 20% of the services. Don't worry, I will keep your little secret. But I find your comment very ironic since you think you are so privileged as to look down upon others.

In closing, your comment, "This is a pathetic site that attracts the nutcases who will not tell us who they are." and "this site is for trailor trash people". It is nice to know that you are a "trailor trash nutcase" as you not only read, but offer so many comments by lying and cheating. And those "trailor trash" people you talk about - they are the ones who will be coming when you call an abulance or the fire department to save your sorry rear end in a time of need. They have ten fold the integrity you could only dream of having. Yet you would rather see them run out of this county.

Get a life and quit wasting my time with your many self-aggrandizing posts. I did not think I could have a lower opinion of you than I already had, but I was wrong. I guess that was "my mistake".  Oh, I'm sorry, that was a reference to a comment you made in one of your other posts under another name not this one. I get confused with so many from you I can't keep them straight.
web posted January 15, 2009

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thought you might find this of interest ; History will show that George W Bush was right - Telegraph

Editor's note: I love the stories in 2000 and 2004 about Bush's inauguration being so "expensive" and a waste of money ($40 million) but the same media is now saying how wonderful Obama's is (so far over $100 million). Nice to know the "media" is not biased.
web posted January 15, 2009

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First off: Bless the Mayor

He at least has the balls to put his name on what he writes!  Who cares what he and the Chief make a year!  Obviously the reader doesn’t understand VOLUNTEER. Meaning the Chief of the Fire Dept.

I am so tired of people bashing the Mayor when there is less people supporting OUR Troops then there is on the square, when the bad MAYOR has organized family fun.  As far as Mr. Rainsford, feel blessed that he brought the money into town that he did.
web posted January 15, 2009

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Re: "WE Parker has a librarian who is not even certified to be in that position."
 
As a parent of several children who attend WE Parker I would like to personally thank the librarian for the wonderful job that she is doing. I would also like to thank her for agreeing to take the position as librarian. It is my understanding that if she had not taken the librarian position when she did, the library would have had to close. My question to the writer of the previous post is "if you REFUSE to send your children to WE Parker, then why are you concerned about the librarian?"
web posted January 15, 2009

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I am a long time employee of Aiken Co-Op I feel compelled to respond to the attacks on Gary Stookesbury. Not all of the employees of AEC feel the same way as the previous two disgruntled "posters". Gary has always been a pleasure to work for and has always treated the employees fairly.
   The first ten years of my employment with AEC, we went through a general manager about every two years. Every annual meeting, board members would be voted out {many without just cause}. Since Gary has been here, he has brought stability to the co-op.   Unfortunately part of Garys job is to make difficult decisions that not everyone is going to be happy with. I as an employee don't always agree with everything that happens at the Co-op, but I know if I have an issue with something, Gary has a open door policy.
web posted January 15, 2009

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mr. rainsford may have his business problems, but is at this time assisting me in a matter concerning my property, which will benifit me greatly and him not at all, except to be helping a citizen of edgefield.  he also aquired a picture for me of my property, printed a copy and gave it to me at no cost to me.  we have never, since we have been in edgefield, had any dealings with him, except these 2 items.  both times that i contacted him he was pleasent and graciously attempted to help.  i strongly disagree with the writer that says bettis rainsford will not do anything that does not put money in his pocket.  i believe that mr rainsford can be a business man and still show concern and caring for his fellow citizens.  thanks for listening to my opinion.

Editor's note: Thank you for your comment.
web posted January 15, 2009

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Re:  ERA Oyster Roast for $15.00 per head.  Is that an all-you-can-
eat price for the steamed oysters?

"Wandering" minds want to know!

Editor's note: I have not confirmed this from the ERA, but it is my understanding it is all you can eat. I love oysters and have been known to eat a half bushel at a setting. I will be there with my Texas Pete seeing if "Chef Derrick" can keep up.
web posted January 15, 2009

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A link to (EdgefieldDaily.com's Wandering Minds) was sent to me and I wanted to offer a comment to the conversation about Mount Vintage, Mr. Rainsford and Mr. Knight. I happen to know Mr. Knight and he is one of the finest men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I have met Mr. Rainsford but my knowledge of him is only cursory. I understand there is a bit of controversy with Mr. Rainsford, however; those who are painting Mr. Knight with the same brush as Mr. Rainsford for his reported remarks are doing a great disservice to Mr. Knight.
web posted January 15, 2009

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The flood gates are opening more each day.  How many more projects are out there that Rainsford, Adams and county council started which never were completed or never got off the ground because it didn't bring in millions of $$$$ or were not of the "high quality" brand they keep pushing for Edgefield County.  While looking for big profits they all missed the small but steady growth that needs to be brought into this county.  How many missed opportunities does this county have to endure before their eyes are open.  Aiken County keeps getting, Richmond County and Columbia County keep getting.  Where does Edgefield County stand - nowhere.  There are areas in the county which seem to have benefitted but there are many more that do not.  Look at your own areas and see if your council member has done anything beyond talk a good game during election time. Have they worked together to help the county?  If not let them know you are not satisfied.  Remember the facts and at election time let them know you want results not talk.  It is your right to talk with any member not just your representative and let them know your feelings.  Hush hush gets us no where.
web posted January 15, 2009

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Re: "Editor's note: Ah, a government educated poster. I would like to answer, but it is hard for me to stoop to the second grade level. When you are not distracted by shinny objects, go to the library, they have books with pictures in them."
 
That's pretty much the response I expected from you, sad to say, based on the recent content of your site. And since you don't know how to spell "shiny", seems like you don't need to STOOP to get to that second grade level. As a matter of fact, I normally agree with your views, but the recent double standard and personal attacks have rubbed me the wrong way. Up until recently I had come to expect more from you. I guess that's my fault.

Editor's note: Generally I try to have a great deal of patience with posters, even those who attack me on a regular basis. When I learn that one trying to play me for a fool I lose that patience. You're there. But I guess you got impression from my reply to your other post at the top of the page.
web posted January 15, 2009

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Re: Letter to MV People           

If I understood correctly, Mr. Rainsford and Mr. Knight say property valves in Mount Vintage have been reduced because of recent news.  Since it appears that anything these two gentlemen touch has great impact on the citizens of Edgefield County, my question to the County Council, County Administrator, and Tax Assessor is this; “When can Edgefield County property owners expect a reduction in determined values and when can we expect refunds based on those determinations? After all, these news related items would have impacted values during 2008, right?

Thank you Mr. Rainsford and Mr. Knight for openly stating current determined property values are not correct.  I am sure your influence will benefit all Edgefield County citizens in their quest for lower property values.  Also, since the letter seems to be public information I would think all citizens will get a copy to use as a basis for redeterminations of property values.  How can the County refuse?
web posted January 15, 2009

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This is in regards to the post about the rude manners of the school employees.  It is not only in the schools themselves but in the district office.  I called the payroll office in Johnston and I was talked to very rudely. Dr. Crenshaw needs to work on  people's attitudes.
web posted January 15, 2009

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Editor's post: I have received a lot of email lately, too many to be posted. For those sending condolences, thank you for your kind words. Others have sent comments thanking EdgefieldDaily.com for keeping the Wandering Minds Section online. There was never any danger of the Wandering Minds being stopped. Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham (personally) requested it be changed to make readers place their names with their comments. That suggestion was filed with the daily email from some banker in Iraq that has $10 million dollars he wants to smuggle into the US through my bank account.

It's just not going to happen.

EdgefieldDaily.com and I made a promise that those sending in comments would have their identity protected and we remain committed to that promise.

The December 2008 Wandering Minds has been Archived and linked above to allow the page to load faster for dial-up usesrs.
web posted January 14, 2009

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It's really a shame that good teachers and staff are losing their jobs due to budget cuts, yet Dr. Crenshaw feels that it is imperative to replace the chairs in the STHS office. Boy, I'm glad she has priorities in order!
web posted January 14, 2009

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I was told by the late Joanne Rainsford, Edgefield promoter extraordinaire, that the little wooden structure that stood in front of Magnolia Dale for so long had been donated to the Historical Society.  Can anyone explain why it has been moved to Mt. Vintage?
web posted January 14, 2009

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On several previous occasions, Mssrs. Rainsford and Knight have used threats and intimidation against members of Mt. Vintage Golf Club for "upsetting the apple cart" and speaking out against perceived wrongs.  Two men have been kicked out of the Club for daring to do the right thing (one was subsequently allowed back in after agreeing to a "muzzle order").

Now the ground work is being laid for retaliation against Mr. Brite.  In their latest letter to "Property Owners and Friends at Mount Vintage" Rainsford and Knight attack Mr. Brite and try to get his neighbors mad at him by stating that "Mr. Brite...has substantially injured every property owner in Mt. Vintage.  The negative publicity...has certainly hurt property values and will pose a huge challenge as we seek to reinvigorate sales..."  "We want to apologize to each of you that the challenges we have faced this year have allowed this situation to develop".

In otherwords, its everybody elses fault.  Perhaps Mr. Rainsford didn't do so well in Law School because the cat ate his homework.
web posted January 14, 2009

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As I see it, many of the posts listed have a few things in common that all lead to one major issue In My opinion. Whether connecting Bettis, The Mayor, The fine folks at MV or the School Board, what common ground do they all have ? Money !  We all know and have known Bettis is (unliked).  The Mayor,  Whom I do Like,  I think feels obligated to step up and try to defend Him because of Years of business connections as well as political affiliations. Mount Vintage is very Good for our county and has some very solid citizens and is a great source of Tax revenue, but they can't shoulder this burden alone. That leaves us the school Board !  The fact that they think we can't see through their - at least 3 of them - personel agenda's as well as their never ending voting and making ALL their decisions based on race - again, at least 3 if not 4 of them - doesn’t erace one fact. Our County Has ZERO Industry for a tax base. Even experts have problems with no revenue!   That brings us back to bettis and a couple of other " County leaders ". Bettis shot down Food Lion,  Probably Taco bell and KFC  as well as the Wal-mart distribution center in the Trenton Area with help from other leaders. Imagine, 1200 new jobs at a pollution free Wal-mart dist. Center and what that would do for the county. Jobs, residual businesses, overall Quality of life ! That’s just a start. Willie Bright ( Now that's a oxymoron )shot down a proposed Golfing Community on Hwy 25  Once again it has since  become a Large Nursery near Bettis Academy rd..  from some Myrtle Beach developers that would have made a World of difference on that side of the county as well as county wide. He didn't want a North Augusta type Bedroom community coming Into His county. We are lucky to have any growth at all, but at least the merriweather area is booming in spite of these Clowns. I am thankful for the new school board Members as well as county council members, but  I believe that until we get past these recycled Homers that remain in office and on the school board, we will continue to see much of the same in spite of efforts from the newest members.FOLKS,  THESE ARE THE *&$%#@ IDIOTS THAT ARE RUNNING OUR COUNTY !!!!!!! The answer is simple and yet complicated. Bottom line is, We need new Industry and the type people that can Bring it in. Money doesn't solve all problems, but it can go a long way towards most of our particular issues. Again, Just One mans opinion.
web posted January 14, 2009

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I just wanted to say that I totally agree with the "poster" that commented on Aiken Electric Cooperative. This was once a company that believed in looking out for it's consumers and it's employees. Since Gary Stooksbury has taken over, it has become a company that believes in only numbers. The Board of Directors believes everything the CEO tells them,or should I say, shows them, with his little charts and graphs. Even the branch office in Edgefield has become a joke. It also is being run by a "numbers man" that has absolutely no compassion for his fellow employees. He has become a puppet for the CEO. Let us not forget who it is in a big company that gets the job done and makes you look good in the consumers eyes. It is definitely not the CEO and his "puppets". I agree it is time for a change at the top before it is too late, if it isn't already.
web posted January 14, 2009

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Dear Sir,
I am writing to ask for advice.  I know you are not God, but based on some opinions expressed in your writings, you seem like a smart fella.  I have a friend that is facing a tough situation.  But it is a little bit of a unique situation, so follow along if you can.  My friend is a dog, we'll call him Buddy for now.  Buddy has a real good situation, he lives with a family that loves him, and until recently, spent lots of time playing with him and taking him for rides.  Well, all of a sudden, Buddy found himself alone and without company.  His owner has discovered another, more engaging interest--The Nintendo Wii.  So, as you can imagine, Buddy is very sad and is hopeful that he will one day be able to frolic with his owner and enjoy the great outdoors once again.  What should I tell Buddy to do? 

I have tried all sorts of things, but he is still forlorn.  Please, if you can, suggest one or two things that Buddy could do to make his owner pay attention to him more.  Thanks in advance for your help.

Editor's note: I would suggest sending the owner to Wii-hab and give the dog a bone.
web posted January 14, 2009

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Re: reply posted 1-12-09 regarding Shade Tree Academy/ Dr. Crenshaw/ Sallie Cooks
 
  First, I know for a FACT that Dr. Crenshaw or Sallie Cooks has NEVER assisted, proposed or written any grants for THE Shade Tree project.  I have found Dr.Mary Rice-Crenshaw and Sallie Cooks to be professional women of honor.  We should be thankful they are here. However, IF memory serves ME correct, Edgefield Co. Schools received over $4 million dollars in grant money last year and that would be under Dr. Crenshaw's supervision. 
 
Second: The Shade Tree Academy For Girls is a lovely project that was hatched and nurtured in the mind of Mrs.. Essie Mae Washington. Due to her age and health, I HEARD her Daughter is taking over this project. I have seen the professional scaled down model and I was impressed.  The original idea for The Shade Tree Academy was to provide a home for young girls (REGARDLESS OF COLOR) whom might find themselves in an abusive environment or seeking an alternative method to abortion. I PERSONALLY APPLAUD THE EFFORT OF MRS. WASHINGTON AND THE CHOICE OF THE YOUNG GIRLS! 
 
Third: I have HEARD RUMORS that The Shade Tree project MIGHT be used for purposes other than what was originally purposed. That would be VERY SAD and a disservice to Mrs. Washington's dream.  Regardless of what is being done with the project, I KNOW for a FACT both Dr. Crenshaw and Sallie Cooks loyalty is to the children of Edgefield Co.
 
Fourth: My Grandfather once said: "The two biggest liars in the world are: THEY SAID  and I HEARD. You just can't trust those two!"
 
I hope this puts the writer of the posted comment at ease. WE SHOULD ALL BE AS CONCERNED about the education of Edgefield Co.  Having said that, I would invite everyone to the School Board meeting tonight at 7pm.
 
May God Bless You! 
 
My heartfelt reguards go to the Editor and family at this time.

Editor's note: Thank you for your condolences.
web posted January 14, 2009

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I’ve gotten 2 emails today about inauguration parties for Obama. They say
come see “history” because of the first “Africa-American” president getting sworn in. I’m not a racist but (darn) if these people aint pushing me that way. I get so sick of hearing “African-American” I want to puke. If he’s president he (darn) well better be an AMERICAN PRESIDENT. PERIOD! Besides, he (Pres-elect Obama) aint black. He’s a half-breed between a white trash teenage slut and a commie (black man). He aint my president.
web posted January 14, 2009

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I think it is a shame that Dr. Crenshaw even mentions having a school for young black girls. Segregation was ended many years ago, and we do not need to separate children from each other. What about the young black boys? Why not just find them somewhere to go and the whites could run the schools. It sounds as though thats what they want. What could possibly be the benefits of such a ridiulous suggestion. And the name is even more ridiculous, Shade Tree. What is this, a reminder of the old South when blacks picked cotton and sat under the shade tree for rest. Is the new school going to be a work school where the young black girls will perform labor? Come on Dr. Crenshaw. Even you cannot possibly be this stupid. One day we mention severe budget cuts, then the idea of a new school. We need to find ways to make what we have work, not try to start new problems. Education is for all, not just one color. Our former superindentent would have stopped this crazy idea before it even went this far.
web posted January 14, 2009

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I understand your thoughts about the Edgefield School System. I refuse to send my children to WE Parker, JET or STHS.

The adults(teachers and Administrators) are mean and unprofessional in many situations. Names get you hired, not qualifications. Secondly, they pursue people to work in their school, just because they go to (a certain church) or have a family connection. WRONG. I have been teaching pushing 20 years  in 3 different school districts and have never seen anything like it.  They choose children to be on their web pages because their parents work at the school. What about the poor kids who's parents work at Bilo or at SRS or McDonalds. They constantly use politics with children. A child can not help to whom they were born. However, SHAME on the adults and the parents. WE Parker has a librarian, who is not even certified to be in that position. So much for qualified and highly qualified personal. Only in Edgefield.....
web posted January 14, 2009

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Re: the article about the person who wrote they "moved to MV because of ..."
 
First, I believe the Keystone Homes, Blackstone communities are in Aiken County, not Edgefield County.
 
Second, the "half-wit" that started the new development in the village (inside MV), was actually the developers themselves (Rainsford and Knight) and only when they got into trouble did they seek someone to finish their mistakes, as well as any future building in the section known as the Village.

Editor's note: I believe the subdivision that is being referred to is Cooper Place on Sweetwater Road near the tank farm. It is in Edgefield County.
web posted January 14, 2009

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ST Rebels wrestling team had a great turnout on Monday. This team has a great future and Coach B. has done a great job getting the team ready.  Come out and support  the team on January 22 @ 6:30 at JET.    GO Rebs!!!!!!!!!!
web posted January 14, 2009

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It Seems Mr Mayor you are afraid of getting tared with same brush as  Bettis Ranisford.
I have to admit he is one of a kind thank goodness.

I went to the web site Edgefield Construction and there you are listed as "TEAM" members.
Side by side in color pictures. Your Company according to the site built the Gulf Club house and other buildings.

Bettis will throw you under the bus before taking the blame.

The town square may be pretty but walk a few blocks behind the main st and you see the ugliness where money is needed to be spent.

http://www.edgefieldconstruction.com/default_files/team.htm

I have a nice copy saved when you take it down.
web posted January 14, 2009

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I'm sorry about your recent loss and you probably don't have time for this right now but when you get a chance, I would like to know the answers to the following questions:
1.  How much is the salary for the Mayor of Edgefield?
2.  How much is the salary for the Chief of Police of Edgefield?
3.  How much is the salary for the Fire Chief of Edgefield?
4.  Approximately how much time per month does it take, on average, to do each of these positions.  If possible, please indicate how much time these individuals are required to spend for meetings that are held at night.

Editor's note: I will see what I can find out. An elected official's salary is able to be published but others are not unless they exceed $50,000 a year. I'm not sure if the Fire Chief gets paid or not.
web posted January 14, 2009

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Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family in the loss of your loved one.

Editor's note: Thank you.
web posted January 14, 2009

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Way to go Edgefield Daily!!! Stop the poison my butt!!! How many projects did Bettis put the kibosh on because it didn't put any money in his pocket?  Think back about the magic Food Lion we were getting. They didn't build because of a TV show about them, he didn't want them because it would look ugly beside his out of place motel.
 
It's about time people in this county stood up to him. We are tired of being bullied!!!!
web posted January 13, 2009

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Mr. Mayor,your full of it.To all of you literary specialist,shut the pieholes,and keep reading.
web posted January 13, 2009

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Thanks for keeping “Wandering Minds”  It’s good for people to be able to express their opinions!
web posted January 13, 2009

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Editor's post: This is the most recent information on raises and the increase in County Administrator John Pettigrew's pay from the Edgefield County Administration Office:

"All employees received 1% pay increase except for the employees who were reclassified to different grades and the elected officials that received state mandated increases in July 2008.  The pay increases were not put into effect until January 2009.  Therefore the impact on the budget was only one half of the total cost of the 1% salary increases.  John Pettigrew's 1% raise was calculated to be an increase in his annual salary of $766.97, bringing his annual salary to $77,464.09.  His increase was treated the same way as all other employees.  He did not receive the increase until January 2009."

Editor's note: It is nice to know that Edgefield County will hire an unskilled worker at $77,464 a year for on the job training. Like Wayne Adams, maybe by the time we pay for his education he was supposed to have before taking the job we can pay him around $100,000.
web posted January 13, 2009

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I am sorry to hear that Mrs. Adams has taken a turn for the worse.  I pray that God will ease her suffering and provide the family with comfort during this sad time.   I met Mrs. Adams several years ago when her mail was misdelivered to me.  At the time, her sister-in-law and , I believe, grandson were living with her.  Having a common last name led to an hour long conversation during which I learned of her relationship to your wife.  What I enjoyed the most were her stories of living in the old house and going to the spring in the woods near my house to get water.
web posted January 13, 2009

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Several years ago Aiken Electric moved power lines for Rainsford and his salesman on Sweetwater Rd. between mt. vintage and shaw estates at cost of 25k.There was no reason for aiken electric to do this until this whole circuit was upgraded, i.e. larger poles and conductors (wire)  for increasing the capacity and reliability of this line.Gary Stooksbury, general manager or c.e.o. justified this expense because of the high revenue AEC receives because of mt. vintage. If any other customer wanted power lines moved AEC will charge for this service.But just like the mt. vintage tax base Rainsford brought up to the county council HE is supposed to get a break.Once again AEC is going to be charging its customers (members) more starting this month.$15 a month just to have a meter Last year it was $8, almost half. 45,000@ $7 per meter (15-8)= $315,000 extra per month AEC is taking in !! He wants to make it as high as $24 per month,that is before they charge you for the energy that you use. Security lights also increased by at least a dollar, that is probably another $50,000 per month for doing nothing extra.Stooksbury stated in monthly Living in south carolina piece, that we should be proud of how he has been keeping costs down. Bless his heart. I bet his over $750 per month car allowance has not gone down, or the $650 per month car allowance for 6 V.P. s  has not gone down (these figures are for them to purchase and insure an up to 7 yr, old car. I believe we all could get some very nice cars for this kind of money.Since he has been at AEC, they have done away with meter readers (1st with telephone automated meter readers- a total failure-he should have been fired with that fiasco-millions of dollars waisted in a system that was doomed to failed from the start) he has also done away with the cooperative tree trimmers( I'm sure many of you have had many complaints about their quality of work) All of this is permitted by the board of trustees, who believe every graph and chart Stooksbury shows them or are just in it to benefit themselves ( and sometimes their sons) It's time to make some changes on the board and send Stooksbury back home to the volunteer state before it is to late
web posted January 13, 2009

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To Wandering Minds:
Is hate mongering your new profession?  You are really good at it.
web posted January 13, 2009

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Re:  Ken Durham’s Letter…

He is correct anyone looking to relocate (resident or business) would be discouraged.  Wandering minds is not the problem.  The problem lies with our local officials.  Positive attitudes come when the citizens feel confident they are acting in the best interests of the county, not through suppression of the truth.  The attitudes and actions, especially of the county council, continue even after Wayne Adams has moved on to destroy another county.  It would be far better if our officials used the concerns expressed through this forum to make necessary changes.  These officials have the same opportunity to correct any issue.  Until open and honest discussion followed by good actions without retribution can be the norm, wandering minds and back rooms will prevail. 

Change comes, slow but it comes.  Whether positive or negative, remains to be seen.  There is hope. Reading Edgefield Daily, it appears there is much to be positive about, such as the actions of Edgefield, Johnston and Trenton community development groups.  That needs to spread to the town council, county council and school board.

The two new members on county council have demonstrated a willingness to make it positive.  They are not content to meet once a month, rubber stamp everything and be clockwatching.  They appear to make decisions today that have a concern and vision of what the future will be regarding those decisions.  I hope attendance at all meetings, councils and school board, increase and that citizens get involved.  Citizens, these people are elected and answer to you, not the other way around.  Unite and send a clear message, enough is enough.  We want positive change, not the same old attitudes.
web posted January 13, 2009

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First of all, I will keep your family in my prayers during this time of need.  God Bless.
 
Your editorial regarding the Mayor of Edgefield was spot on.  Of course this man wants the names of those that speak out against him and his pal/business partner Mr. Rainsford and for the very reason you suggest...retaliation.  He may attempt to whitewash it as 'poison' that tarnishes the reputation of the county but we know better.  It is politicians like himself and others, dirty dealings and corruption in the local government that keep new businesses out.  Why would anyone relocate here after listening to the rantings of Norman Dorn?  When council members open thier mouths and give evidence of thier lack of intelligence and inability to communicate they don't need to look at Edgefield County any further.  At least Mr. Durham can make complete sentences and use the spell check or he has an admin. asst. with those skills.  Beyond that his letter leads this reader to believe that he is no better than the man he is defending.

Editor's note: I have to take issue with the last statement. Ken Durham stands heads and shoulders above Bettis Rainsford in reputation in my opinion. I consider Ken a good friend, even though we disagree on some issues, we respect each other's opinions.
web posted January 13, 2009

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"Even though you did not obey the rules I allowed your post." - Was that the word count rule? 471, yikes, what can I say? I was on a roll. Sorry, your highness. If not the word count, what was it?
 
"I moved to Mt Vintage because of the beautiful golf course and friendly people." - That was a well thought out and well delivered post. BUT, by my computer's count it contained 548 words, or more than twice your limit. Yet you didn't complain to that poster.
 
"Business names will not be mentioned." - Unless it satisfies your whims, right? Why else would you allow the name of a business three hours away that is willing to go after someone locally? Yet you edit out the names of local businesses when people are trying to compliment them.
 
"No threats will be allowed." Right. Only thinly disguised threats of lawsuits and the like.
 
I'd just like to know what editorial criteria you use to decide when you will and when you won't enforce your rules. Is it only when someone doesn't totally agree with you or tries to give some objective information about the site that they are enforced?
 
Oh, and I like the way you quote the constitution. It says "Congress shall make no law ..." I didn't see Edgefield Daily mentioned. Or a limit on the number of words. Or ANY of your Wandering Minds rules for that matter.*
 
*241 Words to this point. Gotta stop now.

Editor's note: Ah, a government educated poster. I would like to answer, but it is hard for me to stoop to the second grade level. When you are not distracted by shinny objects, go to the library, they have books with pictures in them. It seems that you do not like to abide by rules, so I can understand your disdain for rules on a PRIVATE company such as EdgefieldDaily.com.
web posted January 13, 2009

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Please attend the School Board Meeting on Tuesday, January 13, at 7:00 pm.  As you know the budget situation is getting worse and the Board needs to know that the public is concerned and interested in their actions.  I know there will be some concerned members of the public addressing the board regarding these concerns. 
 
In addition, representatives from the 2 middle schools and STHS will be talking about the things they are doing to improve education at these 3 schools.  It should be an interesting meeting.
 
It is really important for members of the public to start attending these meetings.
  
http://www.edgefield.k12.sc.us/schbd/agenda.htm
web posted January 13, 2009

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thank you mr. mayor for addressing my concerns about the camara on the 4 corners.  as for hiding behind the wandering minds, i can say that except for the camara, i have said nothing in the wandering minds that i did not address with you personally, and still nothing is done.  this consisted of 3 other topics.  we do have some good in edgefield, or i would not make my home here, but it is sad that the bad things about our town still out weigh the good.  lets all work to try to change that, any way necessary, even to bringing things to your attention through the wandering minds. i would love to personally sit down with you and express all my concerns but can the edgefield daily editor be present to print both sides?  i know it will be honest and fair to both of us. all of us cannot attend town couuncil meetings, for several reasons, health, time, etc. i am sorry that it upset you, mr. mayor, but i would be concerened that the citizens of edgefield feel a need to ask those kinds of questions, who is paying?
web posted January 13, 2009

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After reading the Mayor's diatribe, I come back to one question. aren't the Mayor and Rainsford joined at the hip through Edgefield Construction Company?  If so, that makes his chest beating, not only suspect, but laughable.
web posted January 13, 2009

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We just want to express our concern for your family during this difficult time. We know how difficult it is to go through this situation and you will all be in our prayers. We are just very sorry that your wife and her family are having to deal with this. We will continue to lift them up in prayer.
web posted January 13, 2009

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RE: In response to the G/T Program. I the mother of the child that was denied entry to the program understand that acceptance is based on a testing criteria. I the mother or the child was never told what the child's score was, only that she wasn't good enough and didn't make it!  It is my opinion that the students in this program still should have to maintain A/B grades and upheld to such standards. And not only was she told that she didn't get into the program, but the student(s) that did get into the program could not state why they were in the program other than to say to my daughter "Let's face it, I'm just more gifted and talented than you are"! I heard this comment made with my own two ears!
web posted January 13, 2009

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Your "Off the Wall" article about a "World's first flying car" is way way way off. There have been flying cars since at least 1949.

http://www.aerocar.com/

http://www.moller.com/

Editor's note: I did not write the headline or the story, I just linked to it. This is the first fully self-contained "flying car". If they come out with a Chevy Tahoe version I might have to look into it. Sure would get me to crime scenes faster.
web posted January 13, 2009

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do you know if we are still going to get the KFC/TACOBELL in EDGEFIELD?

Editor's note: I am a firm believer in "when I see it". Even then I still have some questions.
web posted January 13, 2009

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To the mother who has a child at W.E. Parker and wonders "what the heck is going on" -

Call the school and make an appointment for a conference with the principal, the assistant principal, the guidance counselor, and all of your child's teachers.  This is the best way to find out "what the heck is going on."
web posted January 13, 2009

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Here's some good news.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=azFuegKQvUcc&refer=home
web posted January 13, 2009

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how rare it is to get a "thank you" at a checkout at almost any store.  Am I the only one that remembers when that was routine?  Nowadays you barely get a mumbled "have a good day" or the cashier quickly gets back to her/his conversation with his/her co-worker.  I would think that store managers would want to show their customers they are appreciated.  A simple "Thank You"  would show me they do.  I'm just sayin...................  I usually say "you're welcome".   Even that gets no notice.
web posted January 12, 2009

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Sad, Sad Newberry County has fallen victim to Adams.  Maybe this county will be smart enough to cut him off before he inflicts untold damage that will take years to repair.  How much did it cost Edgefield County in legal fees and settlements to defend and hide his actions for 11 years?  Pettigrew and county council, fair warning, the citizens will no longer tolerate the actions experienced in the past.  Wonder who besides the council backed Adams actions?
 
Good luck to Mr. Ashcraft and Mrs. Blackwell.  You have no idea how much repair work you have ahead of you with this council and the previous administrator's actions towards its citizens, staff and businesses.  Special message to the incumbent council members, get on board and work with the new council members and your citizens.  Remember the next election is only 2 years away.  We are watching.
web posted January 12, 2009

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I was wondering how one can make an anonymous tip to the sheriff's department about possible drug dealing. I looked at the webpage but there isn't a tip line like in other counties. I am really tired of people black and white who don't work and get govt benefits and deal drugs. I am in several counties on a regular basis on my job and there is more obvious drug dealing going on in Edgefield County than in some of the larger counties, perhaps because there is no way to make an anonymous tip (that I can find). Thank you.

Editor's note: You can call the Edgefield County Sheriff's Office at 803-637-5337 or 803-278-1625 and provide information without having to reveal your identity. If you feel uncomfortable doing that you can email me and I will pass the information on to the Narcotics Division. I will see what I can do about setting up a tip line or an e-mail link.
web posted January 12, 2009

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I moved to Mt Vintage because of the beautiful golf course and friendly people.  I do not care what anyone says, Edgefield County is still much better than any place I have lived.  It seems, though, that the county is going through some serious growing pains that have been exacerbated by the recent real estate boom and then bust. 
 
There are just a few points that I want to make, actually some are questions.  Why would an educated and intelligent county council hire a used car salesman to lead the county?  I still have not figured that one out.  Yes, I do know that he was the mayor for a couple of years and he has a law degree that he seldom used in the past, I guess his last name was his qualification, because most public administrators have an advanced PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR DEGREE.  This degree is very different albeit very similar from a law degree.   Also, the county has not yet restricted the hiring of family member of county employees.  Employees who are related creates major faults in the system.  Maybe they need to find some money for a well qualified human resource person and they would not have multiple employees who are not qualified for their positions. This in itself would say the county much money.  I agree with the person who thinks that the fat needs to be trimmed up top.  We have too many chiefs and not enough Indians.  The tax assessor and the county administrator would be my top two candidates.  The assistant to the administrator and the finance young lady seem very capable.  Maybe they would do just as good a job without them.
 
Also, I would like to know if Keystone Homes, Blackstone and the other developers in the lower end of the county got performance bonds for their developments?  If they did not and were not required to by county officials, maybe we need a new planning and development person as well as a county administrator. 
 
I think that most people are forgetting that Mt. Vintage has two owners.  I would really like to know what the other owner has to say.  Indeed, he is the one with all the liquidity (money).  Like any good business person, Bettis only really looks good on paper.  Talmadge shares half responsibility.  However, I do believe that they will make good on their promises.  They let some half-wit start the new development in the village (the county is not the only one's who make poor HR choices) and ultimately had to bring in someone else to fix his many, many problems.  Our neighbors down there have had extremely good things to say about how everything ultimately ended.  Apparently, the new guy is not only very good at his job, but young and handsome as well.
 
Let's face it.  Business people will do everything they can to save a buck and get around things.  This is why we have county government.  County officials are the checks and balances on developers.  I would like to know that all of my hard earned tax money goes to help employ intelligent and qualified county officials.  Apparently, it does not.  The developers should not share all the blame.  This situation has exposed many flaws of the Edgefield County government.

Editor's note: As I stated earlier, a bond is not required if the developer has completed the infrastructure prior to building homes. I believe the ones you mention are nearing the completion of the infrastructure and no homes have been started, therefore they would not need to produce the bonds.
web posted January 12, 2009

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RE: “To Mount Vintage Residents: Quit with the whining.”

First of all, it’s not all residents.  It is MY comment you are referring to. About Covenants:  Read, Agreed, Signed……… No arguments.

Caveat Emptor:  Houses are started before infrastructure is completed all day nation wide.  If the law was followed then the bond that should have been purchased would have secured the performance of the developer in this situation.

All that Money I spent on my lot:  People in general don’t spend what they would consider “chump change” on their property.  The size of the budget dictates the size of the purchase and would reflect a similar percentage in any budget therefore a similar concern……… 

Attorneys:  YOU haven’t looked so don’t tell me that there are any.  Oh and I pay attorneys for what I receive from attorneys and both are always happy. 

County Council and enforcement of the law:  OUR tax money, yes that means yours AND mine, has always payed for what the county will NOW be getting .  Especially now that the county has more representation on the council.  I’m glad that this came to the attention of the county and the county citizens..  Imagine that, improving county performance, protecting future Edgefield customers of Edgefield developers AND expiditing HIS situation.  Sounds good to me.  Now lets be friends or will you slap away my extended hand of friendship???……
web posted January 12, 2009

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Excellent Lawyers to handle problem with BOSS HOG:

Nexsen Pruet LLC
(843) 577-9440
205 King St, Ste 400, Charleston, SC 29401  
Tom Tisdale or Bruce Wallace

I know the people that owned the Advertiser Building used  Nexsen Pruett when He tried to use the City’s power to steal the building at 1/3’s its value & use his firm to write grants, and to do the construction, thereby making a mint. From what I hear, Tom & Bruce have ‘BIG TIME INFO’ on the Dictator-- aka Boss Hog.

It’s time the People ran Edgefield!  Stand up and STOP being LACKIES!  Bernie Madoff is not the only one running a scam. Mr. Mims, life long editor or The Edgefield Advertiser, called Him a Crook. How many times did he call the shots and was right?

Why is Edgefield attracting very, very little industry? Because industry goes to places where the government is ran using the democratic process—definitely not the way it is now! Yes, people know and are thinking if the people don’t care; we don’t either.

It is rumored; the other partner in MV would prefer not to be in business with Betis and would invest more without him. The other partner would have been much further along by now if BR was not holding him back due to his personal and business shenanigans. Bettis is now a liability.
web posted January 12, 2009

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With all of the recent posts about MV & BR etc. ... I'm wondering what happened to the small building that use to sit in front of the Edgefield Historical Society Bldg?  Has that bldg. been moved to MV?  Wasn't that the old public library that use to be in Trenton?

Editor's note: There was a Gazebo that stood in front of the house. It was moved to Mt. Vintage rather than stay on the property as it was supposed to, as I understand. The Ben Tillman Library in Trenton is still located on Wise Street.
web posted January 12, 2009

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This is to the mother who wonders why her child is not in the G/T program.  I teach in another school district.  The state dept of education provides guidelines for placement in G/T to the school districts and students must meet the criteria in 2 out of 3 performance dimensions.  Placement is not based simply on the performance of the child in the classroom.  Nationally normed aptitude tests are given to the students and they must score in the 94th percentile on those tests to be considered for the program.
 
To read more about the requirements for G/T, go to the state dept website, http://ed.sc.gov and search for state regulation R43-220.  This document outlines the full requirements for placement.
web posted January 12, 2009

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What is up with the Shade Tree Academy for Girls? I've heard this is a school for black girls only and that Dr. Crenshaw and Sallie Cooks got the money for it. Can you find out what is going on? Why would the school district get money for a black only school instead of for our own schools?

Editor's note: I have not been able to find out any information at this time but I am looking into it. Due to a family matter my work time has been severely reduced for the time being.
web posted January 12, 2009

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I knew it wouldn’t be long before Wayne Adams was back in the news. This type of person will always create problems.  Since he is the Administrator, he will say he was doing what the Council member wanted. 
Wouldn’t it be great if Bettis Rainsford moved to Newberry, then he and Wayne could stick it to Newberry County the way they did in Edgefield County. 

One other thing needs mentioning, the Mayor of Edgefield and Bettis are business partners. So the house “jacked up” was probably performed by their own employees.  

Has anyone found out how much Bettis is being paid for using his building as the location for the town camera???

What’s the deal with Bettis and Pine Ridge Country CLUB???   Is he not the owner??? 

One thing about paving roads in Johnston, the “C” Fund committee provides the money for paving.  This committee also needs to be looked into as to where our tax money was spent??  I’ll bet most of the roads paved were for Mr. Rainsford ???   Probably at Mount Vintage!!!  I know the Country Club road was repaved immediately after Bettis took over the Country Club. This road was as good as any in the county before this repaving.

Editor's note: Mr. Rainsford is providing the placement of the camera, power, and room for the computer for free.
web posted January 12, 2009

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As I read the comments posted in the Wandering Minds, I am always amazed at the lack of proper grammar and spelling. It is hard to believe that people are this stupid. I'd like to think that it is
merely ignorance. Ignorance of politics and current events, or how the government works. Ignorance of the world in which they live. Then they open their mouths and prove that, yes, it was stupidity after all.
web posted January 12, 2009

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I think rancid Rainsford must be losing his grip.  All of a sudden he finds it necessary to write these long winded (and might I say rambling, boring....) letters to explain himself.  Guess he thinks he should have the last word.  Doesn't matter if it's the first or the last word, if it comes out of his mouth it's either a lie or only benefitting him.  On that you can count!  Hang on big boy, I gotta feeling your ride is just beginning!
web posted January 10, 2009

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Why is something no being done about the house that is "jacked up" beside the Episcopal Church in Edgefield?   It is not only an "eyesore" but a safety threat.   I'm surprised that some of the strong winds that we have seen recently have not blown it away, maybe on something else destroying it.   It is also unsafe for children who could easily find they way under it.   It was a beautiful old house, but has been sitting like this for some time.  I am surprised the Mayor hasn't done something about it.   What are the plans???????
web posted January 10, 2009

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I as a parent of a student that attends W.E Parker Elementary School would like to know what the heck in going on. Let me explain!
My child works very hard at every task she takes on, she has always made A's and B's, nothing lower. Yet when she tried to get into the G/T (gifted and talented) Program at school for the last 2 years she was told she wasn't good enough, not only does she maintain her grades, she is also in chorus, takes piano and participates in all fund raisers for the school and tries to help others anyway she can. I know she isn't perfect, she is only a child. But students that don't even maintain their grades are allowed into the program for whatever reason(parent/teacher association or parent/teacher family ties).
 
Another thing, the school chorus program is made available to 4th & 5th grade students. They  have to try out for chorus and practice every Tuesday & Thursday after school, but now that the music staff has decided to perform a new play instead of going to Carowinds(because of expense) students that where not in the chorus program originally are allow to join without meeting the same requirements of the students that tried out at the beginning of the year. How can this be fair to the children that have worked hard all year.
It's bad when the back stabbing and politics goes on among the adults in this town, but it hits and all time low when it is being done with adult teachers and students at the school!!!
web posted January 10, 2009

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To Bettis Rainsford: I read your response which was informative. It seems as if the reporting is not quite as fair and balanced as it proclaims to be whenever you are involved (see the last paragraph below). I am no friend of yours, but the truth is the truth. It would be nice, however, if you did something for the community that has helped make you so wealthy without seeing a gain in it for yourself. Yes, there's $1.5 million in tax revenue from MV, but you made (or will ultimately clear) much, much more than that, right?
 
To Mount Vintage Residents: Quit with the whining. Did you not read the Covenants and Restrictions before you bought? Don't tell me what the real estate agents and developer told you, did you do your own due diligence? Caveat emptor. Also, did you not think to wait until utilities were completely connected before you built? Cry me a river with all that money you spent on your lots and houses. And I would imagine there are plenty of attorneys (local and otherwise) who would take up your cause (if you have one), but I imagine you just don't want to pay them for their work. After all, you went to the County Council to get what you wanted - so you want enforcement at my and my fellow taxpayers' expense rather than exclusively yours. Gee, thanks.
 
To The County Council: No, bonds have never been required by your building department from me and others I know. Do you not know what's going on in your own departments? Quit blaming the Administrator(s) and staff. You are ultimately responsible to the citizens, not them.
 
To STHS Graduates: Buck Asbill rocks!  "Whan that April with his showres soote..." and all that.
 
To Barack Hussein Obama: I think it is a BRILLIANT idea for you administration to negotiate with Hamas and other militant Islamic groups. They've proven themselves to be so truthful, understanding and self-restrained in the past. I think you and Hillary need to go over there and handle that personally. Delta - I mean Air Force One - is ready when you are.
 
To the Editor: Keep up the good work, but don't let your bias show so much. It's not often, but it shows sometimes. Your reporting of the filing of two mortgages, without knowing one iota what they were about or the agreements behind them, is part of what I am talking about. "On December 18, 2008 Mr. Rainsford and his partner received a $550,000 loan on two parcels (0.47 acre and 1.00 acre) from Southern First Bank" you reported. Oh, really? Wouldn't the truth be something more along the lines of "on such and such a date a mortgage was recorded ..."
 
Thanks for the opportunity to express opinions, even unpopular ones.

Editor's note: Even though you did not obey the rules I allowed your post. As far as what you claim was "bias", please show where anything reported was not factual. How is giving the facts, and just the facts, "bias"? Mr. Rainsford and his partner received money from the loan (they put the property up as collateral), not a loan to buy property as you want to suggest (that would be misleading). Even Mr. Rainsford admitted that in his letter.

Bonds are not required for all developers, only those who try to sell lots and build houses before the infrastructure is complete. Legitimate developers complete the infrastructure before selling lots and building houses. Maybe Mr. Rainsford would be in a better position if he tried to do what legitimate developers do rather than skirt the law.
web posted January 10, 2009

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Re: How much did (County Administrator John) Pettigrew get in his raise this year?
 
Didn't he get a $20,000.00 raise within fifteen minutes of being hired?

Editor's note: John Pettigrew was hired in October of 2006 and accepted the job at the advertised rate of $64,000 a year. Minutes after being hired he was given an $11,000 raise, not $20,000. I have not been able to determine what type of raise he recieved this year and those figures will not be available until next week.
web posted January 10, 2009

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Years ago I attended the ceremony unveiling the statue of Sen. Strom Thurmond in the Edgefield town square.
 Bettis Rainsford made himself the focus of attention that day, standing on a podium with Thurmond, Rep. Butler Derrick and a gaggle of Washington's top political blowhards.
 Notably missing from the podium was the wonderful young sculptor who had created the Thurmond statue. Her name is Maria Kirby-Smith and she had done marvelous work prior to the Thurmond statue, namely the police memorial in Richmond, Va., and the tribute to southern writer O. Henry in North Carolina. She has since done a lot of good work.
 Rainsford, I learned shortly after the unveiling ceremony, had become miffed at Kirby-Smith because she had the temerity to demand payment for her work. She had created the statute at a bargain price, less than $25,000.
 After questioning several people about the slight to Kirby-Smith (her name was never mentioned during the ceremony), I was told that Rainsford was a man obsessed with pursuing million dollar dreams at the expense of others and it was difficult to extract rightfully owed debts out of his purse.
  A number of people have kept up with Rainsford over the years and they describe him as man adept at using smoke and mirrors to delude the gullible. With those warnings ringing in my ears, I long ago made myself a promise never to get involved with him under any circumstances.
  I have friends who bought a retirement home in Mt. Vintage, despite my pleas that they use extreme caution, and now I fear they will suffer from the pains inflicted by hindsight.
 Aside from the Thurmond statue, the details of which I am fully aware, I once was told that Rainsford and a few henchmen diverted federal grant money marked for infrastructure improvements into the rebirth of a closed textile mill in Edgefield.
 I don't know if this is fact or rumor but when it comes to Rainsford I can believe most anything.
 My advice to anyone approached by Rainsford is to take off running if you see him coming. You would be well served by following that piece of advice.
web posted January 10, 2009

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If you are willing to pay higher taxes for Bettis Rainsford to get outta Dodge, say "Aye"!
web posted January 10, 2009

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Face it Bettis you have been found out. Stand up and take it like a man. Many small business's wont work for you due to past experience trying to get paid. I love to her the tally of those on line. I worked for you once and getting my check was like chasing a chicken. A great cartoon? Your best asset is making promises that never come to fruition. Just keep taking you will dig your self into a deeper hole.
web posted January 10, 2009

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I recently heard that some of the folks (not kids) at FCHS were film stars.  Have you heard of anything going on at the creek ??

Editor's note: I have no idea. You might want to check the North Augusta papers, FCCHS does not communicate with the Edgefield County press. It seems Edgefield County is beneath their high caliber status.
web posted January 10, 2009

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just wanted to let the citizens know that the town of johnston don't pick the roads to be paved. columbia picks them for (SC)dot.
web posted January 10, 2009

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Re: Maybe they should change the name of Mt. Vintage to BROKE back mountain
 
I happen to be a MV resident.  Things like this have been happening for years.  From what I hear, there isn't a lawyer for miles that will touch a case against him.  What you said is funny but true in another way.  The only people getting bent over at MV are the MV residents.
web posted January 9, 2009

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"Rainsford continued, “Ya’ll need to appreciate the fact that banks have absolutely completely slammed the door on making any real estate loans at all. I’m sure ya’ll are sophisticated enough to know that.”   exactly what is that suppose to mean? Sure sounds like a slam on the intelligence level of the people of Edgefield. Does Mr. Rainsford think we are to stupid to understand basic real estate law and he is somehow superior in intelligence to all of those in attendance at the meeting. This could be interesting, maybe Mr. Rainsford should be looking a purchasing some property on Gary Hill Road, I hear they have a nice housing unit for those that break federal laws. He could ask former GA senator Charles Walker what happens when the mighty think they are above the law. As long as Bettis has been in real estate development and he didn't know about the performance bond. Sure, and I have some beach front property in Arizona I'll sell him too.  Ignorance of the law is not an excuse for breaking it, this was a deal set up with our former county administrator, Chances are that Wayne Adams and Howard Gibson were also aware of the law that money was suppose to be posted but because Boss Hogg(rainsford) was developing the property they looked the other way. one of those "good ol' boy" deals.
 There is new blood on the council that will no longer let Bettis run all over the county council and do what he pleases. I'm sure Mr. Kneece was not impressed, no one likes to be made a fool of. Its about time someone stood up to Boss Hogg and took him down a notch, I can't wait to see how this one plays out. What does the county attorney think of this? Sounds to me that the county needs to go look into going after him for money due on the performance bonds. I guess we know now why he was wanting money to lobby in Columbia, he has to make new friends in the state legislature to help him fund his projects. Maybe he wants to put in for a bailout too.
 
(although he may be looking for a different type of bailout if federal law enforcement investigates.)
web posted January 9, 2009

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Help! I’m being robbed! I got a good look at them -- one is a tall, skinny black man wearing an expensive suit with big shoulder pads accompanied by a short plastic looking woman with sharp hair and a full bustline. The get-away driver is an older man with gray hair and glasses. They not only took my purse, but all my future earnings and my will to succeed. They were last seen speeding away in a brand new Cadillac limo towards Washington, DC. Any information on this gang of thieves can be reported by contacting 1-800-STOPSOCIALISMNOW!
web posted January 9, 2009

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EVERYBODY needs to read this. I like this guy, he's "One Pissed Off Dude!"
http://bighollywood.breitbart.com/ggraham/2009/01/06/one-pissed-off-dude-5/
web posted January 9, 2009

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Re: Everyone seems to have so much to complain at this special time of the year, please take the time to read this and please pray for Mary Louise.

Her last name is listed below -Pawlowski, she lives in North Augusta, and this is the web page to go to. http://www.mlpfoundation.org/
web posted January 9, 2009

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I learned more about English from the teacher the writer from yesterday mentioned as being racist than I ever learned from any English teacher.  Strange thing is I only had her as a sub for about two months.  She was a substitute my Jr. Year.  She was the best teacher I had out of the other 4 I had at ST.  She taught English the Old way, Diagram, Diagram, and more Diagramming.  Back to basic teaching.  My mother had her for about 4 years at Strom Thurmond, she respected her but she was also intimidated by her.   (She) made me understand English like no other teacher.  And she now is close to death and I think about her ever time I make my students write any thing for me.  She is still a great teacher.   I pray for her, her son who is my Dr, and her daughter who is my friend every chance I get.  She touched a lot of people in this community and a lot of us are better because of her being a part of our lives.
web posted January 9, 2009

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I was looking at the articles yesterday here on Edgefielddaily and I read the one about the truck fire at the Water Department. I kept trying to figure out what looked wrong, it finally dawned on me that the two firefighters were fighting a fire with no gear on. Are the firefighters required to wear gear to protect them? After even more thought, I believe I figured out something else. Maybe the reason the Edgefield County Firemen’s Association and the Edgefield County Council didn’t want to check into what was going on down in District #9 was they might uncover something or things in some other departments?

Here is a thought for all Edgefield County tax payers. If one firefighter gets hurt or killed in Edgefield County we all pay!!!! I understand it is a dangerous job and they all VOLUNTEER but they all need to follow procedures and wear their gear to protect themselves.
web posted January 9, 2009

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To the person trying to put down the editor. I didn't see his post as being whinning. To me it was an explanation for why the WM's wasn't complete for the day. If you don't like it, quit reading!  Mr. Editor: I am thankful for all your hard work and the long hours it takes to bring us the news every day. I don't know why you put things like that on the WM's. I'd just delete the email and be done.

Editor's note: I have no problem with people expressing their opinions even when they attack me. If the submission follows the rules it will be posted. Thank you for reading and for your kind comments.
web posted January 9, 2009

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Funny how (former county administrator) Wayne Adam's name pops up with the Mt. Vintage mess. Now we know why he was walking up and down the steps to Bettis's office every day.
web posted January 9, 2009

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Poll: Americans unsure of Obama's citizenship

Your article appears to be yet another thin veil to disguise your racism. Fortunately you are much more clear on your ignorance so the average person doesn't take this article seriously. Sen. Obama was born in a US state. That state was Hawaii and if his citizenship was not valid many would have to assume that one of the most powerful and well funded political organizations in the world would have challenged Sen. Obama's citizenship and disqualified him the election, particularly as they were down double digits in the polls. In reality it is Sen. McCain that would be a more interesting case for citizenship as there is no dispute that he was born in Panama. Sen. McCain's citizenship however was also validated without controversy and intelligent people have moved on.

The election is over. Sen. Obama's citizenship is not under question by legitimate journalists, the GOP, or the current Republican administration. It appears that this news has struggled to make its way to the EdgefieldDaily.com just as the EdgefieldDaily.com has not received the news that Sen. Obama was not elected from Indiana. Sen. Obama was elected from the state of Illinois. Events such as his announcing his presidential campaign from the State Capitol in Springfield, to his victory speech in Grant Park, which is located in Chicago, should have all reaffirmed this. It was kind of a big deal.

You are entitled to your opinion no matter how foolish I may think it is. I just hope that when you publish these types of articles you continue to appear not to know what state our President-elect is from so that people continue to snicker and couldn't possibly take you seriously.

Editor's note: Two words, Birth Certificate. We're still waiting. By the way, how is it racist to report what the American people say in a poll? And yes, I know where Obama is from, the den of corrupt politicians, Chicago. Birds of a feather flock together.
web posted January 9, 2009

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She is still alive, THe reason she had problems in 1970 is the fact the students were so behind from their sergated education she could not put them on the same educational level as the White students.   THis is not raisism
web posted January 9, 2009

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I'm so sick of you whinning about working 20 hrs a day. You are a liar. You aint worked 20 hrs in a week in your life.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading. I will be more than happy to turn EdgefieldDaily.com over to you for a week and give you all the money I get paid for the month if you can do the same job. I could use a vacation. Just say when.
web posted January 8, 2009

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Maybe they should change the name of Mt. Vintage to BROKE back mountain. (content removed) I guess Mr. Brite didn't want to spit on his fingers for Bettis.
web posted January 8, 2009

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Thank GOD we got somebody on the (county) council that is looking out for us. Mrs. Blackwell said she didn't want to cut county employees pay to balance the budget at the meeting Tues nite. Thanks for looking out for the little guys. (The county) don't pay us enuf as it is and we always get the shaft. every year. We got screwed on our raises this year just like every year. How much did (County Administrator John) Pettigrew get in his raise this year? I bet its a lot more than we got!

Editor's note: I will check into how much of an increase Mr. Pettigrew received, if any.
web posted January 8, 2009

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It just amazes me that a parent can sit in Church and watch their child texting on their cell phone.or that they can do the same thing in Sunday School and if the teacher asks them to please cut it off and listen to the lesson , then she is the one that is wrong. Have people just lost their minds?
web posted January 8, 2009

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I was shocked to read the story on Mt Vintage and Monroe (Kneece) putting Bettis (Rainsford) in his place. Its about (darn) time~! I just wonder if it was because (Genia Blackwell) and (Rodney) Ashcraft are now on the (county) council and he knows he can't BS them all? Either way I got to hand it to Monroe he at least did what was right for a change.

Editor's note: Though Chairman Kneece and I have had many differences of opinion over the years, I will say that he will not be the fall guy, or made a fool of, by anyone, including Mr. Rainsford. I believe Mr. Kneece when he stated that he was unaware that former county administrator Wayne Adams allowed Mr. Rainsford to have a free hand to do whatever he wanted and kept it from the county council.

This issue is far from over. I would not be surprised to see a special called meeting of the county council in the coming weeks to protect the county from being involved in what I think will be legal proceedings that will be filed. The infrastructure will not be completed anytime soon.

I honestly believe Chairman Kneece would have taken the same position regardless of who the other four council members were.
web posted January 8, 2009

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I'm loving it!
web posted January 8, 2009

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It sounds like to me that Bettis (Rainsford) is saying he's broke if he can't get any money to pave his roads. I thought he was super rich? What happened? Your sugar daddy Scum Thurmond died off and you got nobody to steal tax money for you anymore? HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!!! I got a trailer on Glenn Bussey Rd I'll rent ya if you need a place to hide from the people you owe money to.
web posted January 8, 2009

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I just wanted to send in a belated Happy New Year and a thank you for Edgefield Daily. I hope this year is your best ever!

Editor's note:  Thank you for your kind comments and your continued support.
web posted January 8, 2009

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Wow .. that’s all I am going to say .. WOW!!! .. everything you have been saying for months now .. on the record .. WOW!!
web posted January 8, 2009

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I wonder if the reporter for the (Edgefield) Advertiser attended the same meeting (EdgefieldDaily.com) and I did? It seemed to me the reporter was glossing over what happened to try to make Bettis (Rainsford) look like a victim. There were dozens of inaccuracies in the story they printed in the paper but this one really got my goat. "An issue of Performance Bonds was brought up by Brite early in the session. The Council as well as Rainsford seemed unaware that there was one needed".

Mr. kneece made no bones about knowing the bonds supposed to be paid and said so. Thank you for quoting people in your reports as opposed to making things up. The (Edgefield) Advertiser reporter needs to hang up their pen and pad or get a hearing aid. THAT was slanted reporting!!!

Editor's note: I have not read the article you refer to yet so I cannot comment on what it contains. If in fact that is an accurate quote I would have to say it is misleading and untrue. 
web posted January 8, 2009

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Greetings,
In an article re the above several weeks ago you said that you would publish the complete list of people receiving votes. When will that be done?

Editor's note: A list containing any additional information was never produced other than the list provided for the last report.
web posted January 8, 2009

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Re the CLVFD: I don't know who the clowns are on both sides of this whole BS but GIVE IT A REST!!!!! OBVIOUSLY the only people that care about your little personal battle ya'll!
web posted January 6, 2009

Well I don't care about the Bettis (Mt. Vintage) thing but I read it. I thought this was a place to voice your opinions? If you don't care to read a post then skip it. I think everyone that lives in Edgefield County should care what goes on with tax money. My 2 cents!
web posted January 8, 2009

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Everyone seems to have so much to complain at this special time of the year, please take the time to read this and please pray for Mary Louise, she needs everyones prayers,  then think how lucky we are.  You may go to her web page and learn all about her and her family.
MLP Foundation
"It's 4 The Right Reason"

Editor's note: No link to the page was provided so the full name was removed.
web posted January 8, 2009

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(Name removed) may have been a fine teacher but all that changed when the students from W.E. Parker High School at that time entered ST for the time in history. She was prejudice towards the black students and didn’t show any sympathy towards them until one student cornered her and asked her about her teaching tactics to the blacks. It was then the next year when she went to Wardlaw. She wasn’t all that you think she was or what you’re boasting about. You thought you knew the real (name removed) but ask some of the blacks that went there 1970-1971(the first black class to ever attend ST you’ll find out more than you think of your darling teachers back at that time.

Editor's note: I have no idea if the teacher named is still alive. If I knew the teacher was deceased I would have allowed the name. You cannot slander the dead.
web posted January 8, 2009

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Does Edgefield County have a new sheriff in town? 

The article about last night’s Council Meeting reminded me of the “Western Movies” we grew to Love.  A new sheriff (2 new County Council Members) willing to ask the right questions in support of laws and doing what is right.  A paid for (afraid) citizens’ group of previous and current County Council Members and County Employees bowing to the County Bully (land owner who wants more and more, etc.).  How will this movie end?

I truly believe the new sheriff will listen to the people who matter and set the County Bully on his heels for accountability of actions.  I also believe this just may be the beginning of many more citizens willing to support the new sheriff (Council} instead of bemoaning its’ existence.

I can hear the background music and sound of the County Bully in desperation to hold onto power and the fair maiden.

Riding “rough shod” over the County may just be a thing of the past.  Support what is right and just.
w

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I'm not too sure I like the idea of a "live" camera on the town square (in Edgefield). I can see where it is kinda neet but then I wonder when they will start placing them on other streets. I know I wouldn't llike one place a block away in front of my house. I don't want people watching me out in my yard or knowing when I'm not at home so they can come rob my house. I read 1984.
w

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If you haven't heard, there is a new breeze blowing (a breath of fresh air) in the county council.   If you missed the meeting, make sure you reserve your seat for the next.  It looks as if there has been an injection of brain power.  You know the kind where people actually think and hold discussions.  Sorry Bettis,  but you brought the "high end" intelligent people to the community and you thought they wouldn't hold your feet to the fire.  Shame, shame.
web posted January 7, 2009

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A big THANK YOU to Mayor Durham and the EF town council for changing the end time for parties at the EF gym.
web posted January 7, 2009

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Does anyone know anything about the new girl's school in Edgefield - ShadeTree Academy?
web posted January 7, 2009

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Do you ever leave the (4) corners of town? When did Battis go into the camera bussiness? How much are we paying rent on the space to mount it? Or was it cheaper to just rent the building?Well it's a new year but the sameold sameold.I hope and pray that you look at your job and see there are real good people outside of your (4) corners that deserves some town leadership! Elections will come again, you may want to start looking at where the votes came from.Best of luck in the new year Mr. Mayor !
web posted January 7, 2009

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Another name to be added to the list of great English teachers would be Phyllis Hendrix Davis. Mrs. Davis taught at Strom Thurmond and later at Wardlaw. She was TOUGH, but fair. I had the privilege of having been taught by three of the four mentioned. I don't know how much was absorbed on my end, but college was easier because of them. I thank them all.

Editor's note: Throughout my years in local schools I had Jenny Rodgers and Buck Asbill. I had Mr. Asbill for three class straight my Senior year at STH including Honors English and Advance Composition. If it were not for Mr. Asbill I would not be writing and editing for EdgefieldDaily.com today.
web posted January 6, 2009

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Dear editor,
I enjoyed your columns Kill the dollar to kill America and Monopoly money and the Federal Reserve. You were spot on with the one from 2005. You deserve an "I told you so" for that one. I agree with most of everything you wrote but don't you see some of the blame on the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac thing being GW's fault and the Repubs? They were in charge  from 2000 - 2006.

Editor's note: Pres. Bush started off saying something needed to be done in 2000 and the push by Republicans to do so was blocked by the Democrats by use of filibusters. In the past I have included quotes and video of the Democrats saying both Freddie and Fannie were sound and not in need of government oversight.

If there was a single Republican to blame there would be Congressional hearings and the Democrats would be wanting someone to go to jail for causing the mess. Funny how there is not a peep from the Dems who own both houses of Congress and now the White House.
web posted January 6, 2009

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To the gentleman trying to sell me a vehicle.  It is rude and annoying to smack and pop your chewing gum.  Please get rid of the gum and maybe you will make a sale.  Leave the gum to the kids.
web posted January 6, 2009

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That bunch at Fox Creek is arrognat and think they are SOOo much better than everyone else. I'd bet a million buck when they catch the hoodlums tearing up the school it's gonna be kids from fox creek. Any takers?
web posted January 6, 2009

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You better bring extra tapes (to the County Council meeting).  It looks like this is going to be one entertaining night.  Hey I have a revenue generating idea.  Just have someone stand at the door and take donations.  The County can make a mint.  Where else can you get this much entertainment in one sitting?
web posted January 6, 2009

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Re: FCHS being a "choice"
We had two of our kids go to FCHS for 1 yr. and the "choice" was simple...  we sent them back to ST even though they have to ride the bus and they are much happier and making better grades. It's bad when a class is nothing more than watching reruns of a tv show. That's not teaching! Most of the kids they met at the school did not live around here either. So I guess to that person asking the question of where we get our info... its from our kids who went to the school. I have another point I want to make. How do kids from Ga attend? Hummm? Answer me that one!!
web posted January 6, 2009

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As I reflect on 2008, I can say we had a great year:

Blacks are happy; Obama was elected.
Whites are happy, OJ is in jail.
Democrats are happy; George Bush is leaving office.
Republicans are happy: Democrats will finally quit saying George Bush stole the election.
And all of us are so happy; The election is finally over!

I think 2009 will be even better:

Immediately after his inauguration, Obama will balance the budget, revive the economy, solve the real estate problem, solve the auto industry problem, solve our gas/alternative energy problem, stop the fires and mudslides in California, ban hurricanes and tornadoes, stop identity theft, reverse global warming, find Osama, solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, get rid of corruption in government and achieve world peace . Then on the 7th day, He will rest.

My best wishes for 2009

"The government cannot give to anyone anything that it does not first take from someone else."
web posted January 6, 2009

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There is a man who lives near the fish camp and drives an older large green ford truck who makes bio diesel, I have no idea of his name but I think the fish camp does.
web posted January 6, 2009

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Re the CLVFD: I don't know who the clowns are on both sides of this whole BS but GIVE IT A REST!!!!! OBVIOUSLY the only people that care about your little personal battle ya'll!
web posted January 6, 2009

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I am curious as to where some of your readers get their information regarding FCHS.  For instance, one reader stated "most of the kids at Fox Creek don't even live in Edgefield County." Less than 10% of the students at FCHS are out-of-district students.  Out-of-district students pay the district portion of student funding to attend FCHS.   The district receives state and federal funding for those students.  There is no school choice in many parts of the state, including Aiken county.  Parents in Edgefield county do have a choice.  If you have a child who attends or will be attending high school, talk to people about FCHS and STHS, evaluate information available from the SC Department of Education, and visit the schools before making a decision. Make the best choice for your child; please don't begrudge others the opportunity to do the same.

Editor's note: Not that I am discounting anything you are claiming, but if every single out-of-district student's parents are paying $2,574.04 a year for their children to attend the school I for one would like to see that piece of public information made public. However, with Fox Creek having a track record of lying about student population (FCCHS had to repay hundreds of thousands of dollars in funds to the school district for students they claimed and received money for and did not have last year - almost one third of thier total local funding) I do not take their word for anything.

I do not blame the parents or the students for this deficiency. I blame the FCCHS Board of Directors and Administration.

I have no control over what others post as their opinions about the school or the veracity of their claims.
web posted January 5, 2009

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Someone offered a post about Buck Asbill and Lib Morgan, two excellent Edgefield County teachers of English. May I add the late Jenny Rodgers to that list? I know a girl who had all three, then went on to get an advanced degree in English and taught at STHS. Good teachers often produce good teachers, and goodness knows we need more.
web posted January 5, 2009

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I love the way the CC (County Council?) bows down to kiss Bettis' (Rainsford) (butt) and how he is all about Edgefield County. Here's a link http://www.mountvintageextra.com/default.htm to the Mt Vintage website. Find one place where Edgefield or Edgefield County is even mentioned. Aiken and Augusta... all over the place... Edgefield... NOWHERE!!!!!!!
web posted January 5, 2009

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My computer has been ill, so I' m just now catching up after a while away,parents raise your children so that the teachers and other school staff won't need to spend time reserved for teaching dealing with your child.Teachers my hat is off to you, you have to deal with perfect students and teir perfect parents.
Happy New Year
web posted January 5, 2009

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I want to thank you for your article on the way the county charges for taxes. We live near Merriwether but have a Clarks Hill address. When we moved here 3 yrs ago we got our tax bill for our cars from McCormick County. When we fixed it our bill tripled. The taxes on our cars come up again next month and I have printed the article so we can pay our fair share but not the outlandish bill EC sends out. PS: we love Edgefield Daily.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments and for reading. I am happy I could be of service.
web posted January 5, 2009

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Somebody got some 'splaining to do. (Chief Magistrate) Parkman lets a kid who shoots a guy out of jail free but the other guy with him gets a $75K bond? That's just (messed) up.
web posted January 5, 2009

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How can the county charge such high values for cars and trucks for tax purposes when they know that there is no such thing as a car or truck in perfect condition? Even a new car when you drive it off the lot drops at least 10-15%!!! Who is to blame for this? Is it Bill Gilchrist or the county council?

Editor's note: Edgefield County Auditor Bill Gilchrist and his employees use the numbers they are provided, so they are not to blame and they will make every effort to correct the value set when you present them with figures from a reputable source. The ultimate blame lies with the county council. They have the power to correct the inflated tax rates.
web posted January 5, 2009

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Congrats on setting new records. I tell everybody I know about Edgefield Daily but they already read it. I guess that's not much help but I try.

Editor's note: Thank you for your support and for reading.
web posted January 5, 2009

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Government offices do take advantage of the Holidays!  Dss was closed for Christmas Wed., Thurs., and Fri.  Then of course for the weekend.  The town of Edgefield offices were closed Wed. and Thurs.  for New Years.  It seems like either these Departments are overstaffed or not enough work load.  But we did notice the trash was picked up New Years Eve.  One more indication that it is the people that are paid the least, that actually work.  They are always talking about not enough money, even to having to lay off Teachers, but the state and local Government offices can shut down, with pay.  Valentines is coming, how much time will they need off to buy candy ("in preparation for the Holiday")?  What do ya'll think?
web posted January 5, 2009

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Dear Editor,
I have read most of you articles concerning Mr Obama's birth certificate.  I was born in Oahu, Hawaii in 1962. My family was stationed there through the Marine Corps.  My Official Birth Certificate looks nothing like the one released by Mr Obama. other than the words at the top that read "Certificate of Live Birth".
 
I am curious to see if our courts will fully investigate this issue or just sweep it away because Mr Obama is so popular.

Editor's note: Not until they are forced to do so, and it will be doubtful even then as they care very little about our Constitution since four of the nine ruled against the 2nd Amendment of the Constitution they are sworn to uphold. Add to that Pres-elect Obama will name at least one if not two to the court to uphold a Constitution he is on record as calling "flawed".
web posted January 5, 2009

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Susie (Stewart's) efforts are applauded...however, she and along with all of the others that want to hide behind the belief that they send their kids to FCHS due to "location..location..location.." are kidding themselves.  Is it not really the fact of "black..blacker..blackest??"  Your own students are the worst advertisement for attending FCHS....so many times, there are kids bragging about "Come to Fox Creek; we don't do anything there!"..We can put our heads on our desks and sleep, use our phones during school; text during school and it goes on and on.  Even kids bragging that they go "stoned" to school everyday and "nobody knows"!!!   I do understanding that issues at High Schools happen daily at all High Schools, but don't try to make out that Fox Creek High School is such a superior, high quality school and that it, along with its students, teachers, administration stand leaps and bounds ahead of those at Thurmond.  You are correct that there is definitely a "choice", but let's be real in exactly why most of Merriwether parents choose Fox Creek.  Also, Fox Creek is such a "dumping" ground for the local communities to dump their kids who have been kicked out of their school(s).   Seems as if Fox Creek will take any body as long as they have their checkbook open and pen in hand....

Editor's note: I would challange the statement that "most" of Merriwether students attend Fox Creek.
web posted January 5, 2009

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Happy New Year Johnston! Now that Mayor Willie Campbell has been in office three years, lets review the city’s progress: Mayor Willie has decided that the way the town looks don’t matter anymore. How much longer will the “welcome” signs be torn down? It has been over a year now. What about the old flour mill? In three years he has not tried to enforce the law on Alex Hamilton to finish cleaning it up.

There are now illegal junk yards in town. If you don’t believe it, look at the building owned by B. Gibson on Railroad Ave. near the Post Office. There are other properties across town that are eye sores and are breaking the law, like unsafe houses and junked cars, but the Mayor doesn’t enforce the law. I wonder why.

In three years only one road has been repaved in town, and its one block long. He apparently doesn’t ask the highway department for any work in town. The town is still in a budget crisis, but the Mayor refuses to give up his salary. There’s no question he’ll raise taxes again this year. Why doesn’t someone ask him where the town’s money is going?

He campaigned that he would create more recreation yet we have less recreation and less money being spent on recreation in Johnston.

I want talk about the constant public outbursts and attacks between him and Tommy Burton and how they are continuing embarassing the town. There’s so much more that should come out.

I guess we’re suppose to see all this as progress. Is it time to elect a new Mayor or are we satisfied with the town going backwards?
web posted January 5, 2009

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During the election didnt President -Elect Obama want to build new roads to stimulate the economy? Wasnt that his grand plan to get us out of the current recession? We wanted to know how he planned on paying for the new roads, since he couldnt tell us at the time,  I guess we have our answer. by increasing taxes and installing a monitor in my car so he can take out more taxes from my paycheck for the miles I drive to work. Is this the "CHANGE" America needs? We will see change with our new democrat controlled government, right into a socialist government. any freedoms we had left will soon be taken away by our new Change of power.
web posted January 5, 2009

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Is there anywhere to leave my used peanut oil from my deep fryer? I pour it into the old oil bottle but would rather give it to someone that uses it for bio-diesel than throw it out with the garbage. Its a shame that the county doesn't have a way for person to recycle used cooking oils, think of how much money that could save over purchasing OTR fuels.

Editor's note: That is a good question. I will see what answers I can find in the next few days.
web posted January 5, 2009

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Wow. Someone called me an idiot. I love name games. What are you going to call me next ugly or loser? Well, I'll let you play the name games while I deal with the real issues faced in this county. First off you want to talk about BLVFD. Well honestly they are not in my county, so I'm not worried about them, but as the person before me stated they do almost always have someone at their main station. It is kinda funny that I have always seen BLVFD going to their own calls, but a many of times I have passed a wreck in CLVFD coverage area and seen a Merriweather truck, but on County Line truck. Why is that? Why is it that you go on the offensive when a citizen ask about things going on at the fire department? You should openly send an invite to all citizens at all times, is the fire department a public building? Why are all the windows on the front blacked out? (are you trying to hide what goes on?) You ask me to stand behind a fire department that is going to get someone killed? Are you crazy? My other amoung many questions is why were you so quick to defend the chief when I never said a thing about him? So what is he really hiding? As far as a volunteer organizations go, I have nothing against them they are usually great advantage to the community, UNLESS you have people in them who are looking out for themselves instead of the PEOPLE!
E-Citizen
web posted January 5, 2009

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According to inforamtion on Fox News. (link provided) The National Commission on Surface transportation Infrastructure Financing a 15 member panel created by CONGRESS is calling for a 50% INCREASE in gas and  diesel fuel taxes.  That would raise the gas tax 10 cents a gallon and diesel would increase 12 to 15 cents per gallon.  In all of their infinite wisdom they want states to also raise their fuel taxes and make greater use of toll roads and FEES FOR RUSH HOUR driving.  Does that equate into being taxed because of the time your work shift ends? what more can they possibly tax. We have seen dramatic increases in grocery costs due to the high cost of transportation, ( IE Higher fuel bills)the reasoning behind the new taxes is " We can either let the roads go to hell or we can pay more" they want to move to a new system of paying for roads that taxes motorists according to how much they use the roads. Congress may decide to disguise a fuel tax hike as a surcharge to combat climate change. Instead of calling it a gas tax, call it a carbon tax, that way we dont realize its a gas tax becasue they changed the name. How is a tax going to combat climate change? Especially since there is no such thing as global warming.
   
The best part is  their long term solution to paying for roads is a mileage based revenue system. They want to equip every car and truck with a device that uses GPS to record how many miles the vehicle has been driven, the type of roads and time of day.  Can you say Big brother? socialism? they were initially concerned it might violate a drivers privacy in some way. You think ? But apparently they have been assured by some unnamed group that such a system could be designed to prevent vehicles from being "tracked  in some big botherish way" let congress know  we are not the idiots they think we are, (and) we are more than capable of  realizing a surcharge, and tax are the same thing.

Editor's note: The story is a bit misleading stating a "50% increase" when the tax suggested is higher than 50%. Current Federal taxes are at 18.2 per gallon and they are suggesting an increase of 10 cents per gallon (a 52% increase). In addition to federal taxes, South Carolinians pay an additional 16.8 cents per gallon in state taxes.

The question never asked is why, when we are asked to tighten our fiscal belts, is the government never expected to do the same. Have you ever seen a bid on highway construction? The lion's share of costs is related to fulfilling government "studies", fees, and other bureaucratic nonsense aimed at sucking taxpayer funds for things unrelated to the construction or maintenance of public roadways.

The same commission has suggested states raise their taxes as well.

Maybe if the federal government was not so preoccupied in handing out a trillion dollars of taxpayers money to failing private businesses they could afford to repair and maintain our public roads. In case you are wondering what a trillion dollars looks like: $1,000,000,000,000.00. Try finding a calculator that can compute and display figures in the trillions.
web posted January 3, 2009

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RE: A new year, a new president, a new era

Is anyone questioning why Ms. Dyer lost her congressional race? Wake up, honey. YOUR views are the ones out of touch! I for one stand firmly behind Governor Mark Sanford’s decision to not apply for a federal bailout. Nothing is free in this world, and that money comes with more strings than a can of silly string. We can’t afford to borrow more money from China, and we don’t have the money to spend. I think Governor Sanford’s plan to cut taxes and make us the sixth most friendly tax state in the country is a much better plan than running to Washington to get on board the bailout express. Obama’s plan to make our country into the United States of New Jersey may sound like a great plan to you, but most of us here in South Carolina actually have a brain and enjoy thinking for ourselves without any government
interference. Next time you want to run for office, try doing it up North -- you’ll fit in beautifully with the tax and spend crowd.
web posted January 3, 2009

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I wanted to say I appreciate Susie Stewart leter to the editor. We are a public school and should get the same support the rest of the schools get.
web posted January 3, 2009

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Congrats on the new records for Edgefield Daily. (EdgefieldDaily.com) is where I go to start my day.

Editor's note: Thank you for you kind comment. You, as well as all of our readers, contribute to our continued growth.
web posted January 3, 2009

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Ms. Stewart's letter says that for her, choosing FCHS as the "School of choice – it’s a matter of geography really, . . . . location, location, location..."

Wow!!! I would never sacrifice the quality of my children's education for location.  I work in Augusta and some of my care providers are in Augusta/Evans areas.  Although I do have flexibility in my provider choices, I made them when I lived in Augusta.  I schedule doctor's appointments late in the afternoon or on school holidays/early dismiss days to minimize the time missed from school and work.

Before my daughter could drive, she rode the bus or carpooled to STHS.  Now that my son also attends STHS, he rides with her.  On the rare occasion that my daughter is sick, my son rides with someone else or I take him.  Yes, there are times that the long drive is an inconvenience, especially with two children involved in after-school activities.  It’s a small sacrifice.

FCHS has a long way to go in proving that the quality of education provided is on par with that at STHS.  I know FCHS has some good caring teachers; however, I also know students who attend/attended FCHS and the stories told of what passes for academics are scary.  The secrecy that surrounds the operation and financial condition of FCHS is discouraging.  The budget cuts must have hit hard as the agendas and minutes for the BOD and the SIC have not been updated on the FCHS website since mid-2008.
web posted January 3, 2009

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i read  mrs stewart's letter about bringing STH and FCHS together. i wonder if she knows that most of the kids at Fox Creek don't even live in Edgefield County? why are we paying for THEIR education with OUR taxes? Most of the teachers and even the pricipal don't even live in our county!!! HELLO!!!
web posted January 3, 2009

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Re: Writer seeks to unite Fox Creek, Strom Thurmond students, parents and supporters

Mrs. Stewart said that Fox Creek is facing the same cuts as the ECBOE. You said they don't have a cut in funds. What gives?

Editor's note: The Fox Creek Charter School is not affected by the current repeated budget cuts due to a glitch in the Charter School law. Their cut in funding will not take place until the end of the fiscal year in June of 2009. They will be faced with the entire accumulative costs of the cuts in funding at one time rather than having to deal with them individually and incrementally.
web posted January 3, 2009

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When your wife (Genia Blackwell) is sworn in (as a county council member) are you going to keep bashing the county council or start making nice?

Editor's note: Regardless of who sits on the county council I will continue to give my opinion on the decisions they make that I feel are contrary to the pubic good. The reporting will remain unbiased and factual when it pertains to the meetings giving just the facts and quotes from the meetings.
web posted January 2, 2009

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I want to add my thanks for Edgefield Daily. You make my day every day.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comment and for reading.
web posted January 2, 2009

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Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!! I hope everyone has a great 2009!!
web posted January 2, 2009

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For those of you that have made the New Years resolution to lose weight, Did you know that Edgefield has a weight loss program? It is called TOPS(taking off pounds sensibly). It is a non profit group, so it is affordable, unlike other costly weight loss programs.The program is based on the diabetic food exchange program.They are having an Open House on Thursday, January 8th. 6:00p.m. Saint Mary's Family Life Center Jeter Street (right next to the blacksmith shop). The first meeting is free. Come and learn how to become a healthier you in 2009.
web posted January 2, 2009

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Thanks for the advise on car taxes.  I have already payed everything this year but you can be sure I will look into it before I pay again.  Did you just show them the KBB value and they changed it for you?  Did they give you a hard time?
 
What I really need to know is how to access the value of our house and land for tax purposes. It seems really inflated!!!  You wouldn't believe the change in values since we purchased the house in 2000!!! I will have to go back and get the those numbers but it was drastic and we have not added on.   The only thing we have done is put up a fence and a chicken pen.  I would love to know how to get this corrected.

Editor's note: The Auditor's Office will not give you any problem in changing the tax information on your vehicle(s) if you follow the steps I outlined. They have to follow the values they are given, but if you provide a printed value from Kelly Blue Book (or any other reputable source) your taxes will be recalculated. Home property values are a bit more difficult as the powers that be in place to review the assessment do not want to shake the apple cart. Even if they admit that the comparisons used are not applicable they will still side with County Tax Assessor Kiesha Bryant (who is not licensed to be a county tax assessor and makes over $50,000 a year for a job she is not qualified to hold.)

Of course, County Council Chairman Monroe Kneece bought a house and his tax value was listed lower than the price he paid for the property and County Council Vice chairman Willie Bright had his taxes reviewed without a challenge and received a rebate.

The rest of us got soaked.

Of course, I am not implying that there is any funny business going on in the Tax Assessor's Office. I am sure that an uneducated, unlicensed, and unqualified Tax Assessor would not do anything unethical on purpose. But I'm pretty sure she would out of pure stupidity on the few days she is in the office when she is not taking time off for "comp time" she does not earn as a department head. I have a feeling that is about to change.
web posted January 2, 2009

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Judge Parkman is a joke. He's let people go after they plea guilty. How the (deleted) does he do that? Makes me wonder whats in it for him.
web posted January 2, 2009

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Re: The biggist problem with kids today...
Don't blame the teachers because you can't keep your legs crossed and you can't raise your kids because your too busy smoking crack and chasing your next baby daddy. YOU are the problem, not the teachers!!!!!!!!!
web posted January 2, 2009

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I must have missed the stories on car taxes but I'm gonna make sure I do it when my taxes come up next month. I didn't know you could challenge the tax bill. THANK  YOU for pointing this out!
web posted January 2, 2009

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Re: The biggist problem with kids today is teachers arent doing theri job teaching them right from wrong.

I did not give birth to every child in my classroom; therefore, it is not my responsibility to teach morals. It is; however, my responsibility to teach my students the academic skills needed to be successful. Unfortunately, because of erroneous beliefs like yours, it falls to educators to teach students the proper way to act in society.
 
Also, you may want to revisit the Bible, specifically the Old Testament.  God was very clear about his expectations of parents. I believe the specific Bible verse states, "Train up a child in the way that he should go and he will never depart from it."
 
God did not mean for teachers to raise children, but parents.
web posted January 1, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: Those in government work hard to enslave more people to the government dole each year.  

A good point.  Consider the slaves of the 1700ʼs.  Their masters decided where they lived.  Today we call it Government housing.  The slaves of long ago were told what they could eat.  Today we call it food stamps, and Free and reduced lunch.  The masters of long ago decided what the slave child could learn.  Today itʼs called social promotion.  

We still have slaves today the difference is, the government is the master and they are slaves of their own choice

If this angers you, then look into the life of one named Malcolm X.  Mostly late in his life, after his visits to the Middle East, He was like King and believed that man, black or white could only be great if he made himself great.  Today we see the Sharptons and think that we can only be great if the government makes us that way.  The government will only make you slaves.
web posted January 1, 2009

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It is obvious that the comment about teachers was from some one who did not have Lib Morgan or Buck Asbill as English teachers.

Editor's note: Amen to that. I had Mr. Asbill for three classes in a row my senior year at STH. I learned more in those three classes than I did in the four years I was in high school
web posted January 1, 2009

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To the person with the problem with the water company. I believe every word. We too had problems with them for years, they kept telling us the problem was in our line-even after a camera showed it was in their main line. It took calling then Senator Tommy Moore's office to get them out=the next day. to fix the problem. It worked and we haven't had any further incidents. They are lazy and will not fix a problem unless you stay on them. Its a shame when you have to resort to your state senator to get your county to do the right thing. Since this is raw sewage backing up maybe you should report it to DHEC, that should get the ball rolling.
web posted January 1, 2009

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Advice from Snopes.com
    1) Any time you see an E-Mail that says forward this on to '10' of your friends, or sign this petition,
or you'll get bad luck, good luck, or whatever,  it almost always has an E-Mail tracker program attached
that tracks the cookies and E-Mails of those folks you forward to.
 
The host sender is getting a copy each time it gets forwarded and then is able to get lists of 'active'
E-Mails to use in SPAM E-Mails, or sell to other spammers.
 
    2) Almost all E-Mails that ask you to add your name and forward on to others are similar to that mass letter years ago that asked people to send business cards to the little kid in Florida who wanted to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most cards.

All it was, and all any of this type of E-Mail is, is a way to get names and 'cookie ' tracking information
for telemarketers and spammers - - to validate active E-Mail accounts for their own profitable purposes.

You can do your friends and family members a GREAT favor (PLEASE) by sending this information to
them; you will be providing a service to your friends, and will be rewarded by not getting thousands of
spam E-Mails in the future!

If you have been sending out (FORWARDING) the above kinds of E-Mail, now you know why you get
so much SPAM!

Do yourself a favor and STOP adding your name(s) to those types of listings regardless how inviting
they might sound! You may think you are supporting a GREAT cause, but you are NOT in the long run.
Instead, you will be getting tons of junk mail later! Plus, we are helping the spammers get rich! Let's don't make it easy for them!

 Also: E-Mail petitions are NOT acceptable to Congress or any other organization.   To be acceptable,
petitions must have a signed signature and full address of the person signing the petition.

Read the full story here:  http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/petition/Internet.asp
web posted January 1, 2009

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re:Teachers
 
I am not a teacher nor would I ever be. With that said, I have 2 special needs children that both went through public school, I never allowed them to use their handicaps as a reason to misbehave in class or at home for that matter. They both have social skills and morals, that were taught by me. They can not use their handicap as a reason why they can not do something although they try every chance they get. It is your job as a parent to teach your children how to behave and respect others, not the teachers. I have the upmost respect for teachers, they were firm, kind and very interested in teaching my children and did a wonderful job along with my help (the key word was my help). If you are a parent you should first work on your skills, which you have shown your are greatly lacking. If your are not a parent I pray you never become one.
 
Thank you Teachers for all you do and put up with.
web posted January 1, 2009

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RE: Sewage problem
 
 If it were me here is what I would do:
First talk to my neighbors and see if they are having a problem then if they are have them sign a petition to the fact (be sure they are registered voters) and then I would be at every city council meeting and ask to speak. I do mean every one. Not to toot my own horn but I single handed was able to bring school nurses back to Aiken County schools. The school board was so sick of me and I had my facts. They could not dispute them they were real. And when it was my turn to speak I made sure they heard me, if they interrupted me I let them know I had the floor and the vote, that it was my turn. These people work for you most are elected. It can be done you just have to let them know you are not going to be pushed around.
web posted January 1, 2009

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It seems, everyone is complaining about the way our kids act.  First of all, most children act very deceit.  There is a lot of problems when you deal with whites and blacks.  Most of the black students come from families that literally hate the white race.  Their morals are completely different from most of the white population.  Sure there are whites that act the same way, but these are the exception to the rule.  Blacks only see what their community leaders want them to see.  The same way they acted in Augusta several days ago when a Drug pusher was shot and killed.  The Black Panthers were there walking around with shot guns and hoping for a riot. This country will never be the same as long as blacks and whites attend the same schools with the attitude each has for each other. The schools complain about their National average being so low.  Wonder why????

But don’t think about changing any thing, especially if we change the Athletic Department.  White folks want to see the football team win, win, win. If blacks are left behind to only play football, then the “teachers” will have to pass them so they don’t reach their 25 th birthday.  Whites will be so sorry they don’t have a 9.3 spinter, they just don’t know what to do??

All they have to do is go to Wardlaw and let Coach Morrison show them how to win and also become good citizens.(white folks)

One other thing is why didn’t the blacks rise up and protest the young man shot while riding his bike to the store??  Because the killer was black! ??

Educators say why don’t we just get a long??  These are the biggest reasons we have the problems to day.  The professors are so liberal they can’t even attempt to see the problem.

Happy new year.  Bah humbug!
web posted January 1, 2009

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I am a member of the STHS Class of 1989.  Is there a reunion being planned?
web posted January 1, 2009

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Are you a teacher?  If in fact you are a teacher, your comment really shows the pompous attitude that plagues most teachers today.  Before I finish my comment, I would like to put all of your stereotypes to rest.  My husband is a very successful owner of a prominent engineering firm.  I am a stay-home mom with 2 children.  My children do great in school and have no problems with any teachers.  My family is not on government assistance of any sort and never has been.  With that said, let me start with your comment with concerning "moral teaching" by teachers.  I pray to God that my children do not learn morals from any teacher!  Especially since my daughter told me of a teacher at her school who was bragging about having 3 boyfriends at one time and none of the boyfriends knew about each other.  Now, how is that for moral teaching?  But my "all time favorite" was when my 5th grade daughter told me that her teacher told the class that the words "breeze" and "freeze" were 2 syllable words!  I am so tired of people like you blaming parents.  If you keep playing the blame game, problems with the educational system as well as problems in parenting will never improve.  When are all of you teachers going to realize that no matter how difficult the job is that you face, teaching is the profession that you chose.  Just as parenting is the job that I chose.  I take my job very seriously.  Maybe you should think of another profession for yourself since a child's failure to use a southern slang bothers you that badly.  I know that there are children out there with horrible parents.  Shame on those parents.  But let us not forget about the good children with horrible teachers.  We have DSS to deal with horrible parents,  but who will deal with all of the horrible teachers?  By the way, I know if I spent a day in the public school system,  I would last well past lunchtime because I love children.  These children are our future educators, engineers, politicians, scientists and parents and you should always remember that most of these "parents" you are putting down pay your salary, lead the PTO, raise money for the school and volunteer to make your job "less difficult."
web posted January 1, 2009

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Oh Great.... the anti-smoking Nazis now have "third hand smoke" to scare us into giving up more freedoms. I can't wait for "fourth hand smoke" warnings and how people should shun anyone that smokes. GET OVER IT!!!!! Just more BS.... Global warming, second and now third hand smoke, fat taxes, where the (heck) does all this (stuff) end? Why don't theses people mind their own dang business and get out of mine?
web posted January 1, 2009

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When I gave birth to my children, I knew what my responsibilities were to them.  I am the parent, NOT their best friend!  When they are complimented on their successes, I am proud and I take partial credit for their acheivements because I laid the foundation.  When they make a bad choice, I take partial responsibility because I laid the foundation and I will impose consequences for that action. I am a single parent, ( divorce forces some of us into that position) that does NOT give me the right to make excuses or to fail my children.  Being a single parent  I had to step up and work twice as hard to insure that the foundation I am laying is sturdy.  I taught them manners, respect for other people, personal hygiene, to obey the law, that education is the key to future success, to accept responsibility for their actions and every day to thank God for their blessings.  I am not perfect, neither are my children. We as PARENTS need to enforce standards upon our children at home so the TEACHERS can do what they are under paid to do.   When I go to the middle school or high school, I feel like I am at the zoo and the animals are in charge.  How can teachers be expected to educate with all the disruptions and disicpline problems.  We all know the parents who have perfect children that never do anything wrong. There is always someone else to blame. If the police officer didn't pull the underage child over without cause, the officer wouldn't have found the drugs or alcohol.  If the teachers knew how to teach, my child wouldn't have failing grades.   If other people would mind their own business, my child wouldn't have been ................ You understand my meaning.  Parents and Guardians quit making excuses for your own failures, back our police force, our teachers, our ministers and rejoice in your childrens achievements!  Be there for your child when they stray, but allow them to learn from the consequences of their actions.   Be a PARENT and allow someone else to be your childs best friend.  THANK YOU to our educators and police officers who are dedicated to their professions and are doing a FANTASTIC service to the children of this county. 
web posted January 1, 2009

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