This is not the first nor the last time that something has happened at STHS.  It has happened before.  The girls parents need to stand up for their child and tell the school board that they want the boy removed from the school.  If that does not work, then go to court and do it yourselves.  It will not cost you a dime.  Trust me. Your child has every RIGHT to go to school in a relatively safe environment.  The school can not protect your child from the unknown, but they (darn) well should protect them from the known.  I can't tell you how I know, but I can tell you that you have more rights than you think. Rights they don't want you to know.  You can request that your child be escorted to class and you can even go to the school yourself.  Yes it is alot of footwork, but there is no greater reason, than not only your child, but the other students who have not been brave enough to  tell.  You will be in our prayers, for we have stood where you are now.

Editor's note: I can understand this frustration. Our son had a certain well known trouble-maker (with a criminal record) making threats and trying to fight him when he was in school. On one day this boy (unprovoked) attacked and threw a brick at our son's head. He ducked and was only cut and bruised on the shoulder by the brick (assault with a deadly weapon at worst, assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature at best). The punishment for the offending student...? Zip, nadda, zilch. No charges were ever filed although we insisted charges be sought. If the rolls were reversed, our son would most likely just be getting out of jail.
web posted March 7, 2009

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In regards to the letter about the extortion of money from a STHS student, God help any young man who threatens to rape my daughter.  If this is true and the young man admitted to extorting a young lady of her money, he should be expelled from school. We must have answers and some type of
formal investigation into this.  If the problem is as wide spread as initially reported, we cannot allow this to continue.  Again, I'm afraid if my daughter is ever threatened with being raped, it won't be the School
Principle, School Board or Superintendent they'll need to worry about.  It'll be me.
web posted March 7, 2009

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I have a couple of issues I need to vent on.  First of all, we don't get snow here.  At some point it's going to sink in to everyone that regardless of what the local or national weather says, IT AIN'T GONNA SNOW!  Don't call off school, don't run out and buy milk and bread, don't plan a day off of work - it's not gonna happen.  I'd love to know how much those idiots at the National Weather Service get paid to so inaccurately predict the weather so often.
Secondly, maybe the next sinkhole downtown will be right under the pole they have that ridiculous webcam stuck up on.
And lastly, on a very serious note regarding the HR 45 gun control bill that has been proposed.  Folks, it is IMPERATIVE that we contact our representatives in D. C. and send them an adamant NO NO NO to this bill.  It is our constitutional right to be able to protect ourselves and our families, or shoot Bambi, or whatever we want to do with our guns, as long as it's within the law.  This country is already going to Hades in a hand basket, and if this bill passes we may as well go ahead and invite the Devil in. I love this country, but it scares the crap out of me to think what'll happen if HR 45 goes into effect.
Here's a little food for thought.  In 1935 Adolf Hitler (I'm sure you've heard of him) said: "This year will go down in history.  For the first time, a civilized nation has full gun registration.  Our streets will be safer, our police more efficient, and the world will follow our lead into the future".  Pretty scary stuff.  Sleep tight.
web posted March 7, 2009

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Interesting? I read your March 5th article stating Mr. Rainsford (partner in MV Development) received $2 million dollars from land (MV Development) sold to Mr. Knight (partner in MV Development).

First, if Caldwell Construction filed a Mechanic’s Lien, which I believe was mentioned at an earlier date in Edgefielddaily, -

I thought the purpose of a Mechanic’s Lien was that any income to MV Development has to first go to Caldwell, is this correct?  If so, did Caldwell Construction get the $2 million dollars?
Can MV Development spend any monies on additional work at MV before Caldwell’s claim is satisfied?  Also, the Bank’s Lien?
Has Edgefield County filed anything against MV Development?  If not, then the County is not on the list to receive payment, is this correct?

Second, are any of the lots sold in any way connected to lots in question about infrastructure?

If so, did Mr. Knight immediately pay the County the required fees?
How many lots were sold and what are their locations?  Can Edgefielddaily publish this information?

Third, how can lots be sold when liens are on the books - especially, if all of the funds from the sale did not go toward the liens? Or did they?  Were the lots sold for less than fair market value?

The timing of this sale is interesting, to say the least.

Help your readers better understand the laws of the land as they may impact on how our Edgefield County is managed.

Editor's note: You are confusing several aspects of the situation. 1) Mr. Caldwell has filed a lawsuit, not a lien. 2) the lots and land sold were not covered by liens or foreclosure. The timing is interesting. I would also note that if you take land that is presently listed as agricultural and build a house the county wants five years back taxes as residential use. Cute, huh? Somehow that's not the case with certain people.
web posted March 7, 2009

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Talk about problems at STH! The SRO’s had the drug dogs out at school last week and they called about 14 or 15 kids out of class to have their cars searched. Nobody had any drugs or guns or whatever the dog was supposed to have smelled. SO! That tells me either the drug dog is untrained or the SRO’s are untrained on how to use the dog or both!! I think they make the whole the dog “alerted” on your car thing up and it is just a way to teach kids that government and police can search you for no reason whenever they want. The next time they want to search MY car (my child does not own the (darn) car I DO!) they (darn) well better call me before they open the (darn) doors or I will see them in court!!!!!!! I’m sick of this (darn) police state!
web posted March 7, 2009

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Barack says we need to have a conversation about race in America. Fair enough. But this time, it has to be a two-way conversation. White America needs to be heard from, not just lectured to. This time, the Silent Majority needs to have its convictions, grievances and demands heard. And among them are these:

First, America has been the best country on earth for black folks. It was here that 600,000 black people, brought from Africa in slave ships, grew into a community of 40 million, were introduced to
Christian salvation, and reached the greatest levels of freedom and prosperity blacks have ever known. Wright ought to go down on his knees and thank God he is an American.

Second, no people anywhere has done more to lift up blacks than white Americans. Untold trillions have been spent since the ' 60s on welfare, food stamps, rent supplements, Section 8 housing, Pell
grants, student loans, legal services, Medicaid, Earned Income Tax Credits and poverty programs designed to bring the African-American community into the mainstream. Governments, businesses and colleges have engaged in discrimination against white folks -- with affirmative action, contract set-asides and quotas -- to advance black applicants over white applicants. Churches, foundations, civic groups, schools and individuals all over America have donated their time and money to support soup kitchens, adult education, day care, retirement and nursing homes for blacks.

We hear the grievances. Where is the gratitude??
 
Barack talks about new 'ladders of opportunity' for blacks. Let him go to Altoona ? And Johnstown , and ask the white kids in Catholic schools how many were visited lately by Ivy League recruiters handing out scholarships for 'deserving' white kids.? Is white America really responsible for the fact that the crime and incarceration rates for African-Americans are seven times those of white America ? Is it
really white America 's fault that illegitimacy in the African-American community has hit 70 percent and the black dropout rate from high schools in some cities has reached 50 percent?

Is that the fault of white America or, first and foremost, a failure of the black community itself?

As for racism, its ugliest manifestation is in interracial crime, and especially interracial crimes of violence. Is Barack Obama aware that while white criminals choose black victims 3 percent of the time,
black criminals choose white victims 45 percent of the time?

Is Barack aware that black-on-white rapes are 100 times more common than the reverse, that black-on-white robberies were 139 times as common in the first three years of this decade as the reverse?
 
We have all heard ad nauseam from the Rev. Al about Tawana Brawley, the Duke rape case and Jena . And all turned out to be hoaxes. But about the epidemic of black assaults on whites that are real, we hear nothing.

Sorry, Barack, some of us have heard it all before, about 40 years and 40 trillion tax dollars ago.
web posted March 7, 2009

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Re: "United we stand, divided we fall". Were you screaming that phrase when President Bush was in office? It is so easy to point a finger--just remember, when you point your finger at someone, you have three pointing back at yourself.

I am not going to stoop to using swear words to make my point. First of all, you are the one who is bringing race into the discussion.  Why is it that when Obama's POLICIES are questioned, his supporters have to hide behind the race issue? Who are the real racists here?  His race has no bearing on my opinion of his POLICIES.  His POLICIES, in the short time he has been in office, are destroying this country as we know it. People do not seem to understand economics. They are so enamored by him that they are blind to what he and his law breaking cronies are doing. Some of the liberal Republicans are surprised by his actions? Why would anyone be surprised by the actions of the most liberal Senator we have had?

There is a lot of blame to go around on the financial issue but the real culprits were people like Barney Frank, Harry Reed and the Democratic Congress. Remember ACORN? They are alive and well. Do some research on them and the role they played and continue to play in all of this. Here is an interesting site to go to.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMnSp4qEXNM&NR=1

Apparently the above is no longer allowed to be shown in America (if true, VERY scary) and is therefore routed through Canada.

People can no longer blame Bush for everything.  I have never seen such a disrespect for a President. He was not only criticized for policy but for personal things about who he is.  I am not criticizing Obama for who he is or anything personal about him. I am saying that his POLICIES are hurting this country. I am not surprised because he ran on those POLICIES. What is concerning is that as they are implemented they are destructive.  Are you watching the stock market?  For someone with as little experience as he has, why is he surrounding himself with other incapable people?

You say give him a chance? Why would I want to lose everything near and dear to me when I already see the damage he is doing in this short time? Give him a chance to do what????? More damage??????

Go ahead and hide behind the race issue. Continue to call people who disagree with his policies racist. It just shows how ignorant you are of the real issues in this country. If you have a 401K, how is it doing right now?
web posted March 7, 2009

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I have a few questions about the letter concerning the bully at STHS. Does Edgefield County School Board realize there is a state law in place to deal with bullying in schools? http://www.scstatehouse.net/sess116_2005-2006/bills/3573.htm
What is the county/school policy?
 If one has not been written, why not?
 Can charges be filed against the county for failure to adopt the policy according to the law?  A stern lecture, are you kidding me?  He needs to be ordered to a youth challenge academy, its time he learns just how fun it is to be bullied by someone.
web posted March 7, 2009

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RE: BUT we know why you all are complaining; it’s because of the color of his skin

I wouldn't care if his skin was blue -- his policies and vision for this country stink and I have no intention of getting into his goose-stepping line. It's very evident, however, that you voted for him based on the color of his skin. YOU are the racist.
web posted March 7, 2009

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Editor's post: There is evidence that the unedited pictures taken by EdgefieldDaily.com of the racing bikes that plague Woodlawn and Garrett Roads contain possible stolen license plates or vehicles. The South Carolina Highway Patrol has also been informed of this information.
web posted March 6, 2009

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Would someone explain to me the purpose of the camera (on the Edgefield Town Square), again.  It will take someone a long time to view it, to make any kind of decision on who is doing something wrong. How much did this thing cost and how much does it costs per month to operate?

Editor's note: The camera and operation is provided at no cost to the town.
web posted March 6, 2009

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Did you stop the News Busters videos? I haven't seen anything this week. I love Jodi Miller. PLEASE tell me that you are just running behind and that you haven't pulled it from (EdgefieldDaily.com).

Editor's note: It appears that Jodi Miller is off this week and there have been no new updates. Videos are normally provided every Tuesday and Friday. We will have the latest update when it is made available.
web posted March 6, 2009

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What's the big annoucement? Why tease everybody? Just say it!

Editor's note: A fluid situation is underway that involves multiple people. I guess the statement can be considered a "tease" because EdgefieldDaily.com is on the inside of what is taking place and as such, we will be the first to report on the developing stories.
web posted March 6, 2009

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I made copies of the picture of Bettis (Rainsford for Mayor) and put them under my house to run off the roaches. Thank you. Now I can cancel my exterminator.
web posted March 6, 2009

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Re: FATS bike trails - Different trail. The answer to this question is yes, the Horn Creek MTB/Hiking trail is open even though the main area is closed.  There is a new parking lot to access the trail when the main area is closed.  Stay straight and drive onto the gravel road.  Go up the hill and you will pass 2 gravel roads (I think) on the right.  Just past the second right turn, there is a small parking lot on the right.  Park there and get on the trail near this parking lot.  This is in "section 3" if you are familar with the trail. 

There are a slew of trails to ride around here open to bicycles and hikers:  Modoc, Turkey Creek, Wine Creek, Horn Creek, Baker Creek SP, Hickory Knob SP, Bartram Trail, Keg Creek, and of course FATS.   FATS is the crown jewel and one of the best trails to ride in the whole country.  The local club (SORBA CSRA) is putting on a metric century ride on May 16.  It will cover 63 miles of riding and take you over Horn Creek, Wine Creek, Turkey Creek and Modoc Trails.  That's about 25 miles of trail and the rest is gravel and paved roads.  The winner will do it in about 4ish hours.  It will take others as long as 9-10 hours.
web posted March 6, 2009

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OH GREAT! We just spent over 30K on the town square that we didn't need to spend and now we get to spend more because they screwed up!!!! Here comes new taxes!!!!!!

Editor's note: The sinkhole that has appeared on the town square has nothing to do with the recent renovations. If the historical and engineering reports are confirmed the situation would have occurred regardless of the recent renovations.
web posted March 6, 2009

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First let me say, GO GINA, GO GINA!
 
Now, where is the letter to the editor "STROM THURMOND HIGH SCHOOL" that a wandering mind poster mentions?  Did I miss it or is it not posted yet?  I would love to read it. 
 
Lastly, everyone should get the Advertiser and read the school board article on the front page.
Hats off to Mr. Jackson and Mr. Kemp.  Mr. Jackson was basically told not to address the board when you are addressing the board.  Cooks told him not to point or look at them. HA!   what a joke they keep proving they are.

Editor's note: The letter was mistakenly published under an improper heading and has been listed today under the correct heading. We apologize for the confusion.
web posted March 6, 2009

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I just want to know why are you all bashing the president, he didn’t start this mess – he came in on this mess. Former president Bush had a hell of a lot more to do with this than our current president – but I don’t hear ya’ll bashing him. It took him eight years to get us in this s- - t and you didn’t complain (is it because he was white and republican) or is it because he kept things the way he wanted (secretly) and told America what he wanted lies and all.

Our new president is keeping you in the dark, he’s telling you what he’s adding and taking away. My God give the man a chance he’s only been in office little over a month. He can’t do in this short time what all other democrat or republican presidents have done all these years in a day. You didn’t come then don’t complain now.

BUT we know why you all are complaining; it’s because of the color of his skin (or should I say – it’s because of the mix of his skin. If he had chosen to go white non of this would be said about him. Do not judge (from the Bible) God created us all no matter what color our skin, cut us black/white whatever – “WE ALL BLEED RED”!  He, you, and even myself have to give an account for all that we ourselves do and not what others do.

United we stand, divided we fall. America needs to stand together, we have fallen enough!
web posted March 6, 2009

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Isn't anyone upset that school was called off Monday?  The decision was made early Sunday evening instead of early Monday morning when it would have been evident that we weren't going to have snow or ice. Considering school wasn't even delayed when we actually did have snow, I'm surprised parents aren't angry over the "bad call".
web posted March 6, 2009

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What exactly is a "clean budget"? I've never heard that term before. From what I gather in the article it wouldn't save the county than much money anyway.

Editor's note: A "clean budget" refers to a budget that does not fund expenditures that are not directly related to the operations of the county. Though the report refers to some of the funding, the total cost of expenditures costs the county almost $250,000 a year. With an expected cut from the state at $621,000 the savings would be considerable.
web posted March 6, 2009

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If everyone is complaining about the economy and the need to cut cost everywhere, Why is the SCDOT is out wasting gas on mowing the grass along the road, when the grass is already dead.  Then in the warmer weather, instead of mowing, they are parked under shade trees watching the traffic go by.  Talk about poor management.
web posted March 6, 2009

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I voted Democrat because I love the fact that I can now marry whatever I want. I've decided to marry my horse.
I voted Democrat because I believe oil companies' profits of 4% on a gallon of gas are obscene but the government taxing the same gallon of gas at 15% isn't.
I voted Democrat because I believe the government will do a better job of spending the money I earn than I would.
I voted Democrat because freedom of speech is fine as long as nobody is offended by it.
I voted Democrat because when we pull out of Iraq I trust that the bad guys will stop what they're doing because they now think we're good people.
I voted Democrat because I'm way too irrespo nsible to own a gun, and I know that my local police are all I need to protect me from murderers and thieves.
I voted Democrat because I believe that people who can't tell us if it will rain on Friday can tell us that the polar ice caps will melt away in ten years if I don't start driving a Prius.
I voted Democrat because I'm not concerned about the slaughter of millions of babies so long as we keep all death row inmates alive.
I voted Democrat because I believe that business should not be allowed to make profits for themselves. They need to break even and give the rest away to the government for redistribution as THEY see fit.
I voted Democrat because I believe liberal judges need to rewrite the Constitution every few days to suit some fringe kooks who would never get their agendas past the voters.
I voted Democrat because my head is so firmly planted up my rectum that it is unlikely that I'll ever have another point of view.
web posted March 6, 2009

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Dear Edgefield Daily Editor,

I think your site readers will enjoy these two powerful and insightful articles:

South Carolina lawmakers cross party and race-lines to support school choice (Loud and Bipartisan for Choice)

Solid proof of the success of school choice in other states (Proof is in the pudding)
web posted March 6, 2009

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CUDOS to the Merriweather Fire Department for their timely response to a residential lightning strike to our home in Mount Vintage Plantation at 6:04 am on Sunday, March 1.  In addition to being timely, they were extremely professional and courteous.  The firemen were also accompanied by an electrician, in addition to others.  Fortunately, our damage was minor in comparison to our neighbors home whose house was totally destoyed the day before, also due to a lightning strike.  We know these folks were already exhausted and we wanted to show our appreciation for their efforts in this small way.
web posted March 5, 2009

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I read the story on Milliken laying off workers. I wonder how long it will be before they close up and move to China or Mexico because of the new tax plan by Pres. Obama? You had a great saying about change but I don't remember what it was.

Editor's note: Change is inevitable, progress is not.
web posted March 5, 2009

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I just have a quick inquiry;
I know that the Horn Creek park is closed right now, but I was wanting to know if the trail is open for mountain biking. 
I appreciate your time

Editor's note: The bike trails (Forks Area Trail System) is currently closed. You can keep up with the trail conditions by visiting this site.
web posted March 5, 2009

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I had a thought. If somebody wants to rob a store on the square the new camera could be used to tell the robber when the cops are gone. What a great way to stake out the store at home long before you do the crime.  All you need is a cell phone and a computer.
web posted March 5, 2009

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I’m so sorry for the new student at Strom Thurmond that was “welcomed” by one of the numerous money extortionists there.  Unfortunately, most students there are very aware that this is an ongoing problem, and it’s pretty much a daily occurrence. White students are particularly targeted, and often intimidated into handing over money on a regular basis.  The extortionists are male and female, and some can be very threatening.  They constantly badger other students for money, and are successful because the victims are fearful, and just want to be left alone.  Some students have learned over time to stand up for themselves and say no, but I can see how a new student would  feel alone and afraid.  How sad for that student to be treated so unfairly by ST Administration.  I’m certain there are a lot of parents and students aware of this issue, and it’ll be interesting to see how many Wandering Minds posts will follow once readers see the Letter to the Editor. Strom Thurmond High School, this is a very real and serious problem that has now been made public.  There should be some accountability.  It’s time Administration steps up and addresses it.
web posted March 5, 2009

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It was refreshing to see somebody on the county council stand up for the county like Ms. Blackwell and want to get rid of the leaches that have been taking money from the taxpayer for nothing. I don't know if she can do it by herself or not but it speaks a lot about her character. You go girl!
web posted March 5, 2009

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In response to the post "Obama going to be a good president..." I would like to know one thing he has changed for the good since he was innaugurated. What change had he made that you can believe in? What is it that you think will make him a good president? Are you hoping for financial help from him?  In the short time he has been in office, he has badly damaged the U.S. economy, he has badly hurt the 401 K's of hard working Americans, he has dissed the leader of our stongest ally, he has done some questionable things in regard to our support of Israel, he is rushing socialism in faster that you can blink, he has put crooks in leadership and on and on...   I really cannot think of one good change he has made-certainly not a change I want to believe in.  I shudder when I think he has four more years to implement his plan. This country is on shaky ground for sure. The only thing I can think you are hoping for is more government aid (distribution of wealth) to people who should be working and taking care of themselves. Sorry but I think you are really misled in your blind support of this president and his "change that we can believe in". That statement is a bunch of hooey in my opinion.
web posted March 5, 2009

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This is to (county) council woman Blackwell. Thank you for seeing a positive in the dark gloomy picture everyone is painting. It shows your experience in business will be a great asset to our county. Thank you for your service.
web posted March 5, 2009

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I was reading the news today and saw where Obama is going after Rush (Limbaugh) because he said he wanted Obama's policies to fail. Aren't these the same democrats that called Bush stupid, idiot, a loser, and even wrote books about having him assasinated? Try doing any of that about Obama and see if the secret service doesn't put you in jail when its Obama in charge.
web posted March 5, 2009

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Re: Obama supporter

Here's a idea. Get off your (rear end) and go to work and pay taxes and see how much you like your new god Obama.
web posted March 5, 2009

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Just checked out the webcam on the town square for the first time.  Red, yellow, green. . . red, yellow, green - doesn't get any better than that! Oh! There went a car.  I was entertained for hours.
web posted March 4, 2009

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This photo of Bettis Rainsford running for Mayor of Edgefield was submitted. The adage "a picture is worth a thousand words" comes to mind.
web posted March 4, 2009

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What do you  think about Gresham Barrett running for gov.

Editor's note: Who am I to tell other people what office they should run for?
web posted March 4, 2009

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If your article is correct, the Mayor stated that the Town would loose $63,000 from Aid to Subdivision and another $30,000 to $60,000 from SPLOST. Come on, by now the Town should know if its $30,000 or $60,000.  So, the budget should be cut by $93,000 to $123,000. What was the operation budget for 2008-09?  Lets see if it's cut by that amount.  Or does the Town have an inflated budget?
 
Now, how much is the County and the Town of Johnston going to be cut?

Editor's note: According to information being provided, Johnston will be cut $32,828 while the County will see a cut of over $621,000 if the measure is passed. The recommendation still has to pass the full House and Senate and face reconciliation between the two bills.
web posted March 4, 2009

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Obama  going   to  be  a  good  president  of  the  u.s.   for  eight  years   yes  we  can.    We  need  a  change   change  we   bleive  in.

Editor's note: Yes, every time he speaks or the Democrats pass a spending bill they drive our economy into the ground. Change? Yes, Change we can believe in? Yes, if you want to depress economic recorvery and individualt freedom. Progress for economic recovery? No. While Obama appoints tax cheats to his cabinet and they start making policy our nation is tanking. Our current economic situation is a direct result of Obama policy. He wants to spend more money than our nation has spent since its founding to the present date.

Your oratory skills are most evident of that an Obama supporter.
web posted March 4, 2009

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To those complaining about the gas prices in Edgefield, my family and I went to Greenville for the 4th rounds of playoff to see ST Lady Rebels in action on Saturday (2/28/09) and the gas prices in Greenville and Laurens are the same as here. I stopped at one station and paid $1.75 went down the road maybe half mile saw another station with $1.73. We did not see any stations with gas lower than that. What’s the problem, are you complaining because of who owns the stations or what? If you are not satisfied with the prices, than drive that little bit of gas you have in your car to North Augusta and buy gas- in the end you’ll still be paying the same overall for what you used to drive there. If you are not satisfied, stop complaining and get gas from somewhere else. If in Texas do as the Texas-ian’s do, but if in Edgefield do as the Edgefield-ian’s do – by gas or go to Texas.

Great job Lady Reb’s you’re the winner in our books, you can’t beat the team and the officials. Those officials didn’t know what they were doing, they didn’t call half the fouls on the other team against you all but called everything that happen and didn’t happen on you all against the other team.  Keep your heads up we’re proud of you…. And thank you so much for not acting like Eau Claire when they lost last week. You all lost with dignity and that counts for a lot. Hats off to the coach!
web posted March 4, 2009

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In reply to: This is the biggest problem we have in the school system. Why do teachers need a ton of high paid  babysitters to make sure they do their job? Here's a novel idea... DO YOUR JOB!!!!!!!! and fire all the bloodsuckers that run around trying to be so important to protect their UNNEEDED jobs!!!!!!!.

It is people like you who speak without knowing what is going on anywhere, let alone in our school, that have a lot of nothing to say.  We do not have a ton of high paid babysitters making sure WE do our jobs!  WE do our jobs to the best of our ability.  Our principals have their own tasks to attend to daily.  Thanks to those parents who teach their children that school is for learning, and encourage them to learn all that they can and take joy and pride in doing so.  (Those who are quick to down the school and its faculty, most often are parents of those who do not come to school with learning on their mind.) It does take all of the faculty working together to reach our main objective, which is to educate our children.  Many times "educate" includes helping those children in need, giving them encouragement when no one else does, providing pencils, paper or what ever necessary for the classroom when no one else does, and just letting it be known that there is someone who is proud of a student's accomplishments when no one else does. As for telling anyone what to teach their children, if you are raising your children properly then no one has to say anything.  If you are not "raising" your children, then someone needs to bring it to your attention for the children's benefit as well as that of society's.
web posted March 4, 2009

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I went to the web cam site on the square, talk about boring! It is like watching grass grow. What a waste of time and money. The Man also wants to be Big Brother. I noticed they did not list your site under Media- Edgefiled Daily.com has put the town on the map. Until you came along the other media outlets never mentioned Edgefield. Keep up the good work and Thank you.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading.
web posted March 3, 2009

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Editor's note: Below are some of the many comments sent in about our annivesary.

-I love Edgefield Daily. Thank you for the news every day! You are the start of my day.

-Congrats on another year. We LOVE Edgefielddaily and waking up every day to find out whats going on. Hope you are here for years to come.

-WOW! I didn't realize that Edgefield Daily has been around so long. I wake up and start my coffee and after a shower I read the news and drink my coffee to start my day. Happy annivesary and thank you for the daily news. Best of all... it's FREE!!!!!!!! I don't know how or why, but thank you!!!

-I have been reading since 2005 and have watched Edgefield Daily evolve over the years. I can say I was not a big fan in the beginning but over the years I have seen the coverage grow in depth and breadth and I am impressed even though I disagree with some of (the Editor's) personal opinions. (EdgefieldDaily.com) provides a wonderful service to the community and I applaude the hard work that goes into making it available. I wish you much continued sucess in the years to come.

Editor's note: I thank everyone for the kind comments and apologize for not listing the dozens of comments received.
web posted March 3, 2009

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Re: Bettis (Rainsford) not being on the agenda for county council.

How can the (Edgefield) county council keep giving deadlines to Bettis (Rainsford and Mt. Vintage Development) and not make him show up at the meetings or even place him on the agenda at the meeting? I'm a taxpayer but I hope the people who are getting screwed by him sue the (heck) out of the county because of their flippant attitude to hold him to the rules. Bettis may be the punchline but the county (council) is the joke.
web posted March 3, 2009

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To all Augusta Chronicle subscribers: Did you know that they have now done away with the TV page? I called this morning to see what happened to it and was told by the circulation manager that he just received an e-mail stating that as of today, (March 2) there will be no more TV listings. What am I paying for, and incomplete paper? They just get worse and worse. Too bad there is no TV listing here, then I could save some money. In fact I will, when my subscription is up in two months, good-bye chronicle.
 
Also one more thing to Northland cable subscribers, we will never and I mean never have HD service here. I was told by Northland that the reason is, there are not enough subscribers to up grade the system. Instead they only up grade our bills and down grade the picture quality.

Editor's note: EdgefieldDaily.com has been considering publishing a TV listing of broadcasts. That effort will be revisited with the news that the listings are being discontinued by print media.
web posted March 3, 2009

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I went to the webcam of the (Edgefield) town square and it was blank. Is the link bad or is it me?

Editor's note: The link is proper and the downtime has not been explained. I did speak to  Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham about the site going down and he asked if the traffic generated by EdgefieldDaily.com was responsible for shutting the site down. I have checked the link tonight and it seems to be working properly.
web posted March 3, 2009

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I have two subjects I'd like to vent about. (1) The questions being asked about a Johnston police officers' son being arrested are wrong because his father has not been employed by Johnston for years, just like a lot of former police officers throughout this county, who have children. The Johnston P.D. has enough problems going on now without people trying to create false problems. If people want to start a stink they should look into current police officers' childrens' treatment by law enforcement and see where the charges go! (2) The only way the Edgefield stores can have a monoply on gas prices is if people continue to use  them for thier gas needs! I gas up in Johnston and at Gregs gas. All are cheaper. Let's stop making the rich guy richer! Remember what they say. The bigger they are, they  harder they fall. And on the way down they have to pass all the small guys they stepped on getting to the top. Come on, small guys, let's step up, too!
web posted March 3, 2009

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Whether or not you believe in the adage, "It takes a village to raise a child," or whether you are a Republican or a Democrat does not matter when you have a child in a classroom who is tired, sick, filthy, hungry, has lice, rotten teeth, ragged clothes, no coat, bruises from a beating, and any other number of signs of parental neglect.  You should be grateful that somebody at school will step in and try to do something for that child.  This one child impacts the whole class, school, and ultimately, your community. This is what the adage means - not that somebody is trying to tell you what to teach your child.
web posted March 3, 2009

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The Third annual "Parent University" was held at JET Middle School Saturday morning. As an employee of Edgefield School District, I would like to thank Dr. Crenshaw, Mrs. Murrell, and Mrs. Friar for putting together such a wonderful event. I understand that with all the rain we had, many parents could not make it but I hope they will take advantage and come out next year. Many wonderful exhibitors were on hand with some valuable information to share. It was a wonderful community event! 
web posted March 3, 2009

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I see where the county council is giving Bettis Rainsford a pass on paving the roads on the new subdivision. How many other devlopers gets the same treatment he does?

Editor's note: Zero.
web posted March 3, 2009

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Editor's post: Welcome to EdgefieldDaily.com's fifth year of providing news, current events, and the Wandering Minds to Edgefield County. Thank you for making EdgefieldDaily.com the indisputable #1 source for local news in the county with an average of 20,000 readers, an average of 1.47 million hits, and over a quarter million pages and stories read each month.

An additional link to the WebCam for the Edgefied Town Square has been added to the Headlines page just below the Archives.
web posted March 2, 2009

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You complain about motorcycles flying up and down the roads but I want to complain about the (bicycle) riders. They ride around like they own the road and slow traffic to 5MPH as they ride in the middle of the lane and you can't pass! They want to scream about "share the road" but where the (heck) is "sharing the road" when you ride down the middle of the road?  Roads were built for CARS not BIKES. Get the (heck) out of the way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
web posted March 2, 2009

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What is going to happen with Mt Vintage since Bettis (Rainsford and Mt. Vintage Development) missed another deadline to get things right? It's all going to get swept under the rug like always. This county is a joke.

Editor's note: The problem is that the county never enforced their Land Use Ordinance on subdivisions when it came to Mt. Vintage. Since they did enforce it on others that could place the county in a precarious situation. Since one lawsuit has already been filed I will defer to the courts once they rule. However, in my opinion, the county is going to have a "tough row to hoe" to show they treated all developers the same.

Surprisingly, the Mt. Vintage issue is not on the agenda for the March 3 meeting of the Edgefield County Council. (Or should I say not so surpassingly) I don't think the county has much of a recourse in the matter other than perhaps being named in lawsuits that come from the debacle.
web posted March 2, 2009

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Why are gas prices going up when oil prices are going down? How can (one owner) have gas 20 cents higher at one store than (another owned store) down the street?

Editor's note: Maybe people should report price gauging when prices are low, not when they are high.
web posted March 2, 2009

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I saw something mentioned about the new KFC and Taco Bell. Where is that? Thanks for any info.

Editor's note: No land clearing or construction is underway for the proposed restaurants in Edgefield.
web posted March 2, 2009

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Re: "We have a very professional principal and assistant principal. We also have a very efficient curriculum professional who helps us daily with our needs."

This is the biggest problem we have in the school system. Why do teachers need a ton of high paid babysitters to make sure they do their job? Here's a novel idea... DO YOUR JOB!!!!!!!! and fire all the bloodsuckers that run around trying to be so important to protect their UNNEEDED jobs!!!!!!!.
web posted March 2, 2009

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I read the story on Warrentless Searches and I'm not so sure this is a good idea. Criminals always seem to have more rights than the rest of us so how long will it be before they want to search our homes without a warrant on the basis that "if you got nothing to hide you wouldn't refuse to be searched?"
web posted March 2, 2009

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This is to the people always bashing the CountyLine Fire Dept. GET A LIFE!
web posted March 2, 2009

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I wanted to put my 2 cents in on Sheriff Dobey. I think he is a good sheriff.  i'd rather he be running things than stopping speeders.
web posted March 2, 2009

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Amen to the "it takes a village to raise an idiot" comment. If parents raise their kids there isn't a problem. When the schools and others want to step in to tell parents how to raise their kids... thats a problem. I don't need the school or the goverment to tell me what to teach my kids, thank you very much.
web posted March 2, 2009

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I want to know why (WJBF News 6) always shuts down my browser when I try to read. A friend sent me a link to the fire in Mt. Vintage, and because everytime I go there (WJBF.com) my whole system crashes. I knew I should have just stuck to reading Edgefield Daily. I saw you had the story first anyway.

Editor's note: I have informed WJBF of this ongoing problem and they consistently tell me they can find no conflicts. They suggest making sure you have the latest update for your browser. However, I receive numerous emails when we link to one of their stories telling me of the problem. In this case our story was already online and EdgefieldDaily.com was the only news agency on the scene. There is nothing more I can do other than to say to avoid following the links if it causes problems for your browser or operating system.
web posted March 2, 2009

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Re: It takes a village

If it takes a village to raise our young, then the whole village should be out working!!!!!

Prisoners should stay in jail and veteran wellfare recipients should be working for the very people who pay them!!!!!   Pick up the trash on my road you wellfare vampire!!!!!!
web posted March 2, 2009

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This is written in regards to the below mentioned post.  This person was also involved in an (alleged) arson attempt on our home and even though the police had a detailed desc of the vehicle involved, no arrest or even any investigation of sorts was done and we know that for a fact.
 
Re: When something is stolen out of a mailbox in Edgefield County...why can't the Edgefield County Sheriff's Department do anything about it? Is it because of the person who stole it and they are afraid of him?  The ECSO lets this guy get away with all kinds of crimes. Oh I get it...if he pimps on everyone the sheriff's office allows him to break the law? 
web posted February 17, 2009
web posted March 2, 2009

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Very Important for you to be aware of a new bill HR 45 introduced into the House.  This is the Blair Holt Firearm Licensing & Record of Sale Act of 2009.  We just learned yesterday about this on the Peter Boyles radio program.  Even gun shop owners didn't know about this because it is flying under the radar.  To find out about this - go to any government website and type in HR 45 or Google HR 45 Blair Holt Firearm Licensing & Record of Sales Act of 2009.  You will get all the information.
Basically this would make it illegal to own a firearm - any rifle with a clip or ANY pistol unless:
  *It is registered.
  *You are fingerprinted.
  *You supply a current Driver's License.
  *You supply your Social Security #.
  *You will submit to a physical & mental evaluation at any
       time of their choosing.
  *Each update - change or ownership through private or
       public sale must be reported and costs $25 - Failure to
       do so you automatically lose the right to own a firearm
       and are subject up to a year in jail.
  *There is a child provision clause on page 16 section 305
       stating a child-access provision.  Gun must be locked
       and inaccessible to any child under 18.
They would have the right to come and inspect that you are storing your gun safely away from accessibility to children and fine is punishable for up to 5 yrs. in prison.
If you think this is a joke - go to the website and take your
pick of many options to read this.  It is long and lengthy. But, more and more people are becoming aware of this. Pass the word along. Any hunters in your family - pass this along.
Peter Boyles is on this and having guests.  Listen to him on KHOW 630 a.m. in the morning. He suggests the best way to fight this is to tell all your friends about it and "spring into action".  Also he suggests we all join a pro-gun group like the Colorado Rifle Association, hunting associations, gun clubs and especially the NRA.
This is just a "termite" approach to complete confiscation of guns and disarming of our society to the point we have no defense - chip away a little here and there until the goal is accomplished before anyone realizes it.
This is one to act on whether you own a gun or not.  If you take my gun, only the criminal will have one to use against me.  
HR 45 only makes me/us less safe.  After working with convicts for 26 years I know this bill, if passed, would make them happy and in less danger from their victims.
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c111:H.R.45:
http://www.opencongress.org/bill/111-h45/show
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill..xpd?bill=h111-45
web posted March 2, 2009

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RE: We have a very professional principal and assistant principal. We also have a very efficient curriculum professional who helps us daily with our needs.
 
I need some clarification here.  Your school has a principal, assistant principal, AND a curriculum professional?  Does this curriculum professional also have a regular homeroom (classroom?)  If not, WHY?  Especially when it appears that there will be vacancies (and possibly larger class sizes) due to not replacing retired and TERI teachers.  AND I thought that one of the duties of an assistant principal was ALSO being the curriculum professional?  Please explain.
web posted February 28, 2009

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What does "Here's your card" mean?  Thanks.

Editor's note: It all started with a column I wrote a few years ago about some of the dumb things people say or do. From there it evolved into a sort of dumb crook news - with a card.
web posted February 28, 2009

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Re: Sheriff Dobey comments.

I have known Sheriff Dobey for over 20 years.  You will not find a more respectable man, professionally or personally, to the lead Edgefield County as Sheriff.  From my perspective, he is the Sheriff and should spend the majority of his time telling others what to do. It may be hard for some to comprehend, but when one achieves the status of “Sheriff”, they are paid for knowledge and experience, not exactly the physicality of the duties that are to be carried out.  He is paid to lead and the deputies are paid to follow his guidance and instructions.  I have spoken with many of his deputies and each of them stated the same things about the quality of his leadership.  Never once, have I heard any negative comment made of him, from his employees.

If you don’t like his leadership…run against him and see if you are the person to provide the “proper” leadership. My money is on Dobey.
web posted February 28, 2009

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i just wanted to say that this world is in a bad situtation and now that ppl is realizing this that we need to stop judging other ppl and mind our on business. stop the hatered and move on.
web posted February 28, 2009

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It takes a village to raise an idiot....
web posted February 28, 2009

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Well once again the gas price discrepancy between North Augusta and Edgefield Fuel grows.  Gas went down to $1.51 in NA Thursday and surprise, gas went up in EF to $1.72.  I urge anyone who ever travels to NA for anything, fill up while you are there, even if you don't need a full fillup.  That is just that much less you would have to buy in EF at some point. 
web posted February 28, 2009

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Shortly after class, an economics student approaches his economics professor and says, "I don't understand this stimulus bill.  Can you explain it to me?" The professor replied, "I don't have any time to explain it at my office, but if you come over to my house on Saturday and help me with my weekend project, I'll be glad to explain it to you." The student agreed.

At the agreed-upon time, the student showed up at the professor's house.  The professor stated that the weekend project involved his backyard pool. They both went out back to the pool, and the professor handed the student a bucket.  Demonstrating with his own bucket, the professor said, "First, go over
to the deep end, and fill your bucket with as much water as you can." The student did as he was instructed.

The professor then continued, "Follow me over to the shallow end, and then dump all the water from your bucket into it." The student was naturally confused, but did as he was told. The professor then explained they were going to do this many more times, and began walking back to the deep end of the pool. The confused student asked, "Excuse me, but why are we doing this?"

The professor matter-of-factly stated that he was trying to make the shallow end much deeper.

The student didn't think the economics professor was serious, but figured that he would find out the real story soon enough.

However, after the 6th trip between the shallow end and the deep end, the student began to become worried that his economics professor had gone mad.  The student finally replied, "All we're doing is wasting valuable time and effort on unproductive pursuits.  Even worse, when this process is all over,
everything will be at the same level it was before, so all you'll really have accomplished is the destruction of what could have been truly productive action!"

The professor put down his bucket and replied with a smile, "Congratulations. You now understand the stimulus bill."
web posted February 28, 2009

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FOR SALE Ghost filled Fire Department (BOO) also included 1% money or what’s left after we spent it on Dog Food and dinner at Outback. We also have openings for Ghost Busters, no training needed will cover you at the end of the year. You can get the tax break from the state and we will rip them off as well. Included in this purchase are new fire trucks with original factory miles and original gas/diesel due to the Merriwether Community answering calls and protecting the area. These people are so giving or gullible.
web posted February 28, 2009

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You people complaining about gasoline prices in edgefield, why not go to belvedere (at i-20) and purchase your fuel from “citgo”. The money from buying citgo fuel doesn’t go to help anyone like bettis rainsford.  But it does go to the communist country of venezuela.
I don’t buy my fuel from either place.
One day this week, gregg’s had reg. Fuel for $1.57 on highway 25 in belvedere, while it was $1.67 on sweet-water road and hwy. 25.
If it is $1.57 at one gregg station, then it should be the same at all of his stations. Now who is making the money???????????
web posted February 28, 2009

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Has Zeb Blackledge went to court on the Armed Robbery charge in North Augusta yet or did his mom get him out? Thats good showing for our Military. Thanks for the slander against our great servicemen and woman Zeb.

Editor's note: I do not cover North Augusta cases. As I understood the charges were going to be lowered to simple larceny.
web posted February 28, 2009

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Have you heard whats going on with the Johnston Police officer's family that was arrested for Drugs? I haven't seen anything posted about the arrest or incident.

Editor's note: The arrest of Tony Dean Taylor Jr. was reported.
web posted February 27, 2009

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Dear Mr. Editor,
 Having been a faithful reader since the inception of Edgefielddaily.com, I have figured a few things out about your reporting.  You are extremely biased towards the  Sheriff and his deputies. The numbers of deputies that you have listed as on-call is three.  However, there are  nearly 30 employees that have full arrest powers with the ECSO. I do understand that many of them are on the trail of something more important than speeding motor bikes, (murder, rape, larcenies,drugs...etc.) however I ask you this. How much more important are things that have already happened ,than what may happen? Facts are facts... the Sheriff spends most of his day telling others in his department what to do and then leaves to go practice kung-fu (right in front of Pizza Hut ) with his second in command for up to four nights a week! If things are so tight and problems are so bad why does the Chief Law  Enforcement Officer  of the whole County and his upper staff (Lt. Howard) spend hours "walking the earth with Cain" and not assisting the very troops they command? By the way, Mr. Editor, do your homework on the Sheriff....He is retired under the police officer's retirement  system and is drawing two paychecks. The way we see it, if he retired , he should have been voted back in again... that never happened I guess, did it? I do understand that the generic reports that make your home page vibrant come from the Freedom Of  Information Act and most of your reports come from....you guessed it the ECSO! I appreciate your diligence in reporting the news. You do a very fine job. Sometimes you don't get all the facts from the people that help you . Check out out my FACTS and get back with me and the rest of your faithful readers. The ECSO has plenty enough officers to take care of the problem you reported on first.They don't have the proper leadership! Facts are Facts!

Editor's note: You want to include Investigators, Civil Process, and School Resource Officers. Half of the officers account for four teams of road deputies. Each still containing three members.
web posted February 27, 2009

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When do you let your children grow up?  At what age do you let them make their own decisions and deal with the cosquences?  I know some people think that keeping your thumb on your children protects them, but for how long?  I think at nineteen years old a man should be allowed to have a cell phone, make phone calls from his own home and for goodness sakes talk to whom ever he wants to, without mommy hovering over him.Do people really think not giving their children enough rope will keep them from ever hanging themselves - I think not !  I know what I was like at nineteen, had been to college, had a job, took care of an ailing parent. Got married a week after a turned twenty, been married 25 years and raised two great kids ( and that's not just according to me).  I did not have it easy and I was not brilliant, but I knew how to work hard and be rsponsible because my folks had let me.  Some parents rule over their children and then one day just put them out into the world - what do they really think is going to happen, then?  Or let them join the service, oh yeah!, that will make a man out of them.  They won't be able to handle it and you will not have helped at all!
web posted February 27, 2009

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I respect the lady who said if you have nothing good to say, you should not say anything. But I also believe you should speakout to protect people who can not help there self.       I  know ms. Pugh and have had dealing with her, she does not care about the seniors. Only cares about a paycheck. I have no respect for her or her boss. How do you feel about people speaking out about Heilter? Maybe they should have said nothing. Or said well he had goals,I for one am glad someone spoke up and stopped him. And maybe someone will stop pugh, and care about the seniors. I thank the lord for people like you. God Bless you.
web posted February 27, 2009

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Just a quick question for you:  When is it authorized to print business names in the WM?  The time or two that I have complained/whined about the Sportsman's Corner's gasoline prices and arbitrary price practices, the name has been edited out.

When it raised your ire, you printed the name:  Editor's note: Tuesday morning Sportsman's Corner was $1.37. When I arrived back in the afternoon it was $1.48, the prices seem arbitrary.

Yep, I know you run the e-paper.  It's just a question.

Editor's note: The ban on business names (for gas retailers) was lifted.
web posted February 27, 2009

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Those who are upset with Mr. Jolly and the fuel prices in Edgefield my be interested in knowing they apparently should be sharing their frustration with Mr. Rainsford. http://www.manta.com/coms2/dnbcompany_hzl2zk and Mayor Durham  http://www.edgefieldsc.net/Jan32007.htm "The next item of the agenda was to consider second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2006 – 05, to annex the property of Edgefield Fuel and Convenience on Augusta Road.  Mayor Durham again stated that he was a partner of this business therefore; he would remove himself from any discussion or action of this ordinance."  The next time you see them on the town square you might ask them about the price of fuel.  However, they are just using free market principles--nothing is free.  Rather, prices are determined by supply and demand.  With no demand, prices have to come down as we are seeing in the current housing market.  Vote for lower fuel prices by buying your fuel elsewhere.
web posted February 27, 2009

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Schools can only do so much to successfully educate children. As far as the saying "It takes a village to raise a child"  (thank you Mrs. Clinton)  what it really should be is "It takes a family to raise a child".

Also, your comments about President Obama's speech etc. were totally right on. Keep sharing your ideas about this administration. Thank you.
web posted February 27, 2009

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"It takes a village to raise a child"..I am sick of hearing that. It didn't take a village to raise us...it took my parents who were hard working, had a strict hand and who demanded respect!  It is the parents responsibility to raise these children, not every one else's. Discipline starts at home.We raised my kids as our parents raised us. We didn't need help from "the village". Like my daddy always said, if kids don't respect their parents they will never respect anyone. The bible says, spare the rod and spoil the child. This "time out" stuff ain't getting yall!
web posted February 27, 2009

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Editor's post: President Obama’s speech Tuesday night was so filled with lies I can’t count them. While he couched his anticipation of moving the US government towards socialism as “conservative” (how cute) he also said he was dealing with a $1 trillion deficit “inherited” from Pres. Bush. Funny how he never mentioned that he, and the Democrats, doubled that figure in the last week and has plans to increase it by another $500 billion spending bill being set for passage.

Every time he opens his mouth, or the Democrats pass yet another spending bill that prints money from thin air, the stock market continues to fall to new record lows - and they can’t figure out why.

I particularly liked the lie that the most recent “stimulus” (spending) bill to grow government, not private business, had no “earmarks”.

I’m not going to call Obama stupid, he’s not, but even I can count the over 9,000 Democrat pork earmarks that are included in the bill. I will just stick to the facts, he’s a liar.

web posted February 26, 2009

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Did anyone ever find out if Dr. Mary Rice Crenshaws' travel to the inauguration in DC. was paid for by taxpayer money or not?

Editor's note: Everything I have found (at this time) shows she paid for her own transportation to the event.
web posted February 26, 2009

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I would like to thank Coach Barnhardt for his hard work too. Thaks for everything you do!
web posted February 26, 2009

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Thank the lord for the hold Senior Center group. They have been a blessing for me and my husband, We are  seniors and I can't  say enough  good things about the center .  When he lost his job, I don't know what I would have done. If it hadn't been for Mrs Pugh and staff at the  senior Center . They helped us get the plan  D that we needed. A special thanks goes to  Mrs Pugh She does a wonderful  job. I have never seen any body miss treated, We have lots of fun also we have a large crowd,Come some day and enjoy.  The food is good.   And great fellowship! It is very disrespectful to talk about people you don't really know, and the way you spelled her name, is very ungodly. I Was taught to  respect people.If you can't say any thing nice about any body. Keep your mouth shut . Mrs Pugh we love and 
God Bless you, You do a  great job.
web posted February 26, 2009

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Re: Enough is enough; racing bikers have to be stopped
Funny how you want to blame the county council for (there) not being enuf cops on the road. Maybe you should blame your favorite sheriff for wasting the money he gets and leave the recreation dept alone. We need that to give our kids something to do so they don't become criminals. Your should know that.

Editor's note: I wonder how you would feel if the county provided funding for only three firefighters to handle all fires in the 507 square miles of the county.

If warrants for arrests and new calls were fires there would be over 1,000 at any given time needing to be attended to. As for county supported recreational sports, the schools provide sports programs for children of all ages. Why is duplicating that a priority while our safety is ignored?
web posted February 26, 2009

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I have been trying to follow the Fox Creek concerns and I am a little confused. Why wasn't a public high school built on the side of the county that Fox Creek is serving? It does appear that there was a need for another school. How much tax money goes to Fox Creek than would go to a public school? It is my understanding that Fox Creek is a charter school and so, if this is like other states with charter schools, I would guess they don't get full funding from the state.   Are their teachers paid at the same rate as the public system?   Do they have a waiting list for students or can anyone go there at this time?  If it is open to anyone, why is there such outrage about it? Is it some kind of threat to the public schools? At a time when the school system here needs a lot of help, maybe new approaches are good. I read a lot of things that seem hostile toward this school and I am trying to figure out why some people are so against it. Are they elitist? I would hope not.  It seems like it should be part of the school choice movement which gives parents a choice in where they send their children to school. For people who have struggled with public school, teachers' unions etc., school choice is important, at least it was where we came from. I may not understand the situation or the history of this school, but I can tell you that I came from a state where we fought very hard for school choice. I am concerned for the young people here because there seems to be a feud going and that can lead to dangerous situations.

I do think that if public schools pay to use facilities at other schools than Fox Creek should pay too. They need to be responsible and accountable. Maybe they have not been and that is the problem. I am new here and just trying to figure this one out. I just don't think it is a good idea for adults to encourage dissent among the young. We have enough of that in other areas of life.
web posted February 26, 2009

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Why does Mt Vintage Devp. get to pay lower taxes on unimproved lots they own while the unimproved lots owned by other property owners are taxed as prime real estate? Is this another sweetheart deal they got from the county?
web posted February 26, 2009

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Our local Highway Patrolman on YouTube
web posted February 26, 2009

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RE - Editor's note: Tuesday morning Sportsman's Corner was $1.37

So you people in Merriwether get gas for 30 cents a gallon cheaper than us in Edgefield? How can that be if everyone only makes a few cents a gallon as Mr. Jolly said a while back when people accused him of gouging? The way I figure it my car gets 26 MPG and my tank holds 18 gallons. So me and my wife would save about $5.40 a tankful EACH if we ride down there to fill up or stop when we go to NA and we save about $50 a month. Guess where we're going to buy our gas? Count us as two more of those who have been run out of our own town to do business because of Mr. Monopoly.
web posted February 26, 2009

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I too teach in Edgefield County and am proud of the school at which I teach. We have a very professional principal and assistant principal. We also have a very efficient curriculum professional who helps us daily with our needs. Everything cannot go without some sort of conflict at times.  We must work together and overcome and conquer that conflict, not squawk about it. Some of these professional people that "squawk" so much, do so little within our "family" here at school.  Discipline IS dealt
with, but like everything else the proper steps must be followed.  There must be records kept, and proper procedure write ups in order for our principals to be able to do their job concerning discipline. As for moral, everyone in my grade level works TOGETHER and we are quick to get rid of ill feelings. Remember the saying,  "It takes a village to raise a child."  It takes the total faculty of a school to achieve children developing and learning at a successful level.  Look for the positives within our school, and do your part to educate our students! We have always been a great school and continue to be so now!
web posted February 26, 2009

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I have never been so offended as I was when I read your racist comments on President Obama. (EdgedfieldDaily.com) should be forced to close after the things you said. I thought you were above calling our President the N word, but I guess I was wrong. SHAME ONE YOU!!!!

Editor's note: I have no clue what comment(s) you speak of. The only report published about Pres. Obama that contained racial remarks was a "Here's Your Card" report (our rendition of Dumb Crook News) and the subsequent arrest.

How you attribute remarks made by a suspect in an arrest report to EdgefieldDaily.com is beyond me.
web posted February 26, 2009

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re:conscientious teacher
 
well blow me down, as a "conscientious teacher" you need someone to look over your shoulder and make sure you are doing your job. Grow up. I agree we need to make some changes, but that would not be one of them. If you would like, I could come my and check your homework, for you too, just like I do for my children. Give me a break.
web posted February 26, 2009

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I vote yes with the others on the Mt Vitage resolution.
web posted February 26, 2009

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Editor's post: Congratulations to the Rebels Lady's Basketball team for a great last second win Tuesday night. That's why we're called the "Fighting Rebels".
web posted February 25. 2009

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Congressman Responds to President’s Address to Joint Session of Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman J. Gresham Barrett today issued the following statement in response to the President’s address to the joint session of Congress:

“Growing up in Westminster, I heard about every old saying you can imagine, and the one that comes to mind tonight is, ‘actions speak louder than words.’ For all their talk about fiscal restraint this evening, I can’t help but be a little suspicious considering these are the same Democrats who just last week passed a $1 trillion spending bill filled with billions for non-stimulative projects like $300 million for green golf carts.

“Across this country, around kitchen tables and behind the counters of countless small businesses, Americans are making tough decisions about their budgets and it is passed time that Congress do the same.”
web posted February 25. 2009

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A big thank you to Coach Barnhardt for such an amazing job he has done with the guys and girls on the new wrestling team at STHS!!  He is such a positive influence on them and we are grateful for his time and energy he has put into it!!!  THANKS!!

web posted February 25. 2009

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I teach in one of the Edgefield County schools and morale is at its lowest ever. And it's not just to do with the budget cuts. We have no leadership, period. I am a conscientious teacher but there are few of us left. At my school my lesson plans have not been checked all year and no one makes us keep current with the homework hotline. No one observes us and teachers pretty much do as we please. It is so sad to see our district go downhill.  Many of us want to leave but there are very few jobs available. We will stick it out , but we need a Superintendent and a principal who will follow through. We are here for the kids, to teach them, and not to see how many times we can get our "mugs" in the paper. Where has the work ethic gone? 
web posted February 25. 2009

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Tuesday morning gas price comparison.  North Augusta $1.51;  Edgefield Fuel $1.69.  The trend continues.  At least some stations in Edgefield are selling lower.  Maybe Rainsford is trying to raise money to finish the roads in Mt. Vintage.  I'm all for helping our local businesses, but that is ridiculous.  Is it because gas is not at $4.00 a gallon anymore that people do not care?  I did the math.  If gas was selling for $4 a gallon in Edgefield like it was not so long ago, it would only be $3.57 in North Augusta.  Would you be willing to pay 43 cents more per gallon then?

Editor's note: Tuesday morning Sportsman's Corner was $1.37. When I arrived back in the afternoon it was $1.48, the prices seem arbitrary.
web posted February 25. 2009

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So since our government is willing to make bad investments for us in large companies who is up for investing in the Rainsford empire?.......   Since the council will be looking at the budget soon, maybe they should consider Rainsford too big to fail.  Our county money could prop him up so he could guide each and every dollar we give him like the ones he had.  Actually we would be one up on the feds.  At least he wouldn't throw a party or go on an extravegent vacation.
web posted February 25. 2009

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Regarding having Master's tickets.... TAKE ME!!!!!!! I will be your best friend forever.
web posted February 25. 2009

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I like how it was reported the Stephens Rd. fire Sat. was extinguish in "a little over an hour". So how long did it really take Edgefield to extinguish their fire Monday, just over a few seconds?

Editor's note: The firefighters in Edgefield put the fire (contained to a small kitchen area) out in about fifteen minutes but were on the scene for about an hour. The fire on Stephens Road was much larger.
web posted February 25. 2009

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In response to the comment made by a person in the wandering minds from Feb. 23rd. about Fox Creek students being allowed to use the county school gyms and facilities, I guess this person thinks that the parents of the students attending Fox Creek for the most part don’t pay taxes in the county? I believe if you look through the student body at Fox Creek you will see quite a bit of tax base for all the county functions, state functions and federal functions. The shame is that even with the taxes the parents pay at Fox Creek the school still pays  the county, fees for the use of the gyms. I know that Merriwether Middle school gets paid a fee for every basketball game that Fox Creek plays there. I have been in school board meetings in the past and have heard different organizations given permission to use school facilities that did not have anything to do with the education or development of our children in the county, with no mention of fees. The new Fox Creek High School will be a asset to our county and should be considered as such. I would be willing to bet that the person that wrote the note dated the 23rd probably would not like their child to be on a school bus  at 6:30 AM to make it to school, and getting home off a bus after 5:00 PM to get home. This is one of the main issues that led to the community pursuing another way to educate the children on this end of the county. I am proud of the education system in the county, including Fox Creek . Good people all over the county doing all they can to make our children successful and well rounded , including sharing the tax payer facilities.

Editor's note: Strom Thurmond pays JET Middle School to use their gym for basketball games.
web posted February 25. 2009

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Mr. Editor, I know that some of the (School) Board members and the Superintendent were gone last week. Do you know where and how much it cost the district? Please let us know. Who else from the district went with them?

Editor's note: I was unaware of any travel and will have to see what I can find out. With the tight budget cuts they should not be traveling anywhere in my opinion.
web posted February 25. 2009

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Re: the article about voting in connection with the Mount Vintage situation.  I want to be the second, or other, to vote YES on all four items.
web posted February 25. 2009

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I guess it will take a bad accident at the corner of Lee and Edisto streets in Johnston for someone to remove that useless sign on the corner at the Triangle! No one uses it except or gang symbols.
web posted February 25. 2009

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Editor's post:  YIPPIE! My tickets to the Masters arrived today! I wonder if the boss will give me some time off to enjoy the event?

web posted February 24. 2009

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i hope the land clearing they are doing on HWY 25 at the by pass is for the new KFC?
web posted February 24. 2009

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I live on Garrett Rd and AMEN! to the story on the mad bikers. I was at the bridge the day one of them got killed on our road a few years ago. Its like we dont' matter until somebody dies and then everybody forgets about us when its over. We gave up calling about it years ago because it don't do any good.
web posted February 24. 2009

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Has anyone heard anything about poultry facilities being built on Weaver Rd?
web posted February 24. 2009

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On any given Saturday or Sunday, I tend to head out with my mountain bike and ride the FATS trails.  On any given Saturday or Sunday, while on those trails, cycling along pretty darn quietly, the sounds of those crotch rockets, piloted by the organ donors, is alarming and shrill.

There is no doubt that it happens very, very frequently, and there is also zero doubt that the speeds attained on those bikes, on public roads, are far in excess of the posted 45mph.  I applaud you for going out of your way to miss the snarling pack.  I am not sure that I would have done the same had I been in your shoes though.  I can assure you that if I am pulling my boat or RV, I won't be talking a ditch for their sake.

Question for you: If they lined up in the towns and practiced their "skills", would they be allowed?  Then why are they allowed to practice their skills on other public roads?

Editor's note: Do you really need an answer?
web posted February 24. 2009

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Do you know if (Thomas) Hilliard is out of jail yet? I heard he was and then I heard he wasn't. Can you give me the answer?

Editor's note: According to a check of jail records Thomas Hilliard was released on bond on Feb. 19, 2009. No court date has been provided.
web posted February 24. 2009

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I enjoyed the Chris Dinkins youth column (Monday).  I met him years ago. Thank you for allowing him to speak to the younger readers. He's a great guy.
web posted February 24. 2009

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The (Edgefield County School Board) meeting is at 7pm tonight. PLEASe come out and attend. We need your support to changes. things
web posted February 24. 2009

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If you ever develop a plan or have ideas how to stop the bike riders let me know.  It is just a matter of time until another one looses it or a mass disaster occurs.  Your "pulpit" and public outcry or a mass wreck seem like the areas that may get attention.  It seems like a no brainer but economics and the ' squeaking wheel' attitude comes into play.  Thanks for shining the light on this problem.
web posted February 24. 2009

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I personally believe we would all be a lot better off if we all had a 357 magnum on our person (a 44 would be better yet).  I also believe it is almost to the point where the real purpose of the 2nd Amendment is coming into play ... And that is that we need to have the ability to protect ourselves from our own government.
Citizens need to be aware of the real purpose of the 2nd Amendment.  Of course it was written to protect ourselves from each other, but if you  read it closely, the REAL purpose of the 2nd Amendment is the ability to protect ourselves from government.

Please watch this video.  It isn't long but illustrates clearly why we should all be concerned about attempts to limit our ability to carry and conceal firearms.
web posted February 24. 2009

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There was a story on how to cut your car taxes but I can't find it. Mine is due by the end of the month. Can you post it again?

Editor's note: The column is archived in the Editor's Columns. A direct link can be found here.
web posted February 24. 2009

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What to do about the Mount Vintage situation?  Let us put these items to a vote.  I, being the first to vote, vote yes on all four items.

First, no more building permits for Mount Vintage until all accounts are settled and paid in full and, a sworn statement; in the future - no laws will be broken.

Second, replace the County Administrator, County Assessor and the Manager of the Building Department.  Current actions and history have shown it is time for a change for the better.

Third, we can never trust the Mount Vintage Development Officers, County Administrator, County Assessor and County Council because you cannot trust anyone that is only sorry because they have been caught, not because they are truly sorry for their misgivings. 

Fourth, keep the information flowing and on the front page because I can assure you that the powers that be truly believe this too shall pass. 
web posted February 24. 2009

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We live on Woodlawn Rd near Thurmond Rd and we want to thank you for speaking out about the crazy bikers. Its scary just pulling out of the driveway when they are zooming by. We make it a habit to roll down our windows so we can hear if they are coming before we pull out in the road.
web posted February 24. 2009

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Everybody! PLEASE attend the (Edgefield County) School Board meeting Tues night at 7. We need your help if things are going to change. PLEASE take the time to come and listen to what these people say. STAND UP and show that you care. PLEASE!!!!!!!!
web posted February 23. 2009

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In reference to the person asking about the schedules for basketball at STHS. The boys in one place, girls in another place policy is not a district or school decision, it is a Region III-AA decision. The rationale behind it is that on school nights, teams are not out as late because the two games start earlier.  Also, it cuts down on transportation costs as the two teams ride on the same bus because they are the same gender.
web posted February 23. 2009

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This is for the mom complaining about the bus driver.
Hey, private school mom, why don't you take a little time out of your priveleged existence and trade places with the bus driver? How in the world do you think the bus driver is supposed to keep an eye on each and every child as well as trying to get each child home safely? I am sure that each bus driver that is employed with the PUBLIC school district does the best he or she can to make sure that students are not beating the heck out of each other and throwing themselves out the window. You have no idea what it is like for a bus driver. Before you complain on Wandering Minds next time, why don't you just try calling the transportation office and giving the bus driver the benefit of the doubt. Explain the situation to the Transportation supervisor and then leave it at that. Why must you get on Wandering Minds and complain? Oh, I know! You want to embarass the bus driver, let yourself be heard, and put down the PUBLIC school district. Here's a hint, (removed). Go back to your little backwoods private school and stop complaining.
web posted February 23. 2009

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So Bettis (Rainsford and Mt. Vintage Development) has missed another deadline and the county is still pussy footin around on what to do. Big news there Mr. Editor. I road down there saturday and took a look around and Grandpa Rd is in better shape. They (the County Council) ain't gonna do squat and you know it and Bettis (Rainsford and Mt. Vintage Development) knows it.

Editor's note: Don't count chickens until the eggs hatch.
web posted February 23. 2009

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We were coming through town Sunday about 1 pm and saw Patricia Glynn (I think that's her name, comment removed) unlocking the door and going into the county administrator's building, The building between the antique store and the pool room.  Is she an employee of the county ?  If so, what is her title and when was she hired ?  Just curious, because I did not realize that she was employed by the county.

Editor's note: Ms. Glenn is the County Archivist. I am unsure of why she would be entering the building over the weekend during non business hours.
web posted February 23. 2009

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With all the home values going way down how come we have to keep paying taxes on our inflated rates? I'm not going to pay mine until they come down. They're too high already.
web posted February 23. 2009

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I don't know why you keep reporting on whats going on at mt. vintage. nothing is going to change. it will all get swept under the rug like it always does because of who he is.
web posted February 23. 2009

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i read where the Calliham store was going to be put up for sale and that the county might bid on it. Does that mean that the building to replace the one lost in the fire could still go there?

Editor's note: No, due to time constraints on receiving the full insurance payments even if the county was to purchase the property at auction there would be no way for them to start a construction project in the allotted time frame. County Council Chairman Monroe Kneece stated he would seek the recommendation of the full county council next month to see if they intend to seek to bid on the property for future expansion of the county jail and Sheriff's Office.
web posted February 23. 2009

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Why does Fox Creek (Charter High School) get to use our county school buildings and fields when they don't contribute ANYTHING to the school district? All they do is suck money away from our kids. They got millions to build a new school so let them build their own (darn) gym and ball fields and quit using OURS!!!!!!!!!
web posted February 23. 2009

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Just wanted to say I enjoy Jodi Miller's newbusters videos and want to thank you for adding a bit of humor to the gloom and doom of whats going on in Wash DC.

Editor's note: A new broadcast will be available each Tuesday and Friday since the logistics were worked out. We are currently in talks with a California based writer of a men's advice column that may be added to the line-up of contributing columnists that would address submissions from local readers, as well as those across the country, seeking advice on issues relating specifically to men on marriage, relationships, and parenthood.
web posted February 23. 2009

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I read every story on the Luke Williams execution last week and (EdgefieldDaily.com) was the only one that talked about the connection to Edgefield.  Everybody else talked about the sicko being from Martinez or Columbia County. Thanks for keeping the focus on US when it is something here!

Editor's note: EdgefieldDaily.com tries to provide as much information about the happenings, past, present, and future in our county as possible.
web posted February 23. 2009

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I want to comments on the workers at the Sweetwater trash facility. My husband and I go there at least two or three times a week and these gentlemen are very helpful, courteous, and kind. I don't care what Ms. Pew, Pough, Pogh, or Pu-wee (however her name is spelled) has to say about rules they provide us with a service and do it happily. Maybe she should get out of her cushy office chair and give it a try for a day or two. I bet the rules would change then.
Good grief... leave these old guys alone. It's not like they're making a 5 figure salary. I haven't seen a single person write in saying they've had a problem. I guess they make the people in Merriwether happy and isn't that their job?
I read the article on her reply and she sounded more like a (removed) than the first story made her out to be. Thanks for letting me get that off my chest.
web posted February 23. 2009

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So Obama wants to tell us to pay our bills and "suck it up" but he still owes Chicago almost $2 million for his victory party. I bet that gets paid by the next bailout plan.
web posted February 23. 2009

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Dear Edgefield Daily Editor,

Jim Rex has been State Superintendent for two years now. From race gaps to test scores, public schools in South Carolina have gone from bad to worse.

Learn the details: Jim Rex: not even minimally adequate
http://thevoiceforschoolchoice.wordpress.com/2009/02/13/jim-rex-not-even-minimally-adequate/
web posted February 23. 2009

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I'm so proud of our area youth. We have some wonderful athletes, thinkers, and future leaders! Hats off to these kids parents.
web posted February 20. 2009

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Someone please help me understand why gas prices in Edgefield are 15-25 cent per gallon higher than they are in North Augusta.  Edgefield prices are even higher than Augusta.  This has been the range all year, so the idea of what the price is when the they fill the tanks doesn't hold much water (or should I say gas?).  I paid 20 cent less today.  Signed a confused traveler.

Editor's note: If you own almost every station, you can set the price people pay.
web posted February 20. 2009

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To the one who says  "anyone who knows Mrs. Pough knows she does everything in her power to help the senior citizens -"You are wrong right there.  These are people who know her and who have had bad experiences with her that are writing in complaining about her!!!  She does not do all she can to help them (ALL) only her select (FEW).  She needs to be put out of that office permanently and so does her boss.

To the one who says the dirver is a nice person--I have seen first hand the NOT NICE face of this driver!

The whole department needs an overhaul!  There needs to be someone to which these "workers" are held accountable.  It seems that they can just do as they please.  If anyone knows of a higher up to complain to about them please post it so that we can all bombard that person with our complaints!

Editor's note: If you have complaints direct them at the County Council and the Legislative Delegation who provide funding for the operation.
web posted February 20. 2009

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I was leaving the school i send my children Wardlaw Academy and noticed something fall out of bus 507-1999 it almost made me wreck my car. as a mother with my children I was extremely upset and the bus driver did nothing kept on wheeling down the road as if he or she didn't care.  Next time bus driver i'll have you pulled over by the police for allowing your students to litter.
web posted February 20. 2009

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Trying to find out who do I speak to about the basketball games at Strom Thurmond junior varsity girls and varsity girls playing at that same location and boys junior varsity and boys varsity playing the same day do we think about the parents when this was planned next year my daughter and son will be playing ball for the school it is unfair that I have to choose which game to attend if you can help me with this situation please.

Editor's note: I would contact the school and the school board members. Good luck.
web posted February 20. 2009

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I have noticed many postings about MV Development and people bashing Bettis Rainsford, however, he has a 50/50 partner (Talmadge Knight) in MV Development that is responsible for 50% of the decisions made for their company. Don’t you think both of the company owners should be included in the bashing?! I mean they do plot and agree on all their (actions) together!
web posted February 20. 2009

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Well I see Ms. Pugh had time to write (1) letter to Whats Happening.But (1) good (25) Bad I think tells the tale.       Her response to the problem as you read was I still do not care.Also as you can see bossman said I agree with what she said.Man grow some of those thing that are hanging on the bumper of the cars, if you can't then buy a pair. Workers you do a great job. Also if you were at the station beside the school there would be no problem. But you are on the wrong side of town, you work!
web posted February 20. 2009

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RE: Shooting in Butte, Montana (No link provided)....

Ever wonder why good stuff never makes NBC, CBS, PBS, & MSNBC, CNN, or ABC news........ an 11 year old girl, properly trained, defended her home and herself..... .against two murderous, illegal aliens .......and she wins, she is still alive.

Why would one wonder about this?  It simply isn't true.   I just wonder why you have to tell lies to make your point.  You have a good point.  Just stick to the truth.
web posted February 20. 2009

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If Mrs. Pough only has problems with the Meriwether site, Why are all the Employees ( Senior Citizen) at other sites, scared to death, when she makes a visit to there site ? Is this considered harassing the elderly ?  It is past time to do something about Mrs. Pough and Mr. Griffith. From a former employee.
web posted February 20. 2009

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Re: This is one American brave enough to point out he must be impeached, tried, found guilty and punished to the fullest extent of the law. I couldn't agree more.
web posted February 20. 2009

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Can you find out what was going on last Friday night about 6:30 on Mealing Road.
 As soon as I turned off of Sweetwater Road onto Mealing there were red and blue lights everywhere. 
I saw and Edgefield County Patrol car, a State Trooper car, and ambulance, and a rescue vehicle from the fire Dept.

Editor's note: I am not aware of the situation. I will see what I can find out regarding the call.
web posted February 20. 2009

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We're hearing from all sorts of black leaders calling us cowards for not confronting racism.  The cowardice rests in the black community itself.  How about the cowardly behavior of black men that leaves 80% of their children fatherless bastards to be raised on the public dole?  How about the dismal academic achievement of black students?  Every immigrant group that comes to this country surpasses black students in within one generation.  How about the cowardly behavior of gangs - shooting innocent neighbors to pass their gang initiations or just for kicks?  How about racial quotas in hiring and college admissions?

Some black leaders (like the academic leader on Austin Rhodes yesterday) are crying foul that Black History Month is somehow racist because it is observed during the shortest month - they deserve more time.  No other ethic group gets so much as one DAY to celebrate their history.  If we wanted to be "fair" the following ethnic groups deserve more time than blacks based on their numbers in our society: 
Germans, Irish, Italians, English, Scotch and Hispanics. Are they crying racism?  It's racist to favor blacks as the only group to get their own month.

More whites than blacks voted for Obama.  That should settle it.  If racism persists in this country it's because of race-baiting demagogues who profit from keeping it alive!  The only way racism will end is when black people assume some dignity, demand to be judged on their character and not on the color of their skin, and denounce anyone who raises the race card.
web posted February 20. 2009

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Why don't you focus on the good things that we (government bodies) are doing rather than reporting on the things that make us look bad. So what if some things aren't perfect. You should concentrate on the good not the bad!

Editor's note: When agencies spend public funds they are responsible to account for their actions. Good or bad.
web posted February 19, 2009

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Obama's attorney general Holder has called us a "nation of cowards." Our brave troops are fighting two wars! Holder has committed treason, giving aid and comfort to our enemies who must certainly be comforted by our chief law enforcement officer calling his countrymen cowards. This is one American brave enough to point out he must be impeached, tried, found guilty and punished to the fullest extent of the law.
web posted February 19, 2009

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Shooting in Butte, Montana (No link provided)
Shotgun preteen vs. illegal alien Home Invaders :

Butte, Montana November 5, 2008
Two illegal aliens, Raphael Resindez, 23, and Enrico Garza, 26, probably believed they would easily overpower home-alone 11 year old Patricia Harrington after her father had left their two-story home.

It seems the two crooks never learned two things: they were in Montana and Patricia had been a clay shooting champion since she was nine.

Patricia was in her upstairs room when the two men broke through the front door of the house. She quickly ran to her father's room and grabbed his 12 gauge Mossberg 500 shotgun.

Resindez was the first to get up to the second floor only to be the first to catch a near point blank blast of buckshot from the 11-year-old' s knee crouch aim. He suffered fatal wounds to his abdomen and genitals.

When Garza ran to the foot of the stairs, he took a blast to the left shoulder and staggered out into the street where he bled to death before medical help could arrive.

It was found out later that Resindez was armed with a stolen 45 caliber handgun he took from another home invasion robbery. That victim, 50-year-old David Burien, was not so lucky. He died from stab wounds to the chest.

Ever wonder why good stuff never makes NBC, CBS, PBS, & MSNBC, CNN, or ABC news........ an 11 year old girl, properly trained, defended her home and herself..... .against two murderous, illegal aliens .......and she wins, she is still alive.

Now that is Gun Control!
web posted February 19, 2009

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Can you show a persons face on the web,without legal ramifications? How would this effect the town webcam?

Editor's note: Anyone in "public" can be photographed or recorded.
web posted February 19, 2009

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was reading your artical on the mutiny at merriweather waste station and i am a regular users of that facility and it has always been clean.

the gentlmen that work there are always very helpful and if it is a woman the men will help them get their trash out of their vehicles. i also know that one of the men there has had a knee replacement and a hip replacement and walking on cement for anyl length of time can get painful and if you work over 5 hrs you are entilted to a 15 min break and i have never seen a break area for these guys . these gentelmen are hard working for the county and some of them are veterns that served our country.these guys are from another time when a job meant something. they are proud of being able to still work and they do a good job for these people who are younger and have no idea what it means to work and show pride in the job that you do. i think it was very unfair for them to lose there chairs when they have never not helped the customers.
web posted February 19, 2009

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To the reader who submitted that there was an error in Dr. Crenshaw's Friday Brief, Read more closely. There are 8 errors again this week! Maybe she should stay in the office more and proof her work, or get a new PIO who can make her look good! Week after week these two make our district look ignorant! We are better than this!
web posted February 19, 2009

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Is the Senior Citizen Center supported by tax dollars?  If so, I want Ms Peeeuuu FIRED.  If not, who in the hell is over her?  There is no room for such a hatefull person when dealing with the elderly and/or shutins.  If it is a "Goverment", federal or state, entity, then I guess Ms Peeeuuu will never get fired! just like all the other overpaid, underworked saps sucking tax dollars.
 
I just hope none of my family need their services. (comments removed)
web posted February 19, 2009

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I have had on occasion a brief encounter with Ms. Pugh from the senior citizens she is rude and is very disrespectful to the seniors she deals with. She has been passed from position to position at the senior building and now she is in a position where she deals with the public.  When she makes home visits to try and get seniors to come to the center she is just as rude.  No wonder they have very poor attendance.  Someone should let her stand at the trash site for one week and no chair to seat maybe she will learn to try and be nice  or have a better tone to her voice when she is trying to make a point.
web posted February 19, 2009

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In response to the ugly post that are coming in regarding Mrs. Pugh and the Senior Center. Anyone who knows Mrs. Pugh knows that she does everything in her power to help -yes help- the Seniors who call on her. She has taken them to the doctor and home when they had no other way. She has picked up their medicine and tried her best to help them understand their Medicare benefits. She, like many of us who work, have rules and regulations that she has to follow. They are rules that are set forth by the state and the government. I have known her for over 25 years and I know without a doubt that she sympathizes with those that she is not able to help and wishes that she could do what they needed. So, until you do her job and follow all of the rules and regulations set forth to do that job don't throw stones!!!!!
 
As for the driver delivering meals and her driving skills, maybe she needs to be suspended. But as for not delivering to the gate, well, that's another one of those rules and regulations.
 
And as always, there are two sides to every story. Give her a chance!!!!!!!

Editor's note: Ms. Pugh responded to the complaints in a story published today.
web posted February 19, 2009

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If you'll go to a baseball game these days, you just might as well go watch the wwe wrestling,it's cheaper with same amount of steroids!    
  
The head of the baseball union,as well as bud selig, should be in jail!
 
True baseball is still played at small highschool,and little league games!You be surprised to find how prevalent steroids are.Half of Georgia's sheriff departments are on them,and we have one are two who are suspect as well!Just check out the videos.
web posted February 19, 2009

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You don’t know the half of what goes on at then ECSCC until you’ve worked there. Roberta Pugh is a nasty, non-caring woman. She’s only there because she needs the money, she doesn’t care anything about the seniors-you can tell that by the way she talks to them.  you cannot treat the elderly any kind of way and get away with it, I used to tell her that when I worked there.

And Jim Griffith, you got to be kidding, how can that (man) run that place like it suppose to be run? Haven’t you heard, after the incident with Mr. Robinson, Jim had to be put in the hospital for chest pains. That’s always a convenient way for him to get out of s_ _ t with anything going on at the center. He was so conveniently in the hospital when the building burned down, but he could sure get out the next morning to do an interview with the news. His chest pains got better real quick. There was hocus pocus about that, RIGHT- Larry, Leonard, & Shannon! So much has gone on in that place that was covered up by Jim and Roberta that it’s a shame the county/government hasn’t caught up with it. But everything that happens in the dark soon or later comes to the light!!!

People, open your eyes, everything and everyone (staff) at the senior center is not what it’s pictured to be. Check out how many seniors really attend that place.

I remember when the Senior Center was started, there were 4 staff members and they were really caring, concerned, comforting people and the senior center was full of well needed seniors that were treated with respect. (Names removed) We need caring people like that taking care of our senior parents. They’ve done their parts and now it’s time for us to do for them. And these people did it off of little monies and one van. They cared about the people not the expensive building.

So until you remove Jim and all his little evil co-harts (name removed) you’re going to get the nasty driver’s -excluding one or two- and that devil Roberta – you’re going to keep on getting what you’re getting now.

Mr. Editor: I can write this stuff because I’m a former employee and I left just for this reason because I couldn’t stand the way the seniors were being treated.  Thank you for posting this even though it may be more words than allowed but I’m thankful that Mr. Robinson brought up this so that people can really see how our seniors are being treated by some of the staff, Its been going on to long and its time for this to stop!
web posted February 19, 2009

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Hello everyone,
Okay, I have read a comment that has demanded my attention.  The driver for the meals on wheels in
Edgefield is one of the nicest people I have ever met.  She does her job competently with a smile and always takes the time to speak for a moment (a very short moment, don't take that comment to mean that she's wasting time).  She delivers meals to my sister (I love her but she can be VERY difficult) and has always been friendly.  This driver even has to put up with our 2 very large dogs (100 lbs each) that demand she speak to them before being allowed to drop off the food.  Moose (rightfully named) will jump on her and give her "kisses".  This is not for the faint of heart, it even scares me, yet she is
understanding and will ask about him if he doesn,t greet her at the door.  Thank you for the great job you do!!
To another subject:  It IS a shame that we (as a society) have to create laws and ordinances to tell (intelligent?) people what is considered indecent.  Yes, I have seen the (ornaments) hanging from vehicles for a few years and find them offensive.  Don't we have more important things for our public "safety" officers to handle than handing out citations for this problem.  There will always be situations that we have to explain to our children, I call them "teaching moments".

Sorry, my mind has really wandered, of course any of my students can tell you that. :)
web posted February 19, 2009

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I'd like to take this opportunity to thank both our Mayor and Police Chief for standing up for the silent majority in regards to the vehicle testicles controversy.  And while I do understand the importance of anonymity when it comes to Wandering Minds, I would love to know who the person is who claimed that no matter how many tickets he's written, he'll continue to display his truck testicles. Obviously this person must be wealthy, because at $200.00 per pop, you could go broke quickly trying to defend your
freedom of speech. 

My suggestion to local government would be to simply keep handing this guy tickets.  Think about all the things we could do as a community with his money.
web posted February 18, 2009

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Why is it that oil prices go down but gas prices go up? Read this! (link)  Gas prices should be around $1 a gallon. Oil goes up the prices go up the same day. The price goes down and they do nothing. Explain to me how we're not getting screwed.
web posted February 18, 2009

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Re: Man held without bond in kidnapping and rape case
 
Seems we had a similar case gone to trial just last week.  Wonder if this guy will also get a slap on the wrist or will he get a stiffer sentence because he's "one of those Mexicans".
web posted February 18, 2009

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My neighbor just told me about (EdgefieldDaily.com) and I have found it very well done.  Congratulations!
 
But I want to talk to you about a great concern  we have in the Merriwether area about the huge transmission lines planned to add a redundancy to the power grid in our area.  Aiken Electric co op has contracted with Central Electric to build these lines and they could ruin many a beautiful property, home site, pond, meadow ,creek .etc in our nearly unspoiled area. 
 
According to the Jan 30th article, once they decide where to build the lines, i.e.  in what corridor,  there is nothing the property owner can do except haggle over the price in court.  Obviously most of us don't have lawyers on staff or on retainer and would find it very difficult to adequately represent ourselves.  But why should we have to?  Why shouldn't  the burden of proof be on Aiken Electric to show why we need a redundancy in our power grid?  The existing lines could be "beefed up"  with far less cost to everyone concerned and with little or no damage to property or the beauty of Edgefield county..  And after putting this off for two years due to powerful objections raised by residents then, these power companies want to complete this likely unnecessary, ill-conceived idea at the time of the greatest financial recession since 1980.   Now I need my property protected since its value is the basis for my and my wife's  future.  Many others are in the same boat.
 
Perhaps you could do a story about the plight of all the residents who may be affected.  Perhaps we could all band together to fight the imposition of these unnecessary and destructive transmission lines
 
Thank you for your time.
web posted February 18, 2009

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Mrs. Pew, the Senior Citizens Council, and/ or Edgefield County Administrator John Pettigrew should all be beaten on the soles of their feet until they allow the workers at the transfer station keep their seats. I’m at the station several times a week, and all of the gentlemen are always helping anyone that needs it. I’ve never seen them just sitting in their seats and pointing at, and telling people what to do. Maybe those lazy office workers should have their seats taken from them?
web posted February 18, 2009

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I must say I know the family of which the EMS personnel responded to on Sunday morning. They are the type people who would do anything to help someone else in need. They are rich in their love of family and friends, not dollars. You do need to get your facts straight about the article in Edgefield Daily about this.  The truth is not in this article about what actually took palce, as I am sure you
got the EMS "tall tale" version to cover their wrong doings.

Editor's note: The information in the report, as stated, came from official reports on the situation.
web posted February 18, 2009

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COWS
Is it just me, or does anyone else find it amazing that during the mad cow epidemic our government could track a single cow, born in Canada almost three years ago, right to the stall where she slept in the state of Washington? And, they tracked her calves to their stalls. But they are unable to locate 11 million illegal aliens wandering around our country. Maybe we should give each of them a cow.  

THE CONSTITUTION
They keep talking about drafting a Constitution for Iraq ..... why don't we just give them ours? It was written by a lot of really smart guys, it has worked for over 200 years, and we're not using it anymore.  

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS
The real reason that we can't have the Ten Commandments posted in a courthouse is this -- you cannot post 'Thou Shalt Not Steal' 'Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery' and 'Thou Shall Not Lie' in a building full of lawyers, judges and politicians ... it creates a hostile work environment.
web posted February 18, 2009

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I am not surprised by anything Mrs. Pough would do to cause elderly people trouble.  My father was getting meals for seniors.  (He truly needs them as his health and hospital bills has taken all of my parent's savings for retirement.)The woman driver who delivers the meals came flying into our drive way (I had to move my parents into a mobile home in the side of our yard.), after opening the gate and driving through and right past the sign that clearly says SLOW.  We had lost track of time and my
husband had let the dogs out in the yard.  Our little dog, Grace, went running towards the van.  My daughter, my husband, and myself were all running and screaming for her to stop.  That driver never once hit her brakes, nor slowed down, nor stopped. 
She came so close to hitting Grace with a tire that I couldn't believe what I was watching.  When I approached the van the driver's mouth was going wild, "If these people want these meals they
better get out here and get them.  I ain't gettin out with them dogs in the yard."  I tried to tell her we were getting them and had just lost track of time. I told her she needed to slow down when she comes in there.  She replied to me that she was not required to stop for no dog, that they better be put up when she comes in.  She went on to say that she would say to me what ever she wanted to.  I reported her to the office.  Mr. Griffith who is her boss took up for her.  Took everything I tried to say and turned it into something it wasn't. My mom tried to get Mrs. Pough to agree for her to sit an ice chest outside the gate for the meals,as someone is always home and could go right out and get them, so the driver
did not have to come inside the gate.She would in no way work with my mom to provide other means.  She said the meals had to be delivered to the door. 
Mrs. Pough had given my mom grief ever since my dad began getting those meals.  (I think because of a personal grudge.)  Needless to say even though my dad did need the meals we no longer have them delivered to him.  Everyone in that office must be cruel and heartless, and surely not keeping the best
interest of the elderly in mind.  There is no telling what that driver does to other elderly people that they just put up with to get the meals.  I contacted Shane Massey about this.  NO RESULT> Just for the record, my family is Caucasian, hard working people, an example of what the high cost of health care
can do as a result of extreme illness.
web posted February 18, 2009

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Editor's post: As we get set to begin our fifth year, I wanted the personally thank every reader for your continued support and our continued growth. Starting out with just under 1,000 readers in 2005 EdgefieldDaily.com has grown to reach between 19,000 and 21,000 visitors racking up almost 1.5 million monthly hits and making us the undisputed leader in local news. EdgefieldDaily.com has never advertised and our growth is a result of our readers.

On behalf of all contributors to EdgefieldDaily.com I want to say thank you. As our anniversary approaches I will state again that EdgefieldDaily.com will never require a registration to read our news or require a fee for our services.

It is my hope that EdgefieldDaily.com has empowered the citizens of Edgefield County with knowledge, insights and, through the Wandering Minds, an avenue to express their views, concerns, and opinions with the knowledge that their identity will never be disclosed.

As Editor and Publisher I thank each of you individually and I am humbled by your continued support.
web posted February 17, 2009

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Those bumper ornaments are nothing new. An old-timer told me they used to hang two coconuts beneath their Model T Fords along with a sign that read, "You can't call me Lizzie now."  (For younger readers, early Fords were affectionately referred to as "Tin Lizzies.")
web posted February 17, 2009

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I believe that it is a shame that someone would come in a mandate that those fellows have to stand on their feet for their full six hour shift.  I have been in that facility on a regular basis for the past ten years and have never had an issue with anyone working there.  They provide a good service to not only the county, but also the environment by monitoring what goes to the landfill.  Most of the fellows do the work to help offset their retirements, social security etc; and need the work just to make ends meet.  This is one of the busiest centers in the county and it don't hurt a thing for them to sit on the stool and run a compactor as people throw their trash in.  Lady, and I use that term cautiously, you should be ashamed of yourself and I would like to see you stand out in the freezing cold rain or the boiling sun on cement for that kind of time frame. 
web posted February 17, 2009

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I can’t say I was shocked when I read the story about Mrs. Pough bullying the old men at the Merriwether trash dump. When we tried to get meals for our mother (we live in a distant part of the county) she was rude and demeaning. She DID NOT want to help and talked about how they couldn’t help. WHAT? I thought it was the SENIOR CITIZENS center. I didn’t know it was just for those around Edgefield. That little bean eyed twit that runs the place wasn’t any better.
We got help, but it WASN’T from Edgefield. We got it from another county in ANOTHER STATE!!!! They really care about the senior citizens. They are a joke.
web posted February 17, 2009

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The last thing I read on Mt. Vintage was that the county council said they wanted a bond. Did I miss something or has there been no follow up on the bond? How long was Bettis (Rainsford, of MV Development) given to produce a bond or the money? What is the county going to do if Bettis can't come up with the money? What can they do? I'm left here hanging in limbo.

Editor's note: There have been no follow-up reports because there has been no official meeting or release on the matter. A letter was sent to Mr. Rainsford requesting a bond or other means to secure the placement of the required infrastructure. I am not sure of the period MV Development was given to produce the requested security but I believe it was a matter of weeks.

As to what the county’s remedy to the situation is, that remains unknown. One lawsuit has already been filed naming the county as a party due to the situation and Dennis Brite and others insinuated the possibility of filing suit at the last county council meeting that ultimately led to an executive session for legal advice.

To be honest, I don’t know where this will go. It is an “unchartered waters” thing in Edgefield County and I am not a lawyer.

From my perspective, I would say the county is most likely on the hook for a portion of damages that could be won in a court case if successful. I have confirmed that some plats were filed improperly and without approval. The county can and must make the plats filed legal, but that amounts to slamming the barn door after all the horses have run out.

In addition the county did not enforce its land development and subdivision laws on the addition to Mt. Vintage. In fact, Mr. Rainsford stated on the record that the county has never made him adhere to local laws. That’s going to be another, “gee thanks Bettis”, quote when the current case hits the courtroom.

This all goes back to our wonderful former county administrator Wayne Adams. You remember him, he tried to shut EdgefieldDaily.com down, tried to zone the whole county and not tell a soul, not even the county council, and any number of other things that showed he felt like a czar over the county. He is responsible for what took place along with former Building Director Howard Gibson.

Ignorance of the law is not a defense to the law for MV Development, the county, or its officials.

The good news is Adams and Gibson were both bonded in case they goofed. The county might want to look into that (hint).

We will all know more at the March 3 meeting.
web posted February 17, 2009

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I get a kick out of how (EdgefieldDaily.com) writes a story and all of a sudden tv crews are in Edgefield. I noticed they didn't give you credit too. I don't think the tv news knew where Edgefield was until (EdgefieldDaily.com) came along!

Editor's note: When I met with Mayor Durham on Monday he told me it was all my fault (joking of course) that the broadcast news came to Edgefield. He said he was contacted by affiliates from ABC, NBC, and CBS.  As to credit, you read the news first on EdgefieldDaily.com and saw it on the TV three days later. I have no problem with others reporting old news even if EdgefieldDaily.com was their source.
web posted February 17, 2009

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In response to the individual who has proclaimed that he will not be removing his "testicles" from his truck, I offer the following.  The first time I have to explain to one of my children what that is dangling from your truck I'll be in favor of passing the law to have the "ornament" removed.  Let me guess, I bet you also have a bumper sticker that reads: Don't like my driving?  Dial 1-800-EAT-(removed).  In my opinion you're no different than the individuals who ride up and down the road playing their music so loudly it vibrates the license plate on their vehicle, all the while with vulgar language blasting away.

I would also dare to say that you're not married and don't have any children to speak of.  In addition, I would age you in your late teens or early twenties at best.  At least I would hope to goodness you're that young.
web posted February 17, 2009

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re: Senior Mutiny...
I would suggest for All Senior citizens to quit at Merriweather Recyling Center and let Roberta Pew go and stand there on her feet 12 hours a day and direct where trash is to be placed, at minimum wage! I have no connection to anybody employed at any sites, but to do something like that to a senior citizen is ludicrous. Mr. Robinson; stand your ground and don't back up or back down.
web posted February 17, 2009

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I am not sure if you mention this kind of stuff on the site or not.(Battle of Aiken)  Its sounds like a lot of fun. I enjoy the site, I read it everyday.My wife and I moved bought a house here in Edgefield County and moved here last December from Pennsylvania. We are very happy with the community and area. Thanks so much for allowing the freedom of speech to continue and allowing everyone to express their own opinions, regardless of how they feel. I feel if everyone let you know how they truly feel it would be a much nicer world, less lies and people talking behind other backs.

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

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Re the indecent "male anatomy" on vehicles.....the fact that several people wrote in to support this and one agreed that this should be removed just show what the morals in our country have gone to.  I don't consider myself an "old fogey" and like a good laugh, but this is going too far.  Also, I whole heartedly agree with the writer who complained about the "butt cracks" showing.  We need to pray for our country, both politically and morally.  We're on a rapid downhill spiral. 
web posted February 17, 2009

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I did receive meals from the senior center, I never new when or if they would show up. I called ms. Pew to see if she could do anything about this problem. I found her to be rude and noncaring.After talking with her boss he only supported her. I stopped receiving lunch meals.I could not believe this is the type people they have in these jobs, so if you think the senior citizens center care about seniors you are going to find out what type people work for the center looking out for the senior citizens of edgefield.                                 
So seniors at the trash sites, you have found out like me. the people you would think understands, you will find cares the least. I hope they will think one day they my need someone who cares.
web posted February 17, 2009

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I read the article about the seniors who work at the Merriwether Recycling Center being told they must stand and couldn't believe it!  If this is indeed true, I challenge Roberta Pew and her supervisor to stand up for six hours at the recycling center.  Better yet, let's make sure it is a hot summertime day!  I am much younger than these gentlemen and would find it hard to do this.  As a person who uses the recycling center, I like being greeted by the seniors as they sit outside. They are always very polite and helpful.  I also find it difficult to see how the newly expanded recycling yard can be adequately monitored while sitting inside that shack. 
web posted February 17, 2009

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When something is stolen out of a mailbox in Edgefield County...why can't the Edgefield County Sheriff's Department do anything about it? Is it because of the person who stole it and they are afraid of him?
The ECSO lets this guy get away with all kinds of crimes. Oh I get it...if he pimps on everyone the sheriff's office allows him to break the law?  
web posted February 17, 2009

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Editor's post: I want to extend my and my wife’s thankfulness for a wonderful gathering by two of the county’s most generous members of our community. They know who they are and may I say on behalf of our family, and the families they embrace through their generosity, that you are doing God’s work.

God bless you and thank you for being a part of what makes our county so special. We love you and thank you for your contributions to so many who fall between the cracks.
web posted February 16, 2009

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I am writing in regards to the laws being looked at about ornamants hung on trucks. They are not supposed to depict a part of the male genitals. They were originated as "Bull Balls" although they do resemble the male parts thats not there intentions.  I have them on my truck and will not be removing them no matter now many tickets I recieve. I am sick of the government stepping in telling me what I can and cant do to my property just because someone wants to whine about it.
web posted February 16, 2009

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I am someone that has Been in the Calliham family.  I HATE to see JP Calliham lose everything that he had worked so hard for.  It is just ashame to know where some on his money was spent.  JP is a very hard worker, and I wish him nothing but the BEST...WE LOVE YOU!!!!
web posted February 16, 2009

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So we're now going to crack down on a set of nads hanging from a tow hook or bumper because it offends someone?  Sounds childish to me. Of course, putting that on your vehicle is extremely immature.  I could say I was offended by those little stick figure decals of "Little Johnny" taking a whiz on a Ford oval, or a Chevy bowtie. People had those in their rear windows for several years.  The fad 
wore off, and now you hardly see them.

Leave it alone.  I really thought we had more to worry about in Edgefield County, like perhaps gangs and idiot speeders on Woodlawn and Sweetwater, perhaps even burglaries.

Editor's note: The problems of the county and those of the Town of Edgefield are not related.
web posted February 16, 2009

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I don’t know why you think the problems with Callihams is a news story. I do business there and it is business as usual. You’re wrong.

Editor’s note: Court records say otherwise.
web posted February 16, 2009

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It is hard to believe that after being mentioned over and over in Wandering Minds, Dr. Crenshaw continues to make very obvious grammatical errors in her Friday Briefs.  Our district already looks bad enough without these briefs being posted online every week for the world to see.  "Twenty seven eight graders were recognized as the 2008-2009 Edgefield County School District Junior Scholars."  Don't you mean "eighth" graders Dr. Crenshaw.  Hello!!!!!!!!!!  Please read your work before you post it
web posted February 16, 2009

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So (Edgefield) Mayor (Ken) Durham wants to protect “free speech” by giving people tickets for a piece of plastic on the bumper of their truck? Maybe the mayor needs to grow a pair and deal with the real problems in the town like the gangs and all the shootings. This is news but he wants to tiptoe around the big things.
web posted February 16, 2009

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I got a chuckle from you article 'indecent ornaments". I can understand why some people may be a little offended.
Frankly, when I pass by a cow pasture and spot one of the big boys. I simply must slow down and "SALUTE". Most men would envy. What a male!!!
Edgefield is a great town. To think the mayor and chief of police would find time to have a conference to find a law to prevent such a joke is a testimate to to quite life we live. With nothing better to be concerned about, Edgefield must be doing fine if this makes the headlines.
Hey everyone, lighten up. LOL ( this means 'Laughing Out Loud ") for those of you who do not know .
web posted February 16, 2009

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In answer to the question as to who signed the loan for the new FCHS, the following document contains the signatures of Bishop and Mayson, the chair and secretary of the FCHS board.  Using an online calculator and the info in the document, these two folks have signed up for monthly payments of $25429 per month. (Equivalent to about 50 students at current funding levels.)  The future looks bright as long as state funding does not fall off too much.
 
Source of document

Editor's note: It is nice to know that 50 students will have the money sent to the school to provide for their education is being used to pay for a new building rather than their education. At best, figures show that equates to 1/5 of the money sent to the school to educate the children is being used for anything and everything other than their education. This amount does not include the amount used for sports and other extracurricular activities.
web posted February 16, 2009

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SO what happened at the Foxcreek basketball game at MMS on Thursday?  I heard the cops were called.

Editor's note: I do not have official records on the situation at this time.
web posted February 16, 2009

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RE:  BUMPER NUTS.
Now that we've solved that problem, we need to figure out how to make these young men stop wearing their pants below their butt crack.  I find looking at this offensive too yet we continue to allow them to walk all around town with their butts showing.
web posted February 16, 2009

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I want to rant about Edgefield Daily not covering the School Board meetings. They spend more money than any body in the county but Edgefield Daily doesn't see the need to cover what goes on. SHAME ON YOU!

Editor's note: As I have stated, the way the meetings are conducted and the time frame the meetings are held they make it impossible for us to cover the meetings. We are not alone. The School Board is not covered by other local media outlets for the same reason.

I have long stated that if someone would be willing to cover the meetings in an unbiased and factual manner their reports would be welcomed by EdgefieldDaily.com.
web posted February 14, 2009

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I'd like to know where you got your so called information on Calliham's. The store is not closing and is not being foreclosed on. I was in there today and it was business as usual. You might want to do a better job of checking behind your reporters.

Editor's note: The information is confirmed by court records.
web posted February 14, 2009

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In response to the comment concerning the work to be done on the bleachers in Trenton:  the work will be paid for by the Town of Trenton, NOT the School District.  The request was made to an individual maintenance employee, not the department as a whole, and the work will be done on his time.  The Citizen News was very vague in reporting the comments made by Mr. Turner, and, I believe, a correction should be printed.  The School District is under enough scrutiny already, so let's not make any false accusations without knowing the whole story.
web posted February 14, 2009

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I can't bellieve they put a $40k bond on Thomas Hilliard for the bogus murder charge. Why coundnt thay let him out without a bond. He aint gonna run off or nothing. I just think its all stuoid. Like (the Editor) said Dwight Hall shot a guy and got out on $25k a few days later. Hittinn someone and shooting someone is a big difference but when its an accident the bond is higher. But Hall was a cop so its ok.. (BS).
web posted February 14, 2009

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This is a response in reference to:  I was reading the online edition of the Citizen News and found an interesting news story.  Here is the link 
 
Why do you assume that Council Member Bobby Turner was going to ask for the school's maintenance department to put the bleachers at the Trenton ball field together for free? Trenton is going to pay for the services. Mr. Turner noted that their maintenance department did such a fine job on the school's bleachers, that he would consult them to see if they would be willing to put the Trenton bleachers together. There was never a word about free services. You certainly read a lot between the lines, didn't you?

That's the problem with many of the Wandering Mind Posters. You assume way too much and get over-the-top-emotional about things that are not even the way you interpret them. Your view is so slanted to being a victim, you expect the whole world to be against you. Reality Check....it's not all about you!
web posted February 14, 2009

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My child wants to know why the public library "only likes homeschoolers".  What should I make of this?  I'm am afraid that it is a bad idea to place labels on activities to the exclusion of others.  I think our public library is great but I think this goes to show how how our children may be seeing things. 
web posted February 14, 2009

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I want to thank you for the "seatbelts save lives" article. Our son was in an accident in Saluda last year and if it weren't for them wearing seatbelts they would all probably been killed. I know a lot of kids read Edgefield Daily and I hope they see this and learn that seatbelts should be worn all the time. Before the accident our son always said that wearing their seatbelts wasn't "cool", well neither is dieing. His idea of cool has changed and he tells all his friends they have to wear them in his car. We thank God that he was uncool and alive along with (his two friends) that night.
web posted February 14, 2009

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I thought state business was to be conducted in English? why does a state website (the SC Education Oversite Committee )http://www.eoc.sc.gov/informationforfamilies/FamilyFriendlyStandards08-09.htm
 
(It) contians information in both english and spanish ON the MAIN PAGE! So much for english only.
web posted February 14, 2009

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SO did FCCHS pay MMS for the use of our GYM?  They have used it  for two basketball games. The last one was Feb. 12,2009.   Electricity isn't cheap

Editor's note: It is my understanding that FCHS has to pay to use the facilities.
web posted February 13, 2009

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I just read a very disturbing article in the Advertiser. It is in the Feb 11, 2009 issue and is on page 3 entitled "Interview on Tuesday".  It concerns Mr. Brite's ongoing struggle to move into his new home in Mt. Vintage.  According to the article, there is apparently a slow up on Mr. Brite getting a Certificate of Occupancy because he has not requested one. I am confused. Why would you request a Certificate of Occupancy if the house is not ready (with needed utilities) to be occupied?  It  seems like "common sense" would tell that you that in requesting a CO prior to having the infrastructure in would be putting the cart before the horse. The disturbing part of this is what the article goes on to say.  As of this past Tuesday Mr. Brite "has not called for a Certificate of Occupancy which would require an inspection by the county before issuing a CO." Pettigrew iterated, "It is up to him to call us fo r that inspection".  The article goes on to say "Pettigrew and Reed also verified that at this time no one has been denied a CO because of a lack of infrastructure." Wow, what an interesting policy that is. Your house can pass the inspection (by the county) without the infrastructure in place and you can get a CO? You are allowed to occupy a house that has no water hooked up to it or one that is missing some other utilties?  Again, If this is true it is  not an real strong example of "common sense" in Edgefield county. Please, please tell me I am misreading this or misunderstanding the policy.  Maybe the Advertiser quoted them incorrectly? I hope that is the case.  My only question is- when does one become liable for property taxes on a home?  Is it when you obtain the Certificate of Occupancy?  Just a question that popped into my mind.

Editor's note: Why would Mr. Brite file for something that he knows he cannot obtain? Until the infrastructure is completed he cannot, by law, file to obtain a CO. I have not read the article but will do so today. As for when a home will hit the tax books, the home cannot be taxed until it has received a CO and the owners are allowed to obtain residence.
web posted February 13, 2009

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I was reading the online edition of the Citizen News and found an interesting news story.  Here is the link  http://www.citizen-news.com/news/trenton-town-council-holds-january-meeting

Why I find this interesting is this line, “Councilman Bobby Turner has contacted the school district maintenance department, who put their school bleachers together, to see if Trenton could request the same services.”

Councilman Turner, I pay taxes to support the schools of Edgefield.  Not to have the maintance department of the schools to do free work for you or anyone else.  If you want the same people who put the bleachers together for the school, to do yours, then PAY THEM.  Don’t steal my tax dollars to do it.  That kind of stuff has been done for to many years in this town and I for one am fed up with the Schools doing free work for the private school and a few select churches and people in town. 
web posted February 13, 2009

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First of all I want to send my condoences to Trey's family.  I just read the editor's account of what took place and I know for a fact one part of it is extremely wrong.  I am a good friend of one of the girls, the ONLY SOBER one there, and she was called that night to go to Saluda to pick Thomas, Trey and the girlfriend rode back to Johnston with her that night; she was not with them up until the moment she went to Saluda to pick them up.  Thomas is the one that drove Trey and the girlfriend to Saluda but as far as driving them back home and the girlfriend's friend being drunk was FALSE.

Editor's note: The account that was given was that of the solicitor's office in open court, not the "editor's account". I was not there and I have no idea what took place.
web posted February 13, 2009

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I just finished reading the letter from the Mount Vintage employee.  The letter states, “appreciate the opinions of other…respect and honesty.”..

Does the writer not realize respect and honesty is a two-way street.  Apparently, the officers of Mount Vintage Development believe they live on a one-way street yet, I have not seen any one-way signs posted saying not to enter.
web posted February 13, 2009

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I love the Newsbusters clips. Is Jodi Miller single? She's HOT!

Editor's note:I have no idea.
web posted February 13, 2009

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Question: Who signed the loan for the new Fox Creek High School? What names are on it, to be exact?

Editor's note: Though unconfirmed, Superintendent Dr. Crenshaw stated that the board of trustees signed the note.
web posted February 13, 2009

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RE: Our ECSD Superintendent does own and operate a grant writing company.  Check it out here: http://www.mamakidsinc.com/index.htm

Had the individual who sent this in done their homework maybe they would have noticed that the linked site has not been updated since 9/11/07, and that all the e-mail address and phone numbers listed are from where she lived prior to coming here. I would think that were she so busy with this company as is implied here that she would have updated the site in the last one and a half years.
web posted February 13, 2009

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Dr. Roberson wasn't here long but he did us two major injustices:
1. He paid every teacher $500 to learn how to spell backwards.
2. He brought Dr. Walker back to the district!
Talk about disappointment!
web posted February 13, 2009

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I got up, went through my usual news web site this morning, read an editorial about health care provisions on bloomberg news. I thought it was educational and thought provoking, A real insight into this presidency and the demoncratic congress-no that is not a typo. So, I decided to send in a comment to wandering minds urging readers to read the article. Imagine my surprise when I go to edgefielddaily after sending in my comments to find the exact editorial linked on your front page. Lesson learned, read edgefielddaily first.
web posted February 13, 2009

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All the schools are having to make cuts. Is the district office making any cuts? Is foxCreek making any cuts? Please find out, if you can get anyone out there to tell you the truth.

Editor's note: The District Office has not reduced staff. Fox Creek was not affected by the cuts (until the next fiscal year), and the School Board has not cut any funds for travel or conferences. According to School Board Chairwoman Sallie Cooks at a recent public meeting, the board members should be able to go and attend as much as possible because, "we needs our education".
web posted February 13, 2009

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Editor's post: Allow me to put several rumors to rest in the Hilliard - Herring murder case. According to information provided at the bond hearing on Wednesday, both of the females involved, Mr. Herring’s girlfriend and a friend of hers, have similar statements that have been provided to police. Mr. Hilliard was the one driving the car that transported everyone from Saluda back to Johnston because he was the least intoxicated. He was actually the one that wanted to leave and attempted to call someone to come and pick him up and leave Herring and the other two females behind.

Once back in Johnston a scuffle took place that soon ended. Additional words were exchanged and eventually Mr. Hilliard punched Mr. Herring, “supposedly knocking him out” and he fell and hit his head on the curb.

According to police reports, Mr. Herring’s girlfriend was said to have attacked Mr. Hilliard prior to the fight between the two and the blow that left Mr. Herring dead.

The statements given are from those who were intimate to Mr. Herring and Mr. Hilliard’s attorney Greg Seigler suggested that they were perhaps one sided and that the facts of the case were still undetermined.

No other charges, that I am aware of, have been filed in the case on anyone else involved.

In my personal opinion, the truth in most criminal cases lies somewhere between the account of the accused and the witnesses, and no one should jump to any conclusions until the matter is heard in a court of law.

But for the grace of God, many of us could be standing in the shoes of Mr. Hilliard due to youthful indiscretions. It is a tragic event and those on both sides are affected.

The only thing I disagree with is the ruling that Mr. Hilliard cannot have contact with the Herring family, who he has been a part of for years through the friendship he shared with “Trey” Herring. Personally I feel that such contact could lead to mitigating the situation, but I am not the judge. I can understand  not being able to contact the family in a situation such as this.

I say this from a personal experience in the accidental death of a woman in a motor vehicle incident that involved me. I was forbidden to express my sympathies to the family. I was cleared of all responsibily but that has never changed the guilt that I have carried for the past twenty years.

I also agree with many posters that if this situation had taken place anywhere else the two men would have been back at work the following Monday and still have been best friends.

I ask that you pray for both families involved and that the situation can be dealt with in a more civil manner. I know there are those on both sides of this case that are angry, and understandably so.

No matter what happens, there will never be a winner and loser in this case. Everyone is a loser and all will suffer for the rest of their lives.

On another note: The Wandering Minds has been archived for the month of January and listed in the archive links above to allow the page to load faster for dial internet up readers.
web posted February 12, 2009

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I just read the letter to the editor from the resident and employee of Mt. Vintage.  He is a very hard worker and has done an amazing job with the golf course at Mt. Vintage. He should be very proud of what he does. He and his wife are very nice people. His letter brings up a few thoughts to me. One, is that I wonder why he is and his crew are working on the road situation there. I thought his job was the golf course.  Maybe there is some connection to the golf course and the road work. Maybe I don't understand exactly what his responsibilities are. I hope he and his crew are not just being used.  The other thought I had was that with all the wonderful things he says about Mt. Vintage and the people there (which are very true) I can understand why the people that bought lots there would like to be able to live there. It is too bad that it has been such an enormous struggle for them just to build the homes they planned on when they bough t their property. When you build a retirement home, you hope to move in before you are ready for a nursing home. One other thing that he brought up was that the home in question may have actually been started in 2008 and not 2006.  All this points out is that the owner has waited two more years to build!  The question is not when the house was built, the question is when the lot was purchased and the promises that were tied to that purchase.
web posted February 12, 2009

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Our ECSD Superintendent does own and operate a grant writing company.  Check it out here: http://www.mamakidsinc.com/index.htm  

At $125,000 per year, or $568.18 dollars per day (220 day contract) or $71.02 per hour (8 hours a day if we are lucky), I do wonder just how much of our children's time, money, and effort has been used on running this business from Edgefield.  Mr. Editor, is there any way you could check into her level of involvement in this company.  It says on that website that the "founder, Dr. Mary Rice Crenshaw is an exceptionally qualified grant evaluator".  Just curious as to how much Saturday and Sunday work she might be doing in this business?  What exactly does she do everyday?  And why in the world do we need an administrative secretary AND a district secretary AND a Public Information Officer?  She is also, just a secretary.  In a District the size of Edgefield, couldn't Dr. Crenshaw be the PIO???  For $71.02 per hour, she should be the PIO, the CM (coffee maker), Curriculum Coordinator, and (removed).  I am about ready to get my money's worth.
web posted February 12, 2009

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I have read all the ridiculous FALSE stories of what happened that night and I find it absolutely amazing that the citizens of this town can be so naive and listen to the stories that they hear from other people about what happened that night.  I have heard the story first hand and happen to be close to some of the people who were ACTUALLY there that night and all you people who THINK you know what happened should maybe find out the truth before you start placing false blame on the girlfriend.  The two girls who were present had nothing to do with two grown men who decided to have it out that night.  If anything people should consider the effect that this whole ordeal has had on them.  I mean put yourself in their shoes...there are two females present trying to keep 2 GROWN males apart.  They had to sit there and watch Trey who was a good friend to one and the boyfriend of another get knocked to the ground and lay there and slowly die from head injuries.  NOBODY left the scene of the incident until the police arrived and the ambulance took Trey to the hospital and the police gave the okay for them to go.  I don't know who came up the LIE that the girlfriend left the scene...her car wasn't even there...they had gotten the other female there to go pick them up.  The ambulance was called time Trey fell to the ground and blood was visible.  No I don't think Thomas intended to kill trey that night but it happened...and he should have to pay for what he did.  I mean people choose to drink and they know how it causes them to act so why even put yourself in the situation where you go out in public and put yourself or other people in danger.  Those ladies who witnessed this have been playing it over and over in their heads and it's something that is going to take a very long time for them to get over also...they are also victims because anyone who has to watch something like this happen especially to someone close to them, feels a whole lot of hurt inside.  So you people who say that the girlfriend should be arrested should maybe take to heart how she's feeling losing the man that she woke up next to everyday for almost a year now.  What if it had been your boyfriend or husband laying there with blood coming out of him unconscious???

What amazes me the most is all these people are on here saying what happened but not one of them was there or have talked to the witnesses that saw the whole thing happened. If so many of yall who have made these riduculous comments were that night and know what happened why didn't yall step up to help.  Those people who witnessed this pray every night to live that night over again and change what happened but it's impossible.  Those "what ifs" are constantly running through their heads, for the person who left the comment about if they were fighting on the grass he wouldn't be dead...who knows...and he wasn't fighting on grass and there's nothing to change that.  Both the witnesses that were there have gave police reports stating exactly what happened that night so whoever wrote what happened to the two girls who were there and why aren't they saying anything...maybe they are hurting too much to even talk about it to just anybody.  It's hard enough recalling that night to family and friends for them.  When something like this happens and a person witnesses it they want to avoid hearing about it and talking about it all together, because for a while it makes everything seem unreal...but reading some of the comments on here blaming them just really upset me.  It wasn't the girlfriend who threw any punches that night knocking Trey to the ground nor did the girlfriend, the other female, and Trey gang up on Thomas. People please just think about stuff before you start spreading lies trying to hurt and ruin peoples reputations.  All 4 of them people who were involved and witnessed what happened that night know what went on and the good Lord above and the rest of you just need to find something new to gossip about and leave things alone.
web posted February 12, 2009

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I love the Newbusters videos and want to know if you can find out if Jodi Miller is single.  I want to marry her. She is SO HOT!!!!!!!!
web posted February 12, 2009

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Now that the President is half White and half Black, or vise versa, every time I turn around all I see is Black history moments in time.  I have no problem with Black

Citizens contributing to the progress of Man-Kind.  But why must we see it everytime we turn around???

For some reason I can’t help but wonder why other races don’t get the recognition they deserve.  Maybe since we only have 25% or 30% Blacks in this country we seem to feel burdened to give them more approval than they deserve.

Maybe, now that Latino’s are gradually becoming more of the population, we should start giving them notoriety.  I’m certain they have produced more to man-kind than Blacks.

One thing for sure, they don’t fill the prison population with about 80% of their kind.  Maybe in a few years this might change.

Maybe “Obama” will change this problem.

Let’s hope so.

Editor's note: According to the census figures the black population is between 12 and 14% of the general population.
web posted February 12, 2009

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I feel for both families involved in the murder of Trey. I am aware that Thomas did not mean for this to happen, someone drunk driving also does not mean to get behind the wheel and kill someone, however when it does happen aren't they ultimately responsible for the cause of death?
web posted February 12, 2009

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Do you know if  Chad Coffin went to court this week. and if so what happened?
Nov 25
Chadwick Bobo Coffin, 23; Assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, ECSO

Editor's note: He was sentenced to Five Years suspended to 69 days time served; Two Years Probation. Disposition date 2/2/09
web posted February 12, 2009

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well since your going to do that, i guess i should get one that says "know your stuff before you start blaming other people" for you to read.  I can't believe you were actually there to know exactly what happened. i think it's just thomas hilliards family and friends all on this website trying to blame other people for what he did.  he KILLED someone. he needs to go to jail. face the facts and don't blame other people for his mistakes. he deserves to be punished whether he meant to or not.
web posted February 12, 2009

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I am writing in regards to the Trey Herring murder. I am from Johnston but I have not lived there for the past 12 years. I have always enjoyed gong back to visit, however, reading all the gossip and rumors being spread about what "really" happened the night of Trey's death are very disappointing to me. First of all, I don't know how any of you have come to your conclusions....Were you there? Did you witness anything that happened that night?
I feel badly for Thomas and I give my deepest sympathy to Trey's family and his girlfriend. I know that they are all hurting and your gossip and rumors only make it worse. How would you feel if you were in their places? Would you want the whole town to be talking about this? I didn't think so. Please show everyone involved in this terrible situation some respect and stop the small town gossip.
web posted February 12, 2009

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Whoever is writing in supporting Hilliard needs to get their facts straight!
Trey's girlfriend was NOT driving the car. Someone else was! So obviously people who are writing supporting Hilliard don't have a CLUE! And she did not jump on Hilliard. That's why she has NOT been charged with anything. And as far as the 2 "girls" not talking, you again need to get the facts straight! They gave very long police reports. And the reason they aren't going all over town talking about it is because they are very sad and grieving, especially Trey's girlfriend. And it is NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS. I can't believe you people think someone who had something that traumatic happen to them should be going around town BLABBING about it!
Maybe the editor can help with the facts.

Editor's note: See my Editor's post at the top of the page.
web posted February 12, 2009

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Editor's post: Several comments sent in for today are not posted due to the late hour and the time spent covering local trials. Something no other local media outlet bothers to cover. I apologize for the delay in the review and posting of the comments.
web posted February 11, 2009

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It's hard to believe that two people can jump on one and you can't defend yourself. But everyone is wanting to point the finger at one .Yes, we need shirts made up that says 'Tell the truth! The truth will set you free.' I, myself think it should be no more than assault. What if the shoe was on the other foot? Everyone wants to point the finger at Thomas. What about the girl that jumped on him? There's two that won't say much. Wonder why? I think there should be more than one in jail, not just Thomas. If I was a betting man, I'd say anybody would fight back if he were getting his butt spanked. I know I would.  I will back Thomas all the way. Now don't be scared to write back or just tell the truth.
web posted February 11, 2009

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The school board meeting last night was, I hope, the start of something that has needed to happen for a long time.  There were many new faces in the room seeing how ignorant the reigning majority of the school board is.  It was quite refreshing to hear Mr. Hoffman and Mr. Covar shed light on the idiocy of our school superintendent, Mary Rice Crenshaw.  This woman needs to go and the sooner the better.  If you have kids in the ECSD, you need to be at these meetings.  You need to see for yourself how the reigning majority operates in general and defends this sub-par Superintendent solely because they are the ones who voted to hire her over the vastly more qualified candidate.  The question now is do they have the intestinal fortitude to make a change?  I'm sure Mr. Bibbs is familiar with those words. 

I also want to thank the gentleman that spoke in the public portion of the meeting.  Sadly, I think the message at the beginning of his talk will be missed on the reigning majority of the board because they are not bright enough to comprehend what was said.  Maybe he should have said it  r e a l l y  s l o w  l i k e  he  h a d  t o  s a y  h i s  p h o n e  n u m b e r.
web posted February 11, 2009

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I would like to comment on Thomas Hilliard.  I am sorry for Trey's family first of all.  I have known Thomas for about 11 years and I have never known him to be a fighter.  I do not believe he should be charged with murder.  Yeah he may have hit Trey but I know he didn't intend to kill him.  Thomas will have to live with what happened for the rest of his life.  He is NOT a murderer.  I do think he should have some consequences for fighting, but murder is a little much don't you think?  I agree with what one person on here says that had they been fighting in grass none of this would've ever happened.  We have all had our fights and any one of us could be in this position.  It is really sad.  I would like to know however where (Trey's girlfriend) is and why she hasn't been charged!!  She was the one driving the car that left Trey there hurt. Why is she not in just as much trouble as Thomas?  I want to tell Thomas' s family I feel for them.  And as for Trey's family I am truly sorry for your loss.
web posted February 11, 2009

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I love Edgefield Daily. Ya'll know more about what is going on than anyone. You've been my homepage for 2 years!  I love getting online everyday and see what happened the day before. I used to feel smart because I could tell everybody i worked with about things but now they read too. Can I get a speacial update about what is going to be reported so I can be smart again?
web posted February 11, 2009

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Dear Editor,
I wanted to say thanks for the all the free speech that is allowed in the site. I think that it is good for Edgefield citizens to finally be able to speak up. I don't understand why the Mayor or anyone else would want you to stop what you are doing (or simply condone it regardless). This site is used more than the Citizens News paper probably. Maybe because the site is FREE to use is why Mr. Bettis is upset. It came to my attention in the first lines of your "Emperor..." article that you mentioned that "Bettis did good things for edgefield" but seriously what is good for Bettis is good for Edgefield. Vice Versa.With all the role playing wanna be politicians of the county, I am starting to feel overwhelmed by the lack of moderity in our town all together. It is a politically based town that is so small it barely makes dents in the State other than SOME of our brilliant minds behind our Water Works. Educaiton in the town is going to "that smell" and not a word spoken. It is change that Edgefield fears or is it a blog? Maybe I should say the "Higher Ends" of Edgefield fear ( so it seems)? Why is this? I believe there is no corruption but politcal instablity. Men bascially "in charge" of a small town for years now are starting to feel threatened by something like a blog? What you gentlemen have to fear .. well at least one of you is the popularity this new site will generate inside the town of mainly Democrats to your office. New leadership within the town is all that is needed to keep these guys off the posting area defending themselves and talking about the issues. As to say to all of us now that you truly are self centered. As for the Christan part there is the part that is small town orientated... more and more in the country less is talked about religion get with it guys it is a free nation. Less is talked about this nationally and a possible reason for you to use Christianity as a Bat on this blog is very characteristic especailly of Bettis- a man who robs from us all to fed himself- thanks you Harvard peice. I hope I got some piont out to the town. All this drama and higher taxes for the town can end if only you come together and put the white bearded Monopoly guy ( Bettis) in his place. Don't listen to his stuff he will trick you and you will lose money. So now the last thing I have to say is this : With all this time spent to clear names ( yes lets all mud sling gentlemen) lets please take some time to revise the interior of Edgefield in general .. no I am not talking about tearing up downtown and making a multi million dollar project that will look like "that smell" for three years.. I am talking about devoloping the History and the tours more. Edegfield is a place where history lives and even dies.. devolop Edgefield as a good place to go to school ( which I have to say has worked until recently I mean the teachers are getting "that smell'ed" on). I know thats what you tell us Bettis but where does the moeny come from.... " just dont listen to him anymore if you want to save the county money."

from an anymous young Edgefield man born and raised
web posted February 11, 2009

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Thank you for pointing out that (Thomas) Hilliard is being put off for getting out of jail.  I thought that you might be trying to cover for the sheriff's department but you  called it like it is. Thank you!

Editor's note: The charges being brought against Mr. Hilliard are fostered by the Johnston Police Department, not the Sheriff's Office.
web posted February 11, 2009

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I really do love CHEESE!!! Catch me if you can!
web posted February 11, 2009

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Editor's post: I love the way Pres. Obama said in his Inauguration speech that we should accept Hope over Fear, but since then he has stated nothing but "fear" as a reason to pass the largest spending bill in our history that will only grow government, pork projects, and usher in Washington regulating your health care. People better wake up and read the Bill. A "bill" we will be paying for for the rest of our lives, our children's lives, and their children. Are these not the same Congressional Democrats that for the past eight years have railed against Pres. Bush for "irresponsible spending" they voted for but now that they are in control no debt is too much? They toss around a trillion dollars as if it was using a quarter to buy a piece of gum.

Do you know that if you spent a million dollars a day it would take you over 2,600 years to spend a trillion dollars? According to Pres. Obama there is no time to waste, no time to debate, no time to examine this bill. After all, examination might reveal what it really is, and that is the reason Pres. Obama wants to make it a "crisis". "It's not perfect", Pres. Obama said, but it's the "right thing to do". Great, now we vote to increase our national debt by the largest amount in history, it is imperfect, but it is the "right thing" to do. I fell better already.

Since when is voting for imperfection in America "the right thing to do"?
web posted February 10, 2009

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Please make plans to attend the Edgefield County School Board Meeting Tuesday Night at 7:00 pm.  Our School Board will be making important decisions about the 2009-2010 Budget in the coming weeks. 
 
This is the link for the meeting agenda: http://www.edgefield.k12.sc.us/schbd/agenda.htm
  
Mark you calendar!  The next SEE Group meeting will be Monday, March 9, 2009.
web posted February 10, 2009

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Re: Oh, my.  Did I read this post correctly, and this writer is a teacher?  Surely not... but here's the proof:  "One reason is that if we decide to get up and 'speak our piece,'" and "If I were rich and didn't have to pay bills, then I would be free to speak my piece."

Ok, do you expect the rest of the human race to get your point or what? I think the writer of this post sounded fine. By the way, your comment was indigent. Do you know what that means? Lacking something specified. Sounds to me like you want to make a point, but don't exactly know how to go about doing it. For example, speak our piece means saying our portion of the issue. On the other hand,
holding our peace means keeping our thoughts to ourselves. Don't make digs at teachers. You wouldn't last an hour in a classroom with your thin skin.
web posted February 10, 2009

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Your editorial on Rainsford and the Mt. Vintage debacle would stand up in any publication, one line or print.  While I am an outsider looking end, it still rankles to see what he and his cronies do and get away with, regardless in whose name. (Content deleted)
web posted February 10, 2009

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In regard to the story headlining Ms. Hilliard…. I feel as if this young lady should be held responsible for her actions. To meet a man willingly, then lie to the extent that she has is terrible. This young girl needs to take responsibility for her action: jail time or pay back the money spent to get her back to SC. What about the innocent family members who worried? Does she not care about the humiliation she is putting her family through. And what about the people who threw the so called “benefit” will they get repayment. Young girl, you need to be taught a lesson.
web posted February 10, 2009

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Attention ladies ages 0-20, a relay for life pageant will be held on Sat., Feb 28 at WE Parker. For more
information, or an application, please call 275-3241.
web posted February 10, 2009

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Dr. Crenshaw (supposedly) has her own company evaluating grants.  Google her name and read about her company and decide for yourself if there is a conflict of interest.  Grants awarded seem to occur heavily in faith-based organizations in the area where she is from.  She also has a cousin in this school district who is a teacher and who administers a grant out of a local church.  Something doesn't smell right.
web posted February 10, 2009

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School board meeting tonight at 7:00 pm.
web posted February 10, 2009

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Regarding Mt. Vintage Resident Counters Opinion Column....
 
To the writer:  What you appear to say is that the positive these developers have done for the county outweighs the negative, so everyone should just forget it.  You blame the editor for the "negative cloud over most of Mt. Vintage residents who are trying to enjoy retirement and be good citizens in our chosen community".  Don't you think the residents, or more correctly, the potential residents also want to enjoy retirement and be good citizens in their chosen community.  If you experienced the same frustrations as these people have since 2006, no water, no electricity, no sewerage, no acceptable road to get to your property, and building a home that you are paying for but cannot occupy, would you be as generous as you appear to be now.  You are comfortable in your homes, enjoying retirement and being good citizens.  You and Mr. Rainsford are correct, the negative impact on this development, the county, and those seeking to relocate here is sad, to say the least.  However, it is not the editors fault, it is not the residents fault.  The blame should be placed directly on those responsible for this situation, the developers and county council.  Common sense tells you that the infrastructure should be in place well before you sell the first lot or securing those features through a bond should have occurred.  Because of these failures, the citizens of this county are being affected.  Mr. Rainsford brought these negative events into the light because of his failure to do the right thing in the beginning.  Wandering Minds has given the citizens an opportunity to freely express their frustrations with Mr. Rainsford's influence and control over the county without repercussions.  Those who have directly benefited by his generosity will stand and defend him, those who have been negatively impacted by his actions will not.  Change will only come when the citizens and benefiting these citizens is uppermost in the minds of our county council representatives.  In the end it is their responsibility to protect the citizens of Edgefield County.
web posted February 10, 2009

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I love the wandering minds b/c it's like a soap opera I'm in and I get to contribute to the script. Some people get caught up in one thing or the other b/c it is so personal. GET A LIFE! It's not all about YOU! I learn about things going on in the schools and I have kids in the schools, the whole Mt Vintage fiasco, and all the stuff in the county and my own town that's going on. How great is that?!!! So (Mayor) Ken (Durham) and Bettis (Rainsford) and anyone else that wants to attack the editor, you ain't attacking him, you're attacking US!!! I take that kinda personal. Bettis (Rainsford) wants to claim that you (the Editor) make up the wandering minds. Thats funny b/c my husband and I BOTH send in comments two or three times a week. But you want to make out like the editor does it all and if you can discredit him you discredit us. I will tell you that I have asked that my name be put up with my comments and so has my husband. The editor always writes back and says he will not allow our names unless we are elected officials or the center of a controversy. I respect that and over time I can see why he does it. But (Mayor) Ken (Durham) and Bettis (Rainsford) wants EVERYBODY to give their name. Why? So we can get a letter written telling others how they should blame us for what they did or humiliate us? THANK GOD for the wandering minds!!!!! At last there is a place to vent where it counts!!!!! Thank you Mr Editor!

Editor's note: Thank you for reading and contributing to the conversation.
web posted February 10, 2009

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Southern common sense? Believing that Lindsey Graham doesn’t bat for the other team. And I’m not speaking the Democratic team!
web posted February 10, 2009

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I'm enjoying the news busted videos, keep them coming. Thanks
web posted February 10, 2009

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We have TV's News Papers etc.etc. You should stick to the reporting that the people want Local.

Editor's note: When a nation story has local roots it is reported (Ie: NWTF). Sometimes the national news is also worth reporting and may also be included in the Headlines.
web posted February 10, 2009

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I read the article on the front page of edgefielddaily about the combined class reunion planned for this year. First, I think it is a great idea and hope that people can attend. However, there are some things I don't quite understand and one big problem that will keep many, such as my spouse away from the reunion. I do not understand why they are having it in Augusta, are there not places closer to Edgefield, esp within the State that could have the reunion ? Pine Ridge ? Mt Vintage, Town Gym? a church auditorium ? The Get Acquainted get together is being held at the NA CC.  The cost is 50.00/day. why? to go sit and talk? This is the best they could do,and best price? Why not at the school in the cafeteria for the get acquainted, lower cost, more people could attend, and you have the memories of the school. Why not a picnic type event at Misty Lake(Graniteville) or Bettis Academy? I'm not sure why you need this to be at a Country Club, Then to top it off the weekend, the formal dinner is at the Marriott in Augusta- one of the  most expensive places in town. This is a reunion for graduates of Strom Thurmond High School.not North Augusta or Richmond County, why aren't you having at least part of it in Edgefield County ? As I said, I hope it is a success. I just question the choices made in the event planning. If the first one was cancelled due to over pricing and not enough interest, I don't see this one being much different except that you have included more graduating classes. Best of luck, but his is one couple that will not be able to attend due to the money involved. 150.00 is half a car payment. or 3 weeks groceries.
web posted February 10, 2009

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We actually have laws in this country for a reason in case you didn't know.  If you break one of those laws -such as killing someone, you are punished.  There is no "i'm sorry, i'll never do it again, i didn't mean to i swear!"  Mr. Hillard may have not meant to kill Mr. Herring, and the people backing him up on this page all the time sure are trying to let everyone know that.  You may as well get t-shirts made and wear them everywhere since he doesn't deserve to be in jail for breaking a law.
web posted February 10, 2009

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The poor man is still sitting in jail waiting on a bond hearing. He can thank our state government for his long wait. they can talk about grieving time for the family, that may be a small part of it, but the reality is, the state has cut funding for indigent defense. you will get an attorney appointed for you. but the state is not paying defense attorneys, it was one of our budget cuts. I would not want someone arguing for my life that isn't being paid. Would you?  I think it sets SC up for potential lawsuits and charges of malpractice for the attorney's.
  Lets see, what has our governor done for the poor lately?
 NO  indigent defense fund, no hospice care, education funding has been slashed for public colleges to less than 12%. We are grossly top heavy in public shool administrators but were they cut? no. once gain the students suffer. they have cut medicaid to the absolute bare bones,  increased class sizes, mandated furloughs for state workers, but no cuts from the TOP. Has his staff been cut? who needs compassion and care when you're dying? lets pay for extended ICU and hospital stays, they are so much cheaper. lets see 1500.00 a day plus for ICU. yeah, that certainly sounds fiscally responsible. -sarcasm- we'll get workers from other states to fill our jobs, because our kids will not have the education or skills required to find gainful employment.  I thought  we were going to shake things up in Columbia,  when does the fight begin?
web posted February 10, 2009

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Dear Edgefield Daily Editor,

Budget cuts have hits families and businesses across the State.

Despite raging unemployment and widespread layoffs, a select few remain insulated from the crisis: high dollar public education consultants.

Read more here
web posted February 10, 2009

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Editor's post: I have received countless positive comments on the possible addition of NewBusters Jodi Miller's Broadcasts being added to EdgefieldDaily.com. The most recent broadcast has been placed again in the Headlines. A few of the comments are listed below.

- I clicked on your link to "NewsBusted".  I thought it was brilliant. Keep up the good work and thank you for bringing us Edgefield Daily. com

- I like it!  Truth with a twist of parody!

- A little cheesy, but at least it leans conservative.  I'll probably click on it if I see it.

- I think it`s great. Jodi is right-on, no pun intended, with some hard hitting humor. Even if you decide not to add her to your site, I have bookmarked the site so I can watch anyway! 

- I like it. Please keep it.

- I enjoyed the broadcast. I think it would make a great addition to the paper.

- Great way to start the day.  In this economy, we need a good laugh.  Sad part, it is too close to the truth.
web posted February 9, 2009

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Keep telling it like it is! We're behind you!!!
web posted February 9, 2009

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Hasn't Thomas Hilliard already done jail time? Obviously he has a problem. He may not have meant to kill Trey, but obviously he meant to do him terrible harm. You don't break your hand or wrist on somebody in a little fist fight. And as far as Trey's girlfriend being arrested, that is just STUPID. She was a victim in all of this, and the police must think so too because she surely has not been charged with assault or anything else.

Editor's note: At this time I am aware of only one arrest in the case.
web posted February 9, 2009

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On a different note, I really enjoy Wandering Minds, the whole site actually, and think you have brought to our great community a valuable service, something new and needed for a long time. Please don`t let intimidation from power mongers scare you into changing anything.

Editor's note: Nothing is going to change.
web posted February 9, 2009

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I really hope that if this Dr Walker person gets this position, and that she knows how to treat people.
web posted February 9, 2009

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Your Editor's note to a web posting of February 6, 2009 dealing with the Mount Vintage TV interview is inaccurate. The man on the bulldozer was not a member of the Mount Vintage Golf Course drainage crew but the head of grounds operations for Mount Vintage. Bettis told the homeowners that this individual and his crew would be helping with the road work. Please, in the future, make sure your editor notes are correct.

Editor's note: I know who the individual was and he was on a small trac-backhoe, not a bull dozer, I was trying to keep his name out of reports since he is just an employee of the MV Golf Course, not a member of the road crew responsible for making the roads able to be paved.
web posted February 9, 2009

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I would rather not say exactly who I am because what I have to say may not go over very well. I am writing about Thomas Hillard. I am a family member and love him dearly.
 
The worse part about the whole situation is these were two grown men acting like children and actually throwing fists. They both had bad tempers when drinking. This is something that could happen to many of the people who live in the area though. Drinking way too much and fighting happens too often. Now there are families suffering over what happened. Two people could end up gone because of one night and one fight.Its really sad to think if they had just had less to drink, controlled their tempers better, or been in a different spot when fighting - they would be together right now probably doing the same thing they were that night drinking and just hanging out. But instead, Thomas is now sitting in jail mourning just not his friend but knowing that he had a hand in it.Trey's family is grieving. The community is torn over what the charges should be, families are torn, and everyone is hurting.
 
Trey's family has lost someone they loved and if this goes on as a murder charge Thomas' family will have to say goodbye to someone they love. Am I saying he should walk away completely scott free? No, he shouldn't. That wouldn't be fair to Treys family. But think about this before you begin to insult someone you really don't know. How many of you have drank too much and thrown a  few punches or gotten behind the wheel of a car? Thomas is a very loving and caring person and without him I can honestly say my life wouldn't be as good as it is. I know that right now Thomas is putting himself through more Hell than any system ever could.
 
We as adults need to start thinking of our actions, unless we want things like this to keep happening we all need to grow up a little. Think when you drink; you don't want your family,your friends, and yourself to go through what we all are right now.
web posted February 9, 2009

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Free Thomas Hilliard. He's victim not a murderer!!!!!
web posted February 9, 2009

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Charging Thomas (Hilliard) for murder is stupid. These were friends who got in a little tussle and something bad happened. I don't see how they can blame that on (Mr. Hilliard). It was an accident.Why ruin everybody's life?
web posted February 9, 2009

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Does anybody know that Dr. Crenshaw wants to make all classes just boy and girl classes? Whats next. blacks and whites? This woman is crazy and has been run out of every school system she's been in. HELLO!!!!!!!! Wake up Edgefield!!!!!
web posted February 9, 2009

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Re: New residents to the South and common sense.
 There is a severe lack of common sense , in government, all across the nation. However, if you look, you will find pockets of it  scattered about like tumble weeds. A few quick examples, in my opinion; Gov. Sanford  and his attempts to change our state government; Sen. DeMint with his opposition to the misnamed " stimulus package" ; Pres. BHO appointing Hillary to remove the possibility of future opposition from her; the state of Illinois for removing it`s corrupt governor. So, common sense does happen, even if by accident! 
 
I also want to thank you, editor, for your good work and great site. Keep your head up and your powder dry.
web posted February 9, 2009

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Editor's post: I made a comment (02/05/09) regarding a question about the bond requested of Mt. Vintage Development by the county council with my reply being that, in my opinion, it would mean the taxpayer would pay in the end. If the required bond is paid the cost of making the “New Nine” whole would not cost the taxpayers anything. However, the lawsuit filed will cost the taxpayers and was the basis of why I said that “in the end” the taxpayer would pay. And I have also already stated that I doubt any bond will be forthcoming and therefore more lawsuits and additional costs to the taxpayers will be coming. It came to my attention that the comment may have been misconstrued.
web posted February 7, 2009

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Mr. Editor, I am a ex-pat of Edgefield County, now living out of state.  I graduated STHS in 1974.  I found your web site by chance a year or so ago.  I have been very impressed with your site and its content.  Your site has become my window into my past, and to the news, stories, and opinions of today.  I may not always agree with what I read on the site, but I always read it, almost every day for a year now.  I am sure maintain and updating the site requires a lot of effort and time.  Please accept my appreciation and support for what I consider a great asset to my ex-hometown.  Keep giving the news, opinions, and stories of Edgefield and you will always have a fan and grateful reader here.  Remember to smile often, it makes other people wonder what you know that they don’t !!

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments and for reading.
web posted February 7, 2009

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Public reception for 3 finalists for superintendent set for Feb. 5
The finalists are Carole J. Carey, current Warren County (Ga.) School District superintendent; Dr. Jake Sello, former Stupski Foundation program manager and Dr. Myrtis Y. Walker, federal Title 1 coordinator for the Edgefield County School District.
web posted February 7, 2009

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Dear Editor,
Please ignore what your detractors say. You provide an invaluable service to this county by reporting what no one else will dare report. I applaud your tenacity to find the truth and your bravery to publish it.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments and for reading.
web posted February 7, 2009

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Bettis in case you did not here what you promised the channel 12 reporter he said the "problems Mr Brite is having will be fixed in two days". Do you have people who work on Saturday?
Of course he could not get your name right either.

Editor's note: I spoke with Mr. Brite on Friday and he laughed when I asked if he was able to move into his home on Friday as promised by Mr. Rainsford in the news story. I have also received information that another lien ($68,000+) has been filed against Mt. Vintage in the "New Nine" debacle.
web posted February 7, 2009

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Reading all of this drama over Mt. Vintage reminds me of a very amusing book by Tom Wolfe by the name of A MAN IN FULL. A funny tale of a Real Estate developer in trouble, and the things that happen to the Big Men on Campus when they fall.
web posted February 7, 2009

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At the (county) council meeting last Tuesday, I was flabbergasted at the total lack of knowledge displayed by the county's attorney.  He had 30 days to prepare for this meeting so that he could advise council with some certainty and clarity about the Mt. Vintage/Bettis Rainsford debacle.  He did neither.  I don't see how council can make informed decisions when necessary without being able to feel that the county attorney can provide direction when it comes to the laws involved.  Maybe this is how the county got in this mess in the first place.  No direction from those being paid to give direction.  How much does the job pay?  I might be interested.  Obviously you don't have to have a very extensive knowledge of the law and when you don't have the answer you can just say "I'll have to research it" or just avoid the question all together! 

Editor's note: We pay him to ask other attorneys that we then pay what we should do. With budget shortfalls, maybe we should cut out the middle man. I am unsure right now what his pay schedule is, but I believe it is between $10,000 and $20,000 a year. He got a raise this year when so many others did not because he is doing such a fine job.
web posted February 7, 2009

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There are a lot of different stories circulating about what really happened that night. I think the girl involved in this case isn't telling the whole story. If she really is charged with assault why hasn't she been arrested? In my opinion she played a big role in what went on that night, but then again I wasn't there. She really doesn't seem to have a whole lot to say about it either. This was a terrible tragedy. Having a good time is fine every now and then, but some people forget their own limits. This is the perfect example of that. I am not sure how close of friends Thomas and Trey were, but I do know that they were friendly to one another. Regardless of whether Thomas meant to kill Trey the fact of the matter is Trey is dead and it was caused by Thomas. If the shoe was on the other foot people would want justice for the Hilliard man too.
web posted February 7, 2009

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To the parents with concern of student drivers. I to have experienced student drivers tailgating, speeding, and passing more than one vehicle at a time. As a parent with children as passengers on the way to school, I now call 911 and also file my report at STHS with the resource officer. I have  made it a point to follow these students to their school and kindly ask to speak with the resource officer to file the complaint in person. STHS does have guide lines student drivers must follow in order to keep their driving privileges'. As for Wardlaw students, I don't know if they would do anything about it, since it is a private school.
web posted February 7, 2009

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Editor's post: I have received many emails on my opinion column about the situation at Mt. Vintage. Some love it, some hate it, and some call it “biased”. For the latter let me explain the purpose of an opinion column. It is an opinion (Note the word "Opinion" at the top of the Editor's Column's Section). It is supposed to be biased. In spite of all the reports surrounding Mt. Vintage, the recent column was the first time I officially took a position on the matter. The opinion was biased, one-sided, and pointed as an opinion is supposed to be. I do not need to consult anyone but me in the formation of my personal opinion.
web posted February 6, 2009

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Re: One reminds me of Bettis Rainsford. It is a cat with the mouth of the cat as the entrance, a sort of feline Hotel California where you can check out but never leave.

Love your use of the Eagles song to produce lasting imagery to the reader. Bravo, on your editorial. It seems that this has been going on a long time in Edgefield county. There seems to be a small group of Aristocrats including the ECSB who do not have to obey the laws of the land. This needs to be exposed and those who are responsible need to face public scutiny. The mayor of Edgefield is business partners with King Rainsford. Did he know of this mess? Was he part of it? Did he neglect or obstruct others from finding out? Is the mayor part of a vast conspiracy (removed)?
web posted February 6, 2009

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I can't believe that the Hilliard girl is not being charged for lying about being kidnapped! What kind of a message does that send to kids? Lie, it's OK!!!!

Editor's note: I agree. A man's freedom was taken for five months on her claim and nothing is done to her.  She, in my opinion, should have replaced him in the jail.
web posted February 6, 2009

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We are fairly new residents in the south and have lived in other parts of the country. The one thing we have not observed in the south is "common sense".  I must admit that it has been very frustrating trying to figure out how to deal with different issues that have come up, from unfair tax assessments in Edgefield County to watching the county government function. There really has not been any kind of common sense in these issues. It is more of a good old boy system that takes care of their own or operates out of fear of repercussion.  As to the comment about not building on a lot that has been cleared for occupancy, you have to realize that most people bought those lots when the economy was good, MV was making money from sales and promises were made as to when people would be able to build when they bought the land. Most of these people came from places that do not operate as things do here.  The empty promises continued for years. The economy was not the issue and is not the issue now.  Everyone who bought property hired a lawyer for their closings and paid a good amount of money to those lawyers. You would think, from a common sense approach,  that all things would have been done legally.   Were the lawyers that represented them at closings aware of some of the issues now coming to light?  Were they just part of the system here?   If not, they should have done their homework and been aware of laws that were not being followed. They were hired to protect the buyers.  Again, this is just common sense to expect that they would know what they were hired to do.
I can think of a lot of ways to describe our experience in the south but common sense is not the first thing that comes to mind.  Maybe it is just that our experience has been in Edgefield County. It really isn't fair to say this about the rest of the south.
web posted February 6, 2009

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Bettis you nose grew longer during your interview with channel 12. Everyone knows the truth, shame on you for trying to bully Mr. Brite.

Editor's note: As I understand the man shown in the video on the equipment that is supposed to look like part of a road construction crew is actually a drainage worker for Mt. Vintage Golf Course rushed to the scene for the news crew to film for their story. More smoke and mirrors?
web posted February 6, 2009

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I can't believe the sheriff's office is going to just leave this alone after the long hours and cost that it took to locate and return the Hilliard girl (removed). Seems to me she needs to be taught a lesson instead of playing off as the victim.  Especialy after she went to meet him willingly and left with him. I support the sheriff's office and all they did  now charge her with false information.  Teach her and her family a lesson so others will not cry wolf. 
web posted February 6, 2009

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I have been driving my child to and from Wardlaw Academy for the past few years.  The kids are crazy drivers but it is not just one Wardlaw student!  Most of the drivers are young teens driving to Strom Thurmond High School.  If I called and reported them I would be on the phone every single day because it happens every single day.  Many students, late for class, zoom by me so fast that it would be impossible for me to even obtain a tag number.   These kids are passing several cars at a time on a double line!  As for telling the parents, I spoke to one mother about her son tailgating me as he was driving to STHS and her exact words were.........well you know how young boys are????  The police definitely need to patrol the area more from 7:30-8:00 am. -Speaking to the parents is like beating your head against a brick wall! 
web posted February 6, 2009

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Why am I hearing ads on the radio recruiting new teachers for South Carolina schools when we’ve just let our good, experienced teachers go?

Editor's note: Inexperienced teachers are cheaper.
web posted February 6, 2009

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Are the taxpaying citizens of Edgefield county getting MADOFFed by Bettis Rainsford?
web posted February 6, 2009

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Editor's post: Adrian Martin got four years in jail for selling marijuana. Balinda Cooper got three years for beating a naked 12-year-old foster child on video three times. Justice really is "blind". It is also deaf and dumb to boot.
web posted February 5, 2009

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County Council what a joke.  Ashcraft and Blackwell have inherited a mess.  Rainsford and the Mt. Vintage situation is just the tip of the iceberg that is bringing the County to its knees.  You can blame those who let the "cat out of the bag" and bring forward the negatives, spend years trying to keep it hidden or face them headon and correct them.  This council has spent years trying to keep it all under wraps.  It looks to me like the mummy is unraveling.  I think it is time to post every negative thing known about this county council's actions, put everything out there and start one by one getting them corrected.  Every citizen of this county whether "native" or "transplant" deserves better.  This council seems to think the citizens should accept whatever the council decides even if it is a bad decision and live with it.  It is time to tell these council members they are not the boss, the citizens are.  We elected you and pay your salary to do what is right to protect those you represent. 
 
The council meetings should be filled to overflowing each time to let these members know we are not happy with the way they are doing.  When they come calling to campaign you bet you will hear how much they are doing for you.  Guess what, attend the meetings and see who is actually doing something for the citizens and who are not.  They sure are good at taking your money, spending it wisely is a different matter.  Do you want real improvement?  Take a look at your district, take a look at your representative, take a look at the whole county.  See any real positive things happening?  Not by the county officials, only the private citizens are doing anything positive.  Sometimes everything has to fall apart before you begin to rebuild.  Falling apart is happening.  Council members are you ready to really rebuild or are you just going to spin your wheels to keep it quiet?   It is time the citizens get together, find a person in your community who has your best interest and vote that person in, otherwise you can expect to get what you have gotten for years, nothing.
 
Special note to Mr. Brite,  Mt. Vintage  and all citizens, maybe it is time to form a citizen's action group.  There is power in numbers.

Editor's note: The last time a citizen's group rose up against the county the county sued the citizens for a legal petion filed in court.
web posted February 5, 2009

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Run, Bettis, Run
web posted February 5, 2009

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I am writing to you concerning the murder charge against Thomas Hilliard in the tragic death of Trey Herring.  In my opinion the Johnston Police Department are way over their heads in the investigation of the circumstances surrounding the event.

First and foremost, there were no crime scene photos taken the night of the incident; pictures were taken the next day, after the motel manager had removed the blood from the scene.  It was reported in the Edgefield County area news, that Hilliard's wrist was broken in the fight, presumably from the blow delivered to Herring; not true, it was bruised and sore, but not broken.

Hilliard has (allegedly) pressed charges on Herrings' girlfriend, (name removed), who was also at the confrontation, because she started the actual "hands on", part of this by hitting Hilliard several times; she has yet to be arrested.  Hilliards' mugshot shows facial trauma.

Herring was known throughout the county as someone who would (by this writers claims) get into fights when he drank; he and his girlfriend were asked to leave an establishment in Johnston and told not to return after they got into a fight with each other, both were said to be extremely intoxicated.

All of the above can be verified; now while I feel complete sympathy for Herrings' family, no one has shown any sympathy toward Hilliard or his family, they are suffering, also.

These two men were friends.  Hilliard will have to live with this for the rest of his life, whether it be in or out of jail.  A mother and his family will have to live with the knowledge that this has happened, and the consequences thereafter.  Hilliard has been (supposedly) appointed a public defender, that is overloaded to the point that he has not even seen his client.  He was supposed to have a bond hearing on Tuesday, February 3rd; this is yet to happen, thus he must also suffer through an overloaded court appointed attorney.

My sympathies go out to Herrings' family, but everyone must remember that he was extremely intoxicated, as was his girlfriend.  He had a(n) (aledged) history of drinking and fighting.  In my eyes, this was a freak accident that would not have happened, had alcohol not been involved.  It seems to me that the community should rally around Hilliard's family, and help them to get him a good lawyer, so that he will not have to serve the rest of his life in prison for something that all involved are equally responsible for.  Also, I think that this investigation should be looked into by an outside party, due to the scene not being investigated that night.

I wish to remain anonymous due to fear of retribution from the community.

Editor's note: I have no idea if what you claim is true. As far as news reports, EdgefieldDaily.com can only report what is provided by law enforcement. If I were a betting man, I would bet Mr. Hilliard will never face a trial on a charge of murder. I have no doubt that Mr. Hilliard had no intention of killing Mr. Herring. But I also have no doubt in my mind that a drunk driver had no intention of killing someone they hit in a collision after driving drunk. All things are relative in law.
web posted February 5, 2009

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To the writer complaining about the boy driving to Wardlaw in a wreckless manner, why in the world don't you call his parents instead of writing in to the paper? No parent will know for sure who this kid is and of course they are not going to think it is their son.  PLEASE call his parents today you may save this kids life...or yours.
web posted February 5, 2009

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I enjoyed the post which asked the rhetorical question " how dumb do they (Washington) think the American people are?"   I believe the author would answer that we are not as dumb as Washington thinks we might be.  Hello! We are much dumber than we think.  Despite all we know about Washington we keep electing those people...how dumb is that?  VP Biden , at a dinner with members of the House and Senate, said he was honored to be in the same room with some of the most brilliant people in the world. Let's see what they have and have not accomplished to deserve the brilliant designation.  In the failed area we can list health care costs and coverage; comprehensive long-term energy policy; fiscal responsibility; funding social security and medicare; banking and securities oversight; sustaining a world class education system; and maintaining a reasonably sound economy.  The only meaningful accomplishment I can think of is getting reelected the majority of the time.  With that record of failure they must be brilliant to keep successfully fooling the American electorate...or we are dumb as dirt.  Maybe Biden is right.
web posted February 5, 2009

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The Hilliard girl and parents, should have to pay some sort of restitution, for tax payers expense.

Editor's note: I agree. She should be charged for filing a false police report of a felony.
web posted February 5, 2009

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Oh, my.  Did I read this post correctly, and this writer is a teacher?  Surely not... but here's the proof:  "One reason is that if we decide to get up and 'speak our piece,'" and "If I were rich and didn't have to pay bills, then I would be free to speak my piece."
web posted February 5, 2009

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In response to the Mount Vintage situation, I feel for the owners, but see no reason to make Mr. Rainsford out to be the bad guy.  Welcome to the state of our economy.  If the economy were still in great shape, we would be talking about something else.   Blame who ever you want if it makes you feel better.  As for me, I would never have started my house on a lot not cleared for occupancy.  Welcome to the South where common sense is number one.
web posted February 5, 2009

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I know this will never fly but what is we investigated all present and living and past members of Congress to see if their taxes are in order.  I just bet that if we did we would gather enough money to fund TARP II and all future bailouts.  What a way for Dems to set the bar.  Hmmm…..maybe not…….maybe they will be the majority or those required to cough up big money.  I just bet the speaker of the house will rack up big bucks for the country.  Got my lamp held up high; I don’t see any reflections of an honest man or woman in Congress yet; I’ll keep looking.
web posted February 5, 2009

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Re:Wardlaw Parents:  If your SON drives himself to school (removed) you need to remind him of the tragic death last October.  Then take away his car keys until YOU are no longer responsible for his reckless actions behind the wheel.
 
To this parent reporting this,  please, please get his tag # and report it to (the school), I feel sure He will address this and contact his parents.  I would in a heartbeat.

Editor's note: If you observe a driver being reckless call 911. Law Enforcement will intercept the vehicle and take the appropriate action.
web posted February 5, 2009

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Re: The vote of ECC to request a performance bond to complete the infrastructure of MV @ the tune of +/- $525K.  Just what does that mean to the tax payers of EC?

Editor's note: Three words (in my opinion): You will pay.
web posted February 5, 2009

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From an email:
Sir:
I attended last night's Edgefield County Council Meeting.  It was my second in a row, which is something of a record for me.  You see, I've never felt the need to protect my interests in the past.  How different it is to move to an area where the insidious tentacles of old money and power brokering trump the democratically passed laws! It was obvious that the FIX was in last night.  From Messers Knight and Rainsford's conspicuous absence to the apparent delaying tactics of Mr. Kneece in the futile hope that we residents of Mount Vintage would tire of the proceedings and simply leave. Governments have been toppled over what is going on in Edgefield County, and history may  very well repeat itself here.I appreciate your candid and impartial coverage of the proceedings. Hopefully, the light of day will help purge our fair county of these of sordid practices so that prosperity can prevail in the future.
web posted February 5, 2009

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Are the two Hilliards who made the headlines today from the same family?   If so, do you have any information on how they are related?

Editor's note: I have no firm information saying they are related.
web posted February 5, 2009

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I have questions for anyone with answers about the lights installed along Sweetwater Road in the Mount Vintage area. Who paid for installation? Who is paying for electricity to operate? Is it legal to mount those type lights so low and close to a major county thoroughfare? Are they mounted per DOT standards? It seems the lights interfere with vision when travelling at night, especially when the roadway is wet.
web posted February 5, 2009

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Five council members.  Five votes.  Each as valuable as the other.  Incumbents' votes no more important than the two new members.  Make a change, if its right vote for it, if not don't.
web posted February 5, 2009

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How long it be before having an opinion against socialism will be branded "hate speech?"
web posted February 4, 2009

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Re: To the concern poster of the house being built on Buncombe St. You did not have anything to say as long as there was a house sitting there falling apart, and now you want to complain because someone bought the property, tore down the monstrosity, clean up the property and for no other reason except that the house they are building doesn't meet your expectations. Give Me A Break! You sound like a person that thinks they are above others and you look down on others that may not fit into your high dollar society(I hope you are not). You should thank God that someone had the finances to purchase the property, build a nice house ( however small ) and put a roof over their family's' or someone family's' head. Some of the people in Edgefield and the rest of this world need to get over themselves!
web posted February 4, 2009

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Wardlaw Parents:  If your SON drives himself to school (removed) you need to remind him of the tragic death of Ali McCarty last October.  Then take away his car keys until YOU are no longer responsible for his reckless actions behind the wheel.  This morning on my way to drop my child off at the same school, I had the unfortunate honor of witnessing his actions from Hwy. 25, all the way down Woodyard Rd. to the school.  He made at least 5 unsafe passes on the solid while line, with one of them being uphill with a car coming in oncoming traffic.  He just about ran the woman off the road that he was passing at the time.  In front of the industrial park your son passed an 18 wheeler in the right hand turning lane.  Not to mention that all of this was going on while he was driving at an excessive rate of speed and tailgating the car in front of him.  All traffic was driving about 60 mph but that was not fast enough for him. This behavior went on all the way to the school.  I can only assume that he drives home in the same careless manner. 

Other motorists that drive that route in the mornings should also beware of this selfish kid on our roads. 

I contacted the Highway Patrol and gave them a description of the car and told them where he was headed.  I've been watching this boy drive like there is no one else on the road for months now and after what I saw today, I can no longer keep my mouth shut about his irresponsible and dangerous driving habits. 
web posted February 4, 2009

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I was surprised to see all the fuss over Bettis Rainsford going on at this website.
 
He has never personally did me any wrong, but I wish that he would stop bringing in the illegal Mexicans to work on all his projects. They might be getting him richer, but for the rest of us it is not so glamorous. The illegals are not here to do anything other than make a little money off of the good ole USA before it completely collapses!!!
 
How many DUI cases, hit and runs, and just general nuisances can be tracked back to Leeman's Nursery, the tree farm on Hwy. 25 and also to Mt. Vintage plantation.
 
Don't forget the "undocumented worker" who was driving South in the Northbound lane of Highway 25 and hit a native resident of Edgefield in a head on collision! The Mexican gets out wearing a Mt. Vintage uniform, looks at the damage, and then takes off running into the woods, never to be seen again! I also heard he was driving a vehicle that was tracked back to the trailer on Mt. Vintage where Mr. Rainsford houses his illegal workers.
 
Pardon me for not being so enthralled with a man who brings this mess upon us.
web posted February 4, 2009

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The next school board meeting is Tuesday, February 10th at 7:00 pm.  I encourage everyone who can attend to do so.  You might be surprised at what you learn.  Parents, students, teachers - let's show them we are interested in how they run our district. 
web posted February 4, 2009

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It's funny how when FEMA can't get to the gulf with Katrina is a sign of how Bush didn't care about people but Obama is throwing a Super Bowl Party while people are dying from a natural disaster in the midlands in an ice storm and nothing is said. If Bush did that the media would be all over him but when the lord their god Obama sits drinking beer while people die and FEMA does nothing its a sign of his greatness.
web posted February 4, 2009

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It was truly tragic for me to see that one man died and that Thomas Hilliard is now charged with murder. I did not know the man who died. I feel sad for his family that he leaves behind. I also am sad for Thomas Hilliard, who now stands charged with murder.
Who among us has not taken a swing at someone during a schoolyard fight or a poorly thought out moment of temper? How many dozens of scuffles and street fights have we all seen, where all that resulted were a few knots on the head or a fat lip? But how many of them could have resulted in a similar accidental death, if there had been a simple step or turn different? If they had been arguing on softer grass instead of concrete, there may have been no death at all!
I knew Thomas Hilliard to be a decent person, and the situation just makes me sad for him, for the poor man who died, and for all the family members involved. God Bless each and every one of them.
web posted February 4, 2009

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Your a (removed) jerk!!!!! You justr want to make people look bad.
web posted February 4, 2009

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I am very glad to see the old , run down apartment duplex (that was a horrible eye sore) that was once on that site is now being replaced by a cute little house that will make some lucky family a nice home.
web posted February 4, 2009

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First of all, I want to thank you for holding your ground and continuing to keep this an open forum for people to express their ideas and views. The "reader" who moved away and wrote you a couple of days ago seems to miss the point that free speech is just that, free speech. It is not a right wing idea, it is constitutional. It seemed like the, entire tone of that letter was just one of attempted intimidation and bullying and in my opinion, similar to others you have received. The reporting you do is factual and Wandering Minds is open for others to share their ideas and opinions. It is too bad that the "intelligent" people who sit back and criticize you can't see the difference. Maybe they are blinded by liberalism or their own pride. Who knows.

The so called intelligent people of this country are doing a great job of leading us in general. We are continuing to endorse questionable people to the highest positions in this country.  One thing to look at is history. Remember Al Capone?  The one  thing they were able to convict him of was tax evasion.  Now we are putting people who have evaded their taxes into cabinet posts. Running the government or going to Alcatraz-what a long way we have come.  Supposedly they made mistakes with their taxes and didn't realize what they were doing. Really?  They made the same mistakes a lot of Americans make when they are doing their taxes.  Really?  I don't think so.  Why would we trust them to remember what they need to do now? Talk about dumb, how dumb do they think the American people are?  We have come a long way haven't we?
web posted February 4, 2009

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Many of the good folks living out at Mt. Vintage plantation, I dare say most of the folks, aren't from these parts.  They came here to retire, set down roots, enjoy life.  They found a beautiful place to live.  They didn't know about Bettis Rainsford and his agendas.
 
It didn't take long for them to realize they'd spent their life savings to live under the cloud of a self centered Hitler.  What they didn't know was that it could get worse. 
 
Oh there have been people thrown out of the golf club.  There have even been people who have crossed Bettis and have been told "good luck getting to your homes, you're not driving on MY roads on the plantation".
 
Folks always thought that it would be ok.  He had a partner whom everyone believed to be as much a saint as Bettis a sinner.  People honestly believed that his partner, Talmedge Knight had no idea what kind a man Bettis was prior to going into business with him.  There were rumors of Knight trying to buy out Bettis, separate his good name from that of Rainsford.  Just more smoke.  Then Knight got back into bed with Bettis in buying Pine Ridge.  Now no one has any doubt about those two.  Question is, which is worse?  The snake you see up front of the snake that hides in the background?
web posted February 4, 2009

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Recently while we were in Little Rock, Arkansas we saw one better than that-for three weeks.  Within  3 1/2 miles, on the same street there are three Shell stations.  Each one has a different price-$1.75, $1.79, $1.85.  The next day you may see the prices are reversed at the stations.
web posted February 4, 2009

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Editor's note: You are a reader. A grammatically challenged reader, but a reader none the less.
web posted February 3, 2009

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You need to get your facts straight. Thomas Hilliard IS NOT charged with murder.

Editor's note: You need to talk to the Solicitors Office, not me.
web posted February 3, 2009

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This is in response to the person who said teachers should take five minutes and let our voices be heard at the board meetings. Well I have a feeling there are a few reasons that teachers are not signing up to speak at board meetings. One reason is that if we decide to get up and "speak our piece," we will probably be singled out for reprimand. Of course, you know it would be under the cuff. Also wandering minds is a free place that we can voice our opinions and experiences without fear of consequences. To be honest, I keep my nose to the ground, do my job, and go home at the end of the day. I keep myself out of as much trouble as possible. I do this because, most important, I need my job. Second, I don't want to be in the forefront or noticed. If I were rich and didn't have to pay bills, then I would be free to speak my piece.
web posted February 3, 2009

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Yes, it would be great if teachers would speak at board meetings.  We would be fired, or our careers would be made miserable, if we speak out!

Editor's note: No, those who speak out would never be targeted for retribution by those who want to demand they place their names to their concerns. (Sarcastic remark) This is why the Wandering Minds will always be  available to our readers.
web posted February 3, 2009

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As a follow up to the post from the Mount Vintage resident concerning all the financial distress the developers have.  There is another entire segment of the population that has been forgotten here.  The service providers who did business with Mount Vintage.  As a past provider of goods to them they owe me considerable dollars for goods and services already provided. 
 
I am a small business and in the face of these challenging economic times it is already hard enough with lost business.  But then to be saddled with significant unpaid bills for goods and services already provided for (and in some cases for goods that I had to pay my vendors for) makes it almost impossible to stay in business.
 
I find it enlightening to keep up with their activity on your site...keep up the good work.  But if you want more information go search the public records of Edgefield county and see the numerous lawsuits against them. 
 
Someone at Mount Vintage has to stand up and do the right thing...pay your bills, fulfill your promises to your property owners and the community and allow Mount Vintage to salvage what it has left of it's image.
web posted February 3, 2009

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Maybe someone can see if this passes the "common sense" test:

Left my house Sunday and headed out to Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area to get in some mountain bike riding a little before noon.  As I passed (a Merriwether location), the regular unleaded price was $1.59/gal.  I figured I would just fill up Monday morning before heading to work.

Got to the (the location) at 6:45am Monday morning to fill up.  Price was now $1.69/gal.  A dime jump overnight.

WTH?  Did we go to war overnight?  Was the US bombed?  Did a hurricane slam the coast while I was asleep?  Whatever.  My rear hurts.
web posted February 3, 2009

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In response to the post regarding the house being built on Buncombe St.

Prior to attacking the builder, owner, or county officials, perhaps you should have been less lazy and properly research your concerns rather than basing your "theory" on "asking around town".  Had you done this, you would have found that all permits and inspections required were obtained and completed as they should have been, not an afterthought as you speculate.  And to put your mind at ease, the construction company building the house is licensed and insured.

In addition, had you cared so much about the historical preservation of Buncombe Street, you could have purchased the property and built whatever you desired.  (I'm sure that the property was for sale to the general public.)

So many like to sit on the sidelines and do nothing but criticize those who do.  Lucky for you, heavy heavy fines can't be levied on ignorance!

I can only assume that most people feel that the property has been improved.
web posted February 3, 2009

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Let me see if I understand this correctly. You are from Edgefield, you are a proud graduate of Strom Thurmond High School, your children attend Strom Thurmond High School. You also act as a first responder. As the owner/editor/operator of edgefielddaily.com you provide a valuable service to residents- and former residents of Edgefield County. Part of that service includes covering news stories- good and bad that occur within Edgefield County.- HOw and I doing so far? HOWEVER, unless you sugar coat the news, and spin it so that you don't hurt anyone's feelings- the PC paper, then you are labled a racist, and hate monger. People can write in, spewing forth hatred toward you, and calling you names, but YOU are the bad guy? I have never seen you call anyone an unkind name- even if it may be warranted. You may have called someone stupid- but that person went on a 5 minute rampage that no one could understand. I just don't get it. If you are a conservative, and want the US government to follow the constitution as it is written- it is not a Living, breathing document that is subjec to change at the whim of the President, if you espouse views that are not left leaning, socialist,the sky is falling in your stories then you are at fault, and they can call you a racist and a hate monger- but their speech which you defend and print,  is not hateful and racist? All causcasians are not racist, there is as much reverse discrimination than is ever reported- see Affirmative Action. Silly liberals, if you are such a bad person then why do they still read and write in? It makes you look like the better person and them look ignorant. BTW, there is nothing wrong with being a "red neck" the term actually refers to someone that works outside- manual labor, unlike the "white collar worker" with the starched oxford. I'll take the good ole boy anyday. Nothing wrong with someone that isn't afraid to work hard to earn a living.
web posted February 3, 2009

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I am an Edgefield native who has moved away.  I stumbled across your website one day while eating my lunch and started checking it from time to time to get news of home.  I don't know who you are, but I know that you are a frightfully callow, uneducated racist who does not begin to understand what a disservice you are doing to those who go to your website who, like you, have no understanding of the larger world in which they live and who are ignorant and fearful of anyone who may be different from themselves. 
 
You have not a glimmer of a concept of what freedom of the press or freedom of speech is all about,  so do not waste your energy responding to this message by pulling the wacko right-wing ploy of suggesting that I in any way wish to abridge your freedoms.  I do not.  I just hope to open your eyes to the way that you are viewed by anyone who is not a semi-literate hate-filled redneck.  Then maybe you will think twice before publishing hate-mongering pieces that serve no purpose whatsoever.  You are free to publish whatever you please; just understand that all that you do is  reinforce the view that you are just a dumb redneck.  Your worldview is that of an Edgefieldian of two or three generations ago.  It saddens me to know that there is a segment of the population of my home county who still thinks the way that you do.

Editor's note: Thank you for you comment. Please support your comment with evidence. Baseless attacks show that you would rather attack than bring substance to the discussion. Your attack seems to be based on a personal level rather than one of a substantive level.
web posted February 2, 2009

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Who owns the Edgefield Advertiser building?

Editor's note: The Mims Family.
web posted February 2, 2009

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Hi I'm (removed) you know me, the one who only sees and says positive things.  Well, that used to be me until I was taught differently by the Edgefield County Council.  There are many of me in the county, doing good things and  stopped in our tracks.  Not a worthy cause, no money, just don't believe it works.  Then comes BR and my eyes light up like a Christmas tree.  He says it, must be true.  Going to bring in millions of dollars and we won't have to do a thing to get it.  Oh it might cost a few bucks.  Well maybe a bunch of money but it will be good for the county.  Smoke and mirrors and in the end nothing.   Pay attention citizens, same old council, same old do nothing.  Good luck to our two new members, it is hard to teach old dogs new tricks even if they are willing to learn.
web posted February 2, 2009

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Well it looks like the “Russians” are getting their wish.  Back 30 or 40 years ago, the Russians said they would defeat the USA without firing a shot.

Now that Obama is President, his proclamations, his stimulus packages, his Cabinet appointments and wanting to become allies with Iran will definitely bring this about.

The American people must constantly let their Representatives know they understand what is going on.  Every thing Obama wants passed is to give everything to the people that does not pay any taxes and receive food stamps and free medical benefits.
web posted February 2, 2009

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I was driving down Buncombe St the other day and was please to see a new house being built down there.  It's good to know that our county still has some building going on.  However, I do think that there should be some type of zoning on this historic street.  It seems like the home should at least fit in with the other older homes.  Does Edgefield have a historic district?  I know that if I lived in one of these beautiful historic homes, I would be a bit upset if someone was building a cheap cracker box of a house next to me.  I really hope the builder is going to make a decent attempt to make the home fit in with the historic feel of the street.  I know the house is going to be small but there are many ways to make it fit in. 
Speaking of the builder, I was asking around town about who was building this home.  It turns out that the builder, who is NOT (allegedly) a licensed residential builder, started building this home. Did the Edgefield Co. permit department give a permit to a person who was NOT properly licensed?  Apparently, the actual non-licensed builder got someone else who was license to pull permits for him AFTER the foundation had already been started.  Isn't this against the law?  It seems as though Edgefield County has a habit of letting these people do whatever they want. If this so called builder is qualified he should go get his proper license. I know that if I bought a home in Edgefield Co. I would want it built by a qualified, properly licensed person.  Would you want a teacher who is not licensed teaching your children or a non-licensed doctor?
 I checked the SC LLR website and there are plenty of licensed builders in the county.  You know, as long as the employees and officials of the county let these business people do whatever they want, they will.  It's about time that the county personnel start abiding by and enforcing the laws. They are the ones we place our trust in to make sure homes are built by licensed people. Letting unqualified, unlicensed people build homes in the county is abominable.  It makes not only  the so called builder liable but also the county. This is a lawsuit waiting to happen.  And I know that I would be very upset if my tax money I pay went to a lawsuit that should and could have been prevented.  The county employee who gave this so called builder a permit should be held personally responsible for breaking the law.
If someone practices a profession they are not licensed for, they should be punished either by fines or with criminal charges. I personally think that this situation deserves some heavy, heavy fines.  There is a reason we have a residential builder's commission and there are reasons we have laws.  
web posted February 2, 2009

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I see a lot of posts from teachers about what is and is not happening for them in the district.  Whether it is who is losing their job or how much paper they have for the classroom.  What I don't see is a lot of teachers packing the board meetings.  It does no good to complain on the wandering minds.  Go to the board meetings, sign up to speak for 5 minutes and say your peace.  Until that room is packed out every meeting, the board will continue to do whatever they want to do.  Unless a presentation is happening from a certain school, there are rarely more than two or three teachers in the audience.  So get involved.  And as some board members like to say, it's for the chilllrrrrrrren!!!
web posted February 2, 2009

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The oyster roast was GREAT!!  Whoever put it together really did an outstanding job.  I hope they made enough money off of it to make them want to have another one.
web posted February 2, 2009

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I was watching the news and saw a clip of Obamastanding at a podium with the "The Office of Presient Elect " on the front. Pardon me but when did President Elect become a constitutioinal office. Until he raises he hand and swears in, he holds no official office so why the placard? These next few years are going to be interesting.
web posted February 2, 2009

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Larger school districts such as Aiken County are over run with administrators. they have a middle school superintendent. WHY? this is a NEW position( within the past 3-4 yrs)aiken county is cutting the big 40,000 dollar band budget they have for ALL of the schools. yeah big help there. I love paying 600.00 for my child to participate in Band. Thanks alot. It is time to consolidate or reorganize some of the larger districts, why exactly does  Aiken county need 5 areas? There are ways to cut budgets without cutting the classrooms, but as you said, it would come from the top and we know that will never happen regardless of the county.
web posted February 2, 2009

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"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." -Winston Churchill
web posted February 2, 2009

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Some one asked, "How can our school board members take trips when we can't get paper to print tests to grade our students??"
 
The answer is very simple, they care more about going to Hiltion Head than they care for the students.  If this news outlet really cared they would have reported on it already, Come on Editor, report who on the school board is spending our money on themselves rather than our kids.  Or do you lack the guts?

Editor's note: I do not lack "the guts". I have reported on this for four years and the school board meetintgs remains unattended. Do not blame me for the inaction of the taxpayer. EdgefieldDaily.com is not here to fight your battles, only to bring you the news of what your government bodies are doing. The rest is up to you. We do not make the news, we report it.
web posted February 2, 2009

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As a property owner at Mount Vintage it is concerning to read of the ever changing financial distress which our two developers have burdened themselves with.  If itʼs not contractor liens and bank foreclosures placed on the "unsold properties" it is unpaid property taxes.

Public records show that a total of $155,000 is owing on unpaid property taxes for approximately 250 lots and 16 other related Mount Vintage listed properties.

The similar situation  exists at their Pine Ridge Country Club property.

What else lays hidden?

It seems to me that both these developers will be riding their Chargerʼs into the sunset very soon.
web posted February 2, 2009

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How’d everyone like Bettis’ Oyster Roast on the Town Square?
web posted February 2, 2009

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Re: 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.

I did not say that oil companies cannot make a profit. ExxonMobil had record profits for '08 of $47 billion. What I said is that oil companies are not going to expand domestic production or build new domestic production facilities because the profit margin or rate of return is so low for such massive capital expenditures. Or put more simply, you are not going to spend $1 million to receive $1,000,001 in revenue. The per unit costs will increase more than the per unit profit. Once they spend the money to increase domestic oil production, the marginal revenue they receive will be less than the additional marginal expenses to Cost of Goods Sold. Oil companies can buy crude for $42/barrel without any capital expenditures. We cannot produce a barrel of oil for less than $40 because of all the costs assoicated. You have labor, production costs, transportation costs, general administrative costs which all add up to the Cost of Goods Sold. Now if the price of a
 barrel of oil were $147 as it was in the summer, then there would exist a different analysis of the whole process. I don't want oil prices to rise, but it's the only stimulus that will increase and expand domestic oil production in this country.
web posted February 2, 2009

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