Editor's post: I have seen the errors of my ways. The Tompkins Library, who campaigned in a political race in 2006, (isn't that illegal? ah, who cares) is so important that the lowly taxpayer should openly throw money at them in these tough economic times. In fact, $17,500 is not enough money. We should double that amount to $35,000. After all, they are "so" important to our county and contribute so much to our economy. I'm still waiting on them to produce a single shred of evidence of proof of the money the library produces for the county general fund.

In fact, I think if the Tompkins Library is funded, every single NGO (non governmental agency) should be fully funded. Raise our taxes (a mere 3 mill increase will cover the costs), of course that will still mean a reduction in the salary to county employees. But who cares, county employees are just pawns in the operation of give-aways by the county council.

Maybe if all these people outside of Edgefield County that want us to spend our tax dollars for their benefit had to pay for what they get they'd sing a different tune. Personally, if you think the Tompkins Library is such a wonderful institution, send in your own money to support the non-profit and stay out of the pockets of the taxpayers.
web posted March 31, 2009

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Re: I find it hard to believe those e-mails from out of state are real.

You can put your Wandering Mind to rest.

Yes, there is a Melanie from Alaska that has visited Edgefield and the Tompkins Library at least once that I know of.  The reason I know this is because she and I are searching and researching the same family.  I have never met her personally but we became e-mail pals until my computer shut down and I can't get her e-mail address. So Melanie, if you read this and can figure out who this is, please
e-mail me-I have a lot more information on our family since I last wrote you-like 15,000 names.
web posted March 31, 2009

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I am the woman who wrote to you as "An Angry Woman in Boston". You told me to "do my reserch elsewhere". I couldn't help but respond back.

First of all, County Council Woman Blackwell did make those comments, or you printed a lie.

I don't get my information from the Tompkins Library. I can read and write, and do research. I reserached your so-called newspaper, which I find to be a venoumous piece of crap. I say get rid of the paper that is useless, unless you want to hear about baseball teams, cow manuere, and racist rhetoric.

Your County Archives charges for any documentation they give. A lot of information is not found there, because a resercher needs to go way back in history; many times to the 1500's. Your County Archive and Probate Court, (who also charges), don't have that information, unless it's a land record or Will.

The Tompkins Library charges $ 40.00 per yearly membership. They also charge for the cost of copies and books. We as researchers don't get it free as some of your readers thought. It' a shame to live in Edgefield and not know what your county library has or does. People who don't know shouldn't comment. As my father always says, "It's better to be thought a fool then to open your mouth and remove all doubt."

I never said you had a vote in the County Council's decision; however, you might as well since you use your rag of a newspaper to support your wife's decisions regarding the County Council's agenda.

Lastly, when you told me to do my research elsewhere, and that it's not your fault that my family was too lazy to keep family records as well as you and your wife have, you touched a nerve.

Let me give you a history lesson. My family is African American, Indian and Mulatto. They were slaves for the White man. They weren't allowed the privaledge of reading and writing. This is the reason they couldn't document anything for me. In addition, the White slave masters raped our women, and it was kept a secret as to who the father was. I do research in your county because that's where my family is from; get the picture?

As far as "going elsewhere to do my research", that was a very unprofessional thing for you to say. I will continue to come to Edgefield as long as the library is there. Your comment was so ignorant, I was waiting for you to say next...."Let's get all the Negroes out of the county, as we did the indians, so we can save some money. I feel sorry for you, but my dad always said, "Don't argue with a fool. It's a waste of time".
Still Angry in Boston

Editor's note: I get the picture. White people are bad. Your family was, so you claim, raped by the evil white man. Well, my family, American Indians, were historically shown to be slaughtered by the "evil white man". I agree with your dad. So I won't bother commenting on the rest of your ignorant tirade. At least my family can prove they were legal residents of this nation, something Obama refuses to do.

That's not an opinion, that is a fact.
web posted March 31, 2009

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I for the life of me cannot understand the mentality that is shown by some of your writers concerning President Barack Obama running of the nation.  But then after living 8 years with a president who lied and covered up all of his actions I can understand you being a little afraid of the truth.  But then we have always known that truth does hurt.  Let’s see what we have:  A country that has been operating in the red for the majority of the 8 years the Republicans had control of the White House, Supreme Court, and the Legislative Body of our country.  We have listened to lies about entering into a war that there is no way we will prevail.  We were dumb enough to believe that Iraq was going to hand us control of their oil wells.  We were told that we would not have to pay one penny for the war.  We have learned that Hussein had no weapon of mass destruction.  No matter how much we might not have liked how he was treating the people under his power other leaders have done and are doing worse.  So while you are planning your tea party, remember you are about 7 years to late.  You should have held it in 2002 when our President was getting ready to put us in a place where we have not been since the Great Depression.  And the sad part about it is that this time it will be worst.

I don’t know what our old president address is but if you do know, please send him a crate.  He deserves it.  And then look up all of those Republicans who push for deregulation.  They need a crate.  But don’t stop there, look at all the bank and creditors who fool people to purchase their goods and then to have the interest become more that the goods they purchased.  Send them a crate.  And last but not least, keep a crate for yourself.  If you believe that Obama caused us to be in the position that we are in, you need to drown yourself in a cup of tea. 

This problem that we are facing now started in 2002 when the Republicans had control of the country.  People greed and deregulation got us here.  Maybe God, Obama, and the Democrats will get us out.  At least that’s my prayer.  Keep your tea, and throw a party for the Republicans.  And then “Pray!” that they will never get that kind of power again.

Editor's note: Yes, every time Pres. Obama or the Democrats announce another action the stock market dives to new lows. "Change" we can believe in.
web posted March 31, 2009

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Lordy,Lordy!  If I see one more sign I will puke forty----times.The money spent on these birthday signs posted all over the county would have been put to better use by purchasing a personality for the birthday girl!!
web posted March 31, 2009

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Congratulations to all of the participants at the Miss Peach Blossom contest on Saturday. I must give a special shoutout to my beautiful niece that won in her category, Miss Brittany Hurt. She also won best dress in the Young Miss class. Daddy, load the shotgun!
web posted March 31, 2009

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Mr. Charles R. Andrews of Cumming, Georgia I know this may sound like an vulgar word to the refined people supporting the Tompkins Library but it has to be said. "Fundraiser"
I don't know why you keep calling it a Welcome center the doors are always locked and even if you get in it is not very welcoming.
Do you own property or pay taxes in Edgefield County? I do, how about donating the proceeds from your book to pay my tax bill since you think you have the right to tell us how to spend the money. I know my heritage and  do not care about someone else's pet project except it is costing the county I live in money that could go to better use.
I know the rent for the store front in town can be very expensive, it would be interesting to know how much and who's pocket it is going into. Maybe that person could take a rent pay cut.
We have an excellent real library and many times I have been inside when a lost person has come in to ask for directions. They get pleasant response and the help they need .
If you think this is selfish of me, my child's teacher has at times run out of class supplies. We need to think of our children or there will be no people in the county to use the  Tompkins Library becouse they can not read.
 I know the school board has it's own budget but they are not any better. So the schools do "Fundraisers"
web posted March 31, 2009

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I have noticed the tree on the four lane coming out of Johnston on Hwy 23 west just below Hatcher Plumbing.  It seems to be leaning toward the center of the road.  If a puff of wind came and blew the tree across the road it could cause someone to get hurt.  I wonder why the SCDOT has not noticed this accident waiting to happen before now..
web posted March 31, 2009

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Why does the county have to support the Tompkins Library if all the money they make goes to them or the town of Edgefield? The county doesn't get any money from them. The businesses that get money from them pay it to the town because their business licensees are based on their  sales so if people spend money in Edgefield it goes to the town not the county!  Let the town give them money!!! They're the ones who don't have to pay property taxes. They got plenty of money. Stay out of my back pocket! I've lived here for 35 years and I've never been there in my life! If Mayor Durham and the town thinks its so important, let them foot the bill!!!!!!!!!!!! What can i do to stop this foolishness?

Editor's note: Attend the April 7 County Council meeting or the April 21 Budget Workshop.
web posted March 30, 2009

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I wonder what happened to all the money collected the last time the theater project was supposed to happen? They collected money, it was never used, and now somebody else is doing the same thing. Do they really think they are going to get a quarter million for a building worth 30k? Where's the other money?
web posted March 30, 2009

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In reference to an earlier note I had written re: pit bull attack. Please let me clarify.

I am a pet owner. No one has suggested that if you see a domestic animal roam across your property it should be shot immediately. That would be reactionary and idiotic. But when you have repeated problems with property disturbance and protection of your own pets or family some action must be taken by those who are paid with our tax dollars to protect our rights. I do not call ECSO (Sheriff's Office) every time an animal runs across the property. I call only when I feel I have a legitimate continuing issue concerning the rights of myself and family as citizens and property owners. But a call to ECSO is not the end of the matter, the buck stops with the judicial system. We must have objective, non-prejudicial and vigilant enforcement of the rights of citizens – in all cases – from those appointed to judicial positions. 

We have taken steps to keep our pet on our property to protect the rights of adjacent property owners and to protect our pet (from other animals, wild and domestic). A pet owner that had any concern for their own animal would do the same. In addition, I do not want our own pet, or anyone else’s, running freely on the property at all times chasing wild game of any kind. Habitat destruction is not the only cause of the reduction in the populations of certain species of native wildlife. Domestics have taken a heavy toll. The means to contain domestic animals are simple, ethical and affordable. There have been a couple of occasions when our animal has gotten outside of the boundaries of our property. Sometimes it was due to another animal coming through the property an “enticing” our animal outside of his boundaries. So yes, occasionally, animals will get outside of their owners property boundaries – and we understand that. The complaint however is that we all know that many people make little attempt, or never attempt, to contain their animals. The fact is that there seems to be a reluctance to handle the aggressive animals and the “roamers” here in Edgefield County with some finality. I personally know individuals that have had their pets attacked by other aggressive animals and I have had many issues with property disturbance myself. A month rarely passes in Edgefield County without some reportable incident related to a “pet” attack or disturbance.

Simply, the owners of animals need to be responsible owners and held accountable for being so, and the judicial system should punish those who aren’t. If everyone did their job there would be no discussion of “dispatching” or shooting animals and a lot less conflict between neighbors.
web posted March 30, 2009

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hey have you heard any more about ATT DSL coming out in more area`s in EDGEFIELD CO because this wireless internet i have is a pain?

Editor's note: AT&T will not do anything until forced to do so, even though, as I understand, bringing DSL to outlying areas was part of the agreement of the takeover of Bell South. But AT&T lied to me when they said they wanted to bundle services and said they no longer offered "Area calling" when several of my neighbors still have it and they took us off without our permission. So, just for the heck of it, everytime they mail me something with a return paid postage card, I glue it to a brick and mail it back. Next time I may use a cement block.
web posted March 30, 2009

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This message is to all idiots who think that Obama isn't a citizen, how could he get this far without some one seeing that he was born in the United States? It is one of the rules to even think about running, is that you have to be born in this country. Also I don't know why you all are bashing him , when dumb Bush got us in this mess, he cant just fix anything overnight. It probably will take his whole term and probably another term to get our country going again.

Editor's note: Just a question. If you have to supply a birth certificate for a driver's lincese, why hasn't Obama done so to be President? John McCain was forced to do so, what makes Obama so special?
web posted March 30, 2009

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There’s a story behind this link.  I was listening to Jerry Doyle this morning and he mention that he had Bob Basso on his program earlier this week.  I’m guessing that Bob is known for putting together “character” videos of many of our founding fathers to “channel”  them in expressing their view with regards to current administration policy. When you click the link below, you’ll also see some of his other videos on other founding father’s point of view.

Anyway, what caught my attention was earlier in the week, Mr Basso was “in-character” representing Thomas Paine (author of the book “Common Sense”) which was largely responsible for awaking colonial citizens to the transgressions of the British government and thus began America’s movement toward Revolution.   Well, Mr Basso also put out the below video on You-Tube which has gone through the roof in popularity (they call it viral).   The interesting part is that a few days later, Mr Basso was contacted by President Obama’s office with an invitation to “come up to DC and talk about his video.”  Mr Obama’s representatives told Mr Basso that the President was disturbed by its content (Jerry spoke about this on his Wednesday, 25 Mar program). 

    Anyway, after hearing that Mr Obama was concerned, I knew I had to watch it….this guy is good, it’s so rare you see someone capture in 6 min, the frustrations of the “silent majority” regarding the direction of our country.  Enjoy!....I sure did.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKFKGrmsBDk

another video offered by the same reader : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeYscnFpEyA

Editor's note: I agree with most of what the actor says, however, he too is ignorant to the fact that the US is not a Democracy, but a Republic. Sending tea bags to England did not set Americans free in 1776 and I doubt doing so in 2009 to the leftist US Congress will result in anything different.
web posted March 30, 2009

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Pay attention people.
First guncontrol bill of 2009 HR45 federal Gun registration | GunControlKills.
web posted March 30, 2009

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It is hard to believe some of the spelling and grammatical errors that folks send in to Wandering Minds. I hope they are transplants and not locally educated. I wonder if some of them have errors on purpose.

Editor's note: I never doubt the stupidity of the government educated in our society.
web posted March 30, 2009

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Check this guy out - too bad he's British
web posted March 30, 2009

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Thought readers might enjoy this.

Editor's note: That's kind of catchy. I like it.
web posted March 28, 2009

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(Forget) the theatre, let's keep the library!
web posted March 28, 2009

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Congratulations  to you and your family for the new baby. You have done this county a great service with Edgefield daily.com.  Edgefield has come a long way and may always be a work in progress, but once again I thank you.

Editor's note:  Thank you, and thank you for reading.
web posted March 28, 2009

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I've lived here my whole life and never know there was even a tompkins library in edgefield. Remind me why i sould care? If there aint any money there aint any money. How hard is that to understand? I don't agree that the workers should get a pay cut and they (Edgefield County Council) just want to give away my tax money for free. It aint right. I'm with (Judge) Brenda (Carpenter). Let's git rid of the junk food and just put the meat on the table.
web posted March 28, 2009

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To whom it may concern,
I have been a patron at the Tompkins Library for years and would hate to see it close. I no longer live in the area, but any fellow genealogists that are going to visit the area, I always send them to the Library for help. Tonya and everyone else there have always been very friendly, helpful, and most informative. We should have a legacy to leave for our children, grandchildren and beyond. Closing the library greatly diminishes our chances of tracing our roots and being able to leave our history for future generations.

Please help us save our future of searching for the past, and keep our friends at the library in their home. There isn't a better genealogy library in the state of SC, or folks who know their passion better than those who work and volunteer in the Tompkins Library.

Editor's note: All this talk about "closing" the Tompkins Library is interesting. If they depend solely on the funds from the county to remain open they are a very poorly run 501(3)c. Maybe they should talk to sucessful non-profits who are doing just fine such as the NWTF (gets no funds from the county), Oakley Park (Oakley Park got cut but they aren't whinning about having to close) neither are Women in Unity, or a host of others. No, just the Tompkins Library. And what is all this whinning and bad mouthing about? Didn't the 3 amigos vote to restore the funding? You got what you wanted. So shut up. Ya'll sound like a bunch of spoiled rotten brats.
web posted March 28, 2009

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Chump!

Editor's note: Change?
web posted March 28, 2009

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Some musings on the budget.  Can someone explain what relationship Tompkins Library has, if any, to the county archives? Do the materials at each substantially overlap? Are there audited data as opposed to anecdotal stories for the actual use of the county archives and Tompkins Library and a breakdown of where the users come from?  I find it odd that the county is funding the county archives let alone the operating expenses for a private entity. If Tompkins Library cannot support itself through user fees, that should speak volumes as to whether it is a viable entity.  How many other counties in SC fund an archives?  If the county stopped funding the archives where would the materials go?  If the materials would be deposited in Columbia, why would that constitute an undue hardship?  Both the archives and the funding for Tompkins Library seem like an inappropriate use of tax funds. 
 
The web site of the South Carolina Association of Counties indicates that several grants are available to SC counties for energy efficiency and law enforcement but must be applied for.  http://www.sccounties.org/services/research/recovery-resources.aspx  Is the county looking into these and other grant opportunities?
 
Whatever happened to the $5,000 the council gave to Mr. Rainsford to lobby the state legislature to spread the tax wealth?  Has he provided an accounting?  Perhaps the council should ask for those funds to be returned if they have not been spent given the budget crunch and the Quixotic nature of Mr. Rainsford's lobbying effort. 
 
The County Council is going to have to make some tough decisions in this budget cycle.  They should make sure that only core government functions are funded with tax dollars and that all available grant money is sought.

Editor's note: As far as I know the $5,000 check was never written because a legit non-profit was never set up. I will confirm this by Tuesday.
web posted March 28, 2009

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I find it interesting that the government outlawed a plant that is indigenous to America but allows a man made drug, alcohol - which kills more people each year than marijuana has in the last century - to remain legal. I'd rather meet a driver on the road that was smoking pot all day than one that's been drinking liquor all day anyday!
web posted March 28, 2009

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If you want the Tompkins library/county archives then pay for them your self. Yes our county has been hit by the poor economy. Our people need jobs and health insurance. Quit wasting our money on your hobby. It is a hobby if you are doing for you own pleasure. If live out of the county you should have pay a membership fee get not free information.  I find it hard to belive those emails from out of state are real.
web posted March 28, 2009

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Re: I have a question. President Obama's cabinet, and Obama himself, has made it clear that the decriminalization of marijuana could be a reality of the near future. How do you feel on the issue?

I watched the news yesterday and during the online Town Meeting, Barry said that he was not in favor of decriminalizing marijuana. However, I do not think that marijuana is more harmful than alcohol. Marijauna was legal in this country in the early 1900s. The Liquor industry lobbied to criminalize marijuana so that they would have no competition with the general public obtaining a "BUZZ". Alcohol causes thousands of deaths each year. As far as the GATEWAY drug theory, I also think that this is exaggerated by many who espouse statistics about its validity. If people want to smoke POT let them smoke it. Regulate it and tax it like alcohol. There may be a some marijauna coming in from Mexico, but anyone who knows anything about the cultivation of marijuana, knows that the best POT is grown right here in the good old USA. In fact, it is by far the highest quality agricultural commodity grown in America. We allow gambling, alocohol, prostitution in some  states, but we demonize marijuana. All of you should sit back, take a few tokes, put on some Beatles, and dream of all those girls with kaleidoscope eyes.

Editor's note: True Obama said he was against it but what he says means little, it is what he does that matters. He has ordered the US DoJ to stop raiding medical marijuan outlets and growers. Secondly, the girls with Kaleidoscope eyes was in the song "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" which was always rumored to be about a trip on LSD, not marijuana.
web posted March 28, 2009

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RE: Tea Party “Al you people that think going to some stupid “tea party” is going to make a difference…your stupid! It’s a new day and we are going to get our so deal with it!!!!!!!

Brilliant! Just Brilliant.

“YOU” are going to get “YOURS”? if that is what you wanted, and got it, I would be so proud of you…(Especially if you put some of that “YOURS” into a remedial course in spelling and grammar, which might make your post seem a little more legitimate)

That would be NOBLE. And NORMAL. YOU getting YOURS would be the result of YOUR effort/work/accomplishment.

But you do not want “YOURS”. You want everyone “ELSES” that YOU perceive has more than you. You want YOURS GIVEN to YOU via the force of government redistribution.

So we need to DEAL with it, Huh? What is it that YOU DO that makes you think that you deserve YOURS? What is YOUR “EFFORT”

This share the wealth concept will never work here in Modern Day America. Not for long. Problem is that we have too many here (I would say about 52% of the population) that want THEIRS handed to them regardless of THEIR output. The achieving portion of the population cannot sustain this many takers. The futility of working for little reward will knock off another 15-20% of the achievers and then you have 30% trying to support 70%. It will never work.

In nature, a parasite will keep consuming its host until that host is no longer able to exist, then it moves on to another host. What will be “YOUR” NEXT host, Einstein?

YOU’LL GET YOURS, all right. Just hang around and see for yourself!
web posted March 28, 2009

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Mr. Editor why not give your view of weather pot should be legal instead of asking for our opinion. You’re so good at giving your opinion on things. What say you?

Editor’s note: I really don’t have an opinion one way or the other. As a proponent of law enforcement I believe in enforcing the laws of the land. After all, we are a state and a nation governed by the rule of law.

The only reason I mentioned it was due to Pres. Obama ordering the US Justice Department to stop raiding “medical marijuana” suppliers and growers in states that have made it legal to sell for medicinal purposes.
web posted March 28, 2009

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With the cost of cigarettes going up again it’s going to be cheaper to smoke pot that cigarettes. I say keep pot illegal. It’s cheaper than the legal stuff!!!
web posted March 28, 2009

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Should low-income children have easy access to a wide-range of school classrooms, both public and private? South Carolina's most outspoken African-American State Senator has taken up the fight for school choice. "Sen. Ford is Ready to Rumble"
web posted March 28, 2009

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Editor's post: I have a question. President Obama's cabinet, and Obama himself, has made it clear that the decriminalization of marijuana could be a reality of the near future. How do you feel on the issue?

Also, just to dig in a bit, the next time a government agency requires you to provide your birth certificate for any reason, refuse to do so and cite that if President Obama is not required to do so to be President, you certainly should not be required to do so for any reason.

Good for the goose, good for the gander.
web posted March 27, 2009

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I just want to air this gripe.  I do not send my child to school to grade other students' papers.  I send my child to learn.  Teachers, please teach.  My taxes pay for this instruction.
web posted March 27, 2009

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See the following web site: http://www.teapartyday.com/

How can I get the word out in Edgefiled County to participate in a "TEA Party" on April 15?  Do you know of anyone who is also interested in participating?

Thank you for you help.

BTW,  EdgefieldDaily.com is now the second web site I visit each day.  The first is my Internet Explorer home page.  Keep up the good work.

Editor's note: I think you just made people aware and thank you for reading.
web posted March 27, 2009

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My name is Melanie.  I live in Alaska and have visited your town numerous times to do genealogical research.  Tompkins Library is one of the finest research facilities in this nation for researchers. 
 
The history of our nation is of UTMOST importance to our generation and to future generations.  May I remind you that the history of this nation is built not only of the rich & famous.  The history of this nation includes the privates, the farmers, the pioneers who cleared the land to build cabins, the sharecroppers, the everyday men & women who raised families and tilled the soil.
 
While there are numerous funding sources for recording the lives of the "rich and famous", funding is also necessary to allow COMMON CITIZENS to record & access their families' histories.    Your Tompkins Library is one of the absolute finest resources in this nation for early American history.  It would be an utter shame to lose it.
 
Our visits to your town exposed us to lovely architecture, beautiful old homes, "real history" of "real men".  Fine southern cuisine, authentic historical old downtown, southern hospitality,  ... and remember for us to do this, we buy gasoline, food, supplies, gifts, lodging, books, maps, etc.
 
Your community stands-to lose a very significant source of exposure should you lose the Tompkins Library.

Editor's note: The records you speak of are already provided by the Probate Court and the County Archives at a significant cost to the county. Deferring researchers to the Tompkins Library diminishes revenues to the county from those seeking copies of the records.
web posted March 27, 2009

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Congradulations to you and your family on the birth of Lacee, she's adorable!  I know you and your wife will spoil her well, like good grand parents should  :-)  Enjoy her while you can, they grow up so dang fast.

Editor's note: Thank you.
web posted March 27, 2009

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Since 1985, Edgefield County has been blessed with the existence of the Old Edgefield District Genealogical Society,
and in recent years, the Old Edgefield District African American Genealogical Society, housed in the Tompkins Library.  For many years, the OEDGS has been the largest genealogical organization in South Carolina, and is now also the repository for all the research materials of the state society.   The Tompkins Library is owned and operated by the Edgefield Civic League, an organization which goes back to the 1920's. 
 
The Tompkins Library is one of the greatest assets in Edgefield County, and draws researchers from all over the United States and several foreign countries.  These visitors spend money in this county.  I am sure the restaurants, motels, gas stations and shops in town will attest to this. 
 
It is obvious to me that virtually all the writers slamming the Tompkins Library, the Civic League, or the two genealogical societies housed in Edgefield, have no knowledge of what we have here in Edgefield County right under our noses, nor the huge benefit these organizations are to the county, financially and otherwise.    For the County Council to even consider cutting  the funding for the Edgefield Civic League would be an act which would hurt the county in untold ways.

Editor's note: Wow, with all that support they should be able to fund their operations from the many people who deem their existence so imperative without having to expend the taxpayers funds. I support charities and non profits that have been cut by the county council and I have not cried about the cuts. In fact, I have sought to increase our personal contributions and encouraged others to do the same to make up for the diminished funding. What makes the Tompkins Library so special that the county should fire employees, reduce the pay of employees, just so they can give money away (that they don't have) so a few people can discover what their own family should have already done?
web posted March 27, 2009

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I read the article in yesterday paper about the ground breaking ceremory for Mount Canaan Baptist Church for a Life Center and parking lot. What wasn't said was that half the members of the church told Rev. Brightharp that they did not want a life center they  wanted a new church because we had outgrown the old church. His answer was we need a center for the community and the youth programs that are held there. The church was LOUD and clear on this but the Rev. Brightharp must have his way about everything concering the church. There was a PLEDGE set up for 5 years that the money would go toward a new sanctuary. Now the money PLEDGED is going for a Life Center and parking lot instead. All of us who PLEDGED believed that the money was going for a new church building.(It was voted on in a church conference) Someone needs to ask him (Rev. Brightharp) 1. How many people have left the church? 2. How many youths and young adults have left the church? 3. How much money did he take out of church funds for lawyers fees? 4. How come some meetings are held in secret and only certain people get to attend? 5. What is he and the church board doing about the four members that were throwned out the church? GOD don't be in no mess! Nothing about GOD is present at Mount Canaan Church. He has another case coming up in Edgefield Court next month. It ain't over until the FAT LADY SINGS!
web posted March 27, 2009

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I'm a Bostonian, and as you may know, Boston is well-known for it's historical sites and history. One thing you can't find here is a place to do good research on your family. For research my family and I make yearly trips to Edgefield to do research at the Tompkins Library. (My family migrated to Boston from Edgefield).

It angers me to even think that County Council Woman Genia Blackwell and her husband would even consider closing that library. It especialy made me angry when I read a statement Mrs. Blackwell recently made in your paper concerning budget cuts. She stated that she wanted to cut evrything that wasn't a governmental agency, and stop funding these "PET PROJECTS".

Well, Council Woman Blackwell, I do not consider the many dollars I spent to support the library, and the many dollars I spent in your town to be a "PET PROJECT". I have been doing research for eight years, and had only found about twenty relatives. Thanks to the Tompkins Library I have an ancestoral tree of over 2200 people in one year. Mrs. Blackwell, do you know who you're 6x greatgrandfather is ?

I watched people bring in to the library precious and most valuable old documents dating back to the Civil War, and Bibles that had a surmountable amount of information written in them that led to helping
people like me find their relatives. You can't put a price on items like this. Do you know why these items didn't end up in historical societies, museums and huge libraries like the South Carolina Archives?

People can get what they need from the Tompkins Library, with professionals who are respectful and helpful. That's why God Blesses this library. The library is the only real activity in your town for outsiders.

The very government agencies Mrs. Blackwell says she wants to protect, are the very ones that write history. Where will you house your history; in Columbia? Mrs. Blackwell, put your thinking cap on and
think outside the box. Your economy is growing with the amount of individuals that come to Edgefield and spend their hard earned money. Don't cut off your nose to spite your face.
Signed,
A Very Angry Bostonian Contributor of the Tompkins Library.

Editor's note: Wow, where to begin? First off, the quotes you attribute to Councilwoman Blackwell are not in the record. Secondly, Councilwoman Blackwell never asserted that the Library should be closed.

To answer your pointed question of can she identify her long lost relatives... yes, her family (and the editor's as well) has kept a running history of their family heritage. How that is a function of county government to protect families who were too lazy to do so is beyond comprehension.

Whaa.. my family is a bunch of slackers so give people money to do for me what my own family won't do for themselves. What a sorry statement about your family that makes to the rest of the world. I have traced my own family roots to Germany, Holland, and American Indian roots and my wife's family back to Scotland. Not one relative ever entered the doors of the Tompkins Library to do so. Our families did that and handed it down to each generation. Cost to the county? Zero.

If you want to blame someone about not being able to trace your family roots, blame your own family, not the Edgefield County Council. Try as I may, I cannot find a law or requirement that they provide you with the records other than those already housed by the County Archive. We expend a considerable amount of money to make those pubic records available and when they are accessed it provides fund for the county, not a private entity. Why should we spend money to duplicate that process to profit someone else?

I also get a kick out of the comment that suggests that I have a vote on the County Council.

Perhaps you should get your information on what is taking place in this county from somewhere else other than the Tompkins Library.
web posted March 27, 2009

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Congratulations on the birth of your granddaughter.  There is absolutely nothing
like grandchildren.  What a blessing!!
web posted March 27, 2009

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I've been following a little bit about what's going on with the county budget and the proposed cuts.  Tell me how you can justify giving $17,500 to the courtesy center yet cut monies to the public library.  I use the public library, my children use the public library.  The public library provides resources for my children's school work.  The public library is the only place some people have to go to have access to the internet.  The public library does not charge like the courtesy center does.  I'm supposed to donate my hard earned tax money and then if I want to view the material in the courtesy center I have to pay!  Isn't that called double dipping?  If a donation needs to be made with my money, I would like to have a say in where it goes. Who really uses this courtesy center?  Somebody told me you have to join.  I'd love to have a look at their membership numbers.  How much money do we donate to the Turkey Federation?  I'm betting they generate a whole lot more tourism money then the courtesy center.  Maybe we should be giving them $17,500.  Lets put our tax money somewhere that the taxpayers get a return, not just give it to some non profit that probably very few county citizens use.  How many times has the courtesy center had a fireworks display on the 4th of July?  How many times have they had story hour for our children?  How many times have they offered a scholarship or done absolutely anything for the county?  Heck, Edgefield Daily provides us with daily news, weather, obituaries, bad weather warnings, closings, telephone numbers, classified ads, political views and the wandering minds among about a thousand other things that people from all over the country access.  Maybe that's where we should throw this $17,500 that Larry, Curly and Moe could put to good use but chose to flush down the courtesy commode.  At least we'd be getting something for our tax dollars. 
web posted March 27, 2009

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Congratulations to your daughter and son-in-law on the birth of their daughter and your first grandchild.  She's beautiful!  Thank you for sharing the pictures with your readers.  I hope that you and your wife enjoy spoiling her!!

Editor's note: Rest assured grandma has that aspect well covered.
web posted March 27, 2009

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Congratulations on your beautiful baby girl! What a blessing to the family!!! She is precious!!!

Editor's note: Thank you. She is beautiful.
web posted March 27, 2009

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I just read the story about the Saluda County officer that was suspended for doing his job and I have to say I am totally confused. This officer did his job!!! The teens in question broke the law. They were asked to come in for questioning and obviously the questioning brought forth enough evidence to make the arrests. What exactly did the officer do that warranted his being suspended? In my opinion the officer did what we pay him to do, he investigated a crime and arrested the criminals!!!!
web posted March 27, 2009

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Mr. Harris Medlock passed away today.  He was one of what Tom Brokaw described as "America's Greatest Generation". He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, flying many missions deep into Germany before fighter cover was available, seeing many of his fellow airmen shot down in flames.. He was a quiet man, never talked much about it. As Brokaw described, he just came home, married his sweetheart and went to work. Indeed, it was America's greatest generation.

Editor's note: Mr. Medlock was a long time family friend of my wife's family and a well known anchor of the Merriwether Community. His passing is a great loss to the community.
web posted March 26, 2009

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Several comments were recieved about the birth of our grand daughter. One was chosen to answer all: Congratulations on your grandaughter. Hope mom and baby are doing fine!

Editor's note: Thank you for the many kind comments and well-wishes. Our daughter and grand daughter are doing well. Grandma Blackwell got a big kick out of being confused for an aunt rather than "grandma" when the doctor arrived to discuss the delivery.
web posted March 26, 2009

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“If you have nothing to hide there should be no problem with a search.”  I absolutely agree.  In fact the police can come over and search my house, car, and any other property of mine anytime they want to.  I will welcome them with open arms and a class of ice tea.  Invite them to dinner and sit down and have a good conversation with them afterward.  I for one appreciate local and national law enforcement for their efforts on our behalf’s.  I have no reason not to cooperate with them for whatever their needs.  Many of my family members are in law enforcement and some of my good friends.  And I could only wish that there were more people like them in this world.  If you aren’t doing something illegal, law enforcement should be the least of your fears.

Editor's note: Regardless of whether you are doing something wrong or not, your Constitutional rights remain supreme. Any right freely given away cannot be regained. And as all know, I am a big advocate of law enforcement, but I am a bigger advocate of personal and individual rights.
web posted March 26, 2009

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Re: "you're a freak"

I am not a fan of (the editor) but I admire his commitment to bring things that are going on around the county to our attention. I think he is more than fair even when I disagree with his opinions.
web posted March 26, 2009

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Animal Control has told me and my family that if an animal is on your property causing harm to you or your property you are allowed to shoot it. That is for the plain and simple fact that the animal may not still be around when animal control arrives. If a dog jumps on mine I won’t be calling animal control I will be calling the owner of the other dog to remove the dead creature from my property. People should not have to put up with someone’s animal that they refuse to keep control of. Animal control told us that. If it’s wrong maybe (Sheriff) Adell (Dobey) needs to have a chat with his deputy.
web posted March 26, 2009

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Re: If the editor is a "paranoid freak" I hope there are a lot more running around just like him and fewer of you!!!

If you only knew the editor like I do, then you would probably agree with my original statement. I served our country for 35 years, including 3 tours in Vietnam. I know a real FREAK when I see one.


Editor's note: Normally I do not respond to those who attack me, but I can't pass this one up. I know the name of this poster and I have never heard of (him or her). It is nice to know people I do not know and have never been close to know so much about me. Feel free to reveal all "you know".
web posted March 26, 2009

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Editor's post: We have welcomed our grand daughter, Lacee Morgan Mattson, into the world 7:39 am. Mom, dad (Leia and Joel Mattson), and baby are doing fine. Lacee was 9 lbs 12.5 oz. and 21.5 inches long. Here are a few pictures of Mom, dad, and Lacee, G-ma Blackwell with Lacee, and Lacee.
web posted March 25, 2009

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re:  highly paid 'jackasses'

I would like to be the first jackass to volunteer to work for free.  I emailed Ms. Cooks last month stating I would gladly take a pay cut in order to stay with my students.  I have not heard back from her.  I consider my students my children.  There are several that I have not actually taught in my classroom, but they know that they are still one of my children. I love them.  Many times I teach them what they are not learning at home - compassion, self worth, love, creativity, responsibility...
I buy some of them coats and jeans at Christmas, I take some to the doctor, I help some of them pay their rent - even if its been 10 years since they have sat in my classroom, and many times I am the first person they confide in that they are pregnant - even though they know they will get the speech that they have had me long enough to know better than to get pregnant in high school. I tell them not to drink and drive. I share with them my life experiences so that they can learn from my mistakes...
I have to be there for my children, if I have to work for free then so be it.  Yes, I have my own biological
children to take care of.  One has expensive 'special needs'.  I don't know how my husband and I will pay for everything with only one salary - but I can't leave my children (past, current, and future students of STHS/STCC).  So, may I be the first jackass to teach for free?
web posted March 25, 2009

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I work for the county and trust that you will never give anyone my name. I make just over $20,000 working for the county. I could make more somewhere else but it's close to home and our kids who are in school and I love the people I work with. It's nice to get to help people you know and get to meet other people in the county and get paid for doing it. My husband makes a decent living and we earn a modest income together. Now that they (the County Council) are saying I have to pay $94 a month for insurance we have to rearrange our whole budget because that $94 makes a big difference on what we can afford. We dont' have many frills at home because we struggle to make ends meet now. The first thing we are going to disconnect is cable tv and probably one of our cell phones. That still isn't enough and we have to pay over $200 to turn off the cell phone because of the contract. I understand times are hard and money is tight, we're feeling it at home already, but when (the county council) is taking money away from me and I read they are giving money away to the Tompkins Library or recrreation it makes me angry. I hope that our (county) council members will think about the little people for a change. Believe it or not we do matter and we do care!! I can deal with not getting a raise. Working for the county it is something you get used to. But don't take money from me and then give it away. Shame on you all. I wonder how many of you go to church on Sunday?

Editor's note: County Council members Genia Blackwell and Rodney Ashcraft voted against the funding for the Edgefield County Civic League - AKA Tompkins Library.
web posted March 25, 2009

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I was glad to see (Sen.) Shane (Massey) say he was gonna run for Congress. We need somebody from Edgefield up there and if he wins maybe Greg Anderson can run again and win this time.
web posted March 25, 2009

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Let me see if I got this right.
Pit bull attacks dog.
Dog has to be put down because of injuries.
Cops see pit bull there.
Cops let pit bull walk away.
Job done.
web posted March 25, 2009

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re: Dude, you are one paranoid freak.
If the editor is a "paranoid freak" I hope there are a lot more running around just like him and fewer of you!!!
web posted March 25, 2009

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Re: Pit Bull attack. When will people and the judicial system get it through their heads that domestic animals do not have the right to roam the county because “that’s what dogs do”. Why is it a human can’t trespass but a lowly dog should go where it wants. If you don’t have enough sense to figure out a method of controlling your animal with all of the technology and hardware available today you shouldn’t own an animal. Domestics get out occasionally but I bet this pit bull has been roaming for a while. If the dog was onsite after the attack he should have been dispensed on the spot by the deputy.

We have worked very hard and sacrificed plenty to acquire the property we have now. No one is going to tell me I must tolerate someone else’s domestic animals roaming around on that hard earned property. If you or your dog is even being growled at on your own property you should be able to dispatch the animal asap. Odd thing is that if you a lucky enough to trap the animal with the ECSO help, you may have to trap it up to three times before much is done to the owners of the “roamer”. ECSO is always willing to help but the judicial system must back them up. Why should it be so easy for the owners of the offending animals and why should a property owner have to go to all of that trouble to get rid of someone else’s problem? The alternative is for the property owner to dispatch the dog themselves, which is another unfair burden for those who do not enjoy dispatching another stupid pet owners pet. Finally as citizens, when the judicial system does not take care of the situation in an appropriate and timely manner it puts us as citizens and neighbors at unnecessary odds with one another and can set up a ripe environment for an instance domestic violence. There are laws on the books and we need those laws to be enforced. 

Editor's note: Simply because an animal (dog or otherwise) trespasses on your property it does not give you the authority to shoot it and I would strongly advise against doing so. Unwarranted shooting of a family pet could lead to criminal and civil actions. Deputies have been forced to dispatch of aggressive dogs (many of them pit bulls) but they try to avoid doing so if it is not necessary.

In order to be justified in the shooting of a dog it would have to be openly aggressive and endangering the life of a human or animal on the property at the time of the shooting.

I am not advising anyone on the law and suggest you contact your local law enforcement agency or the Edgefield County Sheriff's Animal Control (637-5337 or 278-1625) for more information.
web posted March 25, 2009

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Obama is the biggest liar to inhabit the White House in the last hundred years.  The last time I saw that much BS I was in a stockyard on sale day.  He is just passing the buck and blaming someone else because he has no earthly idea how to fix the mess.  What a buffoon.  I am totally ashamed of the debacle that our government has become..
web posted March 25, 2009

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In reference to the pit bull on the loose on Woodyard Road; why didn't the sheriff deputy just put the pit bull down there!!!  Why did they have to "get close enough to get information off of it's collar"?  The pit bull had already killed one dog, what are they going to do wait until it kills a child????
web posted March 25, 2009

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I  hope  bill  clyburn   will  run  for  governor  of  s.c.  since  he  is  from  edgefield   if  he  run   and  win  they  have  to  change the  ten  governor's.    To  11  governor's  of  edgefield  s.c.   he  will  be  a  very  good  governor.

Editor's note: You may want to consult a map. Rep. Bill Clyburn is from Aiken County, not Edgefield County. I thought you said Bettis Rainsford was the best man for Governor, why the change?
web posted March 25, 2009

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Editor's post: I think I will ask to be added to the Edgefield County Council agenda and Budget Workshops. If the Tompkins Library can receive funding because they serve 1,909 people every year, EdgefieldDaily.com should be eligible for $17,500 a year because we serve over 1,909 citizens before 10 am every day.
web posted March 24, 2009

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As a black American I was astounded, but not surprised, by the voting of council to reduce employee benefits while giving freely to a non governmental agency serving so few. This just reinforces what has gone on over the years. Understandably, this would be expected from Kneece and Dorn as they share the same IQ. However, I simply cannot understand Mr. Bright voting along with them as he has always exemplified an agenda that lines his pockets. What could the courtesy center possibly have that Mr. Bright wants? Obviously both Dorn and Bright don’t have to research their family history as they must still be owned by the white man chairing (the county) council. Maybe they just enjoy the cheese and crackers they serve there!
Do council members receive insurance benefits from the county? The county handbook specifically states that only employees who work a minimum of 30 hours per week are eligible if they are receiving insurance benefits, they need to stop. That would save the county some money! Three of the five are over 65 and drawing full retirement. They are probably receiving medicare anyway. Do you know how these three councilmen give back to this county? By providing the county with much needed services such as a ghetto trailer park, abandoned eyesore motel and an alcoholic’s paradise!
web posted March 24, 2009

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Dude, you are one paranoid freak. Your wife's insurance that covers you should include at least 5 free sessions with a psychotherapist. You should really take advantage of it.

Editor's note: I tried that, four times. Now there are four former psychotherapists that are now in mental institutions. It seems they all had a problem dealing with reality.  It seems the job description of a "psychotherapist" is only half right in describing those in the field... "psycho". Then again, they all voted for Obama so it is understandable. Do you have permission to be using a computer?
web posted March 24, 2009

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Obama lied, Liberty died.
web posted March 24, 2009

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I am sympathetic and empathetic to the county employee who loves their job and is "good" at what they do.  However, I do not think they have a realistic picture of the real world.  My first career was in public service and my second is in the real world.  One of the best things the government entity I worked for was to send each employee every year a statement quantifying their total compensation.  This statement started with the employee's stated salary and added the value of vacation time earned, sick time earned, the amount of holiday compensation given, the premiums the government paid on behalf of the employee for health and life insurance, the amount of the contribution the government made to the 401(k) as well as the value of the employee's retirement plan.  The total each year was eye opening.  I suggest Edgefield County start doing the same thing so county employees will have a true picture of their total compensation before they start job shopping.  Aware of their true compensation, they can compare apples with apples.  By the way, all employees of the government entity I worked for who elected health insurance paid approximately 40% of the premium for coverage that entailed the employee paying significant co-pays and deductibles.  The agency also made it clear that the job was 40 hours/week with no evenings or weekends so the employees had a life outside of work.  Try finding a job like that in the real world.
 
The employee may also want to review the 2009 Wage and Salary Report that the SC Association of County Governments has published.  http://www.sccounties.org/client_resources/publications/wagesalary2009.pdf  For example, In Table 2, Holiday Observance, it is reported that Edgefield County employees enjoy 13 holidays including one personal day, one day more than the average SC county employee.  The salary survey for Group 4 where Edgefield County is included shows that for the positions reported, Edgefield County pays at about the reported average.  It is interesting to note that the reported positions for Edgefield County are "35 hour" positions.  What happened to the 40 hour work week?  I hope a 35 hour/week employee is not eating lunch on the clock.
 
It is my understanding that Edgefield County does not have an employee appraisal system based upon objective criteria that each employee and manager must meet each year.  Typical plans I am aware of from other government entities include as critical items productivity, quality, customer service and meeting the goals of and helping to accomplish the mission of the agency.  Without objective feedback from the employee's manager and feedback to the manager from the county administrator in the form of such a plan and the public who uses the agency, how can an employee or manager truly know whether they are "good" at their job.  Job performance should not be self certifying.
 
Public service is just that--service.  One trades the certainty of having a job for "average" performance and compensation for the vagaries of working in the real world.  In the real world, you can be a "good" employee and be out on the street the next day.  In the words of Lee Iacocca when he rescued Chrysler the first time, "Overhead walks in the door on two feet" and "If you can find a better job, take it." 

Editor's note: In reference to: "It is my understanding that Edgefield County does not have an employee appraisal system based upon objective criteria that each employee and manager must meet each year." Merriwether County Councilwoman Genia Blackwell is addressing this issue and has authored a plan to rectify the situation. It should be addressed by the county council at the April 7 meeting.
web posted March 24, 2009

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Re the poster who wrote about the bashing of Dr. Crenshaw
 
I am an educator in this county. I am not an administrator, but due to my years of experience, I do make a decent salary. I am NOT taking money from your child. I am trying to teach your child. Education will enable your child to obtain a job that will allow him/her to make a good salary and live a comfortable life. It becomes quite tiring to read posts by people who cannot spell or write a complete sentence but want to tell me and other hard-working educators that we don't care. Walk in our shoes for a while and see what we do.
web posted March 24, 2009

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REF: Why are you bashing Crenshaw and her friends?

First, you need grammar lessons!  Second, I'll almost bet that you go to church with most of the Mo-town Fo & Crenshaw.  Why would a legitimate school board hire a superintendent that sent her last two districts crashing and burning.  It was not her qualifications; it was her membership to NAACP and her race.  By the way, a retiree has to pay into the SC retirement fund for 30+ years to get a check, and then it's only a fraction of what the salary was.  The Mo-town Fo are re-elected based on race, church membership and promises to friends, not their job evaluation; just ask Bibbs about his very first meeting on the school board and the bus driver suspension.  Finally, as far as volunteering at the schools; when do you plan to volunteer as a substitute teacher and help the children?  If you can't be part of the solution, you are part of the problem! 
web posted March 24, 2009

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I am not an employee of Edgefield County but I sympathize with them. Not only are the underpaid but now they are living with fears of lost jobs. When I have seen some of the wasteful ways the county uses our tax money it angers me. People and their families should be the first concern. I am thankful for the two solid county council members we have. They do not act like the older ones who want to just take care of pet projects or friends. We need one more wise one on the council.

We are praying for the birth of your new grandchild. What a blessed time for your family!

Editor's note: I've been called a lot of names, but I'm going to have to get used to "Grandpa".
web posted March 24, 2009

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I do not usually write into wandering minds but every once in a while a post catches my attention and I have to reply.  This post was so stupid that the poster needed to be called out.  Let me say I am NOT an English teacher so I may miss some things but it will make more sense than the original post. 

RE:  Why are you bashing Crenshaw and her friends? Why didn't you bash mathis (NAMES SHOULD BE CAPITALIZED) when he was there? He made wrong choices too. Y'all want people to write in for her to be fired, because she forgot to report some students. Well why wasn't (WEREN'T) you concerned about this before Crenshaw became superintendent. May-berry (NO HYPHEN) has always covered up there (THEIR) dirt. Swept under the rug for years (SENTENCE FRAGMENT). What happens in may-berry stays in may-berry (AGAIN NO HYPHEN).
 
I don't even know why the teachers are complaining about Crenshaw and friends. They gave y'all a raise, even though they knew we were in a budget crises. If the motown (MOTOWN) four was doing such a bad job (ANOTHER SENTENCE FRAGMENT). Why was (WERE) some (MISSING of ) them reelected(NOW YOU CAN USE A HYPHEN BUT YOU FORGOT). To all of the highly paid educators, you need to be gone. Think about how much money you are taking away from our children. Some of you are getting a retirement check plus a school pay check. When you signed up for the tera (WRONG WORD, Tara is the Plantation in Gone With the Wind) program you knew when your 5 years was (WERE) up you had to leave. So stop blaming Crenshaw for you not having a job. You thought you was (WERE) going to get a free ride. See ya. Oh if you really want to stay that bad why don't you volunteer.
 
This for everyone watch in the next several months just how much these highly educated jackasses pretend to love your children. Watch and see how many volunteer without pay.

REPLY
Ok, now that educated people can make sense of your writing it may help.  I know that I missed a few things and there are some missing commas but it is an improvement.   All I can think is that if you had paid more attention to your teachers you would be able to write something that actually made sense.   Maybe one of the UNDER PAID teachers can volunteer to teach you proper English.  Good luck with that.
web posted March 24, 2009

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Whomever said bus driver’s drive in the snow just told a lie because they’re let off the day before it snows (and it don’t even snow then)

If they’re driving reckless they need to be reported, to many lives are at stake…
web posted March 24, 2009

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I read (EdgefieldDaily.com) every morning. Thank you for all your hardwork and congratulations on becoming a grandfather.

I wish that the people wanting to talk about the teachers participating in the TERI program bothered to understand it before they bash it.  So many people are angry about these retired educators collecting their retirement and salary.  Well, they should not be angry.  The only thing these people are costing the county is their salary that they rightly dserve for years of service.  Don't get angry, I'm not finished.  The retirement that they are collecting is coming from their retirement fund that has been at least 6% of their salary since they began working for the district at least 28 years ago.  It does not come from the budget used to educate our children.  Besides, how many professions require you to work for 28 years
before you can retire?  Yes, I agree that a newly graduated teacher would be a lot cheaper but we need to have a good balance of new ideas along with the stabilizing effect of experience and maturity along with it. Finally, don't be sheep, learn for yourselves and become a shepherd instead!

Editor's note: Thank you for reading and for your kind comments.
web posted March 24, 2009

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Let me preface this by saying I am a county employee. I have worked for the county a long time and I love my job, but I’m very disappointed in some members of our county council and our administrator. We have heard the phrase ”breaking the backs of county employees” but we don’t stop to think what that really means.  The majority of employees are vastly underpaid. In years past it was suggested, when we had an extra pay period, to pay us for that extra pay period {that we worked} and call it a raise. Give us a turkey and call it a Christmas bonus…or my personal favorite -- a whopping 1 % standard-of-living-raise.  For that we are told to be grateful you got that. That gave me  $6.00 more every two weeks. Sure, it’s asked of us why we stay on or why not, perhaps, pursue other jobs. We can answer that by saying, “Economic conditions don’t support a move right now.”  We can answer that we like being close to home; but the real answer is we love our jobs and we are good at what we do.

We’ve all heard the saying “ You pay for what you get,” but not here, not in Edgefield County. Here you get a heck of a lot more for than what you pay. The employees work hard for this county. We deserve better. This is not the “50’s” anymore. Women don’t work just to get out of the house. They work to help support their families. They work to provide insurance for themselves, and in some cases, their families. If you can’t add to our salaries, we can understand. But, don’t take away. That’s what you will be doing if this insurance suggestion goes forward and is passed. If I made $70,000+,  I probably wouldn’t care that much. But for those of us that make $20,000 or less  -- that hurts -- in a BIG way. You could be paying 5% or more of your salary. Insurance wasn’t considered a kind gesture. It was considered part of your benefit package that offset a low salary.

There are other ways to cut in this county without punishing the employees. Some of the members of our county council, as well as our administrator need to take your heads out of the financial statements and look at the people, your employees ,the people you see at the grocery store or on the street, the people you go to church with, the very people that voted for you. A healthy bottom line doesn’t mean very much at all if you have to step all over the ones you depend on to get you to that point.

Mr. Editor, this might be too long for Wandering Minds, but I felt this needed to be said.

Editor's note: County employees will be allowed all the room they need to vent. EdgefieldDaily.com will not reveal the identity of any poster. You can even mail your anonymous comments to EdgefieldDaily.com, PO Box 972, Edgefield, SC, 29824.
web posted March 23, 2009

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I want to rant about the county not taking care of Scupin and Thurmond Rd. We live on Thurmond Rd and being able to take the shortcut through Scupin saves us 10-12 mins each trip. That's the difference between getting to work on time or being behind all day. We started taking our children to school because Thurmond Rd is so dangerous with the blind hills and curves and its so bad now that there is not even a school bus that comes out this way! We were told years ago if "one more" family moved out here it would have to be paved. More are here and the county scrapes the road a lot less now than they did before. they put up a sign about fining the mudboggers that tear up Scupin Rd every time it rains but they don't do a (darn) thing to enforce it. Why the (heck) do we pay taxes?

What can we do?

Editor's note: Contact the Edgefield Building and Planning Department (803) 637-4073, (email) who can also put you in touch with the Transportation Committee to see if the right-of-ways have been given that would allow the road to be paved. The County Council ruled earlier this year that roads that did not have the proper right-of-ways will not even be considered for paving.

As to the mud-boggers, it is up to you and your neighbors to report those who are intentionally destroying the public road in order for the Sheriff's Office to respond. Now that signs have been posted those caught on the road "mud bogging" can be ticketed. Restitution of repairs can be assigned to those found guilty, as I understand.
web posted March 23, 2009

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So the Corps of Engineers is moving ONE buoy on the lake.  When are they going around and putting the ones back in place that we have seen on the banks for many years?  I guess they figure there will be no need for the buoys because they will probably let what little water is in there off before it gets warm enough for boaters to get out there and enjoy the lake.  They could also spend some time tying up to those logs that are floating and pulling them to the bank instead of the boaters having to do it.
web posted March 23, 2009

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re:StakeOut

First, I'd like to thank and give credit where it is due, to the Edgefield County Sheriffs' Office and most of all to all the Deputies and Detectives who worked so hard to solve the case of the burglaries at Trenton Self Storage.

To the earlier poster, the sheriffs' office may not have set-up a stake out, but I don't think you really know how many hours that were put into trying to locate this person. I do. I do know how many hours that I spent with our law enforcement and I also know how many(or at least mostly how many hours of overtime that were put into catching this guy).

Please remember before putting down law enforcement that you may not know all of the information concerning a case as it may not be all published. And please consider when asked for your help to identify someone or a vehicle that it takes time to catch someone who seems to be as bold and brazen as this individual was. Consider the fact that there are security cameras at the location, that he was bold enough to break and enter, not once but several times, and to seem to look straight at a camera on his way out the gate.

I have always tried to be honest and fair with people in any and all dealings, and to have faith in people and trust them but when you are up against someone who is this bold it takes you by surprise and takes time to catch someone. Sometimes these people are never caught, my quess is they are banking on you never suspecting them. Who me? Look , I'm a nice guy!! Not.

I'd also like to apolgize to any customers of Trenton Self Storage that had their storage units burglarized and to say that I sincerely wish that your property that was stolen gets returned to you. If you are a customer please keep in mind to let the management know if you have any tampering done to your unit/units and if you have multiple units please check on all units when you are there. The sooner some one knows the sooner we can try to determine what has happened. Or simply call the Edgefield Sheriffs' Office and report it.

Lastly, I'm thankful that we had the security cameras to be able to determine who was doing the thefts but without the knowledge of law enforcement and their time and dedication we might never have caught this person. So once again a big  Thank You, and keep up the good work.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading.
web posted March 23, 2009

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Congrats on the grandfather stuff!!! I became a grandmother a few months ago and it is SO fun and wonderful! It really is true: we can spoil them, love on them, play with them BUT we do not HAVE to change them or be mean...when they fuss we can give them back to their parents! It is AWESOME! :) LOL

Good luck & many blessings!

Editor's note: Thank you.
web posted March 23, 2009

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I thought the county council was gonna get rid of "Rev Hooper"? What happened? He's still there unless you just didn't report it. What a sleeze bucket!!!!!! I guess he fits right in with the rest of them.

Editor's note: I expect (but do not know) that this will be a matter on the agenda of the April 7 County Council meeting.
web posted March 23, 2009

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You know a lot of money could be saved if the school system would stop wasting so much food. When i went to school everyone ate the same thing, or you didn't eat at all, or maybe you fortunate to bring your lunch. These children don't need choices of which lunch line to get in. If you watch 50% of the breakfast food and lunch is thrown in the trash while the other 50% is going in somebody trunk.
web posted March 23, 2009

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It was nice to see that they caught the guy breaking into the storage buildings. My sister was one of them. Congrats to the Edgefield (County Sheriff's Office).

Editor's note: Steven Luther Rodgers, 31, has not been apprehended at this time. He has just been identified and has warrants for his arrest.
web posted March 23, 2009

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Why are you bashing Crenshaw and her friends? Why didn't you bash mathis when he was there? He made wrong choices too. Y'all want people to write in for her to be fired, because she forgot to report some students. Well why wasn't you concerned about this before Crenshaw became superintendent. May-berry(Merriwether) has always covered up there dirt. Swept under the rug for years. What happens in may-berry stays in may-berry.
 
I don't even know why the teachers are complaining about Crenshaw and friends. They gave y'all a raise, even though they knew we were in a budget crises. If the motown four was doing such a bad job. Why was some them reelected. To all of the highly paid educators, you need to be gone. Think about how much money you are taking away from our children. Some of you are getting a retirement check plus a school pay check. When you signed up for the tera program you knew when your 5 years was up you had to leave. So stop blaming Crenshaw for you not having a job. You thought you was going to get a free ride. See ya. Oh if you really want to stay that bad why don't you volunteer.
 
This for everyone watch in the next several months just how much these highly educated jackasses pretend to love your children. Watch and see how many volunteer without pay.
web posted March 23, 2009

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First of all, I am a frequent reader of edgefield daliy and most of the comments on wandering minds I find quite comical.The reason for this note is the comment in the editors post regarding democracy. My question is of all the examples in the world to use why did you pick "under (a) democracy the people could vote to re-instate slavery". I'm not offended by it, just curious?

Editor's note: Over the years countless people have made comments about "our democracy" and I have used many different comparisons such as people could vote as to what color your house can be or how big, what kind of car you can drive, ect. After a while of seeing it not sink in I chose to use something that would strike an emotional response. Because slavery is so abhorrent I thought people would stop and think about it a little more and understand how vile a "democracy" is and why our Founding Fathers tried to make sure the US would never become one.
web posted March 21, 2009

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If the county is in such desperate financial straights why are they using any money for recreation? Look at all the money that is being wasted. I agree with the editor but I wouldn't even give them $70k like he said, I'd cut them out completely!!! Its wasting money that got us here in the first place but the nimrods (on county council) can't seem to get that through their thick heads. What a (removed) joke!!!!
web posted March 21, 2009

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I think people misunderstood Obama's campaign slogan. It wasn't CHANGE we can believe in, it was CHAINS you will believe in.
web posted March 21, 2009

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Iben tried to figger outs why you bees so means to us Obamer voters. I thinks I gots it figgered outs.
Yous thunk wes bees stewpids.  Dats aints bees trued. Wes gots goods edukshuns and knows thats da checks gonna bees commin to hour guvmint partment ery month. Yous bees duh dum one.

Editor's note: Very funny.
web posted March 21, 2009

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This is to all you hypocrites that's bashing the bus drivers. Until you have sat in that seat, behind the wheel, you have no reason to be complaining. A bus drives day begins before you ever think about getting out of bed. A bus driver is just like the mailman, they must drive rain, sleet, snow or shine. The drivers are out in the early mornings sometimes in 15 degree weather, thundering, and lightning storms. Also just to let you know these buses don't warm up until you are several miles down the road. I have seen some of these drivers with blankets, scarves and gloves on.
 
Oh, another thing bus drivers are never recognized by parents, pto or school officials. Parents only remember their child's teacher at holidays. Pto only remember the drivers when they want them to join the pto club ($). School officials don't recognize the drivers at any time, not even on bus driver safety week. Last year after some complaints from transportation and bus drivers, they come sending the drivers some teacher left over bags. The didn't even have the decency to take the tags off. Makes one wonder what the (heck) are bus drivers here for.
 
Last, but not least bus drivers don't get paid much, and now they talking about a pay cut. They have no benefits. Most drivers don't make $1000.00 a month. They had an incentive program, it was cut in half. It was based on perfect attendance.
 
P.s. just remember if it wasn't for bus drivers 95% of you wouldn't even have a job. Because 95% of the children ride the buss you keep complaining about.

Editor's note: The School District regularly sends our press releases on awards for drivers throughout the school year and we carry them when released, including photos.
web posted March 21, 2009

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Obama, you can keep this change. Americans, wake up and see what this man and his cast of left wing loons is doing to our beloved country. Atend a tea party and protest not just the irresponsible spending policies of this administration, but the fundamental changes to the fabric of our country. For further proof and a chilling wake up call simply Google HR 45 and the read the text of this gun confiscation bill that is making its way to Congress. If this won't open your eyes to the type of regime that is in place nothing will.
web posted March 21, 2009

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This county has been in trouble for some time now. With people like Kneece (Moe), Dorn(Larry) and Bright (Curly) being re-elected time and time again , it is no wonder we can't get out of the quagmire we're in.History repeats itself,  so we're in for the same old crap with those idiots running the show. The two new council members have their work cut out for them ,but at least they give a little hope for the future. If only Trace had won! Thank you Mr. Editor for all of your diligent work.I consider you THE watchdog for our county. I hope all goes well with the birth of your grandchild. Being a grandpa is not gonna slow you down is it? Take care.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments. I'm getting older by the hour. 
web posted March 21, 2009

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Hasn't the ECSO (Sheriff's Office) ever heard of the term "stakeout"?  Obviously this guy who keeps hitting the storage building in Trenton feels fairly safe in doing so, otherwise he wouldn't keep coming back.  He'll be back, and hopefully, eventually, they'll get smart and be waiting on him.  And I hope for his sake he don't decide to start robbing houses.  If he comes out my way, they'll be calling the coroner.

Editor's note: With only three deputies patrolling it is hard to have one sit at a location for hours rather than answering constant calls from the public. The majority of the county council would rather fund give-aways than provide for needs (police protection). Maybe those receiving the hand-outs can "volunteer" to stake out the businesses and homes that are robbed every week.
web posted March 20, 2009

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What kind of entity is Edgefield Civic League?  Is it a corporation, partnership, non-profit, etc?  Who are their owners, directors, executives?  Do they get paid from the Edgefield Civic League?

Editor's note: They are a non-profit organization with one paid employee. The other staff memebrs are volunteers.
web posted March 20, 2009

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Ya'll just need to get over the fact we live in a DEMOCRACY and the MAJORITY RULES! Democrats are in control and that's just the way things are so whine all you want! Ha HA Ha Ha!!!!!!

Editor's note: The United States is not a "democracy" it is a Republic with a democratic process, meaning we are governed by laws not the rule of the majority of the voting pubic. Under a "democracy" the people could vote to re-institute slavery. Our founding fathers abhorred the idea of a democracy. The word "democrat" was an epithet. It meant "one who panders to the mindless whims of the masses." (Granted, that is more fitting today than in 1776) The most dangerous citizen in our nation is the uneducated voter. Judging by the performance of the government run public school system, it is no wonder so many fall into believing the lie that we are a democracy. Thanks for proving that point.
web posted March 20, 2009

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It is very sad that such an out-of-this-world guidance counselor will not be returning to Merriwether Elementary next year…due to lack of funding.  Grants can be “re-applied” for – but not if there isn’t any money.  I guess if the county weren’t in such a financial mess they could find a way to create a position for another guidance counselor…it’s not like the school doesn’t have other “created” positions.  Maybe this is one of the reasons the district is in such a financial mess. 

Are these created positions in the best interest of the children of Edgefield County?
web posted March 20, 2009

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I listened to Judge Carpenter at the budget workshop the other night, trying to make a funny about "cookies and chips" when it came to funding recreation.  But let me tell you what's really funny.  I was told that the handout that was given out at the meeting showed that the magistrate's office was asking for $300 for a Christmas party.  Is this something that is given to each office?  My friend that works at the courthouse says they don't get a Christmas party unless they decide to do it within their office and pay for it themselves.  That must be why visions of cookies and chips were dancing in her head!  And here's another funny thing.  She must be able to see into the future.  She seems to know that if she gets those Christmas cookies and chips, the taxpayers will have to help her out a little more because the magistrate's office also wants $350 for uniforms.  She must already be expecting those cookies and chips dancing in her head to show up a little further south!  Mirror, Mirror on the wall, a judge eating cookies and chips in a uniform should be against the law. 

Editor's note: Funds for both items were cut from funding for the Magistrates Office.
web posted March 20, 2009

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This is to the person who wrote about the Edgefield School Bus's. Just to let you know befor you start shooting off your mouth, you might want to go back to the school to learn how to spell the word green. I think your just mad because you cant drive those nice Dodge trucks or your like a old dingbat that wants to keep trouble brewing????? So next time when you go to pick up your kids why dont you wait for the buss to leave and stop trying to rush time just so you can get back home to watch tv.
web posted March 20, 2009

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How stupid can they be - cut funding to the health dept.
Time to investigate the people behind Tompkins
web posted March 20, 2009

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This is in response to the parent who wrote down all the bus numbers.  Instead of watching buses and writing down numbers, you should have been looking in the dictionary and learning how to spell.  While you're at it, you might want to see if you can get your hands on a grammar book and learn about puncuation marks, sentences, etc.  If this was the highlight of your day, you have a sad life.  Maybe you should get a job driving a bus and then you could afford to buy yourself a new and exciting life!!
web posted March 20, 2009

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The parents complaining about school bus drivers being rude should be ashamed!  I have a friend that drives one of them buses and she is not rude, she cares about the students and has hardly ever missed a day.  If you think you could do a better job then try it I don't think you could last 5 seconds, my friend gets frustrated she has to watch traffic keep students from doing stupid things that could endanger them they end up with a smart mouth cursing at her and disrespecting her, you could have up to 70 students or more, she has to deal with parents that curse her and want support her  if she writes one of their perfect angels, principals don't support her when she turns in a discipline notice they want support the bus driver they put the little hellion back on the bus and treats her as if she's making it up especially from the administrators at JET Middle School they are the worse, the school board doesn't support bus drivers they cut their incenative after they promised bus drivers if they worked so many days they'd get a 100 dollar bonus only to cut it to 50 dollars, my friend is a single mom who needed that money.  if you can drive a bus then step in teachers and bus driver shoes i promise you will not last. so before throwing stones against bus drivers realize how terrible the job is my friend she was deeply upset by the comment.
web posted March 20, 2009

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The county archives department houses the oldest and most complete set of historical county records in the State of South Carolina.  They are protected by a climate controlled 1,700 square foot vault the county spent almost $300,000 dollars for in 1998.  Most of the documents from the 1700's and 1800's would be destroyed over time were they to be taken out of their current protective custody. The person who suggested they be returned to their respective county departments and the vault be converted into offices has absolutely no appreciation nor concern for the welfare of these records. 

There are hundreds of thousands of documents stored in the vault that include estate files, court records, deeds and plats, journals, letters, coroner’s records, civil war documents and slave-appraisal and transfer documents, etc.  Title researchers, historians, genealogists, and local and state governmental agencies are the most frequents visitors to the archives department but we also have local people who are seeking documentation about their property or looking for wills and estate records belonging to their ancestors.  The research room contains approximately 1,000 microfilm reels, a microfilm reader/printer, Xerox machine and a wall of index books for researchers.  In addition, many county departments have a large number of their records housed in the archives because they are mandated by State and National retention laws to be preserved for a certain number of years.

Over its 224 years of existence, Edgefield County has maintained a proud record for its careful management of its historical documents - yet now, in 2009, someone has come up with the idea of eliminating the entire archival department.   This would be an unrecoverable tragedy.
web posted March 20, 2009

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Well, it appears that  --it has fit  the fan.  The County started in the right direction by cutting all of the FREE money going to the county friends.  Two years ago Johnston saw the hand writing on the wall and cut most  of the fat from their budget. I don't think Edgefield has cut the fat yet, or do they still have money in the bank? Wander why they don't give some of the money back to their citizens?   
To the County, why not look at all the recurring budget items. Insurance (both health and property and liability)  When was the last time they were put out on bids  Backing the salary down, instead of giving an employee a day of, now that's a better idea, at least work will be done
web posted March 20, 2009

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I do not feel the White Ecommerce company is racist or should be prohibitive from advertising on your site (but of course that is your discretion).  I find nothing wrong with being “pro white” because after all, “pro black” has been forced upon us for years.  I think white guilt and reverse discrimination has become so prevalent that we (as whites) are terrified to associate ourselves with being proud of our white heritage.  Through the divide and conquer tactics of many racist organizations, teachings, and policies, whites are now tabooed from proclaiming pride in themselves.  We must feel sympathetic and the need to allow others on the front of the bus, due to their skin colors, alone.  But it seems Black pride, Spanish pride, etc are acceptable and even encouraged.  Furthermore, I believe the idea of White pride will and should become more prevalent as our generation is becoming tired of being blamed for the failures of others. 
web posted March 20, 2009

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Dear criticizing parent,

I am sorry you felt it was necessary to show all the readers of this web site your ignorance by criticizing our wonderfully dedicated bus drivers. These drivers are reliable, show up everyday, and safely transport our children to and from school, they do it without complaint for what equals to less than minimum wage, and all without benefits. I happen to know each one of the bus drivers for which you so ignorantly accuse of being; “ungrateful, rude,” AND “disrespectful.” I do not know every bus driver that works for this county. However, those that I have had the privilege of knowing are exactly the opposite of what you describe. I too have children that attend STHS and have watched as these bus drivers do an absolutely outstanding job of avoiding collision after collision with drivers such as yourself who are stricken with the me first syndrome. Oh, I’m sorry I have forgotten you are ignorant let me reword that so someone with your obvious lack of intelligence can understand. “The Me first Syndrome” people who without regard for others feel that they should be first. I feel sorry for people like you who think of nobody other than themselves, and even more so, I feel sorry for your children who are forced daily to endure your lack of intelligence and concern for others 

Parent, let me educate you a little about our bus drivers.

1.       Each and every person who drives a school bus in SC has a CDL issued by the SCDMV.

2.       They are given a thorough medical exam every year – two years depending on the driver.

3.        They are rigorously tested to ensure their knowledge, understanding and competence when dealing with anywhere from 30 – 78 children all at the same time.

4.       They are subject to random drug testing  and voluntarily submit to drug testing any time an accident occurs.

5.       They are held to a much higher standard in their personal vehicle when it comes to simple violations such as speeding.

6.       When you’re out socializing with your friends it is legal for you to drive with a blood alcohol level of .08 however, a person who drives a bus may not have even as much as a .01 blood alcohol level when he/she is out socializing.

7.       They are subjected to verbal and sometimes even physical abuse from the children they transport.

8.        They must deal with parents who believe that there children can and never do any wrong.

Then to add insult to injury they have to deal with these holier-than-thou idiots such as you who criticize there every move without so much as a suggestion on how the problems they have to deal with on a daily basis should be remedied.

So Parent, take this piece of advice and next time remember, it’s better to keep your mouth shut and let people think your ignorant than to open it and prove them right.
web posted March 20, 2009

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I didn’t know old buildings could be changed from it’s original construction while re-modeling?  The front porch at Magnolia Dale will soon be concrete, not boards as originally construted. This is the same place where the old Gazebo stood on falling timbers but was moved to MT. Vintage.

Some one needs to speak with the States Antique Property division.

But I guess Bettis still runs it like everything else he joins.

Isn’t it great that we have BETTIS?
web posted March 20, 2009

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This letter is to the person who trashed the bus drivers that pick up students a t the rear of STHS. I have just one question. Why do you say I am ungrateful, rude, and disrespectful? If you knew me, you would know that I am far from any of those things. I drive bus # 507-2061 one of the busses you said runs students, parents, other bus drivers off the road pushing you out of the way because my vehicle is bigger. The fact is I am actually more cautious because of the weight and size of my bus. A bus is far more difficult to maintain control and takes a much further distance to stop than a car traveling at the same rate of speed. I can’t speak for all the drivers, but I actually leave space at the driveway entrances for cars to be able to pull in and out while waiting for traffic to move and I always let at least one car out into traffic so they won’t have as long of a wait to try and get into traffic. I transport anywhere from 35 – 60 Children in the afternoon and take their safety very seriously. All you have to do is ask any one of them. They constantly complain about having to stay in their seat, not being allowed to talk when checking for trains at a railroad crossing and keeping all of their body parts inside the bus just to mention a few. The bus I drive is a 38’ transit bus with an approximate 28’ wheelbase. The mere size makes it necessary to use both lanes when making a right turn. This maneuver your witnessing is called a button hook which is a legal maneuver used by drivers of commercial vehicles too large to turn directly into their lane of traffic. I was not going to respond to your public attack of my character. However after some thought I considered that you may not be aware of the reason for using both lanes when turning. Your attack was totally unfounded and unfair. My bus is equipped with an on board camera and there are numerous camera strategically placed throughout the Strom Thurmond campus. These cameras give my superiors a clear view of my driving habits both on and off the campus. I can assure you that if what you said were true the administration would take immediate and appropriate action. I would like to invite you to come to the transportation office and meet me; I will even do my best to obtain special permission to allow you to ride with me so you can witness firsthand how dangerous driving a school bus really is. Bus drivers are hard to keep, because most people think there is nothing to it and then after they have driven a few times they realize the pay is low, the hours are lousy, and the responsibility causes the stress level to skyrocket. Nonetheless, I encourage you to take the course to become one and join me in helping the ECSD and making a difference in the life of a child. I would also like to thank edgefielddaily.com for allowing me the opportunity to respond.
web posted March 20, 2009

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I have been reading all the comments, both negative and positive, concerning the softball coach at STHS. My daughter is also on the team and she has been there through the pre-season conditioning and every practice after school and even attended the optional practice that was held on a Sunday afternoon. She is not as experienced as a few others on the team, but she does show up for practice and she does try.
 
It is my opinion that the most of the girls on the team are just there to say: I'm on the team. They are not there to do the best that they can. They don't play with their hearts and in order to have a "winning" team, you have to play because you really want to. You have to be willing to work and work hard!!!!!
 
Yes, I see things that the Coach could do differently, such as making these girls run their legs off when they make little league mistakes, or simply by making them sit on the bench and not play when they don't do what they know they should. And especially when they appear to not even want to be on the field!!!!!!!!!!!! They not only hurt themselves with this attitude, but they also hurt and embarrass the team as a whole!!!!!!!!!
 
I want them to win as much as anybody, but as parents, we need to sit back and let our children learn that they have to work for what they want. Winning just doesn't happen!!!!!!!!! We have allowed our girls to be a part of this team and we need to let the coach do what he thinks is best for the team. Even if it means that our child has to sit out a game to two.
web posted March 20, 2009

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Earlier this month a nationwide report found that 11 of the nation's 25 worst public schools are located in South Carolina. Now it has been announced that principals at 2 of those failing schools, located in Charleston, will receive salary bonuses this year!
web posted March 20, 2009

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Just wanted to respond to Mr. browns letter about Dixie youth. First of all Mr. brown. You are a good decent man and I give you credit for pointing out what you believe is a flaw AND having a solution. Problem lies within the solution. If you disect, or "Itemize " your solution you will find that Politics have much to do with our Financial situation. I will say, having been associated with Edgefield county Dixie youth and the Rec. dept. that Edgefield can be self supportive and actually make a small profit to go back into the league therefore not being totally dependent on the county. That cannot be said for some of the other area's. Edgefield is part of the countywide program, to be a good Team Player. As I see it, and experience it, the "Private Funding" solution would be excellent IF you can find someone that is not allready supporting a dozen or so other programs in Edgefield county. As a fundraiser for several groups, we constantly HAMMER our businesses to the point they are struggleing to participate like they have in the past. Example: Rec. Football sponsors, Baseball, basketball, STHS and Wardlaw booster Clubs, FFA, ect., ect., and list can go down the page. Bottom line is Our county leaders have done such a poor job attracting Industry, we HOUND the same people Over and Over and Over !!!! GOD BLESS the business owners of our county who give until it hurts ! Even the fringe of our county gets hammered ( See Sweetwater BP ) . Mr. Brown, If you can find private funding to help E C D Y or other recreational outlets, Knock yourself out and I'm sure we'll welcome them with open arms. When you go to a S T H S football or Baseball Game, look at the Banners and read the programs. You will notice a trend. Same businesses Giving and Giving..As a fundraiser within the county, I would ask everybody to please support our local Businesses and sponsors as Much as possible. ( Including this online Publication. Many thanks for past posts and advertising ). These people are and have been our lifeline for a long time. Also , Please support our Current Council to help bring in much needed Industry and Business.
web posted March 20, 2009

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Sir:
I recently read an article, where I do not remenber, that stated a movement for blacks to buy only from blacks was being pushed. Maybe this is where the ad is coming from.
web posted March 20, 2009

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The Tea Party is a historical incident that helped lead us to become a free nation. I think these tea parties are great and I hope the mainstream media starts to wake up and cover them. There are many, many unhappy people in this country due to our new leader and the way he is hurting us. I say, do anything we can to show our dislike of what is going on. They are also encouraging people to mail a tea bag to the White House on April 1st. The address is

1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, DC    20500

We need to stop this craziness.  Hopefully the elections in 2010 will change the balance in Congress. We can only pray that it will.
web posted March 20, 2009

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This is in response to the parent who wrote in about the bus drivers that come out from the back of STHS.  Question - how long have you been driving a bus?  Wait - you don't have to answer that - I already know the answer - NEVER!!  If you had driven a bus before, you would know that you can't make turns the same as in a car.  They have to swing out in the other lane to make the turn and avoid running in the ditch.  Instead of you trying to hurry and get into the Career Center, why don't you try slowing down, hang back, and let the buses get out in the road???? 
 
Since we have established the fact that you have never driven a bus, you couldn't possibly understand why these drivers are not smiling and waving at everyone like a beauty queen in a parade.  Everyone who has a complaint about bus drivers should ride a bus just once - that's all it would take for you to understand.  The reason they have to put up with rude and disrespectful children is because of parents like you - parents who think their children do no wrong.  I can tell that is the kind of parent you are by the comments you made.  You think you know so much when in reality you really don't know crap!!!  Have you ever heard that you have to give respect to get it?  Instead of bashing these drivers, why don't you try treating them with the same respect you expect them to give you??  It could make a world of difference.
 
I will agree there is a problem with the traffic congestion at the Career Center, however, your comments don't help the problem - it just creates more problems.  Why don't you try offering a suggestion as to how to fix the problem instead of complaining and pointing fingers.  I'm sure if the truth be told, you are included in that list of people who drive like they are running a race, rude, and disrespectful.  And as far as replacing the bus drivers, I called the Transportation office for you and was told that they are accepting applications - why don't you swing by there and pick one up while you are at the school picking up your children???!!
web posted March 20, 2009

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I think the employees being penalized deserve to know exactly who and what is being funded?
 What is the Tompkins Library and who runs it? Why do you have to pay to use it? Who is working in the County Archives and why do we need it?
Are some of the same people working at both places?
I would not want one of those jobs in this economy Sounds like it is who you know not what you know again. But Remember that person is getting unmasked and so will you.

We have a great County Library were checking out books and using computer cost nothing, you have to live in the county and have  a card. Why aren't  the county archives at the library where a academic professional librarian would handle them.
web posted March 20, 2009

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There is a wonderful new place in Edgefield where you will want to take your children.  Check it out at http://www.thecountry.vpweb.com
web posted March 20, 2009

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I am one of the people who was getting the Augusta Chronicle but they stopped delivering because I live in a rural area.  I heard that they may have started back delivering because they lost so many customers.  They have not contacted me and my paper has not started back either.  I am wondering if anyone else out there has heard anything about it.  I plan on contacting them today but I think everyone that was affected needs to know if it is true.

Editor's note: I have checked with a member of the Morris News conglomerate and was told that there were no plans to restart home delivery in the area.
web posted March 20, 2009

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Editor's post: I had a web site contact me in reference to linking and advertising for their site. I found the content of their promotion questionable. Please find a few quotations from their email requesting advertising below and tell me if you too find the content racial.

"The White (rest of name removed) is monumentally gaining momentum in the market place." - "White (rest of name removed) is the largest White ECommerce site on the Internet dedicated to assisting small business owners in selling their products to the world." - "You can sell products for Whites to Whites."

Obviously we will not even consider advertising this site, but I wanted to hear your take on this type of business.
web posted March 19, 2009

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In regard to the recent discussion concerning STHS softball. I would like to add a few comments.
 
To be successfull ay this level of high school softball requires the girls to have a high level of talent, commitment, and experience regardless of the coaching. STHS simply does not have this in terms of the players. Yes, there are a couple of players who transfered who could have made somewhat of a difference. Their reason for transfer is inmaterial at this point.
 
As I understand, this left two players who have played thru the rec. leagues and advanced on to travel ball on a year-to-year basis. Travel ball makes players needed to compete on the high school level.. Any high school will encourage his/her players to play travel ball to improve their skills as that's where the you find the best competition and improve their skills.
 
These two players are by far the heart of the team. I know for a fact that one of them played for a travel team that won the WFC World Series in Savannah in 2006, won the FAST Nationals in Orlando in 2007. and played in the ASA Nationals (granddaddy of 'em all) in Owensboro, Ky. in 2008. Wonder why this kid may have a chance to play at the next level??
 
This is the type of dedication on the part of the players and parents that yields competitive teams at the high school level. From what I understand, STHS has alot of girls on the team who don't have this level of dedication or have simply not played before. With this being taken as true, you could hire the Olympic Team Coach and the results would be no different.
 
Hats off to Coach Woods for doing his best!!!
web posted March 19, 2009

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I work for the county and I am looking for a new job. I have a marketable skill and will not sit in a job that results in my pay going backwards every year. I love my boss and (he/she) really cares about (his/her) employees. I hate to do this to (him/her) but as soon as I find a new job I am walking out the door. I know it will cause problems for (the office) but I have to look out for my family. I know others that feel the same way. I will not have my pay cut so some busybody old women can dig up dirt on other people's families so they can talk about them. This county has gone to hell in a hand basket and it's never going to change.
web posted March 19, 2009

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Guess we gave Mr. Kneece credit to soon.  Just like a horse makes a false start out of the gate this horse's you know what only gave the impression he was beginning to see things more clearly.  Now picture this....you're at a budget workshop, you're telling everyone that the budget has to be cut, employees will have to start paying their own insurance, the future is bleak, and so on and so on.   Then some nimrod says...We can cut from the county employees all day long...so what if they serve the people of the county, so what if they maintain the county office, so what if they haven't had a decent raise in a long time but oh no no, we must not cut $17,500 from a NON GOVERNMENT entity.  And then, another nimrod says... You are right brother, I will second your irresponsible motion.  Then someone on council with a brain says....where exactly are we supposed to get this money?  And then... the all knowing wizard (the Kneece) says....Never fear, we'll find it somewhere!  We'll just stick it to our faithful employees somemore... no problem!
web posted March 19, 2009

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RE: Tea Party Al you people that think going to some stupid "tea party" is going to make a difference.. your stupid! Its a new day and we are going to get ours so deal with it!!!!!!!!
 
Please tell me just what you think you are going to get.  Please tell me just what you have gotten so far.  I'd love to know.  All I know is that the economy seems worse, the country is in more debt, and you might get $400 in the mail.  President Bush did that much!  At the end of these four years, please let us all know what you have received.  I'd be surprised if it's anything.  And before you call other people stupid, please check your grammar and punctuation.
web posted March 19, 2009

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As someone who is being penalized for being a county employee when other people getting money from the county are not being penalized, I have a rather common sense suggestion.  You have the County Archives and you have the Tompkins Library.  If the county is going to fund the Tompkins Library, then maybe we don't need the County Archives.  Return the records in the archives to their respective department heads for housing.  This will eliminate a full time and part time salary totalling between $35,000 and $40,000 per year.  With a minimal facelift you can convert the archives space into office space for the building department that is currently costing the county $1,200 per month in rent to Bettis Rainsford.  Wow, the total of these two things alone would almost equal one half of the amount being taken from employees.  Sounds kind of simple to me but I know it will never fly.  You see Monroe Kneece is a retired federal employee.  I think he kinda likes the pork....oink! oink!
web posted March 19, 2009

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Re:  School Bus Driver charged with hit and run
  
As a parent, I have picked my children up from Strom Thurmond High School in the conjested parking lot at the career center I have to watch those ungrateful, rude, disrespectful bus drivers leaving the back, they act as if they are going to a race when they leave, running students, parents, and each other off the road pushing us out of the way because they know their buses are bigger than our car not to mention when we come up they pull out taking up both lanes which is very dangerous after reading about the hit and run bus driver I finally took the last straw and feel something needs to be done about replacing bus drivers that truly care about students I have watched these drivers and have written down their bus numbers maybe something can be done before another hit and run, these are the bus numbers in order of how they leave and they are flying people beware of these bus drivers: 503-7354; 508-1211; 507-2061; 507-1374; 507-1999; 503-7251; 508-1024; by the way not only are the bus drivers at fault with speeding but these athletes that fly around going to soccer, baseball the black honda accord, the greend dodge dakota, the white mustang with the chrome wheels that 4x4 dodge ram, I saw it all I watched with my children on how not to drive and lets not forget those teachers (content removed due to name used) I stayed there watching all this take place someone is going to be hurt teachers, bus drivers, and students SLOW DOWN it was like watching the nascar race.
web posted March 19, 2009

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RE: “I am so thankful”

First, you don’t have to be a wizard of math, just a recipient of a public education to figure out how much money someone earns in a given work week. It only required adding and dividing.

Second, so apparently you are hot and bothered that your child practiced and “tuffed it out the entire training season” (it’s called pre-season or conditioning) only to be replaced “at the last minute… [by] the basketball team.” Hmmm.. So the entire basketball team by your account  wrapped up its season, turned in their jerseys, and then picked up softball gloves and bats to play.  Last basketball game I went to, there were more than four girls on the court, and when I sat at the softball game the other night, there were more than four softball players on the field. Your logic is so convoluted I cannot explain in words how sorry I am for you.  If you had just stated that you weren’t happy your player wasn’t getting their playing time instead of veiling that in your other accusations and inaccuracies, you would have made more sense. I’m sure the players on the field and up at bat are the strongest or most athletic available even if they are the ones who haven’t been out there practicing the longest. Players on most teams don’t get playing time because they show up the earliest or stay the latest. You need to realize life is not fair; and before you twist this around in your little mind, I mean not all athletes are made the same. Some athletes are naturally gifted while others must take years to become the athlete of a given sport. Athletics, especially for females, should not be a beauty contest or pity award.

Third, I would like you to prove what rules and guidelines are being broken by the softball coach. You’ve made the accusation without asserting evidence, let’s hear it.

Fourth, it must be supper time for you because that’s the only way the following makes sense: “They are only pones on a field of dreams.” Now I’m southern and I’ve heard and read various southern dialect before, but I cannot for the life of me understand what  the heck you are talking about. Being an educated person who tries to be careful with spelling and sentence structure, I had to use a dictionary with your word choice and phrasing. I was able to find that, “In common usage in the south a ‘pone’ is used to describe any small individual serving of cornbread (which can include dressing).”  To whom does “they” refer? Who are you calling a small piece of cornbread? What “field of dreams”? You’re insinuating that these girls are being used to further the coach’s agenda? Do you even know what you are saying at this point? I surely don’t!! 

Lastly, you sound like the type of person who just has to get the last word in so go ahead. As a matter of fact, why don’t you become the softball coach for next year’s team and write down all the little negative things you think should be fixed in a little notebook so you can show us all next year with your great coaching skills. But in the meantime, why don’t you show up and support the girls that are playing and the coach that was chosen or took the team or at the very least shut up! You always have the option to your child to a school you think cares more! Good luck!
web posted March 19, 2009

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Thank goodness there are two wise council members in Edgefield County. It is too bad they are not a majority. If chairman Kneece has never seen anything like this budget crisis before, you would think he would be careful about spending money and then think about how to find it later.  Maybe that is the reason they are in trouble.  I hope that the taxpayers of this county do not end up carrying the burden of their irresponsibility.  They have in the past.  I don't have much sympathy for a county that makes these kinds of decisions. That kind of thinking is what has gotten this whole country in a mess.  "I will spend money I don't have now and figure out how to pay for it later".  IRRESPONSIBLE!!!!!!!!!
web posted March 19, 2009

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In response to "Why don't all of you all, just get off of Barack Obama". I am not sure how anyone that is not receiving a hand out from our government can feel that the money being spent by our president is in the best interest of our country. You state that now is our time to shine and boy is he shining. The deceit he has planned since beginning his run for office is shining through. He has tried to build a cabinet full of deceitful people such as Geither, then Daschle, then Nancy Killefer, and now Hilda Solis all had unpaid taxes owed to our government at the time President Obama recommended them for a position on his staff. Obama actively sought and received the endorsement by ACORN for his campaigns. According to the Federal Election Commission records reviewed by the Tribune-Review, the Obama campaign paid CSI $832,000.00 from Feb.25 to May 17. ACORN was linked to many voter registration and voter fraud issues leading up to the election. But again this was OK because he simply denied any involvement. But of course the people wanting something for nothing don’t care how they get it as long as they get it. They never claimed to have any morals, pride, or self respect.

Dr. Adrian stated “You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else. When half the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they worked for, that, my dear friend, will prove the end of any nation. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it.” 

Government handouts only deepen our dependence on them.

I will end with a few quotes from the bible:

1.     All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty (Proverbs 14:23).

2.        Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth (Proverbs 10:4).

3.       If a man will not work, he shall not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10).
web posted March 19, 2009

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RE: Tea Party
Al you people that think going to some stupid "tea party" is going to make a difference.. your stupid! Its a new day and so deal with it!!!!!!!!
web posted March 18, 2009

   Why is it that some people just don`t  get it? Anyone that attends one of these tea parties is showing their government representatives that they are watching, angry about nonsensical fiscal policy, and the refusal of our officials to vote with the will of the people. You say  " we are going to get ours ", but are not honest. You truly mean you want gov. to take what I earn and give it to you!
 And let me add, since you call so many others stupid,nonsensical means doesn't`t make sense. Also, that little button in the toolbar that says ABC, check mark, and spelling, will check your spelling for you and fool others into thinking you are more educated.
web posted March 19, 2009

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THE PLAN

       A..   Back off and let those men who want to marry men, marry men.

       B..   Allow those women who want to marry women, marry women.

       C..  Allow those folks who want to abort their babies, abort their babies.

       D..   In three generations, there will be no Democrats.
I love it when a plan comes together.
web posted March 19, 2009

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Attention Edgefield Verizon customers!
 
If you are like me, and live in Edgefield, then you probably have experienced "Lost" calls and/or lack of signal strength.
 
I have called Verizon almost every day for the past 3 weeks to complain about this problem.
Here is what they had to say:
 
In order for Verizon to investigate this issue, there has to be a certain number of complaints from that area.
So, whenever you "lose" a call, dial # # # SEND. You will get a message telling you that it's not a valid number or has been disconnected. This is normal and you should let that message finish before you hang up.
 
What that does is to "mark" your previous "Lost" call so that Verizon knows what and where to investigate.
 
My complaint is that in this age of technology there shouldn't be so many problems with signal strength in most areas. Truth is, I work in Aiken and still lose calls and lack signal strength.
 
So if we stick together, maybe we can get this issue resolved in good time!

Editor's note: I made an acceptation to the no business names rule due to the nature of the post offering information helpful to the general public, not bashing or advertising for a company.
web posted March 19, 2009

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I dont think any SRO report was done at Parker Elem.  As far as I know, no SRO was sent to handle the case, only EPD.

Editor's note: I have not received any report from the Sheriff's Office on this matter. I have not been able to officially confirm reports that the student intended to use the knife in an attack on another individual unrelated to the school.
web posted March 18, 2009

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A school bus hit a Lowe's delivery van, eh?  If it is the same school bus driver that I have been behind on two occasions, I sure am not surprised.

On two occasions in the past couple of weeks, I have turned onto Sweetwater (coming off Mays Way) at approx. 3:40pm and found myself behind a school bus, heading toward Mt. Vintage.  On both occasions, this school bus driver kept the left tires on the center line of the road, regardless of traffic.  I commented to my wife the that driver was clueless and was going to smack something with the mirror, sooner or later.

Surprise!  NOT!
web posted March 18, 2009

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Kudos to the kids that turned in the little hoodlum that brought the knife to school at Parker. They restored my faith in our future generation.
web posted March 18, 2009

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I have a suggestion for the school bus drivers. Why not stop stopping at every other house to pick up kids while those of us trying to get to work get stuck behind you! Make the lazy kids walk a few feet and cut down on the stops!
web posted March 18, 2009

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RE: Tea Party
Al you people that think going to some stupid "tea party" is going to make a difference.. your stupid! Its a new day and we are going to get ours so deal with it!!!!!!!!
web posted March 18, 2009

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To those who voted for "change" I wanted to thank you. My 401k has changed. It is now down 80%. Thaks for nothing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Editor's note: As I always stated, change is inevitable, progress is not.
web posted March 18, 2009

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RE: I don't like you, (EdgefieldDaily.com), or anything you do.

Hey (removed), if you  don't like Edgefield Daily why don'yt you just shut up and go somewhere else. Ain't nobody making you read it dipwad!!!!!! To the editor. Thank you for everything you do. SOME of us appreciate the work you and your staff do. Ignore this dimwit!
web posted March 18, 2009

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Read with interest your article on Ms. Blackwell asking for a clean budget with no non government agencies funded.  It was so refreshing to hear someone asking for a "clean" budget.  Prior to this time, hardly anything was "clean" about this county.  Hopefully, new blood really will make a difference.  I think reducing, or better yet doing away with monies to non government agencies makes a whole lot more sense then shaving the "cogs" that actually make the wheels of the county turn.  When trying to lighten the load, it always makes more sense to leave behind those things not essential to your welfare.  The taxpayers never have a say in which of these agencies get these monies, how much they get or even what they're going to do with it.  If county department heads have to provide a budget of what monies they need and why they need it then why are these entities not required to do the same?  Does anyone know what happens to this money once it's turned over?  I commend you Ms. Blackwell for showing your constituents that you meant what you said when you campaigned for your seat on council.  It will take time to correct all the wrongs from the past, but I believe that the new council members are on the right track.  It would even seem that Mr. Kneece can see more clearly now.  Maybe Ms. Blackwell and Mr. Ashcraft have removed the rose colored glasses that the former administrator and his henchman thought they had everyone looking through.  What a great breath of fresh air! 
web posted March 18, 2009

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I am so thankful that the wizard of math broke it down at $62.50 a week pay for the girls softball coach.  That is about what he is worth.
(content removed)  However this does not have anything to do with those aspects   Softball to some is an outlet to show what you have learned the the months and weeks of practices.  Some have done so and at the last minute here comes the basketball team to replace the ones that tuffed it out the entire training season.  Oh and less not forget the rules and guide lines that should be followed even if it is not a money maker sport.  These girls that play take this sport just as serious as the boys take football.  No one is saying they are not doing all they can.  They are only pones on a field of dreams.
web posted March 18, 2009

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I like you and everything you do.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading.
web posted March 18, 2009

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Nicole Muns is great with the students at MES. But, the reason she will not return is not because of budget cuts.  Her job was part of a grant and it runs out at the end of this year.
web posted March 18, 2009

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...Im trying to figure out if the Karate Dojo on hwy 25 is in Business. I saw an advertisement on the website but havent been able to get in touch with anyone. Can you help me

Editor's note: I'm not sure what advertisement you are referring to as there are no current ads for a "dojo". If you could provide the link to the past ad I will be happy to direct you to the information.
web posted March 17, 2009

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Whether you are Democrat, Independent, Republican, if you are unhappy with things as they have been and where we are headed - show your support. For more information go to: http://www.taxdayteaparty.com  With the times below, we could attend both.

AUGUSTA, GA.
When: April 15, 2009 (TAX DAY)
Time: 5:00 - 10:00 PM
Location: Augusta River Walk Ampi-Theatre (10th and Reynolds Street, Downtown Augusta) 

We need all the help we can get and as big a crowd as we can gather to make this one of the biggest and best Tax Day Tea Parties in the Country 

Listen to NewsRadio1230 (you may need to stream it online at newsradio1230.com) for more information as we get all of the speakers and entertainment lined up.  This promises to be a fun-filled and exciting event for the whole family.  We're gonna party like it's 1776! 

COLUMBIA SC - Tea Party
The "party" will be at the State House between 12:30 and 2:30pm on April 15th 2009 (TAX DAY)
We are awaiting replies for a list of speakers that will get involved.
web posted March 17, 2009

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Re: Shamrock run
I think the race should be for Edgefield County people only. Why have it if the same people are gonna come in and take all the money every year? Why hold the race? We could just give them the money and save a lot of time and trouble. Thank you for spotlighting the local runners. I'm glad they got something out of it.
web posted March 17, 2009

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Why do people have to be so negative. I agree that when Double H Feed first changed ownership I was disappointed. I really liked the old owners and still do. But I was willing for the old owners sake, to give Josephine Brin the benefit of the doubt. If you remember the old owners stayed on for a while to help the new owners. Over time Josephine got to know her customers and was a very friendly caring person. She made a lot of sacrifices to try to make a go of the business. I am truly sorry for her that she will have to close her doors. This is true for many small businesses. It is a sad reality.

We have enough negativity in our country today. Where is the compassion for others.
web posted March 17, 2009

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Who owns Holmes Pond Rd? Is that a state road or a county road? Do they own the dam? Who gets to pay for the repairs?

Editor's note: As I understand the dam is privately owned and the road is a state road. Initial information says that the owner of the dam is responsible for the upkeep of the structure. SCDOT Officials were on the scene on Monday and they will meet with DHEC Officlas today.
web posted March 17, 2009

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I don't like you, (EdgefieldDaily.com), or anything you do.

Editor's note: There is a little "x" at the top right hand side of your browser. Feel free to use it.
web posted March 17, 2009

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What do you think the players feel when you bash their coach no matter what kind of job they do?  When you cut down the coach you‘re basically telling the players they’re not worth anything either. By the way, what do you think the coach’s wife or family feels when they get onto Wandering Minds and have to read your ignorant trash? I’m sure you don’t care because you don’t have enough sense to have feelings
I am a parent of one the STHS softball team players and very proud of the coach and the manner in which he coaches. I truly hope he will be around for a long time and continue to be the teacher and coach he is. Think about what has been said above and how many people feel hurt for trying so hard to be there for our children and only here the negative. Thanks for all our teachers and coaches---keep up the good work!
web posted March 17, 2009

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Something positive to celebrate...My son is in 5th grade at MES and came home Friday afternoon very excited about his day.  Mind you, I usually have to pull things about his day out of him, so I was thrilled when he came home describing  what he got to do.  5th graders were able to participate in a Career Day, where parents were invited to come and share about their Careers.  They were able to hear different people talk about jobs like a tree cutter, beautician, jail worker, and others.  They were able to see equipment that is used at these jobs as well as ask questions.  What a great way to expose these students and to get them thinking about what they might like to do in the future.  A TREMENDOUS praise to Mrs. Muns, the guidance counselor, for organizing this day!
web posted March 16, 2009

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Kudos to the 3rd-5th grade guidance counselor at Merriwether Elementary!  She did a fantastic job organizing the Career Fair on Friday!  My children really enjoyed the day.  I was very sad to learn that she will not be back next year due to budget cuts.  What a loss for the children of MES!
web posted March 16, 2009

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“Know wander we have girls leaving STHS for better schools with girl programs.  The other schools have good coaches and seem to care.”

Well we know you wouldn’t be qualified to coach a softball team. You can’t even write correctly! If you are considering Wardlaw a better school than Thurmond then you probably wouldn’t get the common sense questions right on the teaching exams either! Have you ever thought that maybe some of these coaches are coaching sports because nobody else will do it? YOU are one of the reasons why nobody wants to coach a non-revenue sport too! These coaches show up at school by 7:30am at the latest, most have morning hall duties somewhere, and then they teach until 3:15. Then when most of the other teachers are going home or going to run errands, they are going to practice or games which keep them from getting home until sometimes 10:00 or 11:00 at night. If they are married or have children how much time do they devote to the sport they’re coaching over their own family?  You wouldn’t know because you’re too busy thinking of the next jack ass comment to make at the next softball game. If you want to throw the argument in that they are paid to be on the field or coach their sport, then ok let’s look at that a moment. They may get around $1,000.oo for coaching their sport. $1,000.oo divided up over 4 months of the sport season is $250.oo a month. 5 days of practice a week over a 4 week month is around $62.50 a week. What job would you do that would pay you and support your family for $62.50 a week? Hmmmm. AND that’s before taxes!

Parents wanted a “baseball only” coach and they got that and how many games has baseball won? I’m sure more than softball but let’s see they had all of football and basketball season to condition, practice, and work one on one with their “baseball only” coach. The current softball coach may not be asked to coach at the next Summer Olympics but I guarantee you parents don’t have to worry about their daughters with him because he’s proven NOT to spend all his free time at school hanging around teenage girls, committed any felonies, or be a person of interest in an on-going murder investigation. That’s more than I can say for some people who always know more  than everybody else about how to run things.

What do you think the players feel when you bash their coach no matter what kind of job they do?  When you cut down the coach you‘re basically telling the players they’re not worth anything either. By the way, what do you think the coach’s wife or family feels when they get onto Wandering Minds and have to read your ignorant trash? I’m sure you don’t care because you don’t have enough sense to have feelings!
web posted March 16, 2009

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I want to know more (about) the boy that brought the knife to school (W.E. Parker). How long does it take you to get a police report? Who are you covering up for?

Editor's note: No one. I have made the information I have available and until the official report is made public there is nothing more I can report. I have confirmed the incident but due to the child's age the name cannot and will not be released.
web posted March 16, 2009

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I would like to encourage readers to go to the Edgefield First Baptist website and listen to Pastor Williams sermons.  He always has a wonderful message.  We are lucky to have him at Edgefield First Baptist Church.
web posted March 16, 2009

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my mother spoke about the well several years ago she was looked at like she was crazy older people of the town know about the well.
web posted March 16, 2009

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Do the laws of window tinting apply to Law Enforcement? Is Edgefield Chief’s car Legal?

Editor's note: I am not sure about the window tint used on the EPD's cars. I do know that law enforcement can use the same tint that is allowed on Limo's. The Sheriff's Office does not use window tint on undercover cars that is darker than allowed to the private citizen.
web posted March 16, 2009

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Re editors note:"Suppose I said I have nothing to hide so police can come and search my house anytime they want for no reason so everybody should agree to it too."

I usually agree with you, but this time I have to differ.  Comparing the school incident to searching my home is like comparing apples to oranges. The vehicle was parked on school property and the dog searching for drugs hit on the vehicle. I think this gives them reason to search the vehicle. No, I do not agree with any law enforcement search of a vehicle or home without a reason.  If the vehicle had been on the owners property it would have been different. Parents know the school parking lots are patrolled and vehicles checked by dogs from time time.  It is simple, if you are not willing to have your car searched, keep it off school property. Maybe I am different from most, but I support our law enforcement.  I also understand they are not perfect (as none of us are) and they may make a mistake,
but I think they were justified in this search.  We need to protect our kids and schools.
web posted March 16, 2009

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Re:  I have sat down with friends...
 
For confirmation, attend each council and school board meeting. It is each citizen's responsibility for demanding accountability.  The council is responsible for looking at all information and holding the departments, committees and Administrator accountable for their actions/lack of action.  The departments', committees' and Administrator's are responsible for making sure every i is dotted, every t is crossed and all issues are correct before it comes before council.  Ever heard the phrase "we only meet once a month" or "it is just the first reading", during one of the council meetings?  If not, you haven't been paying attention.
 
Recent example, Planning Commission's approval of  Mt. Vintage drawings with omissions, items needing correction and knowing the developer's past and current issues.  With these thoughts in mind, it should concern citizens that this same developer is Chairman of  Edgefield County Economic Development.  Could this possibly be part of the reason Edgefield County has not experienced growth?  Would this be considered a conflict of interest?
 
Every issue from how we get revenue (taxes and government funding) to how the money is spent (budget), affects all citizens.  County Council is holding a budget work session next Tuesday March 17 at 6:00 p.m.  Wonder how many citizens will show up or will just be content to read snippets in the papers?  The proposed budget(s) should be on line for citizens to review and respond to let council know what we think especially since they only meet once a month and their brains are on hold the rest of the time?  I  bet we could decide if public safety, pet projects or recreational funds are more important to the citizens.
 
Survival requires strong moral leadership and accountability, citizens choosing leaders who possess these qualities, council members demanding results of employees, committee members, all working together with a common sense approach:  this is my money, how can I spend it best?
web posted March 16, 2009

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RE: Why don't all of you all, just get off of Barack Obama.

Hallelujah Brother! You make so much sense it’s frightening! You’re right -- Obama is way smarter than any of us “commoners” writing in to Wandering Minds. Look at all the great things he’s accomplished already! Baby killings are going way up, and we can even kill the embryos in the name of “science” -- how great is that?!? And he really is putting the country first by borrowing all that money from the Chi-Comms -- what could possibly go wrong there? Having half the country check their pride and self-respect at the door to get a free handout from the “guv-mint” is a perfect way to move this country forward. And you really hit the nail on the head with the “African American” comment -- he’s not just an American with all those Kenyan relatives! Such insight you have provided! Yes, it truly is your time to shine. Best to not think that perhaps God is giving you a test, especially with all that baby killing going on. I’m sure he’ll overlook all of the sins your great President is having you sign on to. Obama makes it so convenient and easy to skip down the path to fiscal and moral bankruptcy -- let’s all pick some flowers for Me-shell while we do it! There’s no doubt that God is watching us, and Obama’s actions are definitely going to have an impact on who goes to heaven and who follows him to Hell. Oh but wait, you Liberals are atheists, right? So I guess you have nothing to worry about! All hail the golden calf Obama!
web posted March 14, 2009

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I have sat down with friends and family discussing why there has been very little, if any, growth in Edgefield County. We talked about why we haven't see any growth in our downtown or any industries moving into our county. We have tossed around many theories. But low and behold I think I may have stumbled onto the biggest cause of our problem. It only took listening to the "Reverend" Hooper and some of the members of our County Council to finally see the light. How can we continue to elect people with such a apparent lack of intelligence to our County Council? We all should have our heads examined. I would say the same goes for electing some members of our lustrous school board. I don't care what their skin color is or their level of education. But I do care that we keep electing individuals who do not seem to have a clue. Our County Council does not seem capable of understandig the simplest ideas and our school board can not put our children's educat ion before their political agendas. I am so sick and tired of my county and schools being run by a bunch of morons and raciest. It is time we all, both black and white, elect people of integrity and with a desire to do what is best for our community and schools. If this is the best we can offer as leaders, then all hope is lost. It seems that common sense is replaced by stupidity. That good judgement is replaced by lack of judgement. That integrity is replaced by a total lack of morality. It seems to be all across the board; from white to black, from the rich to the not so rich. At all levels of government, insanity and immorality prevails. But nowhere more than in local government does it so quickly and directly effect our lives. The sad part of all this is, it is at the local level where we should have more control of the people we elect, and we keep electing these....people. I don't have all the answers to the problems facing our community, but I do ha ve a vote. And I plan on using that one vote to try and bring honest y, integrity, and caring to our local governing bodies. I love this county and the people who reside here. They are, for the most part, hard working, God loving, caring individuals who deserve better than what is governing our county and schools.
web posted March 14, 2009

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HOLD YOUR HORSES! Or GIVE ME A BREAK!
The (report) about the Planning Commission brings about the following questions.

Why is Mr. Reed presenting anything to the Planning Commission?
If the plans had never been approved how can the County not address actions apparently in violation of the laws?

Is a member of the County Council not represented on the Planning Commission?
If so, how was the Plan ever approved? Cut me some slack!
If everything up to snuff I still do not understand how the Commission can approve a Plan so full of holes, can you?

Again, and we say this over and over….it would appear it is past time for new blood in many of the County’s positions of management.

Also, what has happened to the change to the County Council?  I thought the new members were going to change how the County does business.

Editor's note: The new council members are making the result of their elections felt on county government and that will be more evident in the coming weeks. The mess of Mt. Vintage is inherited and there's not much they can do about that at this time but it is being worked on.
web posted March 14, 2009

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The only things I am expecting from Obama is a country I feel safe in, the ability to keep what I have worked hard for, a country free of government intrusion and a chance for my children to live in a nation that does the same for them. I am not expecting to get anything GIVEN to me from all this stuff Obama is signing. What scares me are the freedoms that are being lost. My children are going to inherit the debt that is being incurred by all this signing of things. They are losing the chance to live in a free country. 

The Wall Street Journal has given Obama an F so far in his economic plan. The Wall Street Journal works hard to be bipartisan in their take on things so it is not a conservative evaluation. Obama's inexperience and political agenda is shining through-loud and clear.

Instead of looking for an opportunity to shine, maybe we need to really look at what is happening in this country. Instead of wanting to be given things, maybe we need to think about what we can do to help ourselves. Hardworking folks are going to quit working so hard if it is all going to go to the government in order to take care of everyone else. No one gave me anything. I worked hard and earned everything I have gotten. I expect the same from others. I help those in need but I do not want it dictated by the government. The only help I want from Obama is the chance to continue to work hard to take care of myself and my family. I don't want any handouts.

The luster is fading.
web posted March 14, 2009

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You need to dig a little deeper into "Rev" Hooper. There's a whole lot more that you don't know about. Thanks for telling the wonderful county leaders we have what dumb things they are doing. I can understand the new guys not knowing anything about him but Willie Bright said he knew and Norman Dorn knew. and they just sat their like nothing was wrong? What morons! Geezzz.....

Editor's note: I am well aware of Mr. Hooper's reputation and the allegations made over the years. Maybe he uses the "Rev" title so he can perform the "laying on of the hands", and more.
web posted March 14, 2009

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I saw a great bumper sticker the other day about Osama Obama. "I'll keep my money, You keep the change"!!!!!!
web posted March 14, 2009

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Have you heard anyting about a kid bringing a knife to school at Parker this week? My next door neighbor told me her son told her that the police arrested him. Did I miss the story or is this just a rumor?

Editor's note: There was a child removed from school after he was discovered to have a knife and, as I understand, intended to use it. No report has been published as no official incident report has been made available.
web posted March 14, 2009

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I have come up with a solution to the budget problem at the ECSD.  Get rid of all the overpaid administrators and just give the support staff a bit of a raise.  They are the ones doing the work and running the school district right now anyway.  The  big dogs are too busy trying to cover their own butts right now.  All the old support staff should just go on "strike" and the big dogs would see just how much they could do on their own.  What a good move on Doug Painter's part.  He is going to what we should have in this district right now, David Mathis.  And we all need to attend the school board meetings and stand up for our children. 
web posted March 14, 2009

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Why don't all of you all, just get off of Barack Obama. I am sure he knows better than all of yall sitting here writing on Wanderin Minds, he is doing what is best for the COUNTRY, not just for you. He has to sign something that helps everyone. It may not benefit all of you all right now, but i am pretty dang sure it will after while. You all are just mad, because we finally have a African American in the White House.
 
**But Remember this:
In the bible it says the first will be last
And the last will be first**
 
Now it is OUR    time to shine. O yeah and for all of yall that are sitting there talking about Michelle Obama, I guarantee you she looks better than you! So what if it was staged for her to take a picture at the soup kitchen, did Laura Bush or any of our previous first ladies ever help in the community?
web posted March 13, 2009

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I know a lot of people will be sadden by the leaving of the Doug Painter.  But maybe they will hire someone with interest in more than just football.  There are girls on teams that need some improvement with there coach.
It is most important to hire someone that can appoint someone that apparently knows a little something about the game (softball).  The current girls softball is clueless and could surely use some professional help.  Know wander we have girls leaving STHS for better schools with girl programs.  The other schools have good coaches and seem to care.
web posted March 13, 2009

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Bettis   Rainsford   going  to  run   for  gov.    He  will  make  a  very  good   gov.
web posted March 13, 2009

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Okay Y'all-

Time to call every one to arms-NO not armed revolution, but at least participation.  We need people to attend and pack the School Board Meetings.  I know everyone has a busy schedule with extra curricular activities, baseball, etc., however, to be successful, we need to show the school board we have community support.  This starts at the lowest level, the school board and works its way up the chain to our Senators, Reps, etc.  When they see a public groundswell of support they react the way they are supposed to react.  A few of us can't do it all, although we are trying.  We do need people to go to the School Board meetings, which are generally once a month, and if you can bear the stupidity, at least 2 hours.  Regardless, we need to show solidarity!  My schedule is just as busy as the next person's, but it is my absolute goal to be there even if I have to drive 4 hours, and I have, to be there.

Please, just show up, safety in numbers, change in numbers, we HAVE GOT TO CHANGE THIS SCHOOL BOARD AND SUPERINTENDENT OR OUR SCHOOLS will suffer without doubt, look at the Superintendent's last two districts.
web posted March 13, 2009

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How in the world does Edgefield County School District let two assistants, both very successful and former head football coaches with years of experience, get away?  Who could blame Painter for looking into other opportunities with the current inept leadership of the district office and school board. The word is Woolsey is being forced out as a working retiree.  (That's what happens when you make "across the board cuts" instead of assessing who should be retained or let go based on merit.)  In addition to being good coaches, both of these men do outstanding jobs with their daily school responsibilities.  Both are well-liked and respected by the students and their parents.  How do you replace that kind of experience?
Coach Sawyer recently announced that he was staying at Strom Thurmond High School out of loyalty to the players and the community.  After assembling a top notch staff and a fantastic record, Coach Sawyer deserves better than that.  Doesn't he deserve a little loyalty in return?  
web posted March 13, 2009

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To the person complaining about his car being searched at STHS.  If you have nothing to hide there should be no problem.  You sound like a fine, upstanding citizen of the county who supports our law enforcement and I am sure, with your attitude, your child will grow up the same.  I'm sure the dog is not perfect like you are.

Editor's note: Suppose I said, "I have nothing to hide so police can come and search my home anytime they want for no reason so everybody else should agree to it too". Again, not taking sides just looking at ramifications of words, would you be willing to do the same? Just throwing it out there for discussion.
web posted March 13, 2009

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Milton Friedman supports legalization of pot.
http://www.forbes.com/2005/06/02/cz_qh_0602pot.html
web posted March 13, 2009

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It has been interesting to see that it has not taken Obama very long to forget his campaign promises of transparency and getting rid of earmarks.  He promised that the American public would be able to see legislation that was to be voted on five days prior to the vote and that he would eliminate earmarks.  The stimulus package was not made available in a timeframe for our legislators to review,  let alone the American public.  The budget bill was on his desk and could have been vetoed if he had really wanted to eliminate the earmarks.  A veto of that bill would have shown that he has the guts to stand up to Congress. Instead he blamed Congress and acted like he had no choice in the matter.  He indicated in his speech yesterday that there were times when some earmarks might help the American people.  He didn't mention that when he was campaigning.  Both sides did have ridiculous earmarks in that bill. The stimulus package is full of wasteful spending from both sides. Maybe that is why Congress has such low approval ratings.  However, the buck stops with Obama. He is the president and he needs to act like one. You cannot continue the blame game and he should honor his campaign promises. That may come back to haunt him in the next election. Also, these legislators, Republican and Democrat, better think about what they are doing because the American people are watching more closely these days.

Now there is talk of another stimulus package. What in the world are these people thinking?  The markets have shown their belief in all this economic "help". If you listen, watch or read only the liberal media you probably don't agree, however it is hard to deny what is going on.  Actually it is good to inform yourself on all sides.  Hopefully email is not anyone's source of news.
web posted March 13, 2009

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Parents need to take the time to get involved and read closely any and all school letters and documents that your child or children bring home. With schools or any business there are rules and regulations one must abide by. When you don't abide by the rules or regulations, there are repercussions for the choices one makes. In these times now with so much violence that come back to our schools or work place, we as parents need to count our blessings there is some order in our schools.
There is a school policy that parents and the public have access to. You can find this online http://www.edgefield.k12.sc.us, go to School Board and select the letter J- JIH Student interrogations, searches and arrests. There you will find your answer as to your complaint with your car being searched. Also select the letter K and read section KB- KBB Parent rights and responsibilities.
Again if parents would stop from being so quick to anger and ask questions before jumping to conclusions. There are policies in place required by the state that all schools must have. Public schools are not the only schools that have car searches, private schools have them to. Parents take the time to get involved in your children's schools, and go to the Board meetings and read important information that is sent home with the student, or get the information online from  your District website.
web posted March 13, 2009

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The respondant to my letter in support of car seaches at STHS states that he has contacted a lawyer and will possibly sue ECSD for illlegal search or whatever.
 
He proves my case for discontinuing student parking at the high school.  If the board is going to get into expensive litigation, then it is imperative that they shut down student parking immediately.  It is not a requirement that ECSD supply parking on school grounds.  There is no law that says we have to supply parking.
 
For the board to stop potential litigation, prudence suggests eliminating; if  legally possible, that potential cause of litigation.  That's just common sense.  This is what Tucson did over student lockers.  No more lockers !!!
 
Expectations of privacy are understandable.  Searches are not pleasant.  But when you enter many parking areas there are signs that state that by entering; you agree that your property may be searched at will.  This is true of military bases, cruise ship parking and many, many schools across the nation.
 
We don't live in Mayberry anymore, folks.  Drugs, and guns, are brought onto school grounds everyday with deadly consequences.  How many children were first sold drugs on school grounds ?  Have we forgotten Columbine ?
web posted March 12, 2009

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I read with great interest the letter to the editor yesterday concerning our school superintendent's lack of intestinal fortitude concerning the safety and security of our students while at school.  Extortion? Weapons? Drugs? Rape?  I would think these types of crimes would warrant a heads up to the school board.  This is outrageous!  Parents who let this slide by not becoming involved are doing a disservice to their children.  Crenshaw has to go.  And the sooner the better!
web posted March 12, 2009

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman J. Gresham Barrett (SC, 03) issued the following statement regarding President Obama signing the $410 billion omnibus spending bill:

“It is clear now, with the signing of the omnibus spending bill, that the President and many of my colleagues believe spending more taxpayer money and growing the government is the path to prosperity. In this Administration’s first fifty days alone, the Democrats in Washington have spent $1 billion every hour, making government spending a serious liability on every hard-working American’s bank account.

“I couldn’t disagree more with their tax and spending approach. Unlike some of my colleagues, I have faith in the American people. I believe empowering individuals and small business is the answer. America’s greatest economic asset is its people – not its government.”
web posted March 12, 2009

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To those who blindly believe everything they read in email:  you are a pawn on the chessboard of the conservative political smear machine.  Fifteen talking points were listed without a SINGLE HYPERLINK to any piece of source information.  CPAC follower?  If you are trying to make a point, why not provide some background information?  Here are some reputable news sources if you really want to inform yourself on the news:  The Associated Press, Reuters, and of course ABC, NBC and CBS.  Also, re:Pelosi – http://www.recovery.gov.  Go there and re-post all the pork that you speak of!  I think you may be confusing the stimulus package with a new omnibus bill that was signed by Obama today, of which was 60/40 democrat and republican earmarks, respectively.  He also commented that this bill represents a beginning to the end of this type of lawmaking, and that from now on earmarks will be posted on the proposed legislator’s website so the public can view and scrutinize spending by their representatives.
web posted March 12, 2009

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People PLEASE attend the school board meetings!!!!!! You have no idea how stupid Sallie Cooks and the MoTown Four are until you do. They are running our schools into the ground!!!!!! Take a stand NOW!!!!!
web posted March 12, 2009

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I loved the Milton freidman video clip! PRICELESS!!!!!!!!
web posted March 12, 2009

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You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that, my dear friend, is about the end of any nation. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it.”

--Dr. Adrian Rogers
web posted March 12, 2009

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I read Pastor Williams article on daylight savings time and wondered why we go through changing our clocks. He had a good point, it don't change anything. Why not set the clocks 30 mins and just be done with it?
web posted March 12, 2009

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this is in-reference to the post about the k-9 and the person contacting a lawyer.  go waste your money on this issue about your vehicle being searched.  your lawyer is gonna take your money and run.  lol!!!!!!!!!!  when you step on a school campus you are subject to being searched.  what are you gonna put the dog on trail for?  waste your money so everyone can laugh.  lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  you just don't get it!  your lawyer is smart.  he has to put food on the table win or lose.  you better do some reading cause right now you are just wasting a part of your life you will never get back.  my child goes to the highschool and i am happy to see the sro doing his job.  get over it!  don't waste your time on something when you know it was all done right at the high school.  next time if your worried about your car being searched when the sro had the right and lawful way to do so let your child take the bus!  why do  cause i use to be one!  i wouldn't touch this cause this would be a waste of my time and i would be HONEST AND UP FRONT WITH A CLIENT!

Editor's note: After the claim I did some research and an aggrieved party can place the drug dog on trial as to his or her ability of being able to consistently and correctly identifying vehicles that may or may not contain drugs. If the dog can be proven to be inconsistant in "alerting" on vehicles, especially if the dog alerts on cars that do not contain drugs, the searches can, and have been, ruled unconstitutional.

I have had in depth debates with law enforcement on this issue regarding the basis that a dog, as a witness, cannot be cross examined since an animal cannot provide testimony that is required for probable cause for a search warrant or a search. Anyone accused has a right to cross examine a witness against them and I have yet to see a dog be able to offer oral testimony in a criminal case.

I am not defending one position or the other, just offering my own opinions in the matter.
web posted March 12, 2009

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Regarding the closing of the feed store:  I have to call bull on her story and many have been predicting and waiting for this to happen for a long while now.  They may blame the economy for the failure of the business but the truth is she is the reason that people quit trading with the Double HH.  She came to this area with a superior, arrogant attitude and spoke down to just about everyone that walked in the door.  She never made me feel welcomed the way the old owners did.  Her only concern was selling me the most expensive item she could regardless of whether it was the best product for my need or not.  She even tried to to convince me to change feed because she was out of my normal feed but still wanted to make the sale. She does not care about the needs of her customers, only the amount of money she could take from each one every time they walk in the place. 

If the old owners had a home remedy that would work just as well as spending $30 on a product I didn't really need, they would suggest that and send me home WITHOUT making a sell that day (or a sell of that item but I"d purchase something else) and they were very successful running that same business. There is no better way to ensure a return customer than to save them some money once in a while.  They were knowledgeable about horses and the products they sold.  You can't ask this owner anything and get a straight answer. 

(content removed)

Her reputation is far from stellar and they brought this on themselves.  I'd have more respect for her if she moved back to New Jersey with her HUSBAND. 
web posted March 12, 2009

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Edgefield Daily Editor,
Parents and taxpayers know that public schools in South Carolina are persistently under-performing.
A new national ranking suggests South Carolina is further behind than even the most skeptical could have imagined:

"South Carolina is Home to 11 of Nation’s 25 Worst Public Schools"
web posted March 12, 2009

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Editor's post: Anyone that thinks that Barack Obama's socialist agenda is the best thing to "save America" and punish the "greedy rich", take note of Milton Friedman's comments in 1974. Try as you may, you cannot refute his facts. They are much more pertinent today than they were then.
web posted March 11, 2009

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Bet you won't see this on national media anytime soon.  Can you say "cover up"? Absolutely no one is holding those lying ...... accountable. CNN: Pelosi to Wolf Blitzer: "I promise no pork in the stimulus bill". (over 9,000 pork projects included)
web posted March 11, 2009

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Racism is defined as the notion that one’s own ethnic stock is superior.  The word is usually bandied about by those who have no idea of the meaning.  Used in its proper context would refer to a belief in a genetic superiority. Suppose one ethnic group does not appreciate a cultural characteristic of another ethnic group and makes reference to the disparities, does that make him a racist?  Of course not, the individual is pointing out a action that is different from his culture and is not saying, at all, that it is a result of a genetic deficiency.  Reverend King’s vision of people being judged by the content of their character is a lofty ideal.  It envisions people, regardless of race being called on their conduct and to do so is not racism.  We should be judged by our conduct and character regardless of our ethnic origin.  We should never defend or condone conduct that is untoward.  The danger in pointing out deficiencies in character, regardless of ethnic considerations, is that you will be inaccurately branded a racist.  It is my fear that if Reverend King could see the moral state of the nation, he would judge our society a failure.

Once the inaccurate accusations of racism are unleashed, divisions and battle lines are fixed and the parties rally around causes without reason.  Some posts in WM seem to indicate this reality.  How refreshing it would be if accurate and true accusations could be asserted and there would be unanimity, regardless of ethnic handicap, to say right is right and wrong is wrong.  Handicap?   Certainly, to cling doggedly to any ethnic heritage is a handicap if it results in right being wrong or the opposite.  Why not stand together for what is right and just.  Certainly there are people big enough to stand with their brother when he is right.  Just remember that at the Day of the Lord, it will not be you who will choose who you sit by at the Wedding Feast of the Lamb.  If you protest too much you may find yourself outside the gate.
web posted March 11, 2009

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This is to the person wanting to restore the 200+ year old well on the (Edgefield) town square. You're an idiot. We have this thing called indoor plumbing and it works pretty good. Check it out.
web posted March 11, 2009

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I want to respond to those supporting the searching of cars at the school. My car was also searched that day and I am VERY UPSET! No one has ever smoked so much as a cigarette in my car. I can assure you I do not do drugs and our child taking my car to school was a last minute thing. As I was told there were several students pulled out of class to be searched and only one student was found to have anything in their car. I find it hard to base searching cars because a dog supposedly “alerts” on so many cars with nothing in them as “reasonable grounds” for a search. I would be willing to bet I could go to (a local grocery store) and point out just as many cars just by guessing and find at least one that might have drugs inside. Are the police going to search all those cars just because I “think” there are drugs in the cars? NO! Personally I have contacted a lawyer to sue the school for searching my car without probable cause, as they like to call it. His advice was to put the dog on trial, then the school and the Sheriff’s Office. The dog is their witness and I have every right to put the dog on trial according to my lawyer. He did say that the Sheriff would not like it if I sued because if I won it would hurt a lot of their drug cases that used the same dog to find drugs in the cars of drug dealers. I don’t care! MY RIGHTS were violated. Who’s to say the dog even “alerted” on a car in the first place? I think it is all a lot of hooey. They are going to have to prove it to me.
web posted March 11, 2009

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Re: I am becoming more and more concerned about our school system. It is so alarming that teachers at STHS cannot call parents to let us know when problems exist.
 
As a teacher from STHS, I make every effort to contact parents if I have a problem with my students or a concern about their grades. Please do not lump all teachers into the same catergory. If a child is talking during a test, then it is entirely inappropriate. The child could possibly be cheating. If the teacher told students not to talk during the test, then they should follow directions. There are consequences for every action. If the teacher warns the class of the impending zero, then the students should be quiet. We have a policy in place to contact parents if the child is in danger of failing. Now for my second gripe: How dare you accuse my principal of such behavior! If you have the guts to get on Wandering Minds and make such accusations, then make an appointment and accuse him in person. I think you need to keep your filthy accusations to yourself. Mr. Schilit is actively involved in the classroom process. He goes around on a regular basis and does classroom observations. He also offers constructive criticism when needed. I thinkf for his first year he had tried to do his very best. Now take your opinion and stuff it.
web posted March 11, 2009

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If Gresham (Barrett) is running for governor, who is going to run for his seat since he can't run in both elections? You haven't said anything about that......

Editor's note: There are several who are considering a run for the US House seat at this time though none have made it official. One person I do not expect to see run would be Democrat SC State Rep. Bill Clyburn. He would have to give up his State House seat in order to run. I don't see that happening as the musical chairs scenario could see a Republican take his seat if he did not run in the state race and Barrett's seat is in a solid Republican district. I don't see the Democrats rolling the dice on those odds of losing both seats. I doubt we will see a return of Jane Dyer (D) after her poor showing in 08.
web posted March 11, 2009

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i think that obama can get us out of this mess if we give him a chance. we were going through this mess way before he got in the chair it just didnt come out til he got there. president bush knew exactly what he was doing. we need to give him a chance to do what he plans to do.the color of his skin should not have anything to do with it.we all bleed the same and what whites can do blacks can also. both colors makes poor choices in life and neither are better than the other. what we need to is support him in whatever need to be done. and stop putting him down he is not a bad person. just give him your support, by judging him his not gonna make him fail in what he wanna do.yes we can, go obama.
web posted March 11, 2009

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talk about locker room material!
web posted March 11, 2009

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Re: The banter on the WM has been interesting to say the least in regards to the protection of our children in the School System.  No one yet has mentioned the report card that was released last month and the fact that Fox Creek Charter High School scored higher marks than Strom Thurmond.  It is interesting to note that discipline seems to be a key characteristic in both situations.

What the (heck) does the school report cards have to do with discipline?! Which school’s report card has higher scores has nothing to do with children’s protection. You were obviously a Wardlaw kid since you know more than us Public School people.
web posted March 11, 2009

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I have always been an independent voter.  Most of the time I voted Republican because I believed they represented my beliefs.  Like many other Americans, I am disappointed in our politicians.  Our values, love of country,common sense, work ethic and American way of life have been trampled upon and now we are headed toward total destruction.  When the campaign began I thought Obama might be just what we needed, change we can believe in.  The republicans  and democrats in Congress had let us down.  As I listened to him and the media, I realized he was so radical on many issues and did not clearly state what his intentions were.  My fear was that he would get elected because of all the hype not because of what he truly represented.  That persona is quickly fading.   Supporters say give him a chance.  I personally don't care if he is pink with purple polka dots, I want our President to be successful if it truly benefits our country. 
 
Watching him and his advisors closely I see more of what I saw in his campaign.  They have no clear vision of how to handle anything.  They tell the American people and wall street, we need to spend to get the economy going again.  Don't they understand no jobs equals no money to spend?  Wall street is reacting to the atmosphere of no confidence in this administration which should have been apparent to everyone before he was elected.  They tell us this stimulus package is what we must have. Have you looked at that package?   Where are the long lasting jobs they promised?  Buried behind the stem cell research, the $900 million Hillary has pledged to rebuild the Gaza Strip,  negotiations with the Taliban, closing Gitmo, bringing the terrorists here, closing of Yucca Mountain, trillions of dollars in debt, control of our health care and education, control by providing more freebies to anyone unwilling to work from those who are and taxing the "wealthy" to give to the poor.  The "wealthy" already have plans to quit working so hard, running to other countries to start businesses and generally stop investing in this Country.
 
Republicans, you need to apologize to all of us, get a clear picture of where we need to be, stand together  and push forward before we are forever changed.  If not, let the Rapture begin.
web posted March 11, 2009

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I listened to the recording of the council's last meeting regarding Mr. Hooper's (member of the tax appeal board) Part 1  Part 2 complaint about preferential treatment for property tax appeals.  Once again Mr. Dorn was unprepared and therefore Mr. Hooper was unprepared to present the complaint.  He had no examples of favoritism, no comparisons of properties being reviewed.  This was classic Mr. Dorn.  He hints that there is racism and favoritism for the "big guy" while the little guy takes the hit.  I would suggest to Mr. Dorn stop campaigning and actually do something for your constituents.  As a representative for the people of your district, you should be getting the facts, letting your people know what the procedure is for tax appeal and getting them to follow the procedure.  First you need to get some lessons on how to communicate clearly.  Whatever the conversation, Mr. Dorn's statements have to be deciphered.  With his constant rambling and wandering off the subject, no one knows what he is actually saying nor what he wants to accomplish.  Mr. Hooper take a lesson on how NOT to get your message across.
 
Mr. Hooper, the tax bill tells you who to contact for an appeal (duh, the tax assessor).  First step: you need to have information on why you think the appraisal is too high.  Such things as the home is smaller or has less amenities than the appraisal shows, comparable homes with less appraised value, etc.  Take that information to the tax assessor's office.  If the assessor does not agree then the next step:  take the information before the tax appeal board.  Mr. Dorn and Mr. Hooper that is what you need to tell everyone.  In the end Mr. Dorn stated he hadn't appealed his own taxes and probably wouldn't get around to it.  What????
web posted March 11, 2009

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Regarding the parent who objected to car searches on school property....Is there any legal requirement that ECSD supply parking spaces to students ?  I think not ! 
 
The solution to this problem, if not already hashed out legally;  is to stop supplying parking spaces to students without a signed agreement that allows searches.  Then, if you don't want your little darling's car searched, fine, your little darling won't be allowed to park on school property.
 
When I lived in Tucson, Arizona, some idiot liberal judge said that students' lockers could not be searched without a warrant... Tucson's solution was quite simple....no more lockers !
 
Perhaps as a money making enterprise, ECSD could charge for student parking.  I paid $20.00 per month for years where I worked.  This might be enough to save at least one job or.... a nice weekend retreat for the School Board...

Editor's note: Parents pay for a parking permit for their students who drive to school. The US Supreme Court has ruled that students do not waive any of their Constitutional rights upon entering a public school or property. Not arguing the point, just providing information.
web posted March 10, 2009

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Re: Mr. Obama Lovers and Liberals?????????
 
I would like for some one to tell me what is wrong with this reply. Look at it, study it, read it, pray over it, stare at it. Please tell me what's wrong with this reply ? There is nothing wrong with this reply except for the color of it. So I can just guess why all the negative comments are sent in ABOUT OUR PRESIDENT, Mr Obama. The color of a person's skin do not mean that they are different. Blood is red , the brain is in your head, ( at least for some of us). I am glad that my mother and daddy did not raise me with intended evil. The color of a person's skin does not decide whether you go to heaven or hell. Now a lot of you readers need to remember this when God tells you to flee from me because I know you not. Your soul and earthly body will be sent straight to hell because of the hatred, and malice in your heart. I do not have to worry about this because my (Black ) Parents raised a person with common sense and a beautiful attitude.
web posted March 10, 2009

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I loved the "divorce letter". I think we should all send a copy to all of of reps in congress. The sooner the better!!!!!!! I say screw the half and hafd deal though. We take the red states, they take the blue. Pretty much sums up where America stands. Right?
web posted March 10, 2009

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This is not by any means a COMPLAINT against edgefielddaily.com as I read it as often as
my time will allow, however I do have a complaint against our so called local hospital and their
so called staff....... I took my child to the ER as my child was running a temperature of 103.3 and would not go down after repeatedly being given the proper medication such as Tylenol or Motrin.Just a little background into why I may be seeking legal advice on this issue is because my child has a history of seizures  and I have been told by the doctors that have treated my child since the age of a month old that seizures can be started when you run a high grade temperature hence the reason I went to the ER in the first place. This is WELL DOCUMENTED IN MY CHILD'S RECORDS TOO !!  Instead of being treated with dignity and respect we were basically nobodie's. I could have understood this if it had been packed or a major EMERGENCY was going on but no not this night so why I want to know was we treated like an underground rock? Who knows? I made calls to the CEO with nothing but
excuses that didn't have anything to do with me or how we were treated.I was told that they would have a talk with the staff about this treatment --- BIG DEAL ----
 
(Content removed) I and my child will not go back to this hospital, if that is even an appropriate title for such a place....

Editor's note: Edgefield County Councilwoman Genia Blackwell is on the council's Hospital Committee. You can email her here with your concerns.
web posted March 10, 2009

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Obama promised "change". I think he misspelled it. What he ment was "chains" . All hail Massa Obama.
web posted March 10, 2009

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When a state public college had thier computer lab cut from the state budget last year I thought, ok. that was a want, not a need. No big deal. However, that public college was The Citadel, and the reason for the new computers? they are still running Windows 98! There are no more upgrades available for W 98so when a computer goes down, its down.. When my sons computer died, he had nowhere to go because the computers at school are obsolete and useless. I had to take him my daughters computer so he could complete his papers and homework. How can we expect  our college students to excel in the classroom if we are not giving them  the tools to compete and learn with the rest of the state and nation? I would bet both Clemson and USC's computer labs have been updated; yet again, the little guy gets nothing.While this budget cut seemed innocent enought at the time its obvious no one looked into the reason BEHIND the request for a new computer lab. Why should we expect our lawmakers to look at facts and not just numbers? That would require common sense, something  not often used in politics.
web posted March 10, 2009

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Check this out! Michelle Obama posing for a picture taken by a "homeless guy" with a cell phone at a soup kitchen!! Gimme a break!!!! STAGED!!!!!!!!!!
web posted March 10, 2009

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The banter on the WM has been interesting to say the least in regards to the protection of our children in the School System.  No one yet has mentioned the report card that was released last month and the fact that Fox Creek Charter High School scored higher marks than Strom Thurmond.  It is interesting to note that discipline seems to be a key characteristic in both situations.  I also know that the more programs that a school has to offer such as programs for the developmentally challenged, the greater the risk of having lower scores.  All factors need to be taken into consideration.  With that being said, accountability IS the community's responsibility. 
 
Secondly, not too much was said about the Calliham property sale and the fact that all four pieces of Calliham property went for $125,000.  The county has said nothing more about the rebuilding of the Community Center on Church since December.  I would hate to see any "clock" run out on the insurance claims for the building that burned because it would not teach anything to the seated county councilmen/women.  I would sure be a hard lesson for the tax payers of Edgefield County that would have the burden of replacement. 
 
Yes, it seems that "slackness" abounds.  I hope average Tax Payer will soon deliver on holding some hired and elected folks accountable for some of this mess.

Editor's note: It is my understanding that plans are underway to build on the Church Street site. I do not have any indications of a start date.
web posted March 10, 2009

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I am becoming more and more concerned about our school system. It is so alarming that teachers at STHS cannot call parents to let us know when problems exist. But yet, these same teachers can offer a zero as a test grade when a child talks. I feel that Mr. Schilit should become more involved in classroom procedures and have less communication with certain female students. He has assured several parents that he was working on parental communication, but no improvements have been shown. We as parents need help. NO child should be allowed to fail without the parent having had prior knowledge.
web posted March 10, 2009

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Obama   is doing   a very good   job.  Bush  the  one  got  us   in  this  mess   it's  going  to   take  obama   eight years   to  get  us   back   in  shape  real   good.  Obama will be   a very  good  president   of  the   u.s.  y'all  need  to   get  a  life  yes   we  can   yes  we  did.

Editor's note:
web posted March 10, 2009

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If the school board feels the need to "retreat," they can use the very nice conference room located at the district office, and they can brown bag it the way the rest of us are having to do.  If one cent is spent on this "retreat," while the remainder of the district employees are struggling to do their jobs without necessary supplies, there should be a revolt among the citizenry of Edgefield County.
web posted March 10, 2009

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So I see you're hittin people up for money mr editor. times gettin tough? what happened to "never charge a fee"? your starting to show what you really are.

Editor's note: I would thank you for reading, but it is obvious your reading comprehension skills are severely diminished. I publicly thanked a reader for an unsolicited donation to EdgefieldDaily.com. It was a kind and generous gesture and it was greatly appreciated. How is showing that gratitude "hittin people up for money"? EdgefieldDaily.com always has been free of registration or fees to access our news and content and will remain that way as promised.
web posted March 10, 2009

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First: (uws) this is the pot calling the kettle a name, you don’t know anything about me yet you call me ignorant. I am a well educated person who has more class in my little finger than your whole body. Yes I do have a 401k plan (very satisfying) but I don’t need it), I worked for it and I’ll us it and the inheritance that I’ve received. So sorry that’s what you’re really depending on. Is that why you needed this minute of fame on the ‘daily.com?  Unless you’re the one that wrote the article that I responded too-You’re the ignorant one for responding to a comment not actually referring to you.  EEK. 

Second: (cos) What does racist mean- usually involving the idea that one's own race, people with racist beliefs may resent certain groups of people according to their race. ... Do you know what color I am? NO! So how can you call me racist? What’s giving a comment has to do with me being given the name of a racist? What can I call you? I haven called you anything out of character so why would you. If given a comment makes me a racist – what does that make you? You responded! Move over Jack, my comment touched a nerve, it hit home.  Three cheers!
hooray! 
web posted March 10, 2009      

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i received yet another powerfully sad, but true email.  these items aren't fictious, although it is hard to believe that an administration this corrupt, is running our country.
1. The American people elect a BROWN president with a total of 42 days experience as a U S Senator from the most politically corrupt state in America whose governor is ousted from office.  The President's first official act is to close Gitmo and make sure Terrorists civil rights are not violated..
2. The U.S. Congress rushes to confirm a black Attorney General, Eric Holder, whose law firm we later find out represents seventeen Gitmo Terrorists.
3. The CIA Boss, Leon Penetta with absolutely no experience, has a daughter Linda we find out, that is a true radical anti-American activist who is a supporter of all the Anti-American regimes in the western hemisphere.
4. We got the most corrupt female in America as Secretary of State; bought and paid for.
5. We got a Tax Cheat for Treasury Secretary who files his own taxes.
6. A Commerce Secretary nominee who withdrew due to corruption charges.
7. A Tax cheat nominee for Chief Performance Officer who withdrew under charges.
8. A Labor Sec'y nominee who withdrew under charges of unethical conduct.
9. A Sec'y HHS nominee who withdrew under charges of cheating on his taxes.
10. A stimulus bill  is signed into law that will either bankrupt America or destroy its currency value.
11. House bill HR45 is introduced to disarm the American people.
12. Obama hires a law firm with a $500,000 retainer to protect his birth certificate and college records from being disclosed to the American people.
13. Contemplation of nationalization of American banks by the Federal Government.
ARE YOU STARTING TO GET IT????????????????????
And that's just the first month . . . but who's counting. America is  being run by the modern-day Three
Stooges ~ Barrack, Nancy , and Harry ~ and they are still trying to define stimulus. Stimulus is where the government gives a smidgen of your tax dollars back to you making you feel so good about
yourself [stimulated] that you want to run out to Wal-Mart and buy a new Chinese-made HDTV and go home and watch Telemundo!
web posted March 10, 2009

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I am shocked, that the historical nuts "oops" I mean buffs would let the town fill in the important historical find in the town square. You would think they would want to restore it to its original state. But maybe it is not a well but a broken water pipe.
Remember that when we have low water this summer they buried a natural source or did did not fix a possible problem.

Editor's note: The sinkhole was confirmed to be the old well. It is in the process of being back-filled. It would be impossible to restore.
web posted March 10, 2009

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman J. Gresham Barrett issued the following statement Monday regarding President Obama’s executive order to lift restrictions that limit taxpayer funding of human embryonic stem cell research:  

“The President’s executive order to ease restrictions that limit taxpayer funding of human embryonic stem cell research is the latest in a series of moves that is quickly making this Administration the least life-friendly in the history of our nation.
 
“My heart goes out to all of those struggling with debilitating diseases and disabilities, but as someone who believes that life begins at conception; I do not believe that destroying innocent human life is an option. Breakthroughs in science are occurring daily and providing viable alternatives to embryonic stem cell research. In fact, research has shown that stem cells derived from adults and umbilical cords are already used in 73 successful treatments today and hold the most promise for the future. It is my sincere hope that the Administration would choose to explore these and other alternatives to embryonic stem cell research rather than continuing its assault on precious human life.”
web posted March 10, 2009

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this is to the person who was stating about they better call me before they search my car if the dog hit on it and all the other stupid crap they are saying.  for your information if the dog alerts on your car they dont have to have your permission to search the car.  if the dog alerts on the car they are going in it weither you like it our not and there is nothing you can do about it.  take them to court!  lol!!!!!!!!!!  they dont have to call you.  lol!!!!  it is the law you jail house lawyer!  if the dog alerts on the car it does not mean that there are drugs in the car right there and then, it means that the ODOR of a drug or drugs is present you idiot!  also, drugs were found in a students vehicle during the search.  i am sick and tired of people blasting our law enforcement officers here in edgefield county. a lot of people whine when the officers do there job and then talk bad about them but when they need the officers they just love them to death.  the sro's at the school do a great job and so does the deputies of this county.  so whoever posted the post complaining about the the k-9 and the officers doing there job, get a life and read up on the laws cause it is appearent you know nothing about it.  are you a criminal?  lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  oh yeah pack your (stuff) and leave this great state cause the true law enforcemet officers are here to stay to protect me and all the other great folks here in this county and this state!!!!!!!!!!  i am proud to live here in edgefield county!  
web posted March 10, 2009

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Dear Edgefield Daily Editor,

73,722 children in South Carolina attend failing public schools.
These 185 "at-risk" schools are the absolute worse, rated even lower than the state's 267 "below average" schools.
Visit The Voice for School Choice for a detailed list:
web posted March 10, 2009

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Editor's post: I would like to thank a reader who recently made a donation to EdgefieldDaily.com because of their appreciation for having the daily news available every morning. I am humbled by your support.

In another report, Sheriff's Deputies encountered some of the racing bikes that have made Woodlawn Road, Martintown Road, and Garrett Road their playground. A deputy tried to stop a group of riders who sped off at a high rate of speed after leaving Woodlwan Road on Martintown Road and the chase was broken off for safety reasons on Saturday. The South Carolina Highway Patrol did place a license check on Woodlawn Road at the bridge on Stevens Creek for a short time afterwards.

This is a step in the right direction.

The February 2009 Wandering Minds Archive has been placed and linked above to allow this page to load faster for dial-up readers.
web posted March 9, 2009

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How can the Edgefield County school board justify taking a "retreat" when the schools are supposed to be in financial stuggles, so much so that they are actually considering forcing teachers to give up 5 days of pay!
 
And as far as this "Alternative" school that Crenshaw wants to add...if we would bring back Corporal punishment we wouldn't have as many issues of troublemakers "getting in the way" of other students who really just want to learn!
 
I am so disgusted with the way that teachers are getting treated, the the mis-use of school funds and the blatant disregard for our kids, who are innocently caught up in a huge power trip between adults!
 
We are supposed to be shaping young minds by giving students a safe, healthy environment in which to learn how to be productive, well-mannered and successful adults!
 
WAKE UP EDGEFIELD COUNTY!
web posted March 9, 2009

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Dear American liberals, leftists, social progressives, socialists, Marxists and Obama supporters,
We've stuck together since the late 1950s, but the whole of this latest election process has made me realize that I want a divorce. I know that we tolerated each other for many years for the sake of future generations, but sadly this relationship has run its course. Our two ideological sides of America cannot and just will not ever agree on what's right. So let's just end it right now while we can do it on friendly terms. We can smile, shake hands, chalk it up to irreconcilable differences and each go our own way.

So here's a model separation agreement.

Our two groups can equitably divide up the country by land mass, each taking a portion. That's going to be the difficult part, but I'm sure our two sides can come to a friendly agreement. After that, it should be relatively easy. Our respective representatives can effortlessly divide other assets since both sides have such distinct and disparate taste. We don't like redistributive taxes so you can have those. You are welcome to the liberal judges and the ACLU. And since you hate guns and you hate war, we'll take the firearms, the cops, the NRA and the military. You can keep Oprah, Michael Moore and Rosie O'Donnell. But you are going to be responsible for finding a biodiesel vehicle big enough to haul them around.

We'll keep the capitalism, the greedy corporations, the pharmaceutical companies; we will keep Wal-Mart and Wall Street. You can have the homeless, the homeboys, the hippies and illegal aliens. We will keep the hot Alaskan hockey moms, the greedy CEOS and all of the rednecks. We'll keep the Bibles and we'll let you have NBC and Hollywood.

You can be nice to Iran and Palestine and we'll retain the right to invade and hammer anybody that threatens us. You can have the peaceniks and the war protesters. When our allies or our way of life are under assault, we will provide them with security. You won't have to worry about it. We will keep our Judeo-Christian values. You are welcome to Islam, Scientology, Humanism and Shirley Maclaine. You can also have the UN, but we will no longer pay the bill.

We will keep the SUVs, the pickup trucks and the oversize luxury cars. You can have the compacts, the subcompacts and every Subaru station wagon you can find. You can give everybody healthcare, if you can find any practicing doctors. We will continue to believe that healthcare is a privilege and not a right. We will keep "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and the national anthem, and I am sure you will be happy to substitute in their place "Imagine." I'd like to teach the world to sing "Kumbaya" or "We are the world." We will practice trickle-down economics and you can give trickle-up poverty your best shot. And since it so offends you, we will keep our history, our name and our flag.

Would you agree to this? If so, please pass it along other like-minded liberal and conservative patriots. And if you do not agree, just hit delete. In the friendly spirit of parting, I'll bet you ANWAR which one of us will need whose help in about 15 years.

Sincerely,

John J Wall

Law student and an American

P.S. You can also have Barbara Streisand and Jane Fonda

Editor's note: This letter has been making the roaunds on the internet.
web posted March 9, 2009

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A reader has taken the recording of James Hooper from the Edgefield County Council meeting on March 3, 2009, and produced the following audio with their own comments. EdgefieldDaily.com has consistently provided audio recordings to the public. What they do with it is their business.

Part 1
Part 2

Editor's note: EdgefieldDaily.com is not responsible for the comments listed by the producer of the audio clips or the comments of Mr. Hooper, Councilman Norman Dorn, or Chairman Monroe Kneece.
web posted March 9, 2009

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Ref: 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!!!!!!!

Well then.....I guess you will see them in court!
web posted March 9, 2009

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Obama lovers and liberals:  try to just see the humor. Nothing against the man.

1. Lincoln placed his hand on the Bible for his inauguration.
    Obama used the same Bible.

2.. Lincoln came from Illinois.
    Obama comes from Illinois.

3.. Lincoln served in the Illinois Legislature.
    Obama served in the Illinois Legislature.

4. Lincoln had very little experience before becoming President.
    Obama had very little experience before becoming President.

5. Lincoln rode the train from Philadelphia to Washington for his inauguration.
    Obama rode the train from Philadelphia to Washington for his inauguration.

6. Lincoln was a skinny lawyer.
    Obama is a skinny lawyer.

7. Lincoln was a Republican.
    Obama is a skinny lawyer.

8. Lincoln was highly respected.
    Obama is a skinny lawyer.

9. Lincoln was born in the United States.
    Obama is a skinny lawyer.

10.. Lincoln was called Honest Abe.
      Obama is a skinny lawyer.
web posted March 9, 2009

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A good atrticle on Obamas budget.
web posted March 9, 2009

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you might enjoy this
http://videos.komando.com/2008/06/04/mans-surprising-laugh/

Editor's note: Laughter is contagious.
web posted March 9, 2009

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I wrote in several months ago and shared with everyone about my experience my freshman year being sexually assaulted in class and the school not doing anything about it. When I read this letter to the Editor it broke my heart. I had so many feelings rush in at once; fear, anger, sympathy for this girl now. I called the one person that worked in that school that was on my side and he knows who he is. All I could ask him is “They didn’t learn from me? The school or school board didn’t learn from not only what I went through, but what my parents put them through?” I want this girl and her family to know… You’re not alone, and lawsuits obviously don’t work on them. Maybe they need news cameras in their faces this time. I would be more than happy to stand by your side through the whole thing.
web posted March 9, 2009

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Michelle Malkin is a columnist whose articles I have been reading for a long time.  Go to her website: http://www.michellemalkin.com .  In her latest article she makes reference to the website: http://www.taxdayteaparty.com .  Another website: http://www.newamericanteaparty.com .  These sites are critical of  the new administration's efforts as well as the republican's efforts over the years.  The essence of the teaparty grassroots effort is that average americans (true bi-partisans) are fed up with big government, taxing us to death, creating situations where the economy is headed in the wrong direction and believes they can run our lives better than we can.  It essentially says that the "silent majority" has been awakened.  Critics state that this is just a few people, unorganized without leadership.  Proponents say this is widespread across the nation and just in the beginning stages.  Spokes people  for the new administration seem to have the opinion that if Mr. Obama's plans do not work he will pay for it in one to two years with a lack of support and approval rating going down.  This is more important than a popularity contest.  It is the future of America, each of us, our children and grandchildren.  It is important to our freedoms, our initiatives, ability to do what is right and get us back to the great nation we have always been. 
 
If we do not act now, we will forever be a changed nation.  Absent will be freedom to choose our principles, free enterprise, self sufficiency and common sense for the good of all.  Check out these sites, be informed and make your own decision before the opportunity is gone forever.
web posted March 9, 2009

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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