Local Radar

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This is to the individual writing in about food stamps and the people who receive them. First let me say that it irks me to no end to see young able bodied people with children in tow ,with a huge buggy of food, when I am cutting coupons and staying within a budget. Yet, it is not one color of people, as you  implied with the  ETB cards.  I believe that all races should work for what they receive and not expect a handout. Also, the government needs to wake up and realize that the majority of America does not support them handing out food cards, money for rent, and paying for medical care with our tax dollars.
web posted June 30, 2007

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It makes me sick to hear how "Rev." Sallie Cooks and James Bibbs scheme concerning issues of the school board. I hope that the Trenton voters will wise up an not elect them back on the board. I am also disappointed in "Rev." Paul Martin and feel that if he does not have the qualifications required for the Asst. Principal's job and was allowed to remain employed with the district with the same pay, he needs to accept it, work on his master's degree and apply for the position after he gets the education required. Maybe by then "Rev" Cooks and James Bibbs will not be on the board and he can get the position without the Hwy 25 folks clout. I hate when people try to clean things up by "one hand washing the other". Trust me, they will never come clean when the are washed in dirty water.
web posted June 30, 2007

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the writer concerned about people with EBT buying"fine foods" what wold you have them buy, chicken parts and ground beef, maybe we should go back to the days were the poor kids were fed soup for lunch while the other kids had a well balanced meal. unfortunately, I am forced to use EBT, I work and support  3 kids, all from the same deadbeat father, I was once MARRIED to, I  even made the mistake of marrying BEFORE I became pregnant, Not all of us on EBT are out having more kids and "sitting on our butt all day"  It shows ones true ignorance to sit and judge other people and their circumstances by he color of the card one uses to purchase groceries.   If I decide 3  times a year to buy steaks for a birthday or other special occasion I see nothing wrong with it. who are you to  tell me what I can and cannot feed my family?   I thought the neanderthals were no longer living, but apparently they are alive and well and judging what I am allowed to eat.
web posted June 30, 2007

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I am not defending either side on this smoking issue at ECH. People need to realize that as long as tobacco companies make large political donations cigarettes will be made. The only way to wipe out smoking is for the companies to stop producing the product and that's not going to happen. It's ECH's responsibility to provide a designated smoking area away from the entrances and the general public. They choose to provide one bench right at the front door of the hospital! As far as employees smoking on breaks, even a waitress only gets about three smoking breaks per shift. If the employees are going out smoking more often than that then that goes back to ECH responsibility, also. And if you have at least one family member, who smokes, you should think twice about that callous remark about dying of lung cancer, Also, if all hospital employees wash thier hands after smoking, as they should, there is not a lot of odor. If there is any on clothes a little Febreeze would kill that. Instead of complaining people need to work toward solutions that are satisfactory to all involved. Didn't your mama's teach you that you don't always get what you want, and sometimes you have to just deal with a problem the only way you can. Get a life and realize this!  
web posted June 30, 2007

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To the person having the issues with the smoking outside the hospital in Edgefield...the fact that people smoke in front of the doors, I agree with you, there are designated areas, the smokers should go there....but really is it necessary for you to push your anti-smoking issues on us who smoke in such a rude and hateful way?  I smoke and I always go where no one is, someone walks by me, I put my cig behind my back or purposefully walk away.  Smoking is a choice, just like it is your choice to be downright rude to those of us who do smoke. 
You have a right to your opinion, and to your choices, but we as human beings have the same rights as you.
web posted June 30, 2007

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You can not use the ratings of www.greatschools.net to compare FC and STHS.  The ratings are based on how each school compares to other comparable groups in the state.  So STHS would be rated against other high schools of similar size/composition in SC, not against FC.  The website is vague on how it makes these calculations to rate the schools so I have to question their methods.  The 2006 HASP and SAT data for both schools is presented in the attached document with references for the information.  Since the make up of FC does not reflect that of the county, it's hard to make direct comparisions.  One thing for sure, based on absolute numbers, the disparity in scores is not as great as the ratings of "10" for FC and "3" for STHS by the afore-mentioned website would lead you to conclude. Summary of 2006 HASP Tests, and Summary of the 2006 SAT Tests
web posted June 30, 2007

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I am going to attempt to clarify some of the new policies which took effect 1 April 2007 at the Edgefield County Hospital ER.  For years people have been using the ER as a "free clinic."  Many of the visits were for complaints which should be handled by one of the local doctor's offices.  Many of these people made no effort to pay anything for their use of the ER.  Yes, the hospital does receive some taxpayer dollars, but it does not come close to paying for the free and charity care provided by the hospital.  Under the new policy patients are triaged upon arrival and if they have a obvious life threatening condition are brought immediately to an exam room.  Otherwise, a brief history and vital signs are obtained by an RN.  The physician then reviews the RN information and performs a medical screening exam on the patient.  If they are found to have a non-emergent condition they are asked to have a seat in the waiting room.  At that point they are called into registration and their options are discussed with them.  If they are self pay they may be seen by paying $150.  If they have insurance they must pay their co-pay which is usually significantly more than the co-pay at a doctor's office.  Most of the time the patient chooses not to pay and leaves.  They are provided a community resource guide listing all of the medical offices in the area including some which offer discounted care to the uninsured.  This is not a perfect system, but if the community wants to continue to have a hospital at all it must understand the ER can not continue to be used as a free clinic.  MCG and Doctor's Hospital have recently started similar programs.  The other area hospitals are certainly studying the situation.  Many of the people who state they can not afford to see a doctor in the community manage to have money for a pack of cigarettes a day, a 12 pack on the weekend, and are talking on their cell phones in the examination room.  Health care is not free, and Edgefield County Hospital cannot survive by providing free care.  The hospital has many hard working employees who on average make 30% less than they could  at any other hospital in the CSRA.  I think most residents would agree the hospital is a great asset to the community and it would be a great loss if it closed.  When you have a true emergency we want to be there for you.  For your everday aches, pains, cough, and sniffles please support your local doctor's office.
web posted June 30, 2007

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To the person writing about FC have Growing Pains (great comparison by the way), I thought that was a TV show. A TV show is successful, something FC is not. I haven’t heard one thing that they have been successful at except for sports. But I mean we all know if you go to FC and you don’t play a sport then you are basically nothing. Its pretty sad whenever you go to a school whose sports are more important than academics. Also I wonder out of the new staff that is hired if they really know what they’re getting themselves into. I feel bad for them. Also Growing Pains is a comedy show. FC is a comedy think that they are a “real” high school. Also this is not growing pains. This is pink eye and having to live out in the sun and being allergic to the eye medicine the doctors gave you. Ok also, there is NOT going to be a new building. I am sorry to break it to you people. I don’t know who is telling you all of these lies, wait I do (no names) but they are lying. I don’t know what it’s going to take for people in Edgefield county to realize this. Maybe if you have a newborn baby and the high school is still not built by the time that baby graduates you will understand then.
web posted June 30, 2007

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The person who wrote in from Fox Creek was a pitiful example of the students skills. Since you don't seem to have been taught this. When writing a sentence like, "They're still going "threw" some growing pains", the proper form of the word is through. Maybe it was to hard to spell so you opted for the shorter word even though it was wrong.
web posted June 30, 2007

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There are several tough facts staring Fox Creek in the face.  One is that the school continues to experience large turnover.  This is terrible in the field of education.  There are EIGHT confirmed new teachers in a staff of 21, and summer is not over.  There were only about 8 returning teachers and a new administrative staff the year before.  The entire office staff will be new.  A new school building is a huge item, but finding a good, honest leader is a lot less expensive.  The board continues to let people go and figure that those who do not agree with them or who actually expect students to do more than color posters and watch movies are wrong.  People are pointing fingers at the rest of the county.  The assistant principal from last year was not given a contract.  The new assistant principal is the son-in-law of a very influential teacher at the school.  He is not certified.  He did not even have to lie about his qualifications.  He was hired on the promise of getting certified.  I promise to attend medical school.  May I remove your tonsils?
This is the year that counts for FCHS.  This is the year they will receive, or not receive, accreditation.  Any new school receives a 3-year provisional accreditation.  SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) comes in to do a full evaluation after the 3rd year.  This is also the first state report card year for the school.  Things that plague the school such as high turnover, high drop-out rates, and low test scores will finally finish nailing their coffin.  They will not have to worry about a new school building.  The district will finally have to address the issue of logistics and work through it with a school that truly represents the citizens of the Merriwether community.  Not just those people who want to finally feel important and like they are not misfits with no real future.  Okay, so that last part is purely opinion:-)
web posted June 29, 2007

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Get ready to bend over again, SC citizens.  Our current State Treasurer is in rehab after being charged with distribution of  cocaine.  Now we're being told by Sen. Greg Ryberg (R. Aiken) that he "wants the job."
SC voters have wisely twice rejected Ryberg's bid to get elected to that post by large margins.  He is widely disrespected by democrats and republicans alike for his arrogant attitude.  Our citizens don't want to trade a cokehead for a carpet-baggin' (person).  Better get in touch with your representatives and senator and register your disgust, 'cause Greg is best pals and soul-mates with Governor Sanford who  is "definitely considering" SC's worst senator for either Treasurer or D.O.T. Chief.  Such blatant disregard for the 
will of the citizens and reputation of our state is sickening.
web posted June 29, 2007

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I heard that Myron Renew has made Bail from ECDC and been transferred to ACDC, Do you know any details ? Court dates ? Where will he be tried first ?

Editor's note: A recent report on the case can be found here.
web posted June 29, 2007

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Thank God, the Supreme Court made the right decision today! Equality for all students....let students get
admission based on their intelligence instead of their race. Hopefully it is just one of many decisions
against affirmative action to come.
web posted June 29, 2007

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STHS Poultry Team takes Second  in the State FFA Poultry Judging Competition at Clemson.   CONGRATULATIONS  !!! Cory Cartrett, Jason Henderson, Samuel Adkinson and Sam Northrop.
web posted June 29, 2007

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To the poster about smoking at Edgefield County Hospital, GET A LIFE!  I bet you are one that used to go out to eat and when asked Smoking or Non-smoking, your reply would be I'LL TAKE THE FIRST AVAILABLE.
web posted June 29, 2007

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I'm sorry, but I have to respond to the ignorance of the poster who wrote in yesterday talking about the smoking problem at Edgefield County Hospital. "You do not have to go where a smoker is sitting. No one's blowing smoke in your face so get out of thiers."  Uh . . . you  kind do have to go where a smoker is sitting when they are in the path to the ER door and yeah, they ARE blowing it in your face when you are walking by!  I didnt write the original post that this poster was responding too but when I read it I said, "AMEN!" This is a big problem at ECH. I have a child with several medical issues that often turn emergent. I have taken her there a few times because it was so much closer than going to Augusta and not only do the employees stand outside the emergency room door smoking, they smell so badly of smoke when they come in to care for my child that they themselves will cause an asthma attack! It's impossible to avoid when they are in front of the door puffing away. They also stand outside the front entrance and smoke. If there is a designated smoking area then they need to be using it. Furthermore, smoking KILLS.  The members of the medical community should be the first people setting an example to their patients!  How compelling do you think a "you have emphazema, you need to stop smoking and take better care of yourself" speech is going to be to a patient who is standing there choking on the smell of their doctor or nurse? It's insane. There is a definite problem though and the poster who wrote in last night is apparently one of the offenders, at the very least, a smoker. Kill yourself with cancer if you want too, but not the rest of us!
web posted June 29, 2007

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You are confused about your confusion, Editor .  This site, http://www.greatschools.net,   rates high schools
using state mandated tests.  The site clearly shows that STHS is performing significantly poorer than other area high schools including Fox Creek.  You commented about the "whiteness" of the site and stated that it were primarily interested in promoting charter schools.  That is a specious argument and a mischaracterization of what this site does.  I can only assume that your attitude about  Fox Creek is coloring your commentary.  It seems that anything or anyone who says Fox Creek is doing something right is a target to be attacked.  You have so much emotional investment in Fox Creek's failure that you cannot find anything good in what they do.  The purpose of my prior post commenting on the poor performance at STHS was not to praise  FCHS but draw attention to STHS performance.  Do you think STHS academic performance is good?  Busting on FCHS might satisfy some need of yours, but giving STHS a pass is not helpful. Wouldn't it be better to simulate discussion about fixing a serious problem than ridicule the messengers?

Editor's note: How am I confused if I posted the information? I do find it odd that the same site does not note that Fox Creek Charter High School brought the entire Edgefield County School District down in SAT scores in 2006. That is a sad note when so few local students attended the school.  At least they do note the school is basically all white in a school system that is majority black.

I would wager Fox Creek gets sued in Federal Court before the year ends. Watch Edgefield County School Board Chairwoman Sallie Cooks and member James Bibbs leave Vice chairman Scott Chitty and Fox Creek out to hang before it is over. I could be way off base, or I could be dead on the money. Only time will tell.
web posted June 29, 2007

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In response to the food stamp question, asking why can't some get help and others can not - The main reason has to deal with skin color - Is seems that the more sorrier someone is the more assistance you can get -  I don't know about you but when I see someone in front of me using the "green" card buying fine foods and I have to limit myself it makes me sick.  And most of the time they are much younger than I am and can work.  But they all want a free ride and the DSS and assistance offices keep giving it out - "Maybe if I quit my job, have baby after baby, and sit on my butt all day" the services would help me. 
 
People can thank their politicians for this.  Stop dishing out funds for the lowlifes and actually start helping the people that have actually made a contribution to this county.
 
Wake up Edgefield County!!!! 
web posted June 29, 2007

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Ok to the Merriwether couple who left dogs in an abandoned house, how stupid can you be?  Do you not realize that that is cruel.  I sure hope if you have children that you dont treat them that way.  You should have more sense than that.  I just dont get people today how they can treat animals this way.  I hope they arrest you for animal cruelty.  You should not be allowed to own another pet.
web posted June 29, 2007

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 Humm, looks like the anti Fox Creek crew is at it again!

 Parents, read all the posts about the problems at STHS! STHS is an old and supposedly established school but yet they still have problems. Fox Creek High School is just going threw some growing pains….”There will be a new school building” maybe not by Dec. , but it will happen.
web posted June 29, 2007

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I know that ers all around  the country are misusd by people that cant get treatment at dr office without insurance or a pocket full of cash. I know for a fact that the ECH recieves money from tax payers dollars  to cover for those who cant pay but paper work has to be filled out by the patient and if they are not informed by the hospital about this how would they know. You have more influence tan u know I am speaking for the uninsured please cheak into this policy and let us know our rights.you do a great job staying on top of the ECSB PLEASE DO THE SAME WITH THE ECH PEOP[LE LIVES COULD BE LOST OVER THIS.  people need to be aware that someone is going to make a decision on if they meet criteria to be seen threy maybe wasting precious miniutes going by there instead of jusy heading to a hospital that does not play wheel of fortune with thier lives.

Editor's note: I will check into the situation.
web posted June 29, 2007

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Do you know who replaced Paul Martin as vice-principal at Strom Thurmond High School ?

Editor's note: As far as I know no one has been hired to replace Mr. Martin. I am waiting to see if the School District renews his contract this July.
web posted June 28, 2007

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I read the wanding minds entry concerning the GAL. Two questions I hope you or the original poster can answer. First, Why is there "no one to enforce it" secondly, you listed the section  number of the bill but when was that passed? I can't seem to find anything about the legislation on the SC legistature web site. Is it an actual law, refurendum ? Was it signed into law? and if so why haven't we heard anything about it? as far as a community meeting, you get the word out and you would have people from surrounding counties as well. Aiken County is as bad or worse than Edgefield.
web posted June 28, 2007

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ok...I have a family member that attend fox creek...get a clue there is not gonna be a new school...sorry but you are going to be waiting a long time to wait and see the new school...dont worry about it you dont have a lot of crow to eat, someone who told you probably was very convincing but they lied to you.

Editor's note: I know, but trying to show that to the blind is impossible.
web posted June 28, 2007

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I was wondering if there is any by chance you could start putting the Announcements on the website. That would be so wonderful since i dont live anywhere near the state anymore.

Editor's note: After an e-mail exchange the reader wanted to see Wedding, Engagements, Birth, and Birthday Announcements. EdgefieldDaily.com has a standing policy that all such announcements will be posted free of charge if sent to the Editor at editor@edgefielddaily.com or mailed or faxed to the above contact options.
web posted June 28, 2007

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I have a "wandering mind" tonight. I have lived in Edgefield county since 1979, I have always worked to support my family and have always helped others when I could.  But now that I am out of work, because the last place that I worked went  out of business and I am so about to go under {plus my tax notice says they will sell my home for back taxes on August 15, 2007, if I don't pay, money I do not have}. I have tried everywhere to find a job and pay my bills, my husband is disabled and I am doing all I can.
Now what I am wandering is how can someone in nice clothes, lots of jewelry, with a brand new car...............get food stamps.  They did not use their food to buy their beer, cigs, or redbull, but did use them for everything else. Now maybe I am wrong here, but does anyone else see a problem with this?  Now I can't get food because my husband get a small {very small} check each month and yet these people who live on 25 can get them.
Will someone please explain this to me.
web posted June 28, 2007

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Your editor seems to be a little confused about the identity of http://www.greatschools.net. We’re a national nonprofit Web site dedicated to helping parents choose schools, guide their kids’ education and improve schools. We don’t promote charter schools or any other types of schools. While the GreatSchools Ratings for a school are indeed our own ratings, they are based on official test results that we gather from the state departments of education and the National Center for Education Statistics. You can use our site to look up the test score data, as well as look at the ratings and read the explanation of how we compute them. While you’re there, you can also leave a Parent Review, which will help parents see a more complete picture of a school than the test data can show.

Editor's note: I am not confused. I linked to the web site when it was posted for all to see.
web posted June 28, 2007

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The ECSB makes me sick. I cannot believe they transferred Mr. Martin to another job in the distict. His butt should have been fired. So I guess I can go, lie about my credentials, and get a good paying job with Edgefield County Schools. Woe to the future young minds of our fair district! They will be corrupted by the ignorance of people who are not highly qualified or certified.
web posted June 28, 2007

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Will ALL of the results of the cases that are tried in court this week be on Edgefield Daily.com?  If so, where will I find them?

Editor's note: Yes. The results will be listed in the On The Record Section next week. Some sentences may be listed before then on the Headlines Page.
web posted June 28, 2007

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This is the link for the house bill addressing accountability of Guardian ad Litems. On 04/10/07  the House  Referred it to Committee on Judiciary and they are in the process of trying to find solutions. Now is the time for suggestions. Once the proposed solution is written up it will go to comittee to be voted on in January.

There is no one to enforce the current legislation because Guardian ad Litems don't have to answer to anybody. They can charge thousands of dollars and do very little work and stand before a judge and say whatever they want even if it's not true without any repurcussions. It is probably seldom that this happens with malicious intent but often a thourough investigation is not done to find facts and in some cases Guardians who are young and don't have children or training in child psycology are deciding what's best for
them based on what the children tell them. The Guardian ad Litem is who the judge listens to and are the ones who hold the future of children in family courts in the palm of their hands. They should be qualified and accoutable to someone.

Editor's note: The above poster is the same willing to put on a public meeting on the subject matter if there is enough interest.
web posted June 28, 2007

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I don't know where the person who wrote in about the smoking outside of Edgefield Hospital got thier info but, Aiken Regional, University Hospital, Medical College of Georgia and the Veterans Hospital all have designated smoking areas. When they say it is a smoke-free facility they mean INSIDE! I am not taking sides in this issue but maybe they could resolve this problem by moving the area for smoking away from the front door of the hospital! Only in Edgefield County could such a small problem, with such a simple solution, be blown up like this. Smokers are out there so deal with it and stop complaining over simple things like this. You do not have to go where a smoker is sitting. No one's blowing smoke in your face so get out of thiers.
web posted June 28, 2007

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Does any one know where, or how, I can get a free Mammogram. I lost my health insurance  due to a lay off at my job.That was three weeks after I had suffered a heart attack. I learned my lesson about no health insurance and Edgefield County Hospital a few years ago. I thought there was a law stating you have to be treated at the emergency room regardless of ability to pay. I also understand how difficult it is to pay for a regular Doctor's visit. Is there an alternative health care program for Edgefield County Residents who don't have the ability to pay out of pocket?
web posted June 28, 2007

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I am praying for your brother-in-law and the family. Remember, God is the great physician.  May he   
sustain you all during this difficult time.

I just wanted to let you know that my whole family is praying for your brother-in-law and his family. I had a stroke about five years ago and my family went through the same things yours is now. It was hard on them, seeing me so disoriented and helpless. There were some hard times, especially before they got my medications right. Today no one even believes me when I tell them I had a stroke. The greatest thing he can have is a loving, compassionate family. Through rehab, the right meds and with family support he can come out of this O.K. My family is reading the site and praying daily for him. Please keep us updated on his condition. Let his wife and kids know they have a big support source here in Edgefield County.

prayers are with your brother in law and the family. keep us updated.

Editor's note: Above are just a few of the many comments sent in. Thank you for your prayers and well wishes, they are well received. There are no new developments as of 11 pm Wednesday night.
web posted June 28, 2007

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In ref to your comment about only emegencies should be seen in the ER. my question is who is so talented that the can listen o someones symptoms and determine that it can wait till morning. I had a friend that had a blood clot in her brain but the only symptom she had was a headache she went to a hospital in augusta thinking it was a migrane and the clot was found in the er after a few tests if  she had been sent home since a headache is not an emergency she would be dead. Also keep in mind if the person entering the er has an insurance card or the magic medicaid card they would be seen emergency or not. Also if you think about it just because they have an insurance card the probably have not met thier detuctable which leaves them owing a bill just like the uninsured,  Also i dont thik the doctors stay at thier office 24/7

Editor's note: I am not talking about situations that are unknown, I am speaking of those who do go to the ER  for a cold or other non-emergency treatment just because treatment cannot be refused. They are out there.
web posted June 28, 2007

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Editor's post: I would like to ask all my readers in the Wandering Minds to say a prayer for my brother-in-law "Mac" who had a very unexpected stroke on Tuesday afternoon. Mac is in his mid 50's. He is awake and alert but does not recognize family members, including his wife, my sister, or their three children. It is still early in the recovery phase and we all hope and pray that he will progress rapidly. With God's help that can be a reality. The selfless prayers of the righteous deliver much.
web posted June 27, 2007

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I got told today that Fox Creek (Charter High School) got the loan and will have a new school building by December. I guess you have a lot of crow to eat. Can't wait to see that.

Editor's note: There is no loan. There will be no new building. Did you read that in an old copy of one of the local papers from 2005 or 2006 when they made the same false claims? If Fox Creek has a new school ready for students by December I will donate my entire salary as Editor of EdgefieldDaily.com for 2007 to the school if they, or you, will match my salary as a contribution to EdgefieldDaily.com if I am correct.
web posted June 27, 2007

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I read the wanding minds entry concerning the GAL. Two questions I hope you or the original poster can answer. First, Why is there "no one to enforce it" secondly, you listed the section  number of the bill but when was that passed? I can't seem to find anything about the legislation on the SC legistature web site. Is it an actual law, refurendum ? Was it signed into law? and if so why haven't we heard anything about it? as far as a community meeting, you get the word out and you would have people from surrounding counties as well. Aiken County is as bad or worse than Edgefield.
web posted June 27, 2007

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It is time to give out multiple cards or add numbers for the dumber the acts. I think I dealt the whole deck today to 2 drivers.

Driving down 28 towards Fury’s Ferry road on the South Carolina of the Savannah River Bridge a red truck passed me on the left on a two lane road. I gently slowed to allow him to get back over. At the same time a silver car passes me on the right. There are no roads on the right just a short merge lane from a previous subdivision. (Yes a car was on the other side of the bridge.)

Next theses two are racing across the bridge and at the last minute the truck moved back over to the right lane.  These fools put at least 3 lives in danger. One of them was my child!    I don’t know how many people were in the on coming car. If at any point I could have gotten license plate I would have called 911. I just know what goes around comes around.
web posted June 27, 2007

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I hope you don't get tired of hearing from me, but I can't believe what I am hearing.  So Paul Martin was transferred to this new position at his administrator's salary.  I hope it's wrong, but I hear he will continue drawing that salary.
SO.....he lied on his application, but he still draws an administrators salary for a job he is not qualified for (by
his own admission)??  Please tell me this isn't true!

Editor's note: It is what it is. I have information that he is not the only one. The question now is, will the others be brought into the open.
web posted June 27, 2007

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This is a comment about the lack of a smoke free environment at our own Edgefield County Hospital!
All hospitals in the state of South Carolina have gone or are quickly moving to an entirely smoke free campus.  Except our own ECH!!!!
What sort of health care atmosphere does this provide to the patients served and visitors received?  The CEO stands outside at least once per hour in FRONT OF THE FACILITY and puffs away on his nasty cigarettes.  Other employees can't wait to even get to the designated smoking area in the gazebo before lighting up in the vestibule or on the front walk way.  Other employees smoke right outside the Emergency Room door!!!  UGH!  Do we want our neighbors and friends to continue to see public servants as a po-dunk redneck community?
If one chooses to spend a  day watching and observing it is clear that smoking employees are given and allowed numerous more breaks than non smoking employees. They are smoking on the job and being paid for it!  Non-smoking employees are not given similar breaks to read or talk or walk or whatever...  This is the 21st century and we know that smoking is not only harmful to smokers but to non smokers.  Who wants to be sick in the hospital and have to deal with second hand smoke and caregivers whose clothes and bodies  are saturated with a nasty stinky smell that causes allergic reactions.
 
A hospital should be setting the standard for examples to follow in providing quality health care and this should include a SMOKE-FREE environment and campus to patients, visitors, and employees alike. 
Mr. Price and ECH employees;GET WITH THE PROGRAM!!!!!
web posted June 27, 2007

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I am mildly shocked to learn (even though unconfirmed) that the new HR director is Mr. Bibbs boss daughter.
If this can be proven, there is a definate smell to cronnism, nepotism and something that sticks to the
bottom of your shoe. Does a school board regulation exist that prohibits the hiring of persons related or
associated with school board members? Does this new HR person have a Master's degree as required for the
position? If the answer is no, then we as voters need to get our respective school board members to
re-review this unethical hire of the new Bibbs HR director. This school board can not be invulnerable. If they are, them we as voters must push for reform of the school board rules and regulations and take away
their self-innitiated power.
Which district does Bibbs represent? It must be the same district where Marion Berry resides.

Editor's note: James Bibbs, School Board member for Zone 3, is up for election in 2008. He is the School Board Secretary and his online bio shows no “goals” or “visions” for his term of service other than living the "Suite" life.

A map of his district can be found here.

E-mail: jbibbs@edgefield.k12.sc.us
web posted June 27, 2007

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Please for the sake of the citizens of Edeefield County check into the new polocies of the emergency room. They seem to be playing God with those who cant afford health insurance. From what i can tell if u have coverage private or govt provided  u will be seen if u dont the determine if your complaint is an emergency and if they think not u have to pay $150.00 on the spot or u are sent home. Please use your talent and investigate this and let us uninsrued low lifes know our opttions. This does not seem fair or legal. Again edgefield co  at its best.

Editor's note: I will see what I can find out on this matter. I will say that I feel non emergencies should not be seeking treatment at the ER. They should seek a local physician just like everyone else.
web posted June 27, 2007

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Editor's note: With the latest poll on Congress showing a measly 14% approval rating, President Bush is now the popular one in Washington D.C.
web posted June 26, 2007

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You should make people put their names to what they say on (the Wandering Minds). Plus you spelled "wandering" wrong, it's wondering.

Editor's note: The name "Wandering Minds" is a play on words and is to represent random comments from readers, thus "wandering" minds. The concept of anonymous posts is what makes the section so popular. It allows readers the chance to say what is really on their minds rather than be politically correct.
web posted June 26, 2007

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How can you report on a personnel issue of the school? I thought personnel issues were private.

Editor's note: When Paul Martin requested that his grievance be heard publicly he opened it up to be reported. All meetings of the school board, or any other government agency, is open to the public.
web posted June 26, 2007

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I love looking at the crime blotter every week. you had one listed twice, Juan Herrera Lopez on June 11. Was that a mistake or did he get really get arrested twice on the same day?

Editor's note: Each entry in the bookings constitutes an independent arrest. Mr. Lopez was said to have gotten out of jail and then got into a car to go home and was arrested for driving without a license. I guess I should have done a "Here's Your Card" story on him. However, he is not alone, this week Kenneth O'Bryan Carroll, 24, achieved being arrested twice on June 20. There have been other similar incidents over the past three years.
web posted June 26, 2007

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I read where the board went into executive session to discuss Dr. Roberson's contract and that would be published on Saturday, here it is Monday and I have not seen anymore about it.  What is going on?

Editor's note: I spoke with School Board attorney Greg Anderson Monday and he stated the school board did not approve the contract as submitted. They will address the matter again at a later date.
web posted June 26, 2007

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It was brought to my attention that there has been some discussion regarding Guardian ad Litems here. Bill 3556 Section 20-7-1556 is in the house and being reviewed by the Judiciary comittee as well as other family court practices. It will come up for vote in January. I personally have experienced a system that does not work in the best interest of the children involved and am doing all I can to make it better. All states do not have family court and the ones that do have different systems. Anyone interested in finding out how other states that have family court operate, might want to research the National Center for State Courts at www.ncsconline.org and contact your legislators to make suggestions. You can also testify before
the comitee when the bill comes up for vote. I believe Scott Tally is head of the house comittee reviewing this and would be an excellent person to contact. It has been suggested that Guardian ad Litems should be licensed. This would make them  accountabile, qualified, and keep track of the number of cases they are handling and the amount of money they are charging and classify them as either attorney GAL, private GAL, and volunteer GAL. The "tremendous outpour to reign them in" mentioned earlier produced Legislation
Section 20-7-1556 but currently there is nobody to enforce it.

It has also been suggested that the person receiving child support be required to show where the money goes, and that family court judges be voted and not appointed and can hear all cases so that for example in a custody case where a parent is in criminal court the judge can hear it all. With the current system a family court judge can put someone in jail for not paying child support but not a sex offender.

I would be interested in having a community meeting if there is enough interest and people who want to get behind family court reform.

Editor's note: If  readers are interested in the offer, send me an e-mail and I will forward the information on to the poster.
web posted June 26, 2007

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You stated the voters are the only ones the school board are accountable and there is no oversight to
their craziness. It's obvious that Bibbs and Cooks are not there for OUR children, but their own form of
Jesse Jackson justice. I agree with one of your writers, there has been and is racism going on every day in this and every other county in the nation. But.....we must focus on correcting the situation as voters and that means finding people who want to make this school system a great one for our children and not a battleground for their own agenda...ie...Bibbs and Cooks. It should be obvious to the other board members that whatever Bibbs and Cooks bring to the table, it should be thrown out with the garbage. What other incompetent teachers are they trying to force down our throats? And who is this new HR director related to on the board? They are need close watching.

Editor's note: From my understanding the new HR Director is the daughter of School Board member James Bibbs' boss. I have been unable to confirm that claim, however, it does come from very reputable sources.
web posted June 26, 2007

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I agree with you that the Vice-Principle should have been fired, not transferred to another position that he is not qualified for.  What are the board members thinking and why aren’t they carrying out their duties as board members??  We put our trust in them to hire the best qualified for the positions offered.  I’ll be looking closer at their hiring practices. Can you impeach a board member??

Editor's note: No. Each has to be voted out of office.
web posted June 26, 2007

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I have the privilege of working with some of the brightest, most innovative teachers in the county.  Even so, there are students in their classrooms who do not make the full effort to learn, as well as those who do.  These teachers try new strategies and "programs" to entice students to learn, but they don't always work.  These teachers also take classes and in-services to learn how to better serve their students.  Until people realize, however, that there's no magic "program," then we will continue to try strategy after strategy to no avail.  There needs to be a change of mind among the general population, one that signifies an understanding of the importance of education and respect for those taking the time to provide the education.  This comes partially from the schools, but predominantly from the home.  It is the school system's task to educate, but it's the parents' job to keep the students in school by impressing upon them the importance of an education and by insisting on appropriate behavior.  Please don't blame the schools and the teachers when we don't do the parents' job, too.  Believe me, we can't do it all, but heaven knows we try.
web posted June 26, 2007

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Who does Mr. Martin think he is trying to produce false evidence to get a job that he is not even qualified for? A job he would not have even been considered for if it were not for who he knew. I think that certain people who were hesitant to hire him were subtly forced into giving him the approval for the job from certain upper influences on the board. My question is this: Who do these school members think they are? two in particular Our students are suffering from political power plays. Allow the teachers, administrators, and district personnel who are qualified to do their jobs and do them right.
web posted June 26, 2007

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Editor's post: There were dozens of comments about the school district that were not posted. Do not send me nasty e-mails because your post did not appear. Read the rules listed above.
web posted June 25, 2007

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Someone that meant quite a bit to me was killed in a riding accident this last week. She was my mentor my first year of teaching school. I was extremely nervous and felt like I could not do anything right. She took me under her wing and helped guide my first couple of years at STHS.Anytime I needed helps she was there, anytime I needed to borrow a video she had it, antyime I needed an idea she had that, too. She encouraged me to get my Master's degree and my National Certification. I just started my Master's degree and eventually I am going to get my National Cert. I modeled certain aspects of her teaching style within my own. Basically, things she did I would copy because I admired her so much. She is someone I will never forget.
She was always upbeat and always had an encouraging word. It won't be the same this next year without her being there right beside me.
web posted June 25, 2007

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HOLY ......! All I keep reading about is how our schools are all racist and this scares me to death and my child is only in elementary school . I am dreading when he gets older and has to go to JET and Thurmond. We are white and I feel as though my son is treated as a minority sometimes. I may just bite the bullet and pay the astronomical tuiton and send him to Wardlaw where he will not be a minority and be treated badly because he is white. I know this will sound arrogant to many but just maybe if we went back to segregated schools all this crap will stop and everybody will finally be happy for once and stop pulling tha dang race card.
web posted June 25, 2007

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I teach in Edgefield County, and I am very proud to do so.  I have been offered several positions out of the county with a tremendous difference in pay (more ), but I want to make a difference in the children of Edgefield County.  I also believe that most of my colleague want to do the same.  My concern is that many in the Administrative positions, those making important decisions, are not looking at what is in the best interest of the children of Edgefield County.  It is now time that some of the intelligent people of Edgefield County begin making the decision to run for the Edgefield County School Board.  Our Children need your help!!!!  I hope that everyone in Edgefield County knows our District is in serious trouble if we all continue to stand back and just wait to see what is going to happen next. 
I would like to ask the question.....  Is there anyone who oversees the decision making of our board?  I believe there must be... BUT WHO?  Who can every citizen in this county contact, via phone , mail, internet, or direct personal contact in order to look out for Edgefield Counties precious children.

Editor's note: The Edgefield County School Board answers to the voters. If they disapprove the voters should vote them out.
web posted June 25, 2007

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To the person that wrote in saying that Dr. Cooper was a stooge, that is not true. I do not know the whole story, but I do know that she probably tried to do everything she could do avoid this situation.  I also do not appreciate what was said about Mr. Thompson. If he were not in charge of STHS, then it would be in serious trouble. How can I say this you might ask? Well, I know the integrity and competence of these two people. On the other hand, you may want to look at the integrity and competence of our illustrious school board members, James Bibbs and Sallie Cooks. Hey, an old friend had a saying that would apply to the Martin situation and it goes like this: "It's all in who you know in Edgefield County." With two school board members in particular, I think this saying is definitely applicable. If you are not happy with the way the ECSD is
being handled, then do something about it: vote.

Editor's note: Dr. Cooper and Mr. Thopson did everything they should have done in order to try to confirm Mr. Martin's claims.
web posted June 25, 2007

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"Dr. Cooper advised all involved of the situation.Greg Thompson was the one who made the hire expecting
credentials to check out without a problem."

I copied what the editor said in one of the posts on Saturday; because I wanted to discuss this point. The
job of the HR Director is to screen the applicants, and then pass the names on to principals and they
decide who to interview. The principal's rely on the HR Director to make sure people are qualified. That's
the defintion of the HR Director's responsibilities. It's not the principal's responsibility to check on credentials. Now if she, the HR Director, was pressured to pass his name on, then that is a different story. I have a lot more faith in Mr. Thompson, than I do the HR Director. She may have all the degrees, but she was basically a pawn, who was told exactly what to do and how to do it. If Mr. Thompson had left STHS, chaos would have reigned, like it did with the principal before him. He has done an admiral job trying to clean up a mess that he
inherited. He has to work with many incompetent people at STHS, and in the district office.

What I am more focused on is the "tape" that the reassigned princ. tried to erase. Sounds like he and
JB -ECSB member- had a little conspiracy going. The asst. princ. would throw the book at JB's daughter,
she would appeal, but the evidence would have been gone. Thus she, JB's daughter, would have been off the
hook. I feel sorry for anyone who works for the ECSD. As the outgoing superintendent quipped "with this
school board, the state will be taking over the EC schools in 5 to 7 years.

Editor's note: Mr. Martin did not try to erase any tape. He was said to have made the claim that Mr. Thompson wanted the tape of the abuse covered up.
web posted June 25, 2007

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This post is in response to my post urging people to wake up about the true condition of SC schools in general and Edgefield schools in particular.  My basic premise is that we pay A LOT of money for our schools and should expect at least average performance from them.
    
The person who put blame primarily on students and parents for poor academic performance is only partially correct. Today in the Augusta Chronicle (Editor's note: No link provided) was an article praising a program which focused on high school dropouts and its success in getting kids back to school and even into college.  What programs do we have that are unique and innovative for motivating young teens before they become dropouts?  I suspect there is nothing new and we have accepted failed past practices by excusing failure on kids' and parents' lack of involvement and motivation.  I do  think poor performance is attributable partially to economic, social, or genetic factors.  I also think that the willingness of educators and administrators to accept poor performance as a foregone conclusion is a much more damaging cause.
   
If the problem is bad student/parent attitudes, and there are undoubtedly students who do want to learn and succeed, perhaps a new course for Edgefield education should be discussed.
    
First, I propose turning STHS into a place where unmotivated students can spend the day fulfilling their legal requirement to be in school.  Lets staff this school with equally unmotivated teachers and administrators who can spend the day fulfilling the legal requirements of their contracts and who are adept at maintaining order and discipline.
   
Then, secondly, let's build a new magnet high school where our brightest and best students and teachers can achieve their greatest potential without the drag of the malingerers.  Many school districts take this approach and it should be considered as the need for more high school space grows.
   
Lastly, let's do a study to link students' performance to which middle and elementary schools the student attended.  Bad attitudes about academics didn't happen when the student became a freshman but have been nurtured throughout his/her school years.  Lets find the worst performing and best performing primary schools and fix or emulate them.
web posted June 25, 2007

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Regarding Mr. Paul Martin, I am thankful that 5 out of 7 Board members voted not to place him back as Vice
Principal at STHS.  He should have been fired for lying on his application and made to pay back to the district overpayment on his salary due to his not being qualified. Did he not state he was not qualified for his current position?  Then why doesn't the Board send him back to Georgia or wherever he came from?  Please people wake up and next time we vote replace some of these Board members.  Your children's education is at stake!
web posted June 25, 2007

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Thank you for the great coverage of the board meeting. Mr. Martin came out far better than he deserved. We need good role models who believe in honesty. We also desperately need board members who stand up for what is right rather than defending/hiring those without proper credentials.  Many employees are leaving or talking about leaving as they see our good school system disappearing. As a former student and teacher in the county, I know what a strong program is offered (both academic and extracurricular). We do not need to lose this.
web posted June 25, 2007

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Your editor's note said Mr. Thompson hired Mr. -Never-told-a-lie- Martin without looking at all his credentials. It appears Mr. Thompson was in a hurry to hire a person of like mind. Remember, Mr. Thompson just recently hired the female head varsity basketball coach who has never coached at the varsity level. You
mean to tell me, there were no applicants with varsity experience? Who knows, maybe Mr. Thompson has an agenda that parallels The Mr. Bibbs and Ms. Cooks agenda just what experinece do they have to represent our school system? So far, they are an embarassment. Our school system can not afford to end up like Allendale or Barnwell schools.

Editor's note: The Edgefield County School System controls three-quaters of our local tax dollars and produces little in return. Over 60 cents of each dollar collected in local taxes never makes it to the classroom. Historically, the more that funding grows, the lower that percentage becomes.
web posted June 25, 2007

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Thank goodness the ECSB voted not to move Paul Martin back to the Vice Principal position at STHS.  My question is, he stated he is not qualified for the position he was moved to, so why leave him in that position?  Also, what about the salary that he was overpaid due to his position for most of the school year.  Does he have to pay it back? 
He should have been fired when it was discovered he lied on his application.  He has lots of nerve to try to play the race card!!

Editor's note: Mr. Martin is not required to pay back the salary he was paid as an Assistant Principal. In fact, Mr. Martin is still being paid the same as an assistant principal in his new teaching position he said he was not qualified to hold. Those are not my words, they are his. Just so I understand the situation let me recall the statements made. Mr. Martin said he is not qualified to hold his new teaching position but is qualified to be a school administrator and yet he is upset he was reassigned as a teacher.

web posted June 25, 2007

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I find it amazing that as long as the "good ole boy" system was in charge, there were no complaints. There has always been racisim in the school system and in Edgefield County.  But now that there is some color on the board, the rascism is just "out of control". They are only doing what has been done for years for the white people.  If you were white you were right, and if you were black, you didn't count. In the past, you did not need to be qualified for a job, just white and know the right people.  This is 2007, when are the people of Edgefield going to come together in unity.  The black people are here to stay.  Get over it!!!!
web posted June 25, 2007

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Editor's post: The Wandering Minds should load a little quicker today. The month of May has been archived and linked above. Part of May is still listed on this page but will be removed over the next week. Have a good weekend.
web posted June 23, 2007

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Congrats to Aramis Hillary on the potential offers from D1 schools.  We hope he is successful in
accomplishing what his brother did....a state title! Is it football season yet????
web posted June 23, 2007

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Editor,  Thank you for being at the board meeting this week to report on the transfer of Mr. Martin.  I couldn't be there, but if I had been I'm not sure I would have been able to keep my mouth shut much less stick around to hear the ignorant babble.   I agree he should have been fired.  Any other employer in any other workforce would have  given the employee his pink slip.  THANK GOODNESS that 5 out of 7 board members were in the right frame of mind to not allow this man to have his original job back. Why don't they stand up to these two more often?  Now, ALL of Edgefield County, especially those who elected Bibbs and Cooks, needs to open their eyes and get rid of these two board members when their term expires this next year.  It is scary though that they have one more year!  That is a lot of time to do even more damage!
web posted June 23, 2007

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After reading the happenings at the latest school board meeting, I am confused to how Mr. (Never told a
Lie) Martin was hired at all. Either the past Dr. Cooper was a stooge for hiring Mr. Martin, or just incompetent. Where does good ole Mr. Thompson fit into the hiring scheme? On a personal note...I have been teaching in Augusta for the past 7 years and credentials and past employment were a must prior to
employment. What goes in this county? You don't take a person's word as evidence to verify their credentials.

It also appears that Mr. Bibbs and Ms. Cooks are promoters of another kind of education. I'm sure they
believe OJ is innocent. God help us, or we help ourselves by voting them out of office, if that is possible in a county that seems as corrupt as it is flat.

Editor's note: Dr. Cooper advised all involved of the situation. Greg Thompson was the one who made the hire expecting credentials to check out without a problem.
web posted June 23, 2007

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Thanks for the great coverage of the school board meeting which should have resulted in firing. Our students need good role models, not those who think dishonesty is acceptable.
web posted June 23, 2007

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The people of Edgefield County better wake up and see what is going on to our school system - We have got to vote on new school board members (not all, just a few).  We have totally turned into an entire racist outfit.  What happened to the children that the school district employees are there for????
 
I am wondering if what I heard about the new human resource officer is true.  I hope she was not placed too because of who she was bosses' daughter and not just to stir up more trouble.  I have had to deal w/the Fiscal Services and Human Resources office staff and have to say that they are a dear bunch of ladies to deal with and sure hope the new lady, not sure of her name, will be just the same.  That is the best organized office staff that I have seen.  They are underpaid!! 
 
As a whole, we need to wake up Edgefield County and get back to the basics and that is to educate our children!!
 
Get over the race days!!
web posted June 23, 2007

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 The reader who inquired about the GAL. Guardian Ad Litems are Very Expensive,  which is why a few years ago, there was a tremendous outpouring to reign them in. Courts appoint them on there wishes, there is no law or rule as to when a court must appoint a GAL. the family court laws in SC are outdated. unfortunately,  our state gov't this year allowed family court reform to die in committee. Until judges are elected and not appointed ,they are GOD and can rule however they want regardless of state law.  In the state of SC there is nothing the people   can do to remove an ineffective judge.
web posted June 23, 2007

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In regards to the report on the EC School Board upholding Mr. Martin's transfer, the vote should have been 7-0 with the same results.  Bibbs and Cooks should be impeached (if that is possible for this office) for the votes showing where they truly stand. 
 
On a side note from the same article, a couple of other things were very disturbing to me.  1) The camera on the school bus where the fight involving Mr. Bibbs' daughter was not working.  These things should be checked and updated regularly.  2) And this is the most disturbing part, another student caught the incident on video. WHY DOES A STUDENT HAVE SOMETHING WITH VIDEO CAPABILITY ON SCHOOL PROPERTY?? Is this not regulated either.  If it is not, it really needs to be.
 
Mr. Martin should be fired, Mr. Bibbs & Chairperson Cooks should have to resign, and everyone in the county who has a child in a school under the guidance of the EC School Board should wholeheartedly and faithfully pray.
web posted June 23, 2007

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sorry to hear about your son. But at least he is safe. I enjoy your site. But how do i make it my home page. Someone changed it and I want it back.

Editor's note: With IE go to "Tools" and enter www.EdgefieldDaily.com as the Homepage. With Netscape go to "Preferences" and select Homepage and place the same address in the box provided. If your home page was changed without your knowledge you may want to check to see if you have spyware that was installed on your computer.
web posted June 22, 2007

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The meeting at the DO (Edgefield County School Board District Office) was a joke! What was the relevance of the fight on the bus and the child abuse case when it comes to whether or not Martin is certified to be an assistant principal. I guess I can put his name in print because he said that his name was all over edgefielddaily.com. Well, I read it everyday and I have never seen it on here. Also, was it necessary to name one of the girls involved in the fight? Was it necessary for the foul language to be used by Martin? Also, Brad Covar made a valid point about opening up a can of worms (my words, not his) about letting one person hold a position without the proper credentials and letting someone else go because they don't is a disaster in the making. I believe that if a person is not certified for the position, then find someone who is.
And as for the person that wrote in saying, it must be a black thang, well I believe that this practice has been going on in the county way before the board had a black majority. I believe it use to be a good old boy thang, "I'm hiring my neighbor, my cousins nephew, my best friends son-in-law, etc.". Just walk the halls of some of these schools and you will be surprised about the close ties of some people in the district.

Editor's note: You may be surprised, but I can assure you I am not surprised.
web posted June 22, 2007

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Just a simple thought for the ECSD.  It seems that America's "protected class" has come too accustomed to
double standards and the race card.  Quote for the day "One cannot play the race card, unless it is in one's
own pocket."
web posted June 22, 2007

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If you did not know it by now N. A. cops are the best around here just ask one of them they will tell you  they make the most money around but seem to do it all. I wonder how many times they take a call by theirselfs never........
web posted June 22, 2007

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Missed your updates ALOT!  Glad you and your family made it back safely. 
I hope the "accident" gets settled promptly for you and your son.
web posted June 22, 2007

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I dunno....to me the biggest gov't agency I have ever seen improve in the SC DMV.  It used to be a nightmare in there.  Now it is efficient and orderly.  The person at the front desk that immediately reviews your needs/forms is the key to the whole system. 
 
I usually go to one on Asgaga (sp?) Lake Road in Aiken County, but have had good service at the Edgefield office as well.  Perhaps you just caught a bad day.
 
Completely unrelated.....I saw this on a Univ of Kentucky fan website.  I follow the Wildcats Basketball with a religious ferver, and I saw this in the football news about Strom Thurmond's QB. 
 
3) A name to keep your eye on with UK struggling to land a quarterback is Strom Thurmond (SC) quarterback Aramis Hillary who was a standout at Kentucky's recent camp. Hillary has only one big offer, from Mississippi State, but is getting strong looks from Maryland, Tennessee and South Carolina, in addition to the 'Cats.
web posted June 22, 2007

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To the person talking about congratulating Fox Creek High School, maybe the editor does not want to congratulate them.
web posted June 22, 2007

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I would also like to respond to the post concerning the Edgefield DMV.  I am there at least once or twice a month, and sometimes more, due to business reasons and have been going there for years.  I have never had a problem with any of the employees there.  I have, although, listened to other customers complain as they stand in line and are told their paperwork is incorrect.  Wrong is wrong.  No ifs, ands, or buts.  They know their job.  I have taken paperwork back to my office because of mistakes.  I don't complain.  I fix them and take them back.  It is very simple.  There is no need to argue if you do not have your ducks in a row. They have to have their's in a row because they have certain SC state issued rules that must be followed in processing the tag, title, licenses, and other work or they are held accountable for the errors or missing info.  There is a main state office, located in Blythewood, SC, that they have to answer to.  They don't send people away because they want to, they do it because they can't complete a transaction that is incomplete.  I'm sure these employees @ the DMV would not go into someone else's place of business and ask them to make changes that is against their company policy.  I think they are doing a great job and I appreciate them being there.
web posted June 22, 2007

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I would ask the reader who claims that our school system is failing the children to think about this.  If all students came to school with an attitude of being there to learn, I'd say you were right.  If the majority put forth their best efforts, I'd say you were right.  If they came prepared with all their homework and assignments, I'd say you were right.  If some didn't misbehave in class and waste valuable instructional time, I'd say you were right.  If they took more interest in their work than in their cell phones and clothes, I'd say you were right.  If their parents visited the schools to check on their children on a regular basis, I'd say you were right.  If some parents would come to the school for conferences after they have been called and called and called again, I'd say you were right.
    
It is not our teachers and schools who are failing the children.  Some students are choosing to fail school, and some parents are letting them.  Then, when the test scores are published, who gets the blame?  The schools do.  Let's put the monkey back where it belongs.  Yes, teachers should provide high quality instruction of high quality material, but the choice to learn or not to learn is ultimately the student's, with or without the parents support.
web posted June 22, 2007

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Someone, did arrest the man on Mims Street.  Thank you, thank you, thank you.  Perhaps you had something to do with them taking action.  He is now in jail, and we his past and present family members and neighbors, pray that the Judge upholds the laws and makes this man serve some hard time for all the pain and suffering he has caused many people.  This town (police) needs to stop be so careful and start taking actions to protect and serve all of it's citizens.  The law breakers have to be taught some sort of lessons or what will the next generation of Edgefield learn.

Editor's note: I had nothing to do with the arrest. Law enforcement conducts their own business, I just report it.
web posted June 22, 2007

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I have a question I hope someone out there can help me with.  I went through the family court system in Edgefield for two differecnt cases one beind termination of parental rights and one for my spouse to adopt my child.  Both time I was told that I had to hire a guardian ad lietem.  Even though the second time was uncontested 'simple fact of filing the paperwork' as I was told.  I have a relative that has been going through a lengthy custody dispute and has not been treated fairly in my opinion, (but I am biased here).  My question is though, there has been no guardian ad lietem required or requested?  Is this something that is used on a whim or is it supposed to be accessible and used in all occurrences of minors in question?  The reason I ask is now, one of the joint-custodial parents is moving across the country and the children are torn about what they want.  I know legally it doesn't always matter about what the kids want, but shouldn't a guardian ad lietem be in the middle of this to look out for what's best for the kids?  I mean both parents think they know, but are usually thinking with their hearts.
web posted June 22, 2007

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I have heard that the new "Human Resources" person for the school district is close w/James Bibbs on the board.  Was she the best qualified applicant and is it true about where she lives? 
 
Our school district is going to "heck" in a wastebasket!!!!!!!!
And the sad part is that it is not the students, it is the racist bunch of adults.  What an example we as adults are setting for our children.  
web posted June 22, 2007

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Editor's post: I got a phone call Wednesday afternoon from Lt. Pearson (I assume that is the spelling of his name) with the North Augusta Department of Public Safety. It seems he read my column on Wednesday and wanted to reassure me that their department was still investigating the three car crash involving my son Tuesday evening. I found it interesting that Edgefield, Johnston, and Trenton Police Departments, the Sheriff's Office, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol can wrap up a simple traffic investigation in less than an hour but the NAPS needs days to do the same.

However, I do I feel much better now that I know the administrative branch of the NAPS is able to read.
web posted June 21, 2007

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I went back through a lot of the off the wall stories you posted and a lot of them were bad links. Can you update them or check the links?

Editor's note: Off The Wall stories are reported by web sites across the globe. The links are posted correctly, however, some web sites do not archive their stories and will remove content to either solicit a subscription fee or to save bandwidth and space. I do not check the past links for availability, however, if a reader will supply the story line with a bad link it will be removed.
web posted June 21, 2007

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I am SOOOO glad you are back!! I was in DT's the whole time. I know you need a vacation but please get someone to take over next time. Sorry to hear about all the wrecks your family was in and I hope everyone is ok.

Editor's note: We are all doing fine and no one was injured in any of the wrecks. Thank you for your concern.
web posted June 21, 2007

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I have been following the saga of (the demoted assistant principle at STH) and agree that he should have been fired when he got caught lying on his application. Everybody knows why he didn't get fired, "its a black thang" if you want to know. When is his hearing and can the public attend?

Editor's note: The appeal will be heard tonight at 6:30 pm at the District Office. The public is invited to attend all open meetings of all government bodies. It is unknown at this time if the meeting will be in open or closed session. The NAACP and "Ryan B" will be in attendance to support the transfered employee. To be honest I do not understand the "race card" being played with a black principle, a black superintendent, and a black majority on the school board. But, then again, with this crowd there is no end to the absurdities they can come up with. You would think the race baiters would go after an all white public school (Fox Creek Charter School) before defending someone that lied on their application.

I wonder how School Board member James Bibbs is doing since he hired his boss' daughter for a cushy job with the district?
web posted June 21, 2007

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I usually agree with most of your posting, but we disagree with the column titled NA's finest at their best.  I don't understand how you would say your son, was not breaking the law.  He was following too close for conditions, when he rear ended the Hummer.  How do we not know that the driver of the Corsica(whom i am
not defending if she had no valid driver license) went to make a turn, and the Hummer slowed down(suddenly)
but your son(who was following too close for conditions)slammed into the back of the Hummer, causing it to come into contact with the Corsica?  Maybe the entire crash could have been avoided if your son left himself an out, by maintaining a proper following distance, for the speed at which he was traveling.  I have only heard this story from your point of view and if you are accurate with the rest of your story it would seem that the drivers of all 3 vehicles involved, should be ticketed. 1 for no valid driver license, 1 for minor in possession of alcohol and or following to closely for conditions (if he came into contact with the Corsica before your son pushed his Hummer into the Corsica, and 1 for following too closely for conditions. Thanks for taking time to read my response and keep up the good work on reporting the news in Edgefield as it happens.

Editor's note: I would agree with you if it were not for the fact that the driver of the Hummer did not hit his brakes before hitting the Corsica (no skid marks) and not warning the driver behind him (my son) with ample time to apply his brakes to avoid the collision. The Hummer struck the Corsica twice, once when he hit the teen and a second time when my son hit him.
web posted June 21, 2007

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to the person who complained about family court. all I have to say is AMEN! my ex did not pay support for over 2 years. the judge htrew it out because " it was a misunderstanding", did not reimburse, for medical expenses,again, misunderstanding, ran with the kids to another state. " he didn't really mean for that to happen, he did not have time to tell me he was moving" ( I had SOLE custody, that was and still is kidnapping.) . again, the judge threw it out as a misunderstanding.  yet my neighbor who was one week behind  on his child support was sentenced to 6 weeks. Yeah, theres a good ol boy system in place, and it stinks.
web posted June 21, 2007

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In response to the wandering minds post about the DMV in Edgefield…  Personally knowing the women that work there on a permanent basis, I find it hard to believe that any of them treated you in any way disrespectfully. It is funny how people only take the time to write about their bad experiences, or don’t consider the facts before they open their mouths. Perhaps you weren’t told what you WANTED to hear, and you obviously didn’t consider asking for the manager before you left the office.
web posted June 21, 2007

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In an incident that occurred (on) Mims St on June 18th, 2007, there were multiple warrents issued for the head of the so called household there (Criminal Domestic Violence, Attempting to assault a child, 17, and destruction of someone else's private property).  Now, this person has for many years been a fear to his family and to his neighbors, but when it is time to serve the warrants, it seems the law of Edgefield goes to the house and tells his wife he can ride his bicycle to town and they will serve him and then he can ride the bike back home.  You see he rides a bike because of 5 DUI's on land and 1 on water.  Now, it appears he has skipped town, why were these warrants not served then and this man taken in handcuffes to the police station?  For many years and many many arrest, including public masterbatuation, we the public have never seen him serve time.  How many times must he pull a gun on his wife, his son, a sledge hammer on his grandson, perform obscesene public acts, get publicly drunk, and hurt others before a local officer has the guts and glory to lock this man up and a judge put him behind bars?  What are they afraid of?  What is so special about this "good ole white country boy"?
web posted June 21, 2007

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I hope you readers followed the June 18 post and went to http://www.greatschools.net/ .  If you go to the "research and compare" schools tab and select high school and 30 mile radius from your zip code you will see this site's 2007 ratings of local public high schools using a combination of 2006 scores from Palmetto Achievement Test (PACT) and High School Assessment Program (HSAP).  What you will see should outrage you and really give you reason to think.
     Please note, STHS is pulling the school district's scores down!  FCHS scored an 8, that is, in 80th percentile compared to all SC schools while STHS scored a 3! Compared to other area schools FCHS is about as good as North Augusta or Aiken; whereas,  STHS was dead last and fading fast.
       I do not personally have an ax to grind with STHS nor am I a promoter of FCHS, but WAKE UP and admit that our wonderful school  system is anything but that. It is failing our children and wasting our hard earned tax dollars. Also, why would anyone want to move their family, or business, or factory to this schoold district with Aiken and North Augusta so close by?
      With SC test scores and graduation rates literally in the national toilet, we citizens should be extremely concerned about SC children's futures and their ability to compete, get good jobs, support their families, pay our outrageous taxes, continue to reelect our county council, and fund  our Social Security and Medicare Programs.  Except for reelecting our county council these are big tasks to ask of children who rank academically at the bottom of American Education.
      Until we see reality and admit our failures we can't fix the problems that are evident to anyone but those who have grown up in this under achieving culture.
       Perhaps some parent or student would express similar concern.
       Perhaps a High School Teacher, Administrator, or School Board Member would respond these             issues.
       Perhaps the editor would like to congratulate FCHS for their achievement.
       Perhaps I can get cold iced tea (unsweetened) in h**l.

Editor's note: I checked the link and found it interesting that my claims of a basically "all white public school" were confirmed. I want to advise readers that this is not an official ranking site by the public school systems and instead is one that promotes Charter Schools from what I gathered by searching the site.
web posted June 21, 2007

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I would like to pose a question to the readers of Edgefield Daily.  Hopefully, I will get some responses.  Has any reader ever been frustrated with the Edgefield County Department of Motor Vehicles?  If so, were they as rude to you as they were to me?  Did they provide you with the answer to your question to help resolve the problem you had?  In my dealing with them I must say that I have never been more frustrated.  It's as if they enjoy sending you on a wild goose chase making sure that you jump through all the hoops,and then you still do not have the answer to your question and have not yet solved your problem.
If making needed changes in the SCDMV was one of Governor Mark Sanford's promises to the people, he sure better get started!  Matters are worse than they have ever been.
web posted June 20, 2007

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Today, Monday June 19th, a tragedy occurred in Edgefield County. A good friend of mine died today.
She was a good friend who looked after me when I first moved to Edgefield, being an outsider and all. We
worked together and whenever I missed work, which was a rare occurrence, she would always call and ask if I needed anything. She told me, "you're rarely out of work and if you don't show up I know something is
wrong". She was a classy and sophisticated woman, but she wasn't snoody. She could get along with almost anyone and could relate to everyone.

I'll miss her, even though I did not see her that often anymore. She taught AP English at Thurmond and
she would call me in the middle of class to find the answer to some music-related question. We both shared
a love of good music. She loved Eric Clapton, and so did I. I burned her a CD once and I put a song by
Frank Zappa on it. The next time she saw me, we laughed about the song. It was about a man, who was
fed up with the fast-paced world, was going to move to Montana and raise up a crop of dental floss.

She loved horses and talked about riding and fox hunting often. We discussed many topics in the ten years that we had adjacent classrooms. Yes, today was a tragic day in Edgefield county. A friend of mine
passed away and many will miss her. I already do.
web posted June 20, 2007

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SRS construction workers made a milestone last week making 20 million safe hours.We were served a BBQ dinner and got a golf shirt made in Vietnam,To me this is a slap in the face to the Vietnam vets we have working there.While the manangers got a big bonus.We got a 9 dollar dinner and a 3 dollar shirt.I reckon everyone should have showed up for there gay pride program On last Thursday.
web posted June 20, 2007

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Isn't it a shame that some low life s.o.b. will stoop so low as to steal things off of graves? That is just what had  happened to my father's grave at Sunset Memorial Gardens Fri. or Sat night.Nice to go see your father on Fathers Day and find things I made for him gone. I know they will not be caught but God will have vengance.
web posted June 20, 2007

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Someone posted about the family court judge in edgefield being a joke. You are indeed correct. Fear not, its not just Edgefield, its the entire state of SC. First, our lovely governor has done ZERO to get the child support collection centralized. We are paying thounds of dollars a month for failure to have this in place. It was a government mandate to have a centralized child support and direct deposit to go INTO effect Ten years ago or face fines. We are paying the fines. Its just not a priority. Secondly, Family Court judges are appointed and almost never not offerend reappointment, they may as well be Supreme Court justices. The SC Judiciary commitee(which is 90% lawyers) appoints them, so unless you can find an ethics violation to get them out, to bad. Its the "good ol' boy" system at work. GA and NC ELECT their judges but SC would have to change the constitution to make that happen and you really think that the lawyers in the house and senate are going to but their buddies up for election. Also SC family court is a closed court room. not so in NC or GA, its open so anyone that wants to observe the case can and the judges are held accountable. I saw a judge in NC tell several people to come back when they could respect the court and dress appropriately, baggy jeans were not appropriate or t-shirts. Edgefield county doesn't care , and the judge does whatever. Parents are losing the right to raise their child as they see fit. Did you know if you have a spouse that dies her parents can ask for AND get COURT ORDERED visitation. It doesnt matter if you were already giving them access to the child, instead the court tells you when YOUR CHILD sees the grandparent. Heaven forbid you have the right as the parent. Doesn't matter what the parent wants for the child.  Just another way the government is getting more into our homes. I could write a book on the dealings with family court, Dateline would have a field day.

Editor's note: Opinions are those of the writer.
web posted June 20, 2007

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I tried my best but I just can't let this oppourtunity pass, its just to easy.

The hospital in California that let the person in the ED die due to non treatment has the same accrediadations as our "trauma center". Yeah, having the governement put on their stamp of approval means you must provide excellent service.
web posted June 20, 2007

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I wander why this person is just now getting involved in the political arenis?  The 05/06 Audit was done in the same way , in the the same time frame and at the same cost as when Dean was Mayor.  No other changes.  And yes the audit has been presented in open session, with all Councilman present.  Your person of authoriy does not know or understand the  accounting of Town Hall.
web posted June 20, 2007

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Editor's post: We are still in NC. We are having a nice time relaxing. On the way up, guess who my wife ran into when we got to Walhalla SC?  Me!  Of course it did little or no damage to the Tahoe, I wish I could say the same for her Cadilac. But, we did not let it spoil our vacation. I guess we'll be giving a local bodyshop some more business when we get back. Next update will be for Wednesday morning. Keep your messages coming. I am reading e-mail.
web posted June 18, 2007

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i did not know that i would miss you this much, it's bad.

Editor's note: It is nice to be missed.
web posted June 18, 2007

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I was visiting family in the town of Edgefield during the weekend and all I have been told is how beautiful (a developer) has tried to beautify the town.  Don't get me wrong - all the landscapes and trees are beautiful but why in the world doesn't the man fix up those run-down convenience stores to match the rest of the landscaping.    I just wonder if he himself goes into the stations!! 

Editor's note: The Streetscape was paid for by the people of the Town of Edgefield, not a certain person. A new ordinance that will be voted on soon will force owners of run-down buildings to bring them up to code. Only time will tell if it applies equally to all property owners.
web posted June 18, 2007

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This is in reference to a post I sent last week. I'm still flabergasted at a man who has been charged with murder having a judge set a bond of only $25.000! You may get tired of me asking questions based on rumors I've heard, but it's the only way I can get answers, even though you can only give me the answer they give you. Someone told me that the reason Dwight Hall was seen driving a Sheriff's Department vehicle was because he is now washing the police vehicles for the county. Is there any truth to this? Let me know, if you can, when you're back from vacation. In the meantime, you and your family enjoy yourselves and forget about Edgefield County and all the problems here!

Editor's note: Patrol cars are washed by Trustees in the Edgefield County Detention Center.
web posted June 18, 2007

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It is my understanding that (a demoted assistant principle at STHS)  will be appealing the decision that caused him to be removed from Thurmond.  WHY? This is ludicrous, unnecessary, and a waste of Edgefield County School time and money.  If he does not meet the qualifications then the appeal should not even be a thought. In a day when we are requiring educators to obtain several certifications in addition to the credentials they already have so that they may be identified as "highly qualified", how can the board justify putting (him) in a position in which he does not have the credentials. It appears to me that he is making a mockery of the school district.  I am sure that there were QUALIFIED people that interviewed for the position, maybe they should appeal or better yet SUE.  (maybe they should just join a church that a couple of board members attend, it worked for (him)) Teachers, Staff, Parents, Community members, students, and THE BOARD no that he does not have the credentials that he lead them to believe he had, how can he be respected.  He is not qualified to make decisions about my child's education, discipline, or anything else for that matter.

Editor's note: I would like to know how Dr. Roberson had at least a five page response at the next meeting following the executive session held by the School Board on the matter when he was not involved in the meeting. Who, I wonder, spilled the contents of the closed meeting that was to be secret? This is most disturbing. To know that someone on the School Board would discuss a personnel matter with those who are not privy to the meeting is unethical at best. But then again, since when does the majority on the School Board worry about being ethical?
web posted June 18, 2007

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Please look at the following website:  http://www.greatschools.net/
 
Then compare local schools to see how they measure up.
web posted June 18, 2007

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Well, I am off for a few days of vaction while the upgrades are being performed.I will be back on Tuesday and will have updates posted for Wednesday morning. Have a good weekend.

Keep sending your posts in while I am gone. I will have the laptop so I can make an update for breaking news. And, If i get bored of doing nothing I might update the Wandering Minds now and then, so check back often!
web posted June 15, 2007

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In case you are not aware of the latest jewel being shoved down America's throat...SRS hosted Gay Pride Day this Thursday, June 14 at the site. They had a special time for them to gather for lunch and dessert, and they even had a speaker. This is a government facility and our tax dollars are once again paying for the squeaky perverted wheel to make its noise and demand we accept it's sound. I’ve had a belly full of silent Americans who will not stand up and say enough is enough. By keeping silent, we are allowing our rights as Christians and Americans to be removed.

A California lawsuit is headed to the U.S. Supreme Court, which would make the use of the words “natural family,” “marriage” and “union of a man and a woman” a “hate speech” crime in government workplaces and punishable by law. 

In Canada, it’s already a law.

We’re so afraid of offending someone that we won’t say a word. Wake up people and be the light you were created to be. Contact your congressman now and let your voice be heard while you still have a voice.
web posted June 15, 2007

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I'm going to ask a question that is being asked by a lot of people, in the town of Johnston, without being given answers by anyone. What ever happened with the case of Dwight Hall, who shot and killed a man, here. A friend told me he saw him, yesterday, driving a sheriff's department vehicle. I don't know if he was mistaken or not, but with all the strange things that go on in this county, I wouldn't doubt it. Why has all media been so quiet on such a high profile case? The last the general public were told was when he was being held outside of this county,in jail. Is he out on bond? What is or was he being charged with? When will his case come up in court? Will he be tried in Edgefield or will that be moved to another county? A man's life was taken and he needs to be held accountable! Someone let us uninformed, in Johnston, know where this man is and if he is going to have to pay for what he did.

Editor's note: I can assure you Mr. Hall was not driving any vehicle belonging to the Sheriff's Office. He is out on $25,000 bond since November 22, 2006. I have no notice of his trial coming anytime soon. Hall has been charged with murder. The last information I had was the trial would be held in Edgefield County.
web posted June 15, 2007

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This is to the person complaining about postage stamps.  The postal service has now come out with a stamp called the forever stamp.  It has the Liberty Bell on it along with the word 'Forever'.  No matter what price you pay for it, it will always be valid for US postage without adding additional postage.
web posted June 15, 2007

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I felt I had to comment on here after reading Johnston Mayor, Willie Campbells' remarks in the newspapers and on this website. I was told, by an informed source, that since Willie Campbell was elected mayor, he has went through $186.000 of the $200.000 in thier reserve funds. Now, this alone was a shocker, but when you compare this to the fact that in 10 years time, as mayor of Johston, Dean Campbell only used $40.000 of the town's reserve funds, it shows this new mayor doesn't have the knowledge to hold that office and keep the town financially stable. He's admitted, in print, that they have been dipping into the reserve funds too much. Also, I would like to see an accounting of what this money was used for. Why has the town always stayed within each departments'budget, in the past, and had to go into the reserve since he has been mayor? Another thing, When is Johnston going to have thier annual audit or have they already? I haven't seen anything published on this, as it has always been done. Can anyone out there answer these questions? It shows me that the town has a man in office who is incompetent to be a mayor. I have talked with a lot of the people who got him elected and they all say they regret it. That's what happens when people vote based on race and not qualifications. When the ones who elected him complain, I just tell them,"You asked for this,""Now deal with it." Let's just hope that the town of Johnston doesn't go bankrupt before he's gone!

Editor's note: According to information presented by the town, at the end of Mayor Dean Campbell's term  which ended in April of 2006 cash on hand was $182,043.42. As of May 2007 that amount was shown to be $156,853.38. A difference of $25,190.04.
web posted June 15, 2007

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HAHAA!!!!  You are such a hoot!!!
Have a WONDERFUL...WELL DESERVED...SAFE VACATION!!!

Editor's note: Thank you.
web posted June 14, 2007

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Just wonder if Mr. Pettigrew is aware of the situation you reported earlier of the tax accessor taking all of this time off from work?

Editor's note: Administrator Pettigrew is aware.
web posted June 14, 2007

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I don't know which neighborhood the animal control deputy is patrolling, but I never see anyone in Johnston.  For years, we have had a persistent problem with our neighbor's large dog getting loose in the neighborhood, chasing old ladies, and trapping people in cars.  On one particular occasion, I was told by someone at the animal control office that they could not do anything about the dog unless they saw it running loose themselves, which would be hard to do from Edgefield when the dog is in Johnston.  The police have been notified on several occasions, and the dog has even growled at them.  Still, they repeatedly have the owner put the dog back into the pen he keeps getting out of.  I don't understand.
web posted June 14, 2007

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Is the town of Johnston not spraying for mosquitoes this year? They have the last few years and it has helped tremendously. The mosquitoes are really bad this year though and I haven't seen the bug truck once. I just wanted to see if this was something that had been cut due to money or if I have just missed it somehow. Thanks!
web posted June 14, 2007

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Who do I complain to about postage stamps?  It's hard enough to keep up with the cost of a postage stamp but it really aggravates me when I find a stamp in a drawer that only has a picture on it and no value marked on the stamp.  You can never get them to answer the phone so you have to go by the post office to ask them how much that particular stamp is worth.  I think all stamps should have the value marked on them!

Editor's note: E-mail is free.
web posted June 14, 2007

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Editor's post: Two more days until vacation - and upgrades. Here are my plans. Arrive at our location in the NC mountains and unload. Turn the A/C down to 71 and unpack. Sit down and do nothing. Get up later and go out to eat. Return to the condo and do nothing. Get up and go out to eat. Return to the condo and do nothing. Go to bed. Sleep late. Repeat daily. I may ride down to the clubhouse at the golf course one day and shoot the best score in golf - zero - by sitting in the clubhouse and doing nothing.

Somehow I get the feeling my wife has a different schedule planned. I guess when she reads this post she will give her plans - and I bet they involve buying stuff.
web posted June 13, 2007

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From an E-mail:
on the property taxes in Johnston  "The increase on the tax bill for a $100,000 home was shown as $302.40 for the coming fiscal year. The previous year’s tax bill on the same home would have been $289.60, an increase in total taxes of $12.80." 
 
(Heck), I spent that ($12.80) on lunch today!  Do people really get upset over paying an extra $1 per month in taxes?  It amazes me sometimes. 
 
Kinda like the sales tax holdiays....if a store said we are having 6% off everything in the store, no one would give two hoots.  But say you save 6% in TAXES and people go nuts.  It makes no sense to me. 
 
Have a nice vacation.

Editor's note: Just after getting married I managed a very popular store on the "main drag" to Folly Beach, in Charleston. When a soft drink company came out with the plastic 16 oz. drinks they went on sale for 30 cents each. I placed it on the sign as requested by the distributor "16 oz. (soft drink) for 30¢" and sales were slow. So, I replaced the sign to read "3 - 16 oz. (soft drinks) for $1 and sold out in days.
web posted June 13, 2007

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I agree with the single mothers post that "we do not sponge off the government!"  I too, am a single parent who works not just one job but three.  It is simply ridiculous that our children have to suffer for the deadbeat dads who refuse to take responsibility for their actions.  I was married to my children's father and he just decided to "walk away."  The justice system does not help us single parents (I know a few single daddy's as well).  We try to get them to catch the deadbeat parents and nothing happens, they have to be pulled over or arrested on another charge for them to get hauled into court, even then we don't get the back pay that our children are owed.  Sending them to jail doesn't work cause then they just get more behind.  There has to be a better system that needs to be in place so our children don't suffer.  The government is making it harder on single parents as well, by raising the standards for assistance.  I see the validity in doing so, but they are making it harder for the people that live in the "small towns" to obtain the assistance that our children really need.  There are a lot of businesses here that provide good jobs to hardworking people, but it is difficult to obtain health care and things like that.  Child care is also very expensive and necessary for single parents (most with two parents as well).  The government does not take into account all that we pay out of our salaries, wages, they just want to know what we bring in and just because the state says that we can feed our little families for maybe 250/month doesn't mean that actually happens.  It is more for the parents in the larger cities that the system works for.  The communities need to ban together and try and help these people and not chastise them for being on assistance.  One day they might need it themselves.
web posted June 13, 2007

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Re: I was curious as to what had happened with the Clerk of Court putting access to records online.    When I went to the Edgefield County website, the "Clerk of Court" link sends you to a website where you can pay a pretty penny for access to records.  Only two SC counties were in the "free" list, neither of which was Edgefield.  Is this all that will be?
 
I wonder if the person who wrote the above to wondering minds is interested in "history" or one who is just plain NOSEY about everybody else's business?

Editor's note: The planned service is a great one. Anytime public records are made available to the public on the internet for free it serves the people well regarless of the reason for wanting to view them.
web posted June 13, 2007

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Ya'll want to jump on deadbeat dads so bad. I pay my child support and it takes half my check. The sorry slut I was dumb enuf to get married to takes the money and parties on it while her mother watches our two kids. I only get them every other weekend to try to undue the crap she tells them about me and the things they tell me they see her do. I'll tell you another thing too. The family court in Edgefield is a (explative) joke. She's out doing crack for days but she gets custody and the (explative) judge knows it. How the (heck) does that happen!!!!!

Editor's note: If you are fighting for custody, paying child support, and taking every opportunity to spend time with your children - you are obviously not a dead beat dad and should not be offended by the term. I commend you for stepping up to the plate and meeting your responsibilities. Far too many do not.
web posted June 13, 2007

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I am going to assume that the poster talking about eliminating welfare might be talking about dependant mothers that continue to have children while on welfare. As a tax paying citizen I do not begrudge anyone help from my tax dollars if they are trying to help themselves. The many that abuse the system is what I am opposed to. Many of these people can not or will not tell who the father is. Some of them have multiple children each with a different father. The rug needs to be pulled out from under these. My neighbor said that if you are on welfare and not working, then pick you up , take you out to clean trash from the roads, work the road crew. Qualified women could even work in a day care for dependant welfare mothers so that ones trying to work might get affordable day care. There are educational programs that will help you further your education so you can get a better paying job. Maybe your dad could watch the children a couple of nights a week so that you can go to night school. There are many on welfare that do not want or intend to work. You do not seem to be one of them.
web posted June 13, 2007

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I love the wondering minds. It's like a local soap opera. Its the first thing I read everyday. You never know what is going to happen next.
web posted June 13, 2007

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I too a single working mother, my child’s health and welfare come first. He has never had a lot of fancy expensive things (i.e. video games and such) and doesn’t miss them. But the way my child loves to read, can keep him self entertained with his toys using his imagination and love the out doors. We utilize one of Edgefield’s most valuable assets the library.   

The State of South Carolina assistances programs are designed to keep people down. If could afford to buy health care for my child I would get him off Medicaid in a heart beat. I tried for five months when he was born to find a way to get him covered but there are NO affordable health insurance programs public or private

It is easy to criticize other people and yes many do abuse the system, but it is time to fix the system not punish the children.

  O yes for those of you who have never sent a child to day care it cost approximately 80.00-90.00 a week per child multiply that by 4 and you get 320.00-to 360.00 a month.

I too drive a used car with no A/C and wear hand me downs. A Child grows fast and need new shoes. We don’t go to movies, theme parks or take a week the beach. The last time I stayed home for a week was when my child had the stomach flu. Fun.
web posted June 13, 2007

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re: We can get rid of the illegals only when we make work an attractive option for unskilled citizens.  Do this by eliminating welfare, "aid to dependent mothers", and all the other freebies that encourage the lazy to sponge off of government. 
web posted June 8, 2007

MANY single moms that I know including myself work hard, but still need the help from "aid to dependent mothers"!  Maybe if the state of SC would actually track down fathers and MAKE them pay their child support we wouldn't need so much help.  Some of us can not find decent paying jobs and can not afford to feed our children without food stamps or pay our rent and bills without the aid.  If I could get child support I could probably make it.  Without it I can not afford food and that would be the first thing we would go without.  I don't have all sorts of special things either.  No credit cards, no fancy items.  My computer was a gift and my dad bought me a cell phone and pays for it because my vehicle was breaking down so much!  I do NOT "sponge off the government" I work, pay my taxes and do the best I can by going to work EVERYDAY!  I will continue to do so.  BTW, they say I make too much and took everything except Medicaid away from me and now I can not afford to pay my rent so myself and my children might end up homeless, then what?

Editor's note: I commend you for stepping up and taking on the responsibilities of two parents by yourself. I apologize, but I do not understand the thought process, or lack thereof, of a man that would walk away from the responsibility of his own children.

Maybe after the stolen property section is completed and placed online a page can be created for "deadbeat dads". I will check on the legalities of publishing such a page. I am considering a "Most Wanted" page in the near future which would feature a description, photograph (if available), and nature of pending charges of those sought by local law enforcement.

After all, You are the front line of law enforcement.
web posted June 12, 2007

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I want to say how much the animal (Control) deputy does. We got a lot of problems in our neighberhood and he does a good job getten these stray dogs gone. Can you tell the Sherriff and him what a good job he do?

Editor's note: From an e-mail.
web posted June 12, 2007

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I was curious as to what had happened with the Clerk of Court putting access to records online.    When I went to the Edgefield County website, the "Clerk of Court" link sends you to a website where you can pay a pretty penny for access to records.  Only two SC counties were in the "free" list, neither of which was Edgefield.  Is this all that will be?

Editor's note: No, I have received many e-mails on this matter and have spoken with Clerk of Court Newby. Edgefield County's records will be free for online research. Mrs. Newby said she would be in touch with the county to correct the link and that the records are not complete at this time and are still being reviewed before being placed for use online. I have no idea why the County Administration has not corrected the bad link. I contacted the county about this problem a month ago.
web posted June 12, 2007

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I noticed that there were two arrests made over the last few weeks that involved relatives of the sheriff and his former chief deputy. I also find it interesting you did not report on either of them. Playing favorites?

Editor's note: Not hardly. For some strange reason EdgefieldDaily.com did not receive the incident reports of the two arrests. Margaret Katherine Summers, 18, daughter of former Chief Deputy Joel Summers was arrested on May 18 for simple larceny and grand larceny, greater than $1,000 but less than $5,000. She is still in custody at last check a week ago.

Sheriff Adell Dobey's niece, Precious Tequila Dobey, 23, was arrested on May 24 on a single count of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature. She was released on bond.

The arrests were reported in the Crime Blotter (linked above) but with no official information or incident reports it was impossible to report the cause of the arrests.
web posted June 12, 2007

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Have a great vacation. You deserve it.

Editor's note: Thank you.
web posted June 12, 2007

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I have been a reader of Edgefield Daily(.com) since you started (over) 2 years ago and just wanted to say thank you. I was a subscriber of your newsletter from years ago.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading and please pass our location on to others. The growth of the former monthly news letter on county issues was part of the foundation for EdgefieldDaily.com. Thank you for being among those who helped create EdgefieldDaily.com by your interest.
web posted June 12, 2007

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Is there any way to find out when the road crews will be doing work on roads? If there is could you publish the infomation so I can avoid getting tied up sitting in traffic?

Editor's note: I have asked the SC DOT in the past to send the information but they never responded. I have made a note to issue requests to the County and the State for this information so it can be made available in the future. Thank you for your suggestion. Some things "fall between the cracks" as time goes by and I will do my best to have paving and other maintenance schedules available.
web posted June 12, 2007

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Editor's post: I have to be honest, I am counting the days until Friday. The upgrades will only take three days but I am taking a long weekend anyway. I am looking forward to cooler temperatures in the NC mountains. I will return to work next Tuesday and there will be some updates made for next Wednesday. Please continue to send in your e-mails and postings for the Wandering Minds while I am away. All will be posted (as long as they follow the rules) following my return. I also want to thank readers that have wished our family well on our vacation and for all of your continued support for EdgefieldDaily.com. I did not make EdgefieldDaily.com successful, you did.
web posted June 11, 2007

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We wanted to write in to say how much we love Edgefield Daily.(com) We have been on vacation and love being able to open up the laptop and find out what is going on back home. We will be here another week and will check in every day. Thank you for everything you do.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments and for reading. Enjoy your vacation and return home safe.
web posted June 11, 2007

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This is to the person complaining because you did the story on DSS after everyone else. I want to thank you for keeping this story alive. Unless you've had to deal with a situation that requires children to be taken from a home you have no idea how important it is to have local families willing to take these children in. I thank you, the Citizen News, the Augusta Chroncile, and Channel 12 for helping get the word out on this important problem. My husband and I used to be foster parents and had to stop because of our age and other family matters. I would ask anyone that loves children to think about becoming a foster parent.

Editor's note: Thank you for your service to the foster care system.
web posted June 11, 2007

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You had a story about hitting 8,000,000 hits a while back. You claimed 700,000 hits a month but haven't said anything about hitting 9,000,000 hits. What happened?  If you were telling the truth you should've long past 9,000,000 by now.

Editor's note: The nine million mark has long been passed and EdgefieldDaily.com will surpass ten million before the month of June is over. I will mark the ten million milestone but will then only mark increments of five million hits or the mark of one million hits a month. The goal for the next fiscal year is to top twelve million hits for the year. Not bad when certain government officials called EdgefieldDaily.com "irrelevant" when it was founded.
web posted June 11, 2007

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You continue to make up words "Amnesty" that suite you.   
From the GOP.com 
http://www.gop.com/News/Read.aspx?ID=6952
No Amnesty For Illegal Immigrants

Illegal Immigrants Who Come Out Of The Shadows Will Be Given Probationary Status. To maintain their probationary status, they must pass a background check, remain employed, and maintain a clean criminal record.

Illegal Immigrants Who Fulfill Their Probationary Requirements Can Apply For A Z Card, Which Will Enable Them To Live, Work, And Travel Freely. Z card holders will be required to pay a $1,000 fine, meet accelerated English and civics requirements, remain employed, and renew their visa every four years.

Card Holders Will Have An Opportunity To Apply For A Green Card, But Only After:
· Paying an additional $4,000 fine,
· Applying at the back of the line and waiting until the current backlog is cleared,
· Returning to their home country to file their green card application, and
· Demonstrating merit under the merit-based system.

Editor's note: First, I did not make up the word "amnesty". As for the claims listed -  let me guess, you believe that? Just like those before you, in 1965 and 1986 believed the same lies? Americans that break the law pay fines, illegal aliens are to be deported. If you want to fine them, make them pay for their deportation.
web posted June 11, 2007

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When waiting in line anywhere, why do people have to climb up your (rear end),or become one with the right or left side of your body? It's not going to get them to the front of the line any faster and it really annoys me that they are invading my personal space. People back the truck up!!!! Yesterday a man at a local gas station acually put his purchases on the counter in front of me while I was being waited on,then stood so close to me that I couldn't even turn to the right. Respect others,please.It's hot and sticky outside and the last thing I want is someone I don't even know getting that close to me. All I'm asking for is a couple of feet of space.
web posted June 11, 2007

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We fuss and fuss about illegal aliens with just cause. I get upset about it too but there is another thing that just makes me so mad. So many companies outsource the telemarketing jobs. I am really sick and tired of answering the phone and hearing someone on the other end that cannot speak English. And not just telemarketers. We tried to call Tec support for a problem with a computer and could not understand what we were told to do. If these companies take my money every month then at least put it back in our economy and not India or Mexico. I intend to call on Monday and lodge a complaint and then I intend to write letters to all of them . I will continue to do so and I encourage you to do the same. Anytime we sit back and accept things nothing will ever change.
web posted June 11, 2007

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Editor's post: Many people asked me today why I was not on vacation. Others wrote to wish me well on my vacation. Vacation does not begin until next Friday when annual upgrades begin. There will be daily updates all of next week. As posted on June 2, updates will not be made on June 16, 18, and 19.
web posted June 9, 2007

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Editor's note: This post exceeded the word limit but I felt it should be posted in its entirety.

Hope you have a very nice vacation.  We will miss going to the Daily every day. What I wanted to comment on was you stated "just the facts" of the county council meeting on Tuesday night.  You didn't report how much torcher it was for us in the "audience" to sit through it.
 
We try to follow the thought process and concentrate carefully on what is being said by the county council members, but it is impossible to filter through and understand what the heck they are talking about.  It's pretty bad when after 10 - 15 minutes of rambling about sprinkler system parts that a citizen has to interrupt them and firmly ask what the heck they are doing up there.
 
What is very clear is that all the council members do not understand what is in their own (our) budget, some can't add or subtract, they do not know how to present a proposal (sprinkler parts), and don't realize that if it's in a working budget, we don't want to hear them micromanage sprinkler parts for Bettis Park or whatever park it is. The most important point I want to communicate to the Edgefield Daily readers is that there is something rotten in Denmark here.
 
Department heads have to put forth a working budget every year.  The Sheriff has to prove that he needs more deputies, I agree and support this, the Clerk of Court has to prove she needs file folders, etc.  However, the budget for the recreation department seems to be controlled by the County Council members themselves!!!!!  During the council meeting, they would go in asking for one amount, and it would increase during the meeting.  Then, in front of us in the meeting, they start horse trading their monies from their own districts back and forth to have money for their pet park projects! 
 
Editor, I have been considering this recreation budget for a while and have to ask you, where are the parks that we are spending huge money on this year?  I have traveled the roads on Merriwether for 20 years and have never seen a park anywhere.  Are we being charged taxes in Merriwether and the south end of the county for the use of only the north end?  I've heard of Bettis Park an Northside Park.  Where are these parks?  Are there more parks?  If we put in  a sprinkler system, then we will have to start paying a huge water bill, and on and on.  I also picked up on  a recreation director and he has a car too?  Then why doesn't he have to go before the board with his budget and sprinkler proposal? This recreation budget seems to be a place where money gets parked and the board members micromanage their pet projects from there.
 
Edgefield Daily readers, I encourage you to start attending the monthly meetings.  It's one of the most enlightening things we have ever done!!  Hope this isn't too much before your vacation!
web posted June 9, 2007

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Just a note to say THANKS to all my "friends" who helped me "celebrate" my birthday! To those younger than me, revenge will be sweet!
web posted June 9, 2007

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You're about two weeks late on the DSS story.

Editor's note: The story is not about being "late" or "first". It was to keep the issue in the public's view. There will also be a more in depth follow up story in the very near future.
web posted June 9, 2007

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Could you tell me when a class reunion is set for the class of 1977.Thanks love your site.

Editor's note: I have no information on the reunion.
web posted June 8, 2007

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Just wandering!! Regarding the Tax Assessor, Ms. Bryant.  The times she worked in Newberry, was she there on her "off time" and being paid by them or was she being paid by Edgefield and them or was Edgefield paying for her to work in Newberry?.
web posted June 8, 2007

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SC has a bill in the House judiciary committee that would punish people who file false compalints with DSS, it is part of a family court reform bill. The bill has several important changes, this is one of them.This needs to be passed, way to much money is wasted on ex spouses or angry families constantly abusing the system with bogus claims. You can  file a lawsuit in Ga, but unless this bill this passed,a family has no relief available, nor does the state.
web posted June 8, 2007

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Can't something be done about the terrrible odor on Hwy 25 near the Crossroads Church at the Pine House?
web posted June 8, 2007

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I just read Carl Langley's editoral on "Hate Crimes". I agree with him 100%. This is the exact reason I keep weapons in my vehicle and my home. If anyone tries to do harm to my family or myself, there are going to be some "feelings hurt", and I don't if they are red, yellow, black or white.
Enjoy your vacation. I know the Edge. County Council is looking forward to your vacation! Just remember, when the cats away, the mice will play!
web posted June 8, 2007

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Re: Editor's note: How about this idea. Shut down the borders, deport the illegals, fine those who hired them, and watch the unemployment rate drop.
 
Fine idea.  You'd get no arguement from me.
web posted June 8, 2007

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We can get rid of the illegals only when we make work an attractive option for unskilled citizens.  Do this by eliminating welfare, "aid to dependent mothers", and all the other freebies that encourage the lazy to sponge off of government.  This would force a work ethic back on our people and reduce the incentive for the cross border invasion of illegals who eye our social "entitlements" as an ultimate goal.
web posted June 8, 2007

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So much has been written and “seemingly justified” about our County Council and Tax Assessor not being on the up and up.  Let us not forget about the Appeals Board.  Their actions and solutions to cases leaves a lot of questions.  Maybe we need to hear more about the Appeals Board, who actually determines values, still the Assessor? County Council Members? Individual Appeal Board Members depending on who you are?  Who is on the Appeals Board? Qualifications? Accountable to (let us guess?).  How much do they get paid?

If the citizens of Edgefield do not wake up and vote the next election – we deserve what we are getting…….
web posted June 8, 2007

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I would just like to say "THANK YOU" to Dr. Velky and his staff for taking time out of their busy schedules to help the STHS Cheerleaders today.  Dr. Velky sacrificed a probably peaceful afternoon that he normally has off to do physicals for them. Their office was very professional and courteous and I just wanted to let them know how much they were appreciated. Thanks Ms. Marilyn for all your help.
web posted June 8, 2007

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Editor's post: I want to clear up statements of costs related to additional deputies that keep getting tossed around by county officials. Chairman Kneece and Administrator Pettigrew stated that the cost of each additional deputy is $71,913 after figuring the cost of salary (mid $20,000 range), a car (stated as $26,000), and insurance, benifits, and taxes. The county does not replace each car each year so the $26,000 is, on average, a four year cost. I question the figure since the salary for a deputy is set in the mid $20,000 range. By what is presented, the average salary of a deputy would be $46,913 a year including benefits. I imagine there are a lot of deputies already working that would like to sign up for that salary.

Also, with the hundreds of replies to the poll received so far, I am not going to continue it until the end of the week. I have not received a single "yes" to amnesty. Maybe I should give CBS, CNN, and the New York Times an Edgefield County phone book to add to those they poll contacts.
web posted June 7, 2007

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I hope you have an enjoyable vaction.

Editor's note: Thank you. I will spend the few days doing absolutely nothing but relaxing.
web posted June 7, 2007

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How can they (the county council) not accept the lowest bid on something? I thought that was the law. I guess laws don’t apply to Edgefield County.

Editor's note: I am looking into that vote. There are other problems I feel come into play.
web posted June 7, 2007

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What I want to know is why do we have to send (Tax Assessor) Bryant to school for 2 days to learn how to use a calculator. Shouldn’t that be something she should know how to use in order to get the job? Maybe that is why our tax bills are so crazy. She must have been punching numbers in and hitting buttons on that thingy on her desk to come up with the assessments.
web posted June 7, 2007

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You can’t spy on people and tell everyone when they are at work and when they are off. It’s none of your business!!!

Editor’s note: When the person is a government employee paid by our local tax dollars, makes over $50,000, I most certainly can, and will. Besides, its not “spying” it is holding our county officials accountable.
web posted June 7, 2007

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Is the "hole" the Augusta driver is talking about the Holland Tunnel??
web posted June 7, 2007

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Can you post the salaries of our County Council and School Board Members. This might help some of us decide if we will run for one of their seats.
Thanks

Editor's note:I posted the salaries of the BOE members not too long ago but do not have the figures at my fingertips tonight. However, the Edgefield County Council members are paid as follows: Chairman- $10,800, Vice-chair - $9,600, council members - $8,400. This works out to roughly $900 a meeting for the chair, $800 a meeting for the vice-chair, and $700 a meeting for the council members based on one meeting a month for the year.
web posted June 7, 2007

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Kudos to (Councilman) Joe Dorn for standing up for the sheriff
web posted June 7, 2007

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Going on vacation????? NO...NO.... I will have withdrawal problems. You are my fix. I guess I can live in my closet till you get back, this way no one will see me drool.
web posted June 7, 2007

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You are using the word amnesty because it is the word you want to use.  The bill before the Senate calls for fines to be paid for these illegal actions.  If one got a speeding ticket, and paid a fine, would you say he/she broke the law and paid the fine?  Or would you say he/she got "amnesty"? 
 
This is a tough issue.  I'd be all for locking up the employers of illegals along w/ sending the illegals back to where ever they came from.  I repeat....I am all for sending the illegals back to where they came from.  And enforcing the current laws for the employers. 
 
But to go into a chicken plant/peach farm and arrest the workers and not the employers....seems like a short sited solution.  The illegals generally come here for jobs.  Cut the jobs and you've cut the reason they come.  Perhaps the solution is to tell the peach farmers/chicken houses that their industry has gone the way of the wagon makers in a round about way.  Instead of a better invention (cars), it is lower labor costs in South America and China that will produce our nations fruit/poultry.  That's what one gets with market driven globalization.  I know I don't like the idea of no peach farms in this area, and I sure as hell don't like the idea of our food coming from China....but what is the solution under the current rules?  We can not allow illegals to continue to work here unless we change the rules. 
 
I don't see much difference in peach farmer illegally hiring workers and a crack dealer illegally selling drugs.  Both are breaking the law to make a living and they both know it. 
It is a tough issue, for sure.  
Good site for the local stuff.

Editor's note: How about this idea. Shut down the borders, deport the illegals, fine those who hired them, and watch the unemployment rate drop.
web posted June 7, 2007

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RE: Working for a Living
Something should be done about the tax assessor who is only working 66% of the time.   Her pay should be cut when she is not working.  
 
I suppose this is one of the reasons the Tax assessor data on line is not up to day.   There are changes that were made over 6 months ago, that are not showing up online as of today.   Who does she report to?

Editor's note: The Tax Assessor answers to Edgefield County Administrator John Pettigrew, who answers to the Edgefield County Council, who answers to (fill in the blank).
web posted June 7, 2007

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Your description of Trenton was spot on!  We are a family and while few realize it, the rest of Edgefield County would be desperately void of its charm, appeal and small-town charisma that it seeks to market.  Any Trentonite, in town that weekend or not, takes pride in the longevity and endurance of the Peach Festival and is certainly appreciative of those who founded it and those committed to keep it going year after year.  Hopefully, you will be able to post a few pictures of the festivities in the days following.

Editor's note: Thank you. It is something only a Trentonie would understand.
web posted June 7, 2007

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Just read-----The seatbelt law is a giant money machine for townships—Ask lawmakers why 40 million kids can ride a school bus twice a day without seatbelts.

As for illegal aliens-----America—greatest country on earth especially if you are an illegal or a foreigner.
web posted June 7, 2007

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I have read some (almost all) of the Wandering Minds blogs. I think it was a very good idea to create the Wandering Minds blog. I would like to give a little insight on FCHS and ECSD. The ECSD does have control over, three areas (that I recall), FCHS. I pulled a one year stint as a Director. ECSD may have more areas of control, these are just the three that I remember the most. The first is curriculum, any SC public Charter school is required to follow the same guidelines as other public schools in the state of SC. The second is: the Charter document that the original planning committee submitted to ECSD and the state. ECSD is required to assure that FCHS complies with the Charter document, completely. Basically if the Charter document states that it will do something, then ECSD's responsibility is too assure that, the Charter school is adhering to the document, this is done through reports and their on method of confirmation. The third is: Financial stability. If any public Charter school in the state of SC is found to be Financial unstable (deep in the red ) then the local BOE (sponsor) is required by law to pull the charter. This I found interesting as it came from the gentleman from the SC State dept, I cannot recall his name.
 This information was given to me at the annual Director training that I attended, which was held in Columbia.  I have not read the new Charter School law that was passed, I believe, last year. So some things may have changed. I feel that ECSD should take a deeper role with any Charter school that opens in Edgefield. After all it is all about our children's education.

Editor's note: Fox Creek is in violation of their charter and the ECBOE has admitted it and excused it. Scott Chitty does not represent the Merriwether district, he represents Fox Creek. The rest of the residents have no representation of the ECBOE.
web posted June 7, 2007

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To the person saying that their student graduated with honors...did u ever see your child come home with hw...did you ever ask your child what they learned in school...just becuase you graudate with honors doesnt mean anything!  If your child didnt do good at a big school, maybe it is because they were part of the group talking in class and making the teacher talk above them!!!
web posted June 7, 2007

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Editor's post: With all the media reporting "polls" saying Americans support amnesty for illegal aliens I thought I would do a poll of our readers. With the many illegal aliens we have in our county and the numerous arrests for no drivers license, no insurance, and DUI's that are recorded in the Crime Blotter, I will ask one simple question in this poll.

Q: Should illegal aliens in the United States of America be given amnesty and allowed to stay and become voting citizens after entering our country illegally?

Please send in your reply as a simple "yes" or "no" to editor@edgefielddaily.com with the subject line of your e-mail as "poll". I will run this poll for the rest of this week and have the results on Monday June 11. Duplicate votes from the same e-mail address will not be counted.
web posted June 6, 2007

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This post was moved to the top:
I have never personally liked you but I have grown to respect you. I very rarely agree with your perspective on a lot of issues but commend you for your work. Congratulations on the success of Edgefield Daily.

Editor's note: Thank you. The opinion is mutual.
web posted June 6, 2007

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To the person writing about you taking a vacation. Do you take a vacation every year? Why are you (fussing) about the editor taking one? I hope you have a good vacation and don't worry about anything. We will be here when you get back.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comment.
web posted June 6, 2007

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I live on hyw 25 near Trenton. Something needs to be done about the traffic on the 2lane. The big trucks are everywhere and people drive like they are crazy. I work in Augusta and the hole drive to work always has some nut driving slow and everybody trying to pass with nonstop oncoming traffic. Who do I complain to about this?

Editor's note: You can contact the SC DOT, The South Carolina Highway Patrol, and the Edgefield County Sheriff's Office, but your best bet is to pray. The SC DOT has plans to four lane Highway 25 from the current four lane ending at Brightharp Road all the way to Trenton at the Pine House intersection in the next few years.
web posted June 6, 2007

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The cartoon about (County Councilman Everett) Kitchens was a hoot! I work in Edgefield and have looked for it to be put on the bulletin board at the courthouse but haven't seen it. When are you going to put it up?

Editor's note: That is not the cartoon that will be posted at the Courthouse. The one that will be posted is still in the process of being drawn by the contracted artist.
web posted June 6, 2007

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Take your vacation. Don't come back on Tues stay the whole week. You desreve a break. Your family needs you as much as we do. Thanks for everything you do. I don't know how you do what you do every day but I want to let you know I appreciate Edgefield Daily.

Editor's note: Thank you. I will still be returning on Tuesday as my family returns from North Carolina and heads to Hilton Head for the second half of the vacation. With the upgrades EdgefieldDaily.com will more than triple our bandwidth and provide a wider assortment of options for news, recordings, and other media formats. As EdgefieldDaily.com nears one million hits a month the upgrades were necessary.
web posted June 6, 2007

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This is hilarious . . . My mom emailed me to let me know the new 2007-2008 school budget was online. I went to open it and when it was finished downloading I got a message saying that the file was corrupt. Now, I realize it was an error with my computer, since my mother was able to pull it up, but found it humorous that a document put together by our illustrious school board came up as corrupt! Imagine that!
web posted June 6, 2007

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It just amazes me at the trivial crap people find to complain about. The Trenton Peach Festival will go on no matter who is there or not there.  So what if your parents started it.Does that mean you have to be hogged tied to it forever?  Go on vacation with your family. Do not look back! Have a great time. If anyone deserves a vacation it is you and your family. To the poster....be ashamed, be very very ashamed.

Editor's post: Thank you. I must admit I was a bit rude in my reply last night but it was well after 1 am and the last check of e-mail before uploading was that comment, which was then posted. It did not sit well with me being so tired. I am told I could have used a more "tactful approach" in my reply. I am very proud that my parents, Verdy and Eleanor Blackwell, were the driving force behind the founding of the festival 37 years ago, but our personal schedule for vacation has been set many years before EdgefieldDaily.com was founded. I am very proud to be a "Trentonite" and would not have wanted to be raised anywhere else in the county, state, or nation. The Town of Trenton has the lowest crime rate of the county, and I would dare say in the state. It is not a town but a family. I will promote the Ridge Peach Festival but will not be able to attend much to my chagrin.
web posted June 6, 2007

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I understand how you feel. I too am tired of hearing about FCHS. The bad blogs that is. You mentioned about how some students who did not do so well in other schools. I do not know these students by name, but it sounds like they may get more one on one at FCHS. So maybe that is why they did better. My daughter went to a large school her freshman year and did not fare well. She said the classrooms were over crowed and the teacher just talked over the other students when trying to teach. She is a 2007 grad from FCHS with honors. She work hard to get there. So this is my blog. One more note. All schools have there share of problems. It is our responsibility to help not hender.

Editor's note: Again, I warn posters not to imply that posts made by other posters are those made by me. If you want to quote my posts they are clearly available and dated, as are all posts.
web posted June 6, 2007

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I saw several postings about a Black SUV. Just last week a friend of ours had their house broke into. The week before they and some neighbors had kept noticing a black SUV driving through their area. So everybody please look out for this SUV. As they (allegedly) stole some firearms from our friends house.

Editor's note: I can assure you the black SUV that was mentioned in my post was not related, in any way, to the alleged theft of any guns. I cannot speak on the matter you refer to.
web posted June 6, 2007

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Editor's Post: I would like say I support and agree with Councilman Kitchens' reported comments of him not being a painted white faced clown...





















web posted June 5, 2007

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I heard you were going to be gone next weekend, does that mean you won't be here for the Peach Festival again? That's pretty sad when your parent's started the Peach festival. I suppose you are too big for trenton now.

Editor's note: Yes, I will be gone that weekend. That is the only weekend that I have a chance to take a vacation, even if it is just for a few days, with my family. I work 24/7 the other 51 weeks of the year.  In three years I have taken this time to be with my family only once.  I will be leaving my family vacation to return on June 19 rather than June 25. Would you make the same sacrifice?
web posted June 5, 2007

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I liked the toon but Kitchens isnt the only (deleted) clown we have on the commission. every one of these (deleted comments) needs to be kicked out.
web posted June 5, 2007

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If the poster was referring to Sodom as an area of Johnston he or she was not familiar with, it is roughly in the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church area and toward Johnston from there. It's hard to define the definite area. There is Long Branch Creek, the old Herrin's Store on the corner of Old Plank Road and McCreight Road. That's the general area.
web posted June 5, 2007

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We went to graduation on Friday night, and it upset me and my husband to see how many people did not stand for the National Anthem.  Our country is at War, among other issues.  So many people around us were sitting during the National Anthem, they could not have all been seated due to health problems.  Most of them were younger than me. In addition to this being Memorial Day Weekend!!!
web posted June 5, 2007

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I can't think of the name of the road to Sodom but, you turn by Herlong car dealership and it's about 5 miles or so down that road.
web posted June 5, 2007

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Editor's Post: I would like to answer several rather nasty and whinny comments over the weekend from Fox Creek Charter High School students and parents. Rather than post them all I'll just answer all of them with this post and maybe we can put this to rest once and for all and get on to things that matter. I have requested several times that FCHS send in their information to EdgefieldDaily.com the same way they do the local papers - they refuse. Do not complain to me, complain to those running your school. If the information is sent in it will be posted. It is that simple. Just ask any other school or entity in the county or surrounding counties who contribute. On stories that do make the web site, if you think the coverage is "one sided" it is, FCHS will not take my calls. This is not hurting me or EdgefieldDaily.com, it is hurting FCHS. The bottom line is, don't blame me for what your school does or does not do. You own that problem - not me.
web posted June 4, 2007

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In your story about the answer to the "Relay For Life Riddle", you mentioned a place in the wrong answers that were sent in called Sodom a community outside of Johnston. Not being born around here, I have never heard of this. With a name like that, I got curious to find out more about this place. Can you or anyone else out there give a little history on it? Thanks.

Editor's note: I have no idea where the community is located. I have never heard of it myself and I am a life-long resident.
web posted June 4, 2007

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I agree with the editor about the local papers. While I read Edgefield .com daily, I do think it is important to support the local papers. They have articles that may not be covered by the online paper. I like the historical items and things of days gone by. By reading them all you get well rounded coverage. I am addicteed to this paper. I sometimes open it back up a second time just to be sure I haven't missed anything. Thank you for all you do.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading.
web posted June 4, 2007

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We LOVED the cartoon! (Posted above) We laughed all weekend about it and sent it to everyone we know! THANK YOU!!!!! You are too funny!!!

Editor's note: Thank you. I just publish what our elected or appointed officials say and do. I hope you sent the link to the web site and not the actual cartoon...
web posted June 4, 2007

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Ok...so everyone mad about how people "bash" on FCHS...open your eyes and look at what is going on there...I read this website mainly because I am a citizen of the county and I want to know the TRUTH about what is going on there because you can't get it anywhere else!
web posted June 4, 2007

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I read the letter to the editor on Saturday and can't figure out if Mr. Smith wants extra deputies or not. I tried to go to the link in the letter but it wouldn't open.

Editor's note: I canot answer for the writer. However, you can download Acrobat Reader for free here to view the .pdf file associated with the link provided.
web posted June 4, 2007

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This is to the person wanting a community pool. It'll never happen and you know why.
web posted June 4, 2007

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I know this might sound stupid, but does the watering ban stop me from watering my flowers on my porch or in my house? I have several hanging baskets and planters that I water every day. I don't want to get arrested for watering my flowers.

Editor's note: As far as I understand the restrictions you are free to water potted plants whenever you want. Please call the Edgefield County Water and Sewer Authority at 637-3011 or 279-1503 for clarification. You cannot be arrested for ignoring the restrictions. You can be subjected to a "surcharge" to your water bill, but it is not a fine of the criminal court system.
web posted June 2, 2007

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From a letter received today:
Please find enclosed the (amount) I would have spent to renew my subscription to (a local paper). I did not see the need to pay for news I have already read any longer. Thank you for your hard work and for Edgefield Daily.

Editor's note: Thank you for your contribution. I do not encourage readers to abandon the local papers. I purchase both local papers every week and suggest others do the same.
web posted June 2, 2007

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Is it true that if an outside developer buys land in Edgefield county that there is a cap on what they can sell it for?

Editor's note: There are regulations on how property can be divided, lot sizes, and other matters, but none apply to how property can be marketed or valued. Just ask the Tax Assessor who has inflated prices far beyond anything any developer could ever imagine.
web posted June 2, 2007

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this has to do with the End of year Honor Rolls announced you posted of all the edgefield county schools. I was wondering where is Fox Creek?? We all know you don't like this school because they kicked your son out, but the students had nothing to do with that.

Editor's note: I have, at your request, posted your libelous comment. Libel: A tort consisting of a false and malicious publication printed for the purpose of defaming one who is living. I guess you are about to get a real education on that subject... Our son was not kicked out nor was he even at risk of being kicked out. We removed him from the school after he was targeted by school officials for my truthful reports of school officials and board members and their activities. Furthermore, Fox Creek is not part of the Edgefield County School District.
web posted June 2, 2007

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Dear "Editor" (that still makes me laugh.. some editor you are..) Thank you for NOT giving any kind of credit to the FCHS class of 2007. Way to go guys!! We did it!! I also would like to say congrats to our Val- Anna
Wade and our Sal- Dylan Edwards. We had 6 honor grads so congrats to them also. Someone from the Edgefield Advertiser and the Star were there, hate you missed it! To Ms. Cowart- I couldn't have asked for a better Graduation... you did a great job and the guest speakers were awesome. Like they said, "The sky is the limit for Fox Creek... and they're going far!" What an honor it is to be part of the 2007 alumni. I can't wait to see what all Fox Creek will achieve, WITHOUT Sharon Keesleys help or your support.

"Someone please tell the students at fox creek charter high school that the yearbook is not a subject."  Are you really that stupid or do you just have to bash everything at FC?

"Even if Foxcreek isn't an accredited high school..." Really? I start USCA in the fall... How are we not accredited? I have one question. Now that schools out and FC isn't up and running every day.. what will your job/life consist of? You can't spend every hour of your day bashing FC's students, principal, teachers, supporters, staff, and even the parents. Wow, I think you about to be VERY bored.

Editor's note: First mistake, do not place comments by others as those of the Editor. Fox Creek does not hold the accreditation of all other Edgefield County Schools and this has been confirmed and reported by the Edgefield County School District. Perhaps while you attend a real school (USCA) someone might explain the difference. I am getting tired of trying to educate parents and students to the truth. FCHS BOE has also repeatedly lied about having a federal loan for a new building. There is no loan and there will be no new school. You might want to check the record in the local papers and then comment on who is telling lies and who is telling the truth.
web posted June 2, 2007

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Editor's note: Well, well, well.... It looks like County Councilman Everett Kitchens is due for his very own cartoon. Do not get in a hurry here, I have one coming next week featuring some of our most "beloved" county council members. I have a feeling when I publish it and post it on the public board of the court house it will be requested to be pulled down. Too bad it will not happen. Political speech is protected and certain anal retentive county council members will just have to get over that fact. I know that Mr. I am "not a clown painted with a white face" is going to have a fit over the next few weeks. I have a very special cartoon in mind for him. They make it too easy.
web posted June 1, 2007

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Well what do you know? The new national spelling bee champion just won by spelling all those hard hard words . . . and he didn't have to spell a single one backwards!
web posted June 1, 2007

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Do you know if the police have caught the person responsible for the bomb threats at Merriwether Elementary? Or if they are close to catching them?

Editor's note: The investigation is ongoing and details known are not available for release at this time. Law enforcement is following leads they have in the cases.
web posted June 1, 2007

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Oh good - since you are willing to list the name of the woman exposed to TB on the flight back from Paris. I think she should be held accountable for refusing a simple test and should be required to have it done. She is a professor at USC-Aiken and I believe was on a school trip because several USCA students were on the flight as well. The school, at the very least, should have her tested to protect their students.

Editor's note: When the name of the woman is confirmed as being interviewed it will be released.
web posted June 1, 2007

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I am always excited to see the news from Edgefied Daily. My cousins in Chicago, Atlanta and my family in Columbia all keep up with Edgefield this way. Keep up the good work.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments.
web posted June 1, 2007

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Edgefield County is in need of a Community Pool where you can go and pay admission and swim all day as well as other activities, like maybe even small swim teams, swimming lessons and so forth. I think it is sad that we have to arrange to drive our kids way out of the area to keep them busy every summer. With all of the recreation money, we should have a community pool. The money would be well recouped within a few summers and our children would have something to do!
web posted June 1, 2007

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When exactly did the watering restrictions go into effect?  I have seen nothing about them in print until I read your article on Tuesday and saw the notice in yesterday's "Citizen News".  I normally never water my grass - only my garden and any new shrubbery.  Last Wednesday evening, I came home and, for the first time ever, cut on my one sprinkler to water some grass that looking pretty pathetic.  Lo and behold, the official Edgefield County Water and Sewer "water cop" stops and cites me for watering on the wrong day.  I told him that I did not know that there was a watering restriction in place yet and asked when it took effect.  He stated that it had been in place SINCE LAST YEAR and, as I had an odd address, I could only water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.  No watering on Sunday.  Being an obedient citizen and figuring that somehow I missed the notice in everything that I read, I took the citation and immediat ely cut my water off.  Yet on last Friday evening, my neighbor, who also has an odd address, had all of his sprinklers running and the "water cop" was nowhere to be seen. 

Editor's note: I checked EdgefieldDaily.com and both local papers and found no previous notice. The official copy of the release stated the restrictions were "effective immediately" which means upon publication in the "paper of record". No citation should have been allowed before that time in my opinion. I have a dated copy of the release.
web posted June 1, 2007

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Did the Black SUV leave the Mount Vintage subdivision? My guess is that it was the (same person) who has as others claim several times almost ran others off the same road. Why didn’t you confront him instead of waving? That is one of the reason so many people in Edgefield get away with things because no one will stand up to them.

Editor's note: Rest assured, I am not afraid of anyone.
web posted June 1, 2007