Editor's post: I have been told the woman at the crash scene on Tuesday beating back the spreading fires by hand and later was walking around offering rescuers bottles of water with ice inside after they braved the heat of the day and the fires as while treating the injured, is Sarah Oliphant (click on picture for a larger view). A resident of Edgefield who lives near the crash scene. Many of those who identified her said they were not surprised by her actions as she is a "wonderful Christian woman" who always gives of herself selflessly. EdgefieldDaily.com would like to publically thank Ms. Oliphant. She exemplifies what it means to be a citizen.
web posted July 31, 2009

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Re: excessive noise in the library.
I have been in the library several times this summer, and even my children comment on the bad behavior and how many times the workers "try" and remind the large group of teenagers gathering in at the computers of how they should be quiet, etc. It is ridiculous that the group you're commenting about comes in and disturbs those who are actually there for what the library is there for.  The library is not for HANGING OUT.  I've never seen one of them with a book. Pitiful!
web posted July 31, 2009

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RE the post: SCDOE said this year's reports will be very late due to the change in tests as well as data collection and manipulation. Why would information be late because of "manipulation" of the scores? I'd think the score are the scores. Who is "manipulating" the scores and why would they do that anyway?

The State manipulates the data after they collect the data.  Use of the word manipulation in this case refers to the reports you read when you click on the links at the states site.  If they didnt manipulate, or format the data there would be no way to present the data in a comprehensible manner.  Nobody at the district has anything to do with this data, it is collected and posted by the state.  That is the point I was trying to make with the original post.  I apologize for any confusion caused by my use of the word manipulate.  I forgot how quickly we all jump to conclusions around here (not to say that sometimes people are not correct, just pointing out an observation).
The SCDOE report card and AYP page has been around for a while, nothing about or on it is new nor does anything I have read conflict with any public or private statements I have heard from any personnel in the district.
web posted July 31, 2009

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You are a jerk. You have always been a jerk and you will always be a jerk!

Editor's note: You are a reader and you will always be a reader. I guess we are even.
web posted July 31, 2009

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Editor's post: I do not know who this woman is, but she was at the crash scene on Tuesday beating back the spreading fires by hand and later was walking around offering rescuers bottles of water with ice inside after they braved the heat of the day and the fires as they were treating the injured. If someone knows her name please send it to me. I would like to thank her publicly for her kind deeds that day. You can click on the picture for a larger image. Please send the info to my personal email address edgefielddaily@att.net
web posted July 30, 2009

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RE the post: SCDOE said this year's reports will be very late due to the change in tests as well as data collection and manipulation.

Why would information be late because of "manipulation" of the scores? I'd think the score are the scores. Who is "manipulating" the scores and why would they do that anyway?
web posted July 30, 2009

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I read a story in the Citizen News today(Wednesday) that said the dump at JET was no big deal. Stories on EdgefieldDaily implicate it is a big deal. I'm guessing the truth is somewhere in the middle. What's the truth? Are ya'll making a mountain out of a molehill?

Editor's note: The investigation into the dump is still underway by DHEC. I am not at liberty to release any information beyond what has already been published at this time. I can assure you it is a very serious situation and state officials are looking at it in that light.
web posted July 30, 2009

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Do you know if the assistant principal position at Merriwether has been filled?  I hope a better, more logical decision is made this time around. Then again, it’s going to be the same people making the decision. 

Editor's note: I have not been able to confirm the job offer to Morris has been rescinded at this time.
web posted July 30, 2009

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Edgefield Daily does it again!!! The local papers covered the wreck on the bypass but only (EdgefieldDaily.com) had the "rest of the story" about the guy in the wreck being a child molestor! Thank you for staying on top of what is REALLY going on around here. Edgefield Daily is my home page and its the first thing I look at every morning with my coffee. It's kind of strange after 50 years of reading the paper with my morning coffee to reading a computer. A big fan for 3 years and please keep up the good work! I hated using a computer until my kids told me about (EdgefieldDaily.com) and now I love it.

Editor's note: Thank you for your kind comments and for reading. Our mission is to bring residents the best coverage of local events on a daily basis.
web posted July 30, 2009

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Uh oh! Somebody sent this story to me today that shows long form birth certificates from Hawaii that show certificate numbers that prove Obama's birth certificate is out of sequence. "A close examination of the birth certificates issued by Kapi'olani to the Nordyke twins shows the registration number precedes the number given Obama, even though the future president was born a day earlier."

Call me a "birther", tea bagger, or whatever you want. What happened to just wanting the truth? Why are we being attacked for asking for the truth? Obama has claimed to be born at two differnt hospitals and Hawaii refuses to say where he was born but claims he is an American. He don't know where he was born, but everyone else does? I find that a little weird.
web posted July 30, 2009

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The mission of redshirtfridays.org is to show support for our servicemen and women. We are not a political organization. We do not care whether or not one supports or does not support the war. We care only about making our support of our servicemen and women known to our fellow Americans and the world.  We are a silent majority that does not wish to remain silent anymore. We need to let our servicemen and women know we support their sacrifice and we will not forget them and we will do this by wearing red on every Friday. http://www.redshirtfridays.org/
web posted July 30, 2009

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were do i find stuff about the schools

Editor's note: You will have to be more specific as to the information you seek. The Edgefield County School District web site can be found here.
web posted July 30, 2009

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To the person who posted on the 28th the articles about obama and conspiracy. Go ahead and go back to sleep, take your pill, and your swine flu vaccine and just go back to sleep. Stop watching your propaganda nbc,cnn, cbs, fox and jump off the band wagon and do some research on your own...please.
web posted July 30, 2009

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This is a great video concerning the healthcare issue. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y98HxYbsdBM
web posted July 30, 2009

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I see W E Parker Elementary   Did NOT Make Adequate Yearly Progress on the
  2007/2008 State Report Card - http://www.ed.sc.gov/topics/assessment/scores/ayp/2008/show_school_ayp_scores.cfm?ID=1901007

I do not like being lied too, and if this is why the school system takes so long to get out the report card you need to be turned in to the federal government.  I never throw school documentation away and when I find the report card if it is different I will turn it over. You can crunch the numbers any way your want but the truth is still the truth. You might as well just send them out as when they come out instead of doctoring the numbers.
No one is going to believe a miraculous jump in numbers with the reputation of this school system
web posted July 30, 2009

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I find it interesting that liberals are so quick to throw accusations out there. Racism, for example, is definitely a two way street. Why is it always "racism" when something doesn't go quite right for a black person? Anyone who disagrees with decisions made by Obama, our school board etc. are "racist"? Why is it racist to disagree with policy? I think the term should often fall on the accussers. Another term that drives me crazy is "tolerance". Liberals claim intolerance over disagreements of law belief systems etc. Yet liberals, in reality, are totally intolerant of anyone who disagrees with them. They make assumptions about what people believe. I just remember the saying my Dad taught me---when you are pointing your finger at someone you have three pointing back at yourself. Be careful what you accuse people of. You are probably doing the same thing and you don't see it. I know I am guilty of doing that myself and I don't like to do that.
web posted July 29, 2009

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I love this. A BLACK woman and a BLACK man calling Obama out as a racist. Check it out! The Black woman says she voted for Obama but  won't do it again!!!!!!! And she HUGS the cop that arrested Obama's buddy for being a peckerhead. Check this video out!!!!!! No wonder O-Ba-ma is alrready falling below Bush's poll numbers. Americans stick together regardless of race!!!!!!!!!! Get a grip people!!!!!!!
web posted July 29, 2009

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I would just like to ask if anyone else has been disturbed by the excessive noise at the Edgefield Library.  Even the office personnel are loud talkers!  I love to read and have always enjoyed visiting a library ever since I was a child.  It was a special place I could go to research, read and relax.  Sad to say - no longer!  Now it seems to be more a gathering place for people to meet up with each other and party!  Now, I have a difficult time even trying to find a book that I might enjoy reading because it is so hard to concentrate on anything but the background noise in there.  
web posted July 29, 2009

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re:  The teachers really stood ...
 
Yes, we stood up - until we got the message loud and clear that the board and crenshaw will stop at nothing to shut us up (the race card).  If we leave, who will they hire to replace us to take care of 'our' children?  Knowing them, it could be a sex offending, homicidal, dreadlocked moron.  Most teachers would rather suck it up and stay rather than let our kids be subject to the boards replacement.  The only people who can stop the crenshaw crew are the people we put on the school board.  Maybe we could change things with the school board elections coming up?  
web posted July 29, 2009

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Good morning and thank you for keeping us informed on all the happenings both positive and negative.
 
I wanted to follow up on a previous story you had reported.  What is going on with the Carolina First / Mount Vintage hearing.  As some one that Mount Vintage owes a considerable amount of money to I was eagerly awaiting to hear the outcome.
 
Keep up the good work!

Editor's note: No formal papers have been filed from the hearing last week. When the resolution formalized is filed it will be published.
web posted July 29, 2009

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Below is a link to the State Department of Education (SCDOE) website where they display the district report cards and ayp results for each year.  SCDOE said this year's reports will be very late due to the change in tests as well as data collection and manipulation.  However I have heard comments of late that the district is sitting on information about the 08 - 09 school year which is not the case, the information has yet to be released.  I thought this might be a good way of getting this information out.  Thanks.
 
http://ed.sc.gov/agency/Accountability/Data-Management-and-Analysis/ReportCardPortal.html
web posted July 29, 2009

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RE: What is going on with the "dump" at JET? I've been told that it is no big deal and the news people are just making it big for ratings. I got told 'we just got to clean it up' that's all.
  
HA!. I deal with DHEC on a weekly basis and if any fool thinks this is over, think again.  They live for this sort of stuff.  Get ready for the fines.
web posted July 29, 2009

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Hawaii again declares Obama birth certificate real - Yahoo! News

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090728/ap_on_re_us/us_obama_birth_certificate

Editor's note: I am glad it is there again. CNN said it was destroyed and ordered Lou Dobbs to drop the matter, now it is there again and they order the matter to be dropped. I'd just like for some one to come up with a definitive answer.
web posted July 29, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: This is getting rich.
 
First you recognize that I am special and now you call me rich. I don't know what to do with all the compliments. Having your first grandchild must really be warming your heart. 

Editor's note: I pointed out your inability to speak on my behalf and you took that as a compliment?  So, you are among the dumb masses who elected Obama. 
web posted July 29, 2009

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I am upset as much as everyone about the difficulties Edgefield county is experiencing.  We are all complaining about the problems associated with the hiring  practices seen over the last year but in some ways "we" can be part of the problem.  If I were a teacher looking for somewhere to teach and I happened upon the Edgefield Daily  I would think "there is no way I would teach there"   Yes we live in America and we have freedom of speech and this does give everyone a chance to express themselves but sometimes all the negativity can hurt us.  Edgefield County pays less that Aiken, Richmond, Saluda, and Columbia County.  (I am talking about teacher salaries) .  Lets say that I am a highly qualified teacher.....Where do you think I would go to teach???    Lets say I teach in Edgefield County...   Right now I would be sooo embarrassed I would start looking elsewhere.   I do think the board is a big problem.  Edgefield County needs to do something quickly or we wont find good teachers.   I wish I knew the answer and could think of away to pull everyone together to find the best possible solution for the children.   

Mr. Editor I am not trying to be negative about your column because I think you have a good thing going but all this negativity doesn't help the school to attrack qualified teachers.

Editor's note: I agree with you. I wish EdgefieldDaily.com never had to report on misdeeds in our school system or our local governments. However, I am duty bound to report the news and the factual accounts of government meetings. There are many positive stories published each week, it just seems the negitive ones get the most attention.
web posted July 28, 2009

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Uhm here's an article from the New York Times from 1990 touting Obama as the first black editor of the Harvard Law review...

when all else fails, there is always delusion...

Oh and another interesting article from POLITICO regarding right-wing conspiracy theories, and the damage being done to the GOP.

Keep ranting, paying lawyer's fees, reading into biased polling etc... you are taking the heat away from the policy debate, exactly what the Dems want you to do.
web posted July 28, 2009

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What is going on with the "dump" at JET? I've been told that it is no big deal and the news people are just making it big for ratings. I got told 'we just got to clean it up' that's all.

Editor's note: It is a very serious matter and I am not at liberty to disclose what is taking place at this time. Another report should be available this week with more information.
web posted July 28, 2009

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Strom Thurmond High School will be holding registration on
the following days from 9:00 am -3:30 pm:

Monday, August 3rd: Seniors
Tuesday, August 4th:  Juniors
Wednesday, August 5th:  Sophomores
Thursday, August 6th:  Freshmen
Monday, August 10th: New Students to the District

Editor's note: All School registrations can be found here with times. A link to the school supply list for each school and grade level is also linked within the report.
web posted July 28, 2009

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RE: "Looks like Obama did pay attention to the sermons by "Rev" Wright after all and tried to make the Gates thing a race case. We don't have a Commander in Chief, we have a Racebaiter in Chief!"

You've got that right.  When their back is against the wall, they play the race card as a diversion.  You see they can't refute or mitigate the facts with facts so they have to implement a distractor. His socialist healthcare agenda is in serious jeopardy and his poll numbers are plummeting, so, gotta play the race card.  This time it backfired.  And thankfully, people are starting to wake up to the use of that tactic.  Look at the ECSB-they played it against Kemp and Jackson.  But Jackson did a good job of shutting them down with his editorial.  People need to see the race card for what it has become, merely a tactic and diversion.  But on the other hand, by employing it in such a manner, they are diluting any real claims-much like the Peter Cried Wolf syndrome.  Racebaiters and agitators like Obama, Jesse Jackson, and Sharpton are actually doing more to hurt the African American than anything that has been done in the last 40 years.  And after they have risen to power or stardom, have they kept their promises to the black community-NOT!
web posted July 28, 2009

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Thank you for sponsoring That Darn Cat! What a wonderful idea!!

Editor's note: Thank you. When it came time to sponsor a movie I felt that was the obvious choice for the Edgefield Drive-in on the town square. I am trying to get some of the local television news stations to pick up on the event and encourage people in the CSRA to come visit during the day and then watch the movie that night. It is a very unique opportunity.
web posted July 28, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: You seem to have a class envy thing going. It's very unattractive
 
Don't really understand the comment above, but I will take in consideration that your hero had her last day in office on Sunday. I know it must hurt when your heroes turn out to be quitters, or as the Inuit say "Qivitters".

Editor's note: Now you are declaring for me who my hero's are. This is getting rich.
web posted July 28, 2009

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School teachers rightfully enjoy public support and esteem. Union bosses, who claim to represent teachers, have political agendas far removed from effective classroom instruction. This 90 second video exposes the far-left ambitions of the NEA, and its South Carolina front, the SCEA.

http://www.voiceforschoolchoice.com/2009/07/27/nea-highlights-role-of-its-affiliates-video/
web posted July 28, 2009

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RE: Well it looks like your pres has really done it right.  To call anyone STUPID, is showing how really ------ you are. The policeman was doing his job.  Why is it that when a BLACK person is wrong it is always a racist thing?  Can anyone explain this to me?

It starts as a chip on your shoulder then has been passed down to today's youth as a sense of entitlement and BAD attitude. Look at the ECSB the black members and Dr. Crenshaw are a prime example of playing the race card when they want to get something.
web posted July 27, 2009

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Okay, now we the parents in Edgefield County need some change.  Please tell me when I need to file, and what I need to do to run for the Edgefield County School Board?  I looked on the board’s webpage, and found all of the procedures and such, but nothing about qualifications, when to file, how to file, and such. Thanks, and keep up the good work.

Editor's note:  Thank you for your kind comments. School Board members serve four-year terms (staggered) so half, 3 one election cycle and 4 the next, are up for election every two years. Filing is free since it is a nonpartisan election. I will have to check into what the filing dates are for the 2010 election and which seats will be up for re-election.
web posted July 27, 2009

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I love it!!!  A Congressman from Georgia recently said that this healthcare reform needs more time and should not be rushed. He said more time was given to choosing the White House puppy than has been given to the healthcare reform. What a great point.
web posted July 27, 2009

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To the person saying "birthers" are way out on the fringe you might want to look at this AOL online poll..... over 80% say Obama needs to show his original birth certificate. He has to have a copy to get his passport, get into school, a driver's license, but not to run for Pres. http://www.politicsdaily.com/2009/07/24/hot-seat-obamas-birth-certificate/

Oh, I forgot, he won't release his passport or school records either. Hummm, sure sounds like something needs to be kept hidden. Why is that?
web posted July 27, 2009

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Looks like Obama did pay attention to the sermons by "Rev" Wright after all and tried to make the Gates thing a race case. We don't have a Commander in Chief, we have a Racebaiter in Chief!
web posted July 27, 2009

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As Congress debates health care reform, it's important for life advocates to take note of what liberals want: taxpayer-funded abortion and a requirement that your employer's health insurance plan offer abortion coverage. Watch this video!!! http://www.citizenlink.org/videofeatures/A000010516.cfm
web posted July 27, 2009

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RE:  From the headlines, "JOHNSTON – The Edgefield County School Board voted to fill new administrative positions Tuesday night on a 6-1 vote on each hire with School Board member Brad Covar voting in opposition to all hires."

We can see there would be a 5-2 vote normally, but this time?  Does Covar do his homework or what?  So why did the other well informed, ;-) ;-) (wink wink),  vote the way they did?  And they say Crenshaw has a rubber stamp because of the obvious majority, but what are the other two idiots basing their votes on? Obviosuly her rubber stamp needs more ink-when the public raised hell, her rubber stamp wasn't the final say now was it?  Looks like Livingston and Hoffmann will be on their way out too.  Boy this County sure elects some losers-Bibbs, Cooks, Jackson, Livingston, Hoffman, Jackson, Dorn, Kneece, Pettigrew, etc.

Editor's note: County Administrator John Pettigrew is appointed, not elected.
web posted July 27, 2009

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RE:  "I simply ask that we teachers stand up and use the voice we have been given.  Don’t let us continue to be a profession of people that are walked upon by the bureaucratic nincompoops that make all the decisions."

Yea.  The teachers really stood up when Kemp and Jackson took the arrows for them over the "Voluntary Submission Form".  Yeah, they really stood up for themselves alright. When Kemp and Jackson were charging the hill and turned around, the troops were no where to be found. If they all would have stood shoulder to shoulder, they could have taken Crenshaw down and half the Board. Now they'll pay the price. Quite honestly, they made their bed, now they can lie in it.  I hope Kemp and Jackson haven't given up.  We haven't heard from them in a while.
web posted July 27, 2009

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Re: Since you've stated you don't even know where Merriwether is, how do you now claim to know anything about Merriwether?

Those were rhetorical questions Jethro. Everyone knows the location of Merriwether, since that "community" is so vital to the cultural viability of Edgefield County. It's the home of the world famous Travelers who really enrich the whole "community" and add such a richness to the educational experience of all youths attending the Merriwther schools. It's also the home of the famous Fox Creek high school board of trustees. I think both are a representational cross section of the population of the Merriwether "community".

Editor's note: You seem to have a class envy thing going. It's very unattractive.
web posted July 27, 2009

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I was using a public wifi in a hospital in Tulsa, and wandering minds was blocked by their firewall, it said because is contained “extreme hate speech”.  Funny, the presbo didn’t get blocked for talking “stupidly”.

Editor's note: Not everyone supports free speech.
web posted July 27, 2009

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RE:When the dump was found it became obvious that the materials in the large hole may be there illegally; chemicals, electronics, roofing material, tires, mercury vapor light bulbs, and a wide array of other items.

I noticed DHEC is involved in the case   ECSD illegally dumping of  chemicals, electronics, roofing material, tires, mercury vapor light bulbs, and a wide array of other items. But why hasn't the EPA been called in, I would have thought this is an Federal offence.

Editor's note: The investigation is far from over, even though the School Board might have blown it off as no big deal.
web posted July 25, 2009

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I don't care if the morris guy was convicted or not of standing buck naked ona motel balcony doing whatever he was doing. He got arrested and they found him with dope when they arrested him. I DO NOT want that (man) around MY KIDS at MES!!!!!!!. Maybe they need to rethink hiring Patty Gibbs for recomending him. (removed comment). OMG! What are these people thinking?
web posted July 25, 2009

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It is a sad state of local affairs when our school district's officials choose to hire from outside of the district.  If they had chosen from among our own qualified individuals, then that perhaps would have opened up several teaching positions for a some who have been laid off.  Anyone with any sense knows that you take care of your own.  They are the ones who make it all work because they have a vested interest in their own community.  What are the higher ups thinking????
web posted July 25, 2009

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Let me get this straight, if you have a past record of any kind, You can get a job with ECSD. So
everyone that is out there looking for a job,and has a past record, ECSD, will hire you. So, if you
are under or over quailed they will also hire you. But, if you are quailed and a Local Resident,
better keep looking for a job. I commend our Teachers, I do not think I would have the Heart to
continue, in such a messed up District. I am so glad my children have graduated,but if I had it to
do over, they would have attended Wardlaw!!
web posted July 25, 2009

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The water quality concerns about Clarks Hill reminds me of valuable lesson learned years ago. I took my boat to the lake looking forward to a day of peace dropping a line or two in some isolated creek. Usually well prepared, I forgot my usual cooler full of drinks and boiled peanuts. It was a hot summer day. The fishing was good enough that I didn’t want to pull up anchor and head down the lake. We were in the middle of a very dry spell and the water clarity was great. It started looking mighty appealing. I knew it was a gamble but I figured the animals and Natives had to do it so why couldn’t I. So I fanned the surface and took a few handfuls to drink. One of the dumbest things I have done in my adult life. Had the flaming turkey trots for three days. Missed work and my excuse wasn’t accepted by anyone. But I never forgot my cooler again.

We certainly haven’t helped mother nature out with water quality, but the kind of day or two sicknesses such as the one mentioned in the earlier post, were likely caused by bacteria that has existed in the waters for ages.
web posted July 25, 2009

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Editor,
How is the Obama bear market coming along?

Editor's note: A week of an uptick in the stock market does not a bull market make.
web posted July 25, 2009

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Anyone that believes that the so called birth certificate is legit is in denial. I appreciated the Editor's response. I do have one question. What is the significance of someone paying higher property taxes than someone else? What a ridiculous statement-like the more taxes you pay, the smarter you are? Sounds more like some kind of delusional self importance problem. What is wrong with people? Who would even take the time to look something like that up, other than someone who has a warped view of what is important in life. Good grief!

Thank you for continuing to keep us informed with Edgefield Daily. It is our sane source for information.
web posted July 25, 2009

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RE: COLB for Obama.    It shows mother & father caucasian.   I thought he was African-American???

Editor's note: The offered copy does state Obama's father as "African". Those challenging the COLB say in the 1960's he would have been listed as "negro". Political correctness was not prevalent then.
web posted July 25, 2009

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Well it looks like your pres has really done it right.  To call anyone STUPID, is showing how really ------ you are. The policeman was doing his job.  Why is it that when a BLACK person is wrong it is always a racist thing?  Can anyone explain this to me?
web posted July 25, 2009

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Much has been written about the supposed awful nature of Canadian health care.  When considering possible reforms to the US system, it may be helpful to look at Canadians' opinions of theirs.  (Here) is a link to a recent article reporting the results of an Ipsos-McClatchy online opinion poll of Canadians regarding their health care delivery system.

Editor's note: Just curious, why should Americans care what people in countries that depend on us think? A better question, how many Americans are fleeing the US seeking healthcare in Canada rather than the other way around?
web posted July 25, 2009

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After seeing the latest shenanigans by the District and the Board, you think some of you are waking up?  Don't forget, there is a petition that still is on-line.  So if you had any doubt, maybe you don't now.  GO SIGN IT!  http://www.firecrenshaw.com     I hope those that put that one up put one up for some of the Board members, at least six of them, and some employees-COURTNEY.  Where are they going to get the money to clean up the mess?  That can be expensive given DHEC is involved and there could be some environmental damage.  So how many teachers could lose their job so they can clean it up?  Probably should circulate another "Voluntary Submission Form" , right Patty Gibbs?
web posted July 25, 2009

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Re: Oh my, aren't you special
 
Yes I am. Thanks for acknowledging it. This still does not complete the discussion of incorporating the Town of Merriwether. I think the Board of Trustees of Fox Creek High School is an appropriate cross section and representation of those that live in the Merriwether "community".

Editor's note: Since you've stated you don't even know where Merriwether is, how do you now claim to know anything about Merriwether?
web posted July 25, 2009

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No Documentation about the other dump or the pine trees.  Good Lord where is the documentation about the JET land fill.  Mr. Editor you get DHEC involved in a trash pile the size of a single wide mobile home from the 1960s and yes  they burn it on occasion. Ask any one at Pine Ridge about the smoke. We have been in a drought for 3 years now, that might explain why it hasn't been burnt in awhile.  The landfill at Strom Thurmond was about the size of 3 basketball courts.  As far as James Courtney he does his job better than anyone we have had in a long time.  If he didn't do so well all our remodeled schools would look like they did before the remodeled 15 years ago.
web posted July 24, 2009

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Your Editor's Post is absolutely right........ECSD is hiring everyone they can from outside our area and we are going to lose more and more locals to other districts for this reason. Do you blame them? .......and no, I don't think many people are paying attention,  and when they "wake up" it will be too late.  It's sad. Thank you for continuing to keep us informed.
web posted July 24, 2009

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Well, just when one thinks hat we've seen it all.  Doesn't anyone do their job at the ECSB< or EC anymore.  If we can fine our all of this info and we are not paid for the job,( why pay a used car salesman and whatever you want to call the person that is suppose to CHECK the background of all employees)  Heck pay me, I'll work for half of what both make>.
web posted July 24, 2009

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RE: "If not, as sure as the sun comes up tomorrow, we are headed for a major train wreck...and OUR children...African American, Caucasian, Hispanic....are going to suffer for OUR stupidity and complacency.  How can we all just sit back and let our children down?  It's truly sad."

This is kind of ironic, and in a sense, pathetic.  There were some that berated Kemp and Jackson for their tactics-oooooooh, they're too heavy handed.  But it now seems they were on the right track.  Seems like they have emboldened others by taking a stand.  Hmmmm?  Someone stands up and calls in a tip on an illegal dump site?  And now, the empowered citizens personally look into who is being hired, more so than the personnel in the district hired to do the job?  Seems like there a few that owe Kemp and Jackson an apology, and a bigger thanks! Oh yeah, and don't forget to thank the Editor of edgefileddaily.com.  He's been on this train for a long time, but no one was listening.
web posted July 24, 2009

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So Clunkscales and Crenshist have done it again.  I can not believe you went out of the district to hire the bottom of the barrel when we have perfectly capable employees who applied from within.  We are loosing positions left and right yet you overlook our employees to hire idiots!  You are the bigger idiots right along with the Board members that voted for your recommendations.  Stupid is as stupid does and that's all we've gotten since our Board became so stupid.  I am so angry with all of you.  So many of us want you idiots to leave but instead some our our best and brightest are the ones leaving.  Please go before there is nothing left to save....take Sandra Friar with you....and to the one that defends Crenshist on here, please go too!!  Our hands are tied until the community decides the idiot Board (Brad, not you) needs to change.  By then, it'll be way too late.
web posted July 24, 2009

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In a school district with 90% student poverty and a median family income of $36K, one public school official shows that government "service" really pays!

"$84,000 in public money up in smoke (VIDEO)"
http://www.voiceforschoolchoice.com/2009/07/23/84000-in-public-money-up-in-smoke-video/
web posted July 24, 2009

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In reference to the following post: I would like to know if anyone has gotten sick after visiting Lake Strom Thurmond.

I swim in the lake almost every day and have not gotten sick.  You can call the US Army Corps of Enginneers Office at (864) 333-2200.  The COE has water quality monitors located in the lake.  Hope this helps.
web posted July 24, 2009

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihuO6--Wu2k  I think this sums up the way most americans are feeling. How long will you sit by while we loose our constitutional rights???? Get off this local belly aching crap and look at what's really going on. I am not a fan of Dr. krenshaw either but there are other fish to fry. Please watch this youtube video and post your comments.
web posted July 24, 2009

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The issue of what constitutes an official Hawaii birth certificate received national attention during last year's presidential campaign. Those who doubted Barack Obama's American citizenship called the copy of the Hawaii birth document posted on his campaign Web site a fake.

Asked about that document, Okubo said, "This is the same certified copy everyone receives when they request a birth certificate."

And, it's only available in electronic form. 

If the US Supreme Court recognizes it then it is official. However, you can always file a federal lawsuit, if you want. No one is stopping you. In SC you might find one of those crazy judges you always rant about to let your suit go forward. Come off the hip with some cash and put your money where your mouth is. By the way, from public county records, my wife and I pay double the property taxes you and your wife pay.

Editor's note: Here is a COLB in long form from Hawaii, obviously still availabe. You pay more property taxes than we do.... Oh my, aren't you special...
web posted July 24, 2009

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Editor's post: So far the Edgefield County School District has hired (or attempted to hire) an Assistant Principle who lied on his application, another who is being investigated for the murder of his wife, and a naked guy on a balcony fondling himself.  All from out of the district over those who have spent their lives serving the area. Yeah, that makes sense. Hey, here's an idea. hire those you know about. Nah, that wouldn't serve the purpose of making sure those hired to high up positions had loyalty to Dr. Crenshaw and not Edgefield County. Is anybody paying attention?
web posted July 23, 2009

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Once again the School District amazes me.  They hire an assistant principal from out of the county when there are qualified canidates here.  What really makes no sence to me is why they would hire an assistant with a PhD?  If she has not been moved into a principal position in her current county there is probably a reason why.  If the county is so concerned about saving money why hire someone with a PhD that you are going to have to pay a huge salary to be an assistant principal when you could hire a person with a Masters degree to do the same job and save tens of thousands of dollars.
web posted July 23, 2009

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Re: How's that "hopey - changey" thing working out for you so far? You feeling "stimulated" yet?

What doess Obama have to do with Merriwether incorporation? If Merriwether were incorporated, they would have to raise revenues to support law enforcement, water/sewer, a town government, employees, employee benefits, etc, and you would still have to pay county property taxes. However, there is a simple solution to forming a town council, you could all just vote to let the Fox Creek HS board of trustees also serve as the Town Council of Merriwether. I bet you would have exclusive access to all happenings of the governing body. By the way, I am feeling stimulated. I received a big fat stimulus check in the mail yesterday, and I am loving it. Maybe you'll get yours soon. One thing I have learned from my right-wing buddy is that it's all about me. 

Editor's note: I'm glad you got your "stimulus check", I didn't get one. I pay taxes so Obama isn't much worried about buying my vote.
web posted July 23, 2009

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As a parent and an employee of the Edgefield County School District, I have many reasons to be interested in the "conducting of business" at the District level..the most important being the education and well-being of MY children.  I have never "whined" or "called foul" any of the decisions that have been made.  What happened on Tuesday night has truly become the "last straw". 
 
The Board voted, although not unanimously, to approve Dr. Rice-Crenshaw's recommendations for several administrative positions.  All of those positions, except for one "administrative assistant" who is another situation in itself, were given to out of county applicants...and, no, I was not an applicant so I have no axe to grind.    A simple google internet search on the Asst. Principal hired for MES turned up extremely disturbing FACTS.  Those facts included charges of drug use and exposing himself in public.  That person's offer of employment has since been taken back.  If all will remember, for the 2008-2009 school year, a science teacher at STHS was let go three weeks into the school year because it became evident he was involved in a murder investigation in Aiken County.  So, why do I say all of this?  Because we pay an HR Director $70,000/yr to keep these things from happening...and it has happened TWICE in the last year.  This not only makes Dr. Rice-Crenshaw look bad, but it makes our entire school district look foolish.   I'm at a loss for words...those are my children who would be coming in direct contact with these types of people...and my school board, my superintendent...could care less.  Mr. Bibbs thinks everything is funny...that everything is racially motivated against himself, our superintendent and/or our HR Director.  Would he think it funny if HIS children, or grandchildren, were sitting in a classroom with someone who were involved with a murder investigation or had been charged with drug possession and exposing himself?  I could care less who the HR Director or superintendent is..just do your job and do it fairly with no hidden agenda!  If a private citizen was able to find this information, then someone who is trained to do a job surely could have done the same.
 
The HR Director has truly made Dr. Rice-Crenshaw look bad...it's time for her to move on.  The parents of Edgefield County can't just keep sitting back waiting on someone to come to our rescue...they aren't coming, folks...it's time to come together...black, white, purple, blue, brown or yellow...and get our school district back on the right track.  If not, as sure as the sun comes up tomorrow, we are headed for a major train wreck...and OUR children...African American, Caucasian, Hispanic....are going to suffer for OUR stupidity and complacency.  How can we all just sit back and let our children down?  It's truly sad.
web posted July 23, 2009

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It wasn't but a few months back that the city government was considering an ordinance to eliminate the display of fake bull testicles on personal vehicles, I am wondering when the city government will grow a pair of their own and begin to confront the growing problem of the thugs and wanna-bes, both black and white but primarily black, that insist on displaying their underwear and/or their buttocks up and down our public streets.  Towns in Virginia and Louisiana have successfully passed laws prohibiting "sagging," but our city and county government seem to lack the intestinal fortitude to confront this growing problem.  It has been said that it is only "a fad" and that it will pass but the lack of attention is similar to not paying attention to a cancer, it continues to grow!  Our wives, mothers, and daughters shouldn't have to be exposed to this obnoxious behavior.
web posted July 23, 2009

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I think instead of the ecsd paying for a company to come clean up the dump mess, James courtney should get off his fat rear end and clean it himself. By him doing this he would actually be earning his salary  by doing some honest to god hard labor. In all my years of seeing what goes on in the district I have never seen that lazy man do anything that would justify the enormous amount that man is paid.
web posted July 23, 2009

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Neuropathy needs to be treated by your physician. There is medication you can take for this to help stop the burning and stinging.
web posted July 23, 2009

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I hope that all of you that voted for Obama saw the press cartoon last night. I remember seeing a cartoon when I was a kid,
and two men sat on their porch and shot the same bullet back and forth at each other always falling short. How many blanks were fired last night? Some of you that campaigned around Edgefield a year have turned your back on him within a year. You speak against him instead of supporting him. If the republicans did that under Bush we would be overrun with terrorist now. Just another good reason not to be a liberal democrat. There is a play tonight  at the Court House about a president that could answer questions. One that believed that we are a christian nation. Maybe the next play can be about Obama's press conference on health care. It could even be a cartoon on fifth grade level where everyone could participate.
   Scout master Obama can we build a fire? No! It is bad for the environment. But you smoke cigarettes. Look, I'm the scout master and I have my own doctor. When are we going to pitch the tent master Obama? Obama peeps from around a bush with the owners manuel and says "I think you really mean when are we going to cook". No sir that is bad for the environment it fills your lungs with smoke. Look, I am going to see that all of you have health care. If you do not, I am going to fine your parents. "Oh goodie. You are going to get our parents in trouble. That'el teach them". Scout master Obama can we go swiming if you watch us? I am always watching you even when I cannot see you.
web posted July 23, 2009

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So all the "hype" folks at Mt. Vintage were told about how poor Mr. Knight was as "fooled" by Bettis Rainsford as anyone else is just that... hype.  He had been in bed with Knight years before Mt Vintage.  He certainly knew him well enough not to be fooled by him.  Proof once more that they are two of a kind!
web posted July 23, 2009

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Interesting information on duckhead.  I didn't realize that history.  No wonder Edgefield County isn't growing.  It is time this County get a real economic development head who wants the county to progress.  Who chose him anyway?  I assume he is chosen not elected.  I vote to throw the bum out.  We can't take much more of his "help".  Not only have we been stagnant all this time, we are moving backwards.  At this rate the county may disappear as North Augusta moves closer.
web posted July 23, 2009

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Oh President Obama, how dumb do you think we are? You say things like Medicare and Medicaid are breaking the back of our financial situation yet you are proposing a giant version of these programs to solve our "problems". Let me see, more of what is already broken? Seems good to me. Not!  Also, you say that prescription prices will go down for seniors. Well, there is certainly a chance for that if the prescription drugs are no longer prescribed. With rationed care that can certainly happen. It should be a whole lot cheaper to pay for nothing instead of paying for the medicine you need. You criticize the healthcare in this country yet we have the best healthcare system in the world. People come here from places like Canada to get healthcare. Their system doesn't work so well for the average person-if you are rich enough in Canada, you can come here for care. Where will we have to go...Mexico? Yes... that is an option for sure.

 You also called doctors crooks because they may push to take out a child's tonsils to make more money on a child with a sore throat. I bet the doctors love that. I was surprised you have so much support from the medical community. Last I saw, they were fighting this healthcare nonsense tooth and nail.

Oh, and Mr. President, have you read the bill yet? Do you actually know what it is saying about whether or not we will really be able to have our own insurance? It seems like you said this week that you were not familiar with what the bill says about that. Seems like you better get familiar with it-how do you promote something you don't really understand? Oh...could it be that you do understand it but you don't want us to know about it? See... that goes along with a lot of other misleading things you have said and done.

I just want to say how happy I am that you and your family have the best medical coverage in the country. Seems to me you don't really care about me. I actually have good coverage too and I will lose mine. I bet you won't. I want uninsured people to get help and I want people to have more options. Your idea is just too controlled and has too much government in it for me.

Just remember the little saying..."Liar, liar, pants on fire".  At least you have great insurance coverage to pay for any burns.
web posted July 23, 2009

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Well, looks like Dr. MRC did it again! Why should we be surprised?  Four administrative positions were filled at last nights board meeting.  Of course...3 of the candidates were from out of the school district.  None of those hired are even residents of Edgefield County.  What happened to hiring within our county?  We have outstanding qualified applicants right in our own school district.  For those of you who do not know about one of the candidates that was chosen for the assistant principal positions at MES...check out this site
http://www.starnewsonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061011/NEWS/610110482/1004/news03
Yes, this is the very same Greg Morris that Dr. MRC presented before the ECSB for the assistant principal position at MES.  When was a background check done on those she selected to attend an interview?  Whose job is that?  Did the new MES principal go along with  hiring this candidate?  MES has always been a shining star for the ECSD from supportive parents to an outstanding  faculty and staff who are dedicated to doing their best to provide an excellent education for the students there.  We must rise up and bombard the school board meetings with Merriwether parents to show that we will not allow Dr. MRC to hire a man who has been arrested for indescent exposure and illegal drug possession to work with our children.  We do not have to stand for it!!!
web posted July 23, 2009

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I think Mike Casey took up the wrong career path... I feels he's better suited as a Radio talk show host. Have you ever heard him on the fire and ems radios? He sounds like he's dictating a novel on there while other emergency workers are trying to communicate responding to a call for help.

Editor's note: Mr. Casey does spend an extended amount of time on the airways when radio repairs are in progress. Is it during this time you are referring to?
web posted July 23, 2009

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Re:  Obama’s birth certificate (see also “Birthers”)

I think it’s great that you all get stuck up on the idea that President Obama is not a U.S. Citizen.  Now I know that 9/10 of you who talk politics on here actually have no knowledge of the process of “vetting” – so let me help you out on this matter.

Having worked for the Dems in another state, if you wanted to sign on to run for the XX House of Representatives (whereas “XX” is your states’ abbreviation), we would immediately start conducting something that could be most easily compared to a “background check.”  Let’s say, for example, the individual that we begin to vet has a murder charge pending in the state of Arizona that our sources reveal to us.  It takes a lot of time and some cold hard cash to get these political dirt-diggers moving, but they are really good at what they do.  Keeping our political image in tact is well worth the cost.

This is obviously an extreme and false example, but nonetheless, as the XX State Democratic Party we would not support this candidate and recruit someone else for that seat.  We may even approach the candidate and recommend that they bow out, and let him know that we have wind of the information.

And we would pay *thousands* of dollars to a reputable, trusted, public affairs consulting firm to retrieve this information.  They might then even hire a private investigator to attempt to go as far back into the individuals past as possible.  And this is solely for a seat in Congress.

Now I understand that Obama is black, and for that reason “He ain’t from here.”  It’s a common sentiment in the deep south, and in my opinion, one that has kept many people who remain in this area in a stagnant state.  I know this because the folks I talk to are in their twenties, moderate, and affluent – they dunna like the radical right, and they are the new swing vote.  Social networking reached out to millions of youngsters and included them in the political process, whereas the GOP sent out their slander-mail and robo-called, thus getting annihilated in 2008. 

Here’s the thing you all aren’t latching on to:  the longer you make a political fuss about this issue, the more you isolate yourself and brand stamp  yourself with a tarnished reputation - the far right wing.  And you are only hurting your chances with moderates in future elections.

So of course, it is in the best interest of the Washington heavy hitters (DNC strategic teams) to keep you wasting your time and money focusing on non-policy related rants.  Here, let me give you a good messaging point if you really want to influence some grassroots perception – “Obama will raise your taxes” or “Obama wants the government to run your health care.” 

Continuing to make personal attacks while your party leaders fall like flies is going to be counterproductive to your cause – trust me.

Editor's note: Or Obama could just release his full official birth certificate rather than have Democrat Hawaii's Gov. Linda Lingle sealing the document from the press. By the way, why are all of his records, such as his:
Columbia College records -- Not released
Columbia thesis -- "Soviet Nuclear Disarmament" -- Not released
Harvard College records -- Not released
Illinois Bar Records -- Not released.
Baptism certificate -- None
Medical records -- Not released
Illinois State Senate schedule -- Lost
Law practice client list -- Not released

So much for being the most "trasparent president"....

Not taking sides, but, as a reporter, the proof is easily obtained to refute the claims, if it is released. Which Obama refuses to do. I'm not sure what to believe if the person who has the information to stop the lawsuits and reports refuses to release the information that could stop everything.
web posted July 23, 2009

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There was a dump on the grounds of Strom Thurmond High School. It was Mr. Bill Mckie’s Dump. The dump was located behind about 150-200 feet behind the storage building that is presently located between the softball field and the green houses. Mr. Mckie had the county dump everything from desk, copier materials, ceiling tiles, flooring, (possibly asbestos) and other material that had no business being dumped in the out door lab. It was finally cleaned up however it was just buried, so that trash is still there next to the creek under about 3 feet of soil. Mr. Mckie also had cut down all the pines that bordered the Football Field Stadium, because one tree had beetles in it. He allowed the loggers to drive all over the field. I am glad James is there now, because he takes pride in our schools. Mr. Mckie let them run down, most of our schools now look like they were just remodeled. James is a welcomed change. Still no excuse for the dumping though.

Editor's note: There is no documentation supporting this claim
web posted July 23, 2009

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I would like to know if anyone has gotten sick after visiting Lake Strom Thurmond. Both my son and I have been sick with stomach flu like systems. I had a mild case of stomach ach and diarrhea after one short swim, I only got my head wet one time. My son visited the lake two times early June and a few days ago, both times he had vomiting, stomach ach and diarrhea The first time he started getting better when I decided to take him to the ER. . This time I am taking him to the ER and not waiting. We have been to the lake every year and never a problem, this year the lake fills up and we have a problem. Who keeps track of the bacteria and chemical run off levels?
web posted July 23, 2009

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Blacks are making a big deal over Harvard professor Henry Gates that police apprehended while he was breaking into his own home.  Instead of pulling out his drivers license and calmly explaining his plight to the officer, the professor resisted arrest and started crying "racisim".  The liberal media is stirring the pot, promoting the racism charge.  Prof. Gates ought to be singing the praises of Cambridge's Finest, happy they were on the ball.  I guess if the NAACP had its way it would be illegal for cops to consider anyone of color a suspect in any crime.
web posted July 23, 2009

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So, you may ask, why doesn’t Obama post the original birth certificate? Because Hawaii only sends out the Certification of Live Birth. It no longer sends out copies of the original birth certificate to anyone. http://www.starbulletin.com/features/20090606_kokua_line.html
That being the case, unless Obama has a copy of the original birth certificate saved from the time of his birth by his family and not lost that document (and many of us do lose our birth certificates), then the only document that he can show is the one that Hawaii sent him, and that was the certification of live birth.

Editor's note: Not true. All states have long form birth certificates on record.
web posted July 23, 2009

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Editor's post: Okay, let me see if I have this right. Obama is now on record saying he doesn't even know what is in the ObamaCare healthcare takeover bill (socialized medicine) being debated. Not only that, but he wants to ignore the question and speak on behalf of "the Obama Administration". Uh.. isn't he the Obama administration? Isn't this "his" takeover of the healthcare bill? Who is the man behind the curtain?
web posted July 22, 2009

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Today is a sad day for EC.  Our school board, with MRC at the helm, has once again said “forget the children, we only care about them if they further our own personal agendas.”  They hired 4 new principals (and I use that term loosely) tonight, 3 of whom have NO history in this county (I know why I would want to leave Marlboro Cnty for EC, but Greenville?!?).  The 4th will have a title of “administrative assistant,” which makes no sense unless you are aware that she isn’t even certified to BE a principal.  Word is she is a personal favorite of MRC’s (and a former principal *wink*wink*) because unlike the thinking educators in our county she just regurgitates whatever drivel MRC spews forth.  When will we TRULY be judged by the content of our minds AND our character in this county?

I simply ask that we teachers stand up and use the voice we have been given.  Don’t let us continue to be a profession of people that are walked upon by the bureaucratic nincompoops that make all the decisions.  (And kudos to the board member(s) that said “NO!”)  Until we become advocates for one another and for our students nothing will ever change in Edgefield County or SC…NOTHING!  “Let us not be content to wait and see what will happen, but give us the determination to make the right things happen.”
web posted July 22, 2009

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In the annual audit of the Edgefield County government several standard audit procedures should have been performed which would have addressed the Concession Stand revenues.

A normal audit procedure would be to compare the $25,000 budgeted in FY2005-2006 with the actual amount of revenue and obtain an explanation of any major variance. 
Furthermore, a normal audit procedure would be to compare the FY 2005-2006 revenue and expense items to the next year and obtain an explanation of any major variance. 

In your Opinion Article you quote the language from Ordinance No. 04-05-557. It would seem reasonable to expect the auditors to have confirmed that the financial reports contained an accounting of the revenues so described in the Ordinance.  Moreover, standard auditing procedure calls for the auditors to test the internal controls of the organization to ascertain that sufficient internal controls are in fact in place so that the financial statements can be relied upon to reflect the financial condition of the organization.

In addition, if Section IV of the Ordinance called for a budget then standard audit procedures call for the auditors to get a copy thereof. 

If a satisfactory explanation is not provided to the auditors on the above matters then the matter is typically disclosed, in some manner, in the audit report.
In summary, perhaps the audit reports for the years in question might provide some information on the Bettis Park concession stand revenues. 
web posted July 22, 2009

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What has happened to the county purchasing the Calaham Property uptown for county offices?  Has the purchased been approved?  What will be located in that building aside from the furniture company continuing to operate for the next 4-5 yrs. 
 
Presently, the hole left from the old Senior Services Center burnout will become a breeding ground for all kinds of vermin.  Water is left standing after every rain.  The two story building is now leaking like a sieve when it rains and nothing has been done to the old breeze way that exists between the location of the two buildings.
web posted July 22, 2009

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What paper refused to report on the dump at JET? They should be ashamed!!

Editor's note: Enough clues have already been made available. I will not point them out by name. They know who they are and that is enough.
web posted July 22, 2009

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Folks, you can't get any better than this.  WHO is watching the hen House?  The ECSD is not that  STUPI? or are they? That has to be the dumb excuse that I have every heard.  Did not know I was breaking the law.  Have you ever attended a DEHC meeting on the subject?  Have you every heard of a lock gate?  Boy, between the concession stand and now this , what next?  Thank you Mr. Editor, if the paper refuse to run this story, WHY????
web posted July 22, 2009

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I saw Mr. Courtney on TV saying that when they burned the pit they "usually" removed stuff that wasn't supposed to be in the pit. "Usually"? That sounds like sometimes they do and sometimes they didn't. He looked like a deer caught in the headlights. Great Job Edgefield Daily!!!!!!!

Editor's note: All in a day's work.
web posted July 22, 2009

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is there anyone that suffers from neuropthy of the feet? this is a very traumatic thing for me and i am looking for something i can do at home when this attack happens in the middle of the night. i woud appreciate any info. i have purchased an oil called neurogen it helps at time.
web posted July 22, 2009

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Well unless that local teacher on Facebook accepts everyone as a friend, I am sure he/she is just posting how he/she is feeling. That is what most people do. . . If you feel it is bad for the profession and are offended, then delete the teacher as a friend. Most people don't have access to Facebook pages unless they are friends anyway. Instead of putting your opinion on EdgefieldDaily, send the teacher an email and let that person know your feelings. In my opinion, I would say if that is all you have to be offended about, your life must not be too bad. Our country is in a political windfall and an economic slump and you are complaining about what someone puts on Facebook. Geez. . . . 
web posted July 22, 2009

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RE: EDITOR'S NOTE
You never did say if you were going to report on the foreclosure of Mt. Vintage?

Editor's note: As I understand the hearing was held on Tuesday. I do not have information on the result of that hearing at this time. Either way, the results of the hearing will be transferred to a judge who will then sign off on the determination and it will take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks for it to be recorded at the Clerk of Court's Office. When that takes place, I will have a follow-up report.
web posted July 22, 2009

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How can the independent auditors of the Edgefield County financial statements issue 'clean' audit opinions when revenues are not being accounted for, ordinances regarding financial matters are not being followed, county revenues are being 'shared' with non governmental organizations without approval or records, county revenues are being spent on purchases that would not be approved by the county if they were spent directly by the countly rather than a non governmental organization?  Why does used equipment, particularly trucks and autos, have such specific disposal procedures for relatively low value items, when county property of much larger value is simply 'abandoned' on private property?  
web posted July 22, 2009

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Given the foreclosure action pending at Mount Vintage, a recap of the past history of Mr. Rainsford's acumen as a business man is timely.  As Yogi Berra said, "Deja vu all over again."  http://www.answers.com/topic/duck-head-apparel-company-inc  Any one can run a business in good times, it takes a business man to run a business in bad times.
web posted July 22, 2009

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Politicians and car sales men have one thing in common,they lie when their lips are moving.
web posted July 22, 2009

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Due to the recently exposed dump it will be necessary to chose a new theme song for the school district.  Please place your vote for one of the following:
 
Who let the dogs out, who, who, who?
You've got to move it, move it.
Clean up your own backyard.
I keep forgettin I forgot about you.
She thinks my dump is sexy.
Welcome to Dumpsville, population me.
It don't feel like sinnin to me.
I just fell into something and I sure hope it's love.
web posted July 22, 2009

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Re: Editor's note - There is no "Town of Merriwether" (at this time) but they pay over 60% of all personal property taxes collected in the county.

I hope they do incorporate it and include your home in the town limits, then you can pay even higher property taxes than you do now. 

Editor's note: Your man Obama is going to raise taxes on us more than the state or county (or any town) could ever imagine. How's that "hopey - changey" thing working out for you so far? You feeling "stimulated" yet?
web posted July 22, 2009

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I am able to confirm that Mr. Courtney is telling the truth in regards to occasionally burning the pit behind JET. Unfortunately, I can confirm this because the smells coming from the pit do not smell like just construction materials. There are chemical-like smells that come off the pile while it is being burned.
 
I also have no problem believing that Mr. Courtney was unaware of what was on the pile since that would require him to actually leave his office or the lunchroom at STHS. I hope I can one day attain a position that allows me spend all day sitting in an office or a cafeteria and get paid a handsome salary.
web posted July 22, 2009

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Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, James Courtney you crack me up!  You're killing me, ha, ha, ha, ha. I can't believe you said that, ha, ha, ha, ha.  I know you weren't serious when you said "If we're doing anything illegal, I didn't know it!"  Yea right, you and former Gov. Rod Blagojevich, ha, ha, ha, ha.  Yup, we just fell off the squash cart, ha, ha, ha, ha.
web posted July 22, 2009

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The Bettis Park fiasco is somewhat representative (in a nutshell kind of way) of the problem with our elected officials and the current pitiful state of representative government (federal, state, county, etc…). The basic needs of the County and its citizens  must be met first and foremost, including infrastructure (roads, etc…) and education. Taxpayer money shouldn’t be lining pockets and supporting projects or properties that the county does not own or has little control over.

The needs of the few in decision making positions seems to always outweigh the needs of the citizens (the citizens they serve) as a whole. Pork, pet projects, earmarks, “special interests”, etc… , call them what you want. It is morally and ethically wrong, and many of our so called leaders are morally and ethically bankrupt. The system stinks from the bottom to the top and back down again.

Unfortunately all of us (maybe our kids, grandkids, etc…) will ultimately have pay the price. The founding fathers had an excellent idea and sacrificed to establish this country and this form of government. Many have sacrificed and been extremely vigilant to preserve it. Please be objective and look where we are headed. Forget comparisons to other countries. Our potentials have nothing to do with their failures. Even the most dedicated patriot must be concerned about where our country is headed and what it means for us and future generations .

I predicted in my foolish youth that we were creeping toward a revolution. How ironic that foolish youthful ideas could become a reality in the next generation or so. But do we really want a revolution? Imagine the implications. What recourse are we leaving those that follow us? Elected officials should consider that in their every action. Do they really want the weight of the failure of our country and everything it represents on their shoulders? 
web posted July 22, 2009

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Kudos to the Editor for keeping the citizens informed as to their county government not working.  Will the County Council request an audit of the concession recipts and expenditures?  Will the County Council and County Administrator publicly pledge that the time of doing business under the table and out of the public eye is past?  It is astounding that there is an unauthorized dump on school property.  Will the ECSB sweep this under the rug or will they commission an independent investigation, assuming law enforcement is not already involved?  Finally, will you be able to provide coverage for the MVP foreclosure hearing that is scheduled for Tuesday?  Keep up the good work.

Editor's note: We report, you decide.
web posted July 21, 2009

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You can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink. This applies to education and life in general. The opportunities are there but you cannot force someone to make something of themselves. We all make choices and people need to stop blaming everything around them for their "condition". Where does personal responsibility come in?  How much easier to sit and blame or sit and do nothing and expect to be taken care of. This is the only country I know of where the "poor" people are often obese. How does that work? It is a crazy world.
web posted July 21, 2009

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All I want to know is what is going to happen now? Is there anyone in the d@m county going to grow a pair and do anything about this? Tax payers money paid for a concession trailer that the Brightster took over, took money that tax payers thought was going back to the county and nobody is going to do anything? So why don’t we save the County allot of money and get rid of all the Sheriff’s Dept., EMS, County employees and turn this into what it really is a FREE FOR ALL. How much tax payer money has gone into Bettis Park? Who is the person’s responsible for okaying this money? Are they still employed by the county? If so WHY? This is the craziest thing I have ever heard in my life. I take it back sign me up! I want the County to develop my property, buy me a concession trailer and put me into business too and I don’t have to pay the County back. WIN WIN for the Brightster and Mt. Cannon Church.
web posted July 21, 2009

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I find it very interesting  Mt. Canaan Baptist Association and Edgefield County seem to have a lot of interaction. What happened to separation of church and state?
web posted July 21, 2009

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Three questions: 1) Is the ECSD eligible to use the convenience center? 2) Is the ECSD eligible to use the landfill? 3) Why didn't they use the trash dumpsters located at JET, STHS or district office?

Editor's note: 1) Yes. 2) Yes. 3) Good question.
web posted July 21, 2009

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Recreation money. Since we are on the subject.  How  about the Edgefield Recreation concession and the Johnston stand.. What happens to their money?     
Now, were is the paper trail with the county money????? You do kept up with the puchases and payouts right????????????????
web posted July 21, 2009

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Recreation taxes totaling over $300,000.  Facilities (parks) on property not owned by the county citizens who pay those taxes.  Lease agreements where the citizens money is used recreation yet the property owners keep the improvements (buildings, paved roads, side walks, basketball and other ball courts,stands, lights, etc.)if those leases end.  The taxpayers have no ownership.  Inequality exists in how those funds are disbursed throughout the county.  There are pockets in the County which have no recreational facilities even though they may represent the largest taxpayer revenue producing section of the County.  Facilities benefit small groups not the county as a whole.
 
There appears to be a lack of planning and tracking of these funds.  Remember the mobile concession stand ($60,000 +) for Bettis Academy Park which was supposed to be readily available for other parks but was permanently installed?   
 
If you can't track the revenue from the concession stands and compare that to the cost of operations, including hiring someone to run them, how can you determine if it is a profitable plan?  If parents are unwilling to volunteer maybe these concession stands should be shut down.  Remember we the taxpayers paid for the concession stand and other improvements shouldn't we be reimbursed for some of those costs if there are profits?  Here is a hint, pretend it is your money you are spending then maybe you can make better decisions.
 
"We only meet once a month" is not an adequate excuse for the lack of competent  functioning of this county government.  The administrator is accountable for overseeing the county departments and in making sure adequate information is provided well in advance of the issue coming before the council.  The council members are responsible for reviewing the information and being knowledgeable about the issue well before it is presented.
web posted July 21, 2009

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There is a local teacher who posts on Facebook nearly every day about not wanting to go to work, or how bad the work day was, or how tired she is, ad nauseum.  This does not look good for the teacher, the school system, or the entire profession.  I am hoping this teacher reads this and stops.  Looks like a bad attitude, and I don't think this teacher realizes this.
web posted July 21, 2009

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1) Will somebody inform me who is the mayor of Merriwether?
2) Where is the Town Hall for Merriwether located?
3) How many Town Council members does the town of Merriwether have? and how can i contact them?
4) When did Merriwether become "incorporated" as a town?

Editor's note: There is no "Town of Merriwether" (at this time) but they pay over 60% of all personal property taxes collected in the county.
web posted July 21, 2009

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Who is that crazy old guy that rides around on the 1950's bike around Edgefield running in and out of traffic like he owns the town? When he runs out in front of me and I blow the horn he just smiles and waves like he owns the streets. Can't the police do something about this guy? e ridses up and down the sidewalks and the street. If he's a mental case I can understand, but somebody needs to do something about him.
web posted July 21, 2009

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Editor's post: I have to admit that the tipster on the dump behind JET went to a local newspaper first, who refused to report on the matter. It was then the person sought out EdgefieldDaily.com to expose the problem. Perhaps the "news" paper needs to move it's "Society page" to the front page since it shys away from any controversial subject to bring you stories of tea parties, gossip collumns, and feel good "Oprah" type "news". Its former Publishers must be rolling in their graves.
web posted July 20, 2009

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Do you know how stupid you sound when you make fun about Vice President Biden saying the government needs to keep spending money to keep the country from going broke? If the government doens't make the money and infuse it into the economy where do you think the money will come from? A money tree? It makes perfect sense to me. The government should make a lot more money and giove it out so people will have more to spend.

Editor's note: The government does not make money, people make money by working hard, creating jobs, and encourage the economy to grow. Government then takes that money from the people to redistribute it to others who did not earn it. It is true that government can print money that the people have not created, and that decreases the value of the money in the economy (created by working people and taxpayers) and leads to inflation, which is a tax on money saved by those who create wealth.

An article on this was provided back in 2005, perhaps you should read it.
web posted July 20, 2009

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Over five thousand years ago, Moses said to the children of Israel "pick up your shovel, mount your asses and camels, and I will lead you to the promised land".

Nearly 75 years ago, Roosevelt said, "Lay down your shovels, sit on your asses, and light up a camel, this is the promised land".

Now Obama has stolen your shovel ,taxed your asses, raised the price of camels, and mortgaged the promised land. God help us.
web posted July 20, 2009

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RE: "Birthers"

I voted fo Pres. Obama and regret it. My parents were democrats, my grandparents were democrats, and I always thought I should be a democrat. I don't think I can vote for a republican but I know I can't vote for another democrat after what they are doing right now. Maybe I will just stop voting. For Pres. Obama to hide his birth certificate does make me wonder if there is more to this whole thing. I always called friends who screamed about him being born in Africa crazy, but now I'm starting to wonder if they aren't right. Why hide it if you got it....

Editor's note: Not voting is not an option. Stay active and find candidates that support your views, encourage others to vote for them, and stay active in the political process. Otherwise you allow other to determine your future and the future of our United States.
web posted July 20, 2009

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Re: My daughter went thru the public school systems in the 70's

I went through school in the county and graduated from Strom Thurmond during the same time and I got a great education and also went on to college, got a good job, and raised a family. I know many people I went to school with that have a bunch of kids by baby momma's, didn't marry any, and they are all on welfare, the kids are on welfare, and some of their kids are now having babies unwed and all of them are on welfare. Maybe I didn't attend the "how to live off the government" classes.
web posted July 20, 2009

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I found the article on Obamacare very interesting and how they plan to make everyone pay for abortions with tax money. The DEMONcrats are such liars.  They use cute words and focus groups to learn how to sell their lies to the dumb masses. I DO NOT want my tax money going to killing babies!!!!!!!!. I never understand why blacks vote democrat when they are the ones pushing for their extermination. Did you know that there are more black babies killed by abortion % wise each year? But the same stupid people punch Dem and walk out of the voting booth never knowing who they voted for in hopes of gettin another guvment check.
web posted July 20, 2009

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I see where Johnston got another grant for sewer upgrades. Why can't the county get grants for sewer or water to be run in the westside? Hey, we actually pay taxes! Why don't we matter? Mr. Ashcraft and Sen Massey held a meeting a while back but I never got a real answer why we are way on the back burner. Maybe we need to elect new people until they do something for us.
web posted July 20, 2009

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Here's what I can't understand. My daughter went thru the public school systems in the 70's and early 80's. Went on to graduate and attended college and got a degree. In these classes there where all types of children, white, black, hispanic etc. Now all these children had the same teachers the same opportunities, the same books and schedules. Yet blacks today still say that their education is of a lesser quality.
What I think is happening is that a majority of the parents not the teachers or the schools are the problems.
Till this is resolved no amount of money is going to improve the education process in this country.
Its not the schools problem to raise your children to be respectful, or courteous. The family is the one to give the children pride in themselves and their accomplishments. Jessie and Al need to address the parenting issue before blaming everything on the schools and the white citizens of this country. We all pay taxes to send our children to school. What you do after they are released from school is up to you.
web posted July 18, 2009

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I read this story today and it made me think about what liars everybody in Washington DC is, Republicans and Demomcrats.
"Congress: It didn't take long to run into an "uh-oh" moment when reading the House's "health care for all Americans" bill. Right there on Page 16 is a provision making individual private medical insurance illegal." http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=332548165656854
When are people going to wake up to Obama and the democrats lying about everything they are doing.  They're killing us and nobody is paying attention. The words they use are focus group terms used like a commercial to sell you worthless crap on tv. Yeah, that's some choice, everybody being forced to have government run insurance. I've got family getting Medicare and treatment at the VA and both SUCK!!!!! Get the government the (heck) out of my (darn) health insurnace. Are people crazy?
web posted July 18, 2009

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Interesting fact-the country of Iceland actually went bankrupt recently.

Interesting fact-most of the economic policies that caused the mess we are in were put in by Clinton, this is often over looked or conveniently forgotten.
web posted July 18, 2009

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I got a kick out of the Barbara Boxer video. That was priceless!!!!!!!!!!! It was like she was sitting there going, hey' you're black, your supposed to agree with democrats no matter what. How dare you challange your masters. HA HA HA!!!
web posted July 18, 2009

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NFL! The Carolina Panthers Organization will be at Bettis Park on August 7th. They are providing a football camp that is FREE of charge for kids 8 to 14. You can register your child at Bettis on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7:30. If u can't make it to Bettis, forms are available at STHS Mon-Thurs from 8 to 5 in the office. The deadline to register is July 28th.
web posted July 17, 2009

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i don`t know about the rest of y`all i am ready for football to start *GO REBELS and go GAMECOCKS!!

web posted July 17, 2009

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RE: Do you understand the situation this country is currently in due to these types of actions? Do you understand economics?  How you can blame Reagan and Bush is beyond me. You need to look a little closer at reality and at where this president is really leading this country-weakening our economy, weakening our security etc. etc is leading us to a dangerous place. I am not sure we can recover. Don't give me the "winger" crap. It is people like you that are allowing us to lose this country. I hope your taxes hit you where it  really hurts, but then maybe you don't pay taxes and maybe you want to be taken care of by the government. I personally don't feel it is my responsibility to take care of lazy people. I have worked hard and I want to keep what I have EARNED. I don't have any desire to live under socialism but gee, I don't think it is far off.

I understand the situation we are in.  Do you understand that from 2001-Jan of 2007, 6 full years, your side had the White House and majorities in both houses of Congress.  How many surpluses were run in those years?  Your side got us here, as it did in 1929.  My side will get us out of it....again. I would be on your side if someone, anyone can explain to me when and where your ideas worked.  Where in the world have they ever worked?  A strong middle class and a strong economy are what I am after.  I just can't find when in this country we ever had that with right of center policy or elsewhere in the world where it has actually worked.  You tell me....where in the history of the world has a strong middle class been established that can drive an economy with right of center policy.  Here is where it has worked with left of center policy: USA, Canada, Mexico, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, England, Portugal, Iceland, Australia, NZ, Brazil ....just off the top of my head.

I share your desire of not living under socialism. 

I don't mind "taking care of lazy people".  I feel sorry for them for squandering the opportunity to share in the American Dream.  But I don't see lazy people and poor people on welfare as having much to do with our big problems.  I see a disproportionate share of income falling into few hands to actually drive our economy.  The middle class is struggling because the last 30 years have seen enormous income and wealth transfer to the top 1% and even beyond that to the top 0.1% and 0.001% of our population.  These people can not spend enough to drive our economy, and the people who can spend enough, don't have it to spend.  It used to not be this way....in the days of our youth and the formation of the "greatest generation." 

http://yglesias.thinkprogress.org/archives/2009/04/gdp_per_family_versus_median_family_income.php  Have you ever heard the phrase "a rising tide lifts all boats"?  Well, it used to work that way in America.  Our collective productivity increased and the wealth of those more productive increased at a similar rate.  That has changed in the last 30 years.  Now as our productivity increases, the average family income does not increase at nearly the same rate as productivity.  While the income of the top 1% increases at a rate that far exceeds the increase in productivity. http://lanekenworthy.net/2009/04/13/reducing-inequality-whats-the-problem/

I hate to disappoint you, but I am employed with a wife and children.  I have a job that I have had for 18 years.  I own a side business that allows my two partners to make their living from and I make a little bit from.  You are not paying my way, I promise you.  I am an accountant who understands the Internal Revenue Code.  I wish you no ill will as you have done me.  I wish you the best of luck in living out your American Dream.  If you can tell me when and where your ideas have worked, I may consider supporting your views.
web posted July 17, 2009

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I'm proud to be what the communists call "birthers", the same people who call rational people "global warming deniers" and all the other (BS) labels the DEMONcrats like to paint people with. When you can't argue facts they just think up a label and spout it off just like they do "racist".  Take a look at one man who shoved it right back at DEMONcrat Barbara Boxer when she tried to show the NAACP and other "blacks" at somebody who wandered from the plantation who happened to be black. Maybe Mr. Alford should run againster her. Watch the video, watch what a DEMOCRAT does when they get caught being racist. LOL I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!
web posted July 17, 2009

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RE:  "DON"T EVER LET ANYONE TELL YOU, YOU CAN"T CHNAGE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES-not in this country!"

For those that have continually listened to the Justice Brothers Sharpton and Jackson you haven't changed your circumstances have you?  But living off your backs, making you the point of their argument, they sure have made a comfortable living haven't they?  Look at your School District and School Board.  Seems they too know the system well.  They continually espouse how there are those that are underprivileged, and get grants for every program under the sun to give someone else a better chance than can't change their circumstances.  And once again, like the Justice Brothers they too have made themselves some cushy positions off the backs of their own so-called brothers and sisters.  When are you all going to wake up?  It's not black against white, its corrupt politicians and government hired employees raping all of us, regardless of our ethnicity.  But on both sides of the fence everyone still clutches on to the race issue.  Wake up-to change circumstances we need to change politicians-one level at a time. BIBBS and COOKS ride around in their Mercedes thinking they are something-but which African American student can honestly - not a write in for the race - say they have it better now than anytime before because of their tenure on the Board?  Be honest now, and back it up with solid facts. You see, Brother BIBBS got his Mercedes so he could mirror Sister Sallie - deys be elected O'fficials, deys be's impotant, ridin round town in dey fancy caws, showin everyone how impotant dey is and how deys be's doesen sumtin fo dey brothas and sistas.  Seems like they are doing plenty for themselves.
web posted July 17, 2009

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I see Georgia has come out with the AYP results, South Carolina must use thier fingers to add up the numbers.
web posted July 17, 2009

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The birth certificate issue of Obama is anything but "black helicopter" thinking. It goes to the whole core of the problems with him. For some reason, this country has gotten away from the absolutes of what our government stands for. The requirements for President were stipulated for a reason. Following the Constitution and the laws of this country were stipulated for a reason. The values and beliefs of this country were stipulated for a reason. When did we get away from following the laws of this land? He and crew are so far off course the thinking in this country. Do people not see the far left, and I mean far, far left, thinking in the policies put in and proposed by this man? If they don't see it they are either in agreement, in denial or uninformed. It just boggles my mind. A lot of saw it even before he got elected. Now it is even more obvious. Are these supporters in a fog?

One other question, what have the five overseas trips he has made since Jan. cost this country? I don't mean only the cost in dollars but the cost to the substance of what this country used to be? There is so much to think about.

Slippery slope.
web posted July 17, 2009

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That's funny I am a wife of a recreation football coach and I have never been asked to work at the consession stand. He has been coaching for  Edgefield County Rec. dept. for 6 years.
web posted July 16, 2009

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When it smells like a rat, looks like a rat, it is a rat.  Don't blame the rec dir for what's going on, or not being done correctly.  Blame the used car salesman.  You get what you pay for.  When is the county going to hire qualified people.  This also includes the ECSD?  And how long can the town get by without an administor. Any grants come our way?
web posted July 16, 2009

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RE: Editor's note: I had to providfe my birth certificate to get a driver's license, he can't do the same to be President? Why not provide the actual total taxes collected during those years? Federal revenues uncreased in spite of lower income taxes.

Taxes:  Total Revenue 1981 $599.3B   1982  $617.8B   1983  600.6B  Source.  http://www.usgovernmentrevenue.com/yearrev1985_0.html#usgs302.
Federal revenues generally increase from year to year.  But not every year when Reagan was in office. 

Birth cert:  Get over it.  Snopes.com has something on it.  So does factcheck.org.  You do our community a wonderful service with this site.  But this issue is a little too "black helicopterish" for most folks to take seriously.  And that leads to not taking those that do go for it to not be taken seriously.

Editor's note: For the most part I would agree with you, except for the fact that the Democrats and the DNC questioned Sen. McCain's citizenship since he was born on a military base in Panama and forced him to produce his original birth certificate. Why doesn't Obama do the same? It really isn't that hard. Until he does, he leaves the matter open for discussios and speculation. He has the ability to end the discussion and the countless lawsuits by producing a simple document. Why not do so if there is nothing to hide?

Also, all those sites changed their information when Obama sent a letter to a hospital claiming it to be his birthplace and it was not the one he listed previously during the campaign. How do you forget what hospital you were born at? You have to admit, it keeps the question out there.
web posted July 16, 2009

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Two of our children play county sports and we have been to Bettis Park more times than I can count to attend their games. There is always a line at the concession stand the entire time games are going on. We spend a lot of money on registration fees, other related things for our children to play in the rec leauge, and a lot of money for snacks and drinks. We'd like to know where the money is going. Thank you for asking questios and keeping us informed.
Signed, Faithful readers

Editor's note: There will be more information available this week.
web posted July 16, 2009

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Re: Obama has not increased taxes..."  Have you received your new tax bill? I have not, as I just paid my income taxes this past April. Time will tell on this issue. I don't know how it is possible that the American people are not going to get stuck with enormous tax increases due to the out of control spending this president has managed to get through in just six and half months. With other proposals on the table such as healthcare reform we are looking at a real mess ahead. We cannot just keep printing money. Do you understand the situation this country is currently in due to these types of actions? Do you understand economics?  How you can blame Reagan and Bush is beyond me. You need to look a little closer at reality and at where this president is really leading this country-weakening our economy, weakening our security etc. etc is leading us to a dangerous place. I am not sure we can recover. Don't give me the "winger" crap. It is people like you that are allowing us to lose this country. I hope your taxes hit you where it  really hurts, but then maybe you don't pay taxes and maybe you want to be taken care of by the government. I personally don't feel it is my responsibility to take care of lazy people. I have worked hard and I want to keep what I have EARNED. I don't have any desire to live under socialism but gee, I don't think it is far off.

As far as his birth certificate goes, if he has it, what is the big deal in showing it?  He doesn't have it and it means he is in his position illegally.  Nothing else is needed to be said.  It is obvious.

Slippery slope.
web posted July 16, 2009

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RE: " I, even being only a 17 year old African American, realize that absolutely nothing about slavery bettered the lives of slaves."

17 years old, huh.  That essentially wraps it up.  You too, would not know what it was like to be a slave, you have only heard.  So why should you, or anyone else younger than, let's say 100 years old, be entitled to any reparations?  You didn't suffer any of that.  Those that did are deceased.  Therefore, you have not been injured, but you did benefit in that you are now part of the greatest country on earth that, like everyone else, has made mistakes, and although slow to come, does try to rectify them.   Would you like to be a citizen of China or Iran right now?
web posted July 16, 2009

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WARNING: The link sent in below contains a fighter breaking his leg during a fight. View at your own risk.

Check this out!!
http://www.break.com/index/mma-leg-break.html
web posted July 16, 2009

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I have heard so much about Edgefield being a tourist destination. I have a few questions. Where would people actually stay when they come? What  exactly is it that  would draw people here? I heard once that the reason for the camera on the square was to encourage tourism. I am sorry, but the only people that would attract are people who like to sit and watch the grass grow. I have traveled some and have gone to interesting small towns. They were actually kept up, had fun little shops and restaurants plus the historical interests. I think Edgefield has a bit of improving to do before it would be that much of a tourist destination-weekends or not. Maybe the powers to be that own the downtown area could think more about maintaining some of those old buildings. I just don't see the charm in places that are fallilng apart.  As long as I have lived here, I have not really had the impression that Edgefield wants to do what is necessary to become a tourist destination. Maybe the mayor etc just believes his own delusions. I know when out of state people come to visit me, Edgefield is not their top destination, nor mine to take them to.
web posted July 15, 2009

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The group of teenagers hang that out at the Edgefield Library are obnoxious and rude.
They are enabled by family members if kicked out for bad behavior.
Since they do not know the few simple Library rules I thought I would go over them.
Be quite!
Do not run.
Be respectful toward staff.
Do not throw things.
Do not sit on the tables.
Do not eat or drink.
The library is not a baby sitting service and has the right to call the police if you get out of hand.
The library is a place to read and write when you are waiting for your turn on the computer. If you want to socialize go out side or go home.
 If you don’t know how to read start with the kids section and just look at the pictures, maybe by time school starts you will have learned something.
web posted July 15, 2009

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Editor's note: "Repeating the mistakes"? Reagan brought about one of the most thriving private sector growths in history in the economy and tax receipts by cutting taxes. Obama is placing taxes unheard of on the American people in the midst of a recession. Who elected this idiot? Why stop giving figures in 1989?

Obama has not increased taxes and the debt far more that four times that of all presidents in the US combined in history.  W has the title of running up the largest deficits.  I am an equal opportunity deficit hawk.  You seem to be a deficit hawk when a Dem is in office, but could care less about deficits when your boys Reagan, Bush 1 & 2 were running up the credit.  I think I recall you even stating more than once that Clinton never ran a surplus.  Facts can be pesky things to a winger.

Reagan...you live in a fantasy world.  Individual income tax revenue was lower in 1982 than 1981.  Lower in 1983 than 1984.  In 1984, federal revenues from individual income taxes were higher than the previous year.  In 1982, maybe 1983, Reagan increased the Social Security Tax on every dime the working poor and middle class made.  Reagan's expansion of income fell to the top 1%.  And really to the top 0.1%.  And that is why we are where we are....not enough disposable income in the hands of enough people to drive an economy. 

The birth certificate issue would be hilarious if I didn't feel sorry for you for believing it.

Editor's note: I had to providfe my birth certificate to get a driver's license, he can't do the same to be President?

Why not provide the actual total taxes collected during those years? Federal revenues uncreased in spite of lower income taxes.
web posted July 15, 2009

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Michelle One
On Sunday, President Obama flew back to the United States on Air Force One. His wife, two daughters and her mother did a bit of shopping in Paris before taking their own Boeing 757 (C-32) over to London to do some sight seeing.

We all remember Obama’s admonishment to corporate CEO’s in February:

“You can’t get corporate jets, you can’t go take a trip to Las Vegas or go down to the Super Bowl on the taxpayers dime.”

Apparently that doesn’t apply to his wife.

The London Times opened it’s description of Michelle’s visit this way:

Motorcycle outriders, armoured Chevrolets and bullet-headed men in raincoats criss-crossed London yesterday as Michelle Obama and her daughters spent a second day on an unofficial visit to the capital.

The Times went on to describe that when Michelle and the girls arrived at Westminster Abbey, the building was closed to tourists with people already in told to “wait against the wall.” An American visiting the Abbey said “Right then I knew it was probably someone from our ‘royal family’.”

Michelle’s motorcade shut down the London street above as the First Lady of the World and her children go for Fish and Chips at a pub in Mayfair . The entourage inside the restaurant was 15 people while dozens more wait outside. Include the dozens of Air Force personnel to fly and service the plane, embassy personnel and other staff and we are talking about a serious expenditure of tax payer dollars.

Meanwhile, millions of Americans have lost their jobs and won’t be able to take their family on a summer holiday. Despite their circumstances they’ll still be expected to fork over the tax dollars to pay for Michelle’s trip.
web posted July 15, 2009

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Interesting Statistics

Professor Joseph Olson of Hamline University School of Law, St. Paul,  Minnesota, points out facts of 2008 Presidential election:

 Number of States won by:
 Democrats: 19
 Republicans:  29

 Square miles of land won by:
 Democrats: 580,000
 Republicans:  2,427,000

 Population of counties won by:
 Democrats: 127 million
 Republicans: 143 million

 Murder rate per 100,000 residents in counties won by:
 Democrats: 13.2
 Republicans:  2.1
 
 Professor Olson adds:
 "In aggregate, the map of the territory Republican won by Republicans   was  mostly the land owned by the taxpaying citizens of the country.

 Democrat territory mostly encompassed those citizens living in  government-owned tenements and living off various forms of government welfare...

 
Professor Olson believes the United States is now somewhere between the "complacency and apathy" phase of Professor Tyler's definition of democracy, with some forty percent of the nation's population already having reached the "governmental dependency" phase.
 
 If Congress grants amnesty and citizenship to twenty million criminal  invaders called illegal's and they vote, then we can say goodbye to  the USA in fewer than five years
web posted July 15, 2009

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RE:  " Would u like it if you were considered less than human, merely someone's property and knew you could do nothing to change your situation?"

Selective listening and selective history.  People that are told they can't do anything to change their circumstances and listen to it, actually don't change their circumstances.  And that's where they stay.  People who don't accept that, do change their circumstances and become better or great.  Hmmm!  Someone told Rosa Parks she couldn't sit somewhere on the bus, but gee, she had the moxie to stand up and say NO!  She changed the circumstances for just more than herself.  You see, that's generally how it is.  You always have a few that will stand up, and all the others will sit around and whine about their circumstances.  If it was not for the few who had the courage to stand up, we surely would not be the nation we are.  Hell, look at the School issue-you have a few willing to stand up, but everyone else, to include the teachers, sit around and whine.

THAT's WHAT MAKES THIS COUNTRY GREAT!  If "you", I repeat "you" want to better yourself "you" can do it, know one else! Those that sit around and whine will be plotting to see how they can hold you down, will bad mouth you because they have to make themselves look good by making you look bad, and devise ways to get your money.  But if "you" persist, fight long and hard, and work hard, "you" can change your circumstances! DON"T EVER LET ANYONE TELL YOU, YOU CAN"T CHNAGE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES-not in this country!
web posted July 15, 2009

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Re:  The "boycott Obama businesses" posts.  From: an Obama business. I have been boycotted by some for years and we are still here.  Our company grosses 500K per year.  I pay four employees, SS, federal and state withholding. FUTA, SUTA, state sales tax, county property taxes, and every other tax and expense every business pays.  You don't pay a thing for me!  You might also be interested to know that the editor of Edgefield Daily is a valued customer of ours.  Thank you for your business.

Editor's note: The poster does not reveal in the email the name of the company so I cannot confirm that I am actually a customer of this company. I will confirm that I, and my family, make it a point to support local businesses first rather than those outside of our county.
web posted July 15, 2009

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I keep seeing add saying "Obama asks moms to return to school  get your degree using government grants and scholarships"
Is  Obama going pay off the student loans I have aready and watch my child while I am in class.

Editor's note: No, we, the taxpayers will. Obama has never spent a single penny of his own money to help anyone.
web posted July 14, 2009

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I have noticed that there are many structures in and around Johnston that are beyond repair and need to be destroyed.  Many are old homes that aren't  safe enough to be used as a warehouse.  There is one on Lanier Road that is bright yellow.  It was destroyed by fire 2 years ago or more,  when is the city going to have the owner cleanup the dangerous mess.  Around the old mill there are old homes that the porches are not safe to walk on,  they also have holes in the roofes. People in and around Railroad Ave need to complain about the houses around the old mill before the town puts it self into a law suit it can't win
web posted July 14, 2009

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whoever wrote the archive (post) about slavery being a "blessing" to African Americans on July 13th must be unsensible and foolish. I, even being only a 17 year old African American, realize that absolutely nothing about slavery bettered the lives of slaves. Would u like it if you were considered less than human, merely someone's property and knew you could do nothing to change your situation? Would you like being separated from your family and love ones, never to see them again? Would you like being beatened, even killed for not refering to someone as "master". I would think not. I would just like you to know that your archive (post) upset me deeply and I hope that my reasoning may alter your opinion.
web posted July 14, 2009

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Re: It's probably escaped the minds of Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton but slavery was a blessing to the blacks of Africa.

Good essay.  I think that what we are left with now are African Decendants who walk around with a chip on thier shoulder (for the most part).  They can't look you in the eye to say hello.  I guess its cause they don't consider us human by what THEY have been taught.  By the way if you say that Black America should be happy with what they have then you will be accused of wanting to keep them down or at least in favor of a "Glass Ceiling" over thier present status.

Funny how many people go to Europe to vacation, black and white,  But not that many go back to the "glorious homeland" of Africa.
web posted July 14, 2009

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Re: I have an idea!! If you support Pres. Obama, then spend your money with companies that support him...

I'm with you, but it's a little late for the schools.  We must hand our children over to the gov't every year so that the gov't can educate them.  Sounds great huh?
web posted July 14, 2009

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                                                               Debt as a percentage
Year         Deficit             Debt                of that year's GDP

1979        -$40,183        -$828,923         34%
1980        -73,835          -908,503           34
1981        -78,976          -994,298           34
1982        -127,989        -1,136,798        36
1983        -207,818        -1,371,164        41
1984        -185,388        -1,564,110        42
1985        -212,334        -1,816,974        46
1986        -221,245        -2,120,082        50
1987        -149,769        -2,345,578        53
1988        -155,187        -2,600,760        54
1989        -152,481        -2,867,538        55

U.S. Office of Management and Budget, Historical Tables, annual.

<>Doubling, tripling, quadroupling the deficit.  Reagan perfected it. 

I share your concerns about Obama repeating these mistakes. 

Editor's note: "Repeating the mistakes"? Reagan brought about one of the most thriving private sector growths in history in the economy and tax receipts by cutting taxes. Obama is placing taxes unheard of on the American people in the midst of a recession. Who elected this idiot? Why stop giving figures in 1989?

At least you admit that Obama has increased taxes and the debt far more that four times that of all presidents in the US combined in history. You must be proud of "your guy". By the way, have ya'll found that pesky birth certificate yet? I have a copy of mine, it cost all of $4.

Also, if your numbers are correct, Obama's $10-14 Trillion debt is three to five times the entire GDP, if not more in light of the economic slowdown encouraged by the Obama spending spree. But, I'm going by your numbers, not mine.
web posted July 14, 2009

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The biggest problem with inviting anyone to Edgefield is most people want to come on weekends and Edgefield rolls up the sidewalk on Saturday afternoon and it is closed on Sunday. Most people work during the week and ride their bikes on the weekends. If you want to be a tourist town then you need to be open on Saturday and Sunday. Get a clue!  The square is not that interesting after you have seen it once. People want to eat and shop.
web posted July 14, 2009

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When are the cops going to start looking at the (store) across from (another location)? Nobody shops there but the same cars are always out front. Have you seen some of these people?  Is that the county or the city?

Editor's note: From the information provided, though removed, I believe the location is in the county, not the Town of Edgefield.
web posted July 14, 2009

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A guy from pest control came to my dads house and was saying a friend of his wrote an article on animal-think he said it was a mix of a rabbit and a kangaroo.  Do you know anything about it?

Editors note: EdgefieldDaily.com com broke this story on the Patagonian Cavies four years ago and has the only original and updated photos and reports. The most recent can be found here. Links to previous stories are provided within the reports.
web posted July 14, 2009

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To the writer who claims that Mr. Jebens and his son have "mental issues", I would suggest that you put these accusations in the form of a letter to the editor.  That way you can sign your name, otherwise your claims have no merit.  Only cowards call a persons character into question without signing
their name.
web posted July 14, 2009

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I see another stupid driver escaped a wreck with his life on the curve on Currytown Road.  I  don't have any idea how many people over the past several years have come around that curve and lost control due to their speed or other distractions.  We have been fortunate that no one has been killed.  Every wreck has been very violent in that the cars flip and hits trees.  Can the county or state not install flashing warning lights or by some other means help control the speed down that road.  I don't know how many times I have been going around that curve and almost got hit by other drivers speeding around the curve in the other lane.  What is it going to take to correct the problem before some innocent mother or father is killed by an idiot driver who thinks they are invincible.  
web posted July 14, 2009

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Who is that crazy old man that rides around on a bike in Edgefield pulling in and out of traffic like he owns the town?  I was in the pool room and all he could do was talk about how stupid everybody in Edgefield was. I heard he was (removed)'s lawyer.
web posted July 14, 2009

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Editor's post: This week's reading assignment: "When Barack Obama nominated John P. Holdren as his Science Adviser last December 20, the president-elect stated "promoting science isn’t just about providing resources" but "ensuring that facts and evidence are never twisted or obscured by politics or ideology." In nominating John Holdren, his words could scarcely have taken a more Orwellian ring.

Some critics have noted Holdren's penchant for making apocalyptic predictions that never come to pass, and categorizing all criticism of his alarmist views as not only wrong but dangerous. What none has yet noted is that Holdren is a globalist who has endorsed "surrender of sovereignty" to "a comprehensive Planetary Regime" that would control all the world's resources, direct global redistribution of wealth, oversee the "de-development" of the West, control a World Army and taxation regime, and enforce world population limits. He has castigated the United States as "the meanest of wealthy countries," written a justification of compulsory abortion for American women, advocated drastically lowering the U.S. standard of living, and left the door open to trying global warming "deniers" for crimes against humanity. Such is Barack Obama's idea of a clear-headed adviser on matters of scientific policy."
Front Page Magazine
web posted July 13, 2009

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I know this has been mentioned before but it needs to be repeated. This is really an eyesore and dangerous. The house on the corner of Simpkins St and Wigfall St needs to be fixed. I've been told about 10 different people who are suppose to own it but I don't care who owns it, fix it! What happened to the town ordinance that was going to make property owners keep their property up?

Editor's note: The suggested ordinance died as fast as it was brought up. It struck a little "too close to home" for certain pols and shakers. I'm not sure about the location of the property you mention so I cannot comment on it specifically.
web posted July 13, 2009

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I have an idea!! If you support Pres. Obama, then spend your money with companies that support him and employs people who voted for him. If you are a conservitive or Republican, support businesses that support and employ like minded people. If you call somebody to you house to fix your sink and they have an Obama sticker on thier truck, send them packing!!! Hire only conservitives. It won't be hard, most of the people that voted for Obama don't even work unless it is to get cash money for their drugs and liquor that the food stamps don't pay for. We pay their bills, pay their rent, pay their power, pay their schools, pay their medical, pay, pay, pay, and these SOB's have the gall to want us to pay more? SCREW THAT!!!!!!!!! My company makes about $300k a year and I have to count all of it on my taxes even though I pay 5 employees, taxes, SS, workers comp, and I make only about $40k but I'm "rich" according to (words removed) Obama.
web posted July 13, 2009

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on the (flour) mill in johnston town. i dont have to asked nobody about claening it up. the town has to or somebody owns it must has to. why dont they mayor and council man do it.

Editor's note: This situation has been ongoing for years.
web posted July 13, 2009

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RE: Great, now we have the mayor of edgefield asking bikers to come to get drunk at an all night bar in edgefield county in a biker mag. That's putting a great face on our county.

You obviously did not read the article, Mayor Durham did not talk about coming here to drink. The article was about visiting historic Edgefield, patronizing local businesses and eating at local eateries. It is also clear that you have no idea what type of people ride bikes these days. Truth be known, many of the most respected members of the Edgefield community own and ride motorcycles. The bikers reading this and coming to visit Edgefield are most likely going to be doctors, lawyers and businessmen who have money to spend here. Mayor Durham was simply making an effort to increase tourism in Edgefield county at a time when we need it badly and all you can do is spew ignorant generalizations based solely on the fact that a bar in Edgefield purchased an advertisement in the same magazine which the article appeared in.
web posted July 13, 2009

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 It's probably escaped the minds of Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton but slavery was a blessing to the blacks of Africa.
 This is because modern day Africa is a perfect example of what a country shouldn't look like, under any circumstances.
 The blacks in America today, for the most part, are descendants of those brought here in slavery 200-250 years ago and they are living the good life in the good Old USA.
 If one cares to consider what kind of life they would be living were it not for slavery, let me suggest a trip to Africa as an eye-opener. It's hard to keep your mind on grubbing out a living when you have to compete with lions, baboons and elephants.
 It pains me to see Jesse and Al riding around in luxury cars, eating in the finest restaurants, staying in the best hotels (which wisely demand prepayment of their hotel bills) and the opportunity to stand in front of television cameras and scold white Americans for not doing enough. They are both busy at the moment raising MJ to sainthood, forgetting their hero was a child molester and drug addict.
 If Jesse and Al were living in Africa today they would probably be dodging bullets or running for their lives with marauding bands of killers and thieves in hot pursuit. Lawbreakers are the dominant group in Africa.
 Several months ago I heard a tale about two white well-meaning souls who went on a trip to Africa to teach the natives how to dig and maintain wells, lessons probably abandoned after the two "missionaries" left the country. During their stay one of them had his ATM account pilfered by two blacks who offered to help him manipulate an ATM machine in Gambia. I don't know how they did it, but they stole more than $900 from his account.
 A prime reason African nations are still in the "dark" ages is because the rulers there steal every dime they can get their hands on and demand 25 percent in bribes for any foreign company doing business there.
 These are the cold hard facts but Jesse and Al won't debate. Neither will the other so-called black leaders in this country who are forever on the take. Do any of them do any honest work?
 By the way, I would agree to reparations, but only for those who would pack up and move back to the homes of their ancestors where nothing has changed since their forebearers were taken away on slave ships.
 Let's have a show of hands from all blacks who want to return to the motherland!
  A prime reason
web posted July 13, 2009

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Re: I read the opinion by Lt. Col Mark S. Jebens, USMC (Ret.) and was very moved by the the blight of him and his son.
 
Jebens was and still is a whacko. There are two or more sides to every story. The district has more than enough evidence to prove that Jebens and his son both belong in mental istitutions. His son has vast mental problems and is in need of intensive psychological counciling. The district has tried many times to inform him of this but he is arrogant and unabel to face reality. The district has no concerns over the law suit with Jebens. What they can't wait for is the countersuit that will ruin his life and garnish his federal pension for the rest of his life. Thanks for the future monetary contribution Mark!
web posted July 13, 2009

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RE: Conssession funds:
Please don’t let this go.

Editor's note: I have no intention of letting this go. I have followed the things that have been taking place at Bettis Park for over two years. Somebody is lying, or everybody is lying.
web posted July 13, 2009

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This has to stop.The robbery that is occuring in promiseland,the parent or parents know that their children is doing this.We have never had this messing going until they move here from whereever. These are young children, the parents need to sit down and tell them thats not the right thing to do.Stealing from someone is a crime. These kids doesnt go to school, the be out all times of the night and they will not move out of the road when a car is  approaching, now if they get hit the parent will want to sue the insurance co. The police have been call several times about these kids and it dont seens as though nothing is been done,but it the homeowners takes matters in their own hands,then it will be charges brought up against them.One incident that im award of , the 2boys came in someones yard and stole a grill, took it to there home not far from where the grill belongs,put it on the front porch and had a bbq..the lady call the police about her grill and there was nothng done.I can pass by the road and still see grill on the robbers porch.they goes in people mail looking for checks after not finding anything the mail is everywhere on the ground.My question,tell me if the parent doesnt know if there child is stealing from someone, you see stuff you havent bought why not question them.What should us concern citzens should do if the police doesnt do anything?

Editor's note: I have been in touch with the EPD on this matter and it is all in the hands of the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). The EPD has petitioned the court in the matters but until the cases are heard the hands of the police, so to speak, are tied in what they can do to the youths suspected as being responsible.
web posted July 11, 2009

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Re: Great, now we have the mayor of edgefield asking bikers to come to get drunk at an all night bar in edge field county in a biker mag. That's putting a great face on our county.
 
This comment offends me in so many closed minded way that I have to write something about it and thank God the editor of Edgefield daily gives me the right and place to make this comment TY for it !!!
 
First of all I'm a 3rd generation of Harley Davidson Bike riders and proud of it. Female,self employee pay my taxes and keep a great yard.  I cook for my husband,clean and pay the bills and make love to him when ever he wants.I understand that 2 out of 3 women don't.
 
3rd generation from Edgefield and proud of it!!!!!!I go the hospital to visited people love God first and my husband second my son third and proud of it.
 
Most of the people that ride bikes are lawyers, Doctors and people that make well above $100,000.00 a year(they aren't cheap like your comment) and these people are kind,loving and give from the heart not the head. Donate to causes freely.
I find it hard to understand why you would say something so mean about our Mayor and bikers. I also play golf and they have a bar there but that doesn't mean that I want to take a drink or would while riding my Harley.Do all people that own boat drinks??? People that hate just to hate are
full of beans.
Open you mind and please and do all of us Edgefield residents a favor get a hobby,and the next time you type Edgefield make it a capital letter.
Biker Babe
web posted July 11, 2009

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RE: Editor's note: Source the statement? With pleasure. But so not to be leaning to "right wingers" let's use one of over 23,000 articles on it, this one by the All Barack Channel (ABC News). "Federal deficits would remain above $500 billion annually for the next decade under the budget proposed by President Obama Thursday, sending the federal debt soaring to $23 trillion by 2019 (um, that would be almost twenty fold the debt). The deficit this year would jump to a record $1.75 trillion, nearly quadrupling the 2008 figure."...

I loved your post showing how our Resident Obama is stealing our country from us and no one cares. Thank you for providing FACTS to the blind obamabots. (statement removed due to content).
web posted July 11, 2009

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The writer of the reply to Lt Col Jebens certainly knows the English language, at least - -spelling and grammar is "top-notch" - Mr. Jebens wrote an excellent piece as well -
 
One of our district's elementary schools lost a couple of fine teachers (personally and professionally) because of this district's antics... when  folks like this choose to leave, it really is a wake-up call...  will anyone answer the call???
web posted July 11, 2009

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The Tide is turning, Obama in negitive #'s in polls...
web posted July 11, 2009

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I have two comments about the Edgefield County School Board and Dr Crenshaw,
First why does it take so long for the results to come out on the school report cards?
Georgia schools come out with the results in the summer and that gives a parent time to change schools if it is an option.
 
Every time I have asked I get “it is the company processing the tests or DR. Crenshaw is calculating the numbers again.”    I guess she keeps adding up the numbers till she gets the answer she wants.”New math”.
 
The second question is the stimulus money?  Who is controlling it and where is it going?  Will a finical report be made public? The state of South Carolina has to repay the stimulus money; will the school system be responsible for the portion they use?
 
It is time for the IRS to audit Edgefield County School Board members and Dr Crenshaw,
If they have nothing to hide it wont be an issue.
web posted July 11, 2009

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Good job to our emergency preparedness director. He who cancells EMS responding to an accident, and isn't even on scene. In return S.O. has to call for EMS because the patient wanted to be check out. Outstanding job!
web posted July 11, 2009

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O---Oh boy, free travel for me and my family.
B---Born? Yes I was born but I don't have a U. S. birth certificate.
A---Arrogant, yes I am!
M---Marxist, yes I am!
A---Absolute control, yes I want it!

Enough said.
web posted July 11, 2009

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Editor's post: The Wandering Minds has been Archived for the month of June. Some June comments are still listed but will be removed later this month. The entire Wandering Minds Archive is listed above by archive dates. This allows the page to load faster for those with dial-up internet connections because of the page popularity (#2 ranked page on EdgefieldDaily.com).
web posted July 10, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: How do you not associate Liberals with Democrats and Conservatives as Republicans?

I  think we agree that generally, Dems are more liberal than Republicans.  But in your first reply, you put it in terms of school segregation in the 1950's.  I'd agree that many Dems were segregationist back in the 1950's, but they were not liberal Dems. They were conservative Dems from the south....called Dixiecrats.  Strom Thurmond was one before he switched parties.  Surely, you understand this.  If not, why am I bothering typing this?

Do you have any facual support for this statement?  "Obama has spent four times the amount in deficit spending in six months than all presidents before him combined."
While I agree we are headed for huge deficit spending, I don't think it is 4 times the amount of all previous deficits.  http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/fy2008/pdf/hist.pdf

Editor's note: Source the statement? With pleasure. But so not to be leaning to "right wingers" let's use one of over 23,000 articles on it, this one by the All Barack Channel (ABC News). "Federal deficits would remain above $500 billion annually for the next decade under the budget proposed by President Obama Thursday, sending the federal debt soaring to $23 trillion by 2019 (um, that would be almost twenty fold the debt). The deficit this year would jump to a record $1.75 trillion, nearly quadrupling the 2008 figure." Remember, this does not account for the budget as a whole, his overtaking of private companies and his intended takeover of the healthcare. That's trillions more. Oh, I almost forgot that HUGE tax increase he is passing on everyone with the BS "global warming" crap cap and trade bill that will increase everyone's power bill by three fold at least. So much for not raising taxes on the little guy or the middle class.

Quit hitting the snooze button on your reality alarm clock. Obama is a bald faced liar, a Marxist, and not only can he not find his birth certificate, he can't even get the name of the hospital he was "born" at right in his own press releases. And the media runs back and changes their reports every time he changes his birthplace on the White House website.
web posted July 10, 2009

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It seems to me that the good old boy system is really at work with the recreation dept.  If the dept. head cannot account for the money, then who can?  If the County Administer cannot account for the money after he is aware that their is a problem, get someone who can account for the money. Wait a minute, who does the overseeing of the county funds??????

Editor's note: County Administrator John Pettigrew would be the one first in line to oversee the funds, with the oversight of the County Council.
web posted July 10, 2009

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This is awsome!!!! I don't know how they do it but babies on skates is too funny!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PHnRIn74Ag
web posted July 10, 2009

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Regarding recent posts & discussion about why our current Lt. Gov. ...Andre Bauer....should not sit in the Governor's seat......read the article at this link.
web posted July 10, 2009

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Why is the county paying to build parks for these churches if we don't own the land? Are they going to have to pay to use the parks now that the county passed the rental agreements ordinance on the parks? Seems fair to me.

Editor's note: Don't hold your breath on that one. I wonder what would happen if Sweetwater Baptist or Big Stevens Creek Baptist (who supply Merriwether with recreation) asked to have the county give them money for their programs. After all, Merriwether is the largest community in the county and pays over 60% of all property taxes in the county.
web posted July 10, 2009

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If what you said is true about the consession stand at Bettis Park, why isn't SLED investigating who is stealing our money?

Editor's note: Well, the information is out there now, let's see who runs with it.
web posted July 10, 2009

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I read the opinion by Lt. Col Mark S. Jebens, USMC (Ret.) and was very moved by the the blight of him and his son. Our school's need to be structured so that our children can learn in a safe environment. How can a child learn anything when he or she is constantly looking over their shoulder's or running from these bullies. Another question is, how much time are these bullies spending learning if they are running around trying to dominate and humiliate those smaller or more gentile. I have read comments in, Wandering Minds, by people who are defending our Superintendent against unwarranted attacks. Sounds a lot like being bullied. The difference is she is a government employee responsible and accountable to the people of Edgefield County. She is also responsible to our children for their safety while in the care of our schools. What is wrong with the people in our School Board. Who cares of the gender or race of  Dr Crenshaw, if she is incompetent, then she needs to be replaced. The children in our schools are not all white or all black. They are a variety of races, religions, and genders. They are our children, whether black or white. It is time we took back our school's and county and voted out these incompetent, raciest individuals. Racism isn't equated only to white people. If you make decisions based solely on the color of ones skin, then you are a racist. I wish Lt. Col Jebens all the luck in the world in finding a resolution to his situation. He and his son deserve satisfaction. I just hope the people of this county open there eyes and use the power of the vote to make this a better place for people to live and raise their families. It sadden me when my son graduated college and passed up jobs in this area because he said he didn't want to live anywhere near Edgefield. He does not see color in people but the worth of the person. I'm exhausted reading of the antics of the County Counsel and School Board. Wake up people, this is your little spot on earth. Do everything you can to make Edgefield the best little spot to live in.
web posted July 10, 2009

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Barack Obama...... Half Honkey, All Donkey!!!!!!
web posted July 10, 2009

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Regarding Governor Sanford, why doesn’t the state of South Carolina already have something in place to automatically have someone in charge in the absence of the Governor without someone having to be appointed each time he is unavailable?  What if he was going out of town on business and his plane went down and was missing and it took 5 days to locate him, the state would still be without leadership.  I am not condoning his adultery, but something should already be in place in case of an accident or any unforeseen absence. 

I do not think he should resign because I don’t see where the affair affected his past service as governor and it should not affect the future.  He should finish his term in office.

Someone wrote in that he already has a soul mate, well obviously not, there must have already been problems in the marriage.  If he has found his ‘soul mate’ now, he should go ahead and get a divorce and marry the soul mate.  Being a governor doesn’t affect who you fall in and out of love with.

Also, children survive divorces everyday and their children would survive theirs.
web posted July 10, 2009

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Re: Show me the money
County cannot account for cash from county owned "mobile concession stand"

This past football season I asked one of the “gate attendees” were the money from the gate went too and he replied “ you have to ask Mr. Brights”. Nuff said!!!
web posted July 10, 2009

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RE:  It is time school board members and administrators are held accountable.

Well sir,  there are those that whole heartedly agree, but you have one major problem.  It's not that the current school board will show their solidarity in not holding "their" superintendent accountable, and the reason for that is self-explanatory.  It's the other hurdle that is more worrisome-the lazy, lethargic, and complacent community.  There have been suggestions about running a voter recall against BIBBS, COOKS, Mary JACKSON, and even our linguini spine LIVINGSTON.  Problem is, if you can't get the community to open their eyes and sign a simple petition, how in the world do you think you'll ever get them to go vote during a recll.  Mark my words-this community is going to rue the day they sat on their hands and let these ham fisted thugs destroy the school system.  By then, it'll be too late. Maybe we ought to pursue the reverse racism in court-NY firefighters just set a precedence. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
web posted July 10, 2009

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Re: I'm glad he is dead. 

To the person that wrote this about MJ you are mean. Regardless of what you see or hear it is best that you get the facts first.

His white daughter has you may have seen on TV love her dad and for you to say that you are just as guilty as what the media and anyone else has said about her dad. If you knew everything that a family member as done in there past you will be surprise as well you may be hiding things your self. Tell your children your past and see will they say I wish you were DEAD. No they probably will say Dad that was in the past or it was not true I still love you and you are great. And if the person that wrote that comment was a mother reverse the words. You are mean very mean and what I really want to say would not be nice for someone that is trying to live right. So I say to you live on because what you say or do will come back worst than to say what you said about someone Dad.
web posted July 10, 2009

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Oh my, more of the "good old days" I miss.  I miss the idea that if one breaks the law there is a consequence to it. Seems to me that if the superintendent has broken a state law, there should be a consequence. Surely the SC Attorney General's office would be concerned about the events that have happened to the one family who has written Edgefield Daily in the opinion section. I would think there should be actions taken by the state.  Why would the superintendent think she is above the law? That seems to be a common idea these days with our leaders. Maybe I don't know all the facts but it seems that the lack of response from her speaks for itself. Maybe she should be removed from her position?  What a novel thought.  Think about the other students who have had  serious issues that go unanswered. Is that really what the parents and the community of Edgefield want for their children-a superintendent that breaks the law?
web posted July 10, 2009

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No. you wrote that the Chief said he could start Wed. That was Monday, so he gave the state a two day notice. I don't think so. I'm sure that he is a good Officer, however, something just doesn't add 2 + 2 = 4.

Editor's note: I can only provide the information I am provided with from officials. I met Officer Lott today and his first day on duty will be Friday.
web posted July 10, 2009

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Editor's post: One thing for sure is that if Gov. Mark Sanford wants to run for President he can claim that he has unmatched qualifications in "foreign affairs".
web posted July 9, 2009

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What days do I wish to return to you ask? The days before I have a President that wasn't raised in the United States. That doesn't believe in abortion, no matter the term. That doesn't host gay, lesbian, and transgender day at the White House. The days when the Constitution was the guiding document that our lawmakers consulted when writing laws and governing. Now they don't even read the bills before voting on them. What days do I want to return to? The days when capitalism was admired and your business either was successful or not. No bailouts, no stimulus. The days before the government owned the banks and the car companies. I would like to return to the days when we wouldn't even consider cap and trade, or socialized medicine. The days when Acorn doesn't run the Census and I'm not worried about hanging on to my guns or my Bible. Before we were soft on terrorists and still called them terrorists. I could go on and on. As a conservative, those are the days I would like to return to.
web posted July 9, 2009

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Great, now we have the mayor of edgefield asking bikers to come to get drunk at an all night bar in edgefield county in a biker mag. That's putting a great face on our county.
web posted July 9, 2009

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Re: new hires at schools

Why is it that (the) Edgefield County (School District) is hiring people from outside the county when we have people here that are qualified? "Mr. Stephen Hampton of Spartanburg, SC has been tapped as Principal of Johnston-Edgefield-Trenton Middle School at the May 26, 2009 meeting"
web posted July 9, 2009

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I was wandering the same thing concerning the hiring of a highway patrol for a town police position.  Why would a high patrol want to leave a much higher paying position to become a town cop at almost half  the salary.  I know for a fact, there were some Edgefield residents, one in particular, who had just graduated with a four year degree in Criminal Justice.  Instead of giving one of Edgefield residents a chance for employment in his own home town, our town officials chose to hire someone from Aiken County.  No wander our young adults have no choice, but to move from this town in order to find a JOB!
web posted July 9, 2009

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Public schools in South Carolina will spend $11,242.00 per child in the 2009-10 school year.

That's more than $2,700 higher than school spending in North Carolina!

The money isn't spread evenly across the state, and only a portion reaches teachers in the classroom.

Learn the district-by-district details about South Carolina's $7.7 billion public school budget here:
web posted July 9, 2009

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The best mathematical equation I have ever seen:
1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given.
web posted July 9, 2009

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Now that MJ is dead and buried.......can we move on? or is this gonna be 24-7 for the next month? He wanted to be white, paid people to have his white kids, was whiter than any white person when he died, molested kids (probably his own paid for kids) was a drug addict and a pediphile and the blacks and media want to make him out to be a hero of black people. Huh? He was a (removed) freak and I'm glad he is dead. Kids across america are safer tonight because he is Tango Uniform.

Editor's note: Unfamiliar with the term "tango uniform" a search found there were derogatory connotations noted which included "toes up" (TU) referring to someone who is dead in military jargon.
web posted July 9, 2009

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Several big banks have said they'll stop accepting California's IOUs, and if other creditors take similar stances, the state may be forced to beg Washington for a bailout, Minyanville's Andrew Jeffery says.
Obama can either take a hard line or actually consider making a "power grab of epic proportions" by threatening to take control of California. That would "send the other 49 states a stern message: get your fiscal houses in order, or get absorbed by the massive bureaucratic machine that is the US government," Jeffery says. "Given the President's actions since taking office...it's not inconceivable."
web posted July 8, 2009

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Re: "What are the good ole days for right wingers?"  I agree with the editor's response.  I guess I am one of those "right wingers" if what I want is to get back to the following the Constitution of our country. Maybe this poster has just read too many rewritten history books or doesn't have a real good idea of how the economics have worked in this country. The economic mess we are facing now is Obama's economy--no more finger pointing at Bush.  Good luck when you get your next tax bill. Hopefully, we will all be around to get the next tax bills-with the things Obama is "considering" concerning our nuclear future, none of us may be around for long. That is of course an exaggeration, but there is truth in it for the long haul. I guess he is just fulfilling his dream of a non nuclear world (from his days at Columbia)  Gee, what is the reality? Iran, North Korea, Russia---yep, I bet they have the same dream.
web posted July 8, 2009

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To The person who is concern about The old Flour Mill Property growing up, I agree with you 100%. But to let you know that ward 4 and ward 5 is separated by Aiken Ave, the Old Flour Mill is in ward 5, not in ward 4, To me it may seen that you are a recently return resident or visitor to the area in which you are referring to. As I agree with you 100%. my suggestion is to ask question about the situation,  possible to a representative or some one who is familiar with the problem before you start asking questions  in the Media. may you found the answer to your question.
web posted July 8, 2009

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RE:-- Unwanted phone calls -----to file complaint for phone calls, go to https://complaints.donotcall.gov/complaint/complaintcheck.aspx
web posted July 8, 2009

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Seem to me that Edgefield has hired a few former policeman that no longer had a job. Why is he no longer a state trooper?

Editor's note: It is my understanding he is leaving the SCHP to accept the job.
web posted July 8, 2009

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I agree with you, Mr. Editor.  I certainly do not approve of the way Governor Sanford has behaved, nor the way he has treated his wife and sons.  However, that is a personal matter  for the family to handle if he does not let is interfere with his job.  Having said this, I feel we would be much worse off with Andre Bauer at the helm.  Please keep up the good work!
web posted July 8, 2009

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I say Gov Sanford has to go NOW! How can anyone say otherwise? I'm surprised at you mr editor, you always call it clean no matter what party. Why are you sticking up for Sanford?

re:Editor's note: Simple - Lt. Gov. Andre Bower should be kept as far away from the Governor's Office as possible.

Why? Has he been to Argentina to cheat on his wife/family. If he has I wouldn't come back and tell the nation. All Sanford had to do was keep reporting what his staff had said. Bower couldn't be no more of a cheater than Sanford. You shoot bull about everybody else - why are you sticking up for Sanford? Like the poster said, keep it clean or better yet- spread the gossip on Sanford like you do everybody else even if he is your friend. What he did is a  ...

Editor's note: I'm not sticking up for Sanford, I've condemned him three ways from Sunday. But politically, sometimes the devil you know is better than the devil you don't know.
web posted July 8, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: Reagan brought about the greatest expansion of private investment and growth in personal wealth ever seen.

I never said a word about a political party.  Only you did.  The "democrats" that prevented blacks from entering our public schools were conservatives from the south.  The south is now the stronghold of the rightwing of the republican party.  I'd agree that anyone who played a role in keeping blacks out of schools back in the day were wrong.  But again, I didn't bring up democrats and republicans.  You did.  I am talking in terms of liberal, moderate and conservative.  And it was without question, conservatives that kept blacks out of public schools.  Be they democratic or republican. 

I've often said the right wingers ideal time period was before 1900.  America was like a modern day third world country.  Before the days of the greatest generation and the greatest economic expansion in the history of the world.  When a retirement plan was a large family.  Similar to a third world country today.  Typical a conservative would want to return to that era.  I couldn't have asked for a better answer to prove my point.  I'd prefer to not go back to those days. 

Reagan expanded the debt, that's for sure. 

http://zfacts.com/p/318.html

Editor's note: How do you not associate Liberals with Democrats and Conservatives as Republicans? Also, Obama has spent four times the amount in deficit spending in six months than all presidents before him combined. (Oh, and he's not done yet)

He has taken over the largest bank in the world (Citi) one of the largest insurance companies (AGI), two of the three car manufactures (Chrysler and GM), and now wants to control healthcare.

The left (Obama) since you don't like party names, is trying to destroy our nation and make us a third world country. After all, it's "only fair", since we can't make everyone rich, we have to make everyone equally poor. Liberal utopia with the "ruling calss, Obama included, on top of the heap.

I'm not the one that needs to "wake up".
web posted July 8, 2009

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An economics professor at a local college made a statement that he had never failed a single student before but had once failed an entire class.

That class had insisted that socialism worked and that no one would be poor and no one would be rich, a great equalizer.

The professor then said, "OK, we will have an experiment in this class on socialism. All grades would be averaged and everyone would receive the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A.

After the first test, the grades were averaged and everyone got a B.

The students who studied hard were upset and the students who studied little were happy.

As the second test rolled around, the students who studied little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a free ride too so they studied little.

The second test average was a D! No one was happy.

When the 3rd test rolled around, the average was an F.

The scores never increased as bickering, blame and name-calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the benefit of anyone else.

All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great, the effort to succeed is great but when government takes all the reward away, no one will try or want to succeed.

Could not be any simpler than that. What a profound short little paragraph that says it all

"You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for,that my dear friend, is about the end of any nation. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it."
~~~~ Dr. Adrian Rogers, 1931
web posted July 8, 2009

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Some have little interest in getting in the middle of the Obama birth issue, but Paul Hollrah over at FSM did so yesterday and believes the issue can be resolved by Obama answering one simple question:

What passport did he use when he was shuttling between New York , Jakarta , and Karachi ?
 
So how did a young man who arrived in New York in early June 1981, without the price of a hotel
room in his pocket, suddenly come up with the price of a round-the-world trip just a month later?

And once he was on a plane, shuttling between New York , Jakarta , and Karachi , what passport was he offering when he passed through Customs and Immigration?

The American people not only deserve to have answers to these questions, they must have answers.
 
It makes the debate over Obama's citizenship a rather short and simple one.
 
Q: Did he travel to Pakistan in 1981, at age 20?
A : Yes, by his own admission.
 
Q: What passport did he travel under?

A: There are only three possibilities.
1) He traveled with a U.S. Passport,
2) He traveled with a British passport, or
3) He traveled with an Indonesia passport.


Q: Is it possible that Obama traveled with a U.S. Passport in 1981?
A: No. It is not possible.
Pakistan was on the U.S. State Department's "no travel" list in 1981.

Conclusion:
When Obama went to Pakistan in 1981 he was traveling either with a British passport or an Indonesian passport.

If he were traveling with a British passport that would provide proof that he was born in Kenya on August 4, 1961, not in Hawaii as he claims. And if he were traveling with an Indonesian passport that would tend to prove that he relinquished whatever previous citizenship he held, British or American, prior to being adopted by his Indonesian step-father in 1967.

Whatever the truth of the matter,the American people need to know how he managed to become a "natural born" American citizen between 1981 and 2008.

Given the destructive nature of his plans for America ,as illustrated by his speech before Congress
and the disastrous spending plan he has presented to Congress, the sooner we learn the truth of all this, the better.
web posted July 8, 2009

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I think you've had this on Wandering Minds but just in case:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeYscnFpEyA
web posted July 8, 2009

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Well folks it arrived.....the 2009 football scouting report!

The following scouting report is making the rounds of Division I football coaches:

Wayfron P. Jackson: 6' 6", 215 lbs. Wide Receiver. Hottest prospect from Columbia SC in the last ten years. Loves rap music. Will demand a mini cassette in his helmet. Currently holds world record for the most "you knows" during an WLTX interview (62 in one minute). Wayfron can print his complete name. 

Cletis Quinticious Jenkins: 6' 3", 220 lbs.. Running Back. Set NC state scoring record out of Triton High School, Dunn, N.C Also led the state in burglaries, but has only 9 convictions. He has been clocked at 4.2 seconds in the 40 yard dash with a 19" TV under each arm.

Roosevelt "Dude" Dansell: 6' 1", 195 lbs. Running Back. From Tyler, Texas. Has processed hair and imitates Billy Dee Williams very well. Before he signed his letter of intent, he wanted the school to change colors to chartreuse and pink. Listed his church preference as "red brick." 

Woodrow Lee Washington: 6' 8", 310 lbs. Tackle. From a SC 4th generation welfare family. At 19 he's the oldest of 21 children. Mother claims Woodrow and child number 9 have same father. He has a manslaughter trial pending but feels he will be found innocent because: "The dude said something bad 'bout my Momma." On his entrance form, he listed his I.Q. as 20-20. 

Willie "Night Train" Smith: 6'4", 225 lbs. Quarterback. Born on an Amtrak train near Danville, VA. Birth certificate indicates he is 27 years old. Thinks the "N" on Nebraska's helmets stands for "Nowledge," but still meets this school's stringent entrance requirements. Insists on wearing number 32 jersey since it matches his score on his Virginia Tech College Entrance Exam.

Tyrone "Python" Peoples: 6'10", 228 lbs. Norfolk VA Wide Receiver. Has a pending paternity suit and two rape trials, but hopes none of his other 9 victims will file charges. Tyrone had already signed letters of intent with six other colleges but was also willing to sign with University of SC. Likes wild women and red Cadillacs. Thinks Taco Bell is the Mexican Telephone Company. 

Abdul Hasheen Abba Ali: 6'10", 305 lbs. Guard. Played high school ball in New Orleans under the name Sylvester LeRoy Jones until he discovered religion.. Abdul thinks Sherlock Holmes is a housing project in Jacksonville. Doesn't know the meaning of the word "fear." (Doesn't know the meaning of many other words, either.) 

Note: College track coaches intend to use several of the above signees in their track programs. However, instead of using a starting gun at track meets, the NCAA has now agreed to use a burglar alarm....this, they hope, will keep the runners alert
web posted July 8, 2009

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Editor's post: A breaking story disrupted the Wandering Minds being completed tonight. The earliest comments are listed below.
web posted July 7, 2009

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County Council meeting tonight should be interesting.  Maybe the question will be answered, why would anyone want to rezone property into a higher tax bracket if he has no plans within the next 10 years to expand a business or any other plans? Also says he bought one piece to keep a buffer for residential area and now wants to rezone it.   Hmmm, sounds suspicious to me.  Hey if you are buying that, I have a great piece of swamp land, you know the water front kind.  I'll let you have it cheap only a million or so...  Will the Calliham property come up again since it is a dead, dead definitely dead issue????
web posted July 7, 2009

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I say Gov Sanford has to go NOW! How can anyone say otherwise? I'm surprised at you mr editor, you always call it clean no matter what party. Why are you sticking up for Sanford?

Editor's note: Simple - Lt. Gov. Andre Bower should be kept as far away from the Governor's Office as possible.
web posted July 7, 2009

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How many elected officials are attending the summer (vac) training at Hilton Head this year?  Haven't heard anyone from Johnston or Edgefield talking about this trip.  I believe it cost about $1000 per person. Oh yes, do not leave out the county.

Editor's note: I do not know about the town council members, but Edgefield County Councilmen Willie Bright and Norman Dorn are making use of taxpayer funds to take their trip to Hilton Head. County Councilman Monroe Kneece and Council members Rodney Ashcraft and Genia Blackwell refused to expend funds for the trip.
web posted July 7, 2009

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Do you know what happened 159 years ago ... Back in 1850? California  became a state. The people had no electricity. The state had no money. Almost everyone spoke Spanish. There were gunfights in the streets. So basically nothing has changed except the women had real breasts and the men didn't hold hands.
web posted July 7, 2009

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I need some help. Everday, I recieve a phone call from New Market,M.D.(301.882.9986), telling me that I approved for a "lower interest rate". I have told them over and over to take me off their list. Now, when I ask to talk to representative, I start to complain and the phone goes dead. then the next day, it starts all over again. It has almost got to the point of harassment. Does anybody have any suggestions how to stop calls?
web posted July 7, 2009

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Re post: "My wife and I attended the Tea Party at the State House in Columbia this afternoon and "Editor's note: We are losing so many of the "greatest generation" in the last decade ...." 

I've read the post above and the "greatest generation" label put on the Ed Freedom post. I ask.  What are the good ole days for right wingers?  What days do you long to get back to and why? 

The greatest generation is my dad's generation.  He is 84.  He was born in 1925 and got out of high scholl early to join the Army in WWII.  He went to college on the GI Bill.  His dad was coal miner, but the GI Bill put him thru Syracuse University and he retired from a white collar job with IBM.  He sent 5 of 6 kids to college.  The 6th one didn't want to go.

The greatest generation became the greatest generation in a left of center political timeframe.  FDR was elected in 1933 and stayed in office for 12+ yeras.  We stayed left of center until 1980 when Reagan was elected. 

I can think of 2 timeframes in the last 100 years that would be right of center.  1909-1932 and 1980 to the present.  The first one led to the Great Depression and second led us to where we are today. 

I ask.  What are the good ole days for right wingers?  What days do you long to get back to?  When was it that right of center policy economic policy did any good?  What were the outcomes of these policies that would make one want to return to?  Simple questions.  Tell us. 

Editor's note: Reagan brought about the greatest expansion of private investment and growth in personal wealth ever seen. Your lefty hero Jimmy Carter's disaster (which Reagan saved us from) is being replicated by Obama (who still can't seem to find his birth certificate) and has spent more future tax dollars than every president before him combined. Bush took us from a failing economy under Clinton, then raised that even higher after 9/11 and cut taxes to rebuild the economy.

Your lefty friends then passed an increase in minimum wage which caused at least a million to lose jobs (businesses had to cut somewhere) and then spent money the government does not have (which will cause inflation and a devalued dollar) and the Leftists created the housing bubble by giving loans to people on welfare because it was the "right thing to do" and collapsed that market. And you want to blame it on Bush who warned and tried to stop it while Democrats ignored the attempts?

How's this for a good time to go back to, anywhere before 1900 when the Constitution was actually adhered to before your lefty friends started getting in control?

Maybe you'd like your Democrat friends to go back to preventing blacks from entering our public schools or maybe refusing to cooperate with investigations of the party being infiltrated by communists?

That's your party's "left" history, not the Republicans. I will remain an individual devoid of any party affiliation.
web posted July 7, 2009

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RE: Deputy injured in fiery crash while responding to call
web posted July 1, 2009 5:20 pm

Do you have any more information on the deputy's condition?

Editor's note: Latest reports are he was ejected at the time of the crash and is up and around, though gingerly so. The quandary, had he been held inside the car by restraints at the time of impact and the erupting fire - by the time he woke up the fire would have consumed him in the inferno.

All I can say is, "God is good".
web posted July 6, 2009

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I'm torn about Gov (Mark) Sanford resigning. I see good and bad from it.
web posted July 6, 2009

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My wife and I attended the Tea Party at the State House in Columbia this afternoon as we did on April 15th. It was inspiring to see the large crowd of people that were there to protest what they see as a large, overpowering, unconstitutional, and out of control government. People were there from every walk of life, young, old, black, and white. They were there to let the voice of freedom be heard. Freedom's voice was heard with speakers such as Senator Jim DeMint, candidate for governor Nikki Haley, candidate for lt. governor Bill Conner, and many others. We don't attend tea parties for entertainment. We are concerned with the direction our country is headed. Our guiding document, the Constitution, is now irrelevant. Our Founding Fathers are spinning in their graves as they look down and see what we are allowing to take place in our country. Our uninformed populace is disgraceful. I talk to people all of the time that have no idea what cap and trade is or what the effects of government run health care are. Americans need to open their eyes and see what is happening to the fabric of the country that we know as the land of the free and the home of the brave. If we allow these policies to stand, we may still be the home of the brave, but we will surely be the home of the not so free.

Editor's note: File photo
web posted July 6, 2009

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why is johnston the town not cleaning up the big mess at the old industry site at the corner of bland and aiken streets in johnston. they hasn't done any thing in several years now. i guess our council man and mayor don't care about us that live around it every day.
web posted July 6, 2009

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I would beg to differ with the person who said that Beth Folland and Dave Franklin stood up to the Fox Creek board.  What they did was run their mouths to anyone that would listen but they did not take any legal action to get a formal response from FCHS.  Anyone who has been around Ms. Folland would not actually listen to her for very long (except the kids) and Mr. Franklin's response to not winning a board of directors seat was to whine to the Edgefield County School Board and make a pathetic plea to the Fox Creek.board.  He actually was elected to the board but did not take legal action to be seated.  At least Ms. Stewart is willing to go to court to resolve the issue.
web posted July 6, 2009

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Editor's post: Please be careful with fireworks as conditions are dry with the lack of rain recently. Have a great 4th of July.
web posted July 4, 2009

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Ed Freeman
You’re a 19 year old kid. You’re critically wounded, and dying in the jungle in the Ia Drang Valley , 11-14-1965, LZ X-ray, Vietnam . Your infantry unit is outnumbered 8–1, and the enemy fire is so intense, from 100 or 200 yards away, that your own Infantry Commander has ordered the Medi-Vac helicopters to stop coming in.

You’re lying there, listening to the enemy machine guns, and you know you’re not getting out. Your family is half way around the world—12,000 miles away—and you’ll never see them again. As the world starts to fade in and out, you know this is the day.  

Then, over the machine gun noise, you faintly hear the sound of a helicopter, and you look up to see an un-armed Huey, but it doesn't seem real, because no Medi-Vac markings are on it.  

Ed Freeman is coming for you. He’s not Medi-Vac, so it’s not his job, but he’s flying his Huey down into the machine gun fire, after the Medi-Vacs were ordered not to come.  

He’s coming anyway.  

And he drops it in, and sits there in the machine gun fire, as they load 2 or 3 of you on board. Then he flies you up and out through the gunfire, to the doctors and nurses. And, he kept coming back…13 more times…and took about 30 of you and your buddies out, who would never have gotten out.  

Medal of Honor Recipient, Ed Freeman, died  Wednesday, March 25th, 200(8) at the age of 80, in Boise, ID…May God rest his soul. 

Editor's note: We are losing so many of the "greatest generation" in the last decade to be overrun by the laziest, celebrity worshiping, complacent generation in history.
web posted July 4, 2009

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I get a kick out of watching the (live webcast) video of edgefield. When I get bored I click on it and count how many people run the stop sign at the corner of the square. Its pretty funny.
web posted July 4, 2009

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I loved the youtube vid at the trian station. Thanks for sharing.
web posted July 4, 2009

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As you celebrate the 4th of July Remember to give thanks to the past and present patriots who have fought for the freedom of speech we all take for granted. Edgefield Daily .com allows us to express our opinions and I want to thank the editor for giving us this forum.
Edgefield County has many issues, now they our brought to light.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading and your kind comments.
web posted July 4, 2009

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So are they gonna sell Mt Vintage on the courthouse steps like they did Calliham’s? Is the county gonna buy that too?

Editor’s note: The hearing on the foreclosure has been scheduled for this month. What happens at that hearing remains to be seen. To your second question, no, the County will not be purchasing any property in Mt. Vintage.
web posted July 4, 2009

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I read the story about fox creek and wonder how they can stay open if they are losing money? AND if they are losing money like Ms. Stewart says how are they going to pay for the new school building? I think they are just building the new school so they can go broke and we have to pick up the tab.

Editor’s note: It does not matter if Fox Creek Charter High School goes broke or not, the Edgefield County School District cannot assume the debt unless a referendum is held and the majority of Edgefield County voters approve.
web posted July 4, 2009

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this is funny...but there is some truth to it...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hFiab7fjak
web posted July 4, 2009

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Editor's post: While everyone is focused on Gov. Sanford, take a look at the entire New York State Senate Democrats. This, of course, is not "news".
web posted July 3, 2009

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To the family searching for their lost dog, Chico, last seen in the West Terrance area of Edgefield...he has been found. We have tried to call your number from the flyer but not in service. Please call 803-384-0887 to claim your dog.
web posted July 3, 2009

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It was great to hear that  the deputy was not seriously hurt in the accident on Republican Rd. What a shame he was trying to get to somebody that (from the report) didn't even have a real accident.  Our prayers go out to him and his family. Thank you for what you do! Will you release the name of the deputy?

Editor's note: Until the name is released by the Sheriff's Office we will refrain from making his name public.
web posted July 3, 2009

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This is to the person that caused the wreck on Friday June 26 @ 5:20am.  Since you wouldn’t stop and felt the need to continue on your way, yes the person is ok.  He has two children and a wife, he almost lost his life because of you.  If you would have seen the car, you would say this person didn’t make it out alive.  Thank goodness God was with him.   I still cannot understand why someone would create such a wreck and not STOP.  What is this world coming to?  It’s a shame that people have such little value on life.
web posted July 3, 2009

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I think Sanford should resign, as he clearly is NOT going to ever shut up about the affair (or has past affairs) and the media is just going to keep encouraging him by printing and airing his 'true confessions'. I feel so sorry for his wife, one public confession is bad enough, but imagine having to go through this over and over.
web posted July 3, 2009

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I noticed the gov't closings on Friday on the site.  Will the dump be open on Friday?  I am leaving town and don't want to come home to the load of trash I have in my garage. 

Thanks for any info you may have.

Editor's note: I received several similar questions. According to the Edgefield County Administration, the Recycling Centers will be open on Friday during regualr hours, they will be closed on Saturday, and reopen at 3 pm on Sunday.
web posted July 3, 2009

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This should make everybody feel good.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EYAUazLI9k
web posted July 3, 2009

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We are just so lucky to live in SC. We not only have a President who thinks he is God, but we also have a Governor who thinks he is like King David. This thinking may give us a little insight into why these men are the way they are.

I too have changed my mind about Mark Sanford. I think he should step down. He seems too focused on his own issues and I agree he needs to shut up. I don't know if he is planning to write a book, but I wish he would do that instead of sharing all the details of his life so publicly. At least then we could choose whether or not to read his ramblings and we would not have to listen to them everyday. He really seems to have some serious issues but they are not the issues that concern the people of SC.

This is a very good link that will make us think about our country this 4th of July. We need our country back.

http://www.Youtube.com/watch?v=aXyhKXUP7PM

We just keep sliding down.
web posted July 3, 2009

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Everyone, that is talking about Michauel Jackson yall should be ashame, the man is dead and did a whole lot more than u (Editor) will ever do. The King of Pop had people all over the world listening to his music.  Though he may have had some bumbs in his life, everyone pointing their fingers talking about him are doing the same thing. So how would you feel if you were dead and people were talking bad things about you, not happy so please let the King of Pop get his rest in peace.

Editor's note: "the man is dead and did a whole lot more than u (Editor) will ever do" Amen to that. I have never lured and then molested little boys in my home, had at least 13 cosmetic surgeries to change my race and face, surrender my life to "allah", give little kids alcohol mixed with Kool-Aid calling it "Jesus Juice"(so I could molest them), or any other of the many freakish and perverted things that Jackson did. If that is "success", I don't want it.

How someone can overlook all that because he sold a lot of records is astonishing to me.  It is sort of like saying, John Doe raped little boys, but he baked really good cakes so it's okay. 
web posted July 3, 2009

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Seems I read on Edgefielddaily.com there was a Drum and Bugle Corp coming to Strom Thurmond High School.

Would you please give us that information (if it hasn't already passed) again?

Editor's note: The article can be found here. The event will take place on July 8 and 9 at STH.
web posted July 3, 2009

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WOW! Whites, Ministers, Military Not Protected by Obama's Hate Crime Law
web posted July 3, 2009

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This is not exactly a news flash but it sure does explain some things  we have all wondered about for years.  The year is 1947
 
 Some of you will recall that on July 8, 1947, a little over 60 years  ago, witnesses claim that an unidentified flying  object (UFO) with  aliens aboard crashed onto a sheep and mule ranch  just outside Roswell ,New Mexico .
 
 This is a well known incident that many say has long been covered up by the U.S. Air Force and other federal agencies and organizations.
 
However, what you may NOT know is that in the month of April 1948, nine months after that historic day, the following people were born:
 
 Albert A. Gore, Jr..
 Hillary Rodham
 John F. Kerry
 William J. Clinton
 Howard  Dean
 Nancy Pelosi
 Dianne Feinstein
 Charles E. Schumer
 Barbara Boxer
 
See what happens when aliens breed with sheep and jackasses?
web posted July 3, 2009

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Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence ?
Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army; another had two sons captured. Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War.

They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.

What kind of men were they?

Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were merchants, nine were farmers and large plantation owners; men of means, well educated, but they signed the Declaration of Independence knowing full well that the penalty would be death if they were captured.

Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British Navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts, and died in rags.Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly. He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him, and poverty was his reward. Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton. At the battle of Yorktown , Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.

Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months.John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished.

So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July holiday and silently thank these patriots. It's not much to ask for the price they paid.Remember: freedom is never free!
web posted July 3, 2009

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Editor's post: It looks like the foreclosure on Mt. Vintage will be moving forward this month. According to court records, a hearing is set for July 21 at 10 am in Columbia. Due to an active call, I was not able to read the entire file or make copies. I will be back at the courthouse today to obtain more on the foreclosure. Bettis Rainsford is representing himself in the process, records showed. The case number is 2009CP1900024.

I can't pass up posting this image sent by a reader.
web posted July 2, 2009

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While other republican senators were looking out for their constituents and trying to bring home the bacon for their respective counties, Shane Massey was trying to advance his career by siding with the governor on every issue. For example, Massey sold us down the river again when he voted against the stimulus money (and with the governor) which is money our schools desperately needed.  Of course, the governor and his private schools did not need the money.  So now the question is where does Shane Massey stand on whether or not the governor should resign?  If he is all conservative and religious as he pretends to be, then he should have been the first one to demand his resignation. We have the right to know how our senator stands on this issue. I am sure he is studying it carefully because whatever decision he makes will be on the basis of advancing his career and not looking out for Edgefield County.

Editor's note: I have spoken to Sen. Massey about this situation and he stated he preferred to refrain from comment at this time.
web posted July 2, 2009

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I totally agree with the editors opinion on Michael Jackson! What I have never understood about the black race, is why they so idolize a black man who obviously spent his life and fortune trying to be white? This appears to be what eventually led to his death! He went through surgeries, skin bleaching, and totally destroyed his nose structure because he hated it looking like a black mans nose and his lips! You  can ony do so much with the body God gives us without enduring the pain that results.He only wanted white children! His actions show how much he hated being black. Maybe it was some sort of revenge or rebellion against his evil, money hungry, abusive father. Either way, the man wanted to buy being white! Don't black people see this,too?
web posted July 2, 2009

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RE: Is there any limit to the depth of insanity that has been indoctrinated to our population through "government run schools"?

You have no idea what's coming our way! I grew up in a very liberal state and received my public school education during the Carter administration. Upon graduation, we were presented with two options -- work for the state or join a union. (I chose the unspoken third option and left!) All I can say is, if you have children in the public school system -- GET THEM OUT!!! I mean no disrespect to the teachers out there but you are going to be reduced to propaganda-spewing puppets for the radicals. You're job is going to be to squelch any signs of individualism, personal spirit or personal responsibility, and to teach "social justice" for "the greater good". Some of you people may think Edgefield is a hick town, but for me it became heaven on earth. Anyone who doesn't love living here, or thinks a Socialist society is a good thing should go spend some time in the Northeast. Once you do, you'll have a whole new appreciation for your personal freedoms. Socialism = a miserable, lifeless existence which should be avoided at all costs, by all races and religions.
web posted July 2, 2009

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I just wanted to send my thanks out to my fellow firefighters (Merriwether Fire Dept) that were battling the heat to get the deputy and the woman to safety. Great job today.

Editor's note: I could not agree more.
web posted July 2, 2009

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To the editor, NOT mr. editor.  let's see why you are so quick and colorful when it comes to the African - American. I really would like to kmow why. Is it that you have been in a colorful realationship and the colorful woman or man rejected you ? Please tell me and the audience that reads ED. Com , because it's always something negative about the black population/

Why you did not report the complete full story on the infamous S. Thurmond, whom fathered a black child, and lord knows how many more. It is people like you that teaches racism, and that is where your children get it from, from you.

Thank you , and I will pray for you and your family every day.

Editor's note: Unlike you, I do not see race. I see the character of the individual. The professionals I work with on a daily basis (black, white, or otherwise) will tell you the same thing. In case you missed the last five years, United States Senator Lindsey Graham, Bettis Rainsford, former County Administrator Wayne Adams, current County Administrator John Pettigrew Jr., and a host of other "white" people are a far bigger targets of criticisms than Michael Jackson.

Seems to me your comment says more about you than it does me.
web posted July 2, 2009

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After seeing the letter fom former Johnston mayor, Dean Campbell, it gave some of us hope for the town, eventually! And Willie Campbells letter, in answer, didn't explain how Dean Campbell is reponsible for Willie and the council spending so much money to have the police vehicles design changed and buying all new and different uniforms for officers as soon as Willie was elected? He started out on a spending spree and didn't stop until the town was broke! But he still, like all Democrats, tries to find ways to blame his screwups and mishandling of town funds on the prior administration! We need to bring out the violins for all these Democrats who've had things messed up by Republicans before them. I guess they're all taking thier cue from Barak!
web posted July 2, 2009

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Comparisons in a morally relative society tend to drift downward in an effort to defend or deflect any criticism.  I once admonished an employee for habitually reporting to work late and she immediately said that another employee had shown up late on occasion.  My question to her was why she compared herself to the worst of the employees rather than the best of employees.  With the Michael Jackson and Governor Sanford messes we see this very thing happening today.  We want to argue that somehow their behavior was less bizarre than Bill Clinton or Elvis Presley.  Is this an effort to defend their actions or to justify our particular associations?  This country will continue its downward spiral until divine standards are expected rather than looking into the depths of depravity to find someone
who may have been worse than the current culprit.  When a society justifies every form of depravity it will become depraved.  The immutable law of God is, what you sow, you reap.  Let us just admit that Jackson, Sanford, Clinton and Presley should not be the standard and we can do better.
web posted July 2, 2009

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This is probably not even due a comment, but to think the Republicans are trying to take over this country? Since when is it a "take over" to stand up for what you believe? Where does that type of thinking come from and where does it lead? Oh my goodness. How intolerant are you liberals, anyway?   If there has been a "take over" of this country it has been by the liberal agenda of Obama and crew. They have gotten us so far off base from where we should be as a country that people make statements like "the Republicans are trying to take over" and comparing it to what is happening in Honduras.   Last I thought, you could actually have a debate in this country-remember the two party system, free speech?  My question is, why are people like the tea party people portrayed as doing something wrong?  Why is a woman like Sarah Palin so mistreated and other women are exempt from that?  Could it be that she actually stands for something? Maybe it is based on fear. Things are really one sided if you cannot speak out for what you think is wrong. Whether you agree with someone's politics or not, don't buy into the idea that it is OK to control the people i.e. the government in Honduras (and soon to be USA)  That is not what I want to live under.  Sounds like it is OK with some people.
 
Slippery slope and we are sliding daily.
web posted July 2, 2009

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I agreed with your article regarding Governor Sanford and even commented in a poll that I did not believe that he should resign from office…however, after reading the article that came out in the state newspaper yesterday, I am having a change of heart http://www.thestate.com/sanford/story/846998.html - I believe our Governor has either lost his mind or is planning to write a book.

Either way, as a true (past) supporter of our Governor, I was initially disappointed in his actions but did not believe his affair should effect his abilities as Governor in leading our state.  After reading this article, I have gone beyond disappointed to down right embarassed. He needs to shutup and get back to business….Move past his ego and get back to work….otherwise, he DOES need to resign. Quit embarassing our state!

2nd - You do such a great job and I know you work very hard keeping all informed of  current news in Edgefield (it's greatly appreciated by many)… it is unfortunate that your comments and comments allowed of recent have been irresponsible and unprofessional in my opinion.  I know you are not a racist person, but the comments that you have put in the wandering minds and the comments you have allowed relating to MJ and our President are both distasteful and certainly below your ethical standards. I realize that the comments abide by the "rules" of the wandering minds…but you are the reflection of this site and in the end it makes you look bad and unprofessional. I don't want that because I know how hard you work to stay above board -  I hope you will refrain from letting this site and your reputation turn into a big joke.

Thanks for all you do otherwise!

Editor's note: The Wandering Minds is a public forum for readers to view their concerns, comments, or observations. Who am I to say who can or cannot express their opinions. There is no Constitutional right not to be "offended" in our Republic from free speech. The disclaimer at the top of the page clearly states the opinions are those of the readers, not EdgefieldDaily.com, the Editor, or our advertisers.

My comments on Michael Jackson remain in tact. He is a freak, he never hid the fact he was a freak, and his reputation preceded him. In fact, he did not "father" any of his children. They were mere accessories, just as Madonna seeks black kids to compliment her wardrobe.

Maybe people should quit worshiping narcissists in Hollywood and start looking at real people who do far more with no recognition.
web posted July 2, 2009

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I am going to be blunt-
The biggest source racism is black people on black people.
I know some of you are going to jump to conclusions and call me names go a head, it wont change the truth. Take a good look around and see if I am wrong.
web posted July 2, 2009

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Editor's post: Is there any limit to the depth of insanity that has been indoctrinated into our population through "government run schools"?
web posted July 1, 2009

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Re: On the other hand, MJ did prove one thing, a poor black child can grow up and become a rich white woman.

Mr. Editor, I read Edgefielddaily and although I don’t always agree with you, I respect what you have to say, but the above comment was way out of line. Today when there is so much animosity between the races, I guess I just expected more from you. I agree Michael Jackson had his faults, but who among us don’t? The guy is dead and his family deserves respect during their time of loss. I can remember when Elvis Pressley died and it was reported that it was a drug overdose, people and fans everywhere still mourned his death. And even today people still call him “The King”, so why is it so wrong that Michael Jackson’s fan can not mourn him?

Editor's note: I can't recall Elvis being accused multiple times of molesting young boys, admitting that sleeping in the bed with young boys was "normal", and other perverted activity. If you can provide such allegations, I will be happy to entertain them being mentioned.

Otherwise, you are out of gas trying to defend that freak. I guess all the drugs he was taking was someone else's fault. He weighed 114 pounds when he died. He was bald, had scars all over his face from surgeries he denied, and had to "lip sync" his latest concerts. Why shouldn't we speak truthfully about him?
web posted July 1, 2009

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Why don;'t you just admit that you don't like (Edgefield County Adminstrator) John Pettigrew.

Editor's note: I do not dislike Mr. Pettigrew, I just hold that he is incompetent as a county administrator.
web posted July 1, 2009

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I am just so excited I can hardly stand it! The French have put up a wax Obama in front of the Eiffel Tower!  It is now a great photo op. Isn't that just peachy?  I am so proud and so glad that the French love him so much. Gee, I wonder why that is. I bet it just tickles Obama's toes that they love him so much.

Seriously, it is interesting to see our president's response in Honduras. Oh my goodness. That, on top of his lack of response in Iran is very troubling. What is he doing to this country? Some of us already know the answer to that and it is not pretty.

I appreciated the poster who talked about the need to focus on what the 4th of July is all about. Our Senator, Jim DeMint, has a new book out that looks very good. He has a lot to say about getting our country back. He also has presented a much better healthcare option than the government run one.  I wonder if the state-run media will even mention it. If so, it will not be presented in a positive light.

WOW, a wax figure of Obama. I wish that was the only kind of Obama we had in Washington.
web posted July 1, 2009

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Why don't you stick to local news instead of trying to bach (bash?) PRESIDENT Obama? The radicals in Honduras are trying to take over just like the REPUBLICANS are trying to do here! Why not report that?

Editor's note: President Manuel Zelaya tried to overthrow the Constitution that governs the Democracy there to stay in power. The Congress and the Supreme Court ordered his arrest for doing so (Although you'd never know that from the Obama run media in America) Obama refused, until force to do so, to speak out against rigged elections in Iran, but comes to the aid of a rising of a rising communist dictator. Birds of a feather?
web posted July 1, 2009

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Re: “Freeze Pop” leads to arrest of suspected thief

That's funny as (heck).
web posted July 1, 2009

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Three cheers for Governor Sanford.
Hip, hip, hooray!
Hip, hip, hooray!
Hip, hip, hooray!
 
For he's a jolly good fella, for he's a jolly good fella, for he's a jolly good fellaaahhhh.
Which nobody can deny.
Which nobody can deny.
Which nobody can deny.
For he's a jolly good fellaaaaaahh.
Which nobody can deny!!!!!!
 
Happy Independence Day Governor Sanford!
web posted July 1, 2009

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