Editor's post: Click here to view the results of Obama's "stimulus bill" to keep unemployment below 8%. Yeah, it failed, (big surprise that a pay off to his special interest supporters did nothing to help the economy). The map shows county by county how Obama's "help" has created job losses in excess of 10% unemployment, not job creation - month by month.  To Obama supporters, you voted for "change", you got it.
web posted November 30, 2009

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So, the justice dept. now says it is OK for U.S. funds to fund ACORN. Isn't that interesting? The timing is something for sure-with the holidays etc. people are distracted from the goings on in Washington. We better stay aware. This so called report of us not capturing Osama bin Laden back in 2001 is also coming out in an interesting time frame as Obama is speaking about his policy on Tuesday. Is this going to be another attempt to focus on Bush rather than Obama's failed policies?That report was written by Democrats in the Senate for John Kerry. Oh my... does that smell fishy or what?  The healthcare debate is going right into the Christmas season. Let's hope it continues after Christmas and people are aware of what these idiots are doing. The Drudge Report is a great source of info on what is currently going on.
web posted November 30, 2009

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Thank you for all the information that was writen in the "Editors note on Obama" I am sure there are a lot of American's that said No it is not okay what Obama is doing and has done already. But what does one person or a million people do to change it? We need the answer to that. I believe a lot of people are willing to fight it if we could it's just we do not know where to start. It has nothing to do with if he is black or white, because he is black and white and very intellegent.
web posted November 30, 2009

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Once we had Bush, Johnny Cash and Bob Hope.
Now we have Obama, no cash and no hope.

Editor's note: But you got "Change" which was promised. Don't you feel better? Just wait to see what the "Change" will be when Obama controls your health care.
web posted November 30, 2009

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I have to agree with you when it comes to the absurdity of turning negotiations for a county administrator over to Michael Medlock. From what I've seen of him as an attorney, he couldn't negotiate his way out of a paperbag! He really got the "big head" when he became county attorney didn't he?  A good knowledge of the law and a sparkling personality couldn't have been a prerequisite.  I think the pickings must have been slim when he got that job.
web posted November 30, 2009

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I thought I'd share this with everybody back home. This is what REAL reporting is about here in Savannah. This is why I read Edgefield Daily. More of the same! Keep up the good work!
web posted November 30, 2009

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Good job Edgefield 911!!! Dispatch Deputies to a motor vehicle accident with the vehicle on fire, wait 5 minutes to tone out the fire department? Why would you wait so long for a known vehicle on fire, to tone out the fire department?? On top of that, you wait an additional 7 minutes to dispatch EMS when they are going to have to come from Merriweather all the way to Trenton!! Great Job!! Must be the top notch training you receive. I'm not the smartest person in the world, but I think I would dispatch the fire department and EMS before worrying about getting the Sheriffs Office en-route, for the simple fact we have volunteer fire departments in this area which increase response times and, EMS is usually allot further away than Deputies. Don't get me wrong, I'm not blaming the dispatchers. I'm blaming the supervisors for not adequately training and setting up Standard Operating Procedures, or if they have, for not enforcing their use.

Editor's note: I monitored this call and as I recall Trenton Firemen were the first to make the report and were in route long before the call was dispatched. There were no injuries involvled.
web posted November 30, 2009

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Dear Mr. President,

Please find below my suggestion for fixing America 's economy. Instead of giving billions of dollars to companies that will squander the money on lavish parties and unearned bonuses, use the following plan. You can call it the "Patriotic Retirement Plan":

There are about 40 million people over 50 in the work force. Pay them $1 million apiece severance for early retirement with the following stipulations:

1) They MUST retire. Forty million job openings - Unemployment fixed.

2) They MUST buy a new American CAR. Forty million cars ordered - Auto Industry fixed.

3) They MUST either buy a house or pay off their mortgage - Housing Crisis fixed.

It can't get any easier than that!!

P.S. If more money is needed, have all members in Congress pay their taxes and  while you're at it, make Congress retire on Social Security and Medicare. I'll bet both programs would be fixed pronto!
web posted November 30, 2009

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Editor's post: Good grief. The Edgefield County Council has turned over the negotiations of our new County Administrator's position to Michael Medlock.

This is a guy that wrote a policy to follow the Freedom of Information Act that broke the law, refused to allow the release of public information because he didn't understand the law (go figure), and yet he is now in charge of negotiating a contract for our new county administrator?

Thank God that at least one person in the negotiations is a professional.
web posted November 26, 2009

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Just a note from Knoxville Tenn. We got here (Wednesday) and kept up on the news back home like we never left. Thank you Edgefield Daily!  No matter where we are we're right at home!

Editor's note:  Thank you for reading.
web posted November 26, 2009

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You can complain all you want to on (EdgefieldDaily.com) about  this health care thing, but until you contact your senators and congressmen and say no to it, you aren't doing a thing about it. Not holding them accountable is what gives them power. Encourage your family and friends in other states to also write ,call  and a-mail their reprensatives. Democrat and Republican . You must stand up and voice your wants. We do need an overhaul of our health care system but not this thing being rushed through. The only way to take back our country is to stand up and be loud.Once it is passed we won't be able to fix it. Call, write and e-mail . Then write a letter every day and don't quit. Time is running out. If you love this country, do it now!!!!!
web posted November 26, 2009

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Re: Our President Mr. Obama.
 
I am so glad that EDDC is showing it's real true COLOR. Well this is what I am going to do. I am going to Washington D.C. And paint MR. Obama WHITE. Then maybe, just maybe some of this stupid racism will decrease. I would like to know why a man of color, can not be respected gracefully? Ok, this judging must be stopped, especially if you are in touch with God. Remember there will be NO excuse when God asks you, why did you hate your Black President, Mr. Obama? Think about this before you post an answer.

Editor's note: I have never allowed a racist comment about President Obama. Comments on his politics, policies, and decisions? Yes. His race? No. Besides, the last time I checked, President Obama was half white.
web posted November 26, 2009

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Mr. Editor:
Thank you for bringing back the religion articles because we don't get out much and I print them and me and my husband read them together. Thank you.

Editor's note: Thank Pastor Phillip Howle.
web posted November 26, 2009

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I thought (readers) might find the following article from snopes.com interesting: http://www.snopes.com/politics/soapbox/youscareme.asp
web posted November 26, 2009

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Editor's Note: This post exceeded the word limit but was allowed due to confirmed content.

When Obama wrote a book and said he was mentored as a youth by Frank, (Frank Marshall Davis) an avowed Communist, People said it didn't matter.
 
When it was discovered that his grandparents, were strong socialists, sent Obama's mother to a socialist school, introduced Frank Marshall Davis to young Obama, People said it didn't matter.
 
When people found out that he was enrolled as a Muslim child in school and his father and step father were both Muslims, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he wrote in another book he authored “I will stand with them (Muslims) should the political winds shift in an ugly direction.” People said it didn't matter.
 
When he admittedly, in his book, said he chose Marxist friends and professors in college, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he traveled to Pakistan, after college on an unknown national passport, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he sought the endorsement of the Marxist party in 1996 as he ran for the Illinois Senate, People said it doesn't matter.
 
When he sat in a Chicago Church for twenty years and listened to a preacher spew hatred for America and preach black liberation theology, People said it didn't matter.
 
When an independent Washington organization, that tracks senate voting records, gave him the distinctive title as the "most liberal senator", People said it didn't matter.
 
When the Palestinians in Gaza, set up a fund raising telethon to raise money for his election campaign, People said it didn't matter.
 
When his voting record supported gun control, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he refused to disclose who donated money to his election campaign, as other candidates had done, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he received endorsements from people like Louis Farrakhan and Mummar Kaddafi and Hugo Chavez, People said it didn't matter.
 
When it was pointed out that he was a total, newcomer and had absolutely no experience at anything except community organizing, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he chose friends and acquaintances such as Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn who were revolutionary radicals, People said it didn't matter.
 
When his voting record in the Illinois senate and in the U.S. Senate came into question, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he refused to wear a flag, lapel pin and did so only after a public outcry, People said it didn't matter.
 
When people started treating him as a Messiah and children in schools were taught to sing his praises, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he stood with his hands over his groin area for the playing of the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he surrounded himself in the White house with advisors who were pro gun control, pro abortion, pro homosexual marriage, anti-capitalism, anti-free markets, pro government control over everything and wanting to curtail freedom of speech to silence the opposition. People said it didn't matter.
 
When he aired his views on abortion, homosexuality and a host of other issues, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he said he favors sex education in Kindergarten, including homosexual indoctrination,
People said it didn't matter.
 
When his background was either scrubbed or hidden and nothing could be found about him,  People said it didn't matter.
 
When his first act as President, literally within 5 minutes of taking office, he signed executive order #13489 that sealed his own records,  People said it didn’t matter.
 
When the place of his birth was called into question, and he refused to produce a birth certificate, and continues to spend millions in court to keep the material sealed, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he had an association in Chicago with Tony Rezco, a man of questionable character, who is now in prison and had helped Obama to a sweet deal on the purchase of his home, People said it didn't matter.
 
When it became known that George Soros, a multi-billionaire Marxist, spent a ton of money to get him elected, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he started appointing czars that were radicals, revolutionaries, and even avowed Marxist/Communist,  People said it didn't matter.
 
When he stood before the nation and told us that his intentions were to "fundamentally transform this nation" into something else, People said it didn't matter.
 
When it became known that he had trained ACORN workers in Chicago and served as an attorney for ACORN,  People said it didn't matter.
 
When he appointed a cabinet members and several advisors who were tax cheats and socialist,  People said it didn't matter.
 
When he appointed a science czar, John Holdren, who believes in forced abortions, mass sterilizations and seizing babies from teen mothers, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he appointed Cass Sunstein as regulatory czar and he believes in "Explicit Consent", harvesting human organs without family consent, and to allow animals to be represented in court, while banning all hunting, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he appointed Kevin Jennings, an overt homosexual, and organizer of a group called gay, lesbian, straight, education network, as safe school czar and it became known that he had a history of bad advice to teenagers, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he appointed Mark Lloyd as diversity czar and he believed in curtailing free speech, taking from one and giving to another to spread the wealth and admires Hugo Chavez, People said it didn't matter.
 
When Valerie Jarrett was selected as Obama's senior White House advisor and she is an avowed Socialist, People said it didn't matter.
 
When Anita Dunn, White House Communications director said Mao Tse Tung was her favorite philosopher and the person she turned to most for inspiration, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he appointed Carol Browner as global warming czar, and she is a well known socialist working on Cap and trade as the nation’s largest tax hike in history, People said it doesn't matter.
 
When he appointed Van Jones, an ex-con and avowed Communist as green energy czar, who since had to resign when this was made known, People said it didn't matter.
 
When Tom Daschle, Obama's pick for health and human services secretary could not be confirmed, because he was a tax cheat, People said it didn't matter.
 
When as president of the United States, he bowed to the King of Saudi Arabia, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he traveled around the world criticizing America and never once talking of her greatness, People said it didn't matter.
 
When his actions concerning the middle-east seemed to support the Palestinians over Israel, our long time friend, People said it doesn't matter.
 
When he took American tax dollars to resettle thousands of Palestinians from Gaza to the United States , People said it doesn't matter.
 
When he upset our European allies by removing plans for a missile defense system against the Russians, People said it doesn't matter.
 
When he played politics in Afghanistan by not sending troops the Field Commanders said we had to have to win, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he started spending us into a debt that was so big we could not pay it off, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he took a huge spending bill under the guise of stimulus and used it to pay off organizations, unions and individuals that got him elected, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he forced the takeover of insurance companies, car companies, banks, etc, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he took away student loans from the banks and put it through the government, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he designed plans to take over the health care system and put it under government control, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he set into motion a plan to take over the control of all energy resources in the United States through Cap and Trade, People said it didn't matter.
 
When he finally completed his transformation of America into a Socialist State, people finally woke up........ but it was too late.
 
Any one of these things, in and of themselves does not really matter. But.... when you add them up one by one you get a phenomenal score that points to the fact that our Obama is determined to make America over into a Marxist/Socialist society. All of the items in the preceding paragraphs have been put into place.  All can be documented very easily. Before you disavow this, do an internet search. The last paragraph alone is not yet cast in stone. You and I will write that paragraph.  Will it read as above or will it be a more happy ending for most of America ?

Personally, I like happy endings.  If you are an Obama Supporter, please recognize that you have elected a president who is a socialist. There is simply no debate about these facts. But you need to seek the truth, you will be richer for it. Don't just belittle the opposition. Search for the truth. I did.

Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Constitutionalist, Libertarians and what have you, we all need to pull together. We all must pull together or watch the demise of a society that we all love and cherish. If you are a religious person, pray for our nation.

Never before in the history of America have we been confronted with problems so huge that the very existence of our country is in jeopardy.  Don't rely on most television news and what you read in the newspapers for the truth. Search the internet.  Yes, there is a lot of bad information, lies and distortions there as well, but you are smart enough to spot the fallacies. Newspapers are a dying breed. They are currently seeking a bailout from the government. Do you really think they are about to print the truth? Obama praises all the television news networks except Fox who he is currently waging an open war against. There must be a reason.  He does not call them down on any specifics, and he has failed to refute any facts presented – because it is all true.  If they lie, he should call them out on it but he doesn't. Please, find the truth, it will set you free.

Our biggest enemy is not China, Russia, Iran; no, our biggest enemy is a contingent of politicians in Washington DC.
web posted November 26, 2009

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Editor's post: As polls show 56% of Americans are opposed to the Democrats push to take over of healthcare, Obama's numbers show he's not doing much better. A record low in his approval as president. And the downward freefall continues.

web posted November 25, 2009

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I saw some workers at the School Districts main office today. Are they there to remove the illegal septic tank?   I know that DHEC was made aware of the septic tank that the board room was built on top of and that is why it has to be pumped out every few months.

It seems like the  school board members would keep a close eye on some of the staff who just barely squeaked out of the problems of the Dump that he claimed he knew nothing about.
web posted November 25, 2009

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I would like to voice my opinion on the (comments) placed on November 23rd and 24th in the Wondering Minds section. Both of these articles have to do with President Obama. This has to do with the problem of Obama refusing to show his birth certificate. In both articles the person who sent in their conment I feel is the same person and I quote "only the low down white folk and all you low down republicans". I ask the question to the Editor about Obama's birth certificate in the article posted November 24th. I do not appriciate being referred to as being just dumb and ignorant. You also said "only low down white folk get on Edgefield Daily". Well you are on it so what are you trying to say that you are a low down white folk and by the way I didn't know that people used the words low down white or black folk anymore. You do not know if I am Black or White Democrat or Republican. I will not say you are dumb or ignorant but my question is that on the birth certificate that I have in front of me right now states that his mother was Caucasian and his was African. He was born in the 1960's and I guarantee you that there isn't any birth certificate in these Great United States of America that put the race of the mother or father as Caucasian or African. I know at least until the 1980's (that when my children were born) that a mother's or father's race is listed as White, Black, American Indian but never Causasian or African. If you are Black or African American or anyone you know is look to see what on the birth certificate. I am not saying that he is NOT an American Citizen all I am quesioning is why he has spent millions of dollars to keep the American Citizens fron seeing the original birth certificate. You cannot even get a passport without it so he has to have the original. The birth certificate isn't even signed by a doctor or anyone else. Also why does he refuse to show his passport, medical records or anyother personal documents if he has nothing to hide. I want to thank the Edgefield Daily for doing an excellent job and letting us give our opinons.
God Bless the USA 

Editor's note: Thank you for reading and commenting.
web posted November 25, 2009

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Mr. Editor:
Did you even read the link from USA Today about Obama’s birth certificate?  Or just start spouting off rhetoric without educating yourself on the issue (this would never happen)?

The link is below, or you can see it again here.  It mentions nothing about a “Certificate of Live Birth” – read the first paragraph (I know reading isn’t your strong point).  Do you think a Doctor and USA Today are going to put their neck on the line to report something that is completely fallacious? 

Do you know why Lou Dobbs resigned from CNN?  Let me tell you why:  Because of a backlash from Progressive Political Action Committee MoveOn.org  - and an online Petition Campaign that demanded that CNN remove him from the air because he mentioned the “birther” argument.  If you notice… FOX News doesn’t even talk about it anymore.  Then again, that may be because of a memo in circulation threatening pink slips for any inaccurate reporting.  Oh and if you didn’t get enough of it already, your savior, Sean Hannity is apologizing to Comedy Central’s John Stewart for screwing up reporting (video link).

I love how you completely dodged the issue that abortion was covered for 18 years by the Republican National Committee’s insurance policy.

I bet you don’t even have the stones to publish every link in this email, due to your own “integrity.”

Editor's note: I guess you are wrong. Now, where is that pesky original long form birth certificate?
web posted November 25, 2009

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I think this will be helpful to your readers. Alexander Frazier Tytler, published in 1776.
"A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largess from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most benefits from the public treasury with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy, always followed by dictatorship. The average age of the world's greatest civilizations has been 200 years. These nations have progressed through this sequence: "from bondage to spiritual faith; From spiritual faith to great courage; From courage to liberty; From liberty to abundance; From abundance to selfishness; From selfishness to apathy; From apathy to dependence; From dependence back into bondage."
web posted November 25, 2009

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In reply to the editorial by Mr. Bledsoe:

When you fully comprehend this statement by Benjamin Franklin -"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."

Then you will better understand why so many oppose the "Health care" bills. Remember that once you hand over your health care to the federal government, you then hand over control of every thing that has any affect on your health, namely your entire life. Are you ready to have government inspectors coming into your home to determine if it meets their safety standards? Read the following page and many other examples that can be found online showing how the British health care system, which has been held up as a shining example by some in this debate, has lead to a nanny-state of government over-site of every aspect of daily life.

I am one of the "47 Million" uninsured in this country, I was born here and so were my parents so don't put me in the basket with illegals. I prefer my Liberty over any so called safety you and your bill can offer. This public health care bill is plain and simple socialism and any attempt to call it anything else is a lie. Yes there needs to be something done about health care in this country, but socialism is not the answer. Look instead at what the root causes of the inflated costs of health care are.
web posted November 25, 2009

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RE: Letter to Editor
What a bleeding heart liberal or is it just another moocher trying to suck off the money the government takes from me? The government needs to stay the (heck) out of my healthcare PERIOD. It ain't none of their (darn) business what I do or what I buy. I work for a living. I work for ME, not the GOVERNMENT, and I (darn) sure don't work to pay your (removed) medical bills!!!!!!!
web posted November 25, 2009

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What does God and Obama have in common? God doesn't have a birth certificate either!
web posted November 25, 2009

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In response to the most current letter to the editor-- First, you have your numbers incorrect as far as the number of uncovered Americans. Those are the numbers put out by this administration, however, in reality it is much lower than that and many uncovered are in that position by choice. You blame the ultra rich? Wake up, and look ahead at what you personally will lose if this crazy thing goes through.
 
You will be paying this out of your pocket and you will be paying for it for four years before it even goes into effect. You will be losing your freedoms. Go ahead and have this bleeding heart mentality for all the poor folks that can't afford healthcare. You will soon be one of them. This is going to fall on you-don't you see that?
 
Fix what is wrong, don't overhaul the whole system. If you do, you, my friend will be paying for it personally. I would love to hear your outcry then. It is not the ultra rich that will be paying for this--it is you and me . I don't know about you, but I am not rich enough to cover myself and the rest of the country.
web posted November 24, 2009

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Just wanted to comment on an (advertisement) I seen on your web site called The Country. I checked out the link and booked a birthday party for my 6 year old son. I wanted to say that it was a great place. Everyone enjoyed it and I would highly recommend it to any one looking to have a party for thier children.Great entertainment for the kids. The staff was of great help and very good keeping them entertianed and busy for the entire party. (name removed)

Editor's note: The ad refered to ran for only one month as contracted. I am glad it served you as a reader.
web posted November 24, 2009                    

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I have a rant for the "letter to the editor" by Mr. Bledsoe. Where the (heck) do you get "47 million" uninsured americans? Isn;'t that the number of illegals Mexicans in America? Why do I owe them anything? Why should I PAY for them to get treated when I can't afford to treat my own fanily? And why should I have to pay for the moochers that sit on their (butts) and go to the ER for a friggin cold on my dime? The free ride is over buddy boy.
web posted November 24, 2009

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Barack Obama & Hawaii have shown his birth certificates MANY times, you are just dumb and ignorant. And you probably should change your news sources, because edgefielddaily.com sucks, and only low down white folk get on here so..

Editor's note: President Obama has never released his original birth certificate, his passports, or school transcripts. That is not conjecture, it is fact. Perhaps you would do well to read the truth before playing the "race card". Reality is not based on race, it is based on facts.
web posted November 24, 2009

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RNC health care plan covers elected abortions???   I’m confused… news comes on the same day that impeachment hearings begin for Sanford and he is convicted of 37 ethics violations for using YOUR MONEY to upgrade to Coach on the way to his political rally (hint:  As a politician, you can’t use tax dollars to go to a political event).  Not once, not twice, 37 times.  Come on with your rhetoric Mr. Editor.

Editor's note: And your point is what from a national stand point on the overtaking of almost a tenth of our national economy? What does Gov. Sanford have to do with socialized health care? He has no vote on the mater.  Did he get caught doing things he should not have? Maybe so, but what does that have to do with socialized health care?
web posted November 24, 2009

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Teacher furloughs. Staff cuts. Larger class sizes...

If public schools are broke, then why is Superintendent Jim Rex paying his political consultant with taxpayers' money?

Read more: "Airborne Consultant: Zeke Stokes on Taxpayers’ Plane"

http://www.voiceforschoolchoice.com/2009/11/23/airborne-educator-jim-rex-likes-to-fly/
web posted November 24, 2009

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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 five 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?  I Certainly hope this bit ofcinformation clears up a lot of things for you. It Did for me.
web posted November 24, 2009

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A Democratic lawmaker (AKA, another idiot congressman) has a message for Americans voicing concerns over rising unemployment, record federal deficits, the health care debate and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq: "Stop complaining so much."

In other words, drink your coolaid and shut up.
web posted November 23, 2009

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I hate to be a cynic but after reading Edgefielddaily for a long time I am frustrated that nothing ever comes of things that should be dealt with. It seems that people can break the law, steal from the taxpayers, lie, cheat etc. and it is just ignored or brushed under the rug. I doubt Medlock will ever have enough rope to hang himself, just like I am sure the Calliham thing will go through, people who make accusations will just keep doing so (hopefully never carrying them out) the bullying will continue and the talk about doing something will continue. The people will know things are not right but it really doesn't matter. I don't know if there are enough honest people in Edgefield to fix things. Coming from a place where people were mostly held accountable (some exceptions unfortunately) but mostly true, it is nauseating to see what happens here. I know a lot in Edgefield resent newcomers but you know what---maybe some new blood is needed in such a "stuck in the past, let's not change anything we have ever done, good old boy system". Sorry to rant but I am really tired of chatter and no results.

Editor's note: As long as the entrenched "good old boys" are in control, nothing will change. The same failed policies, the same failed directives, the same failed decisions and leadersdhip will just continue to be repeated.
web posted November 23, 2009

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Democratic Senators For Sale - $100 Million Each!

Ried Buys Landrieu To Move ObamaCare To The Senate Floor!

Reid has bought Senator Mary Landrieu (D) of Louisiana for $100 million of YOUR TAX DOLLARS to be sent to Louisiana to help it cover costs for Medicaid, the federal-state health care program for the poor. Louisiana is the only state that qualifies for the provision and Reid bought Landrieu. In her speech, Landrieu said "I've decided. to move forward, but much more work needs to be done."

Landrieu had been one of several Democrats said they would not vote for the bill.   This is the first step in the Senate Cloture Process.
web posted November 23, 2009

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This is for all of you low down republicans, who does not want a African American in the white house. Obama and Hawaii have shown his birth certificate many times. How do you think he would have EVER made it this far without someone seeing his birth certificate. Yall, really need to go look at the requirements of being president, and also for the people talking about the Psalms scripture yall need to read ALL of what it says, it talks about his kids and his wife. And if you wish that on anyone you are on your way to hell.

Editor's note: President Obama has never released his original birth certificate (long form), passports (Indonesian or US), school transcripts, or other official documents. That is not conjecture, that is fact. Is he a US citizen? I have no idea. But if he is, why won't he prove it and settle this once and for all?
web posted November 23, 2009

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Hello -
1.  Why didn't you publish the name of the person sending you death threats like you said you would?  Does having a low IQ excuse someone from sending death threats?  It's a death threat for crying out loud...and can you trust a low IQ to "not do it again"?
 
2.  Can you tell me why a prefectly beautiful Christmas tree (it's no more dead or dying than I am) in front of the Advertiser Office is not being used as a Christmas tree and why do I have to look at a cookie-cutter, fake, not to mention EXPENSIVE, green spray-painted tower of crap on the square.  Can we not find a more deserving cause to spend that kind of money on?  God gave us real trees, do we really need one out of a box????

Editor's note: (1) the person responsible was not charged and I agreed to a warning, therefore the identity was not released. As for (2), That question would be better asked of Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham and the Edgefield Town Council.
web posted November 23, 2009

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Obama lies again. ABC reported Obama saying KSM and other terrorist would be in military courts. Uh oh! Is ABC now a rightwing channel like Fox? Wake up people!!!!!!!!! When the libs admit it you know its getting bad!!!!
web posted November 23, 2009

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USA Today reports Obama’s birth certificate is real (July ’09)

Editor's note: They report the Certificate of Live Birth, not the original birth certificate.
web posted November 23, 2009

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When are you going to tell us who the (anti-EdgefieldDaily.com blogger) is?

Editor's note: Soon, very soon. I would like to thank Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham for helping out in this matter although he did not know he did so. It seems his association with the "blogger" was closer than first anticipated.
web posted November 23, 2009

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RE Editor's note: To date Obama continues to spend millions to prevent his long form birth certificate from being released as well as his passport and other documents prior to being elected to office.

Readers note: No links provided to prove the claims.

Editor's note: Two of thousands, WND and the Canadian Free Press. Ever hear of Yahoo or Bing?
web posted November 23, 2009

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I was listening to the game online from Denver and was jumping up and down cheering for the Rebs! I just knew we had this in the bag. I'm disapointed but proud at the same time. These young men played their hearts out and will only get better because they are a young team. We'll be back next year bigger, better, and stronger. We're going to be a force for years to come. Thank you Edgefield Daily for providing the games online.

Editor's note: EdgefieldDaily.com does not provide the internet streaming of the games. That is done by the School District and WKSX. We just provide the links to their webcasts.
web posted November 21, 2009

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How can the county attorney refuse to allow anyone from getting public information from a government office?

Editor's note: County Attorney Medlock can not prevent the release of information. As my late father always said, give a fool all the rope he needs to hang himself. In the few short months Medlock has been employed, he has amassed a very long rope.
web posted November 21, 2009

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On Tuesday,  the Senate health committee voted 12-11 in favor of a two-page amendment  courtesy of Republican Tom Coburn that  would require all Members and their staffs  to enroll in any new government-run health  plan.. It took me less than  a minute to sign up to  require our congressmen and senators to drink at  the same trough!

Three cheers for  Congressman John Fleming  of  Louisiana ! Congressman  John Fleming  ( Louisiana physician)  has proposed  an amendment that would require congressmen and senators to  take the same healthcare plan they force on  us (under proposed legislation they are curiously  exempt).

Congressman Fleming is  encouraging people to go on his Website  and sign his petition (very simple - just  first, last and email). I have immediately  done just that.
web posted November 21, 2009

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Can you tell me if anyone has actually seen Obama's birth certificate? I am curious to see if he was born in America. He is not an American as far as I am concerned. He does'nt even know what America stands for and I hope we do not have to stand him much longer.

Editor's note: To date Obama continues to spend millions to prevent his long form birth certificate from being released as well as his passport and other documents prior to being elected to office.
web posted November 21, 2009

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Health Care: A government task force has decided that women need fewer mammograms and later in life. Shouldn't that be between patient and physician? We have seen the future of health care, and it doesn't work.

We have warned repeatedly that the net results of health care bills before Congress will be higher demand, fewer doctors, more cost control, all leading to rationing. New recommendations issued by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding breast cancer and the necessity for early and frequent mammograms do not convince us otherwise.

Editor's note: I agree, this is just another move to deny benefits because the "government" has deemed all women between 40 and 50 are not "required" to have the screenings. They are already rationing H1N1 vaccines and now mammograms and Obamacare is not even law yet. As I have often repeated, if you think heath care is expensive now, just wait to see what it costs when its "free".
web posted November 20, 2009

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Did you get the informatio(n) on the tax sale (Thursday)?

Editor's note: No, Tax Collector Linda Priest was out today and I did not want to force the issue on her employee. She will be back in the office today - and so will I.
web posted November 20, 2009

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I want to say that I don’t hold a DUI against anyone in their job unless it happened while they were on the job. Does the county admin get a county car? If he does I’d say they should take that away from the employment package. Other than that…. Hey, if he’s qualified it would be the first qualified admin we’ve had in years. I say give the guy a shot. Anybody can make a mistake that gets blown way out of proportion because of who they are. 

Editor’s note: The County Administrator is not provided a county vehicle but does have access to one during official business hours if needed in the course of performing his duties.
web posted November 20, 2009

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Ok, so you walk into a county office and you ask to see and/or receive a copy of a public record.  You are told that Michael Medlock, Clownty Attorney, says to put you off for 15 days.  Ok, so picture this Mr. Medlock, YOU walk into a county office and YOU ask to see and/or receive a copy of a public record and YOU are told by the Clerk of Courts office, or the Tax Collectors office, or the Treasurers office, or the Probate Court, or the Assessors office, to come back in 15 days and we'll see what we can do.  Does that fly with you Mr. Medlock?  What's good for one better be good for all.  Does the word "discrimination" mean anything to you Michael?  I hope every office in the Courthouse responds to you with same line of bull.  Turnabout's fair play!  Wish I could be there for your reaction!  I hear you get real red in the face and blow up like Chubby in the Little Rascals.
web posted November 20, 2009

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Anytime someone tries to hide from the light, there is a reason.  County council (the famous 3) are so wrong.  Hiding and manipulating may get you what you want (or someone else wants) short term.  How much is your reputation worth?  How much is your word worth?  This group has done more to destroy the reputation of the County and turn business and residents away than anything Edgefield Daily has done..  Mayor Ken and others think  promoting only positive attitudes while keeping the negative hushed up are the way to go. Continuing to manipulate and push actions which are shady and questionable at best is not the way.  Sad that the infamous 3 are involving employees in their deception. 
 
Pushing to get things done in a speedy manner before anyone with normal intelligence can move to stop them appears to be the tactic.  Looks like the way the White House and democrats are doing.  Oh that is right the council 3 are democrats.  While I do not always agree with the editors way of expressing his thoughts, I understand his frustration.  How long will this council and those who are calling the shots continue?  They will continue until they are stopped.  Thank you Edgefield Daily for shining the light.

Editor's note: Thank you for reading. Their actions are so juvenile, it is as if they can't get off the elementary playground mentality they thrive on. I feel sorry for them.
web posted November 20, 2009

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re: New tradition to honor Teacher of the Year.
 
Let me begin by saying I think teachers should be honored. Just one question...how much does the portrait cost and where are the $$$ coming from to pay for it and the framing, etc. I know the art teacher at STHS is excellent and perhaps she volunteers her services but there is still costs involved.
 
Also, the school district now uses a program called "Power School". It's great for parents because they have 24/7 access to their child's grades. I was told by someone at the district level that it is a very expensive program and that is why the district had not started using it sooner. Again, what was the cost and where was the funding obtained? If our school district is in dire financial condition, which we know it is, why would money be spent on a program that was not absolutely necessary. Good luck on getting those answers. There is also another cut coming, 2 to 2 1/2% is heading our way.
 
There has been much focus on the Calliham building purchase which is important to the tax payers but I wish someone would look into the above mentioned situation.
web posted November 20, 2009

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I read (the Editor’s post) Thurs. So if (the press) can’t walk into a county office and get public information what will us regular folks do? If I want to check on tax sales or anything else do I have to call Mr. Medlock to get it OK’d? If I had to wait 2 weeks the (removed) sale would be over. What (removed) good would that do? Who the (heck) is this Medlock guy anyway?

Editor’s note: Michael Medlock is the county attorney.
web posted November 20, 2009

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Am I the only one in the county that does NOT pour corn under my stand ??  It has been a great acorn crop this year and haven't had any luck, none of the usual turkey sightings either.  Then a friend that hunts the same farm tells me the doe he got in bow season was full of corn.
web posted November 20, 2009

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I think the last person we need for a county admin. is someone who has a drinking problem.  That way just like everyone else in offices or places of authority in Edgefield. next time he gets stopped drinking and driving he will just get off scott free.
web posted November 20, 2009

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Well the Edgefield Water Dept. had a leak prior to the re-paving of Columbia RD.  So they wait about three weeks before fixing the problem. now isn’t that special.

Why don’t they replace the line that runs up or down Columbia road.  Maybe they like digging up new pavement and adding their sorry “PATCH JOB”
web posted November 20, 2009

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Just a suggestion for a certain restaurant in johnston we ate at after church Sunday. The food (removed) was great. The highchairs and tables and dining room chairs and not to mention the counters and the floors need a MAJOR scrubbing. Just a suggestion, everything else was great.
web posted November 20, 2009

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Editor's post:  As I returned to the Tax Collector’s Office on Wednesday to pick up a copy of the entire list of registered bidders to the tax sale, I was refused the information. I asked how that could be since State Law says the public records must be made available if the “requestor” (that would be me) appears in person (which I did) during regular business hours (which it was).

I was told County Attorney Michael Medlock told Tax Collector Linda Priest to refuse to release the records for 15 days. I presented Ms. Priest with a copy of the law, she agreed as to what it said, but she said she was “instructed” by Mr. Medlock not to release the records to me. “He told me to put you off for 15 days,” Priest said. The 15 day period applies to those who send in written requests, not those who appear in person. That is in the law as well.

I asked if finding the records was some daunting task and was told no, it was a simple click of the computer mouse, it prints, and she hands me a copy.

Remember, this refusal to release the records is coming from the lawyer who wrote a "policy" on complying to the Freedom of Information Act for the county that contained wording the Association of Counties said flew "in the face of the law", causing it to get shot down.

I wonder if there is a pattern starting to form in all of this?
web posted November 19, 2009

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Have the tax paying residents of the town of Edgefield realized that if this craziness to buy the Callihan "building" goes thru they will be paying TWICE for their little share?  That is if their Mayor has his way.  He wants to "donate" some of the town's reserves towards the purchase of the building ( if you can still call it that ).  The reserves are their accumulative taxes now held in reserve and then their county taxes will also go towards this fiasco.  Think about it.
web posted November 19, 2009

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Get real.  Why should Edgefield County Planning Commission do anything towards rezoning the area on Martintown Road for Lacy's commercial development and Palmetto Point.  North Augusta will put its zoning into effect as soon as they annex this area so they can provide sewerage and water in order to collect additional taxes from their newly annexed residents.  Merriwether again loses a substantial tax base to help grow that area.  The 3 stooges will vote to let that happen because Edgefield County will still get county taxes.  It also helps keep Merriwether in its place.
web posted November 19, 2009

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Finally we have somebody qualified as a county admin and with NO connections to Boss Hawg, piglett, or boozeman. How the (heck) did that happen? I guess your prediction on who the new admin would be was wrong huh?

Editor's note: This is one time I do not feel bad that my prediction was wrong. Sadly, 99% of them are correct.
web posted November 19, 2009

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Everybody needs to get out and support the Rebels Friday night!!!!!!! Let's pack the house! We booked a 3 rooms at (removed) for only (removed). Save the drive back until Sat.

Editor's note: Business names cannot be mentioned.
web posted November 19, 2009

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Transparency is Opaque
All day, the Ethics Commission met behind closed doors to decide how they decide the Sanford case.

Their Decision? To schedule a hearing because they have probable cause that the “Governor” broke several laws.

These commissioners were all appointed by Sanford and the findings are to be supposed to be made public, but at this time they are not. We have no reason to believe that they won’t be released at some point, but the question remains, “What happened to transparency?”

Government has continually told us that we are entering an age of transparency. We were told we would have access to all the ways our tax dollars are used, and we would be able to know exactly what our elected officials were doing.

Just this week, we have seen the pride of the bailout, recovery.gov, to be littered with fallacies. The site was created to track jobs saved and created throughout the country by the failed bailout. In actuality, the site turned out to be a place for the Obama administration to make up its own congressional districts. Not only that, raises given to employees are listed as “jobs saved.”

All these mistakes render the site useless as a transparency tool.

And today we learn that behind closed doors Commissioners, appointed by the “Governor” meet to decide his fate. The report is not released and the hearing may not even be made public, because ultimately that decision lies with Sanford.

Welcome to the age of transparency.
web posted November 19, 2009

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Ok, so I’m reading your article about Alton Brown, and I’m thinkin’ “cool, new county admin.” But when you look at the end of the article where you give credit for the photo to "White County News” the article that came up there just made me laugh. With his DUI he will fit right in Edgefield. WOW
web posted November 19, 2009

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When are they (Edgefield County Council) going to let us stand up and have our say about the Calliham deal?

Editor's note: A public hearing will be held just before they pass the final reading on December 1. You can stand up, stomp your feet, and no matter how many agree, the three controlled members (Kneece, Dorn, and Bright) will vote to move forward to buy the property.

I actually wanted to bid on the property at the tax sale. But the master told the majority to get the sale completed before that could happen. Of course, the owned agreed and will pass this ordinance in a record 29 days, rather than 90 days.
web posted November 18, 2009

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Just to clarify one thing on here, the answer is yes... (the company) cut the health insurance for the employees at both (holdings). The owners/management of (the company) are really messing things up at both places.  It seems they have over-extended their wallets/credit.  Look for the whole lot of assets to go to foreclosure, with one of the owners peons picking up the properties for less than market value.  Somehow the US government protects the rich people start LLC's they are protected by law from having to pay their vendors out of pocket.
web posted November 18, 2009

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How can a newpaper remove something from a legal notice?  Is that even legal?

Editor's note: Any legitimate news outlet is required to run the legal notice as presented without alterations. I know for a fact at least one county office responsible for running legal notices is now refusing to run any of their announcements in the Edgefield Advertiser because of their blatant omission of a property listed in a legal tax sale notice.

Furthermore, County Council Chairman Monroe Kneece does not have the authority to tell a county employee to removed a legal listing (or anything related to their job), much less telling a newspaper to withhold that information. I have been contacted by some who plan to file complaints against Mr. Kneece for his actions and the Publisher of the Edgefield Advertiser with state officials. No county council member has stepped forward to do the same at this time. I hope that will change.
web posted November 18, 2009

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I want to offer a rave for Edgefield Daily. When I want news that is to the point, this is where I go. I agree with the other person saying they don't always agree with (the Editor's opinions), but I know that you don't make any bones about what is going on and I appreciate that. We'd never know about 90% of what goes on in this county if it weren't for Edgefield Daily. I ain't bought a local paper in two years and ain't missed a thing. THANK YOU!

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

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1. SO, DEHC said that it was ok, but did they have a permit?  if not should be  a fine.   
2. SO, where is the money at the Rec Stand, haven't found it yet?
3. SO, who is dumb enough to but the property, Edgefield County, with the help of the Town.
Man, what a county, someone, please get control of what is going on.
web posted November 18, 2009

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Did I just imagine that Friday night I saw a sign on Martintown Rd near Murrah Rd proclaiming the location as "The Future Site of the Palmetto Point Community Center"?  This morning there was no sign, although two signposts were in place.  I thought our Planning Committee told us that nothing commercial would be put in this location until ordinances were put in place to control the development.

Editor's note: The zoning change was removed from the agenda of the planning commission the week of the meeting. I'm not sure what to make of that. I do know for a fact a county official was told that their campaign coffers could be increased by voting the "right way".

You just have to love politics in Edgefield County.
web posted November 18, 2009

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Why was there not a new listing this morning on the crime blotter?

Editor's note: Several stories were bumped at the last minute and due to the backlog the Crime Blotter was not placed as an oversight. It has been rectified and the listing is now available.
web posted November 18, 2009

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Where may I find the tax sale list for 2009?

Editor's note: The only complete copy is available in the Citizen News (dated Nov. 11) and should be available today as well. The Edgefield Advertiser removed content from a legal notice without the authority to do so, as such, I would not trust anything they publish as being complete.
web posted November 18, 2009

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We were in Pigeon Forge over the weekend.  We left to come home on Sunday.  Traffic was moving slow & a car in front of us had an Obama bumper sticker on it.  It read:  "Pray for Obama.  Psalm 109:8".  

Mike's Bible was lying on the dash board & he got it & opened it up to the scripture & read it.  He started laughing & laughing.  Then he read it to me.  I couldn't believe what it said.  I had a good laugh, too.

Psalm 109:8  "Let his days be few; and let another take his place. "
web posted November 18, 2009

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I want to agree with an earlier comment. You do a great job of giving us the news that the newspapers won't. Thanks for everything you do.
web posted November 17, 2009

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What a disgrace! I saw the (editorial) about Obama and lost my (removed) mind!!!!! Is he crazy? What a joke! (Heck) I'd rather have Jimmy Carter back in office than this (removed).
web posted November 17, 2009

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Go big Rebs!  We're on the way to being state champs!  Go Fight Win!
web posted November 17, 2009

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In regards to the band not playing Friday night, the reason they didn't play is because half of the band was at Hilton Head Island with the NJROTC. About 5 people were in a wedding that next day, so therefore they had to be at the wedding rehearsal and couldn't attend, so Mr.Clark just decided to not play the show since alot of spots were missing, and plus the golf team was being recognizing. So please find out your information before you try to get the administration involved. I am a student at Strom Thurmond High School, and also on the Marching Band.
web posted November 17, 2009

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Yeha! State championship here we come. GO REBS!
web posted November 17, 2009

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Obama bows to everyone but the queen of (the UK). she's  a white woman. I wonder why he didn;'t bow to her?

Editor's note: According to the White House, Obama never bowed to anyone. Ignore the pictures of him doing so.
web posted November 17, 2009

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While China bans Oba-Mao T-shirts and cracks down on consumers and producers, it's an entirely different story in the U.S. Capital. The popularity of Obama iconography around the world is indisputable, but who can match the audacity of those who cater to the cult of Obama just a few blocks from the White House? T-shirts, shot glasses, and even condoms are all freely available and sales are unrestricted in Obama's new neighborhood in Washington, D.C.

http://www.lookingattheleft.com/2009/11/obama-mao-shirts-for-sale-in-america/
web posted November 17, 2009

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(The) Problems: Maybe Boss Hogg was going to use the overage in premiums that he took from the employees paychecks to help pay for all those overdue tax notices that were in the paper last week .
web posted November 17, 2009

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What is the latest from (an exclusive golf community)?  Has it been confirmed the health insurance for employees was cancelled without notice?
 
Confused property owner.

Editor's note: To date nothing has been confirned.
web posted November 17, 2009

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Editor's post: Here is an interesting note. The Edgefield County Council ran an announcement about a second reading on the Calliham property (meaning it was finalized last Monday) in the local papers last week (they missed sending it to the most widely read news provider EdgefieldDaily.com though a request of all announcements is on record). Then on Thursday they (Kneece, Dorn, and Bright) informed the remaining members of the county council of what they did, isn't that cute?

The Democrats shove it down the throats of Republicans in Edgefield County just like Pelosi and Reid do in Washington DC.

So Monroe Kneece, once again, is on the side of Norman Dorn. Hope that works for you in the 2010 elections.
web posted November 16, 2009

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STATE CHAMPS HERE WE COME!!!!!!!! It's all over but the crying now!!!!

Editor's note: I share your enthusiasm, but don't count chickens before they hatch. Central is a good team (both are 10-2 at this point) and anyone can win in any game on any given Friday night. The Rebels just need to keep everyone healthy and focused. I feel this team is set for greatness, they just need to believe in that as much as the fans.
web posted November 16, 2009

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I am not a life long resident of Edgefield County, I was born and raised in N. Augusta. I have called Edgefield home for the  past twenty years, in that time I have seen N, Augusta grow, Aiken double in size, Batesburg get a Wal Mart, even Grovetown GA, now has a HS and a new Wal Mart. Exactly what can Edgefield boast about having done in the last twenty years, where is the commercial developments. We have a Federal Prison thanks to the late Sen Thurmond, and a state prision. Wonderful. So Bettis and Monroe, exactly what have you done for Edgefield? I'm confused because I can't see any improvements. I'm still waiting on the Food Lion and Taco Bell we were suppose to get.  Looks like I may be waiting another twenty years.
web posted November 16, 2009

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Yea! Rebs!!!!! great win! We're proud of you.

Editor's note: Too bad they (players, students, and teachers) can't read you message. The Democrat controlled School Board and School District refuses to allow our students and teachers access to your free speech. "They" decide what is proper to be available to the public. Electronic book burning by the "party". I hate that they will have to spend money to defend the un-defendable.
web posted November 16, 2009

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I was very disappointed that for our last home football game, which was the second round of the Class A A playoffs, the Band did not preform at halftime. It would have been nice for the band to display their skills and entertain the fans even if they didn't bother to wear their uniforms. The administration should review this and make the needed corrections. 
web posted November 16, 2009

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I do not always agree with your positions editorially although I will agree that standing against the obvious monarchy in Edgefield County politics is commendable. As a fiscal conservative myself, I feel on the important issues you have a better grasp on the inner workings of the events taking place and you do an excellent job of making that information available. I thank you for that effort.
web posted November 16, 2009

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Maybe Mr. Kneece just changed his mind and didn't lie. Did you ever think of that?

Editor's note: I have lost all respect for County Council Chairman Monroe Kneece. He stated to my face that changing the zoning for Hagler was "wrong", but did it anyway. He told me to my face that they had nothing to hide in the Calliham figures when they came out, then hid them for weeks. I could go on and on on many times Chairman Kneece says one thing and does another. That, in its purest form, is lying in my opinion. So yes, I did "think of that", but reason and reality took over.
web posted November 16, 2009

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I see your chickens got beat again. Give up. USC can't hang.

Editor's note: The only team that can defeat the gamecocks, is the Gamecocks. We need a quarterback. Maybe we need to look a little deeper in our roster. Does the name Hillary come to mind?
web posted November 16, 2009

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Every now and then, Newt makes a good point.....

"As an American I am not so shocked that Obama was given the Nobel Peace Prize without any accomplishments to his name, but that America gave him the White House based on the same credentials." Newt Gingrich
web posted November 16, 2009

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Are you still getting death threats? Is the person going to be arrested? Ive seen nothing on this in over a week.

Editor's note: The person was identified from evidence provided by EdgefieldDaily.com
and Edgefield Police Chief Ronnie Carter confronted the individual. He admitted to the threats and agreed never to send another. If another threat is sent, I will push for an arrest.
web posted November 16, 2009

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Editor's post: It is nice to see the Democrats in control of our County (A Republican stronghold I might add) is shoving their agenda down the throats of the tax payers. Their leader, County Councilman Chairman Monroe Kneece (aided by Democrats Norman Dorn and Willie Bright) is going to force his instructed will on everyone. It is time the voters throw this dinosaur out.

Way to go Kneece, siding with a slum lord and a race baiting bigot while being influenced by the Chairman of the Economic Development Committee that was just foreclosed on. You choose your company well. I am soooo inspired by your "leadership".

Isn't it funny how they want to blame everyone else for what they have controlled for 20 years?

There are far more fingers pointing at them. You three appointed other commission members, including an accused rapist, to serve this county. (fortunately he was removed after I made it public) What a stellar legacy you three provide.

And people wonder why we lag so far behind in the state for growth? Really? All I can say is DUH!
web posted November 14, 2009

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I also have knowledge that the insurance has been taken out of employees paychecks and the premiums not paid.  I do not know what kind of trouble (the companies) are in, but everyone should be aware.  If they can treat their employees like that, what are they doing with the money for dues and etc.  I had respect for some of the higher ups there, but after hearing and seeing this, all respect is gone.  Maybe it is time to throw in the towel; because it seems that one person can't afford to try and own Edgefield County any longer!

Editor's note: I have still been unable to confirm these claims. If an employee would like to come forward the issue could be presented as fact.
web posted November 14, 2009

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I would like to just let everyone know about a nice little restaurant in Trenton.  It is called (removed).  It is (removed) on Hwy 121 at the old shopping strip at Woodyard Rd.  It is a Mexican restaurant with authentic Mexican food.  It is by far the cleanest Mexican restaurant I have been in to date.  The service is wonderful and unlike other Mexican restuarants, (removed) makes your food to order.  Once you eat here and taste what authentic Mexican food is, you will not be able to eat it anywhere else! And make sure you have a big apetite, because here you get what you pay for!  The portions are huge and they actually have the Mexican coca cola with real sugar in it and not the corn syrup!  The food is always fresh and I just can't describe how good their food really is.  You need to go try it for yourself! Kid friendly restaurant as well!
 
Also another good thing we have in Edgefield County is the Johnston Jaycees Park.  They have added some wonderful new playground equipment the past couple of years and it is much better than the one in Edgefield.  It is very toddler friendly and they also have things for the older children.  I'm not exactly sure how to explain this, but the playground equipment has the plastic coatings on it and I always feel safe when the children are playing on it.  Not to knock Edgefield, but they have the exact same playground equipment that was there 28 years ago when I was playing on it. We don't go to the Edgefield Park anymore because it is just not safe.
web posted November 14, 2009

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Lest we get complacent and forget --- this is who these people really are.
 
Replacing Michelle.
At the top right hand corner of Page 17 of the New York Post of January 24th, 2009, was a short column entitled "Replacing Michelle" in the National Review "The Week" column. So here it is, word for word, as it appeared:
 
Some employees are simply irreplaceable. Take Michelle Obama: The  University of  Chicago Medical center hired her in 2002 to run "programs for community relations, neighborhood outreach, volunteer recruitment, staff diversity and minority contracting".
 
In 2005 the hospital raised her salary from $120,000 to $317,000 - nearly twice what her husband made as a Senator.  Oh did we mention that her husband had just become a US Senator?  He sure had. Also, he had requested a $1 million earmark for the UC Medical Center, in fact. Way to network Michelle!
 
But now that Mrs. Obama has resigned, the hospital says her position will remain unfilled. How can that be, if the work she did was vital enough to be worth $317,000?
 
Let me add that Michelle's position was a part time, 20 hour a week job..  And to think they were critical of Blagoyovich' s wife for taking $100,000 in fuzzy real estate commission. 

My thoughts: How did this bit of quid pro quo corruption escape the sharp reporters that dug through Sarah Palin's garbage and kindergarten files?  Can you say, "media bias"?
web posted November 14, 2009

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To President Obama and all 535 voting members of the Legislature,

It is now official you are ALL corrupt morons:

The U.S. Post Service was established in 1775 You have had 234 years to get it right and it is broke. 
Social Security was established in 1935. You have had 74 years to get it right and it is broke.  
Fannie Mae was established in 1938. You have had 71 years to get it right and it is broke. 
War on Poverty started in 1964. You have had 45 years to get it right; $1 trillion of our money is confiscated each year and transferred to "the poor" and they only want more. 
Medicare and Medicaid were established in 1965. You have had 44 years to get it right and they are broke. 
Freddie Mac was established in 1970. You have had 39 years to get it right and it is broke. 
The Department of Energy was created in 1977 to lessen our dependence on foreign oil. It has ballooned to 16,000 employees with a budget of $24 billion a year and we import more oil than ever before. You had 32 years to get it right and it is an abysmal failure. 

You have FAILED in every "government service" you have shoved down our throats while overspending our tax dollars AND YOU WANT AMERICANS TO BELIEVE YOU CAN BE TRUSTED WITH A GOVERNMENT-RUN HEALTH CARE SYSTEM??
web posted November 14, 2009

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Since a Muslim is the one that shot our military men and women,  why can’t we take all Muslims and place them in a camp until this war is over.  We did this to the Japanese during World War II,  Why can’t we do it to the Muslims???  No one can tell me that Muslims are innocent,  they are trained from day one that we are their enemy.  So why not lock them up till this war is over.  Oh, don’t forget to lock-up Pres. Obama,  He is a Muslim also.

Editor's note: There were many Japanese that served valiantly in our armed forces during WWll.  Do not cast a broad net. Should a radical Muslim have been contained long before he took action? Yes. But the Liberal Democrats force PC on everyone, including the military. It was far better that 13 Americans died and almost 30 wounded as this known radical was fast tracked for advancement so the Army could maintain it's PC directive on "diversity". How well did that turn out?
web posted November 14, 2009

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From an email: WASHINGTON DC – The South Carolina Legislative Delegation will be holding a press conference at 2:30 this afternoon to discuss President Obama’s decision to bring terrorist held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to American soil. The decision could have some detainees moved to Charleston, South Carolina. “Moving these terrorists to New York City or Charleston, South Carolina or anywhere in our country puts our citizens at greater risk for future terrorist attacks and that is irresponsible, ill-advised and simply unacceptable,” Representative Gresham Barrett said.
Developing -

This is utter nonsense.  Barrett sounds like he is scared.  America is the home of the brave.  And Barrett is scared.
web posted November 14, 2009

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the dictators dancing video is no longer avalible.

Editor's note: The videos expire over a short period of time. There are more to come. Some that EdgefieldDaily.com will own. Those won't go away.
web posted November 14, 2009

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Re: “As a 'dail up' reader, can you make the pages load without all the picutres.

Editor's note: No, the truth is what is and the photos provide that proof.
web posted November 13, 2009”

If you are using Microsoft Internet Explorer you can set it to not load pictures.
 
Go to Tools - Internet Option -Advanced Tab -scroll down to Multimedia and uncheck the box next to “Show Pictures”
 
You will have to recheck this box if you want to show pictures again.
web posted November 14, 2009

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While I am most definitely not an Obama supporter, I believe that by spreading false information it only makes other people (i.e. Obama supporters) question the validity of arguments against Obama. It is a pet peeve of mine when people mindlessly believe the scandalous stories that are sometimes forwarded through email without even checking the facts. Of course if I don’t email it to 8 friends by midnight I will die or have bad luck for the rest of my life, so what can I do…
 
“I would have written my own research on this topic; but why invent the wheel.  The research has already been done.

From Factcheck:

"Michelle Obama’s staff was actually no different than that of her predecessor, Laura Bush. "[W]e have exactly the same staff number as Mrs. Bush and our office organization reflects a similar staffing model, so insinuations otherwise are wrong," she said. Lelyveld said that the White House’s "personnel records indicate" that there were 24 staffers for Laura Bush at some point. We were able to verify at least 18 staffers for Laura Bush, as of June 30, 2008, via the 2008 White House staff list published in The Washington Post’s White House Watch column. Sixteen people were specifically referred to as a "first lady" staffer, and Amy Zantzinger and Dorothy Thornton served as White House social secretary and deputy social secretary, respectively. It’s possible that someone with the title of "staff assistant" was assigned to the Office of First Lady as well, as is the case with Michelle Obama’s staff.

The combined annual salaries for the 22 staffers we can specifically identify as working for Michelle Obama come to $1.4 million. For the 18 we could identify as working for Laura Bush in 2008, the total is $1.6 million."
web posted November 14, 2009

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I have a question. Why do you fight if you know you will lose everytime? That seems stupid.

Editor's note: I agree, but that does not mean they (the county council) can just shove more unpopular deciecions down our throats as they have in the past.
web posted November 13, 2009

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I read your article on Dads and wondered if you realized how many deadbeat MOMs are our there to.  I have experienced that part personally.  Might be a good idea to post on that someday.  I bet you would be surprised at the number.

Editor's note: The flip side is coming, but the most wanted were all men. I don't make the releases, I just report them.
web posted November 13, 2009

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I would have written my own research on this topic; but why invent the wheel.  The research has already been done.

From Factcheck:

"Michelle Obama’s staff was actually no different than that of her predecessor, Laura Bush. "[W]e have exactly the same staff number as Mrs. Bush and our office organization reflects a similar staffing model, so insinuations otherwise are wrong," she said. Lelyveld said that the White House’s "personnel records indicate" that there were 24 staffers for Laura Bush at some point. We were able to verify at least 18 staffers for Laura Bush, as of June 30, 2008, via the 2008 White House staff list published in The Washington Post’s White House Watch column. Sixteen people were specifically referred to as a "first lady" staffer, and Amy Zantzinger and Dorothy Thornton served as White House social secretary and deputy social secretary, respectively. It’s possible that someone with the title of "staff assistant" was assigned to the Office of First Lady as well, as is the case with Michelle Obama’s staff.

The combined annual salaries for the 22 staffers we can specifically identify as working for Michelle Obama come to $1.4 million. For the 18 we could identify as working for Laura Bush in 2008, the total is $1.6 million."

Editor's note: No links provided to prove the claims.
web posted November 13, 2009

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Classroom teachers, not consultants and bureaucrats, ought to be the top priority in the South Carolina public school budgets.

That realization led State Representative Bakari Sellers (D-Bamberg) to call for the phase-out of South Carolina’s expensive and controversial Educational Oversight Committee (EOC), once hailed as a public watchdog for accountability and standardized testing.

The EOC was established in 1998 as part of the Educational Accountability Act (EAA). Lawmakers envisioned a small agency, outside of the existing Education Department, providing legislators and parents with details of student and school performance.

Many in Columbia, and across the State, feel the EOC has failed to deliver on that promise.

This fall, for the second year in a row, the EOC announced that school and district report cards would be released to parents weeks or even months late. The Committee also adopted new scoring guidelines for the PASS test, standards that national experts have decried as exceptionally low.

Money is another concern. State budget reports indicate that EAA funding has soared from $35 million in 1999 to over $257 million for the last school year. Total state spending on accountability in the last decade now exceeds $1.8 billion. Last week, the EOC asked for a further $1.6 million for next school year. Representative Sellers and other lawmakers are making the case that this money ought to be sent directly to teachers in the classroom.

Randy Page, president of the watchdog organization South Carolinians for Responsible Government (SCRG), echoed Representative Sellers concerns that the high-dollar EOC had “run its course.”
“Real accountability is when schools and teachers answer directly to parents and communities, not to high dollar bureaucrats and testing consultants in Columbia," explained Page. “South Carolina spent over $12,000 per student in our public schools last year. More of that money needs to reach teachers in the classroom.”

Page also noted that the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) recently ranked South Carolina 50th (dead last) in “promoting power,” a measure of the percentage of 9th grade students who progress to 12th grade in three years. SREB singled out South Carolina as the only state in the nation that failed to report detailed data on dropout rates for African-American and other minority students.
web posted November 13, 2009

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As a 'dail up' reader, can you make the pages load without all the picutres.

Editor's note: No, the truth is what is and the photos provide that proof.
web posted November 13, 2009

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Editor's post: Back by popular demand: The dictators dancing.  (no longer available)

On another note, I am happy about the "change" that is taking place in America. Obama has fallen in popularity faster than any president in history. Change I can believe in. He has accomplished what previous presidents could not do in four year in just 10 months. Hit rock bottom

Please send your comments click here.
web posted November 12, 2009

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you know i use to read the Edgefield daily every day...but now i think it's a bunch of  BS! you are a hypocrite's and a racist.. its obvious you just don't care for blacks or thats the way you appear to me. Did ever talk this much crap about our other white presidents that got this country in the shape its in today! I guess this is the only way you can get your rocks off, through the news but I can bet you this will be my last time reading your nonsense...

Editor's note: Really? Then you missed a lot of Editor's Columns and Editorials on the previous administrations and the Republican Party. Aside from that, opinions makes up less than 1% of the articles published reporting the local news. I guess you can read about the shooting and the arrest of a local man next week in one of the local papers. You will also never know about the released estimations on the Calliham property deal as it has not, and will not, appear in the print media although all local media outlets were provided with the same information. EdgefieldDaily.com was the only one to make it available to the public.

I love the label "racist", it shows you have no basis for your argument in the first place. I'm not going to list "black friends", because I do not make friends on the basis of race. They are all friends, not "black" or "white" friends. I don't see color, I see people. Give it a try, you might find it appealing.
web posted November 12, 2009

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I want to give a rave for (Sports writer) Tim Crane. thank you for the highlight on our JV team!  These young men are the next Rebels team. Mr. Editor,  Thanks for the Monday sports page. I love reading it while drinking my morning coffee. Go Rebels!!!!!!!!
web posted November 12, 2009

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I couldn't believe the number of deadbeat dads. OMG! How can you have a kid and not take care of it? Throw them all under the jail!
web posted November 12, 2009

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I saw the Swine flu story but there ain't no shots available. What is the use of a "clinic" if there ain't no (darn) shots?

Editor's note: I received an email from State Sen. Shane Massey on this matter. He is trying to get more information on when the vaccine will be available in Edgefield County. He placed the blame on Federal Officials who control where and when the vaccine is made available and a shortage of supplies.

But there will be no rationing of health care when the government takes over everything as they do on vaccines. I feel better already. More "Change you can believe in".
web posted November 12, 2009

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Re: (Editor's post) "Taking your money and giving it to those who refuse to work is the "American dream" according to Obama."

Are you implying that everyone who receives food stamps refuses to work?

Editor's note: No, as I plainly stated (remedial English classes may be required to understand the statement) Obama's vision to the "American Dream" is to take money from those who work and give it to those who refuse to work. He ran on a platform of the "redistribution of wealth" as if the government distributes wealth in the first place. It doesn't. It confiscates wealth from those who work and pay taxes.

Maybe if you had to pay taxes every year rather than getting a refund you would understand that concept. Excuse me if I do not want to have my money taken from me and given to the company that might produce the car you own, the bank that finances it, and the lender that holds your mortgage.

Those are your bills, not mine, my children's, or their children be they born or unborn at this point. All with a $38,000 tax debt hung around their necks because of the Obamanator. If you can explain that way, be my guest at trying.
web posted November 12, 2009

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I just got a call from my mother about her hearing on Channel 6 noon news report, that there had been a shooting in Edgefield, during the night, last night. She said no names or details were released, yet. Since you are partnered with channel 6, I can't understand why that story wasn't a Breaking News piece on Edgefielddaily.com, this morning.I read it at around 6:00 this morning and there was nothing about it posted. (content redacted)

Editor's note: After final editing EdgefieldDaily.com's Headlines was published just before 3 am. The shooting took place at 4 am. Updates were made throughout the day on the shooting begining at 2:10 pm Wednesday. The Sheriff's Office was closed due to Veterans Day and until all the facts were available the story was not released.
web posted November 12, 2009

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Today my husband went to a local pharmacy to pick up medicines. He gets these every month and knows the price. Today it was much higher. When he questioned this, he was told he had no insurance coverage. He checked this with the employer and found out that all employees of (two local joint owned companies) had been cancelled--as of OCTOBER 1. They were notified today, about six weeks after the cancellation. Money for the insurance premiums was still deducted during the month of October. He was told that the money for the premiums would be refunded. Still, what kind of employer (who had to know the cancellation was coming) does not give reasonable notice to employees so that other insurance may be obtained? What about the employees who saw specialists or had procedures done during October thinking they had coverage? I think this says a lot about the caliber of the owners of these properties. Surely there must be a legal issue here. We will find out.

Editor's note: I have no way of confirming this information and the comment is the opinion of the poster.
web posted November 12, 2009

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"In my own life, in my own small way, I have tried to give back to this country that has given me so much,” she said. "See, that's why I left a job at a big  law firm for a career in public service, "... Michelle Obama
 
No, Michele Obama does not get paid to serve as the First Lady and she doesn't perform any official duties. But this hasn't deterred her from hiring an unprecedented number of staffers to cater to her every whim and to satisfy her every request in the midst of the Great Recession.
 
Just think, Mary Lincoln was taken to task for purchasing china for the White House during the Civil War. And Mamie Eisenhower had to shell out the salary for her personal secretary from her husband's salary.
 
Total Personal Staff members for other first ladies paid by taxpayers:
 Mamie Eisenhower : 1 paid for personally out of President's salary
 Jackie Kennedy: 1
 Roseline Carter: 1
 Barbara Bush: 1
 Hilary Clinton: 3
 Laura Bush: 1
 Michele Obama: 22
 
How things have changed!
http://canadafreepress.com/index.php/article/12652
web posted November 12, 2009

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I miss the religon column by Rev. Stacy. Is he no longer writing or have you dropped that from Edgefield Daily?

Editor's note: The Religion Section will be returning. The delay on that is my fault, although county events have precluded me from having formal conversations with the local pastor offering to write the column, I needed to make that a priority and I haven't. I have no excuse and apologize for the delay. Pastor Stacey Williams rightfully bowed out as the Edgefield assault on EdgefieldDaily.com began. His columns are archived and you can find his current columns in his blog which is linked from the Edgefield First Baptist Church website.
web posted November 12, 2009

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Editor's post: I see Obama has made his way to being on "his" money. All great Presidents are honored on our money and this is quite fitting. Taking your money and giving it to those who refuse to work is the "American dream" according to Obama.  Hey, maybe we can call them Obamabucks! (Yes, I know this is a spoof so don't write in telling me it is not real. But it should be.)
web posted November 11, 2009

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We met the Tea Party Express at the Augusta Commons Tuesday morning.The weather was terrible and yet there was a good crowd. After the Saturday night vote for the government takeover of healthcare, it was a wonderful thing to see the numbers of people who came out and braved Hurricane Ida to show just how much we love our country and disagree with the direction this administration is taking our country. The Founding Fathers would have to be proud of these Tea Party Patriots 
that took the time and cared enough to attend this gathering. The Tea Party Express folks had a great agenda and entertained everyone with patriotic speeches, stories, and great live music. The military 
tribute was especially moving. There were many veterans in attendance including a World War 2 Veteran and a mother that had lost a child in Iraq. This administration can call us tea-baggers and extremists if they want to, but I bet that they have never seen grown men cry while singing America The Beautiful or listened to a mother whose son is now serving in Iraq, talk of their sacrifice. The local news media was in evidence. I saw reporters from 6,12,and 26. The t.v. reporter from channel 26 was walking around and around trying to find someone that was there against the Tea Party movement. She had no success. I guess that I should not have been surprised when I watched the coverage of the Tea Party event. The so-called news media had to search out the most left-wing voice that they could find, whom I might add, was warm and dry, to interview for an opposing view of the event. As Conservative Americans, my wife and I will continue to fight for the Country we love . Our wish is that Americans will get engaged, step up and and use your God- given voices to speak up, stand up, and fight for the Country that God has bestowed upon us. Freedom is not free, and all that's necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.
web posted November 11, 2009

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i am not suprized that johnston town had a 9 minute meeting. that's what a do nothing mayor does.

Editor's note: To be fair, there was nothing on the agenda so the meeting was short. I'm not sure how the Mayor could extend a meeting time when no items are to be addressed.
web posted November 11, 2009

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RE: Loitering. Years ago in Johnston there was a large beautiful tree at the corners of Edisto and railroad, and it was cut down because people hung out there all day. Now they still hang out on that corner, and also across the street in front of a thrift store. What a waste of time and money to cut down this large tree.

Speaking of wasting time and money, why is it that the town of Johnston has one or two guys ride around in this huge pickup truck to check on debris at peoples homes? Just send out the guys in the chipper and/or leaf truck and clean up the area. Oh wait, the trucks and equipment are always broke. My tax dollars at work!!! And when they do go around and clean up the area, why do they skip over houses only to waste more time and gas and go back to finish. Is this a new definition of job security??
web posted November 11, 2009

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Editor's note: From an Email
Good grief, what's wrong with these Edgefield folks????  Death threats?  Are they so backwards that they don't realize you can trace their addresses and find out who they are?  I mean really!  Boggles the mind.  We have met so many wonderful people here, but I have to tell you.  We've met more than our fair share of nutjobs here as well.

Editor's note: Welcome to Edgefield County.
web posted November 11, 2009

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please put the link to the video back up!

Editor's note: I will have it back later this week.
web posted November 11, 2009

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Do you know who is sending the death threats? Are you going to press charges?

Editor's note: Yes to both.
web posted November 11, 2009

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Have you found out why the school district is blocking the Wandering minds?

Editor's note: I can't imagine. Dr. Crenshaw, Democrat. Majority of the School Board, Democrats. I have no idea why "they" would block freedom of speech. It must be some "right wing" thing. Maybe it was decided at one of the meetings that the other school board members aren't made aware of and didn't attend. If that got out it might cause problems, so, shhhhh.. don't say anything. It's a secret.
web posted November 11, 2009

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Thank you for the story on the Calliham bld. and the estimates you used. It was very informative and I was able to verify everything with the pdf’s. My question is why would the county council put this on the agenda to be approved if they know how much it is going to cost? I’d just file it away quietly and move on to a new building. Is the option of a new building also on the agenda?

Editor’s note: No, there was no other option offered at the Nov. 3 meeting. The ordinance is to purchase the property and begin the remodeling.  It passed on a 3-2 vote. They will ignore the information provided and all the additional costs will be added as “change orders”. You know, those unexpected expenses you did not know about that will cause an increase in taxes.

They will try to hide it in bond issues to cover the costs that would later be shown as "debt service". That will be their downfall and the move to stop it is underway. I cannot reveal what is taking place at this time, but have agreed to publicize it when it is announced.
web posted November 10, 2009

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I just wanted to let everyone know that Johnston is so popular for tourism that the town added a 2% tax to all prepared food sold in the town. So if you go out to eat in Johnston you will have to pay 2% more. Who's idea was that?

Editor's note: That was passed by the town council earlier this year to help balance the budget. The vote, if I recall correctly, was unanimous.
web posted November 10, 2009

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RE: Calling local reps
I have called Shane Massey and left two messages and haven't heard back from him in two weeks. I gave up on Clyburn years ago.

Editor's note: Give him another call. It was most likely an oversight or maybe he hasn't found whatever information you were seeking. Sen. Massey and Rep. Clyburn have always returned my calls promptly. Rep. Don Smith cares about North Augusta first, so Edgefield County is way down his list of priorities  in my opinion.
web posted November 10, 2009

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What happened to the video link on the dancers? That was funny as (heck). I told some friends about it and when they went it was gone? You get another threat?

Editor's note: I got several comments on this. No, there was no threat. I placed it for a few hours on purpose. I may put it back up again this week. Most loved it, some hated it. Someone I am told even suggested I be sued over it. Fat chance there. They are all public officials and can only fuss, stomp their feet, and whine. Stay tuned, there may be more coming. County Attorney Michael Medlock may just take a leading role in one.
web posted November 10, 2009

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Editor's note: Below are some of several comments on the video posted on Monday morning.

OMG!!!!!!!! That JibJab thing was hilarious!!! SICK! but hilarious!!!!

That is a hoot! I about peed in my pants watching it. Put it back up!!!!!!

ROTFLMAO....... Priceless!

The video was just wrong on so many levels. Funny as (removed) but really really wrong.

I thought about how those five goons would be broke if they were dancers LOL. Maybe they should take it up so they'd go away!

Editor's note: No, they would make a lot of money. Of course, they would be getting money to put their clothes back on instead of taking them off.
web posted November 10, 2009

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If you have been getting death threats why hasn't someone been arrested?

Editor's note: The threats have been sent to law enforcement as they are received. I spoke to Assistant Solicitor Ervin Maye today who agreed that the matter would be addressed. If need be, with the grand jury for an indictment. Being that the individual, much like the blogger he feeds upon, is "mentally challanged", I have been reluctant to force criminal actions. However, that has changed. I am now seeking criminal complaints due to recent events not known to the public.
web posted November 10, 2009

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I read (somewhere else) that you (the Editor) are on disability and have this long criminal rap sheet with drugs and stuff. Is any of that true?

Editor's note: Well, it makes good gossip, but there is no big bad "rap sheet" on me. Some brainless person, I assume fed by Bettis Rainsford's libelous half page letter (his hero) a while back accusing me of being on disability, is where he is getting his misguided information. I wish I was, I could sure use the time off with pay. Although I have broken my back in seven places (1983), my neck in two places - causing nerve damage to my left arm and leg (1991), and the loss of one eye (1997), I do not draw a dime in disability.

Unlike some people who turn to the government to be their daddy just because they got their feelings hurt, I pulled myself up by the bootstraps and kept going in my career as an estimator for commercial projects, residential development, and custom millwork design (many of my designs are featured in areas such as Westlake, Northwoods, Jones Creek, and other prominate areas of Augusta). I retired in 2003, but came out of retirement in 2005 to launch EdgefieldDaily.com. To this day I have never drawn a paycheck from running the largest and most widely read media outlet in Edgefield County.

That is why advertising dollars are given to charity. They help others overcome their diasabillities to become productive citizens, help those down on their luck due to circumstances beyond their control, or offer encouragement to our impressionable youth to strive to be the best they can be.

I loath anyone who looks down on someone because of a disability they may have, it shows a total lack of compassion and broadcasts their own narcissistic delusion of grandeur over others. That seems to be the central issue for Bettis Rainsford and your little friend. I use the word "little" figuratively.
web posted November 10, 2009

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You know the Edgefield click is coming down on you big time. Take a look at this email. (removed).

Editor's note: Refer to the comment above. A sword cuts both ways. Search "Edgefield News" on Google and see who tops the list. That would be EdgefieldDaily.com.
web posted November 10, 2009

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Re: The county has no say in what Merriwether seeks

Such venom! All of the laws regarding incorporation have been read several times and downloaded and saved as a Word document. In other states, the law reads as follows "those seeking incorporation must make a request to the Clerk of Court [of the county] that a feasibility study be done to determine whether incorporation is justified". SC Code of Laws does not state this, ergo, the counties of SC are not bound by law to do a feasibility study for any parties wanting to incorporate an area inside of a county, ergo, those persons seeking incorporation are responsible for having a feasibility study done by someone that has qualifications to render such a study. Minimum data needed for a study would include a topographical study done by a topographer to map out the area (boundaries) of the area seeking incorporation. This cost money. Also, geological data would be needed. This would cost money unless you get these services donated (which is possible, but  unlikely). There are many other requirements that would have a cost associated to them, but you seem to ignore this and other relevant information and just want to make personal attacks when information is presented that proves you wrong or invalidates your opinions. Why don't you just sue me for contradicting information you posted.

Editor's note: I worked on a committee several years ago on this matter so I have more than just a reading knowledge of what it takes. I have the maps, studies, and other required information that was used at that time (outdated now of course) and it was all provided by the state, for free. I am handing off my files on this to the group that is seeking to incorporate now so they can reach the same contacts.

What I can't figure out is, why do you care? You don't live in Merriwether. Does Merriwether frighten you for some reason? Are you one of those who think Edgefield is the center of everything, even when they falsely claim to be the "Home of Ten Governors"? You might want to look at the list and see the governors that actually came from "The Town of Edgefield". It's a very short list.
web posted November 10, 2009

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I was shocked to read that someone would threaten to kill you. Please take care of yourself! We NEED you!

Editor’s note: Thank you for your concern. It is unwarranted. The person making the threats has an IQ that is slightly higher than that of the controlling Democrat majority of the county council even if you combine it with the new county attorney. In other words, he’s an idiot.       
web posted November 10, 2009

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Any hope of getting the H1N1 vaccine in Edgefield County... Noticed Aiken has already started immunizations, as well as Georgia...called the Edgefield County Health Dept. and essentially got flipped off with some bull about not being released in our region...what is this region hooey ?  Greenwoods's got it, Aiken's got it...Called Rep. Clyburn...waste of time unless you're black and from Aiken...he does not respond to inquiries from Edgefield...Called Shane Massey, will probably get some right-wing bull about hand-washing...I would call Gresham Barrett, but have never got any more than a "Thank you for your input" comment from that fool...
 
Anybody got any information out there, or are we left to die out here in the boonies.   Hey, why don't some of you African-American pastors call Clyburn, and some of you right-wing yahoos who have donated money to Massey and Barrett make some calls for us...the rest of us don't matter...
 
Now, let's see if we can even GET a response from ANY of our wonderful elected officials...yeah right...
web posted November 9, 2009

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Please join the Facebook page for Merriwether, SC to keep up with what is going on in the area regarding rezoning, annexation, and incorporation
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Merriwether-SC/162871673086
web posted November 9, 2009

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Sometimes you are encouraged about our country's future when you see something like this. Specifically, there is an annual contest at Texas A&M University calling for the most appropriate definition of a contemporary term: This year's term was "Political Correctness."

The winner wrote:

"Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rapidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up feces by the clean end."
web posted November 9, 2009

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Let's see, how much does the town have in reserves?  How dangerous is the tresel?
web posted November 9, 2009

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How the Democrats passed the Obamacare Health Care Bill.  Click the link below if you care socialism is being rammed down your throat.

http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/healthcare/66717-obamacare-endorsements-what-the-bribe-was
web posted November 9, 2009

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Re:  During the band championship, we watched the STHS kids play their hearts out in the pouring rain. They did a fantastic job!!  The fact that they came in 4th makes me wonder how much, if any, of the points awarded go toward the actual program selection??   Don't know who chooses the theme for the programs, but SURELY someone could have thought of something a little more positive than "Criminal" ????---HELLO!!!  To portray: 1. all black kids  2. dressed in orange jail suits  3. with simulated rifles  4. sneaking around, is extremely poor taste at best, and insulting at worst--to say nothing of the implications involved.  That program was an extremely poor representation of this county, of this school, and of these kids who worked so long and hard.  Our kids deserve better than that!!!!  The fact that they played so well--in spite of a terrible & tasteless program, and in spite of the pouring rain, is a tribute to these kids--they deserve to hold their heads up high!!
 
 
Ok, really? Make up your mind! How can you think that its a "vulgar and tasteless program" and also think that they should hold their heads up high? I am not in the marching band as STHS, but I sat there and got soaking wet that night watching them and supporting them. My best friends are in the band, and the above comments did more harm than good to them.
 
Are you aware that the color guard were the ones wearing the jumpsuits? And that they voluntarily signed up to be in the color guard? It's merely a coincidence that they were all African American! I'm so sorry! So the program was tasteless, IT WAS BASED ON SMOOTH CRIMINAL! I'm sorry we couldn't have clowns like the winning team, but our program was very in line with the theme.
 
Id just like to say once and for all, that our band should be respected and admired for their performance, not being criticicized for a program that wasnt their choice. 
web posted November 9, 2009

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I feel I have to make a comment about a post fom last week. Re:Nasty, attitudes of the water dept. clerks. I know all three female clerks, and I agree about the attitude,but it is only one. The other two are as nice and friendly, as anyone working with the public should be. I hate to see them getting a bad rap over that one bad apple.Don't judge them all over one Nasty Nellie!
web posted November 9, 2009

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Editor's note: Two readers submitted a link to the certification of teachers. Please find both below:

The link for teacher certification is http://www.scteachers.org/titleii/certinq.cfm.  Since it was used in the past to check Fox Creek teachers, I checked again out of curiosity.  There are thirty teachers listed for Fox Creek: 22 are certified and 8 are not.  Interestingly enough, a Spanish teacher who has been at the school since it opened is still not certified.  Something seems strange about that.

Link to teacher certification site:
http://www.scteachers.org/titleii/certinq.cfm
web posted November 9, 2009

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The county taxpayers are not going to pay for feasibility study for the Kingdom of Merriwether, and there is a fee for incorportaion.

SECTION 5 1 30. Prerequisites to issuance of corporate certificate to proposed municipality.

(3) the area seeking to be incorporated has filed a service feasibility study that has been reviewed by the Joint Legislative Committee on Municipal Incorporation and approved by the Secretary of State;

SECTION 5 1 80. Incorporation fees.

(1) of one thousand or less, one hundred dollars;
(2) between one thousand and five thousand, three hundred dollars;
(3) over five thousand, six hundred dollars.

The law is unclear in SC, but in other states, the County Council has to vote on wether a feasibility study is warranted. Looks like you are screwed.

Editor's note: Wow.... okay, I will give Merriwether the $100. You obviously have a hard time reading ALL of the information in the law. The county has no say in what Merriwether seeks. Let me guess, you attended classes with Norman Dorn in your past. 
web posted November 9, 2009

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The article on the Calliham bld blew me away. If what you claim is true how can they (the Edgefield County Council) vote to spend that kin(d) of money?

Editor's note: The costs are not claims by EdgefieldDaily.com, they are from the county and 2KM. EdgefieldDaily.com is reporting what they provided. The estimates are linked in the report.
web posted November 7, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: So? Your point is what? Read on in the law and you might actually learn something.

My point is who is going to put the upfront money to pay for all the expenses. Are you, the King, going to pay for it? Is your wife going to finance it? Is a bank going to finance it? You act as if all these services are going to be donated to the Kingdom of Merriwether. The lawyers fees alone will run into the tens of thousands of dollars. How large an area do you intend to incorporate? Will it include your abode? Will it include the Merriwether schools? Where will the municipal building be built? Will the Fox Creek Board of Trustees be the de facto commissioners or TOwn Council for the first two years. Who will do the feasibility study?

Editor's note: There is no cost to those seeking incorporation.  As I said before, read the laws.
web posted November 7, 2009

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Kudos to Edgefield Daily for doing what the local papers won't........ printing everything. Why isn't this info in the papers? Do they have this information or is this something (EdgefieldDaily.com) got by going the extra mile?

Editor's note: The information used in the report was provided to all local media. EdgefieldDaily.com was the only outlet that provided it to the public.
web posted November 7, 2009

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The reason the 3 county council members keep getting back in office is because most (I said most, not all) voters in their districts don't/can't  hold a job (so they don't pay taxes and could care less) and/or cannot even read.   The educated people in those districts are out numbered by the numbnut loafers, freeloaders and govm't check recipients to make a change.
 
Now on the recreation funds from concessions;  Does the county buy the stock, food and drinks to sell?  If they don't, why should the money go "back" to them when they never put the money up?  Maybe I just don't understand or know how it works or is suppose to work, so please enlighten me.  I do know that the soccer league this year is going without concessions because of all this BS.

Editor's note: The parks in Johnston and Edgefield were built and paid for by the towns. If they want to run the concessions there I have no problem with that. However, when the county owned concession stand at the county operated park at Bettis was taken over it had inventory paid for by the county. That inventory was then sold to produce profits used to buy more inventory to create profits that were diverted to a "non-profit"according to County Council Vice-chairman Willie Bright, not the recreation leagues. That means county funds were used and then diverted against county law to an entity not authorized to use county funds for profit.

I had a conversation with Sheriff Dobey about this fact today and he was unaware of that fact, which perked his interest.

The county paid for the Bettis Park concession stand, it's original contents, and is responsible for its  present upkeep, power, insurance, and other costs and therefore it is required to recieve its profits.
web posted November 6, 2009

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On Wednesday night I sat in the stands watching the 9 and 10 year old Edgefield Bulldogs against the Johnston Bears and again Johnston was caught not playing by the rules. This has happened more than once . All coaches are given rules to follow ,but the Johnston coaches repeatedly fail to play by the rules ! The rule not being followed states that a player in the 1st and 3rd quarter may only play one way meaning they play offense these quarters or they play only defense . At this age level all players are still learning the game and all should play ! These coaches are not leading our youth in the right way . The Johnston coaches are only concerned with winning every game no matter what they have to do to win . They try to keep their better players on the field the whole game. It is ashamed that these men are allowed to coach the youth in Edgefield County ! They should be band from coaching our youth due to what's called cheating, not following the rules and not guiding our youth in the right direction . These boys are at an impressionable age and should be taught descent morals. Recreation director and Edgefield County  football board get involved these caoches need to be stopped !
web posted November 6, 2009

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Dear Mr. Editor,
It takes a big man to apologize. I don’t know why you did. I thought you were spot on! Thanks for everything you do!!!
web posted November 6, 2009

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I picked up a copy of the Edgefield Advertiser that was laying on the counter today while eating lunch and noticed that they had a report on the town hall meeting by Mrs. Blackwell and Mr. Ashcraft. The story was convoluted and read like something a high school student wrote. Do you know who they had reporting on the meeting? What a joke! I found it interesting that Mrs. Blackwell and Mr. Ashcraft held the meeting but the only picture they had was of (Sen.) Shane Massey and a planning commissioner. Did Shane (Massey) speak at the meeting?

Editor's note: The Edgefield Advertiser's publisher Suzanne Derrick covered the meeting. Sen. Massey did not speak and actually came in towards the end of the meeting. I read the article and found it inaccurate including when she wrote, "A woman in the audience, who, does not work at Hagler, and presumably, lives very close by, stated..." was in fact the only employee of the company attending the meeting. Other than her complete destruction of syntax and sentence structure, she is either ill informed, irresponsible, or is intentionally trying to mislead her readers.
web posted November 6, 2009

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You're afraid your cancer is back, and a health insurance company just turned you down.

Under the health care bills in Congress, you could apply for coverage through a new high-risk pool that President Barack Obama promises would immediately start serving patients with pre-existing medical problems.

Wait a second. Read the fine print. You may have to be uninsured for six months to qualify.

"If you are a cancer patient and have cancer now, you can't wait six months to go into a plan because your condition can go from bad to death," said Stephen Finan, a policy expert with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. He called the waiting period in the Senate bill "unacceptable."
web posted November 6, 2009

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What do you have to apologize for? Telling the truth? Stand tall my good man. You are doing God's work.
web posted November 6, 2009

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Dear Editor,
This is intended to be humorous but I thought it quite odd that the property owner on US 25 having items removed by two men in a Dodge truck would place charges instead of paying the men to remove unwanted items. Just kidding!!!!

Editor's note: I have received many similar comments.
web posted November 6, 2009

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A friend sent me the new 'anti-wandering minds' blog. Though I certainly support free speech, including anonymous free speech, it seems rather silly as well as hard to read.

Editor's note: I have visited the blog once and that was enough for me. I do find it ironic that the blogger is one of those who says the Wandering Minds comment section of EdgefieldDaily.com is so offensive because of the "negative" comments by citizens and yet he is more vile than anything I would ever allow into the Wandering Minds. I would suggest you ignore the mental midget, he has a obsession with me and County Council members Blackwell and Ashcraft. At least I don't kick walls when I lose in my profession.
web posted November 6, 2009

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The Tea Party Express is booming. Let your readers know they can follow the events here. We will be in Augusta on Tues. Nov. 10 at 10:30 am at the Augusta Commons. Join us to take back our country!
web posted November 6, 2009

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the Chicago Tribune did a watchdog piece on the Administration’s job saving/creating claims. The first two paragraphs virtually jump off the page.

More than $4.7 million in federal stimulus aid so far has been funneled to schools in North Chicago, and state and federal officials say that money has saved the jobs of 473 teachers. Problem is, the district employs only 290 teachers. The article goes on to list a series of similar discrepancies in other counties. And, we thought China was playing with the numbers.
web posted November 6, 2009

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In a rare move, Democrats on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on Thursday approved a sweeping climate change bill with all Republicans boycotting the voting.
The bill would require cuts in greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent over the next decade from 2005 levels. But Republicans warned the bill would leave consumers with higher energy bills.

"This would be the largest tax increase in the history of America," Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., one of the seven committee Republicans, told Fox News. "I can only conclude that they don't want the public to know how much money this thing is going to cost."

Inhofe, who said the committee typically needs two minority members present to advance a bill to the floor, called the vote Thursday "unprecedented."

One Democrat, Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., voted against the bill. Ten Democrats voted for it.

Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., chairwoman of the committee, applauded the vote in a written statement Thursday.

"We are pleased that despite the Republican boycott, we have been able to move the bill," she said.

She defended the decision not to seek an EPA analysis, calling such a study "duplicative and a waste of taxpayer dollars."   Now that is something new. Since when do Democrats worry about wasting taxpayer money????????
web posted November 6, 2009

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It is good to see Tommy Burton reminding us that he votes against progress, as usual. The Peach museum -- vastly different from the Calliham building -- has been a great addition to Johnston, brings in visitors, and continues to be another good way to publicize the town. I wonder if he's had a chance to scream at any other "punk a--" children in his neighborhood. Wasn't there a warrent taken out on him for that?

Editor's note: No, only a police report was taken on the matter.
web posted November 6, 2009

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Let President Obama know that it is an ill-conceived idea to move terrorists to South Carolina by signing this petition.
web posted November 6, 2009

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Re: Editor's note: If you do not understand millage rates I do not have the space to educate you on the matter. The mills for fire would be removed (9 mills) then added back in (that would be a wash) and the local government set up would not have to pay for much to run the area. Police protection would be farmed out to the Sheriff's Office (cost: less than a mill) for a full time deputy in the area. Garbage pick-up is already privatized so there is no cost for that, and elected leaders would draw little or no pay. The voters would control that.

Certificate of Incorporation Prerequisites

1) An approved service feasibility study for the proposed municipality has been filed with the Secretary of State, evaluated by the Joint Legislative Committee on Municipal Incorporation, and approved by the Secretary of State. ($10,000 - $50,000 minimum)

Editor's note: So? Your point is what? Read on in the law and you might actually learn something.
web posted November 6, 2009

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Editor's post: I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to readers of the Wandering Minds for a comment I posted on Wednesday. I let anger and frustration get the best of me. Generally I try to keep that in check, but once in a while it builds to a point that I lash out. I was wrong for lashing out the way I did.

I am a better man than that and I apologize for the mean spirited way I made the comment. I removed it midday.

Perhaps I love this county too much. I guess because of the deep love that I have for this county, and my community, I am overly protective of it.

I want true open government. I want truthful and honorable leaders to be what others see when they come here. Sadly that is not the case and I guess sometimes I try too hard to make that a reality and when it is dashed and thrown to the wayside like trash it hurts me personally and very deeply.

I would love nothing more than to be able to praise our county leadership for the wonderful direction they are taking us, but I cannot. I cannot because I will not lie.

I still hold the stated opinions of the elected leaders mentioned: Monroe Kneece, Willie Bright, Norman Dorn, Sallie Cooks, James Bibbs, Viola Jackson, and Mary Alice Jackson, but I was wrong for the way I expressed that opinion.

Having said that, I hope readers will accept my apology for my comment on Wednesday.

On another note, Johnston Town Councilman Tommy Burton called to say that the poster commenting on the $10,000 that was given away by the Town of Johnston (I have no idea who it was given to or when it was done) was not something he supported. Mr. Burton stated he was the only member of the Johnston Town Council to vote against the measure.
web posted November 5, 2009

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I say go Merriwether and ignore the tactics that say you will pay higher taxes. I don't know, but I would think your taxes might be less if you don't have to pay for white elephants like the Calliham building and you don't allow crooks to steal from the county (removed).  How can these morons show their faces in town? If I was as underhanded and crooked as they appear to be I would be embarrassed to ever show up in town , let alone at a public meeting. What I really like is Mr. Bright's association to a church. Better start reading and applying the Bible, buddy. You are going to face the Lord one day and what will you say.  Oh yeah, " I just don't know what happened to that money". Right!!!!
web posted November 5, 2009

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Yeah  bet our 3 idiots council members was laughing to the bank when they voted yes on theses issues last night!  Its about 7:30 pm and Hagler has 3 big cranes going and lights up all over the place.  I'M sure they have a been smile too! 

I hope the people  of edgefield will vote the idiots out! But in the mean time i want to  say thanks for everything council (members) Blackwell and Ashcraft did to stop the rezoning at Hagler.  I'm glad that the (person) i voted for heard the people and took our side on this matter. You should hold your head up high because you did a great job on fighting this issue for us. You did a great job and keep it up!! 

Man old Dorn got his restroom, Willie Bright got paid (removed) ,his non profit and Hagler and last but not least Monroe Kneece got (removed) a $15,000 bouns from Ken Durham! 

Hey Ken since the city has so much money how about  giving me $15,000 to move away from Hagler!
web posted November 5, 2009

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Re: Calliham Property,
I'd like to see county offices located there. You gotta admit it is a good location. I do think that the existing building should be bulldozed and new offices built there. It is a very centralized location. If I've got to spend my tax money on keeping up shoddy offices built inside the existing building, or go the extra money to make decent offices, I'd prefer the latter. Also, I like to see the empty hotel across from the square razed and multi-level parking garage built in its place. This sure would alleviate some of the parking problems during court and other high traffic events on the square. Just my 2 cents worth. Keep up the good work!
web posted November 5, 2009

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Principals who hold their teachers accountable and NOT their students will eventually end up losing both groups.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Congratulations to Marcelis Thompson and Jonathan Williams on being selected to the North-South All Star game roster. Congratulations to Lee Sawyer for being named a North team assistant coach. Way to go guys!

Editor's note: Sports writer Tim Crane has a great article on this in today's Sports Section.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Mr. Editor,
I have recently heard that some of the businesses that advertise on your website have been "prodded" to cancel their ads with you.  If this is true, then I wish you would post which businesses if any, have folded on you.  I read your website on a daily basis.  If anything, your site continually supports and promotes the patronizing of local businesses as do you personally (I've seen you frequenting local eating establishments).  In looking over your site, I have noticed that the NWTF advertising is gone.  If this is due to them succumbing to being "prodded" by those who so obviously fear you and your site, I would really like to know.  If this is indeed the case, their lack of support for your local entity will be matched by the lack of support from me and mine for theirs.  Maybe my last visit to the new NWTF store will be my last visit ever to the NWTF store.   

Editor's note: I was contacted by Brian Dowler, NWTF Public Relations Manager, and was informed he was told to pull the ad. He refused to give a reason. I did inform him that if advertising was a problem then I would make sure not to bring any harm to the NWTF by not covering any of their events, press releases, or announcements to our over 23,000 readers. Thier loss, not mine.

The sad part of the situation is advertising dollars are used to support local charities such as Relay for Life, the Fishing Rodeo, and many others I do not publicize. Not one penny of advertising dollars ever reaches my pocket. That is why advertising rates have not changed in five years although readership has increased 100 fold.
web posted November 5, 2009

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The trees are older than we thought? What? $2000 my foot. Where did these trees come from, somebodys backyard? The local landscaper that was favored to do the work should be required to replace them at no cost,  considering the original cost of the project.
web posted November 5, 2009

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There is a manical, schizophrenic, deeply paranoid blogger loose in Edgefield County.  The hatred, malevolence and antagonism that spews from this black beast could not come from someone compos mentis.  This obviously unstable individual (if it is only one) seems to think that his/her remarks are in someway cute and quirky when they are in reality offensive to read and mortifying to those of us residing in this county that are sane.  Never has Edgefield Daily.com ever published the distortion and mendacity that belches from this blogger.  Edgefield Daily.com is like a cool drink on a hot August day in Edgefield County compared to this Jim Jones like creature who does not offer you the tainted kool-aid in a Dixie cup, but tries to force feed you with a funnel thinking you are too ignorant to recognize the obvious.  One visit is one too many for me.  Those who are responsible for the disdainful site could really use lessons on class and couth from Edgefield Daily.com.
 
If you choose not to post this for fear of generating interest in this (dung) hole of a site, I totally understand.  Keep the faith.

Editors note: I know the identity of the blogger. I will expose his identity very soon. I have written him and even given him three choices as to how he would like me to reveal his identity. He has not responded. He is blogging from his office and I know his IP address, his ISP, and what his operating system is (computer system).

What a rank amateur, on many levels.
web posted November 5, 2009

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A few years ago, you provided your readers with a website from the State Dept. of Education that allowed the public to check teacher certification within  the various schools in our district.  Would you mind posting the link again?

Editor's note: That link was provided by an avid reader and I am unable to locate the post. Perhaps she will send it in again and I will save it for future reference.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Question:  Was the person who stated they were interested and wanted to work for incorporation serious or just blowing off steam?  If serious, let's form a group of citizens to study this issue as well as other issues which affect everyone in Edgefield County.  This group should be and could be working with our council members to give them guidance and support in making informed decisions.  We could also be sure all citizens in Edgefield County get accurate information and keep the "light on".  Obviously there are 3 council members who disregard the citizens' wishes and go against common sense to perform as a select few wish. 
 
This citizens group could push for issues and hold the council responsible when issues arise such as the "concession stand revenues", Calliham purchase and renovations, rezoning areas against the wishes of residents, etc.   If the Calliham purchase and renovations total more than they are currently stating and approving, when concession stand revenues are being used by the leagues their budget should be reduced accordingly, when the rezoned areas create a problem for residents, hold these council members accountable for their votes. Another issue why are we putting any recreation funds in a "park" which has no recreation activities?  How many youth are even available and wanting to use this park? 
 
Right now there are no consequences for this council and there should be.  They should be put on notice each time they vote and should have to explain why they vote as they do.   This citizens group can make sure constituents in their districts understand how their votes can affect them when these council members campaign for re-election.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Can you publish the estimates the county has on the Calliham building? How can they claim it is only going to cost around $625,000 and you claim it is between a million and 2 million? Who's telling the truth?

Editor's note: To your last question first, I am. I will have the orginal documents online by Friday.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Wandering minds is still blocked by the Edgefield County School District.  They are being ridiculous.  Go after them Edgefield Daily!!!!!!

Editor's note: I was hoping it would not come to this, but I guess it has. Please go to other local news sites and see if you are able to read comment sections or forums and report back. If you are able to reach those areas, I guess I will have to take action against the School District.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Has anyone else noticed this wave of break ins in the Merriwether area started about the same time they built the government housing project near here? Just wondering if I'm the only one.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Re: Obviously you failed math. The increase in taxes to support an incorporated Merriwether would not add more than 4 mills to a tax bill (a whopping $20 to $30 a year on a $150,000 home and full controll of the community). Oh, I forgot, you're a democrat.... numbers don't matter to you.

Explain to me like i am a 5th grader how an incorporated Kingdom of Merriwether could build a town infrastructure from a 4 mill increase of property taxes for only those that would live in the incorporated area?

Editor's note: If you do not understand millage rates I do not have the space to educate you on the matter. The mills for fire would be removed (9 mills) then added back in (that would be a wash) and the local government set up would not have to pay for much to run the area. Police protection would be farmed out to the Sheriff's Office (cost: less than a mill) for a full time deputy in the area. Garbage pick-up is already privatized so there is no cost for that, and elected leaders would draw little or no pay. The voters would control that.
web posted November 5, 2009

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Why do we have 5 (five) members on council, when every vote is 3-2.  Those three idiots that vote together for all issues, aren’t to smart. But we all know Dorn,  Monroe, and dumb Bright.  These people take so much money from the citizens I just don’t understand why S.L.E.D. doesn’t decide to investigate.

Even the SHERIFF is afraid to pursue this investigation into Willie Bright alledged, removing money from Bettis Acadamy recreation funfds ?

It makes sense, because have you ever seen a black do any thing for his people. Probably after they get fat.
web posted November 5, 2009

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No Nativity Scene In Washington This Year !
 
There will be no Nativity Scene in Washington this year! The Supreme Court has ruled that there cannot be a Nativity Scene in the United States Capital this Christmas season. 
 
This isn't for any religious reason. They simply have not been able to find Three Wise Men in the Nation's Capitol.  A search for a Virgin continues.

There will be no problem however, finding enough asses to fill the stable .
web posted November 5, 2009

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$15,000 is not a lot of money? That's the same way the former Mayor of Johnston said when he gave $10,000 for the peach museum.  and the whole council voted to give the money away.  Can we come up with better ideas to spend tax money>

Editor's note: The Town of Edgefield has over $1.2 million is reserves. If they are really interested in "investing in the town" why don't they buy the "dilapidated" Calliham building (as Mayor Durham called it) if it only costs $315,000?  He knows the true cost of the project and wants to pass it off on the county taxpayers so we can pay to pour more money into the town for free. Funny how his preliminary estimates have been shot down as false. What did he quote? $30-$40 a square foot... $60 on an outside range? Why... where did the $114 a foot range come from? Not from me... but professionals.

I forgot, I am the one lying to the people when I said the base line estimate was $90 a foot.
web posted November 4, 2009

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How much revenue has been collected from fines regarding the trestle? The town has known about the problem for years. I heard on a local news station (quoting Edgefielddaily.com), that fines range from $125.00 to $1000.00. Sounds like the trestle is a money maker for the town. No wonder why they don't want to address the problem. Lowering the road is not an option. Have you ever been through a drive through where you have to pass under a PVC pipe to ensure your clearance before you proceed to the window that's under an awning? Maybe a set of height markers, along with a stop/warning light of sorts, should be implemented. The town will say that it is too costly as well. An accident will happen again. How much is a life worth?
web posted November 4, 2009

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I am very happy that we have a local park for our children to play, but it seems that someone is intentionally tearing up things there. Just 2 weeks ago there were 2 (of the original 4) springy ride-on toys still standing. This week there is only one left. The three metal bases from the others are still in the ground, but no new ride-on toys have been put in place.
Also, a friend and I had to walk around the entire park before we could let our toddlers play because of the debris everywhere... pencils, coins, wrappers, cup lids, bottle tops... you name it, it was there. Surely the parents who bring their children can make sure they clean up behind themselves.
Also, is it possible to have some equipment installed for younger children? It seems the 1-3-year-old kids don't have much to play on that is safe for them. Most of the things there are either too high, or have too large of openings where the younger kids could get caught or even fall right through.
I do walk with my younger child, but it would be nice if I didn't have to hold his hand during his every move. Even just a small swing set with those bucket seats would be a great addition.
Thank you!

Editor's note: Call me crazy, but I bet the $15,000 Mayor Ken Durham wants to give the county for the "dilapidated" Calliham building is far better spent than providing for the citizens of the town of Edgefield actual services.
web posted November 4, 2009

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During the band championship, we watched the STHS kids play their hearts out in the pouring rain. They did a fantastic job!!  The fact that they came in 4th makes me wonder how much, if any, of the points awarded go toward the actual program selection??   Don't know who chooses the theme for the programs, but SURELY someone could have thought of something a little more positive than "Criminal" ????---HELLO!!!  To portray: 1. all black kids  2. dressed in orange jail suits  3. with simulated rifles  4. sneaking around, is extremely poor taste at best, and insulting at worst--to say nothing of the implications involved.  That program was an extremely poor representation of this county, of this school, and of these kids who worked so long and hard.  Our kids deserve better than that!!!!  The fact that they played so well--in spite of a terrible & tasteless program, and in spite of the pouring rain, is a tribute to these kids--they deserve to hold their heads up high!!
web posted November 4, 2009

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Re: I say lets incorporate like was talked about at the meeting. Then WE get to decide what happens in Merriwether.

This statement really perplexes me. I have a few comments about the request and desire for this incorporation. If you think your property taxes are high now, then let Merriwether incorporate and see your property taxes go up as much as 30-50%. If you lived in the incorporated area, you would still have to pay county property taxes and then town property taxes for the incorporated area. The incorporated area would have to tax to establish a local government, police force, sanitation, government offices, government employees, etc. Property taxes are determined by how many taxable properties are in the incorporated area. This determines the millage rate and then properties/possessions are taxed at this rate. This could run into the millions of dollars. Where would the center of Merriwether be located? How much area would be incorporated? How many people would the Town of Merriwether have in its boundaries? When you become an incorporated area, then you have
 to abide by all state and federal laws, i.e., you would have to provide access to the handicapped in all buildings, etc. Are the residents of Meriwether ready to put up that kind of cash?

Editor's note: Obviously you failed math. The increase in taxes to support an incorporated Merriwether would not add more than 4 mills to a tax bill (a whopping $20 to $30 a year on a $150,000 home and full controll of the community). Oh, I forgot, you're a democrat.... numbers don't matter to you.
web posted November 4, 2009

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If Merriwether should incorporate on their own, is there anyway surrounding areas could join them? Take for example Mt. Vintage? Wouldn't it be something if the taxes from there went somewhere other than Edgefield County? Then I wonder if Mr. Neece would be able to brag about the increase in county funds over the last five years. What an idiot-where does he think that money came from? He is a walking , talking puppet of some pretty shady characters.  I continue to ask what or who is he afraid of? Makes one wonder and one's mind wander.
 
This whole Calliham thing stinks to high heaven. How can your friend, Mr. Durham, lie to people the way he does and sleep at night?  We know there are others who sleep just fine because they have no conscience. I guess maybe he is in the same boat?  What a shame for Edgefield and Edgefield County. Keep the light shining--maybe at some point it will wake them up. I doubt it, they are pretty sound sleepers.
web posted November 4, 2009

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As a taxpayer whose taxes continue to go up and who sees the schools in Edgefield, where most of my tax money goes, continue to decline, I am not happy about replacing (AGAIN) the trees on the square for any amount of money.  The ones cut down to plant the current ones were beautiful.  What is going on?  Methinks I smell a rat.
web posted November 4, 2009

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To the (person) that quoted

"There has been a business where Haglers are located for many years, before any thing was built along Five Notch and Murrah near them.  All these people who are opposed to Haglers expansion have moved there knowing the business was there.  Their complaints about the lights and noise are ridiculous.  Didn't they notice that before they bought or built?
Hagler employs 60 people.  They pay enough in taxes annually to Edgefield County that is more than a teacher's annual salary.  With unemployment in double digits and the budget crunch this county is suffering under we need to be encouraging businesses to expand, not trying to run them out of the county. I hope the council will realize the greater good and ignore petty complaints."


Well i have lived here for 20 years and it wasn't till a year and half ago theses problems started.  My  home was here before they were! So there was no lights or noise!!! For your comment on 60 employees how many are legal US tax paying citizens???  From the looks of it i would say about 20!!!
web posted November 4, 2009

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Editor's post: I ran this again today as the picture did not load properly yesterday:

I would also like to note how Mayor Ken Durham described the wonderful building the county is prepared to buy. When it was discussed earlier it was a wonderful building, strong, in great shape. Last night Mayor Durham called the Calliham building "delapidated". 

Sometimes a picture really does speak more than a 10,000 words. Check out the Happenings Section for a Tea Party set for Nov. 10 in Augusta. Poor little girl, just wait until they throw on the cost of Socialized Health care.


Please send your comments to edgefielddaily@att.net or click here until the problems are corrected.
web posted November 3, 2009

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The Strom Thurmond Rebel Regiment showed true determination, guts and character at State competition.  Those are attributes that are more valuable than any placement in a competition.
Even though fourth best 2A band in South Carolina is not to shabby. They were the only band that performed in heavy rains and they did it like it was blue skies. It was the most awsome thing I have ever seen!!! They are first class and that is better than any state title.

Editor's note: They are all Champs in my book.
web posted November 3, 2009

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Do you have any updates on the deputy that was hurt in the head on crash a while back? I haven't seen anything on it.

Editor's note: She was released from the hospital a few days later. She is still recovering from her injuries and should be able to return to work soon.
web posted November 3, 2009

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Skip reading this is you are offended easily, I was offended by what I saw. Yes I know there is a group of people who feel it is their right to wear their pants so they show boxers and all God gave them. But it is not their right to fondle them selves in public. Not just a quick scratch but a continues fondle in a  N.Aug. fast food restaurant. If I can press charges next I time I will call 911. Maybe he had an STD, and that is why he wear his pants so low ?
web posted November 3, 2009

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What time is the (County Council) meeting Mrs. Blackwell talked about at the town hall meeting?

Editor's note: Tonight at 6:00 pm at the County Council Chambers located on Jeter Street behind the courthouse. Be forewarned, I doubt Chairman Kneece will allow anyone to speak. They have already made up their minds (or, more correctly, they have been told what to do so they don't have to listen to you.)
web posted November 3, 2009

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Why does everything that happens in Merriwether get decided by the nitwits in Edgefield? I say lets incorporate like was talked about at the meeting. Then WE get to decide what happens in Merriwether. Do you know the name of the man that said he would head that up? I never got a chance to ask him his name?

Editor's note: I have sent the name to you via email. Until he states he wants it released I will not place it in the Wandering Minds.
web posted November 3, 2009

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There has been a business where Haglers are located for many years, before any thing was built along Five Notch and Murrah near them.  All these people who are opposed to Haglers expansion have moved there knowing the business was there.  Their complaints about the lights and noise are ridiculous.  Didn't they notice that before they bought or built?
Hagler employs 60 people.  They pay enough in taxes annually to Edgefield County that is more than a teacher's annual salary.  With unemployment in double digits and the budget crunch this county is suffering under we need to be encouraging businesses to expand, not trying to run them out of the county.
I hope the council will realize the greater good and ignore petty complaints.

Editor's note: Normally I might agree, however, Hagler has no plans (not now or in the next 10 years by his own admission) to expand. So why change the zoning now? The reason is because someone else has plans for the property and will pay a premium if Hagler gets the zoning changed. In other words... somebody is trying to pull a fast one. Besides, the overwhelming majority who lives around the business disagree and are the one affected by the change.
web posted November 3, 2009

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I would like to know how the director of the emergency management agency of edgefield county could actually drive by an motor vehicle accident and not stop to render assistance? Instead he keeps going and uses his fire radio to report this MVA to dispatch and asks to have a deputy go and check it out. Too the last of my knowledge Mike Casey is a registered emergency medical technician at the basic level and he should know that he has a responsibility to stop and render assistance.

Editor's note: As I understood there were no injuries to assist with. He called to notify there was a collision and the people just standing around.
web posted November 3, 2009

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What a fitting Halloween story, a zombie that will not die--the Calliham building purchase.  Will the County Council give the taxpayers of Edgefield County the courtesy of making public all of the studies we have paid for leading up to this proposed ordinance as well as financial projections for the complete cost of the rehabilitation versus building new?  It would also be nice to see a five year projections of operating costs once the space is occupied as well as the costs of being the Callihams landlord.  A wise man once said that the best disinfectant is sunshine.  Edgefield County Council-- if the proposed purchase makes economic sense for the county, let the sun shine in.
web posted November 2, 2009

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Representatives in the Merriweather area are not only listening, they are actually speaking  and voting for us. The whole council should be working this way.    Look at the votes on most issues and you will see a pattern (usually 3 to 2).   Mr. Dorn voting with the other two just to get your bathroom, how has that worked for you?  Citizens are being enlightened, shining the light on issues others would rather keep in the dark. 
 
The question raised, can we attend the council meetings?  This county belongs to all citizens.  It is your right to attend and voice your opinion.  The Chairman and other two members give the impression you have no say and have no right to speak.  Guess again, you not only have a right, you have a responsibility.  To the person wanting to consider and work towards incorporation, that is not the only answer.  Organizing a group of concerned citizens who will be strong in support of the community, not just for this issue, but for any issue would be a good beginning.  There is lots of information out there, talented people willing to work and wanting to accomplish things. 
 
Those who attended the meeting held by Mrs. Blackwell and Mr. Ashcraft should  join forces, invite all interesed parties to join and attend the council meeting next Tuesday evening to express your opposition before the vote..  This is the third reading.  If you really are opposed to the rezoning you should bring out the crowd and show support for your stance.  Let all others, especially the members who do not represent your area, know that you are tired of them voting against your wishes. 
 
Beyond that there are many issues in which a group such as this can  be involved.  Many will remember Lacy wanted to rezone the Martintown Road area several years ago.   Due to citizens complaints, this was voted down.   Guess what, here it comes again.    Yes, you can attend the planning commission meetings.  Together the citizens, planning commission and economic development should come together.  There is a place for commercial, retail, industrial development and residential development in the county.  Each area should compliment one another..  Isn't that what the planning commission statement says?  Doesn't that make sense?
 
The purchase of the Calliham building and the costs associated with that should be of concern.  The cost will be borne by the taxpayer whether it is through insurance funds alone or tax revenue, it is the taxpayer's money the council is spending.   Would any of those voting for this purchase take the money out of their pocket and spend it just as foolishly?  I think not.. Wasteful spending by this council will cost us all for many years to come.
web posted November 2, 2009

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I saw a bumper sticker recently on a vehicle that said " I vote Democrat, it's not my wallet". I was so angry I had to pull over, now they're just taunting us! I don't see how someone can advertise thier ignorance like that and not be embarassed to be around other people.

Editor's note: Democrats have no shame. Take a look around. Kneece, Dorn, Bright, Sallie Cooks, James Bibbs, Viola Jackson, and Mary Alice Jackson. They are there to rule, not represent. Hey Monroe Kneece, nice company you keep with your voting.
web posted November 2, 2009

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Ref: Purchase of the Calliham property.

From a taxpayers view, Ken Durham is pushing the purchase so his construction company can bid, win, and rake in the cash for the remodeling. On another related note, Why not use the money to build something to keep our youth off the streets. They are our future, and it is needed more than letting Calliham run his business essentially rent-free ($1.00). The county owns the old property...build it
there. This all stinks like a pile of cow (stuff).
web posted November 2, 2009

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Why won't Hillary (Clinton) and the Dems say this here? Maybe they do but the state run media won't cover it. Hillary said In America "We tax everything that moves and doesn’t move". Thanks for the overseas press doing the job the US Democrat media won't.
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/print.asp?page=2009\10\30\story_30-10-2009_pg1_1
web posted November 2, 2009

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Please post this so everyone can read it. Thank you. State launches boycott of 'unconstitutional' federal laws Urges 49 others to join in combating government's 'abuse of authority'
web posted November 2, 2009

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I would like to add that I think the article about changing the truck route to Star Road is an excellent article.   This should be further investigated.   This may be the answer to the whole problem.  
web posted November 2, 2009

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God made school boards for practice, then made idiots.
Mark Twain
 
Who would have thought Mark Twain ever visited Edgefield County?
web posted November 2, 2009

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I read this in the news today about how a "white" might win the race for mayor in Atl. OK, why is that news? I thought we were past the whole "race issue" now that a black is pres. This line really got me.. think about if the words in the story were reverersed (black for white and white for black).
"Black mayors have occupied City Hall since 1973, but this year, a white City Council member is leading in the polls, even though two black civic leaders urged black voters to unite against her."

If the "whites" came out against a black candidate they would scream RACIST!!!!" from the rooftops. What a sorry world we live in.
web posted November 2, 2009

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Well it's plain to see the Edgefield 911 center is managed by the same family as EMS, given it's lack luster performance. When asked for a crane needed in an emergency, you ask a paramedic on scene for a phone number to a crane company? Are there not policies and procedures in place for emergencies like this? For me it only seems common place, or common sense to open a phone book if a procedure is not in place. I can almost guarantee that Edgefield County has a book full of emergency procedures in place just for situations like this. You really don't even have to think about what you're doing, you just follow the little black text. The same dispatchers that can't seem to hear the radio? "you were covered up"(I could hear them loud and clear) Is it due to being lost in dreamland while reading your romance novels? And when are they going to start using plain text communications(which is required by FEMA)? That simple detail will keep this county from getting numerous Federal grants, and possibly having to pay back grants that the county may have received already.

Editor's note: I try to stay out of most comments, but I have to speak up this time. You can complain about management, but I know that dispatchers and the men and women in the field are doing the best they can to keep up with their workload. The county council will not approve enough money to properly man these positions, as well as deputies. They have to make sure "certain" people get funded even if it breaks their own laws. If you want to rattle the cages at the top, have at it. But cut the ones carrying the load a little slack. That's MHO on the matter.
web posted November 2, 2009

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