Natives of Lee County South Carolina

Betty Anne Brown Truesdale - January 30, 2012

2012-01-31T13:37:00.000-05:00

BISHOPVILLE, SC

Betty Anne Brown Truesdale, 82, wife of Liston Truesdale, died Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, at McCoy Memorial Nursing Center.

She was born in Bishopville and always lived there. She was a daughter of the late Gene and Edna King Brown. She and Liston had no children of their own but thousands of her dear school children. Mrs. Truesdale graduated from Bishopville High School and Columbia College with a major in French. She also received a degree in library science from the University of South Carolina. She taught in Bennettsville, Central, Ashwood-Central and Bishopville High School. She taught in the public schools of Lee County for 45 years. She was a lifetime member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church. She was the co-author of "Volume 2, History of Lee County" and the "History of Bethlehem United Methodist Church."

Survivors include her dear husband of 60 years; a sister-in-law, Mildred Elmore of the Bethea Home; nephews, Cliff Davis (Carol) of Lugoff, James Davis of Conway and Harris Brown (Teresa) of Hartwell, Ga.; nieces, Abbie Elmore Denny (Lyn) of Lake City and Cora Beth Loftin (David) of Nashville, Tenn.; adopted daughters, Cheryl Austin Skinner (Marvin) of Oswego and Kim Williams of Atlanta; special friends, Marie Freeman, Gloria Hariott, Darron Wilson, Willene Smith and Betty Lou Watson; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and her precious dogs.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Louise Davis (Loyce); a brother, Gene Brown Jr. (Frances Harris); a niece, Millie Elmore Mozingo; and a brother-in-law, Darwin Elmore.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday at Bethlehem United Methodist Church with the Rev. Henry Altman and the Rev. Sam Stevens officiating. Burial will be in Bethlehem United Methodist Church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Bethlehem United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 167, Bishopville, SC 29010; the Epworth Children's Home, P.O. Box 50466, Columbia, SC 29250; B.A.R.K., 121 Julia Drive, Bishopville, SC 29010; or to a charity of one's choice.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Google Search- Election results South Carolina

2012-01-22T07:30:00.000-05:00

Editor: Not surprising at all... South Carolina voters are completely comfortable with the choices. Of the choices given they simply elected the one who has demonstrated he isn't afraid to mix it up with all comer's... what a stunning defeat!

election results south carolina - Google Search: "US elections 2012: South Carolina primary results county by county

The Guardian (blog)‎ - 31 minutes ago
We have just added the latest South Carolina State Election Commission results. You can see a summary of the data below. Some simple analysis of the votes ...
10115 related articles

South Carolina Election Results: Conservatives, Economy Fuel Newt ...
‎ - Huffington Post
South Carolina election results: Newt Gingrich wins
‎ - The State Column
More news for election results south carolina »"

'via Blog this'

Which One is Telling the Truth ?

2012-01-20T17:57:00.001-05:00

Editor's Opinion: Do you believe Marianne Gingrich, who by all accounts seems to have nothing to gain, but who could be the disgruntled ex-wife; or do you believe Newt, who has everything to gain; especially the Office of the President of the United States. According to the article Newt implied to his ex that his present wife didn't care what he did... does that mean she is okay with an open marriage... sort of puts a big "?" on the forehead of Newt, now doesn't it....

By James V. Grimaldi, Published: January 19

Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich in 1999 asked his second wife for an “open marriage” or a divorce at the same time he was giving speeches around the country on family and religious values, his former wife, Marianne, said Thursday.

In an interview with The Washington Post, Marianne Gingrich said her former husband called her on May 10, 1999, as she was having dinner with her 84-year-old mother and said, “I want a divorce.”

“Is there anybody else?” Marianne Gingrich recalled saying. “He was quiet. Within two seconds, when he didn’t immediately answer, I knew.”

Two days later, Newt Gingrich gave a speech at a conference titled “The Demise of American Culture” sponsored by the Republican Women Leaders Forum in Erie, Pa. Gingrich extolled the virtues of the Founding Fathers and criticized liberal politicians for supporting tax increases, which he said hurt families and children. In the speech, which was televised on C-SPAN, he spoke often of God, families and values.

“When a liberal talks about values, will he or she actually like us to teach American history?” Gingrich told the women’s group. “Will they actually like young people to learn that George Washington was an ethical man? A man of standards, a man who earned the right to be father of this country?” more: Read the full article here

Can Independent's and Democrat's Vote in the Republican Presidential Primary?

2012-01-20T05:46:00.004-05:00

Editor: Unsure about voting Saturday? The South Carolina Election Commission says if you are registered you may vote... pretty simple huh...

http://www.scvotes.org/files/2012-01-09%20%28PPP%20FAQs%29.pdf

Q. Do I have to be a registered Republican to participate in the Republican Presidential Primary?

A. No, S.C. does not have registration by party. The Presidential Primary is open to all registered S.C.

voters.

Q. If I vote in the Republican Presidential Preference Primary, will I be limited to voting in only the

Republican State Primary in June?

A. No, voting in a Presidential Primary has no affect on your participation in the State Primaries. Voters

who vote in the Republican Presidential Primary will still have the choice of voting in either the

Republican or Democratic State Primaries in June

Editor's Soap Box

2012-01-20T05:37:00.001-05:00

I wasn't born when Roosevelt added this to an address in which he proposed social security, unemployment insurance, and (what was then called) aid to dependent children to help the deserving poor:

"The lessons of history, confirmed by evidence immediately before me, show conclusively that continued dependence on relief induces a spiritual and moral disintegration fundamentally destructive to the national fiber. To dole out relief in this way is to administer a narcotic, a subtle destroyer of the human spirit. It is inimical to the dictates of sound policy. It is a violation of the traditions of America."

Not so subtle now, huh!!!!

Lee County is Dying.

2012-01-18T07:47:00.004-05:00

The post in the Obituary's is purposeful.

http://deathnoticehome.blogspot.com/

From the Desk of Nick Baskin BHS Class of 1962

2012-01-13T07:20:00.002-05:00

BHS CLASS of 1962

50th CLASS REUNION

YES....50 years...FIFTY

WHEN...April 20 and 21st...2012

WHERE...COTTON MUSEUM...perhaps both Friday NIGHT's casual event..

...and...for the Saturday NIGHT Banquet

SATURDAY LUNCH...Rayley's GOOD EATS ... NOON til 2

HOW MUCH...??? $40...
Send to Nick Baskin, 20 HUNTERS POINT DRIVE, LUGOFF, SC
29078

Details...Clarifications....Nick (803-438-1696)...or Jean S. Watkins...or
Joyce Driggers, etc.

PLEASE spread the word...and LET's CELEBRATE appropriately...like we always
have done....and.....will keep DOING...until...NO ONE is LEFT....(hahaha)

A name does not make a man, a man makes the name

2012-01-11T08:06:00.001-05:00

Editor: Anonymous Quote: “A person shows what he isby what he does with what he has.”

Jim ‘Jimmy’ Barrow or 'Rat', the latter a somewhat affectionate albeit cruel moniker he no doubt is not as fond of as were his schoolmatesback in his hometown of Bishopville, South Carolina, has done quite well in theworld of finance. If you have some spare bucks laying around, ‘Rat’ Barrow may just be your ‘Go to Man’….

An article touting his business acumen was recently published online on the Swing Trading Daily website and reposted here in its entirety for your reading pleasure.

5 NEW BUY IDEAS FROM VANGUARD’S JAMES BARROW

by INVESTMENTUNDERGROUND on DECEMBER7, 2011

in EDITORIAL,STOCKS

By Landon Brace

Jim 'Jimmy' Barrow aka 'Rat'

JamesBarrow is an industry veteran who currently leads the portfolio management teamof the Vanguard Windsor ll and Selected Value Funds. He also founded theTexas-based investment firm Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney, and Strauss. Even whilethe S&P 500 (SPY)posted negative returns, Mr. Barrow was able to average an overall return ofover 9% during the previous decade. He has a history of being a deep valueinvestor and his recent 5 investments may prove to be worth some consideration.

Janus Capital Group, Inc. (JNS) – At the end of the third quarter of 2011 Mr.Barrow took an increasingly largestake in Janus with a purchase of 1.2 million shares at anaverage cost of $7.54. This latest purchase follows the pattern of investmentssince the third quarter of 2010 to bring total holdings of Janus to slightlyover 4.1 million shares. At $6.56, $1.20 higher then its yearly low set inearly November, Janus has clearly been beaten down by the overall decline infinancials. Even after seeing market capitalization sliced in half it hasmaintained its strong dividend and currently yields 3%. The current P/E of 7 isvery attractive when compared with rivals Franklin Resources (BEN),and T Rowe Price Group (TROW). Management continuesto work to improve the performance of many of the firm'slagging equity funds, which have been a drain on revenue throughout the lastyear. Janus’ fixed income funds continue to entice investors and over the longterm this company has great potential to pay off. With Janus’ 3% yield I believemost investors won’t have a problem maintaining their patience.

Gibraltar Industries, Inc. (ROCK) – Mr. Barrow made his second largestpurchase ofGibraltar in the third quarter of 2011 sincehe began acquiring shares in 2009. His purchase of 560,993 shares at an averageprice of $9.46 is paying off quite well so far. At its current closing price of$14.02, Gibraltar is less then a dollar belowits yearly high of $14.65 set last December. It has been steadily climbingsince touching its yearly low of $7.35 in August and now the question iswhether this company has run its course? Although there have been patches ofgood news, the housing market continues to be a grim reminder of the state ofthe current economy. Plus, the rising costs of raw materials are furtherpinching the already razor thin margins of the building material industry.Although housing will improve eventually, in the near term Gibraltarappears to be unsustainable at these levels. With the dividend on hold sinceearly 2009, it will be hard to expect investors to wait around for theincreases in material demands that will drive Gibraltarforward.

Medtronic, Inc. (MDT) – For the latest quarter, Mr. Barrow made hissecond largest purchase ofmedical device maker Medtronic since he began acquiring shares in early 2009.With slightly over 8 million shares purchased in the third quarter at anaverage cost of $34.80, he now holds 25.9 million shares. At $34.61, Medtronicis slightly off its yearly low of $30.18 set back in August but is nowhere nearits high of $43.33 set in May. The company that specializes in cardiovascularmedical devices has come under increased scrutiny from analysts due to fears ofMedicare reductions driving down procedure volume. Although rival device makersBoston Scientific (BSX) and St. Jude Medical (STJ)are feeling the heat as well, Medtronic’s superior operating margin of over 27%stands out. Medtronic also boasts an impressive P/E of 10.9, and a solidquarterly dividend yield of 2.7%, leaving competitors St. Jude (STJ)and Boston Scientific (BSX) in the dust. Withcontinued discussion of Medicare reform the medical device makers do present ahigher degree of risk than your average stock. This can be seen by the nearly6% decline in Medtronic’s share price today on an analyst’s report from Wells Fargo(WFC)regarding this exact topic. Although, if you are looking for exposure to thisindustry, Medtronic is a no brainer.

Sanofi (SNY) – Mr. Barrow only recently began acquiring sharesof Sanofi in the first quarter of 2011. During the third quarter of the sameyear he made his largest purchase of Sanofi, 1.6 million shares for an averagecost of $35.97, and now holds over 3.5 million shares in total. Sanofi, adiversified French pharmaceutical company, has American Depositary Shareslisted on the NYSE trading right between its yearly high and low at $34.49. Theshares are down since touching their yearly high of $40.75 in May, a monthafter they acquired Genzyme Corporation in a cash deal. Other than Pfizer, (PFE) Sanofihas the lowest P/E in the industry at 14.42 and its gross margin is almostdouble the industry average at 20.89%. Although it has an impressive yield of3.8%, investors must keep in mind that they will have foreign tax taken out ofthe gross distribution since the company is based in France. With the wide variety ofdrugs for humans and animals, overall diversification of Sanofi’s product lineis impressive. With the looming fear of a top seller being sold as a generic, diversificationis key in the pharmaceutical industry. If you’re looking forexposure to the pharmaceutical industry without taking of a large amount ofrisk, I would take a second look at Sanofi.

Carnival Corporation (CCL) – Mr. Barrow has been purchasing Carnivalfor many years, picking it up at rock-bottom prices during the lows of 2009.During the third quarter of 2011 he acquired 3.7 million shares at an averagecost of $33.16 to bring his total holdings up to 25.7 million. Carnival is welloff its yearly low of $28.52 set back on October 4, but still has a ways to gobefore reaching that yearly high of $48.14 set in early January. Althoughbookings in Europe have started to slow due tothe economic concerns in that part of the world, North American sales have beenstrong and continue to drive the company forward. A dependable 3% dividend froma travel and leisure company is certainly worth taking notice of in thisenvironment. Plus, an operating margin of 14.67% that is above the industryaverage is noteworthy as well. With bargain-hungry consumers in full force, theall-inclusive nature of cruises continues to lure consumers to that style ofvacationing. Carnival has proven that the dividend is dependable and with anincreasingly large cash position, a higher return for shareholders shouldn’t betoo far off.

Disclosure: I have no positions in any stocksmentioned, and no plans to initiate any positions within the next 72 hours.

Lee County Royalty

2012-01-09T09:18:00.003-05:00

Editors Note: This was an article about a local woman from Bishopville, South Carolina who has to be the envy of females everywhere. May 24, 2010 it was published on ABC NEWS website.

Caroline: "I like service. I like having a staff that takes care of me..."

From:ABC NEWS

By SCOTT MAYEROWITZ

May 24, 2010

New York

Caroline on the Street in Front of her hotel The Omni Berkshire Place

WhenCaroline Bowen arrives in her hotel room -- and it is her hotel room -- the closet is alreadyfilled with her clothing, cosmetics are stacked in the bathroom and on top ofthe dresser sits a framed photograph of her grandchildren.

Tocall Bowen a road warrior would be an understatement. Last year she spent morenights -- 207 in total -- in New York's Omni Berkshire Place hotel than anywhereelse, including her two homes.

Bowen lives in Hilton Head, S.C., and hasanother house in the Waynesville, N.C., in the SmokyMountains, but spends most week daysat her New Yorkoffice or on the road.

Since 2000, she has spent 1,110 nights -- orthe equivalent of more than three years -- in Omni hotels. The next closestguest has logged 860 nights.

Her loyalty has led to some very specialperks.

Whenever she checks in there is a bottle ofwine -- chardonnay or Sancerre in summer, a red in the colder winter months --waiting in the room along with a cheese and fruit plate. Extra blueberries arealways added because the hotel staff knows she particularly likes them.

But the real treat is the extra closetinstalled just for her in her room on the 20th floor.

The hotel hired acompany to refurbish the closet for Bowen, president of the Connaught Group, a women's fashioncompany that sells clothing under the Carlisle,Per Se and Etcetera brands. She has the closet's only key, allowing the hotelto rent out the room on the rare occasions when she's not there.

Caroline's New York Closet

Inside the closet are 13 pairs of shoes, 30to 40 belts, and dozens of dresses, scarves, handbags and even some workoutclothes. The bathroom is stocked with her personal hairdryer, makeup, electrictoothbrush and mouthwash.

"This is my room," she said fromthe room's plush sofa. "I get very special treatment here. I need a placethat I can feel like is home, and that's what this is."

Given her position, Bowen can only wear hercompany's current season's clothing.

So how many articles of clothing are in thepacked closet?

"I don't want to tell you," Bowensaid laughing. "It's the business I'm in."

Hotel chains worldwide are known to go aboveand beyond to reward guest loyalty. The Hyatt Regency Aruba places weights anda workout mat in the room of a guest who has been staying there for 20 yearsand doesn't like working out around other people.

The Waldorf Astoria Grand WaiIea stores oneguest's own personal bed. And Loews spokeswoman Emily Kanders Goldfischer saidthe Loews Regency in New York has performed avariety of unexpected tasks for frequent guests, including coordinating a jetat the last minute to the Bahamasfor a business meeting and tracking down a hard-to-find designer bag for aguest's wife.

Bowen's frequent trips to New York and elsewhere in Omni's collection of 43 hotels in the United States, Canadaand Mexicohas made her the top guest in its loyalty program.

She has racked up plenty of free nights, butgiven her hectic schedule, she said, "I don't want to travel any more thanI have to."

Bowen's company offered to put her up in aluxury Manhattanapartment, but instead she chose the Omni, which is literally across the streetfrom her office. Most days when she leaves the office, she just crosses thestreet, quickly freshens up and then runs out to business dinners or events.

And of course she never has to clean theroom.

"I like service. I like having a staffthat takes care of me," she said.

Every morning at 7:15, the breakfast sheordered the night before is brought up to her room.

Caroline Chats with schoolmates from Bishopville High

"They know I like one box of Total andone box of Special K," Bowen said. "They know I like blueberriesbetter than any other fruit, so they are heavy on the blueberries."

When she steps out of the front door, one ofthe doormen, William, gets into the road and stops traffic so she canseamlessly cross to her office.

Once when it was snowing and she didn't haveon the right shoes, William picked her up and carried her across the street.

Keeping Bowen happy extends well beyondkeeping one room occupied. The Connaught Group often rents out meeting space atthe Omni or entertains guests in one of the hotels suites.

Travel expertssuggest that everybody, even the causal leisure traveler, should sign up forvarious loyalty programs. You might not earn a free night but there are perks,although not as grand as Bowen's. For instance, members of Omni's Select Guest Program get a free morning juice, coffee ortea delivery to their room, complimentary pressing of two shirts, free bottledwater and a free shoe shine.

But it's the top-saying guests who get theroyal treatment.

Caroline Beattie Bowen

Another frequent guest at the Omni Berkshire Place,who was about to get married and then honeymoon in Hawaii,was recently in New Yorkfor work. The hotel staff knew about the upcoming honeymoon and set up his roomfor his arrival with Hawaiian flowers, fresh pineapple and other decorations.

"He was coming in for a meeting. Thelast thing he was thinking about was his wedding and his honeymoon," saidCynthia Li, the hotel's loyalty ambassador. "He was like, 'I can't believeyou guys did this.'"

Sometimes, you don't even need to be arepeat customer to get some special treatment.

The hotel recently hosted a man coming homefrom a military tour overseas and his wife. Li, who e-mails each of the hotel'sguest before their arrival, learned from the wife that the veteran had missedChristmas and Thanksgiving and this would be their first time seeing each otherin months.

The couple was upgraded to a suite, whichthe staff decorated with Santa hats, a mini Christmas tree with lights, a paperturkey and apple cider waiting for them.

"It doesn't really cost us that muchbecause we have the decorations in-house anyway, but it just made their stay somuch more special," Li said

I'm Deeply Humbled

2012-01-07T21:24:00.002-05:00

You guys are the best in the world. Thanks for all the emails welcoming me back. Now... without further adieu here is the first of many posts you may find interesting.

Name this explorer.

Rambling thoughts: Imagine my mortification when I learnedthat Columbus wasn't the discoverer of America... yepthey (most historians) say it is official… he didn’t. However, he did discoverthe Caribbean Islands.... dang, so close yet so faraway historically speaking of course.

Did you know that Christopher Columbuswas a deeply religious man who was convinced that God called on him to bringChristianity to the remote spots around the world?

In fact it was during thisera that Christians raced to establish settlements in remote parts of theworld; in large part to head off the establishment of Islam. Today Islam (about1.5 billion adherents) is second toChristianity (2.5 billion approximate adherents) in size.

Family Affair Cast

Surprisingly thereare over a billion people who are non-religious. Another eye opener waslearning that Tom Cruise was among the 500 thousand who claim Scientology astheir religion. Strange I thought there were more of them than that. Not so surprising is the claim of over 8 million believers in Scientology by the Scientologists themselves. Speaking of movie stars... my thoughts turn to Mr. French, the gentleman's gentleman of the TV series Family Affair with Brian Keith. Keith played a bachelor uncle charged with raising his brothers children... now what was Mr. French's real name. Oh yes, Sebastian Cabot. Strange how my mind seems to travel in circles....

2012-01-07T09:25:00.000-05:00

I'm back!

Talk to me Lee County

Tell me who, what, when and where

If appropriate I'll post it for all to see.

The Cocks are Strutting Their Stuff

2012-01-03T09:16:00.000-05:00

Editor: Congratulations to the fans of the Gamecocks and to the Gamecock football team.

'Best team ever': USC grabs historic 11th win - Football - GoGamecocks.com: "ORLANDO, Fla. – On the field, it wasn’t always pretty. In the record book, it will look beautiful forever.

South Carolina made history with its 11th win on Monday, beating No. 21 Nebraska 30-13 in a Capital One Bowl that made up for a lack of style with a dash of drama."

'via Blog this'

Build It and They Will Not Come !

2012-01-03T09:09:00.000-05:00

Editors observation: Every road is a Toll Road... most just don't have the toll booths located on the road... those booths can be found in government buildings and we pay the toll in the form of taxes for the right to drive our vehicles on them. This particular Toll Road was a dumb idea way back then.... people just didn't see the need to pay to take a short cut that didn't save that much time from point A to point B... and now we learn that the bankrupt parties have agreed to increase the toll .... this is even dumber. Not for profit? Duh....

Tolls rise on Southern Connector near Greenville - Business - TheState.com: "The state-owned, privately-funded road opened in 2001. Traffic has remained well under what was predicted."

'via Blog this'

Bishopville High School Marker

2011-12-27T10:38:00.000-05:00

Just a short post about the Historical Marker in front of the Bishopville High School building on North Main Street.

Bishopville High School Marker:

'via Blog this'

Last Blog

2011-03-22T07:37:00.000-04:00

Today, just about five minutes ago I decided to shut the door on Natives of Lee County South Carolina. It was a good run and I enjoyed the overwhelming encouragement I received from my readers. I plan to devote my remaining time to my family, my passions and my God. Thank you and good-bye!

Ard Draws Attention Away from Lee County. Details of Civil Charges Released

2011-03-20T07:01:00.000-04:00

Editor: If a person was to look hard enough, finding that passage written in fine print within the law books that says you HAVE to be criminally predisposed to be a politician shouldn't be surprising, given the ever increasing rate at which they are being brought before the bench.

Link: Ard charges: Dems say criminal, GOP defends lt gov - S.C. Politics - TheState.com: "The state Ethics Commission on Friday released details of the civil charges it will pursue against Ard in a hearing later. Ard has said he will cooperate in the investigation and take responsibility if he made mistakes."

ABC News - Japan Earthquake: before and after

2011-03-19T15:34:00.000-04:00

ABC News - Japan Earthquake: before and after

This is one of the best presentations I have yet seen on the destruction
encountered in Japan. They are satellite photos taken before and after of
various areas, but what makes them especially descriptive is the method of
presentation.
As you move the mouse slowly over the picture, from right to left, the
'before' sat photo is replaced by the 'after' sat photo, giving you an
immediate comparison.
(Not click and drag, just move the mouse)

The before & after really bring home the extent of property damage.

Editors note: (Thanks to Cousin Jim Wesberry for this presentation and text)

Lee County Elected Leaders on the Hot Seat Again

2011-03-18T10:18:00.000-04:00

Editor: The back door to the Lee County Council is getting plenty of use, according to some watchdogs. Council's modus operandi is getting a bit suspicious for these folk and they're taking action.

Link: Appeal claims Lee county zoning exception illegal | SCNOW: "Some 45 residents attended a meeting at the Lydia Community Center to hear Steve Beasley, a local farmer and appellant in the legal action, explain the environmental hazards that he and three other plaintiffs believe may accompany the installation of a liquid waste incinerator/evaporator at the Lee County Solid Waste Facility owned by Merrill’s Composting, Inc. Beasley also outlined the reasons for filing the appeal against the Lee County Council, the Lee County Planning Commission and the Lee County Board of Zoning Appeals.

Also speaking at the meeting were Attorney Richard C. Jones, who represents the appellants, and Samantha Seigel of Columbia, a representative of the Sierra Club.

“We simply feel that there are environmental concerns that were not considered when this matter was approved and that it may not be in the best interest if the surrounding community,” said Beasley. “We certainly were not given the proper opportunity to voice our concerns about what effect the incinerator will have.”"

Gone - On The Wings of a Dove - Ferlin Husky - March 17, 2011

2011-03-18T09:22:00.001-04:00

Link: Country’s Ferlin Husky dies - Local / Metro - TheState.com: "Country Music Hall of Famer Ferlin Husky, the innovative recording artist whose 1957 smash “Gone” helped usher in the pop-leaning Nashville Sound era, died Thursday at his daughter’s home in Westmoreland, Tenn. He was 85 and suffered from congestive heart failure."

"Big Dog" Awaits Kennel Assignment

2011-03-17T09:43:00.000-04:00

Collared 'Big Dog', aka E.J. Melvin, the former Sheriff of Lee County will soon know the length of his federally issued leash.

Link:Prosecutors want 30 year sentence for fmr. Lee Co. Sheriff - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "KICKBACKS AS A HIGHWAY PATROLMAN

Prosecutors plan to show evidence that Melvin's criminal conduct dates back to his time on the South Carolina Highway Patrol, according to the filing. Melvin worked as a Trooper until his election in November 2000. Prosecutors said they have evidence that shows as a Trooper, Melvin 'solicited kickbacks…in return for providing information about law enforcement activity,' Moore wrote."

Another case for the State's Ethics Commission???

2011-03-17T08:33:00.000-04:00

Do you think this is a Democratic ploy to destroy Haley or is there some truth to this story which will not go away?

LINK: Hospital: No one here filled out application for Haley - Governor Watch - TheState.com: "Hospital: No one here filled out application for Haley

But who did? Haley staff insists she did not fill out application obtained through a public records request"

"Haley was hired as a fundraiser in August 2008, a position created for her at a $110,000-a-year salary, leaving the post in April 2010 as she was campaigning in the Republican gubernatorial primary. Records show hospital staff was having trouble getting in contact with Haley and had asked her to take a leave of absence, which she refused. Eventually Haley and the hospital agreed to a $35,000 severance package."

You Tell Me - Is This Story Interesting?

2011-03-17T08:19:00.000-04:00

I've received two (2) complaints about using other news sources (news other than Lee County news) in this Blog... Now I want to hear from you. Tell me what you think. In the meantime here is another item of news I thought was interesting and important to Lee County Natives.

LINK: Lt. Gov. charged with using campaign cash for personal expenses - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "'Ken Ard has been in office less than 90 days and has already managed to create a dark ethical cloud over the Haley/Ard administration and with these charges has brought great discredit again to South Carolina,'"

Educators Bring Home Failing Grades - No Excuses School Boards

2011-03-14T06:36:00.000-04:00

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - A new report shows South Carolina dominates a list of America's worst public schools.

The list, published by NeighborhoodScout.com, finds South Carolina is home to 37 of the 100 "failing" schools. More than a dozen of the schools are in the Midlands.

The list was based on a combination of test scores, class size, money spent per student and other factors.

Below is a list and rank of the schools in the Midlands that made the list.
Click here for the full list.

97 MOUNT PLEASANT HIGH SCHOOL Bishopville, SC
90 WEST LEE SCHOOL Bishopville, SC
86 FAIRFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL Winnsboro, SC
75 HYATT PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Columbia, SC
71 NEWBERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL Newberry, SC
69 GIBBES MIDDLE SCHOOL Columbia, SC
63 W. G. SANDERS MIDDLE SCHOOL Columbia, SC
40 CHESTNUT OAK MIDDLE Sumter, SC
21 W A PERRY MIDDLE SCHOOL Columbia, SC
14 ALCORN MIDDLE SCHOOL Columbia, SC
10 MIDLANDS MATH AND BUSINESS ACADEMY Columbia, SC
2 KENNEDY/LLOYD CHARTER SCHOOL Aiken, SC

NeighborhooodScout is owned and operated by Location Inc, a Massachusetts-based company borne of university research, specializing in nationwide relocation software, retail site selection, and real estate investment advising. The site offers specific information on each school to paying subscribers.

Great American Cleanup to kickoff in Bishopville | SCNOW

2011-03-09T09:42:00.001-05:00

Great American Cleanup to kickoff in Bishopville | SCNOW: "The 2011 Great American Cleanup of South Carolina will kick off Saturday, March 12, at the Harlem Blue Pond Community Makeover in Bishopville.

According to a news release from Palmetto Pride, the Great American Cleanup of SC (GACSC) is the state’s largest cleanup event and is a part of the Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup.

Volunteers, law enforcement and city employees will come together for a litter pickup and dedication of a community garden from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dedication of community garden and park bench will be held 1:30 p.m.

The event will kick off a citywide initiative to improve the Harlem Blue Pond area, the release said.

For more information on the GACSC, call (803) 758-6034."

Great American Cleanup to kickoff in Bishopville | SCNOW

2011-03-09T09:42:00.000-05:00

Deputies: SC Woman steals husband's fake leg, attacks him - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2011-03-09T06:53:00.000-05:00

Editor: Drunk wife calls police to find out who decides to keep the house then she beats husband with his unreal leg.

Satisfied that she has the upper hand and right foot in the dispute she takes a smoke break on the porch. Meanwhile the abused husband fearful of another attack locks her out. Cops arrive, survey the scene and cart the irate wife off to jail.

Will these two settle their differences... ?? Will the husband get the house??

Deputies: SC Woman steals husband's fake leg, attacks him - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "According to the report, the woman that called never mentioned an assault, only asked questions 'about when a couple gets separated, who decides who gets the house?'"

7 children die in Pennsylvania house fire - CNN.com

2011-03-09T06:34:00.000-05:00

Editor: This is a horrible event... no one can doubt that... but to sensationalize the story is even more tragic and wrong. These hard working parents were doing what millions of people have done since the beginning of time... working to provide for their family... they weren't partying at the local juke joint.... they were working at home! To purposefully and callously turn a suspicious eye on them is the worst type of journalism in my opinion.

7 children die in Pennsylvania house fire - CNN.com: "'While mom's milking cows, her 3-year-old daughter comes running into the barn and the 3-year-old tells the mother that there's smoke inside the house,' Pinkerton said. 'Mom leaves the barn, comes running out, sees that the house appears to be on fire.'"

Former CFO sentenced for embezzling $3 million - Crime & Courts - TheState.com

2011-03-09T05:24:00.000-05:00

He didn't think the new employer would notice

Former CFO sentenced for embezzling $3 million - Crime & Courts - TheState.com: "Jerry F. Wells also must repay the money he stole and will spend three years on supervised release after serving his time in prison. Wells's sentence is more severe than the one he agreed to in July 2009 when he first pleaded guilty to the embezzlement from UCI Medical Affiliates. But federal authorities discovered that he had gotten another job while awaiting his sentence and had stolen $40,000 from the new employer."

Together We Can Do This

2011-03-02T12:59:00.000-05:00

The price of a gallon of gas is expected to hit $4.00 and above this summer and it is high time that we the consumers take action. We can't just boycott a station for a day or two to be effective. We have to have an intelligent plan and we have to be united in our actions.

I'm not taking credit for the following plan but I can see that it has merit. Sure, we will be hurting some of our friends in a financial way who are in the gasoline dispensing business but you have to remind yourself that you are doing them and yourself a favor when you participate it this plan.

Last evening I stopped in at one of my local convenience stores where I pumped $11.00 worth of gas into my little Daewoo. The price of a gallon of regular gas on the pump was $3.30. That means that I pumped 3.33 gallons into my tank. Every day the price changes, creeping higher and higher.

We, the consumers have to send a message to the oil companies that the law of supply and demand is controlled by us and not them. All we have to do is to unite in the same manner that they do and regain control of the law of supply and demand.

Here is how we do this. We don't purchase their product!

Wait a minute!, you say. That can't possibly work; I have to have gas!, and you would be right for we all rely on our cars. However, if we attack this in a united and intelligent manner we can regain our rightful stature in the market place.

Here is how it will work and I think this is a fantastic plan. For the rest of this year don't buy any gas from anywhere that displays an ExxonMobile, Chevron or BP sign.

If they are not selling any gas, they will be inclined to reduce their prices. If they reduce their prices, other companies will have to follow suit to remain competitive. Then what will we have? PRICE WARS!!!!

But to have the needed impact, we need to reach literally millions of ExxonMobile, Chevron and BP gas buyers. It's really simple to do!

Now, don't wimp out on me at this point...keep reading and I'll explain how simple it is to reach millions of
people!!

Facebook!

I'm putting this on my Facebook page and if each of my friends do the same in a matter of days we will have forced giant company's to lower their gas prices to stay competitive in the market place. Acting together we can make a difference.

If this makes sense to you, please pass this message on. I further suggest that we not buy from ExxonMobile, Chevron, or BP until the prices reach a more affordable level.

This will only work if you share this with all your Facebook friends!

Note: Below is a copy of the e-mail I sent to Kangaroo headquarters informing them of my effort.

Hello,
I'm concerned that the gas prices are once again climbing to levels that are not affordable to many Americans and I'm starting a campaign through Facebook to voice that concern to about 800 of my friends. I wanted you to know this because I'm not targeting your company to start with. Consumers need to control the law of supply and demand not the big gas producers and I'm going to do my part by not patronizing them for the rest of this year. I know that is will be a small inconvenience for me and my wife but I feel it is worth it. Hopefully, all my friends will follow my lead and ask their friends to support this effort. I would love to learn your opinion.
I'm a Kangaroo consumer and will be patronizing your stores for the rest of the year (unless I learn that your stations are supplied by ExxonMobile, Chevron, or BP.)
Thanks for taking the time to read this.

Sign at City Hall Should Read: Proactive Candidates Only Need Apply

2011-03-02T10:53:00.000-05:00

Editors Observations: When you live a lifetime in a community you don't really notice the gradual change that takes its toll. It's like the reunion you attended where you found yourself face to face with a classmate you had not seen in forty or fifty years. It's an awkward moment at best because your mind had etched this memory of a young and vibrant person with whom you shared many memories; and now there is this old person standing in front of you who bears little resemblance to your classmate of years past. That is exactly how the face of Bishopville has changed during those same years.

An example of what occurs when you have reactive leadership is what happened to the property that my family once owned on North Main street. Today there is a Mobile Home Park in what was once the back yard of my childhood home. Tell that to someone who once lived in Bishopville and you get a response of unbelievability. The shock of learning that is doubled when they see it with their own eyes. What were the Civic Leaders thinking?

Across Main Street from our home stood the majestic Woodward house that sat on an attractive sizable lot and was surrounded by many beautiful majestic oak trees which where so bountiful that the front, side and back yards were shaded and home to many birds and squirrels. Gone now; replaced by brick, mortar and concrete. A federal building is sitting in the middle of a residential district that also saw a gas station pop up. There doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to the decision making process other than it was expedient or profitable to certain influential individuals.

Continuing along with this dialogue I'll mention the old Grammar School, which had there been proactive leadership among the civic leaders during that time, could today have been a wonderful Community Center. But at least it hasn't seen the addition of bricks, mortar and concrete and is a wonderful park for the citizens use.

The approaches to the community of Bishopville from the North, East, South, and West have changed the quaint little town appearance to one of a unsightly, confused, and disorderly collection of intermingled residential and business districts.

An opportunity is at hand to select proactive community leaders who have the ability to anticipate the needs of the community and the fortitude to stay the course when the chips are down and who will end the hodge podge way of dealing with the town's treasures. Sitting at home while others decide how your home town is raped or protected is your privilege. You also have the privilege of the vote and, in my opinion, an obligation to your fellow citizens to exercise that vote. I hope that you do!

"Filing under way for candidates in BishopvillePosted: Wednesday, March 2, 2011 6:00 am | Updated: 5:39 am, Wed Mar 2, 2011.BY RANDY BURNS Special to The Item
BISHOPVILLE - Filing is under way for the six at-large council and the mayoral seats in the May 10 nonpartisan election for the city of Bishopville.
City Administrator Gregg McCutchen said residents seeking office should file during regular business hours at Bishopville City Hall, 135 E. Church St., in Bishopville by noon on March 11. Filing began at noon Feb. 25, said McCutchen."

Move Over Law - Reprint from June 2009

2011-03-01T16:07:00.000-05:00

Editor: This is a good program and one that all motorist should heed... I would add another sign with larger letters that would give this warning: DO NOT RIDE IN THE LEFT LANE UNLESS YOU ARE PASSING A SLOWER CAR IN THE RIGHT LANE. Can I have an AMEN!

SC Secretary of Transportation H.B. "Buck" Limehouse speaks during a news conference to bring attention to the Move Over Law that requires motorists to slow down or move over when approaching stopped emergency vehicles. Also speaking at the event were: (left of Limehouse) SC Department of Public Safety Director Mark Keel and (right of Limehouse) SC Highway Patrol Colonel Kenny Lancaster. Holding the sign are, from left: Ada Gardner of SCDOT's Richland Maintenance office, Roger Roscoe of the Camden Fire Department, Micah Norman of Lexington County EMS and Corporal M. B. Coffin of the SC Highway Patrol. (Photo by Rob Thompson/SCDOT)

SCDOT Joins SCDPS to Educate Motorists About “Move Over” Law

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is installing signs across the state to educate motorists about the law requiring motorists to “move over” into an adjacent lane whenever possible as they encounter an emergency scene or a temporary work zone.

The signs read, “Move Over Or Reduce Speed For Stopped Emergency Vehicles.”

SCDOT is installing approximately 30 signs on various locations along I-20, I-26, I-77, I-85, I-95, I-385 and I-526.

SCDOT has also partnered with SCDPS to produce a television public service announcement about the Move Over law. It will be used in educational presentations by the SC Highway Patrol and will be distributed to driver education teachers across the state for use in their classrooms.

SCDOT joined the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) at news conferences at locations across the state on June 17 to announce these efforts.

“SCDOT personnel face danger every day in temporary work zones that are covered by the Move Over law,” said South Carolina Secretary of Transportation H.B. “Buck” Limehouse. “We have thousands of maintenance and construction employees and personnel of our subcontractors who are working on our highways every day and during nighttime hours as well. They are working to make your ride smoother and safer.”

“Anytime you see stopped emergency vehicles, orange work zone signs or equipment with flashing lights, and workers on the scene – move over. Give these dedicated men and women room to work and room to live,” Limehouse said.

“The safety of first responders and highway workers continues to be an issue – both in South Carolina and nationwide,” said Director of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety Mark Keel. “That is why this effort was undertaken by our agencies. I want to thank the many state and local law enforcement, fire fighters, EMS and others who have joined us in this important effort.”

The “Move Over” law requires motorists to “move over” into an adjacent lane whenever possible if they encounter an emergency scene. Section 56-5-1538 defines an emergency scene as “a location designated by the potential need to provide emergency medical care.” It is identified by emergency vehicles with flashing lights, rescue equipment, or emergency personnel on scene.

South Carolina’s “Move Over” law also provides protection for highway workers. Section 56-5-1536 also requires motorists to “move over” into an adjacent lane whenever possible when passing temporary work zones. A temporary work zone is defined as “an area on a roadway identified by orange work zone signs or equipment with flashing lights, and the presence of workers on the scene.”

Drivers approaching a temporary work zone or an emergency scene are required by law to:

Keep their vehicle under control
Proceed with due caution
Significantly reduce their vehicle speed
Yield the right of way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the temporary work vehicle or equipment if on a highway with at least four lanes, with at least two lanes proceeding in the same direction
Maintain the safe speed for road conditions if changing lanes is impossible or unsafe.

Endangering temporary work zone or emergency personnel is considered a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $300 nor more than $500. Obeying this little-known law can save a life and prevent injury.

Mary Lee Josey - Saturday, 26 February, 2011

2011-02-27T12:22:00.000-05:00

Bishopville, SC

Mary Lee Josey, died Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011. 93 Yrs. old.

Memorial service, Wednesday March 2, 2011 at 11:00 AM St. Matthews United Methodist Church. More information later.

RED FLAG FIRE ALERT DECLARED

2011-02-21T17:15:00.000-05:00

RED FLAG FIRE ALERT DECLARED

February 18, 2011 8:00pm

(Columbia, SC) The South Carolina Forestry Commission has declared a Red Flag Fire Alert for the following counties:

· Lancaster

· Kershaw

· Sumter

· Clarendon

· Williamsburg

· Florence

· Georgetown

· Horry

· Dillon

· Marlboro

· Chesterfield

· Darlington

· Marion

· Lee

The alert warns that fire danger is increasing and that outdoor fires may become difficult to control.

Forestry authorities say stiff winds and low daytime and nighttime relative humidity may perpetuate dangerous conditions in the coming days. Citizens are asked to postpone outdoor burning until conditions improve.

While burning is not prohibited under a Red Flag, it is a violation of state law to allow fire to escape. Escaped fires can result in fines and court costs of more than $450. For more information, visit http://www.trees.sc.gov/baninfo.htm .

Suspected wildfires should be promptly reported to 911 or the Forestry Commission Dispatch Center: 1-800-777-FIRE.

-END-

For more information, contact: Scott Hawkins (803) 896-8820

For every $1.00 invested by SC in the Commission, forest industry produces about $1,800.00 of economic impact.

"Big Dog" Moved Out of State for Security Reasons

2011-02-19T09:45:00.000-05:00

"Big Dog" E. J. Melvin, the former Sheriff of Lee County... Moved from SC to another holding facility in Irwin County, Georgia for security reasons!!!

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - Former Lee County sheriff EJ Melvin has filed a motion for a new trial and has been transferred out-of-state to a new federal holding facility.

Melvin claims the government did not sufficiently prove the charges, nor provide sufficient evidence to convict. Melvin has also asked for the judge to make a judgment of acquittal.

In November, the former sheriff was convicted of drug conspiracy, 25 racketeering acts, money laundering, extortion, theft of public funds, and lying to the FBI. The motion comes despite the fact that a federal jury spent more than 15 hour deliberating the facts. There is no date set for the judge to hand down a decision on Melvin's request.

United States Marshals have moved Melvin out of the Lexington County Detention Center to another facility in Irwin County, Georgia to hold him until sentencing. The move came because of security concerns according to the Marshal Office in Columbia. The sentencing was set for this month, but is pushed back until the end of February.

Source Link

From the Desk of Scott Hawkins - South Carolina Forestry Commission

2011-02-19T06:41:00.000-05:00

Weather message from the South Carolina Forestry Commission

The South Carolina Forestry Commission is asking residents statewide to postpone outdoor burning for the next 72 hrs (the Presidents’ Day weekend). Predicted weather conditions of low relative humidity, no rain, and high winds will make debris burns hard to contain, increasing the chance for wildfire. Statistically, more than 40 percent of all wildfires in South Carolina begin as escaped debris burns. So far this month (Feb. 1 to Feb.17), SCFC personnel have responded to more than 226 fires across the state.

SCFC law enforcement officials have been instructed to aggressively enforce laws pertaining to outdoor burning. Officers will write citations for failure to notify the Commission of your burn (as required by law) and will ticket anyone responsible for a burn which escapes.

While this weather message is aimed at the practice of debris burning, the public should remember that the same weather conditions can cause unattended campfires to become wildfires as well. No fire of any kind should be left unattended.

To report a wildfire, call 911 or 1-800-777-FIRE (3473).

By Scott Hawkins

(803) 896-8820

shawkins@forestry.state.sc.us

Boy, 7, airlifted to burn center after fire - The Item: News: fire,

2011-02-17T09:04:00.000-05:00

Boy, 7, airlifted to burn center after fire - The Item: News: fire,: "was showing.
Sumter Fire Department Lt. Wayne Holmes said volunteer firefighters arrived within 10 minutes of the 12:15 p.m. call, while units from the East Hampton Avenue headquarters were on scene at 12:35 p.m."

Huge turnout anticipated for SC wildlife expo - State & Regional - Wire - TheState.com

2011-02-17T08:49:00.000-05:00

Huge turnout anticipated for SC wildlife expo - State & Regional - Wire - TheState.com: "CHARLESTON, S.C. — Charleston is providing an early jump on the spring tourism season on the South Carolina coast as it hosts the annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition.
Between 30,000 and 40,000 usually attend the three-day event that opens Friday but offers visitors previews through the day Thursday.
This year, the expo hosts 120 wildlilfe artists and 300 exhibitors.
There are also popular demonstrations, ranging from raptors from the Center for Birds of Prey to a dock dogs competition featuring retrievers.
Tourism officials say that 2011 should continue a steady, solid recovery for the $18.4 billion tourism industry in the state."

Lee chamber to name Business Person of Year - The Item: Local News: lee,

2011-02-15T09:25:00.000-05:00

Lee chamber to name Business Person of Year - The Item: Local News: lee,:

"BISHOPVILLE - The Lee County Chamber of Commerce will recognize the Business Person of the Year and Citizen of the Year at its annual banquet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Opera House on Main Street.

Nominations for the awards are made by chamber members, with the final selections chosen by an outside committee.

A year ago, Lee County Parks and Recreation Director Alan Watkins was named Citizen of the Year and NBSC executive Fred Sandy was chosen Business Person of the Year.

Tickets are $25 per person and $40 for a couple and are available at the chamber office on Main Street.

Back Porch Culinary is catering the banquet and Lyric on Main is providing a dessert bar, according to Chamber Director Pam Kelley.

Bill Clary, a motivational speaker and comedian, will provide the entertainment.

For tickets and more information, contact the chamber at (803) 484-5145."

Oak Haven Acres Community Crime Watch News - Sumter County, SC: These People Never Thought Someone Evil Would Choose Them

2011-02-15T09:14:00.000-05:00

Oak Haven Acres Community Crime Watch News - Sumter County, SC: These People Never Thought Someone Evil Would Choose Them

Gun Right Supporters Alert

2011-02-15T06:21:00.001-05:00

Friends of South Carolina!

A word from my favorite South Carolina Gun Rights group, GrassRoots GunRights of SC. Visit them at www.scfirearms.org

*** GrassRoots Gorillas CALL TO ACTION! ***

TELL ALL YOUR FRIENDS. We need as many gun rights supporters as possible to attend this meeting.

The GrassRoots Gorillas who answer this call can be the deciding factor which convinces the politicians to make some long sought after improvements to SC gun laws.

The House Judiciary General Laws subcommittee has scheduled a meeting on Thursday February 17, 2011 at 9am in room 516 of the Blatt building to discuss H. 3292.

H. 3292 is a very important bill which - if amended properly - could change SC gun laws for the better in a number of ways (open carry, restaurant carry, prohibit employers from banning guns in stored employee's vehicle, etc.) GrassRoots has proposed amendments to fix the problems with H. 3292.

If you have not already read the GrassRoots analysis of H. 3292 please read it at http://www.scfirearms.org/Legislative/H3292_analysis.pdf

If this meeting is packed full of GrassRoots Gorillas, it just might convince the members of the subcommittee to adopt the GrassRoots proposed amendments to H. 3292 and recommend the bill for passage.

Gorillas should meet on Thursday February 17, 2011 no later than 8:45am near the statue of Strom Thurmond on the statehouse grounds. Contact me with any questions.

Also, call the members of the subcommittee and tell them you want them to accept the GrassRoots GunRights amendment to fix the bill!

Rep. Thad Viers
(803) 734-3064
ThadViers@schouse.gov

Rep. Dan Hamilton
(803) 212-6795
DanHamilton@schouse.gov

Rep. George Hearn
(803) 212-6796
GeorgeHearn@schouse.gov

Rep. Laurie Funderburk
(803) 734-3044
LaurieFunderburk@schouse.gov

Rep.David Weeks
(803) 734-3102
DavidWeeks@schouse.gov

Thanks for all you do!
Talbert Black, Jr.

Check Out Talbert Black's websites:

http://www.talbertblack.com/

http://www.campaignforliberty.com/usa/SC/

After 3 personal disasters, Sumter man still positive - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2011-02-12T06:27:00.000-05:00

After 3 personal disasters, Sumter man still positive - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "'She just started getting worse and worse,' said Barkley. He was referring to the love of his life for the past 30 years, Irene. 'She had had a heart attack,' said Barkley.

Irene has been in the hospital about three weeks. Things were pretty serious, but Barkley has been right there with Irene, disabled himself from a workplace accident. It didn't stop him from chasing down her doctors until, 'I got a phone call telling me to come home and wouldn't tell me why.'"

Lee County's Rep. Grady Brown has 'Chance' at Redemption

2011-02-11T08:57:00.000-05:00

Editorial: Start baking those Apple pies Maude, the S.C. Senate has approved a bill that would legalize raffles and have sent it on to the House membership for their approval. FUNdraisers will sure to be on the agenda's of many group's across the state as soon as Rep. Grady Brown and his cohorts in the House chambers do likewise.

"'... Angela Nicholas with Red Cross Coastal South Carolina chapter..."', "'Anytime you're doing a fundraiser you do have to be cautious with what you're doing and how you're doing it,' she said, 'You need to make sure that your donors are ok with the activity sometimes there are third parties out in the community who are doing fundraisers on your behalf and of course you don't have quite as much control over that.'

Nicholas said if the bill becomes law then the organization may look into holding raffle fundraisers in the future.

The bill that would legalize raffles still has to pass in the house which then needs the governor's signature and be left up to the voters since it requires changing the constitution."

Previous Post
Ignorance of the Law..... December, 2010

Lindsay Lohan case: Authorities looking at earlier incident at jewelry store, possible motive - latimes.com

2011-02-11T08:24:00.000-05:00

Lindsay Lohan case: Authorities looking at earlier incident at jewelry store, possible motive - latimes.com: "The judge on Wednesday admonished Lohan.

'You're in a different situation now that a felony has been filed against you,' Schwartz told Lohan in court. 'If you violate the law, I will remand you and set no bail and your attorney won't be successful this time. ... You need to follow the laws just like everybody else. ... You're no different than anyone else, so please don't push your luck.'"

Lindsay Lohan would consider a no-jail plea deal, her lawyer says - CNN.com

2011-02-11T08:21:00.000-05:00

Lindsay Lohan would consider a no-jail plea deal, her lawyer says - CNN.com: "Los Angeles (CNN) -- Lindsay Lohan will consider a plea deal on the charge that she stole a necklace from a jewelry store if she can avoid going to jail, her lawyer said Thursday.
Attorney Shawn Chapman Holley insisted, though, that the grand theft charge is 'entirely defensible.'"

Super Bowl: William "The Refrigerator" Perry acknowledges alcoholism, insists he's not putting himself in jeopardy - ESPN

2011-02-11T08:12:00.000-05:00

Super Bowl: William "The Refrigerator" Perry acknowledges alcoholism, insists he's not putting himself in jeopardy - ESPN: "AIKEN, S.C. -- Every day begins with William Perry needing help out of bed. Usually, it's 10 a.m. before he even gives it a try, and to support his 400 pounds, he shuffles to the living room on two legs that barely work and his sturdy black cane."

????????

2011-02-10T10:07:00.000-05:00

YouTube - 2nd Jerusalem Dome of the Rock Temple Mount UFO video surfaces from 01/28/2011.

Problems continue to worsen at jail - The Item: News: jailovercrowding,

2011-02-10T09:49:00.000-05:00

Problems continue to worsen at jail - The Item: News: jailovercrowding,

"Capacity and housing issues as well as worries about violent crime trends were something that jail Director Maj. Simon Major shared with The Item during a tour of the facility in December. Space is dwindling as violent crimes are becoming more frequent, he said. But since then, the trends have continued to worsen, so much so that overcrowding and lack of space for violent offenders is a real possibility.

On Tuesday, Major briefed Sumter County Council as part of an effort to keep the group regularly updated about what's going on at the jail - a unisex, pre-trial facility located on Winkles Road in Sumter that operates on a $6 million annual budget.

Major discussed the number of violent offenders currently housed at the jail, as well as trends showing the expected increase of those offenders during the next decade. It was information Public Safety Committee chairman and Councilman Artie Baker said is "frightening.""

Crooks get Celebrity Status in Hollywood!!!

2011-02-10T09:32:00.000-05:00

Why would they even consider Halle Berry when they have an expert facing a judge for the same sort of crime? Lindsay Lohan would be perfect for the role... she's a career criminal... what more could the producers of the proposed movie ask??

"Doris Payne, 80, an international jewel thief for more than half a century, was sentenced Wednesday to five years in prison for swiping an $8,900 diamond ring from a Macy's department store in San Diego.
Payne has told reporters that she began her life as a jewel thief in her 20s and that she has stolen valuables in New York, Las Vegas, London, Paris, Monte Carlo and Tokyo and throughout the U.S. She has several convictions on her record.
Payne was sentenced in San Diego County Superior Court. Hollywood producers reportedly are considering a movie of her life to star Halle Berry." Source Link

The Judge is Right - It's All About Luck

2011-02-10T07:58:00.000-05:00

Editorial: Luck. What does that word mean? Webster says that it "is a force that brings good fortune or adversity.

The fact that Lindsay Lohan lives in California is definitely fortunate for her because she has a propensity for doing the little things that keep her in front of some LUCKY Judge who see this type of behavior all the time from the pampered Hollywood types. The judges out west think differently than the ones we have here in the east.

Is that a fair statement to make?

Would her luck be any different if she lived in Lee County?

"LOS ANGELES — Lindsay Lohan pleaded not guilty Wednesday to felony grand theft of a $2,500 necklace - a case that could return the troubled starlet to jail rather than the big screen.

She entered the plea through her attorney Shawn Chapman Holley after a judge scolded her about following the law.

'Look around this room,' Superior Court Judge Keith Schwartz told Lohan. 'Everybody else has to follow the law. You're no different than anyone else. So please, don't push your luck.'" Source Link

Take Hold of The Life Line

2011-02-09T17:59:00.001-05:00

AFTER AFEW OF THE USUAL SUNDAY EVENING HYMNS, THECHURCH'S PASTOR STOOD AND APPROACHED HIS PULPIT.

PAUSING MOMENTARILY HEBOWED SLIGHTLY IN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE ELDERLY GENTLEMAN, WHO WAS THE GUEST MINISTER SITTING TO HIS RIGHT…TURNING BACK TO THE CONGREGATION, HIS EYES SCANNING EVERYONE IN THE SANTUARY HEBRIEFLY INTRODUCED THE OLD GENTLEMAN EXPLAINING TO THEM THAT THE GENTLEMAN WAS ONEOF HIS DEAREST CHILDHOOD FRIENDS AND THAT HE WANTED HIM TO HAVE A FEW MOMENTS TOGREET THE CHURCH AND SHARE WHATEVER HE FELT WOULD BE APPROPRIATE FOR THESERVICE....

WITH THAT, THE OLD MINISTER STEPPED UP TO THE PULPIT AND BEGAN TO SPEAK... HE BEGAN:

'A FATHER, HISSON, AND A FRIEND OF HIS SON WERE SAILING OFF THE PACIFIC COAST WHEN A FAST APPROACHING STORMBLOCKED ANY ATTEMPT TO GET BACK TO THE SHORE. THE WAVES WERE SO HIGH, THATEVEN THOUGH THE FATHER WAS AN EXPERIENCED SAILOR, HE COULD NOT KEEP THE BOATUPRIGHT AND THE THREE WERE SWEPT INTO THE OCEAN AS THE BOAT CAPSIZED.'
THE OLD MAN HESITATED FOR A MOMENT, MAKING EYE CONTACT WITH TWO TEENAGERS IN THE FRONT PEW WHO WERE, FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE SERVICE BEGAN, LOOKING SOMEWHATINTERESTED IN HIS STORY... THE AGED MINISTER CONTINUEDWITH HIS STORY...

'GRABBING A RESCUE LINE, THE FATHER HAD TO MAKE THE MOST EXCRUCIATING DECISIONOF HIS LIFE: TO WHICH BOY WOULD HE THROW THE OTHER END OF THE LIFE LINE. HEONLY HAD SECONDS TO MAKE THE DECISION. THE FATHER KNEW THAT HIS SON WAS ACHRISTIAN AND HE, ALSO, KNEW THAT HIS SON'S FRIEND WAS NOT... T HE AGONY OF HIS DECISION COULD NOT BE MATCHED BY THE TORRENT OF WAVES...

AS THE FATHER YELLED OUT, 'I LOVE YOU, SON!' HE THREW OUT THE LIFE LINE TO HIS SON'S FRIEND. BY THE TIME THE FATHER HAD PULLED THE FRIEND BACK TO THE CAPSIZED BOAT, HIS SONHAD DISAPPEARED BENEATH THE RAGING SWELLS INTO THE BLACK OF NIGHT. HIS BODYWAS NEVER RECOVERED. ...BY THIS TIME, THE TWOTEENAGERS WERE SITTING UP STRAIGHT IN THE PEW, ANXIOUSLY WAITING FOR THE NEXT WORDSTO COME OUT OF THE OLD MINISTER'S MOUTH... 'THE FATHER,' HE CONTINUED,'KNEW HIS SON WOULD STEP INTO ETERNITY WITH JESUS AND HE COULD NOT BEAR THETHOUGHT OF HIS SON'S FRIEND STEPPING INTO AN ETERNITY WITHOUT JESUS..THEREFORE, HE SACRIFICED HIS SON TO SAVE THE SON'S FRIEND. '

HOW GREAT IS THE LOVE OF GOD THAT HE SHOULD DO THE SAME FOR US. OUR HEAVENLYFATHER SACRIFICED HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON THAT WE COULD BE SAVED. I URGE YOU TO ACCEPT HIS OFFER TO RESCUE YOU AND TAKE A HOLD OF THE LIFE LINE HE IS THROWINGOUT TO YOU IN THIS SERVICE.'

WITH THAT, THE OLD MAN TURNED AND SAT BACK DOWN IN HIS CHAIR AS SILENCE FILLED THE ROOM.

THE PASTOR WALKED SLOWLY TO THE PULPIT AND DELIEVERED A BRIEF SERMON CLOSING WITHAN INVITATION AT THE END.

HOWEVER,NO ONE RESPONDED TO HIS APPEAL.

WITHIN MINUTES AFTER THE SERVICE ENDED, THE TWO TEENAGERS WERE AT THE OLD MAN'S SIDE, 'THATWAS A NICE STORY,' POLITELY STATED ONE OF THEM,'BUT I DON'T THINK IT WAS VERY REALISTIC FOR A FATHER TO GIVE UP HIS ONLY SON'S LIFEIN HOPES THAT THE OTHER BOY WOULD BECOME A CHRISTIAN.'

'WELL, YOU'VE GOT A POINT THERE,' THE OLD MAN REPLIED, GLANCING DOWN AT HIS WORN BIBLE. A BIGSMILE BROADENED HIS NARROW FACE.HE ONCE AGAIN LOOKED UP AT THE BOYS AND SAID, 'IT SURE ISN'T VERY REALISTIC, IS IT? BUT, I’M STANDING HERE TODAY TO TELL YOUTHAT STORY GIVES ME A GLIMPSE OFWHAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN LIKE FOR GOD TO GIVE UP HIS SON FOR ME.

YOU SEE... I WAS THAT FATHER AND YOUR PASTOR IS MY SON'S FRIEND.'

acknowledgement to my little sister for this story

Ridiculously Cute And Tiny Royal Antelope Calf Born At The San Diego Zoo. These Tiny Antelopes Stand Barely A Foot Tall ... - #37986 - NOTCOT.ORG

2011-02-09T06:44:00.000-05:00

Ridiculously Cute And Tiny Royal Antelope Calf Born At The San Diego Zoo. These Tiny Antelopes Stand Barely A Foot Tall ... - #37986 - NOTCOT.ORG: "*RUGENIUSRidiculously cute and tiny Royal antelope calf born at the San Diego Zoo. These tiny antelopes"

First Alert Forecast Discussion - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2011-02-09T06:41:00.000-05:00

First Alert Forecast Discussion - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "Up to 1' of snow/sleet is possible on mainly grass surfaces across Chester, Fairfield, Newberry, Kershaw, Greenwood, Saluda and Lee counties with lows near 30 degrees. A dusting at most will accumulate in the central Midlands with lows dropping to near 32 degrees. No accumulation is expected in the southern Midlands. Road conditions should not be significantly impacted."

Lindsay Lohan to be charged with grand theft over necklace - CNN.com

2011-02-09T06:38:00.000-05:00

Lindsay Lohan to be charged with grand theft over necklace - CNN.com: "Prosecutors are expected to formally charge Lindsay Lohan on Wednesday with felony grand theft related to a necklace allegedly taken from a California jewelry store in January.
The charge comes five weeks after the actress was released from court-ordered drug rehabilitation and less than three weeks before a judge said he might free her from supervised probation from a 2007 drunken driving conviction."

Think James Bond is Fiction?

2011-02-09T06:16:00.000-05:00

Governments have been doing this sort of stuff since the beginning of time...

"A Salvadoran man jailed in Cuba in connection with a string of 1990s hotel bombings says he told a U.S. prosecutor that he got explosives and money directly from a former CIA operative now on trial in Texas, and that he is willing to testify against him." Source Link

First Alert Forecast Discussion - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2011-02-08T07:13:00.000-05:00

First Alert Forecast Discussion - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "Expect a beautiful Tuesday with highs in the lower 50s today. Clouds will increase Wednesday as a cold rain will enter the state Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Rain will become mixed with light snow and sleet in the central and northern Midlands including Columbia, Lexington, Aiken and Sumter overnight. A dusting of snow and sleet is possible in the central Midlands. Up to 1' of snow and sleet can be expected in Chester, Fairfield, Newberry, Kershaw, Greenwood, Saluda and Lee counties. "

Is Shopping in Sumter Dangerous?

2011-02-08T06:54:00.000-05:00

Woman walking to work robbed by black teens wielding gun.

"Two young men are in jail after reportedly robbing a 36-year-old Walmart employee at gunpoint in the Kmart parking lot Saturday night, according to an incident report by the Sumter City Police Department.
Randolph Forest Washington, 18, of 4571 Wrangler Trail; and Aspen Maurice Smith Sadler, 17, of 6750 Essie Road in Rembert, were both charged with armed robbery with a deadly weapon about 11:59 p.m. Saturday after a woman was robbed earlier that evening."

Source Link: The Item

Small Legal Ads in Newspapers are Sometimes Overlooked

2011-02-07T14:24:00.000-05:00

Solid Waste Incinerator Hearing

at 5pm Today Lee Court House

Property owned by Mr. Wally Lee is being proposed as a Sitefor the installation of a Solid Waste Incinerator. Apparently Mr. Lee has madea Special Exception application for a Waste Water Incinerator Pyrolysis Processing Centerlocated at TMP# 025-00-00-012.

The Lee County Board of Zoning Appeals will hear Mr. Leethis afternoon at 5pm in the Lee County Court house, 1^st floor, room102. Planning and Zoning phone: 803. 484. 5341 ext. 330

You may want to attend this hearing!!!

How can you not root for Tommy Two Gloves? - Waggle Room

2011-02-07T07:18:00.001-05:00

How can you not root for Tommy Two Gloves? - Waggle Room: "Sporting two black rain gloves and a golf-cap ogo touting a water-heating company, Tommy 'Two Gloves' Gainey is not your prototypical PGA Tour golf pro. Yet, could there be a more appropriate frontrunner at the Waste Management Phoenix Open?"

How can you not root for Tommy Two Gloves? - Waggle Room

2011-02-07T07:18:00.000-05:00

~Moments To Remember~ The Four Lads

2011-02-04T10:03:00.000-05:00

~Moments To Remember~ The Four Lads

BBC News - Climber found reading map after 1,000ft fall

2011-01-30T10:48:00.000-05:00

BBC News - Climber found reading map after 1,000ft fall: "A climber who fell 1,000ft (305m) down a mountain and survived was found by his rescuers standing up reading a map."

COLUMN: Know when to turn on vehicle's headlights | SCNOW

2011-01-30T10:38:00.000-05:00

Editorial:

An awful lot gets the better part of my patience. Always has and always will. One of my pet peeves is the left hand lane driver. It seems to me that the minute they hit a four lane highway they park themselves in the left lane of traffic and never relinquish it 'come hell or high water.'

Never mind the law... it wasn't written with them in mind...

See: SC LAW
ARTICLE 13.
DRIVING ON RIGHT SIDE OF ROADWAY; OVERTAKING AND PASSING; FOLLOWING
SECTION 56-5-1810. Drive on the right side of roadways; exceptions.
(a) Upon all roadways of sufficient width a vehicle shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway except as follows:
1. When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing such movement.
2. When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway. Any person so doing shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles traveling in the proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the highway within such distance so as not to constitute an immediate hazard.
3. Upon a roadway divided into three marked lanes for traffic under the rules applicable thereon.
4. Upon a roadway restricted to one-way traffic.
(b) Upon all roadways any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction or when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
(c) Upon any roadway having four or more lanes for moving traffic and providing for two-way movement of traffic, no vehicle shall be driven to the left of the center line of the roadway, except when authorized by official traffic-control devices designating certain lanes to the left side of the center of the roadway for use by traffic not otherwise permitted to use such lanes, or except as permitted under item 2 of subsection (a). This subsection shall not be construed as prohibiting the crossing of the center line in making a left turn into or from an alley, private road or driveway.

Then there is this article in the news recently: LINK

"The Law: S.C. Code of Laws Section 56-5-4450 indicates the following: every vehicle upon a street or highway within this state shall display lighted lamps and illuminating devices, excluding parking lights, from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise, and at any time when windshield wipers are in use as a result of rain, sleet or snow, or when inclement weather or environmental factors severely reduce the ability to clearly discern persons and vehicles on the street or highway at a distance of 500 feet.
Additional information regarding the type of approved lighting, number of lamps required, height from the ground, tail lights, etc. can be found in S.C. Code of Laws Sections 56-5-4490, 56-5-4500, 56-5-4510 and 56-5-4520."

Am I alone in thinking that somewhere, somehow, we have failed to require a 'working' knowledge of the do's and don't's contained in the SC Drivers Handbook for those seeking the privilege to drive on our highways?

But then again..... YOU COULD BE ONE OF THOSE 'PRIVILEGED' DRIVERS WHO THINK EVERYBODY ELSE CAN'T DRIVE!!!!!

Only Us Old Folk Will Remember This Sitcom!!!!

2011-01-29T09:59:00.000-05:00

I Guarantee You've Never Seen A Ball Ride The Rim This Long

2011-01-29T09:37:00.000-05:00

I Guarantee You've Never Seen A Ball Ride The Rim This Long

Irmo man sought in wife's disappearance - Breaking News - TheState.com

2011-01-29T09:19:00.000-05:00

An arrest warrant has been issued for 38-year-old Stacy Edward Wade of Irmo in the disappearance of his estranged wife, Charnel Redden. Redden was last seen Monday afternoon at Wade's home on Fallsbury Road in New Friarsgate.

"We've been investigating the disappearance since Monday," Irmo Police Chief Brian Buck told The State. Information developed since then has led authorities to believe foul play is involved in the 25-year-old working student's disappearance, Buck said.

Redden's family reported her missing when she failed to return phone calls.

Stacy Edward Wade

/Irmo Police Department

CLICK FOR MORE PHOTOS

Police distributed a picture of Wade and a photograph of a truck similar to the 1997 white Ford pickup he is thought to be driving. Wade's pickup has an "In God We Trust" SC tag with the number 9544EJ.

Wade was last seen by friends Wednesday or Thursday, Buck said.

A bench warrant has been issued for Wade's arrest by the Lexington County Magistrate's court.

If anyone knows there whereabouts of Redden or Wade, notify the Irmo Police Department or notify Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC or SCCrimeStoppers.com or text TIPSC plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

USATODAY.com feature

2011-01-28T13:31:00.000-05:00

Show this to your kids.... heck, I was enthralled!

USATODAY.com feature

Senate panel OKs gambling in homes - S.C. Politics - TheState.com

2011-01-28T09:29:00.000-05:00

Editorial: Sometimes our lawmakers get it right.... Sometime!

Senate panel OKs gambling in homes - S.C. Politics - TheState.com: "“Nothing … may be construed to allow electronic gambling machines or devices, slot machines, or video poker play or to change or alter in any manner the prohibitions regarding video poker,” the bill reads.
“There’s no way to construe that video poker is part of this,” said state Sen. Robert Ford, D-Charleston.
The bill is the second gambling-related proposal this year to reach the Senate floor, joining a bill to allow churches and other nonprofit groups to raise money with raffles.
Oran Smith with the anti-gambling Palmetto Family Council said lawmakers should have spent more time with the bill in committee to ensure it was drafted carefully. “Everything has to be considered very carefully.”"

Sanford, Argentine lover hit Uruguay resort - S.C. Politics - TheState.com

2011-01-28T09:14:00.001-05:00

Sanford, Argentine lover hit Uruguay resort - S.C. Politics - TheState.com: "Former South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford enjoys time on the beach with his paramour, Maria Belen Chapur in Punta del Este, Uruguay."

Sanford, Argentine lover hit Uruguay resort - S.C. Politics - TheState.com

2011-01-28T09:14:00.000-05:00

South Carolina celebrating inaugural Flag Day - State & Regional - Wire - TheState.com

2011-01-28T09:09:00.000-05:00

South Carolina celebrating inaugural Flag Day - State & Regional - Wire - TheState.com: "CHARLESTON, S.C. — South Carolina is celebrating its state flag for the first time with a special day.
Friday is the 150th anniversary of the adoption of the well-known blue flag with the palmetto and crescent. A ceremony at Fort Moultrie on Sullivans Island marks the occasion.
The flag was adopted after South Carolina seceded from the Union but before the Confederacy was formed the following month."

Community Calendar - Friday - Local / Metro - TheState.com

2011-01-28T07:08:00.000-05:00

Everybody head west today for there's cooking lessons to be had in the Capital City.

Community Calendar - Friday - Local / Metro - TheState.com: "TODAY
SARDINE DEMONSTRATION COOKING CLASS: 5:30-6:30 p.m. today, Columbia’s Cooking Kitchen, 915 Greene St. Learn about the health benefits of sardines. Will feature a classic sardine dish. Call or e-mail to register. (803) 576-5666; mclanep@mailbox.sc.edu"

Opinion From Talbert Black, Jr. -Turns into a Thank You!!!!

2011-01-27T06:46:00.001-05:00

Friends of South Carolina!

Congratulations!

You successfully stopped this bill in its tracks. Reports from the hearing say that the only person in favor of the bill was its sponsor. Because of your swift action, the legislators on the committee all agreed it was a bad bill.

Legislators should not get special privileges over us. They are our servants! It is good to constantly remind them of that.

So thanks to all those who made phone calls, sent messages, and showed up at the subcommittee hearing!

We’ve stopped H3405, dead.

Thanks for all you do!
Talbert Black, Jr.
Interim State Coordinator
Campaign for Liberty

-------------------------------------------------

Opinions:

Talbert Black, Jr.
Interim State Coordinator
Campaign for Liberty

The SC General Assembly changed from a direct email system to a submission form on the individual webpage of each lawmaker. The links below will open each lawmaker's page where you must click "Send a message to Representative" then paste in your message.

I saw this coming last year when they put the forms up and took the e-mail addresses down. I guess they felt like they were getting to many e-mails. I talked to an aide and she told me her job was to delete any message that does not come from a constituent.

LIGHT UP THE PHONES!

When these representatives sit on a committee, they don't just represent their home district, they represent the whole state! Please call and tell them how you feel about this attempt to cut off communication. We demand accessibility to the committee members. If they can't stand the heat, then maybe they need to find another job.

If you are a constituent, use the form at the link provided below, if not, rest assured they will never see your message. KEEP THEIR PHONES RINGING!

Please take the following “Action Steps” ASAP and let the members of the subcommittee know how strongly you feel about politicians giving themselves special privileges while leaving you and your family at risk.

ACTION STEPS:

1) Call each member of the House General Laws Subcommittee and tell them the following:

“I strongly urge you to Vote NO on H. 3405! No special privileges for public officials! If it's good enough for YOU, it's good enough for ME. GrassRoots GunRights speaks for me!”

2) Using the submission forms at the links below, send each member of House General Laws Subcommittee with the same message:

“Dear Representative (INSERT NAME):

I strongly urge you to Vote NO on H. 3405! No special privileges for public officials! If it's good enough for YOU, it's good enough for ME. GrassRoots GunRights speaks for me! Sincerely,

(YOUR NAME)
(YOUR TOWN)”

Members of the SC House General Laws Subcommittee:

Rep. Thad Viers
(803) 734-3064
http://www.scstatehouse.gov/members/bios/1876136139.html

Rep. Dan Hamilton
(803) 212-6795
http://www.scstatehouse.gov/members/bios/0742045366.html

Rep. George Hearn
(803) 212-6796
http://www.scstatehouse.gov/members/bios/0806818085.html

Rep. Laurie Funderburk
(803) 734-3044
http://www.scstatehouse.gov/members/bios/0629545379.html

Rep.David Weeks
(803) 734-3102
http://www.scstatehouse.gov/members/bios/1898863409.html

If you are unable to reach any of these Representatives at their individual office numbers listed above, call the House Judiciary Committee (803) 734-3120 and ask to be transferred.

Thanks for all you do!

Talbert Black, Jr.
Interim State Coordinator
Campaign for Liberty

P.S. Please consider making a donation at this link https://www.campaignforliberty.com/contribute.php?for=SC.

I do all my political activism as a volunteer. Additionally I work a regular full time job to support my family. Much of what needs to be done costs money... like radio ads, mailings, and even the training material for the classes and orientations that I host.

You will notice that the donated money is collected through Campaign for Liberty in Virginia. Rest assured that 100% of the donated money comes to South Carolina and is used for South Carolina under my direction.

Thank you for your generosity!

SC lawmakers endorse bill allowing in-home poker - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2011-01-26T11:05:00.000-05:00

SC lawmakers endorse bill allowing in-home poker - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "COLUMBIA, SC (AP) - South Carolina senators have endorsed a bill legalizing friendly games of poker in people's homes.

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 15-6 on Tuesday to advance the bill to the Senate floor. The measure would replace the state's 1802 anti gambling laws that, if read literally, ban any games with cards or dice.

Legislators have tried to change the laws since a 2006 raid on a poker game in Mount Pleasant, which is currently before the state Supreme Court. Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell says the laws are selectively enforced, and the government has no business telling people they can't play games in their own homes.

Opponents say they fear the unintended consequences of trying to tweak gambling laws. They say they fear any loopholes could usher in outright gambling."

"Big Jerry" Watson Benefit Chicken Bog and Gospel Singing

2011-01-25T07:35:00.000-05:00

Time	Saturday, February 19 · 11:00am - 2:00pm

Location	Cedar Creek Baptist Church

Created By	Ron Arrants

More Info	Come out and support a brother in need. As you may know, Big Jerry has had a year of health problems and needs your help. Jerry's sang for years in the Cedar Creek Quartet and has been a part of many benefits for others. Now it's our time to give back. From 11-3, come get your chicken bog with the fixin's from the Cedar Creek Fellowship Hall. At just $5 per plate, you won't eat for cheaper, or feel better doing it. You can eat in or carry it home. Then at 6:30 that night, head to the Sanctuary for a night of gospel singing with some of the best in the area. We've got Cedar Creek, the Ray Heron Singers and the Praisemen. So come help everyone's favorite Teddy Bear in his time of need. For more information, contact Debbie Hawkins at 803-428-6744, Annette Stokes at 803-229-5171, or Kaye Arrants at 803-229-0526.

How many of you Facebook?

2011-01-24T09:56:00.000-05:00

MaryWade O'Kelley Smith

My brother, George O'Kelley, will receive a Military Cross from the UDC at the Frist Presbyterian Church in Bishopville, SC on 2/13/11. My mom just turned 95 Jan. 6 so she will be there to see this. George is an attorney in Beaufort, SC and
a retired colonel from the USMC. Come to the ceremony and join us that Sunday at 3:00.

Woman suffers medical condition and crashes into west Charlotte - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2011-01-24T09:43:00.000-05:00

Woman suffers medical condition and crashes into west Charlotte - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "Reginald Love was sitting on the couch in the direct path of the car.

'I was up reading my Bible, drinking my coffee,' Love said. 'Got up to go to the kitchen to make another pot of coffee, and before I got back to the living room, I heard a big boom.'"

New Zealand Woman Partially Paralyzed by Hickey - FoxNews.com

2011-01-24T09:23:00.000-05:00

New Zealand Woman Partially Paralyzed by Hickey - FoxNews.com: "A New Zealand woman was temporarily partially paralyzed by a hickey on her neck from her amorous partner, AFP reported Friday.

The 44-year-old woman went to the emergency department of Middlemore Hospital in Auckland last year after experiencing loss of movement in her left arm while watching television, doctors reported in the New Zealand Medical Journal.

Doctors concluded the woman had suffered a mild stroke but were puzzled about its cause until they found a small vertical bruise on her neck near a major artery, a hickey, she received a few days earlier."

Ferrari's fantastic four-wheel-drive FF flagship four-seat fastback — Autoblog

2011-01-24T09:20:00.000-05:00

Ferrari's fantastic four-wheel-drive FF flagship four-seat fastback — Autoblog: "Of course nobody buys a Ferrari for its environmental credentials, so here's the info you've been waiting for: 0-62 in 3.7 seconds (a third quicker than the 612) and a top speed of 208 mph (about nine mph faster than the 612). Credit that bit to the all-new, direct-injection, 6.3-liter V12 and its 651 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque, which you can read about – together with the other technical details – in the press release after the jump. Ferrari's also launched a dedicated microsite for the new flagship, and don't forget, of course, to check out the first batch of high-resolution images of the svelte new shooting brake in the gallery below. Thanks to all for the tips!"

Officials: 'Bath salts' are growing drug problem

2011-01-24T09:12:00.000-05:00

If you think personal hygiene and odor is a problem? Wait 'til you read this bit of information ....

Officials: 'Bath salts' are growing drug problem: "Sold under such names as Ivory Wave, Bliss, White Lightning and Hurricane Charlie, the chemicals can cause hallucinations, paranoia, rapid heart rates and suicidal thoughts, authorities say. The chemicals are in products sold legally at convenience stores and on the Internet as bath salts and even plant foods. However, they aren't necessarily being used for the purposes on the label."

News from The Associated Press

2011-01-22T17:53:00.000-05:00

If you love Pro-FOOTBALL we're down to the final four!

News from The Associated Press: "-- Next step, the Super Bowl. The NFL's final four has a strong connection to the big game, from the first champion (Packers) to the winner of perhaps the most significant game (Jets). And from possibly the best Super Bowl team (1985 Bears) to the most dominant franchise of the era (Steelers)."

Keith Olbermann abruptly dropped by NBC | Richard Adams | World news | guardian.co.uk

2011-01-22T09:53:00.000-05:00

Hopefully, the others will fall too! All of them; Hannity, Madldw, O'Reilly, all of them.... Using a parody of ex-president George W Bush's well-worn words, "The world is sanerwith them gone"

Olbermann had a stormy relationship with management and had beensuspended from hosting the nightly show by the network last November after violating station rules by making donations to three Democratic candidates. He was reinstated the following week. (One of the three candidates was Gabrielle Giffords, the Arizona congresswomen attacked in Tucson.)Keith Olbermann abruptly dropped by NBC | Richard Adams | World news | guardian.co.uk

Sumter police officer dies after wreck - The Item: Home

2011-01-22T07:25:00.000-05:00

Sumter police officer dies after wreck - The Item: Home: "REMBERT -- A Sumter City police officer died and another was injured after they were involved in a wreck on U.S. 521, just north of Rembert on Friday around 3 p.m. The wreck occured beside Mt. Bethel Baptist Church at Boykin Mill Road.
Sumter County Coroner Harvin Bullock confirmed an officer died following the accident. Officials said Corporal Charles Nesbitt Jr., 39, was pronounced dead around 4 p.m."

NASCAR out of touch with its fans | Wheels.ca

2011-01-21T15:12:00.000-05:00

NASCAR out of touch with its fans | Wheels.ca: "“(The drivers) came from humble beginnings, had a dream, worked hard, paid their dues and became successful. They epitomized the American dream.”

They related to the fans and the fans related to them. She continues:

“Those days disappeared with the arrival of private jets, expensive motorhomes and time-consuming demands from team sponsors. . . The new generation of drivers retreated to often-gated, multi-million-dollar houses (while the fans struggled to pay ever-higher ticket prices).

“The drivers were no longer the neighbour who was successful at a chosen profession but rather a celebrity. A huge disconnect developed between the fans and the drivers.”"

Insights into Aging (1) | The Encouraging Word

2011-01-21T07:53:00.000-05:00

Insights into Aging (1) | The Encouraging Word: "Our youth-oriented culture gives old age a bad rap, but clearly God doesn’t agree. To Him old age is the reward for a life well-lived, a privilege earned, an accomplishment worth celebrating, and wisdom shared to benefit succeeding generations."

Blair Testifies Before British Inquiry Into Iraq War - NYTimes.com

2011-01-21T07:47:00.000-05:00

Editorial:

This pronouncement from former British Prime Minister Tony Blair should place those who are perverting the Religion of Islam squarely in the cross-hairs of the Free World. No place on this planet should be a safe haven for the handful of derisory individuals who are hijacking Islam for perverted purposes.

Somehow, we have been cajoled into believing that it is time to withdraw from the battle... why? We have them severely wounded... Don't allow them time to heal their wounds... keep the pressure on until not one remains standing... Stop the talk and walk the walk! That the greatest military the world has ever seen being reined in for political reasons is insane... we have them surrounded; their leaders exist in a small enclave.... let loose the hounds!!!! Now is the time to execute the coup de grâce!

Blair Testifies Before British Inquiry Into Iraq War - NYTimes.com: "“The single most difficult thing we have to face today — and we face it still — is the risk of this new type of terrorism and extremism based on an ideological perversion of the faith of Islam combined with technology that allows them to kill people on a large scale,” Mr. Blair said

“Although this is a time where many people think this extremism can be managed, I personally don’t think that is true. I think it has to be confronted and changed.”"

Legislature should rescind Bauer interchange honor - Editorial - TheState.com

2011-01-21T07:07:00.001-05:00

Editorial on the editorial

These recognizable names in South Carolina's Legislature are creating laws that make it seem as if you're getting a lot more than you really are. They are sneaky the way children are sneaky. It is a game to them. They haven't grown up...
We have a childish sneaky former Legislator sitting in the Governor's chair.......leading the example for others to follow. Upset them and they'll take their little red wagon and go home... to that I say, give them the stupid wagon and send them on their way...

Legislature should rescind Bauer interchange honor - Editorial - TheState.com: "Who did it?

According to the Lexington County Legislative Delegation, the Oct. 8 request to name the interchange for Andre Bauer was made by Sens. Jake Knotts, John Courson, Ronnie Cromer and Nikki Setzler, then-Rep. and now-Gov. Nikki Haley and Reps. Chip Huggins, Kit Spires, Kenny Bingham, Marion Frye and Mac Toole."

Guilty of Nepotism? - Not if your Relative Lives Apart From You

2011-01-21T00:17:00.000-05:00

A new definition as been coined for the term 'Nepotism' by SC State University Finance Director John Smalls

Read This:

"'Nepotism is involved when a person is living with you,' stated Smalls, 'The person that did this work, Alisa Smalls, she has a company in Atlanta and that does not create nepotism. She does not live in my household. She doesn't live in South Carolina. She lives in Atlanta.'

The policy (SC State university's ethical conduct policy) states employees: 'may not engage directly or indirectly in any business transaction for the profit of the employee or employee's family member.' Employees may not: 'participate in the negotiation in which the employee or employee's family member has a financial or personal interest.'"

Alzheimer’s Test, First of Its Kind, Clears Hurdle - NYTimes.com

2011-01-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

Alzheimer’s Test, First of Its Kind, Clears Hurdle - NYTimes.com: "More than five million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease.

Plaques are part of the criteria for having Alzheimer’s — if a person with memory problems does not have plaques, that person does not have Alzheimer’s. But without the scan, the only way to know if plaques were present is to do an autopsy."

Come On Folks!!! Only Small Thinkers believe this BUNK!

2011-01-19T21:28:00.000-05:00

EDITORIAL:
In all probability some of you have received an emailrecently, which gives one the impression that everybody but Conservatives wantthe U.S. Flag removed from our public schools.

Come On Folks! Enough is Enough!

Do you people who forward this stuff possess a single ounceof moral fiber in your makeup?

Should it come to pass that we discover you ACTUALLY believethis useless information, then the rumors that your uncle 'Mr. Common Sense'has died are true!!!! Just as many non-conservatives if not more, have fought for the right to fly our flag. Some have been maimed for life as a result of their patriotic efforts, while others have lost their lives in defense of the U.S. Flag. God bless them all!!!

Wait! I'm not though; I get this useless stuff forwarded tome from those I'm convinced are small brained and they do it without even thecourtesy of jotting down their thoughts. I suppose it's the 'Piper' syndrome: 'Look whatI got from fifty of my small thinking buddies; I think I'll do you a favor andforward it to you'. Duh! Hey, let me do you a favor and let you in on a secret;forwarding this nonsense is not the best way to remain anonymous... everybodyknows who has the small brain in this email chain and it ain't the one whotosses this sort of blather in the recycle bin either.

I'm so fed up with the minority of folk whom I call friend, and who continue forwarding this stuff that I'm seriously contemplating posting theiremails on one of my blogs... think I'm kidding? Let's just say it would be a good idea toremove this editor from your mass forwarding button unless you want your fifteenminutes of fame.

I can hear you now... 'I just thought it was funny andwanted to share it with you'. Friends... it's not funny to some of us... and it is really sad, but there are those out there who really believe this junk... you're doing them wrong from a moral point of view.

'Calm down!', some will say to which I will reply, I'LL NOTCALM DOWN UNTIL YOU STOP BEING A small thinker!

Anyway, I need another excuse to start another blog. Thisone could bear the title: “Another Forwarded Email from a Small Thinker”... ormaybe... “Small Thinker Gets FifteenMinutes of Fame Forwarded!”... ummmI like the sound of the latter.

Read this!

Labor Union Tells Supporters to Vote For U.S. Flag Ban on Fox News PollFiction! Bunk! Useless Blather!

Summary of the eRumor:
This is a forwarded email that tells of a Fox News poll posted on their web site that asks if the American flag should be banned from schools. The email warns that the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and Moveon.org have been encouraging followers to participate in the poll and to vote to support the ban. The email also encourages true patriots to go to the link and vote to keep the flag in schools.

The Truth:
This poll is on the Fox News web site and the SEIU denied encouraging supporters to participate. A posted statement on their web site saying that they "would never encourage people to vote to ban the American flag." The labor union went on to say, "We also don't often drive traffic to Fox's website either, so that should have been a red flag as well."
This poll was sparked by a May 5, 2010 news story of students being sent home from a Morgan Hill, Ca school for wearing American Flag shirts on a day that is celebrated by Hispanics from Mexico known as "Cinco de Mayo."Over two million votes have been tabulated but it is important to remember that these results would have no change to any existing policies. The poll is also clearly labeled at the bottom to say that it is not a scientific poll. A spokesperson for Moveon.org told TruthOrFiction.com that the allegations are "categorically false."Labor Union Tells Supporters to Vote For U.S. Flag Ban on Fox News Poll-Fiction!: "Vote For U.S. Flag Ban on Fox News Poll-Fiction!"

SOURCE LINK

He's a master broadcaster - The Item: Local News

2011-01-19T10:09:00.000-05:00

He's a master broadcaster - The Item: Local News: "It was his beautiful soprano voice that first got state Rep. Grady Brown in front of a microphone in fifth grade, and that's where the Lee and Sumter counties' legislator has been, more or less, ever since. 'There wasn't a note I couldn't hit then,' he said."

TigerNet.com -- Recruiting News -- QB Roberts commits to the Tigers

2011-01-19T06:20:00.000-05:00

TigerNet.com -- Recruiting News -- QB Roberts commits to the Tigers: "“Coach Swinney called my parents and made the offer,” Roberts told TigerNet Tuesday afternoon. “My parents got a hold of me at school and let me know what the coaches were offering me. It is a dream come true for me. I accepted the offer on the spot.”"

Happy Birthday Cousin!!!!!

2011-01-16T13:28:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday

Harold Galloway

We All Knew This Day Would Come !

2011-01-15T06:23:00.000-05:00

Danger! Danger Will Robinson!

"...In a breakthrough for artificial intelligence, IBM's Watson supercomputer has trounced Jeopardy! legends Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter in an exhibition round of Jeopardy! The round took place today ahead of this weekend's man vs. machine competition airing February 14, 15 and 16. Jennings and Rutter (described by one blogger as mankind's 'last, best hope' against our robot overlords) will take on the supercomputer named after IBM founder Thomas J. Watson. The powerful machine was built by a team of 25 IBM scientists over four years. It has consumed the data-equivalent of over one million books and even knows its way around puns. Here's a video of Watson owning everyone followed by the fears and anxieties of lowly humans:..."

View Video

Police Search for Burglary Suspect | Midlands Crimestoppers | 1-888-CRIME-SC | Anonymous tips earn cash rewards with Crimestoppers.

2011-01-14T19:08:00.000-05:00

Police Search for Burglary Suspect | Midlands Crimestoppers | 1-888-CRIME-SC | Anonymous tips earn cash rewards with Crimestoppers.: "Columbia, SC (WLTX) - Police are asking the public to look out for a car they believe was involved in a burglary in the Shandon Neighborhood last week.

Investigators with the Columbia Police Department say an older model four-door red Chevy Caprice was used by three teenaged suspects. Police say the suspects were between 14 and 19 and wore red hats during the crime."

Paper names ex-Klansman in civil rights murder - CNN.com

2011-01-12T10:03:00.000-05:00

Paper names ex-Klansman in civil rights murder - CNN.com: "Early on the morning of December 10, 1964, Frank Morris ran out of his shoe store, his clothes and skin on fire.
People who saw him in the hospital afterward said the African-American businessman was so badly burned they didn't recognize him.
'Only the bottom of his feet weren't burned. He was horrible to look at,' said the Rev. Robert Lee Jr., now 96.
Morris survived for four days before dying -- long enough to tell the FBI that two men had broken into his store while he slept, smashed windows, doused the place in gasoline and told him: 'Get back in there, nigger.'"

Do we need a fickle coach at Clemson?

2011-01-12T08:54:00.000-05:00

Editorial: If there is one thing that Clemson football needs it has to be consistency; but if you have a coach who has demonstrated the lack of steadfastness in his resolve then the recipe for disaster will be on the menu. I believe Clemson would be better served to withdraw its offer to Chad Morris and continue searching for someone with a little more experience and stronger temperament.

"... Al Jerkins of KJRH in Tulsa posted tonight that Kragthorpe, who has already been the head coach at Tulsa, has withdrawn his name from consideration for the job.
Jerkins said 'Former TU offensive coordinator Chad Morris also interviewed today. Morris had accepted an offensive coordinator position at Clemson, but has expressed interest in returning to Tulsa to get his shot at being a head coach. Kragthorpe told Channel 2 Sports he got the impression TU would hire a coach within the next few days.'
Clemson had scheduled a news conference for 2 p.m. on Thursday to introduce Morris and new defensive coach Marion Hobby." Source

2011 Clemson Football Commitments

2011-01-11T10:42:00.000-05:00

1. Shaq Anthony  OL  6-5  260 Piedmont, SC (Wren HS)
2. Isaiah Battle  OL  6-7  260 St George, Virginia (Blue Ridge HS)
3. Mike Bellamy  RB  5-10 180 Punta Gorda, FL (Charlotte HS)
4. Martavis Bryant WR  6-3  195 Hargrave Military Academy
5. Corey Crawford DE  6-5  275 Hargrave Military Academy
6. Cortez Davis  DB  6-3  200 Daytona Beach, FL (Mainland HS)
7. Kevin Dodd  DL  6-5  270 Greer, SC (Riverside HS)
8. B.J. Goodson  LB  6-1  215 Lamar, SC (Lamar HS)
9. Joe Gore  DE  6-6  262 Lake Waccamaw, NC (East Columbus HS)
10. Adam Humphries WR  5-11 176 Roebuck, SC (Dorman HS)
11. Grady Jarrett DL  6-1  280 Conyers, GA (Rockdale County HS)
12. Marlin Lane  RB  6-1  190 Daytona Beach, FL (Mainland HS)
13. Eric MacLain TE  6-5  245 Fayetteville, NC Jack (Britt HS)
14. Jerome Maybank DT  6-4  310 Pawley's Island (Waccamaw HS)
15. Tony McNeal     QB  6-1  180 Chester, SC (Chester, HS)
16. Ryan Norton  OL  6-4  275 Mauldin, SC (Mauldin HS)
17. Charone Peake WR  6-3  200 Spartanburg, SC (Dorman HS)
18. Robert Smith   ATH 6-0  180 Ft Dorchester, SC (Woodland HS)
19. Stanton Seckinger   WR  6-5  200 Charleston, SC (Porter-Gaud HS) 
20. Cole Stoudt         QB  6-3  195 Dublin, OH (Dublin Coffman HS)
21. Colton Walls      LB  6-2  230 Charlotte, NC (Latin HS)
22. Sammy Watkins      WR  6-0  200 Fort Myers, FL (South Fort Myers HS)
23. DeShawn Williams DT  6-0  280 Central, SC (Daniel HS)
24. Lateek Townsend     LB  6-0  200 Bennettsville, SC (Marlboro Co HS)

Barry Dale Smith - Saturday, January 8, 2011

2011-01-09T11:34:00.000-05:00

BARRY DALE SMITH

Bishopville, SC

Barry Dale Smith, 66, husband of Linda Langdon Smith, died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, at his home.

Born in Florence, he was a son of the late Cecil Bradford Smith and the late Teressa Hatfield Smith. Mr. Smith was a member of Elliott Baptist Church and was retired from the South Carolina Department of Corrections. He was a U.S. Navy veteran.

Survivors besides his wife include four children, Christy E. Smith, David J. Smith (Katharina), Jennifer L. Smith, and William B. Smith; and three grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday in the Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Billy Griffith officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service and other times at the home, 1490 Elliott Hwy., Bishopville.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 950 48th Ave. North, Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29577 or to the William Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center, Attn: Priscilla Creamer, 6439 Garner's Ferry Rd., Columbia, S.C. 29209.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Freezing rain could last several hours Monday - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2011-01-09T10:40:00.000-05:00

Freezing rain could last several hours Monday - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Midlands from midnight Sunday night through 7:00 a.m. Tuesday. A wintry mix could result in slick and icy spots on the roads and bridges Monday. Additionally there could be power outages."

Sumter’s House of Classics II

2011-01-05T08:53:00.000-05:00

Sumter’s House of Classics II

Sahara

What: Sumter Civic Theater & Sumter County Library present Sumter’s House of Classics II

This month: Sahara

When: January 7, 2011 at 7:30 pm. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Sumter’s House of Classics II is the first Friday of each month.

Where: Sumter Opera House, 21 North Main Street, in the heart of beautiful downtown Sumter, South Carolina.

Cost: $2.50 per person at the door on the day of the show.

Information: The Sumter Civic Theatre and the Sumter County Library are proud to present Sumter’s House of Classics II! The sequel to an already great series, Sumter’s House of Classic Movies, Classics II features more recent classics and some fare one normally would not see at the usual Classic Movie night.

Feel the heat this January with Sahara. On the surface, it’s a war movie that takes place in the deserts of North Africa during the height of World War II. Dig deeper into the sands, however, and you’ll find that Sahara is a tale of desperate survival and psychological tensions stretched to the limits. As Allied soldiers (led by Humphrey Bogart) find themselves stranded in the Sahara at a dry well, Axis goons approach, leading to a tense stand-off as the two sides negotiate the trade of guns for water. As both sides grow thirstier and more desperate, the situation grows potentially more explosive.

Additional Information: Please contact Swan Lake Visitors Center at 803-436-2640, www.sumter-sc.com/VisitingUs/OperaHouse.aspx, or www.sumtersc.gov.

Robert Harden, Director, Sumter County Library
Tyler Cook, Cultural Coordinator, City of Sumter