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Willie,
Thank you and congratulations to the City of Seneca. Even if Stanley Sheriff did nothing wrong (and I most sincerely doubt it), we deserve a police department that is not forever under a cloud of suspicion. We, the citizens, applaud you for doing the right thing. Perhaps we can now move on to better days in our beautiful city and Upstate.
Willie says:
Just passing along your comments.
Willie,
What is with all these smokers? I’m so sick of hearing them gripe and smelling them. Public places are just that, for the good of the public, whether it be a restaurant, a walk outside, outside a building, a ball game, anywhere. They don’t smoke in church. They can smoke in their own house and car if they want to pollute it and endanger the health of supposed loved ones. Let them have their own clothes, hair and furniture stink worse than you know what. Don’t subject me to it. We shouldn’t have to help pay their expensive medical bills and listen to that gross hacking cough, etc. I built as green pollution free house as possible and I am entitled to clean outdoor air and other facilities for public use. It’s bad enough that our ozone in the Upstate is so bad. I usually have to try and stay indoors. I think we should be able to sue them for endangering our lives, along with our governor and other officials still living in the dark ages. I would think in today’s age of knowledge, we would have more non-smokers in this state than smokers. But then again, we rank 6th in the nation of obese children. Why are we always on the top of the bad lists and bottom of the good list? Thank you — no more smoking in any public places. Do you know some places have no smoking at all, even in subdivisons that people can’t pollute houses and apartments and sicken their neighbors. Pollution is so bad, even gas-burning fireplaces have replaced the smoky polluting wood ones. Yes, I’m looking for a healthy place to move to. It’s a shame, this area could have a lot to offer the people who live here. Get with the times people, it’s for everyone’s good, including your own.
And …
Willie,
All this hot air that these smokers are exhaling about their “right” to pollute the air with their second-hand smoke is just the groundwork they are laying for their primary issue. What they are really trying to tell us is that they are strong women and strong men. Anyone can quit smoking, “butt” it takes a real woman or a real man to fight lung cancer.
Willie says:
Sounds like some of my readers are fuming mad.
Willie,
I have a little something for your readers to answer their prayers. “You blessed us God, I can’t complain, but please, please God let’s have some rain.”
Willie says:
Looks like your prayer got answered in the affirmative!
Willie,
I would like to give a great big thanks to the guys at Garcia’s Mobile Detail Shop for a job well done. Great work you guys and keep up with the way you handle your stuff and your attitudes.
Willie says:
Consider them thanked.
Willie,
What’s this I hear about a Target coming to Seneca where the old “gentlemen’s” club used to be?
And …
Willie,
I heard that Target was going to be built on Hwy. 123 where the old Tiger Tails was torn down. Is that true? If it is, that would be fantastic!
Willie says:
The man developing that land is Pete Dimopoulos. He is developing the property to be used as retail space. No Target, unfortunately, at least not yet …
Willie,
Ummmmm ... I live in Bountyland and work in the same area. I drive through the intersection every day where the new CVS is almost ready to open. I have yet had to wait to get through the red light. Let’s not forget that there was a Fast Fare gas station on that same corner and no one complained about their turning abilities into that business. Come on people, get a life, get a job, go volunteer and do some good and quit whining. Have a great day!
Willie says:
I think I’ll take your advice!
Or …
Willie,
I have a potential fix for the potential road problems in Bountyland. We have a CVS in Walhalla and one in Seneca. Don’t even go to the one in Bountyland.
Willie says:
I’m sure not a single one of my readers will take your tongue-in-cheek suggestion seriously. A brand-new, beautiful drug store is good for the area and the economy
Willie,
As an outsider who moved to Walhalla nearly eight years ago, there are some peculiarities about the town I have not been able to figure out. Maybe you, or some of your readers, could help. Why do the majority of the people live behind drawn house shades, etc. (what the real estate people refer to as an unfriendly house) and display their garbage cans, so unsightly, at their front entrances or in the proximity of their front doors or roadside? Does it have anything to do with this area once being known as the “Dark Corner?” I have lived in a number of different states/towns and nowhere else have I seen this.
Willie says:
Can’t say why other folks keep their shades down. When Willie does it, it’s ’cuz I don’t want anyone to see me walking around in my skivvies. Garbage cans really do belong around back, except on pick-up day if you have one. Never heard of the nickname, the Dark Corner. Sounds kinda spooky.
Willie,
I am the one who wrote in about the accident on Hwy. 123 on July 19. I wasn’t really clear on what I wrote, but what happened was I left Labcorp turning right onto 123. As I started getting up to speed, a truck pulling a boat passed me on my left and this older model Ford truck decided to go around him and pass and when he did his back right bumper hit my front end. I followed him for his tag number and I went back to the scene and called the cops. He took my license, insurance information and phone number and said he would get back to me. He called me Sunday and said it was a hit and run and told me he was only 17 years old and didn’t own the truck. He told the cops I pulled in front of him. If that was the case, why didn’t he call the cops rather than run?
Willie says:
Thanks for writing back. I know you originally wrote asking if anyone was a witness to help back up your version of events. Haven’t had any contact on that. If Willie understands your explanation of events correctly, it sounds like the truck came into your lane to pass the boat. Was he passing on the right? That would be a no-no. If his back bumper hit your front end, how could you have pulled in front of him? Try to talk to a lawyer and see if you can take him to court.
Willie,
In response to the woman that called in about the backpacks that were given out. She has teenagers and they were not given any backpacks — only grade school kids. I do know that Total Communications was giving out free school supplies to any age kids. It was a really good thing and I know it will be even bigger next year.
Willie says:
Great to hear other businesses are generous and community-minded when it comes to outfitting kids with their school supplies. Hopefully, the mom that wrote to me will look into that for her children next school year.
Willie,
A sawmill has been built where the old Cadillac Ranch used to be and they make a lot of noise. I’m a day sleeper and it’s been difficult for me to sleep. I was wondering if there were any noise restrictions for a business like this and whom can I complain to?
Willie says:
As the opponents of zoning would tell you, a man’s property is his castle. There is no zoning in the rural areas of Oconee County. You can pretty much build whatever you want, wherever you want and that’s what’s happening. I feel for you partner, but this is just one more reason we need some land use planning and zoning in this county. Until then, I guess you’ll just have to buy some earplugs.
Willie,
Considering the severity of the current drought situation, I would have hoped Duke Energy would be more diligent in their enforcement of the water restrictions that they have placed on Lake Keowee residents. I personally have observed numerous homes that I know for a fact draw water from the lake for lawn irrigation doing so on days other than the Saturday that Duke has permitted. Some of them are doing it as often as every other day. I have contacted Duke Energy directly and was given a local phone number to call, but after repeated attempts with the same results that the individual’s voicemail is full. Why not set up a link on their Web site that allows us to report violations and have them checked out. We are all suffering from the drought and the vast majority is doing its share by abiding by the restrictions and trying to conserve.
Willie says:
The folks at Duke told a source at the newspaper that their reporting line is working. Not sure what number you were told to call, but give this one a try: 1-800-443-5193. You could also get after those neighbors of yours yourself. This drought is getting serious!!
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September 3, 2008
5:20 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Dadgumit!! I was hoping Target was coming to the Seneca area. Target is a good store. OH well...the way the Seneca area is growing, it won't be long until Target gets here.
September 3, 2008
6:50 a.m.Report inappropriate content
To the person that is complaining about smoking and about the air quality in Oconee County.
It sounds like you need to move to Delmar California, you would be happy there. You should of done your research before moving here if you are so unhappy and unhealthy here. We are a tobacco state along with other southern states that grow tobacco so in case you didn't know, we are supporting our farmers.
Get over it or move. It is simply that easy.
September 3, 2008
8:15 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Just some observations concerning the person with so much to say about smokers and smoking. In the first place, wood burning fireplaces do not pollute the air. God designed this old earth to be self-sustaining. To that end He created lightning to start forest fires to replenish the earth with potash and other nutrients as byproducts of burning. (The devastating fires in California were caused by environmentalists getting in the way of conservation.) Secondly, the writer confirms that reformed smokers are some of the most self-righteous people on the planet.
September 3, 2008
9:02 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I don't think the gripers would be happy anywhere. People like this find something wrong everywhere they go. And if you'll notice, they always think they are right and everyone else is wrong. There's just no pleasing some people.
September 3, 2008
9:16 a.m.Report inappropriate content
EVERYONE who posts comments on this website thinks that they are right and everyone else is wrong.
September 3, 2008
10:05 a.m.Report inappropriate content
jsl47 ditto, oh and JohnBirch, does that include you?
September 3, 2008
10:47 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Am I the only one that thinks that the hit and run seems suspiscious? When she left to get the tag number, was that not considered leaving the scene of an accident? It just sounds like she is trying to blame someone else for something she has done herself.
September 3, 2008
10:58 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Thank you JohnBirch for finally admitting it. And Tracy, I agree. This story makes abosolutely no sense.
September 3, 2008
11:35 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I said, "everyone". That does include me.
September 3, 2008
11:49 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I thought that I was wrong one(1) time, but I was mistaken.
Joke...................
September 3, 2008
11:51 a.m.Report inappropriate content
To the writer who's against every one's rights except their own. I would like to personally tell you to kiss my butt!!! Move to California!!!! I've lived here for 55 years and I don't need some arrogant a**hole telling me how I should live. Once more, we were here first and you are so welcome to leave I just can't put it into words. If I'm smoking in a designated smoking section or outside I sincerely hope you tell me to put it out, I have some words for you that you have probably heard a lot. It's my choice, bad or not. You have the choice to go somewhere else. Please use it and get off out butts!!!!!
September 3, 2008
11:54 a.m.Report inappropriate content
That was a "quote" from the famous "BUCK" (mark), and he is never wrong either. Joke.........again.
September 3, 2008
12:16 p.m.Report inappropriate content
JohnBirch and I admit that we can be wrong: I gues a majority of two isn't bad in this world. Remember, when you point your finger at someone else there are three fingers pointing back at you.
September 3, 2008
2:45 p.m.Report inappropriate content
I agree with you Tracy. None of what this person has written about the hit-and-run makes much sense; in the first submission to Willie, I believe the writer said that the police ruled that it was no one's fault, but also said that they were being blamed. So, which is it?
September 4, 2008
8:44 a.m.Report inappropriate content
To all BRB customers, TAKE HEED, and know where your financial holdings are being placed! The developing property on 123 will host yet another BRB establishment to accompany the BRB at Bountyland. Hooray, for the few jobs this will create but shame on the BRB managers for spendig their customers monies so frivolously!
September 4, 2008
8:54 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Why do you assume that it is the customers monies? It will be a great convenience to many customers. It's called growth, and BRB has waited a long time for this much deserved and needed growth.
September 4, 2008
10:40 a.m.Report inappropriate content
So, if a Blue Ridge Bank is coming to Bountyland - is a food store also in the plans?
Lots of work and money preparing the land for building - but the work has stopped.
Same with the town houses near Collins Home/Hospice entrance - across the hwy. Two houses have been started - - Work has stopped. What's with this???
September 4, 2008
11:02 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Thanks, rezlep, for spelling out "Blue Ridge Bank". When I saw "BRB", with no reference made to a BRB before, I thought, "BRB"??? All I could think of was Blue Ridge Bank, but couldn't remember an existing one at Bountyland (above). Thanks. I'm glad there's not a "Billy Ray's Bar" or a "Bob's Racing Bikes" in Bountyland. Alphabet soup would be even more puzzling. The newspaper doesn't charge us by how many letters we use, so please......
September 4, 2008
12:42 p.m.Report inappropriate content
I have to agree with spiderfarm. There are designated places for people who want to smoke, and it is their right to do so in those places. Breaking the addiction to nicotine is really hard, and some people really don't want to, anyhow. But I disagree with the old tired saw that some of us use that, "I've been here longer, and if you don't like it then you're free to leave." Neighbors, that just doesn't work anymore. As Americans, we are also free to stay. As non-smokers, we are now free to breathe air that will not put US in the hospital and an early grave. And as a local who has been here (alot longer than 55 years), I am really growing weary trying to battle the steroetype brought on us 37 years ago when Hollywood came in and filmed "Deliverance" and made us look like a bunch of stupid in-bred hicks. Declaring that your opinion matters more because you were born here is not only UN-American, it is ANTI-American and ANTI-Christ. Everyone of us is equal under the law and under God. In spiderfarm's world, my vote counts more than hers, not only because I've been here longer than her, but because my family helped settle Walhalla and is buried in the Lutheran Cemetary, one with a CSA star. The harsh reality is that we "locals" are quickly being outnumbered by people who are coming here to live because they like the weather and the cost of living, and they really don't give a rat's pitooty how long any of us have lived here. They are bringing their money, their education and their EQUAL VOTE and none of them have seen that sign that we think is hanging at our borders that says, "Everyone here believes exactly the same way. If you don't like it, then turn your a** around and LEAVE!" That sign doesn't exist, folks, because it was never true and never will be. Time to grow up, move into the 21st century and suck it up. They ain't leavin, I ain't leavin, and lots of us really want to practice that Golden Rule and love our neighbors as we love ourselves, even if they are different. Or, as Christ commanded, especially if they are "different". Go smoke in your corner, spiderfarm, and maybe have a beer. too. You need to relax and enjoy this beautiful place while you still can.
September 4, 2008
7:33 p.m.Report inappropriate content
thlhjh76--- Dah....I am well aware the paper does not charge by the letter but you can bet your sweetums' that the B-R-B customers are paying for every piece of dirt that is being moved. Call it what you want ; growth self, destruction....whatever... I am safe, and good luck to all the innocent and the guilty as well!
September 5, 2008
8:22 a.m.Report inappropriate content
deabmc65, good ol' competition will take care of your concerns, won't it? If banks, or any other businesses spend too much on an expansion, anywhere, they will no longer be competitive with other businesses without reducing services or raising fees. If they do, customers will look elsewhere to to their business, and the now pricey businesses will fold. I know absolutely nothing about the internal finances of Blue Ridge Bank, but I'm sure the financial deciaion makers there took all that into consideration. And my point with what I called alphabet soup (BRB) was that in this text-crazed world we now live in, abbreviations, symbols and alphabet shorthand are replacing real words. There's just too much assumption that we know what the abbreviations are for.
September 5, 2008
12:56 p.m.Report inappropriate content
godloveseveryone, nobody could put it any better than you just did, thank you.