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Willie,
I am reading a really excellent book about the battle of Vicksburg written by Winston Groom (who was also the author of “Forest Gump”) and came across the following quote. What struck me was its applicability to our current crop of cable TV and talk radio pundits (Olbermann, O’Reilly, Hannity, Beck and Limbaugh in particular).
“The American press is a shame and a reproach to a civilized people. When a man is too lazy to work and too cowardly to steal, he turns Editor (or cable TV/talk radio personality) and manufactures public opinion.” General William Tecumseh Sherman. I would also offer an exception to the hard working staff of Tell Willie and The Journal.
Willie says:
I hope all my readers will surmise what Willie did — that the part of the quote in parentheses was not anything General Sherman said! I’m pretty sure they did not have cable TV, etc. back in the 1860s. Also, glad you hold ol’ Willie and The Journal above the reproach!
Willie,
What has happened to our roads: potholes, uneven payment. I live in Bountyland and the highway there is ridiculous! There have been some busted pipes so they dig up the road in these areas and that’s understandable that they have to do that! But, afterwards they just put something over it and put up a sign that says BUMP. It’s not just a small bump, it’s a jarring bump that eventually will do damage to our cars. Then who pays, we do! I think they need to go back and redo the places that have been left this way and hopefully soon.
Willie says:
You are right and the procrastinators who made the BUMP and aren’t repairing the mess they made are wrong!
Willie,
I have a simple mathematical question for you. What is the minimum wage? The reason I need to know is I went to Oconee Medical Center and had to wait two hours to be triaged. Then I was told there were 13 people in front of me so I need to know how much I need to deduct from my hospital bill. Two hours for waiting; two hours per person x 13 people at midnight on a Tuesday night. That’s the kind of service you get if you don’t carry a Visa, Master Card or Platinum card.
Willie says:
Two things. Patients do not get paid for waiting in an emergency room (or a doctor’s office, or a dentist’s office, or a beauty shop, or a restaurant, or an amusement park line) so it doesn’t matter what the minimum wage is. Secondly, it wouldn’t matter if you had a VISA card, a wad of cash or a pocket of diamonds — we all wait our turn. That’s the way it should be, I hope.
Willie,
I read with interest the Oconee Supt. of Education’s remarks about how well they have handled the school’s budget and all the cuts he mentions that they have made. Bless their little hearts! Mr. Lucas, you can just moan and groan with the rest of us who have had to cut in our family’s budgets, as well. Then I read this in the paper: “Since 2006 ... the value of a school mill (now $522,098) has increased 31.5 percent.” Well, isn’t that just great? My income has not increased that much, far from it in fact. A large number of years ago, there were 10,000 students in our county schools and the school budget was around $1 million. How many students do we have today? You guessed it, right around 10,000 and yet we are spending a huge amount of money. It just doesn’t make sense, although I know for a fact that the school people on South Pine Street can justify every dollar, but it still doesn’t make sense to us taxpayers, does it? And while I am at it, three of the five school board members are retired educators. Go figure!
Willie says,
That sounds like a mighty good gig to Willie — educate the same number of students but get a whole lot more money to do it. Seriously, though the number of students has remained relatively flat, the amount of tax money received and spent per student has gone up dramatically. A lot of the reason has been due to programs or requirements passed by Washington or Columbia. And, to be fair, Oconee County has a good school system. Still, Willie feels your pain. There should be no poor-mouthing from the educators at the county board.
Willie,
For the man complaining about Oconee County and everything that happens in the state, ya know, they’re having a service this afternoon for a man who was killed in Korea. He thought this state, county and country were worth living and dying and fighting for. People should be respectful that some people actually care about the U.S. and if they don’t like it, there are plenty of other countries they can go to.
And …
Willie,
This is for the man who said he wasn’t going to write in anymore. If he thinks South Carolina is such a joke, he needs to go somewhere else.
Willie says:
Willie sends his sympathies and respect to the family of the veteran who served our country in Korea. His life and death stand for something.
Willie,
On Sunday afternoons I like to ride like a lot of people do and enjoy just taking a ride. A lot of times I enjoy riding around the lakefronts just to see people’s houses and how they live on the lake. I took a ride on Webb Heights Circle this past Sunday and was shocked at some of the living conditions at the top part of this neighborhood. I know we are all having a hard time, but to keep your yard clean is free except for gas in a lawn mower. Have pride in your homes and your land.
Willie says:
Most homeowners who invest their blood, sweat, tears and finances into purchasing or building a home (whether it is on lake or elsewhere) will have enough pride to see that it is taken care of properly. Not only does it make it more pleasant for themselves and others, it maintains the value of their investment. Maybe the home(s) you saw are unoccupied, in foreclosure, etc. and no one is caring for them.
Willie,
I am writing to thank the Walhalla Street Department for all that they do. I hope that the majority of readers realize the long list of things the street department does on a daily basis that makes Walhalla a beautiful and well-kept city. From all of the grass mowing downtown to Sertoma Field walking trails that are maintained and the countless other tasks that are taken for granted by everyone. Before we complain about one or two minor things that seem to be more the responsibility of a business owner or an uninformed passerby without knowledge of a situation, stop and remember the many benefits citizens of Walhalla get from the hard work of our street department that we don’t even register.
Willie says:
To those employees of the Walhalla Street Department that give an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay and take pride in the city — good job. People tend to take for granted all the work it takes day in and day out to make things look fine, and notice only when something isn’t the way it should be.
Willie,
I am a resident of the Utica Mill Village, and I was wondering when we can expect our roads to be resurfaced. When the company working on the new sewage project came through and did their work, they did a bad job on the road’s resurfacing. I travel Ames Street, and it is so bad while traveling on the road. They took a section out of the middle of the road and when they surfaced over the road, it is all uneven. It has potholes and dips all the way down the road.
Willie says:
Time to call Seneca City Hall and find out who is responsible and when the road will be made decent.
Comments contained in the Tell Willie column are not intended to reflect the views of management or staff of The Journal. They are the opinions of readers who have submitted Willie items. The Journal makes no guarantee of the accuracy of comments contained in Tell Willie. As for the answers, Ol’ Willie does his best to get it right.
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October 28, 2009
7:14 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I only know General Sherman as the coward who allowed his troops to rape and kill innocent civilians after " The War Against Northern Aggression" aka Civil War. I would therefore put no merit in anything this SOB said. The reason most people are offended by talk show hosts is that they speak the hard truth that hurts because you know you are in the wrong but to damn stubborn to admit it.
October 28, 2009
8:08 a.m.Report inappropriate content
You know, Mountainman, Germany was destroyed by two world wars and they re-built a strong, viable economy and a good education system. While clearly they haven't "gotten over" the wars, that country has moved on ... You can probably come up with a few other countries that have been destroyed and then, re-built.
Why can't SC?
Many here just don't get it ... the Civil War was over almost 150 years ago, and you still wallow in the event. Get over it. Move ahead into the 21st century. Do something to build this state's economy and education other than whine about something in the past that you can't change.
By the way, I am a Southerner. Family owned slaves and fought in the Civil War. But I certainly don't think about the Civil War on a daily basis. It's history. And, a sad history at that.
October 28, 2009
8:29 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I don't dwell on it either I just found it ironic that someone would quote Sherman on the topic of civilized people and him calling someone a coward.
October 28, 2009
9:34 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Classy1, I believe you will find a few significant exceptions. You are right in that Germany, Japan and others have rebounded. But, unlike the Confederate States, Korea, Vietnam, etc, the US did not pour billions into the recovery efforts. Further, raping and destroying entire towns was never condoned in foreign wars, at least not since the Philippines. US soldiers were not held to these ideals and moral high-ground during the un-Civil war.
October 28, 2009
9:39 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Classy1, that may explain why people have issues with putting more money into education. Since half of SC is still stuck in the dark ages they do not see education as an investment in the future. They just see a giant price tag and want to "trim the budget".
And speaking of the school budget...Does the person above seriously think it will cost the same to educate 10,000 children today as it did 10 years ago?! Maybe they should have paid a little more attention in economics class...there is this little thing called inflation. Oconee County Schools also need to keep up with the times and technology...or did that person want the children to keep using a slide ruler for math. A good education costs money. I want my children educated on the latest technology and information. What about the rest of you?!
October 28, 2009
9:59 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Education is not the cureall you make it out to be. Teaching things such as honesty, kindness and work ethics will change a nation. When a nation is overcome by intelligence there is noone left to do the work needed and everyone sits around their computer complaining about illegal immigrants taking over.
October 28, 2009
10:18 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Mountainman, honesty, kindness and work ethics should be taught by parents and would be free. However, all the honesty, kindness and work ethics in the world will not get you hired in a good paying career if you are not too bright! If all you aspire to do with your life is work at Walmart, then I guess all you need is a basic education. My children are aiming a little higher than that and need the best education they can get. My oldest is doing things in school that absolutely blow my mind! He is already learning to take that knowledge and apply it to real life situations.
What about the few kids in our county that have aspirations of going to an Ivy League school? Will they be prepared or will those schools laugh at them because Oconee County Schools were too cheap to purchase and teach the latest technology?
When was the last time a big company moved to Oconee County? Greenville has 3 different companies looking at them right now. One of the factors companies consider is the quality of education in an area. Are we loosing industry because we are too cheap to provide an education that will make our children competitive in tomorrow's workforce?
October 28, 2009
11:36 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Do you think Wal-Mart workers are the bottom of the barrel? What if your children decide the Ivy League is not for them? Will you not love them because they flip burgers or stock shelves? "Education is a wonderful asset but don't let it got to your head".
October 28, 2009
11:52 a.m.Report inappropriate content
In the past, Oconee County didn't want the children educated so that they would stay here and work textile jobs. Well the textile jobs are leaving and it's high time to get up to speed with the latest tech tools so these kids can start their own small business and actually employ people here.
October 28, 2009
12:25 p.m.Report inappropriate content
To the one writing about those who are on opinion tv and radio shows.
Who are you trying to fool, you had all conservatives except for Olberman? He was thrown in to make it look as though you were citing both liberals and conservatives. You are probably someone who believes that their money should be redistributed. As for me, I will continue to appreciate those who are willing to speak up and tell the truth and have the facts straight about history. Also,you were so obvious in your attempt to flatter Willie and the Journal. I have an idea that you would have to get up pretty early morning to do that.
October 28, 2009
1:12 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Thank you Greybeardmtn!
And Mountainman, either you have typos or grammar problems. Please preview your comments before you post them. I am not knocking Walmart employees. But what's wrong with wanting my kids to strive to be their best?! My kids are going to go to the school that provides the best education for what they want to do. If it's an Ivy League school (I'll have to remortgage my house to afford it) then that's great! If not then that's fine too. The point is, no matter where they decide to go, I want them to be prepared to go where ever they choose. I don't want them to not get into a college because our county was too cheap to teach my children the latest technology!
And as Greybeardmtn says, what are we going to do when all the textile jobs disappear? Our "cheaply" educated children are not going to be the work force for which new companies are looking. And when the jobs disappear, our kids are going to have to go away from Oconee County and compete with better educated people for jobs. How will your kids do?
October 28, 2009
3:53 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Didn't know I was being graded. Two quesses where I went to school. Please don't take me serious I just like stirring the pot.
October 28, 2009
3:56 p.m.Report inappropriate content
mountainman
None of the comments on here implied that Wal-mart employees are 'bottom of the barrel'. While parents would not be ashamed of a child working at Wal-mart I cannot believe that is any parents dream for their child.
October 29, 2009
1:27 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Greybeardmt appears to be making a blanket statement about Oconee County, in the past, having bad educational opportunities so the children would stay in the county for the textile jobs. What a bunch of rubbish! My sister and I had a father who worked long and hard in the textile industry so his children could go on to college and not have to work in the textile mills. We weren't the only ones who had parents who did this for their children. It's ok to have an opinion, but please state it as such. By the way, there was nothing wrong with people working in the textile mills, just as there is nothing wrong with people working at WalMart.
October 29, 2009
5:30 a.m.Report inappropriate content
honesty, kindness and work ethics should be taught by parents, and in the schools.
I agree there is nothing wrong with textile work or wal-mart work. People just need to WORK and not live on Welfare. If you get down on your luck and need help try to get it but don't stay a dependent of Welfare. Pick up and get back on your own "feet"
October 29, 2009
9 a.m.Report inappropriate content
It's kinda hard to just pick up and get back on your feet when the economy is this bad, and you have these certain people who keep dragging you back down every time you try to get up!!Everyone does not have the same opportunities. No, I don't agree with people living on welfare all there lives. I have worked my whole life and now, I can't find a job, and yes I have looked everywhere for one.
October 29, 2009
9:27 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Those making the comments about Wal Mart & textile workers are insinuating they are a step above those people or else they would not make the comparison. I don't work at either but consider those jobs and the employees to be honest hard working people. One day you may have to "stoop" to that level. SHAME..SHAME!
October 29, 2009
10:01 a.m.Report inappropriate content
One thing about a bad economy, it is an equalizer. We had a job opening for a position that, previously, many felt was beneath them. It was a real eye opener for me when I saw the diverse group of applicants all really needing this job. There's an urgency there I've never seen before.
October 29, 2009
11:58 a.m.Report inappropriate content
My mother worked in textiles for over fifty years and raised six kids by herself..some of you can bad mouth the textile industry if you want. I have never felt any job was beneath me. I was taught that you have to work for the things you want and need in life. Some of us don't have the same opportunities as others, and thats one reason some of us never take things in life for granted...
October 29, 2009
12:22 p.m.Report inappropriate content
js, where do your children go to school? Obviously not in Oconee county since what your oldest is learning is blowing you away and then you turn right around and state that the county is too cheap to teach the latest technology. If your child is excelling academically, the school system must be doing something right.
October 29, 2009
12:34 p.m.Report inappropriate content
No job should be beneath anyone who wants to provide for them or there family. There is no shame in any job unless it is illegal. Before you spout off about textiles or Walmart maybe you should get an education about how the items you purchase are made and what stores sell those products. Someone has to do those jobs and thank god it isn't you. There are many well educated people whom were in the textile industry and that are employeed through Walmart. Just because you work at Wal-mart or in textiles does not mean you are not well educated and that you do not "aspire" to do more with your life. Maybe they are working there to pay for an education for them or a family member. Everyone saw where this was heading. Please choose your words wisely. And you should thank god that the textile workers and Wal-mart employees can't see your face.
October 29, 2009
3:18 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Words of JS
"If all you aspire to do with your life is work at Walmart, then I guess all you need is a basic education."
October 29, 2009
3:24 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Here is another way to look at the recession: More educated people who are used to high paying jobs are looking for jobs in places where they formally would not have, ie Walmart. This makes it even worse for those that did not take their education seriously when they had a chance. Who would you hire: A well educated person that used to work in a much higher paying job or an under educated person that only is qualified to work at Walmart? Recessions will hurt those that are not as educated as others. Companies will hire the best of what's available. In hard times that will be college grads, in good times that may be high school drop outs.
All this talk about some people did not have the same opportunity as others is bull! Everyone has a free public education available. If you want to go to college, then there have always been grants available to low income students. Now if you goofed off in school and made bad grades then tough!
And Daltreygirl, my kids go to Seneca schools. My oldest is in all honors classes and is doing things on the computer, autodesk or autocad or something like that. I have never been exposed to anything like that. It costs money to buy those programs and the computers for these students. With budget cuts, they may become more selective in the students that get to take those classes. By the time he finishes he will start college with something like 15 college credits.
October 29, 2009
3:51 p.m.Report inappropriate content
"formally" = "formerly"
October 29, 2009
3:58 p.m.Report inappropriate content
The job market is hard enough without edumacatin all these kids so they can compete with me.
Just today I had to pay $0.89 in taxes for Tri-County operations.
Ridiculous I say!
October 29, 2009
9:08 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Oops! I always proof read, but that's what happens when you get in a hurry! Thanks Dixie!
October 29, 2009
10:32 p.m.Report inappropriate content
So I guess JS thinks everybody that works in walmart or any other store like walmart live without any education, so therefore they are lucky to be able to have a job at all.Is that what you meant JS?
October 29, 2009
11:28 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Blackblazer, answer my question first...Who would you hire? If you have a choice between a college grad and just a high school grad or a drop out, who would you pick? Where I work, we don't give the time of day to people that are not smart. (The incorrect grammar while speaking is usually a dead give away.)
I find it interesting when people get offended when someone says they should be more educated. Some of you act like education is in some way bad. Why is that?
October 29, 2009
11:42 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Oh, and Work, What will all the textile workers do when all their jobs are finally gone? They will have to retrain...education...for something else. Yes there are intelligent people working for the textiles...engineers...and Walmart...the manager, pharmacist... With a few exceptions, the higher paid people are the ones with college degrees or some sort of schooling past high school. If you have any hope of advancement in your job you will need more education...unless you like working at a dead end job.
I have two degrees that I'm not even using at the moment, but I have them if our current situation takes a turn for the worse. And, you all will love this, my degrees are in education. So if I need a good job, I will stop volunteering in the schools and start teaching your children every day!!
Disclaimer: I always talk about correct grammar. I have checked this post for errors, but it's late and I'm tired. I hope I didn't miss any!
October 30, 2009
9:12 a.m.Report inappropriate content
JS you are so funny. Your true colors show more and more each time you post. First you stero type the people who have worked in textiles or @ Walmart. I'm sure more than I would beg to differ with you that the only intelligent people in textiles where engineers and Walmart managers and pharmacist. Where you work is NOT a direct reflection of your intelligence. For gods sake take a look at your own post. You supposedly have this great education and what are you doing with it? NOTHING, other than trying to down grade everyone other than your self. Furthermore take your education and go and try to get one the teaching jobs you are referring to. You really are blind and have not tried to obtain employement or you would know the school district is not hiring for teachers. (However there is a subsitute waiting list.)Wake up Js the textile jobs are gone and many of those workers DO currently have jobs. As stated before many worked textiles and 2nds jobs so they could pay to further there or a family members education. And please if you as blind to the situations as your post suggest, drive down from Salem, with no one in your way of course. And sit at the unemployement office and talk to people in the waiting area. You would be amazed as to how many of them are "highly educated". Highly educated and living off the goverment. I bet they got this way buy shopping at Walmart or sleeping on some nasty textile made sheets. And everyone please take note if your are tired and it's late and you are JS it's ok to mis-spell, otherwise be prepared to be slammed for mis-spellings.
October 30, 2009
9:43 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I was always under the assumption that to gain the respect of people was not attempt to put them down. If JS is desiring a job within the school system she is going to have to change her attitude. You have to respect people even though they may not be as highly educated as yourself. I have a degree myself (only one though) but don't consider myself any better than those without a HS diploma or college degree. I applaud JS"s determination to get a good education, but some are not as fortunate as she but are still real people and most are honest hard working people. I don't even think the school system would consider someone (if they knew It) that feel the way she does about people that maybe fell on hard times and were not fortunate enough to further their education. Some people can handle their highly educated mind and some are educated beyond their intelligence when it comes to having respect for others.
October 30, 2009
9:55 a.m.Report inappropriate content
This is for JS. You talk like you are above and better than anybody else. o.k. so you have two degrees, I personaly think you got the wrong degrees,but that is my opinion! What makes you any better than anybody else? Where's the human compassion, morals, or anything for humanity? God put us all here on this earth for a purpose. I think you lost your mission on what you were put here for because all I hear on your comments is degrading and judging. Who died and made you the judge of all people? You may think you are above everybody but can you picture judgement day when you meet your maker and the good Lord judges YOU? All I can say is "GOOD LUCK WITH THAT"
October 30, 2009
10:05 a.m.Report inappropriate content
What do you mean JS? just a high schhol diploma. In my opinion I would hire the one who didn't judge people based on documents, but past working skills, job performance, attendance, and test those people on ethics. Which ever had the best results is who would be hired. Based on the way you write I don't see how you keep a job. Of course your face and name are hidden here, you are probably as two faced as you are a jerk and you wouldn't dare talk to any person and share your true feelings in front of people. If you are so smart and educated, why don't you have your millions and own your own business? I am sure you think you could do a better job than those who are above you at work!!!
October 30, 2009
10:12 a.m.Report inappropriate content
What makes some more fortunate than others to be able to get an education? I had to work to pay for my education...that I am choosing not to use at the moment because it allows me to have more free time with my kids. My parents were not and still are not rich. I want to know why you all think that people have to be "fortunate" to get an education. It's called hard work for an opportunity that we all had or have. If you chose to throw away your educational opportunity, then that's just your tough luck.
Mommyanddaddysmoney, not worried about a divine judgement...don't believe in it.
October 30, 2009
12:34 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Maybe you need to think about the devine judgement!! They're all kind of different people in the world, some choose higher education and some don't. Some of us made mistakes and did not have the same options as YOU. That doesn't mean we haven't worked as hard as you or even harder than you. Remember this is America, we have freedom to do whatever makes us happy.As long as you can look in the mirror and live with yourself, keep doing and saying what you are. I use to know an arrogant person just like you and fortunately I cut them out of my life. I still didn' hear you say anything about your identity. Are you afraid or ashamed to let us tell Willie readers who you really are?
October 30, 2009
2:43 p.m.Report inappropriate content
momanddaddysmoney,I can't believe that you forgot that js is an atheist. Hardly a comment from her is posted w/o her boasting about it. We should be praying for her redemption, her children, and that she never has the opportunity to teach our children. Giving her non beliefs, it's not surprising that she is so negative toward the ideas and beliefs of others.
October 30, 2009
11:26 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Now, getting back on the topic I started with...It costs more today to educate 10,000 kids than it did 10 years ago. Why do the tax payers have a problem with this? Why do all of you have issues with getting the best education you can? Why is being smart a bad thing in this county? Of course seeing how all of you reacted to getting a good education leads me to believe that is not a priority with people here.
And, after thinking about this, I really cannot see how we seem to only have 10,000 kids to teach year after year. If this is the case, why do we have to keep building bigger schools each year, and then quickly out grow these? I will call Monday morning and see how many kids there are.
Daltreygirl, I only brought up the atheist part because I couldn't let the "divine judgment" comment pass. Actually in my last several posts I haven't mentioned it at all.
Finally, Blackbazer, I may reveal my identity when the rest of you do.
October 31, 2009
9:06 a.m.Report inappropriate content
JS....your assumption that people don't have an excuse for gaining a (2) degree is completely wrong . I don't think people are against education as you boldly declare. Apparently you don't realize it but some find themselves in very difficult circumstances, much different than yours. You're only hearing what you want to hear and continuely feel that most people are not on your level. Until you can reach a place where you can be tolerant of other people and their life style and their circumstances in life I certainely wouldn't want you in charge of teaching in a public school where you have to interact with other people. A person that just can't get over themselves and is so awed with their accomplishments and only see things as they want to see them has big problems.
October 31, 2009
9:59 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Of course most of us want the best education, drive and ambition for our children. I am glad that my children recieved a well rounded education, w/ degrees, one has two degrees and would you believe she doesn't look down her nose at anyone and has respect for all? My children have class, which education or money can't buy.
October 31, 2009
12:31 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Daltreygirl, good for you for getting your kids through college.
I realize there are extenuating circumstances for everything, but for every one of those there are 100 ones that just don't care to better themselves when they are young and have the opportunity. When you get older and have more responsibilities it becomes way to harder to get that degree or better education. I am actually wanting to go back to school again, but lack time and funds. It is much easier when you are younger and are not a parent.
Yes I do look down my nose at people who choose to throw away opportunities. Almost everything in your life is a choice...of course there are those bad things that we can't avoid. Choices that are in our control are how much education we want, when to become a parent, where you want to live and many others. I have an old neighborhood friend that had to quit school because of illness, but she wants for nothing! She got her diploma...took a while, but she did it...if she wants something she does what she has to do to get it. "I can't because..." was never said by her. She has always been as inspiration to me because she can do anything. If she could do it, then very few people have any excuses.
Yes I am proud of my accomplishments. I was the first in my family to actually go to college. I worked my tail off for what I have. My kids know the importance of a good education and they all want to do well. If they mess up, we fix it together so they will learn that even if things go wrong you can still meet your goals. We teach there are no excuses...just do it!
October 31, 2009
3:28 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Then I guess since you was the first in your family to go to college you must look down on your whole family.....
October 31, 2009
5:39 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Glad to hear that you admit there are some things out of our control. I'll agree ....those circumstances that we can get our arms around and control then we ought to but some fall into the category that their problems & circumstances well, their just out of control. Some it may be sickness, maybe a parental death & somebody has to take on the raising of siblings, etc. I was an adult when I decided to futher mey education and it wasn't eazy either. But for some that opportunity passes and they may never have the chance again so I always try to give individuals space because I don't know what the circumstances of life were for them.
November 1, 2009
2:21 p.m.Report inappropriate content
js needs to proof read her comments before she posts. Obviously neither of her degrees was in language arts.
We all should learn that it is a waste of time to disagree with the superior js. I'm done.
November 2, 2009
8:41 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Daltreygirl, most of my "errors" are usually typos. Here are some of yours:
"Giving her non beliefs"
"one has two degrees and would you believe she" You need a comma after "and" so it will not be a run on sentence.
"Obviously not in Oconee county since what your oldest is learning is blowing you away and then you turn right around and state that the county is too cheap to teach the latest technology." Another run on sentence...
And we should always start a paragraph with a capital letter.
I do know grammar quite well (not good).
I find it ironic that you all need to attack stupid things with me...like my typos or lack of religious beliefs. In an above post I mentioned when was the last time a big company moved into Oconee County. No response. Anything I said about getting a better education was attacked. I have stated in other posts that Oconee County strives for mediocrity. I guess none of you care that we don't have companies moving to our county. I guess none of you care that the county is constantly cutting the school budget to where they have to ration paper. If I post something that may require thought on your part, you say I'm being high and mighty about myself.
I want new corporations to come to Oconee County and build their factories. They will not come if they see county council constantly cutting education funds. I want to see all of our children educated with the latest technology so they will be prepared for anything they would like to do! What is so wrong about that?!!
November 2, 2009
9:01 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Posted by JS: Blackblazer, answer my question first...Who would you hire? If you have a choice between a college grad and just a high school grad or a drop out, who would you pick? Where I work, we don't give the time of day to people that are not smart. (The incorrect grammar while speaking is usually a dead give away.)
Posted by JS: I find it ironic that you all need to attack stupid things with me...like my typos or lack of religious beliefs.
November 2, 2009
9:36 a.m.Report inappropriate content
js, my degree is medical, a little different than yours, therefore I'm surprised at your 'typos'. I will run my sentences wherever they want to go. I'm merely a local yokel don't you know, and proud of it. Given your non belief and delusions of grandeur, I truly pity you. It isn't the best education that most of the commenters are against, it's your holier (pun intended) than thou attitude.
November 2, 2009
10:38 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I'm worried about everyone's lackadaisical attitude about the way things are in this county.
And as far as my holier than thou attitude, it was you Christians' holier than thou attitude that drove me out of the church. The hypocrisy and snobby attitudes in my now former church showed me that if there was a god, he wasn't very nice!
November 2, 2009
10:40 a.m.Report inappropriate content
daltreygirl, your last sentence was just like hitting the nail on the head. All I can say on that one is "you go girl" Thats exactly whats wrong with whom ever is behind all the sarcasm..Thank-you
November 2, 2009
10:54 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Fine have it your way. When the county tanks because nobody cares to bring in industry my spouse and I will be able to take our degrees...all four of them...and easily move some place else. I guess the rest of you can deal with whatever might be left.
First Square D is leaving...what will be the next company?
Searched Oconee County Unemployment and found a site giving facts about our county. Most notable is the unemployment rate and recent job growth is negative. Send me a personal message if you want the link.
County Overview
As of 2009, Oconee County's population is 70,753 people. Since 2000, it has had a population growth of 6.57 percent.
The median home cost in Oconee County is $111,700. Home appreciation the last year has been -4.20 percent.
Compared to the rest of the country, Oconee County's cost of living is 5.64% Lower than the U.S. average.
Oconee County public schools spend $5,739 per student. The average school expenditure in the U.S. is $6,058. There are about 14 students per teacher in Oconee County.
The unemployment rate in Oconee County is 13.80 percent(U.S. avg. is 8.50%). Recent job growth is Negative. Oconee County jobs have Decreased by 2.80 percent.
November 2, 2009
11:11 a.m.Report inappropriate content
JS it's fine to feel the way you do about the county. But you are slamming everyone and everything in the process. You bring some of it on yourself by dishing it out and making some poor choice of words that offend others. You have every right to voice your opinion, but so does everyone else. I don't want to put words in your mouth but you act like you hate not only this county, but everything! I'm sorry that just because of a few snobs in a church "your attitude" is so poor. You will find snobs in any church, business, blog, etc. I don't care if you believe in God or not, that it your choice. Just as my choice is to believe in God.
November 2, 2009
11:47 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Work, I feel like I have to slam because everyone seems to have their heads in the sands when it comes to the harsh realities facing us. I also tend to have a rather harsh personality, so some of it just comes naturally! When I get on a cause I am usually very passionate about it and can't understand why others aren't. And I honestly just cannot fathom (not sure if that's the correct spelling, but spell check says it is) why anyone would not want our county to have the best schools and the best jobs. It's my nature to try to fix something when I see a problem.
November 2, 2009
11:52 a.m.Report inappropriate content
js - you are not George cleveland are you??????
lol
November 2, 2009
12:03 p.m.Report inappropriate content
OH GOOD GRIEF!!! Absolutely, positively NOT!!! I may get ill with you all but I would NEVER file a law suite!!
Alright Goaliedad, the gloves are off! See if I get out of your way in the left lane next time! I may even go slow!!!
November 2, 2009
12:08 p.m.Report inappropriate content
And I spelled suit wrong! Goaliedad you are just wrong!
November 2, 2009
1:33 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Passionate to your cause is fine, but as adults we have to realize everyone will not share the same view point. And yes everyone will have critics. We all do. That's why this blog works. If we all had the same view or opinion it would be very boring. And I don't think anyone isn't wanting our county to have the best schools and jobs. It's some of your other comments people don't agree with. We can't all be teachers, lawyers, engineers etc. Just because some have higher education than some, does not make anyone any better. I have meet some of the most incapable people who hold many degree's and no job. I agree, I would like to see us have the best school's and the best industries for employment.
November 2, 2009
1:46 p.m.Report inappropriate content
I have installed the cow cather on my car this weekend...so left lane slow pokes be careful or i'll push ya aside back into the right (correct) lane..
November 2, 2009
2:01 p.m.Report inappropriate content
cow cather, now that sounds interesting!
November 2, 2009
3:26 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Okay ms spellcheck (lol) C A T C H E R. Sorry.
November 2, 2009
4:06 p.m.Report inappropriate content
It's OK! Everyone is not perfect. I just wondered if this was a new product!
November 2, 2009
11:30 p.m.Report inappropriate content
JS, you sound just like my husband. He hasn't had his degrees for a long time, but his head swelled since he got them. I am almost ashamed to go any where with him because the way he snoots his nose at people and he treats people really bad. He acts like he is better than most. Frankly, I am just sick of his attitude. He even treats our kids like slaves or something. pushing and pushing.He used to be really sweet and nice.
November 3, 2009
12:55 a.m.Report inappropriate content
It seems to me that we, as a nation, have placed entirely too much value in a college degree. I have an I.Q. of over 150 (according to every such test I've taken), have completed many hours of college and vocational training, and earn an income well above the median for this county and state. I do not, however, have a college degree of any kind. Also, while in the institutionalized university setting, my observation was that often the most intelligent students were not the most successful. Our current system frequently does not reward the hard working and talented, but rather promotes those who simply "hang around" long enough. It is my opinion that every person should be taught to read, write, and perform basic mathematic functions. Once those basic skills are in place, there are many avenues opened to any individual seeking a "higher" education. Just my $.02
November 3, 2009
8:15 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Here's an analogy that I think we all can understand: You all just cannot understand why I am an atheist. To you it makes perfect since to believe in God and you simply cannot put your head around why someone would not. (Back in my Christian days I felt like that.) That is how I feel about education and probably how Rhondags' husband feels. You see me as arrogant...maybe I am...but I see the same thing when I look at some Christians...the we're right period attitude. You see me with the I'm right period attitude. I guess we all have our soapboxes and the same problem...we just don't see our own side as the problem.
November 3, 2009
4:51 p.m.Report inappropriate content
js comment: To you it makes perfect since to believe in God and you simply cannot put your head around why someone would not. (Back in my Christian days I felt like that.)
You were never truly a Christian or you would still be one. Once you accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, He never leaves nor forsakes you. And there is not a church nor churchgoer (no matter how nasty or mean), that could ever take that from me. God is never cruel nor mean. That would be the Devil, my dear, and an education is not needed to figure this out, although, I am for the best education that we can give our children and grandchildren.
November 3, 2009
5:22 p.m.Report inappropriate content
JS...If you really do not believe in God that's your choise, but you make a comparision to those that are Christians and then the way you feel about your education. Having or not having an extensive education will not send a person to hell. That shouldn't even be talking point because there's no comparison. I know as an athiest you don't think there is a hell but, what if....YOU"RE WRONG and the Christians are right? Who is the loser? I firmly believe the Bible and Believe what the scriptures teach and no way am I going to gamble with the destiny of my family. And it's not the fact that Christians think they're right period (as you put it), one must have it settled that Jesus Christ is their savior. I'm speaking for myself, and it's makes a person feel helpless when a some one says their athiest and it appears there is nothing you can do. There is a time we'll all be judged and we'll stand accountable for things we could have done in cases like this. Many will have the blood on their hands of individuals we could have told about Christ and didn't....also, you're responsibile for your own family. Not trying to be harsh, just telling you the truth.
November 9, 2009
9:04 a.m.Report inappropriate content
"To you it makes perfect since to believe in God and you simply cannot put your head around why someone would not."
SINCE you like to correct people so much, I thought you would like to know that your use of SINCE makes no SENSE.